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I am not a smoker, but unfortunately almost everyone in my family seems to smoke cigarettes. Don't ask me why because I don't have the slightest clue. I honestly can't stand the smell and it rots your teeth and stains them, you stink, turns your fingers yellow and ages you. Ask me how I know this? LOL
My mom at the age of 48 has false bottom teeth because of smoking. It's a nasty habit that started at 16 years old that unfortunately she couldn't break. She's about to get false teeth on the top row now too and she looks way older than what she is.
I told my mom that if she couldn't give up regular cigarettes that maybe she should try the new electronic cigarette, 21st Century Smoke E-Cig. I still don't approve of smoking in general, but this to me seems like the better alternative since these e-cigs contain no tobacco, no tar and I don't smell a thing!
Are They Safe?
The biggest danger from tobacco is the smoke, and we all know e-cigarettes don't burn. They do put out a puff of smoke when exhaled but it's really just vapor. Tests show the levels of dangerous chemicals they give off are a fraction of what you'd get from a real cigarette.
The liquid in e-cigarette refill cartridge is typically a combination of nicotine, flavorings like grape, watermelon, menthol, etc., propylene glycol (a solvent), and other additives. The amount of nicotine depends on the mixture of the particular liquid-nicotine cartridge installed in the device. Some products contain nicotine amounts comparable to regular tobacco cigarettes, while others contain levels closer to that of a light or ultralight cigarette. My mom at first went with one that contained high amounts of nicotine and she didn't like it. It was almost so off-putting to her that she decided she was going to switch back to regular cigarettes until I told her she could get ones with less in them.
How Do Vaporizer Pens Work?
Vaporizer pens direct electrically conducted heat through oils that are encased in ceramic so that the active herbal concentrates melt and create aromatic vapor. This vapor doesn't contain any tars or toxic gasses.
Overall, I am impressed with Vapor pens since I don't have to breath in second hand smoke. It's not pleasant to smell or breathe in when you're a non-smoker. Just the other day in my area, there was a ban put on smoking in public parks and recreational areas, which is a huge plus in my book. When you're out enjoying nature, you don't want to be bothered by smokers who are inconsiderate of their actions, not only from smoking around you but throwing their cigarette butts on the ground (aka littering). You're there to enjoy nature, not have it ruined!
Some businesses even allow you to use Vapor pens inside. I know my local bar does. I'll see a random cloud of smoke but don't smell anything, and I immediately know what it is. I am all for that if that's what makes the person happy because it makes me happy too. It's a win-win. LOL So overall, its more socially acceptable to use e-cigs. You don't bother those around you and you get the satisfaction you still crave.


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March 07, 2017
Hundreds of Babies in Irish Church-Run Home's Sewer
Tuam, Ireland—Hundreds of infant remains from around 1930–1960 have been discovered in the sewer system used by a home for unwed mothers in western Ireland. [MORE]
March 01, 2017
Trump's First Address to Congress
Washington—On Tuesday, President Donald Trump addressed Congress for the first time since his inauguration. Along with Trump's signature topics of secure borders and tightened immigration, key themes including putting America first to stop the shrinking of the middle class and to care for the inner cities, rather than exporting jobs and wealth elsewhere. Trump also laid emphasis on halting the flow of illegal drugs into the country.
In terms of setting an agenda for Congress, Trump stressed tax reform to encourage businesses, as well as tax relief for the middle class and a massive infrastructure spending program (a plan that remains controversial among conservatives). He specifically called for repeal and replacement of Obamacare, "with reforms that expand choice, increase access, lower costs, and, at the same time, provide better healthcare."
The President also called for massive increases in national defense spending, as well as for care of veterans. Nonetheless, he added, "America is better off when there is less conflict…. The only long-term solution … is to create the conditions where displaced persons can safely return home and begin the long, long process of rebuilding."
The full text of the speech can be found here.
Compassion Int'l Announces Closure of India Operations
After nearly 50 years in the country, Compassion International will close its India operations March 15. The move was triggered my government moves in February 2016 which prevented the organization from getting funds into India. [MORE]

subset: commoncrawl


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This 3/4" X 1/4" Screen Frame is made of .019 mil thick, roll formed aluminum. The typical applications for this screen frame include sliding windows and storm windows. The suggested foam core screen spline for this screen frame is SCH-303-160. Unless cutting directions are provided, we will cut all items ordered to 8 ft length. Shipping charges quoted in your shopping cart are for items cut to 8 ft or less. Please leave detailed cutting instructions, including lengths and quantities, in the comments box at the checkout.
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After a month long hiatus, I went back to sewing this week and made a drawstring project bag. Its always fun to make your hobbies work for each other. That's why I called this sewing for knitting. The bag was inspired by quite a few project bags I saw online.. I read a few tutorials and decided to make one on my own.. and, here it is..
The lower half of the exterior is a re-purposed corduroy pants of mine which used to fit me many moons ago. I've been hanging onto the pants hoping for a miracle to make me shrink back to size 32. ;-) A quick reality check made me decide to up-cycle the pants and use it to make something else. The top half of the exterior is printed linen which was a bit pricey. I've had this fabric for almost a year now , unable to bring myself to cut into it.. So, finally the twain met and became this bag.. Here is a close-up of the fabrics..
The bag is huge.. almost 15 inches tall and can easily cart a sweater knitting project. The best part of making this bag is that I did not 'follow' any tutorial. I did not measure and cut the fabric beforehand. I used a dinner plate as a reference for the base circle and designed the bag from there.. I put pockets all around the insides and reinforced the base circle of the lining with heavy-duty interfacing to give the bag a sturdy base. Here is a close-up of the insides..
I put in buttonholes to insert the string and used some leftover trim I had for the drawstring. I think all the fabrics have come together beautifully in the end... Now, all I need is a huge project to tote around in this bag. And, guess what is on the bag now?!
Yes!! Ravelry buttons! I finally gave in and ordered a pack for myself.. I was thrilled to get the package in a week's time.. I think the buttons look perfect on the bag.. I can't wait to show off this bag to my RavFriends at the next Ravelry meet. ;-) and now, for a close-up of the buttons..
I am enjoying these productive days in my crafty life, happy to find time in my busy schedule.. I am participating in the Bag-Join-Along that is happening in the SAARC group on Ravelry. I plan to make the Summer Sling Tote and finish the Drops Cabled bag that has been languishing in the WIP pool for quite sometime now as a part of the Join-Along.
I am also participating in the 2nd Annual Knit and Crochet Blog Week that is happening in between 28th March to 3rd April,2011. The knit and crochet bloggers across the world blog on all 7 days of that week on the topic of the day that has been chosen. This is my first time participating in such an event and I hope to do the event justice.. So, these are my crafty plans for the near future.. What are yours? Leave a comment and let me know.


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Sorry I see that was very vague. This rom was installed with a completely clean wipe. Though even when trying to wake to use the lock screen it at times takes a few button presses to screen on. Then once the screen is on it is fairly slow to respond to the unlock slide. Everything functions as it should However just slowly.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2
Flashed newest update. Everything was good until I unchecked Ripple, checked AOSP lockscreen. Now in a constant loop after boot. Tried wiping cache and Dalvik, fixing permissions. Same thing. What did I do wrong? Was running fine until then. Nothing else changed. No added apps other than what auto DL after adding my GMail acct. Very odd.
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RRB Bangalore ALP recruitment 2018 Application, Syllabus, Exam dates, notification, admit card, answer key, Result, cut off is released. RRB Bangalore ALP Recruitment is available on this page. Railway Recruitment Board, Bangalore invites online applications for filling up various positions under railway board. The employment details about the posts, age limit, educational qualification, selection process and other conditions are given below as link.
RRB Bangalore ALP recruitment 2018
The candidates are requested to go through the details and ensure that they fulfill the minimum prescribed criteria before applying.All eligible and interested candidates can fill the RRB Bangalore ALP Recruitment 2018 application form before the closing date.
