Abstract: A network for detecting a substance includes at least two detectors that are capable of transmitting a signal, and a remote station capable of receiving the signal. The detectors are adapted to detect a substance and transmit data that indicates the presence of that substance to the remote receiving station.

Abstract: A site or vehicle which includes a plurality of electromagnetic radiators monitors the radiation by the use of a plurality of broadband sensors spaced about the potential radiation site or vehicle. Each of the sensors produces signals indicative of the sensed power, and process the signals for transmission over a data network. The system also includes a processing system which receives the signals indicative of the sensed power from all of the sensors, and processes the signals to determine whether radiation levels are within the established values. The signals may be processed either at the sensors or at the processing system to form average or peak power determinations. The power levels are continuously compared with threshold levels. When the threshold is exceeded, warnings may be given, or automatic shutdown of the radiator may be instituted (136).

Abstract: A picture frame or a doorbell having warning function includes a main body consisting of a front housing, a rear housing and a transparent plate for placing photos or pictures. The main body is provided with a sensor hole, a speaker, an electronic control circuit and/or an emission circuit to deliver signals to a receive circuit of a subsidiary device positioned at any location in a house (in different rooms or on different stories). When the sensor of the main electronic control circuit senses any unusual light sources, the speaker of the main device can send out warning sounds, and the signals will be delivered to the receive circuit of the subsidiary device through the emission circuit to let the speaker of the subsidiary device give out warning sounds at the same time.

Abstract: An object locating system for automatically locating a hidden or lost wireless object. This is applicable to objects such as remote controls for TVs and VCRs and the like. An ambient light photosensor is located on the object. The object locating system also includes an alarm located on the wireless object, which is electrically connected to the ambient light photosensor. The ambient light photosensor senses ambient lighting conditions. The alarm is actuated when the ambient light photosensor detects ambient light below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A combination of a master machine and a plurality of slave machines communicate wireless with each other. In case of a radiation leak accident, multitudes of inhabitants or workers dealing with the accident are made to carry the slave machines. The slave machine measure the degree of radiation exposure in real time, and notifies this measured result automatically to the master machine by wireless communication. The master machine recognizes the accurate radiation dose of the exposure and determines the degree of danger. The master machine notifies in real time the determined result individually to people carrying the slave machine, who are exposed victims or people that have a possibility of being exposed, according to the danger degree. The master machine is made to extract true radiation measurement data from the measurement signal data sent by the slave machine, by discriminating noise.

Abstract: A system for verifying the detection of a fire event by a fire detection device utilizing multiple air condition sensors includes a programmable logic circuit that evaluates whether input data supplied thereto by the sensors satisfies predetermined threshold parameters. If the input data matches one particular parameter, the other threshold parameters are decreased and evaluation frequency is increased. The circuit energizes an alarm if input data from the sensors satisfies the particular parameter and at least one of the decreased parameters or if the input data satisfies at least two non-decreased parameters. Therefore, a fire event sensed by one sensor is verified by another sensor before causing an alarm. At power-up, the circuit compares initial input data with the predetermined parameters and modifies the parameters if the input data is within respective predetermined ranges. This also decreases false alarms.

Abstract: A display monitor is provided for a multi-optical-path photoelectric safety apparatus including a plurality of multi-optical-path photoelectric sensor units. The user can determine whether a special function such as blanking is set for each optical path in a group which comprises a plurality of indicator lamps placed in a row along a longitudinal direction. The user can check the light incidence/light block status for each optical path on an indicator lamp group. The display monitor includes the plurality of indicator lamps placed in a row in the longitudinal direction. First and second switches allow the user to select the unit and the optical path to be shown on the two indicator lamp groups.

Abstract: A flame detection system utilizing microcomputer control of a unique self-checking signal interruption system for checking the status of the sensing tube by employing solid state switches and a balance beam shutter. The microcomputer uses a diode and a solid state relay circuit to generate a compatible signal output to a burner control.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an illuminance detection alarm device including a main body, an illuminance sensing head, a power switch, a buzzer switch, an indication lamp unit, and an alarm range setting switch. The illuminance sensing head may detect the illuminance of light of the surroundings. The indication lamp unit includes a green indication lamp, a red indication lamp and a yellow indication lamp. The alarm range setting switch may be used to set multiple stages of different alarm ranges according to the practical requirements of the user. Thus, the reader may notice the illuminance of light of the surroundings, so as to obtain a better illumination effect, thereby preventing the reader from being short-sighted due to the bad illumination surroundings.

