Abstract: A delayed-pulse photonic time division multiplexer which provides a parallel digital data to photonic serial conversion is disclosed. Modifications which provide wavelength division multiplexing are also included. A series of input pulses of photonic energy are directed into an output as sync pulses. The input pulses are also directed into a group of n optical modulators to read parallel digital data that has been loaded into the modulators. Modulator outputs are delayed by digit-transmission-time intervals and directed into the output as serial data between the sync pulses. Input pulses are also used to trigger the loading of the next data set into the modulators during the time that the previous data set is being transmitted in serial. The invention can send serial data at the maximum speed of optical components while using data from slower electronic components.

Abstract: A means, method and apparatus for producing a parallel addressable set of images by modulating a set of input beams with addressing information, and projecting the energy from a three-dimensional array of first pixel locations which decode in parallel to produce an interference image at the location of a second three-dimensional array of pixel locations, energizing at least one of the second pixels. Each image corresponds with an input address. A subset of addresses, projection surface configurations, and images exhibit useful synergistic relationships. These are used to address a ROM, RAM, or content addressable memory, provide a visual display of selected images, iterate in a series to produce four dimensional computing, integrate information from multiple energy forms, and accomplish signal processing and channel switching.

Abstract: Pattern-recognition computing can be accomplished using wave-type or other types pf energy. In pattern-recognition computing which uses a plurality of wave-type energy input patterns modulated with quantized information, energy from the patterns combines to produce interference-based dynamic images. Component parts of a dynamic image are separated and recombined to produce logic and other computing process outputs. To produce a coordinated set of optics for pattern-recognition computing, waveforms at pixel-sized image components of the dynamic image are chosen to become contributors to the combined output if they will contribute (or can be modified to contribute) in a positive manner to a combined output waveform that obeys the logic rules of the device being produced. Iterative changes in input pattern characteristics are used to optimize the coordinated optics. Pattern-recognition computing can also use special interference and frequency-multiplexed logic.

Abstract: A means and method for phase stabilization and sorting of wavetrains of electromagnetic energy comprising: splitting an input beam into a plurality of intermediate beams; directing the intermediate beams along separate delay paths so that wavetrains from the delayed beams overlap each other and bridge gaps between wavetrains; producing interference with the delayed beams at a plurality of locations at an image component separator, and separating energy at each location, phase-adjusting and directing it into at least one output, thereby providing a wavetrain phase stabilizer having a substantially constant phase output by phase-matching overlapping wavetrains. Multiple outputs may be added to facilitate wavetrain sorting. Inserting the invention into the feedback path of a laser provides phase-stabilized continuous-wave laser light.

Abstract: A means and method of photonic heterodyning wherein at least one photonic beam set having fundamental frequencies to be heterodyned is used to produce a dynamic interference image that is projected onto an image component separator. Energy from selected portions of the dynamic image is separated into at least one output. Energy components within the dynamic image move relative to the separating locations as determined by the fundamental input frequencies. This causes intermodulation of the input signals and the development of energy at the sideband frequencies in the output(s). Special Interference is also used to provide amplified photonic heterodyning.

Abstract: A means and method of controlling a plurality of energy beams with at least one of the plurality of beams. At least one first beam set produces special interference with at least one second beam set, at a first location(s), diverting energy from both beam sets to a second location(s), where energy does not appear from one . . . or either, of the inputs in the absence of interference. By selecting the timing, levels, phases, frequencies, and interconnection of multiple controllers, a multitude of useful energy beam circuits are able to be made . . . such as: gated amplifiers, cascaded amplifiers, gated oscillators, phase demodulators, active filters, inverters, inverted filters, limiters, threshold detectors . . .

Abstract: A computer architectural and apparatus system for preventing software copying or alteration, and providing enhanced computational capabilities, physical information security, and physical environment protection is disclosed. The system comprises an Independent Computer Module (ICM), and an Interface Unit. The ICM comprises a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a memory switching means, a communications port, and a connectorless interface contained within a sealed cartridge. The Interface Unit comprises a receptacle for receiving the ICM, which contains a matching connectorless interface, and wiring to a host computer's port and power. The connectorless interface uses directional electro-magnetic emitters and sensors to prevent signal leakage. The memory switching means turns off the entire secure memory, enabling non-secure programs to be run from another section of RAM. Reactivation of secure memory by a non-secure program causes program control to be transferred to a fixed address within the secure program.

Abstract: A means and method of controlling a plurality of energy beams with at least one of the plurality of beams. At least one first beam set produces special interference with at least one second beam set, at a first location(s), diverting energy from both beam sets to a second location(s), where energy does not appear from one . . . or either, of the inputs in the absence of interference. By selecting the timing, levels, phases, frequencies, and interconnection of multiple controllers, a multitude of useful energy beam circuits are able to be made . . . such as: gated amplifiers, cascaded amplifiers, gated oscillators, phase demodulators, active filters, inverters, inverted filters, limiters, threshold detectors . . .

