Abstract: The invention consists of a measurement device for measuring the force applied by a contact member on the surface of a sample, comprising a vacuum or controlled atmosphere chamber in which there are housed the sample and the contact member, mechanical means for transmitting the force exerted by the contact member in the form of the displacement of one or several flexible members and one or several sensors suitable for measuring said displacement. The device comprises motor-driven linear micropositioners incorporated inside the vacuum or controlled atmosphere chamber for positioning sensor(s). As a result of the system, it is not necessary to break the vacuum to calibrate the sensors, saving time and facilitating the measurement.

Abstract: The invention discloses a sample-support element for ultra-high vacuums comprising a main chamber and a supplementary chamber for the sample holder and the heating/cooling elements, which is pumped by a related pump line. This enables the reduction or total elimination of the negative effect related to the alteration of the residual atmosphere in ultra-high vacuums resulting from heating or cooling the surfaces of the sample holder.

Abstract: A magnetic guide is presented that controls an electric arc between an anode and a cathode, which may be a target, over the whole cathode surface. The magnetic guide may be included in an arc evaporator and may include a first magnetic system having a group of permanent magnets located on the periphery of the evaporator or target, so that magnetization is perpendicular to the surface of the target. The magnetic guide may also include a second magnetic system that includes an electromagnet located at the rear of the target housed in an electrically insulating body at a distance from the target, with at least one of its magnetic poles parallel to the surface of the target, so that the combined action of the two magnetic systems provides uniform use or consumption of the target.