With Clamp Or Grip Patents (Class 359/818)
  • Publication number: 20030076603
    Abstract: The present disclosure addresses the problem of attaching and adjusting 3D stereoscopic enabling devices by providing a means and apparatus to attach and align the SEDs in a simple straightforward manner. Several mounting options are available that fall into two main categories including spring-clip and screw-clip mounting systems. Any of the major stereoscopic enabling devices including but not limited to VRex Micropol, lenticular array, microlens array, parallax barrier, holographic array may be mounted to a flat panel display (using various display technologies including LCD, plasma, OLED, etc.) or notebook computer display using one of these two mounting system types. Once initial mounting of the stereoscopic enabling device has been achieved, a means for proper alignment for optimal 3D stereoscopic viewing is provided using an appropriate test image depending on the stereoscopic enabling device that is used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Carl Tung, Adam Divelbiss, David Swift
  • Patent number: 6536736
    Abstract: An optomechanical mounting includes an upper spring assembly and a lower spring assembly that support and secure a sphere containing an optical element. The materials in the mounting have the same or nearly the same CTEs and spring assemblies provide opposing radial forces so that thermal expansions are compensated, giving the mounting superior thermal stability. Frictional forces on the sphere from the upper and lower spring assemblies maintain the orientation of the sphere (and the optical element) during operation, but smooth surfaces of the sphere and springs still permit sensitive, precision rotation of sphere for alignment without post-alignment clamping of the sphere. The spring assemblies can be ring-shaped to permit an opening through the spring assembly to the sphere for light paths or for tools that adjust the alignment of the sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Wayne, Jan W. Broenink, Englebertus A. F. van de Pasch, Marcel H. M. Beems
  • Patent number: 6515810
    Abstract: A module for mounting an optical element (e.g. a lens) in a predetermined position in an optical apparatus comprises a carrying member which holds the optical element and a receiving member, for attachment to the optical apparatus, for receiving the carrying member. The carrying member is guided into the receiving member transverse to the optical axis of the optical element by a combination of pins on the carrying member engaging with grooves in the receiving member and pins on the receiving member engaging with recessed ledges on the carrying member. Locating elements on the carrying member engage with locating elements on the receiving member to constrain the degrees of freedom of the carrying member kinematically. Magnets hold the carrying member and receiving member together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Reinshaw PLC
    Inventor: Terence N Melford
  • Publication number: 20030010885
    Abstract: An optomechanical mounting includes an upper spring assembly and a lower spring assembly that support and secure a sphere containing an optical element. The materials in the mounting have the same or nearly the same CTEs and spring assemblies provide opposing radial forces so that thermal expansions are compensated, giving the mounting superior thermal stability. Frictional forces on the sphere from the upper and lower spring assemblies maintain the orientation of the sphere (and the optical element) during operation, but smooth surfaces of the sphere and springs still permit sensitive, precision rotation of sphere for alignment without post-alignment clamping of the sphere. The spring assemblies can be ring-shaped to permit an opening through the spring assembly to the sphere for light paths or for tools that adjust the alignment of the sphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Wayne, Jan W. Broenink, Englebertus A.F. van de Pasch, Marcel H.M. Beems
  • Publication number: 20020167740
    Abstract: In the case of a lens system (1), in particular in the case of a projection lens system for semiconductor lithography, it is possible to exchange at least one optical element, in particular the final optical element in the beam direction in the form of an end plate (3). For adjusting the exchangeable optical element (3), an optical quality fit with a fitting surface (6) is set between the optical element (3) and a mount (5) or a part connected to a mount (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Karlfrid Osterried, Thomas Petasch, Jens Kugler
  • Publication number: 20020163741
    Abstract: An optical element holding apparatus (39) provided with a holding portion (43) for holding a flange portion (38a) of an optical element (38). The holding portion includes a bearing surface block (50a) having a bearing surface (49), which contacts the flange portion, and a bearing surface block support mechanism (51), which rotatably supports the bearing surface block about a tangential axis (Y) of the optical element. This structure holds the optical element (38) with the optical element holding apparatus (39) in a kinematical manner and maintains satisfactory imaging performance in the optical element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventor: Yuichi Shibazaki
