Abstract: Methods and systems for designing an integrated computational element (ICE) device are provided. The method includes generating a plurality of ICE device models with a design suite, each ICE device model being configured to detect a characteristic of interest of a sample, and including one or more layers. Further determining at least one transmission spectrum for each theoretical ICE device model for at least one distribution of incident light angles and at least one performance criteria for each ICE device model for the at least one of distribution of incident light angles. Also, ranking the ICE device model based on the at least one performance criteria of each ICE device model at the at least one distribution of incident light angles, and selecting for fabrication one or more ICE device models based on favorable angular tolerance. An optical system including an ICE device as described above is also provided.

Abstract: Stand-off spectrometry systems and methods are described herein. One system includes a laser source configured to emit a single-spectral light, and an optical frequency comb (OFC) coupled to the laser source and configured to generate, using the single-spectral light, a multi-spectral light to determine an absorption spectrum of a substance.

Abstract: A spectroscopic measurement device includes a dark filter that is arranged on an optical path between an imaging optical system and a light detection unit and includes a plurality of regions having different transmittances, the filter being configured such that a fixed reflected measurement light and a movable reflected measurement light that are guided to a same point by the imaging optical system and form interference light are transmitted through a same region; and an arithmetic processing unit that obtains an interferogram of the measurement light at a transmittance corresponding to each of two or more regions from a detection signal of each pixel of a light detection unit when a movable reflection unit is moved, and obtains a spectrum of the measurement light based on the interferogram.

Abstract: An apparatus for spectroscopic Doppler imaging comprises collection and focusing optics, a field splitter configured to form a composite image from multiple fields of view, and a Fabry-Perot etalon configured to spatially modulate the incoming light in order to analyze the spectral content of the light from spatially resolved regions of a scene. Methods for Doppler imaging of a scene comprise split-field imagery and scene scanning techniques to create a spatially resolved spectral profile spectra of a scene, useful for measuring and profiling wind vectors and temperatures within the scene.

Abstract: A spectrometer configurable for field analyses of chemical properties of a material is provided. The spectrometer includes: at least one sensor adapted for providing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) surveillance and at least another sensor for providing Raman spectroscopy surveillance. The spectrometer can be provided with a user accessible instruction set for modifying a sampling configuration of the spectrometer. A method of determining the most likely composition of a sample by at least two technologies using the spectrometer is also provided.

Abstract: A linear-motion stage that is angularly or radially symmetric or asymmetric, or monolithic may be used as the moving mechanism in a Fourier transform spectrometer. In embodiments, a linear-motion stage includes a base; a first multiple-arm linkage extending from the base to a first carriage attachment piece; and a second multiple-arm linkage extending from the first carriage attachment piece to the base. The first multiple-arm linkage constrains a motion of the first carriage attachment piece to motion in a first plane and the second multiple-arm linkage constrains the first carriage attachment piece to motion in a second plane, the first and second planes intersecting at a plane intersection line. The first and second multiple-arm linkages constrain the motion of the first carriage attachment piece along a carriage motion line.

Abstract: A display calibration system includes: a display section subject to calibration; a correction data outputting section configured to perform a calibration process to determine, for each of the pixels of the display section, correction data for non-uniformity correction; and a first storage section configured to store reference data to be used in the calibration process. The reference data represents, for individual color patches of a first predetermined number, correspondences between RGB values and reference values. The correction data outputting section obtains, on a basis of the reference data and the measurement values of the color patches of a second predetermined number that is less than the first predetermined number, the pieces of correction data with respect to RGB values of the individual color patches of the predetermined second number. With this arrangement, it is possible to shorten a processing time of the calibration process.

Abstract: A spectral color sensor including a spectroscopic unit that disperses reflected light from a measurement target, and a light detection element that detects the dispersed light from the reflected light, comprises: a storage unit that stores a correspondence relationship between a pre-measured wavelength of the dispersed light projected on the light detection element and a projection position, as well as a stray light component; a first correction unit that, based on a measurement result when a color is measured, corrects the correspondence relationship between the wavelength of the dispersed light projected on the light detection element and the projection position stored in the storage unit; and a second correction unit that carry out wavelength correction on the stray light component stored in the storage unit using the corrected correspondence relationship between the wavelength and the projection position.

