Abstract: The present invention provides for a sensor array having at least one field-measuring sensor and at least one curvature-measuring sensor within a flexible substrate, the field-measuring sensors capable of providing orientation data of the flexible substrate relative to a field and the curvature-measuring sensors capable of providing relative orientation data within the substrate, for measuring dynamic and static shapes and vibration of geotechnical, structural and biological bodies.

Abstract: The invention relates to the apparatus for and a method of sensing impact between a vehicle and an object and particularly between a pedestrian and the front bumper (12) of a vehicle. An optical fiber array (14) extends along the bumper (12) and the array (14) has sensors spaced along the bumper (12). A sensor comprises light loss areas spaced peripherally and axially on a fiber. An impact distorts the sensors, modulating light transmitted along the fiber or fibers. A signal is produced which is processed by a signal processor and an output signal generated. The output signal is used to actuate a safety device, such as elevating the vehicle hood to increase clearance between hood and engine, to reduce the severity of any injuries.

Abstract: The invention relates to the apparatus for and a method of sensing impact between a vehicle and an object and particularly between a pedestrian and the front bumper (12) of a vehicle. An optical fiber array (14) extends along the bumper (12) and the array (14) has sensors spaced along the bumper (12). A sensor comprises light loss areas spaced peripherally and axially on a fiber. An impact distorts the sensors, modulating light transmitted along the fiber or fibers. A signal is produced which is processed by a signal processor and an output signal generated. The output signal is used to actuate a safety device, such as elevating the vehicle hood to increase clearance between hood and engine, to reduce the severity of any injuries.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a sensor array having at least one field-measuring sensor and at least one curvature-measuring sensor within a flexible substrate, the field-measuring sensors capable of providing orientation data of the flexible substrate relative to a field and the curvature-measuring sensors capable of providing relative orientation data within the substrate, for measuring dynamic and static shapes and vibration of geotechnical, structural and biological bodies.

Abstract: A position, orientation, shape and motion measuring tool is provided in the form of a flexible substrate with bend and twist sensors distributed along its surface at known intervals. A ribbon-type substrate is preferred. The geometric configuration of the substrate is calculated from inter-referencing the locations and orientations of the sensors based upon the detected bend and twist values. Suitable applications include motion capture for humans for use in animation, six degree of freedom input to a computer, profile measurement and location tracking within a large, singularity-free working space.

Abstract: A pressure sensor relies on detecting multiply scattered light within an optical cavity. Changes in the volume of the cavity are sensed by the change in sampled light intensity. Pressure sensitive mats with a high density of sensor are assembled using optical fiber technology.

Abstract: A curvature or bending and displacement sensor is composed of a fiber optic or light wave guide, for attachment to a member or members being curved or displaced. Light is injected at one end and detected at the other end. Curvature of the fiber results in light loss through an emission surface or surfaces, sometimes in conjunction with a superimposed curvature in a plane other than that of the curvature to be measured, this loss being detected. The loss of light detection is used to produce indication of curvature or displacement. The light emission surfaces extend in various forms, such as a surface strip or band. Particularly, in an example, the emission surfaces extend in a substantially peripheral direction, or in a substantially curved axial direction when in a curved portion of a curved guide. The placement, shape and configuration of the emission surfaces allows adjustment of the linear range of measurement, the overall throughput of light, and the length over which curvature is measured.

Abstract: A bending, and position, sensor is composed of a fiber optic or light wave guide, for attachment to the member which is to be bent, or displaced. Light is injected at one end and detected at the other end. Bending of the fiber results in light loss through a surface strip or band, along one side of the fiber, this loss being detected. The loss of light detection is used to produce indication of bending or displacement. Two or more light guides can be oriented to give indication of direction of bending, or displacement.

Abstract: For plasma enhanced chemical vapor processing of semiconductor substrates, substrates are mounted on an elongate support, in a spaced parallel array. A shaft is rotatably mounted on the support and has electrode holding means, the electrodes alternating in polarity. The shaft, when rotated, moves the electrodes down in between the substrates, for positioning of the assembly in a reaction chamber for processing. After processing, and removal from the chamber, the shaft is rotated to move the electrodes out from between the substrates, to permit easy loading and unloading. The substrates are normally supported on boats positioned on the support. A particularly effective rf power feedthrough connects rf power from a power source through the door of the chamber.

Abstract: A liquid level sensor comprises a probe containing closely spaced therein an elongate light emitter and an elongate light collector, the housing of the probe permitting light to issue from the interior from the emitter and to return to the collector. A light transmitting medium fills the probe housing. Means are provided for feeding light to the emitter and from the collector. An indicator can be provided, adapted to provide a level indication obtained form the light fed from the collector.