Abstract: An optical information storage system is disclosed which comprises a cathode ray tube having a photochromic fiber optic face plate on which data can be written by appropriate modulation and deflection of the electron beam. The readout function is accomplished by scanning appropriate portions of the phosphor by an electron beam of reduced intensity. Light which passes through the face plate is detected by a photocell.

Abstract: A pulse discriminator circuit for use in a closed loop scanning and positioning system for finding and positioning white blood cells. The surface of a slide is scanned to produce an optical signal which is converted by a sensor into an electrical signal. This signal is applied to the pulse discriminator circuit which provides an output pulse only when a white blood cell is being scanned. The output of the pulse discriminator is coupled to a logic circuit which produces signals that are used to drive the microscope stage to cause the white blood cell to be positioned within a small aperture in the optical system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for permanently splicing glass optical fibers. The fibers are aligned colinearly, and their ends are brought into contact. Electric and magnetic fields are generated in the vicinity of the fiber end portions. The electric field creates an arc which moves along the fiber junction under the influence of the magnetic field, thereby ensuring complete fusing of the fiber endfaces.

Abstract: A source of optical wave energy for an optical communication system. One end of an optical waveguide fiber bundle is disposed in light-receiving relationship with respect to light from a Lambertian-type light source such as a light emitting diode. A spherical bead of transparent material disposed between the diode and the fiber bundle endface provides a rugged and inexpensive optical device that tends to collimate the light emitted from the diode.

Abstract: Disclosed is a radio capsule having an electrode structure for measuring the concentration of an ionic species in an ion containing solution. A thin film conductive electrode is strongly bonded to the inner surface of a thin cylindrically shaped membrane of glass sensitive to the ionic species. A conductive lead wire makes electrical contact with the electrode. A mass of non-conductive reinforcing backing material having a thermal coefficient of expansion greater than that of the membrane strongly adheres to the conductive electrode and the membrane. The backing material is cured or solidified at a temperature sufficiently higher than that at which the electrode structure is to be used so that contraction of the backing material during curing places the membrane in a state of compression, thereby strengthening the same.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for providing optically pure glass blanks, tubing, crucibles and the like for use in forming optical waveguides, lenses, prisms, filters, lamp envelopes and the like. A glass layer is formed at a high temperature on a mandrel which includes a support rod or tube upon which is disposed a layer of refractory metal wire, gauze, foil or the like. The mandrel is so constructed that stresses, which heretofore have developed in the glass layer during cooling, are avoided, and the mandrel is easily removed from the glass layer, thereby forming a hollow glass cylinder that is free from cracks, checks and the like.

Abstract: A method of forming an optical waveguide by forming a first layer of glass having a predetermined refractive index on the outside peripheral wall surface of a substantially cylindrical mandrel. Thereafter, a second layer of glass is applied to the surface of the first layer, the second layer having a refractive index less than that of the first layer. The mandrel is removed from the assembly and the resultant cylindrical, hollow assembly is heated and drawn to reduce the cross-sectional area thereof, thereby forming an intermediate fiber. At least a portion of the intermediate fiber is disposed within a hollow glass cylinder having a refractive index similar to that of the second layer of glass of the intermediate fiber.