Variable-Temperature Analytical Instrument for 300 mK Sample Cooling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current analytical instruments are limited in achieving temperatures below 10 K, and there is a need to cool samples to even lower temperatures, such as below 2.8 K or 0.8 K, while minimizing laboratory influences like vibrations and ensuring efficient sample analysis.

Innovation Solution

The development of variable temperature analytical instruments that include a mobile or fixed cold source in thermal communication with an analysis component, utilizing a cryofluid source, pump assembly, and multiple conduits to maintain discrete masses at different temperatures, allowing for flexible and efficient cooling and analysis at extremely low temperatures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If samples are cooled to lower temperatures (below 10 K), then the ability to perform low-temperature analysis is improved, but laboratory influences such as vibrations become more problematic

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample temperatureVSAvoidlaboratory vibrations

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The instrument is divided into separate mobile and fixed components. The mobile component containing the cold source can be positioned and isolated from vibrations, while the fixed analysis component remains stable. This segmentation allows the cooling system to be physically separated from vibration-sensitive analysis areas.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An interface component serves as an intermediary between the mobile cold source and the fixed analysis component. This interface allows thermal communication while providing mechanical isolation, enabling cold temperatures to be transmitted without transmitting vibrations to the analysis component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the cold source is made mobile to improve flexibility in sample handling, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for interfaces and coupling mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample handling flexibilityVSAvoidinterface and coupling mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile component is designed with universal coupling capabilities that can interface with different fixed analysis components through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows the same mobile unit to work with various analysis components without requiring custom coupling mechanisms for each configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If discrete masses are maintained at different temperatures to improve temperature control precision, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple thermal zones

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature control precisionVSAvoidmultiple thermal zones

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different discrete masses within the system are maintained at different temperatures appropriate for their specific functions. The cold source operates at the lowest temperature, intermediate masses are maintained at progressively higher temperatures, and the analysis component is maintained at a controlled temperature. This local quality approach allows each zone to be optimized for its specific purpose while using a single integrated cooling system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

These instruments achieve sample analysis temperatures as low as 300 mK, providing efficient cooling, reducing vibrations, and enabling precise analysis while maintaining flexibility and convenience in sample handling and temperature control.

Implementation Method 1

a cold source in thermal communication with an analysis component

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

a pump assembly operably coupled to the cold source and the analysis component; at least a pair of conduits extending between the cold source and the analysis component

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid circulation: Pump

Data Source

PatentUS11275000B2Analytical instruments, methods, and components

Publication Date: 2022.03.15 MONTANA INSTRUMENTS CORP

AI summary

Variable temperature analytical instruments are provided that can include: a mobile component comprising a cold source; a substantially fixed analysis component; and an interface configured to couple the mobile component with the analysis component. Variable temperature analytical instruments are also provided that can include: a mobile analysis component; a substantially fixed component comprising a cold source; and an interface configured to couple the mobile component with the analysis component.