Abstract: Complex data is obtained from OFDR backscatter measurements for an optical device under test (DUT). That complex scatter pattern data may be used along with a previously-determined fiber segment pattern to identify the fiber segment within the DUT, even when the DUT is an optical network DUT that includes multiple fibers coupled to perform one or more functions. In other non-limiting example applications, the OFDR scatter pattern data can be used to identify where in the DUT a loss occurred and where in the DUT a temperature change occurred.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for correcting errors generated by a laser with non-ideal tuning characteristics, the apparatus comprises a laser having non-ideal tuning characteristics. At least three interferometers are positioned in an operable relationship to the laser, wherein a sampling interferometer and at least one auxiliary interferometer correct for residual errors resulting from the laser; and wherein a measurement interferometer makes a measurement. A signal acquisition system is positioned in an operable relationship to each interferometer and a processor is positioned in an operable relationship to the signal acquisition system.

Abstract: An electric lamp may be designed as a reliable and inexpensive secondary source of light when electric power to the electric lamp is lost. A nearly transparent photoluminescent sleeve may be extruded or injection molded from clear thermoplastic materials containing photoluminescent pigments. This sleeve is then fit around the electric lamp. Radiant energy from the electrical lamp is stored in the sleeve during normal operation of the electric lamp. When the electric lamp is extinguished, the photoluminescent sleeve reradiates light by photoluminescence for many days. Novel linear path marking systems may be developed by fitting a series of electric lamps, for example, along the length of the exit path, with a photoluminescent sleeve that may then be used as a secondary source of light when the electric lamp is extinguished due to a power disruption.

Abstract: In order to characterize the optical characteristics of a device, a source of light having a variable frequency with a polarization state which varies linearly with frequency is provided as an input to the device under test. The input light is also passed through a known reference path and is added to the light output from the device under test in a beam combiner. The combined light for the frequencies of interest is split into two orthogonal polarizations which are then detected in a spectral acquisition apparatus and supplied to a microprocessor. The spectral measurements are digitized and curve-fitted to provide optical power versus optical frequency curves. Fourier transforms of each of the curves are calculated by the microprocessor. From the Fourier transforms, the four arrays of constants are calculated for the Jones matrix characterizing the device under test.

Abstract: In order to characterize the optical characteristics of a device, a source of light having a variable frequency with a polarization state which varies linearly with frequency is provided as an input to the device under test. The input light is also passed through a known reference path and is added to the light output from the device under test in a beam combiner. The combined light for the frequencies of interest is split into two orthogonal polarizations which are then detected in a spectral acquisition apparatus and supplied to a microprocessor. The spectral measurements are digitized and curve-fitted to provide optical power versus optical frequency curves. Fourier transforms of each of the curves are calculated by the microprocessor. From the Fourier transforms, the four arrays of constants are calculated for the Jones matrix characterizing the device under test.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for correcting errors generated by a laser with non-ideal tuning characteristics, the apparatus comprises a laser having non-ideal tuning characteristics. At least three interferometers are positioned in an operable relationship to the laser, wherein a sampling interferometer and at least one auxiliary interferometer correct for residual errors resulting from the laser; and wherein a measurement interferometer makes a measurement. A signal acquisition system is positioned in an operable relationship to each interferometer and a processor is positioned in an operable relationship to the signal acquisition system.

Abstract: A storage apparatus for storing an object, such as a bicycle, in an elevated storage position. The storage apparatus includes an elongated track mountable to a wall, and a support mechanism for receiving the bicycle. A mounting assembly mounts the support mechanism to the elongated track such that the support mechanism can move along the track between a loading position, wherein the bicycle can be loaded onto the support mechanism, and a storage position, wherein the bicycle on the support mechanism is elevated relative to the loading position. A drive assembly is operable for moving the support mechanism between the loading and storage positions. The drive assembly includes a drive mechanism for preventing movement of the support mechanism between the loading and storage positions upon operation of the drive assembly when the object on the support mechanism exceeds a maximum weight limit of the storage apparatus. The mounting assembly includes first and second resilient members.