U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
2000 ARCHIVE COPY
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
the subclass number
preceding each subclass definition or on the
"
" icon, below.
( please note that patents for some subclasses may not be available )
For classification search strategies, please refer to the
Classification Index
Explanation of Data web page.
(definitions have been obtained from the
Patents ASSIST CD-ROM which
is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Electronic Products Branch)
Class 372
COHERENT LIGHT GENERATORS
Class Definition:
This is a restricted class for coherent light generator
systems wherein an assembly of electrical, mechanical, and
optical components produces an intense, coherent, directional
beam of light by stimulating electronic, ionic, or molecular
transitions to lower energy levels.
The generators of this system consists of (a) a medium which
may be solid, liquid or gaseous, comprising a system of
particles, molecules, or atoms; (b) means including a source
of energy for setting the particles, molecules, or atoms into
an excited energy state; and (c) means to abstract
electromagnetic wave energy produced by the relaxation of the
system of particles, molecules, or atoms to a lower energy
state. The means to abstract electromagnetic wave energy
provides for escape from said substance of substantially
coherent electromagnetic radiation in the optical or
Quasi-optical wavelength range. In general, the wavelength
of the emitted radiation lies in the range from the
ultraviolet to the far infrared of the electromagnetic
spectrum, corresponding to a wavelength range extending from
100 to 2,000,000 angstroms.
The generators of these systems when combined with other
diverse systems or devices will be classified with the
diverse system or device.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
128, Surgery, appropriate subclasses for lasers used in
surgery.
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, in particular
subclass 157.41 and 157.61 for the use of lasers in a
reaction.
219, Electric Heating, subclass 121.6 for lasers use in
electric arc heating.
250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 423+ for lasers used to
generate ions; subclasses 281+ for lasers used in ionic
separation systems; and subclass 493.1 for other radiant
energy generators.
252, Compositions, subclass 301.16, 301.36, and 301.4+ for
compositions used as the active medium in lasers; and
subclasses 372+ for gas compositions used as the active
medium in lasers.
257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), subclass 13, 79 through 103 and 918, for
incoherent light emitting injection luminescent devices, and
subclasses 80 through 85 for incoherent semiconductor light
emitting sources combined with semiconductor light responsive
devices. In general, to avoid excessive duplication of the
same patents in both Classes 372 and 257, patents with claims
reciting coherent light generators (lasers) are not to be
cross-referenced in the aforementioned subclasses in Class
257 unless those patents contain disclosure of a light
emitting semiconductor device which is NOT a laser or
coherent generator.
356, Optics: Measuring and Testing, appropriate subclasses
for lasers used in optical measuring and testing.
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
subclass 27 for holos:graphic systems having a particular
laser source; subclasses 109+ for optical communication
systems which may use a laser, subclasses 115+ for optical
multiplexing communications systems which utilize lasers, and
subclasses 333+ for laser used as amplifiers. Search other
subclasses for the lenses, reflectors, etc., used in laser
systems.
376, Induced Nuclear Reactions: Processes, Systems, and
Elements, subclass 103 and 122 for lasers used for nuclear
fusion; and subclass 326 for the combination of a laser and a
nuclear reactor.
385, Optical Waveguides, subclass 14 for laser in integrated
optical circuit.
438, Semiconductor Device Manufacturing: Process, subclasses
22+ for methods of making radiation emissive devices of the
semiconductor barrier layer type.
505, Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process, subclasses 150+ for high temperature
(T[subscrpt]c[end subscrpt] 30 K) superconducting devices,
particularly subclass 180 for laser generators using high
temperature superconducting material.
520, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers.
522, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, subclass 2 for the
use of a laser in preparing or treating a synthetic resin or
natural rubber.
708, Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating, subclass 191 and 800+ for computations which
include electro-optic means.
GLOSSARY:
ACOUSTO-OPTIC
The effect, on the properties of a beam of light, by sound
energy, interacting with the light within a volume of
matter.
ACTIVE MEDIA
The material, in which most of the atoms can be placed in an
excited state (i.e., population inversion state), so that an
electromagnetic wave of the proper frequency passing through
it can stimulate a cascade of photons.
BIREFRINGENT
The property of dividing a ray of light into two polarized
rays (known as the ordinary and extraordinary rays), the
directions of polarization of the rays being at right angles
to each other.
