Sample Cartridge Holder With Auto-Inclining Stand for Beam Clearance

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Solution Overview

Problem

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

Innovation Solution

A sample cartridge holding apparatus with an integrated inclining mechanism that sets the sample stand to a predetermined angle upon insertion, ensuring the frame does not obstruct processing or observation beams while maintaining the sample cartridge's structural integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If the sample cartridge is inserted into the housing part without an inclining mechanism, then the sample stand remains horizontal, but the frame obstructs the processing or observation beams

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam illuminationVSAvoidsample stand orientation
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sample stand is designed with an inclining mechanism that allows it to change from a horizontal state to an inclined state (e.g., 30 degrees) when the sample cartridge is inserted into the housing part. This dynamic adjustment enables the beam to illuminate the sample without obstruction from the frame, resolving the contradiction between maintaining simple operation and achieving proper illumination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If an inclining mechanism is added to the sample cartridge, then the sample stand can be inclined for optimal observation, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample stand inclinationVSAvoidinclining mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inclining mechanism is pre-configured within the sample cartridge structure, with the inclining angle determined in advance by the geometric relationship between the housing part and the cartridge. When the cartridge is inserted, the inclination occurs automatically without requiring additional control mechanisms or complex adjustments, thus achieving adaptability while limiting structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Illumination intensity

If the sample cartridge frame is removed to allow beam passage, then illumination is improved, but the structural integrity and rigidity of the cartridge is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam passageVSAvoidcartridge rigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of removing the frame in the horizontal plane to allow beam passage, the solution introduces a dimensional change by tilting the sample stand in the vertical plane. The frame remains intact to maintain structural integrity, while the inclined orientation (e.g., 30 degrees) creates sufficient clearance for the beam to pass and illuminate the sample effectively, thus resolving the contradiction between illumination and structural strength.

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

Data Source

PatentEP4220682B1Sample cartridge holding apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.08.14 JEOL LTD
  • EP4220682B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4220682B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4220682B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A sample cartridge (50) has a sample stand (52) and an inclining mechanism (54). A sample cartridge holding apparatus (32) has a housing part (160) which is inclined. When the sample cartridge (50) is inserted into the housing part (160), a contact portion (38A) contacts a lever of the inclining mechanism (54), and the sample stand (52) is inclined by a predetermined angle. With this process, an appropriate inclination angle is realized for the sample stand.