Abstract:
Method and apparatus for processing input binary encoded analog signals to precisely determine the time occurrence of positive-going and negative-going transitions. Such digital signals result, for example, when bar codes (e.g. Universal Product Codes) are optically scanned. Transitions are determined by detecting the zero crossings, at selected gating times, of the second derivative of the input signals. The selected gating times occur whenever the first derivatives of the input signals exceed a threshold level. The threshold level is determined in one embodiment by peak-to-peak detecting the input signals and adding this value to a rectified noise measurement signal.
Abstract:
A video interface linking a base station with a remote display, e.g., a head-mounted display, converts input video signals from NTSC or PAL formats into modulated video signals containing repetitive sequences of frame times with embedded audio and control signals. Each frame time includes equal consecutive color field times. Frame rates are converted by inserting selected repeating color frames into the datastream. Bursts of image information occupy a portion of each field time. During each data burst, the display is loaded with pixel luminance data. Between bursts, the display is illuminated by a color LED. Two video displays can be driven alternately, i.e., the first display loads while the second is illuminated. The modulated video signal can travel through the atmosphere on an infrared (IR) beam with a wavelength between 700 nm and 1100 nm. In one embodiment, the beam is scattered from a diffuse reflecting surface. Alternatively, the beam is shaped by a shaping lens. Designs for shaping lenses and collecting lens assemblies are described. Some embodiments include return audio transmission.
Abstract:
A diagnostics apparatus for detecting fluorescence events related to the presence of an analyte in a sample is disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing, a source of excitation light and a photodetector, and a unitary multi-surface optical module. The optical module is integrally formed and composed of an upstream portion having a focusing optical surface for directing excitation light from the light source to a focal region within an analyte-detection zone in the apparatus, and a downstream portion having a second focusing powered optical surface and at least one reflecting surface for directing fluorescence-emission light produced by fluorescence events within the detection zone, in a direction substantially normal to the path of the excitation light onto the photodetector. The optical module is adaptable to a variety of assay formats, including multiple-sample, sample-array, and disposable-cartridge formats.
Abstract:
Low-cost complex plastic optics allow biocular viewing of video images generated by a single electro-optic display device, such as in a head-mounted display (HMD) for commercial or medical viewing applications. A dual off-axis configuration uses nearly collimated illumination optics and intermediate imaging optics to fill both eyepieces from a single display device without the need for a beamsplitter. Multiple illumination schemes are provided for either monochrome or color, and in either two-dimensional or time-sequential true stereographic presentation. Light from multicolor sources is superimposed, mixed, and homogenized by mixing light cones with diffractive collectors. Offsetting color overcorrection and undercorrection of individual optical elements achieves overall chromatic correction with minimal optical element complexity; A wireless video signal interface eliminates excess cabling. Additional features include lightweight achromatic eyepiece construction and interchangeable lenslets for peripheral vision correction. Multiple optical elements are injection-molded as a unitary plastic structure, thereby reducing cost and complexity.
Abstract:
A fluid thermosiphon system including a heat collection channel in communication above and below an insulating member to a heat storage region in a closed loop, the storage region includes spaced apart panels of an entirely encapsulated phase change material between which the heated fluid flows. The panels are adjacent the rear wall of the unit through which they disperse retained heat to the space. A wall or tilted roof unit suitable for built-in construction is disclosed, as is an exterior ground supported add-on unit. A liquid thermosiphon system is disclosed as the preferred embodiment. A gaseous system, using air, is also disclosed.
Abstract:
Devices, methods and systems for image viewing. Various example embodiments of devices, methods and systems for image viewing are disclosed. In one or more example embodiments, the disclosure provides devices, methods and/or systems for image viewing, having one or more of: modular characteristics; telecentric characteristics; lens designs; lens designs in combination with other optical components; an image viewer and headgear as components of a head mounted display; a combination of an image viewer, headgear, and connection technologies as components of a head mounted display, whereby the connection technologies support modular characteristics by enabling detachable connection of one or more expansion components.
Abstract:
A video interface linking a base station with a remote display, e.g., a head-mounted display, converts input video signals from NTSC or PAL formats into modulated video signals containing repetitive sequences of frame times with embedded audio and control signals. Each frame time includes equal consecutive color field times. Frame rates are converted by inserting selected repeating color frames into the datastream. Bursts of image information occupy a portion of each field time. During each data burst, the display is loaded with pixel luminance data. Between bursts, the display is illuminated by a color LED. Two video displays can be driven alternately, i.e., the first display loads while the second is illuminated. The modulated video signal can travel through the atmosphere on an infrared (IR) beam with a wavelength between 700 nm and 1100 nm. In one embodiment, the beam is scattered from a diffuse reflecting surface. Alternatively, the beam is emitted from an array of infrared light emitting diodes (LEDs). Designs for collecting lens assemblies are described. Some embodiments include return audio transmission.
Abstract:
Low-cost plastic optics allow biocular viewing of video images with a single electro-optic display device. Folded and unfolded dual off-axis configurations use collimated illumination and intermediate imaging optics to fill both eyepieces from a single display device without requiring beamsplitters. Multiple illumination schemes provide either monochrome or color, either two-dimensional or time-sequential true stereographic presentation. Light from multicolor sources is superimposed using dichroic mirrors. A display field lens proximate to the display surface collimates the illumination beam. A shaping lens provides substantially uniform illumination of the display surface. An aperture stop improves image quality by blending sub-pixel higher order spatial harmonics from the display device. Offsetting color over- and under-correction of individual optical elements provides overall chromatic correction with minimal optical complexity. Lightweight optical elements and injection-molded unitary plastic structures containing multiple optical elements reduce cost and complexity. A wireless video interface eliminates excess cabling.
Abstract:
Low-cost complex plastic optics allow biocular viewing of video images generated by a single electro-optic display device, such as in a head-mounted display (HMD) for commercial or medical viewing applications. A dual off-axis configuration uses nearly collimated illumination optics and intermediate imaging optics to fill both eyepieces from a single display device without the need for a beamsplitter. Multiple illumination schemes are provided for either monochrome or color, and in either two-dimensional or time-sequential true stereographic presentation. Light from multicolor sources is superimposed, mixed, and homogenized by mixing light cones with diffractive collectors. Offsetting color overcorrection and undercorrection of individual optical elements achieves overall chromatic correction with minimal optical element complexity.
Abstract:
A solar shutter or blind for windows using plastic vanes having horizontal channels for encasing a phase change material possessing a high value of heat of fusion at a fusion transition temperature somewhat above the desired ambient temperature of the room to be heated. In one form, the vanes are interconnected together with a reversing mechanism for turning the solar heat collection surfaces of the vanes inwardly or outwardly in relation to the window while in another form the vanes are swung as a unit to face outwardly as a shutter, alongside of a window or inwardly to reradiate energy through the window. In another form the vanes are pivotally mounted as a blind forming array and are provided with solar radiation reflective surfaces on one side and black surfaces on the lower side. In this way reversing the blind array causes reflection of unwanted or excess solar radiation and also provide diffuse illumination.