Nanotube Mesh Structure Formation via Multi-Orientation Collection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for forming carbon nanotube mesh structures are limited by the dimensions of the substrate and solution bath, restricting the size of the nanotube mesh structures that can be produced.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising two nanotube collection apparatuses with substrates that collect nanotubes in different orientations, which are then combined at an interface and thermally joined using an energy source to form a continuous nanotube mesh structure, allowing for larger production capacities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If carbon nanotubes are collected iteratively on a substrate surface passing through a solution bath, then nanotube mesh structures can be formed, but the size of the mesh structure is limited by the dimensions of the substrate and solution bath
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the nanotube collection process into multiple segments by using multiple substrates (first substrate and second substrate) that can be independently processed. Each substrate collects nanotubes in different orientations separately, then the collected nanotube layers are combined to form a larger mesh structure, effectively overcoming the size limitations of individual substrates and solution baths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the first and second substrates are positioned within a shared solution bath environment. The substrates are arranged such that they can both access the nanotube-containing solution simultaneously, with each substrate occupying a portion of the solution space. This nesting allows efficient use of the solution bath volume while producing larger combined mesh structures.
2Productivity
If multiple nanotube collection apparatuses are used to produce larger mesh structures, then production capacity increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple nanotube collection functions into a single integrated apparatus. The first and second nanotube collection apparatuses are combined within one system, sharing common components such as the solution bath, nanotube supply, and control mechanisms. This merging approach increases production capacity by simultaneously producing multiple oriented nanotube layers while avoiding the full complexity of completely separate apparatuses.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution bath and associated components serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide the medium for nanotube dispersion, enable collection on multiple substrates, and facilitate the alignment process. The first and second substrates both interact with the same nanotube supply, allowing the system to produce diverse oriented layers from a single nanotube reservoir, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
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 the efficient and continuous production of nanotube mesh structures with increased size capabilities, facilitating their use in various practical applications.
Implementation Method 1
thermally coupling the pluralities of nanotubes at the interface to form the nanotube mesh structure
Data Source
AI summary
A system for use in producing a nanotube mesh structure is provided. The system includes a first nanotube collection apparatus including a first substrate configured to collect a plurality of nanotubes substantially aligned in a first orientation on an attachment surface thereof, and a second nanotube collection apparatus including a second substrate configured to collect a plurality of nanotubes substantially aligned in a second orientation on an attachment surface thereof. The first and second nanotube collection apparatuses are configured to combine the pluralities of nanotubes at an interface. The system also includes a first energy source configured to direct energy towards the interface between the pluralities of nanotubes, wherein the energy is configured to join the pluralities of nanotubes to form the nanotube mesh structure.