Abstract: Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses, systems, and methods that include a plurality of absorbable filaments arranged in a support structure and configured degrade within a defined time period and a membrane arranged about the plurality of absorbable filaments and configured to contain fragments of the plurality of absorbable filaments in response to a fracture or degradation of a filament.

Abstract: Apparatus for forming multiple subimages including an image forming lens, a color separating prism, subimage receptors for receiving subimages from the prism, and lenses compensating for spherical aberrations caused by the prism and controlling the size of the subimages reaching the subimage receptors. Other features include structure for dissipating heat from the subimage receptors and from circuit boards associated with the subimage receptors.

Abstract: A fire detection camera and method of detecting fires which are not normally visible to the human eye. An image of the flame area is split into three light beams representing three different spectral ranges. The first beam corresponds to the flame image plus the background scene and is focused onto a first monochrome imaging device. The second beam corresponds to the background scene and is focused onto a second monochrome light imaging device. The third beam corresponds to light in the visible range and is focused onto a color imaging device to depict the visible surroundings. The background image is subtracted from the flame image to isolate the flame, and the isolated flame image is superimposed onto the color scene to depict a composite image that represents the flame in its actual surroundings.

Abstract: Laser beam generating apparatus including a septum segment disposed longitudinally within the tubular structure of the apparatus. The septum provides for radiatively dissipating heat buildup within the tubular structure and for generating relatively uniform laser beam pulses so as to minimize or eliminate radial pulse delays (the chevron effect).

Abstract: Laser beam generating apparatus including a septum segment disposed longitudinally within the tubular structure of the apparatus. The septum provides for radiatively dissipating heat buildup within the tubular structure and for generating relatively uniform laser beam pulses so as to minimize or eliminate radial pulse delays (the chevron effect).

Abstract: The present invention provides a heat-resistant electrical insulator adapted for joining laser housing portions, which insulator comprises: an annulus; a channel in the annulus traversing the circumference and length of the housing; at least two ports, each communicating with the channel and an outer surface of the housing; and an attachment for securely attaching each end of the annulus to a laser housing member.

Abstract: A method and laser apparatus are disclosed which provide for a cross-flow of gas near one end of a laser discharge tube. The cross-flow of gas causes a concentration gradient which affects diffusion of contaminants in the discharge tube towards the cross-flow of the gas, which contaminants are then withdrawn from the discharge tube.

Abstract: An improved wick for a metal vapor laser is made of a refractory metal cylinder, preferably molybdenum or tungsten for a copper laser, which provides the wicking surface. Alternately, the inside surface of the ceramic laser tube can be metalized to form the wicking surface. Capillary action is enhanced by using wire screen, porous foam metal, or grooved surfaces. Graphite or carbon, in the form of chunks, strips, fibers or particles, is placed on the inside surface of the wick to reduce water, reduce metal oxides and form metal carbides.

Abstract: Methods are provided for reducing loss of metal from a metal vapor laser by collecting metal present outside the hot zone of the laser and introducing or confining it in the hot zone.