Abstract

Presented herein are systems and methods related to associating nanobubbles (NBs) with a composition (e.g., a liquid composition). NBs are ultrafine gas domains in liquid with nano-scale diameters that are, on average, smaller than 1000 nm diameter (e.g., about 200nm in diameter or less). NBs have remarkably large interfacial surface areas and have unique physicochemical properties due to their small dimensions. The small size (e.g., diameter) and higher surface tension of NBs increase the interfacial gas-liquid surface area, which in turn promotes mass transfer. In some embodiments, NBs (e.g., oxygen NBs) can be suspended in a composition (e.g., water) long periods of time and produce reactive oxygen species without added catalysts. However, NB applications in water treatment applications have not been widely explored.

IPC Classes  ?

• B03D 1/02 - Froth-flotation processes
• B03D 1/14 - Flotation machines
• C02F 1/24 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by flotation
• B03D 1/08 - Subsequent treatment of concentrated product

Abstract

A scissor assembly includes a scissor apparatus having a first scissor jaw and a second scissor jaw that are coupled together. The first scissor jaw has a first jaw face, and the second scissor jaw has a second jaw face that opposes the first jaw face. The scissor apparatus is configured to actuate between a closed position and a plurality of open positions. The scissor assembly includes a pivot pin extending through the first and second scissor jaws. The first and second jaws are configured to rotate around the pivot pin as the scissor apparatus actuates between the closed position and the open positions. The scissor assembly includes a dynamic pin positioned between the first jaw face and the second jaw face. The scissor assembly includes a biasing member positioned at least partially around the scissor apparatus and configured to bias the scissor apparatus toward the closed position.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05G 1/04 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by pivoting movement, e.g. levers
• G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum positionProviding feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce

Abstract

A method for detecting a target flaw using a radiographic inspection system includes selecting a plurality of simulated flaws. The method also includes performing a flaw detection simulation on the simulated flaws. The method also includes determining a plurality of output indication parameters for each of the simulated flaws based at least partially upon the flaw detection simulation. The output indication parameters include a contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), a resolution ratio, a length-to-width (L/W) indication ratio, and a probability parameter. The method also includes determining a contrast-to-noise ratio sensitivity function (CNR SF) based at least partially upon the output indication parameters. The method also includes qualifying the radiographic inspection system to detect the target flaw based at least partially upon the CNR SF.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 23/18 - Investigating the presence of defects or foreign matter

Abstract

A tube straightening tool includes a tool housing having an exterior defining a tube entrance opening that opens into a first end of an internal cavity, and has an interior end wall at a second end of the internal cavity. The tool housing has an interior side wall extending from the tube entrance opening toward the interior end wall. A press block is in the internal cavity and a knob is external to the tool housing. A threaded shaft extends from the knob through the shaft opening into the internal cavity. The press block is coupled to the threaded shaft. Turning the knob moves the press block toward the interior side wall, and an exterior of a tube resting in the internal cavity is confronted by the press block and moved against the interior side wall. A method of straightening a tube using the tool is disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B21D 3/10 - Straightening or restoring form of metal rods, metal tubes, metal profiles, or specific articles made therefrom, whether or not in combination with sheet metal parts between rams and anvils or abutments

Abstract

An image quality indicator (IQI) system includes a crack IQI. The crack IQI includes a penetrameter having a first body and a second body disposed in the first body. The first body has a first body inner surface defining a first body hole. The second body has a second body outer surface disposed adjacent the first body inner surface to form an interface having an interface gap. The IQI system also includes a radiation source spaced from the penetrameter and configured to transmit radiation rays to the penetrameter. The IQI system also includes a radiation detector disposed adjacent the penetrameter and configured to generate an IQI radiographic image indicative of an interface gap characteristic of the interface gap.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 23/18 - Investigating the presence of defects or foreign matter
• G01N 23/04 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by transmitting the radiation through the material and forming images of the material
• G01N 23/083 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by transmitting the radiation through the material and measuring the absorption the radiation being X-rays

Abstract

A grasp assist system includes a glove having a glove palm and fingers, with the glove worn on a user's hand. A sensor measures flexion of the glove fingers, and thus a change of position and/or attitude of the fingers is determined. Finger saddles at least partially surround a phalange of a respective one of the user's fingers. The system uses one or more tendon actuators to pull on flexible tendons. Each tendon connects to a respective finger saddle. A controller is in communication with the actuators and sensor(s). The glove may use feedback from optional contact sensors to adjust tension, and may have a built-in restorative force. In executing a control method, the controller selectively applies tension to the tendons in response to finger flexion, via the tendon actuators, at a level sufficient for moving the user's fingers when the user executes a hand maneuver.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61H 1/02 - Stretching or bending apparatus for exercising
• A41D 19/015 - Protective gloves

