Abstract: An optical imager, such as a microscope for performing multiple frequency fluorometric measurements comprising a light source, such as a laser source is disclosed. The system is used to excite a sample into the fluorescent state. Light from the excited sample is collected by a microscope. The microscope utilizes conventional confocal optics optimized to have a very narrow depth of field, thus limiting the information collected to a thin planar region. Measurements are taken over the fluorescence lifetime of the sample simultaneously from the excitation source and from the excited sample. Information is taken in a matrix and comparison of the image matrix and the standard during simultaneous measurements yields output information.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and devices for luminescent (e.g., fluorometric) measurement. The disclosure includes frequency domain and single photon counting methods and utilizes low capacitance semiconductor light emitting devices.

Abstract: An optical imager, such as a microscope for performing multiple frequency fluorometric measurements comprising a light source, such as a laser source is disclosed. The system is used to excite a sample into the fluorescent state. Light from the excited sample is collected by a microscope. The microscope utilizes conventional confocal optics optimized to have a very narrow depth of field, thus limiting the information collected to a thin planar region. Measurements are taken over the fluorescence lifetime of the sample simultaneously from the excitation source and from the excited sample. Information is taken in a matrix and comparison of the image matrix and the standard during simultaneous measurements yields output information.

Abstract: A scent collection method comprising putting an item bearing a sample of a scent to be identified in an enclosure and heating the item is disclosed. A quantity of air is introduced into the enclosure. The air from the enclosure is withdrawn after the item has been heated. The withdrawn air is passed through a scent collection member to collect scent on the scent collection member. The scent collection member may be cooled during the scent collection process and the scent collection member is then sealed in an envelope. The scent collection member is removed from the envelope in which the scent collection member has been sealed. The scent collection member is then heated and air passed through the scent collection member. The air passed through the scent collection member is used as a stimulus or other input in a scent identification procedure.

Abstract: An optical imager, such as a microscope for performing multiple frequency fluorometric measurements comprising a light source, such as a laser source is disclosed. The system is used to excite a sample into the fluorescent state. Light from the excited sample is collected by a microscope. The microscope utilizes conventional confocal optics optimized to have a very narrow depth of field, thus limiting the information collected to a thin planar region. Measurements are taken over the fluorescence lifetime of the sample simultaneously from the excitation source and from the excited sample. Information is taken in a matrix and comparison of the image matrix and the standard during simultaneous measurements yields output information.