Non-Contact Thermal Radiation Shield Interface for Cryogenic Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal radiation shielding in cryogenic environments, such as dilution refrigerators, is limited by the use of static seals that restrict mobility and allow light leaks due to mechanical breaks, compromising thermal integrity and functionality in applications like quantum computing systems.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact thermal radiation shield interface using interleaved flanges on mobile elements that overlap to cover openings between stages, preventing radiation leakage while allowing for movement and thermal decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If static seals are used to prevent light leaks between stages, then thermal radiation shielding is improved, but mobility and mechanical flexibility are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static seals to a dynamic seal system where the seal element can move relative to the first and second elements. This allows the seal to maintain contact and prevent light leaks while accommodating mechanical movement and flexibility in the assembly, resolving the contradiction between thermal radiation shielding and mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible seal element that can deform and adapt to relative movements between components. This flexible membrane-like structure maintains sealing effectiveness while allowing the necessary mechanical flexibility, addressing both the light leak prevention requirement and the mobility need.
2Temperature
If physical breaks are introduced to provide thermal decoupling between elements, then thermal insulation is improved, but light leaks increase due to gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a seal element as an intermediary component that fills the gap created by physical breaks for thermal decoupling. This seal element prevents light leaks across the interface while allowing thermal decoupling to be maintained, as it can be thermally isolated from one or both sides of the interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different thermal properties to different parts of the seal element or its mounting structure. By creating localized thermal barriers or insulating layers at specific interfaces, the system achieves thermal decoupling where needed while maintaining optical sealing, thus resolving the contradiction between thermal insulation and light leak prevention.
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
Maintains thermal insulation and prevents radiation leakage while enabling mobility and flexibility in cryogenic systems, enhancing system functionality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
thermal radiation shield interface for cryogenic systems
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal radiation shield interface for cryogenic systems includes a first element with a distal, free end. Flanges project from the distal, free end of the first element. A second element also includes a distal, free end. Flanges project from the distal, free end of the second element. The flanges of the first element and the flanges of the second element are positioned in an interleaved arrangement to cover an opening between the first element and the second element shielding the opening from radiation leakage.