X-ray Diffraction Apparatus with Movable Collimator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray diffraction apparatuses require complex configurations and manual effort for switching between optical systems that use and do not use a mirror, complicating the switching process and user operation.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray diffraction apparatus with a movement mechanism that automatically switches between X-ray beams using a multilayer film mirror and apertures, allowing for simple configuration and user-friendly operation by controlling a motorized axle to move the X-ray source and incident paths, thereby switching between mirror-based and mirror-free optical systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If CBO (cross-beam optics) is used to switch between mirror-based and mirror-free optical paths, then beam switching capability is achieved, but device complexity increases due to requiring two collimator holders with different positions and orientations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam switching capabilityVSAvoidcollimator holder configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple collimators into a single collimator by positioning it at the intersection point of multiple optical paths. This single collimator serves all optical paths (mirror-based and mirror-free paths with different divergence angles), eliminating the need for multiple collimator holders and reducing device complexity while maintaining beam switching capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single collimator is designed to be universal, serving multiple optical paths with different characteristics (different divergence angles and orientations). By placing the collimator at the common intersection point where all optical paths converge, it becomes a multi-functional component that can collimate beams for all measurement modes without requiring separate holders for each path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual slit switching is implemented, then beam path selection is possible, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring manual intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam path selectionVSAvoiduser burden
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic beam path switching by making the collimator movable rather than fixed. The collimator can be dynamically repositioned along the optical axis and laterally to switch between different optical paths (mirror-based and mirror-free paths). This dynamic positioning capability allows automatic beam path selection without manual slit switching, improving ease of operation while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The movable collimator acts as an intermediary mechanism that enables automatic beam path selection. By controlling the position of this single collimator, the system can automatically switch between different optical paths and measurement modes, replacing manual slit switching operations and reducing user burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Extent of automation

If multiple motorized axes are added for automatic slit switching, then automation level increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic beam switchingVSAvoidmotorized axis configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple switching functions into a single movable collimator mechanism. Instead of adding separate motorized axes for each slit and collimator, the system uses one collimator that can be positioned along the optical axis and laterally, consolidating the automation requirements and reducing overall device complexity while achieving automatic beam switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single movable collimator serves as a universal switching mechanism for all optical paths. By making this one component movable in multiple directions, it can automatically select between mirror-based and mirror-free paths, as well as adjust for different divergence angles, replacing the need for multiple specialized motorized axes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 switching between mirror-based and mirror-free optical systems with a simple configuration, reducing user burden and allowing for continuous, automatic measurement without the need for additional motorized axes, while maintaining beam quality and intensity.

Implementation Method 1

a second incident path configured to let the generated X-ray beam be reflected by a multilayer film mirror

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a second incident path configured to let the generated X-ray beam be reflected by a multilayer film mirror

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBragg Diffraction: Bragg Diffraction

Data Source

PatentUS10732134B2X-ray diffraction apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.08.04 RIGAKU CORP
  • US10732134B2 patent drawing
  • US10732134B2 patent drawing
  • US10732134B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An X-ray diffraction apparatus includes: an X-ray source (110); a first incident path letting the generated X-ray beam pass therethrough; a second incident path letting the generated X-ray beam be reflected by a multilayer film mirror and letting the reflected X-ray beam pass therethrough in parallel with the X-ray beam having passed through the first incident path. A movement mechanism is provided moving the X-ray source (110) between the first incident path and the second incident path while preserving respective relative positions thereof. An incident slit (160) allows an X-ray beam to be incident on a sample S pass therethrough; and a sample support stage (165) supports the sample S at a position fixed relative to the incident slit (160).