Patent ID: 7630081
Filing Date: 2009-12-08
Classification: G01J

Abstract:
1. An interferometer for Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, comprising: a fixed assembly including a housing, a beam splitter, and a mirror fixedly positioned relative to each other; a movable assembly including a housing, a mirror, and a motor coil, fixedly positioned relative to each other; a first flat spring, having an opening for providing an unobstructed optical path of radiation therethrough, a first end of the first flat spring being secured to the fixed assembly and a second end of the first flat spring being secured to the movable assembly for providing movement of the movable assembly relative to the fixed assembly via the first flat spring; a second flat spring for providing a clearance for at least one of the mirror of the movable assembly and the motor coil, a first end of the second flat spring being secured to the fixed assembly and a second end of the second flat spring being secured to the movable assembly, the first and second flat springs cooperating with the fixed and movable assemblies to maintain a relationship between respective physical orientations of the beam splitter and the mirror of the movable assembly independent of a distance between the movable assembly and the fixed assembly, a surface of the mirror substantially not angularly deflecting as the movable assembly is translated relative to the fixed assembly; and the beam splitter, the mirror of the fixed assembly, and the mirror of the movable assembly being positioned in a space between the planes containing the first and second flat springs while in respective flat conditions.