  • Publication number: 20020141079
    Abstract: A lens support structure according to the present invention comprises a tubular holding frame 4 formed with a flat holding surface 5a orthogonal to a center axis thereof, and a lens 2 held within the holding frame 4 such that a planar part 2a orthogonal to the optical axis O1 of an optically functioning surface 2b abuts against the holding surface 5a. Since the planar part 2a of the lens 2 abuts against the flat holding surface 5a, the lens 2 can be moved in directions orthogonal to the optical axis O, so as to enable optical axis adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Applicant: FUJI PHOTO OPTICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kazuhiko Onda
  • Publication number: 20020126398
    Abstract: A lens holding frame that secures and holds a lens, includes: a lens holding frame main body; a plurality of lens receptacle portions projecting inward at the lens holding frame main body and formed at the lens holding frame main body so as to position the lens along a direction of an optical axis of the lens by placing the lens in contact along the direction of the optical axis; and a plurality of injection portions formed inward at the lens holding main body through which an adhesive for bonding at least the lens and the lens receptacle portions is injected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Applicant: NIKON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masami Moriya
  • Publication number: 20020126401
    Abstract: The lens device performs focusing adjustment by moving a lens holding frame for a focusing lens in the direction along an optical axis by a lead screw device, in which a nut member is engaged with an engaging portion formed on a nut mounting portion of the lens holding frame and the nut member is positioned against the nut mounting portion, thus improving forwarding precision of the lead screw device to perform focusing operation with high precision. The nut member is engaged with a protruding portion formed on the nut mounting portion of a third lens frame in a third lens frame for a third lens, which is a focusing lens, and the nut member is positioned against the nut mounting portion, thus preventing inclination, misalignment or deformation of the nut member against the nut mounting portion. Thereby the forwarding precision of the lead screw device is improved; accordingly, the focusing operation can be performed with high precision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Ryuta Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20020126399
    Abstract: A body of a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of the present invention, consists of an inner frame for holding a lens, an intermediate frame in which an adjusting screw is screwed, and an outer frame in which an adjusting screw is screwed. The frames are connected to one another by parallel springs. In the case of this lens frame, the inner frame is displaced in the direction of X-axis or a horizontal axis by screwing the adjusting screw thereinto in the direction of the horizontal axis and screwing another adjusting screw thereinto by the direction of a vertical axis. Thus, the inner frame is displaced in Y-direction through the intermediate frames. Consequently, the translation of the position of the optical axis of the lens is performed without inclination of the intermediate frame. Hence, the adjustment of the position of the optical axis is easily achieved. Moreover, this lens frame achieves a reduction in the cost of components thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Applicant: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuo Takanashi, Mitsuhiro Sato
  • Patent number: 6441974
    Abstract: Disclosed is a magnifying device mounted on the handle of a shopping cart. The present invention is intended to make it easier for people to read while shopping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas A. Miranda, Jonathan C. Roche, Randolph G. Duso
  • Publication number: 20020097511
    Abstract: A composite optical component and its manufacturing method are disclosed. A holding member or an optical functional device is subjected to elastic deformation, with both of them fixed together, and the optical functional device is subjected to plastic deformation by heating to reduce stress between two components in such a way that the holding member and optical functional device will be slide-fitted with each other; sliding resistance between the optical functional device and enclosure per “b” in longitudinal direction of the optical component will be F≦a/b×S×E; or the optical functional device and holding member will be slide-fit by formation of one integral body in the mold, thereby preventing thermal distortion and distortion of the optical functional device due to recovery of elastic deformation of a reinforcing member, with the result that manufacturing costs can be reduced while a high degree of straightness and high surface precision are maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: Toshihiro Kanematsu, Hidenobu Kishi, Katsuyuki Ohkubo
