LI-COR, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160077122 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING VELOCITY AND FLUX OF A GAS - Systems and methods for determining gas velocity based on phase differences of signals from two or more interaction paths in a gas analyzer system. A laser source, which can provide access to an absorption gas line, is expanded, or is split into two or more beams. These beams can be used to create two (or more) parallel sampling paths separated by a known distance. Gas travelling in the plane of the two beams of light will pass through the optical paths at two (or more) different times creating very similar signals that will be out of phase with each other. The amount of phase difference will be inversely proportional to the velocity of the gas. | 03-17-2016 |
20150374819 | PHTHALOCYANINE PROBES AND USES THEREOF - The present invention relates to compositions and methods for destroying target cells in a patient using photodynamic therapy. In particular, the present invention provides a photosensitizing agent based on a small molecular weight (<50 kDa) protein or peptide or a small molecule that is conjugated to a phthalocyanine dye, such as IRDye® 700DX. | 12-31-2015 |
20150370058 | TELECENTRIC , WIDE-FIELD FLUORESCENCE SCANNING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Wide-field fluorescence imaging systems and methods. A bi-telecentric optical imaging system comprising imaging optics arranged and positioned such that a first telecentric space is created or exists between a sample platform and an entry aperture stop wherein Principal or chief rays from a plurality of field points on the sample platform are parallel to each other when passing through a first filter; and such that a second telecentric space is created or exists between a light detector and an exit aperture stop wherein the Principal or chief rays from the plurality of field points are parallel to each other when passing through a second filter. In this manner, light collected from different points in the field of view pass through the first filter at the same angles and also through the second filter at the same angles to thereby reduce or eliminate angular spectral shifting effects. | 12-24-2015 |
20150343084 | THERAPEUTIC AND DIAGNOSTIC PROBES - The present invention provides compositions and methods of use of nanoparticle-based probes for in vivo imaging and therapy. The probes can be used to track diseased target cells by non-invasive imaging in the near-infrared range. Additionally, the probes can induce cell death of the target cells via photodynamic treatment. | 12-03-2015 |
20150343060 | TREATMENT OF CIRCULATING TUMOR CELLS USING AN EXTRACORPOREAL DEVICE - The present invention relates to methods and compositions for eliminating circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in a patient with or without solid tumors. In particular, the ex vivo method utilizes a photodynamic or magnetic targeting moiety that specifically binds to antigens expressed on the cell surface of CTCs. | 12-03-2015 |
20150279648 | LASER DESORPTION IONIZATION MASS SPECTROMETRY USING A PARTICULATE SEPARATION BED - A self-assembled engineered lattice of nanometer-scale silica particles, or other suitable particles generally resembling regularly-sized spheres, is configured in a separation bed for electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing, chromatography, or other voltage-induced separation of analytes. After separation, the analytes are immobilized on the separation bed and then ionized using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) for use with a mass spectrometer. The nanoparticles can be coated with polymers that activate to immobilize the analytes or assist with MALDI. The separation can occur in two dimensions. | 10-01-2015 |
20150276674 | IMMUNOASSAYS USING COLLOIDAL CRYSTALS - The present invention provides systems, methods and kits which enable or utilize an immunologically-based assay, such as a Western immunoassay, to separate, detect or to monitor an analyte or a mixture of analytes such as biomolecules. | 10-01-2015 |
20150119553 | BIOCONJUGATES OF CYANINE DYES - Compounds are disclosed that are useful for noninvasive imaging in the near-infrared spectral range. Bioconjugate cyanine compounds of Formula II are presented: | 04-30-2015 |
20140360250 | GAS EXCHANGE SYSTEM FLOW CONFIGURATION WITH THERMALLY INSULATED SAMPLE CHAMBER - System flow path, designs that minimize the impact of gas diffusion sources and sinks. By reducing the magnitude of parasitic sources and sinks, lower rates of photosynthesis and transpiration can be more accurately measured, e.g., without the need for extensive empirical compensation. According to one aspect, a gas exchange analysis system includes a sample chamber defining a measurement volume for analysis of a sample, the sample chamber having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the internal surface(s) of the chamber defining the measurement volume are metal plated. The system also typically includes a source of gas coupled with the inlet of the sample chamber, and a gas analyzer coupled with the outlet of the sample chamber and configured to measure a concentration of one or more gases exiting the chamber, whereby the metal plated internal surface(s) of the chamber reduces sorption of the one or more gases within the chamber. The low thermal conductivity of the chamber substrate material provides an energy efficient means of sample temperature control. The low density of the chamber substrate material reduces chamber weight for improved portability and ergonomics.” | 12-11-2014 |
