Integrated Thermo-Mechanical Characterization Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermal analysis techniques require multiple, expensive instruments and significant laboratory space, and are unable to perform certain types of analysis, limiting their versatility and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A single, versatile apparatus that uses a camera with software to track the movement of components within a furnace, allowing for thermo-mechanical characterization of samples in various modes, including controlled stress and strain, and capable of analyzing multiple properties as a function of time and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate thermal analysis instruments are used to characterize different material properties, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple thermal analysis techniques (DSC, TMA, DMA, TTM) into a single integrated instrument. The apparatus uses a common furnace and sample stage that can perform different measurements by changing the configuration of actuators, transducers, and measurement components, eliminating the need for separate instruments for each technique.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument is designed with universal components that can perform multiple functions. The furnace can heat samples for various thermal analyses, the stage can accommodate different sample types and configurations, and the actuator system can apply different forces and measure different properties (stress, strain, expansion, hardness) depending on the measurement mode selected.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized instruments are purchased to cover all thermal analysis needs, then measurement capability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument achieves multi-functionality through a modular design where a single furnace, stage, and actuator system can be configured for different measurement modes. By using interchangeable components (probes, transducers, fixtures) rather than separate dedicated instruments, the system provides DSC, TMA, DMA, and TTM capabilities at a lower cost than purchasing multiple specialized instruments.
3Reliability
If conventional thermal analysis instruments are used, then standard measurements are achieved, but laboratory space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple measurement systems into a single compact instrument, reducing the total laboratory space required. Instead of having separate DSC, TMA, DMA, and TTM instruments each occupying dedicated space, the unified instrument consolidates these functions into one location while maintaining measurement reliability through standardized procedures and calibrated components.
4Measurement precision
If traditional thermal analysis methods are used, then established measurement protocols are followed, but inability to analyze certain material types (low viscosity fluids, open-curing materials) persists
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument uses dynamic, reconfigurable measurement modes that can adapt to different material types. The actuator system can switch between controlled stress and controlled strain modes, and the measurement configuration can be changed to suit low viscosity fluids, open-curing materials, and other challenging samples, enabling precise measurements that were previously impossible with fixed-configuration instruments.
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 reduces costs, simplifies experimentation, allows for analysis of low viscosity fluids and open-curing materials, and provides modes of measurement not available with conventional instruments, enhancing the characterization of material properties with reduced variability and increased efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a furnace that heats and cools the sample
Implementation Method 2
When a sample of a material is heated it expands thereby applying a force to any component that is in contact with the sample surface
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A camera (1) is used with suitable software to locate and track the movements of a sample (11) and one or more of a set of components (7, 8, 9, 10, 12) connected to the sample, the sample being placed in a furnace so that its temperature is controlled. The components may be of various types including but not limited to, springs, styli and actuators. A force or forces are applied to the sample and its motion and/or the motions of selected components provide information about the sample's properties.