Abstract: A supercritical fluid extraction system and method for extracting a sample from a matrix by use of supercritical fluid and collecting components of the matrix in a solid phase extraction collection column. This system includes a variable restriction valve for depressurizing the fluid with entrained sample and an integral adapter directly connected at a first end with the valve and directly sealingly engaging the collector column and having a second end for passage of the depressurized fluid and sample with matrix components into the collector column.

Abstract: A pattern recognition system for use with a two-dimensional image, each point associated with a height and with contributions from various wavelengths of light. The image to be analyzed is first sensed by a sensor and stored in a memory. Signals, read from the memory, are filtered and processed to produce signals measuring each of the wavelengths and measuring the height. The resulting distributions of data are first scanned for areas containing appropriate height measurements. Each pixel of these areas is classified according to predetermined classification definitions, further reducing the areas to be processed. These areas are subjected to spatial classification according to other classification definitions. The spatial classification may be accomplished by a neighborhood processor. The areas of the image are then identified with the features to be recognized.