20140206568 | CHEMILUMINESCENCE COMPACT IMAGING SCANNER - Systems, devices, and methods for accurately imaging chemiluminescence and other luminescence are disclosed. A compact, flat-bed scanner having a light-tight enclosure, one or more detector bars of linear charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging chips, and high working numerical aperture (NA) optics scans closely over a sample in one direction and then the opposite direction. Averages or other combinations of intensity readings for each pixel location (x, y) between the two or more passes are averaged together in order to compensate for luminescence that varies over time. On-chip pixel binning and multiple clock frequencies can be used to maximize the signal to noise ratio in a CCD-based scanner. | 07-24-2014 |
20140192347 | CAVITY ENHANCED LASER BASED ISOTOPIC GAS ANALYZER - Systems and methods for measuring the isotope ratio of one or more trace gases and/or components of gas mixtures such as different gas species present in a gas mixture. The system includes a resonant optical cavity having two or more mirrors and containing a gas, the cavity having a free spectral range that equals the difference between frequencies of two measured absorption lines of different gas species in the gas, or of two different isotopes, divided onto an integer number. The system also includes a continuous-wave tunable laser optically coupled with the resonant optical cavity, and a detector system for measuring an absorption of laser light by the gas in the cavity. The detector system includes one of a photo-detector configured to measure an intensity of the intra-cavity light or both a photo-acoustic sensor configured to measure photo-acoustic waves generated in the cavity and a photo-detector configured to measure an intensity of the intra-cavity light. | 07-10-2014 |
20140125993 | CAVITY ENHANCED LASER BASED GAS ANALYZER SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy systems and methods for detecting trace gases using a resonance optical cavity, which contains a gas mixture to be analyzed, and a laser coupled to the cavity by optical feedback. The cavity has any of a variety of configurations with two or more mirrors, including for example a linear cavity, a v-shaped cavity and a ring optical cavity. The cavity will have multiple cavity resonant modes, or a comb of frequencies spaced apart, as determined by the parameters of the cavity, including the length of the cavity, as is well known. Systems and methods herein also allow for optimization of the cavity modes excited during a scan and/or the repetition rate. | 05-08-2014 |
20140123729 | CAVITY ENHANCED LASER BASED GAS ANALYZER SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy systems and methods for detecting trace gases using a resonance optical cavity, which contains a gas mixture to be analyzed, and a laser coupled to the cavity by optical feedback. The cavity has any of a variety of configurations with two or more mirrors, including for example a linear cavity, a v-shaped cavity and a ring optical cavity. The cavity will have multiple cavity resonant modes, or a comb of frequencies spaced apart, as determined by the parameters of the cavity, including the length of the cavity, as is well known. Systems and methods herein also allow for optimization of the cavity modes excited during a scan and/or the repetition rate. | 05-08-2014 |
20130291622 | GAS FLUX MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A gas flux measurement system comprises gas collection means, operable to collect gas for analysis, and gas analysing means, operable to analyse the collected gas. The gas collection means has at least one elongate tube. The, or each, tube has one or more gas collection openings to provide gaseous communication from outside of the tube to the inside of the tube. | 11-07-2013 |
20130280737 | CHEMILUMINESCENCE COMPACT IMAGING SCANNER - Systems, devices, and methods for accurately imaging chemiluminescence and other luminescence are disclosed. A compact, flat-bed scanner having a light-tight enclosure, one or more detector bars of linear charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging chips, and high working numerical aperture (NA) optics scans closely over a sample in one direction and then the opposite direction. Averages or other combinations of intensity readings for each pixel location (x, y) between the two or more passes are averaged together in order to compensate for luminescence that varies over time. On-chip pixel binning and multiple clock frequencies can be used to maximize the signal to noise ratio in a CCD-based scanner. | 10-24-2013 |
20130268208 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING GAS FLUX - Systems and methods for measuring turbulent gas flux using high-speed vertical wind speed measurements (e.g., on the order of 5-10 Hz or more frequently) and low-speed gas content measurements (e.g., on the order of 5 Hz or less frequently), without the need for the sophisticated and expensive high-speed hardware to separate gas samples (e.g., into accumulation bags) according to updrafts and downdrafts. A time series of high-speed vertical wind speed data is used as a guide to distinguish between updrafts and downdrafts. When vertical wind speed is upward (updraft), the low-speed gas content is recorded into a data structure in one location, or marked with one flag. When vertical wind speed is downward (downdraft), the low-speed gas content is recorded into a different location, or marked with a different flag. Eddy Accumulation or Relaxed Eddy Accumulation computations can be performed using the stored gas content data to determine gas flux. | 10-10-2013 |
