Interlocking container

A lightweight, collapsible container is provided for storing and transporting flowable materials on an irregularly shaped rectangular pallet. The container is provided with interlocking panels across the bottom, which are maintained in position by hydrostatic pressure generated by flowable material positioned within a flexible bag provided within the container. The top of the container is allowed to orient into its hydrostatically biased equilateral orientation, and provided with an equilateral octangular lid. This construction maintains the container bottom width substantially less than its length, with a minimum of support structures and materials.

Floor plan deduction using lighting control and sensing

An apparatus and method of deducing building floor plan information are disclosed. One method includes changing an intensity of light generated from a plurality of lights within a building. A plurality of light sensors senses an intensity of light received from at least one of the plurality of lights. A distance between at least one light sensor and at least one of the plurality of lights is estimated based on the sensed intensity of light.

Model based discriminant analysis

A model can be trained for discriminant analysis for substance classification and/or measuring calibration. One method includes interacting at least one sensor with one or more known substances, each sensor element being configured to detect a characteristic of the one or more known substances, generating an sensor response from each sensor element corresponding to each known substance, wherein each known substance corresponds to a known response stored in a database, and training a neural network to provide a discriminant analysis classification model for an unknown substance, the neural network using each sensor response as inputs and one or more substance types as outputs, and the outputs corresponding to the one or more known substances.

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively, the first and second computational elements are configured to be either positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of the sample. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A method of determining a characteristic of a sample , comprising:optically interacting an electromagnetic radiation source with the sample and a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel and a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel, wherein the first and second computational elements are configured to be positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of the sample;producing first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively;receiving the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations with a first detector; andgenerating an output signal with the first detector, the output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first detector is a split detector comprising a first detector portion arranged in the primary channel and a second detector portion arranged in the reference channel claim 1 , wherein receiving the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations further comprises:receiving the first modified electromagnetic radiation with the first detector portion; andreceiving the second modified electromagnetic radiation with the second ...

Laboratory condensers with passive heat exchange

The present invention relates to a condenser for condensing gasses. The condenser comprises: an inner tube (1) having a bore (3) therethrough; an outer tube (2) having a bore (8) therethrough and two ends, the inner tube (1) passing through the bore of the outer tube (2); and a seal (15, 16) at each end of the outer tube. The outer tube has exterior and interior fins and is sealed to the inner tube so as to define a sealed space (11) between the inner tube and the outer tube. The space (11) is adapted to contain a liquid in contact with the inner tube (1) and the outer tube (2). The invention further relates to a method of condensing a gas using the condenser, a process of making a chemical using the condenser and a kit adapted to be assembled into the condenser.

FLUID STORAGE IN COMPRESSED-GAS ENERGY STORAGE AND RECOVERY SYSTEMS

In various embodiments, lined underground reservoirs and/or insulated pipeline vessels are utilized for storage of compressed fluid in conjunction with energy storage and recovery systems. 1. A method of fabricating a lined underground reservoir , the method comprising:excavating rock at a site location to form an open shaft extending below ground level; an invert section enclosing a bottom of the interior volume,', 'a dome section enclosing a top of the interior volume opposite the bottom, and', 'a sidewall section substantially gaplessly spanning the invert and dome sections, wherein after assembly, the liner is disposed within the shaft below ground level;, 'assembling within or above the shaft a fluid-impermeable liner substantially enclosing an interior volume for containing at least one of compressed gas or heat-transfer liquid, the interior volume being smaller than a total volume of the open shaft, wherein the liner comprisesdisposing a surround material to at least partially fill a gap between an outer surface of the liner and an inner surface of the shaft around at least a portion of the outer surface of the liner;after assembly of the liner and disposal of the surround material so as to form a surrounded liner, disposing an overfill material over the surrounded liner to fill at least a portion of a space between the ground level and the surrounded liner; andfluidly connecting the interior volume enclosed by the liner to a fluid source or fluid sink external to the surrounded liner, thereby forming the lined underground reservoir.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the surround material comprises concrete or metal-reinforced concrete.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the liner comprises at least one of steel or plastic.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the overfill material comprises at least one of rock claim 1 , concrete claim 1 , or metal-reinforced concrete.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the overfill material comprises a volume of heat-transfer ...

Imaging Systems for Optical Computing Devices

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train to optically interact with a sample and at least one integrated computational element, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation. A sampling window is arranged adjacent the sample and configured to allow transmission of the electromagnetic radiation therethrough and has one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals. A first focal lens is arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation. A structural element defines a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough while transmission of the one or more stray signals is substantially blocked by the structural element. 1. An optical computing device , comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation into an optical train, where the electromagnetic radiation optically interacts with a sample and at least one integrated computational element arranged within the optical train, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation;a sampling window arranged adjacent the sample and configured to allow transmission of the electromagnetic radiation therethrough in order to generate the optically interacted radiation into the optical train, the sampling window having one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals;a first focal lens arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation; anda structural element defining a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass ...

Portable vital signs measurement instrument and method of use thereof

The invention is a portable vital signs measurement instrument, systems and methods that provide a variety of measurement capabilities, including blood pressure, temperature, pulse oximetry, and other indications of patient status. The instrument, systems and methods include the ability to communicate wirelessly, for example using Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11B), with a server, so that information can be entered easily, securely and reliably into a medical database system accessible by way of the server. The systems and methods provide for the instrument to initiate a communication session by attempting to discover a server access point in its vicinity.

Imaging systems for optical computing devices

One disclosed optical computing device includes a sampling window arranged on a housing, an electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation, the electromagnetic radiation being configured to optically interact with a substance outside of the sampling window, at least one integrated computational element (ICE) core arranged to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation, and a detector arranged to receive the electromagnetic radiation following its optical interaction with the substance and the at least one ICE core and generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the substance, wherein the electromagnetic radiation impinges upon the surfaces of the sampling window at an angle of incidence from normal to the sampling window, and wherein specular reflected light reflects off the sampling window at an opposing angle of incidence, the specular reflected light emanating away from the sampling window such that it is not detected by the ...

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively, the first and second computational elements are configured to be either positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of the sample. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Thermal storage unit and methods for using the same to heat a fluid

A thermal storage unit having at least one conduit around which a cast is made is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional piping or tubing to create conduits that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass by proving multiple passes for the fluid through the cast. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the conduit.

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to produce optically interacted light, and at least one of the at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to be disassociated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A method of determining a characteristic of a sample , comprising:optically interacting an electromagnetic radiation source with the sample and at least two integrated computational elements, wherein at least one of the at least two integrated computational elements is configured to be disassociated with the characteristic of the sample;producing optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements;receiving with at least one detector the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements, thereby generating a first signal and a second signal; andcomputationally combining the first and second signals to determine the characteristic of the sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein each of the first and second integrated computational elements is configured to be disassociated with the characteristic of the sample.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one detector computationally combines the first and second signals.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one detector is a first detector claim 1 , the method further comprising:detecting with a second detector electromagnetic radiation from the electromagnetic radiation source;generate a third signal with the second ...

Medical viewing device

Distributed Lighting Control

Apparatuses, methods and systems for controlling a luminaire are disclosed. One embodiment includes a lighting control sub-system. The lighting control sub-system includes a luminaire, a controller coupled to the luminaire, and a sensor coupled to the controller. The sensor generates a sensed input. The lighting control sub-system further includes a communication interface, wherein the communication interface couples the controller to an external device. The controller is operative to control a light output of the luminaire based at least in part on the sensed input, and to communicate at least one of state or sensed information to the external device. 1. A lighting control sub-system comprisinga luminaire;a controller coupled to the luminaire;a sensor coupled to the controller, the sensor generating a sensed input;a communication interface, the communication interface coupling the controller to an external device; control a light output of the luminaire based at least in part on the sensed input; and', 'communicate at least one of state or sensed information to the external device., 'wherein the controller is operative to2. The sub-system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further operative to receive information from the external device claim 1 , wherein the received information influences a current state of the lighting control sub-system claim 1 , or the received information includes parameters that influence a future state of the lighting control sub-system.3. The sub-system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further operative to receive information from the external device claim 1 , wherein the received information influences a lighting control sub-system profile.4. The sub-system of claim 3 , wherein the lighting control sub-system profile comprises parameters claim 3 , wherein the parameters are adaptively updated.5. The sub-system of claim 3 , further comprising the controller operative to receive a plurality of lighting control sub-system profiles. ...

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

An exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that optically interacts with a sample having a characteristic of interest, a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a first modified electromagnetic radiation, wherein the first integrated computational element is configured to be positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of interest, a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a second modified electromagnetic radiation, wherein the second integrated computational element is configured to correlated to the characteristic of interest with an opposite sign relative to the first integrated computational element, and a first detector arranged to generate a first signal from the first modified electromagnetic radiation and a second ...

Systems and methods for optical fluid identification approximation and calibration

Systems and methods for optical fluid identification approximation and calibration are described herein. One example method includes populating a database with a calculated pseudo optical sensor (CPOS) response of a first optical tool to a first sample fluid. The CPOS response of the first optical tool may be based on a transmittance spectrum of a sample fluid and may comprise a complex calculation using selected components of the first optical tool. A first model may be generated based, at least in part, on the database. The first model may receive as an input an optical sensor response and output a predicted fluid property. A second model may also be generated based, at least in part, on the database. The second model may receive as an input at least one known/measured fluid/environmental property value and may output a predicted pseudo optical sensor response of the first optical tool.

PROCESS FOR PRODUCING THICK SHEET FROM DIRECT CHILL CAST COLD ROLLED ALUMINUM ALLOY

A process for producing thick aluminum/aluminum alloy sheet useful for truck parts and the like includes the steps of feeding molten aluminum/aluminum alloy (10) into a direct casting apparatus (12) to provide an ingot that is subjected to a cooling (15) and optional scalping step (14), followed by hot rolling (18) to provide a sheet having a thickness for from about 3.2 mm to 5.8 mm and is suitable to coil in step (20), and where the sheet is cooled (21) to form 15° C. to 60° C. and cold rolled (22, 24) at from about 120° C. to 160° C. to reduce the sheet to from about 0.9 mm to 1.5 mm and cool (23, 25) it to from 120° C. to 160° C., where heat generated during the cold rolling (22, 24) stabilizes the sheet without additional energy intensive oven furnace anealing. The reduced sheet can then be trimmed (28) and coated (30) as with paint or the like.

Systems and methods for providing backup energy to a load

Backup energy systems utilizing compressed air storage (CAS) systems and bridging energy systems to supply backup power to a load are provided. During a power failure, the bridging energy system provides backup power to the load at least until the CAS system begins supplying adequate power. In various embodiments, backup power capability is enhanced through the use of one or more exhaustless heaters, which are used to heat compressed air. The compressed air, in turn, drives a turbine which is used to power an electrical generator. In various embodiments, ambient air heat exchangers or other types of heat exchangers are used to heat compressed air prior to the compressed air being routed to the turbine, thereby increasing system efficiency. Backup power and backup HVAC are also provided by utilizing turbine exhaust, heat exchangers and various resistive heating elements.

Systems and methods for providing cooling in compressed air storage power supply systems

A system and method for cooling electrical machines (e.g., generators), sub-systems (e.g., power electronics), and components (e.g., bearings) in an electrical generation system such as a compressed air storage (CAS) energy system or a thermal and compressed air storage (TACAS) energy system is provided. Cooling is derived from the thermal expansion of a compressed gas, which may be the same gas used to drive a turbine-generator of CAS or TACAS energy system.

Mobile medical workstation

A medical workstation is defined by a supporting structure having at least one medical diagnostic instrument disposed thereupon. A first display is further disposed on a first side of the supporting structure and a second display is disposed on a second side of the supporting structure in a manner substantially opposite from the first display. Each of the first and second displays are interconnected to the at least one medical diagnostic instrument to permit at least one of the displays in order to display diagnostic results and are tandemly or independently controllable.

VALVE ACTIVATION IN COMPRESSED-GAS ENERGY STORAGE AND RECOVERY SYSTEMS

In various embodiments, valve efficiency and reliability are enhanced via use of hydraulic or magnetic valve actuation, valves configured for increased actuation speed, and/or valves controlled to reduce collision forces during actuation. 1. An energy storage and recovery system comprising:a cylinder assembly (i) for, therewithin, at least one of compression of gas to store energy or expansion of gas to recover energy and (ii) having an interior compartment;a valve for at least one of admitting fluid into the interior compartment or exhausting fluid from the interior compartment through a gated port, the valve comprising a valve member for occluding the gated port; andfor actuating the valve, an actuation mechanism comprising (i) an actuation cylinder having a lateral surface and first and second opposing end surfaces, (ii) a piston disposed within and dividing the actuation cylinder into first and second chambers, a difference in fluid pressure between the two chambers actuating the valve, (iii) within the first chamber, a first occludable orifice defined by the lateral surface and configured to be at least partially occluded by the piston during movement of the piston within the actuation cylinder, (iv) within the first chamber, a first fixed orifice configured to not be occluded by the piston during movement of the piston within the actuation cylinder, (v) within the second chamber, a second occludable orifice defined by the lateral surface and configured to be at least partially occluded by the piston during movement of the piston within the actuation cylinder, and (vi) within the second chamber, a second fixed orifice configured to not be occluded by the piston during movement of the piston within the actuation cylinder.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first fixed orifice is defined by the first end surface of the actuation cylinder and the second fixed orifice is defined by the second end surface of the actuation cylinder.3. The system of claim 1 , ...

METHODS OF CALIBRATION TRANSFER FOR A TESTING INSTRUMENT

A method of calibration transfer for a testing instrument includes: collecting a first sample; generating a standard response of a first instrument based, at least in part, on the first sample; and performing instrument standardization of a second instrument based, at least in part, on the standard response of the first instrument. Data corresponding to a second sample is then obtained using the second instrument and a component of the second sample is identified based, at least in part, on a calibration model.

Remote sensing methods and systems using nonlinear light conversion and sense signal transformation

A system includes a light source and a nonlinear converter optically coupled to and remote from the light source. The nonlinear light converter converts a light pulse received from the light source to a broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse. The system also includes a sensor in situ with the nonlinear light converter. The sensor performs a sense operation based on the broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the sense operation. The system also includes an electro-optical interface in situ with the sensor that transforms the electrical signal to an optical signal for conveyance to a signal collection interface.

Process for producing thick sheet from direct chill cast cold rolled aluminum alloy

A process for producing thick aluminum/aluminum alloy sheet useful for truck parts and the like includes the steps of feeding molten aluminum/aluminum alloy (10) into a direct casting apparatus (12) to provide an ingot that is subjected to a cooling (15) and optional scalping step (14), followed by hot rolling (18) to provide a sheet having a thickness for from about 3.2 mm to 5.8 mm and is suitable to coil in step (20), and where the sheet is cooled (21) to less than to 60° C. and cold rolled (22, 24) at from about 120° C. to 160° C. to reduce the sheet to about 0.9 mm to 1.5 mm to 160° C., where heat generated during the cold rolling (22, 24) stabilizes the sheet without additional energy intensive oven furnace annealing. The reduced sheet can then be trimmed (28) and coated (30) as with paint or the like.

Gear pack cover

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements are configured to produce optically interacted light and further configured to be associated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Thermal storage unit and methods for using the same to heat a fluid

A thermal storage unit having at least one annular flow channel formed between an inner and outer member is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional mill products to create annular flow channels that are coupled to each other via transverse channels for allowing various fluid routing arrangements and piping connections, and that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass included in the inner and outer members. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the annular channel. The thermal storage unit's size and shape are optimized and its performance enhanced by providing features for maintaining the position of the inner member within the outer member, features for providing support for the unit, and insulation.

Medical viewing device

Devices Having One or More Integrated Computational Elements and Methods for Determining a Characteristic of a Sample by Computationally Combining Signals Produced Therewith

Optical computing devices containing one or more integrated computational elements may be used to produce two or more detector output signals that are computationally combinable to determine a characteristic of a sample. The devices may comprise a first integrated computational element and a second integrated computational element, each integrated computational element having an optical function associated therewith, and the optical function of the second integrated computational element being at least partially offset in wavelength space relative to that of the first integrated computational element; an optional electromagnetic radiation source; at least one detector configured to receive electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with each integrated computational element and produce a first signal and a second signal associated therewith; and a signal processing unit operable for computationally combining the first signal and the second signal to determine a characteristic of a sample. 1. A device comprising:a first integrated computational element and a second integrated computational element, each integrated computational element having an optical function associated therewith, and the optical function of the second integrated computational element being at least partially offset in wavelength space relative to that of the first integrated computational element;an optional electromagnetic radiation source;at least one detector configured to receive electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with each integrated computational element and produce a first signal and a second signal associated therewith; anda signal processing unit operable for computationally combining the first signal and the second signal to determine a characteristic of a sample.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing unit determines a difference between the first signal and the second signal.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein each integrated ...

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A device , comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample having a characteristic of interest;a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel and configured to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a first modified electromagnetic radiation;a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel and configured to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a second modified electromagnetic radiation; anda first detector arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively, and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first detector is a split detector comprising a first detector portion arranged in the primary channel to receive the first modified electromagnetic radiation and a second detector portion arranged in the reference channel to receive the second modified electromagnetic radiation.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the split detector computationally combines the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations to determine the characteristic of the sample.4. The device of claim 2 , wherein the output signal comprises a first output signal generated by the ...

Lighting Control With Automatic and Bypass Modes

Methods, systems and apparatuses for controlling a light through an automatic mode and a bypass mode are disclosed. One method includes receiving physical signaling. Detection of a predetermined sequence of the physical signaling is used to determine whether to control the light in the automatic mode or the bypass mode. The automatic mode provides network control of the light, and the bypass mode bypasses the network control of the light. One lighting system includes a light, a sensor for receiving and sensing the physical signaling, and a controller detecting a predetermined sequence of the physical signaling. Detection of a predetermined sequence of the physical signaling is used to determine whether to control the light in the automatic mode or the bypass mode. The automatic mode provides network control of the light, and the bypass mode bypasses the network control of the light. 1. A method of controlling a light through an automatic mode and a bypass mode , comprising;receiving physical signaling;detecting a first predetermined sequence of the physical signaling for determining whether to control the light in the automatic mode or the bypass mode; whereinthe automatic mode provides network control of the light, and the bypass mode bypasses the network control of the light.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein detection of the first predetermined sequence toggles the light from a one of the automatic mode and the bypass mode to the other of the automatic mode and the bypass mode.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising a second predetermined sequence claim 1 , wherein detection of the first predetermined sequence causes the light to be operated in the automatic mode and detection of the second predetermined sequence causes the light to be operated in the bypass mode.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the first predetermined sequence and the second predetermined sequence are non-overlapping.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the first predetermined sequence and ...

