Segmented Thermal Shield Design for Scalable Cryostat I/O Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryostats face challenges in scalability due to thermal shields, which obstruct input/output line routing and hinder customization for varying thermal stage geometries.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of custom thermal shields in cryostats, which are partitioned into sections and mechanically coupled to a base structure via a flexible structure, allowing for modular design and access to sample mounting surfaces while minimizing thermal gradients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a closed-end cylindrical thermal shield is used to provide thermal isolation, then thermal isolation performance is improved, but routing of input/output lines is obstructed and scalability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal shield is divided into a first section and a second section, with the first section having an open end configuration that allows routing of input/output lines. This segmentation enables the thermal shield to provide thermal isolation while accommodating flexible routing of lines to the sample mounting surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical clearance by positioning the thermal shield at a distance from the top plate, creating additional dimensional space for routing input/output lines. This dimensional change allows lines to be routed above or below the thermal shield rather than being blocked by it.
2Strength
If a rigid thermal shield structure is used to maintain structural integrity, then mechanical stability is improved, but thermal expansion/contraction compatibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure includes flexible elements that allow the thermal shield to dynamically adjust its position and orientation in response to thermal expansion and contraction of the thermal stage. This dynamic capability maintains structural integrity while accommodating varying thermal geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs materials or structural designs with varying thermal expansion coefficients to match those of the thermal stage. This parameter matching allows the thermal shield to expand and contract in harmony with the thermal stage, maintaining compatibility across different thermal conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a custom thermal shield design is implemented to improve scalability, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal shield is segmented into multiple sections that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows customization for different applications while using standardized components, thereby managing complexity through modularity rather than requiring entirely custom designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed to universally accommodate different thermal shield configurations and thermal stage geometries. This multi-functionality enables a single support structure design to serve multiple customization scenarios, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
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
This solution enhances the scalability and customization of cryostats by providing unobstructed access for input/output lines and maintaining structural integrity despite thermal expansion/contraction, thereby improving thermal isolation and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
A thermal shield can generally provide such thermal isolation by obstructing electromagnetic waves (e.g., blackbody radiation) generated by a heat source external to the thermal shield. By obstructing such electromagnetic waves, the thermal shield can mitigate thermal radiation from the heat source to lower temperature regions of the cryostat within the thermal shield.
Implementation Method 2
the flexible structure can facilitate preserving a structural integrity of the thermal shield as the geometries of the thermal stage vary due to thermal expansion/contraction
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques facilitating custom thermal shields for cryogenic environments are provided. In one example, a cryostat can comprise a thermal shield extending between a thermal stage and a base structure coupled to a bottom plate of an outer vacuum chamber. The thermal stage can be coupled to a top plate of the outer vacuum chamber. The thermal shield can provide access to a sample mounting surface encompassed within the thermal shield from a region external to the outer vacuum chamber via the top and bottom plates of the outer vacuum chamber.