X-ray Sample Holder With Segmented Alignment Grids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray microscopy (XRM) setups face limitations in sample handling efficiency due to variability in sample placement across different holders and repeated uses, leading to potential movement of samples during imaging, which affects the accuracy and throughput of high-resolution inspections.
Innovation Solution
A sample holder with a sample placement surface and two alignment portions, allowing precise positioning in all three spatial directions, combined with a flexible and radiation-stable fixing element for secure holding without adhesives, enables repeatable and accurate sample placement across different holders and uses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional sample holders are used without specialized alignment features, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision and placement accuracy of samples deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder is segmented into distinct functional components: a sample placement surface for depth positioning, first alignment portions for width direction alignment, and second alignment portions for height direction alignment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment portions are positioned at intersections of alignment grids formed by edge lines on the sample placement surface. This dimensional arrangement creates a three-dimensional alignment system that provides precise positioning in all spatial directions (width, height, and depth) simultaneously.
2Reliability
If samples are held securely during X-ray imaging, then the reliability of imaging is improved, but the ease of operation for sample placement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment portions and alignment grids are pre-configured on the sample placement surface before sample insertion. This preliminary arrangement guides the sample into the correct position automatically, eliminating the need for complex adjustment procedures during operation and maintaining both ease of placement and imaging stability.
3Measurement precision
If alignment portions are added to the sample holder, then the measurement precision of sample positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment portions and alignment grids are designed to work together as a self-aligning system. When a sample is placed on the holder, the geometric relationship between the alignment portions and the sample edges automatically establishes precise positioning without requiring external measurement tools or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample holder for holding a sample during an X-ray imaging process includes a sample placement surface on which the sample is placed for positioning the sample in a depth direction of the sample holder. The sample holder also includes a first alignment portion for aligning the sample in a width direction of the sample holder, and a second alignment portion for aligning the sample in a height direction of the sample holder.