US5323082A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Piezoelectric actuator for planar alignment
Assignee: Newport Corp USA
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Filing: 1989-05-03
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Granted: 1994-06-21
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Expires: 2009-05-03
Abstract
Abstract An actuator for controlling alignment of an object that is characterized by an alignment plane, such as mirrors used in optical cavities, comprises a mounting frame, and a one piece alignment member formed of piezoelectric material having a first end and a second end that is secured to the mounting frame at the second end. On the first end, a first object contact, a second object contact, and a third object contact are secured defining an object plane. A means is provided for holding the object in contact with the first, second and third object contacts so that the alignment plane of the object has a predetermined relationship with the object plane defined by the object contacts on the tubular member. Electrodes are formed on the tubular member for establishing an electrical field between the surfaces of the alignment member so that the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact are controlled. By controlling the positions of the object contacts on the first end of the tubular member, precise tilting and translation of the alignment plane of the object is accomplished.
Inventors
- 👤 David L. Wright
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-28 21:34
CPC Classifications
H; H10; H10N; H10N30/00; H10N30/20; H10N30/202; H10N30/2027
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 50
Claim 1
Independent Claim
171 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; the one-piece alignment member including a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact integrally formed on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member has a first base contact, a second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
171 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; the one-piece alignment member including a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact integrally formed on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member has a first base contact, a second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame.
Claim 3
Independent Claim
416 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact; and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, and a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and first electrodes.
Claim 4
Independent Claim
416 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact; and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, and a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and first electrodes.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
78 words
The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first electrode covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the third electrode covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member.
Claim 6
Independent Claim
495 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; the one-piece alignment member including a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact integrally formed on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact; the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact; and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact, wherein the means for controlling further includes a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member; and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 7
Independent Claim
495 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; the one-piece alignment member including a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact integrally formed on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact; the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact; and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact, wherein the means for controlling further includes a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member; and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 8
Independent Claim
196 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member; wherein the object transmits a component of a laser beam, wherein the alignment member has a passage for transmission of the component, wherein the alignment member has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the object has a Brewster angle relative to the leaser beam and the object plane is substantially at the Brewster angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.
Claim 9
Independent Claim
196 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; the second end of the alignment member secured to the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member; wherein the object transmits a component of a laser beam, wherein the alignment member has a passage for transmission of the component, wherein the alignment member has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the object has a Brewster angle relative to the leaser beam and the object plane is substantially at the Brewster angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.
Claim 10
Independent Claim
146 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; an alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member.
Claim 11
Independent Claim
146 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; an alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
56 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
11 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the alignment member is cylindrical.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define an equilateral triangle.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define a right triangle.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
223 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define an equilateral triangle.
Claim 19
Independent Claim
424 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; an alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact, and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, and a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and first electrodes.
Claim 20
Independent Claim
424 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; an alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact, and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, and a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and first electrodes.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
223 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the means for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
60 words
The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the means for controlling further includes a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define a right triangle.
Claim 24
Independent Claim
497 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; an alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the mean for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member; wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact; wherein the means for controlling further includes a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member; and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
497 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; an alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; and means, coupled to the alignment member, for controlling the positions of the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact by establishing an electric field inside the alignment member, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the mean for controlling includes a first electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, a second electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and a third electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member; wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact; wherein the means for controlling further includes a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member; and wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the alignment member has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the object plane is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
52 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the alignment member has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the object comprises an optical surface having a Brewster angle relative to a laser beam propogating parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the object plane is substantially at the Brewster angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
37 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the object comprises an output coupler for a laser cavity and transmits a component of a laser beam, and wherein the alignment member has a passage for transmission of the component.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
11 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the object comprises a mirror.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
28 words
The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the object transmits a component of a laser beam, and wherein the alignment member has a passage for transmission of the component.
Claim 31
Independent Claim
233 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line, the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; a first electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a first electric field along the first line inside the alignment member; a second electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a second electric field along the second line inside the alignment member; and a third electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a third electric field along the third line inside the alignment member.
Claim 32
Independent Claim
233 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line, the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; a first electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a first electric field along the first line inside the alignment member; a second electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a second electric field along the second line inside the alignment member; and a third electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a third electric field along the third line inside the alignment member.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
11 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the alignment member is cylindrical.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define an equilateral triangle.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define a right triangle.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
221 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the second electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the third electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one third of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define an equilateral triangle.
Claim 39
Independent Claim
838 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line, the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; a first electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a first electric field along the first line inside the alignment member; a second electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a second electric field along the second line inside the alignment member; and a third electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a third electric field along the third line inside the alignment member; wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the second electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line, the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; a first electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a first electric field along the first line inside the alignment member; a second electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a second electric field along the second line inside the alignment member; and a third electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a third electric field along the third line inside the alignment member; wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member; wherein the first electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the second electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the third electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member; and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact; the apparatus further including a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the fourth electrode extending from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member and covering a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member; wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 40
Independent Claim
838 words
An apparatus for controlling alignment of an object, the object characterized by an alignment plane, comprising: a mounting frame; a one-piece alignment member, having a first end, a second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line, the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; a first electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a first electric field along the first line inside the alignment member; a second electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a second electric field along the second line inside the alignment member; and a third electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a third electric field along the third line inside the alignment member; wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the second electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and second end, and formed of piezoelectric material; a first object contact, a second object contact and a third object contact on the first end of the alignment member, and defining an object plane; a first base contact, and second base contact and a third base contact on the second end and contacting the mounting frame, wherein the first object contact and first base contact define a first line, the second object contact and second base contact define a second line, and the third object contact and third base contact define a third line, and wherein the first line, second line, and third line are essentially parallel; means for holding the object in contact with the first object contact, second object contact and third object contact, so that the alignment plane has a determined relationship with the object plane; a first electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a first electric field along the first line inside the alignment member; a second electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a second electric field along the second line inside the alignment member; and a third electrode bonded to the alignment member for creating a third electric field along the third line inside the alignment member; wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member; wherein the first electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the second electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the third electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member; and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact; the apparatus further including a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the fourth electrode extending from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member and covering a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member; wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
221 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the alignment member is a hollow circular cylinder having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface defining a circumference of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, the second electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the third electrode is formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and wherein the first electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a first arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the first arc is aligned with the first object contact, the second electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a second arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the second arc is aligned with the second object contact, and the third electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, covers a third arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, and the center of the third arc is aligned with the third object contact.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
55 words
The apparatus of claim 32, further including a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the first object contact, second object contact, and third object contact define a right triangle.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
83 words
The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the alignment member has a first slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the first and second electrodes, a second slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the second and third electrodes, a third slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the third and fourth electrodes, and a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the alignment member has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the object plane is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
52 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the alignment member has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the object comprises an optical surface having a Brewster angle relative to a laser beam propagating parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the object plane is substantially at the Brewster angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
37 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the object comprises an output coupler for a laser cavity and transmits a component of a laser beam, and wherein the alignment member has a passage for transmission of the component.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
11 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the object comprises a mirror.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
28 words
The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the object transmits a component of a laser beam, and wherein the alignment member has a passage for transmission of the component.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
83 words
The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the means for controlling further includes a fourth electrode formed on the outside surface of the alignment member, and the fourth electrode extends from near the first end to near the second end of the alignment member, and covers a fourth arc of less than one fourth of the circumference of the alignment member, the alignment member further having a fourth slot extending toward the second end from the first end between the fourth and first electrodes.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1997-06-20 | 1997-12-20 | 1998-06-21 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2001-06-20 | 2001-12-20 | 2002-06-21 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2005-06-20 | 2005-12-20 | 2006-06-21 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |