By Dispersed Light Spectroscopy Patents (Class 356/300)
  • Publication number: 20140253917
    Abstract: A sensor arrangement including a light source, a first optical element, a second optical element, a first photo detector, and a second photo detector. The light source is optically coupled to the first optical element that is optically coupled to the second optical element. The first photo detector is optically coupled to the first optical element for detecting a first component of the part of the light which is not transmitted by the second optical element, and the second photo detector is optically coupled to the second optical element for detecting a second component of the part of the light which is transmitted by the second optical element. One of the first and the second optical elements is an optical filter and the other is a sensor element, where the sensor element or the filter is tunable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: Helmut Heidrich, Peter Lützow, Daniel Pergande, Alethea Vanessa Gomez Zamora
  • Publication number: 20140253915
    Abstract: A wide-band optical frequency comb is provided to estimate an optical phase shift induced in a dispersive material. In contrast to the conventional techniques that rely on a single tunable laser for extracting the dispersion parameter at different frequencies, the wide-band optical frequency comb uses multiple comb lines for simultaneously evaluating the dispersion induced phase shifts in different frequencies. Since the frequency response of the dispersive material is a phase function, a phase associated with each comb line passed through the material represents a discrete measure of the material frequency response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Vahid ATAIE, Ping Piu KUO, Stojan RADIC
  • Patent number: 8828737
    Abstract: Methods for using focused light scattering techniques for the optical sensing of biological particles suspended in a liquid medium are disclosed. The optical sensing enables one to characterize particles size and/or distribution in a given sample. This, in turn, allows one to identify the biological particles, determine their relative particle density, detect particle shedding, and identify particle aggregation. The methods are also useful in screening and optimizing drug candidates, evaluating the efficacy and dosage levels of such drugs, and in personalized medicine applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Invitrox, Inc.
    Inventor: Don Gabriel
  • Patent number: 8824770
    Abstract: Provided are methods for determining and analyzing photometric and morphometric features of small objects, such as cells to, for example, identify different cell states. In particularly, methods are provided for identifying apoptotic cells, and for distinguishing between cells undergoing apoptosis versus necrosis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Amnis Corporation
    Inventors: Thaddeus C. George, David A. Basiji, Brian E. Hall, William E. Ortyn, Michael J. Seo, Philip J. Morrissey, Cathleen A. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 8817241
    Abstract: An oil in water analyzer for measuring the concentration of hydrocarbons in an effluent stream. The oil in water analyzer has a valve system for acquiring a sample from an effluent stream. An extraction device is used for mixing a known volume of a solvent and the sample to produce a hydrocarbon/solvent mixture. A second valve is used for transporting the hydrocarbon/solvent mixture to a spectroscopic cell. It is at the spectroscopic cell where the concentration of hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon/solvent mixture is evaluated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Phillips 66 Company
    Inventors: Christopher J. LaFrancois, James F. Stewart, Gregory C. Allred, Marion Ash
  • Patent number: 8815500
    Abstract: A method for reducing resources for selecting seed to be produced in commercial quantities or for research is disclosed. Samples of seed which are candidates for selection are collected and given an identifier. Specific tissue or structure from candidate seed is removed. A test or analysis is performed on the candidate seed or the removed tissue or structure. Results of the test or analysis are recorded and correlated to the seed's identifier. The results are evaluated and a decision is made whether to select a candidate seed for commercial production or for research. Time, space, and labor associated with growing plants in an experimental plot or greenhouse and taking tissue samples from growing plants is saved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Cope
  • Patent number: 8817253
    Abstract: Method for hyper-spectral imaging and analysis of a sample of matter, for identifying and characterizing an object of interest therein. Preparing test solution or suspension of the sample, including adding thereto a spectral marker specific to object of interest, such that if object of interest is in test solution or suspension, object of interest becomes a hyper-spectrally active target which is hyper-spectrally detectable and identifiable; adding to test solution or suspension a background reducing chemical, for reducing background interfering effects caused by presence of objects of non-interest in test solution or suspension, thereby increasing hyper-spectral detectability of hyper-spectrally active target in test solution or suspension; generating and collecting hyper-spectral image data and information of test solution or suspension; and, processing and analyzing thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Green Vision Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Danny S. Moshe, Vladimir Weinstein
