Abstract: A data processing array comprises a plurality of modules, each with a memory, positioned in an array of rows and columns interconnected by a pooling chain that carries data to and receives data from selected ones or groups of the modules. Each modules can also have light modulator elements for transmitting data as light signals and a light sensor for receiving data in the form of modulated light. Pooling switches in the pooling chain between modules open and close the pooling chain lines for selecting and grouping modules. Analog data lines separate from the pooling chain can also carry data to and from the modules. Pooling control lines connected to the switches turn the switches on and off for the selecting and grouping of modules. Module control lines, also separate from the pooling chain, connected to the modules enable various data input, output, and processing by the memory or other components in the module.

Abstract: A system (10) for convolving and adding frames of data comprises a first sensor-display device (14) and a second sensor display device (26). Each sensor display device (14, 26) comprises an array (80) of transmit-receive modules (82). Each transmit-receive module (82) comprises a light sensor element (86), a light transmitter element (84), and a memory bank (90). A radial modulator device (20) is positioned where transmission of light fields comprising frames of data are Fourier transformed. Filters implemented by modulator elements of the radial modulator device (20) convolve the fields of light comprising the frames of data, which are then sensed on a pixel-by-pixel basis by the light sensor elements (86), which accumulate charges, thus sum pixel values of sequential convolved frames of data.

Abstract: A system (10) for convolving and adding frames of data comprises a first sensor-display device (14) and a second sensor display device (26). Each sensor display device (14, 26) comprises an array (80) of transmit-receive modules (82). Each transmit-receive module (82) comprises a light sensor element (86), a light transmitter element (84), and a memory bank (90). A radial modulator device (20) is positioned where transmission of light fields comprising frames of data are Fourier transformed. Filters implemented by modulator elements of the radial modulator device (20) convolve the fields of light comprising the frames of data, which are then sensed on a pixel-by-pixel basis by the light sensor elements (86), which accumulate charges, thus sum pixel values of sequential convolved frames of data.

Abstract: Methods for obtaining purified lignin and the lignin that can be obtained by the methods are described. Methods include processing pretreated lignocellulosic biomass feedstock to recover the lignin and provide a lignin composition with a very low level of impurities such as metals and ash. In addition, the lignin recovered from the process can have a narrow molecular weight distribution and, depending upon the specific stages utilized in the process, can have a predetermined molecular weight. The process includes one or more separation stages in which a lignin-containing feedstock is mixed with a solvent solution. The mixture fractionates to form a solvent-rich liquid phase and a lignin-rich liquid phase, the lignin being partitioned across the phases according to the molecular weight of the lignin. Furthermore, the metal salts of the pretreated lignocellulosic biomass feedstock also partition across the phases.

Abstract: Methods for obtaining purified lignin and the lignin that can be obtained by the methods are described. Methods include processing pretreated lignocellulosic biomass feedstock to recover the lignin and provide a lignin composition with a very low level of impurities such as metals and ash. In addition, the lignin recovered from the process can have a narrow molecular weight distribution and, depending upon the specific stages utilized in the process, can have a predetermined molecular weight. The process includes one or more separation stages in which a lignin-containing feedstock is mixed with a solvent solution. The mixture fractionates to form a solvent-rich liquid phase and a lignin-rich liquid phase, the lignin being partitioned across the phases according to the molecular weight of the lignin. Furthermore, the metal salts of the pretreated lignocellulosic biomass feedstock also partition across the phases.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for manufacturing underground caverns suitable in one embodiment for storage of large volumes of gaseous or liquid materials. The method is an acid dissolution process that can be utilized to form caverns in carbonate rock formations. The caverns can be used to store large quantities of materials near transportation facilities or destination markets. The caverns can be used for storage of materials including fossil fuels, such as natural gas, refined products formed from fossil fuels, or waste materials, such as hazardous waste materials. The caverns can also be utilized for applications involving human access such as recreation or research. The method can also be utilized to form calcium chloride as a by-product of the cavern formation process.