Daniel R Marshall

Title: The Innovations of Daniel R. Marshall

Introduction

Daniel R. Marshall is a notable inventor based in Tucson, Arizona. He has made significant contributions to the field of microscopy, particularly through his innovative designs and patents. With a total of three patents to his name, Marshall has demonstrated a commitment to advancing technology in his area of expertise.

Latest Patents

Marshall's latest patents include a scanning probe microscope that utilizes a height plus deflection method. This invention enhances resolution and speed in profiling a surface of a sample. It achieves this by producing an error signal that represents the difference between a probe signal and a desired value of that signal. The error signal is compensated for delays in the response of a position translator, which moves in response to the compensated error signal. This results in a change in the probe signal based on how closely the probe moves along the sample surface. The invention produces a signal representing the height of the sample surface by filtering and scaling the probe signal and summing it with the compensated error signal. This method incorporates both high-frequency components of the probe signal and low-frequency components of the compensated error signal, resulting in very high image resolution without sacrificing scanning speed.

Another of his patents involves an optical position sensor with a corner-cube and servo-feedback for scanning. This scanning probe microscope includes a probe support carrying a scanning probe and a piezoelectric transducer connected to a stage that supports the sample. The probe sensing circuitry detects interaction between the probe tip and the sample surface, producing a Z control voltage to optimize this interaction. The optical sensing circuitry features a light source in fixed relation to the sample stage, a position-sensitive photodetector, and optics that focus light onto the detector to generate X and Y position signals. Feedback servo circuits respond to these signals to apply control voltages to the piezoelectric transducer, enhancing the precision of the scanning process.

Career Highlights

Daniel R. Marshall is currently associated with Wyko, Inc., where he continues to innovate and develop advanced technologies in microscopy. His work has significantly impacted the field, leading to improvements in imaging techniques and surface profiling.

Conclusion

Daniel R. Marshall's contributions to the field of microscopy through his patents reflect his dedication to innovation and technology. His work not only enhances the capabilities of scanning probe microscopes but also sets a foundation for future advancements in the field.