Systems and fixtures for connecting electrodes

Abstract

Exemplary electrode connection systems and devices for a sample during an electrochemical processing program are disclosed. In particular, the electrode connection system can support, hold, encapsulate, and / or otherwise maintain contact with the sample in an electrochemical processing system. For example, the sample can be contained in a fixture with electrodes in electrical contact with the sample and a common return path (e.g., to ground) for current from the electrolyte to flow through the sample. The fixture and sample can include electrically conductive materials.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application is a non-provisional application of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 448,756, entitled "Systems And Fixtures For Electrode Connections," filed February 28, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrochemical machining operations are performed on specimens for many purposes and across a vast number of sectors and industries. In some applications, electrochemical machining is performed by the application of a fluid through a nozzle. Some electrochemical machining operations involve projecting a jet of electrically charged fluid toward a conductive specimen. However, ensuring that the specimen remains firmly connected to ground is often difficult, which can adversely affect operation performance. Therefore, a system and method for ensuring a consistent path to ground during an electrochemical machining operation is desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Systems and methods for sample electrode connection systems and apparatus for electrochemical machining are disclosed, substantially as shown by and described in connection with at least one of the figures, and as more fully set forth in the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrochemical machining system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0005] [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrode connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0006] [Figure 2B]FIG. 10 is a diagram of another exemplary electrode connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0007] [Figure 2C] FIG. 10 is a diagram of another exemplary electrode connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0008] [Figure 3A] 1A-1C are diagrams of exemplary electrode connection systems using posts for positioning electrodes, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1A-1C are diagrams of exemplary electrode connection systems using posts for positioning electrodes, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrode connection system using a stage, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrode connection system using a stage, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electrode connection system using a stage, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary electrode connection system for encapsulated samples, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary sample fixation system for a sample, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary system for connecting an unattached sample, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a plan view of components of the example system of FIG. 7A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] [Figure 8A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of another exemplary system for connecting samples, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of another exemplary system for connecting samples, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8C] FIG. 1 is a diagram of another exemplary system for connecting samples, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8D-8E] FIG. 1 is a diagram of another exemplary system for connecting samples, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram of another exemplary system for connecting samples, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] [Figure 10A] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary conductive gasket for supporting a conductive sample, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary conductive gasket for supporting a conductive sample, according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The figures are not necessarily to scale. Where appropriate, similar or identical reference numbers are used to refer to similar or identical components.

[0018] Electrode connection systems and devices for samples during electrochemical processing programs are disclosed. In particular, the electrode connection systems can support, hold, encapsulate, and / or otherwise maintain contact with the sample in an electrochemical processing system. For example, the sample can be contained in a fixture with electrodes in electrical contact with the sample and a common return path (e.g., to ground) for current from the electrolyte to flow through the sample. The fixture and sample can include electrically conductive materials.

[0019] In some examples, the electrochemical machining system includes a nozzle configured to inject a jet of electrolyte toward the surface of the sample. Electrochemical machining is performed by applying an electric charge to the nozzle and to the sample (e.g., to ground or other charge return path) such that the nozzle and sample define first and second electrodes of the electrolytic cell and are electrically connected by the jet of charged electrolyte.

[0020] During an electrochemical processing program, the electrode connection system or device maintains a path to ground through the sample. A variety of electrode connection systems or devices are provided to suit different samples and / or desired results.

[0021] Conventional systems and methods use clips, such as alligator clips, or laboratory tongs that are intended to be clipped directly to the sample. However, alligator clip connections are only suitable for limited types of samples, machines, and / or processing programs. For example, maintaining contact with attached samples and relatively thick samples can be difficult, while laboratory tongs can be cumbersome and difficult to use during machine processing.

[0022] Advantageously, the disclosed electrode connection system or device allows a user to quickly form an electrode connection and begin an etching / polishing cycle. Furthermore, the system and device are designed for a variety of sample types and processing programs, thereby ensuring consistent connections and improved sample stability during processing operations. The result is faster program and sample setup and higher, more consistent quality results.