COHERENT LIGHT
A single frequency of light. A light beam in which the
electric vector at any point in it is related to that at any
other point by a definite, continuous sinusoidal function.
DIFFRACTION
The bending of a light ray in passing the edge formed by
contiguous opaque and transparent areas.
ELECTRO-OPTIC
The effect, on the properties of a beam of light, by an
electrical field, interacting with the light within a volume
of matter.
GLOW DISCHARGE
A type of discharge in which a uniform glow is created
through the entire volume of a gaseous active media rather
than a channel or spark discharge through a restricted
portion of the active media.
INTERFERENCE
The interaction of two light waves which, as a result of
their relative phases, produce a cancellation or
reinforcement of wave energy.
LASER
A device for generating a very narrow, intense beam of
coherent light. The name is derived from the initial letters
of "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation".
In the emission of ordinary light the molecules or atoms of
the source emit their radiation independently of each other,
and consequently there is no definite phase relationship
among the vibrations in the resultant beam. The light is
incoherent. The laser, by means of an optical resonator,
forces the atoms of the material within the resonator to
radiate in phase. The emitted radiation is stimulated by the
excitation of atoms to a higher energy level by means of
energy supplied to the device.
LIGHT
In this class, light includes not only optical wavelengths,
i.e., that part of the spectrum extending from the near
infrared, through the visible, to the ultraviolet, but also
includes those portions of the spectrum which extends from
the near infrared through the long wavelength, far infrared,
and from the ultraviolet to X-rays and gamma rays at the
shortest wavelengths.
LIGHT, VISIBLE LIGHT
Visible light is radiation which stimulates the optical
receptors of the eye, and having 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
ultraviolet and infrared ranges which are nonvisible.
MODE
One of several states of electromagnetic wave oscillation
that may be sustained in a given resonant system. Each type
of vibration is designated as a particular mode, and has its
own particular frequency and electric and magnetic field
configurations.
OPTICS, OPTICAL
The science of light and vision and the construction of
optical instruments.
OPTICAL ELEMENT
A structure which performs a basic optical function, i.e.,
the structure when exposed to or placed in the path of a
group of light rays will cause a deviation of the rays in
accordance with a regular pattern, a blocking of the rays, or
a modification in the character or properties of the light.
OPTICAL FIBER
A light guidance system that is cylindrical in shape. The
fiber relies upon modal transmission to transmit light along
its axial length. Light enters one end of the fiber and
emerges from the opposite end with only minimal loss.
OPTICAL SYSTEM
A combination of two or more similar or diverse optical
elements which are optically related.
REFLECTION
Light striking a surface and returning back into the medium
from which it came.
REFRACTION
The deviation of light which results when a ray of light
passes obliquely from a medium of one density to a medium of
another density.
RESONANT CAVITY
A mode-selecting low-loss optical structure in which the
laser action takes place by the build-up of electromagnetic
field intensity upon multiple reflection.
SEMICONDUCTOR
An electronic conductor, with resistivity between that of
metals and that of insulators, in which the electrical charge
carrier concentration increases with increasing temperature
over some temperature range. Over most of the practical
temperature range, the resistance has a negative temperature
coefficient. Certain semiconductors possess two types of
carriers, negative electrons and positive holes. The charge
carriers are usually electrons, but there may be also some
ionic conductivity.
SEMICONDUCTOR LASER
A light-emitting diode that uses stimulated emission to
produce a coherent light output.
SPECTRUM
The band of colors produced by separating a beam of white
light into its component frequencies.
THIN FILM
A film of optically transparent material, usually deposited
by sputtering or evaporation, that may be made in a pattern
on a substrate or used as insulation between successive
layers of components, and generally on the order of a few
wavelengths thick.
THIN FILM WAVEGUIDE
A thin dielectric guide film of high refractive index formed
adjacent to a substrate or support region of lower refractive
index. The thin film relies upon modal transmission to
transmit light along its length. Light enters one end of the
thin film where it is processed (e.g., modulated or switched)
and emerges from the opposite end.
WAVEGUIDE
A system of material boundaries capable of guiding
electromagnetic wave. A transmission line comprising a
hollow conducting tube within which electromagnetic waves are
propagated on a solid dielectric or dielectric-filled
conductor.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
SUPER RADIANT LASER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein coherent light is generated in an inverted
medium without the use of cavity feedback.
