Hinged Ion Source Accelerator Mount for Maintenance Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion beam apparatuses face challenges in maintenance due to cumbersome access and dismantling procedures, particularly with heavy accelerators that are directly attached to the ion source, leading to increased downtime and maintenance complexity.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a hinged accelerator mount on a door opposite the ion source plasma chamber, allowing for easy access and in-situ cleaning, with the accelerator spaced from the door to facilitate maintenance and safety through resistor connection, and optional lifting aids for handling heavy components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the accelerator is directly attached to the ion source body, then the structural integrity and electrical connection are maintained, but the access for maintenance and dismantling becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The accelerator is segmented from the ion source body through the introduction of a door assembly mechanism. The door can be opened to separate the accelerator from the ion source chamber, allowing maintenance personnel to access and remove the accelerator without dismantling the entire ion source assembly. This segmentation enables independent maintenance of the accelerator component.
Solution Approach 2:
The door assembly introduces dynamic movement capability to the previously static connection between the accelerator and ion source. The door can be rotated between a closed position (maintaining structural integrity and electrical connection) and an open position (providing access for maintenance). This dynamic mechanism transforms the fixed connection into a movable joint that facilitates easy removal and reinstallation of the accelerator.
2Volume of moving object
If the ion source and accelerator are integrated in a compact design, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the maintenance time increases due to difficult access
Solution Approach 1:
The compact design is maintained through selective segmentation rather than complete integration. The door assembly creates a localized separation mechanism that allows the accelerator to be accessed without expanding the overall apparatus volume. The door folds or rotates within the existing footprint, providing maintenance access without requiring additional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The door assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the compact housing and the accelerator component. It provides a controlled access pathway that allows the accelerator to be removed and reinstalled without compromising the compact overall design. The door mechanism mediates between the need for small size and the need for easy maintenance access.
3Ease of repair
If heavy lifting aids are added to facilitate accelerator removal, then the ease of maintenance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The door assembly is designed to provide mechanical advantage through leverage, effectively reducing the force required to move the heavy accelerator. By creating a pivot point and lever arm, the door mechanism allows operators to move the accelerator with minimal effort, equalizing the handling difficulty regardless of the accelerator's weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The door assembly with its inherent mechanical advantage provides self-service functionality for handling the accelerator. The design naturally accommodates the weight of the accelerator through its structural geometry, eliminating the need for additional external lifting equipment or complex handling mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for the production of a charged particle beam, comprising: an ion source plasma chamber (104), having a door (106), and an accelerator (102) mounted on the face of the door remote from the ion source plasma chamber.