Abstract: A transportable goniospectrometer with a constant observation center for a radiometric measurement of the reflection of a natural surface includes a spectrometer having an optical unit and a sensor. A main pillar has a lower and an upper pillar end. An arc has a fixed and a free arc end. A slide is disposed displaceably and fixably along the arc. The slide carries the optical unit orientated towards the observation center. A cantilever has a fixed cantilever end connected to the upper pillar end via a screw connection, and a free cantilever end which has a suspension that is rotatable and fixable about a vertical axis. The suspension is connected to the sensor and to the fixed arc end of the arc. The suspension is configured to position the arc at a distance of the arc radius of the arc above the natural surface.

Abstract: One embodiment is directed towards a stabilized laser including a laser to produce light at a frequency and a resonator coupled to the laser such that the light from the laser circulates therethrough. The laser also includes Pound-Drever-Hall (PDH) feedback electronics configured to adjust the frequency of the light from the laser to reduce phase noise in response to light sensed at the reflection port of the resonator and transmission port feedback electronics configured to adjust the frequency of the light from the laser toward resonance of the resonator at the transmission port in response to the light sensed at the transmission port of the resonator, wherein the transmission port feedback electronics adjust the frequency at a rate at least ten times slower than the PDH feedback electronics.

Abstract: A calibration device, capable of calibrating a gain of a radiometer, includes an actuator and a micro-electromechanical-system (MEMS) unit. The actuator receives a calibration signal outputted from a control unit. The MEMS unit is coupled to the actuator, in which the actuator enables the MEMS unit to shield an antenna of the radiometer according to the calibration signal, such that the radiometer generates an environmental signal according to an equivalent radiant temperature received from the MEMS unit, and the control unit calibrates the gain of the radiometer according to the environmental signal.

Abstract: For transferring optical energy, a first multimode wave guide transmits radiant energy with a homogenized beam to a first plurality of optical sensors of an array of optical sensors. The array measures the homogenized radiant energy. Each optical sensor of the first plurality of optical sensors measures a pixelized portion of the homogenized radiant energy. A method and system also perform the functions of the apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for irradiating blood or blood products, preferably with ultra violet or visible light, to reduce contaminants in the blood or blood products. A removable radiometer having light integrating chambers detects the light intensity, allowing the radiation characteristics of the apparatus to be calibrated. A control circuit uses the measurements to control the delivery of an effective dose of illumination to blood or blood products in a bag or container. One or more light integrating optical chambers in the radiometer allow a single light sensor to sense light across an entire field. Thermistors in the irradiating apparatus or the radiometer or both sense the temperature of photo sensors. The control circuit compensates for temperature-dependant variations in the output of the photo sensors.

Abstract: The invention is a rotating tip catheter-imaging probe where electromagnetic energy is delivered to the distal end of a catheter and converted to mechanical energy using a light drive apparatus. The mechanical energy is then used to rotate a mirror that redirects light in fixed pattern on a sample. The rotating element of the light drive apparatus contains vanes, which rotate about an axis and positioned with bearings to minimize friction. A chamber encompasses the rotating element and is set to a vacuum pressure. The rotational speed of the catheter tip can be controlled by varying the optical power delivered to the vanes, the vacuum pressure in the chamber, or by a braking mechanism applied to the rotating element. The vanes may be shaped in a particular geometry to increase forces on the vanes from thermally driven gas flow.

Abstract: An optical reader having an array of differing-color light sources and a controller for controlling the light sources and acquisition of optical data. The light sources are arranged, and the controller is configured, to allow rapid acquisition of optical data regarding individual sample wells of a cluster of such wells. In some embodiments, multiple ones of the differing-color light sources are illuminated simultaneously for acquiring optical data on a corresponding number of sample wells. Depending on the configuration of the array and number of differing-color light sources illuminated simultaneously, the optical reader can acquire optical data for several wavelengths in a fraction of the time of conventional optical readers. Other embodiments include one or more non-contact temperature sensors for acquiring temperature data substantially simultaneously with the optical data.

Abstract: Radiometers detect radio wavelength electromagnetic radiation and typically have an antenna (16), an amplifier (18) and a detector (20). All three of these components have response characteristics that may be dependent on temperature, and in the case of systems using radiometer arrays dependent upon temperatures throughout the system. Different temperatures across a multi-channel antenna and differential channel temperature response can result in poor image quality from imaging radiometers. Resolution of a linear array of detector horns is limited by the size of the horns.