Railway Recruitment Board Bangalore is going to start the RRB Bangalore ALP vacancy 2018 registration process through online mode. There are a large number of candidates are waiting for this vacancy. All eligible and interested candidates can download the RRB ALP Recruitment 2018 Notification from this web page and read the notification carefully before going to apply.
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This is a wonderful opportunity provided by the RRB Bangalore. Those candidates who want to work as Assistant Loco Pilot under Railway department can apply online for RRB Bangalore ALP recruitment 2018 from the official website of RRB.
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This event has ended. Click Here to see more upcoming events from Gardens at Gus Garica community garden!
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Please join us for a garden work day 9 a.m.-noon every second Saturday of the month at Gardens at Gus Garcia. Our main task will be to prepare the ground for an urban orchard that's scheduled to be planted on Jan. 30.
We'll also tidy up the common areas, turn the compost, and work on other garden projects depending on the season, available materials, and number of volunteers. Common projects include:
- Planting veggies and herbs
- Weeding garden beds
- Mulching plants
- Trimming trees, bushes
- Clearning debris
- Taking out the trash
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5 Positions Filled | 3 Impacts | 9 Hours


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You are here: Home Aziende per home Alberto Longo
Puglia lies at the heart of the Mediterranean, caressed by the sun and the sea breezes, and its excellent climate and variegated landscapes have for centuries provided the
ideal conditions for the development of excellent wine-growing districts and for the growth of avant-garde wineries. Wines of Puglia takes this region's wine-making tradition into the world. Between 2016 e 2017, sixteen of Puglia's best wineries affiliated to the Consorzio del Movimento Turismo del Vino Puglia meet wine lovers and buyers from
Brazil, Canada, China, South Corea, Russia, Japan, Switzerland, South East Asia, USA
The winery has two splendid estates: Masseria Cavalli is surrounded by vineyards in the country near Lucera and hosts an atmospheric underground cellar, while Masseria Celentano has been carefully renovated and hosts the modern wine-making and bottling plants. The winery was started up 15 years ago by Alberto Longo, whose ambition was to create a winery in his home area with the aim of enhancing and promoting the region. Longo's quality wines have enabled the winery to reach many of the foreign wine markets. Wine tourists will find a very warm welcome here, and the winery tour is a very interesting experience.


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MINNEAPOLIS — The A's are taking the closer's role away from Jim Johnson for the time being and will use a committee of Luke Gregerson, Ryan Cook, Sean Doolittle and Dan Otero in that role.
On Wednesday, for the third time in five appearances this season, Johnson was ineffective. Given a 4-2, ninth-inning lead to protect against the Minnesota Twins, he allowed four of the five batters he faced to reach base before being replaced by Otero. The A's won 7-4 in 11 innings, with Otero pitching the final 2 2/3 innings.
"We're going to give Jim a break from closing," manager Bob Melvin said Thursday. "There's no timetable, and I'm not going to say that I'll be looking to give him a soft landing. We just want to let him get straightened out. And we have plenty of guys to do this."
Said Johnson, "You've got to do what's best for the team, and Bob's the manager. Obviously it's not an ideal situation, but I'll fight to get through it ."
Johnson, 30, combined for 101 saves the previous two years with the Baltimore Orioles, whom the A's obtained him from during the off-season. With the A's, Johnson is 0-2 with one blown save and an 18.90 ERA. Otero got the blown save against the Twins on Wednesday when he gave up a bases-loaded sacrifice fly while wriggling out of the mess created by Johnson.


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Now that a late autumn chill has set in, your house windows are likely shut. Unbeknownst to you, this traps you indoors alongside a host of invisible pollutants with scary-sounding names: benzene, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, xylene, ethyl acetate, acetone and chloroform.
These are just some of the chemicals present in household items from furniture and carpet to everyday cleaners and toilet paper. The first three, particularly, can trigger asthma, allergies and cancer.
So what can you do to improve your indoor air quality? Easy—add plants. Many of them are natural air purifiers, including these common (and easy to care for) top five.
Heart Leaf Philodendron (Philodendron oxycardium)
This workhorse plant (pictured above) clears out a variety of VOCs, especially formaldehyde, which is lurking in particleboard and other furniture components. Warning: The plant leaves are toxic if eaten, so keep away from kids and pets. Tips on caring for Heart Leaf Philodendron.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
This succulent clears out two of the more harmful pollutants (benzene and formaldehyde), and serves double duty with its healing gel that soothes burns and cuts. Tips on caring for aloe.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
I can attest to the facts that these plants are hard to kill, as I have had several for years! The spider plant removes poisonous gases, xylene and formaldehyde from the air and works well in areas with accumulation of carbon monoxide (such as the kitchen stove or the fireplace). Tips on caring for spider plants.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
And its cousin, Mother-in-Law's Tongue (S. trifasciata 'Laurentii'), works great in humid, low-light bathrooms where they filter out the formaldehyde present in tissues, toilet paper and cleaning products. Tips on caring for snake plant.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
This pretty flowering plant removes all three of the top indoor pollutants listed above and also combats toluene and xylene. It tops NASA's list as one of the best air purifiers. Tips on caring for the peace lily.
All images (except philodendron) from Wikipedia commons. This post is featured on Small Footprint Friday, Healthy, Happy, Green and Natural Party Hop, Thank Your Body Thursday, Thank Goodness It's Monday and Party Wave Wednesday.


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AIOU Solved Assignment M.Ed (Laboratory Organization Management and Safety Methods, 698-1st) Autumn 2014 available now
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|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|29 Jul 1980
|Filing date
|15 Feb 1978
|Priority date
|7 Dec 1977
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Kenneth A. Wickersheim
|Original Assignee
|Luxtron Corporation
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (5), Non-Patent Citations (1), Referenced by (110), Classifications (17), Legal Events (3)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This is a continuation-in-part of copending patent application Ser. No. 751,366, filed Dec. 16, 1976, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,075,493 issued Feb. 21, 1978.
This invention relates generally to devices and methods for making temperature measurements, and more specifically to devices and methods that make such measurements by optical techniques that utilize temperature-sensitive phosphors.
There are many methods currently used for temperature measurement. The most common industrial techniques utilize thermocouples, thermistors or resistance thermometers by means of which electrical signals are generated and then converted into temperature readings or employed for control functions.
On occasion, however, it is useful, and sometimes essential, to obtain temperature data by non-electrical techniques. This may occur: (1) where temperatures over large areas are to be measured and measurement by a dense distribution of thermocouples thus becomes impractical; (2) where the attachment of thermocouples and leads would alter the temperatures to be measured; (3) in environments where, because of high electric or magnetic fields, metallic wires are undesirable; (4) where electrical isolation and/or insensitivity to electrical noise generation is desired; (5) where, because of motion or remoteness of the part to be sensed, permanent lead wires are impractical; or (6) where, because of corrosive chemical environments, wires and thermocouple junctions would be adversely affected, with resultant changes in electrical characteristics. In these situations, optical techniques frequently become preferable.
The most direct optical technique for temperature measurement is infrared radiometry. However, where line of sight measurement is not possible, without infrared transmission media, the infrared techniques suffer a disadvantage. In such an instance there are relatively few materials sufficiently transparent to long-wave infrared radiation to provide an infrared conducting path from the area where temperature is to be sensed to the infrared detector. Furthermore, infrared techniques are not absolute in that the emissivity of the emitting material has to be known accurately if the infrared radiometric measurements are to be converted into true temperature readings.
Optical pyrometers can also be used, but only for very hot sources which emit visible radiation. Optical pyrometers also suffer from the same problems as infrared radiometers when it comes to absolute measurements.
