Abstract: A data processing system and method are disclosed for selecting which one of several character recognition programs should be used to optimize the accuracy in recognizing characters in a field in an image of a document form. Consideration is taken of the character form and field type for particular characters and an optimized selection is performed on a realtime basis among the several candidate character recognition programs which could be applied. The resulting character recognition operation has its accuracy maximized for reading a wide variety of character forms and field types in recognition of preprinted forms.

Abstract: A sampler for taking samples from multiple sources has a fixed, non-moving needle at a sampling station. A sample vial is lifted from a tray at the sampling station. The needle pierces the septum of the vial and enters the sample as the vial is lifted toward the needle.The sample vial is also rotated as it is lifted, and a bar code reader makes a number of spaced apart, helical reads on a bar code label attached to the vial for label identification of the sample.The needle includes an inner, sample needle and an outer, gas-pressurization needle. The sample is withdrawn by the positive displacement of a syringe connected to the sample needle. The combination of the gas pressurization within the vial and the positive displacement of the syringe insures movement of the sample and accurate control of the volume removed independent of the viscosity of the sample.

Abstract: A sampler for taking samples from multiple sources has a fixed, non-moving needle at a sampling station. A sample vial is lifted from a tray at the sampling station. The needle pierces the septum of the vial and enters the sample as the vial is lifted toward the needle. The sample vial is also rotated as it is lifted, and a bar code reader makes a number of spaced apart, helical reads on a bar code label attached to the vial for label identification of the sample. The needle includes an inner, sample needle and an outer, gas-pressurization needle. The sample is withdrawn by the positive displacement of a syringe connected to the sample needle. The combination of the gas pressurization within the vial and the positive displacement of the syringe insures movement of the sample and accurate control of the volume removed independent of the viscosity of the sample.

Abstract: A pump for producing a substantially smooth and continuous outflow of liquid at relatively high pressure has two piston assemblies flow connected in series. The first piston assembly includes a pressure piston having a long suction stroke and a relatively short and abrupt expulsion stroke. A valve at the inlet of the pressurization piston allows flow to enter (but not exit), and a valve at the outlet of the pressurization piston allows flow to exit (but not enter). The second piston assembly includes a damper piston which functions as a mechanically driven damper to smooth the outflow from the pressure piston. This smoothing is accomplished by storing of the liquid displaced by the expulsion stroke of the pressure piston and then delivering the stored pressurized liquid to the pump outlet during the suction stroke of the pressure piston.