Flat Plate Sample Holder Adapter for Vacuum Sample Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample holders, such as flat plate and cylindrical types, are not easily compatible for building a vacuum testing platform that requires sample transfer in a low-temperature, high-intensity magnetic field environment, particularly due to space and heat capacity limitations and compatibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A flat plate sample holder expansion structure that includes an adapter detachably connected to a cylindrical sample holder gripper, allowing for the transfer of a flat plate sample holder and its sample to a low-temperature, high-intensity magnetic field apparatus, using a non-magnetic, thermal conducting adapter and tray with protruding rods and locking ears for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid sample holder structure is used to maintain dimensional stability, then structural strength is improved, but the structure cannot accommodate thermal expansion or contraction during temperature cycling
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is divided into multiple segments along its length, with expansion joints between them. Each segment can expand or contract independently in response to temperature changes, while the overall structure maintains its load-bearing capacity through the rigid segments and controlled joint design.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the sample holder have different properties: the segments are made of rigid material for structural strength, while the expansion joints are designed with flexible or compliant characteristics to accommodate thermal movement. This local differentiation allows the structure to simultaneously achieve strength and thermal adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sample holder is designed to accommodate thermal expansion, then adaptability is improved, but structural strength and dimensional stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the structure and isolating expansion movements to specific joint regions, the majority of the sample holder maintains rigid, dimensionally stable characteristics. The expansion accommodation is localized to the joints rather than distributed throughout the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion joints are designed to provide only the specific amount of movement needed for thermal expansion, not excessive flexibility. This partial action approach allows the structure to gain thermal adaptability while maintaining overall structural rigidity for the required load-bearing applications.
3Device complexity
If conventional sample holders are used, then device complexity is low, but they require custom fabrication for each application and lack interchangeability
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is designed with standardized dimensions, attachment features, and expansion joint configurations that allow a single design to serve multiple applications and users. Different samples can be loaded into the same holder type, and holders can be interchanged between different testing positions or environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segmented design allows the sample holder to be configured for different sample sizes and testing requirements while maintaining the same basic structure and attachment interface, enabling universality without requiring custom fabrication for each application.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the sample holder structure is made more complex to improve interchangeability, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder achieves interchangeability through standardized interfaces and dimensions rather than complex adaptive mechanisms. The expansion joints use simple, repeatable designs that can be manufactured using standard fabrication processes, avoiding the need for complex custom components.
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 seamless sample replacement in a vacuum environment by facilitating the connection of different sample holders, ensuring compatibility and efficient transfer within the vacuum testing platform.
Implementation Method 1
Aluminum alloy, like most materials, expands and contracts with the temperature changes that occur during the course of vacuum chamber operations
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
A flat plate sample holder expansion structure used in a vacuum is configured to convey a flat plate sample holder in a vacuum environment, and detachably attatched to a flat plate sample holder tray through an adapter (100). A receiving space for receiving the flat plate sample holder (300) is provided between the adapter (100) and the flat plate sample holder tray (200). The flat plate sample holder (300) is detachably arranged in the receiving space. A cylindrical sample holder gripper (400) is detachably connected to the adapter (100). The cylindrical sample holder gripper (400) conveys the flat plate sample holder (300) and samples thereon into a low-temperature, high-intensity magnetic field appratus, thereby realizing an objective of replacing samples in the vacuum environment. A vacuum test platform is built by combining the apparatuses using the two types of sample holders.