20130250304 | SEMI-OPEN-PATH GAS ANALYSIS SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A gas analyzer includes a detector section including a detector, a source section including a light source, and a support structure coupling the detector section with the source section and forming a flow channel defining an optical path measuring region. The gas analyzer also includes an air flow device configured to pull air through the flow channel from an intake region in the support structure to an exhaust region. Sampling is done by pulling air into the sampling cell via an intake opening or tube of wide diameter and short to medium at very fast flow rates (e.g., 10-3000 lpm or more) enabling rapid gas sampling. Fast flow rates enable the use of large volume cell for rapid gas sampling, which in turn, enables rapid measurements of many low-concentration trace gases and sticky/reactive gases (e.g., methane, ammonia, isotopes of CO | 09-26-2013 |
20130157282 | CHEMILUMINESCENCE COMPACT IMAGING SCANNER - Systems, devices, and methods for accurately imaging chemiluminescence and other luminescence are disclosed. A compact, flat-bed scanner having a light-tight enclosure, one or more detector bars of linear charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging chips, and high working numerical aperture (NA) optics scans closely over a sample in one direction and then the opposite direction. Averages or other combinations of intensity readings for each pixel location (x, y) between the two or more passes are averaged together in order to compensate for luminescence that varies over time. On-chip pixel binning and multiple clock frequencies can be used to maximize the signal to noise ratio in a CCD-based scanner. | 06-20-2013 |
20130083328 | LASER BASED CAVITY ENHANCED OPTICAL ABSORPTION GAS ANALYZER WITH LASER FEEDBACK OPTIMIZATION - Optical feedback assisted cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy systems and methods for measuring trace gases with improved long-term stability and reproducibility include a laser coupled with a resonant optical cavity containing a gaseous medium and having at least two cavity mirrors and a plurality of optical resonance cavity modes. The laser emits continuous wave laser light with a mean optical frequency of the laser being adjustable over a range of frequencies, and the laser is responsive to optical feedback light emerging from the cavity. The transmissivity of at least one of the cavity mirrors is selected such that the intensity of the optical feedback light impinging on the laser is below a threshold intensity value so as to ensure that a frequency hold interval range of the optical frequency of the laser is smaller than a free spectral range of the cavity. | 04-04-2013 |
20130059343 | NUCLEOTIDE DERIVATIVES - The present invention provides compounds and methods for attaching fluorescent labels to biological molecules such as nucleotides. The compounds and methods are useful for biological assays including DNA modification reactions. | 03-07-2013 |
20130052637 | OPTICAL FLUORESCENT IMAGING IN HISTOLOGY - Compounds and methods are disclosed that are useful for noninvasive imaging in the near-infrared (NIR) spectral range. The NIR is highly sensitive for tumor detection and tracking. The application discloses targeting a tumor-enriched cell surface receptor with a ligand-conjugated fluorescent probe, which specifically allows detection of the tumor relative to the negligible animal autofluorescence. | 02-28-2013 |
20130044314 | CAVITY ENHANCED LASER BASED ISOTOPIC GAS ANALYZER - Systems and methods for measuring the isotope ratio of one or more trace gases and/or components of gas mixtures such as different gas species present in a gas mixture. The system includes a resonant optical cavity having two or more mirrors and containing a gas, the cavity having a free spectral range that equals the difference between frequencies of two measured absorption lines of different gas species in the gas, or of two different isotopes, divided onto an integer number. The system includes a continuous-wave tunable laser optically coupled with the resonant optical cavity and a detector system for measuring an absorption of laser light by the gas in the cavity. The detector system includes a photo-detector to measure an intensity of the intra-cavity light, or both a photo-acoustic sensor to measure photo-acoustic waves generated in the cavity and a photo-detector to measure an intensity of the intra-cavity light. | 02-21-2013 |
20130039860 | FLUORESCENT IMAGING WITH SUBSTITUTED CYANINE DYES - Compounds and methods are disclosed that are useful for noninvasive imaging in the near-infrared spectral range. The cyanine compounds of Formula I are presented: | 02-14-2013 |
20120310540 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ESTIMATING PHOTOSYNTHETIC CARBON ASSIMLATION - Methods, devices, and systems for measuring carbon assimilation based on simultaneous or near-simultaneous measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence and stomatal conductance of plant. A sample containing chlorophyll, such as a plant leaf, is illuminated with light, e.g., in the form of a single saturating pulse or multiple pulses, and chlorophyll fluorescence and stomatal conductance of the chlorophyll sample are measured. A porometer or infra-red gas analyzer is used to measure stomatal conductance and a photodetector is used to measure fluorescence. A carbon assimilation value for the chlorophyll sample is determined using the measured chlorophyll fluorescence and the measured stomatal conductance. | 12-06-2012 |