Abstract: The invention provides a detector comprising a metamaterial absorber and a micro-bolometer arranged to detect terahertz (THz) radiation. The metamaterial absorber can absorb multiple frequency bands, from the infrared and the THz regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The detector is scalable to be suitable for use in a focal plane array. The invention also provides a hybrid of a plasmonic filter, e.g. for optical radiation, and a metamaterial absorber for terahertz (and/or infrared) radiation, to create a single material capable of absorbing narrow band terahertz radiation and filtering radiation in another part of the spectrum, e.g. optical radiation. Such material has great potential in future imaging technology where hybridization can maximize the spectral information density of an optical system.

Abstract: An infrared detector useful in, e.g., infrared cameras, includes a substrate having an array of infrared detectors and a readout integrated circuit interconnected with the array disposed on an upper surface thereof, for one or more embodiments. A generally planar window is spaced above the array, the window being substantially transparent to infrared light. A mesa is bonded to the window. The mesa has closed marginal side walls disposed between an outer periphery of a lower surface of the window and an outer periphery of the upper surface of the substrate and defines a closed cavity between the window and the array that encloses the array. A solder seal bonds the mesa to the substrate so as to seal the cavity.

Abstract: A method for protecting occupants of in passenger compartment of a parked motor vehicle from exposure to dangerously elevated temperatures is based on control of vehicle systems by a central microprocessor in communication with CO2 and temperature sensors and a wireless communication module. The method implements a graduated, progressive series of warnings and responses as the cabin temperature reaches certain designated setpoints, so that security-compromising steps, such as opening windows, can be deferred until less extreme measures have been exhausted.

Abstract: A system for managing loads and detecting outages over electric power lines that comprises wireless temperature sensors which are attached to bare conductors of the electric power line(s), at line junctions or lines' splitting points, for sensing temperatures generated by the currents flow in the conductors. The system also includes a Current Measurement Units (CMU) for wirelessly reading the temperature sensed by the sensors, to allow cheap, rapid and easy RMS currents measurements on power lines at any voltage levels, by using temperature into current conversion formulas and tables.

Abstract: An apparatus for spatially correcting an image frame is disclosed. In some embodiments, the apparatus stores a frame of pixel values and scans a multi-pixel correction window across the frame. Spatial correction is performed on pixels within the window at correction positions during the scan. The spatial correction comprises estimating pixel values at value estimation positions based on one or more pixel values within the window for pixels satisfying a logical condition. The value estimation positions correspond to pixel values which do not fall within the window again during the scan. Further disclosed is an apparatus for detecting high-energy radiation, in which integration circuitry is used for integrating charge responsive to radiation photon interaction events. The circuits are controllable in accordance with an exposure control signal to vary an exposure window duration according to an operating parameter of the apparatus.

Abstract: Example embodiments may relate to a compliant force sensor used in actuated and non-actuated systems. For instance, a structure (e.g., a transmission) may be configured to receive a force based on application of a load to the structure. A rigid member may be coupled to the structure and configured to provide a first deformation based on application of the load to the structure and transfer of the force to the rigid member. An elastic element may provide compliance and may be connected to the rigid member such that the rigid member is configured to further transfer the force to the elastic element. The elastic member may be configured to provide a second deformation under application of the load that is larger than the first deformation. A sensor may be positioned on the rigid member and configured to measure the first deformation independent of hysteresis and non-linearity in the elastic element.

Abstract: A system and method for the management of data collection from a pressure sensing apparatus. The system allows rapid measurement of pressure exerted upon a surface and may be useful in preventing bed sore development in a bed bound subject.

Abstract: The invention is a sensor device comprising a carrier element (24), at least one light emitting element (20) arranged on the carrier element (24), at least one light detecting element (22) arranged on the carrier element (24), a cover layer (12) reflecting at least one part of the light emitted by the light emitting element (20) to the at least one light detecting element (22), and at least one transparent filler element (16, 18) filling at least partly the space between the carrier element (24) and the cover layer (12) and being made of a flexible material.

