Cryogenic Heating System Using Inert Fluid for Non-Contact Sample Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In situ heating and cooling of samples is difficult to maintain and control, especially with contact methods that can degrade the test sample during analysis, necessitating a system for controlled non-contact heating and cooling.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic heating system using multiple stages of heaters and an inert fluid, with insulated fluidic connections and feedback-controlled temperature management, to provide non-contact heating and cooling of test samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If contact heating and cooling methods are used, then heating and cooling efficiency is improved, but sample integrity deteriorates due to degradation during analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an inert fluid as an intermediary medium between the heating/cooling system and the test sample. The fluid circulates through controlled environments (heating and cooling stages) before contacting the sample, allowing thermal energy transfer without direct physical contact that would cause degradation. This mediator approach enables efficient heat transfer while preserving sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact heating/cooling methods with a fluid-based thermal transfer system. Instead of applying heat directly through contact, the system uses controlled circulation of inert fluid that has been thermally conditioned, substituting mechanical contact with a softer, controllable thermal field that doesn't degrade the sample.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If non-contact heating and cooling methods are used, then sample integrity is maintained, but temperature control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control systems with sensors that continuously monitor the temperature of the inert fluid and the test sample. This feedback information is used to adjust heating and cooling stage operations in real-time, maintaining precise temperature control despite the indirect heating method. The feedback loops compensate for thermal losses and variations, ensuring accurate temperature maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the thermal control system into multiple segmented stages: a heating stage, a cooling stage, and fluid circulation paths. Each stage can be independently controlled and optimized, allowing precise temperature management of the inert fluid before it contacts the sample. This segmentation enables fine-tuned thermal control while maintaining sample integrity through non-contact methods.
3Measurement precision
If multiple stages of heaters are used, then temperature control accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the inert fluid circulation system to serve multiple functions: it acts as a heat transfer medium, a temperature equalization carrier, and a protective atmosphere for the sample. The same fluid circulation infrastructure supports both heating and cooling operations by routing fluid through different staged environments. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each function, managing complexity while maintaining precision.
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
The system achieves precise temperature control from -200°C to 200°C, maintaining sample integrity by using inert fluids and advanced control systems, ensuring accurate and efficient heating and cooling without direct contact.
Implementation Method 1
The system can be used to provide non-contact heating and cooling of a test sample by use of an inert fluid
Implementation Method 2
The system can be used to provide non-contact heating and cooling of a test sample by use of an inert fluid
Implementation Method 3
Such connections can be insulated to minimize heat loss or gain of the inert fluid
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cryogenic heating system including a plurality of stages to provide accurate temperature control. The system can be used to provide non-contact heating and cooling of a test sample by use of an inert fluid. Accurate temperature control can be maintained, e.g., by use of controllers to provide temperature feedback control.