20120258048 | OPTICAL FLUORESCENT IMAGING - Compounds and methods are disclosed that are useful for noninvasive imaging in the near-infrared (NIR) spectral range. The NIR is highly sensitive for tumor detection and tracking. The application discloses targeting a tumor-enriched cell surface receptor with a ligand-conjugated fluorescent probe, which specifically allows detection of the tumor relative to the negligible animal autofluorescence. | 10-11-2012 |
20120257087 | DIFFERENTIAL SCAN IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for producing background-reduced fluorescence imaging signals include an illumination system that provides illumination light from an illumination source to a targeted area on the sample platform, a sensor adapted to detect light and having an array of sensing locations, and collection optics arranged and configured to project light emanating from the sample platform onto the sensor. In typical operation, light from the targeted area is projected onto a first portion of the sensor comprising a first plurality of the sensing locations and light from proximal to the targeted area on the platform is projected onto a second portion of the sensor comprising a second plurality of the sensing locations, and a second signal detected by the second portion of the sensor is subtracted from a first signal detected by the first portion of the sensor to produce a background-reduced signal, e.g., a signal with reduced background related noise. | 10-11-2012 |
20120204622 | GAS ANALYZER - Gas analyzer systems and methods for measuring concentrations of gasses and in particular dry mole fraction of components of a gas. The systems and method allow for rapid measurement of the gas density and/or dry mole fraction of gases for a number of environmental monitoring applications, including high speed flux measurements. A novel coupling design allows for tool-free removal of a cell enclosing a flow path to enable in field cleaning of optical components. | 08-16-2012 |
20120187277 | SENSOR AND METHOD OF DETECTING THE CONDITION OF A TURF GRASS - A method of detecting the condition of a turf grass is described. According to one aspect of the invention, the method comprises steps of attaching an active sensor to a mower; traversing a section of turf grass; and processing the output of the sensor. A device for detecting the condition of turf grass is also disclosed. The device comprises an array of illuminating devices generating a pattern of illuminating light; a detecting device receiving a pattern of reflected light which is coincident with the pattern of illuminating light; a detecting device adapted to detect stray light from the may of illuminating devices; and a feedback loop controlling the array of illuminating devices. A system employing the device is also disclosed. | 07-26-2012 |
20120181432 | OFF-SET COMPENSATION TECHNIQUE FOR DUAL ANALYZER GAS EXCHANGE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods of compensating analyzer offsets in a dual analyzer gas analysis systems. A flow swapping device when in a first configuration delivers the chamber influent to a first gas analyzer, and the chamber effluent delivered to a second gas analyzer. At any arbitrary time, the configuration of the flow swapping device can be switched wherein chamber influent is delivered to the second gas analyzer, and chamber effluent is delivered to the first gas analyzer. By changing the configuration of the match valve, the gas analyzer initially connected to the chamber effluent is connected to the chamber influent. Conversely, the gas analyzer initially connected to the chamber influent is connected to the chamber effluent enabling a determination of offset error between the analyzers. The various embodiments are approximately two-times faster than known methods for dual analyzer systems; the reduced time translates to an overall faster gas exchange measurement. | 07-19-2012 |
20120120397 | HYBRID GAS ANALYZER WITH THERMALLY INSULATED FLOW CELL - Gas analyzer systems and methods for measuring concentrations of gases and in particular dry mole fraction of components of a gas. The systems and methods allow for rapid measurement of the gas density and/or dry mole fraction of gases for a number of environmental monitoring applications, including high speed flux measurements. A novel coupling design allows for tool-free removal of a cell enclosing a flow path to enable infield cleaning of optical components and to enable re-configuration between open- and closed-path analyzer configurations. In closed path configurations, the sample flow path is thermally isolated from the remainder of the gas analyzer to provide more accurate temperature measurements. Composite plastic/metal sample cells are presented with achieve this thermal isolation without compromising analyzer performance. | 05-17-2012 |
20120115215 | LIGHT SOURCE REFLECTOR - A light source reflector includes a structure having three or more internal reflective surfaces defining a first light entry aperture and a second light exit aperture having an area that is greater than the area of the entry aperture. A single light source, or a plurality of uniformly distributed light sources, such as one or more LEDs, located proximal the entry aperture provides illumination, which impinges on the reflective surfaces from the entry aperture and is reflected off the surfaces to provides a substantially uniform illumination pattern exiting the exit aperture. The reflector advantageously allows for the use of a source (e.g., LED(s)) that is smaller than the targeted area of illumination and also avoids creating hot-spots as the reflector does not focus the light, but rather reflects mirror images of the source off of the reflective surfaces. | 05-10-2012 |
