Detecting inclusions in transparent sheets
AssigneeCorning Incorporated
InventorsHarrie J. Stevens, C. Charles Yu
Life of this patent
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Abstract
This light scattering technique for size measurement is based on the fact that an illuminated particle (inclusion) serves as a secondary radiation source in a manner which is related to its size. This technique allows for detection of inclusions in the interior of transparent solid media, such as bulk glass. When illuminated with a beam of monochromatic light such as a laser beam as the primary light source, the angular distribution of the scattered intensity originated from the inclusion in the micron to submicron range, is a function of intensity, wavelength and index of refraction. A lens and light trap block the primary light for reaching a detector. The light trap, however, allows the secondary scattered light to reach the detector.
Claims19
An apparatus for detecting inclusions in a transparent solid media comprising in sequence:
- a light source having a primary incident beam a light;
- a solid media having at least one inclusion therein, wherein the inclusion intercepts the primary incident beam of light and creates a secondary radiation source forward scattered lights;
- a lens including a light trap;
- and
- a CCD array detector wherein the light trap blocks the primary beam light and prevents it from entering the detector, and wherein the lens and light trap allow a majority of the forward scattered light to protect into the detector.
A process for detecting inclusions in a transparent solid media comprising the steps of, in sequence:
- projecting a light source having a primary incident beam of light through a solid media having at least one inclusion therein;
- intercepting the primary incident beam of light with the inclusion and creating a secondary radiation source of forward scattered light;
- projecting the primary beam of light and the secondary beam of light into a lens having a light trap;
- blocking the primary beam of light with the light trap, thereby preventing it from entering a CCD detector;
- and
- projecting a majority of the forward scattered light through the light trap into the detector.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.