Exchangeable Spark Unit for Optical Emission Spectrometers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical emission spectrometers require time-consuming and labor-intensive recalibration after replacing the spark unit, which disrupts the analysis process and is inefficient in metallurgic steel processing.
Innovation Solution
An exchangeable spark unit with a sample carrier, electrode, and optical component housed in a single compartment, allowing for pre-calibration and easy replacement without affecting the light path, thus eliminating the need for re-calibration of the spectrometer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the spark unit is made exchangeable for quick replacement, then replacement time is reduced, but re-calibration is required after replacement which increases time and labor
Solution Approach 1:
The spark unit is pre-calibrated during manufacturing with precise positioning of the electrode relative to the sample carrier and optical components. This preliminary calibration eliminates the need for re-calibration after replacement, as the standardized design ensures consistent positioning across all units. The coupling interface is also pre-configured to maintain precise alignment when the spark unit is installed in the spectrometer.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the electrode and optical component are in the same compartment, then light path stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode and optical component are integrated into the same compartment housing within the spark unit. This merging of components ensures that both elements maintain fixed relative positions to each other and to the light path, eliminating alignment issues that would occur with separate mounting. The unified compartment structure actually simplifies the overall design by reducing the number of separate mounting mechanisms needed.
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 rapid and error-free replacement of the spark unit, reducing analysis downtime and maintaining consistent results without the need for extensive recalibration, thereby enhancing operational efficiency in steel processing.
Implementation Method 1
an electrode (26) arranged in a distance to the sample plane in the region of the aperture such that a spark can be generated between the electrode (26) and a sample positioned in the sample plane for emitting light
Implementation Method 2
an optical component (44) for influencing the emitted light
Data Source
AI summary
An exchangeable spark unit for an optical emission spectrometer, a system for analyzing a sample us-ing optical emission spectrometry and a method for calibrating an exchangeable spark unit. An exchangeable spark unit for an optical emission spectrometer comprises a sample carrier defining a sample plane for positioning a sample to be analyzed, said sample carrier having an aperture, and an electrode arranged in a distance to the sample plane in the region of the aperture such that a spark can be generated between the electrode and a sample positioned in the sample plane for emitting light. The exchangeable spark unit further comprises a coupling interface for mechanically coupling the exchangeable spark unit with the optical emission spectrometer and an optical component for influencing the emitted light.