Abstract: A thermally-directed optical imager and a method of thermally-directing optical processing are described. The thermally-directed imager includes a thermal image sensor, an optical image sensor, and a processor. The thermal and optical sensors respectively generate thermal image and optical image signals. The processor uses the thermal image signal to determine an optical processing region, which the processor uses to derive a compressed-image signal. The optical processing region may be determined by detecting a center of heat-mass associated with the thermal image signal or by performing an edge detection algorithm. In addition, the thermally-directed imager may be focused, zoomed, or centered via the thermal image signal.

Abstract: A thermally-directed optical imager and a method of thermally-directing optical processing are described. The thermally-directed imager includes a thermal image sensor, an optical image sensor, and a processor. The thermal and optical sensors respectively generate thermal image and optical image signals. The processor uses the thermal image signal to determine an optical processing region, which the processor uses to derive a compressed-image signal. The optical processing region may be determined by detecting a center of heat-mass associated with the thermal image signal or by performing an edge detection algorithm. In addition, the thermally-directed imager may be focused, zoomed, or centered via the thermal image signal.

Abstract: A self-retaining screwdriver having a plurality of diametrically opposed, radially extending blades on its tip for engagement with corresponding slots of a screw or other fastener, wherein the blades vary radially in thickness. The screwdriver also includes diametrically opposed, radially extending blades of constant thickness arranged perpendicular to the blades of radially varying thickness. Tapered blades having a thickness which increases with distance from the screwdriver axis are disclosed in one embodiment in which the blades also have a convex end surface, for use with a screw having a convex head.