Multiplexer for use with a device for optically analyzing a sample
AssigneeLT Industries
InventorsIsaac Landa, Michael M. Anthony, George E. Toth
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Abstract
The invention is a multiplexer which enables light to be sent to and received from samples for simultaneous analysis. A multiplexer is described which uses a transverse probe to reflect light at an angle into an optical rod. The transverse probe is selectively rotated to transmit light to a second optical rod. Various numbers of optical rods may be used in the linear mutliplexer. A multiplexer is also described in which a conjugate optical barrel is utilized to selectively reflect light to various probes.
Claims11
A multiplexer for introducing light to multiple samples, comprising
- a body portion, said body portion including a primary inlet port for receiving a stream of light;
- a conjugate optical barrel, said conjugate optical barrel being rotatably attached to said body portion;
- means for reflecting the stream of light passing through said primary inlet port at an angle;
- said body portion having an exit port oriented to selectively receive light reflected by said means for reflecting;
- and
- an inlet port for receiving light down stream of said exit port;
- the conjugate optical barrel further comprising means for reflecting the stream of light through a primary exit port.
A linear multiplexer, comprising:
- (a) a transverse probe, said probe having means to receive light and to transmit light at an angle;
- (b) first means for selectively receiving light transmitted from said probe;
- (c) second means for selectively receiving light transmitted from said probe;
- and
- (d) a stepper motor for precisely and selectively positioning said transverse probe relative to at least said first means for selectively receiving light transmitted from said probe.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.