Abstract: A radiometer sensor includes a target plate and a micro-mechanical spring which supports the target plate above a base support. This construction allows for displacement of the target plate in a direction perpendicular to the base support in response to radiation which is received by a top surface of the target plate. The sensor is enclosed within a housing that defines a sealed interior chamber within which a vacuum has been drawn. The target plate preferably is non-deformable in response to received radiation. Capacitive or piezoelectric sensors are provided to detect the displacement of the target plate, and the measured displacement is correlated to determine a received radiation level. Radiometer sensor output signals are quantized and signal processed so as to make a radiation level determination.

Abstract: The present invention relates to interfacing new sensors to incumbent controls. In particular, it relates to optically interfacing a new sensor, such as a spectrometer with plasma generator, to an incumbent electro-optical sensor. Logic and resources to control activation of the incumbent electro-optical sensor may be included. Particular aspects of the present invention are described in the claims, specification and drawings.

Abstract: Devices and methods for measurement of energy from a defined source having increased accuracy in measuring low energies. The device comprises a housing containing sensors. A first sensor receives energy from the source and produces a first output. A second sensor receives ambient energy only and produces a second output. Subtraction of the second output from the first output produces a more accurate corrected output. The method includes providing a housing containing a first sensor and a second sensor and directing energy from the defined source to a surface of the first sensor thereby causing the first sensor to produce a first output while only ambient energy from sources other than the defined source is applied to a surface of the second sensor which produce a second output that is subtracted from the first output producing a corrected output.

Abstract: An apparatus for continuously monitoring a photopolymerization reaction in real time by optical pyrometry includes a housing having a chamber; a sample mount that may be disposed within the chamber; a light source for supplying light to induce a photopolymerization reaction in a monomer sample disposed on the sample mount; and an optical pyrometer that may be attached to the housing for measuring temperature of the monomer sample. The temperature of the sample with respect to time is used to monitor progress of the reaction. Another apparatus for monitoring a photopolymerization reaction combines optical pyrometry and infrared spectroscopy. The apparatus includes a sample mount disposed in a beam of an infrared spectrometer a light source for supplying light to induce a photopolymerization reaction in a monomer sample disposed on the sample mount and an optical pyrometer for measuring temperature of the monomer sample.

Abstract: An optical disk drive motor includes a rotor and a disk tray. At least one adjusting member is provided between the rotor and the disk tray. The adjusting member is adjustable to adjust a pressing force exerted on one of the rotor and the disk tray, thereby keeping the rotor and the disk tray in a parallel relationship.

Abstract: A light integrating interface having a housing made substantially of pressed polytetrafluoroethylene powder. The interface has a non-spherical integrating cavity with a reflective inner surface, as well as a light energy input port and a light energy output port operatively coupled to the integrating cavity.

Abstract: An arrangement for measuring the power or energy of optical radiation of radiation sources, especially laser radiation is disclosed. It comprises a module defining an open or at least partially closed hollow space, wherein the inner walls or outer walls of the module are entirely or partially occupied by detectors for generating measurement signals which are proportional to the measured parameters of the radiation sources. The detectors are connected together in such a way that their generated measurement signals are further processed to form at least one resultant sum signal or the detectors are connected to a downstream processing device to form at least one resultant sum signal. This at least one resultant sum signal is relatively independent from the position, arrangement and radiating characteristic of the examined radiation source in the module. At least one opening or guide-through is provided in the module for inserting the radiation source to be examined.

Abstract: The invention relates to a photomechanical transducer which comprises a photochromic element made of a first material and attached on a carrier element made of a deformable second material. The first material of the photochromic element changes its molecular shape when it is irradiated with light and thereby introduces a strain into the carrier element which as a result is deformed.

Abstract: Measuring device (1) for measuring concentrated radiation of light with a reflector (3) arranged in an inclined manner being transversely movable through the incident light (4). A camera (2) recording the light reflected by the reflector (3) has its optical axis (2a) aligned approximately parallel to the direction of movement of the reflector (3). This allows for a flat arrangement of the measuring device (1).