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to produce optically interacted light, and at least one of the at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to be disassociated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Medical viewing device

Thermal storage unit and methods for using the same to head a fluid

A thermal storage unit having at least one annular flow channel formed between an inner and outer member is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional mill products to create annular flow channels that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass included in the inner and outer members. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the annular channel.

VALVE ACTIVATION IN COMPRESSED-GAS ENERGY STORAGE AND RECOVERY SYSTEMS

In various embodiments, valve efficiency and reliability are enhanced via use of hydraulic or magnetic valve actuation, valves configured for increased actuation speed, and/or valves controlled to reduce collision forces during actuation. 1. An energy storage and recovery system comprising:a cylinder assembly (i) for, therewithin, at least one of compression of gas to store energy or expansion of gas to recover energy and (ii) having an interior compartment;a valve for at least one of admitting fluid into the interior compartment or exhausting fluid from the interior compartment through a gated port, the valve comprising a valve member for occluding the gated port; andfor actuating the valve, an actuation mechanism comprising (i) an actuation cylinder having a lateral surface and two opposing end surfaces, (ii) a piston disposed within and dividing the actuation cylinder into two chambers, the valve being configured for actuation by a difference in fluid pressure between the two chambers, and (iii) an occludable orifice defined by the lateral surface and configured to be at least partially occluded by the piston during movement of the piston within the actuation cylinder.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the occludable orifice is configured to be completely occluded by the piston when the piston is disposed proximate an end surface of the actuation cylinder.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the occludable orifice is configured to not be occluded by the piston when the piston is disposed proximate an end surface of the actuation cylinder.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein a lateral dimension of at least a portion of the occludable orifice varies as a function of distance from one of the end surfaces of the actuation cylinder.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein (i) a lateral dimension of a first portion of the occludable orifice does not vary as a function of distance from one of the end surfaces of the actuation cylinder and (ii) a lateral dimension of ...

Laboratory Condensers With Passive Heat Exchange

The present invention relates to a condenser for condensing gasses. The condenser comprises: an inner tube (1) having a bore (3) therethrough; an outer tube (2) having a bore (8) therethrough and two ends, the inner tube (1) passing through the bore of the outer tube (2); and a seal (15, 16) at each end of the outer tube. The outer tube has exterior and interior fins and is sealed to the inner tube so as to define a sealed space (11) between the inner tube and the outer tube. The space (11) is adapted to contain a liquid in contact with the inner tube (1) and the outer tube (2). The invention further relates to a method of condensing a gas using the condenser, a process of making a chemical using the condenser and a kit adapted to be assembled into the condenser.

Feature Cloning Based on Geometric Search

A method of cloning models of a physical fastener may include a computer-aided design (CAD) system receiving one or more instructions that identify a base model of a physical fastener. For each of one or more socket models having at least one characteristic corresponding to the base model, the method may further include generating a clone fastener model based on the base model of a physical fastener and at least one physical property of the one or more socket models. 1. A method of generating a model of a physical fastener , comprising:receiving, by a computer-aided design (CAD) system, one or more instructions identifying a geometric entity;generating a fastener model including the geometric entity and one or more associated elements, the one or more associated elements depending on the geometric entity and characteristics of an associated socket model.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the geometric entity represents at least a portion of an element of a fastener.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the geometric entity represents a bolt head claim 2 , and the one or more associated elements represent at least one of a threaded body and a nut.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more instructions are derived from a user performing a low-complexity action.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the low-complexity action includes a single click of a computer mouse.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the association between the geometric entity and the socket model indicates a specific fastener to be used with a socket that the socket model represents.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein characteristics of the fastener model correspond to at least one physical property derived from the socket model.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the at least one physical property includes one or more of head diameter claim 7 , nut diameter claim 7 , length of the socket claim 7 , inside diameter of the socket claim 7 , and body radius.9. The method of claim 1 , further including ...

Methods of calibration transfer for a testing instrument

A method of calibration transfer for a testing instrument includes: collecting a first sample; generating a standard response of a first instrument based, at least in part, on the first sample; and performing instrument standardization of a second instrument based, at least in part, on the standard response of the first instrument. Data corresponding to a second sample is then obtained using the second instrument and a component of the second sample is identified based, at least in part, on a calibration model.

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively, the first and second computational elements are configured to be either positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of the sample. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A device , comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample having a characteristic of interest;a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel and configured to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a first modified electromagnetic radiation, wherein the first integrated computational element is configured to be positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of interest;a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel and configured to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a second modified electromagnetic radiation, wherein the second integrated computational element is configured to be positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of interest; anda first detector arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively, and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first integrated computational element is configured to be positively correlated to the characteristic of interest and the second ...

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Imaging systems for optical computing devices

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train to optically interact with a sample and at least one integrated computational element, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation. A sampling window is arranged adjacent the sample and configured to allow transmission of the electromagnetic radiation therethrough and has one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals. A first focal lens is arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation. A structural element defines a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough while transmission of the one or more stray signals is substantially blocked by the structural element.

Lighting control with automatic and bypass modes

Methods, systems and apparatuses for controlling a light through an automatic mode and a bypass mode are disclosed. One method includes receiving physical signaling. Detection of a predetermined sequence of the physical signaling is used to determine whether to control the light in the automatic mode or the bypass mode. The automatic mode provides network control of the light, and the bypass mode bypasses the network control of the light. One lighting system includes a light, a sensor for receiving and sensing the physical signaling, and a controller detecting a predetermined sequence of the physical signaling. Detection of a predetermined sequence of the physical signaling is used to determine whether to control the light in the automatic mode or the bypass mode. The automatic mode provides network control of the light, and the bypass mode bypasses the network control of the light.

Medical viewing device

Systems and methods for providing resources such as cooling and secondary power to electronics in a data center

Systems and methods for providing operational resources such as cooling and secondary electrical power to electronics in server racks in data centers is provided. Pressurized air is provided in a closed loop that is routed through each of the servers to a heat exchanger. The electronics in the servers are in thermal contact with the closed loop via a heat sink such that heat from the electronics is transferred to the closed loop. The heated pressurized air travels from the server racks to the heat exchanger which removes the heat from the air and exhausts it to the atmosphere. The pressurized air in the closed loop may be cooled through the use of chilled water, stored water, or both, in which case the closed loop passes through the water prior to traveling to the heat sinks.

Medical viewing device

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A method of determining a characteristic of a sample , comprising:optically interacting an electromagnetic radiation source with the sample and a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel and a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel;producing first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively;receiving the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations with a first detector; andgenerating an output signal with the first detector, the output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first detector is a split detector comprising a first detector portion arranged in the primary channel and a second detector portion arranged in the reference channel claim 1 , wherein receiving the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations further comprises:receiving the first modified electromagnetic radiation with the first detector portion; andreceiving the second modified electromagnetic radiation with the second detector portion.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising computationally combining the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations with the first detector to determine the characteristic of the sample.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the output signal comprises a first output ...

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and first and second integrated computational elements arranged in primary and reference channels, respectively, the first and second computational elements are configured to be either positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of the sample. The first and second integrated computational elements produce first and second modified electromagnetic radiations, and a detector is arranged to receive the first and second modified electromagnetic radiations and generate an output signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to produce optically interacted light, and at least one of the at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to be disassociated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Devices having an integrated computational element and a proximal interferent monitor and methods for determining a characteristic of a sample therewith

The output of optical computing devices containing an integrated computational element can be corrected when an interferent substance or condition is present. The devices may comprise an optional electromagnetic radiation source; a sample detection unit comprising an integrated computational element and a detector configured to receive electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with the integrated computational element and produce a sample signal associated therewith; an interferent monitor located proximal to the sample detection unit, the interferent monitor being configured to produce an interferent signal associated with an interferent substance; and a signal processing unit operable to convert the interferent signal into an interferent input form suitable for being computationally combined with the sample signal, the signal processing unit being further operable to computationally combine the sample signal and the interferent input form to determine a characteristic of ...

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to produce optically interacted light, and at least one of the at least two integrated computational elements may be configured to be disassociated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A device , comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements, the at least two integrated computational elements being configured to produce optically interacted light, wherein at least one of the at least two integrated computational elements is configured to be disassociated with a characteristic of the sample; andat least one detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and generate a first signal and a second signal, wherein the first signal and the second signal are computationally combined to determine the characteristic of the sample.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein each of the at least two integrated computational elements is configured to be disassociated with the characteristic of the sample.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the characteristic of the sample is a first characteristic claim 1 , and wherein the at least one of the first and second integrated computational elements is configured to be associated with a second characteristic of the sample.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the optically interacted light comprises a first beam of optically interacted light ...

Imaging systems for optical computing devices

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train to optically interact with a sample and at least one integrated computational element, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation. A sampling window is arranged adjacent the sample and configured to allow transmission of the electromagnetic radiation therethrough and has one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals. A first focal lens is arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation. A structural element defines a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough while transmission of the one or more stray signals is substantially blocked by the structural element.

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance using integrated computational elements

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements are configured to produce optically interacted light and further configured to be associated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample.

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements are configured to produce optically interacted light and further configured to be associated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A method of determining a characteristic of a sample , comprising:optically interacting an electromagnetic radiation source with the sample and at least two integrated computational elements;producing optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements, the at least two integrated computational elements each being configured to be associated with the characteristic of the sample;receiving with at least one detector the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements, thereby generating a first signal and a second signal; andcomputationally combining the first and second signals to determine the characteristic of the sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one detector computationally combines the first and second signals.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one detector is a first detector claim 1 , the method further comprising:detecting with a second detector electromagnetic radiation from the electromagnetic radiation source;generating a third signal with the second detector, the third signal being indicative of electromagnetic radiating deviations;receiving the third signal with a signal processor communicably coupled to the first and second detectors; andcomputationally combining the third signal with the first and ...

Methods and devices for optically determining a characteristic of a substance

Using an optical computing device includes optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a sample and a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel, optically interacting the electromagnetic radiation with the sample and a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel, producing first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively, receiving the first modified electromagnetic radiation with a first detector, and receiving the second modified electromagnetic radiation with a second detector, generating a first output signal with the first detector and a second output signal with the second detector, and computationally combining the first and second output signals with a signal processor to determine the characteristic of interest of the sample.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL FLUID IDENTIFICATION APPROXIMATION AND CALIBRATION

Systems and methods for optical fluid identification approximation and calibration are described herein. One example method includes populating a database with a calculated pseudo optical sensor (CPOS) response of a first optical tool to a first sample fluid. The CPOS response of the first optical tool may be based on a transmittance spectrum of a sample fluid and may comprise a complex calculation using selected components of the first optical tool. A first model may be generated based, at least in part, on the database. The first model may receive as an input an optical sensor response and output a predicted fluid property. A second model may also be generated based, at least in part, on the database. The second model may receive as an input at least one known/measured fluid/environmental property value and may output a predicted pseudo optical sensor response of the first optical tool. 1. A method for optical fluid identification approximation and calibration , comprising:populating a database with a calculated pseudo optical sensor (CPOS) response of a first optical tool to a first sample fluid, and at least one property of the first sample fluid;generating a first model using the database, wherein the first model receives as a first model input an optical sensor response to a second sample fluid and outputs a predicted fluid property of the second sample fluid; andgenerating a second model using the database, wherein the second model receives as a second model input at least one known fluid property value of the second sample fluid and outputs a predicted pseudo optical sensor (PPOS) response of the first optical tool to the second sample fluid.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second model comprises at least one neural network trained claim 1 , at least in part claim 1 , using the database.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising generating a standardization algorithm by calibrating an actual optical sensor (AOS) response of a second optical tool to ...

Intelligent and Emergency Light Control

Methods, apparatuses and systems of an intelligent light controller controlling a light, are disclosed. One method includes interpreting a switch from a normal power supply to an emergency power supply. Upon interpreting the switch from the normal power supply to the emergency power supply, the intelligent light controller controllably powers the light for a predetermined period of time. Further, the intelligent light controller executes an energy-savings behavior control of the light.

Logical groupings of intelligent building fixtures

Methods, apparatuses and systems of building control, are disclosed. One system includes a plurality of building fixtures and at least one sensor interfaced with at least one of the plurality of building fixtures. Further, each building fixture includes a communication port and a controller. For this embodiment, each controller is configured to independently control at least one of an environmental load or a security device, either receive or help designate the building fixture as belonging to a logical group of building fixtures, and share at least one of sensor or state information with other building fixtures within the logical group of building fixtures, through the communication port.

IMAGING SYSTEMS FOR OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICES

One disclosed optical computing device includes a sampling window arranged on a housing, an electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation, the electromagnetic radiation being configured to optically interact with a substance outside of the sampling window, at least one integrated computational element (ICE) core arranged to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation, and a detector arranged to receive the electromagnetic radiation following its optical interaction with the substance and the at least one ICE core and generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the substance, wherein the electromagnetic radiation impinges upon the surfaces of the sampling window at an angle of incidence from normal to the sampling window, and wherein specular reflected light reflects off the sampling window at an opposing angle of incidence, the specular reflected light emanating away from the sampling window such that it is not detected by the ...

Imaging Systems for Optical Computing Devices

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train to optically interact with a sample and at least one integrated computational element, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation. A sampling window is arranged adjacent the sample and configured to allow transmission of the electromagnetic radiation therethrough and has one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals. A first focal lens is arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation. A structural element defines a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough while transmission of the one or more stray signals is substantially blocked by the structural element. 1. A method of operating an optical computing device , comprising:optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a sample and at least one integrated computational element arranged in an optical train of the optical computing device, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation;transmitting the electromagnetic radiation through a sampling window arranged adjacent the sample, the sampling window having one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals;receiving and focusing the optically interacted radiation with a first focal lens and thereby generating a primary focal point;aligning the primary focal point with a spatial aperture defined in a structural element arranged within the optical train such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough unobstructed; andsubstantially blocking a transmission of the one or more stray signals with the structural element.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:receiving with a detector ...

Bag nozzle retention system

A bag nozzle retainment system which includes a flexible bag positioned within a container. The container defines an outlet through which extends a nozzle provided on the flexible bag. A plate provided with a hole is slidably coupled to the container and the nozzle is positioned through the hole. Hydrostatic pressure secures the plate to the container which, in turn, holds the nozzle sufficiently back into the container to prevent damage and inadvertent dislodgment of the nozzle during transport and storage of the container.

Medical viewing device

MODEL BASED DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS

A model can be trained for discriminant analysis for substance classification and/or measuring calibration. One method includes interacting at least one sensor with one or more known substances, each sensor element being configured to detect a characteristic of the one or more known substances, generating an sensor response from each sensor element corresponding to each known substance, wherein each known substance corresponds to a known response stored in a database, and training a neural network to provide a discriminant analysis classification model for an unknown substance, the neural network using each sensor response as inputs and one or more substance types as outputs, and the outputs corresponding to the one or more known substances.

Systems and methods for providing cooling in compressed air storage power supply systems

A system and method for cooling electrical machines (e.g., generators), sub-systems (e.g., power electronics), and components (e.g., bearings) in an electrical generation system such as a compressed air storage (CAS) energy system or a thermal and compressed air storage (TACAS) energy system is provided. Cooling is derived from the thermal expansion of a compressed gas, which may be the same gas used to drive a turbine-generator of CAS or TACAS energy system.

Logical Groupings of Intelligent Building Fixtures

Methods, apparatuses and systems of building control, are disclosed. One system includes a plurality of building fixtures and at least one sensor interfaced with at least one of the plurality of building fixtures. Further, each building fixture includes a communication port and a controller. For this embodiment, each controller is configured to independently control at least one of an environmental load or a security device, either receive or help designate the building fixture as belonging to a logical group of building fixtures, and share at least one of sensor or state information with other building fixtures within the logical group of building fixtures, through the communication port.

Medical viewing device

Medical viewing device

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining A Characteristic of a Substance

Optical computing devices are disclosed. One exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements. The at least two integrated computational elements are configured to produce optically interacted light and further configured to be associated with a characteristic of the sample. The optical computing device further includes a first detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and thereby generate a first signal corresponding to the characteristic of the sample. 1. A device , comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source configured to optically interact with a sample and at least two integrated computational elements, the at least two integrated computational elements being configured to produce optically interacted light and further configured to be associated with a characteristic of the sample; andat least one detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light from the at least two integrated computational elements and generate a first signal and a second signal, wherein the first signal and the second signal are computationally combined to determine the characteristic of the sample.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic radiation source optically interacts with the at least two integrated computational elements after optically interacting with the sample.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic radiation source optically interacts with the at least two integrated computational elements before optically interacting with the sample.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic radiation source optically interacts with a first one of the at least two integrated computational elements before optically interacting with the sample and with a second one of the at least two integrated computational elements after optically ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR OPTICALLY DETERMINING A CHARACTERISTIC OF A SUBSTANCE

An exemplary optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that optically interacts with a sample having a characteristic of interest, a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a first modified electromagnetic radiation, wherein the first integrated computational element is configured to be positively or negatively correlated to the characteristic of interest, a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation source and produce a second modified electromagnetic radiation, wherein the second integrated computational element is configured to correlated to the characteristic of interest with an opposite sign relative to the first integrated computational element, and a first detector arranged to generate a first signal from the first modified electromagnetic radiation and a second ...

Hand dough mixer

Remote Sensing Methods and Systems Using Nonlinear Light Conversion and Sense Signal Transformation

A disclosed system includes a light source and a nonlinear converter optically coupled to and remote from the light source. The nonlinear light converter converts a light pulse received from the light source to a broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse. The system also includes a sensor in situ with the nonlinear light converter. The sensor performs a sense operation based on the broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the sense operation. The system also includes an electro-optical interface in situ with the sensor that transforms the electrical signal to an optical signal for conveyance to a signal collection interface A related method includes generating a light pulse and conveying the light pulse to a remote nonlinear light converter. The method also includes converting the light pulse to a broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse. The method also includes performing a sense operation in the remote location using the broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse and generating a corresponding electrical signal. The method also includes transforming the electrical signal to an optical signal for conveyance to a sense signal collection interface. 1. A remote sensing system , comprising:a light source;a nonlinear light converter optically coupled to and remote from the light source, wherein the nonlinear light converter converts a source light pulse received from the light source to a broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse; anda sensor in situ with the nonlinear light converter, wherein the sensor performs a sense operation based on the broadened or spectrum-shifted light pulse and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the sense operation; andan electro-optical interface in situ with the sensor that transforms the electrical signal to an optical signal for conveyance to a signal collection interface.2. The remote sensing system of claim 1 , wherein the electro-optical interface comprises a ...