  • Publication number: 20020097510
    Abstract: An optical connector (31) comprises a housing (33), an optical element (3) incorporated in the housing (33), a retaining mechanism (15, 34, and 43) for retaining the optical element (3) in the housing (33) so that the optical element (3) can be replaced together with the housing (33) as a unit. The retaining mechanism (15, 34, or 43) comprises a stopper member (15) provided on the optical element (3) and a retaining member (34) provided on the housing (33) such that abutment of the stopper member (15) on the abutting portion of the housing (33) restricts movement of the optical element (3) toward one direction and abutment of the stopper member (15) on the retaining member (34) prevents separation of the optical element (3) from the housing (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Jokura
  • Publication number: 20020089766
    Abstract: In the case of an adjusting apparatus for an optical element in a lens system, in particular a lens in a projection lens system for semiconductor lithography, for producing tilting movements, having at least one actuator, the optical element is connected via elastic connecting members, directly or indirectly via an inner mount, to an outer mount. The elastic connecting members or the at least one actuator are/is provided in each case with bearing bridges which have bearing locations for a connection to the optical element or to the inner mount, and bridge arms which are connected to the bearing locations. The bridge arms are provided with piezoceramic elements in plate or sheet form which undergo changes in length upon activation. The piezoceramic elements of the various bearing bridges can be activated individually or together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventors: Timo Moeller, Bernhard Gellrich
  • Publication number: 20020085291
    Abstract: A mounting device for an optical element in an assembly has a support member 3 with two or more gear elements 1. The support member 3 is connected, on the one hand, to an external mounting structure 30 and, via base points 2, to the gear elements 1. Via top points, the gear elements 1 are connected to the optical element 5 directly, or are connected to the optical element 5 indirectly via a mount 5′ arranged therebetween. The top points 4 of the gear elements 1 are located in planes of symmetry of the optical element 5 which are defined by the axial axis and a radial axis of the optical element 5. The gear elements 1 are arranged and dimensioned such that in the event of disturbing influences a compensation effect is produced with regard to the deformation of the optical surface of the optical element 5.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Dieker
  • Publication number: 20020085292
    Abstract: In the case of a mounting apparatus, an optical element having an inner mount and an outer mount, in particular a lens in a projection lens system for semiconductor lithography, the inner mount is connected to the outer mount via three circumferentially distributed solid-state articulations. Manipulators, by means of which the inner mount can be displaced, act on the solid-state articulations. The solid-state articulations are T-shaped in cross section with a T-bar and a T-support. Attachment points between the inner mount and the outer mount are located in each case in the region of the outer ends of the T-bar. The manipulators act on the T-support in each case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventors: Jochen Becker, Bernhard Gellrich, Werner Lang, Alexander Kohl, Sascha Kraus
  • Patent number: 6400516
    Abstract: An optical mounting assembly, such as a lens cell assembly, method for making a lens cell assembly, and method for supporting a lens in the lens cell assembly are provided to kinematically mount an optical element to an optical holder. The optical mounting assembly includes an optical element having a plurality of mounting pads distributed around an outer circumference of the optical element, and an optical holder having a corresponding plurality of clamping brackets distributed around an inner circumference of the optical holder. The optical holder supports or constrains movement of the optical element at points of contact between the plurality of mounting pads and the corresponding plurality of clamping brackets both in a normal direction parallel to the optical axis of the assembly and in a tangential direction of the corresponding mounting pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventor: Marc Spinali
  • Patent number: 6384993
    Abstract: An adjustable optical device including an optical element, a housing having an adjusting post fixed thereto, the optical element mounted to the housing, the housing adjusting post having a plane of movement, and an adjustment mechanism, the housing flexibly connected to the adjustment mechanism, the adjustment mechanism comprising a moving adjusting member in sliding engagement with the housing adjusting post, one of the adjusting member and the housing adjusting post comprising a wedge. The housing adjusting post is urged into movement in its plane of movement in response to relative movement between the adjusting member and the adjusting post, whereby the orientation of the optical element relative to the adjusting mechanism is adjusted by movement of the moving adjusting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan David Bell, James Edward Bowman, Benjamin Joffe
