Device for Rotation of a Sample About Two Orthogonal Axes

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a device that allows a specimen or sample to be rotated independently and precisely around two orthogonal (perpendicular) axes. The mechanism ensures that these axes maintain their orientation relative to each other during rotation, allowing decoupled, simultaneous, or independent movement along each axis. The device also supports a third axis of rotation and achieves all movement through purely mechanical means, which avoids the use of electromagnets or electric motors near the sample.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Scientific experiments requiring precise orientation of a sample, such as X-ray diffraction, spectroscopy, or microscopy.
• Industrial quality testing and characterization of materials under various temperatures or vacuum conditions.
• Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies or other analytical techniques that demand strict control of sample orientation and minimal electromagnetic interference.
• Automated or manual sample handling systems for research labs operating in high-vacuum or cryogenic environments.
• Positions where miniaturized, mechanically controlled sample orientation is needed due to space, temperature, or electromagnetic constraints.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Decoupled and independent rotation about orthogonal axes ensures precise sample positioning without unwanted axis interference.
• Entirely mechanical design eliminates electromagnetic interference, which is critical for sensitive scientific measurements.
• Suitable for operation in extreme environments, including high vacuum, cryogenic (very low) temperatures, and high temperatures.
• Adaptable for miniaturization, making it useful in compact setups such as cryostats or analytical instruments.
• Simplifies integration into existing scientific or industrial equipment by reducing the number of required feedthroughs into vacuum systems.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device for rotating a specimen about two orthogonal axes. According to the invention, rotation takes place in a decoupled manner, that is to say the axes remain unchanged in their orientation to one another during rotation about the axes. A third rotation about a further axis is then likewise possible in a largely decoupled manner. All rotations can also be produced purely mechanically. The device comprises at least one base (18, 18', 18'') and a pedestal (1), which is arranged rotatably about a first axis on the base (18, 18', 18''), and wherein a first axis (T) is defined by said first axis. The axis (T), more particularly, lies outside the pedestal (1). The invention further comprises at least one specimen holder (2), which is arranged rotatably about a second axis (A) on the pedestal (1), and wherein the second axis (A) is orientated perpendicular to the first axis (T), and wherein a centre point of a specimen receptacle (4) on one end of the specimen holder (2) coincides with the intersection of the axes (A) and (T). The rotations about the axes are generated by a mechanical means for rotating the pedestal (1) about the first axis (T) and a mechanical means for rotating the specimen holder (2) about the second axis (A). The latter means has a linear transmission direction for the rotation. This linear transmission direction of the rotation of the mechanical means for rotating the specimen holder (2) about the second axis (A) coincides with the axis (T). Consequently, the rotations about the two axes (A) and (T) are decoupled.