Patent ID: 7979916
Filing Date: 2011-07-12
Classification: G01Q

Abstract:
1. A preamplifying cantilever arrangement for use with a scanning probe microscope (SPM), comprising: a main cantilever portion having a first operational length defined by a first end and a second end, a resonator cantilever portion having a second operational length defined by a third end and a fourth end, the third end being connected to the main cantilever portion; wherein the main cantilever portion is formed such that, when the preamplifying cantilever is used in a measurement arrangement in which the protruding tip is in contact with a surface of the actuable material, the main cantilever portion exhibits a first set of resonance characteristics that include a first set of fundamental frequencies and corresponding overtones; and wherein the resonator cantilever portion is formed such that it has a second set of resonance characteristics including a second set of fundamental frequencies and corresponding overtones, the second set of resonance characteristics being substantially distinct from any frequency of the first set of fundamental frequencies and at least a substantial portion of the overtones corresponding to the first set of fundamental frequencies, such that resonant motion of the resonator cantilever is substantially un-coupled from any resonant motion of the main cantilever portion when the preamplifying cantilever is used in the measuring arrangement.