  • Patent number: 6356400
    Abstract: An eyewear loupe which is adaptable to various types of eyewear frame and provides a sub-area of magnification. The loupe is easily removed from an eyewear frame and reattached. The loupe can be worn on either side of an eyewear frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated
    Inventors: James A. Goff, Richard J. Stryker, Paul Eric Carlson, Deborah A. Laun
  • Publication number: 20020027725
    Abstract: A radially adjustable lens mounting with a mounting ring, a lens and a large number of leaf spring elements each of which is firmly attached to the mounting ring at one end, the other end being in contact with a ring groove formed by the peripheral surface of the lens. The lens mounting allows a frictionless and tilt-free adjustment of the lens and holds the lens in a manner that is stable over a long time and is independent of thermal and mechanical stresses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Publication date: March 7, 2002
    Applicant: Jenoptik Laser, Optik, Systeme GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Schletterer
  • Publication number: 20020021503
    Abstract: A device for mounting an optical element (1), for example for a lens element in a lens, especially in an exposure lens (2) in micro lithography, is provided with the following features:
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Karlfrid Osterried
  • Publication number: 20020005996
    Abstract: An objective lens is made up of a light-source-side lens and a medium-side lens wherein at least either one of rim portions of respective opposing surfaces of the light-source-side lens and the medium-side lens forms a rise-up section projected towards the other lens, the rim portion which forms the rise-up section and the rim portion of the other lens at least partially contact one another, and these two lens are fixed together by an adhesive resin layer formed in a spacing between the respective rim portions. With the foregoing structure, an objective lens made up of a pair of lenses which has high rigidity as a whole and is capable of high speed recording and reproducing by suppressing adverse effects of resonance can be realized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventors: Kazuya Kitamura, Yukio Kurata, Tetsuo Iwaki
  • Publication number: 20020005997
    Abstract: An optical lens unit comprises an optical lens for focusing a light beam, a hollow cylindrical lens holder having, on an inner circumferential surface, a support section contacting one surface of the optical lens and supporting a circumferential part thereof, an elastic member interposed between the support section and the optical lens, and a lens fastener movable along an optical axis of the optical lens, clamping the optical lens jointly with the lens holder, and contacting, at one end, the other surface of the optical lens. The lens fastener pushes the circumferential part of the optical lens, thereby to deform the elastic member to adjust the position of a focal point of the optical lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventor: Eiji Oba
  • Publication number: 20010038497
    Abstract: A lens barrel includes an optical element having a light-transmissive surface which is deformed by own weight thereof and/or by being supported, and a plurality of protrusive parts which support the optical element. The plurality of protrusive parts are disposed in such a way as to enable the light-transmissive surface of the optical element to be deformed symmetrically with respect to a plane which includes an optical axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventor: Yuji Sudoh
  • Publication number: 20010033436
    Abstract: A method, and a kit, for mounting an optical assembly in an aperture of a body is provided. The body 56 has a first face and a second face between which the aperture 56A extends. The optical assembly 51 is placed within the aperture such that a flange of the optical assembly abuts the first face of the body around the aperture. A deformable element 55 is disposed around the optical assembly, and deformed (by heat or otherwise) such that the deformation of the deformable element causes a fixed engagement to be made between the optical assembly and the second face of the body around the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventor: Andrew Arthur Hunter
  • Publication number: 20010033437
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for precision positioning and alignment of a lens in an optical system, wherein a first support for coupling to the peripheral edge of the lens is connected to a concentric second support using a plurality of positioning devices. At least one positioning device is configured to move the first support in an axial direction relative to the second support. Each positioning device comprises a lever, an actuator, and a flexure. The lever has a pivot point and is mounted on the second support. The actuator is connected to the lever and used to operate the lever about its pivot point. The flexure has a first end connected to the lever between the actuator and the pivot point. A second end of the flexure is connected to the first support. A second positioning device is used to move the first support relative to the second support in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: Silicon Valley Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael F. Meehan, David G. Taub, Daniel N. Galburt