Abstract: An illuminator for photodynamic therapy includes a bulb, a condenser lens assembly and a filter assembly. The filter assembly includes the following components in an optical path: (1) a high-pass filter to filter out light having wavelengths below a first wavelength value; (2) a low-pass dichroic filter to filter out light having wavelengths above a second wavelength value; and (3) a dichroic mirror which reflects light having wavelengths between the first wavelength value and the second wavelength value and which transmits infrared light. An exit lens assembly directs light transmitted through the high-pass filter and the low-pass dichroic filter and reflected by the dichroic mirror onto a patient for photodynamic therapy. The condenser lens assembly and the exit lens assembly scramble the beam to ensure that the patient is illuminated with light which is highly uniform in both intensity and spectral characteristics (color) throughout the illuminated area.

Abstract: A vessel (20) is fabricated with a separate evacuated hollow volume (26) in the side wall (22) and bottom (24) of the vessel (20) that allows for the insertion of a paddlewheel radiometer in the evacuated space. The bottom (24) and side wall (22) of the vessel (20) are made so that selected portions are transparent thus the paddlewheel radiometer assembly (28) portion of the radiometer can receive light energy and be observed to spin when the vessel (20) is exposed to a light source. The assembly (28) rotates on a hub located along the central axis of the vessel (20) in the center of the of the evacuated hollow volume (26). The rotating assembly (28) includes perpendicular vanes (30) that radiate outward along the radius of the vessel (20). Each of the vanes (30) is blackened on one side and mirrored or white on the other side. The assembly (28) is constructed so that it balances horizontally at its center hub.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the properties of the tropopause includes a variable frequency microwave radiometer operating over a range of from about 118.0 to about 119.0 GHz. The radiometer receives as an input a frequency selector signal and produces as an output a measured power level at a measurement frequency corresponding to the input frequency selector signal. The apparatus further includes a feedback controller having as an input the measured power level and producing as an output the frequency selector signal. The feedback controller varies the frequency selector signal to a target frequency so as to produce a minimum value in the measured power level. The tropopause equivalent altitude is determined from the target frequency.

Abstract: A pocket size laser power meter adapted to measure the power of laser energy emitted by a laser. The power meter includes a thermal mass adapted to receive the laser energy. A temperature sensor coupled to the thermal mass translates temperature changes in the thermal mass into an electrical sensor signal having a variable voltage. A differentiator coupled to the temperature sensor receives the electrical sensor signal and produces a differentiated signal indicative of the rate of change of voltage of the electrical sensor signal. A cooling rate holding circuit coupled to the differentiator receives a cooling portion of the differentiated signal indicating a lowering of the temperature of the thermal mass. A heating rate holding circuit coupled to the differentiator receives a heating portion of the differentiated signal indicating a raising of the temperature of the thermal mass.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the combustion effluent of a fossil-fired system with high accuracy as required for the determination of fuel flow rate and boiler efficiency.

Abstract: An isoperibol calorimeter type laser power meter including a laser beam energy absorber, apparatus for measuring the change in temperature of the absorber, electronic timing apparatus for defining a period of time over which a change in temperature of the absorber takes place and apparatus operative in response to a measured change in temperature over the period of time to provide an output indication of laser power.

Abstract: A motor position controller energized by radiant energy, includes a member that rotates in response to radiant energy. A sensing means is mounted adjacent the absorbing member to sense rotational movement of the member and to generate a member rotational speed and direction movement signal in response thereto. A processor compares input command signals representing the desired member speed and rotational direction signal with the actual speed and rotational direction signal and generates a radiant energy control signal in response thereto. A radiant energy generating laser, controlled by the processor, transmits radiant light energy of varying magnitude onto the member thereby controlling the member's rotational speed, direction and position. In a preferred embodiment, the member is mechanically engaged to a mechanical joint and is used to control the arm's speed, position and movement.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a photo-acoustic apparatus for detecting energy that exits from the end of an optical fiber waveguide device. The photo-acoustic apparatus includes a housing having an opening through which the end of the optical waveguide device extends into the housing. The gas fills the housing and is capable of absorbing energy that exits the end of the optical waveguide device. The gas increases in pressure corresponding to the energy absorbed by it. There is also a pressure sensor such as a capacitor micorphone disposed in said housing which is capable of sensing the pressure of the gas and producing an electrical signal proportional to the energy which exits the optical waveguide device. Alternatively, a solid absorber is disposed in the housing that absorbs energy that exits from the end of the optical waveguide device. The gas filling the housing, in this case, does not absorb any of the energy.

Abstract: An improved process for transferring film to video or film previously transferred to video for the treatment thereof and the transfer thereof to a master at a real time play rate, the process comprising the steps of: (a) transferring film to video or transferring video carrying the film previously transferred to it to video in a 1:1 frame of film to frame of video ratio where one frame of film, or one frame of film previously transferred to video as the case may be, corresponds to one frame (two sequential fields) of video--(thus each frame of film now occupies only two sequential fields of video).

