Adjustable TEM Sample Holder with Integrated Tilt Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing TEM lamella holders have limited movement ranges and complex structures, requiring multiple manipulation devices, which can lead to system failures, increased maintenance complexity, and higher costs due to the need for multiple motors for independent positioning.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable sample holder with a moveable element, rotating shaft, and a fixation mechanism that allows full range of manipulation stage movement without additional control drives, enabling position changes within the working chamber by utilizing the manipulation stage's movement range, and allowing 360° positioning around the shaft axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent manipulation devices and motors are used for holder positioning, then the holder can achieve precise positioning and full range of movement, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to more components that can fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the holder positioning function with the manipulation stage by allowing the holder to be moved and tilted using the stage's existing motors. The holder is coupled to the stage such that the stage's X-Y-Z translations and tilts automatically reposition the holder, eliminating the need for separate positioning motors on the holder itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulation stage is designed to serve dual functions: both manipulating the substrate and positioning the holder. The stage's motors and movement capabilities are utilized for both substrate handling and holder repositioning, making the system more versatile while reducing component count.
2Stability of the object's composition
If fixation bolts apply pressure to maintain holder tilt position, then the holder position is stable, but the shaft resistance becomes too high which may damage the manipulator
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation mechanism uses a dynamic spring-loaded crown and counterpart system that adapts to different holder positions. The spring allows the crown to engage with the counterpart at various tilt angles while maintaining appropriate contact force, preventing excessive resistance while ensuring stability across the full range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism changes the contact force parameter dynamically based on the holder position. As the holder tilts, the spring compression varies, automatically adjusting the fixation force to maintain stability without creating excessive resistance that could damage the manipulator.
3Measurement precision
If the holder position is adjusted manually with a micro-manipulator tip, then precise positioning is achieved, but the preparation time increases and external intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the manipulation stage's own motors and control system to reposition the holder automatically. The holder can be tilted and positioned using the stage's existing X-Y-Z tilts without requiring external manual intervention with a micro-manipulator, making the system self-sufficient while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment using a micro-manipulator tip is replaced by an automated motor-driven system. The stage's motors electronically control the holder position, substituting manual mechanical operation with automated electromagnetic actuation, which is both precise and faster.
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional motors are installed on the holder for independent positioning, then full range of movement is achieved, but the cost and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the holder positioning function with the manipulation stage by utilizing the stage's existing motors. No additional motors are installed on the holder itself; instead, the holder is coupled to the stage so that the stage's motors perform both substrate manipulation and holder positioning functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulation stage's motors are designed to serve multiple functions: manipulating the substrate and positioning the holder. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate motors on the holder, reducing manufacturing costs and maintenance requirements while maintaining full positioning capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A device comprises an electron column or an ion column, provided with an adjustable holder. The adjustable holder maintains the whole range of movements of the manipulation stage and is adapted to change its position in relation to the stage at least in one direction, wherein the range of movements of the manipulation stage is sufficient to change this position and it is unnecessary to install any other control drive or actuator.