  • Publication number: 20010017740
    Abstract: A bayonet fixing device includes a cylindrical member; an annular member attached to one end of the cylindrical member; and a retainer ring attached to the cylindrical member to fix the annular member to the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member includes engaging lugs and insertion areas which are alternately arranged along the circumference at one end of the cylindrical member; grooves formed behind the engaging lugs; and recesses formed behind the grooves. The annular member includes a plurality of projections which are respectively fitted into the recesses via the insertion areas and the grooves. The retainer ring includes engaging blades which are fitted into the grooves via the insertion areas to be positioned between the engaging lugs and the projections in an axial direction of the cylindrical member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Applicant: ASAHI KOGAKU KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nomura, Nobuaki Aoki, Yoshihiro Yamazaki, Satoru Nakamura
  • Patent number: 6239924
    Abstract: A cell for mounting a lens includes a set of resilient mounting structures which can include a plurality of seats affixed to radial flexure mounts, a set of compliant soft mounts or a combination of the radial flexure mounts and soft mounts. The radial flexure mounts additionally include a pair of flexures extending at opposite ends of the flexure mount. The flexures permit the lens to radially expand and contract relative to the cell due to temperature changes. The seats are affixed to the flexure mounts to prevent torsional moments on the flexure mounts due to gravity or vibration. Additionally, there is no torsion moment on the radial flexure mounts due to radial expansion. The set of soft mounts include a spring member for distributing the gravitational load without overconstraining the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas C. Watson, W. Thomas Novak
  • Patent number: 6170795
    Abstract: An optical device mounting apparatus and method for altering and fixing the angular position of an optical device without substantial linear displacement. The apparatus comprises a kinematic mount which permits precision adjustment and clamping. The apparatus includes a sphere, which either contains an optical device mounted therein or is, at least partially, an optical device itself. A support is placed in physical contact with the outer surface of the sphere such that angular displacement of the sphere is possible with substantially no linear displacement thereof. A clamp in physical contact with the outer surface of the sphere provides force through the sphere to the support with substantially no transmitted torque. In this manner, precise positioning of the optical device is possible, for example, with an external and removable tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Wayne
  • Patent number: 6163418
    Abstract: A zoom lens comprises a fixed cylinder, an outer movable cylinder, and an inner movable cylinder which is provided in the interior thereof with a shutter and a front group lens. The front group lens is fixed by an outer frame which is fastened with the shutter. The outer frame retains a chain plate capable of being driven by a rotary plate of the shutter. The chain plate has an indicator portion. The inner movable cylinder is provided in the inner wall thereof with a reference indicium, which is level with and aligned with the indicator portion of the chain plate at such time when the zoom lens is located at various focusing positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Toptronic Industrial Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Hajime Okamoto
  • Patent number: 6111706
    Abstract: An adjustable lens support assembly retains and supports a lens in fixed registration during the manufacturing process. The lens support assembly includes a plurality of adjustable spring-loaded lens retainer pins that enable a plurality of lenses of various diameters to be maintained therein. The adjustable lens retainer pins, preferably three (3) pins, extend upward from a circular base having a tapered upper surface. A spacer supports the base above the lens support arm a predetermined distance to provide sufficient clearance to permit of the operation a mechanism to pivot simultaneously the lens retainer pins. A lens pad is centrally disposed on the base to support the lens. When the lens is placed in the lens support assembly, the concave surface of the lens engages the lens pad and the outer edges of the composite lens engage the adjustable lens retainer pins. Each lens retainer pin includes a lower pin portion and an upper pin portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Gerber Coburn Optical Inc.
