Abstract: A switch device and method is disclosed that is capable of switching wavelength division multiplexed optical signals. The device comprises a switch element, which may include a detector, an emitter array, and a switch controller. The detector is adapted to detect optical signals and is positioned to receive light from a source. The emitter array is positioned to transmit light to a plurality of targets. The emitter comprises a plurality of emitters, each emitter being adapted to generate light signals. The light signals generated by each emitter are transmitted to at least one predetermined target. The switch controller is in communication with the detector and the emitter array. The switch controller is adapted to cause the emitter array to generate the detected signal. The switch elements are grouped in an array and dichroic beam splitters may be used to reflect predetermined ranges of wavelengths to the individual switch elements.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an animated gaming system and animated display system, comprising a housing, an animated figure and an animated element. The housing for the animated gaming system include having a symbol which represents a prize. The animated figure has a three-dimensional form. The animated element is operatively coupled to the animated figure and is controlled by a control system which manages the operations of the animated figure. The control system includes one or more controlled outputs which are forced to change in a desired manner as time progresses.

Abstract: A method and system is disclosed for switching signals between at least one optical fiber and a plurality of nodes through free space. The invention includes a switch that comprises at least one switch element. The switch element can detect signals transmitted by the optical fiber, at least one node, or both. The switch element can also transmit signals to the optical fiber, at least one node, or both. A mirror is provided for reflecting signals to and from the nodes through free space. An imaging telescope may also be provided for imaging light on to the mirror from the switch element.

Abstract: An optical switching system, device, and method are disclosed that are capable of providing high throughput optical signal switching. Bandpass filters are provided for narrow-band demultiplexing of an optical signal to a plurality of switching elements. The system includes a demultiplexing device for wide-band wavelength demultiplexing to a plurality of optical switching devices.

Abstract: An interactive astronomical model includes a geocentric module, a heliocentric module, and a housing. The geocentric module has a central body configured to represent earth. The heliocentric module has a central axis configured to represent the sun. A housing is used to couple both the geocentric module and the heliocentric module. The invention also includes a method for generating an interactive astronomical model comprising the steps of providing a geocentric module having a central body configured to represent earth, providing a heliocentric module having a central axis configured to represent a sun; and coupling the geocentric module with the heliocentric module with a shared housing.