Nutfield Technology, Inc.

Instrument Associates LLC

Robert T Milkowski

Brian Patrick Stokes

Carl Brian Candiloro

An annular position detection method provides a plurality of light emitters on a first imaginary circle centered on an axis, the emitters directing individual, well-defined, overlapping light beams to a pair of light detectors positioned on a second imaginary circle centered on that axis. The detectors include pairs of diametrically opposite photosensors producing outputs depending upon the areas thereof exposed to light from the emitters. A light blocker is rotatably mounted on the axis so that the blocker blocks light to different extents of the photosensors depending upon its orientation about the axis. The outputs from all of the photosensors are processed to produce a position signal that varies with the angular position of the blocker and the relative intensities of the emitters are adjusted so that the position signal is substantially linear at all operative angles of the blocker. Apparatus for practicing the method is also disclosed.

Optical angular position detection apparatus and method

Techniques are described for laser-scribing a feature on a surface in relation to a reference feature on that surface, such as a feature created by a previous placement of the laser beam. In particular, using a laser beam focusing and deflection system to direct a laser scribing spot onto a surface through an optical path, an optical detection system provides reliable detection of the position of an existing feature on the surface as viewed through the optical path of the deflection system. Based on feedback provided from the detection system to the deflection system, the position of the laser beam may be modified through the deflection system in relation to the viewed feature to scribe a subsequent feature on the surface which tracks the existing feature in real time. A method of scribing to accomplish the objectives is also disclosed.

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Shirley, MA, United States of America

Robert T Milkowski