USE OF APPENDED DYES IN OPTICAL DATA STORAGE MEDIA

The present disclosure relates to optical media and the formation and use of such media. In certain embodiments the optical media or a composition suitable for such media includes a polymeric matrix or substrate. A dye, such as an energy transfer dye is chemically appended to the polymeric matrix or substrate, such as by one or more covalent bonds. 1. A composition comprising:a polymer matrix;a reactant disposed within the polymer matrix and capable of undergoing a photochemical change upon excitation; anda non-linear sensitizer chemically bonded to the polymer matrix, wherein the non-linear sensitizer causes a refractive index change to the reactant upon exposure to one or more wavelengths of radiation.2. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the one or more wavelengths of radiation comprise about 380 nm to about 450 nm.3. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the non-linear sensitizer causes an upper triplet energy transfer upon exposure to the one or more wavelengths of radiation and the refractive index change occurs in response to the upper triplet energy transfer.4. The composition of wherein the non-linear sensitizer comprises one or more subphthalocyanine reverse saturable absorbers.5. The composition of claim 4 , wherein the one or more subphthalocyanine reverse saturable absorbers comprise boron subphthalocyanine 3-iodo-5-glutarylphenoxide derivative (X) claim 4 , Boron subphthalocyanine 4-bromo-5-glutarylphenoxide derivative (XI) and Boron subphthalocyanine 2-bromo-5-glutarylphenoxide derivative (XII).6. The composition of wherein the non-linear sensitizer comprises an energy transfer threshold dye.7. The composition of wherein the non-linear sensitizer is chemically bonded to the polymer matrix via one or more covalent bonds.8. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the reactant comprises a stilbene derivative claim 1 , a cinnamate claim 1 , a cinnamate derivative claim 1 , a cinnamamide derivative claim 1 , or a combination of these.9. The composition of ...

Method of parallel bit-wise holographic data storage using a parallel light source

The present techniques provide techniques for outputting counter-propagating parallel light waves to pre-record a holographic data disk. The parallel light waves are transmitted through a holographic system via a fiber optic bundle including a plurality of polarization-maintaining (PM) optical fibers. Each of the PM optical fibers in the fiber optic bundle may have one or more of a different wavelength, a different coherence length, and a different polarization orientation to reduce crosstalk in the disk. Furthermore, the fiber optic bundle array is rotated to produce interference spots indicative of micro-holograms according to the data track pitch of the holographic disk over which the fiber optic bundle is outputting the light waves.

SERVOING SYSTEM FOR MASTER WITH PARALLEL TRACKS IN A HOLOGRAPHIC REPLICATION SYSTEM

Techniques are provided for controlling the reading of optical data from a master disk in a holographic replication system. Imperfections in the master disk or movement of the disk during a recording process may cause source beams to deviate from target data tracks. In some embodiments, a detector system is used to determine the focus and alignment of the source beams on the master disk, as well as the tilt and rotation of the disk with respect to the holographic replication system. The detector system may detect deviations in the intensity distribution of the reflections of the source beams and generate an error signal corresponding to focusing, tracking, tilt, and/or rotational errors. Servo-mechanical devices may actuate optical components to compensate for such errors. 1. A method of reading signals from a master disk in a holographic replication system , the method comprising:emitting a plurality of source beams toward a plurality of target data tracks in a master disk in the holographic replication system to form a plurality of illumination spots on the master disk;receiving a plurality of signal beams directed toward one or more replica disks from the master disk, wherein the plurality of signal beams comprises reflections of the plurality of source beams and data to be replicated to the one or more replica disks from the master disk;determining whether the plurality of illumination spots is focused and aligned in the plurality of target data tracks, based on the plurality of signal beams; andadjusting the optical system when the plurality of illumination spots is determined to not be focused or to not align in the plurality of target data tracks.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining whether the plurality of source beams is focused on the plurality of target data tracks comprises analyzing an intensity distribution of the reflections of the plurality of source beams.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein analyzing the intensity distribution of the ...

NON-BINARY HOLOGRAMS FOR INCREASED CAPACITY

Techniques are provided for increasing storage capacity in a holographic storage system. While typical holographic storage systems involve binary storage for each data position in a holographic disk, present techniques involve storing data such that more than two data levels may be recorded in each data position. In some embodiments, a recording beam directed to the disk may be adjusted to different power levels depending on the data level to be recorded. Furthermore, the recording time at a data position may be adjusted to increase the energy directed to the data position by increasing the amount of time the recording beam is impinged on the data position. Embodiments are suitable for different types of holographic storage, including dye-based medium. 1. A method of recording data in a holographic disk , the method comprising:determining a target data level of a plurality of data levels to be written to a target data position in the holographic disk, wherein the plurality of data levels comprises three or more different data levels;adjusting a power of a recording beam based on the target data level; andemitting the recording beam at the adjusted power to record data at the target data level at the target data position.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting the power of the recording beam comprises adjusting the power of the recording beam to one of a plurality of power levels based on the target data level claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of power levels corresponds to one of the plurality of data levels.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of data levels comprises a first level claim 1 , a second level claim 1 , and a third level claim 1 , wherein the first level corresponds to a first degree of dye conversion at the target data position claim 1 , the second level corresponds to a second degree of dye conversion at the target data position claim 1 , and the third level corresponds to substantially no dye conversion at the target data ...

SERVO STRUCTURE IN SINGLE-BIT HOLOGRAPHIC VOLUME RECORDING AND READOUT

Methods and systems are provided for recording micro-holograms in a holographic disk. Disk tilting or disk imperfections may cause counter-propagating recording and reference beams to deviate from the target data position in the disk. In some embodiments, a tracking beam is directed to a tracking position in the disk, and deviation of the tracking beam from the tracking position may indicate tracking and/or focusing errors of the recording and/or reference beams. A detector may generate an error signal in response to such errors. A first servo-mechanical system may actuate a first optical head (e.g., transmitting the reference and tracking beams) to compensate for such errors, and a second servo-mechanical system may actuate a second optical head (e.g., transmitting the recording beam) to follow the actuation of the first servo system, such that an interference of the reference beam and the recording beam may be maintained in the target data position. 1. A method of recording data in a holographic disk in a replication system , the method comprising:rotating the holographic disk;tracking a reference track in the holographic disk to determine a movement measurement;actuating a first optical head over a first surface of the holographic disk, based on the movement measurement;focusing a first beam from the first optical head towards a data position in the holographic disk;focusing a second beam from a second optical head to counter-propagate and overlap with the first beam to record data in the data position in the holographic disk;determining an overlap misalignment between the first and the second beam; andactuating the second optical head over the second surface of the holographic disk, based on the overlap misalignment, wherein the second surface is opposite to the first surface.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein tracking the reference track in the holographic disk comprises:focusing a tracking beam on the reference track of the holographic disk from the first ...

MULTI-WAVELENGTH- HOLOGRAPHIC SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A holographic system for recording and reading information is provided. The system includes at least one laser for providing a laser beam. The system also includes a subsystem configured for multi-wavelength operation of said holographic system and recording micro-holograms at different wavelengths in substantially non-overlapping volumes of a holographic medium. 1. A holographic system for recording and retrieving information comprising:at least one laser for providing a laser beam; anda subsystem configured for multi-wavelength operation of said holographic system and recording micro-holograms at different wavelengths in substantially non-overlapping volumes of a holographic medium.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the laser is a wavelength tunable blue-violet laser.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising: a controller; a plurality of laser sources; a plurality of optical elements and a plurality of detectors for recording or readout.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of detectors comprise in-phase and quadrature phase (I/Q) detectors for reading of a plurality of layers of the holographic medium.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the subsystem is further configured for recording micro-holograms with a plurality of wavelengths in an interleaved manner in the holographic medium.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the subsystem is further configured for recording micro-holograms with a plurality of different wavelengths in adjacent layers of the holographic medium.7. The system of claim 5 , wherein the subsystem is further configured for recording micro-holograms with a plurality of different wavelengths in adjacent tracks in a layer of the holographic medium.8. The system of claim 5 , wherein the subsystem is further configured for recording adjacent micro-holograms with a plurality of different wavelengths in a single track of any layer of the holographic medium.9. The system of claim 1 , further comprising one or more of pick-up head devices ...

