Multi-TM Automated 8-Position Transmission Sample Holder for Rigaku SmartLab X-ray Diffractometers

Overview

The Raying Multi-TM is an engineered 8-position automated transmission sample holder designed specifically for integration with Rigaku SmartLab series X-ray diffractometers. It operates on the principle of precise mechanical indexing within the instrument’s existing XY goniometric stage architecture, enabling sequential, repeatable positioning of thin-film or powder samples in the X-ray beam path without manual intervention. Unlike conventional single-sample holders, the Multi-TM leverages the SmartLab’s built-in motorized stage control and software-triggered stage movement protocols to execute fully unattended acquisition sequences. This implementation adheres to the fundamental geometric requirements of Bragg-Brentano and parallel-beam transmission configurations, maintaining consistent sample-to-detector geometry across all positions—critical for quantitative phase analysis, crystallite size determination, and lattice parameter refinement.

Key Features

• Automated 8-position indexing mechanism with sub-10 µm positional repeatability, compatible with Rigaku SmartLab’s native stage motion controller and software API.
• Modular aluminum alloy frame with black anodized finish, optimized for low X-ray scattering background and thermal stability during extended overnight runs.
• Standardized sample mounting interface accommodating 25 mm × 25 mm × 0.5 mm glass or silicon substrates, as well as loose powder specimens in 0.5 mm-thick Kapton film pouches.
• Zero-modification installation: mounts directly onto the SmartLab’s existing XY sample stage using OEM-compatible fastening hardware—no firmware updates or hardware retrofits required.
• Optional custom adaptation kits available for Bruker D2 PHASER, PANalytical Empyrean, and Thermo Scientific ARL EQUINOX systems upon request and mechanical feasibility assessment.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Multi-TM supports a broad range of transmission-mode samples, including polycrystalline thin films (e.g., perovskites, oxides, nitrides), nanomaterials deposited on low-background SiN membranes, and fine-powder specimens sealed in polymer windows. All structural components comply with ISO 9001-certified manufacturing processes at the Jiangsu production facility. The design conforms to IEC 61000-6-3 electromagnetic compatibility standards for laboratory instrumentation and meets mechanical safety requirements outlined in ISO 13857 for accessible moving parts. While not classified as a medical device or GLP-regulated system, the holder is routinely deployed in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories performing XRD-based material characterization per ASTM E975 (Standard Practice for X-ray Diffraction Analysis of Metals) and ISO 21382 (X-ray diffraction — Quantitative phase analysis).

Software & Data Management

The Multi-TM operates transparently within Rigaku’s SmartLab Studio II software environment. Users define sample order, exposure time per position, and scan parameters (2θ range, step size, count time) via the “Batch Scan” module. Each acquired pattern is automatically tagged with position ID, timestamp, and metadata inherited from the instrument log file. Raw data are saved in standard .ras and .xy formats, ensuring full interoperability with third-party analysis tools such as HighScore Plus, Jade, and GSAS-II. Audit trails—including stage movement logs, error flags, and user-initiated abort events—are retained in accordance with internal lab SOPs. Though not inherently Part 11-compliant, the system supports integration with validated LIMS platforms when deployed under documented QA/QC procedures.

Applications

• High-throughput screening of catalyst libraries in heterogeneous catalysis research.
• Time-resolved XRD studies requiring sequential sampling before/after thermal or gas-phase treatment.
• Quality control of thin-film deposition uniformity across wafer batches in semiconductor R&D.
• Phase evolution mapping during in-situ heating or cooling experiments using furnace stages.
• Academic teaching labs conducting comparative crystallography exercises with standardized sample sets.

FAQ

Is the Multi-TM compatible with older Rigaku SmartLab models (e.g., pre-2015)?
Yes—units manufactured after 2012 with firmware version 3.4 or higher support full automation; earlier versions require manual stage positioning but retain mechanical compatibility.
Can the holder accommodate samples thicker than 1 mm?
No—maximum sample thickness is 0.8 mm to ensure unobstructed beam path and avoid detector shadowing in transmission geometry.
Does Raying provide calibration certificates or traceable metrology reports?
Upon request, dimensional verification reports (CMM-measured stage alignment tolerances) can be supplied; however, no NIST-traceable angular calibration is provided as the holder does not contain optical or encoder elements.
What is the expected service life under continuous overnight operation?
Rated for ≥50,000 indexing cycles with routine maintenance (lubrication every 6 months); typical field deployment exceeds 3 years in academic core facilities operating 16–20 hrs/day.