Subclass:
2
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
FREE ELECTRON LASER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein laser action is accomplished by sending a
relativistic electron beam through a spatially periodic
transverse magnetic field.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
74 for lasers which are pumped by an electron beam.
Subclass:
3
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
RAMAN LASER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter in which the coherent light is generated as a direct
result of the excitation of stimulated Raman scattering.
Subclass:
4
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
LONG WAVELENGTH (E.G., FAR INFRARED):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the wavelength of the generated light is
generally greater than 10 microns.
Subclass:
5
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
SHORT WAVELENGTH LASER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the wavelength of the generated light is
generally less than 400 nanometers (.4 microns).
Subclass:
6
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
OPTICAL FIBER LASER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter in which the laser is constructed in the form of an
optical fiber.
Subclass:
7
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
THIN FILM LASER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the active media of the laser is in the form
of a thin film.
Subclass:
8
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
LASER LOGIC SYSTEM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter where an optical logic function is performed by a
laser system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
708, Electrical Computers: Arithmetic Processing and
Calculating, subclass 191 for digital computations which
include electro-optical means.
Subclass:
9
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
PARTICULAR BEAM CONTROL DEVICE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein means is provided for controlling some
characteristic or parameter of the output beam, such as its
amplitude, frequency, pulse rate, direction, etc., and
wherein the control is effected prior to the beam's actual
departure from the resonant cavity of the laser.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
330, Amplifiers, subclass 4.3 for modulation of the laser
beam after it departs the resonant cavity.
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
appropriate subclasses for optical devices such as
modulators, beam scanners, etc., which may be used as light
control devices.
Subclass:
10
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Q-switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein the beam control device alters the losses of a laser
cavity for the purpose of generating giant pulses.
Subclass:
11
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Absorption type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the Q-switch is made of a passive material which
exhibits an absorptivity that changes with increasing
irradiance.
Subclass:
12
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Electro-optic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the beam control device includes a material which
exhibits an electro-optic effect and has some means of
applying an electric field across that material.
Subclass:
13
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Acousto-optic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the beam control device includes a material which
exhibits an acousto-optic effect and provides some means for
creating an acoustic wave within that material.
Subclass:
14
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Mechanical:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the beam control device utilizes mechanical means to
alter the Q of the cavity.
Subclass:
15
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Rotating mirror:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical means is a rotating mirror.
Subclass:
16
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Rotating prism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical means is a rotating prism.
Subclass:
17
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Plural Q-switches:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter
wherein the Q-switched laser includes more than one Q-switch,
either of the same type or of different types.
Subclass:
18
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Mode locking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein means is provided for applying to the laser resonator
a time-varying perturbation at or near the frequency which
corresponds to the average axial mode spacing of the laser,
so as to establish a phase relationship between the
oscillatory laser modes, resulting in a laser output in the
form of a periodic pulse train whose repetition rate is equal
to the frequency of the perturbation.
Subclass:
19
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Mode discrimination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein means is provided for either enhancing or suppressing
particular modes of oscillation within the resonant cavity.
Subclass:
20
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Tuning:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein means is provided for selectively varying the output
wavelength of the laser.
Subclass:
21
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Nonlinear device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
including an optical device which has an output that does not
rise or fall in direct proportion to the input.
Subclass:
22
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Frequency multiplying (e.g., harmonic generator):
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Subject matter
in which the nonlinear device provides an output beam whose
frequency is a multiple of the frequency of the input beam.
Subclass:
23
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Producing plural wavelength output:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein the output is characterized as having a plurality of
discrete wavelengths.
Subclass:
24
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Scanning:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
including means for providing a directional scan of the
output beam as it exits the laser cavity.
Subclass:
25
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Control of pulse characteristics:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein means is provided for selection or variation of pulse
characteristic, i.e., pulse shape, pulse repetition rate,
etc.
Subclass:
26
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Modulation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
wherein means is provided internal of the resonant cavity for
modifying some characteristic of the laser output beam so
that it varies in step with the instantaneous value of a
modulating wave or signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
330, Amplifiers, subclass 4.3, subclass 7.51 for laser
modulators in which the means modifying the output beam is
positioned external of the resonant cavity.
Subclass:
27
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Polarization:
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Subject matter
wherein the characteristic modified is the polarization of
the output beam.
