Abstract: A method for qualifying a mask for use in lithography is proposed. The method includes the following steps: a provision of an apparatus for qualifying a mask, the apparatus comprising an optical system and an evaluation and control device; a detection of at least one first phase difference of light at the mask by use of the optical system and the evaluation and control device; loading the mask; detecting at least one second phase difference of light at the mask by use of the optical system and the evaluation and control device; and implementing a comparison of the first phase difference with the second phase difference by use of the evaluation and control device.

Abstract: A printer is described. The printer can automatically print a colloidal crystal structure at a first location on a substrate surface.

Abstract: A pen for use by a printer to print colloidal crystal structures. The pen includes a reservoir that holds a solution, where the solution can be used to grow a colloidal crystal structure. The pen also includes a printhead in fluidic communication with the reservoir and configured to eject drops of the solution.

Abstract: An optically retro-reflecting sphere is disclosed which includes an inner sphere and an outer concentric spherical shell, and can be coupled to a reflective surface. Light entering the optically retro-reflecting sphere from an incident direction is reflected by the sphere generally towards an exit direction, where the exit direction is parallel and opposite to the incident direction. The inner sphere and outer shell have different refractive indices, selected so that the reflected light is reflected with a non-uniform angular distribution about the exit direction.

Abstract: A compressing device is provided that is suitable for crushing cans. A compressing device is provided that includes a plurality of linear drive actuators located along side a compression chamber to both reduce height/size of the compressing device, and provide a more uniform compression force to the can. A compressing device is provided that includes a workpiece receptacle that collects liquid or other debris, increases the safety of the compressing device by shielding sharp edges of the crushed workpiece, and provides for easy cleaning due to it's removability and dishwasher safe construction. A compressing device is provided that includes crimping portions that provide more controlled easier crushing of work pieces such as aluminum cans.

Abstract: A compressing device is provided that is suitable for crushing cans. A compressing device is provided that includes a plurality of linear drive actuators located along side a compression chamber to both reduce height/size of the compressing device, and provide a more uniform compression force to the can. A compressing device is provided that includes a workpiece receptacle that collects liquid or other debris, increases the safety of the compressing device by shielding sharp edges of the crushed workpiece, and provides for easy cleaning due to it's removability and dishwasher safe construction. A compressing device is provided that includes crimping portions that provide more controlled easier crushing of work pieces such as aluminum cans.