Plasma Polymerization Apparatus for Conformal Inner Tube Coating

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing plasma polymerization methods face difficulties in forming conformal polymerization coatings on the inner surfaces of objects like tubes, which are crucial for biological applications and other fields.

Innovation Solution

A plasma polymerization apparatus comprising a chamber, gas supply, monomer source, electrodes, and a metal foil is used to generate plasma and deposit polymer coatings on the inner surfaces of objects, specifically utilizing a RF power source and working gas like Ar to create a uniform electric field and optimal plasma conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional plasma polymerization methods are used, then polymerization coatings can be deposited on surfaces, but it is difficult to form conformal coatings on inner surfaces of objects like tubes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconformal coating qualityVSAvoidapplicability to inner surfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

A metal foil is introduced as an intermediary component wrapped around the outer surface of the object (tube). The metal foil serves as a conductive interface that enables plasma generation and polymer deposition on the inner surface of the tube, acting as a mediator between the plasma source and the target inner surface that cannot be directly accessed by conventional plasma methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from direct surface treatment to a dimensional approach where a metal foil wrapper is applied externally, converting the problem from treating the inner surface directly to treating the outer surface of the wrapper, thereby enabling conformal coating on inaccessible inner surfaces through an external dimensional approach

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 method enables the formation of conformal polymerization coatings on the inner surfaces of objects, such as tubes, effectively altering their surface characteristics for various applications, including biological uses and fuel cell membranes.

Implementation Method 1

The power source is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode for generating plasma

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPlasma: Plasma

Implementation Method 2

plasma polymerization is a process by which a thin layer of polymeric film is deposited on a surface which is in contact with the plasma of the organic monomer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPlasma polymerization: Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition

Data Source

PatentUS20210305026A1Plasma polymerization apparatus and plasma polymerization method using the same
Publication Date: 2021.09.30 MING CHI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
  • US20210305026A1 patent drawing
  • US20210305026A1 patent drawing
  • US20210305026A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A plasma polymerization apparatus is provided for forming a polymerization coating on an inner surface of an object. The plasma polymerization apparatus comprises a chamber, a gas supply, a monomer source, a first electrode, a second electrode, a power source, and a metal foil. The gas supply is connected to the chamber for filling the chamber with a working gas. The monomer source is connected to the chamber for providing a vaporized monomer material into the chamber. The first electrode is located at a first side of the chamber. The second electrode is located at a second side of the chamber. The power source is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode for generating plasma. The metal foil is wrapped around an outer surface of the object and placed between the first electrode and the second electrode. A plasma polymerization method is also provided.