Abstract: An expandable multiprocessor computer system is provided incorporating a master computer, control computers and servant computers housed in modular units. Servant computers of the super scalable multiprocessor system act as cells of a singular entity enhancing system performance over conventional individually networked computers. Application information is transported between servant computers by way of a standard ultra high speed primary network as opposed to a specialized ultra high speed back plane. The design of the primary network allows for parallel internal data transfer in single modules, and allows for parallel internal data transfer between multiple modules through the provision of control computers in each module. Administration information is transported between the master computer, control computers and servant computers by way of a secondary network.

Abstract: An adjustable illumination system is provided to enhance the appearance and functionality of computer hardware. The illumination system comprising at least one bubble tube light source that may, for instance, be disposed on a front surface of a computer hardware casing. The bubble tube light source may conveniently be programmed by the end user for display of single color or multi-color effect. The illumination system may also comprise LCD display of time and temperature for enhancement of the panel display.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for the formation of heterogeneous ion-exchange membranes by prescribed in-line compounding and extrusion of a polymeric binder and heat sensitive ion-exchange resin. The ion-exchange resin is incorporated, at a late process stage, into the melted matrix polymer at relatively low temperature and residence time prior to transfer to a die head for extrusion. In the presently preferred embodiment, the in-line compounding apparatus comprises a twin-screw compounding extruder, for effecting late stage kneading and mixing of ion-exchange resin and optional additives to the polymer melt, prior to compression to transfer the blended polymer melt to a die head for extrusion. Accordingly, the final properties of the resultant heterogeneous ion-exchange membrane are enhanced as the blended polymer melt material is not exposed to excessive heat and shear history.

Abstract: Unique methods and apparatus are provided for rapidly identifying microscopic particles, such as protozoa and other microbes suspended in a fluid or gas. In one embodied form, the method comprises illuminating the particles to be detected with an intense light source such as a laser, detecting scattered light by means of an array of optical sensors surrounding a detection zone, converting the detected light to an electrical signal, and comparing the derived signal with at least one frequency-of-occurrence/probability histogram curve to qualitatively and/or quantitatively identify the microscopic particles present.

Abstract: This invention provides an improved method and apparatus for non-contact quantum mechanical heating of thermoplastic fibers by resonant energy absorption of laser energy by the fiber. In one embodied form, the unique method for continuous heating of thermoplastic fibers comprises the steps of: a) preparing a thermoplastic synthetic fiber for heat treatment; b) illuminating the fiber with a beam of radiation from a carbon monoxide continuous wave laser beam of resonant frequency for the prescribed fiber being treated; c) traversing the fiber to be treated across the path of the laser beam in a direction perpendicular to the beam of radiation from the laser source; d) adjusting the rate of traversement of the fiber to maintain the temperature of the thermoplastic fiber within a temperature range of about five percent below the melting point of the thermoplastic fiber to continuously heat the fiber by resonant energy absorption of the laser beam.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved system for atraumatic fixation of intraocular lens structures which comprises a deformable, compliant, peripheral frame and a concentrically disposed optical zone portion which, in one embodied form, is resiliently suspended from the frame by a plurality of compliant fibers or webbing. Accordingly, the invention facilitates surgical placement of the intraocular lens structure in the eye without the requirement of sutures, and without iris involvement, thereby providing a safer and more convenient surgical procedure. The unique fixation system may be utilized for placement of intraocular lenses having either a rigid or a deformable optical zone portion in the anterior chamber or posterior chamber of the eye following cataract removal procedures.