Abstract: Multiple laser optical sensing systems and methods for detecting target characteristics are disclosed. The present invention detects the presence of an object in a monitored area using an laser-based object detection system and may selectively cause a controlled response when an object is detected. At least two laser signals may be emitted into a monitored area using a vertical cavity surface emitting laser structure. At least one detector receives any laser signals not blocked by an object. The system determines the presence or absence of an object in the environment using a microprocessor and determines the objects characteristics by comparing received laser signals associated with it to object characteristics stored in a memory. The system may selectively causing a controlled response in accordance with the determination of object characteristics and/or correlating response criteria.

Abstract: A method and system for harnessing an unsaturated flow of fluid utilizing a reversible unsaturated siphon conductor of fluid having a tubarc porous microstructure. Fluid is conducted from a zone of higher (+) fluid matric potential to a zone of lower (−) fluid matric potential utilizing a tubarc porous microstructure. The fluid can be reversibly transported from different zones bearing a differential fluid matric potential according to the status of the fluid matric potential in each zone utilizing the tubarc porous microstructure. The tubarc porous microstructure comprises an enhanced geometric porosity. In this manner, the fluid can be harnessed for irrigation, drainage, filtration, fluid recharging and other fluid delivery uses, such as refilling writing and printing instruments.

Abstract: A method and system for determining dissolved oxygen is disclosed. One or more constant currents are driven through amperometric-type dissolved oxygen probes to develop reference electrode potentials defining the envelope of oxygen electrochemistry. The reference electrode voltage is generally measured at a first current level and at a second current level utilizing the oxygen probe, wherein the first and second current levels define limitations of oxygen electrochemistry. An optimum electrode bias voltage can thereafter be automatically calculated based the reference electrode voltage measured at the first current level and the second level to thereby provide accurate indications of dissolved oxygen thereof.

Abstract: A multiple laser optical sensing system and method for detecting target characteristics are disclosed. The system includes a laser source with at least two emission apertures from which laser signals are emitted. The system also includes at least one detector, which is operationally responsive to the laser source. Finally, the system includes a microprocessor that is operationally coupled to the detector(s). In operation, the laser source emits into an environment at least two laser signals, one from each emission aperture. The detector detects the laser signals after the signals pass through the environment, which is occupied by a target and the microprocessor determines target characteristics based on the laser signals received by the detector(s).

Abstract: A method and system for coupling a laser (e.g., vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL)) to an optical fiber is disclosed. A plurality of optical modes associated with a laser, e.g., a VCSEL, are scrambled, and radiation from the VCSEL can be focused on a fiber facet associated with the optical fiber. Thereafter, the VCSEL can be coupled to the optical fiber to thereby improve coupling repeatability while reducing mode selective coupling of the VCSEL to the optical fiber. The optical modes can be scrambled utilizing an optical scattering surface. Such an optical scattering surface can produce a Lambertian-like scattering source such that optical modes thereof are combinable to form a plurality of optical modes. The VCSEL can be coupled to said optical fiber by butt-coupling said optical fiber to the multimode VCSEL through a receiver formed in a housing for the VCSEL and/or by utilizing at least one lens for imaging radiation/signals onto a particular spot.

Abstract: An equalization receiver responds to two differentially-related digital input signals occurring at a predetermined communication frequency. First and second input devices respond to the input signals and supply drive signals of a magnitude amplified relative to input signal by a factor related to the current conducted by the input devices. First and second current separate sources are connected to conduct current through the first and second input devices. An equalization circuit is connected between the first and second current sources. The equalization circuit has a frequency dependent impedance characteristic which exhibits a minimum impedance and a maximum coupling of the first and second current sources for the greatest current conductivity and the greatest amplification at the predetermined frequency.

Abstract: A method and system for determining the frequency of a pulse input signal is disclosed. A pulse count and a timer count can be captured at a start and end of a predetermined measurement interval to thereby obtain a start pulse count and an end pulse count and a start pulse time and an end pulse time thereof. A pulse frequency can then be determined, the pulse frequency comprises the end pulse count minus the start pulse count divided by the end pulse time minus the start pulse time, thereby permitting a highly accurate frequency measurement of the pulse input signal to be obtained over a wide frequency range. The pulse count and the timer count can be captured respectively utilizing a pulse counter and a timer. The pulse frequency generally comprises a frequency of an input pulse signal, such that the pulse frequency is determined based on an accuracy dependent only upon a reference timer clock.

Abstract: An adjustable support and retention device for supporting and retaining interchageable furnishing and/or equipment is disclosed. The invention includes a pedestal; a horizontally adjustable support column attached to the pedestal for providing rotatable support to a support and retention assembly; and a support and retention mechanism. The support column assembly is attached to and projects upwards from the pedestal and provides verticle and horizontal adjustment. The pedestal can be comprised of five support members extending outwardly from its center and can include rollers for providing ground mobility to the pedestal. A braking mechanism may be provided for the rollers or pedestal to prevent movement of the pedestal with respect to the ground. Interchangeable furnishing (e.g., car seats and/or high chairs) are adaptable for use with the support and retention mechanism through complimentary hardware.