Distributed lighting control

Apparatuses, methods and systems for controlling a luminaire are disclosed. One embodiment includes a lighting control sub-system. The lighting control sub-system includes a luminaire, a controller coupled to the luminaire, and a sensor coupled to the controller. The sensor generates a sensed input. The lighting control sub-system further includes a communication interface, wherein the communication interface couples the controller to an external device. The controller is operative to control a light output of the luminaire based at least in part on the sensed input, and to communicate at least one of state or sensed information to the external device.

Devices having one or more integrated computational elements and methods for determining a characteristic of a sample by computationally combining signals produced therewith

Optical computing devices containing one or more integrated computational elements may be used to produce two or more detector output signals that are computationally combinable to determine a characteristic of a sample. The devices may comprise a first integrated computational element and a second integrated computational element, each integrated computational element having an optical function associated therewith, and the optical function of the second integrated computational element being at least partially offset in wavelength space relative to that of the first integrated computational element; an optional electromagnetic radiation source; at least one detector configured to receive electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with each integrated computational element and produce a first signal and a second signal associated therewith; and a signal processing unit operable for computationally combining the first signal and the second signal to determine a characteristic ...

THERMAL STORAGE UNIT AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME TO HEAT A FLUID

A thermal storage unit having at least one annular flow channel formed between an inner and outer member is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional mill products to create annular flow channels that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass included in the inner and outer members. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the annular channel.

Backpack with deployable armor

A backpack engagable so as to be worn and including an attached covering having load-bearing armor and mounted for movement between a stored condition of the armor toward the backpack and a deployed condition of the armor away from and opposing the backpack.

Intelligent and emergency light control

Methods, apparatuses and systems of an intelligent light controller controlling a light, are disclosed. One method includes interpreting a switch from a normal power supply to an emergency power supply. Upon interpreting the switch from the normal power supply to the emergency power supply, the intelligent light controller controllably powers the light for a predetermined period of time. Further, the intelligent light controller executes an energy-savings behavior control of the light.

Devices Having an Integrated Computational Element and a Proximal Interferent Monitor and Methods for Determining a Characteristic of a Sample Therewith

The output of optical computing devices containing an integrated computational element can be corrected when an interferent substance or condition is present. The devices may comprise an optional electromagnetic radiation source; a sample detection unit comprising an integrated computational element and a detector configured to receive electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with the integrated computational element and produce a sample signal associated therewith; an interferent monitor located proximal to the sample detection unit, the interferent monitor being configured to produce an interferent signal associated with an interferent substance; and a signal processing unit operable to convert the interferent signal into an interferent input form suitable for being computationally combined with the sample signal, the signal processing unit being further operable to computationally combine the sample signal and the interferent input form to determine a characteristic of a sample in real-time or near real-time. 1. A device comprising:an optional electromagnetic radiation source;a sample detection unit comprising an integrated computational element and a detector that is configured to receive electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with the integrated computational element and produce a sample signal associated therewith;an interferent monitor located proximal to the sample detection unit, the interferent monitor being configured to produce an interferent signal associated with an interferent substance; anda signal processing unit that is operable to convert the interferent signal into an interferent input form suitable for being computationally combined with the sample signal, the signal processing unit being further operable to computationally combine the sample signal and the interferent input form to determine a characteristic of a sample in real-time or near real-time.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the sample detection unit ...

FLUID STORAGE IN COMPRESSED-GAS ENERGY STORAGE AND RECOVERY SYSTEMS

In various embodiments, lined underground reservoirs and/or insulated pipeline vessels are utilized for storage of compressed fluid in conjunction with energy storage and recovery systems. 1. A compressed-gas energy storage and recovery system comprising:a cylinder assembly for at least one of compressing gas to store energy or expanding gas to recover energy;a heat-exchange subsystem for thermally conditioning the gas via heat exchange between the gas and a heat-transfer liquid; andselectively fluidly connected to the cylinder assembly, one or more insulated pipeline vessels (IPVs) for at least one of (i) storage of gas after compression, (ii) supply of compressed gas for expansion, (iii) storage of heat-transfer liquid, or (iv) supply of heat-transfer liquid.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein each IPV comprises a base material at least partially surrounded by insulation for retarding heat exchange between contents of the IPV and surroundings of the IPV.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein each IPV comprises claim 1 , disposed on at least a portion of its interior surface claim 1 , a corrosion-resistant coating.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one IPV contains gas at a pressure higher than an ambient pressure.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one IPV contains gas at a temperature higher than an ambient temperature.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more IPVs are at least partially buried underground.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein at least one IPV comprises an unburied access point for the inflow and outflow of at least one of gas or heat-transfer liquid.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein each IPV is at least partially disposed within a separate fill capsule (i) containing insulating fill and (ii) comprising an outer envelope substantially impermeable to at least one of liquid or air.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein each fill capsule is at least partially buried underground.10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more IPVs ...

Information workflow for a medical diagnostic workstation

An information workflow for a medical diagnostic workstation in which patient data is captured, arranged and displayed in predetermined formats for a user in the handling of patients. The workflow permits vitals capture and storage and creation of a comprehensive patient record in which the workstation can operate in a stand-alone or network connected mode.

Diagnostic instrument workstation

An integrated medical workstation for use in patient clinical encounters includes an input device such as a bar code scanner that is interconnected to a computing device. At least one device capable of obtaining at least one physiological parameter is either attached directly to the workstation or is in communication therewith. Preferably, the input scanning device controls at least substantial overall operation of the medical workstation that can be placed, for example, into a network.

Computerized trivia game having golf environment

A trivia game is provided, capable of being executed on a computer or game console. The game has a plurality of trivia topics and a plurality of questions within each topic, the questions ranging in the level of difficulty from relatively easy to relatively difficult. The game performs the steps of randomly selecting one trivia topic from the plurality of topics, asking a question based on a predetermined level of difficulty within the topic, timing the response to the question, receiving a response to the question, and providing a precise advancement calculated from both the speed and the accuracy of the response.

Systems and methods for providing backup energy to a load

Backup energy systems utilizing compressed air storage (CAS) systems and bridging energy systems to supply backup power to a load are provided. During a power failure, the bridging energy system provides backup power to the load at least until the CAS system begins supplying adequate power. In various embodiments, backup power capability is enhanced through the use of one or more exhaustless heaters, which are used to heat compressed air. The compressed air, in turn, drives a turbine which is used to power an electrical generator. In various embodiments, ambient air heat exchangers or other types of heat exchangers are used to heat compressed air prior to the compressed air being routed to the turbine, thereby increasing system efficiency. Backup power and backup HVAC are also provided by utilizing turbine exhaust, heat exchangers and various resistive heating elements.

VALVE ACTIVATION IN COMPRESSED-GAS ENERGY STORAGE AND RECOVERY SYSTEMS

In various embodiments, valve efficiency and reliability are enhanced via use of hydraulic or magnetic valve actuation, valves configured for increased actuation speed, and/or valves controlled to reduce collision forces during actuation. 1. A method for at least one of storing energy in or recovering energy with an energy-storage system comprising (i) a cylinder assembly having a valve for controlling fluid flow into and out of the cylinder assembly through a gated port , the valve comprising a valve member for occluding the gated port , and (ii) an actuation system for actuating the valve , the actuation system comprising (a) an actuation cylinder and (b) a piston disposed within and dividing the actuation cylinder into first and second chambers , the method comprising:within the cylinder assembly, at least one of (i) compressing gas to store energy or (ii) expanding gas to recover energy; andat least one of prior to, during, or after the at least one of compression or expansion, at least one of admitting fluid into or exhausting fluid from the cylinder assembly at least in part by actuating the valve from a closed state to an open state by admitting fluid into the first chamber of the actuation cylinder to increase fluid pressure therein, thereby moving the piston toward the second chamber,wherein, during the actuation, (i) fluid exits the second chamber of the actuation cylinder at a first rate to maximize speed of the piston motion, and (ii) thereafter, fluid exits the second chamber at a second rate slower than the first rate to decelerate the piston before the piston reaches an end surface of the actuation cylinder.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second rate of fluid flow decreases as the piston moves toward the end surface of the actuation cylinder.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , during the actuation claim 1 , the piston occludes at least a portion of an orifice in the second chamber as the piston moves toward an end surface of the ...

Floor Plan Deduction Using Lighting Control and Sensing

An apparatus and method of deducing building floor plan information are disclosed. One method includes changing an intensity of light generated from a plurality of lights within a building. A plurality of light sensors senses an intensity of light received from at least one of the plurality of lights. A distance between at least one light sensor and at least one of the plurality of lights is estimated based on the sensed intensity of light.

Hybrid vehicle front end accessory drive control system and method

A method of operating an accessory drive system for a motor vehicle, wherein the accessory drive system includes one or more accessory components, a motor generator of the motor vehicle, and a flexible drive element configured to transmit a torque load between the one or more accessory components and the motor generator, includes determining a maximum permissible flexible drive element torque threshold, detecting an increase in torque demand on the flexible drive element, determining when the torque demand on the flexible drive element will exceed the flexible drive element torque threshold, and reducing the torque demand of one or more of the accessory components so that the flexible drive element torque threshold is not exceeded.

Lighting control system configurable by control device

There is described a lighting control system of a building environment comprising a control device and a lighting device. The control device is capable of detecting an activation of a configuration mode of the lighting control system and controlling illumination for the building environment in response to command inputs received at a user interface. The lighting device is capable of receiving a message indicating that the activation of the configuration mode has been detected by the control device and receiving a directional signal from a directional device subsequent to receiving the message. A membership status of the lighting device in a device group is changed in response to receiving the directional signal.

ANTI-VEEV HUMANIZED ANTIBODY

The present disclosure relates to an anti-VEEV humanised antibody or a fragment thereof comprising a framework 1, 2, 3, 4, S or 6 CDR regions independently selected from SEQ ID Nos: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 characterised in that the antibody or fragment comprises in the framework at least one amino acid, that positively influences the binding/activity of the antibody, from the original murine antibody 1A3B7, pharmaceutical composition comprising same, methods of preparing the antibody or fragment and use of the antibody or fragment in treatment or prophylaxis, in particular the treatment or prophylaxis of VEEV infection. 1. An anti-VEEV humanised antibody or a fragment thereof comprising a framework of 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 or 6 CDR regions independently selected from SEQ ID Nos: 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 or 8 , wherein the antibody or fragment comprises in the framework at least one amino acid that positively influences the binding and/or activity of the antibody from the original murine antibody IA3B7.2. The anti-VEEV antibody according to claim 1 , wherein the antibody or fragment comprises at least the CDR sequence of SEQ ID No: 5 and an isoleucine amino acid corresponding to isoleucine H94 in the original murine antibody 1A3B7.3. The anti-VEEV antibody according to claim 1 , wherein antibody has the sequence shown in SEQ ID No: 12 claim 1 , or a sequence 90% homologous thereto.4. The anti-VEEV antibody according to claim 1 , wherein the antibody or fragment comprises the heavy chain variable region sequence of SEQ ID No: 11 or a sequence 90% homologous thereto.5. The anti-VEEV antibody or fragment thereof according to claim 1 , wherein the fragment is an Fab′ fragment.6. A pharmaceutical composition comprising an antibody or fragment as defined in claim 1 , and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.7. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 6 , wherein the composition is for infusion.8. A method for the treatment of VEEV comprising administering to an individual a ...

Signal processing for optical computing system

The present subject matter relates to an apparatus and related method of high-speed analysis of product samples during production of the product. Light is directed to a portion of a product under analysis and reflected from or transmitted through the product toward optical detectors. Signals from the optical detectors are compared to determine characteristics of the product under analysis. Temperature within the monitoring system may be monitored in order to provide compensation for the signals produced by the optical detectors. The products under analysis may be stationary, moved by an inspection point by conveyor or other means, or may be contained within a container, the container including a window portion through which the product illuminating light may pass.

THERMAL SELECTIVITY MULTIVARIATE OPTICAL COMPUTING

A method of using photoacoustic spectroscopy to determine chemical information about an analyte includes the steps of emitting a light ray for interaction with a sample of an analyte; transmitting the light ray through a fill fluid disposed in a detection cell, the fill fluid having molecules substantially similar to molecules of the analyte to absorb the light ray; producing a thermal wave and oscillation in the fill fluid proportional to an intensity of the light ray; including a pressure oscillation in the fill fluid by the thermal wave; and detecting the pressure oscillation by a microphone to determine information about the analyte sample. 1. A photoacoustic detection system , comprising:a light source to emit a light ray;a multivariate optical element through which the light ray passes;a detection cell having a chamber and a port defined therein, the chamber being configured to hold a fill fluid and an analyte; anda microphone detector disposed in the port, the microphone detector being configured to record a pressure oscillation in the fill fluid induced by the wavelengths of the light ray absorbed by the fill fluid such that information about the analyte can be determined.2. The photoacoustic detection system as in claim 1 , wherein the detection cell includes an inlet defined therein claim 1 , the inlet being configured to inject the fill fluid and the analyte into the chamber.3. The photoacoustic detection system as in claim 1 , wherein the detection cell includes an outlet defined therein claim 1 , the outlet being configured to release the fill fluid and the analyte from the chamber.4. The photoacoustic detection system as in claim 1 , wherein the pressure oscillation detected by the microphone detector provides information about the analyte.5. The photoacoustic detection system as in claim 1 , wherein the light source is a broadband light source.6. The photoacoustic detection system as in claim 1 , wherein the light source is configured to modulate an ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EFFECTIVE SCHEMA GENERATION VIA PROGRAMMATIC ANALYSYS

A method to generate an effective schema of an electronic document for optimizing the processing thereof may include performing a programmatic analysis to determine all required portions of the electronic document. The method may also include generating a parser or deserializer to build an optimized document model; and specializing a document processing program against the optimized document model. 1. A method to generate an effective schema of an electronic document for optimizing the processing thereof , comprising:performing a programmatic analysis, by a processor, to determine required portions of the electronic document prior to generating a parser to generate an optimized document model;generating the optimized document model; andspecializing a document processing program against the optimized document model.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising generating the parser to produce the optimized document model using the required portions of the document.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining if one of the required portions of the electronic document is being handled by tracking an encountered element against a set of required paths.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising building up a plurality of nodes corresponding to each of the required portions of the document claim 3 , each node being tagged to its corresponding required portions of the document.5. The method of claim 4 , further comprising:building up an indexed document tree as the plurality of nodes returned up a parse stack; andusing the required portions of the document as determined by the programmatic analysis as an input to an input specialization transformation module for optimizing the document processing program.6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising rendering the documents with a shorter processing time and a reduced memory requirement than without optimization.7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising conditioning the document processing program to ...

CYLINDER LINER WITH A CASE ON A CUFF-RING GROOVE

A cylinder liner for an engine includes a hollow cylindrical sleeve, with an inner surface and an outer surface, that extends from a first end to a second end along a longitudinal axis. The cylinder liner may also include an annular cuff-ring groove, with a radiused fillet region, on the inner surface proximate the first end. The cylinder liner may further include a hardened case formed on the inner surface of the sleeve. The case may extend under a base of the fillet region of the cuff-ring groove. 1. A cylinder liner for an engine , comprising:a hollow cylindrical sleeve, including an inner surface and an outer surface, extending from a first end to a second end along a longitudinal axis;an annular cuff-ring groove, with a radiused fillet region, on the inner surface proximate the first end; anda hardened case formed on the inner surface of the sleeve, the case extending under a base of the fillet region of the cuff-ring groove.2. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , wherein the case extends substantially along an entire length of the cuff-ring groove.3. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , wherein the cylinder liner is made of ductile cast iron.4. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , wherein the case extends substantially along an entire length of the sleeve.5. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the case in a region proximate the cuff-ring groove is greater than a thickness of the case proximate the second end.6. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the case decreases from a region proximate the fillet region to the second end of the sleeve.7. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , further including an annular flange extending radially outwardly from the outer surface proximate the first end.8. The cylinder liner of claim 1 , wherein the cuff-ring groove is a step-like groove that extends from the first end towards the second end of the sleeve.9. A method of making a cylinder liner claim 1 , comprising:fabricating a hollow cylindrical sleeve, ...

Optical Analysis System For Dynamic, Real-Time Detection And Measurement

A system and a method for real-time processing and monitoring, the system including a light source to provide an illumination light and a calibration light are provided. The system includes an optical element to separate the illumination light and the calibration light; an optical element to direct the illumination light to a sample; an optical element to direct the calibration light to a first detector and a second detector; an optical element to collect light backscattered from the sample; an optical element to separate light backscattered from the sample into a first scattered light portion and a second scattered light portion; an optical element to direct the first scattered light portion through at least one multivariate optical element to the first detector; and an optical element to direct the second scattered light portion to the second detector. 1. A system for real-time processing and monitoring , comprising:a light source to provide an illumination light and a calibration light;an optical element to separate the illumination light and the calibration light;an optical element to direct the illumination light to a sample;an optical element to direct the calibration light to a first detector and a second detector;an optical element to collect light backscattered from the sample;an optical element to separate light backscattered from the sample into a first scattered light portion and a second scattered light portion;an optical element to direct the first scattered light portion through at least one multivariate optical element to the first detector; andan optical element to direct the second scattered light portion to the second detector.2. The system of wherein the optical element to direct the calibration light to a first detector and a second detector comprises an optical element to separate the calibration light into a first calibration light portion directed to the first detector and a second calibration light portion directed to the second detector.3. ...

