Coaxial Optical Positioner for X-ray Analyzer Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscopic X-ray analyzing devices face challenges in coaxial viewing and analysis, with limitations in positioning the X-ray beam at optimal angles leading to elliptical spots and reduced optical image quality, and sample shifting during translation between viewing and analyzing positions.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an optical positioner assembly with a sample stage and multiple X-ray optics that can be easily aligned normal to the sample without moving the sample, allowing for coaxial X-ray and optical analysis with adjustable beam geometry and excitation conditions, using a combination of X-ray tubes and detectors for various spectral analysis methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the X-ray beam is positioned at an incident angle of 45°≦θ≦70° to the sample, then the X-ray analysis can be performed, but the beam spot becomes elliptical and the positioning precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning the X-ray beam at an oblique angle to the sample, the patent inverts the approach by positioning the beam normal (perpendicular) to the sample surface. This is achieved through the optical positioner assembly that aligns the X-ray optic and viewing lens coaxially with the sample, transforming the beam spot from elliptical to circular and improving positioning precision while maintaining analysis capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mirror is used to allow coaxial imaging of the sample, then coaxial viewing and analysis is enabled, but the design of X-ray optics is limited and optical image quality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the mirror component from the optical path that was previously required to achieve coaxial imaging. By using an optical positioner assembly with a rotary turret or x-y stage to position the X-ray optic and viewing lens directly, the system eliminates the mirror, thereby restoring full design freedom for X-ray optics while maintaining coaxial viewing and analysis capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical positioner assembly serves multiple functions: it positions the viewing lens for optical imaging, positions the X-ray optic for X-ray analysis, and ensures coaxial alignment between the two paths. This multi-functional device replaces the mirror-based solution, enabling coaxial operation without limiting optics design or reducing image quality
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sample is automatically translated between imaging position and testing position, then coaxial viewing and analysis is achieved, but loosely mounted samples may shift during translation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the sample between imaging and testing positions, the patent inverts the approach by keeping the sample stationary and moving the analytical components (viewing lens and X-ray optic) into position using the optical positioner assembly. This eliminates sample shifting during translation while maintaining the ability to switch between viewing and analysis modes
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple X-ray optics are provided for different analysis types, then analysis versatility is improved, but the complexity of positioning and alignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple positioning functions into a single optical positioner assembly with a rotary turret or x-y stage. This unified positioning system handles both the viewing lens and multiple X-ray optics, allowing versatile analysis capabilities while simplifying the overall positioning and alignment complexity through integrated control
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 precise, efficient, and flexible analysis of samples with improved optical image quality and reduced sample shifting, allowing for accurate elemental and atomic structure determination without compromising the optical field of view.
Implementation Method 1
at least one X-ray tube optically coupled to the at least one X-ray optic
Implementation Method 2
elemental imaging analysis such as studying compositional homogeneity of samples
Implementation Method 3
the optic viewing lens receives light reflected from the sample along a first path
Implementation Method 4
an optic viewing lens coupled to a first camera
Implementation Method 5
The optical positioner is configured to align the optic viewing lens normal to the sample on the sample stage such that the optic lens receives light reflected from the sample
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray analyzer includes a sample stage for holding and positioning a sample and an optical positioner assembly configured above the sample stage. The optical positioner assembly includes a body member having an opening; an optical positioner located within the opening; and at least one X-ray optic and an optical viewing lens coupled to a first camera. The at least one X-ray optic and the optical viewing lens are secured to the optical positioner. The optical positioner is configured to align one of the at least one X-ray optic and the optic viewing lens normal to the sample on the sample stage such that the sample is irradiated with X-rays through the X-ray optic along a path which is normal to the sample and coaxial with the optic viewing lens receiving light reflected from the sample when the optic viewing lens is positioned normal to the sample.