Abstract: A fluid dispensing apparatus includes a pulse generator coupled to a pump that operates in discrete cycles. Each cycle includes a first part in which fluid is drawn into the pump through an inlet, and a second part in which fluid is expelled from the pump through an outlet. Each cycle results in a discrete, consistent volume of fluid being expelled. The pulse generator transmits discrete pulses to the pump, causing the pump to operate for a set number of cycles per pulse. The total number of cycles is a multiple of the number of pulses transmitted, so that the number of pulses determines the volume of fluid dispensed. Alternatively, the pump is driven through increments of the second part of the cycle, with the number of pulses supplied to the pump determining the proportion of the second part of the cycle completed, and therefore the volume of fluid dispensed.

Abstract: A three-dimensional image grabber allowing for the simultaneous projection of multiple phase-shifted patterns onto an object, and the simultaneous acquisition of multiple images of these phase-shifted patterns is described herein. The grabber comprises a pattern projecting assembly and an image acquisition assembly. The pattern projecting assembly includes, for example, a spectral splitter or a plurality of light sources, grids and projectors for simultaneous projection of a plurality of patterns under different monochromatic lights. The image acquisition assembly includes, for example, a CCD camera sensitive to the different monochromatic lights, or a plurality of CCD cameras with filters to gather lights incoming for the object simultaneously illuminated by the plurality of phase-shifted patterns. A method and a system for measuring the relief of an object, using the above-mentioned process, is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to mirrors for use in confined spaces which are subject to being covered by fluids and debris, principally dental mirrors, for use by dentists and similar medical professionals. The mirror assembly includes a head portion and a handle portion. The head portion includes a housing with a rotor assembly and a rotor drive means. In accordance with the invention, a secondary member has a reflective surface. The mirror assembly includes attachment means for removably attaching the secondary member with respect to the rotor assembly so that the reflective surface can be replaced when degraded. In use, the rotor drive means spins the rotor assembly and with it the secondary member to remove fluids and debris that may fall on the reflective surface so that vision when using the reflective surface is not impaired by such fluids or debris. Advantageously the attachment means include magnetic components although mechanical attachment means may also be used.

Abstract: A trap for trapping a pest comprises a container having a passage leading to a pitfall, and a medium positioned in the pitfall, the medium being capable of flowing in response to pressure exerted thereon by the pest and being capable of adhering to an exterior surface of the pest which come into contact with the medium whereby the additional weight of the medium restricts the ability of the pest to leave the container.

Abstract: A hand held device is provided for use in exercising and dancing. The device has two handles, a different one of which is grasped by each dance or exercise partner during use. A connecting strut extends between the handles. The device also has a swivel to permit relative rotation of the handles. An swivel connection is achieved through use of ball type joints. The swivel connection may also permit tilting of the handle with respect to the strut. This device can be used in conjunction with most body movements, such as dancing or exercising, simply by holding the swivelling handles of the device instead of holding hands, with the minimum risk of injury to the users, thus giving a new approach to the performance of dancing and exercising whether it be recreational or professional.