Abstract: A force moment sensor for sensing forces and moments in a system through which forces and moments are transferred from an input member to an output member is disclosed. It includes a housing, an inner tube, a load plate, a plurality of elongate connectors and a plurality of dynamic deflection measuring devices. The housing has a base portion and an outer tube portion generally orthogonal to the base portion. The inner tube, a poled piezoceramic element, is operably connected to the base portion and spaced inwardly of the outer tube. The load plate is attached to the inner tube, spaced from the base portion and spaced from the outer tube. The plurality of elongate connectors are connected between the load plate and the outer tube portion. The plurality of dynamic deflection measuring devices are attached to the load plate for measuring dynamic flexible deflections of the load plate.

Abstract: A fluid pressure indicating device is disclosed. The pressure indicating device includes a housing defining a cylindrical bore therein, and a piston movably disposed within the cylindrical bore. The housing includes a first portion that is permeable to visible light, a first end member, and a second end member opposite the first end member. A first variable volume is defined by the cylindrical bore, the piston, and the first end member of the housing. An inlet port is defined by the first end member of the housing and is in fluid communication with the first variable volume. A piston bypass channel is disposed outside the cylindrical bore and is in fluid communication with the inlet port. An outlet port is defined by the second end member, such that the outlet port is in fluid communication with the piston bypass channel.

Abstract: This disclosure provides example methods, devices and systems associated with flat covered leadless pressure sensor assemblies suitable for operation in extreme environments. In one embodiment, a system may comprise a semiconductor substrate having a first side and a second side; a diaphragm disposed on the first side of the semiconductor substrate; a first cover coupled to the first side of the semiconductor substrate such that it overlays at least the diaphragm, wherein a pressure applied at the first cover is transferred to the diaphragm; and a sensing element disposed on the second side of the semiconductor substrate, wherein the sensing element is used to measure the pressure.

Abstract: A pressure sensor includes: a sensor section having one fixed end and first to four gauge resistors arranged on a diaphragm; and a support member fixing the sensor section. A first pair to fourth pair of piezoresistive elements are arranged on the diaphragm. Two piezoresistive elements of each pair have opposite resistance value change directions, and distances to the support member are equal to each other. A distances between each piezoresistive element of the third pair and the fourth pair and the support member is longer than a distance between each piezoresistive element of the first pair and the second pair and the support member. Each gauge resistor includes a combined resistance, which is provided by serially connecting two corresponding piezoresistive elements. The two corresponding piezoresistive elements have a same resistance value change direction.

Abstract: A process fluid pressure transmitter includes a sensor body having a pressure sensor and electronics coupled to the pressure sensor to obtain an indication of pressure from the pressure sensor. At least one process fluid isolation assembly is fluidically coupled to the pressure sensor and is configured to receive a process fluid. The process fluid isolation assembly includes an isolation diaphragm welded to a weld ring. The weld ring has a sealing surface on a first side adapted for contact with a metal sealing ring and a weld portion welded to the sensor body on a second side. The sealing surface and the weld are substantially aligned with one another.

Abstract: One example discloses a MEMS device, including: a cavity having an internal environment; a seal isolating the internal environment from an external environment outside the MEMS device; wherein the seal is susceptible to damage in response to a calibration unsealing energy; wherein upon damage to the seal, a pathway forms which couples the internal environment to the external environment; and a calibration circuit capable of measuring the internal environment before and after damage to the seal.

Abstract: A detecting element is provided for detecting leaks of an electrically nonconductive liquid, in particular of hydrocarbons, as well as a detection cable and a detection system using such a detecting element. The detecting element includes a detection member made of a material which inflates upon contact with the liquid and which is loaded with electrically conductive particles, to be conductive when not contaminated by the liquid, and to lose the conductivity when inflating from contact with the liquid. The detection member is electrically connected to an electronic management module, which is arranged for detecting the presence of the liquid by noticing a decrease in the conductivity of the detection member. In a preferred embodiment, the detection cable includes four insulated conductive wires, one of which is embedded in the detection member which is itself protected by an inflatable casing, which is also insulating and water-proof.

