Showing papers by "Gerd Binnig published in 1997"
Patent•
IBM1
TL;DR: In this article, an investigation and/or manipulation device for a sample consisting of a material which is locally deformed when subjected to a local heat treatment is described, where the tool is movably supported by a support means, and positioning means for positioning the support means and thereby the tool relatively to the sample.
Abstract: The present invention discloses an investigation and/or manipulation device for a sample, the sample consisting of a material which is locally deformed when subjected to a local heat treatment; the device comprises an investigation and/or manipulation tool movably supported by a support means, and positioning means for positioning the support means and thereby the tool relatively to the sample. The core features of the invention are power supply means for supplying electric power to the tool, said tool and the support means having such a structure and/or being respectively made of such materials that the supplied power is heating substantially only the tool, sensing means adapted to supply a low amount of power to the tool, the low amount of power being insufficient to locally deform the sample, the sensing means detecting a variation in temperature of the tool as being indicative of the surface structure of the sample, and/or manipulation means adapted to supply a high amount of power to the tool, said high amount of power heating the tool to a temperature which is sufficient to deform the sample surface region being presently effected by the tool. Further aspects of the present invention are a novel data storage system and a novel displacement sensor, both of which make use of the basic pronciples of the invention.
48 citations
Patent•
IBM1
TL;DR: In this article, a method of forming ultrasmall (nano) structures in a thin film provided on a substrate by means of a tip which is movable relative to the surface of the thin film is described.
Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of forming ultrasmall (nano) structures in a thin film provided on a substrate by means of a tip which is movable relative to the surface of the thin film. According to principles of the invention, the penetration depth of the tip is limited, thereby avoiding wear of the tip. Furthermore, an apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed.
27 citations
Patent•
IBM1
TL;DR: An investigation and manipulation device for a sample which is located in a container fluid includes an investigation and/or manipulation tool which is mounted at the first of a cantilever and which during investigation or manipulation of the sample immerses into the container fluid as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: An investigation and/or manipulation device for a sample which is located in a container fluid includes an investigation and/or manipulation tool which is mounted at a first of a cantilever and which during investigation and/or manipulation of the sample immerses into the container fluid. The opposite side of the cantilever is at least partly not immersed into the container fluid during investigation.
11 citations