Sample Positioning Stage Dual-Mode Drive System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample positioning stages for optical inspection devices require complex clutch mechanisms to switch between motor-driven and manual operation modes, which increases complexity and cost, and may lead to damage during manual handling or collisions.
Innovation Solution
A sample positioning stage with a drive system that operates in two modes: a high-resistance mode for motor-driven movement and a low-resistance mode for manual movement, allowing seamless transition without disengaging the motor, reducing the need for a clutch mechanism and enhancing user safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a clutch mechanism is used to disengage the drive system for manual operation, then manual positioning becomes possible, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the clutch mechanism entirely from the system. Instead of adding a disengagement mechanism, the drive system is designed to operate continuously in both automated and manual modes without requiring physical separation or clutch engagement/disengagement components.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive system dynamically adjusts its operational mode between automated motor control and manual manipulation. The controller switches between receiving commands from the automated control system and allowing direct user input, enabling flexible operation without mechanical reconfiguration.
2Measurement precision
If the drive system provides high resistance for precise motor control, then positioning precision improves, but manual handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system's resistance characteristics are dynamically adjusted based on operational mode. During automated operation, the motor provides controlled resistance for precise positioning. During manual operation, the controller allows the motor to free-wheel or provide minimal resistance, enabling easy manual manipulation while maintaining positioning precision through the feedback system.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the electrical parameters of the motor depending on operational mode. In automated mode, full motor torque and resistance are applied for precise control. In manual mode, the controller reduces motor resistance and torque output, allowing the user to move the stage easily while the feedback system continues to track position accurately.
3Device complexity
If the drive system remains engaged during manual operation, then clutch complexity is reduced, but damage risk during collisions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback system continuously monitors the position and movement characteristics of the stage. During manual operation, it detects abnormal resistance patterns or movement restrictions that indicate a collision, and immediately signals the controller to disengage the motor or reduce torque, preventing damage while maintaining system engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for potential collisions by maintaining a monitoring mechanism that detects abnormal conditions before significant damage occurs. The feedback system is continuously active, ready to trigger protective disengagement at the first sign of collision, cushioning against damage before it fully develops.
4Productivity
If manual dragging is enabled without motor resistance, then positioning speed improves, but control precision during transition becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback system operates continuously without interruption during mode transitions. Whether the motor is providing active control or free-wheeling for manual movement, the position feedback remains active, ensuring continuous knowledge of stage location and enabling seamless transition between automated and manual modes without loss of positioning information.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample positioning stage for positioning a sample to be inspected relative to an optical inspection device. The stage includes a first generally planar body on which a sample to be inspected can be carried and a second body directly coupled to the first body via bearings extending between them which constrain movement of the first body relative to the second body to a first plane that is substantially parallel to the plane of the first body. There is also provided a drive system being selectively operable in a first mode and a second mode.