Sample Cartridge Inclining Mechanism for Clear Beam Alignment

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sample processing apparatuses lack a mechanism to incline the sample stand for optimal observation and processing, leading to obstructions from the frame during beam illumination.

Innovation Solution

A sample cartridge holding apparatus with an inclining mechanism that sets a predetermined angle for the sample stand, allowing the frame to be positioned such that it does not obstruct processing or observation beams.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a sample cartridge with an inclining mechanism is introduced to achieve appropriate sample stand inclination, then beam alignment and observation quality are improved, but the structural strength and integrity of the cartridge may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam alignment precisionVSAvoidcartridge structural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The inclining mechanism is segmented into discrete components: a lever arm, support pillars, and positioning holes. The lever is divided into multiple sections with holes at specific intervals, allowing incremental positioning. This segmentation enables the inclining function to be achieved through a simple, rigid structure that maintains cartridge strength while providing precise beam alignment capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If an inclining mechanism with movable parts is added to the sample cartridge, then appropriate inclination angles are achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinclination angle precisionVSAvoidcartridge mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inclining mechanism is extracted as a separate, simple subsystem within the cartridge rather than being integrated into the main cartridge structure. The lever arm with positioning holes and support pillars forms a distinct mechanical element that can be independently designed and manufactured, reducing overall system complexity while achieving the required inclination precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The inclining mechanism provides localized adjustment capability only where needed - at the sample stand mounting position. The lever arm with its numbered holes provides discrete positioning options (0°, 10°, 20°, 30°) at the specific location where inclination is required, rather than making the entire cartridge complex and adjustable throughout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If the sample stand is kept horizontal in the sample cartridge, then the cartridge structure remains simple and strong, but the beam path may be obstructed during processing and observation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecartridge structural integrityVSAvoidbeam path obstruction
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sample stand inclination is made dynamically adjustable through the lever mechanism. The lever can be positioned at different angles corresponding to 0°, 10°, 20°, or 30° inclination, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on the specific processing or observation requirements. This dynamic adjustment eliminates beam path obstructions while maintaining a simple, strong cartridge structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables effective processing and observation by ensuring the frame does not interfere with the processing or observation beams, maintaining the sample stand's rigidity and facilitating easy manipulation of the inclination angle.

Implementation Method 1

a contact portion that is a portion fixed on the body and that contacts a lever, provided on the inclining mechanism, during insertion of the sample cartridge into the housing part, to thereby cause a motion of the lever

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever mechanism: Lever

Data Source

PatentUS12609266B2Sample cartridge holding apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.04.21 JEOL LTD
  • US12609266B2 patent drawing
  • US12609266B2 patent drawing
  • US12609266B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sample cartridge has a sample stand and an inclining mechanism. A sample cartridge holding apparatus has a housing part which is inclined. When the sample cartridge is inserted into the housing part, a contact portion contacts a lever of the inclining mechanism, and the sample stand is inclined by a predetermined angle. With this process, an appropriate inclination angle is realized for the sample stand.