    Inventors: Alex Incera, Kent Seim
  • Patent number: 6088173
    Abstract: An adjustable magnifier structure mountable on various lamp stands, being comprised of a magnifier, an adjustable post, an extensible rod and a clamping portion, wherein, the extensible rod is provided on the two ends thereof with the magnifier and the extensible rod respectively. The magnifier can be rotated to any desired angular position, and the extensible rod can be adjusted in displacement freely, hence the adjustable post can be adjusted to any position in a three-dimensional space freely. The clamping portion is connectable with any of various lamp posts, so that the accompanied practical effect of various lamps can be increased by mounting a magnifier on any of them. The structure of the present invention is novel, convenient and practical in being mountable on these lamp stands without holding of a magnifier by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventors: Fred M. Mendelsohn, Simon A. H. Lee
  • Patent number: 6061190
    Abstract: A device comprising a housing, at least one optical component, such as, for example, a polarizer, contained in the housing, and a base. At least two fixing means are attached to the housing and at least one fixing means is attached to the base. The at least one optical component is fixed at a predetermined position upon mating of at least one of the at least two fixing means attached to the housing with at least one fixing means attached to the base. Such device provides for more precise optical measurements than devices which include optical components that are rotatable through a continuum of angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Optics for Research
    Inventors: Steven J. Kane, Mark Percevault
  • Patent number: 6011630
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for applying a finishing block to a lens. The apparatus displays an alignment pattern representing characteristics of the lens and includes a visual representation of the allowable tolerance in the position of the optical center of the lens and the prism of the lens. An imaging screen is provided for imaging the alignment pattern and reference data applied to a surface of the lens. The lens is positioned in the apparatus with the pattern and the data aligned. With the lens in this position, a determination is made using the visual representation as to whether the lens is within the allowable tolerance. If this is the case, the apparatus automatically attaches the finishing block to the lens in registration with the reference data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Gerber Optical, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Shanbaum, David C. Finegan
  • Patent number: 5982565
    Abstract: A plastic lens includes an optically functioning section, a flange section disposed at an outer periphery thereof, a reference surface formed at an outer peripheral portion of the flange section and adapted to become a reference for attachment, and a tapered surface formed on at least a part of the outer peripheral portion of the flange section which is located closer to the optically functioning section side than is the reference surface so as to taper down its diameter along the optical axis of the optically functioning section. The tapered surface forms a surface at which a gate for resin injection is located upon manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshimitsu Nomura, Masaaki Fukuda, Takashi Ito, Kaneyoshi Yagi
  • Patent number: 5953164
    Abstract: An improved optical mounting apparatus permits a single kinematically adjustable surface to be presented in either a horizontal or vertical orientation with respect to a support. A three point fastening system allows cylindrical optical elements of various sizes to be fastened to the kinematically adjustable surface in a horizontal orientation. The three point fastening system is removable so that when the kinematically adjustable surface is placed in a horizontal orientation transparent optical elements such as prisms can be fastened to the surface with an unobstructed optical path for a full 360.degree. around the mounting surface. The apparatus for mounting optical elements comprises a support, base plate, a pivot member, two adjustable projections, a stage plate, and at least three removable fasteners. The base plate includes first and third opposing faces and a second face at right angles to the first and third faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: New Focus, Inc.
    Inventors: David F. Arnone, Michael Brownell, Sherwin D. Cabatic, Khiem Ba Do
  • Patent number: 5930057
    Abstract: Precision optical mounts that carry and reliably position an optical element so that a plurality of such optical mounts can be arranged in a compact and optically efficient system, wherein opposing optical elements are held in relatively close proximity to one another without introducing distortion. A stationary back plate is arranged in spaced facing alignment with a face plate for importing a tilting or translational movement to the face plate and to an optical element that is to be carried thereby. The optical mount may be disposed in vertical, upstanding alignment with respect to a support surface to position the optical element (e.g. a mirror) to receive a beam of optical energy. In the alternative, the optical mount may function as a mounting platform to be disposed in horizontal alignment with respect to the support surface so that an optical element (e.g. a prism) can be supported thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Newport Corporation
    Inventors: Paul F. Sechrist, Millard A. Nunnally
  • Patent number: 5847885
    Abstract: An improved optical mounting apparatus permits a single kinematically adjustable surface to be presented in either a horizontal or vertical orientation with respect to a support. A three point fastening system allows cylindrical optical elements of various sizes to be fastened to the kinematically adjustable surface in a horizontal orientation. The three point fastening system is removable so that when the kinematically adjustable surface is placed in a horizontal orientation transparent optical elements such as prisms can be fastened to the surface with an unobstructed optical path for a full 360.degree. around the mounting surface. The apparatus for mounting optical elements comprises a support, base plate, a pivot member, two adjustable projections, a stage plate, and at least three removable fasteners. The base plate includes first and third opposing faces and a second face at right angles to the first and third faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: New Focus, Inc.