CALIBRATION METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT AND SENSOR FOR NON-INVASIVELY MEASURING BLOOD CHARACTERISTICS OF A SUBJECT

A calibration method for an apparatus for non-invasively monitoring blood characteristics of a subject is disclosed. The apparatus is provided with a computational model representing a relationship between in-vivo measurement signals obtained from the subject and the blood characteristics. The providing includes employing at least one tissue property variable in the computational model, in which the at least one tissue property variable is indicative of absorption and scattering characteristics of the subject's tissue. An arrangement for determining blood characteristics of a subject and a sensor for the arrangement are also disclosed. 1. A method for calibrating an apparatus intended for non-invasively measuring blood characteristics of a subject , the method comprising providing the apparatus with a computational model representing a relationship between in-vivo measurement signals obtained from the subject and the blood characteristics , wherein the providing includes employing at least one tissue property variable in the computational model , in which the at least one tissue property variable is indicative of absorption and scattering characteristics of the subject's tissue.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the providing includes determining transformation rules indicative of how actual photon path lengths in the subject's tissue affect the in-vivo measurement signals.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the determining the transformation rules includes defining transformation coefficient sets claim 2 , each transformation coefficient set being defined based on a regression model claim 2 , where the at least one tissue property variable serves as an independent variable.4. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the providing further includes storing computational model data that indicate a relationship between theoretical Lambert-Beer measurement signals and the blood characteristics.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the ...

METHOD OF RECORDING DATA IN AN OPTICAL DATA STORAGE MEDIUM AND AN OPTICAL DATA STORAGE MEDIUM

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method for recording holographic data in an optical data storage medium is provided. The method includes (i) providing an optical data storage medium including: (a) a thermoplastic polymer matrix, (b) a latent acid generator, (c) a non-linear sensitizer, and (d) a reactant including a latent chromophore. The method further includes (ii) irradiating a volume element of the optical data storage medium with an interference pattern, said interference pattern including an incident radiation having a wavelength and an intensity sufficient to cause upper triplet energy transfer from the non-linear sensitizer to the latent acid generator, thereby generating an acid, wherein the latent acid generator is substantially non-responsive to said incident radiation. The method furthermore includes (iii) reacting at least one protected chromophore with the acid generated to form at least one chromophore, thereby causing a refractive index change within the volume element; and (iv) producing within the irradiated volume element refractive index variations corresponding to the interference pattern, thereby producing an optically readable datum. An optical data storage medium is also provided. 1. A method for recording holographic data in an optical data storage medium , said method comprising:(i) providing an optical data storage medium comprising: (a) a thermoplastic polymer matrix, (b) a latent acid generator, (c) a non-linear sensitizer, and (d) a reactant comprising a latent chromophore;(ii) irradiating a volume element of the optical data storage medium with an interference pattern, said interference pattern comprising an incident radiation having a wavelength and an intensity sufficient to cause upper triplet energy transfer from the non-linear sensitizer to the latent acid generator, thereby generating an acid,wherein the latent acid generator is substantially non-responsive to said incident radiation;(iii) reacting at ...

SCANNING ION CONDUCTANCE MICROSCOPY USING SURFACE ROUGHNESS FOR PROBE MOVEMENT

A method for interrogating a surface using scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM), comprising the steps of: 1. A method for interrogating a surface using scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) , comprising the steps of:a) repeatedly bringing a SICM probe into proximity with the surface at discrete, spaced locations in a region of the surface and measuring surface height at each location;b) estimating surface roughness or other surface characteristic for the region based upon the surface height measurements; andc) repeatedly bringing the probe into proximity with the surface at discrete, spaced locations in the region, the number and location of which is based upon the estimated surface roughness or other surface characteristic in the region, and obtaining an image of the region with a resolution adapted to the surface roughness or other surface characteristic.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein steps b) and c) are repeated recursively for sub-regions according to the required image resolution.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of bringing the probe into proximity with the surface at each location is performed by approaching each location from a distance greater than the height of the surface at that location.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein lateral movement of the probe occurs only when the probe is distant from the surface.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , during the step of bringing the scanning probe into proximity with the surface claim 1 , the approach is terminated when a measured probe current reaches a threshold value.6. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the threshold value is based upon the probe current measured when the probe is distant from the surface.7. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the approach is terminated when probe current is reduced by 0.25% to 1%.8. The method according to claim 6 , wherein for each measurement claim 6 , the distance travelled by the probe ...

STACKED FILM THRESHOLD COMPONENT, DEVICE, AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

A component includes a micro-hologram layer, where the micro-hologram layer includes layers inert to light interleaved with layers of functional film. The functional film layers are made of a material that undergoes a change in its refractive index when illuminated by a light beam, yet undergoes no change in its refractive index when illuminated by a different light beam. The components may further include interleaved spacer films with multiple micro-hologram layers and other elements (e.g., servo layer, coatings, and the like) so as to comprise a data storage device. Methods of manufacturing the component and device are also disclosed. 1. A component comprising:a micro-hologram layer, wherein the micro-hologram layer comprises a plurality of layers inert to light interleaved with a plurality of functional film layers, wherein the plurality of functional film layers comprise a material that undergoes a change in its refractive index when illuminated by a first light beam and undergoes no change in its refractive index when illuminated by a second light beam.2. A component comprising a plurality of spacer films interleaved with a micro-hologram layer of .3. The component of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of spacer films are inert to light.4. The component of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of spacer films have a thickness from about 20× to about 100× of Rayleigh range.5. The component of claim 2 , wherein a first spacer film has a different thickness than a second spacer film.6. The component of claim 1 , wherein a period of the micro-hologram layer is defined as P claim 1 , wherein{'br': None, 'i': P=', 'n, 'λ/2'}further wherein λ is a light wavelength of a readout light beam and n is an effective refractive index of the plurality of layers inert to light and functional film layers in a micro-hologram layer.7. The component of claim 1 , wherein a thickness of a micro-hologram layer is in a range from about 0.5 μm to about 10 μm.8. The component of claim 1 , wherein ...

System and method for aligning a biopsy collecting device

A spectroscopy system for auto-aligning a biopsy collecting device is presented. The spectroscopy system includes an illumination subsystem configured to emit an illumination light towards the biopsy collecting device, whereas the biopsy collecting device includes an activator unit and a needle unit and wherein the needle unit includes a cannula and a stylet having a biopsy specimen. Also, the spectroscopy system includes a fixation subsystem capable of holding the biopsy collecting device and configured to place the needle unit comprising the biopsy specimen across the illumination light. Further, the spectroscopy system includes a detection subsystem configured to receive a light comprising at least one of an attenuated illumination light and a re-emitted light from the needle unit. In addition, the detection subsystem is configured to send a control signal to align the needle unit at a predetermined position in the spectroscopy system based on the received light.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HOLDING A BIOPSY COLLECTING DEVICE

An apparatus for holding a biopsy collecting device is presented. The apparatus includes a base unit configured to receive the biopsy collecting device comprising at least a needle unit and an activator unit, wherein the needle unit comprises a biopsy specimen. The apparatus further includes a fastening unit disposed at a first end of the base unit and configured to fasten at least a first portion of the needle unit to the base unit. Also, the apparatus includes a holding unit disposed at a second end of the base unit and configured to attach the activator unit of the biopsy collecting device to the base unit. 1. An apparatus for holding a biopsy collecting device , the apparatus comprising:a base unit configured to receive the biopsy collecting device comprising at least a needle unit and an activator unit, wherein the needle unit comprises a biopsy specimen;a fastening unit disposed at a first end of the base unit and configured to fasten at least a first portion of the needle unit to the base unit; anda holding unit disposed at a second end of the base unit and configured to attach the activator unit of the biopsy collecting device to the base unit.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the base unit comprises at least one wedge configured to hold the biopsy collecting device at a predetermined position on the base unit.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the fastening unit comprises:a first sub-unit having a channel to collect at least the first portion of the needle unit; anda second sub-unit coupled to the first sub-unit and configured to secure the first portion of the needle unit within the channel of the first sub-unit.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the channel comprises a first groove on a top surface of the first sub-unit for receiving the first portion of the needle unit.5. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the second sub-unit comprises a rotatable clamp having a second groove to receive the needle unit and configured to fasten the needle unit ...

