Abstract: Static electric charges are removed from the proof mass 10 and support 12 of an accelerometer by covering the proof mass 10 and support 12 with a thin metallic film 36, such as chromium oxide.

Abstract: A laser cathode is formed by placing a conductive hemisphere on the side of the lasing cavity. Material is sputtered from the hemisphere to form a conductive layer on the cavity side and on the seal which bonds the hemisphere to the side. A protective oxide layer is formed on the sputtered layer and the hemisphere by filling the cathode with oxygen and passing a current through it.

Abstract: Improved electrodes for a laser include hollow, shell-like members formed of material, such as glass, whose thermal coefficient closely matches that of the laser body. Thin film metallic layers coat the interiors of the electrodes assuring device performance and superior thermal qualities. Field assist bonding of the electrodes to the laser body produces an assembly of increased performance quality that is readily amenable to advantageous manufacturing processes.

Abstract: Method of fabricating an cold cathode for a laser such as ring laser gyro characterized by the use of vitreous carbon as the material of the cathode. For this purpose a predetermined amount of resin is pressed formed into the shape of a hollowed cathode body which is then heated in an oxygen free environment form a vitreous shaped cathode by thermal degradation of the resinous body. The vitreous carbon material reduces the difference between the coefficients of thermal expansion of the housing and electrode which can cause the indium seal to fail, e.g., in the case of prior aluminum cathode. The electrical connection may be made via either a silver epoxy or indium solder.

Abstract: A seal between a metal surface and a surface of glass or glass-like ceramic having, in juxtaposition, the metal, gold, an indium-gold alloy, indium, and either glass or a glass-like ceramic.

Abstract: A method for making a glass-or ceramic-to-metal seal, and the seal itself. A layer of gold is deposited onto the metal. A thin layer of indium is placed over the gold, and the structure is heated above the melting point of indium to create a gold-indium alloy at the gold-indium interface. After cooling, the indium surface of the structure and the glass surface are super-cleaned. The super-cleaned surface are then pressed together to form an air-tight seal.