Electron Microscope Sample Holder Driver with 5-DOF Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample holders for electron microscopes lack the necessary degrees of freedom for precise sample observation and positioning, often interfering with the sample insertion and removal path and being costly due to complex drive mechanisms or large volume requirements.
Innovation Solution
A driver system for a sample holder that provides 5 degrees of freedom, including 3 translational and 2 rotational, using a combination of connecting bars and link assemblies to allow for precise positioning and observation without occupying the sample's insertion path, while maintaining a low production cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex drive mechanism is used to provide multiple degrees of freedom for sample observation, then the observation precision and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is segmented into multiple independent link assemblies (first, second, third link assemblies), each responsible for specific motion control. This segmentation allows the complex 5-degree-of-freedom motion to be achieved through coordinated action of simpler, modular components rather than a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D sample observation to 5D observation by adding rotational degrees of freedom (tilt and rotate) to the conventional translational movement. This dimensional expansion enables observation of sample surfaces and cross-sections from multiple angles without requiring complex repositioning mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a large volume driver is used to provide sufficient drive range for sample positioning, then the positioning capability is improved, but the driver occupies the sample insertion path and interferes with sample loading
Solution Approach 1:
The driver is designed with a nested structure where link assemblies are arranged concentrically around the sample holder. The first, second, and third link assemblies are positioned at different radial distances, allowing them to be nested within each other's operational space. This nesting enables sufficient drive range without increasing the overall volume occupied by the driver.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of link assemblies rather than planar expansion. By positioning link assemblies at different heights and radial distances, the system achieves extensive positioning capability within a compact vertical and radial footprint, preventing interference with the horizontal sample insertion path.
3Device complexity
If traditional sample holders are used that directly connect to rotating motor shafts, then the structure is simple, but the positional accuracy deteriorates due to arc path deviation from straight line translation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces link assemblies as intermediary mechanisms between the motors and the sample holder. These link assemblies convert rotational motor motion into precise linear and angular displacement of the sample holder through mechanical linkage geometry, eliminating the arc path deviation problem while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical connection (motor shaft to sample holder) with an indirect linkage system. This substitution uses geometric relationships in the link assemblies to achieve accurate positioning without requiring complex high-precision motor shafts or direct-drive mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample stage includes a sample holder that accommodates a sample and a first drive module, a second drive module, and a third drive module that are radially connected to the sample holder and allow the sample holder to have translational degrees of freedom in three directions and rotational degrees of freedom in at least two directions.