20120074325 | GAS EXCHANGE SYSTEM FLOW CONFIGURATION WITH THERMALLY INSULATED SAMPLE CHAMBER - System flow path designs that minimize the impact of gas diffusion sources and sinks. By reducing the magnitude of parasitic sources and sinks, lower rates of photosynthesis and transpiration can be more accurately measured, e.g., without the need for extensive empirical compensation. According to one aspect, a gas exchange analysis system includes a sample chamber defining a measurement volume for analysis of a sample, the sample chamber having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the internal surface(s) of the chamber defining the measurement volume are metal plated. The system also typically includes a source of gas coupled with the inlet of the sample chamber, and a gas analyzer coupled with the outlet of the sample chamber and configured to measure a concentration of one or more gases exiting the chamber, whereby the metal plated internal surface(s) of the chamber reduces sorption of the one or more gases within the chamber. The low thermal conductivity of the chamber substrate material provides an energy efficient means of sample temperature control. The low density of the chamber substrate material reduces chamber weight for improved portability and ergonomics.” | 03-29-2012 |
20120073355 | GAS EXCHANGE SYSTEM FLOW CONFIGURATION - Active compensation designs to offset the impact of gas diffusion sources and sinks in a photosynthesis and transpiration measurement system are disclosed. A sensor head for use in a gas exchange analysis system includes an active, piezoelectric flow splitting device for splitting a flow between a sample chamber and bypass pathway. The active flow splitting device is controlled by feedback from a downstream flow meter. A continuous measurement system for rapidly and accurately surveying large numbers of samples is described. | 03-29-2012 |
20120057160 | GAS ANALYZER - Gas analyzer systems and methods for determining gas flux in a short intake tube configuration without using any Webb-Pearman-Leuning density correction. Gas analyzer systems and methods for measuring concentrations of gasses and in particular dry mole fraction of components of a gas. The systems and method allow for rapid measurement of the gas density and/or dry mole fraction of gases for a number of environmental monitoring applications, including high speed flux measurements. A novel coupling design allows for tool-free removal of a cell enclosing a flow path to enable in field cleaning of optical components. | 03-08-2012 |
20110304105 | DIFFUSION AND SORPTION FREE GASKETS FOR GAS EXCHANGE MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS - Gaskets are provided for use in gas exchange measurement systems used for photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration measurements. Novel gaskets and gasket designs are provided, including composite gasket designs, along with corresponding construction techniques, which effectively provide low diffusion through bulk material, significant reductions in interfacial diffusion, sufficient compliance to conform to surface irregularities under low applied stresses, and/or low sorption properties, particularly of H | 12-15-2011 |
20110284765 | OPTICAL BACKGROUND SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FLUORESCENCE IMAGING - A fluorescence imaging system having an enclosure having an optical excitation and detection system and features designed to suppress or reduce background fluorescence. In certain aspects, all or a portion of the interior walls has a material finish and texture that provides a surface that absorbs at least a portion of any impinging excitation light and which has low auto-fluorescing properties. In certain aspects, a baffle structure is provided on the interior of the structure and is configured to mask portions of the interior and reduce the opening through which light impinges on the detector. In certain aspects, a platform having an optically transparent window is located in the interior of the housing structure for holding a sample for excitation by excitation light from an excitation source, wherein a light-trap structure is positioned or located on an opposite side of the platform relative to the excitation source and configured to receive and contain a substantial portion of any scattered or transmitted excitation light. | 11-24-2011 |
20110279706 | WIDE DYNAMIC RANGE IMAGING - Systems and methods for extending the dynamic range of imaging systems, and more particularly fluorescence or luminescence imaging systems, having low optical background, and a linear detector response. Images of a sample at each of a set of exposure times are acquired, a system-level dark estimate for each exposure time is subtracted from each image to form dark-corrected images, and the different exposures (dark-corrected images) are merged into a wider dynamic-range image. Typically merging is performed on a pixel-by pixel basis. | 11-17-2011 |
