| The Boeing Company Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120134682 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CLEARING AN OPTICAL CHANNEL - A method and apparatus for clearing an optical channel for transmitting data through free space between a first and second location includes a light beam, wherein the light beam has a spatially and/or time-dependent modulated intensity profile, and is substantially collimated so that the intensity profile is conserved over a specified distance of operation. The light beam includes a cross-sectional profile having regions of low and high intensity, portions of which are provided for the transmission of an optical data signal. A light source wavelength and intensity are selected for types of obscurant particles having optical properties whereby the radiation pressure acts on the particles, and the particles may then be either attracted into or repelled from portions of the spatially modulated optical beam, leaving certain portions of the optical channel beam absent of obscurant particles, thereby enabling transmission of optical data through the cleared optical channel with low attenuation. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120134237 | Unattended Ground Sensors - The present disclosure relates to unattended ground sensors for detecting the presence of a pedestrian or vehicle in a monitored area using seismic sensors. Networks of simple and inexpensive sensors are disclosed that may be rapidly deployed. The networks may be formed from a dense array of low cost ground sensors having low sensitivity. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120130624 | Methods and Systems for Filtering Traffic Information for Display - A method and a system for displaying an airport or runway moving map with traffic information on a display screen in the cockpit or flight deck of an aircraft. Symbology representing surface and near-surface aircraft and surface vehicle traffic and associated traffic data are filtered to prevent or limit clutter on the display screen. Traffic symbology is automatically and manually filtered to display only relevant traffic. Traffic data is selectively displayed and displayed as/when relevant or needed. The displayed traffic information may be derived from automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast, traffic information system-broadcast, automatic dependent surveillance-rebroadcast, traffic collision avoidance system or other source. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120129448 | REPEATER DESIGN AND VERIFICATION TOOL - The performance of a repeater path may be predicted by identifying the parameters of a transmitting earth, a receiving earth station, and the component performance parameters of at least one of the gain, loss and noise figure of at least one of repeater components in the repeater path. The component performance parameters, the transmitting and receiving earth station parameters, and the predicted repeater performance may be communicated and/or displayed via a graphical user interface. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126055 | HYDRAULIC ACTUATOR FOR SEMI LEVERED LANDING GEAR - A device including a first hydraulic piston, a second hydraulic piston disposed within the first hydraulic piston, and a third hydraulic piston disposed within both the first hydraulic piston and the second hydraulic piston. The first, second, and third hydraulic pistons are contained within a common outer wall. A manifold is connected to the first, second, and third hydraulic pistons. The manifold is disposed relative to the first, second, and third hydraulic pistons such that a fluid moving in the manifold can control positions of the first, second, and third hydraulic pistons. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125534 | Methods and Apparatus for Void-Free Debulking of Adhesive Bonded Joints - Methods and apparatus for fabricating adhesive bonded joints while minimizing the voids and/or porosity found in the cured bondline. In accordance with various embodiments, the apparatus comprises an evacuation chamber combined with a pressure inducing device to produce bonded joints that are both void free and thoroughly compacted. The surfaces to be bonded are continuously evacuated throughout the bonding process (pre-mating, mating, debulking and cure). Continuous evacuation is provided via standard vacuum, while the induced pressure can be pneumatically or mechanically provided. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125392 | TYPE-II HIGH BANDGAP TUNNEL JUNCTIONS OF InP LATTICE CONSTANT FOR MULTIJUNCTION SOLAR CELLS - A type-II tunnel junction is disclosed that includes a p-doped AlGaInAs tunnel layer and a n-doped InP tunnel layer. Solar cells are further disclosed that incorporate the high bandgap type-II tunnel junction between photovoltaic subcells. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120124963 | METHOD OF VARYING A FAN DUCT NOZZLE THROAT AREA OF A GAS TURBINE ENGINE - A method of varying a fan duct nozzle throat area of a gas turbine engine includes pivoting a fan nozzle outwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the gas turbine engine. The fan nozzle is configured to move axially non-contemporaneously with the pivoting of the fan nozzle. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120124962 | METHOD OF VARYING A FAN DUCT THROAT AREA - A method of varying a fan duct throat area of a gas turbine engine may include non-pivotably moving a fan nozzle outwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the gas turbine engine during axially aft translation of the fan nozzle without activating a thrust reverser. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120123740 | Zero Phase Real Time Filtering with a Recurrence Matrix - Processing of a signal includes identifying a past recurring pattern in the signal with a recurrence matrix, and filtering the signal and the recurring pattern such that the recurring pattern serves as a representation of future signal behavior. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119023 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING AIRCRAFT NOISE - An arrangement for an aircraft includes a fuselage, a wing, and a propulsor. The wing may have a wing upper surface, a rear spar and a wing trailing edge. The propulsor may include at least one rotor having a rotor diameter and a rotor axis. The propulsor may be mounted such that the rotor is located longitudinally between the rear spar and the wing trailing edge. The propulsor may also be mounted such that a lowest point of the rotor diameter is located vertically above the wing upper surface. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119022 | APPLICATION OF INSULATING COATING - Systems and methods for discontinuously applying an insulating primer to a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) component are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for mitigating electrical surface discharges from a CFRP component includes first applying an insulating primer to a metallic component. Next, an insulating primer is applied discontinuously to the CFRP component adjacent the metallic component. The discontinuous application of the insulating primer forms a primed portions and unprimed portions. The unprimed portions are configured to enable electrostatic dissipation. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118212 | LOAD REDUCING STORES LAUNCH TUBE - Apparatuses, vehicles, and methods to reduce loads applied to a store when the store is launched from the vehicle are disclosed. A particular apparatus includes a launch chamber and a flap. The launch chamber has a first portion configured to receive a store. A second portion is configured to be positioned over an opening in a hull of a vehicle. The chamber has a forward end and an aft end. The flap is positioned a distance from the aft end of the launch chamber. The flap has a first end rotatably mounted proximate to the first portion of the launch chamber and has a second end extending toward the second portion of the launch chamber. The flap is configured to rotate about the first end when the store impacts the flap due to the forces applied to the store by the fluid when the store is launched. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120116611 | Managing Control Surfaces for an Aircraft - A method and apparatus for managing a number of control surfaces for an aircraft. A current configuration for the number of control surfaces for the aircraft is identified during flight of the aircraft. A selected point in time at which the current configuration for the number of control surfaces is to be changed to a new configuration for the number of control surfaces is identified. A portion of time relative to the selected point in time during which the current configuration for the number of control surfaces is to be changed to the new configuration is identified based on a difference between a current amount of energy for the aircraft and an expected amount of energy for the aircraft. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114439 | STRINGER CRAWLER WITH ATTACHMENT MECHANISM - A crawler assembly includes an attachment mechanism that is removably attachable to a stringer. The stringer has a vertical web and a longitudinal axis. The crawler assembly includes a longitudinal slider that is engageable to the attachment mechanism and having a normalizing mechanism disposable in bearing contact against the vertical web for maintaining an orientation of the longitudinal slider relative to the stringer. The longitudinal slider is movable along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The crawler assembly includes a lateral slider that is mountable to the longitudinal slider and is movable along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The lateral slider includes a drill bushing. The longitudinal and lateral sliders cooperate to move the drill bushing to at least one predetermined hole location. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120110816 | Engine Loading System - A method and apparatus for moving an engine. The engine may be moved in a cradle with respect to a location on an aircraft using a movement system associated with the cradle. A position of the cradle with respect to the movement system and the location on the aircraft may be changed using an adjustment system associated with the movement system. The engine may be connected to the location after changing the position of the cradle. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120109585 | Method and System to Account for Angle of Attack Effects in Engine Noise Shielding Tests - There is provided a method to account for aircraft angle of attack effects in engine noise shielding in aircraft configurations having one or more engines mounted above a wing or a lifting body. The method includes computing a local flow field from a known standard full aircraft configuration oriented at a nonzero angle of attack. The method further includes computing a mean flow field in a test dataset from a small scale aircraft model test configuration oriented at a zero angle of attack. The method further includes matching the local flow field with the mean flow field to identify a selected noise measurement dataset. The method further includes rotating the selected noise measurement dataset in a far field directivity rotation angle to match the nonzero angle of attack, thus resulting in engine noise shielding results for the full aircraft configuration at the nonzero angle of attack. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120104182 | PNEUMATIC CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AERODYNAMIC SURFACES - A flight control system for an airfoil comprises a control surface, a chamber connecting the control surface to the airfoil, and a pneumatic mechanism fluidly connected to the chamber. The chamber may be comprised of at least two cells that may be fluidly separated by a membrane. The pneumatic mechanism is configured to provide differential pressure to the cells in order to alternately increase volume/pressure of the cells to cause deflection of the control surface. The cells may have a stretchable outer surface to allow for changes in the length of the outer surface in response to inflation/deflation of the cells. The outer surface of the cells may be substantially continuous with outer mold lines of the airfoil and of the control surface. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103530 | ONE-PIECE INNER SHELL FOR FULL BARREL COMPOSITE FUSELAGE - A mandrel for manufacturing a unitary seamless section of an aircraft fuselage comprises a thin lay-up mandrel element disposed onto the outer shell surface of an inner mandrel shell, forming a mandrel with a substantially continuous lay-up surface. A unitary pre-cured section of an aircraft fuselage is formed by laying up a plurality of resin impregnated skin fibers onto the mandrel's lay-up surface while the mandrel rotates. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120101639 | Microgrid Control System - A method, apparatus, and computer program product is provided for configuring a microgrid. A first configuration of the microgrid having a set of microgrid elements is initialized. An address for each element in the set of microgrid elements of the microgrid is verified. In response to receiving status data from the set of microgrid elements connected in a peer-to-peer network indicating a reconfiguration of the microgrid, the set of microgrid elements is re-aligned to form a second grid configuration. The second grid configuration is executed. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097321 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING NOISE IN AIRCRAFT FUSELAGES AND OTHER STRUCTURES - Systems and methods for reducing noise in aircraft fuselages and other structures are described herein. A noise reduction system configured in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes an auxetic core, a damping layer, and a constraining layer. A method for manufacturing a structural assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the invention includes forming a stiffener by positioning a first ply of composite material against a first tool surface, positioning damping material against the first ply, and positioning a second ply of composite material against the damping material to sandwich the damping material between the first and second plies. The method can further include forming a skin by positioning a third ply of composite material against a second tool surface offset from the first tool surface, and attaching the stiffener to the skin by co-curing the first, second and third plies of composite material. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120092849 | QUANTUM DOT ILLUMINATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - The present disclosure relates to illumination devices and methods of generating light for extended periods of time without requiring an outside source of power, recharging, refueling or maintenance. The devices of the present disclosure comprise a plurality of quantum dots and a radioisotope, and may be used in numerous ways, for example, for the marking critical areas or paths, for the illumination of pathways in aircraft, ships, trains, buildings, and other facilities where these routes must be precisely delineated or identified for safety reasons, for the inclusion of signs or other indicia that must be illuminated at all times, as well as many military uses, such as for the demarcation of temporary airfields for fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters or for IFF (identification friend or foe). | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091716 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AC POWER FROM MULTIPLE TURBINE ENGINE SPOOLS - Systems and methods for providing AC power from multiple turbine engine spools are disclosed. An aircraft system in a particular embodiment includes an engine having a first shaft connected and a second shaft. The aircraft system can further include a bus system and a first energy converter including a starter/generator, coupled between the first shaft and the bus system to convert a first variable frequency energy transmitted by the first shaft to a first generally constant frequency energy. A second energy converter can be coupled between the second shaft and the bus system, with the second energy converter including a generator to convert a second variable frequency energy transmitted by the second shaft to a second generally constant frequency energy. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091273 | Low Profile Cargo Handling System - Different advantageous embodiments provide a method and apparatus to increase a clearance of a cargo area of an aircraft. The apparatus and method may comprise an aircraft with a cargo area. A tray system may have a plurality of segment trays with each segment tray positioned between a plurality of floor beams located underneath a surface of the floor of the cargo area. A plurality of rollers in the tray system may be configured to allow an object to be moved across the cargo area. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091270 | AIRCRAFT CONFIGURATION - An aircraft configuration that may reduce the level of roaring jet exhaust noise, infrared radiation, sonic boom, or combination thereof directed towards the ground from an aircraft in flight. The aircraft's nacelles are mounted to the aircraft higher than the wings, with substantially vertical stabilizers outboard of the outermost engine. Noise shifting means are provided such as, for each nacelle, primary chevrons at the core nozzle, secondary chevrons at the fan nozzle, a partial bypass mixer, a long duct full flow mixer, or a combination thereof to provide a shift in spectrum distribution of jet exhaust noise from lower to higher frequency. Variable geometry chevrons may be used with increased immersion to provide such a shift just during noise-restricted portions of an aircraft flight profile. The aircraft aerodynamic structural surfaces serve as noise shielding barriers that more effectively block or redirect the frequency shifted noise up and away from communities. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091262 | FORWARD SWEPT WINGLET - An aircraft may include a pair of wings. A forward swept winglet may be attached proximate to a wing tip of each wing. The forward swept winglet may include a leading edge and a trailing edge. The leading edge of each winglet may extend from the wing at a predetermined forward sweep angle relative to a line perpendicular to a chord of the wing tip in a direction corresponding to a forward portion of the aircraft. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120088063 | TRANSPARENT COMPOSITES WITH ORGANIC FIBER - A composite article comprises a substantially transparent matrix and at least one substantially transparent organic fiber embedded within the matrix. The matrix and the organic fiber may have substantially equivalent refractive indices within a wavelength band of interest. