Abstract: A removeable shoe clasp for adding decorative ornaments to shoes is presented. The shoe clasp is comprised of an interior member connected to an exterior member by at least one hinge. The exterior member is attached to an attachment member onto which a decorative ornament may be removably attached. The shoe clasp allows for a wearer to easily add personalized elements to their shoes and to interchange the personalized elements among different shoes without damaging the shoe.

Abstract: An improved cutting device control system for analyzing designs, blueprints, and other drawings, and for creating low level computer instructions to fully automate the cutting process is provided. The program utilizes several algorithms, constraints, and program features to fully automate creation of the instructions--thereby eliminating the need for an operator to input cutting, moving, or operating instructions to the cutting device. The apparatus includes a microprocessor and associated memory to store the various programming steps, to store the various data tables, and to implement the algorithms and programmed constraints. Additionally, the preferred apparatus includes associated communication devices for transmitting the generated codes to the electronic controller for the cutting device, Similarly, the input format may also be transmitted to the microprocessor.

Abstract: A rule based parametric design apparatus and method utilize one or more predetermined designs including draw primitives and/or other objects. Designs for the draw primitives are preferably created by artists who refine and distill the designs into a set of rules, with the rules residing in a computer program. This allows the original, or "parent" design, to be automatically adapted to differently shaped and sized windows and window groupings, while the shapes of the grouping change as units are added to the overall design, the unity of the overall art work is maintained. A computer, with associated memory to store the various data tables, implements the algorithms and program constraints associated with the present invention.

Abstract: A detector assembly for use with an analyzer instrument comprises a light source for providing a light beam for analyzing one or more substances in a sample. A detector is included for detecting light associated with the sample under analysis. An analysis station permits the light beam to enter the sample and shields the sample from extraneous light. The analysis station further permits light to pass from the sample to the light detector. A plurality of filters is selectively positionable in the light beam between the light source and the sample. These filters permit different wavelengths of light to pass therethrough so that selective light analysis of the sample may be performed.

Abstract: An automated analytical apparatus comprises an introduction station for receiving a plurality of reagent packages. Each package has a plurality of receptacles, at least one of which includes a sample liquid to be analyzed, and at least one of which includes a liquid reagent for forming a reaction mixture with the sample liquid. A liquid transfer station is included for transferring liquid contained in one or more receptacles of a reagent package into, out of or among different receptacles thereof, including the formation of the reaction mixture. A detector is provided for detecting a characteristic of the sample by analyzing the reaction mixture contained in one of the receptacles of a package. A storage area is included within the apparatus for storing a plurality of reagent packages. A shuttle system transports individual reagent packages in any order and in any direction between the introduction area, the liquid transfer station, the detector and the storage area.