Near field sensor with cantilever and tip containing optical path for an evanescent wave
US5770856A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jun 23, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 23, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S977/862
- WIPO fieldMicro-structural and nano-technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The disclosed optical device includes a probe which is integrally supported on a cantilever which defines an optical path extending to an external device which may carry an optical processor. In a preferred embodiment the device has an optical path which is capable of guiding an evanescent wave to the external device. The device overcomes a problem with prior art Scanning Tunnelling Microscopes in that, by utilizing evanescent waves, it enables access to the so called mesoscopic range between approximately 1.times.10.sup.-10 m.rarw.50.times.10.sup.-10 m (1.ANG.-50.ANG.). In an alternative embodiment the invention permits manipulation of microscopic particles by utilising the probe. The probe may also act as a sensor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.