Parallel Guided Balance With PCB Signal Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
SDT instruments face weighing errors due to parasitic forces from signal wires and pivot structures, which can be nonlinear and unpredictable, affecting the accuracy of mass measurements during thermal analysis.
Innovation Solution
The use of a parallel guided balance structure with printed circuit board (PCB) members that act as both structural components and conductive paths for electrical signals, eliminating the need for signal wires and incorporating crossed-flexure pivots to transmit signals between components, thereby reducing parasitic forces and improving measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If signal wires are used to conduct electrical signals from sensors in the sample holder, then electrical signal transmission is achieved, but parasitic forces are introduced that affect weighing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the structural support function and electrical signal transmission function into a single integrated PCB member. The PCB serves both as the mechanical structure holding the sensors and as the conductive path for electrical signals, thereby eliminating the need for separate signal wires that would introduce parasitic forces during weighing measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the signal transmission function from the mechanical structure, or rather, integrates it into the structure itself. By using the PCB as both structure and conductor, the harmful separate signal wires are eliminated, removing the source of parasitic forces that affect measurement accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dual balance system is used to perform simultaneous thermal and gravimetric measurements, then measurement functionality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single balance system that performs multiple functions: it measures both thermal properties (through integrated temperature sensors and DSC/DTA measurement) and gravimetric properties (weight changes). The PCB structure integrates both thermal sensors and weight measurement capabilities, allowing one balance to accomplish what traditionally required two separate measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the thermal analysis measurement system and the gravimetric measurement system into a single integrated apparatus. The sample holder assembly includes both temperature sensors for thermal measurements and is connected to the balance for weight measurements, eliminating the need for separate dual balance systems and reducing overall device 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
This configuration enhances the accuracy of simultaneous thermal and gravimetric measurements by eliminating parasitic forces and maintaining measurement precision, while also reducing the complexity and cost associated with dual balance systems.
Implementation Method 1
crossed-flexure pivots that are capable of transmitting DSC or DTA signals between components of the balance structure
Implementation Method 2
The restoring force, which is proportional to the change in weight, is the measured quantity in each type of microbalance. In both cases, the restoring force is applied electromagnetically as a response to a displacement of the balance structure
Implementation Method 3
which is typically detected by optical means
Implementation Method 4
the sample can be heated or cooled to examine changes in the sample induced by changes in temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A balance for a simultaneous differential thermal analysis instrument that combines gravimetric measurements with measurements that require propagation of electrical signals from the sample holder to an apparatus for recording the electrical signals. In one embodiment of the present invention, conductive cross-flexure pivots are used in a parallel guided balance to mechanically and electrically couple the components of the balance mechanism to the apparatus that records the electrical signals.