Abstract: A light control film comprises a light input surface and a light output surface opposite the light input surface. Alternating transmissive regions and absorptive regions are disposed between the light input surface and the light output surface. The absorptive regions have an aspect ratio of at least 30 and the alternating transmissive region and absorptive regions have a relative transmission at a viewing angle of 0 degrees of at least 75%.

Abstract: A light control film is described comprising alternating transmissive regions and absorptive regions disposed between a light input surface and a light output surface. The absorptive regions have an aspect ratio of at least 30. In some embodiments, the alternating transmissive regions and absorptive regions have a transmission as measured with a spectrophotometer at a viewing angle of 0 degrees of at least 35, 40, 45, or 50% for a wavelength of the range 320-400 nm (UV) and/or at least 65, 70, 75, or 80% for a wavelength of the range 700-1400 nm (NIR). In another embodiment, the absorptive regions block light at the light input surface and light output surface and the maximum surface area that is blocked is less than 20% of the total alternating transmissive regions and absorptive regions. Also described are various optical communication systems comprising the light control films described herein and methods.

Abstract: A light control film comprises a light input surface and a light output surface opposite the light input surface; alternating transmissive regions and absorptive regions disposed between the light input surface and the light output surface, wherein the absorptive regions comprise a core having a first concentration, C1, of a light absorbing material sandwiched between cladding layers having a second concentration, C2, of the light absorbing material, wherein C2<C1, and wherein the cores have an aspect ratio of at least 20.

Abstract: A system for a two-step activation for a valve includes at least one valve control selector having an output representative of a valve position and a touch sensor having an output representative of a permission to operate said valve.

Abstract: A multiple-region hardmetal tool piece. The tool piece includes a hardmetal body including a hard particle component and a binder; an additional body, the additional body including a hardmetal body having a hard particle component and a binder; a metal body or a ceramic body; a substantially discontinuous gradient-free boundary layer between the hardmetal body and the additional body; and a mating surface between the hardmetal body and the additional body. In the preferred embodiment, the hard particle components are a carbide, such as tungsten carbide. In the preferred embodiment, the mating surface includes a male portion on one of the bodies and a corresponding female portion on the other of the bodies. The mating surface is symmetrical or asymmetrical and, in the preferred embodiment, the mating surface is axially symmetrical, such as a dimple. The mating surface may further including both micro and macro mating features.

Abstract: A mentally challenging game with computer and physical embodiments in which the goal is to move a primary object from its initial location through a system of platforms and levers to a particular destination. Horizontally movable counterweights also traverse this system, serving to raise and lower lever platforms in such a way as to raise and lower the primary object to its destination.

Abstract: A new, mentally challenging game is here described. The goal of the game is to move a primary object from its initial location through a system of platforms and levers to a particular destination. Horizontally movable counterweights also traverse this system, serving to raise and lower lever platforms in such a way as to raise or lower the primary object to its destination.

Abstract: A human powered, recumbent snowmobile is here presented. It is designed to enable its rider to cycle on packed snow and in up to several inches of unpacked snow. In an effort to minimize manufacturing costs, parts from the larger mountain bicycle and bicycle markets are used.

Abstract: The invention consists of computer simulated instruments that interact with a simulated environment for the purposes of measurement and manipulation of that environment. Game programs may make use of various combinations of these instruments to create intellectually stimulating play involving mathematics, physical science, and art (when the tools are used for creative manipulation of an environment to create pictures or structures).

Abstract: Ground engaging bits used in abrasive road grading applications utilizing carbide inserts brazed to the leading face of the steel tip are beneficial on motor grader blades. Commercial road grading bit assemblies used consistent thickness, rectangular carbide inserts brazed to the leading edge of the steel tip. Due to wear and high residual stresses imparted upon the insert from the brazing operation, premature cracking and breaking of the carbide inserts occur. The subject bit arrangement utilizes a carbide insert with a flat rectangular cutting face of non-constant thickness brazed to a leading edge of a steel body. The carbide insert has a thickness that increases from the top of the carbide insert and reaches a maximum at the bottom of the steel body, where bit wear is the greatest. The increasing thickness of the carbide tip extends bit life over the current rectangular design and allows for a more efficient and economical use of the carbide.