20110278470 | HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE SCANNING WITH REDUCED CHANNEL CROSS-TALK - A multi-channel scanning system adapted to implement a low channel cross-talk, extra-wide dynamic range scanning method by scanning the same location more than once, wherein at least one time, the power of the excitation light and detector gain are set to High for at least one of the channels and Low for at least one of the other channels and different settings are used in subsequent scans. The scans of the same channel taken with different High and Low settings are merged together to produce one wider dynamic range image. | 11-17-2011 |
20110273704 | Direct, Diffuse, and Total Radiation Sensor - A solar radiation detector comprises a shading element that casts a shadow over one of a number of sensors disposed about the shading element. The shading element and the sensors are spaced in relation to each other that the shadow cast by the shading element always falls on one of the sensors, completely shading that one sensor, while at the same time leaves at least another one of the sensor completely exposed to direct solar radiation. The completely shaded sensor measures substantially only diffuse solar radiation. | 11-10-2011 |
20110270534 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING GAS FLUX - Disclosed embodiments of the present invention provide means to obtain correct gas density and flux measurements using (i) gas analyzer (open-path, or closed-path gas analyzers with short intake tube, for example 1 m long, or any combination of the two); (ii) fast temperature or sensible heat flux measurement device (such as, fine-wire thermocouple, sonic anemometer, or any other device providing fast accurate gas temperature measurements); (iii) fast air water content or latent heat flux measurement device (such as, hygrometer, NDIR analyzer, any other device providing fast accurate gas water content measurements); (iv) vertical wind or sampling device (such as sonic anemometer, scintillometer, or fast solenoid valve, etc.) and (v) algorithms in accordance with the present invention to compute the corrected gas flux, compensated for T-P effects. In case when water factor in T-P effects is negligible, the fast air water content or latent heat flux measurement device (item iii in last paragraph) can be excluded. | 11-03-2011 |
20110259850 | PROCESS FOR FORMING A LIGHT BEAM PATH IN A DIELECTRIC MIRROR - An optical mirror element includes an optically transmissive element having a first surface and a second surface, and a reflective coating layer on the first surface that defines a mirror surface. A first portion of the first surface does not include the reflective coating layer such that the first portion defines an optically transmissive window in the mirror surface. Q method of forming an optical mirror element having a window portion includes providing an optical element, masking a first portion of a first surface of the optical element, and thereafter applying a reflective coating to the first surface so as to define a reflective surface, wherein the masked portion defines a transmissive region in the reflective surface. The exposed portion of the first surface may be coated with an anti-reflective coating, either before or after the reflective coating is applied. | 10-27-2011 |
20110242659 | MULTI-PASS OPTICAL CELL WITH ACTUATOR FOR ACTUATING A REFLECTIVE SURFACE - A multi-pass optical cell with an actuator for actuating a reflective surface is provided. In one preferred embodiment, an apparatus is provided comprising a first reflective surface, a second reflective surface, and a support structure supporting the first and second reflective surfaces. The support structure positions the first and second reflective surfaces to create an optical cell. The apparatus also comprises a source and a detector, which are positioned such that light emitted from the source is reflected in the optical cell at least one time between the first and second reflective surfaces before reaching the detector. The apparatus further comprises an actuator coupled with and operative to actuate the first reflective surface. In some embodiments, the actuator rotates the first reflective surface. Also, in some embodiments, the multi-pass optical cell is an open path multi-pass optical cell, while, in other embodiments, the multi-pass optical cell is a closed path multi-pass optical cell. | 10-06-2011 |
20110239954 | MODULAR ANIMAL IMAGING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE - An imaging system that allows for unhindered access to a sample to be imaged. A housing structure is configured with a drawer having a platform. The platform may be configured to hold a sample, such as an animal, and/or the platform may be configured to mate with a sample holding member, such as a removable carrying tray for holding the sample. The drawer presents the platform to an imaging device or system internal to the housing when in a closed, or imaging, state. When in an extended state, the drawer presents the platform external to the housing to allow unobstructed manipulation of a sample on the drawer platform (or on the sample holding member on the platform). When used, a sample holding member such as a removable carrying tray may be docked with the drawer platform, and various interconnects, such as gas ports and electrical connectors, on the sample holding member engage with corresponding elements on the platform when docked. The tray may be undocked and moved to a remote location having a compatible docking station to allow for preparation or processing of a sample elsewhere. The tray may be docked with a docking station located at a sample preparation station. In the case of a live animal sample, the preparation station may include a sterile hood or other laboratory location. | 10-06-2011 |