Abstract

A joint includes a shell that is hollow and at least partially spherical. The shell includes a plurality of shell rail sections including a first shell rail section. The first shell rail section includes a portion of an outer surface of the shell, a portion of an inner surface of the shell, and an opening edge section that defines a shell opening. The joint also includes a plurality of rotatable members including a first rotatable member. The first rotatable member includes an outer cup positioned at least partially outside of the shell and having an outer track surface, and an inner cup positioned at least partially inside of the shell and having an inner track surface. The first shell rail section is positioned at least partially between the outer and inner track surfaces.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16C 11/06 - Ball-jointsOther joints having more than one degree of angular freedom, i.e. universal joints
• E04B 1/19 - Three-dimensional framework structures

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided for a multiplexed phase separating inertial filter that is composed of helical through holes generating centrifugal separating forces. In one example, the inertial filter may be a planar porous material with an array of helical channels, each helical channel of the array of helical channels extending from a top surface of the porous material to a bottom surface of the porous material.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 45/16 - Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by centrifugal forces generated by the winding course of the gas stream
• B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing

Abstract

A double capsule assembly includes an outer capsule and an inner capsule configured to be positioned within the outer capsule. The inner capsule is configured to have a sample positioned therein. The double capsule assembly is configured to be placed in a solid media assembly to analyze or synthesize the sample.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 25/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of thermal means
• G01N 23/203 - Measuring back scattering
• C01G 41/00 - Compounds of tungsten
• C01F 7/162 - Magnesium aluminates
• C01G 37/14 - ChromatesBichromates

Abstract

A magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow control mechanism is described which substantially improves the existing processes in that smaller magnetic fields, requiring far less mass, may be placed away from the forebody of the spacecraft to produce Lorentz forces that augment the lift and the drag forces for guidance, navigation, and control of the spacecraft. The MHD flow control mechanism may also be configured to provide additional thermal protection of the electrodes therein.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64G 1/62 - Systems for re-entry into the earth's atmosphereRetarding or landing devices

Abstract

A portable system for dynamometry, exercise, and rehabilitation comprises a base, a detachable servomotor assembly, an embedded control system, and a physical human-machine interface for securing a human limb into a stabilized position for use in a repeatable and ambidextrous manner. In another embodiment, the portable system includes a power source and a user interface subsystem for selecting operative modes and input parameters and for real-time processing, display, and storage of the values collected by the system during operation. In another embodiment, a method for determining strength of an isolated muscle group of a human joint is disclosed. The method includes the steps of mounting and securing a detachable servomotor assembly of a portable dynamometer upon a surface and securing the human joint to be tested into a stable position with an adjustable, ambidextrous distal limb attachment assembly for use of the portable dynamometer in a readily repeatable manner.

IPC Classes  ?

• A63B 23/04 - Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs
• A63B 21/005 - Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
• A63B 21/00 - Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
• A61H 1/02 - Stretching or bending apparatus for exercising
• A61B 5/22 - ErgometryMeasuring muscular strength or the force of a muscular blow

Abstract

The innovation presented herein provides among its embodiments, a non-pneumatic structure such as a vehicle tire, consisting of a matrix of shape memory alloy (SMA) elements. The interlocking layering pattern provides geometries which leverage the SMA material properties to accomplish performance characteristics of traditional pneumatic structures across a spectrum of possible desired uses including normal personal use, recreational use, sport use and commercial use. Embodiments include applying structural design and material properties to provide a fixed or a variable set of performance characteristics. Similar to the fruits of other space program initiatives, the innovation leverages material science developed for extra-terrestrial purposes to accomplish advances over conventional items.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60C 7/06 - Non-inflatable or solid tyres made of metal