FIBER OPTIC SENSING APPARATUS INCLUDING FIBER GRATINGS AND METHOD FOR SENSING PARAMETERS INVOLVING DIFFERENT PARAMETER MODALITIES

Optical-based apparatus and method for sensing parameters in connection with an asset, such as a pipeline, are provided. At least two sites in an optical fiber may include a respective fiber grating arranged to have a respective optical response in a wavelength spectrum having a distinguishing feature indicative of a value of a respective local parameter at a respective grating site. The two fiber gratings may be further arranged to form, in combination with a respective portion of the optical fiber which extends between the two sites, respective optical backscatter portions that when combined with one another are effective to sense an optical change in the fiber portion between the sites indicative of a value of a distributed parameter. This is a parameter modality different from a parameter modality of the respective local parameters at the respective grating sites. 1. An apparatus comprising:an optical fiber; andat least two sites in the fiber comprising a respective fiber grating arranged to have a respective optical response in a wavelength spectrum comprising a distinguishing feature indicative of a value of a respective local parameter at a respective grating site, the two fiber gratings further arranged to form, in combination with a respective portion of the optical fiber which extends between said at least two sites, respective optical backscatter portions that when combined with one another are effective to sense an optical change in the fiber portion between the sites indicative of a value of a distributed parameter, which comprises a parameter modality different from a parameter modality of the respective local parameters at the respective grating sites.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the distinguishing feature in the wavelength spectrum comprises a feature selected from the group consisting of a band edge claim 1 , a lobe claim 1 , a notch claim 1 , a pattern.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the respective local parameter at the respective ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR FABRICATING A COMPONENT USING A CONSOLIDATING DEVICE

A consolidating device for an additive manufacturing system is provided. The consolidating device includes at least one first energy beam generator, at least one second energy beam generator, at least one first lens, at least one second lens, and at least one reflective element. The first energy beam generator is configured to generate a first energy beam. The second energy beam generator is configured to generate a second energy beam. The first lens has a first entrance pupil and is positioned between the first energy beam generator and the layer of material. The second lens has a second entrance pupil and is positioned between the first lens and the layer of material. The first entrance pupil and the second entrance pupil substantially overlap. The reflective element is positioned between the first lens and the second lens, and is configured to reflect the second energy beam onto the layer of material. 1. A consolidating device for an additive manufacturing system , said consolidating device comprising:at least one first energy beam generator configured to generate a first energy beam for forming a first melt pool in a layer of material;at least one second energy beam generator configured to generate a second energy beam for forming a second melt pool in the layer of material;at least one first lens having a first entrance pupil, said first lens positioned between said first energy beam generator and the layer of material, wherein said first lens is configured to receive the first energy beam;at least one second lens having a second entrance pupil, said second lens positioned between said first lens and the layer of material, wherein said second lens is configured to receive the first energy beam from said first lens, and wherein the first entrance pupil and the second entrance pupil substantially overlap; andat least one reflective element positioned between said first lens and said second lens, said reflective element configured to receive the second energy beam ...

METHODS FOR MONITORING ENVIRONMENTAL BARRIER COATINGS

A method of monitoring a surface temperature of an environmental barrier coating (EBC) of a hot gas component includes directing an excitation beam having a first wavelength at a layer of a temperature indicator formed on the hot gas component. The method also includes measuring a fluorescent radiation emitted by the temperature indicator. The fluorescent radiation has a second wavelength and an intensity. In addition, the method includes determining a surface temperature of the EBC based on the intensity of the second wavelength of the fluorescent radiation. 111-. (canceled)12. A method of monitoring at least one of a temperature and erosion of an environmental barrier coating (EBC) of a hot gas component , said method comprising:directing an excitation beam having an excitation wavelength at the EBC deposited on an outer surface of the hot gas component, the EBC including at least a bond coat layer and an outer layer, the hot gas component being fabricated from a ceramic matrix composite (CMC);measuring a first fluorescent radiation emitted by the bond coat layer and a second fluorescent radiation emitted by the outer layer of the EBC, wherein the first fluorescent radiation includes a first wavelength and a first intensity, and the second fluorescent radiationincludes a second wavelength and a second intensity, the second wavelength different from the first wavelength; anddetermining at least one of a surface temperature and an erosion amount of the EBC based on at least one of the wavelength and intensity of the measured first and second fluorescent radiations.13. The method in accordance with further comprising producing at a point of impact of the excitation beam at least one of a frequency up-conversion first fluorescent radiation and a frequency up-conversion second fluorescent radiation.14. The method in accordance with claim 13 , wherein the excitation beam has the excitation wavelength in the range between about 700 nanometers and about 1200 nanometers.15 ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR REAL-TIME ENHANCEMENT OF BUILD PARAMETERS OF A COMPONENT

A direct metal laser melting (DMLM) system includes a laser device configured to generate a melt pool in a powder bed based on a build parameter. In addition, the DMLM system includes a confocal optical system directed at the melt pool and configured to receive an optical signal emitted by the melt pool. The DMLM system further includes an optical sensor operatively coupled to the confocal optical system that is configured to receive the optical signal and to generate an electrical signal in response to the optical signal. A computing device is configured to receive the electrical signal from the optical sensor and to generate a control signal in response. The control signal is configured to modify the build parameter of the direct metal laser melting system in real-time to adjust at least one of a melt pool size and a melt pool temperature to achieve a desired physical property of the component. 1. A direct metal laser melting system for fabricating a component , said system comprising:a laser device configured to generate a melt pool in a powder bed based on a build parameter;a confocal optical system directed at the melt pool and configured to receive an optical signal emitted by the melt pool;an optical sensor operatively coupled to said confocal optical system and configured to receive the optical signal and generate an electrical signal in response thereto; anda computing device configured to receive the electrical signal and to generate a control signal in response thereto, said control signal configured to modify the build parameter of the direct metal laser melting system in real-time to adjust at least one of a melt pool size and a melt pool temperature to achieve a desired physical property of the component.2. The system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the optical signal corresponds to one or more of the following: the melt pool size and the melt pool temperature.3. The system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein said computing device comprises a ...

PARALLEL DIRECT METAL LASER MELTING

A method of creating an article of manufacture is provided, which includes directing multiple laser beams to a single galvanometer; and dynamically repositioning the multiple laser beams in counterpart paths using the single galvanometer to shine the multiple laser beams on and melt a first powder material and, upon solidification of the melted first powder material, forming a first series of duplicate three dimensional structures, where each of the multiple laser beams is used to form at least one of the first series of duplicate three dimensional structures. 1. A method of creating an article of manufacture , the method comprising:(a) directing multiple laser beams to a single galvanometer;(b) controlling the single galvanometer to concurrently and proportionally reposition each of the laser beams to a different location within a container housing a first powder material to melt at least a portion of the first powder material;(c) applying additional first powder material to a location where the first powder material was previously melted;(d) controlling the single galvanometer to concurrently and proportionally reposition each of the laser beams to a different location within the container housing the additional first powder material to melt at least a portion of the additional first powder material; and(e) repeating steps (c) and (d) sequentially to form multiple three dimensional objects.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the act of directing multiple laser beams to the single galvanometer includes splitting a primary laser beam into the multiple laser beams.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the act of splitting of the primary laser beam includes creating the multiple laser beams each having the same power.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the primary laser beam comprises a 1000 Watt or greater laser beam.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein a solid state laser is utilized to generate the multiple laser beams.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the multiple laser ...

LASER CALIBRATION DEVICE FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

A laser calibration device for calibrating an energy beam used in additive manufacturing, the laser calibration device including a body configured to be disposed in an additive manufacturing process chamber; a cover for the body, the cover comprising a plurality of holes; a photodiode; and a coating disposed on the body and configured to optically couple the photodiode with the plurality of holes, wherein the photodiode is configured to sense one or more parameters of the energy beam for determining calibrating instructions for the energy beam. 1. A laser calibration device for calibrating an energy beam used in additive manufacturing , the laser calibration device comprising:a body configured to be disposed in an additive manufacturing process chamber;a cover for the body, the cover comprising a plurality of holes;a photodiode; anda coating disposed on the body and configured to optically couple the photodiode with the plurality of holes, wherein the photodiode is configured to sense one or more parameters of the energy beam for determining calibrating instructions for the energy beam.2. The laser calibration device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of holes comprises at least two sets of holes claim 1 , each set of holes defining a geometric shape in the cover as seen from a top view.3. The laser calibration device of claim 2 , wherein at least one of the sets of holes defines a straight path claim 2 , and wherein at least one of the sets of holes defines a curved path.4. The laser calibration device of claim 2 , wherein a first set of holes defines a straight path forming a first straight line claim 2 , wherein a second set of holes defines a straight path forming a second straight line claim 2 , and wherein the first and second straight lines are angularly offset from one another by at least 1°.5. The laser calibration device of claim 2 , wherein the cover further comprises one or more elongated holes disposed adjacent to at least one of the sets of holes.6. ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LARGE COMPONENTS

An additive manufacturing apparatus includes first and second spaced apart side walls defining a build chamber therebetween. The first and second spaced apart side walls are configured to rotate through an angle θ, about a z-axis along a pre-defined path. A build platform is defined within the first and second spaced apart side walls and is configured to rotate through an angle θ about the z-axis and vertically moveable along the z-axis. The apparatus further includes one or more build units mounted for movement along the pre-defined path. An additive manufacturing method is additionally disclosed. 1. An additive manufacturing apparatus , comprising:first and second spaced apart side walls defining a build chamber therebetween, the first and second spaced apart side walls configured to rotate through an angle θ, about a z-axis along a pre-defined path;a build platform defined within the first and second spaced apart side walls and configured to rotate through an angle θ about the z-axis and vertically moveable along the z-axis; andone or more build units mounted for movement along the pre-defined path.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the pre-defined path is a ring.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first spaced apart side wall is an inner powder containment wall and the second spaced apart sidewall is an outer powder containment wall.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the one or more build units collectively include:a powder dispenser positioned above the build chamber;an applicator configured to level the powder dispensed into the build chamber; anda directed energy source configured to fuse the leveled powder,wherein the powder dispenser, the applicator and the directed energy source are configured for continuous operation.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a turntable coupled to one of the first or second spaced apart side walls.6. The apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the turntable is ...

