B. Among the optical systems included in this class are:
Compound lens systems; Light reflecting signalling systems
(e.g., retroreflectors); Stereoscopic systems; Binocular devices;
Systems of lenticular elements; Systems involving light interference;
Glare reducing systems; Light dividing and combining systems; Light
control systems (e.g., light valves); Building illumination with natural
light; Systems for protecting or shielding elements; Optical systems
whose operation depends upon polarizing, diffracting, dispersing,
reflecting, or refracting light; Kaleidoscopes
C. Further included are certain apertures, closures, and viewing
devices of a specialized nature which involve no intentional reflection,
refraction, or filtering of light rays.
D. This class also includes optical elements combined with
another type of structure(s) to constitute an optical element combined
with a nonoptical structure or a perfection or improvement in the
optical element. This includes filters with supports or frames;
reflectors with handles, vehicles, or controlling motors; and prisms with
mountings. Also, included are lenses with supports or mountings,
lenses with diverse art tools, instruments or machines, lenses with
casings and lenses with viewed object supports or viewed object
or field illumination. Additionally, included are stereo-viewers
with view changers, illumination or supporting, mounting, enclosing
or light shielding structure; lenses with spacing structure such
as barrels with or without an additional support, handle or illumination;
and optical elements with moisture or foreign particle control.
E. Included here also are certain accessories or attachments
combined with optical elements such as blinds, shields, shades,
and caps or covers for preventing the accumulation of dust, moisture,
or other foreign material.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
SUPPORTS OR MOUNTS FOR OPTICAL ELEMENTS AND SYSTEMS
Included here (359) also are supports, mounts, and frames
which are particularly adapted for use with optical elements. The
nominal recitation of a mirror or filter in combination with such
structure is generally not sufficient for classification here, if
the mirror or filter is treated as a panel or lamina of general
utility. Such panels with associated components, such as frames,
edging, backing, etc., mechanically and permanently assembled thereto
are provided for elsewhere. Supports for such panel type structures
are classified elsewhere. (See References to the Current Class,
below.) However, combinations of a detailed mirror with its support
are classified in this class. In the case of other optical elements,
such as prisms or lenses, the broad recitation of the element in
combination with the support or mounting is sufficient for classification
in this class. This Class (359) provides for lenses, prisms, and
filters respectively with supports. (See Subclass References to the
Current Class, below.)
Stereo-viewer supports and mountings are provided for in this
class. (See Subclass References to the Current Class, below.)
NONVISIBLE RADIATION
Included in this class are not only those elements which operate
in the visible portion of the spectrum, but also those which operate
in the near visible portion of the spectrum (i.e., infrared and
ultraviolet) in accordance with optical principles. Systems which
function in both the visible and near visible portions of the spectrum
are classified here unless a specific structure is claimed as a result
of the utilization of invisible ray energy. Systems whose operation
is restricted to the nonvisible portion of the spectrum are classified
elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)
OPTICAL SYSTEM INCLUDING PHOTOCELL
Generally, where a photocell is claimed as a part of the optical
system, the subject matter is excluded from this class. Such subject
matter is typically provided for with the art for radiant energy
or measuring and testing. However, where a modulating signal is
recovered from a modulated light wave (as in an optical communication receiver
or in an optical demodulator), classification is in Class 359.
(See References to Other Classes, below.)
OPTICAL WAVEGUIDES
Optical waveguiding elements, per se, are classified in elsewhere.
Also, combinations of an optical waveguide with an associated mechanical
connecting device or a device coupling light into or out of the
optical waveguide are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other
Classes, below.)
OPTICAL MODULATION
An optical modulator, in general, is classified in this class
(359). However, optical modulation occuring solely within the confines
of an optical waveguide is excluded from this class. Such subject
matter is provided for in Class 385.
OPTICAL AMPLIFICATION OR FREQUENCY CONVERSION
A detailed optical amplifier/frequency converter,
per se, or such subject matter in combination with an additional waveguide
structure is classified in this class (359). However, the nominal
recitation of any type of optical amplifier/frequency converter
together with an additional waveguide structure is classified elsewhere
where such combination meets the class requirements.
MEASURING AND TESTING
A claimed image forming optical system plus a reticle is classified
in this class. Sighting instruments for determining geometrical
relationships where no significant optical system is claimed are
classified elsewhere. Measuring and testing systems which determine
the optical characteristics of light so as to measure materials
and provides for lens or reflective image former testing are classified
elsewhere. Eye examining and testing instruments are classified
elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)
LASERS
Lasers and similar devices, per se, are excluded from this
class. See References to Other Classes for lasers and similar devices
when they function as a generator of coherent electromagnetic waves
in the optical range.
OPTICAL TELEMETRY
Optical telemetry includes the combination of an optical data
link between multiple locations together with a specific sensor
used in a particular environment. Since the overall combination
specifies an environment or specific sensor, the environment or
sensor will control the classification. The following are examples
of proper art areas for optical telemetry:
(1) Wellbore telemetry including any type of radiant energy;
(i.e., optical, radio, etc.). (See References to Other Classes,
below.)
(2) An optical data link in combination with a specific sensor,
unless there is a place for the specific sensor in another class.
(See References to Other Classes, below.)
COMPOSITIONS AND STOCK MATERIAL
Where there is no shape or structure peculiar to optical elements
as in compositions or stock material, the subject matter is excluded
from this class. See References to Other Classes, below, for classes
that provide for these compositions and stock material.
OPTICAL ELEMENTS CLASSIFIED ELSEWHERE
For Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere, see References
to Other Classes, below.
OPTICAL ELEMENTS COMBINED WITH DIVERSE TYPE ART DEVICES
An optical element combined with a diverse type art device
where the element results in an improvement or perfection of the
device is generally classified with the device. See Subclass References
to the Current Class, below, for a reference to details of this
distinction with reference to lenses, and also for references to
combinations of a reflector and diverse type art device. The combination
of an optical element and an electric discharge device is provided
for elsewhere. See Class Definition, section D, above. (See References
to Other Classes, below.)
For Classes that are more common external classifications
of systems including or combined with optical elements, see References
to Other Classes, below.
METHODS OF MAKING OPTICAL ELEMENTS CLASSIFIED ELSEWHERE
For Methods of Making Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere,
see References to Other Classes, below.
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
see (1) Note for details of the following distinction
with reference to lenses: an optical element combined with a diverse
type art device where the element results in an improvement or perfection
of the device is generally classified with the device.
Geometrical Instruments,
subclasses 227+ for sighting devices for determining geometrical relationships.
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Geometrical Instruments, for sighting instruments for determining geometrical
relationships where no significant optical system is claimed. (Lines
With Other Classes and Within This Class "Measuring and
Testing")
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), provides for such panels with associated components,
such as frames, edging, backing, etc., mechanically and permanently
assembled thereto. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Supports
or Mounts for Optical Elements and Systems" above.)
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 385+ for processes for forming optical fibers, waveguides, or
preforms; subclass 31 for chemical glass etching; subclasses 37+ for
glass lens making. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Methods
of Making Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy Growth
Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, for processes and non-coating apparatus for growing
therein-defined single-crystal of all types of materials, including
inorganic or organic. (See Lines With Other Classes "Methods
of Making Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 99+ for optically transparent glass sandwich making.
(See Lines With Other Classes, "Methods of Making Optical
Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions,
subclass 71 for the electroforming of a mirror or reflector
and subclass 116 for producing a mirror or reflector by electrolytic
coating. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Methods of Making
Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Supports,
subclasses 466+ provides for supports for panel type structures.
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Supports
or Mounts for Optical Elements and Systems," above.)
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 200+ for optical systems for controlling or controlled
by a photocell and subclasses 336.1 to 395 for methods and apparatus
for the detection of invisible, radiation or the testing of material
by invisible radiation for the production, transmission, control
or general utilization of invisible radiant energy, including cathode
rays, ultra-violet rays and the radiations and emanations of radio-active
substances and the irradiation of material not limited to particular
arts. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices."")
Radiant Energy, for systems whose operation is restricted to the
nonvisible portion of the spectrum. (See Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class "Nonvisible Radiation.")
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 200+ generally, where a photocell is claimed as a part
of the optical system. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class, "Optical System Including Photocell.")
Compositions, for compositions generally,
subclasses 299.01+ providing for compositions of liquid crystals
and subclasses 582+ providing for other light transmission
modifying compositions. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class, "Compositions and Stock Material.")
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclasses 1.1+ for optical article shaping or treating. (See
Lines With Other Classes, "Methods of Making Optical Elements
Classified Elsewhere.")
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 110+ for an electron lamp or discharge device having
an optical device structurally combined therewith. (See Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical Elements
Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Communications: Electrical,
subclass 815.76 for lens type indicator. (See Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class, "Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere."")
Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 853.1+ for wellbore telemetry including any type of radiant
energy; (i.e., optical, radio, etc.). (See Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class, "Optical Telemetry," above.)
Communications: Electrical,
subclasses 870.28+ for an optical data link in combination with a
specific sensor. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This
Class, "Optical Telemetry," above.)
Communications: Radio Wave Antennas,
subclasses 909+ for radio wave refracting means and filters. (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Television,
subclasses 195+ , 335+, 744+, and 832+ for
optical systems included in television systems. (See Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical Elements
Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclasses 159+ for spectacle lenses. (See Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class, "Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting, for spectacles and instruments for vision testing
and eye examining. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This
Class "Optical Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art
Devices.")
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclasses 200+ for eye examining and testing instruments. (Lines
With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Measuring and
Testing")
Optics: Motion Pictures, for optical systems used in motion picture apparatus.
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Optics: Image Projectors, for image projectors. (See Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class "Optical Elements Combined With Diverse
Type Art Devices.")
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclass 396 for measurements involving moire patterns caused
by plural optical grids relatively movable with respect to each
other and subclass 242.1 for moire pattern examination of mesh or grid
like material including knitted fabrics to determine the number
of threads, lines or the spacing between the lines. (See Lines
With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical Elements
Classified Elsewhere.")
Optics: Measuring and Testing, for methods and apparatus for analyzing light, determining the
optical or nonoptical properties of materials, measuring optically
dimensions, determining optically spatial relations and inspecting optically
for flaws and imperfections, within the scope of this class and
not otherwise classifiable. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class "Optical Elements Combined With Diverse Type
Art Device.")
Optics: Measuring and Testing, provides generally for measuring and testing systems which determine
the optical characteristics of light so as to measure materials
and provides in
subclasses 124+ for lens or reflective image former testing. (Lines
With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Measuring and
Testing")
Facsimile and Static Presentation Processing,
subclasses 400 through 304for optical systems included in facsimile systems.
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Illumination, appropriate subclasses for light sources combined with
optical light modifiers, especially
subclass 19 for light sources with polarizers; subclasses 166+ and
293 for light sources with selected wavelength filters; subclass
268 for light sources combined with plural serial lens elements;
subclasses 296+ for light sources with reflectors; subclasses
326+ and 341+ for refractors and reflectors, respectively
for use with light sources. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class, "Optical Elements Combined With Diverse Type
Art Devices.")
Static Information Storage and Retrieval,
subclasses 64 , 106+, 120+, 215+, and
234+ for systems and circuits utilizing radiant energy.
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Coherent Light Generators, appropriate subclasses for oscillators of the quantum
electronic type for generating coherent electromagnetic waves in
the optical range by stimulated emission of radiation (e.g., lasers,
irasers). (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Coherent Light Generators, appropriate subclasses for lasers and similar devices,
per se, when they function as a generator of coherent electromagnetic
waves in the optical range. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class "Lasers," above.)
X-Ray or Gamma Ray Systems or Devices,
subclasses 145+ for X-ray beam control devices. (See Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical Elements
Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Optical Waveguides, appropriate subclasses for light wave transmitting
devices. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class "Optical
Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Photography, appropriate subclasses for still cameras. (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Electrophotography,
subclasses 9+ for diagnostics, subclasses 38+ for controls,
subclasses 130+ for image formation, subclasses 168+ for charging,
subclasses 177+ for exposure, subclasses 222+ for
development, subclasses 297+ for transfer, subclasses 320+ for
fixing, subclasses 343+ for cleaning, and subclasses 361+ for
document handling. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This
Class, "Optical Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions,
subclasses 59+ for a sun or radiation screening or sun tanning
composition intended for topical application to a living body.
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Compositions
and Stock Materia.")
Coating Processes,
subclasses 162+ for coating processes, per se, wherein the product
is an optical element. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Methods
of Making Optical Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 1.1 for miscellaneous liquid crystal articles and appropriate
subclasses for a metallic or nonmetallic stock material product
in the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet or a structurally
defined or coated rod, strand, fiber flake or other element and
a nonstructural metallic or nonmetallic composite web or sheet defined
by the compositions of the layers. Note subclass 910 (a cross-reference
art collection) for a product with molecular orientation. (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Compositions
and Stock Material.")
Abrading,
subclasses 42+ for a lens grinding process and subclasses 323
and 325 for a machine for grinding an optical lens. (See Lines
With Other Classes, "Methods of Making Optical Elements
Classified Elsewhere.")
Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process,
subclasses 100+ for high temperature (Tc
30 K) superconducting material. (See Lines With Other Classes and
Within This Class, "Compositions and Stock Materia.")
Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process,
subclasses 150+ for high temperature (Tc
30 K) superconducting device, and particularly subclasses 181+ for photoconductive,
light transmissive, light emissive, or light responsive device or
component. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Classified Elsewhere.")
Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process,
subclasses 150+ for high temperature (Tc
30 K) superconducting device; and particularly subclasses 181+ for photoconductive,
light transmissive, light emissive, or light responsive device or
component. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Optical
Elements Combined With Diverse Type Art Devices.")
Data Processing: Measuring, Calibrating, or Testing,
subclass 40 , 49, 134+, and 172 for the use of radiant
energy (e.g., X-ray, light, etc.) in a mechanical measurement system,
flow metering, temperature measuring system, or system for measuring
thickness or width, respectively, and subclass 159 for measuring
of linear distance or length by reflected signal (e.g., ultrasonic,
light, laser).
Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating,
subclass 816 for optical correlation or convolution and subclass
831 for electro-optical analog integrators. This class will accept
optical computers where the resultant mathematical operation is
in the form of an electrical signal. For mathematical operations performed
by optical means, classification is in Class 359.
SECTION V - GLOSSARY
BINOCULAR
Pertaining to the use of both eyes in the act of viewing.
BIREFRINGENT
Certain crystalline materials have their outer electrons bound
more strongly in one direction than another resulting in the material
having two refractive indices depending on the direction of the
oscillation. Such materials are termed birefringent and, if an unpolarized
light ray enters such a material obliquely, it will be refracted into
two different linearly polarized rays having directions of polarization
which are normal to one another.
DICHROIC
As used in one sense, the term dichroic refers to (1)
the property of some materials to absorb to a greater degree one
or the other of the two orthogonal component vectors which can be
considered as constituting ordinary light. This results in producing
light polarized to a degree depending upon the relative absorption
of the two components. The term dichroic is also used to refer to
(2) an optical element which will transmit light of one color and
reflect other colors with little light being absorbed. These elements
are usually composed of superimposed strata of dielectric materials.
DIFFRACTION
A phenomenon resulting from the wave nature of light, e.g.,
light passing through a slit of decreasing width, forms a narrower
and narrower beam until the slit width approaches the wavelength
of light, after which further decreasing of the slit width results
in a beam having a larger and larger divergence.
DIFFRACTION PATTERN
The intensity profile of a light beam after having passed by
a diffracting aperture or object.
DIFFUSE
Pertaining to the scattering or random deviation of transmitted
or reflected light.
HOLOGRAPHY
The optical recording of an object wave formed by the resulting
interference pattern of two (or more) mutually coherent, component
light beams. Generally, a coherent beam is first split into two
component beams, one of which irradiates an object, the second of
which irradiates a recording medium. The diffraction or scattering of
the first wave by the object forms an object wave which proceeds
to and interferes with a second coherent beam (i.e., reference beam)
at the medium. The resulting pattern is a two-dimensional (thin)
or three-dimensional (thick) hologram of the object wave, depending on
the thickness of the recording medium.
IMAGE FORMER
An optical device capable of producing an image from light
rays proceeding from an object.
INTERFERENCE
The interaction of two light waves which, as a result
of their relative phases, produce a cancellation or reinforcement
of wave energy.
LIGHT, VISIBLE LIGHT
Visible light is radiation which stimulates the optical receptors
of the eye and has a wavelength from 3850 to 7600 Angstrom units.
The term light is used to refer to wavelengths in the above mentioned
range and, often, also to refer to the ranges immediately adjacent,
i.e., the ultra violet and infrared ranges which are nonvisible.
OPTICAL COMMUNICATION
The conveyance of information from one location to another
via at least one optical transmitter and one optical receiver.
These are used to transfer the information with an optical beam
and this beam can be used in various communication schemes to enable
the most effective or desired method of moving the information, including
optical multiplexing when plural information signals or plural transmitters
and receivers are utilized.
OPTICAL ELEMENT
A structure which performs a basic optical function,
i.e., the structure, when exposed to or placed in the path of a light
beam, will cause refraction, diffraction, attenuation, or blocking
of the light or a modification in the character or properties of
the light. In lenses, the complete lens is considered an optical
element, while the individual masses of a plural element lens are
considered as lens elements or lens components.
OPTICAL MODULATION
The change of some characteristic of an optical beam
in direct relation to a varying signal applied thereto. The change
may be temporal (e.g., amplitude, frequency, or phase) or directional.
OPTICAL SYSTEM
A combination of two or more similar or diverse optical elements
which are optically related.
OPTICS, OPTICAL
The science of light and vision and the construction
of optical instruments.
POLARIZATION
In a beam of polarized electromagnetic radiation, the polarization
direction is the direction of the electric field vector (with no
distinction between positive and negative as the field oscillates
back and forth). The electric field vector is always in the plane
which is normal to the beam propagation direction. At a given stationary
point in space, the electric field vector of a beam can vary with
time at random (unpolarized beam), can remain constant (plane-polarized
beam), or can rotate. In the latter two cases, the beam is said
to be "polarized" and can be thought of as the
resultant vector of two orthogonal component vectors having equal
amplitudes. If the phase difference of the two component vectors
is 0 degrees, the light is plane polarized; if 90 degrees, the light
is circularly polarized; and if it is between 0 and 90 degrees,
the light is elliptically polarized. Elliptical and plane polarized
light can be converted into each other by means of birefringent
optical systems which retard one of the orthogonal component vectors
relative to the other.
REFLECTION
Light striking a surface and returning back into the medium
from which it came, at an angle equal but opposite to the angle
of incidence.
REFRACTION
The deviation of light which results when a ray of light passes
obliquely from a medium of one refractive index to a medium of another
refractive index.
RETROREFLECTION
Light striking a surface and returning back into the medium
in the reverse direction (i.e., a 180 degree change from its original
path).
SPECTRUM
The band of colors produced by separating a beam of white
light into its component frequencies.
TERMINAL IMAGE
The last image formed by a compound system.
ULTRAVIOLET/INFRARED
Electromagnetic radiation immediately above and below the
optical visible frequency spectrum is termed ultraviolet and infrared,
respectively. This entire range of frequencies is encompassed by
the term "light."
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein apparatus for forming a record of
the phase and amplitude information of a wavefront where the information
can be used to reconstruct the original wavefront; apparatus to
reconstruct the original wavefront from a record containing the
phase and amplitude information of this wavefront; or the record
itself is recited.
(1)
Note. This subclass is the generic locus for subject matter
relating to holography. However, where particular use or application
is claimed, classification is in the appropriate use or application
class.
(2)
Note. Nominally claimed subject matter external to this class
in combination with holography is classified here. Significantly
claimed subject matter external to this class in combination with
holography is classified in the class appropriate to the external
subject matter.
(3)
Note. Interferometers are excluded from this subclass and
are classified in Class 356, subclasses 345+.
(4)
Note. Holographic memories including those having a nominal
recitation of a photodetector or photocell are included in this
or the indented subclasses. Static holographic storage and retrieval
systems having electrical circuitry are classified in Class 365.
(5)
Note. Dynamic holographic storage and retreival systems having
eletrical circuitry are classified in Class 369.
(6)
Note. Mere nominal recitation of developing, fixing, bleaching,
or etching a photographic recording medium does not exclude the
subject matter from this class. Holographic systems including significant
chemical processing steps are classifed in Class 430, Radiation
Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition, or Product Thereof.
(7)
Note. Systems for making holographic matched filters are
included in this and the indented subclasses.
Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 603+ and 656 for acoustic holographic testing and for
holographic interferometry in which an object is acted upon during
the test, as for example, stressed or vibrated.
Radiant Energy, appropriate subclasses, for holographic systems that use
radiation entirely outside of the optical or microwave ranges and which
is not acoustic, and
subclass 550 for photocell circuits and apparatus for interference
pattern analysis (e.g., holography).
Static Information Storage and Retrieval,
subclass 125 , 216, and 235 for holographic storage and retrieval of
information systems including significant and particular electrical
circuitry.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
or Product Thereof,
subclasses 1+ for holographic systems involving significant chemical
processing steps, composition, or product.
Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating, appropriate subclasses for electrical computers
or data processing arithmetic systems which may use holography.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein a hologram is used to provide proof
that a document is not counterfeit or to make a document copy-proof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter in which details of the internal structure
of a holographic recording medium is defined either physically or
chemically.
(1)
Note. An example of such a physical definition: "a
multilayer emulsion, each layer being sensitive to a different color".
A chemical defintion: "thermoplastic tape".
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
or Product Thereof,
subclass 1 for holographic processes involving significant
chemical processing steps composition or product; and appropriate
subclasses for radiation chemical recording media, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 3. Subject matter in which the recording medium is of such
a nature that the recorded information can be erased to permit further
record-erase cycles.
(1)
Note. Included here are photochromics, thermochromics, dye
cells, magnetic films, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter wherein the recording medium is a material
which is alterable by application of magnetic force.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Subject matter in which the recording medium is integral
with a layer of material which, when illuminated, undergoes a decrease
in resistance.
This subclass is indented under subclass 3. Subject matter in which an illuminated portion of the recording
medium surface is curved, as into a cylinder, or bent or folded
during recording or readout.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including means for providing a hologram
of a single object by other than a single exposure to the interference
pattern of light from the object as a whole and a reference beam.
(1)
Note. Holographic stereograms are considered recordings of
different images and are excluded from this subclass.
(2)
Note. Holographic memories are excluded in which an object
beam is scanned so as to act as a page composer when each bit is
intended to be separately detected.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter in which a hologram is formed by interfering
an object-modulated beam with another beam which is spatially or
temporally modulated or with a plurality of other beams.
(1)
Note. Phase modulation systems to compensate for object motion
and systems for extending the depth of fluid are included here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter in which the reference beam is modulated
by changing its phase, path length, or amplitude so as to have a
nonuniform wavefront.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter in which an image reconstructed from one
hologram is used as the object in making a second hologram.
(1)
Note. Systems in which a holographic analog to an ordinary
optical element is used to shape or form a beam used to make a second
hologram, but which does not by itself provide the object information
for the second hologram are excluded. Such systems are classified based
on the other claimed features in subclass 1 and its indented subclasses.
Electrophotography,
subclass 118 for optics with particular modular or displaceable
structure, subclass 137 optical intermediate storage of original image,
subclasses 196+ for variable magnification during exposure,
subclass 216 for slit exposure by pivoting mirror, subclass 218
for lens used in exposure, and subclass 219 for fiber optics used
in exposure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein a holographic equivalent to an ordinary
optical element is formed or used and wherein the holographic equivalent does
not itself contain any intelligence or image information more significant
than a point image.
(1)
Note. The optical elements for which the hologram may be
substituted include lenses, reflectors, diffusers, gratings, polarizers,
beam splitters or combiners, filters, and phase plates or beam couplers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter which compensates for the inability of an
optical system to provide a point to point correspondence between
an object and its image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter in which a hologram is used to direct a beam
of light successively over the elements of a given region.
(1)
Note. Systems using a holographic element to convert one
scan pattern to another are included here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Subject matter where the scanning element is a planar surface,
containing holographic segments, which is rotated about an axis
normal to the surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter wherein a hologram, which simulates one produced
by the interference of two beams with one of the beams consisting
of a plurality of separate subbeams, is produced which is the analog
of a plurality of lenses in a plane such as lenticular or fly eye
lens array.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including the details of the internal structure
of a changeable modulator, which serves as the principle object
in a system for making a plurality of holograms, where the internal
conditions of the modulator represent the intelligence to be recorded
in the holograms.
(1)
Note. Systems in which a page composer is merely nominally
recited are excluded from this subclass and are classified on the
basis of the other claimed features in subclass 1 and its indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter comprising systems specifically adapted for
making a plurality of holograms, simultaneously or sequentially,
of different intelligence or for reading out images from a plurality
of holograms.
(1)
Note. Holographic stereograms are classified in subclass
23.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter including a series of holograms made from
a series of two-dimensional pictures of a three-dimensional object,
each picture representing a different parallactic view of the object,
and upon readout the hologram series represents a three-dimensional
view to an observer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter in which the plurality of holograms are fully
overlapped on the same recording medium only.
(1)
Note. Typical subject matter of this subclass include (a)
holograms made with multicolor illumination and (b) systems using
spatial frequency multiplexing or pupil separation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter in which the plurality of holograms are arranged
in a side-by-side relationship on only one integral recording medium
or have an equivalent fixed side-by-side spatial relationship to
each other such as in a frame having windows containing the holo-grams.
(1)
Note. Space division multiplexing systems wherein holograms
are discretely recorded and interlaced are included here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter in which the plurality of holograms will,
upon readout, produce images whose spatial location will move as
a function of the movement of the holograms and in which movement
of the holograms is used to provide for sequential readout of the
individual images at a fixed location in space.
(1)
Note. Holographic movies or books and holograms of time varying
electrical signals are typical of the subject matter included here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including a laser as a light source wherein
the physical or chemical internal structure of the laser is explicity
defined.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter in which a plurality of light beams are used
to illuminate an object whose image is to be recorded or in which
the light illuminating the object has been modulated by a diffuser
or the equivalent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter comprising systems for producing holograms
in which an optical element, such as a lens, grating, mask, or mirror
is located in the path of the light between the object whose image
is to be recorded and the holographic recording medium and systems
for reconstructing an image from such holograms in which an equivalent
optical element having an equivalent spatial location relative to
the holo-gram must be used during readout.
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter in which an image of the intelligence to
be recorded is formed on, in, or very close to the recording medium
when producing a hologram or in which an image is formed on, in,
or very close to the hologram during readout.
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Subject matter for recon-structing a hologram made of an
image formed by light collected at a single point as opposed to
a virtual image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including one or more optically transparent
elongated structures (e.g., rods, fibers, or waveguides) are used
to transmit light rays from one point to another through modal transmission
or within the confines of their outer surfaces through internal
reflection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including physical components (e.g., fittings,
tools, or metal equipment of a system, etc.) used in creating a
holographic image.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein basic and more involved mathematical
processes of comparing, adding, substracting, multiplying, dividing,
integrating, etc., are perfomed by optical elements on an optical
beam prior to any conversion to another form of energy.
(1)
Note. The optical beam itself performs the computing.
(2)
Note. The computing of this and the indented subclass optically
works on a single input optical beam to produce a desired output
optical beam, but this optical computing is not intended to encompass
convolution (crosscorrela-tion) or correlation functions performed by
a diffration grating.
(3)
Note. Electrical computing for optical purposes without any
computation using an optical beam is classified elsewhere.
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Subject matter wherein the optical beam performs the operation
known to be performed by an AND, OR, NOR, NOT, etc., gate and the optical
beam output is the resultant of the relationship of all the input
optical beams as designed prior to the application of the optical beams.
DEFLECTION USING A MOVING ELEMENT OR MEDIUM (OFFSETTING
OR CHANGING AT LEAST A PORTION OF THE BEAM):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising structure for offsetting or changing
the direction of at least a portion of the incident light by moving
a light reflecting or transmitting element or medium into or out
of the light beam or by changing the position of a reflecting or
transmitting element or medium in the light beam.
(1)
Note. A prism may be employed for refracting or reflecting
light. Prism reflections are considered to be internal reflections;
that is, the light is inside the prism body before and immediately
after reflection. Light beam deflection by a movable prism is included
in this subclass.
(2)
Note. Lenses or curved surface mirrors movable for focusing
are classified elsewhere in this class.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 503.1+ for an invisible radiation source with a radiation
modifying member, in general, and subclasses 505.1+ for
radiation-controlling elements, per se, exclusive of infrared, visible,
and ultraviolet types.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter including an optically reflecting, refracting,
or diffracting element as the scanning element whose orientation
is changed in a periodic manner.
(1)
Note. The motion of reflectors resulting from vehicle vibration,
the motion of vehicle wheels, the action of wind, etc., is considered
to be of an irregular nature and not periodic within the meaning
of this definition.
Optics: Motion Pictures,
subclass 84 for high speed cameras which use rotating optical
elements and subclasses 105+ for motion picture optical
rectifiers using rotating or scanning optical elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Subject matter wherein details of the structure for supporting
the moving element or for moving it are claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 198. Subject matter wherein a specific rod transmitting rotational
motion from a driver or the supporting device within which the rod
turns is recited.
This subclass is indented under subclass 201. Subject matter wherein the multiple elements cause a deflection
of light in two mutually perpendicular directions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Subject matter wherein the periodically moving element deflects
or scans more than a single light beam simultaneously.
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Subject matter including a lens which forms an image which
is not in proportion to a respective image source.
(1)
Note. An fQ lens is one in which the image height is equal
to the product of the lens focal length and the angle at which a
beam enters the lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Subject matter including an element (usually a lens) for
producing magnification in a first plane which differs from that
in a plane perpendicular thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Subject matter wherein a mirror-like element indented away
from incident light receives the scanned light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Subject matter including opposed shaped and spaced refracting
surfaces either of a (1) single transparent mass or (2) plurality
of such masses arranged in series along an optical axis to produce
a single output image from an object, which are both external to
the mass or masses, from the object light rays passing therethrough.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Subject matter including one or more transparent bodies
bounded in part by two plane surfaces which are angularly related
(i.e., not parallel), at least one of these surfaces being internally
reflecting or refracting to impinging incident light.
(1)
Note. A prism may be employed for refracting or reflecting
light. Prism reflections are considered to be internal reflections;
that is, the light is inside the prism body both before and immediately after
the reflection.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 51+ for optical test devices having prisms used in
the infrared or ultraviolet range alone or in combination with visible
light, subclasses 300+ for prism type spectroscopic instruments,
and subclasses 331+ for prism type monochromators.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Subject matter wherein a light wave that strikes the medium
of the moving element is returned to the original medium with the
angles of incidence and reflection equal and lying in the same plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Subject matter wherein the faces or sides of the reflective
element are parallel to the axis of rotation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 212. Subject matter wherein the faces of the rotating reflector
are not curved and the faces are tilted with respect to the rotation
axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 212. Subject matter wherein the faces of the rotating reflector
are not curved and the faces are parallel to the axis of rotation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter wherein a light transparent element has a
surface adjacent a second element or medium which is movable into
and out of optical contact with the surface.
(1)
Note. A light beam incident on the surface undergoes total
internal reflection. By bringing the second element or medium into
proximity with the surface of the transparent element, total internal reflection
becomes frustrated and the light beam is no longer totally internally reflected,
but instead, is passed into the second element or medium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter wherein the direction of at least a portion
of an incident light beam is offset or changed by moving a light-reflecting
element into or out of the light beam or by changing the orientation
of the reflecting element in the light beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Subject matter wherein a support element is extended or
contracted to modify the position of the reflecting element.
LIGHT CONTROL BY OPAQUE ELEMENT OR MEDIUM MOVABLE IN OR THROUGH
LIGHT PATH:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising the control of the amount of light
transmitted through an area defined by an optical beam via an element
or material, which is either completely opaque or opaque only in
certain portions whereas the other portions are transparent, by
(1) selectively intercepting the light path by the element or (2)
changing the orientation of the element within the light path.
(1)
Note. Where the element is not substantially opaque, but
is used to reduce the light intensity, the subject matter is not classified
here but in subclass 889.
(2)
Note. Class 359 provides for optical diaphragms and shutters,
per se, in subclasses 227+ for lenses combined with shutters
generally in subclasses 738+, and for lenses combined with
diaphragms generally in subclasses 739+. However, a camera
shutter and diaphragm, per se, are classifiable in Class 396, Photography,
subclasses 452+ and subclasses 505+ respectively,
the indicated use in cameras or camera background being sufficient
for classification in Class 396 as opposed to Class 359. Class 396
also provides for lenses broadly or specifically combined with camera
shutter or diaphragm details, it being emphasized that such combinations
involving noncamera shutters or diaphragms or plural disclosures
of utility are classified in subclasses 738+ and 739+ of
Class 359 as indicated above. The combination of a lens broadly
or specifically claimed and a camera shutter or diaphragm broadly
claimed are classifiable in subclasses 738+ and 739+ of
this class (359).
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Subject matter comprising structure for equalizing light
intensity reaching the eye or for reducing glare or flicker.
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Subject matter wherein electrical energy is used to control
the movement of the light controlling element.
(1)
Note. This includes solenoid and tuning fork structures and
electrostatic type effects.
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Subject matter wherein electric current is applied across
a resilient, electrically conducting opaque element which as a result
of its location in the field of an electromagnet vibrates, thus
interrupting a light path or a portion thereof in accordance with
variations in the current or in the strength of the field of the electromagnet.
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Subject matter wherein the light controlling structure comprises
a pair of jaws having opposed parallel edges which can be moved toward
or away from each other and which can be fixed in a variety of intermediate
positions between fully open and fully closed.
(1)
Note. Typically the location of the center of the slit remains
fixed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Subject matter where the light control results from the
relative movement of two opaque elements, each containing openings
which allow light to pass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Subject matter comprising means wherein the light control
results from revolving, completely or partially, an opaque element
or an element containing opaque and transparent portions.
(1)
Note. Included here are generic optical shutters or diaphragms,
per se, which have rotating vanes or blades.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 201.1+ for scanning elements of this type used in photo-cell
controlled optical systems and subclass 232 for the combination
of a light chopper and photocell.
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Subject matter wherein the light controlling element revolves
nonstop during the operation of the device.
(1)
Note. Apertures as used here encompass slots removed around
the periphery of an otherwise opaque element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Subject matter wherein the light controlling element is
revolved about an axis substantially at right angles to the direction
of the light rays.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein an optical element varies a characteristic
of a traversing optical light beam in direct proportion to an applied time-varying
signal which may be in any energy form.
(1)
Note. Characteristics of a traversing light beam that may
be varied include its direction or characteristics such as amplitude,
frequency, phase, or polarization.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 200+ for photocell circuit and subclasses 503.1+ for
an invisible radiation source with a radiation modifying member,
generally.
Optics: Motion Pictures,
subclass 84 for high speed cameras which use rotating optical
elements and subclasses 105+ for motion picture optical
rectifiers using roatating or scanning optical elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter wherein a device varies a property of light
which is a function of time only as it traverses the device where
such variation is in accordance with the applied varying signal which
can be of any energy form.
(1)
Note. Such properties of the traversing light include amplitude,
frequency, or phase.
(2)
Note. Optical modulation occuring exclusively within a waveguide
is classified in Class 385.
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter comprising structure for controlling a light
parameter by changing a bulk optical parameter of an optically transmitting medium.
(1)
Note. "Bulk optical parameter" refers to those
inherent internal characteristics of an optical element which can
be defined by mathematical expressions describing their effect on
light radiation (e.g., index of refraction, transmissivity, etc.)
and which can be changed without producing a significant change
in the shape, size, or contours of the optical element itself.
(2)
Note. Included here are devices in which an optical parameter
of the light control element is changed as a result of an applied
electrical or magnetic field, an applied acoustic wave, a change
in chemical structure, or by any other mechanism which primarily
alters the bulk optical parameters rather than the physical shape,
size, or contours of an optical medium.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 48+ and 84+ for selective electrical control
of displays having light-controlling display elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 240. Subject matter wherein an optical parameter of the light
control element is changed by or in response to either the light
to be controlled or a separate external source of optical radiation.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Subject matter wherein an optical device has two distinct,
stable output states which toggle between one another by a single
application of actinic radiation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Subject matter wherein the temporal modulation is achieved
by an externally applied modulating light wave.
This subclass is indented under subclass 240. Subject matter wherein the optical properties (e.g., index
of refraction) of an optical element are changed in response to
an applied electrical signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein a property of a polarized optical
beam, such as amplitude, phase, polarization, frequency, or color
are varied in a controlled manner by the applied electrical signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein the modulation is effected by structure
which redirects the entire beam or a part of the beam at an angle
equal to that of incidence, or wherein the medium through which
the beam passes is confined in a cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 247. Subject matter wherein barrier layer (i.e., semiconducting)
material is used in the modulating structure, generally, as a variable
reflector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein unwanted effects due to the action
of the medium or the field on the beam such as those due to temperature,
birefringences, or color are eliminated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein more than one medium or structure,
each of which modulates the beam, are provided.
(1)
Note. The mediums or structures in the beam path, layered
mediums transverse to the beam path or parallel paths, each containing
a medium where the output beam is the result of the combined action of
the medium or structure. Not all of the mediums need to be field
responsive.
(2)
Note. Initial polarizers and final analyzers are not considered
part of the plural mediums where the only affect is to select a
polarization. Plural areas formed by a matrix of electrodes whose
sole function is to act on a portion of the beam are not considered
plural mediums. Nonbirefringent lenses are also not considered
a medium in the sense of the definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein details of the medium are given,
especially crystal cut or orientation, and the direction of the
applied field is specified in relation to the medium or in relation
to the incident beam direction or polarization.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein the details of the medium structure,
state of the medium, shape of the medium, or treatment of the medium
are recited.
(1)
Note. For classification herein, there should be more than
just the recitation of the name or abbreviation of the name of the
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein the physical structure, geometry
or arrangement of the electrodes is detailed or there is detailed
mounting structure for the medium (e.g., to prevent physical distortion).
(1)
Note. Included here are structures which perform auxiliary
functions such as protection or index matching. Also, see subclasses
488 and 500.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein the field which modulates the medium
is of a specific magnitude, phase, or frequency or is of a specific
type (e.g., pulse).
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter including an element having the property
of dividing a ray or beam of energy into two polarized rays or beams
(known as the ordinary and extraordinary rays), the directions of
polarization being at right angles to each other.
(1)
Note. A birefringent material which has been treated with
a dichroic dye to absorb the ordinary or extraordinary ray is no
longer considered to be birefrin-gent within the meaning of this
definition. A birefringent element in the form of a Nicol prism,
where the unwanted ray is deflected, is classified here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Subject matter wherein the variation of a polarized light
characteristic is achieved by an element which advances or retards
the phase of an induced ordinary wave relative to the extraordinary
wave when the electrical signal is applied.
Subject matter under 246 wherein the variation of a polarized
light characteristic is achieved by an element including a material
(usually liquid) whose refractive index change is proportional to
the square of the field of the applied electrical signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the temporal light modulator utilizes
multiple elemental units each of which is electro-optically controlled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the modulating structure consists
of two parallel dielectric mirrors separated by an active electro-optic
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the electro-optic temporal modulator
includes plural internal redirections of the light passing therethrough.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein a collimated ray of electrons applied
to the modulator is used to vary a temporal characteristic of the
light passing therethrough.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the electro-optic temporal modulator
includes a single internal redirection of the light passing therethrough.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein a parameter of a train of optical
pulses is varied in accordance with the amplitude of the applied
signal.
(1)
Note. Pulse modulation may involve changes in pulse amplitude
(pam), pulse position (ppm), or pulse duration (pdm).
(2)
Note. Pulse modulation includes pulse-code modulation wherein
the light beam is transmitted as a digital binary code.
(3)
Note. This subclass will include a combination of pulse modulation
with amplitude, frequency, or phase modulation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the electrical signal applied to
the optical control element produces a color change in the element
resulting in a change in the absorption characteristics of the element
at a given wavelength of light.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclass 49 and 105 for selective electrical control of displays
having electrochromic display elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 265. Subject matter wherein solid electrically conductive elements
within the electrochromic device are not located on a single flat
surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 265. Subject matter wherein the modulator utilizes a surface
upon which light strikes and which is coated with a material that
simultaneously changes color with the applied electrical signal and
reflects a significant portion of incident light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Subject matter wherein details are recited of an electrode
(the counter-electrode) which actually takes part in the electrochromic
reaction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Subject matter which recites details of an electrically
conductive liquid layer which transports ions between the electrochromic
material and the counter electrode.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Subject matter including an electrically conductive solid
element having a configuration which is uniformly flat.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Subject matter wherein the device comprises a cell containing
a substance which is in a state intermediate that of a solid and
a gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Subject matter including a specified miscellaneous layer
within the reflection-type electrochromic device.
(1)
Note. This might include, for example, an insulating layer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 265. Subject matter wherein the modulator utilizes a surface
upon which light strikes which is coated with a material that simultaneously changes
color with the applied electrical signal and transmits a significant
portion of incident light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the amplitude of a constant frequency
optical wave varies in synchronization with the amplitude of the
applied signal (i.e., modulating signal).
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 48+ and 84+ for selective electrical control
of displays having light-controlling display elements.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the frequency of a constant amplitude
optical wave (i.e., carrier wave) varies in synchronization with
the amplitude of the applied signal (i.e., modulating signal).
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the normal zero phase of a constant
amplitude optical wave (i.e., carrier wave) is shifted by an angle
proportional to the amplitude of the applied signal (i.e., modulating
signal).
(1)
Note. A sinusoidal signal of zero phase will have a zero
amplitude at the intersection of the x-y axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 240. Subject matter wherein a bulk optical parameter of an optical
element is controlled by a magnetic signal applied to the element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter wherein a property of a polarized optical
beam, such as amplitude, phase, polarization, frequency, or color
are varied in a controlled manner by the applied varying magnetic
signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 281. Subject matter wherein the structure through which the beam
passes or is acted upon consists of more than one contiguous film
or layer which forms a composite structure which modulates the beam
or wherein there are plural mediums or structures in the beam path,
each of which modulates the beam.
(1)
Note. The composite structure can be dielectric or reflective
films or layers for the purposes such as compensation, increased
Kerr rotation or index (e.g., impedance) matching.
for layered structures formed with at least one
layer of dichroic material where additional layers may be provided
for purposes such as protection or particular bonding and for layered structures
formed for interference effects.
This subclass is indented under subclass 281. Subject matter wherein details of the medium are given,
especially crystal cut or orientation, and the direction of the
applied field is specified in relation to the medium or in relation
to the incident beam direction or polarization.
for magnetic modulating structures using a particular
medium, state of the medium, particular electrode structure or arrangement,
medium mounting structure or arrangement or with a particular field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter wherein the amplitude of a constant frequency
optical wave varies in synchronization with the amplitude of the
applied signal (i.e., modulating signal).
This subclass is indented under subclass 240. Subject matter wherein an ultrasonic wave generated at the
surface or within the confines of the light control element sets
up conditions in the element which produce a change in the optical
parameters (e.g., refractive index) directly controlling the light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 285. Subject matter wherein the amplitude of a constant frequency
optical wave varies in synchronization with the amplitude of the
applied signal (i.e., modulating signal).
This subclass is indented under subclass 285. Subject matter wherein the frequency of a constant amplitude
optical wave (i.e., carrier wave) varies in synchronization with
the amplitude of the applied signal (i.e., modulating signal).
This subclass is indented under subclass 240. Subject matter wherein optical properties (e.g., index of
refraction) of an optical element are changed by or in response
to applied heat.
This subclass is indented under subclass 288. Subject matter wherein the amplitude of a constant frequency
optical wave varies in synchronization with the amplitude of the
applied signal (i.e., modulating signal).
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter wherein the light property is controlled
by a substantial alteration in the optical characteristics of a
light control surface or interface or by changing the physical shape, position,
or orientation of a light control surface or interface in response
to the modulating signal.
(1)
Note. Any change in or to the light control surface or interface
occur wholly within the region of the light path in which control
is effected. The control surface or interface is neither totally
nor partially inserted into nor removed from the light path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 290. Subject matter wherein the light property is controlled
by means of a light control surface which is temporarily altered
or modified in some way so as to produce distortions in the surface
contours which differ significantly from the normal or unmodified
surface contours.
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Subject matter wherein the contours of a light control surface
are modified in accordance with a control signal so as to impart
image or picture information to the contour of the control surface
which is then transferred to a light beam projected on or through
the control surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Subject matter which utilizes a layer whose electrical conductivity
varies as a function of light incident thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 290. Subject matter wherein the light control surface consists
of a group of elongated light absorbing or reflecting particles
suspended in a fluid media, which collectively change their orientation
within the light path in response to an applied signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 290. Subject matter wherein a light property is controlled by
creating or destroying a light absorbing or reflecting surface or
interface in response to a modulating signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter wherein the relative spatial orientation
of a light wave exiting a device is changed in accordance with a
varying signal of any energy form (i.e., modulating signal) applied
to the device.
(1)
Note. Optical directional modulation occuring exclusively
inside of a waveguide is classified in Class 385.
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter wherein the directional modulation is achieved
by an externally applied modulating light wave.
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter including the return of a light beam through
the media at precisely the same angles, distances, and intensities
as prior to a reflection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter wherein the direction of a polarized light
beam is varied in accordance with a varying input signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Subject matter wherein the deflection is effected by structures
which redirect the entire beam or a part of the beam at an angle
equal to that of incidence or where the medium through which the
beam passes is confined in a cavity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Subject matter wherein at least two distinct beams, corresponding
to two different polarizations, are obtained.
