Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an optical fiber preform assembly and a method for making optical fiber using the preform assembly. The assembly includes a preform core rod, at least one overclad tube formed around the preform core rod, a handle attached to one end of the overclad tube, and a refractory material positioned in the overclad tube between the preform core rod and the handle. The refractory material reduces if not prevents movement of the preform core rod into the handle during the fiber draw process. Preferably, the refractory material is made of, e.g., magnesium oxide and/or aluminum oxide, and has a melting point, e.g., greater than approximately 2000 degrees Celsius. Embodiments of the invention also include a method for making optical fiber using this preform assembly.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a method and apparatus for making a multiple overclad optical fiber preform. The method includes positioning a first overclad tube around a preform core rod, positioning at least one second overclad tube around the first overclad tube, and collectively heating the preform core and the overclad tubes under pressure to collapse the overclad tubes onto the preform core rod thus producing a multiple overclad optical fiber preform. The apparatus includes a preform core rod, a first overclad tube surrounding the preform core rod, and at least one second overclad tube surrounding the first overclad tube. A quartz disc with or without one or more quartz spacers is used for supporting the preform core rod and the first overclad tube within the additional overclad tubes.

Abstract: A container for containing a thermosetting explosive charge and delay detonator element is provided. The lower portion of the container has an open bottom and contains the cast explosive charge. A projection and recess are located in that portion of the container which contains the cast explosive charge for retaining the explosive charge within the container and for preventing movement of the charge relative to the container once the charge has solidified. A tubular conduit is longitudinally disposed on the exterior of the container and dimensioned to receive a detonating cord. The container includes an integral alignment structure and housing for the insertion of a delay detonator unit having an initiating element and a delay detonator element adapted so that the initiating element can be positioned adjacent the tubular conduit with the delay detonator element positioned adjacent the cast explosive charge.

Abstract: A delay actuated explosive device for use in boreholes filled with high explosives is provided which comprises an explosive container having a detonator cord receiving conduit attached to the periphery thereof and a detonator receiving well which is offset from the detonator cord receiving conduit so as to avoid premature detonation. A detonator delay unit having an initiating means communicating with a delay detonator means is provided for use with the explosive container, the detonator delay unit being adapted such that the initiating means can be positioned proximate to the detonator cord conduit when the delay detonator means is positioned within the detonator receiving well of the explosive container.

Abstract: A method for separating an aqueous solution which contains minor amounts of nitrated esters which are only slightly soluble in water is provided. Separation of the nitrated esters, which include ethylene glycol dinitrate and nitroglycerin, is effected by contacting the aqueous solution with an organic phase of ethylene glycol dinitrate for a period of time sufficient to allow extraction of the nitroglycerin in solution into the ethylene glycol dinitrate phase. The organic ethylene glycol dinitrate phase is then separated from the aqueous solution, and the latter is distilled at a temperature of from about 50 degrees F. to about 200 degrees F. at a lower than atmospheric pressure. Upon completion of the separation process water, which is substantially free of nitrated esters, is suitable for discharge and return to a natural environment.

Abstract: The specification discloses a hand-held detonator or blasting device which includes a rigid housing dimensioned to be held in the hand of an operator. A pair of binding posts extend from the housing for attachment to an explosive charge. First and second switches are mounted on the housing and a battery and capacitor are disposed within the housing. An oscillator is provided for being connected to the battery in response to operation of the first switch to generate an A.C. signal. A transformer is connected to the output of the oscillator to apply the A.C. signal to full-wave rectifying circuitry which produces a D.C. signal in order to charge the capacitor to a predetermined voltage level. Circuitry is responsive to operation of the second switch to disconnect the capacitor from the battery and to connect the capacitor across the binding posts in order to discharge the voltage stored thereon to detonate the explosive charge.

Abstract: A container capable of withstanding pressures having a longitudinal cord-receiving groove and a detonator-receiving groove formed as integral parts of the container. Radially projecting, substantially deformable, grooves are formed on the container at its upper and lower portions to retain a substantially non-deformable tubular sleeve positioned on the container, thereby covering the cord-receiving groove and the detonator-receiving groove. The threaded cap for the container has a projecting member which forms with the interior side walls of the cap, an annular slot for maintaining a resilient, deformable gasket. Upon threadedly engaging the cap with the threaded neck of the container the projecting member protrudes into and is adjacent the interior surface of the neck and the gasket cooperates with the edge portion of the neck to form the improved seal for the container.