[0023] In a disclosed example, an electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system, the connection including a fixture containing the sample and an electrode in electrical contact with a common return path for current from the electrolyte to flow through the sample.

[0024] In some instances, the sample includes a conductive material.

[0025] In some examples, a mount supports the sample, the mount being housed in a fixture. In examples, the fixture or mount comprises a conductive material, and a common return path allows current to flow through the sample, the electrode, and the mount or fixture.

[0026] In some instances, the fastener is a ring-shaped fastener having a substantially circular shape.

[0027] In some examples, a support for positioning the electrode in electrical contact with the sample. In examples, the support comprises a conductive material. In examples, the support comprises an electrically insulating material. In examples, a biasing member for biasing the electrode into physical and electrical contact with the sample.

[0028] In some examples, the electrodes are configured to penetrate a portion of the mount through an opening to make physical and electrical contact with the sample.

[0029] In some examples, an electrode connector in electrical contact with the electrode and the common return path. In examples, the electrode connector is attached to the fixture by one or more of a clip, weld, fastener, bolt, screw, plug, banana jack, or compression fit.

[0030] In some examples, a stage configured to support a sample or fixture. In examples, the stage is in electrical contact with the common return path and the sample or fixture.

[0031] In some disclosed examples, an electrochemical machining system for machining a surface of a sample includes a nozzle configured to direct a jet of electrolyte at the surface of the sample, the nozzle having an electric charge applied to the nozzle, a fixture containing the sample, a stage in electrical contact with the sample or the fixture, and a common return path in electrical contact with the stage, the common return path allowing electric charge to flow from the electrolyte through the sample to the common return path.

[0032] In some examples, the mount that houses the sample includes a conductive material. In examples, charge flows from an electrolyte through a fixture that houses the sample or mount, through the sample and stage.

[0033] In some instances, a chamber that contains the sample during the electrochemical machining process.

[0034] In some examples, a mount supports the sample, the mount being housed in a fixture.

[0035] In some instances, a common return path and an electrode in electrical contact with the sample.

[0036] As used herein, the word "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." The embodiments described herein are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting. It is to be understood that any described embodiment is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Moreover, the term "embodiments" does not require that all disclosed embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation.

[0037] As used herein, "and / or" means any one or more of the items in the list connected by "and / or." As an example, "x and / or y" means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y." As another example, "x, y and / or z" means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z." As used herein, the term "exemplary" means serving as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. As used herein, the term "for example" begins a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations.

[0038] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the claimed technology and setting out the best currently understood mode of operation, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It is to be understood, however, that no limitation on the scope of the claimed technology is intended, and that such changes and further modifications in the apparatus shown, and such further applications of the principles of the claimed technology shown therein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the claimed technology pertains.

[0039] 1 illustrates an exemplary electrochemical machining system 100 for machining the surface of a sample or workpiece 105. In particular, the system 100 allows a user to process one or more samples 105 in an etching chamber 103. In some examples, one or more nozzles 108 are connected to one or more tanks or reservoirs 120 via one or more conduits 122, and control of the flow of fluid 126 from the reservoirs is controlled via one or more pumps 124. The fluid 126 (e.g., an electrolyte) can be ejected from the nozzles 108 as a jet directed toward the sample 105.

[0040] 1, the sample 105 is disposed on a stage 106. In some examples, the stage 106 can be formed from a conductive material connected to a common return path 114 (e.g., to ground). The electrolyte 126 can be charged in the nozzle 108 so that contact between the electrolyte 126 and the conductive sample 105 disposed on and in contact with the stage 106 causes a current to flow through the sample 105 and the stage 106. In some examples, the sample 105 is disposed in a fixture 102 (e.g., a sample holder); additionally or alternatively, the fixture 102 can be conductive and provide electrical contact with both the sample 105 and the stage 106.