(1)
Note. The systems use a polarization modulation element to
switch the polarization of the incoming beam followed by a birefringent
polarization discriminator whereby two distinct beams are obtained
corresponding to the ordinary and extraordinary rays.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Subject matter wherein the beam is given an initial polarization
and then deflected or where only one polarization is allowed to
be deflected by blocking or removing any other polarization component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter wherein directional modulation is achieved
by applying a modulating sound wave to a device through which a
light beam is traversing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein the correlation or convolution integral
of two optical waves is formed by an acousto-optical directional
modulator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein an acousto-optic modulator has a
portion of the optical output therefrom returned to the input therefor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein one frequency band present in an
incident light beam is suppressed by an acousto-optic deflection
technique.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein directional modulation of a light
wave which is a composite of many frequencies is achieved.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein the directional modulator consists
of a single element having multiple input devices each capable of
imposing a separate sound wave on the modulator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein a composite sound wave of diverse
frequencies is generated and applied to the acousto-optic modulator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein detailed structure of the overall
configuration of the directional modulator is recited.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein a specific location of the modulator
relative to an incident light beam is recited.
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter wherein directional modulation is achieved
by applying a varying electrical signal to an element through which
a light beam is traversing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter wherein the directional light modulator utilizes
multiple elemental units each of which is electro-optically controlled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter wherein the electro-optic directional modulator
includes plural internal redirections of the light passing therethrough.
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter wherein the electro-optic directional modulator
includes a single internal redirection of the light passing therethrough.
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter wherein light beam focusing is achieved by
the application of the electrical signal to a device through which
the beam transits.
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Subject matter wherein a discrete change in the path of
a light beam is achieved by the application of the electrical signal
to a device through which the beam transits
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Subject matter wherein the material of the modulator is
particularly responsive to an applied electrical signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 322. Subject matter wherein the material is a transparent lead-lanthanum
zir- conate titanate ceramic with optical qualities that can be
controlled by applying voltages to thin plates of the material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Subject matter wherein the material of the modulator is
particularly responsive to an applied magnetic signal.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein an original modulating wave is recovered
from a previously modulated light wave.
(1)
Note. These devices may include a photodetector as long as
a modulating wave is isolated.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a nonlinear device alters the frequency
of an applied traversing optical electromagnetic wave.
(1)
Note. The frequencies here are quasi-optical (i.e., infrared
through ultraviolet).
(2)
Note. Such optical frequency devices include second harmonic
generators and other types of frequency conversion devices such
as downshifters, oscillators, mixers, etc.
(3)
Note. A detailed optical frequency converter, per se, or
such subject matter in combination with additional waveguide structure
is classified in this class (359). However, the nominal recitation
of any type of optical frequency converter together with additional
waveguide structure is classified in Class 385, where such combination
meets the class requirements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Subject matter wherein the nonlinear optical device involves
radiation-active materials in which many lines of frequency-shifted
radiation can be obtained in response to incident radiation.
(1)
Note. Raman radiation is a radiation produced in response
to incident radiation by a change in the rotational or vibrational
energy of scattering molecules. The resultant optical radiation
is often referred to as Stokes or antiStokes radiation dependent
upon its frequency relative to that of the incident light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Subject matter wherein a nonlinear optical device generates
a wave having a frequency which is an integral multiple of a fundamental input
wave frequency.
(1)
Note. A wave with twice the frequency of the fundamental
is called the second harmonic.
Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices,
Circuits, and Systems,
subclasses 113+ for miscellaneous frequency control such as electrical wave
harmonic generation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328. Subject matter wherein the generated optical wave has a
frequency that is three times that of the fundamental input optical
wave.
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Subject matter wherein the frequency conversion of electromagnetic
radiation, in the near and the visible spectrum, is based on the
nonlinear dependence of polarizability on wave amplitude.
(1)
Note. A parametric oscillation is an oscillation in which
substantial power is applied at a frequency called the pump frequency.
Signal and idler waves, the sum of whose frequencies equals the pump
frequency, are generated in an interaction resulting from some nonlinear
effect in the optical crystal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Subject matter wherein the output from a laser is mode-locked
and passed through an acoustic cell in which a radio frequency acoustic
wave has been generated; the laser beam is diffracted, and one of
the frequency shifted diffracted modes is heterodyned at a detector
with an unshifted mode to produce a time delayed radio frequency
output signal lower in frequency than the input signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Subject matter wherein the depletion layer of a semiconductor
whose dielectric material exhibits nonlinear susceptibility is used
as an optical waveguide to achieve frequency translation.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein the amplifying device produces an
output light beam which is only changed to increase the magnitude
of a light beam applied as input.
(1)
Note. This amplification can be produced by applying electrical
energy to the device to first cause excitation to a higher energy
level via certain molecular, atomic, or nuclear particles of a substance
and later causing the high energy state to be relaxed to a lower
state to produce the emission of the particles.
(2)
Note. This amplifcation is the optical or quasi-optical wavelength
range, which is generally in the range from ultra-violet (100 Angstroms)
to far infrared (10 million Angstroms) of the optical spectrum.
See (1) Note of subclass 350 for specific IR and UV wavelength
units.
(3)
Note. This subclass necessitates light input into a medium
prior to amplification. Production of a light beam output without
an input light beam is classified in Class 372.
(4)
Note. This subclass includes details of an optical amplifier
wherein amplification is produced within the optical fiber by the
interaction of externally applied energy and a unique property of
the fiber (e.g., lazing material). The mere nominal recitation
of an optical amplifier in combination with an optical waveguide structure
is classified in Class 385.
(5)
Note. Infrared to Ultraviolet light emitting junction is
classified in Class 357, subclass 17, unless a cavity is set forth for
Class 372 or amplification is set forth for this subclass.
for details of an optical amplifier wherein amplification
is produced within the fiber optics, wherein the optical fiber has
some unique property (i.e., lasting material), to produce the amplification
when external energy is applied.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 200+ for photocells, circuits and apparatus, and subclasses
552+ for solid state light emitting source which is detected
by a photocell.
Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes),
subclasses 80 through 85for incoherent light emitting devices combined
with, or also constituting a light responsive device.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclass 371 for a cathode-ray tube with optics and subclass
372 for a cathode-ray tube with light conducting fiber or rod.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave Systems and
Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio Navigation),
subclass 53 for the combination with an infrared device, and
subclass 54 for the combination with a laser.
Television,
subclass 217 and 300 for camera with image intensifier or amplifier,
subclass 707 for television amplifier circuit and subclass 777 for cathode-ray
tube image source with intensifier.
Optics: Eye Examinating, Vision Testing, and
Correcting,
subclass 213 including light filter or absorber, subclass 214
including diaphragm or slit, and subclass 215 including light polarizing.
Illumination,
subclass 32 for light fibers, rods or pipes, subclass 259 for laser
type light source (or support therefor) and modifier, and subclasses 317+ for
light modifier.
Static Information Storage and Retrieval,
subclass 108 for liquid crystal memory and subclasses 120+ for
information masking using polarization, Bragg cells, diffraction,
holograms electron beams, etc.
Dynamic Information Storage or Retrieval,
subclasses 110.01 through 110.04where the information is stored or retrieved from
the medium by polarized radiant energy; subclass 116 where the infor
is stored or retrieved from the medium by light intensity adjustment
or maintenance; and subclass 117 where the information is stored
or retrieved from the medium by a movable shutter or light gate.
Optical Waveguides,
subclasses 1+ for temporal optical modulation produced within
the fiber, and subclasses 4+ for directional modulation
produced within the fiber. Class 385 contains patents claiming
optical modulation within the fiber but optical amplification (333+)
or frequency translation (326+) within the fiber are specifially
excluded from Class 385, unless the amplifier or frequency translator
are only nominally set forth.
Coating Processes,
subclasses 163.1+ for processes of coating an optical polarizer,
windshield, fiber, waveguide, rod, projection screen, or retroreflector.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
or Product Thereof,
subclass 363 for laser or radiation color imaging exposure other
than visible light and subclass 945 for laser beam cross-reference
art collection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein the scattered light beam output from
a medium, resulting from either the Raman or Brillouin effects,
is amplified relative to the input to the medium.
(1)
Note. The Raman effect claimed specifically for the optical
amplification properties is classified in this subclass, whereas
the Raman effect claimed for the frequency translation by itself
or together with optical amplification is classified in subclass
327.
(2)
Note. Stimulated Raman effect is the amplification exhibiting
the characteristic of stimulated emission of the small portion of
light that is scattered in random directions when a monochromatic light
beam of high intensity is transmitted through matter. The characteristic
of the small portion of light is related to the frequencies of the
matter.
(3)
Note. The Raman effect results in the re-radiation of light
from a bombarded molecule, having a longer wavelength than the original
bombaring beam of coherent light. Part of the energy of the coherent beam
is distributed throughout the molecule whereas the remaining energy
is re-radiated. This effect may be described as being feeble, instantaneous,
independent of absorption, independent of the wavelength of the
exciting radiation; and it results in the re-emission of light generally
having a wavelength longer than the existing one. Although there
is a difference in wavelengths or frequency between the wavelengths
of each re-emitted spectral line, or Raman line, and the wavelength
of the incident or exciting radiation; the intensity of Raman increases
as the fourth power of the incident frequency except in the neighborhood
of an absorption band, where the scattering intensity increases
still more markedly.
(4)
Note. Brillouin scattering is the nonlinear optical phenomenon
of the spontaneous scattering of light in a medium by its interaction
with sound waves passing through the medium
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein a beam of "free" and unbound
electrons of an atom or molecule are passed through an undulator
(i.e., "wiggler"), which creates a magnetic field
of alternating polarity, to cause the electrons to move along a helical
path (i.e., "wiggle") for the release of a high
power light radiation (i.e., amplification of the light input beam).
(1)
Note. The use of a free-electron laser for light amplificatoin
belongs in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein a two level output is produced (i.e.,
an amplified output or no output at all) dependent upon the specific
characteristic (e.g., amplitude or frequency) of the input light
beam that the amplifier is designed to amplify.
(1)
Note. The specific type of amplifier (i.e., material type,
cavity structure, resonant cavity length, leachable material, etc.)
determines which input signal characteristic will produce an amplified
output. All other inputs will result in a zero output.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein an amplifier is corrected to overcome
actions that prohibit its proper operation.
(1)
Note. In order to overcome laser overheating, extraneous
gasses that prohibit population inversion, laser medium losing energy
that would deplete energy, an excess of power density, etc., the
correction is applied to the optical amplifier itself.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter wherein the correction includes attenuating
the signal by nonsaturable absorption of at least part of the amplification
uniform over a range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
(1)
Note: Also referred to as gain tilt correction and gain flattening.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337.1. Subject matter including a path that returns some output
back to the input of a circuit, wherein systems using this path,
optical or electrical, to effect increased spectral uniformity,
reduce or increase gain, etc.
(1)
Note. Controlling the frequency in a direction for canceling
an exciting voltage would be an example of a feedback circuit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337.11. Subject matter wherein at least two paths of a spectral
frequency band is used in the feedback system to control amplifier
gain.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337.11. Subject matter wherein the feedback circuit, for the optical
energies associated with amplified stimulated emission light, compares a
first and second wavelength, then regulates the attenuation so that
the optical energies are substantially equal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter wherein the frequency band of the amplifier
is restricted to the frequency band of the pulses being transmitted.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337.2. Subject matter wherein the filters contain a directional
coupler characterized by a particular thickness and number of layers
having high and low refractive indices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter wherein the amplifier impurity or chemical
element (or compound) improves characteristics in other wavelengths.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter wherein successive elements or components
within the amplifier system correct for adverse effects caused by
earlier elements or components.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter wherein the light beam returns through the
medium at precisely the same angles, distances, and intensities
it was directed prior to the reflection.
(1)
Note. The medium causes the light to return to its origin
after reflection in precisely the same identical path it took to reach
the reflector.
(2)
Note. See the January 1986 Scientific American article on
this subject matter.
(3)
Note. This is often used to clear up poor images.
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter wherein the correction is accomplished by
allowing light transmission through the filter of an input light
beam only after a particular amount of energy is either applied
(saturable filter) or a specific portion of the light beam is passed
(spatial filter).
(1)
Note. A saturable filber is opaque to a light beam input
until one of the atoms of its material is excited to a second energy
level as a result of striking photons. Upon reaching this second
energy level, the filter becomes "saturated" and thus
transparent to the input beam due to the equalization between the
original and second energy levels causing no net absorption of additional
photons as they strike the filter.
(2)
Note. A spatial filter generally consists of either (a) an
emulsion mask having a clean annular region in an otherwise opaque
region or (b) a pinhole, placed at a focal plane in a laser expander;
to remove unwanted radiation generally referred to as amplified
spontaneous emission.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein the energy content of each state
(i.e., mode) of an oscillating system (e.g., laser) is internally
modulated in a particular field pattern and is one of the possible
resonant frequencies of the system to selectively give rise to energy
bursts of high peak power and short duration which can be in the
picosecond domain.
(1)
Note. This laser, referred to as a mode-locked laser could
also be in a continuous wave mode or a pulsed mode.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein amplification is produced within
a glass or plastic filament by the interaction of externally applied
energy and a unique property of the filament (e.g., lasing material).
(1)
Note. The details of an optical amplifier within an optical
waveguide or combination with additional external waveguide structure
are classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. Optical waveguides or fibers having the amplification
performed within the waveguide of the fiber are classified in this
subclass.
(3)
Note. This class excludes patents claiming nominal recitation
of an amplifier or a frequency translator combined with optical
modulation within the fiber.
Optical Waveguides,
subclasses 1 through 3for temporal modulation performed within the optical waveguides
and subclasses 4-10 for directional modulation performed within
the optical waveguide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 341.1. Subject matter including a path that returns some output
back to the input of a circuit, wherein systems using this path,
optical or electrical, to effect increased spectral uniformity,
reduce or increase gain, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 341.4. Subject matter wherein the feedback provides an adjustment
based on a quantitative statement (e.g., wavelength) of the amplification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 341.4. Subject matter wherein the feedback provides an adjustment
based on a relative intensity or brightness strength.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein a specified type of active medium,
which uniquely causes the amplification of the light input, is used
to change the number of atoms or atomic system in a set of energy
levels as a result of the absorption of light incident on the material
of the medium.
(1)
Note. The examples of crystal, plasma, and fluid define the
physical state of the active medium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 342. Subject matter wherein the active medium is a solid or liquid
having a resistivity midway between that of an insulator and a metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein a specified type of pumping is used
to change the number of atoms or atomic system in a set of energy
levels as a result of the absorption of light incident on the material.
(1)
Note. This pumping causes the atoms of a medium to be raised
from certain lower to certain higher energy levels, and it may cause
a population inversion between certain intermediate levels in order
to ultimately produce photons when the energy level moves from higher
to lower.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein the optical beam goes back and forth
within an optical cavity without any standing waves, similar to
an oscillating cavity, but resulting in the amplification of the light
input beam.
(1)
Note. This can be a mode-selecting high gain optical structure
in which the laser action takes place by the build-up of electromagnetic
field intensity upon multiple reflections.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein the laser material does not have
to be continually pumped since the laser stays in a lasing state
for multiple traverses of light throughout the lasing medium to
produce amplified light beams that last longer than the period for
the pumping itself.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein a light beam is either combined with
another light beam or many light beams are created from a single
light beam in order to produce the desired amplification.
HAVING SIGNIFICANT INFRARED OR ULTRAVIOLET PROPERTY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including structure which is specifically
adapted, as by structure or composition, to function as an optical
element in the infrared (IR) or ultraviolet (UV) portion of the
spectrum, or wherein an optical element is constructed or composed
to extend its operation into the infrared or ultraviolet from the
visible portion of the spectrum.
(1)
Note. IR (0.7 micrometers to 1000 micrometers wavelength)
according to Van Nostrand"s Encyclopedia, 7th Edition
Meters: 7 X 10-7 m to
.001 m
Centimeters: 7 X 10-5 cm to
.1 cm
Millimeters: 7 X 10-4 mm to
1 mm
Micrometers: .7 micrometers to 1000
micrometers
Nanometers: 700 nm to 106 nm
Angstroms: 7000 A to 107 A
UV (100 Angstroms to 4000 Angstroms wavelength) according
to Van Nostrand"s Encyclopedia, 7th Edition
Meters: 10-8 m to
4 X 10-7 m
Centimeters: 10-6 cm to
4 X 10-5 cm
Millimeters: 10-5 mm to
4 X 10-4 mm
Micrometers: .01 micrometers to .4
micrometers
Nanometers: 10 nm to 400 nm
Angstroms: 100 A to 4000 A
Metric Conversion Units:
Centimeters = 10-2 meters
Millimeters = 10-3
meters
Micrometers = 10-6 meters
Nanometers = 10-9 meters
Angstroms = 10-10 meters
(2)
Note. Holographic systems and modulators of Class 359 and
fibers or waveguides of Class 385 that operate in the IR or UV portion
of the spectrum are excluded from this and the indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. This subclass and those indented thereunder are limited
to elements which operate as optical elements in the infrared and
ultraviolet portion of the spectrum but a detector to convert IR/UV energy
to visible light is classified in Class 250.
(4)
Note. "Heat Filters" are considered infrared
filters.
Radiant Energy,
subclass 216 for optical or pre-optical photocell system, subclass
226 for color filter or spectroscope optical or pre-photocell system,
subclasses 330+ for infrared-to-visible imaging, subclass
333 image tube type imaging wherein the output screen is used to
visualize an intensified image or the IR image is converted to electrical
signals to control the display device, subclass 336.1 for IR energy
responsive electric signalling, subclasses 338.1+ for infrared responsive
invisible radiant energy responsive electric signalling, subclass
351 for periodic scanning of an IR beam, subclass 365 for UV light source,
subclass 372 for UV light responsive means, subclass 493.1 for radiant
energy generation and sources, subclass 504 for ultraviolet or infrared
source radiation modifying member, and subclasses 505.1+ for radiation
controlling elements exclusive of infrared, visible and ultraviolet optical
elements.
Printed Matter,
subclass 88 for IR filter with electromagnetic radiation having
revealable concealed information, fraud preventer or detector, use preventer
or detector, or identifier, subclass 89 for UV filter with electromagnetic
radiation having revealable concealed information, fraud preventer
or detector, use preventer or detector, or identifier, and subclass
90 for polarized IR filter with electromagnetic radiation having
revealable concealed information, fraud preventer or detector, use
preventer or detector, or identifier.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclasses 44+ for antiglare or shading spectacles and eyeglasses,
and subclass 163 for light filtering opthalmic lens or blanks.
Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions,
subclasses 59+ for a sun or radiation screening or suntanning
composition intended for topical application to a living body.
Coating Processes,
subclass 160 for a coating with X-ray, Ultrasonic, or Infrared
properties, subclasses 162+ for coating processes, per
se, wherein the product is an optical element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter including an element which modifies the path
of incident light so as to cause the light to repeatedly traverse
the same or overlapping volumes of space.
(1)
Note. The system generally includes plural reflectors to
sequentially reverse the direction of the optical axis.
for polarization without modulation by dichroic
medium, which transmits light of one color and reflects light of the
complementary color with little light absorbed.
for polarization without modulation by a birefringent
element, which divides a ray or beam of energy into two polarized
rays or beams separated by 90 degrees (known as ordinary and extraordinary).
Printed Matter,
subclass 88 for IR filter with electromagnetic radiation having
revealable concealed information, fraud preventer or detector, use preventer
or detector, or identifier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter which has an element allowing a variable
radiation path or which alternatively places an optical element
into or out of a fixed optical path, thereby producing plural distinct radiation
processing configurations.
(1)
Note. One or more configurations may be limited to visible
light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter wherein the focal point or image magnification
of an imaging device or element is continuously or intermittantly
changed as desired.
(1)
Note. This includes various selected positions of different
optical elements to fit the user selected application.
(2)
Note. This incudes IR/UV variable elements adjacent
to or part of the zoom lens.
(3)
Note. This also includes FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared systems).
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter including a refractive imaging element or
a serially arranged group thereof having a significant property
in the infrared or ultraviolet area of the electromagnetic spectrum.
(1)
Note. Compound lens systems are a plurality of lenses or
lens groups arranged in series coaxially along an optical axis, such
lenses or lens groups being so spaced along the axis that the second focal
plane of the entrant lens of the series lies at or near the first
focal plane of the next succeeding lens or lens group of the series
whereby the light entrant lens is capable of producing from light rays
passing therethrough from an object external to the plurality of
lenses an image of that object, which image is viewed or relayed
by the said succeeding lens or lens group.
(2)
Note. Lens systems designate either a single transparent
mass of refractive material having opposed refracting surfaces or
a plurality of such masses arranged in series along an optical axis with
their opposed refracting surfaces disposed transversely of such
axis, the said opposed surfaces being so shaped and spaced that
the mass or plurality of masses are capable of producing from light
rays passing therethrough from an object external to the mass or
masses a single image of that object, which image is also external
to the mass or masses of material.
(3)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or a grouped plurality
of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of the
lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full over-all
contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing being of
such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens computations,
the two refracting surfaces of the single mass and the two axially
extreme refracting surfaces of the plurality of masses having at
least a portion thereof axially air spaced from all other adjacent refracting
surfaces that may be present in the lens. The axial dimension of
the air spacing between either the opposed surfaces of the single
mass or the axially extreme surfaces of the grouped plurality of
masses and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present
in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter into the lens
computations in order to limit the axial extent of the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 356. Subject matter which includes four or more components which
have significant properties in the infrared area of the electromagnetic spectrum.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter including filters or mirrors having a liquid
or gas which is specially adapted as by composition to transmit
or absorb infrared or ultraviolet radiation.
Compositions,
subclasses 582+ for light transmission modifying compositions and
subclass 588 for those compositions used for ultraviolet light transmission
modifying.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter having a substrate and one or more superimposed
coatings or laminae and which as a whole is designed to have significant
absorbent or redirective properties in the infrared or ultraviolet
portion of the spectrum.
(1)
Note. Interference filters wherein the multiple reflected
beams of various different frequencies will automatically interfere
with one another upon reflection are classified in this subclass
if significant IR/UV is specified.
(2)
Note. Multi-layer absorption would not be interference since
waves are not produced which interfere with one another.
(3)
Note. Multi-layer absorbing elements are classifed in this
subclass if significant IR/UV is specified.
(4)
Note. Semiconductor elements are classifed in this subclass
since they are not considered metals for subclass 360.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 192.26+ for optical or photoactive specified deposition
material glow discharge sputter deposited coating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 359. Subject matter wherein at least one coating or lamina or
the substrate is composed of a metal.
(1)
Note. Semiconductor elements are not considered as metal
and are included under subclass 359.
(2)
Note. Only an elemental metal layer is classified in this
subclass. Metal alloys or compositions in a multilayer structure are
classified in subclass 359.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter wherein light in the ultraviolet portion
of the spectrum is blocked or otherwise filtered.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a plurality of image formers arranged
for forming a series of real images along the optical axis, at least
one of the real images being formed between two of the image formers.