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120086613 | Antenna Support Bracket - A method and apparatus comprising a planar member and a number of support members. The planar member may be configured to be attached to an airframe of an aircraft. The number of support members may be configured to connect the number of antennas to the planar member. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120085426 | RAPID RESPONSE SELF-CLOSING PRESSURE EQUALIZATION VENT - A rapid response self-closing pressure equalization vent employs a frame supported in a compartment divider and a movable vent portion having a periphery sealingly engaging the frame in a closed position. Multiple resilient extension elements are attached to the frame and engage the movable vent portion for even displacement around a periphery of the movable vent portion relative to the frame to an open position responsive to a pressure differential on the movable vent portion. The resilient extension elements retract upon equalization of the pressure differential to reseat the movable vent portion in the frame. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120085147 | Method and System for Monitoring for the Presence of Phosphate Esters in Jet Fuel - There is provided a method of monitoring for the presence of phosphate esters in jet fuel. The method comprises obtaining from a jet fuel source a jet fuel test sample suspected of containing phosphate esters. The method further comprises combining the jet fuel test sample with a polar solvent and a nonpolar solvent to form a mixture. The method further comprises agitating the mixture. The method further comprises extracting the polar solvent from the mixture. The method further comprises performing a combined gas chromatography and mass spectrometer analysis of the polar solvent to monitor for the presence of any phosphate esters and to obtain an actual concentration level of any phosphate esters. The method further comprises comparing the actual concentration level of any phosphate esters with a calibration standard concentration of phosphate esters in clean jet fuel. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120084839 | SURVEILLANCE NETWORK SYSTEM - Embodiments of a sensor network system provide surveillance capabilities in multiple contexts/environments (e.g., military, commercial, scientific, civic, urban, wilderness, etc.). Network nodes may include devices such as sensors, network routers, network controllers, etc. Network sensors may be configured so that power management objectives are maximized. Network sensors (both individually and as a group) may be capable of intelligent and cooperative information gathering, so that the output of the sensor network does not contain high levels of irrelevant information. The network nodes may communicate among one another via one or more communication links, and in some cases, multiple routes between any two network nodes may be available. The sensor network may include aspects of both high data rate and low data rate network features. One or more network controllers may provide various network management capabilities, including management of network routing, information collection, information exportation, network configuration, etc. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120083997 | Tailored Arrivals Allocation System Clearance Generator - The different advantageous embodiments provide a method for generating an integrated aircraft clearance. Flight information, preference information, environmental information, and constraints are retrieved from a number of sources. The flight information includes at least one of flight plan information, flight scheduling information, flight status information, and environmental information. The flight information is processed against the preference information, the environmental information, and the constraints. A clearance solution is generated for an aircraft based on the flight information, the preference information, the environmental information and the constraints. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120083946 | TAILORED ARRIVALS ALLOCATION SYSTEM TRAJECTORY PREDICTOR - The different advantageous embodiments provide a system for generating trajectory predictions for a flight comprising a flight object manager and a trajectory predictor. The flight object manager is configured to generate flight information using a number of flight plans, a number of flight schedules, and flight status information. The trajectory predictor is configured to receive flight information from the flight object manager and use the flight information to generate the trajectory predictions. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120082527 | SEAT TRACK AND MONUMENT ATTACH FASTENER - A blind fastener employs a split bolt element having two symmetrical half sections split at mating separation faces and cooperatively displaceable between a first collapsed position and a second expanded position. A capture portion split bolt has a substantially circular plan form in the fist collapsed position with a diameter which is received through an attachment hole in a structural member. A bearing section and a threaded portion both have a substantially circular plan form in the second expanded position while the capture portion has compression surfaces extending with an elliptical major axis greater than the hole diameter in the extended second position to engage a bottom surface surrounding the attachment hole. The bearing section closely engages the attachment hole in the expanded position. A wedge separator element is insertable between the half sections to expand them from the first collapsed position to the second expanded position. A nut is threadably received on the threaded portion and engages a lip on a mounting aperture in a monument to be attached to the supporting structure. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120081540 | AUTOMATED VISUAL INSPECTION SYSTEM - A method and apparatus for inspecting an object. In response to a presence of the object in an inspection area, a volume containing the object is identified. The volume has a plurality of portions. A number of sensor systems is assigned to the plurality of portions of the volume. Each sensor system in the number of sensors systems is assigned to a number of portions in the plurality of portions of the volume based on whether each sensor system is able to generate data with a desired level of quality about a surface of the object in a particular portion in the plurality of portions. Data about the surface of the object is generated using the number of sensor systems assigned to the plurality of portions of the volume. A determination is made as to whether a number of inconsistencies is present on the surface of the object using data. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080940 | Load Coordinating Power Draw for Limited Ampacity Circuits - Presented is a system and method for coordinating power usage of electrical devices on a power bus. In an embodiment, the system includes a power bus, a first electrical device that is able to intermittently draw power from the power bus, a second electrical device that is able to intermittently draws power from the power bus, and a means for sensing when the second electrical device is intermittently drawing power. When the second electrical device is intermittently drawing power, the first electrical device is inhibited from drawing power from the power bus. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080135 | Systems and Methods for On-Aircraft Composite Repair Using Double Vacuum Debulking - An in-situ double vacuum debulk (DVD) composite repair system designed to produce partially or fully cured autoclave-quality hot-bond composite repairs on contoured structures. The system provides vacuum pressure for hot bond repairs to be performed on flat and contoured structures using one set-up capable of debulking (partially curing) and then fully curing composite repairs on composite and metallic aircraft structures. The use of in-situ DVD also eliminates handling of the patch/adhesive when transferring from an off-aircraft DVD chamber to the repair site on the aircraft. This can increase the probability of successful repairs because the possibility of contaminating and misaligning the adhesive and repair patch are eliminated. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120078540 | Airspeed Sensing System for an Aircraft - The different advantageous embodiments provide an apparatus and method for identifying an airspeed for an aircraft. In one advantageous embodiment, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus consists of a plurality of pitot-static probes. The plurality of pitot-static probes generate a first data. The apparatus also consists of a plurality of angle of attack sensor systems. The plurality of angle of attack sensor systems generate a second data. The apparatus also consists of a plurality of light detection and ranging sensors. The light detection and ranging sensors generates a third data. The apparatus also consists of a signal consolidation system configured to detect errors in the first data generated by the plurality of pitot-static probes, the second data generated by the plurality of angle of attack sensor systems, and the third data generated by the plurality of light detection and ranging sensors. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120078446 | Integrated Upsampler and Filtering for Multi-Rate Controller for Electro-Mechanical Flight Actuation System - Presented is a system and method for controlling an actuator in a multirate control system using an integrated upsampler and filter, comprising an incremental command limiter for changing a command from a first control system into a limited incremental command in a second control system, a lead-lag filter for filtering the limited incremental command to attenuate high frequencies, and a feed forward path for reducing phase loss in rate output signal at low frequencies. In embodiments, a command position signal received at the sampling rate of the first control system is interpolated into incremental command position signals at the sampling rate of the second control system. Position error signals and rate error signals from the devices being controlled are used as feedback to further stability the control loops. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120077465 | VOICE MESSAGING PRIORITIZATION - A voice radio communication system prioritizes radio voice communications so that higher priority voice transmission is given precedence. The communication system comprises a transmitter that inserts a digital watermark into a voice communication. Software in a receiver decodes the digital watermark to determine a priority requested by the sender, and other information about the sender and the message. The software determines the message priority based on multiple factors. Voice transmissions are digitally recorded and played in order of priority. Options exist for the user to control the playback. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120075399 | Printing methods and systems - A method for depositing a substance on a real surface of a real object comprises tracking position of an output device on the real surface as the output device is being moved over the real surface. The output device includes a substance-depositing device. The method further comprises using a computer-generated representation of the real surface and extruded surfaces normal to the representation surface at locations where the substance should be deposited; indicating a corresponding tracked position of the output device on the representation surface; and commanding the output device to deposit a substance on the real surface whenever the tracked position on the representation surface crosses an extruded surface. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120075089 | Tire Monitoring in Vehicles - An apparatus, method, and computer program product for monitoring a tire are provided. An apparatus comprises a laser system comprising a number of lasers configured to identify a radius of a tire of a vehicle located on a ground, wherein a laser in the number of lasers is associated with an axle of the tire. The apparatus also comprises a tire monitoring system configured to identify a set of acceptable radii for the tire using a weight of the vehicle and information about the tire, determine whether the radius of the tire is within the set of acceptable radii, and generate an indication that the radius of the tire is not within the set of acceptable radii comprising the radius of the tire responsive to an absence of a determination that the radius of the tire is within the set of acceptable radii. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120074305 | X-ray Backscattering Part Identification and Tagging Process and Technique - Presented is a system and method for verifying the authenticity of a part using non-destructive backscattered X-rays. The method uses an identification tag embedded in the part that when illuminated by X-rays returns backscattered radiation that is detected and used to authenticate the part. The system comprises a source of low energy X-rays that irradiate a part, a detector for detecting backscattered radiation returned from the part, and a means for determining the presence of an authentication tag in the part. In embodiments, the system and method use a tag made of a material that returns a high amount of backscattered radiation thereby providing a high level of contrast in comparison with the part. In embodiments, the placement of the tag in the part, the geometry of the tag, and coding in the tag are used to authenticate the part. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120072990 | COST FUNCTION FOR DATA TRANSMISSION - A method, system, and apparatus are disclosed for cost functions for data transmission. In one or more embodiments, the method, system, and apparatus involve assigning costs associated with the data transmission corresponding to risks. The method, system, and apparatus further involve adjusting data transmission performance parameters according to the costs and the risks. The risks are associated with potential danger, harm, and/or data loss. Data transmission operation costs are related to available radio frequency (RF) bandwidth, data transmission levels of service (LoS) and/or data transmission quality of service (QoS). In at least one embodiment, each different LoS has an associated trigger boundary, which is located at a specific distance away from a risk area and indicates where and/or when to begin data transmission. The risks are related to a number of various factors including topographical features of a terrain, weather factors, conflict factors, crime factors, terrorism factors, and/or environmental region factors. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120072706 | Microcode for Transport Triggered Architecture Central Processing Units - The different advantageous embodiments provide an apparatus comprising a central processing unit, a microcode store, and a number of functional units. The central processing unit utilizes transport triggered architecture and is configured to execute microcoded instructions that allow a single instruction to be executed as multiple instructions. The microcode store includes a number of microcoded instruction implementations. The number of functional units includes a number of useful entry points into the microcode store. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120072098 | Managing Fuel in Aircraft - A method and apparatus for managing aircraft. Data about components for the aircraft is identified. Fuel efficiency of the aircraft is identified using the data about the components for the aircraft and a model of the aircraft. The model of the aircraft identifies fuel use. The aircraft is managed using the fuel efficiency identified for the aircraft. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120071998 | Point Cloud Generation System - A method, apparatus, and point cloud generation system for managing a point cloud. Vertices for a model of an object are identified. The object comprises a plurality of parts. Identifiers for the plurality of parts are associated with points in the point cloud using the vertices for the model of the object. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120070092 | METHOD AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR COMPRESSING AND DECOMPRESSING IMAGERY DATA - Techniques are provided for compressing and decompressing image data which may reduce the distortion that may otherwise be created by the compression of data values representative of null posts, overlays or other features that differ from the underlying image. In compression, a coefficient generated by a forward wavelet transform may be replaced with respective replacement coefficients. The transformed image data is then subjected to an inverse wavelet transform to generate modified image data in which the data values which differ from the underlying image have been replaced by interpolated or extrapolated values. The modified image data may be compressed in accordance with wavelet-based image compression. Alternatively, wavelet image compression may be applied directly to the coefficients resulting from the modified forward wavelet transform. In decompression, the compressed image data may be decompressed and data values representative of null posts or other features may be replaced with their original values. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068863 | Systems and Methods for Remote Detection of Volcanic Plumes Using Satellite Signals - Systems and methods for remote detection of volcanic plumes using satellite signals. The invention solves the problem of remotely detecting volcanic plumes, including those embedded in clouds, by providing a system that can be installed onboard a mobile platform, such as an aircraft, a satellite, a weather balloon, a ship or a buoy. The volcanic plume detection system tracks RF signals (such as GPS signals from satellites) arriving at the mobile platform, and issues an alert or warning when characteristics of the RF signals indicate the likely presence of a volcanic plume in the monitored space. More specifically, the system in accordance with one embodiment utilizes the refractive properties of hydrogen sulfide (H | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068862 | Systems and Methods for Early Detection of Aircraft Approach to Volcanic Plume - Onboard systems and methods for early detection that an aircraft is approaching a volcanic (ash) plume or a gas plume having a concentration of a volcanic gas which would be toxic to humans. The detection method generally comprises the steps of measuring the concentration of one or more volcanic gases in air circulating in a space inside an aircraft and generating an alarm when one or more measured volcanic gas concentrations exceed a respective user-specified threshold or when a pattern of volcanic gas concentration is recognized with a user-specified confidence level. These systems are configured so that the alarm indicates the proximity of dangerous levels of either a volcanic gas or of volcanic ash. In particular, the detection system utilizes the air circulating through an aircraft cabin or cockpit to enable use of low-cost, carry-on electronic devices. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067501 | Continuous Linear Production in a Selective Laser Sintering System - A method and apparatus for forming objects. Layers of precursor material may be placed on top of each other. The layers of precursor material may be selectively cured as the layers of precursor material are placed on top of each other to form an object and a frame associated with the object. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120066882 | EXHAUST WASHED STRUCTURE AND ASSOCIATED COMPOSITE STRUCTURE AND METHOD OF FABRICATION - A composite structure and an associated exhaust washed structure are provided which may be formed of ceramic matrix composite (CMC) materials. A method of fabricating a composite structure which may include the CMC material is also provided. A composite structure may include a corrugated septum extending in a lengthwise direction. The composite structure may also include a flute within which the corrugated septum is disposed to form, for example, a partitioned flute assembly. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120065881 | Management System for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles - A method and apparatus for managing a flight of an aircraft. Conditions in an environment around the aircraft are monitored during the flight of the aircraft on a route having a number of target points. In response to detecting a condition requiring a change to the route of the aircraft, current resources for the aircraft are identified. A determination is made as to whether changing the route reduces the number of target points that can be reached based on the current resources for the aircraft. In response to a determination that changing the route reduces the number of target points that can be reached, the route is changed to include a portion of the number of target points using the condition and a policy. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120061512 | Splice Joints for Composite Aircraft Fuselages and Other Structures - Structures and methods for joining composite fuselage sections and other panel assemblies together are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a shell structure configured in accordance with the present invention includes a first panel portion positioned adjacent to a second panel portion. The first panel portion can include a first stiffener attached to a first composite skin, and the second panel portion can include a second stiffener attached to a second composite skin. The shell structure can further include a fitting extending across a first edge region of the first panel portion and a second edge region of the second panel portion. A first end portion of the fitting can be attached to the first stiffener and the first composite skin, and a second end portion of the fitting can be attached to a second stiffener and a second composite skin, to join the first panel portion to the second panel portion. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120060491 | REMOTELY ACTUATED WIND TUNNEL MODEL RUDDER USING SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY - A rotational actuator assembly employs a first torsion actuator having a shape memory alloy (SMA) tube with a first trained twist direction and a second torsion actuator having a SMA tube with an opposite trained twist direction collinear with the first torsion actuator with abutting proximal ends. A central fitting joins the proximal ends. A control system for temperature control of the first torsion actuator and second torsion actuator about an average temperature provides combined antagonistic rotation of the central fitting. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120056038 | Mechanism for Changing the Shape of a Control Surface - An apparatus comprises a structure having a first side, a second side substantially opposite to the first side, a flexible skin, and a plurality of deformable assemblies. The flexible skin is attached to the first side and the second side of the structure. The plurality of deformable assemblies is moveably connected to the structure, in which each deformable assembly in the plurality of deformable assemblies has a vertex and a base. The each deformable assembly in the plurality of deformable assemblies has a height that is capable of changing to change a shape of the structure and a shape of the flexible skin. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120046381 | Method For Curing Resin With Ultrasound - A method for curing a resin includes the steps of placing the resin into a reaction vessel, drawing a vacuum in the reaction vessel, positioning the reaction vessel in a gaseous coupling fluid, and applying ultrasonic energy to the coupling fluid. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120045609 | COMPOSITE STRINGER WITH WEB TRANSITION - A stringer comprises a base portion and first and second webs extending outwardly from the base portion. The orientation of at least one of the first and second webs may transition from a first angle to a second angle within an angle transition zone. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043924 | Battery System And Method - A battery system including a housing that defines an internal volume and a venting system that fluidly couples the internal volume with an atmosphere surrounding the housing and a support structure within the internal volume, the support structure being configured to support a number of battery cell modules in the internal volume. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043704 | BULK RESIN INFUSION - A method for performing resin infusion into a dry reinforcement on a layup mandrel comprises placing resin at a resin zone on the mandrel; bagging the reinforcement and the resin with a bagging film; heating the resin while applying compaction pressure to the bagging film to cause the resin to be infused into the reinforcement; and creating a pressure differential outside of the bagging film over the resin zone to control rate and pressure at which the resin is infused into the reinforcement. As a result, the resin pressure and infusion rate are controlled independently of the compaction pressure on the reinforcement. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043424 | DROGUE DEPLOYING/RETRIEVAL METHOD - An in-flight refueling method may include deploying a fueling hose from a refueling aircraft. The fueling hose may have a drogue. The deployment of the fueling hose may include extending the drogue using a telescoping arm having a ring. The deployment of the fueling hose may also include passing the fueling hose through the ring to deploy the fueling hose. The in-flight refueling method may further include retrieving the fueling hose by drawing the drogue into a wire pitch mounted on the ring and collapsing the drogue in response to drawing the drogue into the wire pitch. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043422 | Multi-Spar Port Box Joint - A method for connecting a wing. A frame for a wing may be positioned relative to a fuselage of an aircraft. The frame may have bays and comprise a front spar, a rear spar, and a number of spars located between the front and rear spars. A first number of skin panels may be on a first side of the frame, and a second number of skin panels may be on a second side of the frame. The first side may be opposite to the second side. Openings may be in the first and second numbers of skin panels. The openings may be in locations such that each bay has an opening and such that the openings may alternate between the first side and the second side between adjacent bays in the bays. The frame may be attached to the fuselage using the openings to access an interior of the frame. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043028 | Hanging Partition and Method - There is provided a hanging partition. The hanging partition comprises at least one flexible, hanging panel having a plurality of pleats, each pleat having a hemmed portion. The hanging partition further comprises a plurality of magnets positioned within two or more of the hemmed portions. The hanging partition further comprises a plurality of hanging elements for suspending the hanging panel from a longitudinal hanging device. The magnets are aligned with respect to each other to cause a magnetic attraction between adjacent magnets in order to hold the hemmed portions together when the hemmed portions overlap when the hanging partition is in a retracted position. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120041639 | System and Method to Assess and Report the Health of Landing Gear Related Components - The different advantageous embodiments provide an apparatus comprising a number of landing gear components for a vehicle, a number of systems, and a number of processor units. The number of systems is configured to generate data about the number of landing gear components and the vehicle. The number of processor units is configured to monitor the data and manage health of the number of landing gear components. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038492 | System and Method to Assess and Report the Health of a Tire - The different advantageous embodiments provide an apparatus comprising a number of tires for a vehicle, a number of systems, and a number of processor units. The number of systems is configured to generate data about the number of tires and the vehicle. The number of processor units is configured to monitor the data and manage the health of the number of tires. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038207 | NON-PNEUMATIC SURVIVABLE TIRE MOUNTING SYSTEM FOR CONVENTIONAL WHEELS - A non-pneumatic tire and wheel assembly incorporates a tire tread and a conventional vehicle wheel with an elastomer tire body element and integral wall elements extending radially inward from the tire body element for sealing engagement with the wheel. The tire body element includes multiple concentric layers with alternating spokes. A bonded multilayer cover may be employed which is received within a recess in an outer surface of the tire body element from the tire tread. An attachment plate is engaged to the cover and attached to the wheel. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038206 | NON-PNEUMATIC SURVIVABLE TIRE, COVER AND FABRICATION PROCESSES - A non-pneumatic tire and wheel assembly incorporates a tire tread and a conventional vehicle wheel with an elastomer tire body element molded for engagement intermediate the tread and wheel. The tire body element includes multiple concentric layers with alternating spokes. A bonded multilayer cover may be employed which is received within a recess in an outer surface of the tire body element from the tire tread. A mounting plate is engaged to the cover and attached to the wheel. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037420 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE PROTECTION - Apparatus, systems and methods for electronic device protection are provided. A particular apparatus includes a non-conductive substrate and a plurality of cells including conductive members coupled to the non-conductive substrate. The conductive members are arranged to form a first discontinuous mesh, where each conductive member of a cell is separated from conductive members of adjacent cells by a gap and a cavity is defined in the non-conductive substrate at a location of each gap. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120036098 | ANALYZING ACTIVITIES OF A HOSTILE FORCE - Historical data is processed to identify possible future hostile activities in high threat environments. Pieces of the historical data are collected in computer-readable memory as memory entities, where the memory entities are categorized according to types of attacks and locations of attacks. The memory entities contain attributes taken from the pieces of historical data. A computer system is used to analyze the memory entities with an Associative Memory, wherein correlations of the attributes of the different memory entities are identified. Patterns are discovered from the correlations. The patterns are made available so future hostile activities can be identified. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035862 | Apparatus and Method for Inspecting Laminated Structure - Disclosed is an apparatus, method and system for inspecting structures, and more particularly for evaluating the condition of a structure. The disclosed nondestructive inspection testing method and apparatus enables an operator to assess the condition of a structure, such as a composite laminate part and determining the location and depth of anomalies. The method includes generating a subsurface longitudinal ultrasonic wave signal at a high incidence angle into a structure being evaluated and collecting at least one of any front, back or side reflected wave data. The method may include processing the reflected wave data to determine the condition of the structure, including any anomalies that may have been detected and their location, size and shape. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035849 | Data Driven Route Strip - A method, computer system, and computer program product for displaying flight information. A number of elements for a number of phases of flight for a route of an aircraft are identified. The number of elements in association with the number of phases of flight is displayed on a strip on a display. The number of elements is displayed on the strip in a sequence in which the number of elements is encountered by the aircraft on the route during the number of phases of flight. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035842 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAY OF GUIDANCE REFERENCE FOR TRAFFIC SITUATIONAL AWARENESS - Situational Awareness and Guidance Reference (SAGR) and associated methods and systems are disclosed. A system in accordance to one embodiment of the disclosure includes a display system utilized for a traffic application and an SAGR associated with the own-ship symbol providing longitudinal and lateral guidance reference. In a manual implementation, the SAGR aids human operators achieve required longitudinal and lateral spacing from selected traffic by depicting a small operating region on a navigational map display within which an aircraft will have achieved the required spacing. Such depiction of the deviation guidance may be with respect to time or distance relative to selected traffic aircraft or to fixed structure, and engaged in an automatic or manual mode. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120034088 | Method for Connecting a Tension-Torsion Strap - An apparatus may comprise a housing, a first member, and a second member. The housing may have a first end, a second end, a first side, a second side, an opening located in the first end, and a passage extending from the opening. The first member may extend from the first side. The first member may have a first channel in communication with the passage and the channel has a first center axis. The second member may extend from the first side. The second member may have a second channel in communication with the passage and the second channel has a second center axis substantially aligned with the center axis of the channel in the first member. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031478 | Heterojunction Solar Cell - A solar cell including a base semiconductor layer having a first bandgap, an emitter semiconductor layer having a second bandgap and a depletion semiconductor layer positioned between the base semiconductor layer and the emitter semiconductor layer, the depletion semiconductor layer having a third bandgap, wherein the third bandgap is greater than the first bandgap and the second bandgap. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120030926 | ROBOT-DEPLOYED ASSEMBLY TOOL AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING FASTENERS IN AIRCRAFT STRUCTURES - An assembly system and method for assembling an aircraft wing box or other structure that may define an interior area accessible through at least one access opening are provided. The method includes inserting a robot having an assembly tool mounted thereto into the interior area through the at least one access opening. The assembly tool may be positioned at a fastener location, and may be clamped to the structure. A hole may be made through the structure, and a fastener may be installed in the hole. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120029739 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HANDLING THE DISPLAY AND RECEIPT OF AIRCRAFT CONTROL INFORMATION - Methods and systems for handling aircraft control information are disclosed. A system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a display medium coupleable to a flight manager, with the flight manager configured to receive and direct instructions for automatically controlling aircraft functions at a future time during flight of the aircraft. The system can further include a display controller coupled to the display medium to present at least one operator activatable element at the display medium and update information presented at the display medium when the operator activates the operator activatable element. For example, the operator activatable element can include an icon presented at a computer display screen, and can be activated by a keystroke. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120026016 | Wireless Device Association System - A method, apparatus, and computer program product for identifying sensor units. Identification information is received from a marker in a wireless signal generated by the marker at a wireless device. The marker is associated with an object. The identification information is sent from the wireless device to a computer system. The computer system associates the wireless device with the object using the identification information. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025033 | Method and Apparatus for Optimizing a Load in a Flight Control System While an Aircraft is on the Ground - A method, apparatus, and computer program product for managing movement of a flight control surface on an aircraft. A control signal is received to move the flight control surface to a position. Travel in a number of actuators in a plurality of actuators coupled to the flight control surface is limited to an amount that reduces a load on the number of actuators in the plurality of actuators in response to receiving the control signal while the aircraft is on the ground and the speed of the aircraft is less than a threshold. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120021843 | INSULATING WASHERS - A washer comprises a ring and a composite structure attached to the ring. The composite structure has a slotted shape and a hole that is centrally located with respect to an axis passing through the ring. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018588 | Aircraft Trailing Edge Devices, Including Devices Having Forwardly Positioned Hinge Lines, and Associated Methods - Aircraft trailing edge devices, including devices having forwardly positioned hinge lines, and associated methods are disclosed. An aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a wing and a trailing edge device coupled to the wing. The trailing edge device can be movable relative to the wing between a stowed position and a deployed position, with the trailing edge device having a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper surface, and a lower surface. The upper surface can have an intersection point with the wing when the trailing edge device is in the stowed position. The motion of the trailing edge device relative to the wing can include rotational motion about a hinge line positioned forward of the intersection point, and a gap can be positioned between the trailing edge of the wing and the leading edge of the trailing edge device when the trailing edge device is in the deployed position. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018587 | Fabric Preform Insert for a Composite Tank Y-Joint - A method and apparatus for forming a joint. A composite insert may be placed into a joint region for a first structure. The composite insert may comprise a structure having a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion all extending from a junction; and a resin impregnated into the structure to form the composite insert. The second structure may be laid up. The composite insert may be bonded to the first structure and the second structure. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018099 | Tape Removal Apparatus and Process for Use with an Automated Composite Tape Laying Machine - Apparatus are provided for attaching to a composite tape lamination machine in order to remove composite scrap tape material from a backing paper. When a moveable member is in one position composite non-scrap tape material on a backing paper is directed along a path to avoid a removing member and keep composite non-scrap tape material on a backing paper. When the moveable member is in another position composite scrap tape material on a backing paper is directed along a different path to contact the removing member and remove composite scrap tape material from a backing paper. Composite scrap tape material may be disposed in a scrap disposal member. Backing paper having attached composite non-scrap tape material and not having attached composite scrap tape material may be spooled using a spool roller. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120015171 | Apparatus and Method for Making Glass Preform With Nanofiber Reinforcement - There is provided an apparatus and method for making a glass preform with nanofiber reinforcement. The apparatus comprises a container for melting one or more glass components in a mixture comprising the glass components and one or more nanofibers. The container has an opening that allows escape of any gas released from the glass components when the glass components are melted in the container. The apparatus further comprises one or more heating elements for heating the container. The apparatus further comprises one or more electric field devices, positioned exterior to the glass components, that create an electric field in a volume of the mixture in order to orient the nanofibers within the glass components when the glass components are melted in the container. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120014759 | Electromagnetic Crawler Assembly System - A method and apparatus for performing operations on a workpiece. A first frame in a frame system may be held on the workpiece by applying a vacuum to the first frame. A second frame in the frame system may be detached from the workpiece by applying a pressure to the second frame. The second frame may be moved to a location on the workpiece. The second frame may be attached to the workpiece by applying the vacuum to the second frame. An operation may be performed on the workpiece. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012711 | DUAL EVOLVED EXPENDABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE (EELV) SECONDARY PAYLOAD ADAPTOR (ESPA) PORT SMALL SATELLITE DESIGN - An apparatus and method are disclosed for dual Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA) port small satellite designs. The apparatus and method provide payload volume for larger satellites. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus and method include a plurality of small satellite components, a payload adaptor ring, and at least one pivoting hinge system. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of small satellite components includes at least one payload, one bus, and/or one solar panel. The small satellite components are mounted on the payload adaptor ring. At least one pivoting hinge system connects together at least two of the small satellite components. Upon deployment of the small satellite components from the payload adaptor ring, at least one pivoting hinge system combines together at least two small satellite components, thereby creating at least one single larger satellite. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012702 | ARTICLE RETENTION DEVICE - An article retention device may be provided for a stowage bin. The stowage bin may include a bin interior and may include a door panel that is movable between open and closed positions. The door panel may have a door inner side. The article retention device may comprise a spring member having a protruding portion protruding from the door inner side toward the bin interior when the door panel is in the closed position. The protruding portion may be deflectable in response to contact with an article contained within the bin interior such that the spring member applies pressure to the article to prevent relative moment of the article within the stowage bin. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120011693 | Agile manufacturing apparatus and method for high throughput - A method, apparatus and computer program product are present for performing a manufacturing procedure. A component may be positioned in a work area. A plurality of groups of robots may be operated in parallel and robots of each group of robots of the plurality of groups of robots may be operated in synchronism for performing a plurality of manufacturing operations at a plurality of locations on the component. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120010763 | AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL METHOD - A method of operating an air traffic control system may include receiving, by a control system, an instruction from a control system user. The method may further include providing, by the control system, the instruction to an airplane via a data link between the control system and a system of the airplane. In addition, the method may include adjusting, by the airplane system, at least one airplane control to correspond to the instruction. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006472 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTOURING COMPOSITE PRE-PREG ARTICLES - A forming tool and method for its use with flat pre-preg composite laminate assemblies which incorporates a mandrel segmented into multiple forming blocks, the forming blocks sized to receive a draped composite laminate assembly with all portions of the composite laminate assembly spaced from a shaping surface on each block. A spline plate engages the shaping surface of the forming blocks to provide a neutral axis for maintaining the entire composite laminate assembly in tension during forming. In the exemplary embodiments, the draped composite laminate assembly is formed to the forming blocks from the flat composite laminate assembly and maintained in contact with the forming blocks using a vacuum bag. The mandrel forming blocks are then displaced to a desired curvature on the spline plate. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120004752 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND FORMATS FOR DATA, SUCH AS DATA USED IN LASER PROJECTION OF FASTENERS USED IN MANUFACTURING - A system and method provides data for a laser projection process used in manufacturing involving fasteners. For example, the laser projection process may include projecting a laser image associated with fasteners used to assemble objects. Fastener attribute data may be extracted from an engineer's design data and processed to generate a laser projection output file. This output file may include geometric data used to project a laser image associated with the fasteners. For example, this image may be an outline indicating the location, shape, and orientation of a fastener. The output file may also include non-geometric data associated with attributes of the objects to be assembled. Both the geometric and the non-geometric data can then be displayed in a user interface, such as a display screen of a laser projector control device, in addition to the display of the laser image in three-dimensional space. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110315818 | Static Dissipative Fuel Tank Coatings and Methods - There is provided a method for mitigating static discharge in a fuel container. The method provides a static dissipative coating having a volume resistivity of 1.0×10 | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315325 | Backing Film Removal for Fiber Placement Machine - An apparatus and associated method for removing backing film from tape during a fiber placement process. A passive (non-powered) take-up roller is used to wind up the backing film that has been separated from the tape. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110313600 | INTEGRATED APPROACH NAVIGATION SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT - Systems, computer program products, and methods for displaying navigation performance based flight path deviation information during the final approach segment to a runway and during landing of non-precision flight modes are provided. Improved graphical depictions of navigation performance based flight path deviation information provide pilots and flight crew members with clear, concise displays of the dynamic relationship between ANP and RNP, mode and aspect of flight and related procedures, intersecting flight paths, and current actual flight path deviation from a predefined flight path during the final approach segment to a runway and during landing. For example, an enhanced IAN display may include NPS-type deviation scales to show RNP/ANP relationships and predetermined RNP markers to alert the pilots and flight crew members that the FMC has transitioned from an NPS display for RNAV (LNAV/VNAV) flight procedures to an enhanced IAN display for a non-precision (non-xLS) approach and/or landing. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110313599 | AIRCRAFT BACKUP CONTROL - A system is disclosed for controlling an aircraft when the hydraulic system of the aircraft has been compromised. The system includes a digital fly-by-wire control system configured to rescale at least one gain vector. The gain(s) may then used by a digital control to modulate engine thrust. In this manner, engine thrust modulation may be used for stabilization and control of control-configured aircraft without requiring a substantial change in piloting technique. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311778 | Bead-Stiffened Composite Parts - A beaded composite panel is fabricated using composite plies. An opening is formed in each of plies, and each ply is laid up on a bead feature and drawn down over the bead feature in the area of the opening so as to widen the opening into a gap allowing the ply to conform to the contour of the bead feature. Patches are fabricated and placed on the plies overlying over the openings. The laid-up plies are compacted and cured. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311730 | Sealant Application Tool - A method and apparatus for applying a sealant. A sealant application system is positioned over a fastener. The sealant application system comprises an elongate member, a first channel, a nozzle, a second channel, and a biasing system. The elongate member has a first end connected to a sealant source for the sealant and a second end. The first channel extends through the elongate member from the first end to the second end. The nozzle has an input associated with the first end of the elongate member and an output. The second channel extends through the nozzle from the input to the output. The first channel is in communication with the second channel. The biasing system is configured to engage an outer surface of the nozzle and move on the outer surface of the nozzle such that the second channel changes shape. The sealant is applied onto the fastener. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309856 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING RADIATION AND CROSS-TALK INDUCED DATA ERRORS - The different advantageous embodiments provide an integrated circuit comprising a number of latches and a number of filters. Each latch in the number of latches has a plurality of inputs and a plurality of storage nodes. The plurality of storage nodes includes a number of pairs of circuit nodes that form a number of upsettable circuit node pairs. Each input of the plurality of inputs is connected to a corresponding storage node in the plurality of storage nodes. Each filter in the number of filters has an input and a plurality of outputs. Each of the plurality of outputs is connected to a corresponding input of the plurality of inputs of a latch in the number of latches. Each filter in the number of filters is located between two circuit nodes forming an upsettable circuit node pair of the latch in the number of latches to increase critical node spacing. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309201 | ACTIVE FLOW CONTROL FOR TRANSONIC FLIGHT - An air vehicle includes an airfoil designed for transonic flight. The airfoil has a region of supersonic flow during transonic flight. A surface of the airfoil has upstream and downstream orifices at or within the region. The air vehicle further includes an active flow control system for controlling air vehicle motion during transonic flight by controlling flow through the orifices to alter strength and location of a shock wave in the region. The system creates an aerodynamic imbalance to move the shock wave. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308700 | Apparatus for Friction Stir Welding Using Spindle-in-Spindle - A spindle head for performing friction stir welding includes concentric spindle shafts driven by stacked, coaxial motors contained within a spindle housing. The coaxial arrangement of the motors results in a more compact package. Each of the motors is concentrically arranged around one of the spindles by directly connecting a rotor of the motor to a spindle shaft. The stators of the motors are mounted on the housing and are concentrically arranged around the concentric spindle shafts. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308010 | AIRCRAFT SINK WITH INTEGRATED WASTE DISPOSAL FUNCTION - A sink system includes a sink coupled to a storage area. The storage area is coupled to a bypass line and a common line, and a vacuum blower may apply pressure to the common line. First and second valves control the flow of fluids between the bypass line, storage area and common line, for operation of the system in a drain mode and a disposal mode. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110304650 | Gesture-Based Human Machine Interface - A gesture-based human machine interface, for example, a user interface for controlling a program executing on a computer, and related method are provided. Gestures of the user are monitored and a response is provided that is based upon the detected gestures. An object is used to point to information displayed on a screen. The information displayed on the screen is modified in response to a determination of the position on the screen to which the object is pointing and in response to the distance of the object from the screen. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110304479 | Perspective Runway System - A method, apparatus, and computer program product for displaying information about runways. A runway for an aircraft is identified when the aircraft is within a selected distance of the runway. A number of graphical indicators are displayed on a display in a flight deck. The number of graphical indicators corresponds to a number of features of the runway present in a field of view for an eye reference point in the flight deck. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303796 | MORPHING CONTROL SURFACE TRANSITION - A transition section forms a continuous contour across a gap between a pair of structures. The transition section comprises at least one rib mounted within the gap and being pivotable relative to the structures. A tip may be mounted to an aft end of the rib and may be rotatable about a tip axis. A skin panel may extend between the structures and may at least partially cover the tip. The skin panel may be deformable during pivoting of the rib such that the tip may rotate into substantial alignment with the skin panel. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303288 | Solar Cell Structure And Composition and Method For Forming The Same - A semiconductor structure including a bonding layer connecting a first semiconductor wafer layer to a second semiconductor wafer layer, the bonding layer including an electrically conductive carbonaceous component and a binder component. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110300343 | Composite Truss Panel Having Fluted Core - A composite truss structure employs a sandwich-in-sandwich construction in which a composite fluted core is sandwiched between two facesheets, and at least one structural foam stiffener is sandwiched within the core or between the facesheets and/or the core. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295450 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR DISPLAYING AND RECEIVING TACTICAL AND STRATEGIC FLIGHT GUIDANCE INFORMATION - Methods and apparatuses for displaying and receiving tactical and strategic flight guidance information are disclosed. A method in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes displaying at least one first indicator to an operator of the aircraft, with a first indicator corresponding to a first instruction input by the operator for directing a first aircraft behavior and implemented upon receiving an activation instruction from the operator. At least one second indicator corresponding to a second instruction for directing a second aircraft behavior at least proximately the same as the first aircraft behavior is displayed, with the at least one second instruction to be automatically implemented at a future time. The at least one second indicator is at least approximately the same as the at least one first indicator. Indicators can be hierarchically organized to simplify presentation and reduce pilot training time. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110288773 | LOSS OF SEPARATION AVOIDANCE MANEUVERING - A flight management system for an aircraft may determine maneuvers to avoid loss of separation between the aircraft and another aircraft. The flight management system may include a processor and a memory accessible to the processor. The memory may store instructions that are executable by the processor to identify a potential loss of separation between the aircraft and a second aircraft. The instructions may also be executable by the processor to determine whether executing a first speed maneuver using predetermined parameters is predicted to avoid the potential LOS. The instructions may be further executable by the processor to determine parameters of a second speed maneuver when the first speed maneuver is expected to avoid the potential LOS. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110287208 | Composite Fabric with Rigid Member Structure - A composite structure is provided including a first fabric and a second fabric. A substantially elongate and substantially rigid first member is spaced apart from and coupled with the first fabric via the second fabric. A resin substantially is infused into the first fabric and the second fabric, and substantially encapsulates the first member to form a unitary structure. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110286874 | SINTERED 17-4PH STEEL PART AND METHOD FOR FORMING - A method of sintering a 17-4PH alloy powder and a sintered 17-4PH sintered part are disclosed. The part is formed by selective laser sintering a 17-4PH alloy powder and binder mixture to form a green part that is sintered to form a part having a substantially pure martensitic structure. The metal powder includes boron. The sintered part may be further processed by shot peening to improve crack resistance. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110286197 | SHIPPING CONTAINER SECURITY UNIT QUICK MOUNT DEVICE - Mounting devices for attaching electronics equipment to a cargo container. An embodiment of the present invention comprises a mounting plate comprising a first portion for securing the electronics equipment to the mounting device, a second portion, coupled to the first portion at an edge of the first portion, at an approximate right angle to the first portion, and a third portion, coupled to the second portion at a second edge, wherein the third portion is approximately parallel to the first portion, wherein a length of the second portion being substantially similar to a width of a door of the cargo container, and the third portion is of sufficient length to retain the mounting device on the cargo container when the door of the cargo container is closed. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110283285 | Real Time Mission Planning - The different advantageous embodiments provide a system comprising a number of computers, a graphical user interface, first program code stored on the computer, and second program code stored on the computer. The graphical user interface is executed by a computer in the number of computers. The computer is configured to run the first program code to define a mission using a number of mission elements. The computer is configured to run the second program code to generate instructions for a number of assets to execute the mission and monitor the number of assets during execution of the mission. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110281981 | FIRE RESISTANT MATERIAL - The present invention relates to inorganic-organic hybrids (IOHs), methods for their preparation and their use as fire resistant materials or components of fire resistant materials. More specifically, the invention relates to polyamide fire resistant formulations containing IOHs which have application in the production of fire resistant articles or parts thereof for use in the transportation, building, construction and electrical or optical industries. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110280740 | ULTRA-LOW FRICTION AIR PUMP FOR CREATING OSCILLATORY OR PULSED JETS - An air pump positioned within a hollow space in an aerodynamic structure for controlling the flow over an aerodynamic surface thereof, includes a movable member linearly displaced by a very low friction piston mechanism and a compression chamber open to the exterior of the aerodynamic surface through an orifice. Reciprocal displacement of the very low friction movable member changes the volume of the compression chamber to alternately expel fluid (e.g., air) from and pull fluid into the compression chamber through the orifice. The movable member includes a piston oscillating within a piston housing each having an ultra-low friction coating for improved thermal performance and reduced maintenance. Fluid intake to the compression chamber may be increased through the use of a one-way valve located either in the aerodynamic surface, or in the piston. Multiple flapper valves may surround the orifice in the aerodynamic surface for increased fluid control. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278984 | BETA ENERGY EXTRACTOR - The present disclosure is directed to an energy extraction device that employs a radioactive isotope, such as | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277941 | TAPE REMOVAL APPARATUS AND PROCESS - An apparatus and method is provided for removing a selected portion of tape material from backing paper. One embodiment of an apparatus may include a supply reel, at least one cutting member, at least one bending member, and first and second vacuum rollers. The apparatus may further include pinch rollers, scraping members, and scrap bins. The apparatus may allow for the removal of scrap tape material from the backing paper. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277820 | Solar Cell Structure Including A Silicon Carrier Containing A By-Pass Diode - A solar cell structure including a silicon carrier defining a front side and a back side, and including an N-type portion having an exposed portion on the front side of the carrier and a P-type portion having an exposed portion on the front side of the carrier, the N-type portion and the P-type portion defining a P-N junction, and a solar cell defining a front side and a back side, wherein the solar cell is connected to the front side of the carrier such that the back side of the solar cell is electrically coupled to the exposed portion of the N-type portion, and wherein the front side of the solar cell is electrically coupled to the exposed portion of the P-type portion. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277489 | REFRIGERATED CONTAINER - A cold tray for a container may have an interior. The cold tray may include a cold tray housing mountable within the container interior. A refrigerant may be mounted to the cold tray housing. An air flow source may be fluidly connectable to the cold tray housing and may draw air from the container interior into the cold tray housing such that the air passes over the refrigerant and is discharged back into the container interior. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110276217 | Hard Landing Report Based on Sink Rate Algorithm - A system and a method for detecting a hard landing or other high load event of an aircraft and then automatically triggering a report of such hard landing event. A sink rate algorithm is used to estimate the altitude rate of a main gear. The sink rate algorithm uses a plurality of flight parameters to estimate the main gear altitude rate, preferably including at least the following: pitch altitude, radio altitude, vertical acceleration, body pitch rate and vertical speed. This invention has the potential to reduce the number of unnecessary structural inspections, and may also limit the scope of any such required inspections. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110274358 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR RECOGNIZING A GESTURE - A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for recognizing a gesture in which one or more relationships are determined between a plurality of body parts and the gesture is then determined based upon these relationships. Each relationship may be determined by determining an angle associated with at least one joint, determining one or more states of a body part based upon the angle associated with at least one joint, and determining a probability of a body part being in each respective state. The gesture may thereafter be determined based upon the one or more states and the probability associated with each state of the body part. Directions may be provided, such as to an unmanned vehicle, based upon the gesture to, for example, control its taxiing and parking operations. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110267251 | WIDE ANGLE MULTIBEAMS - A method and system are disclosed for wide angle multibeam antennas. The method and system involve a multibeam antenna system for generating high performance multiple spot beams. In one or more embodiments, the multibeam antenna system includes an oversized antenna reflector and a plurality of antenna feeds. The oversized antenna reflector has its surface shape optimized from a normal parabolic shape in order to broaden and shape the reflected spot beams to improve antenna performance. In addition, the diameter of the oversized antenna reflector is greater than ((100*λ)/δ), where λ is the wavelength in inches and δ is the beam to beam spacing in degrees. In some embodiments, the ratio of the focal length of the oversized antenna reflector to the diameter of the oversized antenna reflector (F/D) is greater than 0.7. In at least one embodiment, the system further includes an antenna sub-reflector. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110266864 | AIRCRAFT GALLEY SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AIRCRAFT GALLEY SYSTEMS - Aircraft power systems, aircraft galley systems, and methods and systems for managing power distribution to aircraft galley systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an aircraft system can include an aircraft power source and at least first and second galley appliances operably coupled to the aircraft power source. The aircraft system can further include a controller operably coupled to the first and second galley appliances. The controller can be configured to receive a first power request from the first galley appliance and a second power request from the second galley appliance. The controller can be further configured to sort the first and second power requests and distribute power to the first and second galley appliances from the aircraft power source based on the sorting of the first and second power requests. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265307 | METHOD FOR INSTALLING A COLLAPSIBLE MOBILE PLATFORM INTERIOR STRUCTURE - A method for installing an interior structure for a mobile platform is provided. The method may involve carrying a lightweight collapsible frame through a man-door of a mobile platform while the collapsible frame is in a collapsed state. The collapsed frame may then be expanded to provide at least a portion of a load bearing frame for a mobile platform interior structure. A plurality of interchangeable panels may be attached to the collapsible frame to form interior surfaces of the mobile platform interior structure. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265128 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING BI-DIRECTIONAL DATA SERVICES AND LIVE TELEVISION PROGRAMMING TO MOBILE PLATFORMS - A system for bi-directional data content transfer between a plurality of mobile platforms, such as aircraft or cruise ships, and a ground-based control segment. The system includes the ground-based control segment, a space segment and a mobile system disposed on each mobile platform. The ground-based control segment includes an antenna which is used to transmit encoded RF signals representative of data content to the space segment. The space segment includes a plurality of satellite transponders, with one of the transponders being designated by the ground-based control segment to transpond the encoded RF signals to the mobile system. The mobile system includes steerable receive and transmit antennas. The receive antenna receives the encoded RF signals from the satellite transponder, which are thereafter decoded, demodulated, D/A converted by a communications subsystem and transmitted to a server. The server filters off that data content not requested by any occupants on the mobile system. A local area network (LAN) receives the remaining data content and provides same to individual users on the mobile platform in accordance with previously submitted programming requests or data input by the users at access stations associated independently with each user. The transmit antenna is used to transmit data content from laptop computers, PDAs or other user electronic devices coupled to the access stations back to the designated satellite transponder. The satellite transponder then transponds the data back to the antenna of the ground-based control segment. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110262575 | COMPOSITE FABRICATION APPARTUS AND METHOD - A composite fabrication apparatus which may include a first tooling die and a second tooling die movable with respect to each other; a thermal control system having induction coils disposed in thermal contact with the first tooling die and the second tooling die; a first die susceptor provided on the first tooling die and a second die susceptor provided on the second tooling die and connected to the induction coils; and a cooling system disposed in thermal contact with the first tooling die and the second tooling die. A composite fabrication method is also disclosed. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110257819 | Vessel Performance Optimization Reporting Tool - The different advantageous embodiments provide an apparatus comprising a sensor system, a computer system, and a satellite transceiver. The sensor system is configured to generate data about a vessel and an environment around the vessel. The computer system is connected to the sensor system. The computer system is configured to receive the data from the sensor system, generate vessel information about the data, and send the vessel information to a remote location. The satellite transceiver is connected to the computer system. The satellite transceiver is configured to send the vessel information to and receive other information from the remote location. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257818 | Dynamically Monitoring Airborne Turbulence - A method for monitoring for turbulence. Data is received from a motion sensor system in a portable data processing system in an aircraft while the aircraft is in operation. The portable data processing system is configured to be moved by a single person. A number of pieces of data is identified in the data received from the motion sensor system in which the number of pieces of data indicates a presence of turbulence encountered. Turbulence information is generated using the number of pieces of data. The turbulence information identified is sent to a remote data processing system outside of the aircraft. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110256343 | FORMED STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLY AND ASSOCIATED PREFORM - A superplastically formed structural assembly is provided, as is an associated preform and method for forming such an assembly. The assembly includes a skin member and a support member that are joined to define a space between the members and between the joints. The assembly can be produced by joining the members in a flat configuration, and then forming the resulting preform to a predetermined shape of the structural assembly. The support member defines at least one aperture in communication with the space between the members. Thus, the skin member can be formed by delivering a pressurized fluid through the support member to the skin member, e.g., to superplastically form the skin member against a die that defines a contour surface corresponding in shape to the predetermined configuration of the assembly. The support member can extend in a substantially direct configuration between opposing portions of the skin member. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110254734 | Software GNSS Receiver for High-Altitude Spacecraft Applications - A system that provides GPS-based navigation/orbit determination capabilities for high-altitude spacecraft. The system uses an existing spacecraft processor and an easy-to-space-qualify minimum-hardware front end to minimize the need for new space-qualified hardware. The system also uses coherent integration to acquire and track the very weak GPS signals at high altitudes. The system also uses diurnal thermal modeling of a spacecraft clock and precision orbit propagation to enable longer coherent integration, a special Kalman filter to allow weak signal tracking by integrated operation of orbit determination and GPS signal tracking, and a segment-by-segment, post-processing, delayed-time approach to allow a low-speed spacecraft processor to provide the software GPS capability. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253842 | Laminated Plasma Actuator - A method and apparatus may comprise a first number of layers of a flexible material, a second number of layers of a dielectric material, a first electrode attached to a surface layer in the first number of layers, and a second electrode attached to a second layer in one of the first number of layers and the second number of layers. The first number of layers may be interspersed with the second number of layers. The first electrode may be configured to be exposed to air. The first electrode and the second electrode may be configured to form a plasma in response to a voltage. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110252742 | Composite Structures Having Reinforced Edge Bonded Joints and Method for Making the Same - A ceramic matrix composite structure has a reinforced core for carrying loads. The core includes a web connected between the facesheets by edge bonded joints for transmitting compressive, tensile and shear loads. The edge bonded joints are laterally reinforced by bridging members bonded to the facesheets, on opposite sides of the webs. The bridging members may comprise low density, high temperature rigid foam. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110251786 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TERMINAL CHARTS, AIRPORT MAPS AND AERONAUTICAL CONTEXT DISPLAY - The present disclosure relates to an aircraft that may have a fuselage and a cockpit located within the fuselage. A display may be located within the cockpit, with the display being controlled by a display control system. The display control system may have a graphical user interface module that generates at least one of a primary display or a context display, and receives at least one user input, and an image control module. The image control module may generate primary display data for display on the primary display based on the at least one user input. The image control module may determine, based on the primary display data, whether the context display is displayed, and may automatically display the context display as an overlay in a corner portion of the primary display when the at least one user input causes a portion of information associated therewith to be unavailable for display on the primary display. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110251740 | FOUR-DIMENSIONAL NAVIGATION OF AN AIRCRAFT - The present invention relates to methods of controlling the flight path of an aircraft to follow as closely as possible a predetermined four-dimensional flight path, such as when flying continuous descent approaches. A method of controlling an aircraft to follow a predetermined four-dimensional flight path is provided that comprises monitoring the actual along-track position and the actual vertical position of the aircraft relative to the corresponding desired positions on the predetermined flight path. The aircraft's elevators are used to correct deviations of the along-track position and the aircraft's throttle is used to correct deviations of the vertical position. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110248887 | GEOLOCATION LEVERAGING SPOT BEAM OVERLAP - A method and system are disclosed for providing an estimate of a location of a user receiver device. The method and system involve emitting from at least one vehicle at least one spot beam on Earth, and receiving with the user receiver device a signal from at least one spot beam. In one or more embodiments, at least one vehicle may be a satellite and/or a pseudolite. The method and system further involve calculating with the user receiver device the estimate of the location of the user receiver device according to the user receiver device's location within at least one spot beam. In some embodiments, when the user receiver device receives signals from at least two spot beams, the user receiver device calculates the estimate of the location of the user receiver device to be located in the center of the intersection of at least two spot beams. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110248878 | METHOD FOR PROTECTING LOCATION PRIVACY OF AIR TRAFFIC COMMUNICATIONS - Methods of protecting location privacy of air traffic communications from unauthorized monitoring of aircraft locations in an uncontrolled airspace include designating a bounded region of uncontrolled airspace; ceasing transmission of a traffic beacon by each aircraft of a plurality of aircraft upon the aircraft entering the bounded region; and updating a unique identifier associated with each of the aircraft while the aircraft is traversing the bounded region. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110245971 | SYNCHRONOUS ROBOTIC OPERATION ON A STRUCTURE HAVING A CONFINED SPACE - A fully automated method is performed on a structure having a confined space. The structure has a location that is identifiable from within the confined space and from outside the confined space. A first robotic system moves a first end effector inside the confined space such that the first end effector is positioned over the location. A first vector corresponding to the location is generated. A second robotic system moves a second end effector outside the confined space such that the second end effector is positioned over the location. A second vector corresponding to the location is generated. The first and second vectors are used to move the first and second end effectors to a new location such that the first and second end effectors are in working opposition. The first and second end effectors perform a synchronous operation at the new location. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110244150 | Unitized Engine Nacelle Structure - The different advantageous embodiments provide an inner barrel structure comprising an outer skin, an inner skin, a number of septa, and a truss core. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110243566 | OPTICAL FIBER INTERFACE SYSTEM AND CONNECTOR - A media converter to converts digital fiber optic signals to electronic analog signals in the form of voltage doublet and vice-versa. The media converter includes a differential transmit transformer, a transmit stub interface and an optical fiber transmit interface arranged in serial flow communication in a first communication path; and a differential receive transformer, a receive stub interface and an optical fiber receive interface in serial flow communication in a second communication path. The first communication path converts a voltage doublet signal received from the electronic component to a digital optical signal for transmission to a passive optical star via the optical fiber coupler, and the second communication path converts a digital optical signal received from the passive optical star via the optical fiber coupler to an voltage doublet signal for transmission to the electronic component. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240218 | HEATING METHOD FOR A COMPOSITE LAMINATOR - A method of fabricating a composite item may include dispensing a composite material comprising a reinforcement and a resin. The method may further include energizing an infrared heat source. The infrared heat source may tend to generate a wavelength of electromagnetic radiation that is preferentially absorbed by the reinforcement. The method may additionally include controlling power to the infrared heat source to cause the infrared heat source to emit a wavelength of electromagnetic radiation that is absorbed by the resin to a relatively greater extent than the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation that is absorbed by the reinforcement. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110239448 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSTALLING FASTENERS - Apparatus for installing fasteners in a workpiece is mounted for computer controlled movement over the workpiece surface. The apparatus includes all of the tools, fasteners, drives and controls on-board that are needed to operate autonomously, without external connections. The apparatus may also include an on-board power supply for powering the tools, drives and controls. A supply of fasteners is held in an on-board replaceable cassette. An on-board fastener transferring device transfers individual fasteners from the cassette to the tools. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110238384 | ADVANCING LAYER SURFACE GRID GENERATION - A method of generating a grid on a surface comprises the steps of forming a layer curve along the surface, forming a plurality of points along the layer curve and extending a tangent vector from each one of the most recently formed points. The method may further comprise forming a set of additional points on the surface at a step distance from corresponding ones of the most recently formed points. The set of additional points may be interconnected to form an additional layer curve. The set of additional points may be connected with the corresponding ones of the most recently formed points to form a layer of quadrilateral faces wherein each one of the faces comprises a column. The growth of a column may be terminated upon an aspect ratio of the face in the column exceeding a predetermined value. The steps of extending tangent vectors, forming the set of additional points and forming an additional layer curve may be iteratively repeated until each one of the columns is terminated. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110235894 | METHOD FOR DETECTING OPTICAL DEFECTS IN TRANSPARENCIES - A method of detecting optical defects in a transparency may comprise the steps of providing a digital image of the transparency having a plurality of image pixels and detecting at least one candidate defect. The candidate defect may be detected by determining a grayscale intensity of each one of the image pixels and calculating an intensity gradient across adjacent pairs of the image pixels. Each image pixel may be assigned a gradient value comprising a maximum of the absolute value of the intensity gradients associated with the image pixel. A gradient image may be constructed comprising the gradient values assigned to corresponding ones of the image pixels. Image pixels may be identified as candidate pixels if such image pixels have a gradient value exceeding a gradient threshold. The candidate pixels may comprise the optical defect. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110235778 | SMALL DIAMETER X-RAY TUBE - Methods and systems for X-ray imaging enable inspection of an area of an object that is located separate and apart from a location of an X-ray generator. An X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray generator to generate X-rays. A collimator filters the generated X-rays to consolidate the generated X-rays and move the generated X-rays in a direction parallel to a centerline axis of the collimator. A small diameter tube transmits the directed X-rays and an end retainer emits the transmitted X-rays at an inspection object. A first filter of the collimator may initially filter the generated X-rays that are not parallel to the centerline axis of the collimator by passing the X-rays through a plurality of apertures. A second filter of the collimator may consolidate the generated X-rays and move the generated X-rays in a direction parallel to the centerline axis of the collimator by passing the generated X-rays through a channel. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110231150 | Difference Frequency Detection with Range Measurement - A method and apparatus for detecting objects. A first plurality of electromagnetic signals having a first frequency and a second plurality of electromagnetic signals having a second frequency are transmitted. At least one of the first frequency and the second frequency is changed through a range of frequencies. A delayed difference frequency signal substantially equal to a difference between the first frequency and the second frequency is monitored for. The delayed difference frequency signal is generated by an object having non-linear electrical characteristics in response to the object receiving the first plurality of electromagnetic signals and the second plurality of electromagnetic signals. A range measurement is generated for the object by comparing the delayed difference frequency signal and an undelayed difference frequency signal. The undelayed difference frequency signal is substantially equal to the difference between the first frequency and the second frequency. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110230597 | GLASS FIBERS HAVING IMPROVED DURABILITY - A glass fiber and a method of manufacturing a glass fiber for reinforcing a transparent composite matrix is disclosed. The glass fiber includes a first glass material having a first refractive index, a first modulus, and a first durability characteristic and a second glass material having a second refractive index, a second modulus, and second durability characteristic. The second durability characteristic is greater than the first durability characteristic. Durability characteristic is selected from the group comprising resistance to chemical attack, resistance to acid attack, resistance to fading from exposure to ultra-violet radiation, and resistance to mechanical abrasion. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110230596 | GLASS FIBERS HAVING IMPROVED STRENGTH - A glass fiber and a method of manufacturing a glass fiber for reinforcing a transparent composite matrix are disclosed. The glass fiber includes a first glass material having a first set of mechanical properties including a first modulus and a first coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and a second glass material having a second set of mechanical properties including a second modulus and a second CTE. The second glass material forms a substantially uniform coating on the first glass material. The second CTE is less than the first CTE. The glass fiber is formed by reducing the cross-section of a glass fiber preform of the first glass material coated with the second glass material by hot working. Because of the selected difference in the CTE's, the first glass material imparts a compressive force upon the second glass material, which improves the strength of the glass fiber. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110227779 | Activating Motion Detectors - A method and apparatus for activating a motion detector. An electromagnetic signal is transmitted in a form of a beam. The beam is configured to activate the motion detector when the beam encounters the motion detector. The beam is moved to a location in which the motion detector is present such that the motion detector activates. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226932 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TARGETING DIRECTED ENERGY DEVICES - Systems and methods for targeting a directed energy system are provided. A particular system includes a first laser and a second laser. The system also includes a scanning system coupled to the first laser and the second laser. The scanning system is adapted to movably direct the second laser in a pattern around a pointing location of the first laser. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226345 | Deployable Aerodynamic Devices with Reduced Actuator Loads - Deployable aerodynamic devices with reduced actuator loads, and related systems and methods are disclosed. An external flow system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes an external flow body, a deployable device carried by and movable relative to the external flow body, and a coupling connected between the external flow body and the deployable device. The system can further include an actuator device operatively coupled between the external flow body and the deployable device, with the actuator device positioned to move the deployable device along a motion path between a stowed position and the deployed position. The motion path can have a first portion over which the load delivered by the actuator device increases as the deployed device moves toward the deployed position, and a second portion over which the load delivered by the actuator device decreases as the deployed device moves toward the deployed position. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226283 | GELLED ADHESIVE REMOVER COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention includes a process using environmentally friendly materials for the removal of adhesive residues from hard substrates, particularly vehicles, e.g., cars, trucks, buses, aerospace vehicles including airplanes, and the like. The process uses a novel adhesive remover composition comprising one or more non-halogenated organic solvents, a non-abrasive thickening agent, a surfactant, and a vapor-pressure modulating agent. The total Hansen Solubility Parameter (δt) at 25° C. for each of the non-halogenated organic solvents is from about 14 MPa | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110224848 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR DISPLAYING AND RECEIVING TACTICAL AND STRATEGIC FLIGHT GUIDANCE INFORMATION - Methods and apparatuses for displaying and receiving tactical and strategic flight guidance information are disclosed. A method in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes displaying at least one first indicator to an operator of the aircraft, with a first indicator corresponding to a first instruction input by the operator for directing a first aircraft behavior and implemented upon receiving an activation instruction from the operator. At least one second indicator corresponding to a second instruction for directing a second aircraft behavior at least proximately the same as the first aircraft behavior is displayed, with the at least one second instruction to be automatically implemented at a future time. The at least one second indicator is at least approximately the same as the at least one first indicator. Indicators can be hierarchically organized to simplify presentation and reduce pilot training time. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110221630 | SUPER-RESOLUTION IMAGING RADAR - A system, apparatus, and method are disclosed for a super-resolution imaging radar (SRIR). The SRIR employs a pulse signal generator that propagates bursts of radio frequency (RF) energy. Each burst contains a number of pulses. One pulse of each burst is an ancilla pulse, and the remaining pulses are propagated towards an object. An array bucket detector (ABD) collects pulses that are reflected from the object. Also, the ancilla pulses are propagated through a virtual lens. A virtual scanning detector detects the virtual ancilla electric field. A processor calculates a virtual ancilla electric field, which would be present at the scanning detector. Further, a coincidence circuit calculates a cross-time correlation function of the electric fields of the reflected pulses that are collected by the ABD and the virtual ancilla electric field. The coincidence circuit uses cross-time correlation function results to generate pixels of an image of the object. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110212310 | METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING AND ATTACHMENT OF WING FAIRINGS - A method and apparatus for manufacturing and installing a fairing on an aircraft. In one advantageous embodiment, a composite fairing is installed on the aircraft. A composite sheet having a form of the composite fairing is formed. A plurality of cured composite tiles is created from the composite sheet, wherein spaces are present between the plurality of composite tiles. The plurality of composite tiles is cured to form the composite fairing. The composite fairing is attached to a surface of the aircraft. The spaces between the plurality of composite tiles are filled with a flexible filler. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110211187 | RESONANT SCANNER FOR 3D MAPPING - A system, apparatus, and method are disclosed for a resonant scanner for three-dimensional (3D) mapping. The system, apparatus, and method employ a small, lightweight articulating device that performs as a 3D Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) laser from a moving scanner platform in a way that provides geolocation and takes advantage of mechanical resonance to amplify motion in the tilt axis. The device is used to map terrain in 3D space. The disclosed method involves resonating the scanner platform of the device with a spring about a pivot. The method further involves determining with a position sensor the tilt position and/or resonance rate of the scanner platform. Further, the method involves applying torque with an actuator to the scanner platform, and controlling with a controller the resonance of the scanner platform. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110209739 | Integrated Thermoelectric Honeycomb Core and Method - The disclosure provides a thermoelectric composite sandwich structure with an integrated honeycomb core and method for making. The thermoelectric composite sandwich structure comprises two prepreg composite face sheets and an integrated honeycomb core assembled between the face sheets. The honeycomb core comprises a plurality of core elements bonded together with a core adhesive. Each core element has a first side substantially coated with a negative Seebeck coefficient conductive material having a plurality of first spaced gaps, and each core element further has a second side substantially coated with a positive Seebeck coefficient conductive material having a plurality of second spaced gaps. The honeycomb core further comprises a plurality of electrical connections for connecting in series the first side to the second side. A temperature gradient across the honeycomb core generates power. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110208367 | Controlling Virtual Power Circuits - A method and apparatus for controlling circuits in an electrical power grid. Parameters in the circuits are monitored. Each circuit comprises nodes in the electrical power grid and a number of lines connected to the nodes in the electrical power grid. The number of lines is configured to carry electrical power. The nodes control the electrical power in the number of lines. A number of agent processes associated with the nodes communicate with each other using a communications network, configure the nodes in the electrical power grid into a number of circuits, and control a delivery of the electrical power through the number of circuits to loads. A determination is made as to whether to make a change to the number of circuits based on the number of parameters and a policy. The circuits are changed using the policy in response to a determination to make the change. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110204719 | Network Centric Power Flow Control - A method and apparatus are present for sending power to a number of loads. A plurality of nodes and a number of lines connected to the plurality of nodes are selected to send electrical power from a number of sources to a number of loads based on a capacity to send the electrical power through the plurality of nodes and the number of lines. The plurality of nodes is configured into a circuit to carry the electrical power from the number of sources to the number of loads using the plurality nodes. The plurality of nodes are controlled to send the electrical power through the circuit to the number of loads using a number of agent processes associated with the plurality of nodes. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110199976 | Wireless Aircraft Sensor Network - A method and apparatus in a sensor network in an aircraft for collecting data about the aircraft. The sensor network in the aircraft collects the data about the aircraft. The sensor network comprises a set of wireless sensors attached to a first set of locations for the aircraft, a set of wireless routers attached to a second set of locations for the aircraft, and a set of gateways connected to an aircraft data processing system. The set of wireless routers is capable of receiving the data in wireless signals transmitted by the set of wireless sensors. The set of gateways is capable of receiving data in the wireless signals from the set of wireless routers to form received data and is capable of transmitting the received data into the aircraft data processing system. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110199693 | Method and Apparatus for Scaled Up Reproduction of Detailed Features - Producing a scaled multiple parallax compound lens is accomplished by providing an insect eye having multiple ommitidia and creating a polymer mold of the insect eye. A casting is then created from the polymer mold with an expandable polymer which is then linearly expanded to provide a form for creating a second polymer mold. A second casting is then created from the second polymer mold. Duplication of the process can be accomplished for further scaling up of the compound lens with the final casting created using a durable polymer having appropriate optical properties for the lens. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110199431 | Apparatus for Application and Accurate Positioning of Graphics on a Surface - In an embodiment of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for application and accurate positioning of at least one graphic image on a large contoured surface, comprising a flexible-rail positioning system mounted on a portion of the surface on which the graphic image is to be applied, a graphic image application system, software to operate the positioning system, and software to operate the graphic image application system. In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of applying and accurately positioning at least one graphic image on a large contoured surface. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110199239 | Aircraft Charting System with Multi-Touch Interaction Gestures for Managing A Route of an Aircraft - A method and apparatus for managing a route for an aircraft or managing a map of an airport. The map is displayed on a display device. A movement of a number of fingers with respect to a number of aeronautical objects on the map is detected. The route for the aircraft is changed or information generated by an operation based on the number of aeronautical objects on the map is displayed in response to detecting the movement of the number of fingers with respect to the number of aeronautical objects on the map. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110196558 | Robotic Vehicle Apparatus and Method - A method for forming a robotic vehicle. The method may involve forming a body and arranging a plurality of movable legs to project from the body for propelling the body over a surface. An actuator may be carried by the body to selectively engage and disengage different ones of the movable legs to cause a motion of the body, and thus the robotic vehicle, to travel over the surface. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110196549 | Vertical Situation Awareness System for Aircraft - A method and apparatus for displaying a predicted path on a vertical profile to operate a vehicle. A path is predicted for the vehicle in response to an event occurring. The path has a turning section and a straight section after the turning section. A portion of terrain relative to the path predicted for the vehicle is identified. A vertical profile view of the terrain is displayed, including the portion of the terrain relative to the path predicted for the vehicle. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110195232 | Composite Strip - A composite strip and a method of manufacturing a pre-cured composite strip. A pre-cured composite strip having a thermoset resin may be placed on a surface of a portion of a composite component where a caul plate seam may be expected. Caul plates may be placed on the composite component after placing the pre-cured composite strip to form the caul plate seam. The composite component may be cured after placing the caul plates on the composite component. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110195230 | Apparatuses, Systems, and Methods for Manufacturing Composite Parts - Tooling aids for applying pressure in laminating, and methods for their use, are described herein. In one embodiment, a caul for applying pressure in laminating includes a base portion positioned between first and second corner portions. The base portion can have a curved shape when it is in a relaxed state, but it moves to a flatter shape when subjected to pressure during lamination. Movement of the base portion to the flatter shape causes the first and second corner portions to move outwardly and away from the base portion. In this manner, the caul can be used to compact laminating materials into corner regions of a corresponding female mold surface. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110193659 | Scalable Millimeter Wave Power Source - An apparatus comprises a structure, an array of oscillator units, a plurality of waveguides in the structure, and a synchronizing cavity located within the structure. The array of oscillator units has a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns associated with the structure. Oscillator units in a row within the array of oscillator units are directly coupled to each other. The plurality of waveguides is configured to couple the array of oscillator units to the synchronizing cavity. The synchronizing cavity is configured to cause the array of oscillator units to operate at substantially a common frequency. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110192541 | Apparatus for Placing Plies on Curved Substrates - A ply placement device uses a ply guide to place plies on a curved substrate surface. The ply guide includes a guide surface and a guide edge that are each curved to match the contour of the substrate so that the ply transitions smoothly from its planar form to a curved form as the ply is placed onto the substrate. The ply guide may be flexible or segmented to allow reconfiguration of the guide surfaces to match various substrate contours. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110186206 | COPPER GRID REPAIR TECHNIQUE FOR LIGHTNING STRIKE PROTECTION - A method for reworking an electrically conductive layer of a composite skin is disclosed in which a patch replaces the altered section of the electrically conductive layer. The method is performed by removing a portion of the electrically conductive layer to reveal the underlying composite skin. A patch is formed, having an electrically conductive section coupled to an adhesive having a low dielectric breakdown strength, and is then introduced over the underlying composite skin such that the adhesive layer covers the underlying composite skin and overlaps an unremoved portion of the electrically conductive layer. The patch is applied such that the electrically conductive section within the patch covers the adhesive layer and overlaps the unremoved section of the electrically conductive layer. The adhesive layer preferably has a low dielectric breakdown strength, so that electricity from lightning which strikes the composite skin may be conducted through the adhesive. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110180666 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING AERIAL REFUELING SYMBOLOGY - In accordance with one or more embodiments, systems and methods for in-flight fuel delivery include an aerial refueling device adapted to provide fuel to a receiver aircraft, an optical component adapted to capture images of the aerial refueling device and the receiver aircraft, an operator input component adapted to interface with an operator and capture control signals as input from the operator, and a display component adapted to display images. A controller is adapted to receive the captured images and the captured control signals, process the control signals by generating graphic display symbology, process the images by generating a combined image having the generated graphic display symbology superimposed on the images, and display the combined image on the display component for viewing by the operator. The controller is adapted to superimpose the graphic display symbology on a portion of the images obscured by the aerial refueling device. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110180661 | Optically Reconfigurable Radio Frequency Antennas - Optically reconfigurable radio frequency antennas for use in aircraft systems and methods of its use are disclosed. In one embodiment, the antenna includes a surface-conformal reflector that includes optically addressable carbon nanotubes. The nanotubes can be combined with light-sensitive materials so that exposure to light of the correct wavelength will switch the nanotubes back and forth between a metallic and non-metallic state. The antenna has a transmitter that radiates a radio frequency signal in the direction of the surface illuminator and an addressable optical conductor to illuminate the nanotubes with one or more optical signals. When the domains are illuminated they switch portions of the carbon nanotubes between its non-metallic states and metallic states to reflect the radiated radio frequency signal. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110180145 | Tailorable Stiffness Shape Morphing Flow-Path - An apparatus and method for an improved morphing flow path. A flexible structure has a plurality of sections which include a first section and a second section. An actuator system is connected to the flexible structure and includes a number of actuators. The actuator system is capable of changing a configuration of the flexible structure. A controller is connected to the actuator system. The controller is capable of changing a position of a number of actuators within the actuator system. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110177309 | OBLONG CONFIGURATION FOR BONDED PATCH - A patch for a structure has a rework area with an inconsistency formed therein. The patch comprises a patch body having at least two regions including a fail-safe region and a safe-life region encompassing the fail-safe region. The safe-life region has a mode I interlaminar fracture toughness that is less than the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of the fail-safe region. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110176962 | QUANTUM DOT-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORS - A detection method and indicator are disclosed that includes quantum dots that fluoresce under illumination of a first light having a first wavelength to indicate the presence of a predetermined condition, and in particular, a corrosion condition. The quantum dots are surrounded by a shell material that under normal conditions reflect the first light and reacts in the presence of the predetermined condition to permit the first light to illuminate the quantum dot to excite the quantum dot to emit a second light having a second wavelength, which when detected, indicates the presence of the predetermined condition. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110172795 | CONSIDERATION OF MANUFACTURING CAPABILITY DURING AIRCRAFT DESIGN - A system comprises a configurator for providing a configuration definition that specifies existing engineering designs and manufacturing capability of aircraft structures that have already been designed and manufactured; and a processor for accessing the configuration definition from the configurator and filtering the configuration definition according to customer specifications for a new aircraft. The filtering selects existing designs and identifies existing manufacturing capability to fabricate structures for the new aircraft. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110171442 | THERMAL INSULATION ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR FABRICATING THE SAME - Thermal insulation assemblies, methods for fabricating thermal insulation assemblies, and thermally insulated structures are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a thermally insulated structure is disclosed that includes a thermal insulation assembly comprises a ceramic tile having a surface coated with an alumina-mullite slurry. A ceramic matrix composite is disposed on the coated surface. The ceramic matrix composite comprises a first ply of a ceramic fiber impregnated with a ceramic matrix. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110169613 | PORTABLE RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION (RFID) READER - A particular portable radio frequency identification (RFID) reader includes an active antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements to receive RFID signals from RFID devices. The antenna elements include control circuitry to control a beam pattern generated by the active antenna array. The portable RFID reader further includes sum circuitry and difference circuitry. The sum circuitry is operable to determine a sum signal by summing the RFID signals received by at least two of the plurality of antenna elements. The difference circuitry is operable to determine a difference signal between the RFID signals received by at least two of the plurality of antenna elements. The portable RFID reader also includes a controller to electronically steer the beam pattern and to determine a direction from the RFID reader to a particular RFID device. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110169543 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING DEVICES OPERATING WITHIN DIFFERENT VOLTAGE RANGES - Semiconductor devices, systems, and methods are disclosed to facilitate power management. A semiconductor device includes a first voltage island configured to operate within a first voltage range, where the first voltage range has a first midpoint. A second voltage island of the semiconductor device is configured to operate within a second voltage range, where the second voltage range has a second midpoint. The first voltage range is different than the second voltage range, and the first midpoint is substantially equal to the second midpoint. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110169536 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ASYNCHRONOUS LOGIC POWER MANAGEMENT - Methods, apparatuses, and systems are disclosed to facilitate power management of asynchronous logic devices to operate asynchronous logic devices at a desired level of processing throughput with minimal power consumption. A plurality of completion signals are received from a processing circuit. Each of the plurality of completion signals identifies an associated operation has been completed by the processing circuit. A plurality of phase signals is generated where the plurality of phase signals includes a respective phase signal generated at a time when each of the plurality of completion signals is expected to be received. A plurality of time differences is determined where each of the time differences is based on a difference between receipt of a completion signal and the respective phase signal generated at the time when the completion signal is expected to be received. A composite difference of the time differences is totaled. A voltage supplied to the processing circuit is adjusted based on the composite difference. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168848 | INNOVATIVE OPTIMAL SPACECRAFT SAFING METHODOLOGY - A system and method are disclosed for an innovative spacecraft (S/C) safing methodology. The system and method use wheel momentum to perform a rotisserie rotation so that the spacecraft can slew at a fast rate in a controlled fashion in order to keep the spacecraft power safe and maintain telemetry and command (T&C) coverage. The system and method involve a reaction wheel system and a spacecraft control processor (SCP). The SCP is in communication with the reaction wheel system. The SCP is operable to determine a rotisserie axis, and take the cross product of the rotisserie axis and a momentum vector to result in a unit vector. The SCP is further operable to slowly slew the spacecraft about the unit vector through an angle until the rotisserie axis aligns with the momentum vector, and rotate the spacecraft about the rotisserie axis to keep the spacecraft power safe. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110167786 | INTERNAL MIXING OF A PORTION OF FAN EXHAUST FLOW AND FULL CORE EXHAUST FLOW IN AIRCRAFT TURBOFAN ENGINES - An integrated, single piece mixer-center body ventilation apparatus is disclosed for use with a turbofan jet engine. The apparatus may incorporate a circumferential forward body portion adapted to be coupled to an aft end of a core engine turbine case of the jet engine, and a center body tube portion integrally formed with the forward body portion and having an axially opening vent exit. The forward body portion may have a plurality of inner mixer flow paths in communication with scalloped projecting portions. The inner mixer flow paths direct a pressurized core exhaust flow through the mixer device and mix the pressurized core exhaust flow with a portion of a pressurized fan exhaust flow, to thus significantly cool the pressurized core exhaust flow. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110167785 | INTERNAL MIXING OF A PORTION OF FAN EXHAUST FLOW AND FULL CORE EXHAUST FLOW IN AIRCRAFT TURBOFAN ENGINES - An airborne mobile platform that has at least one turbofan engine assembly having a fan driven by a core engine, a short nacelle around the fan and a forward portion of the core engine, and a fan exhaust duct through the nacelle. A mixer duct shell is disposed substantially coaxial with and extending forwardly into the fan exhaust duct to provide a mixer duct between the mixer duct shell and a core engine shroud of the core engine. At least a portion of the mixer duct shell has a honeycomb core structure having an inner surface and an outer surface, with an acoustic lining on one of the inner or outer surfaces. The acoustic lining attenuates sound emanating from the turbofan engine assembly. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110167401 | Processing Wiring Diagrams in a Data Processing System - A method, computer program product, and apparatus for processing a wiring diagram is provided. Information associated with a number of components in the wiring diagram is identified. A scaling factor between a first format for the wiring diagram and a second format used by a software application configured to use wiring diagrams in the second format is identified. The scaling factor is applied to the information identified as being associated with the number of components in the wiring diagram to form processed information. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110164657 | OBJECT LOCATION AND REPORTING SYSTEM FOR HARSH RF ENVIRONMENTS - A system verifies torquing of pressure fittings in an aircraft wheel well. A strain gauge and an ultra-wide band (UWB) pulse signal generator are placed on a wrench used to torque the fittings. The strain senses the torque applied by the wrench, and the pulse signal generator generates UWB pulse signals indicating the location of the fitting and the torque applied to the fitting. The pulse signals are received by UWB radios within the wheel well, which generate location measurements based on the received pulse signals. A processor automatically calculates the location of the fitting being torqued based on the location measurements, and a display produces a 3-dimensional image of the fittings and their torque status. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110156396 | POWER GENERATOR - A gyroscopic device may be used as a power generator. In some embodiments there is provided a power generator which comprises a housing, a flywheel disposed within the housing and rotatable about an extending along a first axis, a precessional rotation assembly to implement rotation of the housing about a precessional axis of the flywheel, and a precessional generator to capture energy generated by the precessional rotation of the housing. Other embodiments may be described. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155862 | JET ENGINE NOZZLE EXIT CONFIGURATIONS AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Nozzle exit configurations and associated systems and methods are disclosed. An aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment includes a jet engine exhaust nozzle having an internal flow surface and an exit aperture, with the exit aperture having a perimeter that includes multiple projections extending in an aft direction. Aft portions of individual neighboring projections are spaced apart from each other by a gap, and a geometric feature of the multiple can change in a monotonic manner along at least a portion of the perimeter. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155741 | SEALING BLADDERLESS SYSTEM AND METHOD - Apparatus and methods are provided to minimize the escape of fuel out of a fuel tank when a tank wall is penetrated by a bullet. In one embodiment, a pressure differential may be maintained between a pressure within a fuel tank cavity and another pressure outside the fuel tank cavity in order to minimize the loss of fuel upon penetration of the fuel tank. In another embodiment, a compressed rubber layer of fuel-reactive rubber may be provided which is adapted to be attached to a fuel tank wall and to swell upon contact with fuel in order to substantially seal a penetrated hole in the fuel tank wall. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110154886 | Flange Fitting with Leak Sensor Port - A leak detection feature for a fluid conduit. The leak detection feature facilitates the monitoring of fluid leaks at the interface of two adjoining conduit flange fittings. An embodiment of a flange fitting with a leak detection feature for a fluid conduit having an opening. The flange fitting includes a flange body around the opening of the fluid conduit, a leak detection passageway formed in the flange body, and a leak detection port formed in the flange body. The flange body has a sealing face surface configured to mate with a cooperating flange fitting, and the leak detection passageway terminates at the sealing face surface. The leak detection port is in fluid communication with the leak detection passageway, and the leak detection port is configured for fluid communication with a leak sensing apparatus. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110154438 | Multi-Level Security Controls System - A method and apparatus for processing information. First information is received from a first number of devices at a first number of interfaces configured to receive the first information in a first section of a programmable integrated circuit. The first information is sent to a second section in the programmable integrated circuit. Second information is received at a second number of interfaces in the second section from a second number of devices that generates the second information with a plurality of security levels. The first and second sections are partitioned from each other such that communication between the first and second sections is controlled by the second section. The first and second information are processed to form processed information that is sent to a number of network interfaces in which an identification of a security level within a plurality of security levels is associated with the processed information. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110153235 | Wire System Assessment - The advantageous embodiments provide a method, a computer program product, and an apparatus for monitoring a wiring system. A number of responses to signals transmitted in a portion of the wiring system are measured to form a measured signature. Design data for the portion of the wiring system is retrieved. A number of expected responses for the signals in the portion of the wiring system are identified using the design data to form a computed signature. The measured signature is compared with the computed signature. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110153123 | ALGORITHM FOR SIMULTANEOUS ATTITUDE MANEUVER AND MOMENTUM DUMPING - A system and method are disclosed for simultaneous attitude maneuver and momentum dumping. The attitude maneuver is performed using nominal wheel control to minimize propellant usage, while applying a momentum management command to the thruster control loop in order for the wheels to accomplish the desired spacecraft maneuver while simultaneously being reset to a de-saturated target state. The system and method involve a wheel system comprised of reaction wheels and/or a control moment gyroscope (CMG), at least one thruster, and control logic that is in communication with the wheel system and thruster(s). If a spacecraft maneuver is in progress, the control logic biases an error input signal to a thruster control loop to track the wheel maneuver to prevent unnecessary propellant consumption. The control logic is further operable to output thruster torque commands and wheel torque commands that accomplish the maneuver while achieving the desired final momentum target. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110151125 | CURE GROWTH CONTROL APPARATUS - An apparatus for curing a composite assembly may include a base tool, a growth control apparatus, and at least one engagement fitting. The base tool may have a different thermal expansion growth rate than a composite assembly to be cured using the apparatus. The growth control apparatus may have a different thermal expansion growth rate than the base tool. The engagement fitting may be moveably disposed relative to the base tool and connected to the growth control apparatus. The engagement fitting may hold a composite assembly being cured against the engagement fitting. The growth control apparatus may grow a pre-determined amount during curing of a composite assembly to produce a cured composite assembly having a pre-determined design dimension. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150645 | Optimization of Downstream Open Fan Propeller Position - A method and apparatus for controlling a propeller of a contra-rotation open fan (CROF) engine of an aircraft. A diameter of the propeller is set to be at a first diameter during at least a portion of a first flight condition of the aircraft. The diameter of the propeller is set to be at a second diameter, different from the first diameter, during at least a portion of a second flight condition of the aircraft. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110149283 | Structural Assembly And Methods For Facilitating Corrosion Inspection - A structural assembly and methods are provided to facilitate corrosion inspection, such as in those regions of a structure that may otherwise be visibly inspected only following at least partial disassembly of the structure. The structural assembly may include a structure and a coating disposed upon at least a portion of the structure that has optical properties that change in response to corrosion. The structural assembly may also include a fiber optic sensing network including a plurality of optical fibers and a sensor. The plurality of optical fibers are configured to expose the coating to incident optical signals and to receive responsive optical signals at least partially dependent upon any change in the optical properties of the coating. The sensor is configured to receive the responsive optical signals from the plurality of optical fibers. This sensor may also be configured to analyze the responsive optical signals to detect corrosion. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110149266 | Position and Orientation Determination Using Movement Data - Position determining systems and methods are provided. A particular portable device includes a calibration component to communicate with a local positioning system to determine an initial position and orientation of the portable device within a local coordinate system associated with a target structure. The portable device also includes at least one movement sensor to detect movement of the portable device. The portable device further includes a processor to determine a measured position and orientation of the portable device based on the initial position and orientation of the portable device within the local coordinate system and based on the detected movement of the portable device. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110148701 | Precise Absolute Time Transfer From A Satellite System - Systems and methods according to one or more embodiments are provided for obtaining a precise absolute time using a satellite system. The precise absolute time may be used, for example, as an aid for positioning systems including navigation in attenuated or jammed environments. A method of obtaining precise absolute time transfer from a satellite according to an embodiment comprises: receiving a precision time signal from a satellite, wherein the precision time signal comprises a periodic repeating code; determining a timing phase of the code; receiving additional aiding information; and using the timing phase and the additional aiding information to determine a precise absolute time. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146046 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING AND REPLACING COMPONENTS OF AN AIRPLANE - Systems and methods are provided for shoring an airplane in order to facilitate the replacement of one or more airplane parts, such as an airplane's upper skin panels, lower skin panels, and/or window assemblies. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110145185 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NETWORK SECURITY EVENT MODELING AND PREDICTION - A security tool is disclosed for predicting a sequence of events based on the current events observed. The security tool relies on sequential event mining algorithms to discover the baseline event patterns, from which a prediction can be performed. The security tool translates the sequential patterns into a Dynamic Bayesian Network prediction model. A temporal reasoning engine then feeds the model with the current event status and predicts what events are likely to happen in next time window, and with what probability. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110144924 | COMPUTATIONAL METHOD FOR LOAD ENHANCEMENT FACTORS - The computation of a Load Factor, a Life Factor or a Load Enhancement Factor using Modified Joint Weibull Analysis may include retrieving a test data set from at least one database and analyzing the data retrieved for fit with a Weibull distribution model for the data. The test data may be analyzed to determine if at least two coupons have been tested and if both the applied loads and duration of testing at the component-level were varied. At least one shape parameter may be calculated for the Weibull distribution model after which the shape parameter may be stored. At least one scale parameter may be calculated for the Weibull distribution of the data after which the scale parameter may be stored. A stress to life cycle relationship may also be calculated to account for scatter in the data through the Weibull distribution data. At least one of the Life Factor, the Load Factor and the Load Enhancement Factor may be calculated based on the stress to life cycle relationship to account for scatter in the Life Factor, the Load Factor or the Load Enhancement Factor. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110144835 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR SIMULTANEOUS MOMENTUM DUMPING AND ORBIT CONTROL - The present system and methods enable simultaneous momentum dumping and orbit control of a spacecraft, such as a geostationary satellite. Control equations according to the present system and methods generate accurate station-keeping commands quickly and efficiently, reducing the number of maneuvers needed to maintain station and allowing station-keeping maneuvers to be performed with a single burn. Additional benefits include increased efficiency in propellant usage, and extension of the satellite's lifespan. The present system and methods also enable tighter orbit control, reduction in transients and number of station-keeping thrusters aboard the satellite. The present methods also eliminate the need for the thrusters to point through the center of mass of the satellite, which in turn reduces the need for dedicated station-keeping thrusters. The present methods also facilitate completely autonomous orbit control and control using Attitude Control Systems (ACS). | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110144828 | Unmanned Multi-Purpose Ground Vehicle with Different Levels of Control - A vehicle comprises a platform, a propulsion system, a communications system, a sensor system, and a computer system. The propulsion system, communications system, sensor system, and computer system are associated with the platform. The propulsion system is configured to move the platform on a ground. The communications system is configured to establish a wireless communications link to a remote location. The sensor system is configured to generate sensor data. The computer system is configured to run a number of control processes to perform a mission and configured to perform operations in response to a number of commands from the number of operators if the number of requests is valid. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110144802 | Control System for Robotic Vehicles - A method and apparatus may be present for controlling robotic vehicles. A processor system may identify hardware for a robotic vehicle to form an identification. The processor system may run an interface layer for the hardware for the robotic vehicle using the identification. The interface layer may be configured to receive information from the hardware in which the information may be received using a number of protocols for the hardware. The processor system may send the information received from the hardware to a control layer in which a number of applications running in the control layer may be configured to indirectly control operation of the robotic vehicle. The information may be received in the control layer using a protocol used by the number of applications. | 06-16-2011 |