    Inventors: David F. Arnone, Michael Brownell, Sherwin D. Cabatic, Khiem Ba Do
  • Patent number: 5847883
    Abstract: An adjustable magnifying apparatus comprising a generally rectangular-shaped, sheetlike magnifying surface, an adjustable arm having at least one generally hourglass-shaped member with a first end zone having a socket and an opposite, generally parabolic-shaped second end zone, a first coupler having a first end with a slit sized and shaped to removably secure an outer edge of the magnifying surface therein and an opposite, parabolic-shaped second end sized and shaped to be removably captured within the socket of one of the hourglass-shaped members, and a generally C-shaped clamp having a second coupler, structured and disposed to removably capture the parabolic-shaped second end zone of one of the hourglass-shaped members therein, mounted on the upper face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Jerry R. Rispoli, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5822136
    Abstract: A pair of rigid connectors is disposed in frictional arrangement between an optical flat and its supporting cell joined by resilient connectors. The first, axial connector consists of a block anchored to the cell's inner surface and tilted by a spring so that a line contact is established between the block and the flat's peripheral surface. The second, radial connector consists of a flat clip overlapping the gap between the optical flat and the cell, so that surface contacts are established between the clip and the side surfaces of both structures. Another, retaining spring coupling the first and second connectors ensures that such surface contacts are maintained. The frictional forces resulting from these connections prevent the axial and radial movement of the flat with respect to the cell when either component is subjected to vibrations under normal operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Wyko Corporation
    Inventors: James V. Semrad, Reuben Hale
  • Patent number: 5784214
    Abstract: An improvement of transparent window glass holding structure for an optical scanner includes a first rack fixedly disposed in the case. The first rack has a plural number of clamps for holding and gripping the transparent window glass securely without gluing the originals table to the case as does a conventional scanner. The originals table can be easily installed and removed to facilitate the repairs and maintenance of the scanner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Umax Data Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry Peng
  • Patent number: 5772355
    Abstract: An eyepiece adapter mechanism for providing a quick positive engagement to an interfacing instrument such as a B-styled endoscope. The adapter mechanism comprises a rigid back plate for providing a permanent attachment for the mechanism. A C-clip retainer positioned within a circumferential chamber of the back plate acts as a locking ring under the elastic force of the C-clip material itself to provide a grip around the interfacing instrument when installed into the back plate. An outwardly protruding portion of the C-clip, acting as a lever, releases the interfacing instrument when the level is moved toward a fixed post located a predetermined distance from the lever to facilitate single handed operation. An alternate embodiment provides a quick attach/release adapter without an eyepiece and employing a C-clip retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Precision Optics Corporation
    Inventors: Robert N. Ross, Michael P. Clark, Randall J. Deary
  • Patent number: 5768035
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for mounting an actuator lens within an optical disc carriage held by a baseplate assembly. The apparatus includes a frame, a cradle assembly mounted to the frame with at least one degree of freedom of motion, a tower assembly mounted to the frame, a lever assembly rotatably mounted to the frame, and a gripper assembly mounted to the lever assembly. The cradle assembly includes a baseplate alignment assembly having a source of radiant energy for projecting a beam of radiant energy, means for determining the tilt alignment of the beam with respect to the tower assembly, and a plurality of tilt actuators for aligning the tilt of the beam with respect to the tower assembly. The tower assembly includes a video camera having a camera lens, a tower magnifying lens, and a monitor for displaying a presentation of a beam of radiant energy passing through the tower magnifying lens and into the video camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventors: Leonardus J. Grassens, Hollis O'Neal Hall, II
  • Patent number: 5760976
    Abstract: An elongated optic (12) is supported within a cylindrical housing (18) by a pair of support rods (14) passing through the cylindrical housing (18). A resilient retention spring (16) diametrically opposed to each support rod (14) presses the elongated optic (12) against the support rod (14) to prevent movement by the elongated optic (12) while allowing the elongated optic (12) to expand and contract. Contact between the support rods (14) and the resilient retention spring (16) is minimized to prevent inhibiting the internal reflectivity of the elongated optic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard Daniel DeLaMatyr, Edwin L. Brown
  • Patent number: 5757561