20110235043 | SENSOR AND METHOD OF DETECTING THE CONDITION OF A TURF GRASS - A method of detecting the condition of a turf grass is described. According to one aspect of the invention, the method comprises steps of attaching an active sensor to a mower; traversing a section of turf grass; and processing the output of the sensor. A device for detecting the condition of turf grass is also disclosed. The device comprises an array of illuminating devices generating a pattern of illuminating light; a detecting device receiving a pattern of reflected light which is coincident with the pattern of illuminating light; a detecting device adapted to detect stray light from the array of illuminating devices; and a feedback loop controlling the array of illuminating devices. A system employing the device is also disclosed. | 09-29-2011 |
20110216311 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LOCKING A LASER WITH A RESONANT CAVITY - A method and apparatus for the photo-acoustic identification and quantification of one or more analyte species present in a gaseous or liquid medium in low concentration utilizing a laser and a resonant optical cavity containing the medium and having within the cavity at least two partially transparent mirrors, one of which is a cavity coupling mirror and one of which is moveably mounted on an assembly responsive to an input signal. | 09-08-2011 |
20110214481 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE PHOTO-ACOUSTIC IDENTIFICATION AND QUANTIFICATION OF ANALYTE SPECIES IN A GASEOUS OR LIQUID MEDIUM - A method and apparatus for the photo-acoustic identification and quantification of one or more analyte species present in a gaseous or liquid medium in low concentration utilizing a laser and a resonant optical cavity containing the medium and having within the cavity at least two partially transparent mirrors, one of which is a cavity coupling mirror and one of which is moveably mounted on an assembly responsive to an input signal. | 09-08-2011 |
20110214480 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE PHOTO-ACOUSTIC IDENTIFICATION AND QUANTIFICATION OF ANALYTE SPECIES IN A GASEOUS OR LIQUID MEDIUM - A method and apparatus for the photo-acoustic identification and quantification of one or more analyte species present in a gaseous or liquid medium in low concentration utilizing a laser and a resonant optical cavity containing the medium and having within the cavity at least two partially transparent mirrors, one of which is a cavity coupling mirror and one of which is moveably mounted on an assembly responsive to an input signal. | 09-08-2011 |
20110065597 | SINGLE MOLECULE PROTEOMICS WITH DYNAMIC PROBES - Methods are disclosed utilizing single-molecule proteomics with dynamic probes to accomplish a variety of protein analytic applications. A panel of probes, when used in combination, can resolve and quantify a proteome in a simple assay detecting transient binding to single protein targets. | 03-17-2011 |
20110061442 | VENT AND SOIL FLUX MEASUREMENT SYSTEM - A method and apparatus are provided for maintaining pressure inside a closed chamber equal to the changing outside pressure, detecting leaks in the plumbing (i.e., air handling system) of a trace gas flux measurement system, and estimating the kinetic volume, e.g., of such a system. | 03-17-2011 |
20110054803 | Method and Apparatus for Determining Gas Flux - Disclosed embodiments of the present invention provide means to obtain correct gas density and flux measurements using (i) gas analyzer (open-path, or closed-path gas analyzers with short intake tube, for example 1 m long, or any combination of the two); (ii) fast temperature or sensible heat flux measurement device (such as, fine-wire thermocouple, sonic anemometer, or any other device providing fast accurate gas temperature measurements); (iii) fast air water content or latent heat flux measurement device (such as, hygrometer, NDIR analyzer, any other device providing fast accurate gas water content measurements); (iv) vertical wind or sampling device (such as sonic anemometer, scintillometer, or fast solenoid valve, etc.) and (v) algorithms in accordance with the present invention to compute the corrected gas flux, compensated for T-P effects. In case when water factor in T-P effects is negligible, the fast air water content or latent heat flux measurement device (item iii in last paragraph) can be excluded. | 03-03-2011 |
20100323389 | FLUORESCENT IMAGING WITH SUBSTITUTED CYANINE DYES - Compounds and methods are disclosed that are useful for noninvasive imaging in the near-infrared spectral range. The cyanine compounds of Formula I are presented: | 12-23-2010 |
20100110438 | HYBRID GAS ANALYZER - Gas analyzer systems and methods for measuring concentrations of gasses and in particular dry mole fraction of components of a gas. The systems and method allow for rapid measurement of the gas density and/or dry mole fraction of gases for a number of environmental monitoring applications, including high speed flux measurements. A novel coupling design allows for tool-free removal of a cell enclosing a flow path to enable in field cleaning of optical components and to enable re-configuration between open- and closed-path analyzer configurations. | 05-06-2010 |
20100110437 | GAS ANALYZER - Gas analyzer systems and methods for measuring concentrations of gasses and in particular dry mole fraction of components of a gas. The systems and method allow for rapid measurement of the gas density and/or dry mole fraction of gases for a number of environmental monitoring applications, including high speed flux measurements. A novel coupling design allows for tool-free removal of a cell enclosing a flow path to enable in field cleaning of optical components. | 05-06-2010 |
