はじめに

ほぼ50年間、CCD（電荷結合デバイス）センサーとCMOS（相補型金属-酸化膜半導体）センサーは、デジタルイメージングアプリケーションのさまざまな分野でコストと性能を競い合っています。高解像度の画像が要求された場合、ペルチェ冷却器（熱電冷却器）はCCDとCMOSイメージセンサーの両方とも冷却してきました。設計エンジニアは、天体写真、超解像度顕微鏡、X線結晶学、および分光分析などの用途にはCCDを使いがちでした。一方、安価なデジタル化写真撮影にはCMOSセンサーが使われてきました。
最近、CMOSセンサーは、伝統的にCCDセンサーが主流だった分野に進出し、さらには自動運転システム、マシンビジョンと学習、およぶ対象物の検出と認識などの新しい用途にも使われ始めています。これらの既存分野および新用途で、熱電冷却器を使用したアクティブスポット冷却により、新しく革新的なCMOSセンサーが低コストという観点からCCDよりも優れた性能を発揮するようになってきています。
 

Introduction

Modern biotechnology hinges on the precise operation and performance of bioreactors, sophisticated vessels where cells are cultivated to produce life-altering vaccines, critical enzymes, and revolutionary protein-based therapeutics, including insulin and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Within these controlled ecosystems, every parameter – temperature, pH levels, nutrient concentrations, and gas flow rates – must be meticulously calibrated to achieve optimal cell growth, productivity, and product quality.

Introduction

Semiconductor metrology is critical in the semiconductor fabrication process. The complex nature of semiconductor fabrication now requires multiple test stages in between processing steps. Thin film semiconductor wafers are tested using several techniques including ellipsometry and reflectometry. Sophisticated optical equipment is used to inspect for defects as well as for accurate dimensional measurements. Manufacturers of optical inspection systems must integrate a thermal solution for temperature stabilization of optical components.

Introduction

As power densities and thermal loads continue to increase in crowded electronic systems, and specific analytical and diagnostic testing processes demand more temperature stabilization for improved accuracy and results, more equipment designers, R&D labs and diagnostic laboratories are turning to liquid cooling solutions for better thermal management. Optimal cooling fluids improve accuracy of results, improve equipment performance, minimize downtime, reduce maintenance costs, ensure safety and can help meet environmental compliance.

Introduction

Rheometers are scientific instruments used for studying the stress-strain relationship of polymers, fluids, and other soft materials to understand their flow/deformation properties. Rheometers are applied in a wide range of applications, such as in the development of new materials, quality control, and process optimization. Any rheometer that operates at elevated temperatures or measures temperature-dependent material properties requires a cooling system to maintain a precise temperature during testing.

Introduction

At Laird Thermal Systems, we are committed to eco-friendly solutions for temperature stabilization for demanding applications across global medical, analytical, industrial, transportation, and telecommunications markets.

Older compressor-based systems often use high global-warming potential (GWP) HFC refrigerants like R134a and R404A. New industry requirements are moving away from the use of such refrigerants due to their environmental impact. New government restrictions on traditional and natural refrigerants are central to compressor-based systems.