  • Patent number: 8804117
    Abstract: A method and device for detecting a resonant non-linear optical signal induced in a sample, the sample including a resonant medium and a non-resonant medium forming an interface. The device includes an emission source of at least one first excitation light beam, called a pump beam, at a given angular frequency ?p for the excitation of the resonant medium of said sample, an optical detection module for detecting a non-linear optical signal resulting from the interaction of said pump beam with an axial interface between the resonant and non-resonant media of the sample, in at least two symmetrical directions ({right arrow over (k)}, {right arrow over (k)}?) relative to the optical axis of said excitation beam incident in the sample, and a processing unit for processing signals (IFwd({right arrow over (k)}), IFwd({right arrow over (k)}?)) thus detected, allowing the difference between said signals to be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-CNRS
    Inventors: Hervé Rigneault, David Gachet, Sophie Brustlein
  • Patent number: 8804115
    Abstract: Systems and methods for performing optical spectroscopy using a self-calibrating fiber optic probe are disclosed. One self-calibrating fiber optic probe includes a sensing channel for transmitting illumination light to a specimen and for collecting spectral data of the specimen. The spectral data includes the illumination light diffusely reflected from the specimen at one or more wavelengths. The self-calibrating fiber optic probe may also include a calibration channel for transmitting calibration light. The calibration light and the illumination light are generated simultaneously from a common light source. The calibration channel collects calibration spectral data associated with the calibration light contemporaneously with the collection of the spectral data of the specimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Duke University
    Inventors: Bing Yu, Nirmala Ramanujam
  • Publication number: 20140218716
    Abstract: A cable for distributed fibre optic sensing comprising a flexible tape, an optical fibre suitable for Brillouin scattering measurement forming at least two lengths, and at least one free end of at least one length being connectable to a reading unit, wherein at least a section of the longitudinal length of the flexible tape is situated between at least a section of the two lengths such that the two lengths are in close proximity such that a temperature gradient between the two lengths is minimized, and wherein the section of the tape and the section of lengths can flex together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: University of New Brunswick
    Inventors: Anthony Brown, Bruce Colpitts
  • Patent number: 8798408
    Abstract: Plasmons on a waveguide may deliver energy to photocatalyze a reaction. The waveguide or other energy carrier may be configured to carry electromagnetic energy and generate plasmon energy at one or more locations proximate to the waveguide, where the plasmon energy may react chemically with a medium or interaction material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Roderick A. Hyde
  • Publication number: 20140211206
    Abstract: According to an example, an apparatus for collecting a material to be spectrally analyzed includes a body having a first end and a second end, in which the body is elongated along a first axis from the first end to the second end. The body also includes a hole having an opening formed in an external surface of the body at a location between the first end and the second end and extending at least partially through the body at an angle with respect to the first axis. The body further includes a plurality of surface-enhanced spectroscopy (SES) elements positioned inside the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Shih-Yuan Wang, Huei Pei Kuo, Zhiyong Li, Gary Gibson
  • Patent number: 8792948
    Abstract: Optical sensor devices, image processing devices, methods and computer readable code computer-readable storage media for detecting biophysical parameters, chemical concentrations, chemical saturations and blood count. In some embodiments, the image processing device receives a live still or video electronic image. Exemplary physiological parameters include but are not limited to a pulse rate, blood pressure, glucose, stroke volume of internal or external tissue (e.g. skin). A biophysical or physiological property is not limited to a cardiovascular or liver or the kidneys or to a cardiovascular disorder or to a pulmonary disorder. Exemplary chemical concentrations or saturation includes but not limited to a pH level, a glucose level, a urea nitrogen level, a CO2 concentration or saturation, or a oxygen concentration or saturation. In some embodiments the parameters are detected from a food or a beverage such as an alcohol, a dairy product, wine, a baked good, a fruit or a vegetable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Cnoga Holdings Ltd.
