Abstract: A method for forming a slot in a metal component having first and second opposite surfaces utilizes a first laser beam having a pulse rate and power to vaporize the metal. The laser beam is traversed across the first surface at a feed rate so that each beam pulse vaporizes the component metal at a spot. The laser beam pulse rate and feed rate are effective so that successive spots do not substantially overlap each other. The laser beam is traversed in repeated steps in a series of passes so that the spots collectively form a continuous slot to a depth below the first surface. In a subsequent step, a second laser beam is positioned in the slot to drill a hole through a base of the slot, with the second laser beam being repositioned to drill a plurality of the through holes spaced apart from each other along the length of the slot.

Abstract: An alignment system for use with a keratoscope to form an eye measurement system uses a source of a light beam which is directed towards a cornea. A reflection from that beam is supplied to first and second quadrant detectors which are connected to circuits to generate an output when the cornea is properly aligned. Upon proper alignment, the system triggers the calculation of the cornea shape by the keratoscope.