METHODS FOR MONITORING STRAIN AND TEMPERATURE IN A HOT GAS PATH COMPONENT

A method of monitoring a surface temperature of a hot gas path component includes directing an excitation beam having an excitation wavelength at a layer of a sensor material composition deposited on a hot gas path component to induce a fluorescent radiation. The method includes measuring fluorescent radiation emitted by the sensor material composition. The fluorescent radiation includes at least a first intensity at a first wavelength and a second intensity at a second wavelength. The surface temperature of the hot gas path component is determined based on a ratio of the first intensity at the first wavelength and the second intensity at the second wavelength of the fluorescent radiation emitted by the sensor material composition. 1. A method of monitoring a surface temperature of a hot gas path component , said method comprising:directing an excitation beam having an excitation wavelength at a layer of a sensor material composition deposited on the hot gas path component;measuring fluorescent radiation emitted by the sensor material composition, the fluorescent radiation including at least a first intensity at a first wavelength and a second intensity at a second wavelength; anddetermining a surface temperature of the hot gas path component based on a ratio of the first intensity at the first wavelength and the second intensity at the second wavelength of the fluorescent radiation emitted by the sensor material composition.2. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein directing an excitation beam comprises directing the excitation beam at the layer of sensor material composition deposited on the outer surface of the hot gas path component claim 1 , the sensor material composition including a combination of a yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG)-based ceramic material and at least one rare earth element (REE).3. The method in accordance with claim 2 , wherein directing an excitation beam comprises directing the excitation beam at the layer of sensor material ...

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND FLUID FLOW MECHANISM

An additive manufacturing (AM) apparatus is provided, having a build unit including a powder delivery mechanism, a powder recoating mechanism, and an irradiation beam directing mechanism. The AM apparatus further includes a rotatable build platform having an inner diameter and an outer diameter. A fluid flow mechanism includes an inlet body forming an inlet plenum and a collector body extended from the inlet body. The collector body forms a collector plenum in fluid communication with the inlet plenum. The collector body forms an outlet opening, wherein the outlet opening is positioned proximate to the inner diameter of the rotatable build platform. The outlet opening is configured to provide a flow of fluid toward the outer diameter above the rotatable build platform. 1. An additive manufacturing apparatus , comprising:a build unit comprising a powder delivery mechanism, a powder recoating mechanism, and an irradiation beam directing mechanism;a rotatable build platform having an inner diameter and an outer diameter; anda fluid flow mechanism, wherein the fluid flow mechanism comprises an inlet body forming an inlet plenum, and wherein the fluid flow mechanism comprises a collector body extended from the inlet body, wherein the collector body forms a collector plenum in fluid communication with the inlet plenum, and wherein the collector body forms an outlet opening, wherein the outlet opening is positioned proximate to the inner diameter of the rotatable build platform, and wherein the outlet opening is configured to provide a flow of fluid toward the outer diameter above the rotatable build platform.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the collector body comprises a plenum wall forming the outlet opening.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the collector body is extended along an arc corresponding to the build platform.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the outlet opening is a slot extended along the arc of the collector body.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , ...

Additive manufacturing systems and methods

A method of forming a build in a powder bed includes emitting a plurality of laser beams from selected vertical-cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) of at least one VCSEL array onto the powder bed, the selected VCSELs of the at least one VCSEL array corresponding to a pattern of a layer of the build; and simultaneously melting powder in the powder bed corresponding to the pattern of the layer of the build.

System and method for attaching a biopsy collecting device to a spectroscopy system

A biopsy collecting device includes a needle unit comprising a biopsy specimen. Also, the biopsy collecting device includes an activator unit operatively coupled to the needle unit and including a channel at a bottom surface of the activator unit, wherein the channel is configured to detachably couple the biopsy collecting device to an attaching unit of a spectroscopy system.

System and method for attaching a biopsy collecting device to a spectroscopy system

A method for classifying a tissue sample of a biopsy specimen includes receiving a signal from at least one location of the tissue sample including a plurality of chromophores. Further, the method includes verifying whether the received signal comprises a predetermined amount of at least one of an attenuated illumination light and a re-emitted light. Also, the method includes determining that a spectrum of the received signal is within a predetermined range. In addition, the method includes processing the spectrum of the received signal to decompose the signal into a plurality of components. Furthermore, the method includes classifying tissue in the at least one location of the tissue sample into one of a plurality of tissue types based on the plurality of components.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTERCHANGABLE ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

An additive manufacturing system includes build plate with a powdered metal material disposed thereon. The additive manufacturing system also includes at least one wall defining an air-locked build chamber, a conveyor system, and a plurality of operation stations. The conveyor system is disposed within the air-locked build chamber. The conveyor system is configured to transport the build plate. The plurality of operation stations are positioned adjacent to the conveyor system and within the air-locked build chamber. Each operation station of the plurality of operation stations is configured to facilitate execution of at least one additive manufacturing operation on the powdered metal material disposed on the build plate. The conveyor system is configured to transfer the build plate from a first operation station of the plurality of operation stations to a second operation station of the plurality of operation stations. 1. An additive manufacturing system including a build plate with a powdered metal material disposed thereon , said additive manufacturing system comprising:at least one wall defining an air-locked build chamber;a conveyor system disposed within said air-locked build chamber, said conveyor system configured to transport the build plate; anda plurality of operation stations positioned adjacent to said conveyor system within said air-locked build chamber, wherein each operation station of said plurality of operation stations configured to facilitate execution of at least one additive manufacturing operation on the powdered metal material disposed on the build plate, wherein said conveyor system is configured to transfer the build plate from a first operation station of said plurality of operation stations to a second operation station of said plurality of operation stations.2. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said air-locked build chamber and said conveyor system are configured in a linear configuration.3. The ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR FABRICATING A COMPONENT WITH LASER ARRAY

A component is fabricated in a powder bed by moving a laser array across the powder bed. The laser array includes a plurality of laser devices. The power output of each laser device of the plurality of laser devices is independently controlled. The laser array emits a plurality of energy beams from a plurality of selected laser devices of the plurality of laser devices to generate a melt pool in the powder bed. A non-uniform energy intensity profile is generated by the plurality of selected laser devices. The non-uniform energy intensity profile facilitates generating a melt pool that has a predetermined characteristic. 1. A method of fabricating a component in a powder bed , said method comprising:moving a laser array across the powder bed, the laser array including a plurality of laser devices;independently controlling a power output of each laser device of the plurality of laser devices;emitting a plurality of energy beams from a plurality of selected laser devices of the plurality of laser devices to generate a melt pool; andgenerating a non-uniform energy intensity profile from the plurality of selected laser devices, wherein the non-uniform energy intensity profile facilitates generating a melt pool having a predetermined characteristic.2. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein moving the laser array across the powder bed comprises pivoting the laser array about a center point defined by geometry of the component to facilitate fabricating a layer of the component with one sweep of the laser array.3. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein moving the laser array across the powder bed comprises one or more of moving the laser array in a linear path claim 1 , a curved path claim 1 , rotating the laser array claim 1 , or adjusting an orientation of the laser array with respect to the powder bed.4. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein moving the laser array across the powder bed comprises moving the laser array relative to the powder bed ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING IN-BUILD ASSESSMENT AND CORRECTION OF LASER POINTING ACCURACY

An additive manufacturing system includes a laser device, a build plate, a first scanning device, and an alignment system. The laser device is configured to generate a laser beam. The build plate has a position relative to the laser device. The first scanning device is configured to selectively direct the laser beam across the build plate. The laser beam generates a melt pool on the build plate. The alignment system includes a fiducial marks projector configured to project a plurality of fiducial marks across the build plate. Each fiducial mark has a location on the build plate. The alignment system also includes an optical detector configured to detect the location of each of the fiducial marks on the build plate. The alignment system is configured to detect the position of the build plate relative to the laser device. 1. An additive manufacturing system comprising:a laser device configured to generate a laser beam;a build plate having a position relative to said laser device;a first scanning device configured to selectively direct the laser beam across said build plate, wherein the laser beam generates a melt pool on said build plate; and a fiducial marks projector configured to project a plurality of fiducial marks across said build plate, each fiducial mark having a location on said build plate; and', 'an optical detector configured to detect said location of each of said fiducial marks on said build plate, wherein said alignment system is configured to detect said position of said build plate relative to said laser device., 'an alignment system comprising2. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with further comprising a controller configured to align said build plate with said laser device.3. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein said controller configured to align said build plate with said first scanning device.4. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein said first scanning device ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING POWDER SPREADING IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS

