3D Thermal Diffusivity Measurement Using Segmented Mask
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for measuring thermal diffusivity are limited to testing samples through their thickness, failing to provide comprehensive 3D diffusivity measurements, which is essential for understanding heat flow directions and optimizing heat transfer processes in various industrial and scientific applications.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows the sensor and heat source to be moved independently, combined with a mask to direct heat, enabling measurements of thermal diffusivity through the plane of the sample, thereby capturing radial and facial heat losses in multiple directions, and utilizing advanced mathematical regression routines for comprehensive data analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed optical excitation/detection path with a movable sample holder is used, then the measurement system can be simplified, but only through-thickness diffusivity measurement is achieved, limiting 3D measurement capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mask with multiple openings arranged in different spatial positions and orientations, enabling heat transfer paths in multiple dimensions (radial, facial, and through-thickness directions). This transforms the measurement capability from one-dimensional (through-thickness only) to three-dimensional diffusivity measurement without requiring complex movement of the entire optical system.
2Device complexity
If the sensor and heat source are fixed in position, then the system structure is simplified, but measurements in multiple directions including radial and facial heat losses cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is segmented into multiple openings (first opening, second opening, third opening) positioned at different locations and angles. Each opening enables measurement along a specific heat transfer path (through-thickness, radial, facial directions). This segmentation allows the fixed sensor and heat source to measure 3D diffusivity by directing heat through different geometric paths defined by the mask segments.
3Ease of operation
If only through-thickness measurement is performed, then the measurement process is simpler, but comprehensive heat flow analysis in multiple directions is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system achieves multi-functionality by combining a fixed optical path with a multi-opening mask. The same sensor and heat source configuration can measure thermal diffusivity in multiple directions (through-thickness, radial, facial) by utilizing different mask openings, eliminating the need for multiple specialized measurement setups while maintaining operational simplicity.
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 accurate 3D thermal diffusivity measurements, allowing for the determination of thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity simultaneously, facilitating efficient heat transfer process optimization across a wide range of materials and temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
Thermal diffusivity is a measurement of the ability of a material to conduct thermal energy relative to its ability to store thermal energy
Implementation Method 2
The temperature change in the sample may then be measured over time
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for measuring the thermal diffusivity of a material includes a housing having an upper portion and a lower portion, a plate holding the material in a fixed position between the upper portion and lower portion of the housing, and a source at the lower portion of the housing projecting heat onto the material along a first axis that is perpendicular to the plate. A sensor at the lower portion of the housing is movable in relation to the plate and senses the heat radiating through the material along a second axis that is perpendicular to the plate and offset from the first axis. A controller receives data from the sensor and calculates the thermal diffusivity of the material.