| Lockheed Martin Corporation Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20120134504 | CHAOTIC PULSE TRAIN SYNTHESIZER - A system includes a pulse generator to generate a repeating pulse train including at least two pulses per cycle of the pulse train. A feedback loop creates chaos inducing components from each pulse of a cycle and adds the chaos inducing components to at least two pulses of a next cycle of the repeating pulse train to provide a signal representative of sound made by a simulated device. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120133260 | APPARATUS FOR LATCHING A DRAWER USING A CAM LATCH - A latch system for a sliding member and a stationary member has upper and lower bodies fixed to the sliding member; an anchor block fixed to the stationary member; a release body slidably connected to the anchor block such that the release body can move relative to the anchor block; a lower arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the lower arm being attached to the release body; a control arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the control arm being rotatably attached to the second end of the lower arm; and a swivel cam having a first end and a second end, the first end of the swivel cam being rotatably attached to the second end of the control arm. When the sliding member is in a closed position and the release body is in a normal position, force exerted on the sliding member in an opening direction causes the second end of the swivel cam to engage a closed position detent on the upper body and causes the release body to push against a surface of the lower body, such that the upper body is prevented from moving in the opening direction. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120132064 | Armor Having Prismatic, Tesselated Core - An armor includes a core that, in turn, includes a first layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion and a second layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion. The first layer of prismatic elements is nested into the second layer of prismatic elements. An armor includes a strike face sheet, a rear face sheet, and a core disposed between the strike face sheet and the rear face sheet. The core includes a first layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion, a second layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion, and a strain isolation layer. The first layer of prismatic elements is nested into the second layer of prismatic elements with the strain isolation layer disposed between the first layer of prismatic elements and the second layer of prismatic elements. The armor is at least one of curved in at least one direction, configured to include a corner, and configured to include a prismatic element of the first layer of prismatic elements or the second layer of prismatic element having a metallic layer disposed thereon. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120131673 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROTECTION OF CIRCUIT BOARDS FROM TAMPERING - A method and system for protecting a printed circuit board (PCB) from tampering positions a physical sensor proximal to the PCB. An initialization period is established and an output signal from the sensor is continuously monitored to establish threshold parameter data. Periodically, the sensor is polled and an output signal received which is compared to the threshold parameter data. A detected intrusion signal is generated if the received signal exceeds the threshold by a predetermined level. A detected intrusion is validated using a sent of validation rules which analyze the detected intrusion based on historical sensor output values and factors such as duration or frequency of intrusion detections. If the detected intrusion is validated, a validated signal is generated which triggers a reset processor to output a reset signal that causes erasure of at least a portion of onboard memory. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125561 | Modular Heat-Exchange Apparatus - A heat exchanger module for thermally coupling a first fluid and second fluid is disclosed. The heat exchanger module comprises a plurality of heat exchangers, each of which is fluidically coupled to a common seawater inlet and a common seawater outlet. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125187 | Armor Having Prismatic, Tesselated Core - An armor includes a core that, in turn, includes a first layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion and a second layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion. The armor further includes a smart component operably associated with a component of the armor. The first layer of prismatic elements is nested into the second layer of prismatic elements. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125091 | Aerodynamic Testing Method and Apparatus - An aerodynamic testing apparatus includes a test object carrier that carries a test object along an orbital test path through a fluid test medium. The apparatus may be configured to carry a test object along a generally spiraling orbital test path through the fluid test medium. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120123742 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CREATING FREE SPACE REFLECTIVE OPTICAL SURFACES - Computer-based methods and associated computer systems are disclosed for designing free space reflective optical surfaces ( | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120120499 | HEAD-MOUNTED DISPLAY APPARATUS EMPLOYING ONE OR MORE REFLECTIVE OPTICAL SURFACES - Head-mounted displays ( | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120120498 | HEAD-MOUNTED DISPLAY APPARATUS EMPLOYING ONE OR MORE FRESNEL LENSES - Head-mounted displays ( | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120117083 | COMPLEX EVENT PROCESSING ENGINE - A method, a data aggregation tool, and a set of instructions are disclosed. A data storage | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120116616 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTINUALLY MEASURING THE LENGTH OF A TRAIN OPERATING IN A POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL ENVIRONMENT - Methods and systems for continually measuring the length of a train operating in a positive train control environment are provided. Particularly, the methods and systems provided herein equate repetitive line of sight ranging measurements from the head end to the rear end of a train with the physically draped length of the train along a mapped track with various horizontal and vertical curvature characteristics. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120116614 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AIR TRAFFIC TRAJECTORY SYNCHRONIZATION - According to aspects of the embodiments, there is provided an apparatus and method to synchronize the distinct trajectories predicted by a flight management system and air navigation service provider. A comparison model is generated that indicates differences between an aircraft trajectory and a ground trajectory. The aircraft trajectory is updated to reflect identified discrepancies and restriction violations between the trajectories. Upon successful completion of the first designated change, a notification manager is used to issue a notification of the designated change to the flight plan trajectory. A modified ground trajectory is produced that incorporates the designated change to the flight plan trajectory. The comparison is repeated until the discrepancies of the trajector | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114521 | STABILIZED METAL NANOPARTICLES AND METHODS FOR PRODUCTION THEREOF - Processes for synthesizing metal nanoparticles, particularly copper nanoparticles, are described. The processes can involve reacting an insoluble complex of a metal salt with a reducing agent in a reaction mixture containing a primary amine first surfactant, a secondary amine second surfactant, and a diamine chelating agent third surfactant. More specifically, processes for forming copper nanoparticles can involve forming a first solution containing a copper salt, a primary amine first surfactant, a secondary amine second surfactant, and a diamine chelating agent third surfactant; allowing an insoluble complex of the copper salt to form from the first solution; combining a second solution containing a reducing agent with the insoluble complex; and forming copper nanoparticles from the insoluble complex. Such copper nanoparticles can be about 10 nm or smaller in size, more particularly about 3 nm to about 6 nm in size, and have a fusion temperature of about 200° C. or lower. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120113757 | HULL MOUNTED LINEAR SONAR ARRAY - A hull-mounted sonar array is provided. The array comprises a linear arrangement of hydrophones disposed within a generally D-shaped housing. The D-shaped housing comprises a generally flat portion having a first and second end and a curved portion extending from the first end to the second end. The hydrophones are arranged along the generally flat portion of the housing, equidistant from the curved portion. The housing is mounted to the hull of a vessel by, for example, a marine adhesive. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111992 | VEHICLE HAVING SIDE PORTHOLES AND AN ARRAY OF FIXED EO IMAGING SUB-SYSTEMS UTILIZING THE PORTHOLES - A vehicle including electro-optic (EO) imaging has a vehicle body having an outer surface including a front portion and a side portion, wherein the side portion includes a plurality of portholes. A propulsion source is within the vehicle body for moving the vehicle. A fixed EO imaging system having a field-of-regard (FOR) includes a plurality of fixed EO imaging sub-systems arrayed within the vehicle body. The fixed EO imaging sub-systems each have a different field-of-view (FOV) for providing a portion of the FOR and include a camera affixed within the vehicle body and an optical window secured to one of the portholes for transmitting electromagnetic radiation received from one of the portions of the FOR to the camera, wherein the cameras each generate image data representing one of the portions of the FOR therefrom. A processor is coupled to receive the image data from the plurality of fixed EO imaging sub-systems for combining the image data to provide composite image data spanning the FOR. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120110184 | PHYSICAL LAYER PHOTONIC PROTOCOL SWITCH - A physical layer photonic protocol switch (PLPPS) that is protocol independent and switches at the optical signal level. Computing subsystem resources are linked to the PLPPS and are grouped into one or more logical system topologies. If needed, additional computing subsystem resources can be allocated to the logical system topology, during runtime. The PLPPS provides the ability to dynamically allocate computing subsystem resources to specific computing enclaves. The PLPPS manages the configuration of and controls access to the computing subsystem resources. Computing resources can then be assigned to specific logical system topologies and additional computing subsystem resources are able to be shared, added or removed, from other logical system topologies, as needs fluctuate. This physical layer switch architecture creates a dynamic computing infrastructure allowing for the sharing of a single computing subsystem resource amongst two or more logical system topologies. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120106978 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR HIGH BANDWIDTH OPTICAL COMMUNICATION - Methods and systems are provided for extending the range that a laser can transmit data, particularly in environments with high attenuation or turbidity. Particularly, an energy storing laser that is capable of continuously converting electrical energy to optical energy and storing the optical energy or the electrical energy in the energy storing laser until the energy storing laser is instructed to transmit a laser transmission. In some embodiments, the energy storing laser uses a pulse train with a low duty cycle to increase the peak power of each laser pulse. Also, a pointing and tracking system is used to provide a communication link between stationary platforms or moving vehicles. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120106961 | METHOD FOR DATA FRAME REDUCTION IN A PHOTONIC-BASED DISTRIBUTED NETWORK SWITCH - A photonic-based distributed network switch and method where the switch is designed to reduce or filter optical data frames entering a port of the switch so that only data frames that are appropriate for the port are forwarded from the port. This reduces the amount of data that needs to be handled by the port interface, which is especially important where the port may be using legacy interface technology that may be incapable of handling the volume of data entering the port. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120106960 | RELIABLE LOAD-BALANCED MULTI-PHOTONIC STAR CONFIGURATION - A photonic-based distributed network switch that utilizes multiple photonic broadcast stars and separate optical transmitters to improve overall reliability, allow load balancing, and provide failover for the network switch and the network with which the switch is used. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120106954 | METHOD FOR UPDATING PORTS IN A PHOTONIC-BASED DISTRIBUTED NETWORK SWITCH - A photonic-based distributed network switch is described that updates independent ports of the switch in parallel based on information that flows through the ports to and from a passive photonic broadcast star. Because each port sees the same information via the passive photonic broadcast star, each port can harvest information from the data flow in parallel and update itself based on the harvested information. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105586 | LATENT FINGERPRINT DETECTORS AND FINGERPRINT SCANNERS THEREFROM - An automatic fingerprint system includes an optical sensor having a first light source that provides a collimated beam for interrogating a first sample surface, and a camera including a lens and a photodetector array having a camera field of view (FOV | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105451 | VISUAL THREE DIMENSIONAL SIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method receive an object representative of a new element of a scene to be simulated. A probabilistic prediction of coordinates of the new element in the scene is provided. The new element is placed in the scene as a function of rules for combining probabilistic nature objects in the scene. A visual representation of the simulated scene including the new element is also provided for display. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105149 | POWER AMPLIFIERS - Various aspects of the disclosure provide high power and high efficiency power amplifier systems that can be integrated on a chip using integrated circuit processes such as a standard CMOS and SiGe process. A power amplifier system is disclosed according to one aspect. The power amplifier system comprises a first power amplifier, a Wilkinson power splitter, second-stage amplifiers, and a Wilkinson power combiner. The first power amplifier pre-amplifies an RF input signal. The Wilkinson power splitter then splits the power of the amplified RF signal outputted by the first power amplifier among the second-stage amplifiers. Each of the second-stage amplifiers amplifies the respective RF signal from the Wilkinson power splitter. The Wilkinson power combiner then sums the powers of the amplified RF signals outputted by the second-stage amplifiers and outputs the resulting combined RF signal. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105061 | Portable bio-magnetic imager and method - Methods and apparatuses of the present invention perform imaging using a contrast agent and/or a metamaterials lens, together with a low magnetic field detector. The apparatus according to one embodiment comprises: a field source capable of generating a magnetic field directed to an area in a subject; a low magnetic field detector arranged downstream from the field source, the low magnetic field detector being capable of detecting a low magnetic field signature associated with the area in the subject; and a metamaterials lens arranged downstream from the field source, the metamaterials lens concentrating the magnetic field produced by the field source to the area in the subject, and/or concentrating back the magnetic signature from the area in the subject to the low magnetic field detector. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120101822 | BIOMETRIC SPEAKER IDENTIFICATION - A biometric speaker-identification apparatus is disclosed that generates ordered speaker-identity candidates for a probe based on prototypes. Probe match scores are clustered, and templates that correspond to clusters having top M probe match scores are compared with the prototypes to obtain template-prototype match scores. The probe is also compared with the prototypes, and those templates corresponding to template-prototype match scores that are nearest to probe-prototype match scores are selected as speaker-identity candidates. The speaker-identity candidates are ordered based on their similarity to the probe. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120101715 | ESTIMATING POSITION AND ORIENTATION OF AN UNDERWATER VEHICLE BASED ON CORRELATED SENSOR DATA - A method and system are described that can be used for combining two sources of position and orientation (pose) information where the information from one source is correlated with the information from the other and the sources produce information at differing rates. For example, the method and system allow for estimating position and orientation (pose) of an underwater vehicle relative to underwater structures by combining pose information computed from a 3D imaging sonar with pose information from a vehicle navigation system. To combine the information from the two sources, a determination is made as to whether to generate a forward prediction of the pose estimate of one of the sources relative to the other, and generating the forward prediction if needed. An updated pose of the underwater vehicle is determined based on the fused pose estimate, and which is used for vehicle guidance and control. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120100374 | METAL NANOPARTICLES AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING AND USING SAME - A composition may have metal nanoparticles having a diameter of 20 nanometers or less and have a fusion temperature of less than about 220° C. A method of fabricating the metal nanoparticles may include preparing a solvent, adding a precursor with a metal to the solvent, adding a first surfactant, mixing in a reducing agent, and adding in a second surfactant to stop nanoparticle formation. Copper and/or aluminum nanoparticle compositions formed may be used for lead-free soldering of electronic components to circuit boards. A composition may include nanoparticles, which may have a copper nanocore, an amorphous aluminum shell and an organic surfactant coating. A composition may have copper or aluminum nanoparticles. About 30-50% of the copper or aluminum nanoparticles may have a diameter of 20 nanometers or less, and the remaining 70-50% of the copper or aluminum nanoparticles may have a diameter greater than 20 nanometers. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120099402 | BUILDING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF AN UNDERWATER STRUCTURE - A method and system are described that can be used for scanning underwater structures. The method and system allow a user to gain a better understanding of an existing underwater structure. For example, the method and system allow for building a three dimensional model of an underwater structure. A sonar wave is directed toward an underwater structure, and a reflected sonar wave is received. Initial 3D data points are obtained from the reflected sonar wave, and are configured to provide a three-dimensional image of the underwater structure. A working alignment model of the underwater structure is generated by the initial data points. As new 3D sonar data is collected, the new 3D sonar data is aligned with and added to the alignment model. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120099400 | ESTIMATING POSITION AND ORIENTATION OF AN UNDERWATER VEHICLE RELATIVE TO UNDERWATER STRUCTURES - A method and system that can be used for scanning underwater structures. For example, the method and system estimate a position and orientation of an underwater vehicle relative to an underwater structure, such as by directing an acoustic sonar wave toward an underwater structure, and processing the acoustic sonar wave reflected by the underwater structure to produce a three dimensional image of the structure. The data points of this three dimensional image are compared to a pre-existing three dimensional model of the underwater structure. Based on the comparison, a position and orientation of an underwater vehicle relative to the underwater structure can be determined. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120099399 | SONAR DATA COLLECTION SYSTEM - A system that can be used for inspecting underwater structures. The system allows a user to gain a better understanding of the condition of an underwater structure. The system is a self-contained, modular system that can be operated by divers, coupled to an AUV, ROV or other host platform vehicle deployment platform, towed by a ship, pole mounted, or hull mounted. All of the components necessary to achieve the desired scanning functions are incorporated onto the self-contained, modular system. The system can include and fully utilize a 3D sonar system and an inertial navigation system. This combination of features permits the system to be used to, for example, generate 3D models of underwater structures, detect changes in underwater structures by comparing the generated 3D model against an a priori 3D model, and provide navigational updates to the host platform based on the observed features of an underwater structure. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120099398 | REMOTE FLOODED MEMBER DETECTION - Utilizing a sonar system to determine if a structural member of an underwater support structure that is supposed to be filled with air is instead flooded with water. The determination that a supposedly air filled structural member is instead flooded with water provides an indication that the structural member is cracked or damaged, making it easier to find damaged members and effect suitable repair. The sonar system is located a distance from the structural member so that it is spaced from the structural member. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120099395 | DETECTING STRUCTURAL CHANGES TO UNDERWATER STRUCTURES - A method and system that can be used for scanning underwater structures. The method and system allow a user to gain a better understanding of an underwater structure. For example, the method and system detect change(s) to an underwater structure. An acoustic sonar wave is directed toward an underwater structure, and a reflected acoustic sonar wave is received and processed to produce a three dimensional image. Data points of this three-dimensional image of the underwater structure are aligned to a pre-existing three dimensional model of the underwater structure. A change detection model is generated based on the aligned 3D images, and the change detection model is compared to the pre-existing three dimensional model of the underwater structure. Based on the comparison, occurrences of structural changes in the underwater structure are detected. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097061 | SUPERCAVITATING PROJECTILE HAVING A MORPHABLE NOSE - A supercavitating projectile having a nose that is capable of morphing its shape or length for extended operating range is disclosed. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120094256 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO DETECT TARGET HITS - A device includes a first light source to be aligned along a path of a projectile. The first light source has a narrow divergence to simulate the path of the projectile. A second light source has a vertically wide divergence extending above the path of the projectile. The first and second light sources are encoded and aligned to facilitate distinguishing between head and body shots using only head sensors. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120093330 | AURAL SIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method include obtaining an aural impulse signature at a first location in a simulated space. An aural impulse signature at a second location in a simulated space is also obtained. Aural impulse signature morphing is applied via a computer to aural impulse signatures of the first and second locations to provide an intermediate aural impulse signature between the first and second locations. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120092145 | GUNFIRE SOUND SYSTEM - A device includes a housing and a hammer. A motor is coupled to the hammer to move the hammer away from a side of the housing and release the hammer. A tension spring is coupled to the hammer to cause the hammer to strike the housing after the hammer is moved away from the housing by the motor and released. The housing acts as a sounding device to simulate the sound of gunfire. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091660 | TARGET IMPACT-POINT SENSING SYSTEM - A target includes multiple segments that are vibrationaly isolated from each other. A vibration sensor is coupled to each segment to provide vibration signatures representative of a segment being impacted by a projectile. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091456 | CONFORMAL ELECTROMAGNETIC SENSOR (FOR DETECTION OF NON-DESTRUCTIVE IMAGING AND INVESTIGATION) - A conformal electro-magnetic (EM) detector and a method of applying such a detector are provided herein as well as variations thereof Variations include, but are not limited to, single-element, area detectors; an array of multiple active elements. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120090996 | MICRO FLUIDIC OPTIC DESIGN - A DNA analyzer includes an interface for coupling a microfluidic chip to the DNA analyzer. The microfluidic chip includes a first separation channel for electrophoretic separation of DNA fragments in a first sample. Further, the DNA analyzer includes a first optical device. The first optical device includes an illuminating path and a detecting path. The illuminating path directs a first input light beam received from a light source to a first separation channel of the microfluidic chip. The first input light beam causes fluorescent labels attached on DNA fragments in the first separation channel to emit a first fluorescence light. The detecting path collects and directs the first fluorescent light to a first plurality of optical fibers. Further, the DNA analyzer includes a spectrometer configured to receive the first fluorescent light from the plurality of optical fibers and detect fluorescent components in the first fluorescent light. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120088209 | ENHANCEMENT OF LIVE AND SIMULATED PARTICIPANT INTERACTION IN SIMULATORS - A simulated participant system is configured to interoperate with existing simulators to create an integrated simulation platform with enhanced capabilities to provide, on a readily-scalable basis, simulated participants of one or more different types that are based on dynamically constructed virtual models of live simulation participants. The system observes live participants as they train with a simulator using a closed-loop, self-training configuration by continuously monitoring conversations and actions to create and maintain the virtual models on-the-fly. The virtual models may then be utilized to generate simulated participants to stand in for the live participants when they are absent from future simulator training sessions. Because a simulated participant was virtually modeled from observations of a live participant, the simulated behaviors, as expressed by actions and responses, can typically closely match the expected behavior of the absent live participant. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087089 | CARDLOCK CLAMP - A cardlock clamp is described that is used to secure an electronics module in a channel of a card cage. The cardlock clamp is configured to convert an input compression force into clamping forces in at least two radial directions perpendicular to the input compression force. The described cardlock clamp also provides self-alignment and self-center functions for the electronics module inserted into the channel. Further, variations of the cardlock clamp are described that provide more effective heat transfer from the electronics module to the card cage. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120086472 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING POWER MEASUREMENT INSIDE A FIELD PROGRAMMABLE GATE ARRAY WITHOUT EXTERNAL COMPONENTS - A method of calculating total power usage of a field programmable gate array (FPGA) without external components generates at least one coefficient based on a power equation and a given FPGA logic design, wherein the power equation calculates FPGA power as a function of temperature and voltage. The at least one coefficient is applied to the power equation along with internally generated temperature and voltage measurement values. The temperature measurement and the voltage measurement values are applied to the power equation with the at least one coefficient applied to calculate a power measurement based on the temperature measurement value and the voltage measurement value. The at least one coefficient is generated by taking an FPGA design and iteratively simulating the design in a power estimation tool over a range of temperature and input voltage values. A characterization data set is generated and curve fitted to the power equation to produce the at least one coefficient. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120085257 | SUPERCAVITATING PROJECTILE WITH REDUCED-DRAG CONTROL SURFACES - The illustrative embodiment provides bumpers which are roughly shaped like skis that face towards the air-water boundary of the air cavity. When the projectile fishtails and one or more of the bumpers come into contact with the air-water boundary, the water imparts torque and a rebounding force to push the projectile completely back into the air cavity. Furthermore, because the bumpers are shaped roughly like skis and not like knives, the bumpers do not penetrate the water or create unnecessary water drag. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120081511 | INTERLACED FOCAL PLANE ARRAY FOR WIDE-AREA SURVEILLANCE - Systems and methods of acquiring large field of view, high-resolution image data are discussed herein. Techniques and devices relate operation and composition of systems for acquiring large field of view, high-resolution image data. Such systems may include a first sensor chip assembly (SCA) in an interlaced focal plane array (FPA), the first SCA having a length, a width, and a resolution; a second SCA in the FPA, the second SCA having the same length, width, and resolution; and a field of view (FOV) adjustment device that moves the FOV of the FPA so that it can observe different scenes. In some such systems, the first and second SCAs are arranged relative to each-other in a first spaced array extending along a first dimension of the FPA such that there is an intentional gap between the first and second FPAs along the first dimension. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120081246 | COMPLEX ANALOG TO DIGITAL CONVERTER (CADC) SYSTEM ON CHIP DOUBLE RATE ARCHITECTURE - A Complex Analog to Digital Converter System on Chip (CADC SoC) implemented into a microcircuit system is provided. A series of stagger clock signals can be fixed on either a rising or falling edge of the system clock and a plurality of A/D converters can be grouped by sets (i.e. odd and even) and assigned to odd or even stager clocks. A complex I&Q data manager is provided for controlling the system. A clock management system is responsive to an external signal to select from a set of stagger clock settings, thereby improving anti-alias performance. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080556 | Systems and Methods for Autonomous Operations of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles - Systems and methods are disclosed for autonomous or remote-controlled operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (“UAVs”). An integrated mechanical and electrical system is capable of launching, controlling, snagging, recovering, securing, parking, and servicing UAVs without human intervention at the site of the system. The illustrative embodiment comprises a boom and a container that houses the boom and UAV(s). The boom rotates about its longitudinal axis to operationally orient a plurality of faces thereof. Each face is associated with certain system operations, including but not limited to: launching a UAV, snagging a UAV from the air, and securing a UAV to the boom. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080175 | Manifolding Arrangement for a Modular Heat-Exchange Apparatus - A heat-exchanger module that conveys a fluid through one or more heat exchangers with little or no pressure drop is presented. The heat-exchanger module comprises a first manifold that smoothly channels the fluid from a fluid source to each of the heat exchangers. The heat-exchanger module further comprises a second manifold that smoothly channels the fluid from the heat exchangers to a fluid sink. The manifolds are dimensioned and arranged to mitigate development of pressure drops in the fluid flow. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080164 | Heat-Exchange Apparatus with Pontoon-based Fluid Distribution System - A pontoon that includes infrastructure for fluidically coupling a heat exchanger or heat exchanger module into each of the seawater and working-fluid distribution systems of an OTEC power generation system is provided. In some embodiments, a pontoon comprises: (1) a first passage for conveying seawater between a first port and a second port at which a heat exchanger module can be connected; and (2) a conduit and connectors for connecting the heat exchanger module and the working fluid circulation system—even while the heat exchanger module is submerged. In some embodiments, pontoons in accordance with the present invention enable heat exchangers or heat exchanger modules to be added or removed to an OTEC system without disrupting the operation of other heat exchangers or heat exchanger modules in use in the OTEC system. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120079803 | Exhaust plume heat effect reducing method and apparatus - An apparatus for reducing heating effects of an exhaust plume of a jet engine on an impinged surface includes fluid injectors disposed adjacent and aimed into an exhaust plume zone that's to be occupied by an exhaust plume when the engine is running. A flow generator transmits fluid flow into such an exhaust plume through the injectors. Each injector emits fluid in at least two divergent directions to increase the cross-sectional area of the exhaust plume by forming fluidic lobes in the exhaust plume. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120078988 | MODIFIED GRAM-SCHMIDT CORE IMPLEMENTED IN A SINGLE FIELD PROGRAMMABLE GATE ARRAY ARCHITECTURE - A modified Gram-Schmidt QR decomposition core implemented in a single field programmable gate array (FPGA) comprises a converter configured to convert a complex fixed point input to a complex floating point input, dual port memory to hold complex entries of an input matrix, normalizer programmable logic module (PLM) to compute a normalization of a column vector. A second PLM performs complex, floating point multiplication on two input matrix columns. A scheduler diverts control of the QRD processing to the normalizer PLM or the second PLM. A top level state machine communicates with scheduler and monitors processing in normalizer PLM and second PLM and communicates the completion of operations to scheduler. A complex divider computes final column for output matrix Q using floating point arithmetic. Multiplexer outputs computed values as elements of output matrix Q or R. Complex floating point operations are performed in a parallel pipelined implementation reducing latencies. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120078886 | BIOMETRIC INDEXING AND SEARCHING SYSTEM - A prototype biometric identification system is disclosed that indexes a biometric corpus into indexed-corpuses using a set of P prototypes before searching for a probe in a search corpus constructed based on the indexed-corpus. The system may index the biometric corpus based on the prototypes directly or based on prototype-typicality scores. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120075956 | MAG-PHASE PROCESS - An active sonar system comprising a transmitter for providing a sonar signal, a receiver for receiving a reflected return signal, a processor of processing and extracting both magnitude and phase information from the return signal, and display unit for presenting both magnitude and phase information from the return signal to an operator. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120071121 | MULTI-CONDUCTOR TRANSMIT ANTENNA FOR MAGNETIC COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS - A magnetic communication system utilizing a multi-conductor transmit antenna is provided. Each of the conductors is supplied with an identical signal such that the magnetic fields generated by each conductor add together to create a like signal having an increased strength. Individual energy barriers are operatively connected to each conductor element in order to limit the current supplied to each conductor to intrinsically safe levels. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120070152 | ROOM ASSOCIATION DEVICE CONVEYING SECTOR DATA FOR IN-ROOM POSITION AND FACING DETERMINATIONS - A processor can determine a relative position within a room of a person wearing a force-on-force device based exclusively upon sensed optical signals detected by optical sensors connected to the force-on-force device. Each of the sensed optical signals is geographically focused within a spatially constrained zone. Each sensed optical signal can further include digitally encoded data indicating an optical source that emitted the sensed optical signal and a spatially constrained zone of the sensed optical signal. The relative position can be determined based on determining a grid within the room within which the person is located. The grid can be defined by overlapping ones of the spatially constrained zones of the sensed optical signals. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120057698 | ORGANIC KEYED ENCRYPTION - An encryption technique that creates a unique encryption key or fingerprint based on unique physical and electrical characteristics of a target electronic assembly to be protected. The encryption key can be constructed by exploiting the manufacturing variances present in all electronic elements including active elements and passive elements. Active elements include, for example: oscillators/clocks, internal I/O controllers, external I/O controllers, memory, processors, and digital power converters. Passive elements include, for example: internal I/O interconnects, external I/O interconnects, memory buses, and power buses. The encryption key can also include one or more environmental condition thresholds. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120057221 | OPTICAL INTEGRATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - An optical integration circuit includes a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA), a readout mechanism coupled to the SOA, and an optical filter coupled to an output of the SOA. The SOA has a decaying response function and an input for receiving an optical input signal having a first wavelength. The SOA is configured to output an optical signal representing a temporal integration of the optical input signal. The readout mechanism provides an optical readout signal having a second wavelength to the SOA for measuring a state of the SOA. The optical filter is configured to receive the signal representing the temporal integration of the optical input signal and block optical signals having the first wavelength. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120045169 | OPTICAL-FIBER ARRAY METHOD AND APPARATUS - Method and apparatus for forming an optical-fiber-array assembly, which include providing a plurality of optical fibers including a first optical fiber and a second optical fiber, providing a fiber-array plate that includes a first surface and a second surface, connecting the plurality of optical fibers to the first surface of the fiber-array plate, transmitting a plurality of optical signals through the optical fibers into the fiber-array plate at the first surface of the fiber-array plate, and emitting from the second surface of the fiber-array plate a composite output beam having light from the plurality of optical signals. Optionally, the first surface of the fiber-array plate includes indicia configured to assist in the alignment of the plurality of optical fibers on the first surface of the fiber-array plate. In some embodiments, the second surface of the fiber-array plate includes a plurality of beam-shaping optics configured to shape the composite output beam. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120044105 | HIGH-RESOLUTION RADAR MAP FOR MULTI-FUNCTION PHASED ARRAY RADAR - A method of operating a multi-function phased array radar system having an antenna array populated with dual-pol antenna elements is described. The method includes selectively controlling individual dipoles of each dual-pol antenna element in order to operate the array in either a polarimetric mode with improved cross-pol isolation, or in a multi-mission mode, wherein a plurality of singularly-polarized signals are produced. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043416 | RETRACTING AIR CUSHIONED LANDING SYSTEM FOR AIR VEHICLES - An air vehicle includes a bag skirt extendable along a portion of a hull of the air vehicle. The bag skirt is inflatable to provide an air cushion during touchdown and deflatable during flight of the air vehicle. The air vehicle also includes a cover roller adjacent the bag skirt, and a cover portion coupled to the cover roller. The cover roller is operable between exposed position and unexposed positions to expose and hide the bag skirt with the cover portion. The cover roller includes an extensible shaft and a pad securely wrapped around the extensible shaft. The extensible shaft is capable of being rotated along a shaft axis. One end of the extensible shaft is pivotally coupled to the hull by an anchor. A circumference of the cover roller is configured as a function of a distance between the exposed and the unexposed positions. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043053 | CATALYTIC ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENATION HEAT SINK FOR MOBILE APPLICATION - A heat sink is used to absorb heat produced by a vehicle. The heat sink uses an endothermic catalytic alcohol dehydrogenation reaction to assist with the absorption of excess heat produced in the electronics of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the alcohol can be pre-heated by absorbing heat from various components of the vehicle. Excess heat from the various components or from the vehicle engine can be used to vaporize the reaction fluids in order to further absorb additional heat. Reaction fluids can also be sent to the vehicle's engine/burner for use as a supplemental fuel. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120041942 | DATA SERVICE RESPONSE PLAN GENERATOR - A method, a service optimization system, and a set of instructions are disclosed. A user interface | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041796 | TECHNICAL MATURITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A system is provided to display the technical status of a program and provide quick access to the program information. The system may include milestone views, links to work products and schedule data, links to templates, specification, requirements, review criteria, links to event maturity criteria, and displays of technical maturity assessments. The system may be provided at an enterprise level in HTML form to access criteria for tailoring individual programs. The system may be downloadable to a program server from an enterprise server to provide the foregoing capabilities. The system may be configured to import specific program information from program master schedules in order to populate milestone views, assessment views, and search engines. The system may be configured to provide access control with user privileges, defined for each user. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038504 | ENHANCED-RESOLUTION PHASED ARRAY RADAR - A system and method for increasing the effective angular resolution of a multi-function phased array radar system is provided. The system is operative to simultaneously transmit a plurality of overlapping sub-beams covering a representative central beam. A de-convolution process is applied to received return signals. The process includes determining the reflectivity within sub-beamwidth resolution cells defined by the overlapping sub-beams. Generated sub-beamwidth data provides the radar system with an effective angular resolution beyond that of any single transmitted beam. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120033966 | OPTICAL LEAKY INTEGRATE-AND-FIRE NEURON - An optical system includes an optical integrator, a readout mechanism, and an optical thresholder. The optical integrator is configured to perform temporal integration of an optical input signal having a first wavelength received at an input. The readout mechanism is coupled to the optical integrator and provides optical signals having a second wavelength to the optical integrator for measuring a state of the optical integrator. The optical thresholder is coupled to an output of the optical integrator and is configured to receive a signal representing a temporal integration of the optical input signal from the optical integrator and produce an optical signal identifying if an amplitude of the signal representing the temporal integration of the optical input signal is above or below a threshold value. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120030887 | Telescoping-Tube System For Crew Transfer - A system and method for transferring crew members between a first platform and a second platform, at least one of which platforms is subject to movement, is disclosed. The system includes a telescoping-tube assembly having at least three nestable tubes. The tubes are capable of being extended and retracted as well as being selectively locked to ensure that a crew member traversing the tube assembly always travels along a rigid connection between adjacent tubes. A sensor system is used to sense the location and direction of movement of a crew member within the tubes. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120029973 | Methods For Verifying Satisfaction Of Prognostic Algorithm Requirements For A Component Having Multiple Failure Modes - Methods for verifying satisfaction of prognostic algorithm requirements for a component of a certain device of interest are provided. A method according to an example of an embodiment of the invention can include providing a prognostic algorithm requirements statement for a preselected component contained in each of a plurality of a certain type device, receiving field data indicating a number of premature component failures and a total number of replacements including both due to premature failures and scheduled maintenance, determining a probability density function providing a probability of failing to replace the prematurely failed components, determining a confidence value indicating a level of confidence that failure avoidance requirements provided in the prognostic algorithm statement are being met, and verifying whether or not the prognostic algorithm requirements provided in the prognostic algorithm requirements statement are being satisfied according to a preselected minimum level of confidence. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023042 | CONFIDENCE LEVEL GENERATOR FOR BAYESIAN NETWORK - A system includes a computer implemented Bayesian diagnostic system. The diagnostic system includes an inferencing engine and a conditional probability table that forms the basis for Bayesian inferences once the diagnostic system is trained. Each inference includes a diagnosis and associated probability of the diagnosis. A confidence generator receives the inferences, and generates a confidence measure for each inference. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120020573 | IMAGE ANALYSIS SYSTEMS USING NON-LINEAR DATA PROCESSING TECHNIQUES AND METHODS USING SAME - Described herein are image analysis systems that utilize a non-linear data processing algorithm for overlaying and comparing time sequence images. The image analysis systems can include at least one image collection device, an image processing device operating a non-linear data processing algorithm, and at least one data output device. The image processing device can be operable to overlay a test image and a reference image and perform a comparison therebetween. Linear parameters and non-linear parameters can be processed by the image processing device in performing the overlay. Methods for overlaying a test image upon a reference image by using a non-linear data processing algorithm are also described. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018585 | MEDIUM EARTH ORBIT CONSTELLATION WITH SIMPLE SATELLITE NETWORK TOPOLOGY - A method, a member satellite, and a tangible machine-readable medium are disclosed. An inter-satellite link subsystem | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120016827 | BIOMETRICS WITH MENTAL/ PHYSICAL STATE DETERMINATION METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Methods and systems for determining whether a particular individual is to be granted, among other things, access to information, access to a particular room or other space, or permission to perform a given act or transaction are disclosed. For example, disclosed is an exemplary method that includes performing multiple biometrics tests on the individual to retrieve multiple biometrics test results, performing at least a first data fusion operation on the multiple biometrics test results to determine an identity result, performing at least one biological state test to determine one or more biological state test results of the individual, and conditionally granting authority to the individual based on the identity result and the one or more biological state results. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120015567 | OCEAN THERMAL BUOYANCY AND PROPULSION SYSTEM - A water navigable vessel or glider can transport cargo across oceans and other bodies of water without the use of fossil or nuclear fuels. The vessel includes a housing, a cargo or payload area within the housing, one or more control fins attached to the housing, a ballast within the housing, an expandable and contractible container configured to receive a clathrate and maintain a minimum amount of pressure on the clathrate within the housing in proximity to the ballast, and an intake valve coupled to the ballast. The clathrate changes state, thereby changing the buoyancy of the glider, and causing the glider to move through the body of water. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012690 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MATRIX OF EXPLOSIVE CELLS - A matrix of explosive cells can include plural explosive cells formed in an array in a common substrate. Each cell can be formed as a recess filled with explosive material. An ignition device has an addressable ignition source for each cell. This matrix can be used in combination with a projectile guidance system. The projectile guidance system includes an antenna, a transceiver and a control processor. A method of guiding a projectile can include firing a projectile at a target, tracking the projectile and the target, determining a desired change in a flight path of the projectile, transmitting guidance commands to effect the desired change in the projectile's flight path to the projectile, receiving the guidance commands onboard the projectile and selectively igniting an explosive cell in a matrix of addressable explosive cells contained in a common substrate using the guidance commands. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120006186 | Solid Composite Propellants and Methods of Making Propellants - Solid composite propellants are provided that include a matrix comprising an energetic oxidizer and a binder. A multi-layered reactive thin film is provided in the matrix. The reactive thin film includes metal and inorganic oxidizer. Methods of making the solid composite propellants are also provided. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120002049 | VEHICLE HAVING SCANNING IMAGER WITH FIXED CAMERA AND MULTIPLE ACHROMATIC PRISM PAIRS - A vehicle including a scanning imaging system includes a vehicle body having an outer surface, a propulsion source, and an optical window secured to the outer surface of the vehicle positioned on an optical axis for transmitting electromagnetic radiation received from a portion of an area of interest to the scanning imaging system. The scanning imaging system includes a first achromatic prism pair having prisms with different materials that have different refractive properties, and a second achromatic prism pair having prisms with different materials that have different refractive properties, both positioned on the optical axis. A camera fixed in location is optically coupled to form images from the electromagnetic radiation after being bent by the achromatic prism pairs. A motor including a controller independently rotates the first and second achromatic prism pairs about the optical axis for scanning within the area of interest. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110311950 | SIMULTANEOUS MULTI-SOURCE SCANNING FOR SECTORIZED SIMULATED PROJECTILE TRAJECTORIES - A set of light generating devices provide simultaneously emission of a first modulated light beam and at least a second modulated light beam. The set of light generating devices are positioned so that their respective light beams are incident on the scanning mirror at different elevation angles. A photodetector detects reflected light from the target. A simulation controller is coupled to receive data obtained from the reflected light to generate a scan control signal based on the receive data and a projectile trajectory path for the projectile to the target. The scan control signal sequentially scans the elevation angle of the scanning mirror so that the respective light beams simultaneously scan different sectors of the simulated trajectory path to obtain a simulation that represents the projectile trajectory path. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311949 | TRAJECTORY SIMULATION SYSTEM UTILIZING DYNAMIC TARGET FEEDBACK THAT PROVIDES TARGET POSITION AND MOVEMENT DATA - A target in a physical environment can be interrogated. Feedback can be received from the target that is encoded within a radio frequency signal. The feedback can include position and movement data of the target. Adjustments can be calculated for a simulated kinetic projectile traveling to the target. The adjustments can account for target movement, kinetic projectile travel time, and travel path to the target. A distance from a point of origin of the simulated kinetic projectile to the target and movement of the target relative to the point of origin can be determined utilizing the feedback. A result signal can be conveyed that includes result data. The result data can include all information necessary for the target to react to the simulated kinetic projectile. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311013 | SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR PLANT MONITORING AND CONTROL - A system and apparatus for monitoring and control of the operation of various types of industrial plants, including power plants, nuclear power plants and plants including various types of mechanical, electrical and chemical machinery. The invention employs modular non-microprocessor based, non-software based digital hardware that enables communication between sensors and control logic and between the control logic and actuators that control a functional aspect of each plant. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309191 | System and Method For Desaturation of a Control Moment Gyroscope - A method of de-saturating a control moment gyroscope that leverages a torque on an aircraft that is generated by airflow over the aircraft. As an aircraft navigates through an airspace, the aircraft may destabilize and reorient to form a sideslip angle that forms the airflow torque on the aircraft. The control moment gyroscope may be de-saturated into a neutral position that in turn exerts a torque on the aircraft that counters the airflow torque. A scissor pair of first and second control moment gyroscopes can be used for generating a torque in a single plane. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308418 | Projectile Having Deployable Fin - A supercavitating projectile is disclosed that has deployable fins. The fins are pivotally coupled to the body of the projectile. The fins have two primary states: stowed within a recess at the surface of the projectile and deployed to a radially-extended position relative to the body of the projectile. The fins deploy as the projectile leaves its launch tube. The fins function as a control surface, interacting with the wall of the vapor cavity in which the supercavitating projectile travels. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110302628 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PREVENTING AND ANALYZING NETWORK INTRUSION - Aspects of the disclosure provide a method for preventing and analyzing network intrusion. The method includes receiving by a network device an initial communication from an entity, determining the entity is not trusted based on the initial communication, and transmitting signals to the entity that are indicative of first disinformation of the network device to hide real information of the network device. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110302291 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRIORITIZING NETWORK ASSETS - Methods and systems for restoring networks to normal behavior are disclosed. For example, in various embodiments an apparatus for addressing device abnormalities in a network may include node monitoring circuitry configured to monitor device abnormalities in the network, and ranking circuitry that may receive information from the node monitoring device and, upon receiving information from the monitoring circuitry that multiple devices in the network are compromised, may provide ranking information as to which of the multiple compromised devices in the network is to be attended to first. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110299399 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONGESTION CONTROL - Aspects of the disclosure provide a method of congestion control. The method includes transmitting by a first apparatus to a second apparatus a packet stream corresponding to stream data generated by a variable data rate application, determining a round-trip-time of a packet in the packet stream, updating a congestion measure based on the round-trip-time, and informing the variable data rate application based on the congestion measure to adjust a data rate for generating the stream data. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110299082 | Method of Ellipsometric Reconnaissance - A method of obtaining information about a target by using an ellipsometric technique of illuminating the target with coherent light beams from moveable light sources and recording reflections from the target. By analyzing the reflections, the surface material refractive index or dielectric tensors may be classified to yield information about the surface material properties. The beams can be emitted at different polarities and/or different frequencies. Ultra-coherent lasers can be used to produce beams that illuminate targets up to 100 kilometers from the beam source. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297032 | CAVITY-ENHANCING FEATURES AND METHODS FOR A CAVITY-RUNNING PROJECTILE - A cavity-enhancing feature and method are disclosed for a projectile that is capable of operating underwater in a cavity-running mode. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297031 | Surface Ship, Deck-Launched Anti-Torpedo Projectile - A surface ship, deck-launched anti-torpedo projectile is disclosed. The projectile has a blunt-end nose to create a cavitating running mode. The nose has a gradual, stepped, right-circular cylindrical or conic geometry. In some embodiments, the projectile includes a plurality of tail fins that are dimensioned and arranged to be within the generalized elliptical cavity that shrouds the projectile in the cavitating running mode. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295347 | NERVE-PENETRATING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295346 | CUFF APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295345 | IMPLANTABLE INFRARED NERVE STIMULATION DEVICES FOR PERIPHERAL AND CRANIAL NERVE INTERFACES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295344 | OPTICAL BUNDLE APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295331 | LASER-BASED NERVE STIMULATORS FOR, E.G., HEARING RESTORATION IN COCHLEAR PROSTHESES AND METHOD - Apparatus and method for optical- or optical-and-electrical stimulation of e.g., auditory nerve pathways, for example spiral ganglion in the cochlea or neurons in the cochlear nerve. Several configurations for guiding and directing the optical stimulation are disclosed. Several configurations for guiding and directing the electrical field (used in some embodiments, for sensitization) in and through the destination tissue to which the optical stimulation is directed are disclosed. In some embodiments, and array of IR VCSELs emit stimulation light, in particular to tissue in the cochlea for restoring hearing. In some embodiments, an electrical signal is also applied in a manner that reduces the amount of light in a pulse that is otherwise needed to elicit a NAP. In some embodiments, a heat dissipater is used to spread the heat generated by operation of the lasers and their circuits, to avoid heat damage to the tissue. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293421 | Rotor blade having passive bleed path - A rotor blade includes a bleed path opening to a suction surface, extending through the blade, exiting to at least one of the suction or a trailing surface, and through which working fluid flows under centrifugal pumping forces when the blade rotates, to passively bleed working fluid from the suction surface. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293379 | UNDERSEA ANCHORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - An undersea anchor that includes a frame that is fixed to the seafloor by one or more pile anchors, for example grouted pile anchors. The frame is configured to permit it to function with one or more seabed drills to allow the pile anchor(s) to be installed at an angle relative to horizontal so the pile anchors can take horizontal and vertical loads. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291623 | METHOD AND MEANS TO IMPLEMENT A CURRENT FOLLOWER OPERATION OF A BUCK MODE, SWITCHING POWER SUPPLY - A buck mode power supply monitors the pulse load current for use as a scaled reference for comparison to a measured output current from each stage of the supply. A correction signal is generated for each stage by comparing the reference to the measured output currents. This result is compared to a second reference created from the system clock. A resulting second correction signal is used to alter the threshold reference voltage in a manner that provides proportional pulse width control to the supply output. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110289070 | Dynamic resource orchestration system for data retrieval and output generation - A resource coordinating system is provided. The resource coordinating system has an interface module that receives a request from a user and an ontology framework module including a plurality of objects, each object being associated with a respective resource. The resource coordinating system also has a search module that coordinates a retrieval of information from one or more resources based on a search strategy generated in response to the user's request and an output module that generates an output to the user based on the retrieved information wherein, the search strategy selects objects from the ontology framework module based on the user's request and each selected object directs the search module to its associated resource. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110272864 | Process and apparatus for molding continuous-fiber composite articles - A process and apparatus for multi-shot, liquid-resin-molding of continuous-fiber composite articles is disclosed. The process involves the step-wise fabrication of an article wherein continuity of the fibers is maintained between the multiple workpieces of the finished composite article. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110270484 | Real-Time Prognostic and Health Management System, Program Product, and Associate Methods - Embodiments of the present invention provide a prognostics and health management (PHM) system for one or more electronic, electro-mechanical, pneudraulic and mechanical devices of an aircraft, and associated diagnostic methods and computer program products. The system includes a tangible and non-transitory memory preloaded with prognostics and health management signature data; one or more sensors that are adapted to monitor the one or more devices; and a logic device adapted to calculate an address and to access the tangible and non-transitory memory using the calculated address in real time. One or more portions of the calculated address are responsive to one or more parameter values associated with the sensors so that sensor parameter data determines the address into the memory. In the PHM system, the logic device is further adapted to generate a PHM alert in real time responsive to a value of the PHM signature data accessed at the address. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110268389 | TILED BRAGG GRATING AND LASER SYSTEMS THEREFROM - A tiled Bragg grating (BG) includes a plurality of BGs that are paralleled and optically contacted to one another. Each BG includes an optically transparent substrate within a predetermined wavelength or wavelength range having a length dimension and a transverse dimension. The BGs have a grating period along their length dimension. The BGs have optical contact regions along edges in their transverse dimension where the BGs are optically contacted to one another. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110267020 | METHOD AND MEANS TO IMPLEMENT FIXED FREQUENCY OPERATION OF BUCK MODE SWITCHING - A buck mode switching power supply under hysteretic control is provided. A fixed frequency pattern generator is operatively connected to the supply and configured to provide dynamic adjustment of the hysteretic threshold voltage level, resulting in the fixed frequency operation of the supply. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110266995 | RADIO FREQUENCY POWER TRANSMISSION SYSTEM - A wireless power transmission system for use in a mobile asset comprising a host transmitter for providing at least one of a microwave or a lightwave energy signal, a receiver configured to receive said signal, a converter for converting said signal to a storable energy form, and a controller to control the transfer of storable energy from said converter to at least one energy storage device. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110264014 | PORTABLE LOAD LIFTING SYSTEM - A portable load lifting assist system ( | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110255445 | Self-forming ad-hoc network system - Disclosed are a self-forming ad-hoc network architecture and triplet-based radio waveform for communicating via the network architecture. The self-forming ad-hoc network preferably has a plurality of network nodes including a point-of-presence node, one or more relay nodes that aggregate data (triplet) traffic, one or more sensor nodes that send and receive data from relay nodes, and one or more handheld nodes that send and receive data to and from relay nodes and communicate data between themselves. The communication waveform is defined by orthogonal triplets having multiple time slots, multiple frequency channels, and multiple hop sequences in a channel, that is used to communicate between the network nodes. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110252996 | COUNTER-MINE DART - Some embodiments of the invention provide a dart that contains an HE payload, two time-delay fuses, one providing a relatively longer delay and the other providing a relatively shorter delay and two triggering mechanisms for triggering the fuses. The first triggering mechanism, which triggers on contact with a mine lid, triggers the relatively shorter time-delay fuse. The second mechanism, which triggers on overburdening exposure to water, sand, or soil, triggers the relatively longer time-delay fuse. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110249935 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IN-LINE FIBER-CLADDING-LIGHT DISSIPATION - Apparatus and method for in-line cladding-light dissipation including forming a light-scattering surface on the optical fiber such that the light-scattering surface scatters cladding light away from the optical fiber. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an optical fiber having a core and a first cladding layer that surrounds the core, wherein a first portion of the optical fiber has a light-scattering exterior surface. Some embodiments further include a transparent enclosure, wherein the transparent enclosure includes an opening that extends from a first end of the transparent enclosure to a second end of the transparent enclosure, and wherein at least the first portion of the optical fiber is located within the opening of the transparent enclosure. Some embodiments include a light-absorbing housing that surrounds the optical fiber and the transparent enclosure and is configured to absorb the light scattered away from the optical fiber by the light-scattering exterior surface. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249692 | BEAM DIAGNOSTICS AND FEEDBACK SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SPECTRALLY BEAM-COMBINED LASERS - Apparatus and method for control of lasers (which use an array of optical gain fibers) in order to improve spectrally beam-combined (SBC) laser beam quality along the plane of the SBC fiber array via spectral-to-spatial mapping of a portion of the spectrally beam-combined laser beams, detection of optical power in each of the spatially dispersed beams and feedback control of the lasers for wavelength-drift correction. The apparatus includes a diffractive element; a source of a plurality of substantially monochromatic light beams directed from different angles to a single location on the diffractive element, wherein the diffractive element spectrally combines the plurality of light beams into a single beam. A controller adjusts characteristics of the light beams if one of the light beams has become misadjusted. In some embodiments, the controller adjusts the wavelength tuning of the respective fiber laser. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249321 | SIGNAL AND PUMP MODE-FIELD ADAPTOR FOR DOUBLE-CLAD FIBERS AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A method and apparatus for mode-matching double-clad fibers. In some embodiments, a first fiber section that has a first core, wherein the first core has a first core diameter connects to a mode-field adaptor, wherein the mode-field adaptor includes a first portion having a central volume that has a substantially constant index-of-refraction radial profile and a diameter larger than the first core diameter, and a second portion that has a graded-index (GRIN) central volume, wherein the GRIN central volume has a central axis and a graded index-of-refraction radial profile having an index that gradually decreases at larger distances from its central axis and a length selected to focus light into the core of a second fiber wherein the second core has a diameter that is larger than the first core diameter, and wherein the second fiber section is double clad. Some embodiments are polarized. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249320 | HIGH BEAM QUALITY AND HIGH AVERAGE POWER FROM LARGE-CORE-SIZE OPTICAL-FIBER AMPLIFIERS - In some embodiments, the present invention provides an apparatus, method and use for improving and merging two existing techniques (core pumping and cladding pumping) to enable high-power fiber-laser systems having excellent beam quality while using large-core (LMA) step-index gain fibers at very high optical power, wherein the core pumping includes mixing a laser seed optical signal (having a signal wavelength) with optical core-pump light (having a core-pump wavelength that is near the signal wavelength) in a manner that matches the modes of the seed optical signal and the pump light. The combined core light is mode matched to the LMA gain fiber. The core-pump light is substantially all absorbed within a short distance from the entry end of the gain fiber and provides a strong pre-amplified signal for later cladding-pumped amplification. In some embodiments, the signal wavelength and the core-pump wavelength are within a single multiplet of a rare-earth dopant. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249319 | HIGH-POWER LASER SYSTEM HAVING DELIVERY FIBER WITH NON-CIRCULAR CROSS SECTION FOR ISOLATION AGAINST BACK REFLECTIONS - An apparatus and method that provide optical isolation by permitting substantially all forward-propagating light into a delivery fiber from an optical amplifier and substantially preventing backward-traveling light from the delivery fiber entering the optical amplifier without the use of a conventional optical isolator. Eliminating the isolator improves efficiency and reduces cost. Some embodiments use a delivery fiber having a non-circular core in order to spread a single-mode signal into multiple modes such that any backward-propagating reflection is inhibited from reentering the single-mode amplifier. Some embodiments amplify an optical signal in a gain fiber having an output end, output the forward-propagating amplified signal as a high-brightness optical beam (having a first Rayleigh range) into a removable delivery fiber having a non-circular waveguide, output the amplified signal from a distal end of the delivery fiber, and, without the use of a non-linear optical isolator, inhibit backward-propagating light from re-entering the gain fiber. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110248120 | PRECISION ATTITUDE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR GIMBALED THRUSTER - A system for providing attitude control with respect to a spacecraft is provided. The system includes a reaction wheel control module configured to control a number of reaction wheel assemblies associated with the spacecraft in order to control attitude, and a maneuver control module configured to use a number of gimbaled Hall Current thrusters (HCTs) to control the total momentum associated with the spacecraft. The total momentum includes the momentum associated with the reaction wheel assemblies and the angular momentum of the spacecraft. Using the gimbaled HCTs to control the momentum associated with the reaction wheel assemblies results in minimal HCT gimbal stepping. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110242328 | IR-BASED MULTISPECTRAL DISTURBED GROUND DETECTION - A multispectral imaging system identifies disturbed ground regions in an interrogation area and includes an image sensor. The image sensor includes a photodetector array, a filter that transmits a non-near infrared (non-NIR) reference band and NIR including band from diffusely scattered light to the photodetector array. The 2-D photodetector array generates separately detected first non-NIR reference band data and NIR comprising band data. A processor for data processing is coupled to the photodetector array to receive the non-NIR reference band data and NIR band data. The data processing includes utilizing both the NIR band data and the non-NIR reference band data to generate processed image data that can be used to identify disturbed ground regions within the interrogation region. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240716 | METHODS FOR REWORK OF A SOLDER - Methods for reworking a solder containing one or more joined members are described herein. Such methods can include applying a disintegrating agent to a solder containing a solder material, disintegrating the solder material to form a disintegrated solder material, and removing the disintegrated solder material from the solder. Such methods can also include applying a disintegrating agent containing bismuth to a solder containing a solder material, and heating the solder to liquefy the disintegrating agent. Such methods can also include applying a disintegrating agent containing a bismuth alloy to a solder having a solder material that contains metal nanoparticles, and heating the solder to liquefy the bismuth alloy. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110238141 | MINIATURE METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPTICAL STIMULATION OF NERVES AND OTHER ANIMAL TISSUE - A hand-held self-contained nerve-stimulation device and method using light to provide a source of precise stimulation on one or more nerve fibers. In some embodiments, this simulation is provided through a device and method wherein a laser- or LED-light source is mounted to the handpiece. Light is passed from the light source through optical tip to simulate nerves. In some embodiments, the device is constructed from non-magnetic material such as glass, plastic or ceramics. In some embodiments, the light emanating from the optical tip can be controlled manually or automatically. In some embodiments, the handpiece contains a self-contained power source, such as batteries. In some embodiments, the handpiece is at least in part, activated by remote control in order to prevent moving the handpiece during activation. Some embodiments include a unit operable to sense a response of nerve stimulation and to suppress a laser-ablation surgery operation. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110234464 | PIVOT RADAR - A radar antenna system comprises a base. A center support is coupled to the base on a first end. A radar array is pivotally coupled to a second end of the center support. At least two actuators are provided for pivoting the radar array about the center support, altering its azimuth position. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110234339 | Waveguide distortion mitigation devices with reduced group delay ripple - Disclosed are waveguide distortion mitigation devices that produce reduced group delay ripple in communication systems in which they are used. The devices comprise a first and second tapered waveguide sections, a first coupling device coupled to the first tapered waveguide section, and a second coupling device coupled to the second tapered waveguide section and the first waveguide coupling device. A waveguide isolator may optionally be coupled between the first and second waveguide coupling devices. The first and second coupling devices may comprise waveguide circulators or waveguide-hybrid couplers. The tapered waveguide sections may embody a single transition comprising a single waveguide wall, a single transition comprising two waveguide walls, or a plurality of transitions comprising a plurality of waveguide walls. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110233426 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TAGGING INDIVIDUALS FOR IDENTIFICATION AND TRACKING - A method and apparatus that are useful for tagging personnel for identification and tracking is disclosed. The apparatus may include a taggant, the taggant being a chemical substance that adheres to at least one of human skin, clothing and equipment of personnel and is undetectable by the human eye, and a taggant deployment mechanism that includes the taggant and is configured to release the taggant upon activation of a triggering mechanism, wherein the taggant deployment mechanism is configured such that when the triggering mechanism is activated, the taggant is released from the taggant deployment mechanism and adheres to at least one of human skin, clothing and equipment of personnel within a radius of a point that the taggant is released, the taggant being detectable only by a taggant detection unit. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110229898 | DNA analyzer - Aspects of the disclosure provide a microfluidic chip to facilitate DNA analysis. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, a dilution domain coupled to the first domain to dilute a PCR mixture received from the first domain, and a second domain that is coupled to the dilution domain so as to receive the amplified DNA fragments. The second domain includes a separation channel that is configured to perform electrophoretic separation of the amplified DNA fragments. In addition, the disclosure provides a DNA analyzer to act on the microfluidic chip to perform an integrated single chip DNA analysis. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110229897 | Optical approach for microfluidic DNA electrophoresis detection - Aspects of the disclosure provides a DNA analyzer to facilitate an integrated single-chip DNA analysis. The DNA analyzer includes an interface for coupling a microfluidic chip to the DNA analyzer. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, and a second domain fluidically coupled to the first domain to receive the DNA fragments and perform electrophoretic separation of the DNA fragments. The DNA fragments are tagged with fluorescent labels. The DNA analyzer includes a detection module to excite the fluorescent labels to emit fluorescence and detect the emitted fluorescence. The detection module includes a laser source, a set of optical elements, a filter module and a photo-detector. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226176 | CLATHRATE GLIDER WITH HEAT EXCHANGER - An apparatus includes a housing and a ballast disposed within the housing. The ballast is adapted to receive, store and expel a fluid. A bladder is operatively coupled to the ballast wherein an increase in the volume of the bladder causes a decrease in the free volume of the ballast available for the storage of the fluid therewithin and a decrease in the volume of the bladder causes an increase in the free volume of the ballast available for the storage of the fluid therewithin. A heat exchanger has a heat exchange duct thermally coupled to the bladder and is adapted to receive a fluid from outside the housing. The bladder is configured to receive a clathrate. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226049 | Simulating Rotation of a Wheel - A device and method for simulating rotation of a wheel on a vehicle having a rotatable wheel rotation sensor. A motor is coupled to a rotatable portion of the rotation sensor, and is operated to rotate the rotatable portion of the rotation sensor according to a pulse train simulating a wheel skid. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110225115 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING OPEN SOURCE INTELLIGENCE GATHERING - Systems and methods (e.g., utilities) for use in providing automated, lightweight collection of online, open source data which may be content-based to reduce website source bias. In one aspect, a utility is disclosed for use in extracting content of interest from at least one website or other online data source (e.g., where the extracted content can be used in a subsequent search query). In other aspects, utilities are disclosed that are operable to perform various types of analyses on such extracted content and present graphical representations of such analyses on a display of a client device. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110223605 | Multiple-sample microfluidic chip for DNA analysis - Aspects of the disclosure provide a microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, and a second domain for electrophoretic separation. The first domain includes at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample. The second domain includes at least a first separation unit coupled to the first reaction reservoir to received first amplified DNA fragments based on the first sample, and a second separation unit coupled to the second reaction reservoir to received second amplified DNA fragments based on the second sample. The first separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the first amplified DNA fragments, and the second separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the second amplified DNA fragments. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110222689 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING SECURE COMMUNICATIONS FOR MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICES - A method and apparatus that enables secure communications from a wireless communication device is disclosed. The method may include receiving a signal to transmit data, wherein the data is at least one of voice, text, image, and video, applying a first layer of encryption to the data, applying a second layer of encryption to the data, applying a third layer of encryption to the data, and sending the encrypted data over a communications network. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110221634 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR POSITION AND TRACK DETERMINATION - The present disclosure describes a method and system for detecting and determining the position of a target or intruder using a plurality of sensors positioned throughout a secured perimeter and a single antenna. The system of the present disclosure detects and determines the position of a target by first analyzing the return signal strength values of each of the sensors. Next, Z | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110219980 | SELECTABLE EFFECT WARHEAD - A munition includes a casing, the casing formed at least in part from a material comprising (i) a meltable or phase-changing material, and (ii) an energetic material; an explosive payload contained within the casing; and a fuze arrangement, the fuze arrangement comprising a main fuze configured and arranged to ignite the high explosive, and at least one secondary fuze configured and arranged to cause the casing material to melt or undergo a phase change. A method of selectively altering the mode of operation of a munition includes: forming a casing, the casing comprising a material comprising (i) a meltable or phase-changing material, and (ii) an energetic material; introducing an explosive payload into the casing; providing a fuze arrangement comprising a main fuse and at least one secondary fuze configured and arranged to cause the casing material to melt or undergo a phase change; and selectively activating the main fuze and the at least one secondary fuze in a manner that provided at least a first and a second mode of operation, the first mode of operation comprising blast coupled with fragmentation effects, and the second mode of operation comprising mainly blast effects. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110215279 | COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING TIN NANOPARTICLES AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - Compositions containing tin nanoparticles and electrically conductive particles are described herein. The tin nanoparticles can have a size below about 25 nm so as to make the compositions fusable at temperatures below that of bulk tin (m.p.=232° C.). Particularly, when the tin nanoparticles are less than about 10 nm in size, the compositions can have a fusion temperature of less than about 200° C. The compositions can contain a whisker suppressant to inhibit or substantially minimize the formation of tin whiskers after tin nanoparticle fusion. In some embodiments, the compositions contain tin nanoparticles, electrically conductive particles comprising copper particles, and a whisker suppressant comprising nickel particles. Methods for using the present compositions are also described herein. The present compositions can be used as a lead solder replacement that allows rework to be performed. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110214503 | COMPACT GRADIOMETER WITH ACCELEROMETER BASED ROTATIONAL CONTROL - A rotational stabilization system and method which allows for greater spatial separation of accelerometer sensors while maintaining or reducing an existing external footprint. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110213491 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAIL FORWARDING AND SPECIAL HANDLING SERVICES - Methods and systems for mail forwarding and special handling services are disclosed. The methods and systems can include processing mail in a single pass or in multiple passes (i.e., online or offline). The methods and systems can include one or more of a scannable symbol, an extra appended post code digit, a dedicated database field, separate table indexed by a control number, a logically separate database, or a database hosted on a separate server for use in identifying mail pieces needing special handling and retrieving special handling information, for example forwarding address text for such mail pieces. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110210173 | STEGANOGRAPHY WITH PHOTO-RESPONSIVE DYES - An article identifier or code including at least one photo-responsive dye and a method of encoding or embedding information in same. A reader device for decoding or extracting information in an article identifier or code and verifying or authenticating that information and the associated extraction and authentication methods. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110204891 | Direct magnetic imaging apparatus and method - Methods and apparatuses of the present invention perform imaging using a metamaterial lens structure. The apparatus according to one embodiment comprises: a field source capable of generating an electromagnetic field directed to an area in an object or target; a field detector arranged downstream from the field source, the field detector being capable of detecting a field signature associated with the area in the object or target; and a metamaterial lens structure arranged downstream from the field source, the metamaterial lens structure concentrating the electromagnetic field produced by the field source to the area in the object or target, or concentrating the field signature from the area in the object or target to the field detector. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110204178 | SPOT LEADING TARGET LASER GUIDANCE FOR ENGAGING MOVING TARGETS - A laser lead designator for guiding a laser guided weapon (LGW) to strike a moving target includes a laser source for providing a laser beam and a controller coupled to receive a position and a velocity of the moving target. The controller provides a control signal for pointing the laser beam a specified lead distance ahead of the position of the moving target to position a laser spot on a ground location ahead of the moving target. The lead distance compensates for an impact shortfall value that is a function of at least one shortfall parameter including a speed of the moving target so that the LGW shortfalls the laser spot on the moving target. The laser designator is separate from the LGW. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110202553 | SPATIALLY REFERENCED MULTI-SENSORY DATA DIGITALLY ENCODED IN A VOXEL DATABASE - A voxel database can store and manage a set of voxel records in a voxel table. Each of the records can have a unique voxel identifier. Each voxel record can include a set of different sensory attributes. The sensory attributes can include visual attributes, spectral signature attributes, olfaction attributes, audition attributes, gustation attributes, somatsensory attributes, and material composition attributes. Uniquely defined voxels of voxel database can be a volume unit on a grid (regular or non-regular) in three dimensional space, which is a voxel space. A correspondence can exist between voxels in the voxel space and volume units of a real world volumetric space from which geospatial data was directly gathered and encoded within the voxel database. Voxel space can be mapped to simulation space. Thus, simulators can consume data of the voxel space to generate three dimensional immersive environments having multisensory output. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110202539 | QUERY SYSTEM FOR A HYBRID VOXEL AND FEATURE DATABASE - A hybrid database can receive a hybrid query for an object having a real world analog. A feature of a set of feature records can be determined that corresponds to the object. Feature-level attribute values of the feature can be extracted from the feature records. A volumetric envelope forming an outer boundary of the feature in a volumetric storage space of the hybrid database can be determined. A set of uniquely indexed voxels can be determined. Each voxel can be a volumetric unit of the volumetric storage space that represent the volume contained by the volumetric envelope. Voxel-level semantic values can be extracted from the set of uniquely indexed voxels from voxel records. Extracted voxel-level semantic values and extracted feature-level attribute values can be combined to generate a hybrid result. The hybrid result can be conveyed to a requestor from which the hybrid query was received. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110202538 | VOXEL APPROACH TO TERRAIN REPOSITORIES FOR MODELING AND SIMULATION - A set of sensors can capture raw data that geospatially corresponds to a real world volumetric space. The raw data can include point cloud data encoded in a light detecting and ranging (LiDAR) information format, imagery and video data, and elevation data encoded in a digital elevation model (DEM) or digital surface model (DSM) format. The real-world volumetric space can be segmented into a set of volumetric units, wherein datum of the raw data is indexed against the volumetric units. Each of the volumetric units of the real-world volumetric space can be mapped to a voxel in a storage volumetric space of a voxel database. The raw data can then be stored and fused in the voxel database such that each voxel in the voxel database represents a combination of volumetrically stored data for all source products that includes providing point cloud data, imagery data, and elevation data. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110202510 | SUPPORTING MULTIPLE DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS HAVING DIFFERENT DATA NEEDS USING A VOXEL DATABASE - A system can include a voxel database and the set of applications. The voxel database can include a set of voxel indexed records, wherein the voxel database manages a volumetric storage space corresponding to a real-world volumetric space, where units of real-world volumetric space and data specific to these units map to voxels and attributes of voxel indexed records. Each of the applications can include a user interface that renders a volumetric simulation space that corresponds to the volumetric storage space. Geospatial data for the simulation space can include visual attributes used to render a graphical user interface representation of the simulation space, where these visual attributes are acquired from the voxel database. The applications can have different geospatial formatting and content needs from each other, yet the content needs of each of the applications can be supported by the voxel database. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110202492 | PROBABILISTIC VOXEL-BASED DATABASE - A probabilistic database can including a set of geospatially referenced records and a probability engine. The geospatially referenced records corresponding to a real-world volumetric space indexed against voxels. Each voxel can have a unique identifier in the probabilistic database. Each voxel can corresponds to a volumetric unit of the real-world volumetric space. Geospatial information referenced against voxels can be internally inconsistent, which results in a naturally probabilistic storage format. The probability engine can be operable to dynamically determine a certainty value for an object of the probabilistic database. The certainty value can be a value from zero to one hundred percent, which is based upon a statistical analysis of the internally inconsistent geospatial information referenced against the voxels. The internally inconsistent geospatial information can correspond to a volumetric unit of the real-world volumetric space in which the object has a probability of residing within. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110202326 | MODELING SOCIAL AND CULTURAL CONDITIONS IN A VOXEL DATABASE - A set of digital products of a real-world volumetric space comprising a population of humans can be received. The digital products can be analyzed to determine a set of social characteristics and cultural conditions for the population. The determined social characteristics and cultural conditions can be stored in a voxel database. The social characteristics and cultural characteristics can be recorded with geospatial metrics for the real-world volumetric space in which they occurred. A computer model can be generated for a geospatially bound simulation space from the voxel database data. The computer model can include the social characteristics and cultural characteristics of the geospatially bound simulation space. The computer model can be used by a simulation device to model behavior of a simulated culturally linked population corresponding to the population for the real-world volumetric space. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110199376 | VOXEL BASED THREE DIMENSIONAL VIRTUAL ENVIROMENTS - Geospatial information specific to a real-world volumetric space can be gathered. The gathered information can be stored in a voxel database. The stored information can be indexed against voxels, which correspond to volume units of the real-world volumetric space. Stored information can be extracted from the voxel database. The extracted information can be directly inserted into an interactive three dimensional (3D) application providing a simulation space. The 3D application can interactively presents 3D entities programmed with entity specific intelligence within the simulation space. Each 3D entity can dynamically move and react in the simulation space in a geospatially constrained manner in accordance with the entity specific intelligence and in accordance with limitations of the simulation space. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110199287 | COMPENSATION FOR DISPLAY DEVICE FLICKER - Systems and methods are provided for use in correcting flicker of a display (e.g., an LCD display). For example, correction may employ the insertion of at least one transition data frame between display data frames for use in displaying a transition image by pixel elements of the display such that a user perceives display of a constant average luminance by the pixel elements. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110185793 | Seal assembly with leak monitoring - A seal assembly is provided for a joint between a first pipe segment having a first flange and a second pipe segment having a second flange. The seal assembly has at least one primary sealing member mounted on the first flange and forming a loop around the first pipe segment and at least one supplemental sealing member mounted on the first flange between the first pipe segment and the at least one primary sealing member, the at least one supplemental sealing member forming a loop around the first pipe segment. The seal assembly also has a first sealed containment area that is formed between the at least one primary and at least one supplemental sealing members when the at least one primary and at least one supplemental sealing members are compressed and a plurality of conduits formed in the first flange and extending from a first face of the first flange oriented away from the second flange to a second face of the first flange oriented toward the second flange. The plurality of conduits includes a first supply conduit located between the at least one primary sealing member and the at least one supplemental sealing member and a return conduit located so that the at least one primary sealing member is positioned between the supply conduit and the return conduit. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110182146 | Correlation Method for SONAR or RADAR - A method for improving the accuracy of velocity-measuring spatial correlation SONAR or RADAR is disclosed. The method uses data from multiple receiver pairs for each velocity vector, thereby providing improved utilization of a fixed sized receiver array. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110180146 | MICROVANES FOR AIRCRAFT AFT BODY DRAG REDUCTION - The invention relates a method and apparatus for reducing the drag on aircraft, particularly aircraft with an upswept afterbody. The method includes the steps of positioning a plurality of drag reducing elements on the fuselage of the aircraft, wherein the drag reducing elements are positioned on the fuselage from a position at the breakline of the fuselage and extending toward the tail of the aircraft. In preferred embodiments, each of the plurality of drag reducing elements is positioned such that a first end of the drag reducing element is at an angle of between approximately 15 and 35° nose up relative to the flow of air about the fuselage at the location where the drag reducing element is positioned. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110179988 | Underwater Vehicle - An underwater vehicle comprising an electrical power generation system that converts thermal energy from a body of water into electrical energy is disclosed. The vehicle comprises the electrical power generation system and a thermal mass whose temperature is based on the temperature of water at a first depth of a body of water. The vehicle is moved to a second depth of the body of water, wherein water at the second depth is a different temperature that the water at the first depth. The electrical power generation system generates electrical energy based on the difference between the temperature of the water at the second depth and the temperature of the thermal mass. The electrical power generation system is able to generate electrical energy when the temperature difference is negative as well as when the temperature difference is positive. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110176811 | ALL FIBER TOWED ARRAY - A system and method for an acoustic sensor array of a bundle of N different length optical fiber sensors. A coherent or noncoherent light source is input to each fiber for transmission along the length of the fiber. The light signal is reflected back at the fiber end point, and the resulting reflected light is diverted to an optical receiver so that perturbations of intensity and/or phase may be extracted. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174056 | BIAXIAL STRESS, SHEER, PERMEABILITY, AND PEEL TEST METHOD AND MACHINE TO CONDUCT THE SAME - The subject invention relates to an apparatus and process for testing various parameters and properties of high strength flexible, fabric laminates. In particular, the apparatus comprises a machine using individually controlled loads to test various material parameters. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110173042 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR JUST-IN TIME SCHEDULING AND PLANNING - The disclosure relates generally to methods and apparatus to optimize a supply plan through a hybrid meta-heuristic approach based on genetic algorithms to optimize inventory and generate a supply plan. The apparatuses include a supply chain planner that interacts with the processes of a supply chain network. To provide a complete optimization for the type of platform being deployed in theater a heuristic algorithm is devised to decompose the supply plan problem into a production center schedule and an asset routing problem, which will be tackled one after the other. The decomposed supply plan problem is solved with different heuristic algorithms. Namely, genetic algorithms are used to optimize the supply plans based on ever changing set of operational demands from in theater and the priority of those demands to the assigned depots, while efficient constructive heuristics are used to deal with footprint and timing constraints. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110173034 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLY PLAN GENERATION AND OPTIMIZATION - The disclosure relates generally to methods and apparatus to optimize a supply plan through a hybrid meta-heuristic approach based on genetic algorithms to optimize inventory and generate a supply plan. The apparatuses include a supply chain planner that interacts with the processes of a supply chain network. To provide a complete optimization for the type of platform being deployed in theater a heuristic algorithm is devised to decompose the supply plan problem in to separate sub-problems, which will be tackled one after the other. The two separated sub-problems are solved with different heuristic algorithms. Namely, genetic algorithms are used to optimize the supply plans based on ever changing set of operational demands from in theater and the priority of those demands to the assigned depots, while efficient constructive heuristics are used to deal with footprint and timing constraints. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172725 | NERVE STIMULATOR AND METHOD USING SIMULTANEOUS ELECTRICAL AND OPTICAL SIGNALS - An apparatus and method for stimulating animal tissue (for example to trigger a nerve action potential (NAP) signal in a human patient) by application of both electrical and optical signals for treatment and diagnosis purposes. The application of an electrical signal before or simultaneously to the application of a NAP-triggering optical signal allows the use of a lower amount of optical power or energy than would otherwise be needed if an optical signal alone was used for the same purpose and effectiveness. The application of the electrical signal may precondition the nerve tissue such that a lower-power optical signal can be used to trigger the desired NAP, which otherwise would take a higher-power optical signal were the electric signal not applied. Some embodiments include an implanted nerve interface having a plurality of closely spaced electrodes placed transversely and/or longitudinally to the nerve and a plurality of optical emitters. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172474 | ALIPHATIC ADDITIVES FOR SOOT REDUCTION - The invention relates to a jet fuel composition for reducing particulate emission in the exhaust from jet engines. The composition includes an aliphatic additive having a boiling point ranging from about 230° C. to about 310° C. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110171610 | BEAM SHAPING FOR OFF-AXIS BEAM DETECTION IN TRAINING ENVIRONMENTS - A firing apparatus includes a light generating device for emitting a modulated light beam that includes information regarding the firing apparatus upon triggering in a direction toward a target. Lens optics is positioned in a path of the modulated light beam including a one dimensional lens for beam shaping the modulated light beam to provide a shaped modulated beam including a low divergence horizontal beam portion and a vertically elongated beam portion. A combat training system includes a head mounted apparatus including at least one photodetector affixed. The vertically elongated beam portion allows the light beam generated by the firing apparatus to be aimed at the torso of the target and be detected by photodetectors that are exclusively on the helmet. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110170990 | MAIL SORTER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOVING TRAYS OF MAIL TO DISPATCH IN DELIVERY ORDER - A sorter, method, and software product are provided for sorting mail pieces. The mail pieces are fed into a sorter, sorted, and then deposited into mail trays. The mail trays are then moved from the deposit area to a dispatch area, in the order they will be loaded into a truck. That order is preferably the same as the order in which the containers received the mail pieces. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110169190 | Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding Process with Reusable Resin Distribution Line - A method and apparatus for a reusable resin distribution line for use in conjunction with a resin transfer molding apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a soft tool and a hard tool (i.e., mold). In the illustrative embodiment, two inflatable bladders are disposed on a side of the soft tool, wherein a bridge spans the bladders. The soft tool is coupled to the bridge. When the bladders are inflated, the bridge moves away from the hard tool, drawing the soft tool away from the hard tool in the region between the bladders. This creates a temporary passage or reusable resin distribution line for distributing resin to a reinforcement constituent disposed between the soft tool and the hard tool. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168348 | HIGH CAPACITY HEAT SINK - A heat sink is used to absorb heat produced by a vehicle. The heat sink uses a steam reformer to create an endothermic reaction between two fluids. Excess heat from the vehicle's engine is used to heat the reactor to facilitate the endothermic reaction. In some embodiments, the reactant fluids are pre-heated by absorbing heat from various components of the vehicle. Excess heat from the various components or from the vehicle engine is used to vaporize the fluids before the fluids enter the reactor. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168089 | CNT-INFUSED CARBON FIBER MATERIALS AND PROCESS THEREFOR - A composition includes a carbon nanotube (CNT)-infused carbon fiber material that includes a carbon fiber material of spoolable dimensions and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) infused to the carbon fiber material. The infused CNTs are uniform in length and uniform in distribution. The CNT infused carbon fiber material also includes a barrier coating conformally disposed about the carbon fiber material, while the CNTs are substantially free of the barrier coating. A continuous CNT infusion process includes: (a) functionalizing a carbon fiber material; (b) disposing a barrier coating on the functionalized carbon fiber material (c) disposing a carbon nanotube (CNT)-forming catalyst on the functionalized carbon fiber material; and (d) synthesizing carbon nanotubes, thereby forming a carbon nanotube-infused carbon fiber material. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168083 | CNT-INFUSED CERAMIC FIBER MATERIALS AND PROCESS THEREFOR - A composition includes a carbon nanotube (CNT)-infused ceramic fiber material, wherein the CNT-infused ceramic fiber material includes: a ceramic fiber material of spoolable dimensions; and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) bonded to the ceramic fiber material. The CNTs are uniform in length and uniform in distribution. A continuous CNT infusion process includes (a) disposing a carbon-nanotube forming catalyst on a surface of a ceramic fiber material of spoolable dimensions; and (b) synthesizing carbon nanotubes on the ceramic fiber material, thereby forming a carbon nanotube-infused ceramic fiber material. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110162186 | Plug removal method and apparatus - A tool for removing plugs from recesses obviates the need for a twist of the wrist in engaging a plug for removal. A plunger is carried by a housing and is supported for reciprocal axial motion between extended and retracted positions relative to the housing. A shaft of the plunger includes a first threaded section that is engaged in a nut carried by the housing and has threads pitched to allow relative axial motion to be converted to relative rotation between shaft and housing. A second threaded section of the plunger shaft is configured to tap into a plug in response to shaft rotation in a tapping direction, and has a shallower thread pitch than the first threaded section. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110162063 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO VEHICLE ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS - One embodiment is directed to providing access between external systems and embedded vehicle electronic systems. That is, an interface module may receive information from a system external to the vehicle, determine an embedded system of the vehicle to which to provide the information, and provide the information to the embedded system. Similarly, the interface module may receive information a embedded electronic systems of a vehicle, determine a system external the vehicle to which to provide the information, and provide the information to the external system. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110150303 | STANDOFF AND MOBILE FINGERPRINT COLLECTION - A method, a biometric identifier collection device, and a set of instructions are disclosed. A memory | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110148634 | PREDICTIVE GEOFENCE CROSSING - A predictive geofence system predicts a geofence crossing for a distance-horizon and/or a time-horizon. The predictive geofence system includes a predictive geofence platform that predicts future positions of objects, and generates an alert if the predicted future positions of the objects result in a geofence crossing or the predicted future positions cross a geofence in less than a set time. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110147476 | Synthetic Jet Actuator System and Related Methods - Systems and methods for controlling fluid flow utilizing a synthetic jet actuator, are provided. An example of a synthetic jet actuator system includes a synthetic jet actuator including a dual bimorph subsystem to provide low, medium, and high synthetic jet velocities and/or fine flow control response, and an arc-forming subsystem to provide enhanced pressure, velocity, and mass flow performance, enhanced flow control response, and/or heating of the fluid within the bimorph chamber to extend the performance or operating margin of the dual bimorph subsystem of the synthetic jet actuator. The arc-forming subsystem includes a pair of electrodes interfaced with inner surface walls of the dual bimorph subsystem. Various configurations of power supplies can be utilized to provide simultaneous function to both the subsystem and the arc-forming subsystem to allow selective activation. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110139971 | ROTARY POSITION ENCODER - A rotary position encoder for determining a rotary position of a shaft includes a rigid substrate having a planar surface and mounted on the shaft to rotate with the shaft; an optical disk having at least a transparent polycarbonate layer and a reflective layer on the transparent polycarbonate layer, affixed to the planar surface of the substrate, the optical disk having a first circumferential track encoded therein having binary data; an optics assembly for interrogating the optical disk and providing an output signal indicative of data received from the interrogation of the optical disk; and a tracking motor for driving the optics assembly radially with respect to the optical disk. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110134724 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONCURRENT BATHYMETRIC FIX - A system and method operate a Navigation Sonar System in an Alert Velocity Submode, receive sonar data during the operation of the Navigational Sonar System in the Alert Velocity Submode, and use the sonar data to compute depth data used to calculate a Bathymetric Fix. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110134249 | Optical Detection and Ranging Sensor System For Sense and Avoid, and Related Methods - An apparatus carried by an unmanned vehicle to provide passive sensing and facilitate avoiding airborne aerial obstacles is provided. The apparatus can include at least one, but typically multiple optical systems installed, for example, in the nose of the aerial vehicle to passively sense and determine a range, direction, and velocity of the airborne obstacles to allow the aerial vehicle to avoid the airborne obstacles. The typical optical system includes at least one focal plane array or other imaging device configured to receive a wide field of view and at least one focal plane array or other imaging device configured to receive a steerable narrow field of view within the wide field of view to allow concentrated determination of the range, direction, and/or velocity of obstacles detected by the wide field of view imaging devices. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110132222 | ENHANCED BLAST EXPLOSIVE - A thermobaric munition including a composite explosive material, the composite explosive material having a high-explosive composition, and a detonable energetic material dispersed within the high-explosive composition, the detonable energetic material in the form of a thin film, the thin film having at least one layer composed at least in part by a reducing metal and at least one layer composed at least in part by a metal oxide. A related method includes tailoring the blast characteristics of high explosive composition to match a predetermined time-pressure impulse, the method including disbursing a detonable energetic material having a preselected reaction rate within the high-explosive composition, the detonable energetic material in the form of a thin film, the thin film having at least one layer composed at least in part by a reducing metal and at least one layer composed at least in part by a metal oxide | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110127464 | NANOPARTICLE COMPOSITION AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A method of fabricating copper nanoparticles includes heating a copper salt solution that includes a copper salt, an N,N-dialkylethylenediamine, and a C6-C18 alkylamine in an organic solvent to a temperature between about 30° C. to about 50° C.; heating a reducing agent solution that includes a reducing agent, an N,N-dialkylethylenediamine, and a C6-C18 alkylamine in an organic solvent to a temperature between about 30° C. to about 50° C.; and adding the heated copper salt solution to the heated reducing agent solution, thereby producing copper nanoparticles. A composition includes copper nanoparticles, a C6-C18 alkylamine and an N,N′-dialkylethylenediamine ligand. Such copper nanoparticles in this composition have a fusion temperature between about 100° C. to about 200° C. A surfactant system for the stabilizing copper nanoparticles includes an N,N′-dialkylethylenediamine and a C6-C18 alkylamine. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127022 | Heat Exchanger Comprising Wave-shaped Fins - A heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a first fluid and a second fluid is disclosed; wherein the heat exchanger has improved thermal efficiency and low fluid back pressure. The heat exchanger comprises conduits for conveying the first fluid, wherein the conduits include a plurality of flow passages. The flow passages are defined by a plurality of fins that are continuous along the direction of flow of the first fluid. Each fin includes a wave-shaped region, and adjacent fins sub-divide each flow passage into first and second sections that are interposed by a third section. The wave-shape of the fins creates a continuously varying cross-sectional area for each third section. The variation of the cross-sectional area of the third section, coupled with the wave-shape of the fins, induces a swirl flow between the third section and each of the first and second sections. This swirl flow improves the efficiency of the overall convection heat transfer in each conduit. Further, the overall cross-sectional area of each conduit remains constant even as the cross-sectional areas of individual flow passages changes, which mitigates the development of back pressure in the flow of the first fluid. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110126472 | Seal assembly with leak test components - A seal assembly is provided for maintaining a pressure difference between an exterior and an interior of an object having an access hatch and an access hatch frame. The seal assembly has a seal retainer having an interior face oriented toward the interior of the object, an exterior face oriented toward the exterior of the object, a hatch-side face oriented toward the access hatch and extending from the interior face to the exterior face, and frame-side face oriented toward the access hatch frame and extending from the interior face to the exterior face. The seal assembly also has at least one sealing member mounted on either the interior face or the exterior face of the seal retainer and a plurality of conduits formed in the seal retainer and extending from the exterior face to the interior face. The plurality of conduits include at least one supply conduit located between either the hatch-side or frame-side face and the at least one sealing member and at least one return conduit located so that the at least one sealing member is positioned between the at least one supply conduit and the at least one return conduit. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110122895 | Q-SWITCHED OSCILLATOR SEED-SOURCE FOR MOPA LASER ILLUMINATOR METHOD AND APPARATUS - An apparatus, method and system that uses a Q-switched laser or a Q-seed source for a seed pulse signal having a controlled high-dynamic-range amplitude that avoids and/or compensates for pulse steepening in high-gain optical-fiber and/or optical-rod amplification of optical pulses. Optionally, the optical output is used for LIDAR or illumination purposes (e.g., for image acquisition). In some embodiments, well-controlled pulse shapes are obtained having a wide dynamic range, long duration, and not-too-narrow linewidth. In some embodiments, upon the opening of a Q-switch in an optical cavity having a gain medium, the amplification builds relatively slowly, wherein each round trip through the gain medium increases the amplitude of the optical pulse. Other embodiments use quasi-Q-switch devices or a plurality of amplitude modulators to obtain Q-seed pulses. These configurations provide optical pulses having wide dynamic ranges that ameliorate problems of pulse steepening, non-linear spectral broadening and the like in very-high-power MOPA devices. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110122482 | SPECTRALLY BEAM COMBINED LASER SYSTEM AND METHOD AT EYE-SAFER WAVELENGTHS - Fiber-laser light is Raman shifted to eye-safer wavelengths prior to spectral beam combination, enabling a high-power, eye-safer wavelength directed-energy (DE) system. The output of Ytterbium fiber lasers is not used directly for spectral beam combining. Rather, the power from the Yb fiber lasers is Raman-shifted to longer wavelengths, and these wavelengths are then spectrally beam combined. Raman shifting is most readily accomplished with a “cascaded Raman converter,” in which a series of nested fiber cavities is formed using fiber Bragg gratings. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120764 | SERVICEABLE CONFORMAL EM SHIELD - A conformal electro-magnetic (EM) shield and a method of applying such a shield are provided herein as well as variations thereof. Variations include, but are not limited to, frequency-selective shielding, shields containing active and/or passive electronic components, and strippable shields that can easily be applied to and removed from underlying components. Variations of a shield structure include at least an insulating layer between the underling component and the shield, and shielding and/or capping layers disposed over the insulating layer. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120636 | Pultruded Arc-Segmented Pipe - A method for forming a large diameter and very long pipe comprises forming a plurality of pultruded segments via pultrusion and joining the segments along the lengthwise edges thereof. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110103648 | Method and apparatus for automatic object identification - A method and system for processing image data to identify objects in an image. A gradient vector image is generated from the image, the gradient vector image identifying a gradient magnitude value and a gradient direction for each pixel of the image. Lines are identified in the gradient vector image. It is determined whether the identified lines are perpendicular, whether more than a predetermined number of pixels on each of the lines identified as perpendicular have a gradient magnitude greater than a predetermined threshold, and whether the individual lines which are identified as perpendicular are within a predetermined distance of each other. A portion of the image is identified as an object if the identified lines are perpendicular, more than the predetermined number of pixels on each of the lines have a gradient magnitude greater than the predetermined threshold, and are within a predetermined distance of each other. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110103188 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO EXTEND DEEP WATER CORRELATION SONAR SYSTEMS TO SHALLOW DEPTHS - In an embodiment, a correlation SONAR system is adapted for use in shallow water. A pulse generator transmits an initial burst of pulses towards a bottom of a body of water. Echoes of the initial burst of pulses are received on a hydrophone array. After the receiving the echoes of the initial burst of pulses, a second burst of pulses is transmitted towards the bottom of the body of water. The echoes of the second burst of pulses are received on the hydrophone array, and a SONAR processor correlates a pulse from the initial burst of pulses and a pulse from the second burst of pulses to calculate a velocity estimate. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110099203 | Cross domain discovery - Aspects of the disclosure provide methods and systems for cross domain discovery. According to the disclosure, an object can include multiple entities defined by an originator. The multiple entities have different scopes corresponding to different access restrictions. Further, the originator defines keywords for each of the multiple entities. A system for cross domain discovery stores the multiple entities in an object service component, and stores the keywords and access restrictions in a search service component. The search service component conducts a search based on the keywords and access restrictions in response to a search request from a user. An entity is provided to the user based on the user's credential and the searching. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110095953 | METAMATERIAL LENS FEED FOR MULTIPLE BEAM ANTENNAS - A multiple beam reflector antenna includes at least one reflector, a plurality of feed horns for feeding the at least one reflector, and a metamaterial lens interposed between the plurality of feed horns and the at least one reflector. The metamaterial lens may provide an overlapping element distribution from at least two feed horns of the plurality of feed horns. In one embodiment, the metamaterial lens has an index of refraction between about zero and about one. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110095334 | BARRIER PHOTODETECTOR WITH PLANAR TOP LAYER - A barrier-type photo-detector is provided with a Barrier between first and second layers. One of the layers is delineated into pixels without fully removing the non-pixel portions of the delineated layer. Delineation may be accomplished through material modification techniques such as ion damage, selective doping, ion induced disordering or layer material growth. Some variations may employ partial material removal techniques. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110095154 | CLAMP FOR MIXED MAIL SORTER - A clamp is designed for accepting a mail piece at a loading station, and for releasably holding the mail piece while the mail piece is moved to an unloading station via a sorting system. The clamp is manipulated in the sorting system, instead of manipulating the mail piece held by the clamp. The clamp includes jaws for releasably holding the mail piece, plus a machine readable identifier, plus a mechanism for engaging with the sorting system. The clamp's identifier includes clamp information which uniquely identifies the clamp. The clamp information is for use by the sorting system, in combination with address information on the mail piece, to enable sortation of the mail piece held by the clamp. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110095135 | PRISMATIC-SHAPED VORTEX GENERATORS - A prismatic vortex generator for attenuating flow separation which occurs during supersonic flow of air over structure such as an aircraft airfoil, its fuselage, surfaces forming a part of a jet engine inlet, or similar surfaces subjected to supersonic airflow. A series of prismatic vortex generators are provided, each of which is configured to generate a vortex which attenuates flow separation and weight drag resulting from the supersonic airflow. Each prismatic vortex generator has a prismatic shape with a base, leading and trailing ends, and sidewalls that incline toward and join each other to form an apex. The leading end of each prismatic vortex generators is inclined away from the direction of flow. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110093117 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MAIL FORWARDING AND SPECIAL HANDLING SERVICES - Improved methods and systems for mail forwarding and special handling services include processing mail in a single pass or in multiple passes (i.e., online or offline). The methods and systems can include one or more of a scannable symbol, an extra appended post code digit, a dedicated database field, separate table indexed by a control number, a logically separate database, or a database hosted on a separate server for use in identifying mail pieces needing special handling and retrieving special handling information, for example forwarding address text for such mail pieces. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110091155 | IN-LINE FORWARD/BACKWARD FIBER-OPTIC SIGNAL ANALYZER - An optical connector having a plurality of directional taps and connecting between a plurality of optical waveguides (e.g., such as a connector between a waveguide that is part of, or leads from, a seed laser and/or an initial optical-gain-fiber power amplifier, and a waveguide that is part of, or leads to, an output optical-gain-fiber power amplifier and/or a delivery fiber), wherein one of the directional taps extracts a small amount of the forward-traveling optical output signal from the seed laser or initial power amplifier (wherein this forward-tapped signal is optionally monitored using a sensor for the forward-tapped signal), and wherein another of the directional taps extracts at least some of any backward-traveling optical signal that may have been reflected (wherein this backward-tapped signal is optionally monitored using a sensor for the backward-tapped signal). | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110090658 | PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT BOARD COVER - A protective, anti-tamper coating and methods of coating creation and application are provided. The coating may include an elastomeric layer to allow for strippability/removal. The coating may also include a “smart layer” for tamper detection, imaging prevention, and tamper prevention or underlying device de-activation/alteration upon tamper detection. The coating may also include one or more ground planes around the smart layer and one or more frangible layers designed to interrupt or alter smart layer function in the event of a tamper attempt. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110090567 | TUNABLE MICHELSON AND MACH-ZEHNDER INTERFEROMETERS MODIFIED WITH GIRES-TOURNOIS INTERFEROMETERS - Optical filters tunable for both center wavelength and bandwidth, having applications such as in astronomy, remote sensing, laser spectroscopy, and other laser-based sensing applications, using Michelson interferometers or Mach-Zehnder interferometers modified with Gires-Tournois interferometers (“GTIs”) are disclosed. A GTI nominally has unity magnitude reflectance as a function of wavelength and has a phase response based on its resonator characteristics. Replacing the end mirrors of a Michelson interferometer or the fold mirrors of a Mach-Zehnder interferometer with GTIs results in both high visibility throughput as well as the ability to tune the phase response characteristics to change the width of the bandpass/notch filters. A range of bandpass/bandreject optical filter modes, including a Fabry-Perot (“FP”) mode, a wideband, low-ripple FP mode, a narrowband notch/bandpass mode, and a wideband notch/bandpass mode, are all tunable and wavelength addressable. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110090127 | TORQUE ARM ASSEMBLY - A torque arm assembly for connecting first generally circular cylindrical and second rotatable concentric bodies, rotatable about a common axis of rotation and separated by a given radial distance defined between the inner surface of the first rotatable body and the outer surface of the second rotatable body. The assembly includes an axial assembly positioned along the radial axis between the rotatable bodies and having a first end coupled to the first rotatable body and a second end coupled to a transverse body. A transverse shaft is fixedly coupled to the second rotatable body via a pair of support members. The transverse body is adapted to translate along an axis, transverse to the radial axis and relative to the transverse shaft. The axial assembly has a length that is axially variable to compensate for variations in the given radial distance between the rotatable bodies during rotation of the rotatable bodies. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110089835 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PLASMA JETS - A plasma jet system includes a housing with a single opening. A plasma generator is coupled to ionize a fluid in the housing. An electromagnetic accelerator is coupled to generate an electric field that accelerates ionized fluid in the housing toward the opening. A controller can modulate the frequency of the electric field to cause the ionized fluid to form a plasma vortex flow through the opening. A magnetic field is applied normal to the direction of the plasma vortex flow to mitigate the momentum of the electrons. The electrons slowed by the magnetic field can be collected and conducted to a location where they are re-inserted into the plasma vortex flow to maintain charge neutrality. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110088739 | HIGH EFFICIENCY THERMOELECTRIC CONVERTER - A composite includes a matrix having a plurality of matrix nanoparticles and a plurality of hetero-nanoparticles dispersed in the matrix. The hetero-nanoparticles include an atom having an atomic weight larger than the atoms in the matrix nanoparticles. A thermoelectric converter includes one or more first legs, each including an n-doped composite, and one or more second legs, each including a p-doped composite. The n-doped and p-doped composites include a matrix having a plurality of matrix nanoparticles and a plurality of hetero-nanoparticles dispersed in the matrix. The matrix nanoparticles and hetero-nanoparticles in each of the n-doped and p-doped composites can be the same or different. A method of making a composite for thermoelectric converter applications includes providing a mixture a plurality of matrix nanoparticles and a plurality of hetero-nanoparticles and applying current activated pressure assisted densification to form the composite. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110088099 | On demand visibility services and smart directory - An on-demand communication system, device, method and program are provided which allows a consumer to request information from an on-demand visibility service. The on-demand visibility service places a request with the on-demand directory service that may then choose a relevant provider to be queried for this information based on situation-based access control logic. The on-demand visibility service then queries the relevant providers with the request for information. Providers may then gather information by optionally using sensors, and may then transmit a provider response to the on-demand visibility service. The on-demand visibility service may then forward this provider response in the form of an answer to the consumer, thereby satisfying the consumer request for information. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110085703 | Method and apparatus for automatic object identification - A method and system for processing image data to identify objects in an image. Terrain types are identified in the image. A second image is generated identifying areas of the image which border regions of different intensities by identifying a gradient magnitude value for each pixel of the image. A filtered image is generated from the second image, the filtered image identifying potential objects which have a smaller radius than the size of a filter and a different brightness than background pixels surrounding the potential objects. The second image and the filtered image are compared to identify potential objects as an object. A potential object is identified as an object if the potential object has a gradient magnitude greater than a threshold gradient magnitude, and the threshold gradient magnitude is based on the terrain type identified in the portion of the image where the potential object is located. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110085232 | MULTI-SPECTRAL FILTERS, MIRRORS AND ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATINGS WITH SUBWAVELENGTH PERIODIC FEATURES FOR OPTICAL DEVICES - Example apparatus have a radiation-receiving surface configured to receive electromagnetic radiation, including a sub-wavelength grating supported by a substrate. The sub-wavelength grating has a side-wall profile that may be configured and optimized to obtain desired spectral properties. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110079375 | Modular Heat Exchanger - A heat exchanger comprising a plurality of plates that are demountably attached to a frame is disclosed. Each plate comprises a plurality of channels for conveying a primary fluid through the heat exchanger. The frames are arranged in the frame so that spaces between adjacent frame pairs define conduits for conveying a secondary fluid through the heat exchanger. The plates are mounted in the frame so that they can be individually removed from the frame. Further, each of the channels is fluidically connected to input and output ports for the primary fluid by detachable couplings. As a result, heat exchangers in accordance with the present invention are more easily repaired or refurbished than prior-art heat exchangers. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110070578 | DNA analyzer - Aspects of the disclosure provide a microfluidic chip to facilitate DNA analysis. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, a dilution domain coupled to the first domain to dilute a PCR mixture received from the first domain, and a second domain that is coupled to the dilution domain so as to receive the amplified DNA fragments. The second domain includes a separation channel that is configured to perform electrophoretic separation of the amplified DNA fragments. In addition, the disclosure provides a DNA analyzer to act on the microfluidic chip to perform an integrated single chip DNA analysis. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067839 | System and Method for Rejecting Heat From Equipment Via Endothermic Isomerization - A system for rejecting heat from equipment using endothermic isomerization. includes a heat exchanger configured to receive an elevated-temperature process fluid and an isomerization compound capable of endothermic isomerization. When the system is in operation, heat from the elevated temperature process fluid is transferred to the isomerization compound and the isomerization compound endothermically isomerizes to a higher energy state form. A vehicle includes an engine and a body. The body houses a catalytic heat exchanger having an output in fluid communication with the engine, a pump for urging an isomerization compound into the heat exchanger, and a heat sink controller for controlling the pump. A method for rejecting heat from equipment using endothermic isomerization includes providing a compound capable of endothermic isomerization and transferring heat from a process fluid to the compound, such that the compound endothermically isomerizes to a higher energy level isomer. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067619 | Offboard Connection System - A system for connecting an auxiliary craft and a mother ship includes a cable suspended from the mother ship, a cable tensioner, a mother-ship coupler that is slideably engaged to the cable, a fixture that depends from the auxiliary craft, and an auxiliary-craft coupler. The auxiliary craft is maneuvered to engage the cable. Once engaged, the cable tensioner tensions the cable, thereby maintaining the auxiliary craft in position next to the mother ship. As the cable is tensioned, the auxiliary-craft coupler axially aligns to the mother-ship coupler. After axial alignment, the mother-ship coupler is released to slide into mating engagement with the auxiliary-craft coupler. Mated couplers enable bi-directional electrical or optical communications as well as the transfer of power, fuel or other fluids from the mother ship to the auxiliary craft. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110066409 | NETWORK ATTACK VISUALIZATION AND RESPONSE THROUGH INTELLIGENT ICONS - A network activity visualization system can include an MDL grammar database adapted to store a plurality of MDL grammars, and a pattern matching module adapted to match a received network activity data set against the MDL grammars by calculating a distance of the network activity data set from each MDL grammar. The system can also include an intelligent icon module adapted to receive the MDL grammars and distances of a network data set from each respective MDL grammar, and adapted to generate intelligent icons based on the MDL grammars and distances. The system can further include a display system adapted to display the intelligent icons so as to provide a visual indication of network security. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110066005 | MUTLI PURPOSE CRITERIA BASED ADAPTIVE TRAINING SYSTEM - A system and method include a computer implemented training framework that adapts its behavior to different types of training goals. The system utilizes a measured neuro-physiological state of a student to provide at least one of self regulation feedback and training environment feedback to optimize a learning experience for one or more different types of scenarios. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110065101 | Multiple-sample microfluidic chip for DNA analysis - Aspects of the disclosure provide a microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, and a second domain for electrophoretic separation. The first domain includes at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample. The second domain includes at least a first separation unit coupled to the first reaction reservoir to received first amplified DNA fragments based on the first sample, and a second separation unit coupled to the second reaction reservoir to received second amplified DNA fragments based on the second sample. The first separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the first amplified DNA fragments, and the second separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the second amplified DNA fragments. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110062639 | Process and Apparatus for Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding of Very Tall Articles - A method and apparatus for maintaining constant compaction pressure in a vertically oriented resin transfer molding apparatus. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110059599 | Graphene Nanoelectric Device Fabrication - Embodiments of the present invention provide methods for fabricating graphene nanoelectronic devices with semiconductor compatible processes, which allow wafer scale fabrication of graphene nanoelectronic devices. Embodiments of the present invention also provide methods for passivating graphene nanoelectronic devices, which enable stacking of multiple graphene devices and the creation of high density graphene based circuits. Other embodiments provide methods for producing devices with graphene layer segments having multiple thicknesses. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110058818 | OPTICAL TRANSCEIVER ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER & TRANSMITTER DRIVER ON A FLEXIBLE CIRCUIT - A flexible circuit assembly is described that integrates a first fiber optic die, for example a transmitter die, a second fiber optic die, for example a receiver die, a trans-impedance amplifier die and a transmitter driver die on a single flexible circuit. Alignment holes and multiple die are accurately placed on a single flexible circuit. The precise placement of alignment holes and fiber optic die facilitate micron alignment accuracy to a fiber optic connector, preferably a mechanical transfer (MT) connector. A heat sink is provided that transfers heat from the trans-impedance amplifier die and the transmitter driver die and isolates the fiber optic die from the heat source. Circuitry for the first fiber optic die, second fiber optic die, impedance die, and driver die, including isolated grounding circuitry, is also integrated on the flexible circuit assembly. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110058038 | SINGLE CAMERA COLOR POLARIMETRIC IMAGING - A single aperture polarimetric color imaging system includes a color filter array including a plurality of RGB filter elements in a path of received radiation that includes color band and near IR light. A linear polarizer array includes a plurality of polarization filter elements that provide a plurality of different polarization orientations that are optically aligned with the RGB filter elements. A single common pixel array includes a plurality of photodetector pixels for transducing the color band or near IR light into electrical signals after processing by the color filter array and linear polarizer array. A band select switching device switches between selectively transmitting the near IR band and color band or color band including light. A signal processor is coupled to receive and process the electrical signals from the common pixel array and generates polarimetric image data from the near IR band light and color image data from the color band or color band including light. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110055241 | High precision search system and method - A high precision search system and method receives a full-text search request from a user and processes the full-text search request to determine the meanings of key words within the search request. The high precision search system creates a graphical representation of the search request based on the key words in the search request and the frequency with which they appear. The high precision search system accepts direct user input for modifying the graphical profile. The high precision search system also provides suggestions for adding new concepts and entities to the graphical profile and improving the search results. The system offers an extreme precision option wherein paragraphs are extracted from selected documents that match the search profile. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110052338 | THROUGH TOOL COOLANT ADAPTER FOR DRILLING MOTOR - A collet chuck for use in boring through a workpiece that provides a cooling and cleaning fluid to the element that is machining the workpiece. One end of the collet chuck is coupled to the drive end of a motor and its other end retains the machining element. The motor provides a rotational force to the collet chuck and machining element used in machining the workpiece. The machining element, which can be a drill bit or reamer, includes an axial passage that communicates with an annulus in the chuck. The cooling/cleaning fluid flows into the annulus through a rotary seal that circumscribes the collet chuck. | 03-03-2011 |