Abstract: A laser power and energy meter has a target surface provided with at least one pin hole for passing a small portion of the laser beam impinging thereon and further has a light detector positioned in the path of the laser light passing through the pin hole. The target surface is moved horizontally and vertically to cause the laser beam to scan the target surface and the center of the laser beam is aligned with the center of the target surface.

Abstract: A radiometer controller (11) of a radiation detector (10) is provided with a calibration method and apparatus comprised of mounting all temperature sensitive elements of the controller in thermostatically controlled ovens (26) during calibration and measurements, using a selected temperature that is above any which might be reached in the field. The instrument is calibrated in situ by adjusting heater power (EI) to the receptor cavity (12) in the radiometer detector to a predetermined full scale level as displayed by a meter (30). Then with the heater de-energized and the receptor cavity covered, the voltage output, (E.sub.o) is set to zero as displayed by the meter. Next the preset power is applied to the heater and the output of the radiant measurement channel is applied to the panel meter. With this preset heater power producing the proper heat, the gain of the measurement channel is adjusted to bring the meter dispaly to full scale.

Abstract: A self-contained system embodying the principles of the radiometer, the otheoscope, and the dynamoelectric machine is provided to derive an output of electrical energy from an input of radiant energy, and in particular infra-red energy, from the surrounding environment, and for amplifying that output. The system is suitable for airborne and space as well as terrestrial applications.

Abstract: Power generating apparatus for conversion of radiant to mechanical or electrical energy utilizes radiometric drive rotors coupled to mechanical or electrical output devices; radiometer internal pressure regulating means controls output speed and power. Particular vane constructions enhance the radiometric effect.

Abstract: Light absorbing ultra-thin films mounted under a fixed strain exhibit the behavior of an optomechanicalor photomechanical transducer. The transducer responds to light in a quick and reversible manner converting a time-variable light source into a time-variable mechanical stress easily monitored by a device such as a strain gage.

Abstract: Pulsed light and readily measurable pulsed electrical energy are independently applied to a solid black, conductive sample in a gas-filled photoacoustic cell, each causing the black sample to heat. The heating of the black sample causes a pressure wave in the cell, which can be detected and measured. By adjusting the pulsed electrical energy, the pressure wave resulting from the pulsed electrical energy can be made to relate to the pressure wave resulting from the pulsed light in a predetermined manner. The pulsed light input intensity can then be measured in electrical units based on the measurable input of the electrical energy pulses. In this manner, the invention can be used as a radiometer. A second application for the present apparatus is in calibrating photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) cells. The PAS cell can be self-calibrated by discontinuing the light pulses and relating the pressure wave output to the electrical energy pulse input.

Abstract: A radiometer on an orbiting spacecraft derives high spatial resolution information from terrestrial and atmospheric regions. N elements or subapertures on the spacecraft transduce electromagnetic energy into electric signals.Many or all of the elements are simultaneously illuminated by electromagnetic energy radiated from the same region. Identical, parallel processing channels are responsive to the N elements. Each of the channels includes a variable gain amplifier responsive to the signal transduced by its corresponding array elements. The gain of each amplifier is controlled as a function of the output difference when the channel is connected periodically to each of a pair of Dicke noise sources, such as resistors maintained at predetermined temperatures.

Abstract: A scanning radiometer in which at least one curved mirror is integral with a drivable optical system. Thermal radiation is directed onto a detector facing the mirror at a distance. An electronic system performs a weighting evaluation corresponding to the position of the detectors, and a threshold value is indicative of the degree of radiation of the observed object shown on a display unit. The optical system together with the detectors is located about axes containing the center of curvature of the curved mirror and is rotatable in steps or continuously. The mirror is, furthermore, shaped in the form of a hollow sphere or a hollow sphere segment. The latter avoids irradiation of detectors by scatter radiation incident via the aperture with boundaries running parallel to the optical axis or with a boundary expanding funnel-like from the entry window towards the mirror.

Abstract: A picture display unit comprising an internal light source, a mirror, a rotatable disc, a diffuser, and intermediate sheets.

Abstract: Improved apodization filter serving as the field stop of a scanning radiometer and attenuating unwanted light modulation signals when scanning edges of any field of view resulting in more accurate radiometric measurements.