Abstract

A system for measuring a heat response of a cell during a thermal runaway event includes a housing. An insulation is positioned within the housing. A calorimeter is positioned within the insulation and the housing. The calorimeter is configured to have the cell positioned therein. The calorimeter is configured to measure a temperature increase of the cell, one or more components of the calorimeter, or a combination thereof during the thermal runaway event of the cell. A total energy yield of the thermal runaway event is configured to be determined based at least partially upon the temperature increase. A ratio is configured to be determined based at least partially upon the temperature increase. The ratio includes energy released through a casing of the cell during the thermal runaway event vs. energy released through ejecta material from the cell during the thermal runaway event.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01K 17/00 - Measuring quantity of heat
• H01M 10/42 - Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
• H01M 10/48 - Accumulators combined with arrangements for measuring, testing or indicating the condition of cells, e.g. the level or density of the electrolyte

Abstract

A method for streaming sensor data from a set of radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags includes determining an initial communication approach to be performed with respect to each RFID tag. The method also includes managing access to the RFID tag by refining the initial communication approach based on records of successes and failures of the initial communication approach. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) system is also disclosed, the system comprising one or more processors and a memory system comprising one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the one or more processors, causes the system to perform operations for streaming sensor data from one or more RFID tags to one or more RFID readers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• H04W 52/02 - Power saving arrangements

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system includes an RFID interrogator configured for generating an RFID signal, wherein a channel frequency of the RFID signal changes over time; at least one patch antenna; and at least one feed line configured for feeding the signal to the corresponding at least one patch antenna. In another exemplary embodiment, an RFID interrogator configured for generating an RID signal, wherein a channel frequency of the RFID signal changes over time; at least one transmission line; and a diplexer coupling the RFID interrogator and the transmission lines and configured for distributing the RFID signal to each of the antennas or transmission lines, respectively, depending on the channel frequency of the RFID signal generated. The antennas or transmission lines are configured to transmit an electromagnetic wave in response to and at the channel frequency of the RFID signal distributed thereto.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 5/08 - Channels characterised by the type of signal the signals being represented by different frequencies each combination of signals in different channels being represented by a fixed frequency
• H01Q 21/08 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart the units being spaced along, or adjacent to, a rectilinear path
• H01Q 9/04 - Resonant antennas
• H01Q 1/22 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles

Abstract

A system and method for removing one or more predetermined gases from an environment is herein disclosed. An embodiment of the system and method will now be described. A means for conveying a fluid and a means for flowing the fluid is combined with adsorber and desorber sections. The fluid flows in the means for conveying the fluid by the means for flowing the fluid. Comparably, the fluid flows in the adsorber and desorber sections not by the means for flowing the fluid, but rather by capillary action. In the adsorber section, the environment is in direct contact with the fluid. The fluid is capable for adsorbing one or more gases from the environment. The fluid exits the adsorber section and subsequently flows into the desorber section. The desorber section is self-contained wherein an inner portion of the desorber section is not in direct contact with the environment. In the desorber section, the one or more gases are desorbed from the fluid into the inner portion of the desorber section. In an embodiment, the one or more gases exit the desorber section and the system as a whole.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 53/14 - Separation of gases or vapoursRecovering vapours of volatile solvents from gasesChemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases or aerosols by absorption
• B01D 53/18 - Absorbing unitsLiquid distributors therefor
• B01D 53/62 - Carbon oxides
• B01D 53/78 - Liquid phase processes with gas-liquid contact
• B01D 53/96 - Regeneration, reactivation or recycling of reactants

Abstract

A system includes a plurality of radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags including a first RFID tag. The first RFID tag is configured to perform RFID tag operations that include acquiring one or more samples using a sensor of the first RFID tag. The RFID tag operations also include writing the one or more samples in a memory of the first RFID tag. The RFID tag operations also include transferring custody of the one or more samples to a first RFID reader on request. The system also includes a plurality of RFID readers including the first RFID reader. The first RFID reader is configured to perform RFID reader operations including reading an identifier from each of the plurality of RFID tags in view of the first RFID reader during an inventory management mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips

Abstract

A system and method is provided for a wearable robotic upper body garment. In an embodiment, an upper body garment or apparatus comprises a shoulder saddle, one or more actuators, one or more flexible tendons, back torso section, front, torso section, torso wrap, and upper arm cuff. The shoulder saddle may be comprised of a yoke and one or more elevated shoulder sections. The one or more elevated should sections may be comprised of a first elevated shoulder section. In an embodiment, the back torso and front torso sections may be structurally connected to the yoke. In an embodiment, the one or more actuators may be structurally connected to either said back torso section or front torso section. In an embodiment, the one or more flexible tendons may be operationally connected to a predetermined one or more actuators and an upper arm cuff. In an embodiment and during operations, the one or more actuators effectuate a pulling motion on one or more flexible tendons enabling or augmenting movement about an upper extremity joint.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61H 1/02 - Stretching or bending apparatus for exercising
• A41D 1/00 - Garments
• B25J 9/00 - Programme-controlled manipulators

