Patent ID: 8087093
Filing Date: 2011-12-27
Classification: B82Y,G01Q

Abstract:
1. A mechanically-coupled tuning fork-scanning probe vibrating system, the system comprising: a tuning fork capable of vibrating upon application of an AC voltage thereto; a scanning probe attached to a side of the tuning fork and capable of vibrating in response to vibrations of the tuning fork; and a contact member contacting at least one side surface of the scanning probe and adjusting a position of a contact point at which the contact member contacts with the scanning probe, to vary a natural frequency of vibration of the mechanically combined tuning fork and scanning probe, wherein the contact member comprises: a pin-point support contacting at a first side surface of the scanning probe and movable along a lengthwise direction of the scanning probe; and a knife-edge balance contacting at a second side surface of the scanning probe opposite to first side surface, and movable along the lengthwise direction of the scanning probe between a point where the scanning probe is attached to the tuning fork, and a point where the pin-point support contacts the first side surface of the scanning probe.