Abstract: Implementations for exciting two or more modes via modal decomposition of a pulse by a wave launcher are generally disclosed.

Abstract: Implementations for exciting two or more modes via modal decomposition of a pulse by a wave launcher are generally disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus and accompanying methods for the detection and subsequent destruction or disablement of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) while maintaining a satisfactory level of human safety. Operationally, our inventive method and apparatus detects the IED using one or more methods including: detecting internal battery components; detecting magnetic signature(s) of the IED; detecting a characteristic energy spectrum of the IED; and/or detecting characteristic chemical signatures of the device(s). Once detected, the device may be further characterized and then subsequently deactivated and/or destroyed by a shaped pulse charge directed at the device or its power source (battery) from a safe distance.

Abstract: Apparatus and accompanying methods for the detection and subsequent destruction or disablement of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) while maintaining a satisfactory level of human safety. Operationally, our inventive method and apparatus detects the IED using one or more methods including: detecting internal battery components; detecting magnetic signature(s) of the IED; detecting a characteristic energy spectrum of the IED; and/or detecting characteristic chemical signatures of the device(s). Once detected, the device may be further characterized and then subsequently deactivated and/or destroyed by a shaped pulse charge directed at the device or its power source (battery) from a safe distance.

Abstract: An optical fiber having a strongly negative dispersion characteristic that is well suited for use as a dispersion compensating fiber is described. The optical fiber comprises a primary core, a primary cladding surrounding the primary core, a secondary core surrounding the primary cladding, and a secondary cladding surrounding the secondary core, wherein a plurality of voids is formed within the secondary core. The voids in the secondary core are elongated and run parallel to the fiber axis, and form a spatially periodic pattern when viewed in cross-section. In one preferred embodiment, the voids are circular and the spatially periodic void pattern comprises hexagonal unit cells having central members, whereby each void is the same distance from each of its six nearest neighbors. The optical fiber exhibits a strongly negative dispersion characteristic, thereby reducing the required length of dispersion compensating fiber per unit distance of optical fiber span.