Abstract

A grasp assist system includes a glove, finger saddles attached to a respective glove finger, one or more tendon actuators, and artificial tendons. The saddles have a rectangular body partially circumscribing a respective glove finger. Each saddle includes end lobes at opposite distal ends of the body. A first end of each tendon is secured to one of the tendon actuators. A second end forms a triple Brummel loop defining a main loop and two anchor loops. The anchor loops are disposed around the lobes. The saddles may form a rounded, double-headed arrow shape that is at least double the thickness of the body. The finger saddles are anisotropic, with different bending strengths depending on the axis, and may be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane-coated nylon. Flexion and/or contact sensors and a controller, may be used. A method of connecting the tendon actuator to the finger is also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• A41D 19/00 - Gloves
• A41D 19/015 - Protective gloves
• B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
• B32B 27/36 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin comprising polyesters
• B32B 25/20 - Layered products essentially comprising natural or synthetic rubber comprising silicone rubber
• B32B 25/08 - Layered products essentially comprising natural or synthetic rubber comprising rubber as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
• B32B 27/32 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin comprising polyolefins

Abstract

Calibration of a hexapod structure includes measuring a head pose of the hexapod structure relative to a base of the hexapod structure. Calibration of the hexapod structure also includes for each strut, independently increasing a length of each strut by a predefined amount from an original length and repeating the measuring of the head pose relative to the base. Calibration of the hexapod structure further includes for each strut, independently decreasing a length of each strut by a predefined amount from the original length and repeating the measuring of the head pose relative to the base. Additionally, calibration of the hexapod structure includes moving each strut back to the original length, and estimating joint errors for each strut prior to calibrating of the hexapod structure.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• F16M 11/12 - Means for attachment of apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction
• G06N 3/04 - Architecture, e.g. interconnection topology
• G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
• G05D 3/20 - Control of position or direction using feedback using a digital comparing device
• F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
• G06N 20/00 - Machine learning

Abstract

A wireless flight sensor system that incorporates a network of wireless sensors all in communication with a sensor gateway, the gateway in turn being in communication with a flight network. The sensor gateway includes a software defined radio (SDR) by which sensors communicate. The SDR is easily reconfigurable to accommodate new wireless technology. The flight network software (FNS) comprises a modular software architecture with a management repository, a traffic manager, a wireless interface controller, and a sensor database. The resulting system is both scalable and easily reprogrammable to accommodate a wide variety of current and future wireless sensing capability.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 12/66 - Arrangements for connecting between networks having differing types of switching systems, e.g. gateways
• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• H04B 1/00 - Details of transmission systems, not covered by a single one of groups Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
• H04L 7/00 - Arrangements for synchronising receiver with transmitter
• H04L 12/40 - Bus networks

Abstract

A grasp assist system includes a glove having a glove palm and fingers, with the glove worn on a user's hand. A sensor measures flexion of the glove fingers, and thus a change of position and/or attitude of the fingers is determined. Finger saddles at least partially surround a phalange of a respective one of the user's fingers. The system uses one or more tendon actuators to pull on flexible tendons. Each tendon connects to a respective finger saddle. A controller is in communication with the actuators and sensor(s). The glove may use feedback from optional contact sensors to adjust tension, and may have a built-in restorative force. In executing a control method, the controller selectively applies tension to the tendons in response to finger flexion, via the tendon actuators, at a level sufficient for moving the user's fingers when the user executes a hand maneuver.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61H 1/02 - Stretching or bending apparatus for exercising
• A41D 19/015 - Protective gloves

Abstract

The embodiments described herein include a method and system for determining velocity and a motor controller implementing such velocity determination. In one embodiment, a rotatable element has a digital encoder coupled thereto for determining discrete angular positions of the rotatable element. An amount of time for the rotatable element to rotate between two successive ones of the discrete angular positions is measured. The amount of time is converted to a rotational velocity determination of the rotatable element.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01P 3/489 - Digital circuits therefor
• G01R 31/34 - Testing dynamo-electric machines
• G05B 19/21 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by positioning or contouring control systems, e.g. to control position from one programmed point to another or to control movement along a programmed continuous path using an incremental digital measuring device
• G01P 21/02 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus or devices covered by the other groups of this subclass of speedometers