Abstract: A tire failure detector (10) in which at least one receiver (42) mounted in a housing (12) generates a signal representative of a thermal characteristic of a portion of a tire (18) sensed by the receiver (42). A processor (46) detects an abnormal signal carried by a carrier (44) from the receiver (42) and communicates the abnormal signal to a display (50) which presents at least an image representative of the detected abnormal signal to notify an observer of the abnormal signal detected. A cover (22) inside the housing (12) protects the receiver (42) from debris, while a nozzle (32) communicates through a tube (34) a supply of a pressurized fluid (38) for cleaning debris from the cover (22).

Abstract: A light curtain repeater system and method of operation would include a light receiving array and a light emitting array, and may also contain an optional received light intensity indicator and/or a method to extend the separation of the receiving and emitting arrays.

Abstract: A sensor of incident ambient photons is combined, in a detector with one or more sensors responsive to other types of ambient parameters such as gas, humidity, temperature or the like. Outputs from the sensors are processed to establish the existence of one of a hazardous condition, a non-hazardous condition and a false alarm.

Abstract: Transducer apparatus (10) responsive to external perturbations is disclosed having an electrically responsive transducer circuit (12) energized when a display member (18) and an elongate member (20) move from a gravity determined quiescent orientation (20A) therebetween to an external perturbation driven active orientation (20B) therebetween. In various embodiments, the members are respectively responsive to air movement and acceleration. In one embodiment, the elongate member carries a first electrical contact (21) to abut a second electrical contact (22) carried by the display member. When the apparatus is to be in use with a motor vehicle, the apparatus is desirable to be powered by the cigarette lighter of the vehicle and a light sensor is added to switch on the apparatus during night time.

Abstract: An in-store equipment remote-monitoring system comprises a controller provided in each store and monitoring and controlling in-store equipment and a monitoring computer connected to the controller in the store through a public line, the controller comprising data transmission means for transmitting to the monitoring computer data related to each in-store equipment and predetermined measurement data, and display means for displaying power saving advice information fed from the monitoring computer, and the monitoring computer comprising power saving advice information production means for producing power saving advice information for efficiently operating each in-store equipment on the basis of the data received from the controller, and power saving advice information transmission means for transmitting to the controller the produced power saving advice information.

Abstract: A laser-marking system that marks products by emitting a laser beam. A laser detection device in the laser-marking system determines whether a laser emitted a laser beam in proper relation to the product. If the laser detection device determines that the laser beam was not emitted in proper relation to the product, an error output signal is generated. The proper relation determination may, for example, be time based or count based. The error output signal may be communicated to a controller, such as a central controller or a programmable logic controller. The controller may shut down operation of the assembly line, shut down the laser-marking system, and/or may alter such systems as desired. The error output signal may also be communicated to a customer interface and/or to a remote location.

Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for a tape automated bonding process, which is used to attach a plurality of flexible substrates constructed in the form of a tape to an edge of a rigid substrate, the monitoring apparatus comprises a sensor for sensing the variation of an optical signal and being moved along the edge of the rigid substrate so as to monitor the quantity of the flexible substrates according to the number of the variation of the optical signal.

Abstract: Methods for remotely detecting whether a specific object is in a specific position or state. For example, to detect a desired condition, such as; that a residential sliding door is both fully closed and also locked, or a stove element is turned off, or that a window's pane of glass is intact. Optical methods are used, and in one embodiment a retroreflective surface is affixed to the door's locking handle, or the control dial for the stove element, or the glass surface, respectively, for this example. A narrow light beam illuminates the location where the retroreflective surface would be if; the door is closed and its lock handle is in the locked position, the control dial for the stove element is in the off position, or the window's glass is intact. If a monitoring device senses the retroreflected beam of light, then the retroreflective surface must be in the desired position, and the desired condition has been confirmed.

Abstract: A method of correcting reading of a non-contact solids flow meter measuring solid particulate flow where the solid particulate product enters the flow tube at one end and flows past a sensor and then exits the flow tube. The sensor for the flow meter is very sensitive and not only can sense particulate flow, but can also pick up system machinery motion such as the rotation of a screw conveyor or other moving machinery parts as product flow and provide a system output reading in excess of the actual flow rate. In addition, if the product flow creates dust during the initial calibration process, and the dust is controlled at the actual installation, the system output reading may indicate a flow rate substantially less than the actual flow. The calibration method of this invention uses the original calibration or performance curves to accurately correct the output readings.