Subclass:
28
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Frequency:
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Subject matter
wherein the characteristic modified is the frequency of the
output beam.
Subclass:
29
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Output stabilization:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Subject matter
including means for stabilizing a parameter or characteristic
of the output.
Subclass:
30
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Pulse:
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Subject matter
wherein the output of the laser is pulsed and some parameter
characteristic of the pulse is stabilized such as pulse
width, pulse repetition rate, etc.
Subclass:
31
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Amplitude:
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Subject matter
wherein the stabilized parameter is the amplitude.
Subclass:
32
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Frequency:
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Subject matter
wherein the stabilized parameter is the frequency.
Subclass:
33
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
PARTICULAR OPERATING COMPENSATION MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means to overcome an effect which is
deleterious to the operation of the laser.
(1) Note. For example, means for compensating for parasitic
oscillation, thermal lensing, etc.
Subclass:
34
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
PARTICULAR TEMPERATURE CONTROL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means for controlling the temperature of the
laser or the temperature of its component parts.
Subclass:
35
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Liquid coolant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
including a liquid coolant.
Subclass:
36
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Heat sink:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
including details of a heat sink.
Subclass:
37
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Having an applied magnetic field:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means for applying a magnetic field to some
portion of the laser.
Subclass:
38
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
WITH PARTICULAR COMPONENT CIRCUITRY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including particular circuitry for operating specific
components of the generator.
(1) Note. Included are, for example, pulse forming networks
for driving the flash lamp, Q-switch or modulator, light
detection and feedback for stabilizing frequency amplitude,
etc.
Subclass:
39
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
PARTICULAR ACTIVE MEDIA:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the media in which most of the atoms can be
placed in an excited state (i.e., population inversion
state), so that an electromagnetic wave of the proper
frequency passing through the media can stimulate a cascade
of photons, is specified.
Subclass:
40
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Amorphous (e.g., glass):
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
where the solid active media does not have a definite
crystalline structure.
Subclass:
41
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Insulating crystal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
where the solid active media is an electrically nonconductive
composition of matter having definite crystalline structure.
Subclass:
42
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Utilizing color centers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Subject matter
wherein color centers are formed within the crystal material
which consist of displaced electrons that are trapped in
regions of positive charge or of a "hole" or region of
electron deficiency, which behaves like a "negative electron"
or "positive hole", which can be trapped or localized in
well-defined sites and which can impart color to the crystal
material.
Subclass:
43
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Semiconductor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the active media is a semiconductor.
Subclass:
44
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Injection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Subject matter
wherein the laser is a p.n junction semiconductor device
which converts forward-bias electrical input directly into
coherent optical output power via a process of stimulated
emission in the region near the junction.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), subclass 13, 79 through 103 and 918 for
incoherent light emitting injection luminescent devices, and
subclasses 80 through 85 for semiconductor light emitting
sources combined with semiconductor light responsive
devices.
438, Semiconductor Device Manufacturing: Process, subclasses
22+ for methods of making radiation emissive devices of the
semiconductor barrier layer type.
Subclass:
45
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Particular confinement layer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein there is present a layer specifically designed to
provide for carrier and/or radiation confinement.
Subclass:
46
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Particular current control structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein there is a means which is specifically designed to
provide for control of the current flow in the area of the
active region.
Subclass:
47
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Transverse junction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter
wherein the p.n junction is transverse to the active layer.
Subclass:
48
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Channeled substrate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter
wherein the substrate has a channel in the substrate region
adjacent the active region.
Subclass:
49
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Particular coating on facet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
having a specified coating on at least one facet.
Subclass:
50
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Monolithic integrated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the laser is monolithically integrated with another
laser or with other semiconductor devices which form an
integral part of the laser.
Subclass:
51
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the physical state of the active media is a liquid.
Subclass:
52
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Chelate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
where the liquid active media is in the form of a solution of
a material having a trivalent rare earth bonded to several
organic groups or liquids and dissolved in a suitable
solvent.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
40 for rare-earth chelates dissolved in a solid plastic host
material.
Subclass:
53
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Dye:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
where the liquid active media is a dye media dissolved in a
suitable solvent.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
40 for an active media including a dye dissolved in a solid
plastic host material.
Subclass:
54
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Particular structural features:
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Subject matter
including particular structure for containing or transporting
the liquid active media through the laser.
Subclass:
55
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
wherein the active media is in a gaseous form.