    Inventor: Yosef Segman
  • Patent number: 8786840
    Abstract: A method and device for remotely monitoring an area using a low peak power optical pump comprising one or more pumping sources, one or more lasers; and an optical response analyzer. Each pumping source creates a pumping energy. The lasers each comprise a high reflectivity mirror, a laser media, an output coupler, and an output lens. Each laser media is made of a material that emits a lasing power when exposed to pumping energy. Each laser media is optically connected to and positioned between a corresponding high reflectivity mirror and output coupler along a pumping axis. Each output coupler is optically connected to a corresponding output lens along the pumping axis. The high reflectivity mirror of each laser is optically connected to an optical pumping source from the one or more optical pumping sources via an optical connection comprising one or more first optical fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: U.S. Department of Energy
    Inventors: Steven D. Woodruff, Dustin L. Mcintyre, Jinesh C. Jain
  • Patent number: 8787752
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes an optically powered transducer with a photovoltaic collector. An optical fiber power delivery method and system and a free space power delivery method are also provided. A fabrication process for making an optically powered transducer is further described, together with an implantable transducer system based on optical power delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Axel Scherer, Aditya Rajagopal, Seheon Kim, Andrew P. Homyk
  • Publication number: 20140198313
    Abstract: The present invention generally pertains to a system, method and kit for the detection and measurement of spectroscopic properties of light from a sample, or the scalable detection and measurement of spectroscopic properties of light from each sample present among multiple samples, simultaneously, wherein the system comprises: an optical train comprising a dispersing element; and an image sensor. The light detected and measured may comprise light scattered from a sample, emitted as chemiluminescence by a chemical process within a sample, selectively absorbed by a sample, or emitted as fluorescence from a sample following excitation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: GnuBIO, Inc.
    Inventors: David Tracy, Peter Lewis Stokes, Sepehr Kiani
  • Patent number: 8781793
    Abstract: The light emission analyzing device includes: a first light intensity calculation unit that performs polynomial approximation on a spectroscopic spectrum indicating a light intensity for each wavelength in a container as measured by a spectrometer so as to calculate the light intensity; a second light intensity calculation unit that subtracts, for each wavelength, the light intensity calculated by the first light intensity calculation unit from the light intensity indicated by the spectroscopic spectrum measured by the spectrometer so as to calculate a light intensity corresponding to a bright-line spectrum of a molecule; and a ratio calculation unit that calculates, by using the light intensity calculated by the second light intensity calculation unit, a ratio between (a) a peak value of a molecular spectrum of a first molecule and (b) a peak value of a molecular spectrum of a second molecule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: CREV Inc.
    Inventors: Masaki Yamashita, Hiromi Mizukawa
  • Publication number: 20140192354
    Abstract: A spectroscope comprises a package provided with a light entrance part, a plurality of lead pins penetrating through a support part opposing the light entrance part in the package, and a spectroscopic module supported on the support part within the package. The spectroscopic module has a light detection unit provided with a light transmission part for transmitting therethrough light incident thereon from the light entrance part and a spectroscopic unit, secured to the light detection unit so as to be arranged on the support part side of the light detection unit, including a spectroscopic part for spectrally resolving the light transmitted through the light transmission part while reflecting the light to a light detection part. The lead pins are fitted into fitting parts provided with the light detection unit and electrically connected to the light detection part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.
