Laser Ablation Sampling System with Feedback Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser ablation systems for sampling and analysis face challenges in ensuring consistent and reproducible sample generation, particularly in maintaining consistent spot size and achieving accurate positioning of objects relative to the laser beam, which affects the quality and consistency of the samples obtained.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a robotic manipulator and a placement system with a pneumatic actuator and feedback mechanisms to ensure precise positioning of objects against a sample chamber, combined with beam steering optics and motion stages to control the laser beam's trajectory, ensuring consistent spot size and reproducible sampling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning methods are used for objects relative to the laser beam, then the system is simpler to operate, but the positioning precision and spot size consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through sensors that detect the actual position of the object and the laser beam spot, comparing it with the desired position, and automatically adjusting the positioning system to eliminate errors. This closed-loop control ensures high positioning precision while maintaining systematic control over the complexity through automated compensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with automated positioning systems that use computer control, sensors, and actuators to achieve precise object positioning and laser beam steering. This substitution eliminates human error in positioning while providing programmable control over the positioning process.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated positioning systems are implemented, then positioning precision and spot size consistency improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control systems that continuously monitor the laser spot size and position, comparing actual measurements with target values, and automatically adjusting positioning parameters to maintain consistent spot size. This ensures manufacturing precision through automated correction of deviations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the positioning system, such as adjusting focal length, beam diameter, and positioning coordinates, to optimize spot size consistency. By systematically varying and controlling these parameters through automated systems, the patent achieves consistent spot size while managing complexity through programmable control.
3Reliability
If precise laser beam control is implemented, then sample generation quality improves, but the system complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities where the system automatically performs calibration, positioning, and parameter optimization without requiring manual intervention. The system self-adjusts to maintain optimal conditions for reliable sample generation, reducing operational difficulty while ensuring high reliability through automated self-correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms to automatically monitor and adjust laser parameters, positioning, and sample generation conditions, ensuring reliable sample output. The system compares actual results with desired outcomes and automatically corrects deviations, maintaining high reliability while simplifying operation through automated control.
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
This approach enables consistent and reproducible sample generation, improving the quality and reliability of samples analyzed by maintaining precise control over the laser ablation process and object positioning.
Implementation Method 1
Laser ablation techniques can use a laser beam to ablate a portion of a sample. A resulting ablation plume can then be passed to an analysis system.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for facilitating automated handling using laser ablation system is described that includes a sample generation system. In an embodiment, the sample generation system can include a sample chamber with a sample chamber body, a transmission window and a sealing member coupled to the sample chamber body, an inlet conduit extending through the sample chamber body and intersecting a sidewall of the interior space, and an outlet conduit extending through the sample chamber body and intersecting at least one of the sidewall of the interior or a lower surface of the sample chamber body; a placement system including a frame, and an actuator assembly coupled to the frame, where the actuator assembly is configured to place the sample adjacent to the sample chamber for laser ablation; and a laser configured to produce a laser beam that is propagated along a beam path to irradiate the sample.