Originally Published EMDM October 2002
TECHNOLOGY NEWS
Fibre Optics
Illuminator Increases Lamp Life by 400%
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The
Mille Luce Model 1000 fibre-optic illuminator from StockerYale operates
for a minimum of 1000 hours without a significant decrease in output.
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A fibre-optic illuminator reportedly increases lamp life by 400% compared with conventional halogen fibre-optic devices. The Mille Luce Model 1000 from StockerYale (IRL) Ltd. (Cork, Ireland) provides a minimum of 1000 hours of shadow-free, glare-free cool illumination without any significant loss in light output.
The coupling efficiency between lamp and fibre has been dramatically increased by the use of innovative optical designs, according to the company. This enables lamp life to be extended by a factor of five with no loss in light output. Using a standard 150-W EKE quartz halogen lamp, with the illuminator at full intensity, lamp life is increased from 200 to 1000 hours, says the firm.
The unit is designed to withstand the rigours of microscopy and machine vision systems including assembly, inspection, and medical laboratory analysis. A high-impact polymer housing protects the internal components, which use mechanical engineering principles to provide cool surface temperatures along with minimal fan vibration and noise.
The characteristic problem of slipping and rotating fibre-optic
goosenecks is eliminated with the use of a quick-change, positive-locking nosepiece.
A slide potentiometer enables the user to adjust lamp intensity from 0 to 100%,
and optional iris dimming is available when a constant colour temperature is
required. Other features include base mounting and multiunit stacking capabilities,
a separate on-and-off switch, an integrated handle, and an internal infrared
filter. The company offers a wide range of fibre-optic illuminators and components
that provide shadow-free, glare-free, cool illumination. Bespoke systems to
meet specific requirements including special grades and lengths of fibre, custom
terminations, and a choice of sheathings and housings are available.
Copyright ©2002 European Medical Device Manufacturer