FLUID STORAGE IN COMPRESSED-GAS ENERGY STORAGE AND RECOVERY SYSTEMS

In various embodiments, lined underground reservoirs and/or insulated pipeline vessels are utilized for storage of compressed fluid in conjunction with energy storage and recovery systems. 1112-. (canceled)113. A method of energy storage utilizing a compressed-gas energy storage system selectively fluidly connected to a lined underground reservoir at least partially surrounded by rock , the method comprising:substantially isothermally compressing gas with the energy storage system at a compression temperature;transferring the compressed gas to the lined underground reservoir for storage; andthereafter, exchanging heat between the stored compressed gas and the rock at least partially surrounding the lined underground reservoir to change a temperature of the stored gas to a storage temperature different from the compression temperature.114. The method of claim 113 , further comprising thermally conditioning the compressed gas during transfer to the lined underground reservoir by at least one of (i) spraying droplets of a heat-transfer liquid into the gas or (ii) forming a foam comprising the gas and a heat-transfer liquid.115. The method of claim 113 , wherein the storage temperature is lower than the compression temperature.116. The method of claim 113 , wherein the storage temperature is higher than the compression temperature.117. A compressed-gas energy storage and recovery system comprising:a cylinder assembly for at least one of compressing gas to store energy or expanding gas to recover energy;a heat-exchange subsystem for thermally conditioning the gas during the at least one of compression or expansion via heat exchange between the gas and a heat-transfer liquid;a lined underground reservoir for storing at least one of compressed gas or heat-transfer fluid in an interior volume thereof, the lined underground reservoir being substantially impermeable to fluid and comprising an inner steel layer surrounded by an outer concrete layer;a source of heat-transfer ...

IN-SITU CALIBRATION OF TOOLS

A tool sensor calibration system and tool calibration method are disclosed herein. A tool sensor calibration system () comprises a flow pipe (), an isolation cell () in fluid communication with the flow pipe, a sensor () positioned proximate to the isolation cell, a fluid chamber ()containing a reference fluid () with a known property value, and a first valve () coupled to the fluid chamber that provides selective fluid communication between the fluid chamber and the flow pipe. A tool calibration method comprises introducing a first fluid () into a flow pipe, introducing a reference fluid into the flow pipe from a fluid chamber in fluid communication with the flow pipe through a valve, wherein the first fluid and the reference fluid mix to form a composite fluid, and detecting a property of the composite fluid at an isolation cell in fluid communication with the flow pipe. 1. A tool sensor calibration system , comprising:a flow pipe;an isolation cell in fluid communication with the flow pipe, wherein the isolation cell comprises a first window and a second window;a sensor positioned proximate to the isolation cell;a fluid chamber coupled to the isolation cell via the flow pipe, wherein the fluid chamber contains a reference fluid having a known property value; anda first valve coupled to the fluid chamber to provide selective fluid communication between the fluid chamber and the flow pipe.2. The system of claim 1 , whereinthe sensor comprises an optical sensor.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising an integrated computational element (ICE) in optical communication with the optical sensor.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the flow pipe is coupled to a reservoir through a second valve claim 1 , wherein the reservoir contains a first fluid.5. The system of claim 4 , further comprising a reciprocating pump coupled to the flow pipe.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the isolation cell contains a composite fluid claim 5 , wherein the composite fluid comprises a ...

Distributed nondestructive structural defects detection in slickline cables

In some embodiments, a distributed nondestructive inspection method for slickline cable structural defect detection transmits a light pulse along an optical waveguide in the slickline cable. A reflected light signal is 5 received from the optical waveguide in response to the light pulse. Defects can then be determined in the slickline cable based on variations in scattering intensity, phase shift, specific spectral signature, power spectral density, strain amplitude, and/or transmission loss of the reflected light signal as compared to the light pulse.

Method and Apparatus for Aligning Components of Integrated Optical Sensors

A method and apparatus for aligning optical components within an optical sensor. A mask with an elongate slot formed therethrough is placed optically between an optical emitter and an optical detector of the sensor. The mask is rotated 180 degrees while the detector output is measured. As the mask is rotated, the output varies. The longitudinal position of the slot that corresponds with the maximum detector output is indicative of the transverse direction that the optical emitter must be moved relative to the optical detector for optimal alignment. A controller may operate a first actuator for translating the optical emitter with respect to the optical detector and a second actuator for rotating the mask, thereby automating the alignment process. 1. An optical sensor system , comprising:an optical detector;an optical emitter positioned so as to emit towards said optical detector; anda mask defining an axis and having a thin long aperture formed therethrough disposed optically between said optical detector and said optical emitter, said mask arranged for rotation about said axis; whereinrotation of said mask about said axis determines an optimal direction of translation of said optical emitter with respect to said optical detector for alignment thereof.2. The sensor of further comprising:an actuator coupled to and arranged for positioning at least one of the group consisting of said optical detector and said optical emitter along said optimal direction of translation.3. The sensor of further comprising:an actuator coupled to and arranged for rotating said mask about said axis.4. The sensor of further comprising:a first actuator coupled to and arranged for positioning at least one of the group consisting of said optical detector and said optical emitter along said optimal direction of translation; anda second actuator coupled to and arranged for rotating said mask about said axis.5. The sensor of further comprising:a controller coupled to an output of said optical ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS OF DATA ANALYSIS

Various embodiments include apparatus and methods to perform a correlation of data and/or a statistical analysis of data. A correlation of data can include generating a scalar product of measured responses with known responses and using a threshold to determine a correlation of the data. Statistical analysis of data can include generating a statistical measure of measurement data, comparing the statistical measure to a threshold value, and determining phase status of a fluid. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. 1. A method comprising: acquiring responses from a sensor; and', 'generating a scalar product between a vector of the responses and a vector of known responses such that a correlation factor is generated having a value within a fixed interval, one end of the fixed interval corresponding to a high correlation status and an opposite end of the fixed interval corresponding to an uncorrelated status., 'operating a processor to perform operations including2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method includes retrieving the known responses from a library of responses.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the responses and the known responses are normalized and the fixed interval is an interval from zero to one.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method includes:comparing the correlation factor to a correlation threshold for a specified material; andidentifying sets of data having correlation factors greater than the correlation threshold.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein acquiring responses includes acquiring the responses in a well-related operation claim 4 , and correlation of the responses is performed with respect to oil claim 4 , water claim 4 , or both oil and water.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the method includes determining contamination levels during a pump out operation in the well-related operation.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein acquiring responses includes acquiring the responses in a well-related operation claim 1 , ...

Optically Transparent Films for Measuring Optically Thick Fluids

A multilayered film for performing spectroscopic measurements in a fluid are provided. The multilayered film includes a substrate; a porous layer adjacent to the substrate; and a reflective layer formed on the porous layer, wherein the porous layer selectively allows a component of a fluid to be optically measured when the multilayered film is immersed in the fluid. A sensor for spectroscopic measurements in crude oil samples including a multilayered film as above is also provided. A method of manufacturing a multilayered film for spectroscopic measurements in fluids as above is also provided.

Autonomous remote sensor for determining a property of a fluid in a body of water

An autonomous remote sensor for analyzing a fluid in a body of water comprises: a vessel, wherein the vessel moves through the body of water; and an analyzer, wherein the analyzer: (A) is located on or adjacent to the vessel; (B) incorporates one or more Integrated Computational Elements (ICE); and (C) is capable of determining at least one property of the fluid by at least contacting the fluid with radiated energy and detecting the interaction between the radiated energy and the fluid. A method of analyzing a fluid in a body of water comprises: providing a vessel, wherein the vessel moves through the body of water; and determining at least one property of the fluid using the analyzer. The analyzer can also have a spectral resolution less than 4 nm.

IN-SITU MONITORING OF FABRICATION OF INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS

Techniques include receiving a design of an integrated computational element (ICE), the ICE design including specification of a substrate and a plurality of layers, their respective target thicknesses and complex refractive indices, complex refractive indices of adjacent layers being different from each other, and a notional ICE fabricated in accordance with the ICE design being related to a characteristic of a sample; forming at least some of the plurality of layers of the ICE in accordance with the ICE design; performing at least two different types of in-situ measurements; predicting, using results of the at least two different types of in situ measurements, performance of the ICE relative to the ICE design; and adjusting the forming of the layers remaining to be formed, at least in part, by updating the ICE design based on the predicted performance.

Optical Computing Devices For Measurement In Custody Transfer Of Pipelines

A device including an integrated computational element (ICE) positioned to optically interact with electromagnetic radiation from a fluid and to thereby generate optically interacted radiation corresponding to a characteristic of the fluid, and a method for using the system are provided. The device includes a detector positioned to receive the optically interacted radiation and to generate an output signal proportional to an intensity of the optically interacted radiation. And the device further includes a processor positioned to receive the output signal and to determine the characteristic of the fluid. The device is coupled to a controller configured to provide instructions to a transfer system for storage and readout. 1. A device comprising:an integrated computational element (ICE) positioned to optically interact with electromagnetic radiation from a fluid and to thereby generate optically interacted radiation corresponding to a characteristic of the fluid;a detector positioned to receive the optically interacted radiation and to generate an output signal proportional to an intensity of the optically interacted radiation; anda processor positioned to receive the output signal and to determine the characteristic of the fluid, whereinthe device is coupled to a controller configured to provide instructions to a transfer system for storage and readout.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the transfer system is a lease automatic custody transfer (LACT) system positioned upstream from a contractor pipeline in an oil and gas production configuration claim 1 , and the LACT system is configured to modify a flow and composition of the fluid when the characteristic of the fluid is below a quality parameter.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid includes liquid crude oil and the ICE is configured to detect a contaminant in the liquid crude oil claim 1 , the contaminant including a residual additive for oil production claim 1 , water claim 1 , or natural gas.4. The ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR USING ELASTOCALORIC MATERIALS IN SUBTERRANEAN FORMATIONS

The present disclosure relates to methods and systems for using elastocaloric materials in subterranean formations. A variety of downhole packages, for example, electronic packages and instrumentation packages, are utilized in subterranean formations during hydrocarbon exploration and production operations. Downhole packages are typically designed to operate below a maximum temperature. When a downhole package is placed in the subterranean formation, its temperature may increase as a result of the natural temperature of the subterranean formation in which it is being used. Additionally, many of these downhole packages used downhole generate heat during operation which may raise the temperature of the downhole package. Reaching or exceeding the maximum temperature of a downhole package may result in ineffective operation and/or complete destruction of the downhole package. As a result, the downhole package may need to be frequently replaced. Furthermore, additional steps may be needed to ensure the temperature in the subterranean formation does not exceed the design temperature of the downhole packages and/or to cool downhole packages prior to being introduced into the subterranean formation. 1. A method comprising:disposing a downhole package in a wellbore penetrating a portion of a subterranean formation; anddisposing a cooling apparatus comprising an elastocaloric material and at least one actuator downhole in the wellbore, wherein the cooling apparatus is adjacent to the downhole package.2. The method of further comprises coupling the cooling apparatus to the downhole package claim 1 , wherein the coupling occurs prior to disposing the cooling apparatus and the downhole package in the wellbore.3. The method of further comprising placing the cooling apparatus adjacent to the downhole package claim 1 , wherein the downhole package is disposed in the wellbore prior to the cooling apparatus.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the elastocaloric material comprises a ...

Fabry-Perot Based Optical Computing

Fabry-Perot based optical computing devices and temperature sensors are disclosed for a number of applications including, for example, in-situ downhole fluid analysis and temperature detection. 1. A Fabry-Perot based optical computing device , comprising:electromagnetic radiation that optically interacts with a sample to produce sample-interacted light; a plurality of micro-electromechanical system (“MEMS”) building blocks comprising a first reflective plate; and', 'a second reflective plate separated from the first reflective plate by a distance,', 'wherein the Fabry-Perot cavity is positioned to optically interact with the sample-interacted light to produce optically-interacted light that mimics a regression vector of a sample characteristic of interest; and, 'a Fabry-Perot cavity, comprisinga detector array positioned to measure the optically-interacted light and generate a signal, wherein the signal is utilized to determine the sample characteristic of interest.2. A Fabry-Perot based optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a bandpass filter array positioned between the Fabry-Perot cavity and the detector array to thereby optically interact with the optically-interacted light and produce filtered optically-interacted light.3. A Fabry-Perot based optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a voltage source connected to the MEMS building blocks to thereby alter the distance between the first and second reflective plates.4. A Fabry-Perot based optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the MEMS building blocks are positioned to optically interact with the sample-interacted light to produce multiple optically-interacted lights that each mimic a regression vector of a different sample characteristic of interest.5. A Fabry-Perot based optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising:an Integrated Computational Element (“ICE”) array positioned to optically interact with the sample- ...

DERMAL IMAGE CAPTURE

A dermal imaging system coordinates operation of an illumination unit, one or more lenses, and a camera to capture a sequence of images of an area of interest on a skin surface. The system automatically tags each image in the sequence of images. The tag for each image identifies a light source, an illumination angle, and a filter selected for capturing the image. The system automatically selects at least one image from the sequence of images, and analyzes the selected image from the sequence of images to provide a recommended skin disease diagnosis. 1. A dermal imaging system , comprising:{'claim-text': ['coordinate operation of the illumination unit, the one or more lenses, and the camera to capture a sequence of images of an area of interest on a skin surface;', 'automatically tag each image in the sequence of images, the tag for each image identifying a light source and illumination angle selected from the illumination unit for capturing the image, and further identifying a filter selected for capturing the image;', 'automatically select at least one image from the sequence of images; and', 'analyze the selected image from the sequence of images to provide a recommended skin disease diagnosis.'], '#text': 'a controller configured to control the operation of a camera, an illumination unit, and one or more lenses, the controller having at least one processor, and a memory storing instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to:'}2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:the illumination unit, and wherein the illumination unit includes an array of light sources, each light source configured to emit light at a predetermined wavelength.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the array of light sources are light-emitting diodes claim 2 , lasers claim 2 , or optical lamps.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the memory stores further instructions which claim 1 , when executed by the at least one processor claim 1 , cause the system to: ...

Deposition of Integrated Computational Elements (ICE) Using a Translation Stage

The disclosed embodiments include a system and method for manufacturing an integrated computational element (ICE) core. The method comprises varying a distance between a thermal component relative to a substrate holder that holds at least one substrate during a thin film deposition process to improve uniformity of the ICE core. In one embodiment, varying the distance between the thermal component relative to the substrate holder that holds at least one substrate includes moving at least a portion of the substrate holder in at least one direction relative to the thermal component and also moving the thermal component in at least one direction relative to the substrate holder during the thin film deposition process. 1. A method for manufacturing an integrated computational element (ICE) core , the method comprising:varying a distance between a thermal component relative to a substrate holder that holds at least one substrate during a thin film deposition process to improve uniformity of the ICE core.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein varying the distance between the thermal component relative to the substrate holder that holds at least one substrate includes moving the thermal component in an x-direction.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein varying the distance between the thermal component relative to the substrate holder that holds at least one substrate includes moving the thermal component in a y-direction.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein varying the distance between the thermal component relative to the substrate holder that holds at least one substrate includes moving the thermal component in a z-direction.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein varying the distance between the thermal component relative to the substrate holder that holds at least one substrate includes moving the thermal component in at least two directions.6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein varying the distance between the thermal component relative ...

DIGITAL 2D HOLOGRAPHIC SPECTROMETER FOR MATERIAL CHARACTERIZATION

A tool including a probe deployable within a wellbore and an optical analysis device coupled to the probe is provided. The optical analysis device includes a two-dimensional (2D) waveguide layer to transmit and to disperse an electromagnetic radiation according to wavelength and including detector elements disposed along an edge, each detector element providing a signal associated with a pre-determined wavelength portion of the electromagnetic radiation. The optical analysis device also includes a substrate layer electrically coupled to receive the signal from each of the detector elements and form a spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation with the processor. A method for using the tool in a wellbore application, a pipeline application, or a reservoir storage application is also provided. 1. A tool , comprising:a probe deployable within a wellbore; and a two-dimensional (2D) waveguide layer to transmit and to disperse electromagnetic radiation according to wavelength, the 2D waveguide layer including a plurality of detector elements disposed along an edge of the 2D waveguide layer so that each detector element provides a signal associated with a pre-determined wavelength portion of the electromagnetic radiation; and', 'a substrate layer including a processor, the substrate layer being electrically coupled to the 2D waveguide layer to receive the signal from each detector element and form a spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation with the processor., 'an optical analysis device coupled to the probe, the optical analysis device including2. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the optical analysis device is removably coupled to the probe.3. The tool of claim 1 , further including a microfluidic device coupled with the optical analysis device to provide a fluid sample to interact with the electromagnetic radiation prior to transmitting the electromagnetic radiation to the 2D waveguide layer.4. The tool of claim 1 , further including a light source optically coupled with ...

DESIGN TECHNIQUES FOR OPTICAL PROCESSING ELEMENTS

One disclosed method for designing an integrated computational element (ICE) core includes generating with a computer a plurality of predetermined ICE core designs having a plurality of thin film layers, wherein generating the plurality of predetermined ICE core designs includes iteratively varying a thickness of each thin film layer by applying coarse thickness increments to each thin film layer, calculating a transmission spectrum for each predetermined ICE core design, calculating a performance of each predetermined ICE core design based on one or more performance criteria, identifying one or more predictive ICE core designs based on the performance of each predetermined ICE core design, and optimizing the one or more predictive ICE core designs by iteratively varying the thickness of each thin film layer with fine thickness increments, wherein the one or more predictive ICE core designs are configured to detect a particular characteristic of interest. 1. A method for designing an integrated computational element (ICE) core , comprising:generating with a computer a plurality of predetermined ICE core designs having a plurality of thin film layers, wherein generating the plurality of predetermined ICE core designs includes iteratively varying a thickness of each thin film layer by applying coarse thickness increments to each thin film layer;calculating a transmission spectrum for each predetermined ICE core design;calculating a performance of each predetermined ICE core design based on one or more performance criteria;identifying one or more predictive ICE core designs based on the performance of each predetermined ICE core design; andoptimizing the one or more predictive ICE core designs by iteratively varying the thickness of each thin film layer with fine thickness increments, wherein the one or more predictive ICE core designs are configured to detect a particular characteristic of interest.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein generating with the computer the ...

Optical element testing methods and systems employing a broadband angle-selective filter

An optical element testing system includes a broadband angle-selective filter arranged along an optical path with an optical element to be tested. The system also includes a electromagnetic radiation transducer that outputs a signal in response to electromagnetic radiation that passes through the broadband angle-selective filter. The system also includes a storage device that stores data corresponding to the signal output from the electromagnetic radiation transducer, wherein the data indicates a property of the optical element in response to a test.

OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICES WITH BIREFRINGENT OPTICAL ELEMENTS

Disclosed are optical computing devices that employ birefringent optical elements configured for use in optical computing devices. One optical computing device includes a polarizer configured to generate at least x polarized light and y polarized light, a birefringent integrated computational element configured to optically interact with a substance and the polarizer, thereby generating optically interacted light, and at least one detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light and generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the substance. 1. An integrated computing element for an optical computing device , the integrated computing element comprising:an optical substrate; anda plurality of alternating layers of material exhibiting birefringence disposed on the optical substrate, wherein a relative thickness and spacing of each layer of the plurality of alternating layers is based on a spectrum related to a characteristic of a substance.2. The integrated computing element of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of alternating layers comprises at least one layer comprising birefringent material claim 1 , the at least one layer disposed on the optical substrate and arranged orthogonal to a direction of propagation of electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the birefringent material.3. The integrated computing element of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of alternating layers has a refractive index based on a polarization and direction of propagation of electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the plurality of alternating layers.4. The integrated computing element of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of alternating layers comprises a first plurality of layers comprising one or more anisotropic materials.5. The integrated computing element of claim 4 , wherein the plurality of alternating layers comprises a second plurality of layers comprising one or more isotropic materials.6. The integrated computing element of claim 5 , ...

IMPLEMENTATION CONCEPTS AND RELATED METHODS FOR OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICES

Various implementations of optical computing devices are described herein which include a “tuning fork” probe, “spark plug” probe, “grooved tubular” and “modular” type implementation. 1. An optical computing device to determine a characteristic of a fluid sample , the device comprising: a first rod extending into the tubular body; and', 'a second rod extending into the tubular body adjacent the first rod, thereby forming a gap between the first and second rods wherein the sample fluid may flow;, 'a probe body adapted for use along a tubular body, the probe body comprisingelectromagnetic radiation that optically interacts with the fluid sample flowing through the gap to thereby produce sample-interacted light;an optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light to produce optically-interacted light which corresponds to the characteristic of the fluid sample; anda detector positioned to measure the optically-interacted light and thereby generate a signal utilized to determine the characteristic of the fluid sample.2. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first and second rods each comprise a bore extending therethrough that is defined by a first end and a second end opposite the first end claim 1 , the bores of the first and second rods being adapted to convey the electromagnetic radiation to the fluid sample claim 1 , the sample-interacted light to the optical element claim 1 , and the optically-interacted light to the detector.3. An optical computing device as defined in claim 2 , wherein the bores of the first and second rods each comprise a fiber optic cable to convey the electromagnetic radiation claim 2 , sample-interacted light and the optically interacted light.4. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first and second rods each comprise a bore extending therethrough that is defined by a first end and second end opposite the first end claim 1 , the optical computing device further ...

TUNGSTEN-HALOGEN ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OPTICAL SYSTEMS SOURCE

A tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source has a sealed transparent aluminum oxynitride envelope defining an interior volume. At least one optical element is integrally formed into the aluminum oxynitride envelope. A tungsten filament is located in the aluminum oxynitride envelope. A fill gas in the interior volume contains at least a gaseous halogen compound. 1. A tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source , comprising:a sealed transparent polycrystalline ceramic envelope defining an interior volume;a tungsten filament disposed within the interior volume; anda fill gas in the interior volume wherein the fill gas contains at least a gaseous halogen compound.2. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of wherein the transparent polycrystalline ceramic envelope is made from an aluminum oxynitride material.3. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of wherein the transparent polycrystalline ceramic envelope further comprises at least one optical element integrally formed into the envelope.4. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of wherein the at least one optical element integrally formed into the envelope is chosen from the group consisting of: an optical mirror claim 3 , an optical lens claim 3 , and an optical electromagnetic radiation guide.5. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of wherein the optical mirror is chosen from the group consisting of: a spherical mirror and a parabolic mirror.6. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of wherein the optical lens is chosen from the group consisting of: a convex lens claim 4 , a concave lens and a Fresnel lens.7. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of wherein the optical mirror further comprises a reflective coating deposited thereon.8. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic radiation source of claim 1 , wherein the gaseous halogen compound comprises a fluoride compound.9. The tungsten-halogen electromagnetic ...

Optical Computing Devices Comprising Broadband Angle-Selective Filters

Optical computing devices including an electromagnetic radiation source to emit electromagnetic radiation into an optical train; an integrated computational element (ICE) located in the optical train before or after a sample located in the optical train to generate modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train; a broadband angle-selective filter (BASF) located in the optical train to transmit the electromagnetic radiation and/or the modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train at a target incident angle, thereby generating angle selected-modified electromagnetic radiation (ASMR), and to reflect one or more stray radiation reflections at angles that are not coincident with the target incident angle; and a detector to receive the ASMR and to generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the sample. 1. An optical computing device comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source to emit electromagnetic radiation into an optical train;an integrated computational element (ICE) located in the optical train before or after a sample located in the optical train to generate modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train;a broadband angle-selective filter (BASF) located in the optical train to transmit the electromagnetic radiation and/or the modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train at a target incident angle, thereby generating angle selected-modified electromagnetic radiation (ASMR), and to reflect one or more stray radiation reflections at angles that are not coincident with the target incident angle; anda detector to receive the ASMR and to generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the sample.2. The optical computing device of claim 1 , wherein the ICE is either (A) located after the sample so that the electromagnetic radiation first optically interacts with the sample to generate optically interacted radiation in the optical train claim 1 , and then the optically interacted radiation ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CORROSION DETECTION AND FORMATION EVALUATION USING INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS

An optical computing device and method for (1) determining and/or monitoring corrosion data in a given environment and (2) evaluating a downhole formation, both being accomplished in real-time by deriving the data from the output of an optical element. 1. A method utilizing an optical computing device to determine corrosion of a sample , the method comprising:deploying an optical computing device into an environment, the optical computing device comprising an optical element and a detector;optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a sample to produce sample-interacted light;optically interacting the optical element with the sample-interacted light to generate optically-interacted light which corresponds to a characteristic of the sample;generating a signal that corresponds to the optically-interacted light through utilization of the detector; anddetermining a corrosion of the sample using the signal.2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the optical element is an Integrated Computational Element.3. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein determining the corrosion of the sample further comprises comparing the signal to baseline data of the sample.4. A method as defined in claim 3 , wherein determining the corrosion of the sample further comprises:{'b': '1', 'determining the baseline data of the sample using the optical computing device at a time T; and'}{'b': '2', 'comparing the signal to the baseline data of the sample at a time T.'}5. A method as defined in claim 3 , wherein the baseline data of the sample is generated using empirical data.6. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the corrosion of the sample is determined in real-time.7. A method as defined in claim 1 , further comprising utilizing the signal to generate a historical record of a rate of corrosion of the sample over time.8. A method as defined in claim 1 , further comprising utilizing the signal to predict life expectancy of the sample.9. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein ...

Optical Processing of Multiple Spectral Ranges Using Integrated Computational Elements

Systems, tools, and methods are presented for processing a plurality of spectral ranges from an electromagnetic radiation that has been interacted with a fluid. Each spectral range within the plurality corresponds to a property of the fluid or a constituent therein. In one instance, a series of spectral analyzers, each including an integrated computational element coupled to an optical transducer, forms a monolithic structure to receive interacted electromagnetic radiation from the fluid. Each spectral analyzer is configured to process one of the plurality of spectral ranges. The series is ordered so spectral ranges are processed progressively from shortest wavelengths to longest wavelengths as interacted electromagnetic radiation propagates therethrough. Other systems, tools, and methods are presented. 1. A optical computing system comprising:an illumination source that generates electromagnetic radiation, wherein the electromagnetic radiation interacts with a substance;a measurement unit comprising a series of spectral analyzers, wherein each spectral analyzer comprises an integrated computational element coupled to an optical transducer, and wherein each spectral analyzer is configured to process one of a plurality of spectral ranges;a computational unit coupled to the measurement unit, the computational unit comprising at least one memory and at least one processor; andwherein the computational unit stores data from the measurement unit and determines a characteristic of the substance for each of the plurality of spectral ranges.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the measurement unit further comprises a conversion circuit coupled to each optical transducer and operable to output electrical signals from the coupled optical transducers in a frequency domain.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the series of spectral analyzers claim 1 , comprises a first spectral analyzer and a second spectral analyzer.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the measurement unit comprises ...

BAND-LIMITED INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS BASED ON HOLLOW-CORE FIBER

An optical analysis tool includes an integrated computational element (ICE). The ICE includes a first hollow-core fiber. The first hollow-core fiber has a structure configured such that a spectrum of light guided by the first hollow-core fiber is related, over a wavelength range, to a characteristic of the sample. 1. An optical analysis tool for analyzing a sample , the optical analysis tool comprising:an integrated computational element (ICE) comprising a first hollow-core fiber, the first hollow-core fiber having a first hollow-core fiber structure configured such that a spectrum of light guided by the first hollow-core fiber is related, over a wavelength range, to a characteristic of the sample.2. The optical analysis tool of claim 1 , wherein the ICE further comprises a second hollow-core fiber optically coupled to the first hollow-core fiber claim 1 , the second hollow-core fiber having a second hollow-core fiber structure different from the first hollow-core fiber structure claim 1 , the second hollow-core fiber structure configured such that the second hollow-core fiber blocks light guided there through at wavelengths that are either shorter than the wavelength range or longer than the wavelength range claim 1 , or both shorter and longer than the wavelength range.3. The optical analysis tool of claim 2 , wherein the second hollow-core fiber structure of the second hollow-core fiber is formed such that a spectrum of the light guided through the second hollow-core fiber includes two or more optical band-pass filter spectra claim 2 , at least one of the optical band-pass filter spectra overlapping the wavelength range over which the light guided by the first hollow-core fiber is related to the characteristic of the sample.4. The optical analysis tool of claim 3 , whereinthe ICE is a band-limited ICE,the first hollow-core fiber is an ICE core of the band-limited ICE, andthe second hollow-core fiber is an optical band-pass filter of the band-limited ICE.5. The ...

OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICE HAVING A REDUNDANT LIGHT SOURCE AND OPTICAL TRAIN

An optical computing device having a redundant light source and/or a plurality of optical elements (i.e., optical train) in order to simultaneously determine characteristics of a sample in real-time by deriving the characteristic data from the output of the optical elements. 1. An optical computing device to determine a characteristic of a sample , the optical computing device comprising:a first electromagnetic radiation source which generates a first electromagnetic radiation;a first reflective element positioned adjacent to the first electromagnetic radiation source to thereby optically interact with the first electromagnetic radiation to reflect a first portion of the first electromagnetic radiation and to transmit a second portion of the first electromagnetic radiation;a second reflective element positioned adjacent to the first reflective element to receive the transmitted second portion of the first electromagnetic radiation and optically interact therewith to reflect the transmitted second portion of the first electromagnetic radiation,wherein the reflected first portion and the transmitted second portion of the first electromagnetic radiation optically interact with a sample to produce sample-interacted light;a first optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light to produce optically-interacted light which corresponds to a first characteristic of the sample; anda detector positioned to measure the optically-interacted light and thereby generate a signal utilized to determine the first characteristic of the sample.2. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a second electromagnetic radiation source positioned adjacent to the first reflective element claim 1 , the second electromagnetic radiation source generates a second electromagnetic radiation.3. An optical computing device as defined in claim 2 , wherein:the first reflective element is positioned to optically interact with the second electromagnetic ...

MANUFACTORING PROCESS FOR INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS

Disclosed are methods of fabricating an integrated computational element for use in an optical computing device. One method includes providing a substrate that has a first surface and a second surface substantially opposite the first surface, depositing multiple optical thin films on the first and second surfaces of the substrate via a thin film deposition process, and thereby generating a multilayer film stack device, cleaving the substrate to produce at least two optical thin film stacks, and securing one or more of the at least two optical thin film stacks to a secondary optical element for use as an integrated computational element (ICE). 1. A method , comprising:providing a substrate;depositing multiple optical thin films on a surface of the substrate via a thin film deposition process and thereby generating an optical thin film stack;removing at least a portion of the substrate from the optical thin film stack; andsecuring the optical thin film stack to a secondary optical element for use as an integrated computational element (ICE).2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the substrate is planar.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the substrate is at least one of mica claim 2 , pyrolitic carbon claim 2 , graphite claim 2 , and graphene.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein depositing the multiple optical thin films on the substrate is preceded by preparing the surface of the substrate either chemically or mechanically.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein securing the optical thin film stack to the secondary optical element is preceded by subdividing the optical thin film stack into multiple optical thin film stacks.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein removing the at least a portion of the substrate from the optical thin film stack is preceded by securing the optical thin film stack to the secondary optical element.7. The method of claim 6 , further comprising chemically reacting the substrate and thereby melting a target surface of the secondary optical element to bond ...

Spatial Heterodyne Integrated Computational Element (SH-ICE) Spectrometer

A spatial heterodyne spectrometer may employ an integrated computational element (ICE) to obtain a measure of one or more fluid properties without requiring any moving parts, making it particularly suitable for use in a downhole environment. One illustrative method embodiment includes: directing light from a light source to illuminate a sample; transforming light from the sample into spatial fringe patterns using a dispersive two-beam interferometer; adjusting a spectral weighting of the spatial fringe patterns using, an integrated computation element (ICE); focusing spectral-weight-adjusted spatial fringe patterns into combined fringe intensities; detecting the combined fringe intensities; and deriving at least one property of the sample. 1. A spectral analysis tool that comprises:a light source that illuminates a sample;a detector;an optical path that couples light that has interacted with the sample to the detector;andan integrated computational element (ICE) that adjusts a spectral weighting of light propagating along the optical path.2. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the ICE has a programmable wavelength dependent attenuation.3. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the ICE employs spatially-dependent masking to adjust the spectral weighting based on a spatial dependence of spatial fringe patterns.4. The tool of claim 3 , wherein the ICE has a programmable spatial dependence.5. The tool of claim 3 , wherein the ICE further employs wavelength dependent masking.6. The tool of claim 5 , wherein the wavelength dependence is programmable.7. The tool of claim 3 , wherein the ICE is a multiplex device employing multiple different row-oriented spectral weighting regions to provide multiple adjustments to the spectral weighting.8. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the ICE employs multiple different row-oriented spectral weighting regions to provide multiplex adjustments to the spectral weighting.9. The tool of claim 29 , further comprising a focusing element that recombines one or ...

Optical computing devices with birefringent optical elements

A method of monitoring a substance includes optically interacting at least one birefringent integrated computational element with at least the substance and a polarizer, thereby generating optically interacted light. The polarizer is being configured to generate at least x polarized light and y polarized light. The method includes receiving the optically interacted light with at least one detector. The method includes generating with the at least one detector output signals corresponding to at least two characteristics of the substance.

SAMPLE ANALYSIS TOOL EMPLOYING A BROADBAND ANGLE-SELECTIVE FILTER

A sample analysis tool includes a sample chamber to hold a sample. The tool also includes a broadband angle-selective filter arranged along an optical path with the sample chamber. The tool also includes an electromagnetic radiation (ER) transducer that outputs a signal in response to electromagnetic radiation that passes through the broadband angle-selective filter. The tool also includes a storage device that stores data corresponding to the signal output from the ER transducer, wherein the data indicates a property of the sample. 1. A sample analysis tool , comprising:a sample chamber to hold a sample;a broadband angle-selective filter arranged along an optical path with the sample chamber;an electromagnetic radiation (ER) transducer that outputs a signal in response to electromagnetic radiation that passes through the broadband angle-selective filter; anda storage device that stores data corresponding to the signal output from the ER transducer, wherein the data indicates a property of the sample.2. The tool of claim 1 , further comprising a housing and an ER source within the housing.3. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the sample is exposed to an ER source and wherein the data indicates a property of the sample.4. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the sample emits electromagnetic radiation and wherein the data indicates a property of the sample.5. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the broadband angle-selective filter and the ER transducer are arranged within the tool to prevent scattered electromagnetic radiation or non-specular electromagnetic radiation from arriving to the ER transducer.6. The tool of claim 1 , further comprising a supplemental ER transducer to output a supplemental signal in response to an amount of scattered electromagnetic radiation or non-specular electromagnetic radiation that does not pass through the broadband angle-selective filter claim 1 , wherein data corresponding to the supplemental signal is used to determine the property of the sample.7. ...

Pulse Width Modulation of Continuum Sources for Determination of Chemical Composition

A light source and a method for its use in an optical sensor are provided, the light source including a resistively heated element. The light source includes a power circuit configured to provide a pulse width modulated voltage to the resistively heated element, the pulse width modulated voltage including: a duty cycle with a first voltage; and a pulse period including a period with a second voltage, wherein: the duty cycle, the first voltage, and the pulse period are selected so that the resistively heated element is heated to a first temperature; and the first temperature is selected to emit black body radiation in a continuum spectral range. Also provided is an optical sensor for determining a chemical composition including a light source as above. 1. A light source for use in an optical sensor , the light source comprising:a resistively heated element; and a duty cycle with a first voltage; and', the duty cycle, the first voltage, and the pulse period are selected so that the resistively heated element is heated to a first temperature; and', 'the first temperature is selected to emit black body radiation in a continuum spectral range., 'a pulse period including a period with a second voltage, wherein], 'a power circuit configured to provide a pulse width modulated voltage to the resistively heated element, the pulse width modulated voltage comprising2. The light source of wherein the second voltage is lower than the first voltage.3. The light source of wherein the second voltage is zero.4. The light source of any one of claim 1 , claim 1 , or wherein the duty cycle claim 1 , the second voltage claim 1 , and the pulse period are selected so that the resistively heated element is heated to a second temperature lower than the first temperature.5. The light source of wherein the second temperature is selected to emit black body radiation in a second continuum spectral range.621-. (canceled). 1. Technical FieldEmbodiments disclosed herein relate to the field of ...

Method for Designing a High Sensitivity Integrated Computational Element

A system and method to design highly-sensitive Integrated Computational Elements for optical computing devices. A harmonic line shape is defined and used to simulate an optical response function which has a plurality of parameters that are varied until an ideal optical response function is determined. The ideal optical response function will be that function which maximizes the output sensitivity and/or minimizes the Standard Error of Calibration. Thereafter, the method designs a film stack having an optical response function that matches the ideal transmission function, and an ICE is fabricated based upon this design. 1. A method to design an integrated computation element (“ICE”) , the method comprising:defining at least one harmonic line shape that simulates an optical response function;varying parameters of the harmonic line shape to thereby generate one or more varied optical response functions;evaluating the varied optical response functions for a characterization of a sample property using a merit function;based upon a merit function performance of the varied optical response functions, selecting an ideal optical response function; andselecting an ICE design having an optical response function that matches the ideal optical response function.2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the optical response function of the ICE design matches the ideal optical response function when a squared mean error between the optical response function of the ICE design and the ideal optical response function is less than 5%.3. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein defining the at least one harmonic line shape comprises defining at least one of a Lorentzian claim 1 , Gaussian or anharmonic derivative line shape.4. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the at least one harmonic line shape is defined at random.5. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein varying the parameters of the harmonic line shape comprises varying at least one of an amplitude claim 1 , broadening ...

