Abstract: An octagonal structure of photodiodes using standard CMOS technology has been developed to serve as a de-multiplexer for spatially multiplexed fiber optic communication systems.

Abstract: Time-resolved optical tomography systems using a short pulse laser, may be used in detection and treatment of cancer and tumors. Information is conveyed about tissue interior by the temporal variation of the observed scattered, and reflected measured when short-pulse lasers interact with scattering-absorbing media like tissue. Multiple scattering-induced temporal signature that persists for time periods greater than the duration of the source pulse and is a function of the source pulse width, the scattering and absorbing properties of the medium, and the location in the medium where the properties undergo changes. If the detection is carried out on the same short time scale (comparable to the order of the pulse width), the signal continues to be observed even for long durations after the pulse has been off due to the time taken for the photons to migrate to the detector after multiple scattering in the tissue media.

Abstract: A container is shown with a sump and a strainer separating the container interior from the sump. The sump is provided with a drain for draining liquid in the container from any solid material.

Abstract: A discount debit card is with a merchant's point of sale terminal to register a transaction and send data identifying the transaction, merchant, and the eCard holder to a discount debit plan provider's terminal. Authorization to complete the transaction is sent to the merchant's terminal while the plan provider's terminal manages the cash flow of the merchant discounted transaction amount to the merchant's account, the debit of the eCard holder account for the holder's discounted purchase amount and distribution of the difference between the merchant discounted amount and the eCard holder discounted amount to the plan provider or its affiliates.

Abstract: The finger pad shield, when placed in contact with the bowler's finger pad places a rigid surface between the force against the finger pad and spreads that force, when the bowler's maximum natural force is applied to the bowling ball at the moment of release. It is at this moment when the force of the ball against the finger pad is the greatest and the pressure within the contact area made by the finger pad shield with the finger pad, would be increased if that bowling ball force was not spread over that contact area. The rigid finger pad shield is made sufficiently rigid material to substantially resist the force of the bowling ball so the force against the finger pad shield 14 is spread over the contact area.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for multiplexing in optical fiber communications. The subject invention relates to a method and apparatus for spatial domain modulation in optical wavelengths. In a specific embodiment, the subject invention relates to a spatial domain multiplexer (SDM) for use with an optical fiber. Preferably, the input channels coupled into the fiber optic cable include collimated laser beams. The techniques of the subject invention can be utilized with single mode and multi mode waveguide structures, for example, single mode and multi mode optical fibers. The subject invention is applicable to step index optical fiber and to graded index optical fiber. Applications of the subject technology can include secure data links, for example, which can modulate data such that if the data is intercepted, the data cannot be interpreted. The subject methods and apparatus can also be used in conjunction with other multiplexing techniques such as time-domain multiplexing.

Abstract: A system for launching or retrieving an auxiliary vessel, using at least one support frame, with a connected auxiliary vessel support platform, mounted for rotational and translational movement in Cartesian coordinate directions. The support platform may be inclined to proximate the water level to facilitate launch and retrieval operations.

Abstract: A fiber optic switch uses induced periodic variations in a multi-mode optic fiber, to control power loss in the switch and power output.

Abstract: 3-Mirror fiber optic sensor for simultaneous measurement of dual parameters such as hydrogen concentration and temperature, is formed from 2 optical leads comprising 3 reflective surfaces, and defining 2 optical cavities. The effect of temperature on each of the cavities and the effect of hydrogen, for example, on the one of the cavities, produces phase shifts in the reflected lights, and interference patterns from which the parameters may be detected.

Abstract: A method of using a bowler's aid on the fingers inserted into the finger grip holes of the bowling ball and used to hold the ball. The bowler's aid is mounted on the finger or hand of the bowler by means of a fastening means. When the bowler's aid is in place, a finger pad finger pad shield is placed opposite the finger pad which may be connected to a load bearing means by a support means. The finger pad finger pad shield assists the bowler in using his or her natural force in the finger against the ball, for example when lifting the ball in its delivery, or in meeting the force of the ball against the finger. The bowler's aid may include a depth limiting means to control the depth of the bowler's finger in the hole of the bowling ball.

Abstract: An interactive local and wide area network system is for communications between the restaurant service elements providing service to a customer and for recording of selected related service data for real time information and for review and analysis and for management control. The wide area network uses distributed data processing for the collection and analysis of related area wide restaurant operations for use in management and control.

Abstract: An effervescence keeper is shown as an elongated body for placement into an open container having a quantity of carbonated liquid. The effervescence keeper includes a stopper for supporting the effervescence keeper on the neck of the container and adjusting holes or slots for adjusting the position of the stopper relative to its displacement along the longitudinal axis of the effervescence keeper.

Abstract: A ladder system consists of a base and extension and a system for connection of the base to the extension for vertical height extension or horizontal lenght extension or for nesting the extension steps in the base for storage.

Abstract: An adjustable tensioning strap is mounted in a glove worn on the bowling hand and connecting the glove finger tip and an anchor point proximate the wrist or palm. The tensioning strap, from the finger tip to the anchor point, is held adjacent the glove lining by one or more transverse support straps so when placed on the hand and with tension applied to the tensioning strap, the tensioning strap is held or forced by the transverse support straps toward and substantially adjacent the bowler's finger and palm.

Abstract: An interactive local and wide area network system is for communications between the restaurant service elements providing service to a customer and for recording of selected related service data for real time information and for review and analysis and for management control. The wide area network uses distributed data processing for the collection and analysis of related area wide restaurant operations for use in management and control.

Abstract: A laser is used to radiate a non-homogeneous body comprising two or more materials, with varying scattering characteristics with reference to the radiation. The ballistic or snake radiation is detected as reflected radiation form incident points in the radiation light path and use to construct data indicative of one or more features of the body such as the interface between two of the varying characteristic materials which are in the radiation light path.

Abstract: An adjustable tensioning strap is mounted in a glove worn on the bowling hand and connecting the glove finger tip and an anchor point proximate the wrist or palm. The tensioning strap, from the finger tip to the anchor point, is held adjacent the glove lining so when placed on the hand and with tension applied to the tensioning strap, the tensioning strap is held or forced by the glove toward and substantially adjacent the bowler's finger and palm.

Abstract: A venturi expander is mounted on a speaker enclosure to receive the rearward-propagated sound waves and to extend the propagation path. The venturi expander's reflective sides direct the rearward sound to the sides or top or bottom of the speaker enclosure to produce a reflected sound surrounding the speaker enclosure and producing sound to the sides of the speaker substantially as projected from the front of the speaker.

Abstract: Dehumidification is achieved using an air conditioning system, by employing an independent humidity control signal to direct ambient air through a heat exchanger and a bypass to the heat exchanger. The air passing through the heat exchanger is dehumidified and mixed with the bypassed air before returning dehumidified air to a controlled space.