Abstract: An image processing system and method are provided which use a selectively ccessed detector array comprised of subarrays. Regions of image activity are located within the detection array through readout of the activity determining elements. Each subarray is evaluated to determine whether any image activity has been detected by the corresponding subarray. Data is only read for the active subarrays. Thus, the activity indicator allows efficient transfer of relevant data from the detector array without requiring previous information. This results in reduced data flow and generally shorter readout cycles. The activity determination can be a non-destructive process so that data contained in the detection array remains available for sensor readout. This eliminates the need to perform one detector exposure cycle to determine activity and a second cycle to read out data from the detector.

Abstract: An integrated, planar, single-channel, photodetector-amplifier device is disclosed. The single-channel device includes a photodetector layer and an amplifier layer above the photodetector layer. The photodetector layer is low-doped to give a low dark current and is sufficiently thick to give a high quantum efficiency. The amplifier layer is of a smaller thickness and is a more highly doped material than the photodetector layer, to provide an amplifier having high gain. An insulating layer is included between the photodetector and amplifier layers for electrically isolating the photodetector and amplifier layers. The layers are fabricated on a substrate. Isolation regions are also included for electrically laterally isolating a photodetector, amplifier, and other circuit components comprising the single channel device from each other.

Abstract: A wrist watch protector comprises a flexible wrist encircling band for covering the watch with a centrally located opening for viewing the face of the watch. A quick-opening flap secured to the top of the wrist band covers the watch crystal. Utilization of a watch-carrying band strap located between the band and the flap allows the protector to optionally serve as a watch band by threading the strap through the bracelet attaching pins carried by the watch body.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel ruler apparatus useful for the rapid and precise marking of a plurality of parallel horizontal lines on a classroom blackboard or the like. This ruler, or line tool to which it is sometimes referred, includes, among other elements, an adjustable staff member which is slidably mounted in a vertical support frame; and this vertical support frame is in turn securily affixed to one end of a horizontal slide member. This horizontal slide member and the vertical staff member are further secured, one to another, by means of a handle which is affixed at one end to the top of the staff member and affixed at its other end to the other end of the slide member. The staff member includes a plurality of precisely spaced passages therein adapted to receive a marking member, such as a felt-tip pen.