Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for obtaining information about an aircraft sighted from the ground. The system includes a communication device for determining an estimated location of the visually acquired aircraft, a flight database for determining information about a specified aircraft based on a provided location, and a network allowing communication between the communication device and the flight database. The communication device provides the estimated location of the sighted aircraft to the flight database and the flight database provides information on the sighted aircraft to the communication device.

Abstract: A laser pick-up apparatus and method for a stringed musical instrument. The laser pick-up includes a laser diode affixed to the musical instrument. The laser diode is capable of generating a laser beam. The laser pick-up also includes a photodetector affixed to the musical instrument adjacent the laser diode. The photodetector is capable of detecting light from the laser beam. The photodetector includes a conversion mechanism for converting the detected light into electrical signals. The laser diode is positioned on the musical instrument to direct the laser beam toward the string. The laser beam is reflected off the string and received by the photodetector. The photodetector then converts the detected light from the reflected laser beam into electrical signals which provide sound to an amplifier.

Abstract: A laser pick-up apparatus and method for a stringed musical instrument. The laser pick-up includes a laser diode affixed to the musical instrument. The laser diode is capable of generating a laser beam. The laser pick-up also includes a photodetector affixed to the musical instrument adjacent the laser diode. The photodetector is capable of detecting light from the laser beam. The photodetector includes a conversion mechanism for converting the detected light into electrical signals. The laser diode is positioned on the musical instrument to direct the laser beam toward the string. The laser beam is reflected off the string and received by the photodetector. The photodetector then converts the detected light from the reflected laser beam into electrical signals which provide sound to an amplifier.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for the continuous extrusion of porous activated carbon block filter elements. The invention includes feeding material into the barrel of a screw extruder and heating the material therein such that the material becomes an agglomerated mass. The agglomerated mass is agitated and compacted into a die where it is cooled to a semi-solidified state. In the semi-solidified state, the material is passed through a cooling tunnel where the material solidifies and the carbon block filter element is formed. A back pressure control device is also included to control pressure in the die.

Abstract: A bag filter assembly utilizing a conventional housing and end cap construction includes a unique filter bag retaining cage and end cap adaptor which allow the use of replaceable bag filter elements of widely varying construction. The assembly will accommodate bag filter elements of the type having a shape retaining opening of rigid construction and including a shape-retaining bottom end cap or of the type comprising a generally continuous flexible tubular sleeve. The system is tolerant of the latter type of bag filters of substantially varying thicknesses.