Adjustable Slit Sample Holder for In-Plane LFA Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-plane laser/light flash analysis (LFA) sample holders require multiple holders with differently arranged slits for samples with varying thermal diffusivities and sizes, leading to increased effort and uncertainty in measurements.
Innovation Solution
A sample holder with adjustable slits, allowing for customizable slit lengths, widths, and distances to accommodate different thermal diffusivities and dimensions, optimizing measurement time and signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple fixed-configuration sample holders are used for different sample types, then measurement precision can be optimized for specific samples, but device complexity and operational effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mask components are designed with adjustable and interchangeable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration of slit geometries. The masking panels can be moved, removed, or replaced to change the slit pattern, transforming a static holder into a dynamic, adaptable system that maintains measurement precision across different sample types without requiring multiple fixed configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various sample dimensions and thermal diffusivities through a set of interchangeable masking panels. Each panel configuration serves multiple measurement scenarios, allowing one device to perform the function of multiple specialized holders, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining optimization for different samples
2Measurement precision
If multiple fixed-configuration sample holders are used for different sample types, then measurement accuracy can be optimized for specific samples, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the operator to adjust the mask settings directly at the measurement station without requiring selection from multiple pre-configured holders. The adjustable masking panels can be quickly repositioned or swapped to match the required geometry for different samples, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The masking system is segmented into independent, interchangeable panels that can be individually selected and positioned. This segmentation allows the operator to assemble the appropriate configuration from available panels rather than handling complete pre-configured holders, reducing operational complexity and improving ease of use while preserving measurement accuracy
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed slit geometries are used in sample holders, then manufacturing precision can be simplified, but adaptability to different samples deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The masking system is divided into separate, standardized panels with simple geometric features that are easy to manufacture. Each panel can be produced independently with basic precision requirements, and the modular nature allows different combinations to create complex slit patterns. This segmentation maintains ease of manufacture while achieving high adaptability through various panel arrangements
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from fixed, precision-machined slit patterns to dynamic configurations created by positioning simpler masking panels. The panels themselves require less manufacturing precision, but the overall system achieves adaptability through the ability to reposition and recombine these panels in different arrangements, balancing manufacturing simplicity with versatile adaptability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables universal applicability for samples with different thermal properties and sizes, reducing the need for multiple holders and improving measurement accuracy and precision.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating a first side of a sample with an electromagnetic excitation pulse from a radiation source
Implementation Method 2
detecting thermal radiation, which is emitted from a second side of the sample opposite to the first side as a result of the excitation pulse
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a sample holder (1) for holding a plate-shaped sample in an "in-plane" laser/light flash analysis (LFA), wherein the sample holder (1) comprises: a first mask (10) provided to face a radiation source during the in-plane LFA and defining at least one first slit (12-1, 12-2) corresponding to at least one first strip-shaped area on a first side of the sample, for providing a selective irradiation of the at least one first strip-shaped area; a second mask (20) provided to face a radiation detector during the in-plane LFA and defining a second slit (22) corresponding to a second strip-shaped area on a second side of the sample opposing the first side, for providing a selective detection of radiation emitted from the second strip-shaped area; and a receiving space (30) provided between the first mask (10) and the second mask (20) for receiving the sample. For a reduction of the effort required for an in-plane LFA of different samples, in particular samples with different thermal diffusivities, according to the invention the sample holder (1) is designed for enabling: a change of a length and/or a width of the at least one first slit (12-1, 12-2) and/or a change of a length and/or a width of the second slit (22) and/or a change of a distance between two first slits (12-1, 12-2). The possibility of adjusting such geometrical parameters of the slit arrangement results in a more universal applicability of the sample holder (1) according to the invention. In particular, the sample holder advantageously enables an analysis of samples with different thermal diffusivities. Further, the invention proposes a laser/light flash analysis using such a sample holder (1).