    Abstract: Precision optical mounts that carry and reliably position an optical element so that a plurality of such optical mounts can be arranged in a compact and optically efficient system, wherein opposing optical elements are held in relatively close proximity to one another without introducing distortion. A stationary back plate is arranged in spaced facing alignment with a face plate for importing a tilting or translational movement to the face plate and to an optical element that is to be carried thereby. The optical mount may be disposed in vertical, upstanding alignment with respect to a support surface to position the optical element (e.g. a mirror) to receive a beam of optical energy. In the alternative, the optical mount may function as a mounting platform to be disposed in horizontal alignment with respect to the support surface so that an optical element (e.g. a prism) can be supported thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Newport Corporation
    Inventors: Paul F. Sechrist, Millard A. Nunnally
  • Patent number: 5745308
    Abstract: An optical illuminator assembly for an analytical instrument, such as a clinical hematology or a flow cytometer instrument, and method of aligning the components of the illuminator assembly and orienting the illuminator assembly. The illuminator assembly includes a plurality of optical components, such as a laser source, e.g., a laser diode, optionally a spatial filter, a beam shaping aperture, and a focussing lens. The optical components are mounted in or to a housing and are internally oriented with respect to the housing to produce a focussed laser beam output. The housing is in turn mounted on an alignment mechanism which can move the focussed beam in four degrees of freedom, thereby to direct the focussed beam to a particular location. Thus, a factory alignment and a low cost prealigned optical illuminator assembly is obtained, which can be easily oriented for use in an instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Bayer Corporation
    Inventor: Peter E. Spangenberg
  • Patent number: 5742441
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for aligning an actuator lens of an optical disk drive or the like within a baseplate assembly. The apparatus comprises a frame, a cradle assembly mounted to the frame with at least one degree of freedom of motion, a tower assembly mounted to the frame, a lever assembly rotatably mounted to the frame, and a gripper assembly mounted to the lever assembly. The cradle assembly includes a baseplate alignment assembly comprising a source of radiant energy for projecting a beam of radiant energy, means for determining the tilt alignment of the beam with respect to the tower assembly, and a plurality of tilt actuators for aligning the tilt of the beam with respect to the tower assembly. The baseplate alignment may further comprise means for determining the lateral alignment of the beam with respect to the tower assembly and a plurality of lateral actuators for aligning the beam laterally with respect to the tower assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Discovision Associates
    Inventors: Leonardus I. Grassens, Hollis O'Neal Hall, II
  • Patent number: 5737135
    Abstract: An opto-mechanical apparatus for moving and scanning in an optical system comprises a step motor, a timing belt, a first lead screw carrying a first optical assembly, and a second lead screw carrying a second optical assembly. Each of the lead screws has a spiral thread forming a lead path. The lead path of the second lead screw is twice as long as the lead path of the first lead screw. Each lead screw has a gear fastened to its one end. The timing belt connects the rotation axis of the step motor and the two gears on the lead screws. When the step motor rotates, the two gears are driven by the timing belt. The two lead screws are also rotated by the gears. The first optical assembly moves twice as fast as the second optical assembly because the two gears have identical radii but the second lead path is twice long. The different distances traveled by the two optical assemblies ensure that the optical system has a constant optical resolution while scanning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Umax Data Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Chien-Chin Chan
  • Patent number: 5721644
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for applying a finishing block to a lens. An imaging screen for imaging an alignment pattern representing characteristics of the lens and reference data on the lens is provided. The lens is positioned in the apparatus with the pattern and the data aligned. With the lens in this position, the apparatus automatically attaches the finishing block to the lens in registration with the reference data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: Gerber Optical, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Murray, Glenn E. Bowley, Alexander F. Incera, Jonathan M. Dooley, Peter A. Wilcox, Daniel J. Harris, Southanou Senethep
  • Patent number: 5694814
    Abstract: A locking arrangement suitable for use in precision optical instruments comprising first and second mountings (56, 58) defining respective opposing first and second concave surfaces (60, 62) and a member (64) for location between the mountings and defining oppositely directed convex surfaces (66, 68) for engaging a respective concave surfaces. A clamping arrangement (72, 74) is provided and has an adjustment configuration in which the member (64) is rotatable about an axis passing through the engaging surfaces and a locking configuration in which, with the first mounting (56) fixed in position and the second mounting (58) fixed against movement along the axis, the surfaces are held in locking engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Pilkington PE Limited
    Inventor: Allan Gardam