Abstract: An optical data storage medium is comprised of a data layer and a reference layer deposited onto a substrate. The data layer material is comprised of a transition metal rich rare earth-transition metal. The data layer has a destruction temperature greater than its Curie temperature. The reference layer is comprised of a transition metal poor rare earth-transition metal. The reference layer material has a Curie temperature greater than the destruction temperature of the data layer material. The result is a magneto-optic medium which may be recorded upon only once.

Abstract: The contamination of machine components by a plasticizer such as dioctyl phthalate is controlled by placing a plasticizer absorbing/adsorbing member in the migration path of the plasticizer. The plasticizer may migrate with the airflow (airborne contamination) in a machine or through direct contact (conductive). The airborne contaminants such as dioctyl phthalate (DOP) tend to migrate from relatively warm heat producing components to cooler components of a machine. The airborne contaminants are trapped by an active DOP absorber disposed in the airflow path between the components. In a convenience copier, the airborne contaminants tend to condense on the photoconductor's surface. To this end, the active absorber/adsorber is placed in the airflow stream between various heat generating electrical components and the photoconductor's surface. In a connector, the contamination results from direct contact and is controlled by placing a plasticizer migration barrier in the migration path of the plasticizer.

Abstract: A non-contact laser/ultrasonic welding technique for strengthening the con laser weld by the addition of ultrasonic cavitation and cleaning. A high powered laser applies heat to a weld joint to produce a melt. The output of the laser, or a second laser, is amplitude modulated to generate acoustic waves in the melt. The improved interdiffusion of the melt and the homogeneity of the weld joint result in an improved quality laser weld.