An additive manufacturing system is configured to manufacture a component. The additive manufacturing system includes a build platform, a recoater, a monitoring camera, and a controller. The component is disposed on the build platform. The recoater includes a recoater blade configured to spread a powdered build material across the build platform and the component forming a powder bed. The monitoring camera is positioned to image the recoater blade. The monitoring camera is configured to acquire a plurality of images of the recoater blade. The controller is configured to receive the plurality of images from the monitoring camera. The controller is configured to detect defects in the powder bed based on the plurality of images received from the monitoring camera. 1. An additive manufacturing system configured to manufacture a component , said additive manufacturing system comprising:a build platform, the component disposed on said build platform;a recoater comprising a recoater blade configured to spread a powdered build material across said build platform and the component forming a powder bed;a monitoring camera positioned to image said recoater blade, said monitoring camera configured to acquire a plurality of images of said recoater blade; anda controller configured to receive said plurality of images from said monitoring camera, wherein said controller is configured to detect defects in the powder bed based on said plurality of images received from said monitoring camera.2. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said controller is further configured to identify a region of interest in each image of the plurality of images.3. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 2 , wherein the region of interest extends from an outer edge of said recoater blade to an inner edge of said recoater blade and from a region of interest height to a bottom edge of recoater blade.4. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING ROTATING BUILD PLATFORMS

An additive manufacturing system is configured to manufacture a component. The additive manufacturing system includes a laser device, a build platform, a first scanning device, and an air knife. The laser device is configured to generate a laser beam. The component is disposed on the build platform. The air knife is configured to channel an inert gas across the build platform. The first scanning device is configured to selectively direct the laser beam across the build platform. The laser beam is configured to generate successive layers of a melted powdered build material on the component and the build platform. The build platform is configured to rotate the component relative to the air knife. 1. An additive manufacturing system configured to manufacture a component , said additive manufacturing system comprising:a laser device configured to generate a laser beam;a build platform, the component disposed on said build platform;an air knife configured to channel a flow of inert gas across said build platform; anda first scanning device configured to selectively direct the laser beam across said build platform, the laser beam configured to generate successive layers of a melted powdered material on the component and said build platform, wherein said build platform configured to rotate the component relative to said air knife.2. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with further comprising at least one wall defining an air-locked build chamber claim 1 , said air knife and said build platform disposed within said air-locked build chamber.3. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said build platform is configured to rotate the component relative to said air knife and said laser device.4. The additive manufacturing system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said build platform is configured to rotate the component relative to said air knife between generation of successive layers of the melted powdered material.5. The additive ...

Fixed optics photo-thermal spectroscopy reader and method of use

Disclosed is a low-cost, portable photo thermal spectroscopy (PTS) reader for use in detecting the presence of diseases in the bodily fluid of affected patients. The PTS reader is designed to be durable, easy to use and provide readings from the Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) with rapid results. Also provided are methods of use.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR QUANTITATIVE MICROCIRCULATION STATE MONITORING

A method in one embodiment includes acquiring optical image information with a detection unit configured to be operably coupled to a patient. The optical image information corresponds to microcirculation of the patient. The method also includes generating a microcirculation map of microvasculature of the patient using the optical image information. Further, the method includes generating a quantitative microcirculation index based on the microcirculation map, the quantitative microcirculation index corresponding to a condition of the patient. 1. A method comprising:acquiring optical image information with a detection unit configured to be operably coupled to a patient, the optical image information corresponding to microcirculation of the patient;generating a microcirculation map of microvasculature of the patient using the optical image information;generating a quantitative microcirculation index based on the microcirculation map, the quantitative microcirculation index corresponding to a condition of the patient.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the quantitative microcirculation index corresponds to a percentage of vessels that satisfy at least one size threshold.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the quantitative microcirculation index corresponds to a ratio of a first group of vessels within a first size range to a second group of vessels within a second size range.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the quantitative microcirculation index corresponds to at least one of an amount of change or a rate of change of a vessel size parameter.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing laser energy to a region of interest of the patient claim 1 , wherein acquiring the optical image information comprises collecting light emitted from the patient exposed to the laser energy claim 1 , and wherein generating the microcirculation map is performed based on speckle patterns of the collected light.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the detection unit comprises a ...

System and methods for fabricating a component with laser array

An additive manufacturing system includes a laser array including a plurality of laser devices. Each laser device of the plurality of laser devices generates an energy beam for forming a melt pool in a powder bed. The additive manufacturing system further includes at least one optical element. The optical element receives at least one of the energy beams and induces a predetermined power diffusion in the at least one energy beam.

SCANNING ION CONDUCTANCE MICROSCOPY USING SURFACE ROUGHNESS FOR PROBE MOVEMENT

A method for interrogating a surface using scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM), comprising the steps of: 1. A method for interrogating a surface using scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) , comprising the steps of:a) repeatedly bringing a SICM probe into proximity with the surface at discrete, spaced locations in a region of the surface and measuring surface height at each location;b) estimating surface roughness or other surface characteristic for the region based upon the surface height measurements; andc) repeatedly bringing the probe into proximity with the surface at discrete, spaced locations in the region, the number and location of which is based upon the estimated surface roughness or other surface characteristic in the region, and obtaining an image of the region with a resolution adapted to the surface roughness or other surface characteristic.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein steps b) and c) are repeated recursively for sub-regions according to the required image resolution.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of bringing the probe into proximity with the surface at each location is performed by approaching each location from a distance greater than the height of the surface at that location.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein lateral movement of the probe occurs only when the probe is distant from the surface.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , during the step of bringing the scanning probe into proximity with the surface claim 1 , the approach is terminated when a measured probe current reaches a threshold value.6. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the threshold value is based upon the probe current measured when the probe is distant from the surface.7. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the approach is terminated when probe current is reduced by 0.25% to 1%.8. The method according to claim 6 , wherein for each measurement claim 6 , the distance traveled by the probe ...

Synchronous sampling methods for infrared cameras

The present approach relates to the synchronization of frame acquisition by a camera with an external event or trigger despite the camera lacking external control or synchronization capabilities. For example, inexpensive and/or consumer grade camera typically lack a control interface to explicitly synchronize with an external trigger event or external device. The present approach allows synchronization of such a camera lacking external synchronization capabilities with an external event or device.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING RECOATING

A control system for use in an additive manufacturing system. A recoating device is configured to distribute powder for forming a component and a recoating motor is configured to move at least one of the powder bed and the recoating device relative to each other. The control system includes at least one vibration sensor configured to collect vibration data, a torque sensor coupled to the recoating motor and configured to collect the torque output data, and an optical sensor configured to collect reflected light data. The control system includes a controller configured to receive the vibration data, receive the torque output data, and receive the reflected light data, the controller further configured to determine at least one powder bed characteristic based on at least one of the data, and control at least one recoating parameter of the recoating device based on the at least one determined powder bed characteristic. 1. A control system for use in an additive manufacturing system including a powder bed , a recoating device configured to distribute powder for forming a component in the powder bed , and a recoating motor configured to move at least one of the powder bed and the recoating device relative to each other , said control system comprising: at least one vibration sensor configured to collect vibration data;', 'a torque sensor coupled to the recoating motor and configured to collect torque output data; and', 'an optical sensor configured to collect reflected light data;, 'at least two recoating sensors, said at least two recoating sensors comprising at least two ofa controller configured to receive data from the at least two recoating sensors, the data comprising at least two of the vibration data from said at least one vibration sensor, the torque output data from said torque sensor, and the reflected light data from said optical sensor, said controller further configured to determine at least one powder bed characteristic based on at least one of the ...

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR FABRICATING A COMPONENT WITH A LASER DEVICE

A powder melting device for an additive manufacturing system is provided. The powder melting device includes at least one laser device configured to generate at least one energy beam for forming at least one melt pool in a layer of powdered material. The powder melting device also includes at least two optical elements configured to dynamically induce beam distortion in the at least one energy beam to modify a beam spot incident on the layer of powdered material. The at least two optical elements are configured to induce at least one of an aspect ratio adjustment of the at least one energy beam, an optical powder redistribution between a periphery and a center of the at least one energy beam, and a rotation of the at least one energy beam. 1. A powder melting device for an additive manufacturing system , said powder melting device comprising:at least one laser device configured to generate at least one energy beam for forming at least one melt pool in a layer of powdered material; an adjustment of an aspect ratio of the at least one energy beam;', 'an optical power redistribution between a periphery and a center of the at least one energy beam; and', 'a rotation of an orientation of the at least one energy beam., 'at least two optical elements configured to dynamically induce beam distortion in the at least one energy beam to modify a beam spot incident on the layer of powdered material, the at least two optical elements configured to induce at least one of2. The powder melting device in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said at least two optical elements comprise a deformable mirror and an adjustable cylindrical beam expander.3. The powder melting device in accordance with claim 2 , wherein said at least two optical elements further comprise a beam rotation prism.4. The powder melting device in accordance with claim 2 , wherein said deformable mirror is configured to:perform the adjustment of the aspect ratio of the at least one energy beam;redistribute optical ...

