Abstract: An apparatus for testing meibomian glands in the eyelids of humans for meibomian gland disease is provided. The apparatus comprises a handle, and a probe tip mounted for movement relative to said handle such that when the probe tip is placed against the eyelid and compressive force is applied, movement of the handle a preselected distance replicates the force required for natural expression of secretion from the meibomian gland. Movement of the handle relative to the probe tip the preselected distance exerts a force of between about 5 grams per 30 mm2 and 40 grams per 30 mm2 and preferably a force of approximately 15 grams per 30 mm2. An indicator means selected from the group consisting of auditory, visual and tactile signals is provided and when activated alerts the clinician that the required force has been reached. According to the method of the present invention a probe tip is located in contacting relation with the eyelid, the probe tip being connected to a handle.

Abstract: An improved imaging system operates at the diffraction limit of the optics to which it is connected and outputs a signal representative of the sample S lying in the sample plane 17. The imaging system comprises a cathode ray tube 30, an optical lens system and a means for sensing 40. The cathode ray tube 30 comprises an electron gun 34 for generating an electron beam 35 in a raster pattern. The raster pattern comprises a predetermined number of horizontal lines that are spaced vertically from each other a predetermined and equal distance. The electron beam is adapted to produce an illuminated spot 39a that scans correspondingly in the raster pattern and wherein the spot 39a is positioned in an object plane 26. The optical lens system for focusing in a diffraction limited manner, the object plane 26 on to the sample plane 17, such that the image of the spot 39b is the smallest diffraction limited size as determined by the optical lens system.

Abstract: An improved imaging system operates at the diffraction limit of the optics to which it is connected and outputs a signal representative of the sample lying in the sample plane. The imaging system comprises a cathode ray tube, an optical lens system and a means for sensing. The cathode ray tube comprises an electron gun for generating an electron beam in a raster pattern. The raster pattern comprises a predetermined number of horizontal lines that are spaced vertically from each other a predetermined and equal distance. The electron beam is adapted to produce an illuminated spot that scans correspondingly in the raster pattern and wherein the spot is positioned in an object plane. The optical lens system for focusing in a diffraction limited manner, the object plane on to the sample plane, such that the image of the spot is the smallest diffraction limited size as determined by the optical lens system. The imaging system also includes zoom and contrast enhancement/suppression capabilities.

Abstract: A percussive aid provides percussive force to aid in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis and other pulmonary blockage diseases. The device includes a frame with a pair of reciprocating arms mounted thereto at one of their ends. The other end of the arms mount impactor cups. A spring is associated with each of the cups. A drive mechanism is carried by the frame and moves the arms through a predetermined path of travel from a first uncocked position to a second cocked position of maximum deflection wherein the spring is placed in tension when the arm is tripped.

Abstract: A quick disconnect heat exchanger is disclosed wherein male and corresponding female members are adapted to be slidably interconnected. Each of the respective male and female members includes a discrete fluid flow so that fluids are not mixed during heat exchange and the coupler may be disconnected without fluid loss or mixing.

Abstract: In abstract, a preferred embodiment of this invention is a heat storage tank particularly adapted for use in conjunction with solar energy systems. The tank is insulated about its entire exterior with control means being mounted in a special compartment within the tank. The heat generated by the controls is thus put to useful purposes rather than being dissipated into the ambient air. Also, a unique venting system is provided so that atmospheric pressure can be maintained within the tank without loss of the fluid therein due to evaporation.