Refrigeration system and method for loading such a refrigeration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryogenic refrigeration systems are inefficient and costly due to the need to stop and repressurize the refrigeration unit when loading samples, which slows down the cooling process and limits the space for samples.
Innovation Solution
A refrigeration system with a loading rod and a refrigeration unit featuring a thermal shield with an orifice and a thermalization member that allows for selective thermal connection/disconnection of the rod, enabling sample loading without interrupting operation, and a shutter for improved energy efficiency and thermal stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the refrigeration unit stops and pressurizes the first chamber to load the rod, then the sample can be loaded into the refrigeration unit, but the operation time increases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is pre-cooled by selective thermal connection to the first thermal shield before being permanently installed in the refrigeration unit. This preliminary cooling action allows the rod to be prepared outside the vacuum chamber, eliminating the need to interrupt refrigeration operation for cooling purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermalization function is extracted as a separate, movable component (thermalization member) that can be selectively applied to the rod. This allows the thermal connection to be made and broken without moving the rod itself or interrupting the vacuum seal, enabling rapid loading operations.
2Reliability
If the rod remains in place in the refrigeration unit during measurement, then thermal connection is maintained, but the footprint increases and sample space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is divided into multiple portions with different thermal properties. The first portion can be thermally connected to the first thermal shield for pre-cooling, while the second portion extends to the second thermal shield for final sample cooling. This segmentation allows flexible thermal management without requiring the entire rod to remain in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal connection between the rod and thermal shields is made dynamic through movable thermalization members. These members can be positioned to connect or disconnect thermal paths as needed, allowing the system to adapt between different operational states (loading, cooling, measurement) without permanent structural constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wiring and structure are provided in the refrigeration unit for pre-cooling, then selective pre-cooling can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermalization member acts as an intermediary component that provides the thermal connection function without requiring complex wiring or permanent structures inside the vacuum chamber. This movable intermediary simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining selective pre-cooling capability.
4Ease of operation
If the first chamber is opened for rod introduction, then the rod can be loaded, but thermal equilibrium time increases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration system maintains continuous operation and vacuum seal integrity throughout the loading process. The movable thermalization members enable thermal connections to be made without breaking the vacuum, allowing the refrigeration cycle to continue uninterrupted and maintaining thermal equilibrium faster.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum environment is maintained continuously during the loading operation by using movable thermalization members that can be inserted or removed without opening the vacuum chamber. This preserves the inert vacuum atmosphere, preventing thermal leaks and maintaining energy efficiency.
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 solution allows for quicker and easier sample loading at cryogenic temperatures, reducing the time to reach thermal equilibrium and improving energy consumption and thermal stability by maintaining the system under vacuum and using a common drive unit for actuation devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first thermalization member arranged to selectively thermally connect or disconnect a first portion of the rod to or from the first thermal shield
Implementation Method 2
a shutter of the first orifice that is thermally connected to the first shield
Implementation Method 3
the first chamber is sealed and under vacuum
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigeration system comprising: a rod and a refrigeration unit that comprises a first thermal screen which at least partially defines a first thermal chamber and a second thermal screen which is located inside the first chamber and which is provided with means for thermally connecting the receiving space to the second thermal screen; wherein the first thermal screen comprises a first opening through which the rod passes, and the refrigeration unit comprises a first thermalization member that is arranged to selectively thermally connect a first portion of the rod to the first thermal screen. The invention also relates to a method for loading such a refrigeration system.