| Raytheon Company Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120134592 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMAGE REGISTRATION BASED ON VARIABLE REGION OF INTEREST - An image registration system for aligning first and second images. The novel system includes a first system for extracting a region of interest (ROI) from each image and a second system for coarsely aligning the regions of interest. The first system determines the size and location of the ROI based on the number of features contained within the region. The size of the ROI is enlarged until a number of features contained in the ROI is larger than a predetermined lower bound or until the size is greater than a predetermined upper bound. The second system computes a cross-correlation on the regions of interest using a plurality of transforms to find a coarse alignment transform having a highest correlation. The image registration system may also include a third system for performing sub-pixel alignment on the regions of interest. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120133545 | COLLISION AVOIDANCE TRANSPONDER FOR AERIAL HAZARDS AND METHOD FOR REDUCING COLLISIONS WITH AERIAL HAZARDS - Embodiments of a collision-avoidance transponder and method for reducing collisions with an aerial hazard are generally described herein. The collision-avoidance transponder may be configured for location on an aerial hazard and may be configured to regularly transmit a signal that mimics an air traffic control (ATC) transponder reply signal. The regularly-transmitted signal may include an altitude indication, such as the pressure altitude, of the aerial hazard. A collision-avoidance and warning system on an aircraft may receive the regularly-transmitted signal and provide a warning under certain conditions to allow the pilot to avoid the aerial hazard. The collision-avoidance transponder may include an ATC-type transponder and control circuitry to cause the transponder to regularly transmit the signal that includes a pressure altitude of the aerial hazard. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120132757 | EJECTION SYSTEM AND A METHOD FOR EJECTING A PAYLOAD FROM A PAYLOAD DELIVERY VEHICLE - An ejection system for ejecting a payload from a payload delivery vehicle is provided. The ejection system includes an airbag ejection system configured to eject the payload from the payload delivery vehicle, a payload separation system configured to selectively couple the payload to the airbag ejection system, and a controller configured to inflate the airbag ejection system and further configured to signal the payload separation system to release the payload from the airbag ejection system. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120131189 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INFORMATION SHARING AND PRIVACY ASSURANCE - An apparatus for information privacy assurance includes a data processing engine to restrict access to data received from a plurality of data sources and to a predefined data relationship query. The data processing engine includes a data input component restricted to receive the data from the plurality of data sources, a data relationship component configured to generate data relationships associated with the data, a query input component restricted to receive the predefined data relationship query associated with the data relationships, a query execution component configured to execute the predefined data relationship query, and a data output component restricted to render a result including information associated with an execution of the predefined data relationship query. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120127579 | Protecting An Optical Surface - According to one embodiment, a method includes receiving a light beam at an anti-reflective layer of optically transmissive material. The anti-reflective layer has an outer surface disposed within a recess of a protective layer of optically transmissive material, such that the outer surface is protected by the recess and the protective layer from being contacted. The outer surface is further disposed along an optical path of an optical device disposed inwardly from the outer surface. The anti-reflective layer has an average cross-sectional thickness that is less than an average cross-sectional thickness of the protective layer. The method further includes modulating the light beam using the anti-reflective layer. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126121 | Processing Detector Array Signals Using Stacked Readout Integrated Circuits - According to certain embodiments, an apparatus comprises a first readout integrated circuit (ROIC), a second ROIC, and a dual band detector array. The first ROIC comprises first unit cells. The second ROIC is disposed outwardly from the first ROIC and comprises a second unit cells. Electrically conductive vias are disposed through the second ROIC and at least into the first ROIC. The detector array is disposed outwardly from the second ROIC. The detector array is configured to detect high dynamic range infrared light and comprises detector pixels. Each detector pixel is configured to generate a current in response to detecting light and send the current to a via. A via is configured to send the signal to a second unit cell and a first unit cell. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120123821 | System and Method for Risk Assessment of an Asserted Identity - A system for providing a risk assessment for an asserted identity comprising an identity database, a first risk database, a second risk database, an identity module that receives the asserted identity and searches the identity database to retrieve one or more known identities and calculates a probability score for each retrieved known identity, a correlator module that receives each retrieved known identity and respective probability score from the identity module, the correlator module further comprising an identity risk sub-module that searches the first and the second risk databases to retrieve respective first and second risk scores for each known identity, and an assessment module that receives the probability score and the first and second risk scores associated with each of the known identities from the correlator module and calculates a final risk score therefrom to thereby provide a risk assessment for the asserted identity. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120120516 | OPTICAL ELEMENT SWITCHING SYSTEM USING A HALBACH ARRAY - Various embodiments provide a system for moving optical elements. The system includes a first rotor and a second rotor configured to rotate in opposite directions. The system further includes a first plurality of paddles coupled to the first rotor, each of the plurality of paddles having an aperture configured to receive a first optical element, and a second plurality of paddles coupled to the second rotor, each of the plurality of paddles having an aperture configured to receive a second optical element. The first rotor and the second rotor are configured to move the first optical element between a retracted position and a desired position and to move the second optical element between the desired position and a retracted position substantially simultaneously such that a reaction torque of the first rotor cancels a reaction torque of the second rotor. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120120410 | ALL-REFLECTIVE, RADIALLY SHEARING INTERFEROMETER - A radially shearing interferometer which includes a beam splitter configured to form two optical beams from entering light, the optical beam including a magnified beam and a demagnified beam; a plurality of mirrors arranged so as to generate the magnified beam and the demagnified beams and provide a common optical path with the magnified and demagnified beams traversing the plurality of mirrors in the opposite direction back to the beam splitter, the plurality of mirrors including a pair of parabolic mirrors, the first of the pair configured to first receive one of the magnified and demagnified beams, and reflect the first received beam to a flat mirror configured to reflect the first received beam to the other pair. In some implementations, an imaging device may be positioned at a pupil plane of the magnified beam and the demagnified beam so as to record the interference of both beams. A method for recording an interferogram is also disclosed. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120120382 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL ACTIVE SENSOR - A multi-directional sensor system includes a light source configured to generate a beam of electromagnetic radiation; and a transmitter configured to transmit the beam of electromagnetic radiation to a target. The transmitter may include (i) a plurality of optical fibers, wherein one or more of the optical fibers are configured to receive the beam of electromagnetic radiation, and (ii) a surface on which one end of each of the plurality of optical fibers terminate in a different direction and/or orientation thereof to emit electromagnetic radiation. A detector is configured to detect electromagnetic radiation responsive to electromagnetic radiation transmitted to the target. A method of sensing is also disclosed. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119952 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING SIDELOBES OF AN ACTIVE ANTENNA ARRAY - A method of controlling sidelobe distribution in an active electronically steered array, including electronically reshaping the array aperture so as to reduce sidelobes over a selected region of a coverage volume of the array. In one example, reshaping of the aperture is achieved by electronically turning on and/or off selected radiators in the array to vary the angle of edge discontinuities of the aperture, and thereby move the main sidelobes off the principal plane(s) of operation of the array. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118955 | Electronic sight for firearm, and method of operating same - A firearm sight receives information regarding a factor, and then automatically adjusts the relative positions of a digital reticle and an image on a viewing section to compensate for the influence of the factor on a projectile trajectory. A different feature involves automatically adjusting a characteristic of the reticle based on the image. Another feature involves automatically adjusting the digital image to distinguish a portion thereof aligned with the reticle from an adjacent portion thereof. Yet another feature involves causing the firearm sight to generate an audible sound. Still another feature involves presenting information on the viewing section which represents the position of the firearm sight on the surface of the earth. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118531 | ADHESIVELY-BONDED STRUCTURAL COMPOSITE JOINT UTILIZING SHOULDER-CENTERED SLEEVES - A composite joint includes a first member having a groove therein, a second member adjacent to the first member, and a connector member disposed between the second member and the first member. The connector member is received in the groove so as to bias a load path between the first member and the second member from a peripheral portion to a central portion of the connector member. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118190 | Safe Arming System and Method - According to certain embodiments, an arming system includes a first logic device and a second logic device that are both coupled to a detonation circuit operable to initiate a detonation device. The second logic device is operable to receive one or more first signals generated by the first logic device, determine a first fault condition of the first logic device according to the received one or more first signals, and disable the detonation circuit according to the determined first fault condition. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120117941 | FLIGHT VEHICLES INCLUDING ELECTRICALLY-INTERCONNECTIVE SUPPORT STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR THE MANUFACTURE THEREOF - Embodiments of a flight vehicle are provided, as are embodiments of a method for manufacturing a flight vehicle. In one embodiment, the flight vehicle includes a solid-propellant rocket motor, control circuitry, and an electrically-interconnective support structure. The electrically-interconnective support structure includes a load-bearing frame and a plurality of electrical conductors embedded within the load-bearing frame. The solid-propellant rocket motor is mounted to the load-bearing frame, and the plurality of electrical conductors embedded within the frame electrically couples the solid-propellant rocket motor to the control circuitry. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120117848 | Electronic sight for firearm, and method of operating same - A firearm sight receives information regarding a factor, and then automatically adjusts the relative positions of a digital reticle and an image on a viewing section to compensate for the influence of the factor on a projectile trajectory. A different feature involves automatically adjusting a characteristic of the reticle based on the image. Another feature involves automatically adjusting the digital image to distinguish a portion thereof aligned with the reticle from an adjacent portion thereof. Yet another feature involves causing the firearm sight to generate an audible sound. Still another feature involves presenting information on the viewing section which represents the position of the firearm sight on the surface of the earth. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120114983 | Battery Pack - In certain embodiments, an apparatus comprises a battery housing and mechanical switches. The battery housing is configured to house one or more batteries and comprises a connector configured to provide current to a device. A surface of the battery housing forms slots, where each slot is configured to receive a battery. Each mechanical switch is coupled to a slot and is configured to allow current from the battery to flow to the connector if a battery is received in the slot, and to pass current through the slot if a battery is not received in the slot. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114909 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING VOIDS IN A MOLDED PART - Methods and apparatus for a mold assembly to minimize voids in a molded product. The mold assembly can include a fill port aligned in relation to first surface feature of a part to be molded, a vent to provide an exit passage for bubbles associated with a second surface feature, and a fill angle scheme to minimize voids in the molded part. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114235 | INTEGRATING IMAGE FRAMES - The technology described herein includes integration of image frames. The integration of image frames includes determining a sharpness metric for each image frame in a plurality of image frames. The sharpness metric is indicative of at least one of edge content and an edge size of the image frame. The integration of image frames further includes determining a noise metric for each image frame in the plurality of image frames. The noise metric is indicative of a variation in brightness or color in the image frame. The integration of image frames further includes determining a jitter metric for each image frame in the plurality of image frames. The jitter metric is indicative of spatial shifts between the image frame and other image frames in the plurality of image frames. The integration of image frames further includes generating an integrated image frame from one or more of the plurality of image frames based on the sharpness metric, the noise metric, and the jitter metric. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114202 | IMAGE REGISTRATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REGISTERING IMAGES FOR DEFORMABLE SURFACES - Embodiments of an image registration system and method registering corresponding images of a deformable surface are generally described herein. In some embodiments, image features of the corresponding images are converted to point features, the point features from each corresponding image are sorted based on one or more attributes of the point features, and a plurality of three-point sets are generated for each image from a selected portion of the sorted point features. Each three-point set defines a triangle. Matching triangles may be identified from the corresponding images. The corresponding point features of the matching triangles represent corresponding image features providing for at least local image registration. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114076 | VARIABLE PHASE SHIFTER-ATTENUATOR - A phase shifter-attenuator system having: a controller for producing a digital word representative of a predetermined phase shift and attenuation provided to an input signal; and a phase shifter-attenuation section. The phase shifter-attenuation section includes: a phase rotator for providing one of a plurality combinations of phase shifts-attenuation states to the input signal selectively in accordance with one portion of the produced digital word; and an attenuation section for distributing the plurality of combinations of phase shift-attenuation states over a selected range of attenuations, such range being selected in accordance with a second portion of the produced digital word. The phase shifter-attenuator section provides one of a plurality of combinations of phase shift-attenuation states to the input signal selectively in accordance with one portion of the produced digital word, the combinations being distributed over a range of attentions selected in accordance with a second portion of the digital word. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120113299 | FIRST-IN-FIRST-OUT (FIFO) BUFFERED MEDIAN SCENE NON-UNIFORMITY CORRECTION METHOD - A buffered scene-based non-uniformity correction method includes receiving a plurality of frames of video image data from an image detector; determining relative movement of a current image frame with respect to a previous image frame and responsive to a determination of substantial movement, adding the current image frame to a buffer memory sized to store a predetermined number of video frames; averaging pixel values of the frames in the buffer to determine a mean (or weighted mean) value for each pixel of a reference image; determining correction terms for each pixel of the current image frame by determining the difference between the current image frame pixel values and the corresponding reference image pixels; and correcting the current image frame using the correction terms. A scene-based non-uniformity correction system is also disclosed. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120112835 | TRANSFORMER COUPLED DISTRIBUTED AMPLIFIER - An amplifier having an input transmission network with a plurality of input transformers having serially coupled primary windings. Each one of the input transformers has a secondary winding magnetically coupled to a corresponding one of the primary windings. The amplifier includes an output transmission network having a plurality of output transformers having serially coupled secondary windings. Each one of the output transformers has a secondary winding magnetically coupled to a corresponding one of the primary windings. The amplifier includes a plurality of amplifier sections, each one the sections having an input connected to a corresponding one of the secondary windings of the input transformers and an output connected to a corresponding one of the primary windings of the output transformers. The input and output transmission networks are arranged to combine signals passing from an input to the input transmission network through the plurality of amplifier sections combine in-phase at an output of the output transmission section. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111925 | Reducing Formation Of Oxide On Solder - In certain embodiments, a system includes a deposition system and a plasma/bonding system. The deposition system deposits a solder outwardly from a substrate of a number of substrates. The plasma/bonding system comprises a plasma system configured to plasma clean the substrate and a bonding system configured to bond the substrates. The plasma/bonding system at least reduces reoxidation of the solder. In certain embodiments, a method comprises depositing solder outwardly from a substrate, removing metal oxide from the substrate, and depositing a capping layer outwardly from the substrate to at least reduce reoxidation of the solder. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111492 | Disposable Bond Gap Control Structures - In certain embodiments, a bond gap control structure (BGCS) is placed outwardly from a substrate. The BGCS is configured to control a geometry of a bond line of a joining material. The joining material is deposited outwardly from the substrate. The substrate is bonded to another substrate with the joining material. The BGCS is at least partially removed from the substrate. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111148 | Forming Spherical Semiconductive Nanoparticles - In certain embodiments, a material comprising one or more semiconductive substances is vaporized to generate a vapor phase condensate. The vapor phase condensate is allowed to form nanoparticles. The nanoparticles are annealed to yield substantially spherical nanoparticles. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120110887 | Method and System for Attenuating A Wavelength Shifting Source - An apparatus comprises a light source which produces a first radiation within a first wavelength range and which produces a second radiation within a second wavelength range when a property of the light source is changed. The apparatus further comprises an optical device which receives the first radiation and attenuates the first radiation to emit a first attenuated radiation having a first perceived brightness. The optical device also receives the second radiation and attenuates the second radiation to emit a second attenuated radiation having a second perceived brightness. The first and second perceived brightnesses are approximately equal. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120109538 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING, UPDATING, AND CORRECTING KINEMATIC STATE INFORMATION OF A TARGET - A process to preserve the kinematic state of a target includes determining an initial kinematic state estimate of the target using an observer with an active sensor. The initial kinematic state estimate includes a range from the observer to the target, a velocity of the target, and an acceleration of the target. The process further includes constructing an Extended Kalman Filter using the initial kinematic state estimate. The Extended Kalman filter is constructed by updating the initial kinematic state estimate as a function of time, receiving an angles-only measurement into the observer, calculating a new kinematic state as a function of the angles-only measurement, comparing the initial kinematic state estimate with the new kinematic state, constraining a rate of the target, and correcting the initial kinematic state estimate as a function of the comparison of the initial kinematic state estimate with the new kinematic state. The target is permitted to maneuver, and the observer is not required to maneuver. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120108094 | FREE FLOATING CONNECTOR ENGAGEMENT AND RETENTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING A TEMPORARY ELECTRICAL CONNECTION - Embodiments of a free-floating connector engagement and retention system are provided. In some embodiments, the system includes a slotted mounting surface, a connector carrier guide, and a connector carrier to receive a connector. The connector carrier may have two threaded holes therein. The connector carrier may be positioned between the connector carrier guide and the slotted mounting surface and may be retained by a set of threaded spring pins that pass through the threaded holes in the connector carrier. The ends of the threaded spring pins may be retained in the slots of the carrier guide and the necks of the threaded spring pins may be retained in slots of the slotted mounting surface. The connector and the connector carrier are free to move within the limits set by the slots of the slotted mounting surface and the slots of the carrier guide. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105946 | COMPENSATION OF THERMALLY INDUCED REFRACTIVE INDEX DISTORTIONS IN AN OPTICAL GAIN MEDIUM OR OTHER OPTICAL ELEMENT - In various embodiments, an optical element, e.g., an optical fiber, may be configured to compensate for thermal lensing. For example, thermal lensing may be caused by light power dissipation within an optical fiber, which may include a fiber core that guides amplified light along the longitudinal dimension of the fiber core. Thermal lensing from a thermally induced change in material refractive index as a function of position along dimensions perpendicular to the fiber's longitudinal dimension may be at least partially compensated or offset when light is guided by the fiber core by a designed-in effective refractive index profile selected such that the designed-in material refractive index of the fiber core changes as a function of transverse position within the fiber core, or by selection of a favorable cross-sectional core shape in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the fiber core. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105937 | Method and Apparatus for Modulating Light - An apparatus for modulating light includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a sealed enclosure. The first electrode includes a frequency selective surface operable to reflect light having a first wavelength, and the second electrode is spaced apart from the first electrode. The sealed enclosure stores electrophoretic fluid and at least a portion of the sealed enclosure is positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode. A plurality of particles are suspended in the electrophoretic fluid. The particles are capable of absorbing light having the first wavelength. In addition, the first electrode is capable of attracting the particles towards the frequency selective surface when an electrical bias is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105625 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING INFRASTRUCTURE-BASED BASIC SAFETY MESSAGE DATA - A roadside infrastructure system configured to generate and broadcast basic safety message data to augment vehicle safety applications. In one example, a roadside module of the system includes a camera, video analytics to process images from the camera to detect vehicles, a BSM generator that generates a BSM for each detected vehicle, and an antenna for broadcasting the BSM. In another example, the roadside module is configured to detect BSM data generated by equipped vehicles, to determine whether any detected vehicles are equipped vehicles generating their own BSM data, and to generate a BSM only for unequipped detected vehicles. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105275 | DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING GRADIENT MAGNITUDE SECOND MOMENT SPATIAL VARIANCE DETECTION - A detection system includes a detection processor configured to receive a frame of image data, that includes a range/Doppler matrix, perform a rate-of-change of variance calculation with respect to at least one pixel in the frame of image data, and compare the calculated rate-of-change of variance with a predetermined threshold to provide output data. The range/Doppler matrix may include N down-range samples and M cross-range samples. The detection processor may calculate a rate-of-change of variance over an N×M window within the range/Doppler matrix. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105175 | SURFACE ACOUSTIC WAVE RESONATOR MOUNTING WITH LOW ACCELERATION SENSITIVITY - A device, comprising a substrate having opposing first and second surfaces, a first surface acoustic wave resonator disposed on the first surface of the substrate, a second surface acoustic wave resonator disposed on the second surface of the substrate, a first adhesive layer sandwiched between the first surface acoustic wave resonator and the substrate, and a second adhesive layer sandwiched between the second surface acoustic wave resonator. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120104149 | GUIDED MUNITION SYSTEMS INCLUDING COMBUSTIVE DOME COVERS AND METHODS FOR EQUIPPING GUIDED MUNITIONS WITH THE SAME - Embodiments of a guided munition system are provided, as are embodiments of a combustive dome cover and methods for equipping a guided munition with a combustive dome cover. In one embodiment, the guided munition system includes a guided munition, which has a munition body and a seeker dome coupled thereto, and a combustive dome cover disposed over the seeker dome. The combustive dome cover is configured to uncover the seeker dome at a predetermined time of deployment and to combust when so deployed to minimize the production of debris. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120104148 | GUIDED MUNITIONS INCLUDING SELF-DEPLOYING DOME COVERS AND METHODS FOR EQUIPPING GUIDED MUNITIONS WITH THE SAME - Embodiments of a guided munition are provided, as are embodiments of a method for equipping a guided munition with a self-deploying dome cover. In one embodiment, the guided munition includes a munition body, a seeker dome coupled to the munition body, and a self-deploying dome cover disposed over the seeker dome. The self-deploying dome cover is configured to deploy and expose the seeker dome during munition flight in response to aerodynamic forces acting on the self-deploying dome cover. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103424 | VORTICE AMPLIFIED DIFFUSER FOR BUOYANCY DISSIPATER AND METHOD FOR SELECTABLE DIFFUSION - Embodiments of a vortice-amplified diffuser section for use in a buoyancy dissipater are generally described herein. The vortice-amplified diffuser section may include a plurality of diffusion ports to diffuse an expanding gas, a reduction sleeve to adjust an amount of diffusion flow, and vortex generators within at least some of the diffusion ports to generate vortices. The reduction sleeve may be configurable to block off some of the diffusion ports. The vortex generators may generate vortices of gas bubbles in the water to reduce the water's buoyancy and to inhibit movement or disrupt the operations of an errant vessel. The reduction sleeve may be used to control the size, shape, and intensity of the expanding gas bubble or bubble plume as well as to control the lethality level of the buoyancy reduction. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103175 | TRANSLATING ADJACENT-BLAST SHIELD AND METHOD FOR PROTECTING EXTERNAL SLOTS OF MISSILES IN LAUNCHER TUBES - Embodiments of a translating adjacent-blast shield and method of protecting external slots of a missile from a high-temperature, high-pressure gas plume of a missile that is launched from an adjacent or nearby launcher tube of a launcher are disclosed herein. The translating adjacent-blast shield may be provided circumferentially around each of the missiles in a launcher and may cover at least portions of external slots of the missiles. The translating adjacent-blast shield may translate along the missile during launch to expose the external slots and may remain on the missile after launch. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120101969 | ASSIGNING SENSORS TO PATHS - According to certain embodiments, paths are identified from path data. One or more sensors are assigned to each path. The following are performed: at least one sensor is moved to a path intersection and excess sensors are removed. An excess sensor is a sensor that is not required to satisfy the desired number of sensors of one or more paths. According to certain embodiments, a combined array comprising combined entries is accessed. Each combined entry represents a location and has a value indicating a number of paths at the location. The following are performed to yield a sensor arrangement: a maximum value of the combined array is identified, a sensor is assigned to a location associated with the maximum value, and the paths are removed from the combined array. A result associated with the sensor arrangement is reported. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120099324 | Two Stage Integrator Assembly - A modular radiation integrator assembly including a radiation source that emits radiation, a first integrator module including a first input port and a first output port, an adjust tube configured to partially receive the first integrator module and engage the radiation source in a manner such that the radiation emitted by the radiation source travels to and enters the first input port, and a second integrator module including a second input port and second output port, the second integrator module couplable to the first integrator module outside the adjust tube in a manner such that the radiation exits the first output port and enters the second input port. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120098933 | CORRECTING FRAME-TO-FRAME IMAGE CHANGES DUE TO MOTION FOR THREE DIMENSIONAL (3-D) PERSISTENT OBSERVATIONS - An imaging platform minimizes inter-frame image changes when there is relative motion of the imaging platform with respect to the scene being imaged, where the imaging platform may be particularly susceptible to image change, especially when it is configured with a wide field of view or high angular rate of movement. In one embodiment, a system is configured to capture images and comprises: a movable imaging platform having a sensor that is configured to capture images of a scene, each image comprising a plurality of pixels; and an image processor configured to: digitally transform captured images with respect to a common field of view (FOV) such that the transformed images appear to be taken by a non-moving imaging platform, wherein the pixel size and orientation of pixels of each transformed image are the same. A method for measuring and displaying 3-D features is also described. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097734 | System and Method for Packaging Electronic Devices - In accordance with particular embodiments, a method for packaging electronic devices includes melting solder for a solder jet. The method additionally includes depositing the melted solder from the solder jet in a pattern on a first substrate of a first component of an electronic device. The pattern comprises a plurality of individual dots of melted solder. The method also includes aligning a second substrate of a second component of the electronic device with the pattern deposited on the first substrate of the electronic device. The method further includes re-melting the solder deposited in the pattern on the first substrate. The method additionally includes, while the solder is re-melting, compressing the first and second substrates. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097374 | MAINTAINING THERMAL UNIFORMITY IN MICRO-CHANNEL COLD PLATES WITH TWO-PHASE FLOWS - A cold plate system including, in one embodiment, first and second flow paths extending from a common inlet to a common outlet, wherein the first and second flow paths enable two-phase coolant flow under pressure through micro-channels for cooling heat loads on the cold plate system, first and second orifices disposed in the first flow path on an inlet side of the first flow path, and a third orifice spaced from a fourth orifice, the third and fourth orifices disposed in the second flow path on an inlet side of the second flow path, wherein the first and second orifices in the first flow path and the third and fourth orifices in the second flow path minimize a difference in mass flow rate between the first and second flow paths when the first and second flow paths are exposed to different heat loads. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120096813 | Incident Radiation Detector Packaging - In accordance with particular embodiments, a method for packaging an incident radiation detector includes depositing an opaque solder resistant material on a first surface of a transparent lid substrate configured to cover at least one detector. The method also includes forming at least one cavity in the lid substrate. The method further includes forming a first portion of at least one hermetic seal ring on the opaque solder resistant material. The first portion of each hermetic seal ring surrounds a perimeter of a corresponding cavity in the lid substrate. The method also includes aligning the first portion of the at least one hermetic seal ring with a second portion of the at least one hermetic seal ring. The method additionally includes bonding the first portion of the at least one hermetic seal ring with the second portion of the at least one hermetic seal ring with solder. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120094484 | NANO-TUBE THERMAL INTERFACE STRUCTURE - A structure, comprising: a semiconductor structure having an electrically and thermally conductive layer disposed on one surface of the semiconductor structure; an electrically and thermally conductive heat sink; a electrically and thermally conductive carrier layer; a plurality of electrically and thermally nano-tubes, a first portion of the plurality of nano-tubes having proximal ends disposed on a first surface of the carrier layer and a second portion of the plurality of nano-tubes having proximal ends disposed on an opposite surface of the carrier layer; and a plurality of electrically and thermally conductive heat conductive tips disposed on distal ends of the plurality of nano-tubes, the plurality of heat conductive tips on the first portion of the plurality of nano-tubes being attached to the conductive layer, the plurality of heat conductive tips on the second portion of the plurality of nano-tubes being attached to the heat sink. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120092229 | Broadband Ballistic Resistant Radome - According to one embodiment of the invention, a radome cover for an RF sensor has been provided. The radome cover comprises a first and a second ballistic layer, each ballistic layer having a ceramic layer. The two ballistic layers are sandwiched between at least two matching layers, and the matching layers are impedance matched to the ceramic layers. The radome cover provides ballistic protection for the RF sensor. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091340 | SCENE BASED NON-UNIFORMITY CORRECTION FOR INFRARED DETECTOR ARRAYS - In various embodiments, a method and system for compensating non-uniformities among detector elements of a detector array, without the use of dither mirrors or requirement of scene motion for non-uniformity correction achieved by computing scene spatial gradient and temporal gradient of image frames of the scene captured by the detector array at different times, and utilizing both the scene spatial and temporal gradients in detailed local gradient processing. Such local gradient processing may include computing masks to preserve spatial scene details, while eliminating scene noise (e.g., fixed pattern noise) from the captured image frames and correcting non-uniformity among detector elements. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091254 | SYSTEMS, APPARATUS AND METHODS TO COMPENSATE FOR ROLL ORIENTATION VARIATIONS IN MISSILE COMPONENTS - The roll orientation of a thrust vector control (TVC) or other missile section is measured and used to compensate the operation of the control surface. A measurement of a roll orientation of the control surface relative to the missile is obtained from a detector, memory or other source. Compensated control commands are determined at least in part based upon the measurement to account for the roll orientation of the control surface relative to the missile, and the compensated control command is provided to thereby actuate the control surface during operation of the missile. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120087389 | System and Method for Detecting the Temperature of an Electrophoretic Display Device - An apparatus includes a temperature detector coupled to a conductive layer of an electrophoretic display device. The temperature detector is operable to measure a leakage current that is responsive to a temperature associated with the electrophoretic device and determine the temperature associated with the electrophoretic device based at least in part on the measured leakage current. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087028 | ANAMORPHIC RELAYED IMAGER HAVING MULTIPLE ROTATIONALLY SYMMETRIC POWERED MIRRORS - Various embodiments provide an optical system including a plurality of mirrors, each mirror having a rotational axis of symmetry; and a detector configured to detect an image formed by the plurality of mirrors. The plurality of mirrors are configured to scan an object space along a first direction. The plurality of mirrors are configured and arranged so that a focal length of the plurality of mirrors along the first direction is greater than a focal length of the plurality of mirrors in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction so as to obtain a ratio of anamorphism greater than approximately 1.5. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120086428 | Identifying a Cable Path Using Light Emitting Diodes - In one embodiment, a system for identifying a cable path may be provided. The system may include a cable set operable to transmit data, the cable set comprising power delivery wires designed to transmit electrical power. The cable set may also comprise two adapters proximate respective ends of the cable set, the first adapter operable to be coupled to a signal generator operable to transmit electrical power across the power delivery wires. In some embodiments, the cable set may further comprise a circuit coupled to the power delivery wires of the cable set, the circuit operable to receive electrical power from the signal generator and allow at least a portion of the electrical power to continue across the power delivery wires. The cable set may further comprise an indicator coupled to the circuit and operable to emit light when electrical power from the circuit is received at the indicator. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120085518 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COOLING A FIBER LASER OR AMPLIFIER - A system and method for cooling an optical fiber includes a flexible heat sink member, a heat pipe evaporator, and a thermal storage medium. The flexible heat sink member is in thermal contact with the optical fiber. The heat pipe evaporator is configured to dissipate heat from the optical fiber. The thermal storage medium is in thermal contact with the flexible heat sink member and the heat pipe evaporator. The flexible heat sink member is configured to compensate for any mismatch in coefficient of thermal expansion between material of the optical fiber and material of the flexible heat sink member so as to provide radial compliance and to maintain direct thermal contact between the optical fiber and the flexible heat sink member. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120081706 | TWO MATERIAL ACHROMATIC PRISM - A spectrometer comprises a detector array and a prism. The prism comprises a first prism element comprising a substantially crystalline crown material, and a second prism element contacting the first prism element, the second prism element comprising a substantially crystalline flint material. The spectrometer further includes optics configured to direct light at least twice through the prism. The prism is configured to disperse light received from the optics at an incident angle therethrough into constituent spectra in visible and infrared wavelength bands that are dispersed from the prism at angles offset from the incident angle. The constituent spectra are directed onto the detector array with approximately equal dispersion across the visible and infrared wavelength bands. Among other things, desirable material selections for the first and second prism elements are also disclosed. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120081705 | TWO MATERIAL ACHROMATIC PRISM - A spectrometer comprises a detector array and a prism. The prism comprises a first prism element comprising a substantially crystalline crown material, and a second prism element contacting the first prism element, the second prism element comprising a substantially crystalline flint material. The spectrometer further includes optics configured to direct light at least twice through the prism. The prism is configured to disperse light received from the optics at an incident angle therethrough into constituent spectra in visible and infrared wavelength bands that are dispersed from the prism at angles offset from the incident angle. The constituent spectra are directed onto the detector array with approximately equal dispersion across the visible and infrared wavelength bands. Among other things, desirable material selections for the first and second prism elements are also disclosed. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120081621 | High Fill-Factor Electronic Beam Steerer - Described herein is the use of a fast-scanning optical phase array (OPA) within an electronic beam-steering-based aperture. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120081013 | Energy Conversion Device - According to one embodiment, an energy conversion device comprises a nuclear battery, a light source coupled to the nuclear battery and operable to receive electric energy from the nuclear battery and radiate electromagnetic energy, and a photocell operable to receive the radiated electromagnetic energy and convert the received electromagnetic energy into electric energy. The nuclear battery comprises a radioactive substance and a collector operable to receive particles emitted by the radioactive substance. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080552 | SEEKER WITH A MOLDED DICHROIC MIRROR - A molded dichroic mirror and a seeker comprising a molded dichroic mirror are provided. The dichroic mirror may be molded from polysiloxane or lithia potash borosilicate and may be coated to reflect an infrared signal and configured to transmit a radio frequency signal between 33 GHz and 37 GHz. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120079957 | PROJECTILE HAVING CASING THAT INCLUDES MULTIPLE FLACHETTES - Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a propellant and a casing that encloses the propellant such that the casing acts as a reaction chamber during flight of the projectile. The casing includes a plurality of flechettes. When the projectile strikes (or is near) a target, a large internal sheer pressure forms within the casing. This sheer pressure causes the flechettes to sheer apart at the thinnest sections of the casing. Once the thin sections of the casing are sheered apart, the flechettes will be unconstrained such that the flechettes take individual flight paths. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120079867 | TOOL FOR DEFORMING THREADS AT A PARTICULAR LOCATION ON A FASTENER - Some embodiments pertain to a tool that includes a first arm and a second arm that is rotatably connected to the first arm. The first arm includes an opening and the second arm includes a projection that engages threads on a fastener which is installed within the opening in the first arm. During operation of the tool, a fastener is inserted into the opening in the first arm. Pressure is applied to bring the first and second arms together such that the projection engages the threads of the fastener and then deforms the threads. The first arm may include a plurality of threaded openings such that each opening is adapted to receive a different diameter fastener. In addition, the second arm may include a plurality of projections such that each projection is a different size and is aligned relative to one of the openings in the first arm. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120077371 | Methods and Systems for Forming Discrete Wire Ribbon Cables - Methods and systems for forming discrete wire ribbon cables for use in electronic networks are provided. In some embodiments, the organizer may include an upper bracket and a lower bracket. The lower bracket may be configured to mate with the upper bracket. The upper bracket and the lower bracket may combine to define a plurality of holes. The plurality of holes may be sized to at least partially enclose a set of discrete conductors. Each of the set of discrete conductors may be individually insulated. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120076159 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATION AND AMPLIFICATION OF LIGHT IN A SEMI-GUIDING HIGH ASPECT RATIO CORE FIBER - A planar laser gain medium and laser system. The novel laser gain medium includes an active core having a high aspect ratio cross-section with a fast-axis dimension and a slow-axis dimension, signal claddings adapted to form reflective boundaries at fast-axis boundaries of the core, and a material adapted to minimize reflections at slow-axis boundaries of the core. In an illustrative embodiment, the laser gain medium is an optical fiber. The core and claddings for a waveguide adapted to control modes propagating in the fast-axis direction. When the laser gain medium is employed as a laser oscillator, a high reflectivity mirror and an outcoupler are positioned at opposite ends of the core to form a laser resonator adapted to control modes in the slow-axis direction. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120075466 | REMOTE VIEWING - In one aspect, a method of remote viewing includes receiving a location on a projection screen illuminated by an infrared pointer, moving a pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera to an area corresponding to the location on the projection screen illuminated by the infrared pointer and rendering the image from the PTZ camera to a display of an optical device comprising the infrared pointer. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120072467 | General Map Web Interface - A data processing system including one or more geographic information systems (GISs) and one or more application programs, in which a common interface supports communication between multiple application programs and multiple GISs. The application programs and GISs may be implemented in different programming languages. Communication may occur in the same physical computer, or locally, or over an Internet. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120069463 | FAST STEERING, DEFORMABLE MIRROR SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A fast-steering, deformable mirror system is configured to manipulate a reflective surface in order to control the reflection of electromagnetic radiation off of the reflective surface. The system is configured to steer the reflective surface as a unit, and also to deform the reflective surface. The system is designed to reduce hysteresis in drive signals that control deformation of the reflective surface, to maintain an overall size and/or footprint of conventional fast-steering, non-deformable mirror systems, and/or provide other enhancements. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120069046 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISPLAYING COMPUTER-GENERATED IMAGES ON A HEAD MOUNTED DEVICE - Systems and methods for displaying computer-generated images on a head mounted device are provided. In some embodiments, a system for displaying computer-generated image is provided and may include transparent surface including a coating and a processor. The processor may be configured to receive a computer-generated image, determine the type of computer-generated image, vary a voltage applied to the coating of the transparent surface based on the determined type of computer-generated image, and display the received computer-generated image on the transparent surface. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120069019 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL IMAGE RECONSTRUCTION - In accordance with various aspects of the disclosure, a method and apparatus is disclosed for constructing a three-dimensional model of a scene captured as a video stream including obtaining a video stream of a scene by a first camera; locating a horizon with respect to the scene with a second camera; and constructing a three-dimensional model of the scene based upon the obtained video stream and the located horizon. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068880 | System and Method for Dual-Band Antenna Pointing, Acquisition, And Tracking - A system for tracking a target includes a dual-band antenna. The dual-band antenna includes a first antenna and a second antenna rigidly coupled to the first antenna. The first antenna is configured to communicate within a first frequency band and the second antenna is configured to communicate within a second frequency band. The system further includes a processing system having a first antenna control processor configured to initialize a pointing direction to point a beam of the first antenna toward the target with a first degree of pointing accuracy, and configured to scan with the first antenna to point the beam of the first antenna more precisely toward the target with a second degree of pointing accuracy, and further having a second antenna control processor configured to electronically scan with the second antenna to point a beam of the second antenna to the target with a third degree of pointing accuracy. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068875 | Radar Image Generation System - According to one embodiment, a synthetic aperture radar includes a back projection processor that is configured to receive multiple return signals from the radar as the radar is moved with respect to an object, wherein the return signals are representative of electro-magnetic radiation reflected from the object. The back projection processor generates a dynamic image of one or more internal features of the object from the return signals by varying a squint angle of the plurality of return signals in which the squint angle varied by modifying a back projection filter. Once generated, the back projection processor displays the dynamic image on a display. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068793 | MICROPSTRIP TRANSMISSION LINE/COPLANAR WAVEGUIDE (CPW) TRANSISTOR STRUCTURE - A structure having a coplanar waveguide transistor; and a microwave section, coupled to the transistor, having: a strip conductor coplanar with the electrodes of the coplanar waveguide transistor and a ground plane conductor disposed under the strip conductor. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068010 | SUBMERSIBLE TRANSPORT AND LAUNCH CANISTER AND METHODS FOR THE USE THEREOF - Embodiments of a method for deploying an airborne object are provided utilizing a submersible transport and launch canister of the type that includes a pressure vessel in which the airborne object is stored and a cap which sealingly engages the pressure vessel. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of positioning an end portion of the pressure vessel above the surface level of a body of water, opening the cap, and launching the airborne object from the pressure vessel while in the body of water. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068009 | SUBMERSIBLE TRANSPORT AND LAUNCH CANISTER - Embodiments of a submersible transport and launch canister are provided for use by a diver in the deployment of an airborne object. In one embodiment, the submersible transport and launch canister includes a pressure vessel having an open end portion and a storage cavity configured to receive the airborne object therein. A diver-actuated cap is movable between an open position and a closed position in which the diver-actuated cap sealingly engages the open end portion. A propellant device is fluidly coupled to the storage cavity and is configured to propel the airborne object from the storage cavity and through the open end portion when the propellant device is actuated by the diver. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067556 | ADVANCED HEAT EXCHANGER - A heat exchanger comprises a glass body having a first flat face and a second flat face on opposing ends, and defining a longitudinal axis therebetween. A plurality of holes in the glass body are elongated along the longitudinal axis by extending from said first flat face to said second flat face. The plurality of holes are configured to receive and direct a gas therethrough, to exchange heat between the gas and the glass body. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067143 | MINIATURE ACTIVE STANDOFF CHAMBER - One or more embodiments of a standoff chamber system configured to generate aerosolized clouds, useful in testing or calibrating standoff detectors in a laboratory environment, includes a chamber body having vertically recirculating vortices for generation of the clouds. The standoff chamber further includes a pair of aero-windows configured to surround a pair of apertures in the chamber body, filtering and preventing escape of the cloud, while allowing direct observation of the cloud by standoff detectors. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120063264 | Method for the Emplacement of a Sensor in Soil for Sensing Seismic Activity - A method for the emplacement of a sensor in soil for sensing seismic activity comprising in one embodiment the steps of creating a borepath in the soil, the borepath having opposing ends and a diameter, inserting a longitudinal housing and a grout pipe into the borepath extending from one of said opposing ends to the other, the longitudinal housing having the sensor encapsulated within, the grout pipe having one end and a grouting end, pulling the grout pipe longitudinally within the borepath by the one end to position the grouting end between the opposing ends within the borepath, and conducting a grout through the grout pipe into the borepath at the grouting end to encase the longitudinal housing within the borepath thereby facilitating emplacement of a sensor in soil for sensing seismic activity. The grout preferably selected so to acoustically match the longitudinal housing to the soil. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120063098 | ASSEMBLY TO PROVIDE THERMAL COOLING - In one aspect, an assembly to provide thermal cooling includes a first member having a first channel configured to receive a cooling fluid, a second member having a second channel configured to receive the cooling fluid and a first plurality of hollow and flexible conduits connecting the first and second members. Each of the first plurality of hollow and flexible conduits is configured to provide a path for the cooling fluid to flow between the first and second channels. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120063097 | MONOLITHIC MICROWAVE INTEGRATED CIRCUIT - A monolithic microwave integrated circuit structure having a semiconductor substrate structure with a plurality of active devices and a microwave transmission line having an input section, an output section and a interconnecting section electrically interconnecting the active devices on one surface and a metal layer on an opposite surface overlaying the interconnection section and absent from overlaying at least one of the input section and the output section. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120060674 | COMPOSITE REINFORCED MISSILE RAIL - According to one embodiment, an apparatus comprises a frame portion made of metal and having a substantially elongated shape. The frame portion comprises one or more cavities situated in a longitudinal direction, and a composite material is disposed within the cavities to structurally reinforce the frame portion. The frame portion includes one or more missile guides situated in the longitudinal direction and configured to slidingly engage a weapon. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120057238 | LOW-ABERRATION OPTICAL WINDOW - An optical window may be configured to minimize optical aberrations. The optical window may include a laminous optical window assembly. The laminous optical window assembly may have four or more alternating layers of positive refraction material layers and negative refraction material layers. The four or more alternating layers may be configured to minimize refraction of electromagnetic rays propagating therethrough such that a given incident electromagnetic ray is substantially collinear with a corresponding transmitted electromagnetic ray. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120057223 | DUAL FIELD OF VIEW REFRACTIVE OPTICAL SYSTEM WITH EXTERNAL PUPIL AND INTERNAL STABILIZATION - Various embodiments provide an optical system including a first lens group including a plurality of lenses, the first lens group being configured to correct for lateral chromatic aberration; and a second lens group including a plurality of lenses, the second lens group being configured to correct for axial chromatic aberration, the second lens group being disposed adjacent the first lens group. The optical system further includes a detector disposed behind the second lens group; a mechanism for switching a configuration of the optical system between a narrow field of view (NFOV) configuration and a wide field of view (WFOV) configuration; and a ray path steering system disposed in front of the first lens group, the ray path steering system comprising a pair of counter-rotating grisms configured to enhance a field of regard of the optical system. The optical system also includes a stabilization system configured to suppress image jitter, the stabilization system including a mechanism for decentering at least one lens in the first lens group or in the second lens group orthogonal to an optical axis of the optical system. A pupil of the optical system is located external to the first and second lens groups for location of a cold shield within a cryo-vac Dewar enclosing the detector. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120057133 | THREE DIMENSIONAL (3-D) POLARIZED DISPLAYS - A display system includes a driver configured to create command signals for generating a pair of images along two different optical paths; a pair of polarized sources, each polarized source configured to produce a polarized image of one of the pair of images along a respective optical path at substantially the same time based on a command signal from the driver, the first of the pair of polarizer sources configured to produce a different polarization than the second of the pair of polarizer sources; a polarization co-alignment element configured to optically align the polarized images from the respective polarizer along a common optical path; and a display screen configured to display the co-aligned polarized images. Depending on the mode of the display system, 3-D polarized glasses may be worn by the viewers for observing the displayed images. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055366 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR HIGH-IMPULSE FUZE BOOSTER FOR INSENSITIVE MUNITIONS - A high impulse fuze booster includes a booster explosive charge positioned within an explosive charge cavity of a booster housing. A substantially planar flyer plate is coupled with the booster housing, and a detonation waveshaper is positioned within the booster explosive charge. A low-sensitivity explosive charge is opposed to the substantially planar flyer plate. The booster explosive charge is configured to generate a detonation wave and the detonation waveshaper shapes the detonation wave into a planar detonation wave, the planar detonation wave is parallel to the substantially planar flyer plate. The planar detonation wave interacts with the substantially planar flyer plate in two or more stages including a planar striking stage and a planar contact stage where the planar detonation wave carries the substantially planar flyer plate into planar contact with a plurality of surfaces of the low-sensitivity explosive charge to initiate the low-sensitivity explosive charge. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055323 | Systems and Methods for Launching Munitions - Systems and methods for launching munitions are provided. In some embodiments, a launcher configured to retain a munition during transport by a vehicle may comprise a first housing, circuitry, and a second housing. The first housing may define a tube configured to hold a munition for transportation. The circuitry may provide electrical communication with a munition present within the tube. The second housing may define a tube corresponding to the tube defined by the first housing. The second housing may be configured to mount to the first housing so that the tubes defined by the first housing and the second housing combine to house and launch a munition. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055322 | Systems and Methods for Launching Munitions - Systems and methods for launching munitions are provided. In some embodiments, the system may include a launcher coupled to a vehicle and configured to retain a munition during transport by a vehicle and configured to route electrical signals from the vehicle to the munition. The system may also include a flexible, peel-away connector coupled to the launcher, the peel-away connector comprising an adhesive for coupling to at least a portion of the munition. The flexible, peel-away connector may be configured to route electrical signals from the launcher to the munition during transport and detach from the munition as the munition exits from the launcher during a launch. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055321 | Systems and Methods for Launching Munitions - Systems and methods for launching munitions are provided. In some embodiments, the system may include a cover for use with a munitions launcher including a housing with a face. The cover may include a lid, a defined passage through the lid, and an actuator. The lid may be configured to mount to the face of the munitions launcher. The defined passage through the lid may be sized to allow a munition to pass through the lid when launched by the launcher and to substantially cover any other munitions disposed at least partially within the munitions launcher. The actuator may be configured to operate the lid in a manner that moves the defined passage in relation to the face of the munitions launcher. Movement of the defined passage in relation to the face of the munitions launcher may uncover at least one munition that was substantially covered prior to the movement of the defined passage and substantially cover any other munitions disposed at least partially within the munitions launcher. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055280 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO IMPROVE REEL FEEDER EFFICIENCY - In one aspect, a device includes a first portion having a length substantially the same as a length of a gap of a slot of a free link of a reel feeder. The device is configured to be placed in the gap to limit movement of a take-up arm along the slot. In another aspect, a method includes placing a device in a gap of a slot of a free link of a reel feeder to limit movement of a take-up arm along the slot. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120047371 | SECURE FIELD-PROGRAMMABLE GATE ARRAY (FPGA) ARCHITECTURE - A method and system for configuring a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) includes receiving an encrypted FPGA load-decryption key at an FPGA from a remote key-storage device. The remote key-storage device may be external to and operatively connected with the FPGA. The encrypted FPGA load-decryption key is decrypted using a session key, which may be stored at both the FPGA and the remote key-storage device. Encrypted FPGA-configuration data is received at the FPGA, and decrypted and authenticated using the decrypted FPGA load-decryption key. The decryption of the FPGA-configuration data may indicate a cryptographic state associated with the FPGA-configuration data, which may be used in recurring authentication of the FPGA-configuration data. For recurring authentication, a challenge message may be received at the FPGA from an authentication device, which may be encrypted using the cryptographic state and the session key to generate a response message. The response message may then be sent to the authentication device to determine authenticity of the FPGA-configuration data. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120046006 | Selecting And Routing Sub-Signals From A Common Signal Path - According to certain embodiments, a system comprises a main transmission line, one or more piezoelectric filters coupled to the main transmission line, and one or more sub-signal transmission lines coupled to the one or more piezoelectric filters. The main transmission line communicates a main signal from an antenna to a main receiver. Each piezoelectric filter selects a sub-signal of a specific center frequency. Each sub-signal transmission line communicates a sub-signal to a sub-signal receiver. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120045091 | System and Method for 3D Wireframe Reconstruction from Video - In one or more aspects of the present disclosure, a method, a computer program product and a system for reconstructing scene features of an object in 3D space using structure-from-motion feature-tracking includes acquiring a first camera frame at a first camera position; extracting image features from the first camera frame; initializing a first set of 3D points from the extracted image features; acquiring a second camera frame at a second camera position; predicting a second set of 3D points by converting their positions and variances to the second camera position; projecting the predicted 3D positions to an image plane of the second camera to obtain 2D predictions of the image features; measuring an innovation of the predicted 2D image features; and updating estimates of 3D points based on the measured innovation to reconstruct scene features of the object image in 3D space. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120045026 | RECOVERING DISTORTED DIGITAL DATA - In one aspect, a method to recover digital data includes receiving a distorted digital data stream and processing the distorted digital data stream to remove distortions. The processing includes detecting state changes, removing noise and identifying valid pulses. The processing also includes forming an undistorted data stream based on the processing. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120042954 | BUBBLE WEAPON SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR INHIBITING MOVEMENT AND DISRUPTING OPERATIONS OF VESSELS - Embodiments of a bubble weapon system and methods for inhibiting movement and disrupting operations of vessels are generally described herein. In some embodiments, a bubble weapon is configured to generate a plume of bubbles in water. The plume reduces buoyancy of the water to inhibit movement of a vessel or disrupt operations of the vessel. In some embodiments, the bubble weapon includes a configurable diffuser section that may be configured in a thrust-neutral configuration or a thrust-engaged configuration. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120042075 | ADAPTIVE SERVICES COMMAND AND CONTROL INFRASTRUCTURE - A software component that adapts resource utilization to match the needs of operational events in a mobile ad hoc network (MANET) environment such as the military tactical edge is presented. The resources can include network resources and grid computing resources. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120042003 | COMMAND AND CONTROL TASK MANAGER - A task manager for use in a multi-user, multi-organizational environment is presented. Generally, the task manager enables users of devices or networked devices or systems, e.g., client/server arrangements, in different organizations to task and be tasked across organizational boundaries. The task manager provides a user interface through which users can generate, monitor and close tasks, as well as delegate tasks, decompose tasks generating subtasks and provide status updates for tasks and subtasks. The user interface allows a task-centric view in which an originator of a task can monitor the status of the task (including any and all related subtasks). It also allows a user-centric view in which tasks assigned by and to the same user can be viewed. In the task manager a task has a format that associates it with task attributes such as task identifier and user-provided attributes including name of task originator, name of task assignee, status, title and task description. The task description may be unstructured text or a structured data representation. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038777 | System, Method, and Software for Image Processing - According to certain embodiments, an image processing system includes a computing system that receives a video signal including data for one or more images and determines a region of interest in a particular image of the one or more images. Using the determined region of interest, the computing system instructs the camera to generate a peripheral region of one or more subsequent images having a reduced information intensity level relative to the information intensity level with which the region of interest of the one or more subsequent images are generated. The region of interest of the one or more subsequent images corresponds to the region of interest of the particular image. The peripheral region including portions of the image other than the region of interest. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038539 | Integrated Window For A Conformal Hybrid EO/RF Aperture - An integrated radio frequency (RF)/optical window includes an RF radome portion provided from a composite material substantially transparent to RF energy disposed about an optical window configured for use with an optical phased array. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037806 | System and Method for Viewing an Area Using an Optical System Positioned Inside of a Dewar - According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for viewing an area includes a dewar and an optical system positioned within the dewar. The dewar permits operation of the flux detector at cryogenic temperatures, in some embodiments. The optical system includes an infrared radiation system capable of focusing one or more light beams. The inclusion of the optical system within the cryogenic space of the dewar allows reduction of the overall system length and weight, if desired. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120036986 | CANISTERIZED INTERCEPTOR WITH EMBEDDED WINDINGS AND METHOD FOR SAFE ROUND DETECTION - Embodiments of a canisterized interceptor and method to prevent the launch of a canisterized interceptor that may have been penetrated by small arms fire are generally described herein. In some embodiments, the canisterized interceptor includes a composite canister for housing an interceptor. The canister includes an embedded winding to provide a conductive path and comprises a conductor arranged within composite material of the canister. A maximum spacing may be provided between windings of the conductor and penetration of the canister may be indicated by an open or short circuit in the conductive path. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120036550 | System and Method to Measure and Track Trust - In some embodiments, a method of determining an overall level of trust of a system comprises receiving a level of trust for each of a plurality of elements of the system. A weight for each of the plurality of elements is received, each weight indicating an influence of each of the plurality of elements on the trust of the system. A contribution for each element to the overall level of trust of the system is determined based on the level of trust for each element and the weight for each element. The overall level of trust of the system is determined based on the determined contribution for each element. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120036093 | Waveform Mapping Technique and Process for Tracking and Estimating Evolution of Semantic Networks - In certain embodiments, a computer-implemented method includes accessing first and second data associated with a semantic network, the first data indicating a first plurality of nodes within the semantic network and a first plurality of relationships between the first plurality of nodes at a first time, and the second data indicating a second plurality of nodes within the semantic network and a second plurality of relationships between the second plurality of nodes at a second time. The method further includes generating a first waveform from the first data and a second waveform from the second data. The waveforms indicate an activity level of each of the nodes within the semantic network. The method further includes analyzing the semantic network using the generated first and second waveforms. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035900 | REMOTE MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION PROCESS PERFORMANCE PREDICTION TOOL - In accordance with the present disclosure, a computer implemented system and method predicts the performance for a remote material identification process under real conditions and uncertainties. The method and system transforms data representing measured reflectance values for candidate materials based on environmental conditions, and uncertainties regarding the environmental conditions and/or calibration of sensors measuring radiance values into the performance predictions for a material identification process operating under those conditions and uncertainties. The performance predictions can be communicated to a designer of, for example, a multi-angle material identification system for use in selecting and setting up the system, or communicated to a consumer of images captured by the material identification system for use in interpreting results of application of the material identification process to real imagery acquired with remote sensors. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035884 | REMOTE IDENTIFICATION OF NON-LAMBERTIAN MATERIALS - In one example of a method for remote identifying a non-Lambertian target material, a spectral signature for a target is determined from each of at least two different sets of imagery acquired at different angles, and compared to a predicted signature for a candidate material for each of the at least two different angles. The predicted signatures take into account the known anisotropy of reflectance, and thus also radiance, of the candidate material. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035845 | Determining Locations Of Wireless Mobile Devices - In certain embodiments, an apparatus comprises an input and one or more processors. The input receives known locations of wireless mobile nodes over a wireless link. The one or more processors determine geometric features associated with the locations, and calculate an apparatus location of the apparatus from the known locations and the geometric features. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120033383 | Cooling System for Cylindrical Antenna - According to one embodiment, an antenna cooling system, comprises a first cylinder and a second cylinder substantially concentric to the first cylinder. The first and second cylinders form a chamber between the first cylinder and the second cylinder. The chamber is configured to receive a fluid flow. A plurality of fins are disposed within the chamber and rigidly coupled to the first cylinder and the second cylinder. The plurality of fins are configured to transmit thermal energy to the fluid flow. A plurality of ports are coupled to the second cylinder. Each port is configured to receive an antenna unit. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120032849 | Multi-Orientation Phased Antenna Array and Associated Method - According to one embodiment, an antenna apparatus includes first and second antenna arrays configured in a support structure. Each antenna array has multiple antenna elements that transmit and/or receive electro-magnetic radiation. The elements of the first antenna array are oriented in a boresight direction that is different from the boresight direction in which the elements of the second antenna array are oriented. A plurality of switches alternatively couples the first antenna elements or the second antenna elements to a signal distribution circuit. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120030733 | ACCESSING RESOURCES OF A SECURE COMPUTING NETWORK - According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for accessing resources of a secure computing network may be provided. The method may include receiving a request to allow a user to access a secure computing network. The user may be associated with an avatar that has a unique set of one or more identifiers that are associated with the user. A security clearance level of the avatar may be determined from the unique set of identifiers of the avatar. The avatar may be authorized to access one or more virtual compartments of the secure computing network according to the security clearance level of the avatar. The virtual compartment may comprise one or more resources of the secure computing network. The method may further include facilitating display of one or more resources of a virtual compartment accessed by the avatar. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120026496 | BANDWIDTH TUNABLE SPECTROSCOPIC DEVICE - An electromagnetic radiation detection device is described which includes a tunable dispersive optical element configured to receive electromagnetic radiation and to change the dispersion of the received electromagnetic radiation; a sensor configured to detect the dispersed electromagnetic radiation changed by the dispersive optical element; and a controller configured to: (i) selectively tune the dispersive optical element so as to adjust the dispersion of the received electromagnetic radiation; and (ii) change one or more of operating parameters of the sensor in accordance with the adjusted dispersion. In some implementations, the radiation detection device may be configured as a spectrometer to measure one or more properties of electromagnetic radiation. A method for detecting electromagnetic radiation is also disclosed. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120026382 | WIDE FIELD OF VIEW LWIR HIGH SPEED IMAGER - Various embodiments provide an optical system including a first lens group having a plurality of lenses, the first lens group being configured to correct for an axial chromatic aberration; a second lens group having a least one lens, the second lens group being disposed adjacent the first lens group; and a third lens group having a plurality of lenses, the third lens group being configured to correct for a lateral chromatic aberration and field curvature, the third lens group being disposed adjacent the second lens group. The first, second and third lens groups are configured to provide a wide field of view greater than approximately 20 deg., and an f-number of less than approximately F/2 in a wavelength range between approximately 8 μm and approximately 12 μm. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120026031 | Method and System for Continuous Wave Interference Suppression in Pulsed Signal Processing - A System and Method for CW interference suppression in pulsed signal processing having a front-end, an A/D converter, a data store, and a suppressor module coupled to both the A/D converter and the data store. The front-end is operable to receive a waveform and communicate such to the A/D converter to digitize for processing by the suppressor module. The suppressor module being operable to further process the digitized waveform by way of applying a FFT to obtain a corresponding amplitude spectrum of the digitized waveform, clipping the amplitude spectrum to obtain a clipped amplitude spectrum, performing successive piece-wise IFFTs on the positive frequency points of the clipped amplitude spectrum to obtain multiple amplitude-time series, each having a frequency value assigned, and then stacking such amplitude-time series successively in the data store to form a time-frequency spectrogram array to thereby facilitate suppression of interference signals and detection of data pulses. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025849 | INTRUSION DETECTION AND TRACKING SYSTEM - In one aspect, a method to detect an object in an area includes forming a wireless network among a plurality of nodes, each of the nodes being configured to generate an electromagnetic field (EMF) in the area and determining changes in the EMF between two nodes based on: a first difference in received signal strength values between a previously determined received signal strength value and a currently determined received signal strength value, a second difference in received signal strength values between the currently determined received signal strength value and an average received signal strength value and a third difference in link quality values between a previously determined link quality value and a currently determined link quality value. The method further comprises detecting the object based on the changes in the EMF. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025010 | AERODYNAMIC FIN LOCK FOR ADJUSTABLE AND DEPLOYABLE FIN - Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a body and a support attached to the body. The projectile further includes at least one partial fin that is rotatably attached to the support such that the partial fin moves between a stowed position and a deployed position. The support moves relative to the partial fin as the partial fin moves between the stowed position and the deployed position such that the partial fin and the support form a complete fin when the partial fin is in the deployed position. The support may form a portion of the front edge of the complete fin when the partial fin is in the deployed position. The support may lock the partial fin in place when the partial fin is in the deployed position. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025008 | Projectile With Inertial Measurement Unit Failure Detection - A guided projectile may include a projectile body. An inertial measurement unit may be disposed within the projectile body, the inertial measurement unit including sensors to measure motion parameters relative to first, second, and third mutually orthogonal axes. Each of the first, second, and third mutually orthogonal axes may form an oblique angle with a longitudinal axis of the projectile body. A controller may be configured to control a trajectory of the guided projectile in response, at least in part, to measurement data received from the inertial measurement unit. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024185 | PROJECTILE THAT INCLUDES A GIMBAL STOP - Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a frame and a first gimbal that is rotatably supported by the frame. The projectile further includes a second gimbal that is rotatably supported by the first gimbal. A sensor is supported by the second gimbal such that an adjustment mechanism is able to maneuver the first and second gimbals to adjust the position of the sensor. The projectile further includes a stop that is attached to the frame. The stop may be a cup that surrounds a bottom portion of the sensor. The cup provides a barrier to prevent the adjustment mechanism from maneuvering the sensor outside a designated area. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024180 | REACTIVE SHAPED CHARGE, REACTIVE LINER, AND METHOD FOR TARGET PENETRATION USING A REACTIVE SHAPED CHARGE - Embodiments of a reactive shaped charge, a reactive liner, and a method for penetrating a target are generally described herein. The reactive shaped charge comprises a reactive liner having a matrix of reactive metal particles in a hydrocarbon fuel, a high explosive, and an inner barrier separating the reactive liner from the high explosive. The hydrocarbon fuel fills the interstitial spacing between the reactive metal particles, and the matrix is tightly packed or compresses to exhibit a solid like property. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024143 | Weapon Station and Associated Method - In certain embodiments, a weapon station comprises a weapon mounting apparatus and a sight mounting apparatus. The weapon mounting apparatus is adapted to rotate, using a first rotational drive mechanism, about an azimuth axis. The weapon mounting apparatus is adapted to receive one or more weapons for attachment at a position offset from the azimuth axis. The sight mounting apparatus is coupled to the weapon mounting apparatus and is adapted to receive for attachment a sighting device. The sighting device comprises one or more sensors and is adapted to rotate, using a second rotational drive mechanism, the one or more sensors about the azimuth axis independently of rotational movement of the weapon mounting apparatus about the azimuth axis. The azimuth axis about which the weapon mounting apparatus and the one or more sensors rotate is a common azimuth axis. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023979 | System And Method For Providing Efficient Cooling Within A Test Environment - In certain embodiments, a method for cooling includes providing a controller in communication with an auxiliary cooling unit and a primary refrigeration unit. A first chamber temperature measurement associated with an environmental test chamber is received, and the heat load associated with a target temperature is determined. Based on the first chamber temperature measurement and the heat load, it is determined that the auxiliary cooling unit can sustain the target temperature. In response to the determination, the controller is used to transmit a signal to power on the auxiliary cooling unit and a signal to time out the primary refrigeration unit. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120021694 | DISCOVERING AND PREVENTING A COMMUNICATIONS DISRUPTION IN A MOBILE ENVIRONMENT - In one aspect, a method to discover and prevent a communications disruption in a mobile environment includes receiving data at a mobile platform from a geographical database, determining if the mobile platform will be blocked by a blockage event from accessing a network in response to data extracted from the geographical database and avoiding the blockage event if the mobile platform will be blocked from accessing the network. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120020515 | MULTI-PHENOMENOLOGY OBJECT DETECTION - Method and system for utilizing multiple phenomenological techniques to resolve closely spaced objects during imaging includes detecting a plurality of closely spaced objects through the imaging of a target area by an array, and spreading electromagnetic radiation received from the target area across several pixels. During the imaging, different phenomenological techniques may be applied to capture discriminating features that may affect a centroid of the electromagnetic radiation received on the array. Comparing the locations of the centroids over multiple images may be used to resolve a number of objects imaged by the array. Examples of such phenomenological discriminating techniques may include imaging the target area in multiple polarities of light or in multiple spectral bands of light. Another embodiment includes time-lapse imaging of the target area, to compare time lapse centroids for multiple movement signal characteristics over pluralities of pixels on the array. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120019943 | MULTIPLE PATH SUBSTANTIALLY SYMMETRIC THREE-MIRROR ANASTIGMAT - One or more embodiments of an optical system includes a primary mirror configured to reflect light incident thereupon; a secondary mirror facing the primary mirror configured to receive the light reflected from the primary mirror and redirect the light reflected from the primary mirror in multiple channels; and one or more tertiary mirrors of common prescriptions, configured to reflect divergent light rays incident from the secondary mirror in multiple channels. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018614 | SOURCE-INDEPENDENT BEAM DIRECTOR AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A HIGH-ENERGY ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION SOURCE - A high-energy beam is precompensated by a process including receiving a high-energy beam from a source and energy from a target. The target energy includes wavefront aberrations related to atmospheric and other external disturbances encountered along a distance separating the target. A correction signal is determined responsive to the high-energy beam and the target energy. The correction signal is also configured to pre-compensate for wavefront aberrations related to the atmospheric and other external disturbances and to cancel aberrations introduced by the adaptive optics techniques. A wavefront of the outcoupled high-energy beam is adjusted responsive to the determined correction signal. A beam control system includes three adaptive optics servo loops and an aperture-sharing element. The arrangement is adapted to self-cancel internal optical-path-difference errors in the outcoupled beam and to pre-compensate the outcoupled beam according to a conjugate of the wavefront aberrations related to atmospheric and other external disturbances. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120017794 | PROJECTILE THAT INCLUDES AN UMBILICAL INTERFACE COVER - Some embodiments pertain to an example projectile that includes an enclosure and an umbilical interface that is exposed on the enclosure. The projectile further includes an umbilical interface cover attached to the enclosure such that the umbilical interface cover protects the umbilical interface. The umbilical interface cover includes a casing and a sensing system inside the casing. The sensing system monitors conditions that the projectile is exposed to until the umbilical interface cover is removed to expose the umbilical interface. The sensing system allows the umbilical interface cover to record data related to the conditions that the projectile is exposed to until the umbilical interface on the projectile is mated to a launcher's umbilical interface. The recorded data may provide valuable information in diagnosing why there was a projectile mission failure. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120015485 | LOW NOISE HIGH THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY MIXED SIGNAL PACKAGE - An improved microelectronic assembly ( | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120013895 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MULTIPLE FIELD-ANGLE OPTICAL ALIGNMENT TESTING - Various embodiments provide an optical alignment apparatus that includes a mirror structure having a plurality of mirrors, the mirror structure being configured for mounting a lens. The plurality of mirrors are arranged so as to redirect a collimated beam of radiation into the lens at different angles so as to measure one or more alignment parameter of the lens. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012691 | LIGHTPIPE FOR SEMI-ACTIVE LASER TARGET DESIGNATION - A semi-active laser (SAL) sensing system is provided that uses a lightpipe to pass received reflected laser light from an aperture to a detector. The lightpipe facilitates further miniaturization of the SAL sensing system by taking the place of a larger lens system that would otherwise be required. For example, the use of the lightpipe in a missile or guided projectile can facilitate the placement of the SAL sensing system with other sensors in the limited available space at the front of the missile. In one embodiment, the lightpipe is formed from cladded optical fibers that are bundled together, shaped, and fused together. The core material from the optical fibers are then dissolved away, leaving the outer cladding. This remaining outer cladding remains fused together, and maintains its shape, thus forming a lightpipe that can be used in a SAL sensing system. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012021 | GUN FIRED PROPELLANT SUPPORT ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR SAME - A gun fired projectile includes a rocket motor housing including a pressure chamber and an exhaust nozzle. A plurality of propellant cells are positioned within the pressure chamber. The rocket motor propellant is mechanically supported during the severe gun fire event. This support may take several forms, each of which is discussed herein. The projectile further includes a support structure including one or more supports: wherein each of the one or more supports is engaged with the rocket motor housing. Each of the one or more supports is engaged with one propellant cell of the plurality of propellant cells, and each of the one or more supports suspends an individual propellant cell from the remainder of the plurality of propellant cells. All of these approaches provide the opportunity to tailor the performance of the rocket motor by combining a combination of propellant formulations and geometries to optimize the projectile performance. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120011361 | PROTECTING SENSITIVE EMAIL - According to one embodiment, a plurality of components are located within an appliance configured to send and receive email. The appliance receives an email and selects one or more policies to apply based on a designation indicating that the email communicates sensitive information. The policies determine whether to allow or block the email according to rules for assuring email. If the email is allowed, the appliance directs the email to one or more recipients. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010851 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF CONCEALED CARGO IN A VEHICLE BY CENTER OF MASS MEASUREMENT - A system and computer-implemented method for detecting concealed cargo and/or concealed passengers in a vehicle includes obtaining weight distribution data for the vehicle; obtaining vehicle loading data; measuring a center of mass of the vehicle to obtain an actual center of mass position of the vehicle; and executing one or more computer program modules configured to determined a predicted center of mass position of the vehicle using the obtained vehicle loading data and the obtained weight distribution data of the vehicle; compare the actual center of mass position of the vehicle with the predicted center of mass position of the vehicle; and provide a signal if the actual center of mass position of the vehicle departs from the predicted center of mass position of the vehicle by at least a predetermined threshold, the signal being representative of concealed cargo and/or concealed passengers in the vehicle. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120009735 | METHOD FOR PACKAGING SEMICONDUCTORS AT WAFER LEVEL - A method for packaging a plurality of semiconductor devices formed in a surface portion of a semiconductor wafer. The method includes: lithographically forming, in a first lithographically processable material disposed on the surface portion of the semiconductor wafer, device exposing openings to expose the devices and electrical contact pad openings to expose electrical contact pads for devices; and mounting a support having a rigid dielectric layer formed on a selected portion of the support, such rigid dielectric layer comprising a second lithographically processable material, such rigid material being suspended over the device exposing openings and removed from portions of the support disposed over the electrical contacts pads openings in the first lithographically processable material. The support is released and removed from the second lithographically processable material, leaving the second photolithographically processable material bonded to the first photolithographically processable material. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120008133 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HYPERSPECTRAL AND POLARIMETRIC IMAGING - Embodiments of a system and method for collecting hyperspectral and polarimetric data that are spatially and temporally coincident include a dispersive element configured to receive incident electromagnetic radiation. The dispersive element is configured to disperse a non-zero order of the electromagnetic radiation into its constituent spectra, which is directed to a first focal plane array, and may be read out as hyperspectral data. The dispersive element is also configured to reflect a zero order of the electromagnetic radiation, which is directed through a polarity discriminating element to a second focal plane array, which may be read out as polarimetric data. By synchronously reading out the first and second focal plane arrays, the hyperspectral and polarimetric data may be both spatially and temporally coincident. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120007773 | Processing Radar Return Signals To Detect Targets - In certain embodiments, an apparatus comprises range matched filters and a Doppler-acceleration matched filter system. The matched filters are configured to receive radar return signals detected by an antenna and range match filter the radar return signals to place the radar return signals into range cells. The Doppler-acceleration matched filter system is configured to Doppler-acceleration process the radar return signals in the range cells to facilitate identification of one or more targets. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120007650 | MULTIPLE E-PROBE WAVEGUIDE POWER COMBINER/DIVIDER - A power combiner/divider having a waveguide, a plurality of amplifiers disposed on a supporting structure, a plurality of probes, each one having a first end electrically coupled to an output of a corresponding one of the plurality of amplifiers and a second end projecting outwardly from the supporting structure and into the waveguide. The probes are disposed in a common region of the waveguide. The region has a common electric field maximum within the waveguide. A first portion of the probes proximate the sidewalls have lengths different from a second portion of the probes disposed in a region distal from the sidewalls of the waveguide. The waveguide is supported by the support structure. The power combiner is a monolithic microwave integrated circuit structure. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006971 | RADIATION-HARDENED ROIC WITH TDI CAPABILITY, MULTI-LAYER SENSOR CHIP ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR IMAGING - An integrated circuit for generating image data comprises a focal-plane array of unit cells, a controller, and a memory structure having a plurality of storage locations. Each unit cell may store charge based on detected photons. The controller may read a value based on the stored charge from at least some of the unit cells, and either add the read value to an existing value in the corresponding storage location when operating in frame-sum mode, or add the read value to an existing value in a shifted storage location when operating in time-delay integration (TDI) mode. This may allow faint objects as well as objects moving in the field-of-view of the focal-plane array to be observed. The integrated circuit may be fabricated from radiation-hardened CMOS technology and may be a layer of a sensor chip assembly. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006001 | SOLID PROPELLANT ROCKET MOTORS EMPLOYING TUNGSTEN ALLOY BURST DISCS AND METHODS FOR THE MANUFACTURE THEREOF - Embodiments of a solid propellant rocket motor are provided. In one embodiment, the solid propellant rocket motor includes a pressure vessel having a cavity therein, a solid propellant disposed within the cavity, a nozzle fluidly coupled to the cavity, and a tungsten alloy burst disc positioned proximate the nozzle. The tungsten alloy burst disc is configured to block gas flow through the nozzle when the tungsten alloy burst disc is intact and to fragment at a predetermined burst pressure. Embodiments of a method are further provided for manufacturing a burst disc. In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of forming a burst disc from a tungsten alloy. Embodiments of a burst disc are still further provided. In one embodiment, the burst disc includes an outer annular portion, and a central portion comprising a tungsten alloy. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120005719 | Proxy-Based Network Access Protection - In certain embodiments, a method includes receiving, at a proxy, a request for access to a network from an application on an endpoint. The method also includes determining, by the proxy, information about the application on the endpoint by examining one or more headers of the request received at the proxy from the application. The method further includes determining, by the proxy, whether the one or more headers comprise expected information based on the determined information about the application. In response to determining that the one or more headers do not comprise the expected information, the method includes denying, by the proxy, the request for access to the network. In addition, in response to determining that the one or more headers comprise the expected information, the method includes forwarding, by the proxy, the request to the network on behalf of the application. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120005581 | System and Method for Organizing, Managing and Running Enterprise-Wide Scans - Disclosed is a system and method for creating, organizing, and monitoring computer searches across a large number of networked computers. The system allows individual searches to be created and tailored depending upon specific objectives. Once established, the system permits the search parameters to be subsequently edited as needed. A graphical user interface (GUI) allows users to view established searches and to monitor searches once activated. Search results can also be tabulated by way of the GUI. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120005319 | Dynamic Modification of the Address of a Proxy - In certain embodiments, a method includes receiving, at a first address of a proxy, a first request for access to a network from an application on an endpoint and forwarding, by the proxy, the request to the network on behalf of the application from the first address of the proxy. The method also includes determining, by the proxy, to change the address of the proxy from the first address to a second address and determining, by the proxy, the second address. Even further, the method includes changing, by the proxy, the address of the proxy to the second address. Moreover, the method includes receiving, at the second address of the proxy, a second request for access to the network from the application. The method also includes forwarding, by the proxy, the second request to the network on behalf of the application from the second address of the proxy. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120005149 | EVIDENTIAL REASONING TO ENHANCE FEATURE-AIDED TRACKING - A process and system for enhancing tracking of one or more physical objects of interest within a search area updates track scores according to evidential reasoning. Predetermined information related to the underlying problem is stored in memory. An intermediate processor in communication between a tracking application and a reasoning engine determines for each tracked object of interest, a respective belief function, assigns an initial degree of belief, such that a component of the initial degree of belief is indicative of ignorance. Each respective belief function is forwarded to the reasoning engine. Further predetermined information related to the underlying problem indicative of a fusion network is also stored in memory and accessible to the reasoning engine. A belief supporting a respective identity for each of at least one tracked objects of interest is determined by the reasoning engine and returned to the tracking application through the intermediate processor. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120002876 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING AN ENHANCED RANK ORDER VALUE OF A DATA SET - The value of a median or other rank of interest in a dataset is efficiently determined. Each active bit of the dataset is serially processed to compute one bit of the output value from each bit of the input dataset. If any sample in the dataset has an active bit that differs from the determined output value for that bit, then that sample can be marked as no longer in consideration. After an active bit has been processed, the data for that bit may be discarded or subsequently ignored. These techniques allow the rank value to be efficiently determined using pipelined logic in a configurable gate array (CGA) or the like. Further implementations may be enhanced to compute clipped means, to identify “next highest” or “next lowest” values, to reduce quantization errors through less-significant bit interpolation, to simultaneously process multiple values in a common pipeline, or for any other purpose. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120002046 | Flip-Up Hands-Free Display Mount - According to one embodiment, a display mount includes a helmet-mountable interface, a display interface, a cam arm, and an adjustment mechanism. The helmet-mountable interface is configured to removably couple the display mount to a helmet. The display interface is configured to couple the display mount to a display. The cam arm is configured to position the display interface in a plurality of positions comprising a storage position and a display position. The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust, independent of the cam arm, a position of the display interface along an X-axis, a Y-axis and a Z-axis. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are each orthogonal to each other. The adjustment mechanism includes a locking mechanism configured to lock an adjusted position of the display interface, such that the display interface mechanically returns to the locked adjusted position when the display interface transitions from the storage position to the display position. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120001743 | Mine Personnel Carrier Integrated Information Display - In certain embodiments, a mine personnel carrier includes an integrated information display and one or more processing units. The processing units may access life support data from devices associated with a life support subsystem of a mine personnel carrier. The life support subsystem provides breathable air to passengers of the mine personnel carrier, and the life support data indicates a remaining level of air available via at least a portion of the life support subsystem. The processing units access guidance data from guidance devices associated with a guidance subsystem of the mine personnel carrier. Each guidance device can detect entities within a detection range of the guidance device. The processing units initiate display in the integrated information display of at least a portion of the life support data and the guidance data. The integrated information display comprises a unified electronic display of the mine personnel carrier. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000208 | LONG LIFE SEAL AND ALIGNMENT SYSTEM FOR SMALL CRYOCOOLERS - In one embodiment, a compressor includes a moving assembly configured to compress a gas within a compression volume; a guide rod connected to the moving assembly which reciprocates axially with the moving assembly; and a bellows seal positioned between the moving assembly and a stationary housing which at least partially defining the compression volume. In another embodiment, a compressor includes a motor assembly configured to compress a gas within a compression volume, the motor assembly including: a stationary coil assembly; a moving assembly having at least one magnet, and a gap located between the stationary coil assembly and the moving assembly; wherein the moving assembly is configured to reciprocate axially with respect to the stationary coil assembly when electrical current is applied to the stationary coil assembly, and to change the width of the gap between the stationary coil assembly and the moving assembly so as to provide magnetic axial stiffness against motion of the moving assembly. One or more embodiments may be used in a cryocooler assembly. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000024 | AUTOMATED CAMERA CLEANING SYSTEM - Embodiments of an automated camera cleaning system are provided. In one embodiment, the automated camera cleaning system includes an optical path, an optically-transmissive lens shield through which the optical path extends, a housing in which the optically-transmissive lens shield is at least partially disposed, and a motor coupled to the lens shield. When energized, the motor moves the optically-transmissive lens shield relative to the housing to vary the region of the optically-transmissive lens shield positioned in the optical path. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110320501 | TRANSLATING A BINARY DATA STREAM USING BINARY MARKUP LANGUAGE (BML) SCHEMA - In one aspect, a method includes defining a schema using binary markup language (BML) and storing the schema on a non-transitory machine readable medium and translating a binary data stream using the schema. In another aspect, an article includes a non-transitory machine-readable medium that stores executable instructions. The instructions cause a machine to define a schema using the BML, store the schema on a non-transitory machine readable medium and translate a binary data stream using the schema. In a further aspect, an apparatus includes circuitry to define a schema using the BML, store the schema on a non-transitory machine readable medium and translate a binary data stream using the schema. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110317793 | WAVEFORM GENERATOR IN A MULTI-CHIP SYSTEM - In one aspect, an integrated circuit (IC) system includes a receiver IC configured to receive a first clock signal and includes a feedback circuit configured to provide a feedback signal to a driver IC. The IC system also includes the driver IC configured to receive a second clock signal and includes a waveform generator configured to provide synthesized waveforms from DC to K-band, a serializer/deserializer (SERDES) to receive data from the waveform generator and to provide the signal to the receiver IC and a phase selection circuit to provide a phase selection signal to the first integrated circuit based on the feedback signal. The phase selection signal calibrates the signal from the SERDES and provides phase correction to the SERDES. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110317033 | Image Processing Utilizing Spatially-Displaced Image Data - According to certain embodiments, alpha image data of an alpha frame corresponding to an alpha portion of a scene is accessed. Beta image data of a beta frame corresponding to a beta portion of the scene is accessed. The alpha frame and the beta frame have an overlapping region. Alpha-beta pairs are generated for the overlapping region. Each alpha-beta pair comprises an alpha value of the alpha image data and a beta value of the beta image data that both correspond to the same portion of the scene. A function is applied to each alpha-beta pair to determine first frame image data for the overlapping region. The first frame image data comprises information to generate a first frame of the scene. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110316689 | Systems and Methods for Detecting and Geo-Locating Hazardous Refuse - The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for scanning refuse (garbage, trash) from a large geographic area to detect the presence of hazardous materials in the refuse. Hazardous material may comprise CBRNE agents, components of terrorist devices, environmental pollutants and toxins and illegal drugs and may include trace particulates of such agents as well as by-products thereof. Systems and methods, according to some embodiments, may further comprise geo-locating to a small geographic area the origin of hazardous material. Accordingly, in some embodiments the disclosure provides systems and methods to geo-locate facilities or addresses where hazardous materials are generated, thereby geo-locating facilities that make terrorist devices, sources of environmental pollutants and/or sources of illegal drugs. According to some embodiments, systems and methods of the disclosure enable focusing efforts of law enforcement authorities to identify terrorists, drug activities and/or environmental offenders to small geographic areas (e.g. a street address). | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110316594 | CHIP INTERFACE - In one aspect, an integrated circuit (IC) system includes a receiver IC configured to receive a first clock signal and includes a feedback circuit to provide a feedback signal to a driver IC. The system also includes the driver IC configured to receive a second clock signal and includes a phase selection circuit configured to provide a phase selection signal to the receiver IC based on the feedback signal. The phase selection signal controls the data received by the receiver IC by adjusting the first clock signal. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315354 | MULTIPLE LIQUID LOOP COOLING FOR ELECTRONICS - The present invention relates to liquid cooling systems and more particularly to a liquid cooling system for an electrical system on an air-cooled platform. In one embodiment of the invention, a liquid-cooled system for a platform with air cooling includes an electrical system comprising first and second electrical components; a cooling unit comprising an air flow path, a first heat exchanger in the air flow path, and a second heat exchanger in the air flow path downstream of the first heat exchanger; a first liquid loop passing through the first heat exchanger and the first electrical component; and a second liquid loop passing through the second heat exchanger and the second electrical component. The first liquid loop is substantially thermally isolated from the second liquid loop. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110314536 | System and Method for Testing Functionality of a Firewall - Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for testing functionality of a firewall. The testing the functionality of the firewall can include a method. The method can include selecting a plurality of valid message types, generating a percentage of valid and invalid messages from the plurality of valid message types, transmitting the plurality of valid and invalid messages to the firewall, receiving an indication of the firewall's handling of valid and invalid messages based on the transmitted message, and determining the functionality of the firewall from the received indication. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309982 | RECEIVING STATION AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING AN ANGLE-OF-ARRIVAL OF SHORT-DURATION SIGNALS USING SURFACE-ACOUSTIC-WAVE (SAW) DEVICES - Embodiments of a system and method for determining an angle-of-arrival (AOA) of signals received from a transmitting device are shown. Signals from the transmitting device are received through two or more pairs of spatially-diverse antennas. A non-inverted version of the signals received through a first antenna of a pair is injected into a first input of a surface-acoustic-wave (SAW) device. An inverted version of the signals received through a second antenna of the pair is injected into a second input of the SAW device. Signals present at tap outputs are processed to determine a time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA) between the signals received through each pair of antennas. The AOA may be calculated from the TDOAs determined from two or more pairs of antennas. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309972 | Adaptive sidelobe blanking for motion compensation - A motion compensation method and system is included in a radar antenna system mounted on a moving platform which is subject to pitch, yaw and roll. The radar antenna system includes a main array antenna, and an auxiliary antenna. The auxiliary channel associated with the auxiliary antenna utilizes roll, pitch and yaw angle motion compensations as its auxiliary antenna always steers a horizontal fan shape beam at the horizon to blank any surface (land or sea) based EM interferences. Such motion compensations are provided by a ship motion compensator component and process included within the antenna system. The ship motion compensator component in response to platform motion signals indicative of changes in platform motion angles generates new sets of values using an initial set of weighting coefficient values as a function of such angle motion changes. This produces changes in both amplitude and phase weighting coefficient values which results in both the quadrant phase rotation and the element weighting rotation. The process steers and spreads out the received auxiliary antenna pattern making sidelobe coverage broad enough to compensate for such changes in platform motion. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308041 | Integrated Locking Hinge - A locking hinge that includes a first hinge element including a body defining a first hole and a second hinge element including a body defining a second hole. The locking hinge also includes a dowel assembled through the first hole in the first hinge element and the second hole in the second hinge element defining a hinge joint axis permitting translation of the second hinge element relative to the first hinge element along a first axis and a second axis, and rotation of the second hinge element relative to the first hinge element. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110305174 | Broad Propagation Pattern Antenna - An antenna includes a diplexer having a high pass filter coupled to first and second radiating elements and a low pass filter coupled to third and fourth radiating elements, the first and second radiating elements oriented in a different direction relative to the third and fourth radiating elements. Signals are transmitted to or receive from the first and second radiating elements with a greater intensity relative to the intensity with which the signals are transmitted to or received from the third and fourth radiating elements when the signal frequencies are above a low pass roll-off frequency of the low pass filter. Signals are transmitted to or received from the third and fourth radiating elements with a greater intensity relative to the intensity with which the signals are transmitted to or received from the first and second radiating elements when the signal frequencies are below a high pass roll-off frequency of the high pass filter. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110304515 | Antenna Coupled Radiation Sensor - According to one embodiment, a radiation sensor comprises a first pixel and a second pixel. The first pixel comprises a first plurality of antenna elements, a first photodetector, and one or more first feed lines coupling the first plurality of antenna elements to the first photodetector. The second pixel comprises a second plurality of antenna elements, a second photodetector, and one or more second feed lines coupling the second plurality of antenna elements to the second photodetector. The second pixel is an off-axis pixel. Signals feeding each of the second plurality of antenna elements are varied such that an effective radiation pattern of the second plurality of antenna elements is reinforced in a desired direction and suppressed in an undesired direction. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110299849 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SYNTHESIZING AND CORRECTING PHASE DISTORTIONS IN ULTRA-WIDE BANDWIDTH OPTICAL WAVEFORMS - In accordance with various aspects of the disclosure, a method, an apparatus and a system for characterizing and compensating for deterministic phase nonlinearities and distortion inherent in radio frequency and optical components utilized to synthesize a single sideband suppressed carrier optical waveform in the presence of random phase noise generated by an optical carrier source is disclosed. The method comprises mixing a modulated optical signal with a continuous wave optical signal in an optical coupler; optically heterodyning the mixed signal output from the optical coupler in a detector to produce a radio frequency waveform; and analyzing the produced radio frequency waveform in a processor based on a phase history of a preselected continuous wave signal to measure distortion characteristics of the radio frequency modulated optical signal. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298687 | LIGHTWEIGHT ANTENNA ATTACHMENT STRUCTURE - The present invention relates to lightweight antenna arrays and more particularly to an attachment mechanism for attaching a lightweight antenna array to a structure. In one embodiment, an antenna structure includes a platform having a first coefficient of thermal expansion; an antenna panel having a second coefficient of thermal expansion different from the first coefficient, and having first and second opposite ends; and a support structure mounting the panel to the platform. The support structure includes a first spacer element with a first height at the first end of the panel, and a second spacer element with a second height less than the first height between the first and second ends of the panel; a first adhesive layer adhering each spacer element to the platform; and a second adhesive layer adhering each spacer element to the antenna panel. A yield strength of the adhesive layers is less than a yield strength of the spacer elements. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298650 | Signature Matching Method and Apparatus - Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for signature matching. In some examples, the method for signature matching includes receiving a first target profile associated with a first data signal, the first data signal associated with a first target object; receiving a second target profile associated with a second data signal, the second data signal associated with the first target object or a second target object; generating a comparison distance utilizing a comparison distance function and based on a comparison of one or more data points associated with the first target profile and one or more data points associated with the second target profile; and determining a signature matching score based on the comparison distance. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295431 | TIME DOMAIN VIBRATION REDUCTION AND CONTROL - A vibration control system includes a mechanical system which generates vibration; a sensor configured to measure the vibration and generate a vibration signal thereof, and a processor configured: (a) receive a vibration signal from a sensor in a mechanical system; (b) model the vibration signal using a time-domain function; (c) adjust one of an amplitude coefficient and a phase coefficient of the modeled vibration signal; (d) output a control signal corresponding to the modeled vibration signal to the mechanical system so as to reduce the vibration; and (e) receive another vibration signal from the sensor. Steps (c)-(e) are repeated when the average value of the vibration signal is greater than a predetermined value. A method for vibration control is also disclosed. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295164 | Control Logic for Biomimetic Joint Actuators - A method of operating a biomimetic mechanical joint having a plurality of fractional actuators configured for rotating a support member about a pivot device. The fractional actuators can be selectively recruited during operation, either individually or together, to efficiently rotate the support member about the mechanical joint throughout a range of movements and under a variety of load conditions. Each fractional actuator can be continuously throttled to reduce the speed or torque at which the actuator operates. The capability of selectively recruiting and throttling each fractional actuator results in an actuator system having two degrees of freedom, in which a single operating state of the mechanical joint may be reached with one or more of actuator arrangements and throttling settings. The method of the present invention allows for selection from the available actuator arrangements and throttle settings according to predetermined operating modes such as high-efficiency, high-acceleration or general-purpose, etc. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291918 | Enhancing Vision Using An Array Of Sensor Modules - According to one embodiment, a method for enhancing vision for a vehicle includes recording external surroundings of the vehicle by a sensor array comprising a plurality of sensor modules including at least two different types of sensor modules, such that the sensor array is coupled to the exterior of the vehicle. The method further includes determining a field of view and one or more types of sensor modules to be displayed. The method further includes displaying the recorded external surroundings of the vehicle associated with the determined one or more types of sensor modules associated with the field of view to be displayed. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291907 | DROOPY BOWTIE RADIATOR WITH INTEGRATED BALUN - An antenna element and balun are described. The antenna includes a plurality of droopy bowtie antenna elements disposed on dielectric block and a feed point. The balun includes a central member having dielectric slabs symmetrically disposed on external surfaces thereof. At least one end of the balun is provided having a shape such that conductors on the dielectric slabs of the balun can be coupled to the the droopy bowtie antenna elements. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291877 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR NON-ISOTROPIC SEA CLUTTER MODELING - Methods and apparatus to provide computing, using a processor, sea clutter threshold bias values as a function of range and azimuth, receiving a first shape corresponding to a first region of sea clutter about a radar, combining the sea clutter threshold bias values with the first shape to provide non-isotropic sensitivity time control (STC) for the radar, and outputting radar return for display with sea clutter suppressed in the first shape. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290932 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NAVIGATING AN OBJECT - One example embodiment relates to a method of navigating an object. The method includes detecting when the object accelerates through the speed of sound and maneuvering the object based on when the object accelerates through the speed of sound. Another example embodiment relates to a system for navigating an object. The system includes a detector within the object. The detector determines when the object accelerates through mach one. The system further includes a guidance system within the object. The guidance system adjusts the flight of the object based on data received from the detector. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290140 | System and Method for Powered Bomb Guidance - According to one embodiment, a system of powered bomb guidance includes a munition and a guidance system operable to detect a relative position of a target. The guidance system determines course corrections to direct the munition to the target and generates a control signal reflective of the course corrections. One or more explosive guidance units are disposed at one or more control surfaces disposed along an outer surface of the munition. Each explosive guidance unit is mechanically coupled to one of a plurality of control surfaces and in electrical communication with the guidance system. Each explosive guidance unit is configured to detonate in response to receiving the control signal from the guidance system and is further configured to apply force upon detonation to the control surface to which it is coupled. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110289920 | SELF-CLEANING CARTRIDGE ACTUATED AND PROPELLANT ACTUATED DEVICES - In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes driving a piston by mechanically harnessing an explosion of energetic material contained in a cartridge. The method further includes releasing cleanser contained in the cartridge in response to the explosion of the energetic material. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110288904 | System, Method, and Software for Analyzing Maneuvers of an Application in a Distributed Computing Environment - In certain embodiments, an application maneuvering analysis tool accesses application characteristics information indicating one or more characteristics of an application for which a maneuver evaluation is desired. Using the accessed application characteristics information, the application maneuvering analysis tool determines a maneuverability index representing a maneuvering efficiency of the application and determines an implementation difficulty level according to the determined maneuverability index. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110286664 | PROVIDING A SYMBOL - In one aspect, a computer-implemented method of providing a symbol includes using a computer to receive a request to provide the symbol, retrieve an image based on the request, modify the image based on the request, convert the image to form the symbol and provide the symbol. In another aspect, an article includes a machine-readable medium that stores executable instructions to provide a symbol. The instructions cause a machine to receive a request to provide the symbol, retrieve an image based on the request, modify the image based on the request, convert the image to the symbol and provide the symbol. In a further aspect, an apparatus to provide a symbol includes circuitry to receive a request to provide the symbol, retrieve an image based on the request, modify the image based on the request, convert the image to the symbol and provide the symbol. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110281387 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A LASER GAIN MEDIUM HAVING A SPATIALLY VARIABLE GAIN PROFILE - Method of manufacturing a laser medium with a material having a surface and a dopant in the material distributed whereby the material has a spatially variant optical flux density profile uses tailored non-uniform gain profiles within a Yb:YAG laser component (rod, slab, disc, etc.) achieved by a spatial material modification in the spatially masked pre-forms. High temperature-assisted reduction leads to the coordinate-dependent gain profiles, which are controlled by the topology of the deposited solid masks. The gain profiles are obtained by reducing the charge state of the laser-active trivalent Yb | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278046 | TEMPERATURE TOLERANT COVER LAYER CONSTRUCTION - The present invention relates to flex cables, and more particularly to a temperature tolerant cover layer construction for a flex cable. In one embodiment, a flex cable designed to be bent to a particular curved shape includes one or more slits formed in the inner cover layer, to reduce the amount of material in the cover layer on the inside radius of the curve. By reducing the amount of cover layer material on the inside of the curve, the slits reduce the compressive stress in the cover layer. The slits are formed prior to laminating the flex cable so that upon lamination the flexible filler material below the cover layer fills the slits, providing a compliant, protective layer that bends into the desired curve and protects the active components inside the cable. The slits reduce the compressive stress along the inside cover layer and thereby prevent the cover layer from separating from the rest of the cable when the flex cable is subjected to high temperature conditions. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277032 | Time-Key Hopping - In certain embodiments, a first network device stores a security key associated with a second network device. The first network device computes access information according to the security key and a time value. The access information may be a network address or a port/socket. The first network device sends a packet to the second network device using the access information. The first network device then computes next access information according to the security key and a next time value and sends a packet to the second network device using the next access information. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110276588 | Query Builder System for Resource Description Framework Based Knowledge Stores - According to one embodiment, a computer-implemented method, includes accessing, by a computer system, a knowledge store that stores records structured according to a RDF specification. The method also includes, based on a drag-and-drop selection technique, receiving a first entry in a first query entry field. The first entry is selected from a group comprising one or more of the following: a first class of a plurality of classes, a first predicate of a plurality of predicates, a first instance of a plurality of instances, and a first text entry of a plurality of text entries. The method further includes generating a SPARQL query using at least the first entry. The method further includes transmitting the generated SPARQL query to the knowledge store. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110273228 | MULTIPLE E-PROBE WAVEGUIDE POWER COMBINER/DIVIDER - A power combiner/divider having a waveguide, a plurality of amplifiers disposed on a supporting structure, a plurality of probes, each one having a first end electrically coupled to an output of a corresponding one of the plurality of amplifiers and a second end projecting outwardly from the supporting structure and into the waveguide. The probes are disposed in a common region of the waveguide. The region has a common electric field maximum within the waveguide. A first portion of the probes proximate the sidewalls have lengths different from a second portion of the probes disposed in a region distal from the sidewalls of the waveguide. The waveguide is supported by the support structure. The power combiner is a monolithic microwave integrated circuit structure. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110270469 | UNIVERSAL MOUNTING SYSTEM FOR A HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICE - A universal mounting system for a handheld electronic device includes a handheld electronic device, a first mounting plate, and a second mounting plate. The handheld electronic device includes universal mounting members operable to mount to mounting plates. The first mounting plate includes first receiving members operable to detachably couple to the universal mounting members of the handheld electronic device. The first mounting plate also includes a fastener assembly operable to detachably couple the first mounting plate to a person. The second mounting plate includes second receiving members operable to detachably couple to the universal mounting members of the handheld electronic device. The second mounting plate also includes a connector assembly operable to attach the second mounting plate to a vehicle. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110267618 | PASSIVE REFLECTIVE TRACKING MEDIA COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR COVERTLY TRACKING OBJECTS - A passive reflective tracking media includes a plurality of multi-layer particles including at least one layer of a high refractive index material and at least one layer of a low refractive index material. The particles are configured to reflect ambient electromagnetic radiation at one or more signature wavelengths. Methods of applying the tracking media to a target object, detecting the tracking media, and fabrication the tracking media are also described. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110267615 | OPTICAL SPECTROMETER WITH WIDE FIELD OF VIEW FORE-OPTICS - Various embodiments provide an optical system including an optical spectrometer, a first negative power mirror configured and arranged to receive radiation from a far-field object, a second positive power mirror configured and arranged to receive radiation reflected by the first negative power mirror, and a third positive power mirror configured and arranged to receive radiation reflected by the second positive mirror and to direct the radiation towards an entrance slit of the optical spectrometer. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110267223 | System and Method for Resolving Ambiguity in Radar, Lidar, and Acoustic Systems - Range and Doppler ambiguities are common in radar, lidar, and acoustic systems. Resolving these ambiguities is important to achieve desirable geolocation and image quality performance in these systems. A new method is described to iteratively resolve the ambiguities. For Doppler ambiguity applications, a first PRF value and an initial Doppler frequency search window are selected. A new PRF is determined based on the ratio of the initial search window to the first PRF. The radar data of the first pair of PRF's is used to determine two modulo Doppler estimates. The modulo Doppler estimates are used to determine a new Doppler estimate with a confidence interval smaller than the first search window. The ratio of the new Doppler search window to the first PRF, is used to determine the next PRF. This process is iterated until the new Doppler search window is less than the first PRF. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110266397 | SOLAR THERMAL ROTORCRAFT - A vehicle includes a housing having a wall with a central port and radial port formed at a lower portion of the housing, a blower disposed within the housing to move air through the central port, a distributor coupled to the blower to distribute air inside the housing, a heat-absorbing body disposed within the housing to absorb thermal energy, and at least one arm coupled to the housing. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265614 | SUPPORT APPARATUSES FOR HAND-HELD TOOLS - Embodiments of support apparatuses for hand-held tools are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. In an embodiment, this support apparatus comprises a disk-shaped member having a hole through the disk-shaped member. The disk-shaped member is configured to fit around a hand-held tool having an axial shaft through the hole. The disk-shaped member is oriented substantially perpendicular to the axial shaft and is configured to support a side part of a palm of a hand. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110261191 | TEXTURED PATTERN SENSING AND DETECTION, AND USING A CHARGE-SCAVENGING PHOTODIODE ARRAY FOR THE SAME - A system for imaging a textured surface comprising includes a photoreceptor array having: at least a first photoreceptor and a second photoreceptor, each configured to receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from the textured surface and to generate a signal corresponding thereto; wherein the photoreceptor array is configured to detect an image of the textured surface based on the relative difference between the time of arrival of the signals from the first and second photoreceptors. Methods for imaging a textured surface and fabricating a photoreceptor array structure for imaging a textured surface are also provided. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259233 | EXPLODING FOIL INITIATOR ACTUATED CARTRIDGE - According to one embodiment, a cartridge includes a main explosive and an exploding foil initiator housed in a case. The exploding foil initiator includes metallic strips that are operable to initiate explosion of the main explosive in response to an electrical signal. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110258701 | Protecting A Virtualization System Against Computer Attacks - In certain embodiments, protecting a virtualization system against computer attacks comprises facilitating operation of hypervisors comprising operation zone hypervisors and one or more forensic hypervisors. Each hypervisor operates on a corresponding physical machine, and each operation zone hypervisor manages one or more virtual machines. An assurance procedure is initiated for the hypervisors. At least one virtual machine of a first operation zone hypervisor is moved to a forensic hypervisor to analyze the potential attack. The first operation zone hypervisor is cleaned. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110258187 | Relevance-Based Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Collection - In certain embodiments, a method for relevance-based open source intelligence (OSINT) collection includes accessing a request for information, determining a first data source associated with the request, and accessing a first data set collected from the first data source by a data collection component. The method further includes applying natural language processing to the first data set to generate a processed first data set and determining an aggregate relevance score associated with the first data source. The aggregate relevance is determined by determining a number of individual relevance scores associated with the first data source and aggregating the individual relevance scores. Each individual relevance score is determined based on a comparison of the processed first data set and a corresponding relevance criterion of a number of relevance criteria. The method further includes storing the aggregate relevance score associated with the first data source. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257956 | Modeling and Simulation of Power Environments - In certain embodiments, a system includes one or more memory modules and one or more processing units. The one or more processing units access configuration parameters for configuring models that are operable to simulate operation of a power environment. A first subset of the models models power environment elements of the power environment. A second subset of the models models one or more external information sources, including an environmental source providing environmental data. The one or more processing units initiate configuration of the models according to the configuration parameters, resulting in configured models, and access operating parameters indicating operating conditions for the models to simulate. The one or more processing units initiate execution by the configured models of a simulation of the power environment according to the operating parameters. The configured models interact to execute the simulation. The simulation indicates how the simulated power environment behaves according to the operating parameters. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257804 | Administration of Power Environments - In certain embodiments, a power administration system includes a memory module storing power management data for managing elements of a first power environment. The elements include a power system, one or more sensors, and one or more power consumers. One or more processing modules collect operational data for elements of the first power environment and translate the operational data from a first format to a first abstracted format associated with an abstraction layer for interacting with heterogeneous power environments. The processing modules collect external data from external information sources, including an environmental source providing environmental data, and translate the external data from a second format associated with a corresponding external information source to a second abstracted format associated with the abstraction layer. The processing modules update the power management data according to the translated operational data in the first abstracted format and the translated external data in the second abstracted format. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110255187 | Method and Apparatus for Pathlength Adjustment in an Optical System - A method and apparatus involve: routing first radiation and second radiation respectively having first and second wavelengths that are different along respective first and second optical paths; reflecting the first radiation with an optical component as the first radiation is traveling along the first optical path; and reflecting the second radiation with the optical component as the second radiation is traveling along the second optical path, the optical component causing a first optical path length traveled by the first radiation along the first optical path from arrival at to departure from the optical component to be shorter than a second optical path length traveled by the second radiation along the second optical path from arrival at to departure from the optical component. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253895 | Variable Aperture Mechanism Retention Device - According to one embodiment, an optical device includes a variable aperture mechanism configured on a structure having a radiation detector that receives radiation through an aperture of the variable aperture mechanism. The aperture is selectively movable from a first position to a second position in which the aperture has a different size relative to the aperture in the first position. The structure is configured with one or more magnets that function with one or more magnetically permeable members configured on the variable aperture mechanism to hold the variable aperture mechanism in at least one position using a magnetic force between the magnets and magnetically permeable members. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253026 | REMOTELY-TRIGGERED SUBMERGED LAUNCH CANISTERS - Embodiments of a submerged launch canister are provided for the remotely-initiated deployment of a waterborne object. In one embodiment, the submerged launch canister includes a pressure vessel and a remotely-triggered deployment system. The pressure vessel has an open end portion and a storage cavity configured to receive the waterborne object therein. The remotely-triggered deployment system is configured to propel the waterborne object from the storage cavity, through the open end portion, and into a body of water when remotely triggered. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253025 | REMOTELY-TRIGGERED SUBMERGED LAUNCH CANISTERS AND METHODS RELATING TO THE USAGE AND PREPARATION THEREOF - Embodiments of a method are provided for remotely deploying a waterborne object utilizing a submerged launch canister including a remotely-triggered deployment system. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of placing the remotely-triggered deployment system in a launch-ready state, and positioning the submerged launch canister within a body of water. In a further embodiment wherein the waterborne object assumes the form of an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle, the method includes the step of transmitting a wireless signal to the remotely-triggered deployment system to initiate launch of the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle after the submerged launch canister has been positioned on the seafloor. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110248796 | RF FEED NETWORK FOR MODULAR ACTIVE APERTURE ELECTRONICALLY STEERED ARRAYS - A feed network for an antenna subarray includes a first feed arrangement having an sum output, a second feed arrangement having an delta output, a fixed attenuator having a first port and a second port, the first port connected to the delta output of the second feed arrangement, a first power divider/combiner having a first and second port and a third port; the first port connected to the second port of the fixed attenuator, a variable phase shifter having a first port and a second port, the first port connected to the second port of the power divider/combiner, a variable attenuator having a first port and a second port, the first port connected to the second port of the variable phase shifter, a second power divider/combiner having a first and second port and a third port; the first port connected to the second port of the fixed attenuator, a first circulator having a first port, a second port and a third port, the first port connected to the sum output of the first feed arrangement, and a third power divider/combiner having a first and second port and a third port; the third port connected to the second port of the circulator and the second port connected to the second port of the variable attenuator. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110248280 | TRANSISTOR HAVING THERMO ELECTRON COOLING - A semiconductor structure having a transistor and a thermo electronic structure. The transistor has a control electrode for controlling a flow of carriers through a semiconductor layer between a pair of electrodes. The thermo electronic structure has a first portion disposed on at least one of the pair of electrodes and a second portion disposed over a region of the semiconductor layer proximate the control electrode between the control electrode and said at least one of the pair of electrode. The thermo electronic structure extends from the first portion to the second portion for removing heat generated heat from said region in the semiconductor layer. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110245996 | Vehicle Control Station with Back-Up VSM for Remotely Controlling an Unmanned Vehicle, and Method - According to one embodiment, a control station having a station processing system, a control system, a data link computing unit, a second data link and a back-up VSM (a second vehicle computing unit) is operable to communicate via an RF link with an unmanned vehicle having a first data link, a vehicle processing system, a first vehicle computing unit and a route control system. The control station being operable to communicate with the unmanned vehicle using a first protocol for messaging under normal operating conditions as well as through the use of a second protocol for messaging, initiated via the second vehicle computing unit, when either the vehicle processing system is inoperable, the vehicle computing unit is inoperable or when the second vehicle computing unit in the control station is directed to use the second protocol for messaging. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110242939 | ACTIVE SONAR SYSTEM AND ACTIVE SONAR METHOD USING A PULSE SORTING TRANSFORM - An active sonar system, a method associated therewith, and a computer-readable medium associate therewith, each provide a method of sonar signal processing. The method includes receiving a plurality of initial detections of a target and associated initial detection times, associated with sound transmitted at a pulse rate interval (PRI), and associated with received sound including echoes from a target. The echoes result from the transmitted sound. The method also includes analyzing the plurality of initial detection times with a pulse sorting transform configured to identify periodic PST detection times within the plurality of initial detection times that are equally spaced in time and that are representative of the echoes from the target. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110242285 | IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING PARTIAL-COHERENCE SPECKLE INTERFERENCE TOMOGRAPHY - A system for generating an image of contoured surface includes a light source that is configured to project an electromagnetic radiation beam onto the contoured surface, wherein the projected beam generates first radiation reflected from a first portion of the contoured surface to form a speckle pattern, and second radiation reflected from a second portion of the contoured surface which is substantially uniform in intensity. The reflected first and second reflected radiation is received by an optical detector, and may be processed. The processing is configured to (1) generate a plurality of images from the first and second reflected radiation, with each image being generated using different coherence length electromagnetic radiation from the light source, and (2) generate a 3-D image of the contoured surface from the plurality of images. Methods for generating a 3-D image of a contoured surface are also disclosed. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110241930 | System and Method of Using Image Grids in Detection of Discrete Objects - A sensor is used to identify detections of discrete objects in a search grid. An image grid of the detections is created. The image grid is analyzed to identify a pattern of detections. The pattern of detections is used to identify objects of interest. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110241018 | FABRICATING A GALLIUM NITRIDE DEVICE WITH A DIAMOND LAYER - In one aspect, a method includes fabricating a device. The device includes a gallium nitride (GaN) layer, a diamond layer disposed on the GaN layer and a gate structure disposed in contact with the GaN layer and the diamond layer. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240799 | Decoupling Mechanism for a Store - According to one embodiment, an aircraft pylon system comprises a pylon, a bail bar located within the pylon, an offset bracket assembly, and a lanyard release assembly. The offset bracket assembly comprises an elongated member configured to be placed around the bail bar within the pylon, a bracket coupled to the elongated member, and a lanyard-engaging member coupled to the bracket and offset from a longitudinal axis of the elongated member. The lanyard release assembly comprises a lanyard coupled to the lanyard-engaging member and a lanyard release connector coupled to the lanyard and releasably coupled to the store. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110239232 | PLATFORM-INDEPENDENT SIGNAL PROCESSING - In one aspect, a method includes using a processor to interface a first signal processing algorithm and a second signal processing algorithm with a platform by using an interface configured to interact with the platform and with the first and the second signal processing algorithms. The first signal processing algorithm and the second signal processing algorithm are each platform-independent. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110238603 | System and Method for Predicting Events Via Dynamic Ontologies - Disclosed is a system and method for determining the probability of an event occurring. The method involves developing models relating a number of factors and variables. The factors and variables can be unique to a specified field of endeavor, such as military security or epidemiology. The models can be ontological models. A rule set is then utilized to relate certain variables in the models to a specific event. The rule set can be embodied in a computer model, such as a Bayesian-Network. The system permits a user to query a knowledge store or database to acquire referent values for the rule set. Thereafter, the referent values are used to populate the rule set and compute the probability of the event occurring. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110236871 | Recombinant Knowledge Assimilation - In certain embodiments, a method includes accessing one or more content that each satisfy one or more parameters of a search request. The method further includes determining a plurality of knowledge components associated with the received one or more content objects, the plurality of content objects including a first knowledge component comprising a first discrete portion of information extracted from the one or more content objects and a second knowledge component comprising a second discrete portion of information extracted from the one or more content objects. The method further includes receiving first and second importance factors indicating the relative importance of the first and second knowledge components, respectively. The method further includes determining, based on the first and second importance factors, an association factor indicating the degree to which the first and second knowledge components are related to one another. The method further includes storing the first knowledge component, the second knowledge component, and the determined association as a new content object. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110235939 | System and Method for Enhancing Registered Images Using Edge Overlays - The system relates to a method for enhancing an image by extracting edge points from a corresponding image and overlaying the edge points on the image to be enhanced. In one aspect of the method, the first image is of a lower resolution than the second image. The method also contemplates enhancing an image taken with a first modality with a second image taken with another modality. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110235871 | TEXTURED PATTERN SENSING USING PARTIAL-COHERENCE SPECKLE INTERFEROMETRY - A system for imaging a textured surface includes a light source that is configured to project an electromagnetic radiation beam onto the textured surface, wherein the projected beam generates first radiation reflected from a first portion of the textured surface to form a speckle pattern, and second radiation reflected from a second portion of the textured surface which is substantially uniform in intensity. The reflected first and second reflected radiation is received by an optical detector, and may be processed to generate an image of the textured surface from the first and second reflected radiation. Methods for textured surface sensing are also disclosed. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110235573 | MOBILE AD HOC NETWORK CONFIGURED AS A VIRTUAL INTERNET PROTOCOL NETWORK - According to one embodiment, a method for facilitating communication of a MANET is provided. A MANET may include a plurality of nodes configured as a virtual IP network. The virtual IP network may comprise a plurality of physical paths of the MANET. The physical paths may couple an IP network to an IP node. Each physical path may traverse a distinct set of nodes of the MANET. The physical paths may be represented to the IP network as a logical path comprising one or more virtual IP nodes. | 09-29-2011 |
