Abstract: A bent optical fiber coupler (100) that employs at least one optical fiber (10) is disclosed. The coupler includes a curved optical fiber guide channel (200) having a strong curve. The optical fiber(s) held within the optical fiber guide channel have a bend corresponding to the guide channel curve. The fiber end portions are optionally disposed within a straight fiber guide (160) at a coupler input/output end, which is preferably configured to have a standard connector geometry. Use of nanostructured fibers for the at least one optical fiber allows for strong bends having tight radii of curvature without imparting significant attenuation. Coupler assemblies that include the coupler optically coupled to at least one opto-electronic device (310) are also disclosed.

Abstract: A multiple-function peripheral device includes a packet-switched network interface and an autonomous application programming interface. The application programming interface requests image information from a remote server via the packet-switched network interface in a first mode of operation. The application programming interface sends image information to a remote device via the packet-switched network interface in a second mode of operation.

Abstract: A medicament dispensing cabinet is comprised of a frame, at least one controller, and a plurality of drawers each movably carried by the frame and each defining a plurality of dispensing cells. A plurality of removable dispensing devices is provided with each one carried by one of the dispensing cells. Each of the dispensing cells further comprises a motor for providing rotary motion to one of the removable dispensing devices in response to the controller, a sensor operating in conjunction with the controller for counting medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices, a chute for receiving medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices and a chute gate for controlling access to the chute. The cabinet may additionally comprise a chute gate release responsive to the controller for controlling the chute gate and a chute gate sensor connected to the controller and responsive to the position of the chute gate.

Abstract: Systems and methods for producing a well using a gas are disclosed herein. A compressed lift gas can be provided to a well to obtain a production stream. The production stream can be separated to obtain the product and a recycle gas stream. The recycle gas stream can be immediately recompressed for use as lift gas, or separated to form a lift gas stream, and a power stream containing natural gasses from the well. The lift gas stream is recycled for use as lift gas, while the power stream can be transported and/or collected for sale, recycled for use as lift gas, or consumed as power for the compressor, based on measurements obtained throughout the system, coupled with practical and economic variables. By supplementing or replacing generated lift gas and/or an external power source with natural gas from the well, the present systems and methods can become self-contained after start-up.

Abstract: A water treatment system is provided having an encapsulate manifold with a reverse osmosis cartridge and one or more filter cartridges. The filter cartridge includes a detent for being received within a slot in the manifold head for secure locking engagement. The water treatment system further includes a single probe conductivity monitoring system for monitoring the performance of a reverse osmosis membrane. The water treatment system is also provided in a modular arrangement wherein manifold heads are physically and fluidly coupled together via a clip which interfaces with the modular manifold heads. The water treatment system also allows for a retrofit application to include a permeate pump. The cartridges are also designed to provide a minimum annular inlet gap to minimize spillage during changing of the cartridges.

Abstract: Panels (20A, 20B) are attached to extrusions (66A, 66B) by fasteners 90. Clips (70) are attached to a structure (50) by fasteners (35). The extrusions and the clips engage in a manner which allows the panels to move in any direction, as needed, without the panel detaching from the structure and falling. The extrusions also provide for the use of optional reveal strips (87). An extrusion has a restraining area (86), a reveal strip stop area (58), and a T-slot (65). A clip has a T-channel (74), a tensioning stop arm (69), and a secondary reinforcing arm (80). The panels can be installed in rows, in columns, or diagonally, as desired.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a blast-resistant panel may include a layer of a pre-cured elastomeric material having a predetermined thickness, a body portion, and a plurality of flanges, each of the plurality of flanges having a substantially equal width and depending away from a same side and at approximately equivalent right angles to the body portion. The blast-resistant panel may also include a plurality of fastener elements for securing the pre-cured elastomeric material layer to a surface of a structure through the plurality of flanges of pre-cured elastomeric material layer.

Abstract: An electrical switch and outlet design which includes a modular electrical component system having a universal connector which can receive replacement switches, sockets and other electrical components. The connection between these switches, sockets or other components and the universal connector is controlled by a lifting system in which the entirety of the replacement module is inserted into a receptacle or removed therefrom without the user touching any electrical wiring. Essentially, components are changed by plugging a component into and unplugging one from a universal grounded connector.