Abstract: The electrical apparatus comprises a monitoring device of at least one electrical component comprising electromagnetic receiving means connected to at least one sensor, and designed to receive an electromagnetic radiation from electromagnetic emitting means. The electrical switchgear support in the form of a rail comprises electromagnetic emitting means designed to emit an electromagnetic radiation to at least one electrical apparatus. The monitoring device comprises electromagnetic emitting means designed to emit an electromagnetic radiation to at least one electrical apparatus and to receive a return signal. The electrical installation comprising electrical apparatuses, at least one support and or a monitoring device.

Abstract: A bottle consisting of an upper portion with a neck, a lower portion with a recess, having a disc disposed in the recess which has either a phototransistor or a press switch to activate a battery unit, with a control circuit and a speaker to hear sounds from the bottle when moved or light affected.

Abstract: A wearable electric field detector has a housing mountable on a user's person and including a sensing circuit responsive to an electric field to generate a signal which varies in proportion to the strength of the sensed field, and an alarm circuit coupled to the sensing circuit for producing an intermittent audible alarm signal, which has a repetition rate varying in proportion to the strength of the field, and a visible alarm signal. A mute circuit is manually activatable for selectively muting the audible alarm and then automatically reenabling it after a predetermined time period. The detector includes a manually-actuatable test circuit. There is no on-off switch, the detector being disabled by being disposed in a shielded carrying case.

Abstract: A sensor (50) for determining the magnitude and intensity of solar radiation. The apparatus includes a diffuser (2) which provides radiation through channels (60a, 60b, 60c, 60d) within an elongated channeled member (5) onto photodiodes (54a, 54b, 54c, 54d). Each photodiode (54a, 54b, 54c, 54d) is optically isolated from other photodiodes. The diffuser (2) is arranged and constructed so as to receive radiation within 360 degrees of the surrounding environment.

Abstract: The device according to the invention provides a non-contacting temperature sensing device incorporating micro-bolometric detectors as the suitable infrared sensors for automotive applications. A first and second infrared sensors each include an active infrared sensing element and a temperature drift compensating element. A current bias is applied to the active infrared sensing element as well as to the temperature drift compensating element, which is identical in structure with the active infrared sensing element, and the voltage outputs of these two elements pass through a differential amplifier. The fluctuation in the substrate temperature or the ambient temperature affects the active sensing element and the compensating element in the same way, thus it is cancelled out. Instead of using one spectral band of the infrared radiation, as in the prior art, two spectral bands are used resulting in a first and second signal generated by the first and second infrared sensors.

Abstract: An unmanned vehicle for use in a stable such as a cowshed is provided with detection components for determining meteorological conditions. The detection components comprise sensors for determining temperature, air velocity, gas, analysis, light, air pressure, and air humidity. The detection sensors are disposed at different heights on the vehicle and on a telescopic carrier for providing determinations at variable altitudes. The vehicle includes a data processing unit for storing and analyzing data. The vehicle also includes a transmitting unit and signaling device for transfer of data and for alerting an operator of threatening meteorological conditions and when they become hostile. Composition and quantity of feed which is provided to animals in the stable is varied dependent on changes in climate detected by the vehicle.

Abstract: A method includes steps of establishing a wireless connection with a user terminal through a forward link and a return link; determining, during the connection, if an averaged transmitted power density associated with an antenna of the user terminal will equal or exceed, relative to a user of the terminal, at least one of a predetermined threshold level, within a specified unit of time, and an absolute threshold level; and taking action to reduce or eliminate the transmitted power at a time prior to or when the averaged transmitted power density level equals or exceeds the threshold level. The step of determining includes a step of considering the operation of the user terminal in a satellite communications system as well as in a terrestrial communications system.

Abstract: A hand held detection device for detecting electromagnetic waves at at least one predetermined frequency has an elongated conductor member having a bottom end portion for grasping by a hand of a user and a top end portion, the elongated conductor is configured to function as an antenna at the predetermined frequency. An inductor is supported on and electrically connected to the top end portion of the elongated conductor. A wave detection circuit is supported at the top end portion of the elongated conductor member one the inductor. The wave detection circuit includes a rectifier diode for rectifying high-frequency alternating current received in the inductor via the elongated conductor to produce a direct current. The wave detection circuit also includes an indicating means for indicating a presence of a direct current produced by the rectifier diode, the indicating means and the rectifier diode are serially connected to form a series circuit, and the series circuit is connected across a portion the inductor.