Abstract: A method for diagnosing a single flow or dual flow ventilation unit, the method making it possible to diagnose the permeability and installation of each conduit of the ventilation unit by means of measuring devices and a control unit.

Abstract: An apparatus for the testing of valves, particularly compressor valves, to ensure that the valve assemblies are pressure tight, has a valve holder which is generally conical shaped with a generally circular cross section when viewed from above, and a resilient inner wall surface. The valve holder has an open throat end, and a smaller diameter apex end. A pump or plenum for forming a below-atmospheric (vacuum) volume is fluidly connected to the apex of the valve holder. A valve is placed in the valve holder so as to seal against the resilient inner wall. A pressure differential is created across the valve by the vacuum source, and the pressure in the space below the valve is monitored to detect any leakage across the valve.

Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a load estimation apparatus which estimates a load added to a laser light irradiation apparatus is provided. In the load estimation apparatus, a focal length adjustment unit adjusts the focal length in accordance with a distance from a light source to a light irradiation position in a recording medium, the apparatus comprising: an obtaining unit which obtains control data in which the light irradiation position is instructed with a coordinate; an operation amount detection unit which analyzes the coordinate of the control data to detect an operation amount of the focal distance adjustment unit; a load value calculation unit which accumulates load value information of the focal length adjustment unit in response to results of comparing the threshold and the operation amount when the operation amount is detected.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of simultaneously measuring a parameter of a plurality of cores in at least one optical fiber. An input tester at a first end of the test fiber has a plurality of tester signal inputs with a geometry substantially matching at least a portion of the core geometry of the fiber. At least one test input signal source coupled to the plurality of tester signal inputs. A signal measuring device is alignable at a second end of the fiber to measure the output of the test input signal. The input tester may include a tapered multicore coupler or a laser having a shield with apertures disposable between the laser and the fiber. In the latter case, a lens may be disposed between the shield and the fiber to project light from the laser that passes through the apertures onto the end of the fiber.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic torque generator for test benches includes at least one inlet valve and at least one outlet valve, and a control device for valve positioning, the control device including an open-loop feed-forward controller and a closed-loop feedback controller.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a subsystem installed in a motor vehicle involves a diagnostic unit checking the subsystem for system errors at least during driving cycles of the motor vehicle, the check being carried out for an occurrence as well as for a correction of a system error. The diagnostic unit carries out a misuse assessment based on a frequency of detection of the occurrence and/or the correction of the system error in order to determine whether the detected occurrence and/or the detected correction of the system error is/are based on misuse. If occurrence of the system error is detected, a restricted operating mode is activated or an activated restricted operating mode is continued in which drivability of the vehicle is restricted after a predefinable number of driving cycles has elapsed or after a predefinable travel distance has passed without the correction of the system error being detected.

Abstract: A method and a device estimate a profile depth of a tire of a vehicle during operation of the vehicle. The method measures signals from a piezoelectric element which is disposed on an inner side of the tire in a region which deforms in the event of tread shuffle. The measured signals or actual data derived from the signals are compared with comparison data. The comparison data contain data sets which each indicate signals to be expected for a profile depth or actual data which are to be expected. The profile depth is then estimated on the basis of the comparison of the signals or of the actual data with the comparison data.

Abstract: A sampling device for retrieving a sample having a frame, a scoop with an open end configured to retrieve a sample, an actuator in communication with the scoop, a base plate mounted below the frame, configured to support the sampling device on the material, and a spade at least as large as the opening, extending below the base plate, configured to extend into the material and configured to engage with the open end of the scoop once a sample has been retrieved, wherein the actuator is configured to move the scoop between an open and a closed position, and in the open position, there is a gap between the open end of the scoop and the spade for the entry of a sample, and in the closed position, the open end of the scoop sealingly engages with the spade to close the scoop and retain the retrieved sample.

Abstract: The present invention refers to the subsampler and to a subsampling method that allows for the execution of environmental monitoring without the use of large sample volumes, thus ensuring specimen wealth and expedited analyses.