[0041] In some examples, the system 100 can control one or more operating parameters to process different samples and / or different regions of a sample according to a desired processing program and / or cycle. A processing program or cycle can provide the desired processing by adjusting one or more operating parameters of the system, such as the program execution speed, the position of one or more components (e.g., the nozzle 108 and / or the stage 106), the fluid flow rate, the imaging of the sample, the temperature, the current, the voltage, the duration of the program or cycle, the traverse rate, the number of cycles, etc.

[0042] While some exemplary systems are shown using a single nozzle, one or more of the disclosed systems and / or methods can be configured with two or more nozzles. With multiple nozzles, a user can select the number of nozzles to use depending on the sample during a processing cycle or program, or the system can determine the appropriate and / or optimal processing step(s) for each nozzle. The system then independently controls each nozzle to perform the cycle(s). For example, one or more actuators, motors, drives, or gear mechanisms can control the movement of the nozzle(s) to perform the selected cycle or program. In some examples, two or more reservoirs 120 can be used to store different electrolytes, water, or other fluids.

[0043] 2A shows a top view of an exemplary electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system. As shown, a sample 105 is placed in a mount or holder 104, which has a fixture 102 surrounding the mount 104. In some examples, the fixture 102 is a cup-like container that holds the mount 104 and / or sample on three sides. In some examples, the fixture 102 is a ring or band that surrounds the outer periphery of the mount or sample and provides an electrical connection between the mount / sample and a current path 114.

[0044] 2A , electrodes 110 are positioned to contact one or more surfaces of sample 105, mount 104, and / or fixture 102. In some examples, electrodes 110 are directly connected to common return path 114, while in some examples, electrode connectors 112 provide electrical contact between electrodes 110 and common return path 114. In some examples, sample 105, mount 104, and / or fixture 102 are positioned on stage 106, and stage 106 can additionally or alternatively be connected to common return path 114.

[0045] FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of another exemplary electrode connection system. As shown in FIG. 2B, fixture 102 is formed as a ring designed to accommodate a cylindrical or disc-shaped sample 105 (although any shape or geometry can be used). Fixture 102 allows a user to quickly form electrical connections with electrodes 110 mounted on fixture 102. For example, a user can simply insert sample 105 (and / or mount 104) into ring-shaped fixture 102 to bring electrode 110 into contact with the surface of sample 105. The user then loads fixture 102 into system 100 and connects electrode 110 and / or electrode connector 112 via clips 109, wires 107 on the side of the ring-shaped fixture, or electrical contact with stage 106 to complete the common return path. In some examples, the electrodes 110 and / or electrode connectors 112 are attached to the fixture ring 102, the sample 105, and / or the workpiece by one or more of clips, welds, fasteners, bolts, screws, plugs, banana jacks, or compression fits, conductive tape, or conductive paint.

[0046] 2C shows a top view of yet another exemplary electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system. As shown, sample 105 is placed in fixture 102A having angled portion 111. Fixture 102A can support samples of various sizes with three-point contact: two points within the fixture and fasteners 113. In some examples, electrodes 110 and / or connectors 112 are positioned to contact one or more surfaces of sample 105 and / or fixture 102A. Electrode 110 provides electrical connection between the mount / sample and current path 114.

[0047] 3A and 3B show cross-sectional views of an example electrode connection system that uses posts 116 to support and / or position electrode 110A in contact with sample 105. In some examples, the position or orientation of post 116 and / or electrode 110A is adjustable so that when sample 105 is placed on stage 106, electrode 110A is positioned above sample 105 and adjusted (e.g., lowered) to form electrical contact.

[0048] 3B shows one example adjustment mechanism that uses a biasing member 118 (e.g., a spring). As shown, the biasing member 118 biases the electrode 110B toward the sample 105. Thus, a user raises the electrode 110B, inserts the sample onto the stage 106, and then releases the electrode 110B once the sample is in place. The compression by the biasing member 118 pulls the electrode downward, creating and maintaining an electrical connection.

[0049] 3A and 3B, sample 105 is shown as being in fixture 102, however, in some examples, the sample may additionally or alternatively be inserted into mount 104 or placed directly on stage 106. In some examples, electrodes 110A, 110B may be directly connected to a common return path 114 or may additionally or alternatively be connected to common return path 114 via support post 116 and / or stage 106.