    Inventors: Takafumi Yokino, Katsumi Shibayama, Masaki Hirose, Katsuhiko Kato
  • Publication number: 20140193839
    Abstract: A mobile computing device that includes an image sensor may be used to detect the result of a biomolecular assay. The biomolecular assay may be performed in an optical assay medium that provides an optical output in response to light from a light source, with the optical output indicating result. A wavelength-dispersive element may be used to disperse the optical output into spatially-separated wavelength components. The mobile computing device may be positioned relative to the wavelength-dispersive element such that different wavelength components are received at different locations on the image sensor. With the mobile computing device positioned in this way, the image sensor may be used to obtain one or more images that include the separated wavelength components of the optical output. A wavelength spectrum of the optical output may be determined from the one or more images, and the result may be determined from the wavelength spectrum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventor: Brian T. Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20140176940
    Abstract: A system and method for reliably testing for toxic substances is described. Based on spectrographic means, the system embodies one or more types of spectrometers, designed for the detection of toxic elements such as lead, and alternatively designed for the detection of toxic compounds such as asbestos. By restricting the broad functionality common to a typical spectrometer, dramatic cost reductions can be made permitting the device to be cost-effectively manufactured and made available to the typical consumer. The device is can be portable and incorporates safety systems to inhibit improper use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Glenn M. FISHBINE, Nancy DeGidio, Arnie W. Kwong
  • Patent number: 8760645
    Abstract: A method of normalizing an analyzer response value of a fluorescence analyzer is provided. The method includes measuring an excitation spectrum of the analyzer and measuring an emission sensitivity spectrum of the analyzer. Next, a normalization factor based at least in part upon the excitation spectrum of the analyzer and the emission sensitivity spectrum of the analyzer is determined. The sample is then analyzed to obtain an uncorrected analyzer response value. A normalized analyzer response value is calculated based at least in part upon the uncorrected analyzer response value and the normalization factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: IDEXX Laboratories Inc.
    Inventors: Garland Christian Misener, James Edward Milan, Robert W. Lachapelle
  • Publication number: 20140158913
    Abstract: There is provided a microparticle analysis apparatus including a light irradiation unit, which includes a plurality of light sources that emit laser light beams having different wavelengths, and which is configured to irradiate, with the laser light, microparticles flowing through a channel, and a light source drive control unit configured to control light emission by each light source in the light irradiation unit. The light source drive control unit is configured to supply a first current to each light source, and to supply in a time-division manner a second current to each light source while the first current is being supplied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Hironobu Tanase
  • Publication number: 20140152982
    Abstract: According to the invention, these aims are achieved by means of a sensor, suitable for sensing one or more properties of one or more structures, the sensor comprising, a first optical propagation path which is configurable to cooperate with a structure whose properties are to be sensed; a second optical propagation path which is configurable to cooperate with a structure whose properties are to be sensed; a third optical propagation path; a means for amplifying a signal which propagates in the third optical propagation path, so that the signal is amplified before it begins propagation along the second optical propagation path, and a means to prevent the propagation of signals from the second optical propagation path to the third optical propagation path. There is further provided a corresponding method of sensing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: OMNISENS SA
    Inventors: Julien Gosteli, Fabien Ravet, Etienne Rochat
  • Publication number: 20140139833
    Abstract: A spectrometer comprising a waveguide module, a diffractive component, and a light sensor is provided. The waveguide module has a first reflective surface, a second reflective surface opposite to the first reflective surface, and a light channel between the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface. The diffractive component has a diffractive surface and a plurality of strip-shaped diffractive structures located on the diffractive surface. The sharpness of the profile of the strip-shaped diffractive structures on a first side of the diffractive surface is greater than that on a second side of the diffractive surface. When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the second reflective surface, the first side of the diffractive surface is positioned between the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface with a distance away from the second reflective surface. A method for assembling the spectrometer and an assembling system are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: OTO PHOTONICS INC.