For large area measurements, thermographic phosphors or liquid crystals are sometimes employed in the form of films, paint or coatings applied to the surface to be measured. Known typical thermographic phosphors exhibit a broad fluorescence under ultraviolet excitation, this fluorescence being strongly temperature-dependent with regard to emission intensity. The fluorescent intensity of this emission "quenches" sharply as the temperature rises over a fairly narrow temperature range. It is difficult to calibrate a thermographic phosphor absolutely because changes in excitation, such as might be caused by source instability, can be misinterpreted as a temperature variation. Liquid crystals change their reflected colors with temperature over a similarly narrow range. Both materials suffer from the fact that, to achieve high sensitivity, the range over which the materials will operate as temperature sensors is of necessity fairly restricted compared with the materials of this invention. Most liquid crystal materials are also relatively unstable and may change their chemical and physical properties over a period of time. While this is not always a problem, it can be in selected applications.
Therefore, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide techniques for remote temperature measurement using optical rather than electrical techniques that permit elimination of metallic wires, junctions and connectors, that circumvent electrical noise sources and that provide for measurement over extended areas as well as point measurements.
It is another object of the present invention to provide an internally calibrated phosphor temperature measuring system whereby changes in total fluorescent intensity with time as might be caused by a variation in excitation, changes in optical transmission with time or changes in sensitivity of a receiving detector with time are not interpreted as temperature changes.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a means of measuring temperatures of objects or environments without the necessity of direct physical contact with electrical wires, such as situations where the point to be measured is submerged in a corrosive gas or liquid, must be isolated electrically or thermally, is in a vacuum, or is located on a moving part to which permanent leads cannot be conveniently connected.
Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a means of making absolute, internally calibrated temperature measurements over wider temperature ranges than would be possible with conventional thermographic phosphors or liquid crystals.
These and additional objects are accomplished by the techniques of the present invention wherein, generally, an object or environment for which a temperature is to be measured is provided with a layer of phosphor material that when excited to luminescence emits detectable radiation within two or more distinct wavelength ranges that are optically isolatable from one another, with a relative intensity of emission in these wavelength ranges varying in a known manner as a function of the temperature of the phosphor. Such a phosphor material may be a single phosphor composition exhibiting such characteristics or may, alternatively, be two or more phosphor compositions in a physical mixture that together exhibit these characteristics. Sharp line emitting phosphors, such as those having rare earth activators, are preferred. A practical system of accurately measuring temperatures over wide ranges is thus made possible, a normal desired range of from -100� C. to +400� C. being achievable.
The intensity of two such lines of phosphor emission are detected and a ratio of the detected signals taken. The ratio is convertible into temperature in accordance with the known temperature characteristics of the phosphor material. This optical system is internally calibrated because the taking of a ratio makes the technique relatively insensitive to changes in total intensity of the phosphor emissions, general changes in optical transmission, or changes in the sensitivity of the receiving detector which may occur in time. The technique is thus adapted for long term remote temperature measurement applications.
The use of this approach permits several specific temperature measurement improvements and solves heretofore unsolved temperature measuring problems. According to one more specific form of the invention, remote, non-contact temperature measurements can be made of large surface areas, such as those in models being tested in wind tunnels, by painting the phosphor over the surface areas to be monitored. The model is then illuminated by an appropriate exciting radiation and intensity measurements of the selected phosphor luminescent lines are taken of selected points on the model from outside of the wind tunnel. Heating of the model surface by a flow of air thereover is thus monitored.
According to another specific aspect of the invention, remote measurement of point temperatures are made possible. Temperatures deep inside an apparatus, for instance, are extremely difficult to measure, and heretofore have not been measured in environments where metallic wires cannot be used. One such environment is in large electrical power transformers that are sealed, filled with oil, operated at high temperatures and have high levels of electric and magnetic fields that will not tolerate insertion of any metallic parts of a more conventional temperature measurement system. According to the present invention, the phosphor material is formed internal to a small sensor on the end of a long fiber optic cable. The sensor is then immersed in the location of the transformer where a spot temperature measurement is needed. The phosphor is coupled to the detector by means of the fiber optic cable with the measurements of the phosphor luminescence being made outside of the apparatus.
The present invention has been described only very generally. Additional objects, advantages and features thereof are set forth as part of the following description of the preferred embodiments of the various aspects of the present invention, which should be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating in general the basic aspects of the present invention;
FIG. 2 are curves that illustrate the fluorescent emission spectrum at two different temperatures of a europium-doped lanthanum oxysulfide phosphor when excited by ultraviolet radiation;
FIG. 3 are curves that illustrate the intensity of specific strong emission lines from certain rare earth oxysulfide phosphors when excited by suitable radiation;
FIG. 3A is a sample excitation spectrum for a rare earth oxysulfide measured at a single radiation output line;
FIG. 4 schematically illustrates one specific form of the present invention wherein the temperature of the surface of a wind tunnel model is remotely measured;
FIG. 5 shows one specific form of an optical detector 103 of the temperature measuring system of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 shows another specific form of an optical detector 103 of the temperature measurement system of FIG. 4;
FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a large electrical power transformer utilizing one aspect of the present invention for remotely measuring spot temperatures thereof;
FIG. 8 shows a phosphor temperature sensor and optical system therefor as one form of the temperature measurement system of FIG. 7;
FIG. 8A illustrates a modification of the temperature measurement system of FIG. 8;
FIG. 9 shows a variation in the temperature measurement system of FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 shows yet another variation of the temperature measurement system of FIG. 8;
FIG. 11 illustrates a rotating device with its internal temperature being measured according to another aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 12 illustrates a moving belt with its temperature being measured according to another aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 13 illustrates another aspect of the present invention wherein the temperature of fluid flow is measured;
FIG. 14 illustrates the present invention applied to a system including a removeable temperature probe sleeve; and
FIG. 15 illustrates the present invention in an application monitoring an internal temperature of a biological specimen that is under heat treatment.
Referring to FIG. 1, the basic features of all of the various aspects of the present invention are illustrated. Within some environment 1 is positioned a solid object 20 having a phosphor coating 40 over at least a portion thereof. The phosphor is characterized by emitting, when excited, electromagnetic radiation within separable bandwidths at two or more distinct wavelengths and with relative intensities in those bands that vary as a known function of the temperature of the phosphor 40. Thus, the temperature of the phosphor 40 is detected that is the same as or related to that of the object 20, and in some applications of the environment 1 as well.
Such luminescent emission of the phosphor 40 in the form of electromagnetic radiation 41, generally in or near the visible spectrum, is excited by a source 60 over a path 61. The source could be radioactive material, a source of cathode rays, an ultraviolet electromagnetic energy source, or any other remote source producing efficient fluorescence depending upon the particular type of phosphor utilized in the preferred forms of the present invention. The relative intensities of two distinct wavelength bands within the emitted radiation 41 contains the desired temperature information.
The emitted radiation 41 is gathered by an optical system 80 and directed in a form 81 onto an optical filter and radiation detector block 100. The block 100 contains filters to isolate each of the two bands or lines of interest within the radiation 81 that contain the temperature information. After isolation, the intensity of each of these bands or lines is detected which results in two separate electrical signals in lines 101 and 102, one signal proportional to the intensity of the radiation in one of the two bands and the other signal proportional to the intensity of the radiation in the other of the two bands of interest.
These electrical signals are then applied to an electronic signal processing circuit 120. In a preferred form, the signal processing circuits 120 take a ratio of the signals in the lines 101 and 102 by the use of routinely available circuitry. This electronic ratio signal is then applied to a signal processor within the block 120. The signal processor is an analog or digital device which contains the relationship of the ratio of the two line intensities as a function of temperature for the particular phosphor 40 utilized. This function is obtained by calibration data for the particular phosphor 40. The output of the signal processor in a line 121 is thence representative of the temperature of the phosphor 40.