(1)
Note. The terminal image former may be an "eyepiece" designed
to form a real image only in combination with the human eye.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter including a device to record an image of
the object being directly viewed, the compound lens system being
primarily designed for direct viewing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter including a curved reflector which contributes
to the formation of at least one of the real images.
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter including a plurality of curved reflectors
contributing to the formation of one or more of the real images.
This subclass is indented under subclass 365. Subject matter wherein the plurality of curved reflectors
include at least one concave and at least one convex reflector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter including a compound lens system with an
objective deflector to provide viewing at a right angle to the main
optical axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter wherein the objective of the compound lens
system is designed to focus highly divergent light from an object
very close to the objective.
(1)
Note. Also illuminators, stages, slide carriers, and transparent
slides designed specifically for use with that type of compound
lens system are classified in subclasses indented under this subclass (368).
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter including structure for displaying a real
image on a viewed screen.
(1)
Note. The screen may be at an intermediate or terminal image
plane and may, for example, comprise a ground glass screen, a front
projection screen, a fiber optic output face, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter wherein light from the object is combined
with light of different phase or diffraction characteristics either
from the object or bypassing the object.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter wherein light from an object may follow any
of a plurality of substantially different optical axes through the
microscope.
(1)
Note. The different optical axes may be partly colinear and
may be used either simultaneously or alternately.
This subclass is indented under subclass 372. Subject matter wherein at least two of the separate paths
provide different images which are adjacent in a common field of
view.
This subclass is indented under subclass 374. Subject matter wherein at least two of the plural oculars
are separated at approximately the interocular distance to provide
simultaneous viewing by both eyes of one observer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 376. Subject matter including one objective for two stereoscopic
views or two objectives with parallel optical axes for two stereoscopic
views.
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter wherein separate objective channels view
different object fields, each field being filled by a separate parallax
object view for viewing.
(1)
Note. The devices of this subclass provide for two separate
fields. The stereoscopic property is related to the objects being
viewed taken from two slightly different directions of a three-dimensional
object. The views usually comprise a pair of transparencies, each transparency
being a separate object view.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter including means for varying the axial separation
of the optical elements, for example, for focusing or varying magnification.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
399, Telescope, and titled "Separation of optical elements
axially adjustable" or including the word "focusing" may
include subject matter related to subject matter in this subclass
(379).
This subclass is indented under subclass 379. Subject matter wherein varying the axial separation varies
the size of an in focus terminal image while the object distance
remains constant.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
407, Binocular, and titled "Spacing of optical elements axially
adjustable" may include subject matter related to variable
magnification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter wherein an imaging element is selectively
positionable in or out of the optical axis to change the image distance
or image size.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter wherein the microscope translates along the
optical axis to vary the distance to an object plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Subject matter wherein the adjustment along the optical
axis effects the focus of the compound optical system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter including (a) structure for illuminating
an object being viewed in combination with a microscope or (b) object illuminating
structure designed specifically for use with a microscope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject mattter including means for providing an annulus
of light surrounding a dark central portion for illuminating the
object.
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject matter including means for changing optical elements
in the illuminating beam path to change the type of illumination.
(1)
Note. The optical elements may be movable in and out of the
illuminating beam path or the illuminating beam may be deflected
to pass through different optical elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject matter wherein the illuminating light is transmitted
through a space occupied by the image field.
(1)
Note. A partially transmitting beam splitter is commonly
used in devices in this subclass (389).
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject matter including (a) means for maintaining the illuminator
in a fixed position or (b) means for limiting the movement of the
illuminator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter including (a) structure for supporting an
object to be viewed or tools to be placed in the field of view in
combination with a microscope or (b) structure for supporting an object
or tools designed specifically for use with a microscope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter wherein the stage or slide carrier translates
along the optical axis to vary its distance from the microscope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter wherein the stage or slide carrier is movable
in a plurality of directions perpendicular to the optical axis of
the microscope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter wherein the stage or slide carrier is rotatable
about the optical axis or an axis parallel to the optical axis of
the microscope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter including means to vary or keep constant
the temperature at the location of the stage or slide carrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter including (a) a transparent mass, usually
a glass plate, for supporting an object to be viewed in combination
with a microscope or (b) a transparent mass, usually a glass plate,
designed specifically for supporting an object to be viewed by a
microscope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter including a semi-transparent or opaque structure
for displaying one of the series of real images.
(1)
Note. The screen may be at an interminate or terminal image
plane and may, for example, comprise a ground glass screen, a front
projection screen, a fiber optic output face, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope maintains an erect
terminal image as at least part of the telescope is turned to rotate
an intermediate image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the entrance optical axis and the
exit optical axis of the telescope are parallel and offset and perpendicular
to the main axis of the telescope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter wherein light from an object may follow any
of a plurality of substantially different optical axes through the
periscope.
(1)
Note. The different optical axes may be partly colinear and
may be used either simultaneously or alternately.
This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Subject matter wherein at least two of the substantially
different axes provide separate views to separate eyepieces for
binocular viewing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter wherein the extension or elevation of the
periscope is changed, usually by the use of telescoping structures.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein at least two exit optical axes are
spaced at approximately the interocular distance to provide simultaneous
viewing by both eyes of one observer.
(1)
Note. This is the type of device used by fans at a ball game
to see distant players.
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Subject matter wherein the binocular telescope is hinged
or provided with telescoping or bellows sections to provide a more
compact unit when not in use or prior to assembly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Subject matter wherein the binocular telescopes are combined
with (a) an elongated structure for providing a handhold or (b)
a structure for engaging a portion of the body or apparel for support.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the supported binocular telescope
includes means for bringing an object at varying distances into
focus.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
412 with adjustable interocular distance and titled "Spacing
of optical elements axially adjustable" may include subject
matter related to focusing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the supported binocular telescopes
are connected by means which vary and maintain lateral spacing of
the two binocular optical axes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Subject matter wherein the binocular telescopes are connected
by means which vary and maintain lateral spacing of the two binocular optical
axes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the lateral spacing is changed by
swinging the binocular telescopes about a common axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 413. Subject matter wherein the axial separation of optical elements,
usually lenses, prisms, or mirrors, may be varied, usually for focusing
or varying magnification.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
362, Compound lens system, and titled "Separation of elements
axially adjustable", "Variable magnification" or
including the word "focusing" may include subject
matter related to subject matter in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the lateral spacing is varied by
rotating the binocular telescopes about different axes displaced
from their optical axes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 415. Subject matter wherein the axial separation of optical elements,
usually lenses, prisms, or mirrors, may be varied, usually for focusing
or varying magnification.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
362, Compound lens system, and titled "Separation of optical
elements axially adjustable", "Variable magnification" or
including the word "focusing" may include subject matter
related to subject matter in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the axial separation of optical elements,
usually lenses, prisms, or mirrors, may be varied, usually for focusing
or varying magnification.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
362, Compound lens system, and titled "Separation of optical
elements axially adjustable", "Variable magnification",
or including the word "focusing" may include subject matter
related to subject matter in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Subject matter wherein the axial separation of optical elements,
usually lenses, prisms, or mirrors, may be varied, usually for focusing
or varying magnification.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
362, Compound lens system, and titled "Separation of optical
elements axially adjustable", "Variable magnification" or
including the word "focusing" may include subject matter
related to subject matter in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein light from an object may follow any
of a plurality of substantially different paths through the telescope.
(1)
Note. The different optical axes may be partly colinear and
may be used either simultaneously or alternately.
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter wherein telescope images of different magnification
are simultaneously viewable in a common field of view.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope includes means for
step variations of the image size while the object distance remains
constant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope continuously varies
the size of the image while the object distance remains constant.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
407, Binocular, and titled "Separation of optical elements
axially adjustable" may include subject matter related
to variable magnification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope includes at least one
lens system which forms a real image of a real image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope includes (a) a device
for forming an in focus image of an object of varying distances
or (b) tubes supporting optical elements movable axially into and
out of one another.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
362, Compound lens system, and titled "Separation of optical
elements axially adjustable" may include subject matter
related to subject matter in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Subject matter wherein the entrance and exit lenses remain
a fixed distance apart while the telescope is focused.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope includes adjusting
the direction of view and maintaining the adjustment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 429. Subject matter wherein the telescope includes structure
to establish an axis (polar axis) parallel to the earth"s
rotational axis about which the telescope viewing axis rotates (right
ascension) at a selected angle (declination) between the polar axis
and the viewing axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the telescope includes two right
angle deflections in series to reverse the optical path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter wherein the compound lens system continuously
varies the size of a terminal image while the object distance remains
constant.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
407, Binocular, and titled "Spacing of optical elements axially
adjustable" may include subject matter related to variable
magnification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter wherein the compound lens system includes
(a) at least one lens whose optical axis is oblique to the optical
axis of the system or (b) is designed to produce at least one image plane
tilted with respect to the optical axis of the system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter wherein the compound lens system includes
at least one lens system that forms a real image of a real image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the compound lens system includes
(a) a plurality of identical relays in series or side by side or
(b) at least one relay comprised of identical elements or elements symmetrically
reversed about a center point.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including optical structure for facilitating
the reading of a scale, with or without a pointer or indicator,
having spaced lines or other indicia thereon; or for facilitating reading
a vernier type indicator where lines from two different scales are
matched.
(1)
Note. The scale may be on a weighing instrument, slide rule,
compass or speed indicator, etc.; and classification is here unless
sufficient scale supporting structure is recited to classify with
the particular art such as Class 33, Geometrical Instruments; Class
73, Measuring and Testing; Class 177, Weighing Scales; and Class
235, Registers.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclass 242.1 for thread counters and similar subject matter
where a relationship between the counter and the fabric is recited
such as a viewing aperture or support for the counter on the fabric
or a fabric support, subclasses 247+ for optical reticles
and crosshairs and subclasses 373 and 397 for distance measuring
devices which have a scale or optical grid displaced relative to
a remote fiducial mark.
This subclass is indented under subclass 436. Subject matter including a prism which may reflect or refract
light for better viewing the scale or indicia.
(1)
Note. See subclass 831 for the definition of a prism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 440. Subject matter including means for adjusting or moving the
lens with respect to the scale or indicia as for positioning or
focusing the lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Subject matter including means to guide a lens along the
reading direction of a linear scale or indicia.
(1)
Note. The lens may be movable along a nonlinear (e.g., circular)
scale as well as a linear scale and the structure must be included
which constricts or guides the movement of the lens along the scale
or indicia.
(2)
Note. An actuator, per se, is not classified in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a sheet or other extending surface
or area which is especially adapted to render an image of an object
which is projected thereon visible to an observer, usually by diffusing
the projected light.
(1)
Note. This subclass and those indented thereunder in this
class (359) include screens where the size, shape, or refractive
index of embedded particles is claimed or screens with elements
having geometric curves, with relative refractive indices or parts
with claimed patterns, with wave plates, acoustical characteristics
or other optical criterion. Such criterion must be more than mere "light diffusing
particles" or a "light diffusing surface" to
classify a patent in Class 359 as opposed to Class 139 or Class
428. See Class 427, appropriate subclasses for methods of making
screens by coating.
(2)
Note. The screen may be merely tracing paper or a canvas
as in indented subclass 447.
for miscellaneous methods of making screens not
classified in Class 427, Coating Processes, or Class 156, Adhesive
Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, etc.
Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, especially
subclasses 19+ and 371+ for framed screens without optical
details other than merely "translucent" or something similar.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclasses 1.1+ for processes directed to forming optical articles
capable of producing an optical effect other than mere transparency
or planar reflection.
Optics: Image Projectors,
subclasses 18 , 47, 67, 72+, 74+, and 79+ for
cabinet which encloses projector and one side of screen or structurally
related projector and screen.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, especially
subclasses 143+ for embedded light diffusing particles or for light
diffusing stock material in the form of a single or plural layer web
or stock material which may be useful for projection purposes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter including means to rotate or oscillate the
screen, usually for the purpose of improving the image seen by viewers
or for imparting a three dimensional effect.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter wherein the screen upon which an image is
formed is adapted to have an outline of the image traced or sketched
thereon.
(1)
Note. The instrument, commonly referred to as a camera lucida,
usually includes a prism or mirrors and sometimes a lens to cause
a virtual image of an object to appear as if projected upon a plane
surface so that an outline may be traced.
Optics: Image Projectors,
subclass 44 and 45 for an image projector having a concentrated
source of light to project an image for the purpose of tracing it.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter including a lens combined with the screen,
the screen usually being positioned in the second principle focal
plane of the lens.
(1)
Note. The device, commonly known as a camera obscura, usually
has a darkened chamber with a lens at the entrance thereof to permit
light from external objects to enter and to form an image of the
objects on a screen in the chamber.
(2)
Note. The combinations classified here are often constructed
to function normally only when the light rays approaching the entrant
lens from the object are substantially parallel, under which conditions
the image produced by the device is always greatly reduced relative
to the size of the object. The lens and screen combinations classified
in Class 353, Optics: Image Projectors, differ from those classified
here in that they are constructed to operate normally only when the
light rays approaching the entrant lens from the object are of the
widely diverging type, that is, when the object is near the first
principal focal plane of the entrant lens, under which conditions
the image produced by the device is enlarged relative to the size
of the object, a condition that usually necessitates the use of
intense artifical object illumination to provide an adequately illuminated image.
Moreover, the lens and screen combinations of Class 353, Optics:
Image Projectors, always have their object and screen in the conjugate
focal planes of the projection lens employed with the screen spaced
more distant from the lens than the object, while the lens and screen
combinations of this subclass 448 have their object and screen substantially
at infinity and at the principal focal plane of the lens respectively.
Optics: Image Projectors,
subclasses 18 , 47, 67, 72+, 74+, and 79+ for
an image projector having a light source or means to concentrate
solar light and including a lens and screen combination. See (2)
Note above.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter including another screen or a reflector which
usually is between the first screen and a projector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter including means connected to the screen to
shield or shade the screen or to modify the contrast between the
screen and the surrounding area.
(1)
Note. For the purpose of this subclass, drapes, hoods, and
covers are considered to be curtains.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter wherein the surface of the screen is articulated
rather than flat.
(1)
Note. In this subclass the overall shape or surface of the
screen is curved but subclasses 455 and 459 have curved individual
elements but the overall surface of the screen is generally flat.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter including a mass or sheet of material (e.g.,
resin, etc.) with particles partially or fully embedded therein
to affect the light transmission or reflection characteristics of
the screen, the particles having characteristics such as a particular
geometric shape, size, or refractive index.
(1)
Note. The screens in Class 428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous
Articles, subclasses 143+ may include particles claimed
as light diffusing or as causing translucency. However, if the
particles are claimed as having certain refractive index, size
or shape, or an index or size relative to the remainder of the screen material,
the patent is classified here in subclass 452. Further, if a geometric configuration
is formed by the particles in the screen the patent is also classified here
in subclass 452.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 143+ for a stock material product containing embedded
particles which diffuse light, and see (1) Note above.
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Subject matter wherein at least some of the plurality of
refracting elements have spherical or cylindrical curvature.
This subclass is indented under subclass 456. Subject matter wherein the lenticulated rear projection
screen includes a Fresnel lens or a lens resembling a plano-convex
or plano-concave lens that is cut into narrow rings and flattened
out.
(1)
Note. See subclass 742 for the definition of Fresnel type
lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 455. Subject matter wherein a lenticulated refractive screen
is placed between a picture and a viewer eye to provide an illusion
of relief or an illusory three dimension picture of a single perspective.
Optics: Motion Pictures,
subclasses 57+ for stereoscopic camera or projectors and subclasses
85+ for special effects, particularly subclass 86 for devices
creating an illusion of three dimensional viewing without employing
separate left and right images.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter wherein a plurality of discrete reflecting
elements are part of a unitary plate or sheet, the reflecting elements
redirecting the impinging light in different directions.
(1)
Note. The discrete elements are usually angularly related
or curved.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter wherein the screen is flexible and can be
wound around a roller for easy storage or for portability.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising (1) a separate optical system
for each eye of one person, which are looking at a common object,
for producing separate visual records containing information from
the two different points of view relative to that object, or (2)
the stereoscopic record itself, or (3) the devices for viewing such
records.
(1)
Note. This subclass takes optical systems of stereo projectors
and cameras which are not sufficient to constitute a complete projector
or camera.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 12+ for base line type range or height finders which
include stereoscopic viewers and subclass 390 for mensuration or
configuration comparison devices which may involve stereo-viewers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 462. Subject matter comprising a record with a plurality of reflecting
or transmitting elements, each having a curved or figured surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 462. Subject matter associated with stereo systems wherein by
appropriate viewing devices (e.g., colored or polarizing spectacles),
light rays representing the right and left stereoscopic channels
and having different optical properties (e.g., color, direction
of polarization), in accordance with the channel they represent, will
affect only the eye appropriate to a given channel.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes for example, (1) apparatus for
forming superimposed images from light rays having different optical
properties, (2) the record containing right and left stereo images
characterized by having different optical properties, or (3) the
viewing devices for discriminating between the light rays from the
right and left images.
This subclass is indented under subclass 464. Subject matter wherein the particles of the light vibrate
perpendicular to the direction of travel and these vibrations are
either in straight lines, circles, or ellipses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 462. Subject matter comprising either (1) viewing devices which
are used to aid the observer in fusing adjacently mounted right
and left stereoscopic pictures or (2) the adjacently mounted right
and left stereoscopic pictures themselves.
This subclass is indented under subclass 467. Subject matter wherein the slide or picture being viewed
moves linearly past the viewing aperture, i.e., each point on the
picture generates a straight line as it passes the aperture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 468. Subject matter wherein a carrier is formed as a tape or
strip with individual elements of a motion picture sequence uniformly
spaced along the strip.
(1)
Note. Film strips may include moving film, film-roll band,
ribbon of film, film tape, or film spools.
Optics: Motion Pictures,
subclass 37 for strip type films with a sound record, subclass
56 for methods of working or making a film strip, subclass 59 for
stereoscopic apparatus involving plural film strips, subclasses
166+ for drive mechanisms for film strips, and subclasses
232+ for motion picture carriers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 466. Subject matter wherein compensation is made for the orientation
or position of the recording device or devices which produced the
stereo pictures.
(1)
Note. This subject matter generally involves stereoscopes
for plotting, mapping, or measuring where the raw data must be adjusted
to compensate for such things as parallax, different image size, skew,
or tilt, etc., caused by a particular camera orientation.
Geometrical Instruments,
subclass 1 for similar subject matter combined with measuring
means and subclass 20.4 for similar subject matter combined with
scribing means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 471. Subject matter wherein (1) the pictures viewed are vertically
offset (i.e., the tops and bottoms are not in line), (2) the picture
to be viewed by the right eye is on the left side of the picture
to be viewed by the left eye, or (3) the respective right or left
sides of the stereo pictures are adjacent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 466. Subject matter comprising means for adjusting the spacing
of the stereoscope oculars or means for adjusting the angular relationship
of their optical axes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 466. Subject matter wherein the stereoscope after use can be
folded, collapsed, or dismantled to form a more compact package
or wherein the stereoscope, prior to use, is folded, collapsed, or
dismantled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 466. Subject matter including adjustment of the distance between
the stereoscopic eyepieces and the viewed picture.
This subclass is indented under subclass 466. Subject matter comprising supporting, mounting, enclosing
or light shielding structure for stereo viewer or its components.
(1)
Note. Examples of this subclass are stereoscopic hoods, cases
or handles.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for giving a depth or relief effect comprising
a visual record which contains information of the object viewed
obtained from only one point of view.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising one separate optical element,
aperture or tube for each eye of the user or comprising a single
optical element used alternately by each eye.
This subclass is indented under subclass 480. Subject matter including a support shaped to position one
or more lenses before each eye so that the lenses move with the
head of the user.
(1)
Note. The support may be adapted to be attached directly
to either the head, e.g., a head band, or spectacle frames.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclasses 41+ for spectacles and eyeglasses. See Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, Lenses, in the 351 Class Definition
for the distinction between the vision correcting structure of Class
351 and the magnifying structure of Class 359.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein the polarization of an incoming light
beam is modified in a time invariant fashion as a result of passing
through some optical device.
(1)
Note. Where both a polarizing device and a composition are
claimed, the patent is classified here and cross-referenced to Class
252, subclass 585.
(2)
Note. Where a method of making the polarizing device is claimed
as well as the polarizing device, the patent is classified here
and cross-referenced to any other class providing for the method.
(3)
Note. The nominal recitation of a polarizing area in the
form of a design, image, etc., is sufficient to include this subject matter
in this subclass.
Radiant Energy,
subclass 225 for a light polarizer and a photocell and subclasses
505.1+ for invisible radiation control devices exclusive
of infrared and ultraviolet devices which may include polarization
devices.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclasses 49 , 215, and 232 for light-polarizing devices used
in eye examining vision testing and correcting means.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 30+ for gem or crystal examining using polarized light;
subclass 326 for spectrometers which utilize polarized light; and
subclasses 364+ for polarized light examination devices
generally.
This subclass is indented under subclass 483. Subject matter wherein an electrical, magnetic, or electromagnetic
field, which is unchanging in time, is applied to the device producing
the polarization.
(1)
Note. This would include optical isolators and circulators.
This subclass is indented under subclass 483. Subject matter wherein an optical device causes optical
energy to vibrate in accordance with a regular pattern that differs
from the input without the application of any supplemental energy.
Incremental Printing of Symbolic Information,
subclasses 224+ for apparatus or processes for marking record receiver
using radiation energy (e.g., light or beam), subclasses 129+ for
electrostatic marking apparatus or processes including photo scanning device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter wherein electrical conductors in the form
of a grid (i.e., each grid opening forms a half wavelength of the
applied light) or half wavelength dipoles embedded in the medium
produce polarization of the applied light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter wherein a light beam is polarized as a result
of either (1) striking a surface and returning into the originating
medium or (2) redirection as it passes through media of differing
optical densities.
This subclass is indented under subclass 487. Subject matter wherein details of the reflecting or refracting
medium are recited (e.g., physical composition, structure, specific
indexes of refraction, or thickness of layers).
(1)
Note. Physical shape (other than layered mediums) or arrangement
of elements or mediums is not considered a particular medium for
this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter comprising a surface which transmits or reflects
light and whose ability to polarize light is not uniform across
the surface.
(1)
Note. This variation in polarizing ability may be continuous
or discontinuous and may form any type of pattern. For example,
the different areas of a surface may form an image or design as
in a "vectograph".
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter including an optical element which effects
the degree of polarization dependent upon the relative absorption
therein of the two components or vectors of light.
(1)
Note. A dichroic element will transmit light of one color
and reflect light of the complementary color with little light being
absorbed. These elements are composed of superimposed strata of dielectric
material, which are classified in subclass 580.