20100091290 | SURFACE PREPARATION METHOD FOR ELIMINATING OPTICAL INTERFERENCE FROM ABSORPTION CAVITY MIRRORS - Optical mirror elements having a diffusive backing, methods for making such optical mirror elements, and devices incorporating such optical mirror elements. The optical mirror element typically includes a first, reflective surface, and a second surface having uneven or granular features, wherein light passing through the first surface is diffusely reflected by the uneven or granular features of the second surface. The optical mirror elements are particularly well suited for use in Herriott Cell arrangements in gas analyzers. | 04-15-2010 |
20100007958 | PROCESS OF FORMING A LIGHT BEAM PATH IN A DIELECTRIC MIRROR - An optical mirror element includes an optically transmissive element having a first surface and a second surface, and a reflective coating layer on the first surface that defines a mirror surface. A first portion of the first surface does not include the reflective coating layer such that the first portion defines an optically transmissive window in the mirror surface. Q method of forming an optical mirror element having a window portion includes providing an optical element, masking a first portion of a first surface of the optical element, and thereafter applying a reflective coating to the first surface so as to define a reflective surface, wherein the masked portion defines a transmissive region in the reflective surface. The exposed portion of the first surface may be coated with an anti-reflective coating, either before or after the reflective coating is applied. | 01-14-2010 |
20090170074 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NUCLEIC ACID SEQUENCING BY POLYMERASE SYNTHESIS - This invention relates to improved methods for sequencing and genotyping nucleic acid in a single molecule configuration. The method involves single molecule detection of fluorescent labeled PPi moieties released from NTPs as a polymerase extension product is created. | 07-02-2009 |
20090139307 | VENT AND SOIL FLUX MEASUREMENT SYSTEM - A method and apparatus are provided for maintaining pressure inside a closed chamber equal to the changing outside pressure, detecting leaks in the plumbing (i.e., air handling system) of a trace gas flux measurement system, and estimating the kinetic volume, e.g., of such a system. | 06-04-2009 |
20090092966 | COLLOIDAL METAL AGGREGATES AND METHODS OF USE - Metal colloidal aggregates substrates useful for metal enhanced fluorescence applications, are disclosed. Method of making and using these colloidal aggregates for enhancing the fluorescent signal in biological assays are also described. | 04-09-2009 |
20090080194 | FLUORESCENCE FILTERING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOLECULAR IMAGING - An optical system is disclosed that can be used for fluorescence filtering for molecular imaging. In one preferred embodiment, a source subsystem is disclosed comprising a light source and a first set of filters designed to pass wavelengths of light in an absorption band of a fluorescent material. A detector subsystem is also disclosed comprising a light detector, imaging optics, a second set of filters designed to pass wavelengths of light in an emission band of the fluorescent material, and an aperture located at a front focal plane of the imaging optics. A telecentric space is created between the light detector and the imaging optics, such that axial rays from a plurality of field points emerge from the imaging optics parallel to each other and perpendicular to the second set of filters. | 03-26-2009 |
20090056639 | MODULAR ANIMAL IMAGING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE - An imaging system that allows for unhindered access to a sample to be imaged. A housing structure is configured with a drawer having a platform. The platform may be configured to hold a sample, such as an animal, and/or the platform may be configured to mate with a sample holding member, such as a removable carrying tray for holding the sample. The drawer presents the platform to an imaging device or system internal to the housing when in a closed, or imaging, state. When in an extended state, the drawer presents the platform external to the housing to allow unobstructed manipulation of a sample on the drawer platform (or on the sample holding member on the platform). When used, a sample holding member such as a removable carrying tray may be docked with the drawer platform, and various interconnects, such as gas ports and electrical connectors, on the sample holding member engage with corresponding elements on the platform when docked. The tray may be undocked and moved to a remote location having a compatible docking station to allow for preparation or processing of a sample elsewhere. The tray may be docked with a docking station located at a sample preparation station. In the case of a live animal sample, the preparation station may include a sterile hood or other laboratory location. | 03-05-2009 |
20080241833 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NUCLEIC ACID SEQUENCING BY POLYMERASE SYNTHESIS - This invention relates to improved methods for sequencing and genotyping nucleic acid in a single molecule configuration. The method involves single molecule detection of fluorescent labeled PPi moieties released from NTPs as a polymerase extension product is created. | 10-02-2008 |