Abstract: A means and method for performing frequency-multiplexed logic, amplification, and energy beam control functions on individual channels simultaneously within a single device by using a plurality of frequency-multiplexed inputs each having beam sets of matching channel frequencies and simultaneously producing a set of interference images, one for each channel, and separating energy from the images to produce a frequency-multiplexed output. The individual functions performed on individual channels are the result of constructive and destructive interference within each channel's image.

Abstract: A portable secure computer architecture, apparatus, and method for protecting information and at least one program for controlling that information is disclosed comprising: a computer protected inside of a single sealed cartridge, the computer having a CPU, Memory, and a communications means for communicating with a host computer outside of the cartridge. All internal information and external communications are exclusively controlled by the internal program. Provision is also made for running a second program inside the architecture, while protecting secure information from that second program. Secure information is placed in a bank switched subdivision of memory. The subdivision is switched off by the information controlling program before the second program is permitted to run. Reactivating the protected subdivision causes a simultaneous non-maskable interrupt halting the second program and transferring control back to the first program.

Abstract: A means, method and apparatus for dual-phase amplification of wave-type signals is disclosed comprising superimposing a constant level beam set and a modulated beam set to produce a first interference image at first and second locations. A first image component separator separates energy from constructive and destructive interference component regions to produce secondary beam sets that are combined to produce a second interference image, which is separated at a destructive interference region to produce the output. The amplifier with multiple inputs is then connected in cascade, as a phase-bistable device, as a level detector, an AND, an OR, and/or a synchronized oscillator. Multiple frequencies work independently, allowing for frequency-multiplexed functions.

Abstract: A means, method and apparatus is disclosed for providing at least one phase-modulated output from at least one amplitude-modulated input, which is used to produced the logical AND and OR functions having phase modulated outputs. A constant level bias beam set of at least one wavelength of any wave-type energy is superimposed on at least one modulated input beam set having an energy sum out of phase with the bias beam set at at least one location. Energy in the resulting interference image is separated from said at least one location to produce at least one output. Input levels determine the function performed. When the input energy sum is greater than the bias beam set, the output changes phase. When they are equal, the output is zero, which is also used to produce the NAND function.

Abstract: A sump cover containment assembly is provided for use with containment sumps utilized with underground fluid holding tanks having a sump cover with an access hole therein, a frame which communicates with the containment sump to which the sump cover is attached and a sump shield positioned between the containment sump and the frame and having a hole which communicates with the interior of the containment sump as well as with the sump cover access hole.

Abstract: A wildlife repellant unit is provided which is constructed of a substantially cylindrical tube having a cavity therein into which chemical repellant is placed, further having a barrier positioned inside the cavity to restrain the chemical wildlife repellant from deteriorating until activation, and further including a pair of openings positioned above the barrier to facilitate movement of air, thereby distributing the repulsive odors of the chemical repellant once the unit is activated. The body of the wildlife repellant unit may be constructed of a strong yet pliable material such as rubber or plastic so that, when it is pressed between the thumb and the forefinger, the barrier can be broken and the wildlife repellent unit activated. A clip is also provided to facilitate attachment of the wildlife repellant unit to a limb of a tree, thereby facilitating use of the wildlife repellant unit.

Abstract: A pool cleaner is provided constructed of a body having freely moving wheels positioned thereon to contact the bottom surface of a pool, a large diverter wheel in front designed to contact the edge of a pool during operation, diverting the pool cleaner right or left, a water flow mechanism to hold the pool cleaner against the surface of a pool while picking up debris therefrom and a propulsion mechanism which utilizes water pressure to propel the pool cleaner forward and periodically backward to extricate it from tight quarters.

Abstract: A photovisual star diagonal is provided for use with telescopes and cameras to simplify astrophotography, including a tiltable, lockable mirror for providing alternative visual paths for viewing and/or photography.

Abstract: A boat mooring device is provided having a pair of adjustable-length arms positioned side by side and held in position by an adjustable-length cross member, each of the adjustable-length arms having a connector at one end to connect to a boat and a connector at the other end to connect to a shoreline. The boat mooring device may also include floats attached to the adjustable-length arms to keep the boat mooring device from sinking when it is detached from a boat.

Abstract: A method of cooking lobster is provided including cutting the shell of the lobster, removing and cleaning the meat of the lobster and positioning the meat atop the shell, placing the shell and meat inside a lobster pan or boat having upwardly extending sides and heating the lobster pan or boat and the lobster meat until it is cooked.

Abstract: A mobile lounge is provided consisting of a base frame having foldable legs attached thereto and a seat section and back section pivotally attached with respect to the base frame. The foldable legs, seat section and back section are all foldable against the base frame to form a compact unit for storage or transport.

Abstract: A cylindrical sanding wheel is provided having top and bottom sections, slots into which the base of a contoured abrasive strip fits and restraints which minimize slippage of the contoured abrasive strip with respect to the cylindrical surface of the sanding wheel.