ATR Force Measurement Hinge and Sensor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ATR measurement systems face challenges in applying repeatable and controllable forces to samples, leading to inaccuracies in signal-to-noise control and force measurement, especially when using sensitive sensors that are either too flexible or not linearly accurate under low strain conditions.
Innovation Solution
The ATR measurement system employs a load sensor connected to a chassis with a hinge connection, allowing precise measurement of forces applied to the sample, and combines this with a high-precision low-noise analog electronic circuit to ensure accurate and repeatable force measurement, while maintaining optical alignment by limiting deflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensitive load sensor is used to measure low forces, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor becomes too flexible causing optical alignment problems and deflection issues
Solution Approach 1:
A hinge connection is introduced as an intermediary between the optical assembly and the load sensor. This hinge allows the sensor to measure forces without requiring the sensor itself to be extremely rigid, as the hinge provides structural support while still allowing the sensor to detect force changes accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
The force measurement function is separated from the optical path stability function. The load sensor measures forces in one dimension (force application) while the hinge connection maintains optical alignment in another dimension (positional stability), allowing both functions to coexist without compromising either.
2Reliability
If a stiff sensor design is used to maintain optical alignment, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates at typical ATR loads
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the hinge connection handles structural stability and optical alignment, while the load sensor handles force measurement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge acts as a mediator that decouples the structural support function from the measurement function. It provides a stable mounting point for the sensor while allowing the sensor to remain sensitive to force changes, effectively resolving the contradiction between stiffness and sensitivity.
3Measurement precision
If additional force is added to the stage to compensate for sensor flexibility, then measurement precision is improved, but the stage deflection increases affecting optical alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connection serves as an intermediary that absorbs the flexibility issue. Instead of adding force to compensate for sensor flexibility (which would cause stage deflection), the hinge provides structural support that allows the sensor to remain flexible and sensitive without affecting stage position stability.
4Ease of operation
If conventional mechanical pressure mechanisms are used to apply force, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and repeatability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The conventional mechanical pressure application system is replaced with a sensor-based force detection system. Instead of using mechanical screws, levers, and actuators to control and measure force, the system uses a load sensor to directly detect forces, providing both ease of operation and high measurement precision with repeatable results.
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
This configuration enables accurate and repeatable measurement of forces applied to the ATR crystal, improving the reliability and precision of spectroscopic analysis by ensuring consistent contact pressure and minimizing strain on the sensor, thus enhancing the accuracy of force measurements within the measuring range.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor can be combined with a high-precision low-noise analog electronic circuit to allow a more accurate measurement of the force
Implementation Method 2
The sensor can be mounted to the chassis and configured to detect the force applied to the sample by the at least one of the internally reflective element and the stage
Data Source
AI summary
An optical measurement system measurement system for examining a sample. The measurement system comprises an internally reflective element, a stage, an optical assembly, a chassis, and a sensor. The internally reflective element has a contact surface. The stage is positioned below the internally reflective element. The stage and the internally reflective element are configured to apply a force to the sample. The optical assembly comprises a light source and a light detector. The optical assembly is configured to scan the sample by directing source light from the light source towards the contact surface and detecting source light optically interacting with the contact surface by the light detector. The chassis is configured to support the optical assembly and the internally reflective element. The sensor is mounted to the chassis and configured to detect the force applied to the sample by the internally reflective element and the stage.