Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process for predicting the tint strength of a pigmented coating composition, such as automotive OEM or refinish paint, on a real time basis while it is being made. The tint strength of a coating resulting from a layer, obtained by adding a reference binder to the coating composition, is measured. The process is repeated by subjecting the coating compositions to successive grinding intervals. The tint strength vs. reflectance is plotted on a graph and then by using a curve fitting equation, a tint strength prediction curve is obtained. By measuring the reflectance of a wet layer of a target coating composition, the tint strength of that target coating composition can then be predicted by using the tint strength prediction curve. The process is most useful during the manufacture of coating compositions, such as automotive OEM and refinishes paints.

Abstract: A ring laser gyroscope includes active cavity containing gain medium, first reflective surfaces coupled to active cavity, medium exciter to excite gain medium, second reflective surfaces coupled to first passive cavity, and third reflective surfaces coupled to second passive cavity. Excited gain medium induces first and second laser fields within active cavity. First plurality of reflective surfaces includes first, second, and third reflective surfaces that reflect light within active cavity. Second plurality of reflective surfaces includes first, fourth, and fifth reflective surfaces that reflect light within first passive cavity. Third plurality of reflective surfaces includes fourth, sixth, and seventh reflective surfaces that reflect light within second passive cavity. First and fourth reflective surfaces are partially transmissive such that they both transmit and reflect light.