(2)
Note. Included here are elements where the medium comprises
a lamination or a coating on a supporting structure and where the
supporting structure is significant or the means to form the lamination or
coating is significant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 490. Subject matter wherein a coloring agent is absorbed by the
polarization medium to affect the polarization of the applied light
beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 490. Subject matter wherein the polarization of the applied light
is dependent upon the spatial positioning of microscopic particles
embedded in the dichroic medium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter wherein unwanted glare-producing light, having
a particular polarization, is eliminated by a polarizing structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter including an element having the property
of dividing a ray or beam of energy into two polarized rays or beams
(known as the ordinary and extraordinary rays), the directions of
polarization being at right angles to each other.
(1)
Note. A birefringent material which has been treated with
a dichroic dye to absorb the ordinary or extraordinary ray is no
longer considered to be birefringent within the meaning of this
definition. A birefringent element in the form of a Nicol prism
where the unwanted ray is deflected is classified here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Subject matter wherein the entire beam or a portion of the
beam is caused to change direction for positioning purpose or wherein
the beam is split into two or more portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Subject matter wherein the birefringent element is formed
into a structure bound in part by two plane faces that are not parallel
and combinations of the structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 497. Subject matter wherein plural elements act to pass a particular
frequency or band of frequencies, or wherein interference effects
are used to produce effects such as color or an interference pattern.
This subclass is indented under subclass 497. Subject matter wherein at least one of the elements corrects
for unwanted effects, such as those due to temperature.
This subclass is indented under subclass 494. Subject matter wherein details of the birefringent material,
such as the type, size, shape, crystal cut, or treatment thereof
or detailed structures for mounting the material are recited.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter wherein the polarizers are positioned one
on top of another or arranged in a row and their positions are adjustable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 485. Subject matter where a polarizing structure is combined
with structure to selectively absorb or transmit specific light
wavelengths.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including (a) means for maintaining different
types of optical elements significantly separated in a fixed or
adjustable relationship along the optical axis or (b) means for
maintaining lenses significantly separated as in a Galilean telescope
or door peep.
This subclass is indented under subclass 503. Subject matter wherein an objective element is designed
to give a wide field of view, usually at least 120 degrees.
This subclass is indented under subclass 503. Subject matter including a sliding structure, a bellows,
or a telescoping structure for adjusting an optical barrel along
the optical axis relative to another structure.
(1)
Note. Other subclasses in this class indented under subclass
362, Compound lens system and titled "Separation of optical
elements axially adjustable", "Variable magnification" or
including the word "focusing" may include subject matter
related to subject matter in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including structure to stop moisture or foreign
matter from coming into contact with optical elements or means to remove
moisture or foreign matter from optical elements.
(1)
Note. Storage or container, per se, for an optical element
is classified in Class 206, Special Receptacle or Package, particularly
subclasses 5+ for eyeglasses or spectacles and subclasses
316.1+ for other optical or photographic devices or elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Subject matter where an optical element or a shield therefor
is rotated or otherwise moved to throw off moisture or other foreign
matter, usually by centrifugal force.
(1)
Note. The optical element may be rotated by any motor including
one operated by air passing over vanes as in an air operated turbine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Subject matter with structure to direct a fluid across an
optical element to blow or wash moisture, or other foreign matter
off or to pull such matter off by suction created by the moving
fluid.
for apparatus where fluid is directed to vanes,
as in a turbine, which rotates the optical element or a shield therefor,
such as a transparent disc in fron of an objective lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Subject matter including a thin flexible structure loosely
encircling a microscope to isolate the microscope from its surroundings.
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Subject matter wherein a usually flanged or flat member
covers the end of a barrel of an optical device in order to protect
an unused lens, located within a barrel, from dust or from damage
by impact with foreign objects.
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Subject matter with means for maintaining a desired humidity
level or temperature or for increasing or decreasing the humidity
level or temperature from its ambient value.
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Subject matter with means to seal the optical elements from
the atmosphere so that dust or moisture, etc., does not fall on
them.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein elements may be specular or diffusing
to reflect a light to an observer for signalling purposes.
(1)
Note. The presence of a reflector usually is the desired
information com-unicated to an observer, i.e., any light, as from
an observer"s automobile headlights, reflected from the
reflector makes the presence of the reflector, and thus danger or
need for caution, known to the observer; however, in indented subclass 527,
below, some of the reflectors reflect light from a traffic signal
light to an observer or reflect light from a source to an observer
merely to determine if the source is operating.
(2)
Note. The structure of signs with the nominal recitation
of a signal reflector are classified in Class 40. In particular an "indicia" design
or the conveyance of specific information would be classifiable
in Class 40.
(3)
Note. Most of the patents in these subclasses relate to highway
traffic in the form of indicating the presence of an approaching
curve, vehicle, or pedestrian on a roadway.
(5)
Note. Since Class 359 is considered superior to Class 116
(See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class), the use of
a signal reflector as a signal source or indicator will be clasified
in Class 359, unless the details of the signals and indicators are
specified.
(6)
Note. Track reflectors having utility with railroads are
classified in Class 246.
(7)
Note. A nominal recitation, i.e., no optical limitations,
of a signal reflector combined with the specifics of its support
is classified in Class 248.
(8)
Note. The patents of this and indented subclasses are to
use the signal reflector to attract attention as opposed to being the
source of illumination of Class 362.
(9)
Note. A lens, as in a plastic tail light of an automobile
used to identify an automobile"s presence to a following
automobile, is classified in Signal Reflectors (subclasses 515+),
rather than Lens (subclasses 642+).
(10)
Note. A mirror, located along the side of the road to cause
a light flash for identification of the edge of the road as an automobile
approaches, is classified in Signal Reflectors (subclasses 515+), rather
than Mirror, (subclasses 838+) since a nominal recitation
of a mirror claimed with other structure is classified with the
other structure.
(11)
Note. The combination of an article of clothing and a signal
reflector is classified in this subclass since the combination only
is classified in Class 2, if not otherwise classifiable.
(12)
Note. The combination of an animal collar (i.e., nominal
recitation of a collar or harness) together with a signal reflector is
classified with the signal reflector of this and indented sub-classes,
while a reflector claimed in combination with more than a nominal
collar is classified in Class 119, subclass 858.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, sub-class 208 for a license plate and reflector,
subclass 219 for translucent mirrors with indicia, and subclasses 582+ for
illuminated signs which may include reflective elements.
Signals and Indicators,
subclass 20 for helios:graphic code signaling and subclasses
63+ for mechanical street traffic signalling structure,
such as a semphore, light shutter, or pointer.
Communications: Electrical, appropri-ate subclasses for traffic and vehicle signal
lights,
subclasses 815.4+ for visual indicator, and subclass 815.76 for
lens type indicator.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave Systems and
Devices (e.g., Ra-dar, Radio Navigation),
subclasses 5+ for radar reflectors, i.e., reflectors of radio
frequency waves.
Illumination, for artificial illumination means,
subclasses 459+ contains illumination with vehicle structure, subclasses
296+ for projectors with reflec-tors, and subclasses 341+ for constant
reflectors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter including apparatus to enable a user (human
or animal) to carry the reflector.
(1)
Note. A reflector carried by the hand or wrist but not worn
by the user, belongs in this subclass, rather than subclass 517.
(2)
Note. The combination of either a flashlight or a cane with
an attached reflector, which is normally carried by the hand, belongs
in this subclass.
(3)
Note. The combination of an article of clothing and a signal
reflector belongs in this subclass not with the apparel of Class
2, since the combination only belongs in Class 2, if not otherwise
classifiable.
(4)
Note. The combination of an animal collar (i.e., nominal
recitation of a collar or harness) together with a signal reflector is
classified with the signal reflector not the collar of Class 119,
subclass while a reflector claimed in combination with more than
a nominal collar is classified in Class 119, subclass 858.
This subclass is indented under subclass 516. Subject matter wherein the reflector is a part of or attached
to clothing or a device both of which are worn by the wrist or hand.
(1)
Note. A glove having a reflector is classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. A wrist band having a reflector is classified in this
subclass.
(3)
Note. A reflector carried by the hand or wrist, but not worn,
is classified in subclass 516.
(4)
Note. Safety belts, pins, etc., wherein the sole function
of the apparatus is to mount a signal reflector for safety purposes
are classified in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 516. Subject matter wherein a reflector is attached to an article
of clothing and remains on the clothing when a person discontinues
wearing the clothing.
(1)
Note. Signal reflectors that are part of the clothing a person
wears and the clothing serves other purposes than as a mount for
a reflector are classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. A belt, having a reflector, worn through the loops
of a pair of trousers functions as an article of clothing and is classified
and in this subclass.
(3)
Note. Signal reflectors that are transparent spheres permanently
fixed to clothing by glue, transparency, etc., are classified in
this subclass.
(4)
Note. A helmet, hat, shoe, or boot is considered clothing
for this subclass, but Class 36, subclass 137 takes light reflecting
or illumination attached to a shoe.
(5)
Note. A pin with a reflector is not permanently fixed to
clothing, but is classified in subclass 519.
(6)
Note. A signal reflector permanently attached to an animal
collar, leash, or harness is classifed in this subclass.
for safety belts, pins, etc., having a reflector
and the sole purpose of wearing the article is for safety reasons.
A safety belt is not worn through the loops of a pair of trousers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 516. Subject matter wherein the reflector is mounted on apparatus
that is placed over the apparel of a user.
(1)
Note. This would include a safety belt, a safety belt harness,
and pins that are worn solely for the reflecting properties not
as part of the normal dress of the person. A safety belt is not
used through the loops of a pair of trousers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter where the signal reflector is in a continuous
state of motion to be more easily observed.
(1)
Note. The continuous state of motion could be vibration,
oscillation, or rotation on a specified device whether or not they
are "claimed" as rotating etc.
(2)
Note. The motion of reflectors resulting from vehicle vibration,
vehicle wheels, wind action, etc., are considered to be an irregular
nature for this subclass and not periodic.
(3)
Note. The beam deflection caused by a nonperiodic moving
reflector solely to present a clearer observation of the reflector
belong in this subclass not beam
deflection by the reflector to communicate some specific information
via the modulation produced by the signal reflector beam deflection.
(4)
Note. Rigidly mounted reflectors such as bicycle reflectors
mounted on the frame do not belong here but in subclass 550.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclass 208 for a license plate and reflector, subclasses 427+ and
446+ for display devices that simulate motion or a changing
exhibitor, subclasses 582+ for illuminated signs which
may include reflective elements.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 28+ for vehicle, subclasses 46+ for rotatable
motion and direction indicators for vehicles, and subclass 56 for vehicle-energy
actuated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter wherein the reflector is attached to the
pedal of a vehicle that requires pedal movement for vehicle motion.
(1)
Note. These patents are generally bicycle pedals but are
not limited only to bicycles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter wherein the reflector movement is rotational
about some axis.
(1)
Note. This includes reflectors that are rotated by the gases
expelled from the exhaust pipe of a vehicle.
(2)
Note. The structure of signs with the nominal recitation
of a signal reflector are classified in Class 40. In particular, an "indicia" design
or the conveyance of specific information would be classifiable
in Class 40.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 28+ for vehicle, subclasses 46+ for rotatable
motion and direction indicators for vehicles, and subclass 56 for vehicle-energy
actuated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 522. Subject matter wherein the reflector is attached onto one
or more spokes that position the rim from the hub.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes bicycle and motorcycle spokes
as well as any other type of spoked wheel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 522. Subject matter wherein the reflector is attached to either
a rotating tire, valve stem, wheel, hub cap, or axle of a vehicle.
(1)
Note. This also includes reflectors attached to or part of
a dust cover of a valve stem.
Land Vehicles: Wheels, and Axles,
subclass 37 for wheel protectors or trim members, or wheel
covers fastened to the spokes of a wheel, and subclass 108 for wheel
hub caps.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclass 440 for rotatable fluid operated display with special
effects and subclass 479 for rotatable fluid operated changing exhibitor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter wherein the signal reflector attracts attention
by its own random movement relative to its support.
(1)
Note. This reflector is not driven by any motor or other
source of energy such as the wheel of a vehicle or the wind.
(2)
Note. The reflector is wobbly mounted with respect to its
support.
(3)
Note. The reflector has additional movement from that created
by its support (i.e., it is suspended from its support bracket).
(4)
Note. Reflectors rigidly mounted to a support via a helical
or other spring belong in this subclass since they will vibrate.
(5)
Note. A reflector attached to a mudflap of a vehicle would
be classified here since the movement of the mudflap having the
reflector attracts attention.
(6)
Note. Rigidly mounted reflectors such as bicycle reflectors
mounted on the frame do not belong here but in subclass 550.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter including structure to reflect light from
a signal originating from a source remote from the observer, i.e.,
not coming from a light source at the location of the observer.
(1)
Note. This structure may be merely a plane mirror mounted
on an automobile hood to reflect light from an overhead traffic
signal to the driver or it may be a reflector at a street intersection
which reflects light from the headlights of one car to the driver
of another car travelling in a direction approximately 90 degrees different
than that of the first car.
(2)
Note. Road reflectors remote from the vehicle, to reflect
all of an automobile"s headlight beams back to the driver
are not classified in this subclass since the source of the vehicle
headlight beams are at the location of the observer.
(3)
Note. The reflection of the light beams of one vehicle"s
headlights to another vehicle would be classified in this subclass.
(4)
Note. A reflector which reflects a portion of the light output
of a vehicle"s headlight or taillight to be observable
by the driver of the vehicle is classified in this subclass, rather
than Class 362, since the reflection is for observation rather than
illumination.
Railway Switches and Signals,
subclass 474 for track reflectors. A railway and switch in
combination with a nominally recited signal reflector are also classified
in this class (246).
Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops,
subclass 97.1 for glare or screen body and subclass 97.2 for
specific structure or properties for diffusing or reflecting light
to reduce the glare on the viewer"s eyes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter where the reflector is adapted to transmit
light from a source which is behind the surface of the reflector
which is normally viewed, such as in a tail-light reflector which transmits
light from a light bulb behind the reflector or lens and also reflects
a large amount of light which is directed to the front surface of
the reflector by an external source such as the headlights of an
approaching automobile.
(1)
Note. The patents of this subclass use a signal reflector
combination with a light source behind the reflector in order to attract
attention of other vehicles, either by the light source itself or
reflection of the other vehicle"s light.
(2)
Note. The use of a reflector to change (i.e., concentrate,
disperse, collimate) the light from a source for illumination purposes
belong in Class 362 (e.g., the reflector behind the light source
of a headlight used to direct the outgoing beam in a particular
pattern).
Illumination,
subclasses 459+ for illumination with vehicle structure, subclass
494 for mirror or reflector with vehicle structure (e.g., rear view
mirror), subclasses 296+ for a light source and modifier
including a reflector where the reflector is used to modify the
outgoing source light beam, and subclasses 341+ for reflector
light modifiers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter wherein the light is reflected from three
reflecting surfaces and wherein after the three reflections, it
moves in a direction opposite to and parallel to its direction before the
three reflections.
(1)
Note. The reflections may be external or internal, i.e.,
the light may be reflected without entering the material from which the
reflector is made or the light may enter one surface of the reflector,
be reflected three times internally, and exit through the same sur-face.
(2)
Note. Single or plural 3-corner reflectors are classified
in this subclass but plural reflectors formed into a single substrate
are classified in subclass 530.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclass 1.9 for reflective composite or multilayer optical
article shaping or treating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 529. Subject matter wherein the reflective elements, such as
the individual triple reflectors, are part of a single plate or
sheet comprising a plurality of the 3-corner reflective elements.
(1)
Note. The reflective elements are a part of the structure
of the plate or sheet.
(2)
Note. Many of these retroreflectors are used on highways
for road makers.
(3)
Note. Plural reflectors combined into a single substrate
are classified in this subclass whereas plural reflectors using multiple
substrates are classified in subclass 529.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclass 1.9 for reflective composite or multilayer optical
article shaping or treating.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclass 14 for lane marker impregnated with reflective material, subclass
16 for vibration inducing member including a reflector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 530. Subject matter wherein the reflector is positioned onto
the vehicle road surface in order to enable easier viewing of that
portion of the roadway.
(1)
Note. A reflector sign, having a unitary plate of 3-corner
reflectors, permanently fastened to a road surface would belong in
this subclass but the same reflector counterbalanced within a recess
in the roadway - ordinarily up and visible but capable of retraction
into the recess when contacted by the vehicle wheel - is classified
in Class 404.
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 168 having controlling apparatus adapted to interact
with stationary apparatus which describes the course of the vehicle"s travel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 530. Subject matter wherein the reflector is positioned off of
the roadway surface but within viewing distance of the driver of
a vehicle in order to enable easier viewing of the edge of the roadway.
(1)
Note. A reflector sign permanently fastened to a road surface
would belong in this subclass but the same reflector counterbalanced
within a recess in the roadway - ordinarily up and visible but capable
of retraction into the recess when contacted by the vehicle wheel
is classified in Class 404.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 63+ for street traffic where the device for giving
signals are generally due to some movement of some part or element
from a normal or nonsignalling or signal-controlled position (e.g.,
a semaphore).
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 168 having controlling apparatus adapted to interact
with stationary apparatus which describes the course of the vehicle"s travel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter including a surface which is curved and which
refracts or bends the light before or after it is reflected.
(1)
Note. The reflector operates as a separate function and is
located behind the actual curved refracting surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 534. Subject matter wherein the curved refracting surface is
positioned either within an indentation of the substrate or within
a socket created by a plurality of elements to hold it in place.
(1)
Note. Multiple minute spheres used to retain a much larger
curved refracting optical element within a socket for the larger
element belong in this subclass.
(2)
Note. These indentations can be produced by a platen which
forces refracting beads against a substrate to form indentations,
thus producing separate indentations for each bead.
This subclass is indented under subclass 534. Subject matter where the elements which refract and reflect
are tiny transparent spheres, commonly called "little glass
beads".
(1)
Note. The elements may be partially or fully embedded. The
matrix may be attached to a surface of any shape such as a spherical
or a flat surface.
(2)
Note. These spheres range in size between 3-6 mils (i.e.,
0.003 - 0.006 inches).
This subclass is indented under subclass 536. Subject matter wherein the reflective structure behind the
spheres is arranged to permit viewing of the image behind the spheres,
only if the incident light is transmitted to the spheres at the
desired critical angle.
(1)
Note. The directional reflection of this subclass permits
viewing of the image only by those authorized (i.e., knowing the
angle).
(2)
Note. The image is not changed by the directional reflection
but observation is accomplished dependent upon viewing at the proper
angle.
(3)
Note. A picture that is covered by a substrate containing
minute glass spheres to permit viewing of the picture via the reflected
light only if the incident light is at a predetermined angle belongs
in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 536. Subject matter wherein the spheres are placed on a flexible
material by transfer, glue, etc., and this material can be used
for an reflective purpose.
(1)
Note. Spheres embedded in a resin that remains flexible (e.g.,
elastomeric composition) are classified in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 536. Subject matter wherein the spheres are located within the
mixture of paint or resin and are simultaneously applied to the
surface as a complete mixture.
(1)
Note. This mixture can be painted onto signs, vehicles, or
roadway surfaces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 536. Subject matter wherein the binder is first placed on the
surface and subsequently, prior to hardening of the binder, the
spheres are placed thereon to ensure that they are fixed to the
surface via the binder.
(1)
Note. This includes exposed spheres which are glued to the
surface, resulting in an exposed glass-sphere surface.
(2)
Note. Spheres which are not completely surrounded by the
binder belong in this subclass.
(3)
Note. A monolayer (single) of spheres on a binder belong
in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Subject matter wherein a single coating, which is transparent
to light, surrounds and either (1) completely envelopes the normally
exposed surface of the sphere, (2) touches only a portion of the
spheres, or (3) is an interface for the minute spheres where the
spheres are confined but not touching the exposed surface.
(1)
Note. This single coating will cover the sphere relative
to the environment yet have no optical effect on the light that would
impinge on a normally exposed surface of the sphere. If reference
is made to protection of the reflector from moisture or foreign
particle it belongs in subclass 514.
(2)
Note. A transparent coating used simply to hold the spheres
onto the binder is not considered a sealer as in subclass 514.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 34 for light transmissive sheets with gas space therebetween
and edge sealed (e.g., double glazed storm window, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 534. Subject matter including a unitary mass of transparent material
which comprises a plurality of curved refracting sur-faces.
(1)
Note. This unitary mass performs refraction of the incoming
light prior to reflection by the reflector, and also of the outgoing
light after reflection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 534. Subject matter including means for mounting the individual
optical elements such as small socket-like mounts in which the elements
are inserted and held or further including means for mounting the
small socket-like mounts.
(1)
Note. Reflector buttons that simply reflect light falling
on them, autocollimating, without the creation of a single image
of an object at a focal point are classified in this subclass rather
than the lens subclasses of this class.
(2)
Note. Although reflector buttons are often called "lenses" they
are not classified in the lens subclasses of this class unless they
create a single image of an object at a focal point.
This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Subject matter wherein either the curved refracting surface
or the reflecting surface behind the refractor are individually
mounted on a support by being pushed into a retainer which opens
for entrance and closes around a portion of the element when it
is in the settled position or a coil spring holds each element in place.
(1)
Note. The snap or spring clip retainer could either clamp
onto the refractor/reflector or could be used to clamp
a retainer to a housing and the refractor/reflector force
fitted into the retainer. The combination of a refractor/reflector and
a retainer that is snapped into a third device belong in this subclass.
(2)
Note. A rubber slot into which the refractor or reflector
are pushed into for retention in the slot belong in subclass 543.
(3)
Note. Although the reflector buttons of this subclass are
often referred to as lenses, these have not been crossed into lenses
since these simply reflect the light falling on them rather than
create a single image of an object at a focal point. These buttons
are often referred to as auto collimating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Subject matter where the means for mounting includes a threaded
member for screw attachment and this can be used to mount the curved refracting
surface that is located in fron of the reflecting surface.
(1)
Note. Reflector buttons that simply reflect light falling
on them, autocollimating, without the creation of a single image
of an object at a focal point are classified in this subclass rather
than the lens subclasses of this class.
(2)
Note. Although reflector buttons are often called "lenses" they
are not classified in the lens subclasses of this class unless they
create a single image of an object at a focal point.
Expanded, Threaded, Driven, Headed, Tool-Deformed,
or Lock-Threaded Fastener,
subclasses 81+ for threaded fastener and means for restricting rotation
thereof relative to coacting substructure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 546. Subject matter wherein the unitary mass is positioned either
on or off of the roadway surface within viewing distance of the
driver of a vehicle in order to enable an easier view of that portion
of the roadway or the edge of the roadway.
(1)
Note. A reflector sign, having discrete reflecting elements,
permanently fastened to a road surface would belong in this subclass
but the same reflector counterbalanced within a recess in the roadway
- ordinarily up and visible but capable of retraction into the recess when
contacted by the vehicle wheel is classified in Class 404.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 63+ for street traffic where the device for giving
signals are generally due to some movement of some part or element
from a normal or nonsignalling or signal-controlled position (e.g.,
a semaphore).
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter wherein the reflector is rigidly attached
to any type of vehicle used to carry passengers.
