Renishaw Plc

Brian J E Smith

Robert Bennett

Ian P Hayward

Roger M Badland

In a Raman spectroscopy apparatus, exciting light is focussed on a sample () as a line focus. Spectra from points in the line focus are dispersed in rowson a CCD detector, having a two-dimensional array of pixels. The line focus moves longitudinally in a direction Y (arrow) relative to the sample. Simultaneously and synchronously, charge is shifted in a parallel direction Y' (arrow) within the CCD, so that data from a given point in the sample continues to accumulate. This ensures that the data from each sample point arises from illumination which is integrated along the line focus, and makes it easier to stitch the data together subsequently to form an image of the sample. In order to provide averaging in the X direction during fast, low resolution scanning, the line focus is swept across the sample in a zig-zag fashion, between boundary lines

Spectroscopic apparatus with dispersive device for collecting sample data in synchronism with relative movement of a focus

A spectroscopic probe includes a monolithic block ( ) of transparent material and GRIN lenses ( ). Light for illuminating a sample is delivered by an optical fiber ( ), and light scattered by the sample is output by an optical fiber ( ). The block ( ) has opposing angled faces ( A, B), coated with a dichroic filter coating and a reflective coating respectively. A method for making blocks ( ) is also disclosed, in which the coatings are first provided on a large sheet, and blocks ( ) are then cut from the sheet using angled cuts. Since the coated block reduces the number of components required, the probe can be miniaturized, e.g. for use in an endoscope.

Spectroscopic probe

A mounting for optical components, e.g. in spectroscopic apparatus, has a rotatable baseplate,, on which a plurality of quadrant-shaped mounting plates,can be kinematically located. Each mounting plate,carries respective optical components, which can be brought into and out of an optical path by rotation of the base plate,One or more of the mounting plates,carries both a housing,for components such as filters,and also a beam steering mirror,on a bracket,A gap is provided between the housing,and the mirror,, so that the light beam,in the optical path can pass unhindered through the gap when this mounting plate is in an inoperative position.

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Dursley, United Kingdom

Brian J E Smith