    Inventors: Meng-Hua Wang, Shih-Hung Chien, Jyh-Jau Chen, Jan Liang Yeh
  • Publication number: 20140140594
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a system evaluating a surgical margin of tumor tissues of a living subject. In one embodiment, the system includes a light source configured to emit a source light; at least one optical probe; a scanner; a spectrometer; and a controller coupled with the scanner and the spectrometer for operably controlling the scanner and the spectrometer. In operation, a working end of the optical probe is positioned proximate to a surface of a specimen of the tumor tissues. A source channel of the optical probe deliver the source light emitted by the light source from the working end to the surface of the specimen, and a plurality of collection channels collect from the working end diffused/reflected light generated from interaction of the source light with the specimen. The spectrometer receives the collected diffused/reflected light to evaluate a margin status of the specimen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Anita Mahadevan-Jansen, The Quyen Nguyen, Xiaohong Bi, Zain Gowani, Holt Ginger, Isaac Pence
  • Patent number: 8729455
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for the detection and identification of objects, wherein an illumination device emits polychromatic light in the infrared range, creating a light curtain, or an essentially two-dimensional area of light in the X and Z axis. The light from the light curtain and light reflected or transmitted by an object in the light curtain is imaged, via aperture-imaging optics, onto an aperture that is in the optical path and behind the aperture-imaging optics. The aperture is an elongated opening extending along the Z axis. A wavelength-dispersive device, such as a grating, diffracts light admitted by the aperture wavelength-dispersively in a diffraction direction along the Y axis. An image sensor detects the diffraction image and generates image signals which are analyzed to identify the materials comprising the object. An output signal may be generated in response to the material identified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Envipco Holding NV
    Inventors: Axel Kulki, Frank Holstein, Bert Handschick, Gerhard Stanzel
  • Patent number: 8730467
    Abstract: A method for detecting by spectroscopy an inhomogeneity (I) in a sample (E), includes that (i) the sample (E) is illuminated with incident light using means (23) for illuminating the sample (E), and (ii) the light re-emitted by the sample (E) is collected using means (24; 24?) for collecting the light, wherein (i) the light re-emitted by the sample (E) is collected at different spots arranged each spaced apart from the other spots and being located at the same distance from the means (23) for illuminating this sample (E) or their barycenter, and (ii) the presence of an inhomogeneity (I) in the sample (E) is determined based on the signals corresponding to the light re-emitted and collected at least at two different spots. A spectroscopic probe (2) and a device for analyzing a sample by spectroscopy implementing the method are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Indatech
    Inventors: Fabien Chauchard, Sylvie Roussel
  • Patent number: 8730468
    Abstract: Spectroscopy apparatuses oriented to the critical angle of the sample are described that detect the spectral characteristics of a sample. The apparatus includes an electromagnetic radiation source adapted to excite a sample with electromagnetic radiation introduced to a measurement site of the sample at a plurality of angles of incidence near a critical angle of the sample and a transmitting crystal in communication with the electromagnetic radiation source and the sample. The transmitting crystal may have a high refractive index adapted to reflect the electromagnetic radiation internally. The apparatus includes a reflector adapted to introduce the electromagnetic radiation to a measurement site of the sample at a plurality of angles of incidence near the critical angle between the transmitting crystal and sample. The apparatus includes a detector for detecting the electromagnetic radiation from the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Rare Light, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Messerchmidt
  • Publication number: 20140125975
    Abstract: An optical spectrum analyzer is implemented with a detector combined with a tunable filter mounted on a stage capable of 360-degree rotation at a constant velocity. Because of the constant rate of angular change, different portions of the input spectrum are detected at each increment of time as a function of filter position, which can be easily measured with an encoder for synchronization purposes. The unidirectional motion of the mirror permits operation at very high speeds with great mechanical reliability. The same improvements may be obtained using a diffraction grating or a prism, in which case the detector or an intervening mirror may be rotated instead of the grating or prism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: OPTOPLEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: YUNG-CHIEH HSIEH, Chiayu AI
  • Patent number: 8717559
    Abstract: An optical fiber probe includes an optical fiber, a carbon nanotube film structure, and a number of metallic particles. The optical fiber includes a detecting end. The carbon nanotube film structure is located on a surface of the detecting end. The carbon nanotube film structure includes a number of carbon nanotubes joined by van der Waals attractive force therebetween. The metallic particles are located on outer surfaces of the carbon nanotubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ying-Hui Sun, Kai Liu, Kai-Li Jiang, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 8717557
