Abstract: A tandem mass spectrometer apparatus includes an ion source (29); a first mass spectrometer MS-1 having a magnetic sector (24) and an electric sector (21); and a second mass spectrometer MS-2 having a CID cell (13), an offset parabolic ion mirror (17) and an ion detector (18).

Abstract: A dual-axis plasma imaging system for use in spectroscopic analysis of material. The system includes a plasma torch having a tubular member with an upstream inlet end for receiving a flow of material to be analyzed and a downstream end for discharge of the material. An induction coil is provided for effecting plasma optical emission from the material, and a spectrometer for analyzing the emission. A first optical imaging device collects and focuses an axial emission component onto a primary aperture of the spectrometer. The first device is in a principal optical path between the tubular member and the spectrometer. A second optical imaging device in a secondary optical path collects and focuses a radial emission component onto the primary aperture of the spectrometer. The secondary path is angularly offset from the principal path. A folding mirror in the principal optical path, when in a stowed position, permits the first device to collect and focus the axial emission component onto the primary aperture.

Abstract: In its preferred embodiment, a scanning monochromator uses a pulse-driven micro-stepping motor to drive a spectral-dispersion element via a reduction-gear harmonic drive. The motor is directly coupled to the input hub of the reduction-gear drive, and the output hub of the reduction-gear drive directly supports the spectral-dispersion element. By selecting a motor with a great number of steps per revolution, and a harmonic drive with a great reduction ratio, a resolution of 5 million pulsed steps is available, per single rotation of the output hub of the reduction-gear drive. This translates into more than 600,000 incremental angular-displacement steps over a usable 45.degree. range of dispersion-element rotation.

Abstract: An improved trailer is provided for use with an automotive draft vehicle. The trailer is of the class including a coupling member attached on its forward end to a draft vehicle and having a trailer rear axle assembly slidably mounted on the rear end so as to be movable longitudinally along the coupling pole between predetermined long-coupled and short-coupled positions to thereby adjust the effective length of the trailer. Improved coupling assemblies are also provided for adjusting the effective length of the trailer and maintaining the rear axle assembly in the adjusted positions.