The signal in the line 121 is applied to a read out device 140 which displays the temperature of the phosphor 40. The device 140 could be any one of a number of known read out devices, such as a digital or analog display of the temperature over some defined range. The device 140 could even be as elaborate as a color encoded television picture wherein each color represents a narrow temperature range on the object. It could also be a television picture stored on disc or tape.
The fundamental characteristics of a phosphor material for use in the present invention is that when properly excited it emits radiation in at least two different wavelength ranges that are optically isolatable from one another, and further that the intensity variations of the radiation within each of these at least two wavelength ranges as a function of the phosphor temperature are known and different from one another. A phosphor material is preferred that is further characterized by its radiation emission in each of these at least two wavelength bands being sharp lines that rise from substantially zero emission on either side to a maximum line intensity, all in less than 100 angstroms. The lines are easy to isolate and have their own defined bandwidth. But mixtures of broadband emitters, such as of more conventional non-rare earth phosphors, are also usable so long as two different wavelength ranges of emission of the two materials can be separated sufficiently from one another so that an intensity ratio can be taken, and as long as the temperature dependences for thermal quenching are sufficiently different for the two phosphors.
For a practical temperature measuring device, the phosphor material selected should also emit radiation in the visible or near visible region of the spectrum since this is the easiest radiation to detect with available detectors, and since radiation in this region is readily transmitted by glass or quartz windows, fibers, lenses, etc. It is also desirable that the phosphor material selected be an efficient emitter of such radiation in response to some useful and practical form of excitation of the phosphor material. The particular phosphor material or mixture of phosphor materials is also desirably chosen so that the relative change of intensity of emission of radiation within the two wavelength ranges is a maximum within the temperature range to be measured. The phosphor material should also be durable, stable and be capable of reproducing essentially the same results from batch to batch. In the case of fiber optic transmission of the phosphor emission, as described in specific embodiments hereinafter, a sharp line emitting phosphor is desirably selected with the lines having wavelengths near one another so that any wavelength dependent attenuation of the fiber optic will not significantly affect the measured results at a position remote from the phosphor, thereby eliminating or reducing the necessity for intensity compensation that might be necessary if fibers of varying lengths were used.
The composition of a phosphor material capable of providing the characteristics outlined above may be represented very generally by the generic chemical compound description Ax By Cz, wherein A represents one or more cations, B represents one or more anions, A and B together forming an appropriate non-metallic host compound, and C represents one or more activator elements that are compatible with the host material. x and y are small integers and z is typically in the range of a few hundredths or less.
There are a large number of known existing phosphor compounds from which those satisfying the fundamental characteristics discussed above may be selected by a trail and error process. A preferred group of elements from which the activator element C is chosen is any of the rare earth ions having an unfilled f-electron shell, all of which have sharp isolatable fluorescent emission lines of 10 angstroms bandwidth or less. Certain of these rare earth ions having comparatively strong visible or near visible emission are preferred for convenience of detecting, and they are typically in the trivalent form: praseodymium (Pr), samarium (Sm), europium (Eu), terbium (Tb), dysprosium (Dy), holmium (Ho), erbium (Er) and thulium (Tm). Other non-rare earth activators having a characteristic of sharp line emission which might be potentially useful in the present invention would include uranium (U) and chromium (Cr3+). The activator ion is combined with a compatable host material with a concentration of something less than 10 atom percent relative to the other cations present, and more usually less than 1 atom percent, depending on the particular activator elements and host compounds chosen.
A specific class of compositions which might be included in the phosphor layer 40 is a rare earth phosphor having the composition (RE)2 O2 S:X, wherein RE is one element selected from the group consisting of lanthanum (La), gadolinium (Gd) and yttrium (Y), and X is one doping element selected from the group of rare earth elements listed in the preceeding paragraph having a concentration in the range of 0.01 to 10.0 atom percent as a substitute for the RE element. A more usual portion of that concentration range will be less than 1.0 atom percent and in some cases less than 0.1 atom percent. The concentration is selected for the particular emission characteristics desired for a given application.
Such a phosphor compound may be suspended in a nitrocellulose binder for application in environments having temperatures of less than about 120� F., and in a silicate binder for higher temperature applications.
A specific example of such a material for the phosphor layer 40 of FIG. 1 that is very good for many applications is europium-doped lanthanum oxysulfide (La2 O2 S:Eu) where europium is present in the range of a few atom percent down to 0.01 atom percent as a substitute for lanthanum. The curves 42 and 43 of FIG. 2 provide, for two separate phosphor temperatures, the intensity of its emission as a function of wavelength. The phosphor was in the form of a finely crystalline powder and was excited by electrons. The emitted radiation was analyzed with a scanning monochromator followed by a photomultiplier detector. The particular material for which FIG. 2 illustrates the fluorescent emission spectrum is lanthanum oxysulfide with 0.1 atom percent of europium substituted for lanthanum.
Curve 42 of FIG. 2 shows the emission spectra of such a material at 295� K. which is room temperature. The curve 43 of FIG. 2 shows the emission spectra for the material at 77� K., the extremely cold temperature of liquid nitrogen. It will be noted that the spectral characteristics of the emission are much different at these two temperatures and these changes continue to occur as the phosphor is raised above room temperature.
Narrow wavelength fluorescent lines which are particularly useful for temperature measurement, as marked on the curves of FIG. 2, are located at approximately 4680 angstroms, 5379 angstroms, 5861 angstroms (actually a doublet) and 6157 angstroms. The relative intensities of these lines change as a function of temperature of the phosphor and it is these relative intensities that give the temperature information in the various forms of the present invention.
The relative intensities of at least two of suitable narrow bandwidth spectral lines are determined, in the preferred forms of the invention, by taking the ratio of the detected intensities of two of the lines. The two lines should thus preferably be non-overlapping and separated enough in wavelength so that their intensities may be measured relatively independently. Referring to FIG. 3, the intensities of the four spectral lines identified on FIG. 2 are drawn as a function of temperature of the phosphor (curves 51, 53 and 54). Additionally, curve 44 of FIG. 3 shows a ratio of the intensities of the two spectral lines 52 and 51 respectively at 5379 angstroms and 4680 angstroms as a function of temperature. It is such a characteristic as illustrated by the curve 44 that permits accurate, pre-calibrated temperature measurement by taking a ratio of intensities of two spectral lines. Similarly, if the intensities of the other two lines 52 and 51 respectively at 6157 angstroms and 5861 angstroms are ratioed, the characteristics of the resulting ratio as a function of temperature is given in curve 45. As can be seen from FIG. 3, the ratio represented by the curve 44 varies strongly within a temperature range of from -75� C. to +50� C. The second ratio indicated by the curve 45, on the other hand, varies strongly with temperature over the range of from about 50� C. to 300� C. Therefore, the particular fluorescent emission lines of the phosphor that are utilized depend upon the expected temperature range to be monitored.
Referring to FIG. 3, the intensities of two spectral lines for europium-doped gadolinium oxysulfide (Gd2 O2 S:Eu) as a function of temperature of the phosphor are shown as emission lines 55 (at 4680 angstroms) and 56 (at 5379 angstroms). In this phosphor material, 0.1 atom percent of europium has been substituted for gadolinium.
The intensity of the 4860 angstrom emission line of europium-doped yttrium oxysulfide (Y2 O2 S:Eu) is shown by curve 57 of FIG. 3, where 0.1 atom percent of europium has been substituted for yttrium. The intensity of the 5379 angstrom of the Y2 O2 S:Eu line is shown by curve 58. A line useful for referencing (ratioing) in Y2 O2 S:Eu is the 6157 angstrom line represented by curve 59. The curves 55, 56, 57 and 58 show usable temperature dependent emission intensity characteristics in different temperature ranges than those spanned by the lanthanum material exhibiting curves 51 and 52. These additional oxysulfide materials are most usable over the rapidly changing portions of their curves when referenced to a line such as the 6157 anstrom line. The differences with useful temperature ranges of these materials are significant when selecting an optimum material for a specific application. The 4680 angstrom line 55 of gadolinium oxysulfide, for example, has particular advantages for medical temperature measurement since especially rapid changes occur with good signal strength over the range of human body temperatures.
