Abstract: A method for creating large numbers of high-quality optical traps in arbitrary three-dimensional configurations and dynamically reconfiguring the traps under computer control. The method uses computer-generated diffractive optical elements to convert one or more optical tweezers into one or more optical vortices. The method involves combining the optical vortex technique with the holographic optical tweezer technique to create multiple optical vortices in arbitrary configurations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for control of optical trap arrays and formation of particle arrays. The method and apparatus provides a laser and a time variable diffractive optical element to allow dynamic control of optical trap arrays and consequent control of particle arrays and also the ability to manipulate singular objects using a plurality of optical traps.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for laterally deflecting and/or separating a flow of particles using a static array of optical tweezers. In an array of optical tweezers with a lattice constant larger than the size of a particle of interest, particles driven past the array by an external force experience an additional interaction with the array of traps. By altering the angle of the array of traps relative to the external force, the particles' movement from trap to trap inside the array can be biased away from the direction of the external force, thereby enabling selective deflection and/or separation of particles.

Abstract: A confocal microscope system for examination of a sample, comprising a source for a laser beam, a diffraction medium which interacts with the laser beam to produce a plurality of laser beams, and an optical component to apply the plurality of laser beams to the sample. The multiple laser beams operate in parallel and in conjunction with a spatially-resolved area detector to receive the optical images created by each of the beams, resulting in an increased acquisition rate, a compact design and other benefits.

Abstract: A method of use for holographic optical traps or gradients in which repetitive cycling of a small number of appropriately designed arrays of traps are used for general and very complex manipulations of particles and volumes of matter. Material transport results from a process resembling peristaltic pumping, with the sequence of holographically-defined trapping or holding manifolds resembling the states of a physical peristaltic pump.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for control of optical trap arrays and formation of particle arrays using light that is in the visible portion of the spectrum. The method and apparatus provides a laser and a time variable diffractive optical element to allow dynamic control of optical trap arrays and consequent control of particle arrays and also the ability to manipulate singular objects using a plurality of optical traps. By avoiding wavelengths associated with strong absorption in the underlying material, creating optical traps with a continuous-wave laser, optimizing the efficiency of individual traps, and trapping extended samples at multiple points, the rate of deleterious nonlinear optical processes can be minimized.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for control of optical trap arrays and formation of particle arrays using light that is in the visible portion of the spectrum. The method and apparatus provides a laser and a time variable diffractive optical element to allow dynamic control of optical trap arrays and consequent control of particle arrays and also the ability to manipulate singular objects using a plurality of optical traps. By avoiding wavelengths associated with strong absorption in the underlying material, creating optical traps with a continuous-wave laser, optimizing the efficiency of individual traps, and trapping extended samples at multiple points, the rate of deleterious nonlinear optical processes can be minimized.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for manipulating small dielectric particles. The apparatus and method involves use of a diffractive optical element which receives a laser beam and forms a plurality of light beams. These light beams are operated on by a telescope lens system and then an objective lens element to create an array of optical traps for manipulating small dielectric particles.

Abstract: A Bourdon tube sensing element for a fluid-filled temperature gauge is made by inserting strips of silicone rubber into a partially flattened tube, especially one of beryllium copper, which is shaped on a fixture or mandrel. The shaped tube is subjected to a heat treatment during which the silicone rubber expands and deforms the tube. After heat treatment, the tube is cooled retaining its shape and the silicone rubber contracts from the inner surface of the tube to form a small passage between the silicone rubber and the tube so that the pressure of the fluid may be uniformly applied to the interior walls of the tube.