    Abstract: A spectrophotometer includes a xenon flash lamp, a spectroscope, and a light detector, wherein the spectrophotometer is configured to arrange a low-pressure mercury lamp on a bundle of light rays between the xenon flash lamp and the spectroscope on an as needed basis upon a performance determination of the spectrophotometer, and has a shutter mechanism that switches between shielding the bundle of light rays emitted from the low-pressure mercury lamp and allowing the bundle of light rays to pass through. A processing unit determines the performance of the spectrophotometer by detecting each of the light intensities with the light detector at the time when shielding the bundle of light rays and at the time when allowing the bundle of light rays by operating the shutter mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Hayato Tobe, Yoichi Sato, Hiroyasu Ishida, Takayuki Wakui
  • Patent number: 8709356
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating diffusion effects. Diffused regions of a segmented flow of multiple, miscible fluid species may be vented off to a waste channel, and non-diffused regions of fluid may be preferentially pulled off the channel that contains the segmented flow. Multiple fluid samples that are not contaminated via diffusion may be collected for analysis and measurement in a single channel. The systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating diffusion effects may be used to minimize or eliminate diffusion effects in a microfluidic system for monitoring the amplification of DNA molecules and the dissociation behavior of the DNA molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Canon U.S. Life Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Murphy, Scott Corey, Alex Flamm, Ben Lane, Conrad Laskowski, Chad Schneider
  • Patent number: 8705953
    Abstract: Provided in accordance with the invention is a method for measuring the distance of an object in which a transmitted signal (S) with a pulse train having a prescribed pulse repetition frequency (fw) is generated such that the transmitted signal has a frequency comb in the frequency domain, the transmitted signal is directed onto the object, and a reflected signal (R) reflected from the object is received, the phase difference (?MESS,1) between the transmitted signal and the reflected signal is determined for a prescribed spectral line of the frequency comb, and the distance is determined with the aid of the phase difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss AG
    Inventor: Bernhard Schriefer
  • Patent number: 8699024
    Abstract: A tunable optical filter is disclosed having an input port, a beam translator for translating input and output optical beams, an element having optical power for collimating the translated beam, a reflective wavelength dispersive element, and an output port. The beam translator can include a tiltable MEMS mirror coupled to an angle-to-offset optical element. An output port can be extended into a plurality of egress ports, each receiving a fraction of the scanned optical spectrum. A multi-path scanning optical spectrometer can be used as an optical channel monitor for monitoring performance of a wavelength selective switch, or for other tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: JDS Uniphase Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Colbourne, Shane H. Woodside, Oleg Bouevitch
  • Patent number: 8697008
    Abstract: A method and device for periodically perturbing the flow field within a microfluidic device to provide regular droplet formation at high speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Andrew Clarke, Nicholas J. Dartnell, Christopher B. Rider
  • Publication number: 20140098367
    Abstract: Method of characterizing a light beam (FL) comprising the steps consisting in: a) disposing the input ends (EE1-EE11) of N>3 optical fibres (F01-F011) on the path of said light beam, in such a way that a respective portion of said beam is coupled and propagates in each optical fibre and is emitted from its output end (ES1-ES11) so as to form a respective secondary beam; b) introducing an angular spectral dispersion into said secondary beams by means of at least one dispersive element (RD); c) propagating the dispersed secondary beams in such a way that they overlap to form an interferogram; d) acquiring an image of said interferogram; and e) extracting from said image of said interferogram an item of information relating to the spatial variation of the phase of said light beam at a plurality of wavelengths. Device for the implementation of such a method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives
    Inventor: Fabien Quere
  • Publication number: 20140098366
    Abstract: This invention relates to a smart IV bag with a structurally integrated optical tag for IV drug identification and monitoring. The optical tag comprises a flow cell with a fluid channel in communication with the IV bag to sample a portion of the IV fluid onto an optical surface embedded in the flow cell. The optical surface causes a light beam to interact with the sampled IV fluid to produce a spectroscopic signal. The spectroscopic signal is then analyzed to obtain the content and concentration information of the IV fluid. Unlike traditional IV bag labels, the optical tag provides real-time, in-situ monitoring of IV fluid content and concentration, which greatly reduces the risk of mislabeling induced IV error.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: BWT Property, Inc.