Subclass:
56
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Metal vapor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
wherein the gas is a vaporized metal.
Subclass:
57
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Excimer or exciplex:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
wherein the active media is a dimer or hetero nuclear
complex, which is bound in the excited state and free or
essentially free in the lower state.
Subclass:
58
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With means for controlling gas flow:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
having means for moving gas through an activation area.
Subclass:
59
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Gas maintenance (e.g., purification, replenishment, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
including means for maintaining the operational level of the
active medium.
Subclass:
60
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Including a specified gas additive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
wherein a gas different from the active medium is added to
the active medium.
Subclass:
61
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Discharge tube feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
including a discharge tube having a specified feature.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate
subclasses for discharge devices, per se.
Subclass:
62
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Segmented:
This subclass is indented under subclass 61. Subject matter
wherein the means which confines the discharge is formed of
individual segments.
Subclass:
63
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Backflow feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 61. Subject matter
having gas flow means which bypasses the discharge path.
(1) Note. A use of this means is, for example, pressure and
equalization.
Subclass:
64
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Waveguide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 61. Subject matter
wherein a waveguide resonator provides the necessary feedback
to establish oscillation.
Subclass:
65
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 61. Subject matter
including particular support means for the discharge tube.
Subclass:
66
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Active media with particular shape:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
where the active media has a particular distinguishing
shape.
Subclass:
67
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Disc-shaped active media:
This subclass is indented under subclass 66. Subject matter
where the active media has a cross sectional dimension which
is substantially greater than its thickness.
Subclass:
68
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Plural active media or active media having plural dopants:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Subject matter
where the active media exists as two or more separate and
distinct bodies or as a single body doped with ions of two or
more different chemical elements.
Subclass:
69
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
PARTICULAR PUMPING MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter in which a particular mechanism is set forth for
exciting the active media.
Subclass:
70
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Pumping with optical or radiant energy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter
in which the pumping means excites the active media with
optical or radiant energy.
Subclass:
71
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
End-pump laser:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the active media is excited by optical or radiant
energy directed through an end surface of the active media.
Subclass:
72
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Pump cavity:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means is included within a housing which
interacts with the pumping means so as to enhance its
operation as, for example, by cooling the pumping means,
filtering out undesirable wavelengths, focusing the
radiation, etc.
Subclass:
73
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
High-energy particles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means is a nuclear reactor, radioactive
material, or other source of high-energy particle radiation
capable of exciting the active media.
Subclass:
74
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Electron beam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Subject matter
in which the high-energy particles take the form of an
electron beam.
Subclass:
75
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Semiconductor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means is a light emitting semiconductor
device.
Subclass:
76
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Plasma:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means is an ionized gas of sufficient
temperature to radiate electromagnetic energy.
Subclass:
77
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Exploding or combustible material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means is in the form of a material which
burns or explodes giving up energy which excites the active
media.
Subclass:
78
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Heat:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means is a source of heat, and heat, per
se, excites the active media.
(1) Note. Where heat is not the primary form of the
exciting energy but merely appears in the spectral range of
the radiant energy generated by the pump source, search
appropriate subclasses under subclass 70 for the particular
energy source.
Subclass:
79
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Solar:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the ultimate source of the pump energy is the sun.
Subclass:
80
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Excited phosphor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter
in which the pumping means comprises a phosphor excited or
energized by any of the various forms of radiations and
which, on excitation, will provide a characteristic emission
matched to the desired input of the laser.
Subclass:
81
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Electrical:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter
in which the pumping means creates an electrical discharge
through the active media which directly excites the active
media.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 43+ for electrical excitation of semiconductor
lasers.
Subclass:
82
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Inductive or capacitive excitation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter
in which electrical energy is introduced into the electrical
discharge path by means of an inductive or capacitive
coupling mechanism.
Subclass:
83
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Transversely excited:
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter
in which the electrical energy creating the electrical
discharge is introduced into the active media transverse to
the optical axis of the laser.
Subclass:
84
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Traveling wave:
This subclass is indented under subclass 83. Subject matter
in which the electric discharge is obtained through a
progressive wave of current being propagated in a gaseous
active medium from one end of the discharge channel to the
other.
Subclass:
85
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Glow discharge:
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter
in which a uniform glow-type discharge through the entire
volume of a gaseous active media is created rather than a
channel or spark discharge.
