Abstract: Improved probing of closely spaced contact pads is provided by an array of guided vertical probes that has a sideways scrub relative to the line of contact pads. With this orientation of scrub motion, the probes can be relatively thin along the contact line, and relatively thick perpendicular to the contact line. The thin dimension of the probes allows for probing closely spaced contact pads, while the thick dimension of the probes provides mechanical robustness and current carrying capacity. The probes have a predetermined curvature in a plane including the contact line, to help determine the amount of scrub motion during contact. In a preferred embodiment, an array of probes is provided for probing two closely spaced and parallel rows of contact pads, offset from each other by half the contact pad pitch.

Abstract: A universal, interchangeable attachment system, comprising various tool operator heads, removable/interchangeable handles, removable/replaceable tools and tool bits, hex drive, and clamp for securing tools. An electronic subsystem provides an alternating current detector, an indicator, such as an LED or light bulb, and continuity circuit indicator. A reversible double helical drive enables a user to drive a screw or bolt.

Abstract: A composition for actinic radiation curable nail coatings and artificial nail tips comprising a BISGMA based urethane resin, an additional polymer, a photoinitiator, and having a viscosity of greater than approximately 80,000 cps. Composition may additionally comprise other additives known in the art and also methods of application of the composition alone and with related compositions.

Abstract: An optical sensing enhancing material (and corresponding method of making) comprising: a medium, the medium comprising a plurality of aggregated nanoparticles comprising fractals; and a microcavity, wherein the medium is located in a vicinity of the microcavity. Also an optical sensor and sensing method comprising: providing a doped medium, the medium comprising a plurality of aggregated nanoparticles comprising fractals, with the material; locating the doped medium in the vicinity of a microcavity; exciting the doped medium with a light source; and detecting light reflected from the doped medium.

Abstract: A method of full-duplex electromagnetic communication wherein a pair of data modulation formats are selected for the forward and return data links respectively such that the forward data electro-magnetic beam serves as a carrier for the return data. A method of encoding optical information is used wherein right-hand and left-hand circular polarizations are assigned to optical information to represent binary states. An application for an earth to low earth orbit optical communications system is presented which implements the full-duplex communication and circular polarization keying modulation format.

Abstract: A target-backing plate assembly for use in physical vapor deposition (PVD) processes. The lower curved surface of the target of the assembly is received in a conformingly-shaped backing plate, while a planar upper surface is presented for PVD. The shape of the target increases the amount of material dissipated and the quality of the film and reduces the amount of necessary machining in production.

Abstract: A portable oxidant generator for generating a chlorine or chlor-oxygen solution suitable for sterilizing contaminated drinking water, thereby providing a water disinfection system and potable water. The oxidant generator includes an electrolytic chamber and a power supply or source. The chamber holds a salt brine solution such that the solution is in contact with an anode and cathode included in the chamber. The power supply provides electrical charge that is passed between the anode and cathode through the salt brine solution. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a combination manual pump/switch is activated and injects electrolyte into the cell chamber and electrolyzes the solution. In one embodiment, as electrolysis proceeds, hydrogen gas is liberated and causes a gas pressure within the cell chamber thereby forcing the freshly generated oxidant solution from the cell.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a neurochemical formulation comprising a supplement for improving function of neurons, improving memory and cognitive abilities, and reversing free radical damage caused by aging or neurodegenerative disease. The formulation comprises phosphoesters and antioxidants. Components may have antioxidant properties or enhance properties of other components. The synergistic combinations allow individual component dosages to be reduced, thereby minimizing potential toxicity.

Abstract: A separating device and method for padding pipelines which attaches to a bucket and has a bottom support with sloping walls for directing the padding material. A shaker assembly having a screen a vibrator assembly is mounted on the bottom support, wherein at least one resilient mount is used to mount the shaker assembly to the bottom support.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for hanging frames upon mounting surfaces. A hanger, upon which a frame is hung, is securely attached to a mounting surface, such as a wall. The hanger comprises a two-level, female, mandrel slot for receiving a two-level male mandrel. Additionally, bottom-rail-supports may be used to secure the bottom of the frame to the wall to support the weight of the frame and to immobilize the frame on the wall. A spirit-level device may be used for leveling the installed frame on the apparatus prior to fixing the frame to the wall with or without bottom-rail-supports.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of optical switching wherein the output ends of input optical channels 142 are held by and movable by actuator arm 108 of a conventional computer disk drive assembly and the input ends of output optical channels 144 are held by and movable by the disk 102 of the assembly. Fixed supports 120 and 136 stabilize the input and output optical channels prior to entry into the optical switch 100. A high resolution voice coil motor receives the switching signal and moves the actuator arm which in turn moves the input optical channels to align them with the selected output channels. Disk 102 is preferably partially rotatable by a disk motor so that the output optical channels are movable and switching speed can be increased. A linear embodiment operates in an equivalent manner with a linearly movable disk and linear actuator arm. An alternative embodiment operates with two or more voice coil motor driven actuator arms, without the use of a disk.

Abstract: Methods to recover nitramines from energetic materials yielding useable by-products and producing zero waste. The methods are used on materials containing HMX and RDX.

Abstract: A self sealing rotating cap or lid for a bottle, container or other object. The cap comprises an aperture, a spring, an engaging/disengaging post, a resting position and a rotatable open position.

Abstract: A method for producing integral capacitance components for inclusion within printed circuit boards. Hydrothermally prepared nanopowders permit the fabrication of a very thin dielectric layers that offer increased dielectric constants and are readily penetrated by microvias. Disclosed is a method of preparing a slurry or suspension of a hydrothermally prepared nanopowder and solvent. A suitable bonding material, such as a polymer is mixed with the nanopowder slurry, to generate a composite mixture which is formed into a dielectric layer. The dielectric layer may be placed upon a conductive layer prior to curing, or conductive layers may be applied upon a cured dielectric layer, either by lamination or by metallization processes, such as vapor deposition or sputtering.

Abstract: A basin generally for use in health-care industries for debridement and/or irrigation of wound areas. The basin is best used for treatment of wounds on extremities and comprises a stable basin having contoured seats on opposing side walls and a filtering device to prevent clogging of the drainage hole and tubing.

Abstract: A dielectric substrate useful in the manufacture of printed wiring boards is disclosed wherein the dielectric substrate comprises at least one organic polymer having a Tg greater than 140° C. and at least one filler material. The dielectric substrate of this invention has a dielectric constant that varies less than 15% over a temperature range of from −55 to 125° C.