Abstract: A system and process are disclosed that provide high accuracy and high precision destructive analysis measurements for isotope ratio determination of relative isotope abundance distributions in liquids, solids, and particulate samples. The invention utilizes a collinear probe beam to interrogate a laser ablated plume. This invention provides enhanced single-shot detection sensitivity approaching the femtogram range, and isotope ratios that can be determined at approximately 1% or better precision and accuracy (relative standard deviation).

Abstract: A pre-concentration device and a method are disclosed for concentrating gaseous vapors for analysis. Vapors sorbed and concentrated within the bed of the pre-concentration device are thermally desorbed, achieving at least partial separation of the vapor mixtures. The pre-concentration device is suitable, e.g., for pre-concentration and sample injection, and provides greater resolution of peaks for vapors within vapor mixtures, yielding detection levels that are 10-10,000 times better than direct sampling and analysis systems. Features are particularly useful for continuous unattended monitoring applications. The invention finds application in conjunction with, e.g., analytical instruments where low detection limits for gaseous vapors are desirable.

Abstract: A system and process are disclosed that provide high accuracy and high precision destructive analysis measurements for isotope ratio determination of relative isotope abundance distributions in liquids, solids, and particulate samples. The invention utilizes a collinear probe beam to interrogate a laser ablated plume. This invention provides enhanced single-shot detection sensitivity approaching the femtogram range, and isotope ratios that can be determined at approximately 1% or better precision and accuracy (relative standard deviation).

Abstract: A system and process are disclosed that provide high accuracy and high precision destructive analysis measurements for isotope ratio determination of relative isotope abundance distributions in liquids, solids, and particulate samples. The invention utilizes a collinear probe beam to interrogate a laser ablated plume. This invention provides enhanced single-shot detection sensitivity approaching the femtogram range, and isotope ratios and particle assays that can be determined with relative precision better than about 10%.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes interrogating a location along a face of a person with multiple wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. Signals are established corresponding to detection of the wavelengths reflected from the location. A determination is made as to whether a disguising material covers at least a part of the face based on a difference in range to the location indicated by these signals. Alternatively, the signals may correspond to reflections by different portions of an eye of the person and a determination is made regarding the location of one or more eyes of the person based on the signals. In one particular nonlimiting form, a multispectral, three-dimensional signature of facial features is registered to eye location that may include the iris, nose, chin, mouth, check or the like for facial recognition/identification.

Abstract: A pre-concentration device and a method are disclosed for concentrating gaseous vapors for analysis. Vapors sorbed and concentrated within the bed of the pre-concentration device are thermally desorbed, achieving at least partial separation of the vapor mixtures. The pre-concentration device is suitable, e.g., for pre-concentration and sample injection, and provides greater resolution of peaks for vapors within vapor mixtures, yielding detection levels that are 10-10,000 times better than direct sampling and analysis systems. Features are particularly useful for continuous unattended monitoring applications. The invention finds application in conjunction with, e.g., analytical instruments where low detection limits for gaseous vapors are desirable.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for pre-concentrating gaseous vapors for analysis. The invention finds application in conjunction with, e.g., analytical instruments where low detection limits for gaseous vapors are desirable. Vapors sorbed and concentrated within the bed of the apparatus can be thermally desorbed achieving at least partial separation of vapor mixtures. The apparatus is suitable, e.g., for preconcentration and sample injection, and provides greater resolution of peaks for vapors within vapor mixtures, yielding detection levels that are 10-10,000 times better than for direct sampling and analysis systems. Features are particularly useful for continuous unattended monitoring applications.

Abstract: The invention is a secure container for the transport and storage of materials that can alert the user as to the location and condition of materials, as well as container status. This provides cargo and access information that is critical in high-value or controlled shipments. The container uses a wound fiber-optic layer embedded in a covering. A transmitted light signal is sent through the fiber-optic layer to a receiver. Any change in the light signal causes an alarm or indication. The container also gives real time read outs, remotely or locally, as to the conditions of the contents and the container itself.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for Fourier transform spectrometry using a fixed or non-scanning interferometer wherein a pair of separated phase related electromagnetic or radiant sources produce an interference pattern that is detected and converted into its respective spectral content by a stationary converter. One application for this apparatus includes analyzing signal from a Bragg fiber-grating sensor. When coupled to a Bragg fiber-grating sensor this apparatus forms the basis of a wavelength demodulator. This demodulator converts optical frequencies down to electrical frequencies that can be readily measured with an electronic converter. This fixed interferometer has no moving parts, which greatly reduces its complexity and cost compared to a scanning interferometer.