Measurement and use of molecular interactions

A method for determining the affinity between binding partners, or a property of one of the binding partners dependent on the affinity, comprising the steps of: (i) contacting the binding partners, one of which is immobilised on a surface; (ii) oscillating the surface at increasing amplitude; and (iii) detecting a dissociation event. An analogous method can be used to separate a target analyte from a composition. The subject invention also pertains to an apparatus for determining the affinity between binding partners, and comprises: a surface ( 10 ) having one binding partner ( 16 ) immobilised thereon; means for oscillating the surface at increasing amplitude; and a device ( 14, 15 ) for detecting a dissociation event.

Holographic storage devices with complementary data layer and use thereof

A data storage device including: a plastic substrate having a plurality of data volumes arranged along tracks in a plurality of stacked layers; a plurality of micro-holograms each contained in a corresponding one of the data volumes; a plurality of complementary volumes, each corresponding to and being substantially aligned with one of the data volumes; a plurality of micro-holograms each contained in a corresponding one of the complementary volumes; wherein, the presence or absence of a micro-hologram in each of the data volumes is indicative of a corresponding portion of data stored; and, the ones of the complementary volumes corresponding to the ones of the data volumes containing a micro-hologram do not contain a micro-hologram; and the ones of the complementary volumes corresponding to the ones of the data volumes not containing a micro-hologram contain a micro-hologram.

Data storage devices and methods

A data storage device comprises a substrate having oppositely disposed surfaces and a plurality of volumes arranged along tracks between the surfaces; a plurality of micro-holograms each contained in a corresponding one of the volumes; and, at least one groove in at least one of the surfaces and being operative to diffract light through the at least one surface and into the volumes; wherein, the presence or absence of a micro-hologram in a stacked layer in each of the volumes is indicative of a corresponding portion of data stored.

Data storage devices and methods

A data storage device including: a plastic substrate having a plurality of volumes arranged in tracks along a plurality of vertically stacked, laterally extending layers therein; and, a plurality of micro-holograms each contained in a corresponding one of the volumes; herein, the presence or absence of a micro-hologram in each of the volumes is indicative of a corresponding portion of data stored.

Data storage systems and methods

A system for use with a data storage media having at least one groove proximate a surface thereof and a plurality of volumes therein, including: objective lensing; a first tracking error detector optically coupled to the objective lensing and being responsive to reflections from the at least one groove; a first actuator coupled and responsive to the first tracking error detector; a second tracking error detector optically coupled to the objective lensing and responsive to reflections from micro-holograms contained in at least some of the volumes; and, a second actuator coupled and responsive to the second tracking error detector; wherein the first and second actuators cooperate to selectively position the objective lensing to focus a light beam into a target one of the volumes.

Alloy

Use of appended dyes in optical data storage media

The present disclosure relates to optical media and the formation and use of such media. In certain embodiments the optical media or a composition suitable for such media includes a polymeric matrix or substrate. A dye, such as an energy transfer dye is chemically appended to the polymeric matrix or substrate, such as by one or more covalent bonds.

Surface aerator

Servo structure in single-bit holographic volume recording and readout

Methods and systems are provided for recording micro-holograms in a holographic disk. Disk tilting or disk imperfections may cause counter-propagating recording and reference beams to deviate from the target data position in the disk. In some embodiments, a tracking beam is directed to a tracking position in the disk, and deviation of the tracking beam from the tracking position may indicate tracking and/or focusing errors of the recording and/or reference beams. A detector may generate an error signal in response to such errors. A first servo-mechanical system may actuate a first optical head (e.g., transmitting the reference and tracking beams) to compensate for such errors, and a second servo-mechanical system may actuate a second optical head (e.g., transmitting the recording beam) to follow the actuation of the first servo system, such that an interference of the reference beam and the recording beam may be maintained in the target data position.

Selective laser melting additive manufacturing method with simultaneous multiple melting lasers beams and apparatus therefor

A method of creating an article of manufacture, the method comprising: (a) directing multiple laser beams to a single galvanometer; and, (b) dynamically repositioning the multiple laser beams in counterpart paths using the single galvanometer to shine the multiple laser beams on and melt a first powder material and, upon solidification of the melted first powder material, forming a first series of duplicate three dimensional structures, where each of the multiple laser beams is used to form at least one of the first series of duplicate three dimensional structures.

System and method for precise recording

A method for calculation of recording depth in a holographic disk 10 is disclosed. The method includes applying a first external voltage to one or more actuators coupled to an objective lens 82 to focus a tracking beam of radiation 76 having a first wavelength on a reference layer of the disk, wherein the reference layer comprises at least one of a partially dichroic coating or a partially metallized coating. The method also includes applying a second external voltage to the one or more actuators 112 coupled to the objective lens 82 to focus a recording beam 96 of radiation on the reference layer of the disk 10, wherein the recording beam 96 comprises a second wavelength different from the first wavelength of the tracking beam. The method further includes computing a difference between the first external voltage and the second external voltage. The method also includes calculating a lens-shift distance based upon the difference using a voltage-distance calibration curve, wherein the lens-shift distance refers to a shift in distance of the objective lens 82 in order to focus the tracking beam of radiation 76 and the recording beam of radiation 96 on the reference layer respectively. The method also calculates the recording depth based upon the lens-shift distance.

System and method for storage of data in circular data tracks on optical discs

The present techniques provide methods and systems for reading and processing a data signal read from an optical data disc. In embodiments, an optical reader system may read data bits from a data ring in the disc. The data rings may be concentric, and a beginning of a sequence of data on the data ring may be in substantially the same position as an ending of the sequence. The reader may identify a data ring and begin the read process on the targeted data ring, and may end the read process when the reader reaches the starting point. The data sequence read from the data ring may be decoded to form a bit stream, which may be provided to various output devices. A circular trellis formed from the bit stream may enable the reading of a targeted data sequence without additional tail bits to improve data transmission efficiency.

System and methods for fabricating a component using a consolidating device

A consolidating device for an additive manufacturing system is provided. The consolidating device includes at least one first energy beam generator, at least one second energy beam generator, at least one first lens, at least one second lens, and at least one reflective element. The first energy beam generator is configured to generate a first energy beam. The second energy beam generator is configured to generate a second energy beam. The first lens has a first entrance pupil and is positioned between the first energy beam generator and the layer of material. The second lens has a second entrance pupil and is positioned between the first lens and the layer of material. The first entrance pupil and the second entrance pupil substantially overlap. The reflective element is positioned between the first lens and the second lens, and is configured to reflect the second energy beam onto the layer of material.

System and method for improved data storage

Temperature control device of transporting cylinder

Counting machine

System and method for dual-beam recording and readout of multilayered optical data storage media

A system and method of operating a dual-beam detection system of a holographic data storage disc, including: impinging a data beam on a data layer of the holographic data storage disc; impinging a tracking beam on a tracking element of the holographic data storage disc; detecting a reflection of the tracking beam from the tracking element; and coordinating position of the data beam relative to the tracking beam. Embodiments compensate for the variation in vertical spacing of data and tracking beams due to the data beam being uncollimated at the objetive lens

Replication and formatting method and system for bit-wise holographic storage

The present techniques provide methods and systems for recording micro-holograms on a holographic disk using a plurality of counter-propagating light beams in parallel. The parallel counter-propagating light beams overlap to form interference patterns on a data layer and over multiple data tracks in the holographic disk. Rotating the disk enables the parallel recording of micro-holograms over multiple data tracks, thus reducing recording time. Further, the illumination pattern may include illuminated spots and non-illuminated regions, such that each illumination spot may cover a relatively small fraction of the data layer plane, possibly controlling the depth spread of the recorded micro-hologram. In some embodiments, data in the parallel signal beams may be retrieved from a master holographic disk or may be modulated into the parallel signal beams.

System and methods for fabricating a component using a consolidating device

A consolidating device for an additive manufacturing system is provided. The consolidating device includes at least one first energy beam generator, at least one second energy beam generator, at least one first lens, at least one second lens, and at least one reflective element. The first energy beam generator is configured to generate a first energy beam. The second energy beam generator is configured to generate a second energy beam. The first lens has a first entrance pupil and is positioned between the first energy beam generator and the layer of material. The second lens has a second entrance pupil and is positioned between the first lens and the layer of material. The first entrance pupil and the second entrance pupil substantially overlap. The reflective element is positioned between the first lens and the second lens, and is configured to reflect the second energy beam onto the layer of material.

System and method for protecting piracy in optical storage

A method for encoding in a holographic disk storage medium is provided. The method includes recording multiple micro-holograms such that the micro-holograms are aligned across a respective plurality of tracks and across a respective plurality of layers at a pre-determined location of an original holographic disk. The method also includes detecting a characteristic waveform signal of a reflected beam from the original holographic disk. The method further includes detecting a second waveform signal from a second holographic disk. The method also includes comparing the second waveform signal with the characteristic waveform signal. The method further includes determining authenticity of the second holographic disk based upon comparison.

