Abstract:
Sharps are introduced into an apparatus for contacting the sharps with the electrolyte containing the oxidized form of one or more reversible redox couples, at least one of which is produced electrochemically by anodic oxidation at the anode (26) of an electrochemical cell (25). A definition of sharps is “objects or devices having acute rigid corners, edges points or protuberances capable of cutting or penetrating the skin”. The oxidized forms of any other redox couples present are produced either by similar anodic oxidation or reaction with the oxidized form of other redox couples present and capable of affecting the required redox reaction. The oxidized species of the redox couples oxidize sharps and the biological waste on the sharps and are themselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they are reoxidized. The oxidation process will be enhanced by the addition of ultrasonic energy and/or ultraviolet radiation.
Abstract:
A portable catalytic combustion heater, wherein fuel vapor (11) and air (10) are supplied to a catalyst (6) which promotes the flameless combustion of fuel and releases that. The fuel is supplied as a liquid, passes through a selectively permeable membrane (8) such that fuel vapor exits the membrane and is fed to the catalyst (6). Additional features include porous supports and means of enhancing and diminishing the catalytic rate of combustion and controlling the heat output.
Abstract:
Microprocessor, miniprocessor and heat sink surfaces having increased surface areas and increased heat dissipation are femtosecond pulsed laser machined. Nano structures formed and created on surfaces by the femtosecond pulsed laser machining provide increased surface areas which radiate heat by intensified IR radiation.
Abstract:
Improved optical interferometric modulators have a small waveguide spacing so that the waveguide pair are close to the central electrode, to enhance electro-optic interaction. Asymmetric waveguides with differential indices are used to effectively de-couple the waveguide pair. Multiple sections of asymmetric waveguide pairs with alternating differential indices are used to achieve chirp-free operation. Another version of the device utilizes transmission-line electrode that weave closer to one of the waveguide pair alternately between sections. Another version of the device utilizes waveguide structure that one of the waveguide is closer to the central electrode in alternate section. To improve efficiency further, a DC bias is provided on the outer electrodes configured as an RF-ground but DC-float electrodes. Another improvement is to have a slot is cut underneath the waveguide region to effectively reduce to thickness of the substrate. These improvements lead to higher modulator efficiency.
Abstract:
Solar collectors heat and self pump heat transfer fluid at reduced system pressure without mechanical intervention for heat exchange with hot water in a storage tank. Slugs of hot fluid are pumped by steam bubbles formed in solar collector tubes through an upper manifold and an exit-tube into an upper hot fluid reservoir. Hot fluid flows downward through a heat exchanger at the tank. Cold fluid returns to a lower reservoir. Vapor flows from the upper reservoir and is condensed by cooler water and walls of the lower reservoir. The cool fluid returns from the lower reservoir to a lower manifold supplying the collector tubes. Below ambient pressure is automatically established in the system. When heat build-up increases pressure in the system, fluid flows to a third closed variable volume reservoir. A float valve in the bottom of the third reservoir allows liquid to return to the system when it cools.
Abstract:
A membrane enclosed fluid diffusion system for insect attractants and repellents, auto thermostatic heaters, and chemical delivery using an additive and/or selectively permeable membrane that interacts with the enclosed fluid to maintain steady delivery rates over a range of temperature and humidity. Systems can be formed with permeable membranes, impermeable membranes, chemical hydrates, wicks, scent fluids, fuel fluids, catalytic heaters, energy conversion devices, visible images, infrared images, trapping systems, sound systems, electronics, and apparel. The device results in efficient and effective devices for mosquito control drug delivery, and portable heaters.
Abstract:
A goggle (4) resistant to fogging is provided. The goggle consists of a water wicking and thermal transfer face gasket (1) combined with heat transfer inlets and outlets (41, 59) optimized for heat transfer to air flow through the goggle. With low airflow resistance in the vertically oriented inlets and outlets, the goggle ventilates by natural convection removing moisture and keeping the goggle from fogging. Simultaneously, the present goggle results in greater comfort for the user.
Abstract:
Hazardous gas abatement apparatus combines and directly couples a chemical agent treatment tank and a dynamic oxidation chamber with a quick connect clamp. Cleaning the chamber and filter and emptying and replacing the chemical agent take place without disconnecting or otherwise disturbing gas, air and exhaust connections.
Abstract:
A low drag ship hull generally includes a side air cavity initiated by wetted bow section, bottom air cavity initiated by wetted bottom nosepiece, wetted stern section that closes a lower portion of the side cavity, wetted bottom tailpiece that closes the bottom cavity, stabilizing fin, and propulsor. The bottom of a catamaran hull cross structure includes bow impact alleviator. Optional flaps in the stabilizing fins, together with optional all-movable canard fins are used for control. Different wetted bow sections and retractable means are used for starting side cavities. A low drag hull may utilize multiple air cavities. A new low drag hull includes a new upper bottom air cavity that is initiated by an upper bottom wetted nosepiece, and closed by an upper bottom tailpiece. Alternative designs include a shortened forward hull spaced ahead of a shortened aft hull, and a hydrofoil-supported trimaran with low drag hulls.
Abstract:
The invention determines the energy dispersion via acoustic, electromechanical or other related physiological signals collected from a patient that lies down or otherwise engages a discritized sensing array. Signals are monitored over a range of frequencies and collected in the time domain or frequency domain. A computing machine determines the energy from the signal measured over various elements of the array and calculates the momentum flux. Blood pressure is determined directly from the momentum flux calculation.