(1)
Note. This vehicle could be an airplane, boat, automobile,
train, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 549. Subject matter wherein the vehicle is a two wheeled vehicle
in the form of either a bicycle or motorcycle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter wherein the reflector is attached to the
road surface itself either in the form of individual reflector units
fastened to the road surface or reflective paint.
(1)
Note. Reflective paint, without minute transparent spheres,
for highway mark-ing is classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. A reflector sign (not having a unitary plate of 3-corner
reflectors or a unitary mass of discrete reflecting elements) permanently
fastened to a road surface would belong in this subclass but the same
reflector counterbalanced within a recess in the roadway - ordinarily
up and visible, but capable of retraction into the recess when contacted
by the vehicle wheel - is classified in Class 404.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter wherein the reflector is permanently mounted
next to the roadway for viewing by the driver of an automobile and generally
reflecting the beams of automobile headlights.
(1)
Note. A reflector sign permanently fastened to a road surface
would belong in this subclass but the same reflector counterbalanced
within a recess in the roadway - ordinarily up and visible but capable
of retraction into the recess when contacted by the vehicle wheel
is classified in Class 404.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 63+ for street traffic where the device for giving
signals are generally due to some movement of some part or element
from a normal or nonsignalling or signal - controlled position (e.g.,
a semaphore).
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 168 having controlling apparatus adapted to interact
with stationary apparatus which describes the course of the vehicle"s travel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 515. Subject matter wherein the reflectors are used as temporary
barricades placed on or adjacent the roadway, foldable or collapsible
reflectors for use when a car breaks down or directing traffic.
(1)
Note. These reflectors are not rigidily mounted but simply
placed on the surface (roadway or adjacent areas) to warn oncoming
traffic of a necessary change in driving conditions along the roadway.
Signals and Indicators,
subclass 63 for specific mechanisms for folding and expanding
a portable street traffic signal and indicator with only a nominal
recitation of a signal reflector.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein an optical element moves or changes
its optical characteristic to compensate for vibrations, atmospheric turbulence,
etc., to maintain a stable image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 554. Subject matter wherein the motion or turbulence compensating
optical element is a light reflecting device for redirecting a light
beam and movable such that the combined effects of motion and reflection
provides the desired compensation.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclass 149 for gyroscope or pendulum stabilized optical element
and subclass 250 for pendulum suspension of optical element or reticle
fiducial instruments.
This subclass is indented under subclass 554. Subject matter wherein image stabilization is accomplished
via the movements of a light bending (i.e., refracting) optical
element.
(1)
Note. Gyroscopically supported lenses to compensate for motion
belong in this subclass.
(2)
Note. Compensation for the bending of periscopes also belongs
here if the optical elements are movable for the compensation.
(3)
Note. The refractive elements are moved individually or as
a unit to compensate for the instability of the image.
(4)
Note. Motion picture cameras (Class 352) would take precedence
over this class but cross references for motion picture camera lenses
that are gyroscopically controlled for image stabilization should
go in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a light beam is split and caused
to interfere with itself, which causes a change in the direction
of the beam.
(1)
Note. Diffraction bands result from interference of one part
of a beam with another, as when the ray is deflected at the edge
of an opaque obstacle, passed through a narrow slit, or deflected
by an optical element such as a prism.
(2)
Note. Diffraction usually, but not always, causes a break-up
of the light into bands or a spectrum. Additionally, diffraction
may also form a plurality of images from an object or merely redirect it,
as in light diffractive scanners.
(3)
Note. This subclass includes systems operating on diffraction
from a straight edge, a circular disk or aperture, a slit or a grating;
and also includes systems operating on Fraunhofer diffraction (far field
wherein the incident light rays are parallel and the diffracted
rays are brought to a focus by a focusing means) or on Fresnel diffraction
(near field wherein the incident light rays arise from a finite
source and no focusing means are used for rendering the diffracted
rays parallel, or convergent).
(4)
Note. Devices for producing moire fringes by shadow casting
through gra-ting-like elements are excluded from this subclass.
(5)
Note. All diffraction has interference but interference does
not require dif-fraction.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 81 with melting or gasification of permanently associated
solid material in situ in airtight cavity.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclass 192.26 for the coating, forming or etching with optical
or photoactive deposition material by glow discharge sputter deposition.
Optics: Measuring and Testing, subclasses 485, 494, 499, and 521 for dif light interference,
and
subclass 618 for moire fringe generation by shadow casting through
grating-like elements.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Pro-cess, Composition,
or Product Thereof,
subclass 5 for radiation mask, subclasses 9+ for
imaged product, subclass 32 for making an optical device, subclass
323 for etching, and subclass 325 for elevated pattern.
This subclass is indented under subclass 558. Subject matter wherein an optical Fourier transform is taken
of a diffracted beam of light and a spatial filter is placed at
the Fourier transform plane to spatially limit the output optical wave
to those having Fourier transform coefficients passed by the filter.
(1)
Note. A spatial filter is generally an emulsion mask having
a transparent annular region in an otherwise opaque region used
to eliminate undesired radiation that diverges from the optical
axis beyond the confines of the transparent region.
(2)
Note. A spatial filter is sometimes referred to as a mask
used as an aperture to cause diffraction of the light beam passing
therethrough.
(3)
Note. A Fourier transform of a wave function is the amplitude
representation of the components of each fre-quency of a given wavefront.
(4)
Note. Amplitude and phase information over a discrete spatial
area of the diffracted energy pattern is obtained by placing a lens
at one focal length from the aperture to produce a "Fourier
Transform", and the aperture at the second focal plane
of the lens creates a diffraction pattern.
Image Analysis,
subclasses 181+ for pattern recognition where an image analyzing
system possesses the capability of identifying discrete patterns, subclasses
210+ for spatial filtering wherein the optical image of
each pattern to be recognized is transformed into a light amplitude
distribution that is proportional to the two dimensional Fourier
Transform of the pattern image, subclasses 276+ for mathematical
image transformation or pre-recognition processing transformation
of an image into another representation to facilitate the acquisition
or subsequent recognition of imaging patterns, and subclasses 280+ for
Fourier, Hadamard, or Walsh Transform of an image prior to the recognition
processing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 559. Subject matter wherein the optical Fourier transform spectrum
is mathematically convolved (cross-correlated) with the spectrum
of the spatial filter at the Fourier transform plane.
(1)
Note. As opposed to the perfect match of the correlation
function in matched filtering systems, the convolution function
indicates a partial match between the optical Fourier transform
spectrums of object and spatial filter.
(2)
Note. A spatial filter is generally an emulsion mask having
a transparent annular region in an otherwise opaque region used
to eliminate undesired radiation that diverges from the optical
axis beyond the confines of the transparent region.
(3)
Note. The cross-correlation function is a measure of the
similarity between two signals when one is delayed with respect to
the other.
(4)
Note. "Convolution" and "Cross-correlation" are
interchangeable terms.
This subclass is indented under subclass 559. Subject matter wherein the optical Fourier transform spectrum
is mathematically correlated with the spectrum of the spatial filter
at the Fourier transform plane.
(1)
Note. Included in this subclass are the so-called "matched
filtering systems", wherein the Fourier transform spectrum of
an object is perfectly matched or correlated to a spectrum presented
at the Fourier transform plane (usually by means of a previously
generated spatial filter).
(2)
Note. A spatial filter is generally an emulsion mask having
a transparent annular region in an otherwise opaque region used
to eliminate undesired radiation that diverges from the optical
axis beyond the confines of the trans-parent region.
(3)
Note. Correlation is a measure, expressed as a number between
minus one and plus one between two sets of data, of the similarity
of two signals.
(4)
Note. Correlation is also a relationship between two variables
where the strength of the linear relationship is indicated by the
coefficient of correla-tion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 559. Subject matter wherein the spatial filter located at the
Fourier transform plane is designed to have a positive effect (i.e.,
blocks, transparent, increase intensity, etc.) on the zeroth order term
in the Fourier series representative of the light wave input.
This subclass is indented under subclass 559. Subject matter wherein a series of very fine, closely spaced
parallel slits, or of very narrow, parallel reflecting surfaces
are included in the optical system, either before or at the Fourier transform
plane in order to produce a successsion of spectra when light is
incident thereon at a specific angle.
(1)
Note. An example of a diffraction grating is a glass substrate
carrying a layer of deposited aluminum that has been pressure-ruled
with a large number of fine equidistant grooves, using a diamond edge
as a tool.
(2)
Note. Light falling on a diffraction grating is dispered
into a series of spectra on both sides of the incident beam, the angular
dispersion being inversely proportional to the line spacing.
(3)
Note. Phase gratings using Fourier transform filtering also
belongs in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 559. Subject matter wherein a photographic negative, transparency,
plate, etc., is used at or near the Fourier transform plane to record
the data at that plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 558. Subject matter comprising a plate of glass, usually a photograph,
on which there is a central spot surrounded by concentric annular
zones, alternately opaque and transparent, the radii of the boundaries
between the zones being proportional to the square roots of the
natural numbers 1,2,3, etc. It has the property of forming a real
image of a point on the axis, as does a lens, but by a process of
diffraction instead of refraction.
(1)
Note. Zone plates are also known as "Fresnel zone
plates".
(2)
Note. The diffraction occurs from a circular diffraction
grating of variable spacing having focal properties, and also including
means for forming such a circular focal grating.
(3)
Note. Phase zone plates are also included in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 558. Subject matter wherein diffraction occurs at an optical
element having a series of very close lines or fine slits.
(1)
Note. The lines on the grating may be ruled grooves or fine
slits may be applied by other mechanical, photographic, holographic,
or chemical pro-cesses.
(2)
Note. This subclass includes both amplitude and phase gratings
and also includes gratings having mounting means therefor.
(3)
Note. Excluded from this subclass are acoustic or other compression
wave diffraction gratings, see Search Class note to subclass 358.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclass 51 for devices which utilize diffraction gratings
in optical test devices involving infrared or ultraviolet application,
subclasses 300+ for spectroscopic instruments, including spectrographic
devices in subclasses 305 and 328 which utilize a diffraction grating,
subclass 334 for monochromators which use diffraction gratings,
subclasses 485, 494, 499, and 521 for wavefront division by diffraction
in interferometers, and subclass 395 for optical test devices employing
relatively movable diffraction gratings.
This subclass is indented under subclass 566. Subject matter wherein the diffraction of light from the
grating is purely for an aesthetic or ornamental effect or for display
purposes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 566. Subject matter wherein diffraction gratings are used to
diffractively remove unwanted spectral wavelengths from polychromatic
incident light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 566. Subject matter wherein the diffraction grating has one or
more particular structural characteristics, such as thickness, shape,
line spacing, aspect ratio, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein the diffractive surface of the grating
is of a shape other than planar, for example, a concave diffraction
grating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein the diffraction grating is an echelette
(sawtooth) type of grating or wherein the grating is designed for
maximum intensity at a desired region of the diffraction spectrum.
(1)
Note. Theoretically, the most efficient groove shape for
any grating is a right triangle. The inclination of its hypote-nuse
is called the blaze angle because it determines the direction in
which a diffracted beam has its greatest efficiency. Such gratings
are termed blazed.
(2)
Note. A blazed diffraction grating is one having properly
shaped grooves to concentrate most of the energy into a single spectral
order.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein the grating reflects a desired wave
while at the same time allowing one or more waves to pass freely.
(1)
Note. A reflection grating reflects the desired wave whereas
a "transmission" grating passes the diffracted
light through the grating in the same general direction as the incident
light.
(2)
Note. Aluminizing of a grating will cause it to be a reflecting
grating.
(3)
Note. Reflection back in the opposite direction to the incident
light would be considered retrodirective.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave Systems
and Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio Navigation),
subclass 7 for radio frequency corner reflectors which are
retrodirective.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein the optical characteristics of the
diffraction grating can be altered by the application of an external
force.
(1)
Note. Examples of variable gratings included in this subclass
are gratings comprised of electro-optical or magne-to-optical stripe
domains.
(2)
Note. A stripe domain is a stripe-shaped region having its
own proper-ties, such as an ion-shiny electro-optic stripe.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein the grating has at least one ridge
or groove for the light to impinge and the edges of the ridge or
groove are either nonlinear or form some geometrical shape by the connection
of plural lines.
(1)
Note. The geometric corrugations are in the form of a circle,
parallelogram, rhombus, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein the grating has at least one ridge
or groove for the light to impinge and the width, depth, height,
or spacing of each ridge or groove varies along the corrugation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 569. Subject matter wherein multiple layers of different optical
materials are formed into a single mass to form the optical grating.
(1)
Note. The corrugations of this type of grating are usually
parallel to one another.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein two light waves, as a result of their
relative phases, interact to produce a cancellation or reinforcement
of wave energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 577. Subject matter including means for producing a change in
a geometric or optical characteristic of an interfering light wave
or beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 578. Subject matter including an element for causing motion of
an optical interference element without itself moving.
(1)
Note. Piezoelectric and magnetostrictive driving elements
are classified in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 577. Subject matter wherein the light interference occurs by
applying multiple light beams to either (1) a structure comprising
a base material impregnated by causing a coating material to extend
or penetrate into the material or into the interstices of a porous,
cellular or foraminous material or (2) a product consisting of multiple
layers of material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 580. Subject matter wherein a lens is provided with a transparent
reflection-reducing coating on surface of air-contacting refracting
portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 580. Subject matter wherein a layer of insulator or spacer is
placed between optical layers, the changes in thickness of this
layer control the location of the transmission bands in the spectrum.
(1)
Note. A layer of dielectric material placed alternatively
between reflective or transmissive layers is classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. The location of the transmissive band is dependent
on the distance between the reflectors. As the distance is made
larger, the transmission bands move toward the higher end of the
spectrum, also the width of the transmission bands and the distance
between adjacent transmission bands decrease.
This subclass is indented under subclass 580. Subject matter wherein light interference is produced by
partial-reflected or by partial-transmitted layers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 580. Subject matter including a metal or an electric-conductive
layer.
(1)
Note. The metal or conductive layer is used for static electric
elimination, radio frequency shielding, producing space charges
of electricity, or heating the coated glass to prevent fogging by
condensation.
BUILDING INTERIOR ILLUMINATION WITH REFLECTED, REFRACTED
OR PRE-DETERMINED ANGLE OF ENTRANCE OF OUTSIDE LIGHT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means to reflect or refract light
to the interior of a building from the exterior or to allow only
light from predetermined angles to enter the building.
(1)
Note. The light is usually sun or natural light. However,
light from an incident artificial source which is outside for some
other purpose, such as a street light, may be directed into the
building.
(2)
Note. For classification here, the direction of the light
must be changed to facilitate its entry into the building or for controlling
the direction of light. A mere window pane which is flat on both
sides is not here but is in Class 52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 204+.
(3)
Note. A combination of nominal fiber optics structure with
structure appro-priate to this subclass is classified here. However,
similar subject mattter with details to fiber optic structure is
classi-fied in Class 385, Optical Waveguides.
This subclass is indented under subclass 591. Subject matter including a one piece mass of transparent
material which has a plurality of light reflecting or refracting
surfaces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 592. Subject matter including a plurality of unitary light transmitting
members arranged so that light travels sequentially from one member
to the other, the light being refracted or reflected by the respective
mem-bers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 592. Subject matter where there are a plurality of reflecting
or refracting surfaces on opposing sides of the transparent mass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 592. Subject matter where light from certain angles is internally
reflected, i.e., the light is inside the transparent mass immediately
before and immediately after the reflection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 591. Subject matter including a plurality of, usually parallel,
thin, flat or long narrow members which reflect or refract light
rays.
(1)
Note. The slats or strips may be made of any material, for
example, metal, glass, or plastic. They may be adjustable or stationary.
Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel,
subclasses 130+ for plural slats or strips used as closures which
are not specifically designed to reflect or refract light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 597. Subject matter where the reflection is internal, i.e., the
light is inside the transparent mass immediately before and immediately
after the reflection.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein light is scattered into many different
directions and is not intensely polarized when it illuminates surfaces.
(1)
Note. With diffused light, a high brightness level may be
achieved with minimal glare.
(2)
Note. Diffusion patents are classified here whether it is
purposeful, incidental, or undesirable.
BARREL END EYE GUARD (E.G., SHIELD OR CUSHION, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein an eye end of a barrel is shaped
to conform to the engaging portion of a viewer"s face for
providing a cushion to the optical apparatus or for shielding the viewer"s
eyes from undesired radiation.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including structure to primarily reduce the
intensity of nonimaging light for an optical means or a viewer"s
eyes.
(1)
Note. Such intensity reduction may be performed by blocking,
absorbing, transmitting away, or reflecting an undesired part of
the light.
(2)
Note. This and the indented subclasses include angle discriminator,
glare re-ducing mirror, mirror with glare shield, and display window.
For classification here, the claims should include struc-ture which
reduces glare, as indicated therein or in the specification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 601. Subject matter including an image reflecting mirror which
inherently reduces the glare otherwise coming from its reflecting
surface or wherein the image reflecting mirror is combined with
or includes structure which reduces the glare otherwise coming from
its reflecting surface or from behind the mirror.
(1)
Note. Anti-glare mirrors which modify the light reflected
from the face of the mirror are in the indented subclasses 603+ below.
This subclass (602) has shields which primarilty control light from
the sun and headlight which comes from behind the mirror and would
not strike the reflecting face of the mirror.
This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Subject matter with means to control the light going to
and from the mirror"s reflecting face to eliminate or reduce
the intensity of the light going to a viewer"s eyes.
(1)
Note. Since any mirror may be adjusted to reflect given rays
of light away from an observer"s eyes, the disclosure must be
relied on to determine if the purpose of using the mirror is to
eliminate glare.
This subclass is indented under subclass 603. Subject matter including means to adjust part of the mirror
or associated glare reducing structure to modify the intensity of
or eliminate the light reaching the viewer"s eyes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 604. Subject matter including a plurality of reflecting surfaces
which may be selectively positioned to reflect light to the viewer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Subject matter including a wedge shaped transparent body,
usually silvered on the rear surface, which reflects light to a
viewer from the front surface or from the rear surface through the
transparent body.
(1)
Note. There are reflecting surfaces which are at an angle
to each other in subclass 605 above, but the reflective surfaces
are not on the same transpar-ent body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Subject matter including two mirror surfaces mounted back
to back, one being more highly reflective than the other, with means
to select the surface to be viewed from a given position.
(1)
Note. The less reflective surface of these mirrors is employed
when the headlights of a following vehicle annoy the driver of a
car.
This subclass is indented under subclass 604. Subject matter including a translucent or other semi-transmitting
panel which may be positioned in front of the mirror to reduce the amount
of light reflected to the viewer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 601. Subject matter wherein the amount of glare or unwanted light
reflected to a viewer"s eyes from glass, which is covering
an opening in a wall or the like for light transmission to enable the
viewer to look in or out, is reduced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 601. Subject matter including a tubular member which is secured
to a barrel end, a lens mounting, or a support and which extends
from a face of a lens, wherein the tubular axis is coaxial with
the lens axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Subject matter wherein a shade includes telescoping, flexible
or hinged portions to permit substantial reduction of the space
occupied by the shade when not in use.
This subclass is indented under subclass 601. Subject matter including a layer of coating material or
a filter or screen, which absorbs part of the light incident thereon.
(1)
Note. The light absorbed may be of particular wavelengths,
e.g., color filter, etc.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a body having an index of refraction
that varies according to the wavelength for separation of the spectral components
of incident light.
(1)
Note. A dispersive monochromator, which separates the spectral
components of incident light, is classified in this subclass.
(2)
Note. The optical system of a monochromator forms a series,
one for each wavelength, of its entrance slit in the plane of the
exit slit.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a plurality of reflecting surfaces
so arranged that objects viewed in the reflecting surfaces appear
as multiple images of the objects arranged in a symmetrical pattern,
relative motion between the objects and the reflecting surfaces
or between the reflecting surfaces and observer changing the patterns.
(1)
Note. The reflecting surfaces are usually elongated and at
an angle to each other which forms a V-shaped trough when two mirrors
are employed.
(2)
Note. Kaleidoscopic image projectors which project a real
image on a viewing screen are classified in Class 353, Optics:
Image Projectors, if projection structure such as a projecting lens,
projection screen, projection light source, or slide holder is claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 616. Subject matter including a chamber of loosely assorted objects,
usually of irregular shapes, transparent and varicolored, which
may be tumbled over each other by rotation of the chamber or moved
in other ways to give ever changing visual effects.
SINGLE CHANNEL SIMULTANEOUSLY TO OR FROM PLURAL CHANNELS
(E.G., LIGHT DIVIDING, COMBINING, OR PLURAL IMAGE FORMING, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein either (1) a single light ray is
used to produce a plurality of groups of different optical axes
light rays, which may have different directions or be parallel and
displaced relative to one another, each containing the same information
as the single light ray or (2) a single light ray is derived from
a plurality of groups of light rays having different optical axes
in order to include the same information contained in each of the
plurality of groups of light rays.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes partially transmitting reflector
type beam splitters wherein each split channel contains identical
information.
(2)
Note. This subclass includes a system comprising a plurality
of adjacent lenses which form a plurality of similar rather than
identical images as a result of parallax.
for systems including a single optical channel which
merges to or from a plural optical channel, where the plural channel
is used for binocular purposes.
Optics: Image Projectors,
subclasses 30+ for an image projector which combines subject matter
to form a composite image and which may include the combining of
light paths.
This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Subject matter comprising a body with a surface configured
so as to form a regular array of reflecting or transmitting elements,
each having a curved or figured surface.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
or Product Thereof,
subclass 946 for a cross-reference art collection of photographically
produced lenticular elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 619. Subject matter in which the elements of the lenticular array
cooperate to produce an imaging effect upon a light beam incident
thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 619. Subject matter wherein the direction of the component of
incident light normal to the surface of the lenticular body is reversed
or bent off.
This subclass is indented under subclass 619. Subject matter wherein the lenticular elements have a cross
section in the plane of the surface which is not a circle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Subject matter including a surface which transmits and reflects
substantial portions of the incident light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Subject matter which forms a composite image by combining
visual display information with the light incident on an observer"s
field of view.
This subclass is indented under subclass 630. Subject matter including a reflecting element having a surface
with a smoothly concave or convex configuration in the optical
path of the light that produces an image.
(1)
Note. The curved configuration may be for focusing or collimating
reflected light rays.
(2)
Note. Helmet mounted partial reflectors and curved windsheild
light com-bining systems are classified in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 630. Subject matter having an image reflecting element additional
to a partially reflective light combiner or divider.
(1)
Note. This additional reflecting element may be another partially
reflecting element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Subject matter wherein an optical property of the partially
reflecting light combining or dividing element for a component of
incident light is wavelength dependent.
(1)
Note. The term "optical property" is intended
to include transmittance and reflectance.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Subject matter including forming a composite image on a
surface on which visual information or other representation is manually
placed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Subject matter wherein the partially reflective element
has selected areas of full light reflection interrupted by light
transmissive areas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Subject matter which includes a device, circuit, or circuit
component that corrects an undesirable condition which affects a
light beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Subject matter wherein the surface at which partial reflection
takes place is the surface of a prismatic element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 639. Subject matter including a transparent optical element having
at least two polished plane faces, inclined relative to each other,
to cause refraction through the faces.