Abstract: A cell capture system including an array, an inlet manifold, and an outlet manifold. The array includes a plurality of parallel pores, each pore including a chamber and a pore channel, an inlet channel fluidly connected to the chambers of the pores; an outlet channel fluidly connected to the pore channels of the pores. The inlet manifold is fluidly connected to the inlet channel, and the outlet channel is fluidly connected to the outlet channel. A cell removal tool is also disclosed, wherein the cell removal tool is configured to remove a captured cell from a pore chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for microfluidic DNA sample preparation. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and systems for the isolation of DNA from patient samples on a microfluidic device and use of the DNA for downstream processing, such as performing amplification reactions and thermal melt analysis on the microfluidic device.

Abstract: Improved methods, devices, and systems for mixing fluids, including small volumes of fluid, are provided. Pressing a pipette tip against an inner surface of a mixing vessel allows pressure to be applied within the tip. Greater pressure may be built-up than would be possible without engaging the tip with the mixing vessel. Disengaging the tip allows fluid flow through the tip, providing improved fluid mixing as compared to methods lacking engagement of a pipette tip with an inner surface of a mixing vessel while applying pressure within the pipette tip. Mixing vessels having features on an inner surface that are configured to engage a pipette tip, and to occlude an orifice of a pipette tip, are provided. Sample analysis devices and systems including pipette tips and mixing vessels configured to engage each other for pressure application within the tip are provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring dissolved residue concentrations and particulate residue particle concentrations and size distribution in liquids, particularly colloidal suspensions. The method involves separating dissolved and particulate residues in liquids for subsequent analysis of the residue species. The method includes the steps of forming an aerosol from the liquid sample to be analyzed, evaporating the droplets in the aerosol to dryness, detecting and sizing the particles, and determining the liquid volumetric inspection rate. An apparatus for separating dissolved and particulate residues in liquids for determination of the concentrations of the two residue species as well as the size distribution of the particulate species is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a droplet former, a dryer communicatively connected to the droplet former, and a detector communicatively connected to the evaporator for detecting and sizing particles.

Abstract: This invention provides mixing, reaction and ejection devices for small volume samples. This invention also provides cooling devices, sample preparation apparatuses and sample preparation methods for studying chemical and biological reactions. The mixing, reaction and ejection devices of this invention allow ejection of small volume liquid samples from a microfluidic channel. Cooling devices of the invention enable serial cooling and collection of samples in an efficient and accurate manner. This invention also provides apparatuses comprising the mixing, reaction and ejection devices and cooling devices. This invention provides methods of using the novel devices and apparatuses.

Abstract: A method for determining a threshold crack length in a machine component including a fatigue crack defining a fatigue crack length and a fatigue crack angle. The method includes determining a component threshold stress intensity factor for the fatigue crack angle, determined from a dataset that includes threshold stress intensity factors for mixed-mode phase angles formed by conducting an asymmetric four point bend test on a test specimen having an initial notch. The method includes determining a threshold crack length based on the component fatigue crack length and fatigue crack angle using a formula disclosed herein.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring physical properties of non-Newtonian fluids, such as fluids containing dispersed solid particulate material and having a yield stress. A fluid resistance member is moved through the non-Newtonian fluid sufficiently slowly that viscous drag on the member is negligible and fluid resistance is essentially due to the yield stress of the fluid. The torque required to maintain the movement of the member through the fluid is measured, and at least one physical property, other than apparent viscosity of the fluid, is determined by employing a known relationship between the measured torque and the physical property of interest.

Abstract: Viscosity or rheology measuring instrument utilizing Hall Effect or like magnetic coupling with parts mounted on driving and driven rotational assemblies.

Abstract: A method for quantitatively determining dynamic barite sag in drilling fluids includes measuring rheological properties with viscometers and/or rheometers, and introducing the parameters into an equation to obtain the sag rate.

Abstract: A monitoring device for determining the concentration of a dielectric insulation fluid such as a perfluoroketones in a room housing at least one high-voltage electrical apparatus and being accessible by humans essentially without modifying the room conditions, for example the room being a part of an air-insulated substation, with the monitoring system including one or more sensors for determining an emission and/or absorption of the dielectric insulation fluid molecules at at least one wavelength or wavelength band of the electromagnetic wave spectrum.

