Abstract: An illuminated stylet includes a first fiber optic element for emitting a first light at its end and a second fiber optic element for emitting a second light along its length. The first and second light sources may be the same (e.g., white light) or different (e.g., red light and white light respectively).

Abstract: Electroluminescent lighting devices are described having an external electroluminescent light source coupled to a power source enclosed in a housing for use in illuminating dark areas. In one embodiment the device is portable and can be carried in a pocket or purse. In another embodiment the device is attachable to an area where low level lighting is beneficial, such as a hospital bed side-rail or gurney. In another embodiment, the device may be used as a source of emergency lighting along an emergency exit.

Abstract: A payload deployment system is described that includes an external shell or tube within which an internal cargo unit is placed. The internal cargo unit encapsulates one or more payloads and seals the external shell or tube. Payloads are deployed in a two step process. The first step involves ejecting the internal cargo unit from the external shell or tube. The second step involves separating the internal cargo unit into two or more pieces in a controlled and, possibly, time-sequenced manner so as to deploy one or more payloads housed within the internal cargo unit. The internal cargo unit is ejected from the external shell or tube by a first separation device and the internal cargo unit is separated by a second separation device. Illustrative separation devices include, but are not limited to, pyrotechnic and clamp-and-spring devices.