Cross-Sensor Standardization

The disclosed embodiments include a method, apparatus, and computer program product for generating a cross-sensor standardization model. For example, one disclosed embodiment includes a system that includes at least one processor; at least one memory coupled to the at least one processor and storing instructions that when executed by the at least one processor performs operations comprising selecting a representative sensor from a group of sensors comprising at least one of same primary optical elements and similar synthetic optical responses and calibrating a cross-sensor standardization model based on a matched data pair for each sensor in the group of sensors and for the representative sensor. In one embodiment, the at least one memory coupled to the at least one processor and storing instructions that when executed by the at least one processor performs operations further comprises generating the matched data pair, wherein the matched data pair comprises calibration input data and calibration output data. 1. A computer-implemented method for generating a cross-sensor standardization model , the method comprising:identifying a group of sensors, wherein each sensor in the group of sensors comprises a design or a fabrication batch that is the same;selecting a representative sensor from the group of sensors; andcalibrating the cross-sensor standardization model to predict a fluid property of a reservoir fluid, wherein the calibrating maps an optical response for each sensor to synthetic responses for the representative sensor.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the synthetic responses comprise synthetic optical responses associated with a design or fabrication batch that is the same.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the representative sensor is a synthetic sensor generated from a sensor in the group of sensors.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the representative sensor is a hypothetical sensor simulated to minimize a difference between calculated optical responses ...

Moveable Assembly for Simultaneous Detection of Analytic and Compensation Signals in Optical Computing

An optical computing device uses a moveable assembly to simultaneously analytic and compensation signals to determine sample characteristics in real-time. In one embodiment, the moveable assembly is a rotating carousel including at least one optical element pair positioned thereon, where one of the optical elements forms an analytic channel, and the other forms the compensation channel. Alternatively, two carousels may be utilized, where one includes the analytic channel and the other includes the compensation channel. In another embodiment, a linear array having compensation and analytic channels may be utilized. During operation, electromagnetic radiation optically interacts with the sample to form sample-interacted light, which is directed toward the optical elements on the moveable assembly. The optical elements are positioned on the moveable assemblies such that the sample-interacted light optically interacts with both simultaneously, thereby providing compensation in parallel with the sample characteristic measurement. 1. An optical computing device , comprising:electromagnetic radiation that optically interacts with a sample to produce sample-interacted light; a first optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light to produce first optically-interacted light which corresponds to a characteristic of the sample, thereby forming an analytic channel; and', 'a second optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light to produce second optically-interacted light utilized to compensate the analytic channel, thereby forming a compensation channel,', 'wherein the first and second optical elements are positioned along the moveable assembly to simultaneously interact with the sample-interacted light;, 'a moveable assembly, comprisinga first detector positioned to measure the first optically-interacted light and generate a first signal; anda second detector positioned to measure the second optically-interacted light and ...

MODELING WELLBORE FLUIDS

Techniques for modeling a wellbore fluid that includes a base fluid and one or more fluid additives includes identifying a target viscosity profile of the wellbore fluid; determining an initial set of values of the fluid additives that are based at least in part on the target viscosity profile; determining, with one or more non-linear predictive models, a computed viscosity profile of the wellbore fluid and a computed set of values of the fluid additives based, at least in part, on the initial set of values of the fluid additives; comparing the computed viscosity profile and at least one of the computed set of values with a specified criteria of the wellbore fluid; and preparing, based on the comparison, an output including the computed viscosity profile and at least one of the computed set of values of a resultant wellbore fluid. 1. A computer-implemented method of modeling a wellbore fluid that comprises a base fluid and one or more fluid additives , the method comprising:identifying a target viscosity profile of the wellbore fluid;determining an initial set of values of the fluid additives that are based at least in part on the target viscosity profile;determining, with one or more non-linear predictive models, a computed viscosity profile of the wellbore fluid and a computed set of values of the fluid additives based, at least in part, on the initial set of values of the fluid additives;comparing at least one of the computed viscosity profile or the computed set of values with a specified criteria of the wellbore fluid; andpreparing, based on the comparison, an output comprising at least one of the computed viscosity profile or the computed set of values.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:identifying one or more properties of the base fluid, where identifying a target viscosity profile of the wellbore fluid comprises identifying a target viscosity profile of the wellbore fluid based at least in part on the properties of the base fluid.3. The method of ...

INTERLOCKING CONTAINER

An interlocking container for the storage and transport of flowable material. The container is provided with a plurality of interlocking top panels. The panels are provided with catches that alternately engage the top and bottom of adjacent panels to prevent the panels from becoming dislodged from one another and to maintain the side panels at an angled orientation relative to the side panels of the container, to prevent distortion of the side panels by hydrostatic pressure toward a circular orientation. The panels define an opening in the top of the collapsible through which a fill head may engage a top cap of a flexible liner provided within the collapsible container, to fill the liner with flowable material. 1. A collapsible container comprising:a) a first side panel;b) a second side panel;c) a third side panel coupled to the second side panel;d) a fourth side panel coupled to the third side panel; i) a top;', 'ii) a bottom; and', A) a first catch;', 'B) a second catch; and', 'C) a first span, coupling the first catch to the second catch;, 'iii) a first interlock coupled to the first top panel, wherein the first interlock comprises], 'e) a first top panel coupled to the first side panel, the first top panel comprising i) a top;', 'ii) a bottom; and', A) a third catch;', 'B) a fourth catch; and', 'C) a second span, coupling the third catch to the fourth catch;, 'iii) a second interlock coupled to the second top panel, wherein the second interlock comprises], 'f) a second side top panel coupled to the second side panel, the second side panel comprisingg) a third side top panel coupled to the third side panel;h) a fourth side top panel coupled to the fourth side panel;i) wherein the first interlock is frictionally engaged to the second interlock in a manner in which the first catch is frictionally engaged to the bottom of the second top panel and the second catch is frictionally engaged to the top of the second top panel in a manner that locks the first top panel in ...

Abrasive suspension jet cutting system having reduced system wear and process materials reclamation

An abrasive suspension jet cutting system, the system includes a cutting head. The cutting head has a feed assembly, nozzle and acceleration cavity therebetween. The feed assembly has a slurry orifice and a shielding fluid orifice. Within the acceleration cavity abrasive slurry and shielding fluid are accelerated together from the slurry orifice to the nozzle while maintaining a shielding fluid barrier substantially unmixed with the abrasive slurry around the abrasive slurry. The cutting head is further configured to have both the slurry and shielding fluid pass substantially unmixed through the nozzle thereby limiting nozzle wear. A wear control system is provided to reduce wear of the nozzle and other system components during start and stop. The system may further include a reclamation system that collects and reclaims used abrasive particles and fluid and returns them back to the cutting head to be reused thereby reducing system operational costs.

OPTICAL TRANSMISSION/REFLECTION MODE IN-SITU DEPOSITION RATE CONTROL FOR ICE FABRICATION

Systems and methods of controlling a deposition rate during thin-film fabrication are provided. A system as provided may include a chamber, a material source contained within the chamber, an electrical component to activate the material source, a substrate holder to support the multilayer stack and at least one witness sample. The system may further include a measurement device and a computational unit. The material source provides a layer of material to the multilayer stack and to the witness sample at a deposition rate controlled at least partially by the electrical component and based on a correction value obtained in real-time by the computational unit. In some embodiments, the correction value is based on a measured value provided by the measurement device and a computed value provided by the computational unit according to a model. 1. A system for fabricating an optical thin-film device , comprising:a chamber;a material source contained within the chamber;an electrical component to activate the material source;a substrate holder to support a multilayer stack of materials that form the optical thin-film device and at least one witness sample;a measurement device; anda computational unit, wherein the material source provides a layer of material to the multilayer stack and to the witness sample at a deposition rate controlled at least partially by the electrical component and based on a correction value obtained by the computational unit, andwherein the correction value is based on a measured value provided by the measurement device and a computed value provided by the computational unit according to a model.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the material source includes two materials having a first index of refraction and a second index of refraction claim 1 , and the multilayer stack comprises at least a first layer formed of the first material and at least a second layer formed of the second material.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the measurement device ...

Optical Computing Devices Comprising Rotatable Broadband Angle-Selective Filters

An optical computing device comprising a plurality of electromagnetic radiation sources, each at a unique angular displacement about an optical train and each at at least one unique electromagnetic radiation wavelength; an integrated computational element (ICE) located in the optical train before or after a sample located in the optical train to generate modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train; a broadband angle-selective filter (BASF) located in the optical train that is rotatable about an axis to a plurality of unique orientations to transmit the electromagnetic radiation and/or the modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train at a target incident angle corresponding to one of the plurality of electromagnetic radiation sources to generate angle selected-modified electromagnetic radiation (ASMR); and a detector to receive the ASMR and to generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the sample. 1. An optical computing device comprising:a plurality of electromagnetic radiation sources, each at a unique angular displacement about an optical train and each at at least one unique electromagnetic radiation wavelength;an integrated computational element (ICE) located in the optical train before or after a sample located in the optical train to generate modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train;a broadband angle-selective filter (BASF) located in the optical train that is rotatable about an axis to a plurality of unique orientations to transmit the electromagnetic radiation and/or the modified electromagnetic radiation in the optical train at a target incident angle corresponding to one of the plurality of electromagnetic radiation sources to generate angle selected-modified electromagnetic radiation (ASMR); anda detector to receive the ASMR and to generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the sample.2. The optical computing device of claim 1 , wherein the ICE is located either (A) after the ...

BANDGAP DETECTION OF REACTIVE COMPONENTS IN FLUIDS

The present application relates sensing reactive components in fluids by monitoring band gap changes to a material having interacted with the reactive components via physisorption and/or chemisorption. In some embodiments, the sensors of the present disclosure include the material as a reactive surface on a substrate. The band gap changes may be detected by measuring conductance changes and/or spectroscopic changes. In some instances, the sensing may occur downhole during one or more wellbore operations like drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and producing hydrocarbons. 1. A method comprising:measuring at least one of a change of a bandgap and a rate of change of the bandgap of a reactive surface, wherein the reactive surface is contacted by a fluid comprising a reactive component; anddetermining a concentration of the reactive component in the fluid based, at least in part, on the at least one of the change in the bandgap and the rate of change of the bandgap of the reactive surface.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the measuring comprises:illuminating the reactive surface via light emitted by a light source;detecting interacted light, wherein the interacted light is a product of reflection or transmission of the illuminating light and the reactive surface; anddetermining the at least one of the change of the bandgap and the rate of change of the bandgap based, at least in part, on the interacted light.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the measuring further comprises:determining at least one of intensity, wavelength, and frequency of the interacted light.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:measuring an electrical property of the reactive surface, wherein determining the concentration of the reactive component comprises determining the concentration of the reactive component based, at least in part, on the electrical property of the reactive surface.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein measuring an electrical property of the reactive surface comprises ...

INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS WITH LATERALLY-DISTRIBUTED SPECTRAL FILTERS

Technologies for providing optical analysis systems using an integrated computational element with laterally-distributed spectral filters are described. A measurement tool contains an optical element including a substrate and a plurality of spectral filters supported by the substrate and arranged at different lateral positions with respect to a path of light to be received from a sample during operation of the measurement tool. Each spectral filter is formed to transmit or reflect a different subset of wavelengths in a wavelength range. Additionally, each spectral filter has a respective area exposed to the light from the sample, such that the respective areas are related to a property of the sample. The wavelength range can include wavelengths in a range from about 0.2 μm to about 25 μm. Additionally, the sample can include wellbore fluids and the property of the sample is a property of the well-bore fluids. 1. A system comprising:a light source that, during operation of the system, illuminates a sample with light having a source spectrum over a wavelength range to obtain light modified by the sample, wherein the light modified by the sample has a modified spectrum over the wavelength range, the modified spectrum corresponding to the sample;an integrated computational element (ICE) comprising a set of spectral filters spectrally imprinted over a substrate surface, wherein the set of spectral filters is spectrally equivalent to a filter spectrum over the wavelength range, wherein the filter spectrum corresponds to a set of spectra of the sample respectively taken for known values of a property of the sample, wherein each spectral filter in the set is centered on an associated wavelength and has an associated area, such that the associated area is proportional to a value of the filter spectrum at the associated wavelength,wherein the ICE (i) is arranged to receive the light modified by the sample and (ii) outputs processed light that has a processed spectrum over the ...

ENABLING SHARED GRAPHICS AND COMPUTE HARDWARE ACCELERATION IN A VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT

The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for providing access to graphics or compute hardware acceleration to applications executing in a guest environment. The devices and methods may provide virtualization support to graphics or compute devices so that graphics or compute devices may be projected inside of a guest environment. The devices and methods may share the physical resources for graphics and compute hardware acceleration by coordinating the use of the graphics or compute hardware acceleration across a spectrum of devices, environments, or platforms. 1. A computer device , comprising:a memory;at least one processor;at least one hardware acceleration device; receive a request, from a guest application operating in the guest environment, to use the at least one hardware acceleration device;', 'receive another request from a second application to use the at least one hardware acceleration device;', 'coordinate the use of the at least one hardware acceleration device between the guest application and the second application; and', 'send a received response from the at least one hardware acceleration device to the guest environment., 'a host operating system in communication with the memory, the at least one processor, and the at least one hardware acceleration device, wherein the host operating system hosts a guest environment and the host operating system is operable to2. The computer device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one hardware acceleration device is a graphics device or a compute device.3. The computer device of claim 1 , wherein the second application is one or more of a host application operating on the host operating system or another guest application operating on the guest environment.4. The computer device of claim 1 , wherein the host operating system is further operable to coordinate the use of the at least one hardware acceleration device by simultaneously sharing the at least one hardware acceleration device with the second ...

INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS WITH FREQUENCY SELECTIVE SURFACE

Technologies are described for providing optical analysis systems using an integrated computational element that has a surface patterned to selectively reflect or transmit different wavelengths by differing amounts across a spectrum of wavelengths. In one aspect, a measurement tool contains an optical element including a layer of material patterned so that the optical element selectively transmits or reflects, during operation of the measurement tool, light in at least a portion of a wavelength range by differing amounts, the differing amounts being related to a property of a sample. The wavelength range can include wavelengths in a range from about 0.2 μm to about 100 μm. Additionally, the sample can include wellbore fluids and the property of the sample is a property of the wellbore fluids. 1. A system comprising:a light source that illuminates, during operation of the system, a sample with light having a source spectrum over a wavelength range to obtain light modified by the sample, wherein the light modified by the sample has a modified spectrum over the wavelength range, the modified spectrum corresponding to the sample; a substrate having a surface, and', 'a layer disposed on the surface of the substrate as a frequency-selective surface pattern, wherein the frequency-selective surface pattern is defined in terms of a set of parameters to be spectrally equivalent to a filter spectrum over the wavelength range, wherein the filter spectrum corresponds to a set of spectra of the sample respectively taken for known values of a property of the sample,, 'an integrated computational element (ICE) comprising'}wherein the ICE (i) is arranged to receive the light modified by the sample and (ii) outputs processed light that has a processed spectrum over the wavelength range; anda photodetector optically coupled with the ICE to receive the processed light, wherein the photodetector integrates the processed spectrum over the wavelength range to determine a current value of ...

DISTRIBUTED SENSOR NETWORK

A system may include a sensor to detect a characteristic of a fluid and output an electrical signal proportional to the characteristic, an acoustic signal generator to output an acoustic signal proportional to the electrical signal, and a signal detection apparatus to generate a signal proportional to the acoustic signal and transmit the signal to a remote location. 1. A system , comprising:a sensor to detect a characteristic of a fluid and output an electrical signal proportional to the characteristic;an acoustic signal generator to output an acoustic signal proportional to the electrical signal; anda signal detection apparatus to generate a signal proportional to the acoustic signal and transmit the signal to a remote location.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises one of a chemical sensor claim 1 , an optical sensor claim 1 , a pH sensor claim 1 , a density sensor claim 1 , a viscosity sensor claim 1 , a thermal sensor claim 1 , and a pressure sensor.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the acoustic signal generator includes one of a piezoelectric device claim 1 , a magnetostriction device claim 1 , an electro-optic device claim 1 , and an electrostriction device.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the signal detection apparatus generates an optical signal proportional to the acoustic signal using interferometric phase modulation techniques and transmits the optical signal to the remote location.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the signal detection apparatus is positioned in an annulus defined between a wellbore and a casing secured within the wellbore.6. The system of claim 4 , wherein the signal detection apparatus is conveyed into a wellbore on slickline or wireline.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the signal detection apparatus is a non-fiber optic based apparatus that detects the acoustic signal.8. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a frequency generator that receives the electrical signal and generates a control signal proportional ...

COLLAPSIBLE CONTAINER WITH IMPROVED CORNERS

A collapsible container having thick corrugated walls with double crease corners. The double crease corners define two 45° angles instead of one 90° to allow the container to maintain a generally rectangular shape and reduce the tendency of the side panels to bias outward when the container is filled with a flowable material. 1. A collapsible container comprising:(a) a first side panel, wherein the first panel is at least triple corrugated;(b) a second side panel, wherein the second panel is at least triple corrugated;(c) a third side panel, wherein the third panel is at least triple corrugated;(d) a fourth side panel, wherein the fourth panel is at least triple corrugated;(e) a first crease provided in the first side panel, wherein the first crease compresses the first side panel to a thickness of less than eighty percent of the greatest thickness of the first side panel;(f) a second crease provided in the second side panel, wherein the second crease compresses the second side panel to a thickness of less than eighty percent of the maximum thickness of the second side panel; and(g) wherein the center of the first crease is located a predetermined distance from the center of the second crease, wherein the predetermined distance is greater than the minimum thickness of the first side panel and less than four times the maximum thickness of the first side panel.2. The collapsible container of claim 1 , wherein the first crease and the second crease define a peak there between.3. The collapsible container of claim 2 , wherein the maximum thickness of the peak is greater than the minimum thickness of the first crease and wherein the thickness of the peak is greater than the minimum thickness of the second crease.4. The collapsible container of claim 3 , wherein the maximum thickness of the peak is no greater than the maximum thickness of the first side panel and wherein the maximum thickness of the peak is no greater than the maximum thickness of the second side panel.5. ...