Replication and formatting method and system for bit-wise holographic storage

Systems and methods for additive manufacturing rotating build platforms

An additive manufacturing system is configured to manufacture a component. The additive manufacturing system includes a laser device, a build platform, a first scanning device, and an air knife. The laser device is configured to generate a laser beam. The component is disposed on the build platform. The air knife is configured to channel an inert gas across the build platform. The first scanning device is configured to selectively direct the laser beam across the build platform. The laser beam is configured to generate successive layers of a melted powdered build material on the component and the build platform. The build platform is configured to rotate the component relative to the air knife.

Disc structure for bit-wise holographic storage

An optical disc for micro-holographic data storage, including: optically-enabled material configured to store holographic data; guide grooves; a first coating disposed on the guide grooves and configured to reflect a tracking beam and to transmit a read or record beam; and a second coating disposed to cover the guide grooves and disposed on the first coating.

System and method for transfer of data stored in holographic storage medium

A system (10, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for processing information is provided. The system includes multiple micro-holograms contained in multiple volumes arranged along multiple tracks (14, 58, 108, 206, 310, 404, 512) in one or more storage mediums (12, 52, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502). Each of the micro-hologram includes a data. The system also includes one or more pick-up head devices (20, 22, 104, 106, 204, 304, 306, 510) with optical lenses for directing laser beams on the multiple tracks (14, 58, 108, 206, 310, 404, 512). Further, the system includes a subsystem (16, 406, 504) for arranging the one or more pick-up head devices (20, 22, 104, 106, 204, 304, 306, 510) for recording and retrieving of the data from the one or more storage mediums (12, 52, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502).

Device for guiding an ingot inthe secondary cooling zone ofa continuous casting machine

Device for transforming rotary motion into oscillatory motion

The device for transforming rotary motion into oscillatory motion has a shaft that can swing about the longitudinal axis; a pivoting shaft that ca swing about the longitudinal axis, and a mechanism that transforms the shaft rotary motion into the pivoting shaft swinging motion; this device differs from others because the shaft has at least one straightline segment coaxial with its rotation axe, and a Z-type working segment with a longitudinal axe in the medium part that makes an acute angle with the rotation axe; the acute angle is twice less than the specified amplitude excursion of the pivoting shaft; the symmetry point of the Z- type working segment medium part coincides with the shaft rotation axe and the mechanism that transforms the shaft rotation into the pivoting drive swinging motion contains the medium part of the Z-type working segment which is located to move in the bush and in the bracket opening, at the axe crossing the symmetry point of the medium part of the Z-type working segment and the bracket opening, and the bracket is firmly fastened at the end of the pivoting shaft; moreover, hinges of the shaft and the pivoting shaft are firmly secured in space. In addition, the angle between the longitudinal axes and the end sections and the medium part of the Z-type working segment is more than 0° and less than 90°. This invention ensures transmission of substantial torque moments while being less bulky and noisy. 1 Explanatory note; 7 pictures.

Synchronous sampling methods for infrared cameras

The present approach relates to the synchronization of frame acquisition by a camera with an external event or trigger despite the camera lacking external control or synchronization capabilities. For example, inexpensive and/or consumer grade camera typically lack a control interface to explicitly synchronize with an external trigger event or external device. The present approach allows synchronization of such a camera lacking external synchronization capabilities with an external event or device.

Integrated method for prospecting mineral deposits in a large spectral range including self-radiation of said mineral deposits

The inventive integrated method for prospecting mineral deposits using space and aerial photographs consists in fixing the self-radiation of a prospected deposit and the photoimage of a prospected territory on the photoemulsion of said photographs. The self-radiation of said deposit is located in the invisible part of the spectrum and has the nature of weak fields, i.e. subatomic fields which are experimentally fixed by corresponding sensors, and visualised after the amplification and computer processing thereof. The photoimage of the territory is located in the visible photon part of the spectrum including the infrared part thereof. Afterwards, space structural modelling based on a special databank of reference mineral deposits and on computer program packs is carried out in such a way that it is possible to pass from rough space photographs to more detailed satellite and/or aerial images having a lower resolution. Said successive steps are used in parallel for fixing, visualising and evaluating the intensity of subatomic radiation of the minerals within borders of the mine fields thereof in the Earth's crust. Said two methods when used jointly make it possible to rectify the boundaries, stratification depth and volume of a mineral deposit.

Compositions, optical data storage media and methods for using the optical data storage media

There are provided compositions, optical data storage media and methods of using the optical data storage media. The compositions comprise a non-linear sensitizer comprising one or more subphthalocyanine reverse saturable absorbers capable of absorbing actinic radiation to cause upper triplet energy transfer to a reactant that undergoes a photochemical change upon triplet excitation.

Servoing system for master with parallel tracks in a holographic replication system

System and method for controlling tracking in an optical drive

The present techniques provide methods and systems for alignment of a read head with data tracks on an optical data disk. In embodiments, a multi-pixel detector that is segmented into multiple areas, or detector segments, may be used to detect a pattern in the light reflected from an optical data disk. The detector system may then combine the quantized values from each of the detector segments mathematically to determine the alignment of the read head with a target data track. If the read head drifts to one side or the other, detectors to the side of a center detector may start to pick up energy from the adjacent tracks. If this energy is continuously summed for the detectors on each side, the read head may be centered by balancing the sums from the detectors on each side.

Cascaded control of a pick-up head for multi-layer optical data storage

A system (10) and method (148, 200) of controlling position of a pick-up head (100, 150) of an optical drive (10), including manipulating (158, 208) the position of the pick-up head (100, 150) as a primary variable in a cascade control scheme (148), and manipulating (166, 200) current flowing through the pick-up head (100, 150) as a secondary variable in the cascade control scheme (148).

Multi-wavelength-holographic systems and methods

A holographic system for recording and reading information is provided. The system includes at least one laser for providing a laser beam. The system also includes a subsystem configured for multi-wavelength operation of said holographic system and recording micro-holograms at different wavelengths in substantially non-overlapping volumes of a holographic medium.

Multi-wavelength-holographic systems and methods

A holographic system 10 for recording and reading information is provided. The system 10 includes at least one laser for providing a laser beam. The system also includes a subsystem 24 configured for multi-wavelength operation of said holographic system and recording micro-holograms at different wavelengths in substantially non-overlapping volumes of a holographic medium 12.

System and method for precise recording

Systems and methods for additive manufacturing calibration

An additive manufacturing system including a consolidation device, a build platform, an optical detector, and a controller is provided. The consolidation device is configured to form a build layer of a component. The build platform is configured to rotate about a build platform rotation axis extending along a first direction. The optical detector is configured to detect locations of at least two alignment marks. The controller is configured to receive locations of the at least two alignment marks from the optical detector. The controller is also configured to determine the locations of the build platform rotation axis and a build platform rotation center point based on a comparison between the at least two alignment marks, wherein the build platform rotation center point lies along the build platform rotation axis. The controller is further configured to control the consolidation device to consolidate a plurality of particles on the build platform.

Compositions, optical data storage media and methods for using the optical data storage media

There are provided compositions, optical data storage media and methods of using the optical data storage. The compositions comprise a non-linear sensitizer comprising one or more platinum ethynyl complexes capable of absorbing actinic radiation to cause upper triplet energy transfer to a reactant that undergoes a photochemical change upon triplet excitation.

Additive manufacturing apparatus and method for large components

Plant for dry quenching of coke or other materials

1,061,412. Dry coke quenching apparatus. GOSUDARSTVENNY VSESOJUZNY INSTITUTE PO PROEKTJROVANIJU PREDPRIJATY KOKSOKHIMICHESKOI PROMYSHLENNOSTI " GIPROKOKS." May 26, 1964, No. 21673/64. Heading F4B. A dry quenching chamber for coke or other material has a charging opening 7 at the top, a discharge opening 8 and inert gas inlets 2, 3 at the bottom, and gas outlets 5 spaced from the top so that a chamber 4 is formed above the quench chamber 1 to hold a layer of hot coke above the level of the gas outlets 5. The outlets 5 communicate with an annular collector 6 whence the hot gas is fed to a boiler plant.

Fiber optic sensing apparatus including fiber gratings and method for sensing parameters involving different parameter modalities

Optical-based apparatus and method for sensing parameters in connection with an asset, such as a pipeline, are provided. At least two sites in an optical fiber may include a respective fiber grating arranged to have a respective optical response in a wavelength spectrum having a distinguishing feature indicative of a value of a respective local parameter at a respective grating site. The two fiber gratings may be further arranged to form, in combination with a respective portion of the optical fiber which extends between the two sites, respective optical backscatter portions that when combined with one another are effective to sense an optical change in the fiber portion between the sites indicative of a value of a distributed parameter. This is a parameter modality different from a parameter modality of the respective local parameters at the respective grating sites.

