Patent ID: 8223338
Filing Date: 2012-07-17
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for measuring an optical property of a sample constrained by surface tension, comprising: a first pedestal surface coupled to a first optical conduit having a transmitting end; a base plate; a second pedestal surface mechanically coupled to said base plate and configured to receive a first liquid sample, said second pedestal surface being coupled to a second optical conduit having a receiving end, wherein said second pedestal further is operable so as to adjust a separation between said first and said second pedestal at a variable distance (P) to pull said first liquid sample into a column so as to be contained by surface tension, thereby providing an optical path with said transmitting end of said first optical conduit and said receiving end of said second optical conduit for photometric or spectrometric measurement; and a board configured with a sensor to provide feedback so as to enable precision displacement between said first and said second pedestal surfaces so as to enable said variable distance (P), said board further configured to enable holding a linear actuator motor body to said apparatus and thus: c) permit translational movement of said board together with said second optical conduit parallel to the axis of second optical conduit, and d) prevent rotation of said board and said second optical conduit with respect to said apparatus as a whole; thereby resulting in linear travel with minimal rotational effects and minimal change in optical alignment of second optical conduit with respect to said first optical conduit.