    Inventor: Sean Xiaolu Wang
  • Patent number: 8693512
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for referencing an optical frequency of a tunable laser. Light from a reference laser and the tunable laser is injected into a length of an optical waveguide from opposite ends thereof. When the optical frequency of the tunable laser is swept, SBS induced positive and negative peaks in the optical power of light transmitted through the waveguide are used to provide an accurate frequency change reference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: JDS Uniphase Corporation
    Inventor: Vincent Lecoeuche
  • Publication number: 20140092383
    Abstract: A spectroscopic device includes a lamp house accommodating a light source inside, a spectrometer configured to disperse light from the lamp house, a temperature measurement means for measuring a temperature of the spectrometer, a heating means for heating the spectrometer, a storage means and a control unit. The storage means stores the detection temperature of the temperature measurement means at a time when an optical axis is stable in the spectrometer in a state where the light source is illuminated. The control unit is configured to control operation of the heating means, and to cause the heating means to operate, when the light source is illuminated from a light-off state, until a detection temperature of the temperature measurement means reaches the detection temperature stored in the storage means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masahide Gunji
  • Patent number: 8687055
    Abstract: A spectral imaging system for collecting spectral information of a two dimensional heterogeneous objects while in motion relative to the imaging system without the use of a spectrograph, filters or any dispersive optics. The system includes a pulsed light source tunable in wavelength for producing short pulses of wavelength tuned light at a plurality of selected narrow band wavelengths within a spectral range and one or more optical components for conveying or directing the short pulses of light to a two dimensional region that is substantially stationary with respect to the imaging system and through which the two dimensional target is moving. The system also includes a many pixel camera synchronized with the tunable pulsed light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Eli Margalith
  • Publication number: 20140085629
    Abstract: An active hyperpixel array imaging system including a hyperspectral analyzer; an active spatial light modulator dynamically configurable to direct light, from at least a portion of a field of view of the hyperpixel array imaging system, towards the hyperspectral analyzer for capture of a two-dimensional image including spectral information; and imaging optics for forming an intermediate image, of the field of view on the active spatial light modulator. A method for performing spectral analysis of a field of view, the method including forming an intermediate image of the field of view on an active spatial light modulator; directing light from at least a portion of the field of view, using an active spatial light modulator, towards a hyperspectral analyzer; and capturing a hyperspectral image of the portion of the field of view, using the hyperspectral analyzer, the hyperspectral image including spectral information for the portion of the field of view.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Bodkin Design & Engineering, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Bodkin, James T. McCann
  • Publication number: 20140078492
    Abstract: One embodiment disclosed is a spectrometry system for collecting spatially and temporally co-registered hyperspectral data covering multiple spectral bands. The spectrometry system includes a single entrance slit for receiving light and a plurality of disperser elements operating over a plurality of distinct spectral bands to disperse the received light into constituent spectral channels. The system also includes a plurality of collimating and imaging optic elements that receive and re-image the dispersed light. The system also includes at least two focal plane arrays affixed in a common plane and configured to receive the re-imaged dispersed light, each of the at least two focal plane arrays being dedicated to sensing a distinct spectral band of the dispersed light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventors: John F. Silny, Lacy G. Cook
  • Patent number: 8675189
    Abstract: A method for characterizing a primary radiant spectra of a projector includes projecting primary colors with a projector having a projector lamp and color filters. Measurements of each primary color are taken with a multi-band camera. Spectra of the color filters are estimated using the measurements from the multi-band camera. The primary radiant spectra of the projector are estimated using spectral data of the projector lamp and the estimated spectra of the color filters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Joel Trussell
  • Publication number: 20140071445