(1)
Note. A prism is geometrically constructed of parallel bases
or ends and congruent polygons and sides that are parallelograms
in order to either (a) disperse light into a spectrum or (b) reflect rays
of light.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a bundle of light rays emanating
from a single point are made to be parallel to one another, as opposed
to converging or diverging rays.
(1)
Note. A collimator reticle will produce collimated light
wherein the light appears to originate from an infinitely distant
real or apparent source.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including either a single transparent mass
of refractive material having opposed refracting surfaces or a plurality
of such masses arranged along an optical axis with their opposed
refracting surfaces disposed transversely of such axis, the said
opposed surfaces being so shaped and spaced that the mass or plurality
of masses are capable of producing, from light rays passing therethrough
from an object external to the mass or masses, a single image of
that object at a focal point.
(1)
Note. The plurality of masses of material act upon light
rays proceeding from an object in a manner similar to that in which
the single mass of material acts upon such rays; i.e., no real image
is formed between the front most and rear most axially spaced refracting
surfaces of either the single mass or the plurality of masses.
(2)
Note. Of the opposed refracting surfaces provided on each
lens mass, one is usually spherical and the other is usually spherical
or planar, but there may be deviations from such shapes in which any
or all of the surfaces depart from the spherical shape or the planar
shape.
(3)
Note. The lens masses referred to above will be designated
hereafter as lens "components" or lens "elements" depending
on the design of the lens.
(4)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or a grouped plurality
of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of the
lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full overall
contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing being of
such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens computations,
the two refracting surfaces of the single mass and the two axially
extreme refracting surfaces of the plurality of masses having at
least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other adjacent refracting
surfaces that may be present in the lens. The axial dimension of
the air-spacing between either the opposed surfaces of the single
mass or the axially extreme surfaces of the grouped plural-ity of
masses and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present
in the lens must be of sufficient magni-tude to enter into the lens
computations in order to limit the axial extent of the lens component.
(5)
Note. The term "element" as applied to a
lens designates any single transparent mass of refractive material
having two opposed refracting surfaces, which surfaces are disposed
transversely of the optical axis of the lens and spaced therealong,
i.e., any one of the masses in the above component definition regardless of
its spacing from adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present
in the lens.
(6)
Note. A correcting plate such as that used in the "Schmidt
type lens" to correct the aberrations of a spherical mirror is
considered a lens component under this subclass definition.
(7)
Note. The optical system of a Galilean telescope is considered
a lens under this subclass definition, since no image is formed
between the objective and eyepiece of the telescope.
(8)
Note. This subclass also includes, especially in subclasses
726+, 737, and 738+, combination of a lens or
lenses with other than nonlens optical elements which reflect, control
or deflect light passing through the lens and which are not provided
for above.
(9)
Note. This subclass further includes in subclasses 811+ lens
supports and mountings for maintaining the various lens components
in proper alignment and spacing for intended operation of the lens.
(10)
Note. Compound lens systems in which one lens is employed
to examine the image formed by another lens will be found in this
class, subclasses 362+.
(11)
Note. This is the residual subclass for lenses. See the
search notes below for classes where lenses peculiar to particular
applications such as signalling, illu-minating, and ophthalmic may
be found.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 124+ for lens or reflective image-former testing devices
and subclasses 128+ for refraction test devices generally.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for a molding apparatus used to
shape or reshape a nonmetal; see especially
subclass 808 for a cross-reference digest of such apparatus
including a lens mold.
This subclass is indented under subclass 643. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces, arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 643. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises three sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces, arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 643. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises two sections (i.e.,
components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged in
series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 643. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises one section (i.e.,
component), containing two refractive surfaces arranged in series
along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers in
alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical axis
that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through all of
such component is refracted to a focus no more than one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the curvature of the refractive surface
controls the altering of the curvature of the image or the production
of an image of a curved object field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 649. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 649. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises less than four
sections (i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces
arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens with their
optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular
to such axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 652. Subject matter wherein the index of refraction varies in
a direction at a right angle to an optical axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the focal length of the lens is relatively
short and the lens produces a highly magnified real image.
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises seven sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises six sections (i.e.,
components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged in
series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises five sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact, or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises less than four
sections (i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces
arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens with their
optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular
to such axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein all of the primary rays are parallel
to the optical axis in either object or image space.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein one of the lens elements has two
convex refractive surfaces which are concentric and of equal curvature.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens has at least one component
or one element which uses a transparent liquid or gas as its refractive
material.
(1)
Note. The lens components or elements under this definition
may comprise either a mass of fluid supported in a capillary channel
which has its refracting surfaces freestanding and formed by surface
tension or a mass of fluid which is enclosed in and shaped by a
transparent shell or casing. In the latter form of component or
element, the fluid may be either a liquid or a gas, and in addition
to refraction, may perform other functions (e.g., cooling).
This subclass is indented under subclass 665. Subject matter wherein at least one refracting surface of
the lens is deformable to vary the focal length of the lens.
(1)
Note. The refracting surface of the lens may be accomplished
by either applying mechanical force to the periphery of the lens
casing or varying the quantity of fluid within the lens casing.
In the type of fluid lens which has a freestanding surface tension
formed refracting surface, the refracting surface may be deformed
by impressing an electric potential upon the fluid lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens has or produces unequal
magnifications in two planes that are at an angle (usually perpendicular)
to each other.
(1)
Note. These lenses employ at least one element or component
having one or more cylindrical surfaces thereupon to produce the
unequal magnifications of the lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 668. Subject matter wherein the components that produce the unequal
magnifications in the lens are symmetrically refracting prisms disposed with
their refracting surfaces transversely of the optical axis of the
lens.
(1)
Note. The prism components may be mounted either in a fixed
relation to the optical axis of the lens or each of these components
may be mounted to rotate about an axis parallel to its refracting edge,
in which latter case the difference between the magnifications in
the two planes is variable.
(2)
Note. See subclass 831 for the definition of a prism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 668. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four or more sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein one or more components of a basic
lens are replaceable by one or more other components to produce
in combination with any remaining components of the basic lens having
substantially the same image plane as that of the basic lens but
having a different equivalent focal length from that of the original
basic lens.
(1)
Note. The number of original components removed from the
basic lens may not always be the same as the number of components
which replace such original components, in which case the exchange of
components may result in the addition of components to the original
lens. This subclass includes adding or subtracting lens components,
while subclass 819 relates to the changing of the entire lens.
(2)
Note. The prisms may be moved to vary the length in one plane
only, while in subclass 678 the prisms are moved to vary the focal
length in all planes.
for lenses wherein at least one component is formed
of symmetrically refracting prisms which are rotatable about axes
parallel to their refracting edges. See (2) Note above.
This subclass is indented under subclass 672. Subject matter wherein a lens component is exchanged or
added to the objective side (i.e., front) of a basic lens for selective
magnification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 672. Subject matter wherein a lens component is exchanged or
added to the center of a basic lens for selective magnification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 672. Subject matter wherein a lens component is exchanged or
added to the image side (i.e., rear) of a basic lens for selective
magnification.c
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the equivalent focal length of the
lens may be continuously varied between predetermined limits.
(1)
Note. The variation of the equivalent focal length of the
lenses of this generic subclass is accomplished by axially shifting
certain components of the lens relative to other components.
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Subject matter wherein the lens is physically linked and
dependently moved to maintain an equivalent focal length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Subject matter where the lens includes prisms disposed along
the optical axis which are movable to vary the equivalent focal
length of the lens.
(1)
Note. See subclass 831 for the definition of a prism.
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Subject matter wherein an object plane and its corresponding
(i.e., conjugate) image plane are fixed and are located at finite
distances from the lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Subject matter wherein the lens includes a negative group
on the longer conjugate side and a positive group on the shorter
conjugate side with the spacing between these groups being varied
to vary the overall focal length of the combination.
(1)
Note. See subclasses 749+ for reverse telephoto
lenses that are not of variable focal length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 680. Subject matter wherein the reverse telephoto lens comprises
eight or nine sections (i.e., components), each containing two refractive
surfaces arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens with
their optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular
to such axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced
along the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and
passing through all of such components are refracted to a focus
no more than one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact, or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 680. Subject matter wherein the reverse telephoto lens comprises
seven or less sections (i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces,
arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens with their
optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to
such axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced
along the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and
passing through all of such components are refracted to a focus
no more than one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact, or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Subject matter wherein the lens includes at least a first
lens group including a variator movable for varying the focal length
and at least a second lens group including a compensator which moves
independently of the first group for compensating for image plane
deviation during focal length variation.
(1)
Note. A group is an assembly of one or more components used
as a single unit to achieve a particular function such as focussing,
variating, compensating, or relaying.
(2)
Note. Focusing is the action of converging light beams to
a minimum size spot of light.
(3)
Note. Relaying is the action of transferring an input light
beam from a relay to another device without effecting any change
between the relay input and output light beam.
(4)
Note. A component consists of either (1) a single optical
piece (i.e., element) comprising a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces, which surfaces
are disposed transversely of the optical axis of the lens and spaced
therealong or (2) a plurality of such masses arranged in series
along the optical axis of the lens with their adjacent refracting
surfaces either in full overall contact, or in spaced parallel relation
with the spacing being of such small magnitude that it does not enter
into the lens computations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 683. Subject matter wherein four groups move independently of
each other and at least two at the groups function respectively
as a variator, movable for varing the local length, and a compensator
which moves independently of the first group for compensating for
image plane deviation during focal length variation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 686. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent groups, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the left most sign representing the group at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the direction of the light travelling through
the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 686. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent groups, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the left most sign representing the group at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling through
the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 683. Subject matter wherein three groups move independently of
each other and at least two of the groups function respectively
as (1) a variator movable of varying the focal length and (2) a
compensator which moves independently of the first group for compensating
for image plane deviation focal length variation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 689. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent groups, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the left most sign representing the group at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling through
the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 683. Subject matter wherein two groups move independently of
each other and these groups function respectively as (1) a variator
movable for varying the focal length and (2) a compensator which
moves independently of the first group for compensating for image
plane deviation during focal length variation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 691. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens groups, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the left most sign representing the group at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling through
the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 683. Subject matter wherein the mechanical compensation permits
focusing at very close object distances without loss of definition
and without the need for front or rear attachments.
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Subject matter comprising structure for changing the axial
spacing between components of the lens.
(1)
Note. This subclass provides for the mechanical adjusting
structure. Where the optical relationship is set forth in the claims,
classification is in subclasses 676-693.
Photography,
subclasses 72+ for mechanisms that axially shift the components
of the lens of a camera to accomplish a variation in the equivalent
focal length of such lens and camera structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 694. Subject matter wherein the optics to be adjusted includes
three or more nonstationary combinations of lenses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 694. Subject matter wherein the adjusting mechanism includes
a curved surface that causes changes in movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 694. Subject matter wherein the axial spacing between lens components
is adjusted and the structure to hold the components in place is specified.
This subclass is indented under subclass 703. Subject matter wherein the specified mount includes specifies
of the cylindrical case which holds the lens components in position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 694. Subject matter wherein the adjusting mechanism permits focusing
at very close object distances without loss of definition and without the
need for front or rear attachments.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens produces an image having
soft or indistinct outlines.
(1)
Note. The lens diffusion characteristics may be effected
by any one of the following: (a) frosting the lens surface, (b) shifting
the lens components relative to each other, (c) placing aspheric
surfaces adjacent or on one or more components of the lens, (d)
adding a transparent plate or additional lens component to the lens, (e)
undercorrecting the lens, (f) introducing aberration to the lens,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein at least one of the refracting surfaces
of the lens departs from a spherical shape.
(1)
Note. One or more of the components of the lens may be formed
of symmetrically refracting prisms.
(2)
Note. The surfaces here are continuous curves and may be
aspheric.
for anamorphic lenses having cylindrical components
which magnify more in one plane than in another plane at an angle
thereto, particularly subclass 669 for such lenses in which at least
one of the components is formed of prisms whereby the lens has a
different magnification in one plane from that which it has in a
plane at right angles to the first mentioned plane.
for lenses wherein at least one component of the
lens is formed of symmetrically refracting prisms which are rotatable
about axes that are parallel to their refracting edges to vary the power
of the lens.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclass 168 for spectacle lenses having refracting surfaces
which depart from the spherical form.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the nonspherical surface has a shape
bounded by a closed planar base and the surface formed by connecting
line segments between every point on the perimeter of this base
with a common point.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the nonspherical lens surface has
a shape bounded by two parallel planes and a surface generated by
a line tracing a closed curve where the line is parallel to an initial
position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the nonspherical lens surface has
a shape generated by the revolution of any closed plane curve about
a nonintersecting axis lying in its plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the nonspherical lens surface has
a shape formed by revolving about an axis of symmetry a set of points
equally distant from a fixed point and a fixed line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises six sections (i.e.,
components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged in
series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises five sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises three sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces, arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises two sections (i.e.,
components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged in
series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 708. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises one section (i.e.,
component), containing two refractive surfaces arranged in series
along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers in
alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical axis
that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through all of
such component is refracted to a focus no more than one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the center of mass of the lens is
laterally spaced from the optical axis of the lens.
(1)
Note. This subclass provides for both prismatic lenses which
have at least one component formed with a wedge prism or the equivalent
thereof between its opposed refracting surfaces, and eccentric lenses
in which at least one component is formed as a segment of a symmetrical
lens.
(2)
Note. A substantial portion of the lenses under this definition
are for mounting on automobile windshields to facilitate viewing
of traffic lights by the operator of the automobile.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens has a plurality of light
transmitting zones or areas of different focal lengths.
(1)
Note. This subject matter includes the lens plus means to
exclude light from passing through certain areas or zones while
permitting light to pass through other zones or areas of the lens
whereby a selection of focal length is provided.
(2)
Note. See subclass 745 - (2) Note for the definition of focal
length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter where the lens or structure combined with
the lens exhibits spectrally differential transmission.
(1)
Note. In the lenses of this and the indented subclass the
means which gives the lens its particular light-transmitting properties
may be either an integral part of the lens, i.e., the particular
material from which the lens and the components are made, or a separate
plate having opposed parallel plane surface disposed transversely
of the optical axis of the lens, such plate being formed of a material
which favors or hinders light transmission in a selected area of
the spectrum more than it does in any other area of the spectrum.
(2)
Note. The term spectrum as employed in this definition refers
to light having wavelengths between 3850 and 7600 angstrom units,
that is, visible light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises one or more annular
components which are used either to correct aberrations present
in an annular zone of the lens or of another lens or to increase
the depth of focus of either lens.
(1)
Note. This subclass provides for both the combination of
the lens being corrected and its annular correcting lens for the
annular correcting lens, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens is capable of receiving
light rays from the entire horizon simultaneously and producing
from such rays a single image of the entire horizon.
(1)
Note. The lens must be capable of receiving light rays from
all portions of the entire horizon simultaneously. See this class,
subclass 726 for lenses combined with a reflecting means for sequentially
directing rays from fractional portions of the horizon through the lens,
but which cannot receive rays from the entire horizon simultaneously.
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Subject matter wherein the lens system includes a transparent
refractive element and a curved reflective surface which coact to
provide a single lens of both refractive and reflective components,
i.e., a catadioptric lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 727. Subject matter in which one of the refracting or reflecting
surfaces departs from the spherical shape (e.g., a Schmidt type
lens).
This subclass is indented under subclass 728. Subject matter where the lens system includes both concave
and convex reflecting elements consecutively receiving light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 727. Subject matter where the lens system includes a second reflector
receiving light rays reflected by a first reflector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 730. Subject matter where the lens system includes both concave
and convex reflecting elements consecutively receiving light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Subject matter where a reflective surface mirror reflects
light which has passed through a lens back through the same lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises multiple sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 733. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 733. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises three sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 733. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises two sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens is combined with a nonlens
light-refracting element through which element the light must pass
during the normal operation of the lens.
(1)
Note. The refracting element is employed to redirect the
optical axis of the lens (e.g., prisms).
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter comprising the combination of a lens and
means associated therewith to limit or control, without regard to
wavelength, the amount of intensity of the light that passes through
the lens.
(1)
Note. The subject matter under this definition includes lamina
between lens elements, coatings on the faces of elements, and pigment
in the material of the lens elements themselves, all of which do
not favor the transmission of any one particular wavelength of light
over any other wavelength present in the light.
(2)
Note. This class (359) provides for optical diaphragms and
shutters, per se, in subclasses 227+. Lenses combined
with shutters generally are provided for in subclass 738 and lens
combined with diaphragms generally are in indented subclass 739.
However, camera shutters and diaphragms, per se, are classified
in Class 396, Photography, subclasses 452+ and 505+ respectively,
the indicated use in cameras or camera background being sufficient
for classification there as opposed to Class 359. Class 396 also
provides for lenses broadly or specifically combined with camera
shutter or diaphragm details, it being emphasized that such combinations
involving noncamera shutters or diaphragms are classified in subclasses
738+ of this class (359) as indicated above. The combination
of a lens broadly or specifically claimed and a camera shutter
or diaphragm broadly claimed (as well as shutters or diaphragms
generally) are classified in this subclass (738). Projectors with
shutters or diaphragms are provided for in Class 353, Optics:
Image Projectors, subclasses 75, 88+, and 97.
This subclass is indented under subclass 738. Subject matter in which the light-controlling means is in
the form of an opaque screen having a variable aperture therein,
such screen being disposed in the path of the light beam passing
through the lens in such a position axially of the lens to either
restrict the amount of light that reaches the lens or restrict the
amount of light transmitted by the lens.
(1)
Note. The subject matter under this definition includes opaque
screens in which the aperture is of annular shape and located either
within the screen or at the periphery thereof.
(2)
Note. Mere recitation of a diaphragm is inadequate for classification
here. This subclass and subclass 740 are limited to special shapes
or locations of diaphragms.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein a lens element is formed of a plurality
of elements arranged side by side, transverse to the optical axis,
and cooperating to form a single image.
(1)
Note. The subject matter under this definition differs from
the subject matter provided for in subclasses 754+ in that the
various parts of the component or element in subclasses 754+ are
in series along the optical axis of the component or element, while
the various parts of the component or element of this subclass are
in edge to edge relation, transversely of the optical axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 741. Subject matter wherein at least one of the refracting surfaces
of the lens is discontinuous, being formed of a plurality of stepped
refracting surfaces connecting at their adjacent edges by other
surfaces which extend substantially parallel to the intended direction
of light travel through the lens, the surfaces being so shaped and
arranged that they form in conjunction with the opposed refracting
surface of the lens, a plurality of lenses all of which have a common
focus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 742. Subject matter wherein the general shape of the lens surface
is concave or convex on either side or on both sides.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the components of the lens are so
shaped and spaced along the optical axis of the lens that the total
refracting power of the lens is zero, i.e., parallel light rays,
upon entering the lens and passing through all components thereof
are so refracted that they emerge from the lens as parallel rays.
(1)
Note. These lenses may be attachments to be used with other
lenses to change the equivalent focal lengths of the latter lenses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens is designed with the effective
focal length equal to or greater than the distance from the first
refracting surface to the focal plane.
(1)
Note. This lens system is physically shorter than its rated
focal length.
(2)
Note. The focal length is the distance from the principle
focus (focus of parallel rays of light) to the surface of a mirror
or the optical center of a lens.
(3)
Note. A focal point is the point at which a lens or mirror
will focus parallel incident radiation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 745. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises five sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 745. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 745. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises less than four
sections (i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces
arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens with their
optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular
to such axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens is designed with the effective
focal length equal to or less than the distance from the last refracting
surface to the focal plane, i.e., the back focal length is equal
to or greater than the effective focal length.
(1)
Note. This is also known as a retrofocus lens and it consists
of an ordinary objective with a negative component near its focal
point, thus forming a large back focus relative to its focal length.
(2)
Note. The focal length is the distance from the principle
focus (focus of parallel rays of light) to the surface of a mirror
or the optical center of a lens.
(3)
Note. A focal point is the point at which a lens or mirror
will focus parallel incident radiation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 749. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises eight sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 749. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises seven sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such,
axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 749. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises six sections (i.e.,
components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged in
series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3) Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between
either the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or
the axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces
that may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude
to enter into the lens computations in order to limit the axial
extent of the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 749. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises five or less sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises multiple sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 754. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises seven sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 754. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises six sections (i.e.,
components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged in
series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 756. Subject matter wherein the component at the entrant face
of the lens, i.e., the first component hit by the light as the light
begins travelling through the lens, is a convergent lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 757. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the left most sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 757. Subject matter wherein the first two components at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the first two components hit by the light
as the light begins travelling through the lens, are convergent
lenses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 759. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 756. Subject matter wherein the first component at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the first component hit by the light as
the light begins travelling through the lens, is divergent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 761. Subject matter wherein the first two components at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the first two components hit by the light
as the light begins travelling through the lens, are divergent lenses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 754. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises five sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical centers
in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such axis, and
their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along the optical
axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing through
all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than one
time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 763. Subject matter wherein the component at the entrant face
of the lens, i.e., the first component hit by the light as the light
begins travelling through the lens, is a convergent lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 764. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 764. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 764. Subject matter wherein the first two components at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the first two components hit by the light
as the light begins travelling through the lens, are convergent
lenses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 767. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 767. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 763. Subject matter wherein the first component at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the first component hit by the light as
the light begins travelling through the lens, is divergent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 754. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises four sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces, arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 771. Subject matter wherein the component at the entrant face
of the lens, i.e., the first component hit by the light as the light
begins travelling through the lens, is a convergent lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 772. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at
the entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light
travelling through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement
of the subclass title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 772. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 772. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 775. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises a single section
(i.e., component) having a plurality of optical pieces (i.e., elements)
arranged in laminated series along the light path or optical axis
of the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or so closely spaced that such spacing does not
enter into the lens computations.
(1)
Note. Each "component" contains two refractive
surfaces, arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens
with their optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular
to such axis and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced
along the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and
passing through all of such components are refracted to a focus
no more than one time.
(2)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact, or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(3)
Note. The "component" two refracting surfaces
of the single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces
of the plurality of masses, have at least a portion thereof axially
air-spaced from all other adjacent refracting surfaces that may
be present in the lens.
(4)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
(5)
Note. The term "element" as applied to a
lens designates any single transparent mass of refractive material
having two opposed refracting surfaces, which surfaces are disposed
transversely of the optical axis of the lens and spaced therealong,
i.e., any one of the masses in the above component definition regardless of
its spacing from adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present
in the lens.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 415 , 417, and 426+ for a nonstructural stock
material product in the form of a composite web or sheet embodying
a layer of glass or quartz next to another layer of material which
may also be quartz or glass (subclasses 427 and 428).
