Abstract: A spiral spline groove machine apparatus for manufacturing a sealed spiral spline pipe connection by machining spiral grooves into the bell and spigot end of a length of pipe. A rotating cutter is adapted to cut a spiral groove in the inside of the bell of the pipe or machine the recessed external groove on the male end of the pipe. The cutter is adapted to float on the surface contour of the pipe to allow for variations in the wall thickness of the pipe and provide a consistent depth for the cut in the wall of the pipe without regard to the symmetry of the circular cross section of the pipe. An exit port machining device is also disclose to cut an exit port connected to the inside spiral groove on the bell end of the pipe. Another unique aspect of the invention is the use of a rotational to linear converter using a lead screw to move an entire rotating assembly having the motor output fixed directly to the cutter without an expansion joint.

Abstract: At least one exemplary embodiment of the invention is directed to a molecular diagnostic device that comprises a cartridge configured to eject samples comprising genomic material into a microfluidic chip that comprises an amplification area, a detection area, and a matrix analysis area.

Abstract: An apparatus having one or more modular stages for producing voltage and current pulses. Each module includes a diode charging means to charge a capacitive means that stores energy. One or more charging impedance means are connected to the diode charging means to provide a return current pathway. A solid-state switch discharge means, with current interruption capability, is connected to the capacitive means to discharge stored energy. Finally, a control means is provided to command the switching action of the solid-state switch discharge means.

Abstract: A seeding apparatus may include a control unit to meter a predetermined amount of seed at desired intervals of time, distance, or the like. For instance, in one embodiment a tractor-towable seeder may include a trailing wheel, a sensor which detects the radial or circumferential travel of the wheel, and a control unit which receives the sensor input and triggers the release of seeds at the desired intervals. The control unit may take a variety of forms, including but not limited to a programmable logic controller or a low-voltage relay and distribution system. Suitable sensors may be selected based on the desired metering apparatus and control device.

Abstract: A calibration system is provided for calibrating a sensor with respect to an external reference frame associated with manufacturing gauging station. A target calibration device is positioned at a vantage point to detect and calibrate its reference frame in relation to the external reference frame. A reference target having at least three non-coplanar reflective surfaces is illuminated by the structured light emanating from the sensor. In this way, the calibration system is able to determine the spatial location and orientation of the reference target in relation to the sensor. The calibration system further includes a coordinate transformation system for coordinating the measurement data from the target calibration device and from the feature sensor, whereby the feature sensor is calibrated with respect to the external reference frame.

Abstract: An optical-based sensor for detecting the presence or amount of an analyte using both indicator and reference channels. The sensor has a sensor body with a source of radiation embedded therein. Radiation emitted by the source interacts with indicator membrane indicator molecules proximate the surface of the body. At least one optical characteristic of these indicator molecules varies with analyte concentration. For example, the level of fluorescence of fluorescent indicator molecules or the amount of light absorbed by light-absorbing indicator molecules can vary as a function of analyte concentration. In addition, radiation emitted by the source also interacts with reference membrane indicator molecules proximate the surface of the body. Radiation (e.g., light) emitted or reflected by these indicator molecules enters and is internally reflected in the sensor body.

Abstract: A calibration system is provided for calibrating a sensor with respect to an external reference frame associated with manufacturing gauging station. A target calibration device is positioned at a vantage point to detect and calibrate its reference frame in relation to the external reference frame. A reference target having at least three non-coplanar reflective surfaces is illuminated by the structured light emanating from the sensor. In this way, the calibration system is able to determine the spatial location and orientation of the reference target in relation to the sensor. The calibration system further includes a coordinate transformation system for coordinating the measurement data from the target calibration device and from the feature sensor, whereby the feature sensor is calibrated with respect to the external reference frame.

Abstract: A lid (10) of a countertop decontamination unit (A) is opened to gain access to a tray (12) for receiving items to be sterilized and a well (16) for receiving a two compartment powdered anti-microbial agent carrying cup (C). The cup includes an outer cup portion (50) and an inner cup portion (70) that have peripheral walls (52, 72) affixed together at flanges (54, 74). The outer cup portion (50) is closed at one end by a first detachable base (58). The inner cup portion (70) is closed by a second detachable base (78). The outer and inner cups (50, 70) define a first powdered reagent receiving chamber (56) therebetween. The inner cup defines a second chamber therein. A permeable sheet (100) is affixed to the inner cup portion flange (74) for ventedly sealing both chambers.