Abstract: A method of operating a photodetector system. The method impresses a surface charge on a photon detector by establishing an electric potential across the detector, storing the detector in the dark, disconnecting the source of electric potential, and electrically connecting layers in the detector.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the emulsification of fluids. Mixing of the fluids may occur before the fluids enter the apparatus, or in the apparatus. Extremely low pressure is created and maintained in an apparatus chamber by accelerating the flow velocity of at least one fluid as flow occurs from a larger to a smaller diameter passageway. Vapors of the fluids to be emulsified mix in said low pressure passageway, which may be a venturi tube. When the mixed vapors flow from the smaller diameter passageway to a second larger diameter outlet passageway, deceleration results in a pressure increase which causes the mixed vapors to collapse into the emulsified products. A single emulsification in the apparatus produces emulsified particles with diameters in the range of 0.01 to 2 microns. The apparatus is capable of homogenizing milk, emulsifying fuel and water, emulsifying solutions with immiscible fluids, and producing other regular or thixotropic emulsions.

Abstract: A variable frequency seismic pulse is produced by releasing a weighted piston within a partially evacuated cylinder. The piston compresses residual air in the cylinder before striking a base plate held firmly in contact with the ground. Controlling the pressure of the gas remaining in the cylinder controls the frequency and amplitude of the seismic pulse applied to the ground. The seismic pulse can be applied at various angles from vertical from a thumper mounted on a vehicle or from a hand-held thumper.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of referencing and operating an infrared imaging system that may be used with virtually any system. A preferred embodiment of the invention is disclosed using a mechanical scanning mirror that minimizes spatial scan distortion.