Surface sensing of reactive components in fluids

The present application relates sensing reactive components in fluids by monitoring band gap changes to a material having interacted with the reactive components via physisorption and/or chemisorption. In some embodiments, the sensors of the present disclosure include the material as a reactive surface on a substrate. The band gap changes may be detected by measuring conductance changes and/or spectroscopic changes. In some instances, the sensing may occur downhole during one or more wellbore operations like drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and producing hydrocarbons.

ENGINEERING THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF AN INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENT BY ION IMPLANTATION

Systems and methods of engineering the optical properties of an optical Integrated Computational Element device using ion implantation during fabrication are provided. A system as disclosed herein includes a chamber, a material source contained within the chamber, an ion source configured to provide a high-energy ion beam, a substrate holder to support a multilayer stack of materials that form the Integrated Computational Element device, a measurement system, and a computational unit. The material source provides a material layer to the multilayer stack, and at least a portion of the ion beam is deposited in the material layer according to an optical value provided by the measurement system. 1. A system for fabricating an Integrated Computational Element (ICE) device , comprising:a chamber;a material source contained within the chamber;an ion-beam generator configured to provide an ion beam;a substrate holder to support a multilayer stack of materials that form the ICE device;a measurement system; anda computational unit, wherein the material source provides a material layer to the multilayer stack, and at least a portion of the ion beam is deposited in the material layer according to an optical value provided by the measurement system.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ion-beam generator is configured to provide a selected dose of ions at a selected energy and with a selected angle of incidence to the multilayer stack.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the measurement system comprises:an optical system configured to provide broadband electromagnetic radiation to the multilayer stack;an optical transducer to measure the electromagnetic radiation after it interacts with the ICE device in-situ and provide a signal; anda recording device to store the signal.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the signal provided by the measurement system is one of a broadband transmission spectrum claim 3 , a broadband reflection spectrum claim 3 , and a combination of a broadband ...

HYBRID VEHICLE FRONT END ACCESSORY DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD

A method of operating an accessory drive system for a motor vehicle, wherein the accessory drive system includes one or more accessory components, a motor generator of the motor vehicle, and a flexible drive element configured to transmit a torque load between the one or more accessory components and the motor generator, includes determining a maximum permissible flexible drive element torque threshold, detecting an increase in torque demand on the flexible drive element, determining when the torque demand on the flexible drive element will exceed the flexible drive element torque threshold, and reducing the torque demand of one or more of the accessory components so that the flexible drive element torque threshold is not exceeded. 1. A method of operating an accessory drive system for a hybrid vehicle having pulleys associated with an engine , a motor/generator , and an air conditioning compressor driven by a belt , comprising , by a vehicle controller:measuring a belt parameter;adjusting a belt torque threshold based on the belt parameter; andcontrolling torque of the motor/generator and/or the air conditioning compressor responsive to a regenerative braking event to maintain the belt torque below the belt torque threshold.2. The method of wherein adjusting the belt torque threshold comprises accessing a lookup table based on the belt parameter.3. The method of wherein the belt parameter is an age of the belt.4. The method of wherein the vehicle controller is configured to control torque by disengaging a clutch associated with the air conditioning compressor.5. A vehicle comprising:an engine having a drive pulley;a belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) having an ISG pulley;an accessory having an accessory pulley, wherein a belt coupled to the drive pulley drives the accessory pulley and the ISG pulley; anda controller configured to reduce torque demand of the accessory responsive to a regenerative braking event so that torque applied to the belt is less ...

INCORPORATION OF INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS WITHIN OPTICAL ANALYSIS TOOLS HAVING A MINIATURIZED OPERATIONAL PROFILE

Conventional optical analysis tools containing an integrated computational element may have an operational profile that is too large for convenient use within confined locales. Optical analysis tools having a miniaturized operational profile can comprise: an electromagnetic radiation source that provides electromagnetic radiation to an optical train; and an optical computing device positioned within the optical train. The optical computing device comprises a planar array detector having at least two optical detection regions. At least one of the at least two optical detection regions has an integrated computational element disposed thereon. The planar array detector and the integrated computational element are in a fixed configuration with respect to one another. 1. A method comprising:optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a sample and a planar array detector having at least two optical detection regions, at least one of the at least two optical detection regions having an integrated computational element disposed thereon; andgenerating an output signal from the planar array detector corresponding to a characteristic of the sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sample comprises a treatment fluid or a formation fluid.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the planar array detector comprises at least two optical detection regions with an integrated computational element disposed thereon claim 1 , a neutral detection region claim 1 , and a blank detection region that is blocked from receiving electromagnetic radiation.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising:computationally combining an output from the at least two optical detection regions having an integrated computational element disposed thereon.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the planar array detector and the integrated computational element are in a fixed configuration with respect to one another.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein a bandpass filter overlays each optical detection region ...

ENHANCED SLICKLINE

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a slickline for use in well drilling and hydrocarbon recovery operations includes a cable and an intermediate layer disposed around the cable. The slickline also includes a doped polymeric coating layered around the intermediate layer. The doped polymeric coating is a different material from the intermediate layer, and the doped polymeric coating includes a polymeric material doped with an element that is detectable within the doped polymeric coating via a detection machine for purposes of determining wear or other aspects about the conditions of the slickline. 1. A slickline , comprising:a cable;an intermediate layer disposed around the cable; anda first doped polymeric coating layered around the intermediate layer, wherein the first doped polymeric coating comprises a different material from the intermediate layer, and wherein the first doped polymeric coating comprises a polymeric material doped with an element that is detectable within the first doped polymeric coating via a detection machine.2. The slickline of claim 1 , wherein the first doped polymeric coating comprises the polymeric material doped with a conductive material in a concentration that is detectable via an eddy current measurement device.3. The slickline of claim 1 , wherein the first doped polymeric coating comprises the polymeric material doped with an elemental tracer in a concentration that is detectable via an X-ray diffraction (XRD) or X-ray fluorescence (XRF) machine.4. The slickline of claim 3 , wherein the elemental tracer does not comprise iron claim 3 , chromium claim 3 , silicon claim 3 , or tin.5. The slickline of claim 3 , comprising a second doped polymeric coating layered around the first doped polymeric coating claim 3 , wherein the first doped polymeric coating comprises the polymeric material doped with a first elemental tracer and wherein the second doped polymeric coating comprises the polymeric material doped with a ...

USING OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICES TO DETERMINE UNKNOWN ANALYTES

Disclosed are systems and methods of using integrated computational elements to determine unknown interferents in a fluid being monitored. One method includes monitoring a fluid with an optical computing device comprising at least two integrated computational element (ICE) cores configured to optically interact with a fluid and detect a corresponding at least two characteristics of the fluid, each ICE core being designed and manufactured with reference to known spectra related to the at least two characteristics of the fluid, generating output signals corresponding to the at least two characteristics of the fluid with the optical computing device, wherein an intensity of each output signal corresponds to a concentration of the at least two characteristics of the fluid, and calculating a representative spectrum of the fluid with a signal processor based on the known spectra of the at least two characteristics and the intensity of each output signal. 1. A method , comprising:monitoring a fluid with an optical computing device comprising at least two integrated computational element (ICE) cores configured to optically interact with a fluid and detect a corresponding at least two characteristics of the fluid, each ICE core being designed and manufactured with reference to known spectra related to the at least two characteristics of the fluid;generating output signals corresponding to the at least two characteristics of the fluid with the optical computing device, wherein an intensity of each output signal corresponds to a concentration of the at least two characteristics of the fluid; andcalculating a representative spectrum of the fluid with a signal processor based on the known spectra of the at least two characteristics and the intensity of each output signal.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:querying a spectral library for standard spectra;comparing the representative spectrum against the standard spectra; andidentifying one or more unknown interferents ...

Optical Design Techniques for Providing Favorable Fabrication Characteristics

Disclosed are methods and techniques for providing favorable fabrication characteristics for optical elements. One method includes providing a desired integrated computational element (ICE) design comprising a plurality of layers, each layer having a design thickness, randomizing the design thickness of each layer of the desired ICE design to simulate a fabrication error in each layer, thereby generating a plurality of randomized ICE designs, calculating a standard error of calibration between each randomized ICE design and the desired ICE design, correlating the standard error of calibration between a given layer of the desired ICE design and the fabrication error of each corresponding layer of each randomized ICE design, and ranking the plurality of layers of the desired ICE design based on the sensitivity to changes in the standard error of calibration.

Simulated Integrated Computational Elements and Their Applications

A downhole system in which an agile light source is used to simulate an integrated optical element to measure one or more characteristics of a fluid in a wellbore. 1. An optical measurement system comprising:a light source to provide an input light, the light source having a source controller circuit;a sample containment area;a detector to detect a sample light; 'a detector controller circuit to synchronize the input light and the detector and to implement the spectral profile in order to provide a light signal to simulate an integrated computational element in a period of time with the input light.', 'a spectral profile for an integrated computational element; and'}2. The optical measurement system of further comprising an analysis unit configured to integrate a signal from the detector over the period of time and provide a value of a measurable property of the sample.3. The optical measurement system of wherein the integrated computational element profile includes a first spectrum and a second spectrum claim 1 , the first spectrum and the second spectrum selected according to a linear regression vector for a measurable property of the sample.4. The optical system of wherein the signal from the detector comprises a difference between a signal from the first spectrum and a signal from the second spectrum.5. The optical system of wherein the signal from the detector comprises a ratio of a signal from the first spectrum and a sum of the signal from the first spectrum and a signal from the second spectrum.6. A light source for use in an optical measurement system claim 3 , the light source comprising:a light emitting circuit having a pre-selected center wavelength, a pre-selected amplitude, and a bandwidth; 'the controller circuit comprises a memory circuit, the memory circuit comprising a spectral profile having a first spectrum and a second spectrum associated with the simulated integrated computational element.', 'a controller circuit to provide a signal to the ...

INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS INCORPORATING A STRESS RELIEF LAYER

An optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation to optically interact with a substance and an integrated computational element (ICE) core. The ICE core includes a substrate, and a first plurality of thin films alternatingly deposited on the substrate with a second plurality of thin films via a thin film deposition process, wherein the first plurality of thin films is made of a high refractive index material and the second plurality of thin films is made of low refractive index material. A stress relief layer is deposited on the substrate via the thin film deposition process and interposes the substrate and a first layer of the first plurality of thin films. A detector is positioned to receive modified electromagnetic radiation that has optically interacted with the substance and the ICE core and generate an output signal indicative of the characteristic of the substance. 1. An optical computing device , comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation to optically interact with a substance; a substrate;', 'a first plurality of thin films alternatingly deposited on the substrate with a second plurality of thin films via a thin film deposition process, wherein the first plurality of thin films is made of one of high or low refractive index materials and the second plurality of thin films is made of the other of the high or the low refractive index materials; and', 'a stress relief layer deposited on the substrate via the thin film deposition process and interposing the substrate and a first layer of the first plurality of thin films, wherein the stress relief layer maintains one or more optical properties of the first plurality of thin films at a constant value; and, 'an integrated computational element (ICE) core arranged to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation, the ICE core includinga detector positioned to receive modified electromagnetic radiation that ...

Methods and Devices for Optically Determining a Characteristic of a Substance

Using an optical computing device includes optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a sample and a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel, optically interacting the electromagnetic radiation with the sample and a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel, producing first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively, receiving the first modified electromagnetic radiation with a first detector, and receiving the second modified electromagnetic radiation with a second detector, generating a first output signal with the first detector and a second output signal with the second detector, and computationally combining the first and second output signals with a signal processor to determine the characteristic of interest of the sample. 1. A method of determining a characteristic of a sample , comprising:optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with the sample and a first integrated computational element arranged within a primary channel;optically interacting the electromagnetic radiation with the sample and a second integrated computational element arranged within a reference channel, wherein the first integrated computational element is selected according to a spectral response associated or disassociated with the characteristic of the sample, and the second integrated computational element is selected according to a spectral response associated or disassociated with the same characteristic of the sample;producing first and second modified electromagnetic radiations from the first and second integrated computational elements, respectively;receiving the first modified electromagnetic radiation with a first detector, and receiving the second modified electromagnetic radiation with a second detector;generating a first output signal with the first detector and a second output signal with the second detector; ...

System and Method for Deposition of Integrated Computational Elements (ICE) Using a Translation Stage

The disclosed embodiments include a system and method for manufacturing an integrated computational element (ICE) core. In one embodiment, the method comprises thermally evaporating a material to deposit the material on a substrate, wherein the material is deposited to establish a shape of the ICE core. The shape of the ICE core defines transmission, reflection, and absorptive electromagnetic intensity as a function of wavelength of the ICE core. In one embodiment, the method includes varying e-beam or ion-beam intensities and strengths to control the shape of the ICE core.

Parallel Optical Measurement System With Broadband Angle Selective Filters

An optical computing device includes a light source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train extending from the light source to a detector. A substance optically interacts with the electromagnetic radiation. A processor array is positioned in the optical train and includes a plurality of integrated computational element (ICE) cores that optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the detector receives modified electromagnetic radiation generated through optical interaction of the electromagnetic radiation with the substance and the processor array. A weighting array is positioned in the optical train and includes a plurality of weighting devices that optically apply corresponding weighting factors to the modified electromagnetic radiation. A broadband angle selective filter (BASF) array is positioned in the optical train to selectively pass electromagnetic radiation at a predetermined angle of incidence. The detector generates an output signal indicative of a characteristic of the substance. 1. An optical computing device , comprising:a light source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train extending from the light source to a detector;a substance positioned in the optical train to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation and produce sample interacted radiation;a processor array positioned in the optical train and including a plurality of integrated computational element (ICE) cores arranged on a substrate to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation, wherein the detector receives a plurality of beams of modified electromagnetic radiation generated through optical interaction of the electromagnetic radiation with the substance and the processor array;a weighting array positioned in the optical train and including a plurality of weighting devices that optically apply corresponding weighting factors to each beam of modified electromagnetic radiation prior to detection with the detector, ...

DOWNHOLE TOOL WITH FILTRATION DEVICE

Downhole tool is provided that includes a body, an intake port for receiving fluid from external the body, a pump, a filtration device, and an exit port. The pump is in fluid communication with the intake port for withdrawing fluid through the intake port. The filtration device has a particulate removing filter, and a flow line extending from the intake port to the filtration device. The filtration device is contained within the body and is in fluid communication with the intake port. The exit port is in fluid communication with the filtration device for ejecting the fluid to external the body. 1. A downhole tool comprising:a body;an intake port for receiving fluid from external the body;a pump in fluid communication with the intake port for withdrawing fluid through the intake port;a filtration device having a particulate removing filter, a flow line extending from the intake port to the filtration device, the filtration device being contained within the body and in fluid communication with the intake port; andan exit port in fluid communication with the filtration device for ejecting fluid to external the body.2. The downhole tool of claim 1 , further comprising a probe which comprises the intake port claim 1 , the probe having a sealing pad for engagement with a formation surface.3. The downhole tool of claim 1 , the filtration device comprising:a plurality of filter cartridges, each of the plurality of filter cartridges having different particulate filtration sizes;a fluid flow path extending across the plurality of filter cartridges from a first filter cartridge to a final filter cartridge;wherein the particulate filtration sizes of the plurality of filter cartridges progress from the first filter cartridge having the coarsest particulate filtration size to the final filter cartridge having the finest particulate filtration size.4. The downhole tool of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of filter cartridges are arranged in series.5. The downhole tool of claim 4 , ...

Optical Device Window Cleaning System

A cleaning system provides cleaning of optical device isolation window surfaces without requiring disassembly of the device. The cleaning system utilizes magnetic fields to accumulate abrasive particles on the window. Once accumulated, the cleaning system moves the magnetic fields, thus also moving the accumulated abrasive particles along the surface of the window, thereby cleaning the window. Processing circuitry coupled to the tool may be used to activate and deactivate the cleaning system. 1. An optical device window cleaning system , comprising:at least one isolation window having a first and second surface, the isolation window being positioned to allow electromagnetic radiation to interrogate a sample on the first surface;a suspension of abrasive particles disposed in the sample; anda magnetic field positioned to deposit the abrasive particles on the first surface of the isolation window, the magnetic field being moveable such that the abrasive particles move about the first surface of the isolation window.2. An optical device window cleaning system as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the abrasive particles are ferrous particles; andthe system further comprises a moveable magnet positioned adjacent the second surface of the isolation window, thereby generating the magnetic field.3. An optical device window cleaning system as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the abrasive particles are magnetic particles, thereby generating the magnetic field; andthe system further comprises a moveable ferrous member positioned adjacent the second surface of the isolation window.4. An optical device window cleaning system as defined in claim 2 , further comprising a mechanism to move the magnet or ferrous member about the second surface of the isolation window.5. An optical device window cleaning system as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the abrasive particles are ferrous particles; andthe system further comprises electromagnetic coils positioned adjacent the second surface of the ...

Real-Time Programmable ICE and Applications in Optical Measurements

A system and method are disclosed for configuring an integrated computational element (ICE) to measure a property of a sample of interest. The system includes an illumination source to provide a sample light which is reflected from or transmitted through a sample. A dispersive element disperses the sample light into wavelength portions. An intensity modulation device having an array of electronically controllable modulation elements is disclosed that forms a pattern which modulates the dispersed sample light. Collection optics focuses the modulated sample light on a detector, which generates a signal that correlates to a property of the sample. The electronically controllable modulation elements can be readily altered to conform to a different measurable property of a sample of interest as desired. 1. An optical system for the measurement of sample properties comprising:an illumination source to provide a sample light;a dispersive element to disperse the sample light into wavelength portions;an intensity modulation device comprising an array of modulation elements electronically controllable to provide a modulated sample light including a selected portion of the dispersed sample light;a signal detector; andcollection optics to direct the modulated sample light to the detector.2. The optical system of wherein the modulation elements are electronically controllable to provide a complementary modulated sample light including a second selected portion of the dispersed sample light.3. The optical system of wherein a difference between a sample light pattern and a complementary sample light pattern is a linear regression vector associated with a measurable property of the sample.4. The optical system of wherein a ratio of a sample light pattern to a sum of the pattern and a complementary sample light pattern is a linear regression vector associated with a measurable property of the sample.5. The optical system of further comprising a processor circuit and a memory circuit ...