Abstract: To differentiate between lightning strikes and tornado generated electromagnetic signals, a tornado detection system and method is made up of RF receiving circuits which receive signals at two frequencies, while implementing a time variable automated calibration and the use of special algorithms, to reliably detect tornado events and to signal an alarm. A network of such systems can be implemented, using a plurality of antennas which are capable of discerning a directional vector, and integrating the directional information from multiple units by effecting a triangulation calculation in a server terminal to determining a position and path of an approaching tornado.

Abstract: A reflexive light source detector produces different light source value when a printing matter or something receives light so that a reader may receive different stimulus on his/her eyes and then adjust the light source to get proper light for reading or seeing. The detector includes a housing, and a photosensitive element contained in the housing and to be positioned to form an angle &thgr; toward the printing matter so as to let the light source light the printing matter or something and to measure the reflected light by the printing mater or something receiving the light from the light source. Then the detector can decide whether the reflected light is proper for reading or not, based on a preset value, protecting reader's eyes from becoming myopia.

Abstract: A gas station is disclosed which contains one or more fueling units; an electromagnetic-wave sensor for detecting electromagnetic waves which are unwanted in fueling operation; and one or more communicators for showing the electromagnetic-wave detection by the electromagnetic-wave sensor, the electromagnetic-wave sensor being provided outside the fueling units.

Abstract: Overhead garage door position monitoring systems including one or more smoke detector sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, thermal sensors and/or magnetic sensors to measure the smoke concentration level, the carbon monoxide level, the temperature and the position of an overhead garage door, respectively. These sensors are controlled by and report the status of parameters to a controller, such as a microcontroller. This controller is programmed to report the status of parameters through, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and/or a voice synthesizer and an audio speaker.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing and disinfecting a fluid includes a container (12) and a cap member (16) for containing the fluid and a cap member (16). The container (12) defines an opening (14) through which the fluid is dispensed therein and is removed therefrom and has at least two electrical contacts which mate with at least two electrical contacts in the cap member. The cap member (16) removably seals the opening of the container (12). An ultraviolet source (24) is mounted to at least one of the container (12) and the cap member (16). The ultraviolet source (24) emits ultraviolet radiation to disinfect the fluid contained in the container (12). A power source is electrically coupled to the at least two electrical contacts of the container (12).

Abstract: A system is disclosed for determining the temperature of a cooktop having an upper surface and a lower surface. At least one controllable energy source is located below the lower surface of the cooktop to heat the area above the energy source on the cooktop, and at least one sensor with at least one detector to detect infrared radiation from the cooktop above the energy source. The level of infrared radiation is representative of the temperature of the cooktop, which may be glass ceramic. The sensor provides a signal indicative of the temperature of the cooktop which is then used to control the energy source in order to protect the cooktop from extreme temperatures. The signal may be alternatively utilized to provide an indication of a hot cooktop surface after the energy sources have been turned off. The signal optionally is also utilized to provide automatic control of the energy source to maintain a predetermined temperature, or to prevent exceeding a maximum temperature.

Abstract: The electromagnetic radiation monitor includes a low frequency surface charge sensor, a high frequency sensor, and a lossy material sandwiched between the two sensors. The surface charge sensor responds to electromagnetic radiation from about 100 KHz to about 1 GHz. The high frequency sensor responds to frequencies from about 300 MHz to about 100 GHz. An output signal from the low frequency sensor is detected, and provided to an adjustable gain amplifier. An output signal from the high frequency sensor is similarly provided to a second adjustable gain amplifier. Output signals from the two amplifiers are summed by a summing circuit, whose output signal is provided to one input of a comparator circuit. The output signal from the comparator circuit triggers an audible or visible alarm from the alarm circuit when electromagnetic radiation detected by either or both of the low and high frequency sensors causes the output signal of the summer circuit to exceed a threshold.

