Abstract: An electro-optical gaging system which comprises a linear array of photo-sensitive diodes where the thickness of an object against a dark background is measured by determining the number of diodes which are discharged due to light incident thereon from the object. Each diode of the array is sequentially scanned during a scanning cycle to recharge the capacitance of the discharged diodes and the number of charging pulses is a measurement of the thickness of the object. A separate photo-sensitive element senses the light conditions and generates pulses which determine the repetition rate of the scanning cycle to maintain system calibration. A start scan signal is also utilized to determine that the light intensity is within predetermined limits.

Abstract: A printer is disclosed for use in printing indicia or the like on a sheet of recording medium by selective application of impulses of fluid. The printer comprises a sheet support mechanism, a print head, fluid supply means, a valve assembly, and an input system. The support mechanism supports and selectively advances the sheet of recording medium. The print head includes a one- or two-dimensional array of tubes arranged to form a dot matrix for printing alphanumeric characters on the sheet. It may extend the width of the recording medium or be movable across it. Connected to these tubes are the fluid supply means and a valve assembly that includes a separate valve for each tube for controlling the supply of fluid thereto. In one embodiment of the invention, a heater raises the temperature of the fluid passing through the tubes enough that printing takes place on the recording medium whenever the fluid is ejected from the tubes.

Abstract: An epilator comprising a radio frequency signal generator, a high impedance hair gripper, and a shielded transmission line therebetween. The transmission line has a length of 0.15 to 0.50 of a quarter wave length greater than an odd quarter wave length of the signal considering the velocity factor of the line, and a variable impedance matching network is disposed between the signal generator and the gripper.