[0050] 4A-4C show an example electrode connection system that uses a stage 106 as a connection between the sample 105 and a common return path 114. Thus, the stage 106 functions as an electrode for the sample 105. FIG. 4A shows a similar mounting configuration to that shown in FIG. 1, except that a mount 104 is included between the sample 105 and the fixture 102.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4B, the sample 105 can be mounted in a mount 104 containing a conductive mounting medium such that electrode connections are provided from the stage 106 through the mount 104 to the sample 105 .

[0052] If the sample 105 itself is conductive, the sample 105 can be placed directly on the stage 106 without any other fixing or connection points, as shown in FIG. 4C.

[0053] 5 shows an exemplary electrode connection system for a sample 105 enclosed within a mount 104. To form and maintain a direct electrical connection between the common return path 114 and the sample 105, the electrode 110C is inserted into a hole 121 extending to the surface 128 of the sample 105. For example, a user can drill a hole 121 in a sidewall of the mount 104 to access the sample 105. The user then inserts the electrode 110C through the hole 121 until contact is made. This technique can be used with non-conductive mounts and / or when the sample 105 is placed on a non-conductive stage or system.

[0054] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a sample fixture system 200 for holding multiple conductive samples 105A and 105B for an electromachining process that achieves controlled material removal at a predetermined depth. The system 200 is comprised of a non-conductive clamping mechanism 134 (e.g., a mold, housing, fixture, clamp, etc.) designed to maintain the sample(s) in a desired position and / or orientation. A conductive electrode 137 (e.g., a wire, bar, conductive trace, conductive tape, conductive fluid, etc.) is disposed on, around, and / or within the mechanism 134 so as to be in electrical contact with one or more of the samples while also connecting to a common return path 114. While two samples are shown in the example of FIG. 6, in some examples, a single sample may be mounted on the mechanism 134, or three or more samples (e.g., four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more samples) may be mounted on the mechanism 134. In some examples, the system 200 may be supported by the stage 106 in the example system 100 of FIG. 1.

[0055] FIG. 7A shows an exemplary system 202 for connecting an unmounted sample 105C (e.g., a relatively small and / or differently shaped sample) so that the sample 105C can be electromechanically processed. In one example, the sample(s) 105C are in the shape of a disk having a nominal thickness (e.g., approximately 3 mm in diameter). The sample(s) 105C can be mounted in a flat orientation, but can also be positioned in any given orientation to support the sample so that the sample's surface 146 is exposed. To form and maintain a direct electrical connection between the common return path 114 and the sample 105C, the system 202 includes conductive lever(s) 130 biased toward a fixture 138 by a spring 144 or other mechanism that provides sufficient deflection resistance to serve multiple purposes.

[0056] For example, a spring-loaded conductive lever 130 or a deflection-resistant lever exerts a force on the sample 105C toward a fixture 138 (e.g., a non-metallic collar fixture) to secure the sample 105C in place. The conductive lever 130 also functions as an electrode contact that forms a direct electrical connection between the sample 105C and the common return path 114.

[0057] Electrochemical machining is performed on the sample from above and is programmed to stop or continue until the sample 105C is thin enough that the electrolyte jet penetrates the sample 105C. In this example, the electrolyte contacts the breaker circuit 142. Such contact is detected by the breaker 143, terminating the electromechanical machining process. In some examples, the system 202 can be supported by the stage 106 in the example system 100 of FIG. 1.

[0058] 7B shows a plan view of one example of system 202 taken along line AA in FIG. 7A. As shown, the fixture 138, the conductive lever 130, and a portion of the breaker circuit 142 have a substantially circular shape. In some examples, this shape has different geometric dimensions and / or shapes to suit a particular design and / or application. In some examples, an insulator 140 separates the breaker circuit 142 from the conductive lever 130, preventing undesired electrical contact.

