Micro-molded optical bench

One of the world's smallest commercially available spectrometer modules uses high production micro-structuring techniques. The micro-molding manufacturing method uses tooling to provide a complete optical bench, that includes the spectrometer grating. All parts are molded in place.

Attached to a linear image sensor, i.e. CMOS or CCD array, the complete module fits easily into a match box. Advantages: lower cost, reduce assembly time, eliminate active alignment and test procedures to adjust all critical parts.

Peter Zuska
American Laubscher Corp.
ALC Bldg, 80 Finn Ct.
Farmingdale, NY 11735
(516) 694-5900.

Fixed ruby orifice

To accurately measure oxygen content in a mixed nitrox (nitrogen and oxygen) scuba tank, an oxygen analyzer requires highly repeatable flow rates. Needle valves aren't fixed in position, and may have flow-restriction problems if a calibrated flow rate is unsuspectedly altered from one user to the next.

A fixed ruby orifice, with 0.005-inch diameter, provides precise, repeatable flow rates to ensure stable, accurate sample-gas analysis. The miniature orifices come in a range of sizes from 0.0008 to 0.0350 inches. Other applications include medical equipment, instruments, aerospace equipment and engine components.

Paul Baillio
Bird Precision
Box 569
Waltham, MA 02454
(781) 894-0160.

Submit your ideas and rough drawings for this section to John Lewis, Designer's Corner, Design News, 275 Washington St., Newton, MA 02458