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US 6,587,196 B1Granted
Oscillating mechanism driven monochromator
AssigneeSensys Medical, Inc.
InventorsTim Stippick, George Acosta, Ken Meissner
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Abstract
The invention provides a mechanism for oscillating the spectral grating of a monochromator. The mechanism couples the spectral grating of the monochromator to an oscillating spatial linkage mechanism which accepts a rotational input and converts it into an oscillatory motion. A monochromator according to the invention comprises an oscillating grating that is oscillated by such spacial linkage mechanism drive.
Claims29
An apparatus for oscillating a spectral dispersing element of a monochromator, comprising:
- a spatial linkage mechanism for accepting a rotational input from a motive source and converting said rotational input into an oscillatory motion, said spatial linkage mechanism comprising:
- a first coupler for receiving said rotational input directly from said motive source, said first coupler rotating in accordance therewith;
- a link coupled to said first coupler;
- and
- a second coupler coupled to said link;
- wherein said link translates said rotational input of said motive source, as supplied thereto by said first coupler, to said oscillatory motion;
- said link imparts said oscillatory motion to said second coupler, and said second coupler oscillates said spectral element.
4 more elements
An apparatus for oscillating a spectral element of a monochromator, comprising:
- a spatial linkage mechanism for accepting a rotational input from a motive source and converting said rotational input into an oscillatory motion, said spatial linkage mechanism comprising:
- a first coupler for receiving said rotational input, said first coupler rotating in accordance therewith, wherein said first coupler defines an aperture that is rotated off axis from a rotational axis of said motive source, wherein said first coupler is affixed to, or formed integrally with, a spectral element drive shaft;
- a link coupled to said first coupler, said link further comprising a projection that is formed on said link and that is adapted for engagement with the aperture of said first coupler, wherein said projection and said aperture are arranged to move freely, one relative to the other, wherein said link comprises a U-shaped member, wherein said link defines an aperture in each of two projecting segments, and wherein said link is configured to receive opposing, cylindircal projections that are formed on said second coupler;
- and
- a second coupler coupled to said link;
- wherein said link translates said rotational input of said motive source, as supplied thereto by said first coupler, to said oscillatory motion;
- said link imparts said oscillatory motion to said second coupler, and said second coupler oscillates said spectral element.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.