2022 - Optimalised Specimen insert/retract mechanism (proof of concept)
The optimalized automatic load lock system is also determined to transfer other types of holders which have different design of handle on the air side then the basic holder. The “double tilt sample holder” which allows sample rotation in two axes, has been implemented to the system in 2021. While air side handle of basic holder is small and in the sample axis, in case of double tilt holder the handle is bigger and shifted from the sample axis. The design new hexagonal reduction for double tilt holder which align axis of the hexagon with axis of the sample is shows in Fig. 1. However, size of the new reduction is bigger (hexagon diameter is increased by 10 mm), therefore, is was necessary to redesign IRIS segments to ensure sufficient opening. Fig. 2 shows a) opened and b) closed IRIS with double tilt holder. Subsequently, automatic load lock system has been successfully tested with double tilt holder under vacuum conditions. Comparison of pressure dependence in analysis chamber of transfer by hand and automatic transfer is in fig. 3.
Fig.1. Double tilt and basic holder with fixed hexagonal reduction
Fig.2. a) opened and b) closed IRIS with double tilt holder
Fig. 3 Pressure development during transfer of double tilt holder