NMR Sample Holder for Elastomer Strain Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing elastomers under mechanical stress, such as solid-state NMR, face limitations in accurately measuring strain-induced crystallinity due to stretching errors and limited maximum stretching ratios when using rubber rings stretched over a post.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for securely holding elastomer samples between two bodies, allowing for stretching at various elongation ratios, which can be rotated in an NMR device to obtain high-resolution spectra, enabling the analysis of molecular structure and motion, including strain-induced crystallinity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If rubber rings are stretched over a post for NMR analysis, then the sample can be held for testing, but significant stretching errors and inaccurate data occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized sample holder with a cylindrical cavity as an intermediary device between the stretching mechanism and the NMR analysis system. This holder securely grips the rubber ring sample and applies controlled tensile force through calibrated mechanisms, eliminating the uncontrolled stretching that occurs when samples are simply placed over posts. The intermediary device ensures precise, repeatable stretching ratios while maintaining sample integrity for accurate NMR measurement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rubber rings are stretched over a post, then samples can be tested, but the maximum stretching ratio is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic stretching mechanism where the sample holder can apply variable tensile forces to achieve different stretching ratios. The system includes adjustable fixtures and controlled displacement mechanisms that allow the sample to be stretched to any ratio within the material's elastic limit, rather than being constrained by a fixed geometric configuration like a post diameter. This dynamic capability enables versatile testing across the full range of practical stretching ratios.
3Productivity
If samples are stretched to high elongation ratios, then more comprehensive material properties can be evaluated, but stretching errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms in the form of calibrated measurement scales, displacement sensors, or optical measurement systems that continuously monitor the actual stretching ratio during sample preparation. This real-time feedback allows operators to adjust the stretching process to achieve precise target ratios, even at high elongations. The feedback system compensates for material variability and ensures that the applied stretch matches the intended ratio, maintaining precision across the full range of stretching capabilities.
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
The apparatus allows for accurate evaluation of molecular structure and motion of elastomers at different stretching ratios, providing valuable data for material selection and development, improving properties like breaking strength and reducing rolling resistance.
Implementation Method 1
NMR device for analyzing a sample
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for testing and analyzing the molecular structure of a sample material in an NMR device are described. A sample is held in a pre-determined stretched state in an apparatus that includes the sample arranged between two body components that are secured together with one or more retaining members that fit around the bodies or portions thereof. The apparatus is inserted into an NMR device to obtain NMR spectrums for analyzing the molecular structure of the samples, for instance, identifying strain-induced crystallinity and quantifying the same at pre-determined stretch ratios of a sample material.