Abstract: Devices for sorting components (e.g., cells) contained in a liquid sample are provided. In certain aspects, the devices include a magnetic separation device and an acoustic concentrator device fluidically coupled to magnetic separation device. Aspects of the invention further include methods for sorting cells in a liquid sample, and systems, and kits for practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: A particle measuring apparatus comprising a flow cell configured to flow a specimen, a first light source configured to emit light having a first wavelength, a second light source configured to emit light having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, an irradiation optical system configured to irradiate the flow cell with light emitted from the first light source and the second light source, a first light receiving portion configured to receive scattered light obtained by irradiating a measurement particle passing through the flow cell with light from the first light source, and a second light receiving portion configured to receive scattered light obtained by irradiating a measurement particle passing through the flow cell with light from the second light source.

Abstract: The present invention provides an emulsion for sorting droplets in a microfluidic device, the emulsion comprising: a discontinuous aqueous phase; and a continuous oil phase; wherein said aqueous phase comprises at least one analyte, said oil phase comprises a fluorous oil and a refractive index modifying compound comprising at least one aromatic ring, and the refractive index of said aqueous phase and the refractive index of said oil phase are substantially matched.

Abstract: A method that includes pulling a sled disposed on a trough across a first filtercake at a constant speed, measuring a force versus distance or time based on the pulling; and outputting a frictional force curve is described. An apparatus that includes a base, a pulley attached to the base, a trough attached to the base, a sled disposed on the trough, a cable connecting the pulley and the sled, the cable connected to an arm capable of being moved at a constant speed, and a system to measure the force required to move the sled is also described.

Abstract: An apparatus for taking an accurate photometric measurement of a liquid by way of forming a specimen volume of a controlled optical path length for use with photometric measurement equipment is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a transparent body configured for displacing a volume of a fluid and at least one support element wherein the support element is configured to maintain the transparent body at a location such that specimen fluid may enter a void volume to form a specimen volume of a controlled optical path length. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a plurality of transparent bodies interconnected by a web such that the transparent bodies are maintained at a spacing arrangement which allows for them to be inserted into the wells of a microplate in order to create a plurality of specimen volumes of a controlled optical path length.

Abstract: A method for measuring saturate, aromatic, and resin fractions of a hydrocarbon fluid includes separating maltenes from the hydrocarbon fluid and separating saturate, aromatic, and resin fractions from the maltenes. The method further includes determining an optical density of each of the saturate, aromatic, and resin fractions at a predetermined wavelength and correlating the optical density of each of the saturate, aromatic, and resin fractions to predetermined data to determine each of the saturate, aromatic, and resin fractions.

Abstract: To provide a method for estimating a concentration of carboxylic acid gas, which is capable of measuring safely the concentration of carboxylic acid gas such as formic acid gas or the like in a chamber of a soldering apparatus in real time, and a soldering apparatus capable of estimating the concentration of the carboxylic acid gas in the chamber. The method includes the steps of measuring a surface temperature of a same object placed in the chamber at a same point in time by using a thermometer (first thermometer) for measuring a temperature without any influence of infrared absorption by carboxylic acid, and a radiation thermometer (second thermometer) for measuring a temperature by infrared in a wavelength region that the carboxylic acid absorbs, and estimating the concentration of the carboxylic acid gas in the chamber on the basis of a temperature difference (?Tx) between temperatures indicated by the first and second thermometers.

Abstract: A photoconductive antenna that generates a terahertz wave by irradiation with a light pulse, includes: a carrier generation layer that has carriers formed therein by irradiation with the light pulse, and is constituted by a semi-insulating substrate; an insulating layer, located on the carrier generation layer, which is capable of transmitting the light pulse; and a first electrode and a second electrode, located above the carrier generation layer, which apply a voltage to the carrier generation layer, wherein the insulating layer is provided on a region which is irradiated with the light pulse between the first electrode and the second electrode in a plan view.