Abstract: A load control device is adapted to be disposed in series with an AC voltage source and an electrical load and is operable to provide substantially all voltage provided by the AC voltage source to the load. The load control device comprises a controllably conductive device, a controller, a zero-crossing detector, and a power supply for generating a substantially DC voltage for powering the controller. The power supply is operable to charge an energy storage device to a predetermined amount of energy each half-cycle. The controller is operable to determine when the power supply has stopped charging from the zero-crossing detector each half-cycle, and to immediately render the controllably conductive device conductive to conduct the full load current. Before the controllably conductive device begins to conduct each half-cycle, only a minimal voltage develops across the power supply to allow the energy storage device to charge.

Abstract: The Battery Analyzer in a Battery Pack and Fixture includes a portable handheld device containing multiple battery cells in a battery pack having a microprocessor or ASIC with companion circuitry for measuring the condition of the cell battery and manage the use of the battery taking into consideration the history of the battery, the condition of the various cells within the battery, the device the battery pack is being used in, and other factors. The condition of the battery pack may be displayed with an LCD display for direct user information, or may be relayed electromagnetically back to a base station through the transmitter portion of the device, such as a walkie talkie.

Abstract: Systems and methods for inspecting an object with a scanned beam of penetrating radiation are disclosed. Scattered radiation from the beam is detected, in either the backward or forward direction. Characteristic values of the backscattered radiation are compared to expected reference values to characterize the object. Additionally, penetrating radiation transmitted through the inspected object may be combined with scatter information. In certain embodiments, the inspected field of view is less than 0.1 steradians, and the detector is separate from the source of penetrating radiation and is disposed, with respect to the object, such as to subtend greater than 0.5 steradians in the field of view of the object.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods that permit an operator of a backscatter x-ray system to shine a search light on a closed container or vehicle, and then image the contents of that container in a region roughly corresponding to the area of the container covered by the search light. A display near the operator presents the backscatter image of the container contents.

Abstract: A reversible pillowcase which is formed by folding a single piece of fabric into substantially three equal portions. The portions are attached together along two sides, thus forming first and second pockets with openings at opposite ends. Inverting the first pocket forms a pillowcase by exposing one decorative surface of the fabric and hiding the stitching used to attach the portions. Inverting the second pocket exposes a second decorative surface while also hiding the stitching. Thus a reversible pillowcase can be converted between two different decorative appearances while also hiding the unsightly stitching used in manufacturing the article.