It will be noted from FIG. 3 that each of the gadolinium, lanthanum and yttrium oxysulfide materials illustrated has the same doping, namely 0.1 atom percent of europium. However, experiments with materials of widely different doping levels of europium indicate that the temperature dependences are not significantly affected by doping level. The temperature characteristics of the material are, as can be seen, very dependent upon the phosphor host material, as well as on the choice of activator ion, thus permitting optimization of the temperature characteristics for a particular application by selection of the proper host material.
Referring to FIG. 3A, a typical light intensity output characteristic is illustrated from the rare earth oxysulfide phosphors discussed above. This is the emission intensity at a particular wavelength line, as a function of wavelength of the radiation exciting the phosphor. It can be seen that the most intensity is obtained when the phosphor is excited with ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation is preferred, therefore, for exciting the phosphor in most cases. But some optical systems that might be used to transmit exciting radiation have considerable losses to ultraviolet radiation when compared to losses in the visible range. A long length of optical fiber, such as one over 100 meters in length might be such a system. When the losses are great enough, it may be preferable to excite the phosphor with visible radiation, such as at either the blue or green excitation bands shown on FIG. 3A. Even though the resulting excitation efficiency may be lower for visible than ultraviolet radiation, the improved visible transmission of a long optical fiber can make up for this difference.
In order to adequately detect and measure these spectral line ratios without interference from adjacent emission lines, the fluorescent radiation 41 and 81 of FIG. 1 must first be passed, as part of the block 100, through an optical filter such as a monochromator or interference filter set chosen to isolate the selected wavelength ranges in which the spectral lines of interest fall. It can be seen from the characteristics of the phosphor illustrated in FIG. 2 that for the 4680 angstrom, 5861 angstrom and 6157 angstrom lines, a bandpass filter in the order of 50 angstroms wide is adequate for separation. In addition to separation, it may also be desirable to correct the measured line intensities within the block 100 for any strong background radiation which may be present, such as that from room light or day light. For that purpose, it may be desirable in certain circumstances to additionally measure the intensity of radiation as seen through the utilized monochromator or filter when tuned to a spectral region near the fluorescent lines but where no fluorescent radiation is expected. An example using the phosphor whose characteristics are illustrated in FIG. 2 is in the region of from 6000 to 6100 angstroms. Alternatively, the background can be determined by turning off the excitation source and looking through the two filters. Any background radiation so measured can then be subtracted from the 5861 and 6157 angstrom line intensities that are measured to yield a more correct ratio for temperature measurement purposes.
A physical mixture of phosphor compounds can also be utilized, as an alternative, in order to obtain desired temperature characteristics. The intensity of one emission line from one compound of the mixture, for instance, can be compared with the line intensity of another compound in order to provide optimum measuring characteristics over a given temperature range. Alternatively, two emission lines from each of two phosphor compositions can be utilized, the lines from one compound compared over one temperature range and the lines from the other compound being compared over an adjacent temperature range. For example, a terbium doped lanthanum, gadolinium or yttrium oxysulfide may be used as one compound in combination with an europium-doped lanthanum, gadolinium or yttrium oxysulfide as the other compound.
The phosphor materials mentioned above have an advantage of being relatively inert and stable. The emission lines of the phosphor are in the visible or near visible region and thus transmission through long air paths, through water and other liquids, or through long optical fibers, or through glass or quartz optics, is possible. Such a phosphor differs from more conventional phosphors in that it emits very sharp line output spectra that can be readily optically isolated from each other, and the temperature dependence of line intensities at a particular wavelength is very strong relative to that at other wavelengths over a given temperature range of practical interest. Other phosphor materials having these characteristics can be utilized as part of the technique and structure of the various aspects of the present invention, as well.
Referring to FIG. 4, an object 21 within an environment 2 has its outside surface painted with phosphor material 46. By monitoring the emission of the phosphor, when properly excited, the surface temperature of the object 21 can be monitored from a remote distance and without contacting the object 21.
In the particular example shown in FIG. 4, the object 21 is an aerodynamic model positioned in an environment 2 that is a test wind tunnel. The surface temperature being monitored on the model 21 provides information as to the effect of the air flow in heating the model surface.
The phosphor painted on the surface of the model 21 is excited to luminescence by illumination from ultraviolet lamps 62 and 63. In some situations, an ultraviolet laser might be used as well, particularly for measurement of selected object points. The ultraviolet output of the lamps 62 and 63 are passed, respectively, through windows 64 and 65 that are transparent to ultraviolet energy so that it might pass into the wind tunnel 2 and onto the model 21. Another window 82 permits emitted radiation from the phosphor on the surface of the model 21 to be gathered by an optical system, represented by lenses 83 and 84. The collected radiation 85 is then directed onto a filter and detector system 103. The filter and detector 103 is similar to the filter and detector 100 previously described with respect to FIG. 1.
Referring to FIG. 5, details of one form of the filter and detector 103 are illustrated. A filter wheel 104 is positioned in the path of the radiation 85 from the phosphor. The wheel 104 has at least two different filters 105 and 106 spaced on different areas of the wheel 104 so that as it is rotated by the motor 112 the filters 105 and 106 are alternately passed through the beam 85. The filters 105 and 106 are designed to be narrow bandpass filters to select out two different spectral lines of the phosphor being utilized.
The two selected phosphor emission lines are thus applied in time sequence to a detector 107 whose output is applied to an electronic circuit 108. The detector could be a photomultiplier or a silicon photo-diode which would give only an average of the intensity of the particular selected lines over the entire object 21 or the detector 107 could be some other device, such as an image dissector or a television camera, that would convert the optical image of the object 21 as viewed by the selected emission lines into a two dimensional intensity plot. The use of the latter type detectors has an advantage of permitting temperature detection on each point of the object 21 separately. The electronics 108 receives a synchronous signal from the detector 111 which tells it which of the two filters 105 and 106 are in front of the detector 107 at any instant. This permits the electronics 108 to develop the two signals 109 and 110 representative, respectively, of the intensities of the two selected emission lines of the phosphor.
FIG. 6 shows another form of the filter and detector 103 of FIG. 4. In the form of FIG. 6, a beam splitter or dichroic mirror 90 is positioned in the path of the phosphor fluorescent emission beam 85 so that known fractions of the intensity of the beam goes in each of two directions. One direction is through a filter 115 and onto a single detector 116 to develop an electrical signal 110'. The other path is through a filter 113 onto a second detector 114 to develop a signal 109'. Each of the filters 113 and 115 are selected to permit one or the other of two selected emission spectral lines to pass therethrough and onto their respective detectors. The output signals in the lines 109 and 110 of FIGS. 4 and 5, and 109' and 110' of FIG. 6, are applied to appropriate signal processing and readout circuits as described with respect to blocks 120 and 140 of FIG. 1. The read-out device would depend, of course, upon the type of detector used, being a television display system or video storage medium if the detector 107 is a television camera.
There are many applications of large machinery and apparatus wherein it is desired to monitor the temperature at one or more points within the apparatus while it is operating. Large machinery is especially expensive. It is very inconvenient and expensive when it breaks down due to local overheating. If such local overheating can be detected before any damage is done, then the cause of it can be determined, thus avoiding more costly shutdowns of the equipment. Monitoring the overall or average temperature of the equipment, by monitoring the temperature of water or oil coolant, for instance, does not provide the necessary information in most instances because the overheating could be raising the temperature of a small part of the machinery to an excessive and damaging level without raising the average temperature any detectable amount.
