Abstract: A fluorescent lamp light output is maximized by cooling the cathode regions. Mercury vapor pressure is maintained at an optimum or desired level for light production by cooling the cathode areas of the lamp. The cooled cathode areas of the lamp collect cathode emissive material and mercury vapor condensates. Thus, the light output remains uniform and constant. The functional length of the lamp is not degraded by the deposition of either cathode material or mercury vapor condensates. Cooling can be effected by forcing cool air against the exterior of the lamp adjacent the cathodes or by using forced water heat exchangers. By cooling the respective cathode regions equally, the amount of deposition in the respective regions is substantially the same. Thus, gradations of deposition are avoided. The constant high output fluorescent lamp can be used with electronic inspection equipment and machine vision measurement devices.

Abstract: A target is viewed by means of a coherent fiber optic bundle comprising a two dimensional array of fibers. A one dimensional linear light detector array, fixed relative to the coherent fiber optic bundle, receives an image of the target and detects light through only a slice of the image to provide dimensional information with respect to the edges of the target. A polyfurcated bundle may view different linear dimensions of the target and allow for the use of the single linear array to detect the multiple dimensions. Electronics provide for detection of target edges by means of a curve fitting technique, computation of dimensions and control of light source intensity and exposure time. Illumination is by a noncoherent light source and a collimator positioned behind the target or by a fiber optic bundle and a light guide plate positioned to illuminate the target from the front.

Abstract: Free parallel ends of optical fibers are spaced apart between a viewing window of the one way type disposed to provide an inner reflective surface and a rear facing mirror in back of which the fibers are bundled against which light of constantly changing color is directed. While some free filament ends may be stationary, others are subject to displacement in a manner such that their lit ends appear as pin points of light moving in space.

Abstract: A target is viewed by means of a coherent fiber optic bundle comprising a two dimensional array of fibers. A one dimensional linear light detector array, fixed relative to the coherent fiber optic bundle, receives an image of the target and detects light through only a slice of the image to provide dimensional information with respect to the edges of the target. A polyfurcated bundle may view different linear dimensions of the target and allow for the use of the single linear array to detect the multiple dimensions. Electronics provide for detection of target edges by means of a curve fitting technique, computation of dimensions and control of light source intensity and exposure time. Illumination is by a noncoherent light source and a collimator positioned behind the target or by a fiber optic bundle and a light guide plate positioned to illuminate the target from the front.