Abstract: A method and system wherein a system gateway (18) determines, from closed loop power control information, a power density at an antenna (13a) of a user terminal 13. The gateway also maintains a record of a duration of time that the power density exceeds a specified threshold. The gateway determines if an averaged transmitted power density associated with the antenna of the user terminal will equal or exceed at least one of a predetermined threshold level, within a specified period of time, or an absolute threshold level. If the gateway determines that a threshold will probably be exceeded if the call connection is maintained, the gateway terminates the connection prior to a time that the user terminal averaged transmitted power density level equals or exceeds the predetermined or absolute threshold level. A tone or a visual indicator may be employed to warn the user that a current connection or call will be terminated. Provisions are made for allowing predetermined types of calls (e.g.

Abstract: A multifunction sensor device which provides various transducer functions including means for performing temperature sensing, ambient light sensing, motion detection, switching functions and a means to put the device in an on, off or auto mode. The device has utility in environments such as that found in offices, schools, homes, industrial plants or any other type of automated facility in which sensors are utilized for energy monitoring and control, end user convenience or HVAC control. Key elements of the invention include overcoming the difficulty of mounting diverse sensors or transducers within the same device or housing; permitting these various sensors to exist in a single package that can be mounted to a wall in a substantially flush manner; and eliminating the requirement of an air flow channel in the device, thus minimizing any adverse effects on the motion detecting element or sensor as well as providing built in partial hysteresis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting the presence of objects such as persons in front of a high-frequency communications antenna comprising a transmitting element connected to a circulator. The circulator is connected to an antenna system which transmits the signal pursuant to a designated communications or other application. The circulator is also connected to a regulator circuit which measures a reflected signal received from the circulator. The regulator circuit thereupon initiates a reduction or termination in power from the transmitting element, and/or initiates an alarm, when the regulator circuit detects a reflected signal having a magnitude indicating the presence of the object to be detected.

Abstract: A corona discharge detection device comprising an optical sensor for generating an electrical signal in response to the detection of ultraviolet radiation in a prescribed range. The detection device further comprises an alarm unit which is electrically connected to the optical sensor for generating an alarm signal in response to the electrical signal generated by the optical sensor. The detection device may further comprise a directional unit for determining the location of origin of the ultraviolet radiation. The optical sensor is configured to sense ultraviolet radiation in a spectral range of from about 185 nanometers to about 260 nanometers, and of an intensity in the range of about 1 picowatt per square centimeter to about 1 nanowatt per square centimeter.

Abstract: An optical device on board an aircraft for detecting icing conditions including an optical beam emitter to create at least one illuminated external volume of measurement through which there circulates a flow of air charged with water particles; a collector optical system for the collection of at least a part of the light beam back-scattered by the water particles (the external volume of measurement being located on the optical axis of said collector optical system); a photodetector for detecting back-scattered optical beams; a signal processor for processing the signal delivered by the photodetector to compute the severity of the icing conditions; an information provider for providing information on the calculated severity of the icing conditions. Advantageously, the optical means for the differentiation of device includes a differentiation for differentiating between liquid water particles and solid water particles, based on analysis of the polarization.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing and disinfecting a fluid includes a container (12) for containing the fluid and a cap member (16). The container (12) defines an opening (14) through which the fluid is dispensed therein and is removed therefrom. The cap member (16) removably seals the opening of the container (12). An ultraviolet source (24) is mounted to the cap member (16). The ultraviolet source (24) emits ultraviolet radiation to disinfect the fluid contained in the container (12).

Abstract: The system comprises in combination: a) at least one station (1-13) for detecting the irradiation conditions; b) at least one connection means (19, 21) from said detection station to a user terminal (23); c) at least one detection device (25) for detecting the characteristics of the epidermis of the person who is to be exposed to the ultraviolet radiation; d) correlation means in said user terminal for correlating the irradiation conditions to the characteristics of the epidermis of the person and to the protection factor of any skin-protecting preparations used by the person or to the radiation exposure time, said correlation means indicating the exposure time or the protection factor as a function of the remaining correlated parameters.

Abstract: A warning and measuring device for personal protection with a rod-shaped casing shape. The shape of the casing allows the device to be suitable 1. for measuring if held in the hand or mounted on a tripod, 2. for warning when carried on the body and 3. for leak detection in hollow conductors. This is made possible through a compact construction and a movable absorber which in an absorber package within a cap can be fitted to the casing while the cap is detachable and can be used as handle on the other end. The device can be economically manufactured and with regard to quality can be considered a high-quality measuring instrument.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for encouraging workers who work in a hygienically controlled area to wash their hands before exiting an associated sanitation area. Broadly, the present invention comprises a housing located in the sanitation area for receiving at least a portion of the hands of the worker. A detector is operatively associated with the housing. The detector detects whether or not the hands of the worker have recently been washed in response to the insertion of the hands of the worker into the housing. A communication media is also operatively associated with the detector for outputting one of a sanitary signaling media in response to the detection that the hands of the worker have been washed and an unsanitary signaling media in response to the detection that the hands of the worker have not been washed.