One such piece of equipment wherein there has been a long need for such point information measurement is in large electrical power transformers, some of which are capable of handling several magawatts of electrical power. Destruction of such a large piece of equipment is not only extremely costly but can significantly disrupt a large portion of an electric power company's distribution system. The problem has not been satisfactorily solved before since electrical transformers, as is the case with other high voltage electrical equipment, cannot tolerate any electrical conductors within the equipment that will disturb the electric and magnetic fields or cause a potential for short circuits. Therefore, there is a need for a non-metallic local point temperature sensor that can be used inside of electrical power transformers or other types of large electrical equipment.
Referring to FIG.7, such a transformer is very generally illustrated. A thick steel outer shell 7 contains a transformer core 6 having windings 4 and 5 therearound. The entire core and windings are submersed in an oil bath 3 for insulation and cooling. In order to monitor the temperature of a given spot on the interior of such a transformer, a single sensor 22 is provided in accordance with another aspect of the present invention. The sensor 22 is connected to one end of a long optical fiber bundle 86. The sensor 22 may be constructed without any metal parts at all and is optically connected by the fiber bundle 86 to an appropriate filter and detector system 100', an electric signal processing circuit 120' and a direct temperature read-out device 140'.
Referring to FIG. 8, the temperature sensor 22 is shown in cross section wherein it contains a phosphor material 47 in optical communication with one end of the optical filter bundle 86. This end of the optical fibers and the phosphor are all sealed together by an appropriate glass or ceramic material to form a probe which may be inserted into a transformer or other machinery. The probe is subjected to the temperature to be measured and the phosphor, being part of that probe, responds as described hereinbefore with relative changes in the intensity of its spectral output lines as a function of temperature.
The output of the phosphor 47 is obtained at an opposite end of the fiber bundle 86 by a lens 87 which directs the emission radiation through a beam splitter or dichroic mirror 88, through another lens 89, and thence to a system already described with respect to FIG. 6, including a beam splitter or dichroic mirror 90, two filters 113 and 115 and two radiation detectors 114 and 116.
In order to excite the phosphor 47 to emit the desired lines, the embodiment of FIG. 8 employs an ultraviolet light source 66 whose output is directed by a lens 67, passed through a broadband ultraviolet filter 68 which blocks all but the ultraviolet light and then onto the beam splitter or dichroic mirror 88. The element 88, if dichroic, is designed to transmit visible light but reflect ultraviolet light so that the optical configuration shown in FIG. 8 utilizes such a characteristic to advantage. The ultraviolet radiation is reflected by the element 88, directed through the lens 87 into the optical fiber bundle 86 and transmitted through it to the phosphor material 47 to excite its luminescent emission which provides the temperature information in a coded form, as described above.
Referring to FIG. 8A, a modification of the system of FIG. 8 is shown wherein a probe 27 of a type similar to probe 22 of FIG. 8 is excited by connection through a fiber optic 86' to an excitation source 60'. The radiation from the phosphor within the probe 27 is carried by a separate fiber optic 86" to the appropriate filters and detectors 100". The fiber optics 86' and 86" may be a single optical fiber each, or may be a bundle of fibers. The use of the separate fiber optics 86' and 86" has a principal advantage of providing optical isolation between the phosphor excitation radiation and radiation given off by the phosphor. Excitation radiation as well as possible low level fluorescence from the optical fiber itself is thus kept clear of the detector 100". The result is less optical background noise and improved accuracy. The excitation source 60' and detector 100" may also be more easily physically isolated using the bifurcation scheme.
FIG. 9 shows a variation of the probe and detecting system of FIG. 8 wherein a probe 23 includes a phosphor material 48 attached to one end of an optical fiber bundle 91. Encapsulated within the probe 23 in this embodiment is a radioactive material 69 which is selected to excite, for a number of years, the phosphor material 48. The emission of the phosphor material 48 is transmitted through the optical fiber bundle 91, through a lens 92 and onto a beam splitter, filter and detector system as described previously with respect to FIGS. 6 and 8. The radioactive material 69, used in place of the ultraviolet source 66 of FIG. 8, may be, for example, an isotope of nickel, such as 63 Ni, having a half life of 92 years. This material emits electrons but does not emit gamma rays. This probe 23 and communicating optical fiber bundle 91 still may maintain the desirable characteristic of having no metallic component if the 63 Ni is in the form of an oxide or other nonmetallic compound.
FIG. 10 shows a variation of either of the probe assemblies of FIGS. 8 and 9 wherein a single optical fiber bundle 92 provides optical communication with a plurality of separate probes, such as the probes 24, 25 and 26, which can be positioned at different locations within a power transformer or other apparatus. At one end of the optical fiber bundle 92, a few of the fibers are connected with each of the individual probes 24, 25 and 26. At the opposite end of the fiber bundle 92, the opposite ends of the same optical fibers are connected to individual filters and detectors. That is, the probe 24 is in optical communication with only the filter and detector block 117, the probe 25 only with the filter and detector block 118, and so forth. Alternatively, the separate probes can be scanned at the output end of the fiber optic bundle by a single detector in a controlled and predetermined fashion.
Obviously, the specific types of equipment where such temperature probes have a high degree of utility are numerous. An electric power generating nuclear reactor is another place where the invention can be used with great advantage to measure temperature of remote, inaccessible positions.
The techniques of the present invention lend themselves to optical commutation. They may be applied without physical contact and are immune to electrical noise. A specific application of optical commutation is on a rotating device 200 as shown in FIG. 11. This device could be a motor, turbine or generator. The phosphor containing probe 22 is embedded in the rotating part 200 as are an optical fiber input bundle 201 and an output bundle 203. The optical fiber bundles terminate at an external circumference of the wheel or rotating part 200. This permits the non-rotatable fixed positioning of an exciting radiation source, such as an ultraviolet source 205, and phosphor emission receiving optics 207 adjacent thereto. At one position, for a short instance, in each rotation of the rotating part 200, the ultraviolet source and the phosphor emission radiation optics 207 will be aligned with their respective optical fiber bundles 201 and 203. At that instant, the temperature of the part at the position of the embedded phosphor containing probe 22 is measured. The optical system 207 is connected with an appropriate filter and detector 209 of one of the types discussed with respect to other of the embodiments above.
The same technique can be utilized, as shown in FIG. 12, for a moving belt 211. This optical temperature measurement technique can be seen to have considerable advantages since no physical connection of wires or other devices are required between the moving part and the fixed measuring equipment. As an alternative to the particular optical technique shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the rotating part 200 and the belt 211 could also be painted with a phosphor paint as discussed with respect to FIG. 4.
Referring to FIG. 13, yet another application of the basic concept of the present invention is shown wherein the temperature of a moving stream of fluid 215 passing through a pipe 217. A window 219 is provided in the wall of the pipe 217 and characterized by transmitting untraviolet and visible radiation without significant attenuation. An electromagnetic energy source 221 in the ultraviolet spectrum illuminates the interior of the pipe through the window 219. The fluid stream 215 is provided with a plurality of phosphor coated particles 223 that have a size and density consistent with the type of fluid 215 and flow to be expected so that they remain distributed within the fluid stream 215. The radiation from the ultraviolet source 221 causes the phosphor coating on the particles 223 to luminesce and this luminescence is gathered by an optical system 225 which collects and transmits the phosphor radiation to an appropriate detector 227. By detecting and ratioing the intensities of two phosphor emission lines of interest, the temperature of the fluid stream 215 is determined since the particles have been given a chance to reach a temperature equilibrium with that of the fluid stream 215.
Other particular applications will become apparent from this description. The probe and optical fiber embodiment can be applied to point temperature measurement in humans and animals, for example.
