Plasma Probe Electrode Assembly for Thermal Decoupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plasma probes suffer from thermal degradation of the hose due to rigid metallic connections between the electrode and the metal platelet, leading to potential destruction of the hose during prolonged use.
Innovation Solution
A plasma probe design featuring a flexible hose with a plastic sheathing for the electrical conductor, where the electrode is supported by and connected to the conductor through a friction fit or adhesive bond, minimizing thermal conduction and allowing for a thermal decoupling between the electrode and hose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electrode is rigidly connected to the metal platelet, then the electrode is securely held in position, but the metal platelet transfers heat to the hose causing thermal degradation and potential destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a plastic sheathing as an intermediary component between the electrode and the metal platelet. This plastic layer acts as a thermal barrier that prevents direct heat transfer from the electrode to the hose, while still providing mechanical support and positioning for the electrode. The plastic material has low thermal conductivity, thereby blocking the harmful thermal pathway while maintaining the structural integrity and positioning function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the connection structure into distinct functional layers: the metal platelet for mechanical support, the plastic sheathing for thermal insulation and electrode positioning, and the electrode itself. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the metal provides structural strength, the plastic provides thermal protection and positioning, and the electrode delivers the plasma function without directly transferring heat to the hose.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a ceramic sleeve is arranged at the distal end for protection, then the hose is protected from direct plasma exposure, but the metal platelet still transfers heat causing destruction during prolonged operation
Solution Approach 1:
The plastic sheathing serves as a thermal intermediary that blocks heat transfer from the electrode through the metal platelet to the hose. This prevents the cumulative thermal damage that occurs during prolonged operation, extending the probe's lifespan while allowing the ceramic sleeve to continue providing protection from direct plasma exposure at the distal end.
3Reliability
If the electrode is centrally supported by the metal platelet, then the electrode is held in position, but the rigid connection causes remarkable heat transfer from electrode to platelet
Solution Approach 1:
The plastic sheathing is positioned between the electrode and the metal platelet, serving as a thermal mediator. It maintains the central positioning and support function while introducing a low thermal conductivity barrier that significantly reduces the temperature and heat transfer to the metal platelet, preventing thermal degradation.
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 design enhances the probe's longevity and reduces heat-induced damage to the hose, maintaining precise electrode orientation and reducing tissue heating, thereby extending the probe's lifespan and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
The plastic sheathing can consist of the same plastic as the hose... minimizing thermal conduction and allowing for a thermal decoupling between the electrode and hose
Implementation Method 2
The electrode is supported by the conductor and in some embodiments of the invention also from the plastic sheathing of the conductor. It is possible to arrange the electrode such that its proximal end extends into the plastic sheathing of the conductor and is fixated axially by the plastic sheathing. After the first use the plastic sheathing can be fused to the electrode and thereby adhesively connected with it such that a substance bond connection is provided between the proximal end of the electrode and the plastic sheathing.
Data Source
AI summary
A plasma probe comprises a hose with a conductor arranged therein that supports an electrode at least at its distal end. The electrode is either directly secured on the conductor or the conductor is provided with a plastic sheathing at least at its distal end by means of which the electrode is held. The electrode can be inserted between the conductor and the plastic sheathing and can be clamped in this manner. After first use the plastic sheathing can be fused to the electrode. The conductor is placed with clearance inside a channel or hollow space of electrode, however, whereby also in case of spot-like contact between the conductor and the electrode due to the gap provided between them apart therefrom the heat transmission from the electrode on the conductor is impeded and thereby the heat introduction in the plasma probe is limited.