Subclass:
86
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Having an auxiliary ionization means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter
in which the apparatus includes more than one means for
ionizing at least a portion of the active media prior to or
at the same time as the electrical discharge which directly
excites the active media.
Subclass:
87
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Having particular electrode structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter
in which at least one electrode has particular structure.
Subclass:
88
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Hollow electrode:
This subclass is indented under subclass 87. Subject matter
wherein at least one of the electrodes is hollow.
Subclass:
89
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Chemical:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter
wherein the excitation of the active media results from the
direct production of the excited states by a chemical
reaction.
Subclass:
90
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Gas dynamic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter
wherein the necessary conditions for lasing are created
solely by a thermal expansion of the laser gas media to
supersonic flow speeds.
Subclass:
91
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
With depopulation of lower states:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter
wherein the specified pumping means includes means for
selectively depumping a lower level to achieve the required
population inversion.
Subclass:
92
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
PARTICULAR RESONANT CAVITY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including particulars of a mode-selecting low-loss
optical structure in which the laser action takes place by
the build-up of electromagnetic field intensity upon multiple
reflection.
Subclass:
93
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Folded cavity:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
wherein the cavity is folded or includes reflective surfaces
or other optical structures for bending the optical axis of
the resonant cavity.
Subclass:
94
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Having a ring configuration:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the cavity is in the configuration of a ring or
closed loop.
Subclass:
95
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Unstable resonator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
in which the resonant cavity is designed so that radiation,
upon repeated reflection between the primary and feedback
reflection surfaces, will progressively move transversely of
the optical axis until it clears an edge of the feedback
reflector and escapes from the cavity as output radiation.
Subclass:
96
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Distributed feedback:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
in which the feedback structure comprising the resonant
cavity is distributed through and integrated with the active
medium of the laser and is created by substantially time
constant, spatially periodic perturbations in the
transmission characteristics of the medium along the length
thereof, which may take the form of variations in the gain,
index of refraction, propagation constant, or other parameter
of the medium.
Subclass:
97
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Plural cavities:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
including at least two resonant cavities.
Subclass:
98
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Specified cavity component:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
wherein a particular cavity component or particular component
within the cavity is specified.
Subclass:
99
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Reflector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component has a surface which is
reflective or partially reflective.
Subclass:
100
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Prism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component is a geometric solid figure
whose end faces are congruent polygons, and whose sides are
parallelograms.
Subclass:
101
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Lens or lens system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component is a lens or a system of
lenses.
Subclass:
102
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Grating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component has a periodic structure
capable of dispersing light in accordance with its
wavelength.
(1) Note. For example the periodic structure may consist of
alternate opaque and transparent sections, alternate
reflecting and nonreflecting sections, or alternate high
index of refraction and low index of refraction sections.
Subclass:
103
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Window, aperture and mask:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component is an opening for admission
of light, or a transparent cover.
Subclass:
104
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Aerodynamic window:
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Subject matter
wherein the window is formed by a window gas driven at a
high, jet stream velocity across the laser beam such that the
jet streams serve the same function as a solid window.
Subclass:
105
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Birefringent material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component includes a material
exhibiting birefringent properties.
Subclass:
106
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Polarizer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the specified component is a device which produces
polarized rays.
Subclass:
107
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Mirror support or alignment structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
including significant details of structure for support or
alignment of a mirror.
Subclass:
108
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Specified output coupling device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Subject matter
including significant details of an output coupling device.
Subclass:
109
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter not provided for in any of the preceding subclasses of
this class.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
Subclass:
700
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Optical delay:
Subject matter including disclosure of means for optically
subjecting coherent light to a time delay.
Subclass:
701
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Nozzle:
Subject matter including disclosure of a nozzle which may be
used to influence the flow of an active media in a coherent
light generator.
Subclass:
702
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Isotope:
Subject matter which includes disclosure of the interaction
of coherent light and isotopes.
Subclass:
703
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Optical isolater:
Subject matter wherein there is disclosure of an optical
means for isolating coherent light.
Subclass:
704
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Summary reference:
Subject matter wherein there is a summary statement of
coherent light generation means or prior art devices.
Subclass:
705
![[Patents]](../gifs/ps.gif)
Neat thing:
Subject matter which includes disclosure of an unusual
feature or utilization of a coherent light generator.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000