Abstract: The device assists those who are visually handicapped and, in particular, warns blind or visually impaired travellers that they have entered a potentially dangerous area proximal to the edge of boarding platforms of the type typically found in public railway transit systems. An InfraRed Integrated Information System consists of an array of infrared transmitters and a portable detector/warning device to be held by the blind traveller. The transmitters create a beam of infrared light which bathes the section of the platform proximal to the platform edge. As the traveller moves into the region of the platform covered by the emission, the sensors in the warning device are activated and by audio, tactile or other stimuli alert the traveller of entry into the danger zone.

Abstract: A proximity detector including a rapid transistor (i.e., one having a very high product gain-band) connected to a high potential voltage via a capacitor. The capacitor is connected in series to a source of a pulsed current that is a function of the proximity of an object. The capacitor is also connected to a low potential voltage via an RC circuit. The mid-point of the RC circuit is connected to the collector of a transistor connected to the high potential voltage by a collector resistor in parallel with a gain resistor of the amplifier.

Abstract: A portable, low cost, laser detection system which generates an alarm signal that can be used to produce visual and/or audible warnings indicating the range, location and type laser energy detected. Such laser detection system utilizes a cooperating quadraplex sensor assembly, to provide a complete 360 degree laser detection coverage, mounted on a helmet assembly which includes a helmet shell, a cushioned impact liner coextensive with the interior surface of the helmet shell and a suspended crown support liner the combination of which provides enhanced protection of the user and stabilization of the laser detection system.

Abstract: A wallet having a plurality of card slots for holding the credit cards, the charge cards, etc. The card slots are provided with a sensing circuit, an IC circuit board connected in series with a buzzer and a photo sensor. The buzzer is not activated when a card is removed from one of the card slots. The buzzer is activated when the card is not returned to the card slot and when the wallet remains unfolded such that the photo sensor is exposed to light.

Abstract: Light is directed towards at least one eye of a user of a personal alert safety system (PASS), and the reflected light is sensed. When the eye blinks, there is an interruption of the reflected light signal indicating that the user is conscious. Electronic circuitry converts the variation in reflected light intensity into a corresponding variation in electrical signal. The PASS interprets this variable electrical signal as a reset indicator, so that as long as the wearer is conscious, the audio warning alarm in the PASS does not sound. The light is provided by a light emitting diode in the near infrared range, and the reflected beam may be sensed by a photodiode or phototransistor. Alternatively, ultra sound, or other light frequencies, may be used.

Abstract: Detection of the existence, magnitude, and frequency of occurrence of a plurality of ESD events is achieved by using an envelope detector to process signals generated by ESD events and received by an antenna. The ESD event detector includes an antenna for producing a signal waveform in response to electromagnetic fields incident thereupon, a demodulator coupled to the antenna for generating an envelope waveform that is related to the envelope of the signal waveform, a threshold window discriminator coupled to the demodulator for generating an indication signal if the envelope detected by the demodulator has a magnitude between a first and a second threshold, and a counter coupled to the threshold window discriminator for counting the number of indication signals received from the threshold window detector.

Abstract: Sticky polymeric particles are planted upon a site to be remotely monitored over a substantial future time period for the presence of toxic target agents. An airborne vehicle positioned over the site directs a laser beam toward the site and if one or more toxic agents are present at the site, a return beam is produced having one or more known spectral signatures corresponding to the toxic target agents which are recognized by a photospectrometer in the airborne vehicle. Alternatively, a chemiluminescent reaction between the toxin and the particles can produce an alarm condition right at the monitored site.

Abstract: A photo-control apparatus comprising a photo-control circuit that includes two or more photo-cells connected in parallel that respond to ambient light. The circuit includes a switch that connects a power source to a load. When the photo-cells are exposed to ambient light, current flows through the parallel photo-cells operating the switch which disengages the load from the source. The plural parallel photo-cells in the photo-control circuit provide for improved reliability and have the potential to cost less to manufacture than a single photo-cell as used in a conventional photo-control circuit.