Abstract: A method, system, apparatus, and device to provide an effective, automatic means to effect exhaust, supply, or balanced ventilation, or a combination thereof, by automatically activating a ventilation fan for the selected operation time per cycle interval based on prior fan operation due to automatic cycle operation and user demand. In a second embodiment the ventilation fan controller automatically activates said ventilation fan in conjunction with operation of a blower of a central air conditioning system. In a third embodiment, the ventilation fan controller also automatically operates the blower for the selected operation time per blower cycle interval, including operation due to thermostat and/or humidistat demand and operates the ventilation fan in conjunction with operation of the blower and/or for the minimal time selected per interval, including operation due to user demand. Optionally, a position of an outside air intake damper is controlled in conjunction with activation of the blower.

Abstract: A foldable carrying medical pack made of flexible material, adapted to store medical emergency supplies and equipment. Clear storage pouches which contain the medical supplies and equipment are attached by Velcro, for easy removal, to the interior side of the medical pack. This arrangement allows for immediate visible access to every item stored in each pouch/compartment. Each pouch has a clear sewn-in compartment in the front of same, to insert labels therein providing a list of the contents. The label is inserted in the compartment to allow the contents of the pouch to be easily determined. The removable pouches can be replaced with additional pouches that contain medical supplies or equipment oriented toward a variety of different medical emergencies.

Abstract: A chlorine dioxide solution generator includes a chlorine dioxide gas source and an absorption loop for effecting the dissolution of chlorine dioxide into a liquid stream. A gas transfer assembly is interposed between the chlorine dioxide gas source and the absorption loop. The gas transfer assembly includes a gas transfer pump and an exhaust manifold assembly. The exhaust manifold assembly includes a manifold conduit defining an interior volume for directing the pressurized chlorine dioxide gas stream from the pump outlet to the absorption loop. The manifold conduit interior volume is sufficiently large to inhibit chlorine dioxide decomposition in the pressurized chlorine dioxide gas stream by induce a pressurized chlorine dioxide gas stream temperature within the manifold conduit of less than about 163° F. (73° C.).

Abstract: Manufacturing execution systems relating to methods, systems, and software program for validation of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and quality assurance process are described and disclosed herein. Consequently, the methods provide a means to perform validation on an integrated level whereby the quality control unit can ensure data and product integrity and minimize cost.

Abstract: Disclosed are fiber optic cables and assemblies for routing optical networks closer to the subscriber. The fiber optic cables have a robust design that is versatile by allowing use in aerial application with a pressure clamp along with use in buried and/or duct applications. Additionally, the fiber optic cables and assemblies have a relatively large slack storage capacity for excess length. Assemblies include hardened connectors such as plugs and/or receptacles suitable for outdoor plant applications attached to one or more ends of the fiber optic cables for plug and play connectivity.

Abstract: Low emission high performance engines, multiple cylinder engines and operating methods based on compression ignition of a combustion chamber charge already containing at least some fuel and air. Air is injected into the combustion chamber after top dead center is reached to maintain combustion until all fuel is consumed. Various modes of operation are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is an alert system and apparatus that interrupts the operation of sound producing and video display entertainment and communication devices and replaces the signals with an audible verbal annunciation and text message that overlays on the video displayed and initiates an alerting device or devices in connection with attracting the attention of hearing and/or visually impaired persons, persons who are not in close proximity to the area relating to the alert or by person who desire to be alerted by these mechanism.

Abstract: A grounding arrangement for an in-tank fuel system includes a fuel level sensor assembly of a fuel module comprising a conductive card body and a resister card supported on the conductive card body. The resister card includes a conductive trace in conductive contact with the conductive card body. The card body is conductively connected to a conductive fuel module component. The trace is adapted to be connected to the ground plane of a vehicle. Other traces on the resister card are in the electrical circuit of the fuel level sensor assembly. The fuel module further includes a conductive blade having a knife edge and in conductive contact with a conductive fuel module component. The knife edge cuts through the insulation of an insulated conductor to allow the knife edge to be in contact with the conductive element of the conductor.

Abstract: A system and method for tracking, monitoring, and supporting self-representation of an individual for the purchase of a home. As a self-representing principal (SRP), the individual would be entitled to the real estate commission payable to licensed real estate agents. To aid the SRP in his self-representation activities, the system provides information to the SRP of property listings that match the SRP's search criteria. The system also provides comparable sales information of other homes in the area, school district reports, environmental hazard reports, and automated offer drafting assistance. If the SRP wants to view a property, the system coordinates such viewing by contacting chaperones to provide the showing of the property. The SRP's self-representation activities are tracked by the system for inclusion in the SRP's loan file. The report certifies that the SRP has indeed represented and procured himself, and thus, is entitled to the real estate commission.