Abstract: In an apparatus for processing banknotes or other sheet-like objects, the banknotes are conveyed along a transport path, thereby passing sensor means. A transmission and a reflection image of the banknote are captured by illuminating the banknotes and measuring the transmittive and reflective light intensity of light with a high resolution. Based on these images, a validation of the banknotes is carried out. After the validation, a double feed detection is performed by evaluating the transmission and the reflection intensities for a predefined set of test spots with a two-dimensional evaluation. If it is decided on double feed, the banknotes are rejected. Otherwise the banknotes are accepted and further processed. Because of the additional dimension in the evaluation compared with known double detection methods, the invention enables a more robust double note detection also in cases with different degrees of soiling of the banknotes.

Abstract: A method of detecting a coded magnetic thread is provided that includes sensing the response of a magnetic field detector as a thread passes the detector, the response varying from an initial magnitude in first and second senses to exhibit a first peak, and then in the first sense to exhibit a second peak; comparing the response with first and second thresholds disposed about the initial magnitude in the first and second senses respectively; and indicating the passage of a code element of the thread when the response passes the second threshold and then the first threshold in a predetermined manner characterized in that the first threshold is adjusted in accordance with a first predetermined algorithm based on the magnitude of the first peak. The first predetermined algorithm adjusts the first threshold so that the magnitude of the first threshold is the average of a predetermined number of preceding first peaks.

Abstract: Systems and methods for identifying a coded magnetic thread comprise generating a digital representation of the thread and comparing the digital representation with one or more known digital representations; scanning the digital representation to locate a predetermined code sequence; and rotating the digital representation to locate the predetermined code sequence in a predetermined position corresponding to the position of the predetermined code sequence in a stored version of the or each known digital representation prior to carrying out the comparison.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying a document (55). The method comprises exposing the document (55), such as a banknote, to infrared radiation; detecting infrared radiation reflected from a plurality of regions of the document (55) to generate at least one test pattern; determining if the or each test pattern satisfies a predetermined relationship with a predetermined pattern or patterns corresponding to a known document; and, if the predetermined relationship is satisfied, identifying the document (55) as being the same as the known document.

Abstract: A method of detecting a magnetic thread comprises causing relative movement between the thread and an array of magnetic heads, each head generates a signal upon detecting a portion of the thread. The arrival of a thread at one of the heads is detected, that head being denoted a primary head, and the head on each side a secondary head. Output signals from the primary and secondary heads are monitored to generate a representation of the thread, and the magnitude of the signals from the primary and secondary heads are compared such that if the magnitude of the output signal from a secondary head exceeds that from the primary head, the primary and secondary heads are reallocated accordingly.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying a document (55). The method comprises exposing the document (55), such as a banknote, to infrared radiation; detecting infrared radiation reflected from a plurality of regions of the document (55) to generate at least one test pattern; determining if the or each test pattern satisfies a predetermined relationship with a predetermined pattern or patterns corresponding to a known document; and, if the predetermined relationship is satisfied, identifying the document (55) as being the same as the known document.

Abstract: A sheet detecting assembly for use in detecting sheets passing along a transport path. The assembly comprises a linear array (15-17) of radiation emitters extending transverse to the transport path. At least one first radiation emitter (29A) at an end of the array is physically oriented so as to generate a radiation beam centred a line which crosses the transport path at a non-orthogonal angle, and at least one second emitter (29A) is physically oriented so as to generate a radiation beam centred on a respective line substantially orthogonal to the transport path; and a detector system for detecting the radiation after it has impinged on a sheet.

Abstract: A tool for reducing torque on work string, eg for gas or oil production, comprises an upper clamp (2), a lower clamp (3) and connection means (4), the three components formed as a unitary structure (1). The tool also comprises bearing means, preferably made from an elastomeric compound, and an annular body (7) (see FIG. 4) held in place over the connection means by the clamps. The clamps may comprise spigots (5) for retaining the connection means. In a preferred embodiment the annular body is in two semi-annular components connected at one end to allow them to pivot, and the other end comprises mating castellations for receiving a fastening pin. The annular body may comprise a number of replaceable wear pads (14) which may be made of bronze or an elastomer. The unitary structure of the tool enhances the integral strength and efficiency of the clamps.

Abstract: Document inspection apparatus comprises a document transport system (1) for transporting documents through a detector station (6). A linear array of separately activatable light sources (14, 15) at the detector (12) receives light transmitted through or reflected by any of the illuminated portions of the document and generates a corresponding output signal. A control system (9) sequentially activates the light sources and monitors the output signals from the detector.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of non-invasive measurement of a chosen region (4) within a body (2), using the transmission of an ultrasonic pulse and the measurement of back scattered optical radiation which has been modulated by the ultrasonic pulse at the region of interest. There may be two or more ultrasonic transmitters (10, 14) to allow control of the vibration of the ultrasonic pulses at the region (4) of interest.

Abstract: Method of quantitatively determining one or more characteristics of a substance using near infrared spectroscopy. The method including irradiating a point of the substance with radiation at at least two distinct wavelengths, measuring the intensity of the radiation detected at two locations, determining the optical path lengths of the radiation between the irradiation point and the two detecting locations, and determining the effect of the divergence of the radiation reaching two locations. The relative coupling efficiencies of the two detectors are determined by the use of a second emission point equidistant from the two detectors. The characteristic being measured is then determined by the intensity of the radiation detected at the detecting locations with the result modified by accounting for the optical path lengths to the detecting locations, the detector coupling efficiencies and the effect of divergence of the radiation before reaching the detecting locations.