Precision optical slit for high heat load or ultra high vacuum

U.S. Patent Number: 5384662

Abstract: This invention relates generally to slits used in optics that must be precisely aligned and adjusted. The optical slits of the present invention are useful in x-ray optics, x-ray beam lines, optical systems in which the entrance slit is critical for high wavelength resolution. The invention is particularly useful in ultra high vacuum systems where lubricants are difficult to use and designs which avoid the movement of metal parts against one another are important, such as monochrometers for high wavelength resolution with ultra high vacuum systems. The invention further relates to optical systems in which temperature characteristics of the slit materials is important. The present invention yet additionally relates to precision slits wherein the opposing edges of the slit must be precisely moved relative to a center line between the edges with each edge retaining its parallel orientation with respect to the other edge and/or the center line.

Inventors: Andresen; Nord C. (Hayward, CA), DiGennaro; Richard S. (Albany, CA), Swain; Thomas L. (Richmond, CA)

Assignee: The Regents of the University of California (Berkeley, CA)

Application Number: 08/090,585

Issued: 1995-01-24

Expired: 2007-01-24

Classes: 359/894 ; 359/227; 359/230; 359/231; 359/232; 359/233

Field of search: 359/227,894,230,231,232,233

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