Abstract: An extensible mast device allows a payload to be supported at a controllable distance from a supporting device. A motor driving a flexible strip provides a force through the flexible strip to extend the mast. The extended strip may have a curved cross section that provides some rigidity. A set of telescoping sections may enclose the strip. One or more of the sections may be flexible. In the event of an impact between the extensible mast and an object, such as a user, the flexible section and the strip yield to the impact and collapse. The extensible mast may be easily reset by lifting it back to a vertical position, with the flexible strip reasserting the curved cross section and the flexible sections resuming substantially the same shape as before the impact. A robot may use the extensible mast to elevate cameras or other sensors to a higher vantage point.

Abstract: The present disclosure is drawn to devices and systems for target detection in samples, particularly allergen detection in food samples. The allergen detection system includes a sampler, a disposable analysis cartridge and a detection device with an optimized optical system. The allergen detection utilizes nucleic acid molecules as detection agents and detection probes.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to devices and systems for allergen detection in food samples. The allergen detection system includes a disposable analysis cartridge and a detection device with an optimized optical system.

Abstract: A housing and flange assembly arrangement for a breast pump system including or involving a flange having transparent and other structure for facilitating alignment of the breast pump on a breast, and includes structure facilitating ease of assembly of a housing for the breast pump.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a vehicle structure, a bumper, an elongate structural member, and an extension portion. The elongate structural member is able to crush longitudinally in response to application of force in a longitudinal direction. The extension portion is able to crush longitudinally in response to application of force in the longitudinal direction, is connected to the elongate structural member such that the elongate structural member and the extension portion support the bumper with respect to the vehicle structure, and is operable to move the bumper between an extended position and a retracted position with respect to the vehicle structure to change a distance between the bumper and the vehicle structure.