Abstract: A camera and related methodology in which a stitched panoramic image may be generated from a series of individual image frames onboard the camera and displayed on the camera display in a “real-time” environment. This allows the user to preview the completed panorama on the camera without the need to first upload the image frames onto a support computer. In this manner, the user is able to identify potential problems with the panorama and, if necessary, reacquire the individual image frames. In order to reduce the amount of onboard processor power and/or memory required, stitching may be performed on relatively lower resolution image frame files within the camera. When the preview indicates that image data for the panorama has been successfully acquired, then the full resolution image data may be uploaded to a support computer for processing.

Abstract: An X-ray imaging device adapted for communicating image data in real time via a network interface. Image data signals from an X-ray imaging detector assembly resulting from conversion of impinging X-ray photons corresponding to a subject image are, in turn, converted to one or more corresponding network data signals, such as Gigabit Ethernet signals.

Abstract: Inter-Networked Knowledge Services (INKS) is a software platform designed to deliver IT services with expert functions and data access spanning many computing environments. INKS is a 4-tier architecture delivering remote applications to a lightweight client, bringing disparate systems together within and between diverse organizations. Through web services, INKS enables these systems to interoperate smoothly. Instead of procuring software and its requisite platforms, each party contracts for process functionality and data services.

Abstract: An eductor apparatus having an air gap and a venturi, a bypass channel and a spray protection device in the form of a deformable porous body to prevent splash back produced at the inlet to the venturi from escaping through the air gap. The spray protection device may also function to absorb the energy of a misaligned water jet and provide an emergency flow path.

Abstract: Digital cameras and methods that provide improved image alignment for panorama image capture. The present invention identifies features that will likely be used by a stitching algorithm, and highlights those features for a user by superimposing them on top of a “liveview” image presented on a display of the digital camera. By applying an edge detection algorithm to the previously captured image, the user can select and display those features of the previous image that are relevant to aligning the camera for the subsequent image.

Abstract: A liquid flow-restriction device has a plurality of flow-restriction passages connected to a common outlet. Each flow-restriction passage has a magnetically operable valve having a valve member movable between an open position and a closed position. The valves are operated by a common actuating element selectively positionable with respect to the valve members to open the valves. The actuating element is a permanent magnet. The device is simple and allows easy selection of a flow rate to a dilution dispenser.

Abstract: A mass spectrometer comprises an ion source which provides a beam of ions; a mass filter comprising a pair of electrodes and a drive circuit, the drive circuit operable to apply a time varying voltage to the electrodes having a profile that accelerates the ions to equal velocities irrespective of their mass: charge ratios; and an ion detector for detecting the proportions of ions according to their mass-to-charge ratios. In one embodiment, the voltage profile is exponential. In another embodiment, the voltage profile is a sequence of constant amplitude and increasing repetition frequency pulses. The novel mass filter thus imparts equal velocities to all ion species irrespective of their mass. This allows the ion species to be discriminated at the detector by energy, enabling simple and compact detection schemes to be used.

Abstract: A method and system for reducing correlated noise in imagers is disclosed. Methods are described for determining a pixel correction value. Correlated noise in data generated by imagers can be reduced by applying the pixel correction value to adjust image data before being displayed.

Abstract: A method and system for reducing correlated noise in imagers is disclosed. Methods are described for determining a pixel correction value. Correlated noise in data generated by imagers can be reduced by applying the pixel correction value to adjust image data before being displayed.

Abstract: A spectral interval excited by ICP-ES containing expected lines is modeled from wavelength calibration information and from spectra of model components. A sample is then excited and fit to the data with concurrent observation of wavelength calibration and a linear least squares fit obtained with analysis of residuals to determine presence of unexpected spectral features which, if present, provide additional model components for an iterative fitting.

Abstract: A field emission device (100) uses single crystals in order to eliminate grain boundaries within some or all of the electrodes (103, 104, and 205). The elimination of grain boundaries reduces susceptibility to damage, improves stability of the device (100), and improves uniformity and reproducibility among devices. In a preferred embodiment, the emitter and gate electrodes (103 and 104 respectively) are formed from a single crystal thin film (302). In other embodiments, other structures are employed wherein one or more of the electrodes (103, 104, and 205) are formed from single crystals.

Abstract: A light source with appropriate optics focusses light on the wafer surface during deposition, while a nearby collector is biased to collect photoemitted electrons from the growing surface. A pico ammeter can be used to convert the small oscillatory current detected to a substantial voltage signal which can be recorded or processed by computer or other sutiable device. The light must contain wavelengths at energies close to or greater than the energy of the photoemission threshold. The detected photoemitted electron signal has an oscillatory component occurring due to the growth of epitaxial layers. This oscillation has frequency 1/.tau., where .tau. is the monolayer accumulation time.