Abstract: For a semiconductor device S as a sample of an observed object, there are provided an image acquisition part 1 for carrying out observation of the semiconductor device S, and an optical system 2 comprising an objective lens 20. A solid immersion lens (SIL) 3 for magnifying an image of the semiconductor device S is arranged movable between an insertion position where the solid immersion lens includes an optical axis from the semiconductor device S to the objective lens 20 and is in close contact with a surface of the semiconductor device S, and a standby position off the optical axis. Then an image containing reflected light from SIL 3 is acquired with the SIL 3 at the insertion position, and the insertion position of SIL 3 is adjusted by SIL driver 30, with reference to the image.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a fuel reservoir for a liquid fuel cell particularly useful for portable electronic devices in which the fuel reservoir can deliver the liquid fuel regardless of the orientation. The fuel reservoir comprises (a) a container defining a cavity for holding the liquid fuel; (b) a wicking structure positioned within the cavity and into which at least a portion of the liquid fuel wicks and from which said liquid fuel subsequently may be discharged or delivered, such as by pumping or wicking. The wicking structure is formed from a wicking material with a free rise wick height greater than at least one half of the longest dimension of the wicking structure. Among materials with such wicking capability are foams, matted, bundled or woven fibers and nonwoven fibers.

Abstract: A quiet drapery pull system includes an elongated track that receives a master car and auxiliary cars. The track defines a pair of curved surfaces for nested receipt of roller members of the cars to facilitate linear tracking of the cars. The cars preferably include tires that are made from a resilient material to limit noises caused by rolling contact and by slipping and dragging of the tires upon contact with surface imperfections of the track. The drapery pull system preferably includes a drive belt connected to a reversible motor and to the master car for driving the master car in each of opposite directions. The drive belt is preferably made from a resilient material to limit noise associated with contact between the drive belt and drive pulley and between the belt and the track.