INTENSITY-INDEPENDENT OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICE

An intensity-independent optical computing device and method for performing multivariate optical computing based on changes in polarization of the reflected and/or transmitted electromagnetic radiation to thereby determine sample characteristics. 1. An optical computing device to determine a characteristic of a sample , the optical computing device comprising:a first polarizer that optically interacts with electromagnetic radiation to produce first polarized light that optically interacts with a sample to produce sample-interacted light;a first optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light to produce optically-interacted light which corresponds to a characteristic of the sample;a second polarizer that optically interacts with the optically-interacted light to produce second polarized light; anda first detector positioned to measure the second polarized light and thereby generate a first signal utilized to determine a first characteristic of the sample.2. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the sample and first optical element have different angular orientations in relation to one another.3. An optical computing device as defined in claim 2 , wherein the different angular orientation is at or substantially near the Brewster Angle.4. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the first polarizer defines a first polarization state of the electromagnetic radiation; andthe second polarizer is an analyzer that defines a second polarization state of the optically-interacted light representing a change in polarization between the first and second polarization states, wherein the change in polarization is utilized to determine the first characteristic of the sample.5. An optical computing device as defined in claim 4 , wherein the change in polarization comprises a change in an amplitude or phase of the polarization states.6. An optical computing device as defined in claim 5 , wherein the change in ...

Integrated Computational Elements Containing A Quantum Dot Array And Methods For Use Thereof

Integrated computational elements having alternating layers of materials may be problematic to configure toward mimicking some regression vectors. Further, they sometimes may be inconvenient to use within highly confined locales. Integrated computational elements containing a quantum dot array may address these issues. Optical analysis tools with an integrated computational element can comprise: an electromagnetic radiation source that provides electromagnetic radiation to an optical pathway; an integrated computational element positioned within the optical pathway, the integrated computational element comprising a quantum dot array having a plurality of quantum dots disposed at a plurality of set array positions; and a detector that receives the electromagnetic radiation from the optical pathway after the electromagnetic radiation has optically interacted with a sample and the integrated computational element. Optical interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the quantum dots at one or more set array positions can substantially mimic a regression vector for a sample characteristic. 1. An optical analysis tool comprising:an electromagnetic radiation source that provides electromagnetic radiation to an optical pathway; 'wherein the quantum dots located at one or more of the set array positions have spectral features such that optical interaction of the electromagnetic radiation with the quantum dots at the one or more set array positions substantially mimics a regression vector for at least one characteristic of a sample that also optically interacts with the electromagnetic radiation; and', 'an integrated computational element positioned at least partially within the optical pathway, the integrated computational element comprising a quantum dot array having a plurality of quantum dots disposed at a plurality of set array positions;'}a detector that receives the electromagnetic radiation from the optical pathway after the electromagnetic radiation has optically ...

VARIABLE MODULATION OF RADIATION AND COMPONENTS

Various embodiments include systems and methods to provide selectable variable gain to signals in measurements using incident radiation. The selectable variable gain may be used to normalize signals modulated in measurements using incident radiation. The selectable variable gain may be attained using a number of different techniques or various combinations of these techniques. These techniques may include modulating a modulator having modulating elements in which at least one modulating element acts on incident radiation differently from another modulating element of the modulator, modulating the use of electronic components in electronic circuitry of a detector, modulating a source of radiation or combinations thereof. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. 121-. (canceled)22. An apparatus comprising:a modulator having a plurality of modulating elements, one of the modulating elements having a structure that modulates radiation received at the modulator differently from another one of the modulating elements;a detector arranged to detect a processed signal of the radiation received at the modulator; anda controller to control the modulator such that, in each period of operation of the modulator on the received radiation, selectable variable gain is provided for the processed signal in the detector corresponding to the modulating elements.23. An apparatus comprising:a modulator having a plurality of modulating elements, one of the modulating elements having a structure that modulates radiation received at the modulator differently from another one of the modulating elements; anda detector arranged to detect a processed signal of the radiation received at the modulator, the detector having an adjustable component in electronic circuitry, the adjustable component correlated to each modulating element passing the received radiation such that selectable variable gain is provided to signals in the detector from receiving modulated radiation from the ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF METAL SORPTION USING INTERSTAGE SCREENING

Embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods that include a sorption vessel containing a pulp including an aqueous slurry and a sorbent, a screening system at least partially submerged within the pulp and including a housing and a vibratory screening machine including a compression assembly and a screen assembly. The aqueous slurry includes a metal that is adsorbed by the sorbent to form an oversized material in the pulp. The compression assembly compresses the screen assembly into a concave shape and the screen assembly is inclined such that the pulp if fed over a first inclined portion of the screen assembly and the oversized materials are conveyed over a second inclined portion of the screen assembly and removed from the system or conveyed back into the sorption vessel. The undersized material passes through the screen assembly into a portion of the housing separate from the pulp and is discharged to another sorption vessel. 1. A system , comprising:a sorption vessel containing a pulp including an aqueous slurry and a sorbent; anda screening system at least partially submerged within the pulp and including a housing and a vibratory screening machine including a compression assembly and a screen assembly,wherein the aqueous slurry includes a metal that is adsorbed by the sorbent to form an oversized material in the pulp,wherein the compression assembly compresses the screen assembly into a concave shape and the screen assembly is inclined such that the pulp if fed over a first inclined portion of the screen assembly and the oversized materials are conveyed over a second inclined portion of the screen assembly and removed from the system or conveyed back into the sorption vessel,wherein undersized material passes through the screen assembly into a portion of the housing separate from the pulp and is discharged to another sorption vessel.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the aqueous slurry and sorbent are independently fed into the sorption ...

ADJUSTING FABRICATION OF INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS

Techniques include receiving a design of an integrated computational element (ICE) including (1) specification of a substrate and multiple layers, their respective target thicknesses and refractive indices, adjacent layer refractive indices being different from each other, and a notional ICE fabricated based on the ICE design being related to a characteristic of a sample, and (2) indication of target ICE performance; forming one or more of the layers of an ICE based on the ICE design; in response to determining that an ICE performance would not meet the target performance if the ICE having the formed layers were completed based on the received ICE design, updating the ICE design to a new total number of layers and new target layer thicknesses, such that performance of the ICE completed based on the updated ICE design meets the target performance; and forming some of subsequent layers based on the updated ICE design. 1. A method performed by a fabrication system , the method comprising: specification of a substrate and a plurality of layers, their respective target thicknesses and complex refractive indices, wherein complex refractive indices of adjacent layers are different from each other, and wherein a notional ICE fabricated in accordance with the ICE design is related to a characteristic of a sample, and', "indication of maximum allowed performance degradation of the notional ICE's performance relative to a target performance caused by fabrication errors;"], 'receiving a design of an integrated computational element (ICE), the ICE design comprisingforming one or more of the layers of an ICE in accordance with the ICE design;determining that a minimum performance degradation of the ICE would exceed the maximum allowed degradation if the ICE having the formed one or more layers were to be completed based on the received ICE design;updating, in response to said determining, the ICE design by changing a previously specified total number of layers to a new total ...

HYBRID VEHICLE FRONT END ACCESSORY DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD

A method of operating an accessory drive system for a motor vehicle, wherein the accessory drive system includes one or more accessory components, a motor generator of the motor vehicle, and a flexible drive element configured to transmit a torque load between the one or more accessory components and the motor generator, includes determining a maximum permissible flexible drive element torque threshold, detecting an increase in torque demand on the flexible drive element, determining when the torque demand on the flexible drive element will exceed the flexible drive element torque threshold, and reducing the torque demand of one or more of the accessory components so that the flexible drive element torque threshold is not exceeded. 1. A method of operating a hybrid vehicle accessory drive system including a flexible drive element configured to transmit torque between an accessory , a motor/generator , and an engine , comprising:controlling, by a vehicle controller, the accessory to reduce accessory torque demand responsive to a recuperation event with the motor/generator operating as a generator such that the torque between the accessory, the motor/generator, and the engine is less than a torque threshold for the flexible drive element.2. The method of further comprising adjusting the torque threshold for the flexible drive element based on age of the flexible drive element.3. The method of further comprising adjusting the torque threshold for the flexible drive element in response to the vehicle controller detecting slipping of the flexible drive element.4. The method of wherein controlling the accessory to reduce accessory torque demand is performed for a predetermined period of time.5. The method of wherein controlling the accessory to reduce accessory torque demand is performed for a duration of the recuperation event.6. The method of wherein the accessory is an air conditioning compressor and wherein controlling the accessory comprises disengaging a clutch ...

Fabry-Perot Based Temperature Sensing

Fabry-Perot based optical computing devices and temperature sensors are disclosed for a number of applications including, for example, in-situ downhole fluid analysis and temperature detection. 1. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor , comprising: a first reflective plate; and', 'a second reflective plate having a temperature sensitive layer positioned thereon,', 'wherein the temperature sensitive layer is positioned to optically interact with electromagnetic radiation to produce a first reflected light,', 'wherein the second reflective plate is positioned to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation to produce a second reflected light; and, 'a Fabry-Perot cavity, comprisinga detector positioned to measure the first and second reflected lights and generated a first and second signal utilized to determine temperature.2. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first and second reflective plates are positioned in a step-like fashion relative to one another claim 1 , such that portions of the first reflective plate are separated from the second reflective plate by different distances.3. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a bandpass filter positioned to optically interact with the first and second reflected lights to thereby generate spectrally filtered first and second reflected lights.4. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a signal processor communicably coupled to the detector to determine the temperature.5. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor as defined in claim 4 , wherein the temperature is determined based upon a phase difference between the first and second signals.6. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first reflective plate further comprises one or more micro-electromechanical system (“MEMS”) building blocks.7. A Fabry-Perot based temperature sensor as defined in claim 6 , further ...

Optical Computing Device Having A Redundant Light Source and Optical Train

An optical computing device having a redundant light source and/or a plurality of optical elements (i.e., optical train) in order to simultaneously determine characteristics of a sample in real-time by deriving the characteristic data from the output of the optical elements. 142-. (canceled)43. A method utilizing an optical computing device to determine one or more characteristics of a sample , the method comprising:optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a sample to produce sample-interacted light;optically interacting an optical element with the sample-interacted light to generate optically-interacted light which corresponds to a characteristic of the sample;optically interacting the sample-interacted light with a plurality of optical elements in optical communication with a multi-element detector to thereby generate optically-interacted light which corresponds to a plurality of characteristics of the sample;utilizing a plurality of detector sections of the multi-element detector to generate a plurality of signals that correspond to the plurality of characteristics;determining the plurality of characteristics using the signals.44. The optical computing method as defined in claim 43 , wherein the optical element is at least one of an Integrated Computational Element claim 43 , open aperture claim 43 , or neutral density element.45. The optical computing method as defined in claim 43 , wherein the optically-interacted light generated by each optical element corresponds to a different characteristic from the group comprising a C1-C4 hydrocarbon claim 43 , water claim 43 , and salt content of the sample.46. The optical computing method as defined in claim 43 , wherein the multi-element detector comprises a split detector claim 43 , quadrant detector or array detector.47. The optical computing method as defined in claim 43 , wherein the multi-element detector generates the plurality of signals simultaneously.48. The optical computing method as defined in ...

Discrimination Analysis Used with Optical Computing Devices

Disclosed are systems and methods that use discriminant analysis techniques and processing in order to reduce the time required to determine chemical and/or physical properties of a substance. One method includes optically interacting a plurality of optical elements with one or more known substances, each optical element being configured to detect a particular characteristic of the one or more known substances, generating an optical response from each optical element corresponding to each known substance, wherein each known substance corresponds to a known spectrum stored in an optical database, and training a neural network to provide a discriminant analysis classification model for an unknown substance, the neural network using each optical response as inputs and one or more fluid types as outputs, and the outputs corresponding to the one or more known substances. 1. A method , comprising:optically interacting a plurality of optical elements with one or more known substances, each optical element being configured to detect a particular characteristic of the one or more known substances;generating an optical response from each optical element corresponding to each known substance, wherein each known substance corresponds to a known spectrum stored in an optical database; andtraining a neural network to provide a discriminant analysis classification model for an unknown substance, the neural network using each optical response as inputs and one or more fluid types as outputs, and the outputs corresponding to the one or more known substances.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the plurality of optical elements is an integrated computational element.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:optically interacting the plurality of optical elements with an unknown substance, thereby generating an unknown substance optical response;applying the unknown substance optical response to the classification model; andoutputting a predicted substance type ...

OPTICAL COMPUTING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR COMPENSATING LIGHT FLUCTUATIONS

An optical computing device adapted to compensate for the effects of light intensity fluctuation through the use of optical elements that generate a normalization optical channel (or B Channel) having a light intensity that is substantially equal to the light intensity of the characteristic optical channel (or A Channel). As a result, highly accurate normalizations are obtained which give rise to the most accurate results from the optical computing device. 1. An optical computing device , comprising:electromagnetic radiation that optically interacts with a sample to produce sample-interacted light;a first optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light to generate a characteristic optical channel whose light can be utilized to determine a characteristic of the sample;a second optical element that optically interacts with the sample-interacted light or the electromagnetic radiation to thereby generate a normalization optical channel whose light has an intensity substantially equal to an intensity of the light of the characteristic optical channel; anda detector positioned to measure the intensity of the light of the characteristic optical channel and the intensity of the light of the normalization optical channel, and thereby generate a signal utilized to determine the characteristic of the sample.2. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising an electromagnetic radiation source that generates the electromagnetic radiation.3. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic radiation is radiation emanating from the sample.4. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the detector comprises:a first detector positioned to receive the light of the characteristic optical channel; anda second detector positioned to receive the light of the normalization optical channel.5. An optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a signal processor communicably ...

Frequency Based Measurement of Characteristics of a Substance

In a downhole environment, utilizing one or more ICE modules, in response to detecting light by one or more channels of a light to voltage converter, the detected light is converted into one or more voltages. The light has previously interacted with a downhole substance and has been processed by an integrated computational element. The one or more voltages are converted into one or more analog frequencies. The one or more analog frequencies are converted into one or more digital frequencies. One or more intensities are determined from one or more digital frequencies. One or more components of the substance are determined in response to the determined one or more intensities.

Microfluidic Optical Computing Device

Various embodiments of microfluidic optical computing devices coupled with Integrated Computational Element cores are described. 1. A microfluidic optical computing device , comprising:a device substrate having a channel therein to receive a fluid sample; anda multivariate optical calculation device positioned to perform a regression calculation on light emanating from the fluid sample within the channel to thereby produce a signal which corresponds to at least one property of the fluid sample, wherein the multivariate optical calculation device is integrated into the device substrate.2. A microfluidic optical computing device as defined in claim 1 , wherein the multivariate optical calculation device comprises an Integrated Computational Element (“ICE”) core positioned along one side of the channel.3. A microfluidic optical computing device as defined in claim 2 , wherein the multivariate optical calculation device further comprises:an electromagnetic radiation source positioned to produce electromagnetic light which optically interacts with the fluid sample within the channel to produce sample-interacted light,wherein the ICE core is positioned to optically interact with the sample-interacted light to produce optically-interacted light, the ICE core being configured to be associated with the at least one property of the fluid sample within the channel; anda detector positioned to receive the optically-interacted light and thereby generate the signal corresponding to the at least one property of the fluid sample.4. A microfluidic optical computing device as defined in claim 2 , wherein the multivariate optical calculation device further comprises:an electromagnetic radiation source positioned to produce electromagnetic light which optically interacts with the ICE core to produce optically-interacted light, the ICE core being configured to be associated with the at least one property of the fluid sample within the channel,wherein the optically-interacted light ...

Variable ICE and Methods for Measuring Sample Properties with the Same

A system and method for measuring properties of a sample utilizing a variable integrated computation element (ICE) formed of one or more layers of film that is physically sensitive to an electrical field or a magnetic field applied through the material. The thickness of a layer, and hence the optical properties of the ICE, can be electrically or magnetically altered to adjust the ICE for a analysis of a particular property of the sample, or to calibrate the ICE or to adjust the ICE to compensate for alterations to the ICE resulting from environmental conditions. The film may be formed of electrostrictive materials, piezoelectric materials, magnetorestrictive materials, and/or piezomagnetic materials. 1. A variable integrated computational element (ICE) for optical measurement of a property of a sample , the ICE comprising:a plurality of layers of a dielectric material;a transparent electrode adjacent to the layer of dielectric material;a second electrode adjacent to the layer of dielectric material, opposite to the transparent electrode; whereinthe dielectric material is strained in the presence of an electromagnetic field.2. The variable ICE of claim 1 , further wherein the dielectric material is selected from the group consisting of an electrostrictive material claim 1 , a magnetostrictive material claim 1 , a piezoelectric material claim 1 , and a piezomagnetic material.3. The variable ICE of claim 1 , wherein the transparent electrode and the second electrode are configured to provide an electric field through the plurality of layers.4. The variable ICE of wherein the transparent electrode and the second electrode are configured to receive a first voltage and a second voltage claim 1 , respectively.5. The variable ICE of claim 1 , wherein the transparent electrode and the second electrode are configured to provide a magnetic field through the layer of a dielectric material.6. The variable ICE of claim 5 , wherein the transparent electrode and the second ...

SPATIALLY-RESOLVED MONITORING OF FABRICATION OF INTEGRATED COMPUTATIONAL ELEMENTS

Techniques include receiving a design of an integrated computational element (ICE) including specification of a substrate and multiple layers, their respective target thicknesses and complex refractive indices, complex refractive indices of adjacent layers being different from each other, and a notional ICE fabricated based on the ICE design being related to a characteristic of a sample; forming at least some of the layers of a plurality of ICEs in accordance with the ICE design, where the ICEs' layers are moved along a direction of motion during the forming; measuring characteristics of probe-light that interacts with formed ICEs' layers such that the measured characteristics are spatially-resolved along a first direction orthogonal to the direction of motion; determining, based on the spatially-resolved characteristics, complex refractive indices and thicknesses of the formed ICE layers as a function of the ICEs' location along the first direction; adjusting the forming based on the determinations. 1. A method comprising:receiving, by a fabrication system, a design of an integrated computational element (ICE), the ICE design comprising specification of a substrate and a plurality of layers, their respective target thicknesses and complex refractive indices, wherein complex refractive indices of adjacent layers are different from each other, and wherein a notional ICE fabricated in accordance with the ICE design is related to a characteristic of a sample;forming, by the fabrication system, at least some of the layers of a plurality of ICEs in accordance with the ICE design, wherein the layers of the ICEs are supported on a support that is being moved during said forming along a direction of motion;in-situ measuring, by a measurement system associated with the fabrication system, characteristics of probe-light that interacts with formed layers of the ICEs such that the measured characteristics are spatially-resolved along a first direction orthogonal to the ...