This subclass is indented under subclass 776. Subject matter wherein at least one mass of refractive material
has at least one flat surface perpendicular to an optical axis.
Subject matter under 776 wherein at least one element consists
of a single mass of refracting material having a curved or rounded
outward surface at the entrance and exit ends.
This subclass is indented under subclass 772. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 772. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 771. Subject matter wherein the first component at the entrant
face of the lens, i.e., the first component hit by the light as
the light begins travelling through the lens, is divergent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 781. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 781. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 754. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises three sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces, arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 784. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 785. Subject matter wherein the first convergent component contains
multiple masses of refractive material; each mass having two opposed refracting
surfaces disposed transversely of the optical axis of the lens and
spaced therealong.
This subclass is indented under subclass 785. Subject matter wherein the second divergent component contains
multiple masses of refractive material; each mass having two opposed refracting
surfaces disposed transversely of the optical axis of the lens and
spaced therealong.
This subclass is indented under subclass 785. Subject matter wherein the third convergent component contains
multiple masses of refractive material; each mass having two opposed refracting
surfaces disposed transversely of the optical axis of the lens and
spaced therealong.
This subclass is indented under subclass 785. Subject matter wherein the first convergent component has
a curved or rounded outward surface at the entrance and exit ends.
This subclass is indented under subclass 785. Subject matter wherein the third convergent component has
a curved or rounded outward surface at the entrance and exit ends.
This subclass is indented under subclass 784. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 784. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 754. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises two sections
(i.e., components), each containing two refractive surfaces, arranged
in series along the optical axis of the lens with their optical
centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular to such
axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced along
the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and passing
through all of such components are refracted to a focus no more than
one time.
(1)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(2)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(3)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 793. Subject matter wherein the plus and minus signs indicate
convergent and divergent lens components, respectively.
(1)
Note. The arrangement along the optical axis of the lens
is identified by the leftmost sign representing the component at the
entrant face of the lens, i.e., the direction of light travelling
through the lens is the same as the reading arrangement of the subclass
title.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens comprises a single section
(i.e., component) having a plurality of optical pieces (i.e., elements)
arranged in laminated series along the light path or optical axis
of the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or so closely spaced that such spacing does not
enter into the lens computations.
(1)
Note. Each "component" contains two refractive
surfaces, arranged in series along the optical axis of the lens
with their optical centers in alignment thereon, their planes perpendicular
to such axis, and their axially extreme refracting surfaces so spaced
along the optical axis that parallel light rays upon entering and
passing through all of such components are refracted to a focus
no more than one time.
(2)
Note. The term "component" as applied to
a lens designates either (1) a single transparent mass of refractive
material having two opposed refracting surfaces or (2) a grouped
plurality of such masses arranged in series along the optical axis of
the lens with their adjacent refracting surfaces either in full
overall contact or in spaced parallel relation with the spacing
being of such small magnitude that it does not enter into the lens
computations.
(3)
Note. The two refractive surfaces of a "component" comprising
a single mass or the two axially extreme refracting surfaces of
a "component" comprising a plurality of masses
have at least a portion thereof axially air-spaced from all other
adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present in the lens.
(4)
Note. The axial dimension of the air-spacing between either
the opposed surfaces of the single mass "component" or the
axially extreme surfaces of the "component" grouped
plurality of masses, and the other adjacent refracting surfaces that
may be present in the lens must be of sufficient magnitude to enter
into the lens computations in order to limit the axial extent of
the lens component.
(5)
Note. The term "element" as applied to a
lens designates any single transparent mass of refractive material
having two opposed refracting surfaces, which surfaces are disposed
transversely of the optical axis of the lens and spaced therealong,
i.e., any one of the masses in the above component definition regardless of
its spacing from adjacent refracting surfaces that may be present
in the lens.
Glass Manufacturing,
subclass 387 for processes of forming an optical fiber directly
connected to a lens; subclasses 37+ for processes of securing glass
lens elements together.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 415 , 417, and 426+ for a nonstructural stock
material product in the form of a composite web or sheet embodying
a layer of glass or quartz next to another layer of material which
may also be quartz or glass (subclasses 427 and 428).
This subclass is indented under subclass 796. Subject matter wherein the single component of the lens
is made up of three or more masses of refractive material; each
having two opposed refracting surfaces, which surfaces are disposed
transversely of the optical axis of the lens and spaced therealong.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter including a light source for illuminating
the area viewed through or covered by the lens, or including structure
such as a reflector or a prism for directing natural or artificial
light on the area viewed, or wherein the lens is adapted to collect
and direct natural or artificial light on the area viewed or covered.
(1)
Note. A mere transparent or exposed portion is not sufficient
for classification here. A light source or light directing or guiding
means is necessary.
Illumination,
subclasses 253+ for lights combined with structure not otherwise
classifiable; and subclasses 257+ and especially subclasses
268 and 311 for projectors which may include focusing lenses in
the light path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 798. Subject matter wherein the axis of the illuminating beam
is parallel with the optical axis of the lens over at least a part
of these axes.
(1)
Note. The beam may pass through the lens or the beam may
have an annular cross section and surround the lens; however, the
beam axis and lens axis are coincident. Most of the art in this
subclass relates to a microscope objective and the illuminating
structure for the viewed object.
This subclass is indented under subclass 798. Subject matter wherein at least part of the illumination
passes through at least part of the lens or through at least one
component of a multiple component lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 798. Subject matter wherein an object which is being viewed through
the lens is supported by a device which is connected to the lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter including structure for supporting an object
to be viewed in the optical path of the lens.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, appropriate subclasses for lenses broadly combined with
supports for cards, pictures, or signs. See also (1) Note under
subclass 806 .
This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Subject matter including a lens supporting handle which
also functions as a support for the object being viewed or which
supports structure which in turn supports the object being viewed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 804. Subject matter including structure for supporting a sheet
or tape of printed, pictorial, or other informatory matter together
with structure for moving or guiding movement of the sheet or tape
horizontally relative to the lens, or of the lens horizontally relative
to the sheet or tape for viewing different portions of the sheet
or tape.
(1)
Note. Class 40, Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, provides
for the combination of a lens broadly together with structure for
supporting a card, picture, or sign relative to the lens for viewing
therethrough. However, where the claims recite any optical limitations
such as lens shape or forcing (as by an adjustable lens support)
together with a sheet or tape support as defined above classification
is in this subclass (806). Where the supporting structure presents
only a portion of a line of printed matter or an entire line or
limited number of lines together with provision for moving additional lines
or line portions into lens view, the lens being only broadly claimed
as in optical reading machines classification is in this subclass
(806). Where the lens broadly claimed is only utilized to examine
or view a portion of the exhibit, there being relative movement
between the lens and the exhibit classification is here in this
subclass (806). Class 40 provides generally for viewing the entire
single exhibit (or the entire framed portion of an exhibit which
is presented for viewing as in map holders) of the card, sign or
picture through the lens, with provision for changing the entire
exhibit as in subclasses 446+ thereunder. Magnifiers adapted
for attachment to a sheet for viewing a portion thereof are classified under
subclass 804 of this class or in this subclass (806), if relative
motion is provided, regardless whether the lens is claimed broadly
or specifically.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, especially
subclasses 446+ for changeable exhibitors. See also (1) Note above.
See subclasses 341 and 342+ for a copy holder wherein
the copy is movable relative to a viewing locus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter wherein the lens is claimed in combination
with a tool, instrument or machine, each of which is nonoptical
in nature, and which combination is not classifiable with the tool,
instrument, or machine.
(1)
Note. For classification in this subclass, the tool, instrument,
or machine must be at least nominally claimed. However, if the
lens constitutes a perfecting feature of the tool, instrument or
machine, the claiming of significant structure of the tool, instrument
or machine is sufficient to classify the combination with the art to
which the tool, instruments, or machines relates. Examples of tools, instruments,
or machines combined with lenses and classified here are rulers, compasses,
dividers, tweezers, thermometers, pencils, and sewing machines.
Where the lens is claimed in combination with a support which is
in turn disclosed as being attachable to an unclaimed tool, instrument,
or machine, classification is with the lens and support in subclasses
811+ below.
This subclass is indented under subclass 809. Subject matter wherein the lens is so positioned with respect
to the tool, instrument, or machine that the operation or functioning
of the tool, instrument, or machine may be viewed through the lens.
This subclass is indented under subclass 642. Subject matter including structure to maintain the lens
in space or in relation to some other object such as a barrel or
tube in either a fixed position or in a fixed path of movement or
in a limited area of movement.
(1)
Note. Subject matter classifiable here must include the lens
at least broadly in combination with the support, or a lens support
alone which is peculiarly adapted to lens mounting without general
utility, as in the lens mounting subclasses of 819+. Class
248, Supports, provides for supports generally even though disclosed
with a lens, but not peculiar thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 811. Subject matter including a support for the lens together
with an additional handle for moving the lens to and from its support
position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 811. Subject matter wherein the support includes relatively movable
portions such as a track or slide to permit movement of the lens
in its plane (which is perpendicular to its lens axis), while restricting
other movements of the lens.
(1)
Note. Other structure separate from the above defined relatively
movable portions may be included even in the support to provide
for nonplanar movement and yet not preclude classification here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 811. Subject matter wherein the support is shaped or otherwise
adapted to engage portions of the body or apparel thereof to position
the lens with respect to the body of the user.
This subclass is indented under subclass 815. Subject matter wherein the support is shaped to position
the lens before the eye so that the lens moves with the head of
the user.
(1)
Note. The support may be adapted to engage the head directly
or to be attached to spectacle frames.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclass 158 for loupes combined with eyeglasses and subclasses
159+ for ophthalmic lenses and blanks.
This subclass is indented under subclass 811. Subject matter wherein one part of the supporting structure
may be folded with respect to another part or wherein the supporting
structure may be folded with respect to the lens to reduce the space
occupied by the lens and its support.
This subclass is indented under subclass 811. Subject matter wherein the support includes opposing surfaces
for detachably engaging therebetween the supporting object for maintaining
the support positioned with respect to the object.
(1)
Note. The engaging surfaces may be spring or screw actuated.
These surfaces do not engage the lens as in subclasses 819+ below,
but rather the structure to which the support may be attached.
This subclass is indented under subclass 811. Subject matter including structure engaging the rim portion
around substantially the entire circumference or rim of the lens
or its components to secure the lens to supporting structure or
to secure the components in proper spaced relation without obstructing
the optical axis.
(1)
Note. More commonly the structure here classified is a ring
gripping the periphery of the lens with a thread for screwing into
a barrel or wall of some optical instrument, such as a telescope, microscope,
or camera. A plurality of these rings gripping respective lens
components together with the ring supporting structure to maintain
the components in proper spaced relationship is classified here.
The mount must engage the lens over substantially the entire rim.
A mere screw or clamp engaging a portion of the lens rim is not
classified here, but in subclass 811 above. The mere inclusion
of the telescope, microscope, or camera barrel broadly in the claim
does not preclude classification here.
(2)
Note. Class 396, Photography, appropriate subclasses for
a lens mounting in combination with significant camera structure.
Examples of such significant terms are film track, film plane,
film holder, camera casing, camera housing, camera body with recess,
camera cone, camera chamber, shutter, etc. The mere recitation
of a camera wall or mounting plate or focal plane is not sufficient
to remove lens mounting structure from this subclass (819).
(3)
Note. Class 362, Illumination, in subclasses 455+ provide
for illuminating lens mounts. For classification there, significant
illuminating structure would be claimed or the indicated use of
the mounted lens would be for illuminating purposes as opposed to
the general optical use in this subclass (819). Class 353, Optics:
Image Projectors, in subclasses 24, 96, and 100+ provide
for lens mounts in projectors, and for classification where significant
projector structure is recited such as slide holder, illuminating source,
or projector housing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 819. Subject matter wherein the mounting includes or is combined
with structure to offset or minimize the effect of temperature change.
(1)
Note. The structure classified here may be lens supporting
material whose dimensions remain unchanged over a range of temperature
change or heating structure for offsetting temperature changes otherwise
occurring or for reducing moisture accumulation or heat insulating
structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 819. Subject matter including mounting structure for a plurality
of lenses and which permits any one of the lenses to be moved in
and out of the optical path, together with structure for moving the
lenses in and out of the optical path.
(1)
Note. Usually the lenses are mounted on a common carrier
and operated as a unit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 819. Subject matter including structure for moving or permitting
motion of the lens along its optical axis or for moving or permitting
motion along the optical axis of at least two of the lens components
relative to one another.
Photography,
subclasses 89+ for focusing lens structure in cameras. See (2)
Note under subclass 819 above for lines between this classs and
Class 396 relating to camera lens mount.
This subclass is indented under subclass 823. Subject matter wherein the structure for moving or permitting
motion of the lens along its optical axis or for moving or permitting
motion along the optical axis of at least two of the lens components
relative to one another includes a source of mechanical motive power
which is driven by electrical means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 823. Subject matter wherein there is a circular band for adjusting
the position of a point at which light rays converge.
This subclass is indented under subclass 823. Subject matter wherein there are at least two cylindrical
tubes, one of which fits and slides in an axial direction partially
inside other.
(1)
Note. Excluded from this subclass are barrels which are threaded.
This subclass is indented under subclass 819. Subject matter wherein the mounting or plate or barrel to
which the mounting is to be secured includes structure such as a
snap connection, bayonet joint, screw threads, or like interengaging
parts which permit ready securing and removal of the mounting from
the plate or barrel.
(1)
Note. The mounting here is often one of several interchangeable
camera lens mounts while the plate is the camera wall.
This subclass is indented under subclass 827. Subject matter wherein the mounting is a quick coupling
device comprising pins on the sides of a male connector portion
to engage corresponding slots in a socket where connection is accomplished
by rotating two parts under pressure.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a transparent optical element having
at least two plane surfaces inclined relative to each other, from which
light is reflected or through which light is refracted.
(1)
Note. A prism may be employed for refracting or reflecting
light. Prism reflections are considered to be internal reflections;
that is, the light is inside the prism body both before and immediately after
the reflection.
(2)
Note. A prism mount structure engaging the prism to secure
it to other structure such as a barrel without obstructing the optical
axis is included in this subclass.
Optics: Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 51+ for optical test devices having prisms used in
the infrared or ultraviolet range alone or in combination with visible
light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 834. Subject matter wherein a prism is made up of two right angle
prisms placed at right angles to each other that can be used in
a binocular.
This subclass is indented under subclass 834. Subject matter comprising surfaces that revert and invert
the image and, at the same time, will deviate the line of sight
through a 90° angle.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a structure which reflects a substantial
portion of the light incident thereon in a regular pattern.
(1)
Note. A nominal mirror claimed in combination with other
structure is classified with the other structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter including a mirror area which partially transmits
and partially reflects light rays or including a plurality of light
transmitting and light reflecting areas interspersed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter comprising two immediately adjacent and oppositely
directed mirrors which are rigidly connected.
(1)
Note. This type of mirror is often referred to as a double
mirror.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter including a mirror mounted on a vehicle and
movable from an in-use position to a stored position or to a position
closely adjacent the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter wherein the mirror is mounted on a vehicle
which has handlebars for steering and a frame with a seat supporting
the operator.
(1)
Note. The mirror may be mounted on the handlebar or the vehicle
frame.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter wherein a mirror mounted on a vehicle changes
position by movement of the vehicle, or condition of a vehicle or
indicator control mechanism, or indicator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter comprising a mirror mounted on a vehicle
attachment which is movable relative to the vehicle.
(1)
Note. An example of such a vehicular attachment is a sun
visor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter including a fluid to absorb heat that would
otherwise cause thermal distortion of the reflective surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter including structure for maintaining a precise
shape of a reflective surface or for reversibly changing the shape
of a reflective surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 846. Subject matter including a very thin flexible reflective
structure that is supported only at its periphery.
This subclass is indented under subclass 846. Subject matter including supporting a mirror so as to minimize
internal mirror stress which might otherwise distort the shape of
the reflective surface.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes light weight mirror structures
designed to minimize sagging stress.
This subclass is indented under subclass 846. Subject matter including multiple mirror supports adjustable
to change the shape of a reflective surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 850. Subject matter comprising a plurality of mirrors or mirror
surfaces cooperating to form a unified image or to concentrate light
in a focal area or along a focal line or comprising several substantially
identical mir-rors for concentrating light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 851. Subject matter including a plurality of mirrors or mirror
surfaces which concentrate light in a linear pattern.
This subclass is indented under subclass 851. Subject matter which forms incident radiation into a convergent
beam, has a concave configuration, or has a cross section forming
a parabola in at least one direction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 850. Subject matter including plural identical mirrors located
close together and having substantially identical support structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 857. Subject matter comprising a curved mirror surface which
receives the light from itself or another curved mirror surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 858. Subject matter including a concave mirror and a
convex mirror cooperating to sequentially reflect the light.
This subclass is indented under subclass 857. Subject matter wherein the plural reflections are arranged
to provide a view of a portion of the observer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 850. Subject matter including plural angled mirrors or mirror
surfaces with the intersection of the surfaces or their extensions
forming discontinuities to provide a wide field of view.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter including a cylindrically concave reflecting
surface or structure for providing a linear focus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 868. Subject matter wherein a nonspherical continuously curved
reflecting surface includes a smooth surface indented away from
the direction of an incident light beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 873. Subject matter including structure for rotating a mirror
about axes that are at right angles to each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 872. Subject matter including a rigid handle extending to a mirror
pivot or to an intermediate pivot with a short linkage extending
in turn to a mirror to provide short range operation.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes a rigid handle which extends
through a vehicle wall to provide direct pivotal movement to mirrors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 872. Subject matter including structure for rotating a mirror
about axes that are at right angles to each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 877. Subject matter including an element applying an adjusting
force to the mirror which is actuated by a force applying gas or
liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 872. Subject matter which includes structure for supporting the
mirror on a body portion or the clothing or accessories worn or
carried by a person.
This subclass is indented under subclass 879. Subject matter including structure to support a mirror from
the head or neck portion of the body of the operator or clothing
engaged therewith.
This subclass is indented under subclass 872. Subject matter including a supporting shaft or structure
for providing relative sliding movement between a mirror and support
structure therefor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 838. Subject matter including a mirror which absorbs particular
visible wavelengths or includes an overcoating without absorbing properties.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter which absorbs a portion of the incident ray
energy and transmits the remainder.
(1)
Note. For classification here, some structure other than
a material having filtering properties is required. For example,
a plurality of superimposed filtering layers which cooperate to
give some desired optical effect would be sufficient for classification
here. See Class 252, Compositions, subclasses 299.01+ for liquid
crystal containing filter compositions and subclasses 582+ for
other filter compositions and Class 428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous
Articles, for filter stock material.
(2)
Note. Included here are not only those devices which may
be selective with regard to the visible spectrum (i.e., colored),
but also those devices which may be nonselective in the absorption
of light energy (i.e., neutral density type).
for filter which operates significantly in the ultraviolet
or infrared spectrum; particularly, subclass 358 for fluid filter
and subclasses 359+ for multilayer filter.
for dichroic or interference filter, particularly,
subclass 588 for filter having four or more layers and subclass 590
for combining with another filter.
Compositions,
subclasses 299.01+ for liquid-crystal compositions and subclasses
582+ for other optical filter compositions and for optical
articles defined only in terms of the composition of which they
are composed.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclasses 44+ for spectacles or spectacle type goggles with filtering
lenses, and subclasses 163+ for ophthalmic lenses or blanks
with light filtering means.
Optics: Measuring and Testing, particularly
subclasses 402+ for shade or color filter devices which use one
or more color filters additively or sequentially or at the same
time particularly subclasses 234+ and 416+ for
photometers of the light absorbing type for neutral filters of the
sequentially additive or of the continuously variable type.
Illumination, for illuminating devices in combination with a filter,
subclasses 1+ for daylight lamps; subclasses 3+ for
photographic safe light lanterns; subclasses 166+ for
signal lanterns with color screens and for hand lanterns with color
screens; and subclass 293 for light projectors having a colored
light screen.
Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions,
subclasses 59+ for a sun or radiation screening or sun tanning
composition intented for topical application to a living body.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses for a single or plural layer web
or sheet which may inherently possess light filtering properties
due to the material thereof; coated filters comprising plural layers and
defined only by the compositions of the layers are found in Class
428,
subclasses 411.1+ and especially subclasses 426+ wherein
one layer is glass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 885. Subject matter comprising two or more surfaces of different
selectivity which are intended to sequentially affect a sensing
element (which may be the human eye) at such a rate that their effects
are combined in an optically additive way.
Television,
subclasses 571 through 721and 725-738 for similar subject matter combined
with generators or displays for television, and subclass 743 for
video display color sequential with moving color filters.
This subclass is indented under subclass 885. Subject matter wherein the filter or a portion thereof absorbs
ray energy independently of wavelength and the corresponding transmittance
may be uniform or variable.
(1)
Note. Where the density differences of various areas are
incidentally due to the fact that the areas are of different colors, the
subject matter is not classified here but in some other appropriate
filter subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 885. Subject matter wherein two or more filters are disposed
so that ray energy may pass through all the filters in series.
This subclass is indented under subclass 885. Subject matter having a plurality of differently colored
filters arranged in such a fashion that ray energy passing through
one filter does not pass through any other filter and the resultant filtered
rays are uniformly equidistant.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter having at least a plate with a multiplicity
of apertures, opaque dots, patterns, or crossed lines which are
intended to break up imaging light.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
of Product Thereof,
subclasses 6+ for chemically defined screens and the process for
making the same and subclasses 396+ for process of using
the same.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a structure transmits light energy
where all transmitted rays travel in essentially straight lines
(i.e., without intentional deviation as, for example, by reflection,
refraction or diffraction) and without significant attenuation (i.e.,
without being filtered).
(1)
Note. This subclass includes certain specialized viewing
devices which involve no intentional deviation of light rays such
as, for example, certain underwater viewing devices. It also includes
apertures, transparent closures, etc., with no significant optical
element classifiable in the preceding subclasses, but some optical
feature going beyond, for example, windshields in Class 296, subclasses 84.1+.
This might be, for example, means to compensate for the offsetting of
ray energy in passing through a transparent closure.
(2)
Note. This definition does not exclude subject matter where
certain rays are transmitted and certain other rays are completely
blocked.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 99+ for optically transparent glass lens sandwich making,
which may include a grinding step.
Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting,
subclass 177 for methods of making ophthalmic lenses or blanks
not otherwise classifiable and subclass 178 for methods of securing
these lenses in their mountings.
Cross-reference art collection of patents having to do with
using holography in instruments that use light interference phenomena
for precise determinations of wavelength, spectral line structure,
very small displacements, and indices of refraction.
Cross-reference art collection of patents wherein the optical
element has a magnet for temporarily attaching it to any object
containing ferrous material.
(1)
Note. This would include an optical element mounted on a
magnet for placement on a refrigerator door wherein the sole purpose
is for ornamental use.
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