Patent ID: 7899281
Filing Date: 2011-03-01
Classification: G01J,G01N,G02B

Abstract:
1. An optical delay line that comprises: an elongated member having a retroreflector that is slidably mounted thereon, wherein the elongated member defines a linear path through which the retroreflector moves and wherein the elongated member has on its proximal end a fixed pivot axis; a launch optical fiber having a first end for introducing a light beam toward the retroreflector; a return optical fiber having a first end for receiving a light beam that is reflected from the retroreflector; a rotatable disk having a central rotation axis that is parallel to the fixed pivot axis of the elongated member and having a second pivot axis, that is parallel to the fixed pivot axis of the elongated member, wherein the retroreflector is attached to the rotatable disk such that rotation of the rotatable disk translates the retroreflector between a first end and a second end of the linear slot and rotation of the disk defines a circular path through which the second pivot axis travels; and means for rotating the rotatable disk.