Abstract: A modification to designs of existing hard-wired electrical and electronic systems that extends the operating reach of these systems or improves signal quality, or both. Conventional hard-wired systems have communicated narrow broadband electrical signals only over electrically conductive media such as copper coaxial cable. A modification to the design using an embodiment of the present invention adds electrical-to-optical and optical-to-electrical transceivers, optical fiber, signal conditions and circulators to existing hard-wired systems to permit transmittal of narrow broadband pulses and FM-CW steps signals over a much longer landline than available for conventional systems. Embodiments of the present invention include sensor systems using RF pulses or FM-CW step signals and time domain reflectometry.

Abstract: A method, and a compound for facilitating it, that enhances night vision by dispersing a luminescent to provide low-intensity area illumination. Luminescents may include naturally occurring bioluminescents (visible spectrum) or man-made, preferably non-toxic, chemical-based luminescents (also termed chemiluminescents), the latter available for use in either the visible or IR spectrum. It may be applied locally to a surface or remotely by means of a delivery system. Preferably, select luminescents are dispersed as an aerosol to contact targeted surfaces. These luminescents may be used in spaces otherwise difficult to image with night vision equipment.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining the thickness of a configuration having flat, parallel surfaces that are transparent, or nearly so, to pre-specified types of energy. Embodiments comprise a mechanism for illuminating a front surface with an energy source and mechanisms for measuring reflections of the illumination from a parallel back surface. The energy is contained in a spectrum of wavelengths, the energy being refracted in components at unique wavelengths, e.g., different colored light bands, and similarly reflected from the back surface. The measuring mechanisms, e.g., spectrometers, determine the relative lateral displacement between two spectral lines in the refracted and reflected beams to enable determination of thickness. Other characteristics of the material of the configuration may be ascertained, e.g., chemical composition is ascertained by measuring the intensity of responses at multiple wavelengths and comparing this to responses of known materials.