This inventor holds 3 USPTO granted patents. Top assignee: International Business Machines Corporation. Active years: 1978-1984.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1978-1984
Title: The Innovations of Robert A. Laff
Introduction
Robert A. Laff is a notable inventor based in Yorktown Heights, NY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of optical technology, holding a total of 3 patents. His work primarily focuses on improving optical printing and laser technology.
Latest Patents
One of Laff's latest patents is titled "Uniformly Intense Imaging by Close-Packed Lens Array." This invention describes an improved optical printing head that includes a linear array of light sources and a lens array made of graded index optical fibers arranged in a hexagonal close-packed configuration. The design features at least three rows of individual fiber lenses, with the linear array of light sources aligned with the lines of symmetry of the lens array. This configuration minimizes the deviation in the intensity of light transmitted through the lens array, enhancing the quality of images produced on a photosensitive surface on a rotating drum. The print head is applicable in optical printing machines.
Another significant patent is the "Grating Coupled Waveguide Laser Apparatus." This invention involves a semiconductor laser and an optical waveguide that are coupled along a common optical axis. The optical resonant cavity is formed by reflective surfaces at the remote ends. A periodic grating in the side surface of the optical waveguide directs some radiant energy out of the cavity in a direction that is not parallel to the common optical axis, thereby improving the efficiency of the laser apparatus.
Career Highlights
Robert A. Laff is currently associated with the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), where he continues to innovate and develop new technologies. His work has had a lasting impact on the field of optical engineering.
Collaborations
Laff has collaborated with several talented individuals, including Liam David Comerford and Eric Gung-Hwa Lean. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of his projects and innovations.
Conclusion
Robert A. Laff's contributions to optical technology through his patents and work at IBM highlight his role as a significant inventor in the field. His innovative designs continue to influence the development of optical printing and laser technologies.