Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for optical demultiplexing and optical multiplexing. An optical wavelength demultiplexer adapted to perform wavelength demultiplexing of an input optical signal containing a plurality of wavelengths is provided. A tuneable filter in combination with a device with a required free spectral range results in a tuneable demultiplexer arrangement which eliminates the need to inventory large numbers of different demultiplexers. Similarly, tuneable lasers in combination with a device with a required free spectral range result in a tuneable multiplexer arrangement.

Abstract: An ink jet printer includes a frame, at least one flexible ink tube and a trough connected to the frame. The trough has a longitudinal length oriented in a first direction and a planar ink tube receiving portion oriented at an acute angle from a vertical axis. At least a portion of the flexible ink tube is disposed along at least a portion of the planar ink tube receiving portion.

Abstract: An ink jet printer includes a frame, at least one flexible ink tube and a trough connected to the frame. The trough has a longitudinal length oriented in a first direction and a planar ink tube receiving portion oriented at an acute angle from a vertical axis. At least a portion of the flexible ink tube is disposed along at least a portion of the planar ink tube receiving portion.

Abstract: Optical interconnects and methods for wavelength management are provided to interconnect optical rings while overcoming color-blocking and allowing for wavelength re-use within optical rings. The optical inter-connects having a wavelength selective element such as a reconfigurable add/drop demultiplexer (ROADM) and a band-modulo demultiplexer having a free spectral range (FSR) combined with a pool of wavelength conversion resources. More flexible interconnect systems can use a photonic cross-connect (PXC) to allow sharing of a pool of wavelength conversion resources among several optical rings.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for optical demultiplexing and optical multiplexing. An optical wavelength demultiplexer adapted to perform wavelength demultiplexing of an input optical signal containing a plurality of wavelengths is provided. A tuneable filter in combination with a device with a required free spectral range results in a tuneable demultiplexer arrangement which eliminates the need to inventory large numbers of different demultiplexers. Similarly, tuneable lasers in combination with a device with a required free spectral range result in a tuneable multiplexer arrangement.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for optical demultiplexing and optical multiplexing. An optical wavelength demultiplexer adapted to perform wavelength demultiplexing of an input optical signal containing a plurality of wavelengths is provided. A tuneable filter in combination with a device with a required free spectral range results in a tuneable demultiplexer arrangement which eliminates the need to inventory large numbers of different demultiplexers. Similarly, tuneable lasers in combination with a device with a required free spectral range result in a tuneable multiplexer arrangement.

Abstract: A one-piece roll guard (10) having two half segments (12, 14) connected by an integral hinge (16) for protecting a caster (100) wheel by clearing obstacles away from its rolling path. The two segments of the roll guard (10) are closed and secured together around the caster wheel with a locking tab (18a) and matching locking slot (18b) integrally formed in the two segments. The roll guard is formed with a weighted lower lip (26) to improve stability by lowering the center of gravity of the roll guard (10).

Abstract: A modulation circuit that is particularly suited for a communication modem and provides for each of the channels precise carrier mark and space frequencies generated in response to external signals from an FSK communication station. The modulation circuit includes first and second frequency controlling circuits arranged with an inductor to form a resonant circuit of a voltage variable oscillator. The modulation circuit further includes a feedback control network and a voltage-frequency control adjustment circuit. The feedback control network generates a loop error signal applied to both frequency controlling circuits. The voltage-frequency control adjustment circuit generates a voltage-frequency adjustment control signal and has a switching circuit responsive to the external signals. The voltage-frequency control adjustment circuit includes an inverting network and a bias network.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating surfactant depleted liquid from an at least partially stable foamed aqueous admixture of water, surfactant and air includes introducing the at least partially stable foamed admixture to a channel of preselected height, length, width and inclination at such a flow rate as the foamed admixture passes through the channel. A substantially translational motion of the foamed admixture is maintained through the bulk of the channel. As the foamed admixture translates through the channel, surfactant depleted liquid drains from the interstices thereof. The air content of the foamed admixture does not increase above the air content at which substantial overdrying begins to occur in the foamed admixture. Tranquil interface flow conditions are maintained in the flow of surfactant depleted liquid drained from the foamed admixture for so long as it is in contact with the admixture.

Abstract: A connector (10) is disclosed for providing a connection, for example, a battery pack (16) and a medical instrument (14). The connector includes a grommet (18), which flexibly secures an internal conductive post (24) and external conductive post (26) to the instrument. Drop-shaped external and internal sections 28 and 32 of grommet 18 cooperatively engage external and internal flanges 54 and 58 on the instrument to restrict rotation of the connector, while a central section 30 of the grommet has a circular cross section to provide a seal between the connector and the instrument in the event the connector does rotate. The external section of the grommet is compressed slightly by the battery pack upon insertion into the instrument. A connector constructed with these features can be easily removed from the instrument for servicing and seals the interior of the instrument as well as connections made to the external post.

Abstract: An enclosure (10) for a device (86) for recording information onto a strip of printing medium (14) is disclosed, and includes a base (11), forming a cavity (84), and first and second covers (12, 13) pivotally secured to the base. The first and second covers move opposedly to each other between open and closed positions to allow replacement of the printing meduim, which is wound onto a spool. The base and a printhead (16) are pivotally coupled to the first cover by cover and printhead links (30, 58), enabling the printhead to move with and remain covered by the first cover when the enclosure is opened. A drive roller (17) is rotatably secured to the second cover and is biased against the printhead for advancement of the printing medium when the enclosure is closed. When the second cover pivots to its open position, the roller is withdrawn from the base, but remains continuously engaged to a drive motor (18) by a series of gears.

Abstract: A fishing signal and rod holder for positioning and holding fishing rods and reels for unattained fishing that signals the fisherman when a fish strikes the line. The rod holder includes a fixed angular inclined rod receptacle adjacent a signaling device to which the fishing line engages. The signaling device releases the fishing line during a strike and falls forward engaging a stop defining a sound signal.

Abstract: An apparatus powered by an electric alternating current source comprising an insulator having the upper end of a spike mounted therein and two wires wrapped about the insulator forming a double helical coil. The two wires have a voltage of about 1000-1500 volts placed across them to electrocute fire ants upon contact. The spike is inserted into the ground thus supporting the apparatus in an upright position.

Abstract: A coordinator for a traffic signal controller having a motor and associated switching system for establishing the duty and width cycle of the controller. The controller being connected, via electrical circuitry, to an AC power grid. The coordinator is a self-contained unit arranged for connection to the controller to effect coordination thereof by producing timing signals in response to receipt of either AC signals from the electrical circuitry or stray AC radiation from adjacent sections of the power grid. The coordinator also includes an independent oscillator for producing independent timing signals. Thus, the coordinator can maintain coordination of the controller under normal operating conditions or under the abnormal operating conditions of a local power failure or a general power failure.

Abstract: A chronic transcutaneous implant device for enterostomies is disclosed. The implant device is comprised of a barrel portion and flange portion. The barrel portion is provided with means to enable vascularization of the externalized vessel and the flange portion is provided with means to enable the formation of a vascularized biological anchor. The implant device is capable of being permanently positioned under the skin. The implant device is provided with a detachable bag member which functions to receive excrements exiting the externalized vessel.