[0059] 8A-8C show diagrams of another example system 203 for connecting a sample 205 so that the sample 205 can be electromechanically processed. In one example, the sample(s) 205 are in the shape of a disk having a nominal thickness, although the sample can have any shape suitable for mounting on a stand 208 in the system 203. The sample(s) 205 can be mounted in a flat orientation, but can also be positioned in any given orientation for supporting the sample such that a portion of the sample's surface 246 is exposed.

[0060] To level the sample 205, fix the orientation or position of the sample, and / or form and maintain a direct electrical connection between the common return path and the sample 205, the system 203 includes a spring 244 and a platform 212 biased against one or more conductive flanges 206. As shown in FIG. 8B , the sample 205 rests on the platform 212 and is biased toward an extension of the flange 206. For example, the spring 244 and the platform 212 can be formed from a conductive material that is in electrical and / or physical contact with the conductive layer 210 of the stand 208. In some examples, the flange 206 is supported on one or more fixtures 238 through which fasteners 236 can change the force, position, and / or orientation of the flange 206 relative to the sample 205 and / or the stand 208. As shown, the fastener 236 may be received by a nut or similar feature 218 that re-engines the fastener and provides a path to ground through the conductive layer 210 .

[0061] While shown as substantially flat in Figure 8B, in some examples, samples 205 of different shapes may be secured by the flanges at different heights and / or different locations along surface 246 (e.g., as shown in Figure 8C). Additionally, spring 244 and / or platform 212 may be configured to pivot, rotate, and / or otherwise displace depending on the shape of sample 205 and / or the placement of flange 206. This may be achieved through the use of gimbals or other types of flexible joints or deformable materials.

[0062] Although one or more of the flange, fastener, fixture, platform, and / or spring are described as providing a path to ground, in some examples, one or more of the flange, fastener, fixture, platform, and / or spring are formed from an insulating material, providing an interruption to the path. In such examples, an electrode can be secured in contact with the sample, thereby forming an alternative electrical connection between the sample and the common return path (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5).

[0063] As shown in the exemplary system 203A shown in FIG. 8C , the height and / or orientation of one or more fixtures 238 and / or flange 206 can be adjusted to accommodate various sample 205 shapes. For example, the flange 206 can be configured to extend horizontally or rotate on the fixture 238 and can be formed with a channel 222 to allow the flange 206 to extend toward or away from the platform 212 and / or sample. Additionally, while the sample support 216 of the flange 206 is shown as being substantially flat and / or parallel to the surface of the stand 208, it can be made of any suitable shape and / or mounted in any suitable orientation relative to the stand, fixture, platform, and / or sample. For example, the support 216 can be formed with wire extensions, teeth for gripping the sample, and can connect to the flange / fastener and mount the sample via one or more springs or other biasing members. The finish of the support (and / or flange) can be rough or smooth, conductive or insulating, rigid or flexible to accommodate a particular application.

[0064] Additionally, a number of holes 220 may be positioned around the surface of the stand 208 to receive fasteners 236 that are inserted into the nuts 218. The location of the spring 244 and / or platform 212 may also be positioned at various points around the stand 208 using the holes.

[0065] 8D and 8E show additional or alternative examples of flange 206A in which support 216A is configured to receive extension 222. As shown, a removable mounting block 224 can be secured to flange 206A (e.g., by one or more fasteners 226) and used to support extension 222. As shown in FIG. 8E, extension 222 is movable relative to support 216A to better accommodate the shape and / or size of the mounted sample. Mounting block 224 can allow movement of extension 222 such that extension 222 is free to move within support 216A until it contacts the sample and a force is applied (e.g., by tightening fastener 236). In other examples, fastener 226 can be tightened to fix the position of extension 222 within support 216A.

[0066] 9 shows another example system 303 for connecting samples 305A and 305B so that they can be electromechanically processed. In the example shown, sample(s) 305A are circular disks of a given diameter, and sample(s) 305B have a smaller diameter. The samples are mounted on a platform 312 configured to receive samples of various shapes and sizes. As shown, platform 312 is shaped with two angled positions 324 on either side of a central structure 326.

