Abstract: An optical connection means is provided for connecting an optical docking station to an information handling system and to one or more peripheral devices. The optical connection means comprises two components that are not mechanically attached. The two components are a laptop component that is housed within the information handling system and within the one or more peripheral devices, and a docking station component housed within the optical docking station. The components send and receive information optically (i.e., in the form of light) to each other.

Abstract: An orthodontic tool is described wherein an elastic band can be easily stretched into a triangular shape and attached over the hooks of an orthodontic apparatus attached within a mouth. The tool can be operated with a single hand and the rubber band can be stretched and placed over a first hook and then partially released from the tool. The second end of the rubber band is placed over a second hook in the mouth and the rubber band is completely released from the tool which is then removed from the mouth. The tool comprises two stationary L-shaped ends and one L-shaped end movable from the two stationary ends.

Abstract: A microwave receptive device includes a plurality of trough members defined by arcuate side walls and a floor to receive a potato member therewithin to position and align a potato for a proper baking within a microwave oven. The holder may further include openings or slots directed through the troughs as an alternative construction and may further be positioned upon a rack structure to properly align and mount the holder medially of an oven structure. A further alternative to the device includes the holder rotatably mounted relative to a base housing to permit rotation of the potato holder member to enhance complete cooking of a potato member positioned therewithin.

Abstract: A robotic system includes two joints moving a common load-bearing member along a path for positioning a load. Each joint includes a linear electric motor and a feedback loop, the latter driving the motor accurately in response to a commanded position signal, and a true position signal provided by sensor apparatus disposed alongside a track of each linear motor. Cross-coupling circuitry connects with the sensor apparatus of each joint to produce signals representing differences in positional error and in speed of the joints. The signals are injected into the feedback loops of the joints to effect a shift of power between the joints to synchronize their travel. Window comparator circuitry is employed for introduction of variable gains to the feedback loops for values of positional error and velocity which are greater than reference values in a window.

Abstract: A fiber optic switch for switching light energy between a plurality of fiber optic bundles, including a plurality of fiber optic connectors for transmitting light energy from individual ones of the plurality of fiber optic bundles to a plurality of individual internal fiber optic bundles, a switching structure for switching light energy between one of the individual internal bundles to individual ones of the remaining plurality of internal bundles and with the switching structure including slotted blocks and with the slots receiving and supporting the individual internal bundles in contiguous relationship, and means for providing relative movement between the slotted blocks to at least two positions for providing switching of transmitted light energy between individual ones of the internal fiber optic bundles.

Abstract: An oil well fluid depth or pressure sensing system for sensing pressures adjacent the bottom of the oil well and providing signals on the surface indicative of the pressure range in the well. The sensor comprises a pressure sensitive switch utilizing a nestable welded bellows. Information is transmitted to the surface through a single wire, with grounded shield return. A phase sensitive detector circuit is located at the surface for providing signals indicative of normal pressures, over pressures and under pressures, as well as any malfunction in the system.