Detachable Sample Adjusting Unit for Ion Milling Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sample holder systems for ion milling apparatuses have complex configurations due to integrated fine adjustment mechanisms, which can lead to thermal expansion and displacement issues when exposed to ion beams, requiring additional heat radiating mechanisms and increasing complexity.

Innovation Solution

A sample holder system with a detachable sample adjusting unit that includes a position adjusting jig and swinging mechanism, allowing for precise positioning of the sample and shielding plate without integrating the adjustment mechanisms into the sample holder, thereby simplifying the configuration and preventing thermal expansion issues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the fine adjustment mechanism is integrated with the sample holder, then the positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the sample holder system into separate functional modules: the sample holder body and the fine adjustment mechanism are disconnected and can be used independently or combined. This segmentation reduces the overall device complexity while maintaining positioning precision when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a swinging mechanism that allows the sample holder to dynamically adjust its position and orientation. This dynamic adjustment capability replaces complex integrated fine adjustment mechanisms while achieving precise positioning through controlled swinging motions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If the fine adjustment mechanism is integrated with the sample holder, then the positioning precision is improved, but the thermal stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidthermal stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By disconnecting the fine adjustment mechanism from the sample holder, the patent separates the thermal zones. The sample holder can be positioned in areas with stable thermal conditions, while the adjustment mechanism operates independently, preventing thermal expansion from affecting positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a swinging mechanism as an intermediary between the sample holder and the fine adjustment mechanism. This intermediary allows precise positioning to be achieved through mechanical swinging motions rather than thermal expansion, eliminating the thermal stability problem.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution results in a simpler configuration with reduced risk of thermal expansion and displacement, eliminating the need for heat radiating mechanisms and enhancing the precision and reliability of sample positioning and processing.

Implementation Method 1

The holding portion holds an other of the sample and the shielding plate and is swingably supported by the holder body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSwinging mechanism:

Data Source

PatentUS10930467B2Sample holder system and sample observation apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 JEOL LTD
  • US10930467B2 patent drawing
  • US10930467B2 patent drawing
  • US10930467B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sample holder system includes a sample holder and a sample adjusting unit. The sample holder includes a shielding plate, a holder body, a holding portion, and a fastening mechanism. The fastening mechanism fastens the holding portion to the holder body, the fastening mechanism preventing the holding portion from swinging when the holding portion is fastened to the holder body. The sample adjusting unit includes a position adjusting jig that comes into contact with the holding portion, and a swinging mechanism that supports the position adjusting jig such that the position adjusting jig is swingable.