Electrostatic Levitation Sample Loading Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrostatic levitation apparatuses face challenges in stably levitating and testing samples due to difficulties in precisely controlling the electric field and sample positioning, which affects the ability to perform various tests on multiple samples efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A sample loading device and electrostatic levitation apparatus with a cylindrical sample storage part, loading bar, and transfer bars that allow for sequential sample loading and levitation, along with various tips for different tests, such as needle tips for inducing meta-stable crystal phases and quick cooling tips, enable precise control over sample positioning and testing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single sample loading mechanism is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to perform various tests on multiple samples efficiently is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to perform various tests on multiple samplesVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The loading tip is designed with multiple functional capabilities: it can load samples onto the sample holder, position samples precisely using the sample transfer vertical through-hole, and perform various tests including inducing meta-stable crystal phases with needle tips and quick cooling with cooling tips. This multi-functional design allows one component to replace multiple specialized devices, increasing versatility while managing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The loading tip is segmented into different functional regions: the needle tip portion for inducing crystal phases, the main body for sample transfer, and the cooling tip portion for quick cooling. These segmented functions can be selectively used depending on the test requirements, allowing the device to handle multiple test types with a single integrated component

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If precise sample positioning control is implemented, then testing accuracy is improved, but the complexity of controlling electric field and sample positioning increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample positioning accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sample transfer vertical through-hole acts as an intermediary mechanism that simplifies precise positioning. Instead of complex multi-axis positioning systems, the through-hole provides a predefined, accurate pathway for sample transfer from the loading bar to the sample holder. This intermediary structure inherently guides sample placement with high precision while avoiding the need for complex active control systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The sample transfer vertical through-hole is pre-formed in the loading tip at a specific position and orientation. This preliminary structural preparation ensures that when sample transfer occurs, the sample is automatically positioned with high accuracy without requiring complex real-time control adjustments during the transfer process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables stable levitation and efficient testing of multiple samples by allowing precise control over sample positioning and electric fields, facilitating the discovery of new material properties and high-purity single crystal growth.

Implementation Method 1

An electrostatic levitation apparatus may levitate charged samples

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic levitation: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS10033307B2Sample loading device for electrostatic levitation apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.07.24 KOREA RES INST OF STANDARDS & SCI
  • US10033307B2 patent drawing
  • US10033307B2 patent drawing
  • US10033307B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Sample loading device and electrostatic levitation apparatus. The electrostatic levitation apparatus includes a sample storage part including a rod-shaped sample standby part having an external diameter of a first diameter and a rod-shaped sample loading part having an external diameter of a second diameter and a sample cover part covering the sample standby part. The sample storage part has a loading bar inserting hole formed in its center. The loading bar inserting hole is formed through the sample standby part and is formed successively through a portion of the sample loading part. The sample standby part has sample storage vertical through-holes. The sample loading part has a single sample transfer vertical through-hole. The sample transfer vertical through-hole is formed on a surface where the sample storage vertical through-hole is viewed, penetrates the sample loading part, and is connected to the loading bar inserting hole.