Abstract: The light-emitting device includes a light source and a gradient index (GRIN) element. The GRIN element has a cylindrical refractive index profile in which the refractive index varies radially and is substantially constant axially. The GRIN element includes a first end surface opposite a second end surface and is characterized by a length-to-pitch ratio. The GRIN element is arranged with the first end surface adjacent the light source to receive light from the light source, and emits the light from the second end surface in a radiation pattern dependent on the length-to-pitch ratio. Since the radiation pattern depends on the length-to-pitch ratio of the GRIN element, LEDs with different radiation patterns can be made simply by using GRIN elements of appropriate lengths.

Abstract: A method for forming a panoramic image using a camera. The method comprises taking a first photograph using the camera. On a display of the camera a blending area is formed. The blending area includes a part of a first image of the first photograph displayed on the display. The camera is moved before being prepared to take a second photograph. In the blending area only, a pixel matching process is performed for determining an alignment of the portion of the first image in the blending area and part of a second image of the second photograph in the blending area. A camera is also disclosed.

Abstract: Quick release couplings for releasably coupling components of a computer to the computer are disclosed. The quick release coupling mechanisms are generally configured to allow tool-less placement of the components relative to the computer. That is, the quick release coupling mechanisms are configured to perform their couplings without using conventional fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc. By eliminating the use of fasteners, the components may be inserted and removed from the computer without using tools (e.g., tool-less). Furthermore, the quick release couplings are easy to maneuver thereby enabling quick and straightforward assembly and disassembly of the components to and from the computer (e.g., quick release). For example, the components may be inserted and removed by a simple pushing or pulling motion, and/or by a simple flick of a latch or handle.

Abstract: A portable device comprising a casing with at least one function key, a recess in a wall of the casing for accommodating a connector when the connector is not in use, a connector cable for permanently connecting the connector to an internal circuitry of the portable device; the recess being sized, shaped and located to as to not interfere with operation of the plurality of function keys; the connector, when in the recess, having a side surface substantially coplanar with the wall. The connector and the connector cable are for enabling: data transfer both ways between the portable device and another device, and one-way power from the another device to the portable device, when the another device is a host for the portable device; and data transfer both ways between the potable device and the another device, and power both ways between the portable device and the another device, when the portable device is the host for the another device.

Abstract: An optical source includes an optical emitter with an encapsulant covering the optical emitter. A diffractive element is integrated into the encapsulant, wherein the encapsulant passes an optical signal from the optical emitter to the diffractive element.

Abstract: A high resolution optical encoder with an angular collimated light beam. The optical encoder includes a source, a collimator, a reflective surface and a receiver. The light beam is collimated using a collimator and/or source at an angle to the plane of the reflective surface.

Abstract: A light emitting diode, a reflector and a platform are employed within a light source. The light emitting diode emits light exclusively from its side surfaces. The reflector has a parabolic reflective surface that collimates any portion of the light reflecting from the parabolic reflective surface. The platform supports a centering of the light emitting layer(s) of the light emitting diode on a focus point of the parabolic reflective surface.

Abstract: A light emitting diode (100) is disclosed comprising a p-n junction diode for emitting light; and a transparent casing encapsulating the p-n junction diode. The transparent casing having an inner portion in contact with the p-n junction diode, wherein the refractive index of the transparent casing is higher at the inner portion than an outer portion thereof. In one embodiment the transparent casing comprises at least a first and a second transparent layer, with the first transparent layer encapsulating the p-n junction diode, and the second transparent layer encapsulating the first transparent layer, wherein the refractive index of the first transparent layer is higher than the refractive index of the second transparent layer. In an alternative embodiment the transparent casing comprises at least one transparent layer, wherein the refractive index of the transparent layer is higher at an inner portion than an outer portion thereof.