A further application is illustrated in FIG. 14. The end of an optical fiber bundle 301 is capped with a disposable temperature sensing sleeve 303. The sleeve 303 is formed of a cylindrical base portion 305 that is carried at the end of the optical fiber 301. One end of the cylindrical base 305 is capped with a thin, heat conductive cap 307 such as, for example, one made of metal. On an inside surface of the cap 307 is a phosphor coating 309. At the other end of the fiber optics 301 (not shown) is an excitation source and detecting system. The end of the optic fiber 301 with the sleeve 305 is immersed in the environment for which a temperature is desired to be taken, such as a human or animal cavity, or liquid baths.
The advantage is that the sleeve 303 may be discarded after a single use, thus preventing cross contamination from occurring in sequential temperature measurements. A significant advantage of using the present invention for this type of measurement is that it has a very low thermal mass, resulting in the temperature indicating phosphor 309 reaching a steady state value of the temperature of its surroundings very quickly. Except for the cap 307, the remaining plastic materials affect very little heat transfer from the surroundings to the phosphor 309. The other advantages described above concerning the phosphor, optical fiber structure generally are present here as well.
Yet another application is utilizing the probe and optical fiber embodiment of the present invention generally to measure the temperature at a point within humans and animals. A potential application is illustrated in FIG. 15 wherein a human or animal body 311 contains a cancerous tumor schematically shown at 313. A technique presently being explored for treating the tumor, called hyperthermia, involves irradiating the tumor 313 by means of energy 315 from a source 317, the result being induced heating. However, the success of this technique for treating the tumor 313 is dependent upon maintaining the tumor at a specific, well controlled elevated temperature.
Therefore, a means of monitoring and controlling the temperature of the tumor 313 is to surgically implant a minute, non-protruding temperature probe 319 of the type discussed principally with respect to FIG. 9. A fiber optic 321 communicates between the temperature probe 319 and excitation and detection apparatus 323. For this application, of course, the size of a temerature probe 319 and cross-sectional dimension of the optical fiber 321 needs to be as small as possible. The optical fiber can be limited to one or two fibers and the temperature probe 319 can be formed by coating the phosphor and a thin encapsulating material directly onto the end of the optical fibers. The temperature of the tumor 313 can then be monitored and the intensity of radiation from the source 317 adjusted to maintain the optimum temperature for treatment. If heating of the tumor is accomplished by radio frequency or microwave radiation, the optical probe is insensitive to directly induced heating by these fields. Such would not be the case with a more conventional electrical metallic sensor system.
The techniques of the present invention also have application for point temperature measurements in chemical and food processing systems. The advantage of an optical fiber and temperature probe system as described herein in such applications is that they are chemically inert, have a very fast response time, provide electrical isolation, can be permanently calibrated, are of low cost, are sterilizable and can even be used in large moving machinery. These sensors can also be used to measure the temperature of food undergoing microwave cooking, an application where a thermocouple or any other metallic temperature measuring apparatus cannot be easily used for reasons discussed earlier.
A particular further application that takes advantage of the fact that a direct physical contact need not be maintained with an object under measurement is in food processing where a dot of phosphor can be placed on each package to be cooked and the temperature thereof monitored by monitoring the emissions of the phosphor when excited in the manner discussed above.
The optical fiber technique of the present invention permits point temperature measurements to be made at a long distance from the detection and excitation apparatus. The use of such techniques for monitoring temperatures at various points in an industrial plant can easily involve optical fiber runs in excess of 100 meters and even many times that. For such long runs, it may be preferable to use excitation radiation within the visible spectrum with a rare earth phosphor acting as the temperature indicating device. The particular excitation radiation that would be sent down the long optical fiber and the phosphor composition for such an application have been discussed earlier with respect to FIG. 3A.
The technique can also be broadly applied to imaging thermography wherein an object scene is imaged onto a phosphor screen and the emissions detected through filters by a television camera to measure the relative intensity of two emission lines and thence the temperature of the image, the latter being proportioned to the temperature of the object scene. In yet another approach to thermal imaging, the phosphor screen could be mounted within a vacuum tube, illuminated from one side by the thermal image, via a suitable infrared-transmitting window and substrate, and excited from the other side by an electron beam scanned in raster fashion. In this instance the thermal image could be reconstructed using a single pair of optical point detectors suitably filtered with the resultant line intensity ratio thence used to modulate the intensity of the electron beam of a cathode ray display tube which is also scanned in raster fashion in synchronism with the exciting electron beam.
Although the various aspects of the present invention have been described with respect to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood that the invention is entitled to protection within the full scope of the appended claims.
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text:
I don't understand men.
As you all probably know, I am pregnant by my best friend of 13 years. When I got pregnant his whole personality changed. He used to be sweet and kind, but now he is cold, polite, but cold. He talks about how he would like to have full custody of the child, or at least wants joint custody that includes 50%, he have the baby 50% of the time, I have the baby 50% of the time, but when I talk to him about the baby (how I feel him moving, or what to name him, etc.) he seems nervous and quickly wants to change the subject. Basically, I don't consider him my friend any more because of the way he is acting, and personally, I don't want him anywhere near me or my child, though he hasn't done anything, or even said anything that would make him seem dangerous. It is just the icy coldness that radiates from him makes me nervous for some reason that I can't explain.
He used to want to marry me, now this?
I don't understand men, why is he acting this way? I am trying not to make this a serious post but my curiosity is getting to me and nobody seems to have an explanation for the way he is acting. Is it a man thing that I wouldn't understand? Please explain, I don't get it.
Sounds like he's scared...thinking of marrying someone is all very well, but a real, live child that he helped create--well that's real life to a fair thee well! The responsibility is overwhelming. A lot of men in my experience (6 brothers, all their friends, father, husband, BILs and my own male friends) seem to retreat into anger or coldness when they are actually frightened or don't know what to do. He may be afraid to show "weakness" so he retreats into this distant mode. Not very comforting, I know. You might try to speak to him--or write him a letter about it, which might be easier...sort of "I understand you want to be part of your child's life, but from where I sit you don't seem to be very pleased about it, please help me understand" or something of that nature.
(((hugs))) I'm sorry you are experiencing this! I agree with what Yabbitgirl said. It sounds to me liike he's scared and overwhelmed. He may feel like he's not ready to be a dad and maybe he's usure of if he'll make a good one. It's not right for him to take it out on you though and for your sake and the baby's, I hope he is able to pull it together. I definitely thinnk it would be a good idea to have a talk with him and maybe even do it with an unbiased third party, like a counselor, so that you are in a safe neutral environment. Please take care.
Sounds like he's scared...thinking of marrying someone is all very well, but a real, live child that he helped create--well that's real life to a fair thee well! The responsibility is overwhelming. A lot of men in my experience (6 brothers, all their friends, father, husband, BILs and my own male friends) seem to retreat into anger or coldness when they are actually frightened or don't know what to do. He may be afraid to show "weakness" so he retreats into this distant mode. Not very comforting, I know. You might try to speak to him--or write him a letter about it, which might be easier...sort of "I understand you want to be part of your child's life, but from where I sit you don't seem to be very pleased about it, please help me understand" or something of that nature.
Well said.
Thanks, Charbot Kimzoid...I was just afraid a bunch of you male VWers would climb my frame for making assumptions! ;) But then y'all are pretty coool.... 8-)
i'm trying to remember from a couple months ago, did you say he lives in a different state than you? is he going to move closer and help out? then you two will have time to figure out if he is capable of taking care of a child, but if he is far away, well then, that would just be really hard on a child, and your wallets. i see kids that go from mom to dad all year, leaving school, then coming back a month later, leaving again, coming back... its really hard on them.
Shirking his responsibility to pay child support could be an issue, but I wouldn't assume that. Perhaps he wants a larger role in the child's life than you think, hence asking for the sole custody or shared, 50-50. Maybe he's scared that since you both live in different states that he won't be in his child's life as much as he would like.
I think you should move where you are comfortable. If that means near your family, than that's what you should do.
