Abstract: A fluoride sensor includes an aluminum layer situated on a distal end face of an optical fiber. A light source directs light into the optical fiber at a proximal end and reflected light from the aluminum layer at the distal end face is directed by the fiber to a detector. A rate of change of a detector signal is processed to produce an estimate of a concentration of fluoride.

Abstract: A fluoride sensor includes an aluminum layer situated on a distal end face of an optical fiber. A light source directs light into the optical fiber at a proximal end and reflected light from the aluminum layer at the distal end face is directed by the fiber to a detector. A rate of change of a detector signal is processed to produce an estimate of a concentration of fluoride.

Abstract: Fiber optic sensors include sensor regions in which an optical phase is modulated by an analyte to be detected. A long period fiber grating (LPG) is coupled to a coating that is arranged to selectively interact with the analyte. The resulting phase change is detected based on a transmission spectrum associated with the LPG so that analyte is detected and quantified. A plurality of such sensors is distributed along a fiber to form a sensor array that can be situated to detect analyte at a plurality of discrete regions.

Abstract: Fiber optic sensors include sensor regions in which an optical phase is modulated by an analyte to be detected. A long period fiber grating (LPG) is coupled to a coating that is arranged to selectively interact with the analyte. The resulting phase change is detected based on a transmission spectrum associated with the LPG so that analyte is detected and quantified. A plurality of such sensors is distributed along a fiber to form a sensor array that can be situated to detect analyte at a plurality of discrete regions.

Abstract: The invention provides a hand-held electronic device for injecting an agent into a tree with continuous pressure sensing technology for real-time measurements of the pressure within the tree. The pressure measurement information is conveyed to an onboard central processing unit for data collection, analysis and optimization of the speed of injecting the agent into the tree. By continually monitoring the pressure and injection power, the injection pressure can be modified to adapt to back pressure fluctuations. In one embodiment of the invention the agent is injected into the tree under a preprogrammed pressure profile. In another embodiment of the invention the agent is injected into the tree under a variable pressure profile until the fastest injection time is obtained.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for injecting desired amounts of fluids into plants, in particular embodiments, woody plants, e.g., trees and woody vines. A metering device is provided which dynamically measures an amount of fluid that is injected into the plant. A system and method are also provided for creating a pressurized reservoir of injectable fluid in the plant to assist in the injection of the fluid. A pressure release valve is also provided to prevent overpressurization of the pressurized reservoir of injectable fluid. In one embodiment, fluid is returned to a metering device of an injection system when the pressure within the pressurized reservoir exceeds a predetermined amount of pressure. A pressure gauge is also provided that measures pressure within the plant. A falling pressure indicates that fluid is being injected into the plant. Manual and battery-powered plant injection devices are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention includes a needle and method for injecting a fluid, such as a medicament, into a woody plant, e.g., trees, shrubs, or vines. In one embodiment, the needle includes a body having a proximal end, a distal end, an inner conduit extending from the proximal end towards the distal end, and at least one aperture in communication with the inner conduit and an outer surface of the body. An indentation in the outer surface of the body is provided where the aperture opens to the outer surface.

Abstract: A method for injecting fluid into woody plant is disclosed, and apparatus therefor, for delivering disease treatments and nutritional supplements.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for separating an original feed solution such as seawater into a product solution of decreased concentration (relatively fresh water) and an exhaust solution of increased concentration. The apparatus includes an annular reverse osmosis membrane means, contained in an annular pressure vessel that is housed in a rotor assembly. The rotor is arranged to spin on an axle and is located within an evacuated shroud.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is a desalination apparatus for removing salt from seawater. The apparatus operates on the principle of reverse-osmosis whereby a feed solution containing seawater is separated into a product solution of decreased salt concentration and an exhaust solution of increased concentration. An evacuated enclosure is included to reduce windage losses and power consumption.