Abstract: A machine vision analysis apparatus and method for automatically checking objects for specified characteristics. A video camera is provided for producing an analog video input signal corresponding to an area having an object therein being observed by the video camera. A video timer and synchronizer is used for coordinating synchronous operation of the machine vision apparatus. A digital-to-analog converter is also provided for converting a digital threshold gray level into an analog threshold level corresponding to said digital threshold level, wherein an upper and a lower threshold level are produced. A comparator is used for digitizing the analog video input signal into a digitized video signal based on the analog threshold gray levels, wherein the video input gray level must fall between the lower threshold gray level and the upper threshold gray level for a pixel to be digitized into an ON state.

Abstract: A pap smear inspection apparatus and method for automated screening of cytological smears for dense, possibly malignant cells includes a specimen slide for receiving a cytological smear and a microscope for enlarging the image of the smear. The microscope is outfitted to receive a video camera for creating an analog video signal corresponding to an area enlarged by the microscope and being observed by the video camea. A video timer synchronizes operation of the smear analysis apparatus. An image window generator focuses the analysis of the apparatus on a sub-area of the entire video image. A converter is provided for converting a digital threshold level into a corresponding analog threshold level. A comparator is used for transforming the analog video input signal into a binary video signal according to the analog threshold levels. A pixel counter sums the number of ON pixels both in the transformed video signal, and within the designated window sub-area of said video signal.

Abstract: An electrically conductive block assembly is provided for positioning contact pins in an electrical connector and dissipating high energy voltage pulses to a ground. A voltage variable material is used to space the pins out of direct contact with the block. The block is in electrical communication with a grounded electrical connector housing. High voltage pulses to the contact pins will divert into the voltage variable material, through the block and to the grounded housing.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a shielded plug and socket in which the socket is provided with a fixed and a movable shield to protect the socket against magnetic electromagnetic interference when the socket is disconnected from the plug.

Abstract: The plug of a plug and receptacle connector has a hollow cylindrical shell of such internal diameter as to permit its receipt onto and over a cylindrical receptacle shell during mating. A groove formed circumferentially about the inner wall of the plug includes a pair of intertwined continuous helically wound springs secured within the groove which wipes along the external wall of the receptacle as it is fitted within the plug. One of the wire springs has a cross-sectional dimension less than that of the other. At crossover points of the springs, they are bonded to one another. When received within the internal groove of the plug part, the large diameter helically wound part of the spring means is secured to the inner wall of the groove by use of a conductive material.

Abstract: A wire frame aid is received over the cable and the connector part that carries the coupling housing. At one end of the frame coded keys interlockingly engage keys and keyways on the outer surface of the coupling housing. The aid is gripped by one or both hands when it is desired to rotate the housing providing greater purchase of the hand and additional leverage for opening or closing the connector, as the case may be. An elongated slot-like opening enables the aid to be slipped on and off the cable and connector, as desired. In a second version, an elongated hollow metal body having a bore sufficient to permit receipt onto the cable has an enlarged threaded end which is received onto a similarly threaded portion of the coupling housing. The end portion of the metal body opposite the threaded end is provided with transversely extending parts which can be gripped with the hand or fingers, or with a suitable tool during use.