Abstract: An active fiber stretcher assembly can be used for data acquisition systems. A time-break signal can be detected that coincides with a seismic event emitted from a seismic controller. A predetermined waveform can be generated in response to detecting the time-break signal. The predetermined waveform may be encoded onto a fiber optic cable using a fiber stretcher. A data acquisition system connected to the fiber optic cable may detect the predetermined waveform on the fiber optic cable and initiate acquisition operations including: receiving, during the seismic event, light signals returning from a portion of the fiber optic cable in a subterranean environment; determining one or more characteristics of the subterranean environment from the light signals; and storing the one or more characteristics.

Abstract: A device is provided to remove a depilatory composition and depilated hair 18 from the skin (20). The device (2) is moved in the direction of arrow (22) over the skin (20), and has fins (12) which remove the depilatory composition and depilated hair. During this movement non-depilatory compositions, for example a moisturiser and/or a fragrance, are applied to the skin from a impregnated sponge or fabric part (24) leading the fins and a impregnated sponge or fabric part (26) trailing the fins.