Abstract: A device for imaging a relief object without illuminating a platen is disclosed. The device includes a single electrode electroluminescent device, which may be inorganic or organic, and a current source. The current source is coupled to the single electrode of the electroluminescent device and to the relief object to be imaged. The valleys and ridges of the relief object couple current to the electroluminescent device at different magnitudes which causes the electroluminescent device to generate light at different intensities that correspond to the ridges and valleys of the relief object. The generated light forms an image of the relief object which may be focused by optical elements onto a sensor array for capture and image processing. In another embodiment of the invention, a one-to-one sensor array is located proximate the electroluminescent device to capture the image.

Abstract: A system and method for using a relief object image generator for cursor control, computer access control, and operational parameter control is disclosed. The system includes a relief object image generator, a sensor array, an image processor, and a memory. The relief object image generator generates images of relief objects, such as fingerprints, brought in proximity of the exposed surface of the image generator. The image processor receives the image from the sensor array, processes the image, and compares the resulting descriptive information to stored information corresponding to authorized users. If a match is found, the user is granted access to the computer. The image processor may also process the image to determine image movement or the image's presence or absence. Detected movement is used to generate directional signals while the presence and abserice of the image is used to generate highlight and select signals.

Abstract: A portable, X-Y plotter capable of plotting on any sized medium and work surface comprises a generally T-configured instrument transport assembly for controllably imparting a dual (X-Y) axis translation to an instrument (e.g. plotting pen) across a workpiece (paper) and controllably engaging the plotting pen with the paper during its translation. The transport assembly includes a first, generally cylindrical translation arm, which forms the top of the T-configuration and extends in a first axial direction. This first translation arm is supportable at its opposite ends on a work surface, such as a table top, upon which plotting paper is disposed. A second, generally cylindrical translation arm, which forms the vertical leg of the T, is coupled through a T-joint coupler to the first translation arm, so that the second translation arm extends in a second axial direction, orthogonal to said first axial direction. The opposite end of the second translation arm free wheels on the support surface.

Abstract: A crank shaft particularly for internal combustion engines is made up of separable shaft sections, counterweights and crank pins. The elements of the shaft are joined to each other by dowel or roll pins engaged in aligned holes of the several elements.