Abstract: A probe for sensing the mechanical application of force is described wherein the terminus of at least one optical fiber is provided at a preselected distance from a reflective surface. The reflective surface is reciprocatively mounted relative to the fiber wherein application of steady mechanical force to the reflective surface mounting means causes the reflective surface to move closer to the fiber terminus. A light source and reflected light intensity sensing means are provided. The probe is desensitized to pressure differentials across the fiber terminus-reflective surface distance by providing an atmospheric vent to the space to be sensed. In a preferred embodiment, the catheter-sheathed optical fiber and reflective surface mounting means are used to detect impending incontinence whose onset is signalled to a health care provider by an audible alarm.

Abstract: An automatic optical inspection method apparatus wherein optical preprogramming means are utilized to designate the locations of reference features on a reference object, and to instruct the system regarding the reference feature characteristics, and of reference feature parameters, the automatic optical inspection apparatus is then utilizing information obtained from the optical pre-programming means to analyze image data obtained from objects under inspection, the apparatus initially obtaining a larger amount of optical imaging data and systematically thereafter reducing the quantity of such data by appropriate signal processing and gating, so that an accept or reject decision is based upon a small portion of the originally obtained data.