Abstract: The present invention relates to Polysaccharide Size-Reduction Monitoring Methods useful for the non-invasive, and accurate monitoring of the progress of a polysaccharide size-reduction process.

Abstract: A parachute package including a harness, a reserve parachute container attached to the harness, and a main parachute container releasably secured to the harness, wherein the main and reserve parachute containers are releasably fastened together.

Abstract: A precipitation gauge for measuring liquid and frozen precipitation is provided according to the present invention that includes a support structure having at least one light sensor, or pair of electrodes, and at least one light source disposed thereon so that the light sensor may receive light that is emitted from the light source. The light sensor or light sensors and the light source or light sources generally extend a substantial height of the support structure. The light sensor or light sensors generate an output signal in response to the amount of light received from the light source. A microprocessor receives the output signal or output signals from the light sensor or light sensors and determines whether precipitation is present between the light sensor or light sensors and the light source or light sources. Based on the output signal or output signals, the microprocessor determines and displays the level of precipitation. The microprocessor may also determine the density of frozen precipitation.

Abstract: A parachute package including a harness, a reserve parachute container attached to the harness, a main parachute container releasably secured to the harness, and means for releasably fastening together the main and reserve parachute containers.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for the use of visible and/or near-infrared spectroscopic methodology to monitor and control processes for the generation of particles, including processes that provide for a reduction in particle size and processes that result in an increase in particle size. One embodiment of the present invention employs visible and/or near-infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy to monitor particle size. The present invention is particularly useful for monitoring particle size of optically dense samples and is further useful for monitoring the endpoint of particle generation processes. In contrast to methods known in the art, the present invention is especially useful for on-line monitoring of particle size.