    Abstract: An optical module includes a wavelength variable interference filter having a fixed reflective film, a movable reflective film which faces the fixed reflective film with a gap between reflective films interposed therebetween, and an electrostatic actuator that changes the gap between reflective films, and a gap control unit that controls the electrostatic actuator. The gap control unit controls the electrostatic actuator on the basis of an order which is set in accordance with a wavelength to be measured, and changes the gap between the reflective films.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Tomonori MATSUSHITA, Nozomu Hirokubo
  • Publication number: 20140063495
    Abstract: For an optical device as a transmission-type scanning optical microscope having a pinhole or a slit for limiting the amount of a detected light beam, a method of moving a scanning beam without moving an observation sample to be scanned is realized. A scanning beam from a beam scanning mechanism that has passed through an observation sample is focused onto a reflection plate, and is then returned back again to the observation sample. A light beam that has returned back from the sample is further fed back to the beam scanning mechanism, and then, the light beam that has been limited through a fixed pinhole or a slit is detected with a photodetector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: HITACHI MEDIA ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shigeharu KIMURA
  • Publication number: 20140055783
    Abstract: A method of analyzing a nitride semiconductor layer in which a mixing ratio at a ternary mixed-crystal nitride semiconductor layer can be analyzed non-destructively, simply, and precisely, even its surface is covered with a cap layer is provided. The nitride semiconductor layer having an AN layer or a BN layer with a thickness of 0.5 to 10 nm that is stacked on an AxB1-xN layer (A and B: 13 group elements, 0?x?1) is subjected to reflection spectroscopy to obtain a reflection spectrum of the AxB1-xN layer. Let an energy value in a peak position of the reflection spectrum be a band gap energy Egap, and let a band gap energy value of AxB1-xN (x=1) be EA and a band gap energy value of AxB1-xN (x=0) be EB, x is calculated from Equation Egap=(1?x)EB+xEA?bx(1?x) (where b is bowing parameter corresponding to A and B).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Covalent Materials Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihata YANASE, Hiroshi Shirai, Jun Komiyama, Hiroshi Oishi
  • Patent number: 8649006
    Abstract: A Plasma Emission Transfer and Modification Device allowing for alteration of the plasma shape or characteristics for e.g. optimized viewing of relevant Plasma zones or improved coupling of a Plasma to the subsequent spectrometer optics, at the same time avoiding negative effects (e.g. heat transfer from the spectro-chemical source into subsequent system components) is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Spectro Analytical Instruments GmbH
    Inventors: Dirk Ardelt, Klaus Sickelmann, Petar Slavov Ivanov
  • Publication number: 20140036261
    Abstract: An optical bend measurement apparatus includes a light source unit configured to supply measurement light, an optical transmission body configured to transmit the measurement light, a optical characteristic change members provided in different portions of the optical transmission body, and a photodetection unit configured to detect light output from the optical transmission body. Each optical characteristic change member imposes a change of optical characteristics on light impinging on the optical characteristic change member depending on a bend quantity in a specific direction of a portion of the optical transmission body where the optical characteristic change member is provided. The photodetection unit separates and detects the light that has undergone the change of the optical characteristics to independently measure bend quantities in specific directions of the different portions of the optical transmission bodies based on intensities of the detected light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiromasa FUJITA, Eiji YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20140022542
    Abstract: A gas analyzer is capable of detecting abnormality of a measurement environment without using either or both of a pressure sensor and a gas temperature sensor. The gas analyzer creates absorption spectra from transmitted light intensity of laser beams applied to gas for measuring the amount of spread W and compares the amount of spread against a threshold D. The amount of spread of the absorption spectra does not depend on pressure if the pressure of the gas to be measured falls within a high-vacuum region, and monotonously increases with increased pressure if the pressure of the gas to be measured is higher than the high-vacuum region. Thus, if W>D, it is determined that the measurement environment does not form a high-vacuum region and abnormality is transmitted to the outside. In all other cases, the measurement environment is deemed to form a high-vacuum region, and partial pressure is calculated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Fumiaki OTERA
  • Publication number: 20140020603
    Abstract: The present application provides a method for analyzing a raw material for manufacturing of gypsum products, analyzing a plurality of gypsum products, and the gypsum products produced therefrom. Desirably, the analyzing of the raw material is conducted using prompt gamma neutron activation analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC
    Inventors: William E. Barger, Carmine Perri