[0067] Each end 328 of the platform 312 flares outward to provide an angled surface against which the sample can be pressed. One or more braces 306 can be positioned against the platform 312, facing the sample, and secured to the opposing brace 306 and / or the platform itself by posts or screws 336 secured with nuts 318. In some additional or alternative examples, one or more springs bias the braces 306 toward the platform 312 with sufficient force to support the sample.

[0068] In examples, the platform 312 and / or the stand 308 are formed from a non-conductive material. As shown, the brace 306 is conductive and is connected to the common return path 114 to form and maintain a direct electrical connection with the sample. In some examples, the platform 312 is conductive and is connected directly to the common return path.

[0069] 9 shows a system supporting four samples, a single sample may be supported by the system, or more than four samples may be mounted. Although shown with representative shapes and sizes, one or both of samples 305A and 305B may have any shape suitable for mounting on platform 312, including different shapes and / or sizes in any of a variety of locations.

[0070] 10A and 10B show an example conductive gasket 400 for supporting a conductive sample 405. For example, if the sample is supported in a hot compression mount 402, the gasket 400 can be fabricated to be in electrical and / or physical contact with the sample 405. Because material 402 is fabricated to surround the sample 405 (e.g., by casting the support material), the outside of the resulting support remains conductive. A path from the gasket 400 to ground can be achieved by one or more of the solutions provided herein.

[0071] The above description and accompanying drawings illustrate the principles, preferred embodiments, and modes of operation. However, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the particular embodiments described above. Additional variations on the above-described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0072] Although the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, divided, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and / or system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Instead, the present method and / or system includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents. While the controller and method are described as being used in conjunction with an electrochemical machining system, the present teachings are equally applicable to other systems and operations.

[0073] All documents referred to in this application, including journal articles or abstracts, published or corresponding U.S. or foreign patent applications, issued or foreign patents, or any other documents, are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, including all data, tables, figures, and text presented within the referenced documents.

Claims

1. 1. An electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system, the connection comprising: a fixture containing the sample; an electrode in electrical contact with a common return path for current from the electrolyte to flow through the sample; Including, the system.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sample comprises a conductive material.

3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a mount for supporting the sample, the mount housed within the fixture.

4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the fixture or the mount comprises a conductive material, and the common return path allows current to flow through the sample, the electrode, and the mount or the fixture.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the fixture is a ring-shaped fixture having a substantially circular shape.

6. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a post for positioning the electrode in electrical contact with the sample.

7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the posts comprise a conductive material.

8. The system of claim 6 , wherein the support posts comprise an electrically insulating material.

9. The system of claim 6 , further comprising a biasing member that biases the electrode into physical and electrical contact with the sample.

10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the electrode is configured to penetrate a portion of the mount through an opening to make physical and electrical contact with the sample.

11. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an electrode connector in electrical contact with the electrode and the common return path.

12. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the electrode connector is attached to the fixture, the sample, or the workpiece by one or more of a clip, weld, fastener, bolt, screw, plug, banana jack, compression fit, conductive tape, or conductive paint.

13. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a stage configured to support the sample or the fixture.

14. The system of claim 13 , wherein the stage is in electrical contact with the common return path and the sample or the fixture.

15. 1. An electrochemical machining system for machining a surface of a sample, comprising: a nozzle configured to direct a jet of electrolyte onto the surface of the sample, wherein an electric charge is applied to the nozzle; a fixture containing the sample; a stage in electrical contact with the sample or the fixture; a common return path in electrical contact with the stage to allow the charge to flow from the electrolyte, through the sample, and to the common return path; A system comprising:

16. The system of claim 15 , further comprising a mount that houses the sample, the mount comprising a conductive material.

17. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the charge flows from the electrolyte through the fixture housing the sample or mount, through the sample and the stage.

18. The system of claim 15 further comprising a chamber for containing the sample during the electrochemical machining process.

19. 16. The system of claim 15, further comprising a mount for supporting the sample, the mount housed within the fixture.

20. The system of claim 15 further comprising an electrode in electrical contact with the common return path and the sample.

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