I don't want to come off as preachy here and I apologize if I do because that is not my intention at all. I know you must be completely stressed and understandably so. I'm not one for keeping a child from their dad, unless there is a history of violence, drug abuse, and the like. After all, stinky house aside, he is your baby's father and it sounds like he does want to be a part of his/her life. The smoking, however, would concern me greatly and I would let him no on no uncertain terms that he can't EVER smoke around your child!
My hubby came from a troubled background...never knew who his dad was, (just found out in 2006!), has an unstable mom, etc. But despite all that, he is the most loving hands-on dad. A lot of times, having a baby is a huge wake up call. It's a life changing experience, for both the mother and the father.
I hope things get better. When you talk to him, try to refrain from being accusatory, and just let him know how you are feeling and how scared you are. Let him know what you'd like for your child; like moving closer to your mom and why that's important to you. Take it one day at a time. It will all be O.K.
SQ, i wouldnt be so quick to assume that he wants custody to avoid paying child support unless he has directly said somehting to that effect. Raising a child (even if its only 50 percent of the time) is a HUGE responsiblity. I just dont see someone willing to take on that responsiblity if they have NO intrest in the child.
I agree though that passing the kid back and forth between two states would probally not be best for your little snowbean. If he is willing to move, would he consider going to New York with you and the baby? I think you are doing a wise thing if you move closer to your mom. You'll need the emotional and mental support and love. It does not sound like that is something he can provide you with right now. Youll need that in order to raise your child in the best enviroment possible.
I would also encourage you (and I dont mean to sound harsh) to be careful about what you say about the dad. I know your baby cant hear you right now, but one day he will hear and understand. Saying bad things about his father will surely make it tough on the baby. He will understand that he is one part mom and one part dad...and if you hate his dad, the kid believes you hate that whole half of him too(talking form personal experince here) I do however, beilieve in saying what you need to say and sorting things out in your own mind. That will be important to continue to do. Just carefull not to do it in front of baby. A possitive thing about your son growning up in two differnt enviroments, is that he will have the chance to see what both of them are like, the possitives and negative of each one. he will probally be more likly to identify with people from all sorts of backgrounds. It might not be so bad.
Im sorry you are having such a hard time. I guess ill send you a cyber hug (((((SQ))))))
Snowqueen, I think you are going to be a great Mom! Men do go through emotional issues during pregnancy as well. He is probably thinking how his youth and life are going to be changed forever and he can't deal with it. Men also don't really understand or deal with the baby until after it is born, at least that was my experience with my husband-they just don't understand what is going on until the baby comes and then it's like WOW Im a Dad, then they are very protective and loving. This is just a phase you both will go through, everything will work out fine, just sit down and talk about it with him. Let him know you are scared to, but together you can do whats best for the baby. Ive went through two pregnancy's with my husband of 18 years and I can tell you its a difficult, wonderful, scary, once in a lifetime experience you will never forget. He will make it and you will help him. Also remember your emotions are precarious at this time and probably everything he does bothers you. In my six month of pregnancy with my 2nd, my husband could do nothing right and I actually went to my moms for a week, just to get away from him. These things happen and are normal. I Know you guys will be OK! ((((SQ)))))))
Hey, no problem Yabbitgirl. Gotta give credit when it's due, and I believe it was due.
I'll offer an opinion to add perspective. As I already stated, I think Yabbit hit the nail on the head, and I believe loulouj did as well. Not that the other opinions aren't right, these just seem to be the most accurate to me. Of course, these are my personal opinions and may not apply to everyone...obviously.
Whenever my girlfriend mentions pregnancy or wanting to have a baby, it freaks me out, but just a little. It's nothing personal and I don't think it makes me a terrible boyfriend, it just kinda happens without reason or warning. I want to be a father someday and I believe that I will be an amazing father. But guys really do think that their life is over when a pregnancy comes (I'm in a band and want to tour, but my girlfriend always brings up the"what about when I'm pregnant / what about the baby?" questions, which haven't happened yet and I would most certainly be there for her when that time comes!!!!!), but once the baby arrives, we realize we were being silly all along and that we have this awesome new person to have fun with...except for the diaper changing in the middle of the night, of course.
Other factors / thoughts:
He lives in another state, and if I remember reading before (not today), he has another girlfriend...unless I'm thinking of someone else. He's probably feeling a lot of guilt because A) he won't see his son as much as he would like and B) he doesn't want you to raise him alone. I would also assume (although not positively state) that the current girlfriend is giving him some form of grief about it.
Men are not the self-centered, vindictive, pigs that tv makes us out to be. That's not to say that there aren't exceptions, of course. I don't think child support is an issue unless he is just a sorry piece of lowlife trash. The fact that he wants joint custody is a good sign of this as well. Plane tickets, gas, food, and all of the other stuff that go with having your baby seem to be more than a percentage garnished from his weekly wages. In the end, I think he wants to protect and love your child just as much as you.
I hope I offered something insightful...
Don't give up on him just yet. Be sure to be honest and let him now how you feel, but in a non-confrontational way "you're sounding a little cold to me right now, is that how you want to come across, because I miss my friend and I need some support"....something like that. Don't try to read his mind and presume things.
He just needs some time. There's fear and even some grief (loss of the previous carefree life, now with a lot of financial and other responsibilities). Also perhaps this isn't how he envisioned his life....perhaps he wants a partner/wife in the same town, raising a child together with someone he wants to spend the rest of his life with, rather than his best friend in another town and that reality is what he's swallowing right now.
Hopefully he'll come around and be there for you, especially when he lays eyes on his own flesh and blood. It's not going to be easy for either one of you for sure, and it's going to be a bumpy ride. Watch your expectations and don't expect him not to go through changes.
It also doesn't sound like you have any of the after-birth plans worked out and perhaps being a man, he's more practical than the touchy-feely at this this point.
I agree totally! I don't think I said it but I am adamintly agains him having the 50% thing. He is unwilling to move to be with me, yes he lives in a different state, and I just want to move closer to my mom. Maybe I should move close to him instead? I don't want him to have a huge role in raising the child unless I am there too, there are some things about him I don't like, he smokes, his house smells like dog and cat pee, he has TERRIBLE table manners, and he has no college education. I just think I am a better role model for the child than he is, but maybe it is me just be being selfish, also his family isn't as loving as my family is, they don't seem to be as tight.
if he is unwilling to move to be with you, then i don't think you should move closer to him. i've read your other post about wanting to move near your mom and i think that is probably better, if that is where YOU want to be. it'll make things easier.
i don't know this guy, and from what you say it doesn't seem like he's ready, but i feel i need to point out that not going to college doesn't mean someone can't be a good parent.
I know neither you nor your boyfriend, but how would you respond if he tells you that he has read this series of posts?
You lived with him for two weeks. That is the length of a vacation. It is not a sufficient time to develop the sensitivity to hear and access the activities and opportunities that occur in a quiet midwestern city.
Your relationship with your boyfriend has changed. It is difficult for a guy to become a father when the mother is so far away. I question how he could know what you are going through at a time like this. You also need to start thinking like a mother.
For the sake of your child, I suggest that you will have to move to Indianapolis for a few months at least. Take a leave of absence from your job (for a length of time that may include maternity leave) and make sure you have COBRA so that the delivery is covered. Get a counselor as part of your obstetrical care so that you have a place to rant. Your mother should be invited for frequent visits.
If this doesn't work out, you can always move to live with your mother. However, you don't want to regret not trying to live with him at a later time in your life.
Once you have the baby, it will make less difference where you live. You will be very busy as a new mother and it will be harder to have the time to notice the benefits of living in Indianapolis, Houston or Syracuse. Your employment needs will change as you will need a workplace that will support you as an employee and mother.
By living in Indianapolis, you will have a future opportunity to convince him to move to a different city. However, you will have to be the one to arrange the move of you, your boyfriend and your child.
Please accept what I have written as one of many options.