Holographic data storage medium and an associated method thereof

A method implemented using a data recording system is disclosed. The method includes receiving a micro-holographic data storage medium comprising a micro-hologram track having a first cross-sectional area. The method further includes recording a data in the micro-hologram track to form a data track in the micro-hologram track having a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area.

Measurement and use of molecular interactions.

Production of ferrosilicomanganese alloys

Method of recording data in an optical data storage medium and an optical data storage medium

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method for recording holographic data in an optical data storage medium is provided. The method includes (i) providing an optical data storage medium including: (a) a thermoplastic polymer matrix, (b) a latent acid generator, (c) a non-linear sensitizer, and (d) a reactant including a latent chromophore. The method further includes (ii) irradiating a volume element of the optical data storage medium with an interference pattern, said interference pattern including an incident radiation having a wavelength and an intensity sufficient to cause upper triplet energy transfer from the non-linear sensitizer to the latent acid generator, thereby generating an acid, wherein the latent acid generator is substantially non--responsive to said incident radiation. The method furthermore includes (iii) reacting at least one protected chromophore with the acid generated to form at least one chromophore, thereby causing a refractive index change within the volume element; and (iv) producing within the irradiated volume element refractive index variations corresponding to the interference pattern, thereby producing an optically readable datum. An optical data storage medium is also provided.

Method of parallel bit-wise holographic data storage source using a parallel light source

The present techniques provide techniques for outputting counter-propagating parallel light waves to pre-record a holographic data disk. The parallel light waves are transmitted through a holographic system via a fiber optic bundle including a plurality of polarization-maintaining (PM) optical fibers. Each of the PM optical fibers in the fiber optic bundle may have one or more of a different wavelength, a different coherence length, and a different polarization orientation to reduce crosstalk in the disk. Furthermore, the fiber optic bundle array is rotated to produce interference spots indicative of micro-holograms according to the data track pitch of the holographic disk over which the fiber optic bundle is outputting the light waves.

Device for transforming rotary motion into oscillatory motion

The invention relates to a manufacturing engineering, in particular, to devices for a motion transforming. The device for transforming a rotation into an oscillatory motion comprises a shaft, which is made with a capability of rotary motion about the longitudinal axis, a pivoting shaft, that is accomplished with a capability of swinging motion about the longitudinal axis, and a mechanism for transforming the shaft rotary motion into the pivoting shaft swinging motion. The shaft includes a straightline segment, which is coaxial one with its axis of rotation, and a Z-type working segment, the longitudinal axis of the medium part of which makes up with the axis of the shaft rotation an acute angle, a value of which is twice less than the specified amplitude excursion of the pivoting shaft. A point of the symmetry of this part coincides with the shaft rotation axis. The mechanism for transforming the rotary motion includes the medium part of the Z-type working segment, which is located with a capability of rotation in the bush cavity, which is mounted with a capability of swinging in the bracket opening. The bracket is firmly fastened at the end of the pivoting shaft, therewith, hinges of the shaft and the pivoting shaft are firmly secured in space. The solution provides with the rotation transforming at substantial torques and upon a bulkiness and noise level decrease.

Disc structure for bit-wise holographic storage

An optical article is provided. The optical article includes a first layer. The first layer includes an active holographic layer configured to store holographic data. The first layer has a first surface and a second surface. A second layer includes a low birefringence material. The second layer also has a first surface and a second surface. Guide grooves are present in any one of the first layer or the second layer. In certain embodiments, the article may further include a reflective layer, an anti-reflective layer, a barrier layer, and a combination thereof.

Disc structure for bit-wise holographic storage

An optical disc for micro-holographic data storage, including: optically-enabled material configured to store holographic data; guide grooves; a first coating disposed on the guide grooves and configured to reflect a tracking beam and to transmit a read or record beam; and a second coating disposed to cover the guide grooves and disposed on the first coating.

Servoing system for master with parallel tracks in a holographic replication system

Techniques are provided for controlling the reading of optical data from a master disk in a holographic replication system. Imperfections in the master disk or movement of the disk during a recording process may cause source beams to deviate from target data tracks. In some embodiments, a detector system is used to determine the focus and alignment of the source beams on the master disk, as well as the tilt and rotation of the disk with respect to the holographic replication system. The detector system may detect deviations in the intensity distribution of the reflections of the source beams and generate an error signal corresponding to focusing, tracking, tilt, and/or rotational errors. Servo-mechanical devices may actuate optical components to compensate for such errors.

Non-binary holograms for increased capacity

Techniques are provided for increasing storage capacity in a holographic storage system. While typical holographic storage systems involve binary storage for each data position in a holographic disk, present techniques involve storing data such that more than two data levels may be recorded in each data position. In some embodiments, a recording beam directed to the disk may be adjusted to different power levels depending on the data level to be recorded. Furthermore, the recording time at a data position may be adjusted to increase the energy directed to the data position by increasing the amount of time the recording beam is impinged on the data position. Embodiments are suitable for different types of holographic storage, including dye-based medium.

Additive manufacturing methods and systems

A method (300) of additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object (114) includes irradiating a first build plane region (152a) using a first energy beam (134a), irradiating a second build plane region (152b) using a second energy beam (134b), and irradiating an interlace region (154) between the first build plane region (152a) and the second build plane region (152b), wherein irradiating the interlace region comprises directing the first energy beam (134a) along a first oscillating path (190), and directing the second energy beam (134b) along a second oscillating path (210) intersecting and overlapping with the first oscillating path (190).

System and methods for fabricating a component with laser array

An additive manufacturing system includes a laser array including a plurality of laser devices. Each laser device of the plurality of laser devices generates an energy beam for forming a melt pool in a powder bed. The additive manufacturing system further includes at least one optical element. The optical element receives at least one of the energy beams and induces a predetermined power diffusion in the at least one energy beam.

Additive manufacturing methods and systems

A method (300) of additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object (114) includes irradiating a first build plane region (152a) using a first energy beam (134a) defining a beam diameter (DB), the first energy beam travelling along a first oscillating path (190) in a first direction (D1) to consolidate a first wall (153a) defining a thickness perpendicular to the first direction D1, wherein a build material (118) adjacent a first side (157a) of the first wall (153a) and the build material (118) adjacent a second side (159a) of the first wall (153a), opposite the first side (157a) of the first wall (153a), remains unconsolidated, and wherein the first oscillating path (190) comprises a first plurality of oscillations (192) that define at least the first side (157a) of the first wall (153a), and wherein the thickness (T) of the first wall (153a) is greater than the beam diameter (DB).

System and methods for fabricating a component with laser array

An additive manufacturing system includes a laser array including a plurality of laser devices. Each laser device of the plurality of laser devices generates an energy beam for forming a melt pool in a powder bed. The additive manufacturing system further includes at least one optical element. The optical element receives at least one of the energy beams and induces a predetermined power diffusion in the at least one energy beam.

Additive manufacturing methods and systems

Methods of additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object include irradiating a first build plane region using a first energy beam, irradiating a second build plane region using a second energy beam, and irradiating an interlace region between the first build plane region and the second build plane region. Irradiating the interlace region comprises directing the first energy beam along a first oscillating path and directing the second energy beam along a second oscillating path intersecting and overlapping with the first oscillating path.

Additive manufacturing methods and systems

Methods of additively manufacturing a three-dimensional object include irradiating a first build plane region using a first energy beam defining a beam diameter, the first energy beam travelling along a first oscillating path in a first direction to consolidate a first wall defining a thickness perpendicular to the first direction, wherein a build material adjacent a first side of the first wall and the build material adjacent a second side of the first wall, opposite the first side of the first wall, remains unconsolidated; and wherein the thickness of the first wall is greater than the beam diameter.

System and methods for fabricating a component using a consolidating device

Additive manufacturing methods and systems

Additive manufacturing methods and systems are disclosed including irradiation devices for an additive manufacturing machine for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects. The irradiation device includes a beam generation device configured to provide an energy beam travelling on a nominal beam path trajectory and an optical modulator comprising a reflective optic downstream from the beam generating device, wherein the optical modulator is configured to actuate the reflective optic to modify a position of the energy beam from the nominal beam path trajectory. The irradiation device further includes an optical scanner disposed downstream from the optical modulator, wherein the optical scanner is configured to translate the nominal beam path trajectory along a build plane of the additive manufacturing machine.

Additive manufacturing methods and systems

Additive manufacturing methods and systems are disclosed including irradiation devices for an additive manufacturing machine for additively manufacturing three-dimensional objects. The irradiation device includes a beam generation device configured to provide an energy beam travelling on a nominal beam path trajectory and an optical modulator comprising a reflective optic downstream from the beam generating device, wherein the optical modulator is configured to actuate the reflective optic to modify a position of the energy beam from the nominal beam path trajectory. The irradiation device further includes an optical scanner disposed downstream from the optical modulator, wherein the optical scanner is configured to translate the nominal beam path trajectory along a build plane of the additive manufacturing machine.