Ian T Kohl

Title: Innovations by Ian T. Kohl

Introduction

Ian T. Kohl is an accomplished inventor based in Rio Rancho, NM (US). He holds a total of four patents, showcasing his expertise in optical systems and surface inspection technologies. His work has significantly contributed to advancements in the field of optical measurement and detection.

Latest Patents

One of Ian's latest patents is a scattered light measurement system. This optical collection and detection system is designed for use in a surface inspection system that inspects the surface of a workpiece. The system utilizes an incident beam projected through a back quartersphere toward a specific location on the surface, which is a scanned spot with a known size. The incident beam creates scattered light that is collected by a collector module, which includes optics for focusing the scattered light to form a focused output. The collector output slit is proportionally sized to the scanned spot, allowing for the passage of focused scattered light while excluding light from other regions of the workpiece. Additionally, a collector output varying subsystem optimizes the signal-to-noise ratio by minimizing unwanted light scatter.

Another significant patent involves inspecting a workpiece using scattered light. This surface inspection system comprises various subsystems, including a beam source, beam scanning, workpiece movement, optical collection and detection, and processing subsystems. The system features a variable polarization relay assembly that selectively permits scattered light with a chosen polarization orientation to pass to a light detection unit. Furthermore, it includes a collector output width varying subsystem that adjusts the output slit width based on the scanned location on the workpiece.

Career Highlights

Ian T. Kohl is currently employed at KLA-Tencor Corporation, where he continues to innovate and develop advanced optical systems. His contributions to the field have been recognized through his patents and the impact of his work on surface inspection technologies.

Collaborations

Ian has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Neil Judell and Songping Gao. Their combined expertise has fostered advancements in optical measurement systems and enhanced the capabilities of the technologies they work on.

Conclusion

Ian T. Kohl's innovative contributions to optical systems and surface inspection technologies have made a significant impact in his field. His patents reflect his dedication to advancing measurement techniques and improving the efficiency of surface inspections.