Abstract

A tension-measurement device configured to determine a tension in a line includes a body. The body includes a first portion, a second portion extending from the first portion of the body, and a third portion extending from the first portion of the body. The line is configured to extend at least partially through the second and third portions of the body. A first sensor is coupled to the body and is configured to measure a strain on the body when a first portion of the line is placed under tension. The tension in the first portion of the line is configured to be determined based at least partially upon the strain.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01L 5/102 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring tension in flexible members, e.g. ropes, cables, wires, threads, belts or bands using electrical means using sensors located at a non-interrupted part of the flexible member

Abstract

A method of recycling a polymer structure includes converting a first polymer structure into feedstock. The first polymer structure comprises particles that are bonded to one another by chemical click bonds to form a first shape. The first polymer structure is converted into feedstock particles by breaking the click bonds. The feedstock particles are formed into a second shape, and the feedstock particles are chemically click-bonded together to form a second polymer structure having a second shape. Breaking the click bonds may include heating the particles. The structures may be formed by causing first particles having dienes to chemically bond to dienophiles of second particles.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08J 11/12 - Recovery or working-up of waste materials of polymers by chemically breaking down the molecular chains of polymers or breaking of crosslinks, e.g. devulcanisation by dry-heat treatment only
• C08F 290/06 - Polymers provided for in subclass

Abstract

A dual-band patch antenna includes a first patch antenna for operation at a first frequency and a second patch antenna for operation at a second frequency that is an integer multiple of the first frequency. A dielectric support is provided on which the first and second patch antennas are mounted. A nearest distance defined between the first and second patch antennas is a function of the second frequency and a dielectric constant of the dielectric support. The dielectric support has a feed point adapted to have a transmission line electrically coupled thereto. Electrically-conducting paths are coupled to the dielectric support for electrically coupling the feed point to the first and second patch antennas where at least one such electrically-conducting path has an insertion loss that is greater than 0 dB and less than or equal to 3 dB.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01Q 21/30 - Combinations of separate antenna units operating in different wavebands and connected to a common feeder system
• H01Q 1/52 - Means for reducing coupling between antennas Means for reducing coupling between an antenna and another structure
• H01Q 9/04 - Resonant antennas
• H01Q 21/00 - Antenna arrays or systems

Abstract

Methods and systems for analyzing and processing digital data comprising a plurality of infra-red (IR) video images acquired by a pulse thermography system are used to compute video data from the raw and smoothed video data acquired for the performance of non-destructive evaluation. New video data types computed may include but are not limited to contrast evolution data such as normalized contrast, converted contrast and normalized temperature contrast. Additionally, video data types computed comprise surface temperature, surface temperature rise and temperature simple contrast.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 3/09 - Scanning details of television systemsCombination thereof with generation of supply voltages by optical-mechanical means only having a moving reflector for electromagnetic radiation in the invisible region, e.g. infrared
• G06K 9/32 - Aligning or centering of the image pick-up or image-field
• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• B41M 5/26 - Thermography
• G06T 7/62 - Analysis of geometric attributes of area, perimeter, diameter or volume
• H04N 5/33 - Transforming infrared radiation
• G01N 25/72 - Investigating presence of flaws

Abstract

Methods and systems for analyzing and processing digital data comprising a plurality of infra-red (IR) video images acquired by thermography system are used to compute video data from the raw and smoothed video data acquired for the performance of non-destructive evaluation. New video data types computed may include but are not limited to contrast evolution data such as normalized contrast, converted contrast and normalized temperature contrast. Additionally, video data types computed comprise surface temperature, surface temperature rise and temperature simple contrast.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• G01N 21/88 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
• G01N 21/84 - Systems specially adapted for particular applications
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system includes an RFID interrogator configured for generating an RFID signal, wherein a channel frequency of the RFID signal changes over time; at least one single feed patch antenna; and at least one single feed line configured for feeding the signal to the corresponding at least one single feed patch antenna. The single feed patch antenna is configured to transmit an electromagnetic wave in response to and at the channel frequency of the RFID signal such that the electromagnetic wave exhibits (1) a polarization tilt angle that varies depending on the channel frequency of the signal, (2) a substantially linear polarization at all channel frequencies of the signal within the given operational bandwidth, and (3) a range of polarization tilt angles across the given operational bandwidth that spans at least 70 degrees within a single quadrant. A method for frequency multiplexing includes similar components.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 5/08 - Channels characterised by the type of signal the signals being represented by different frequencies each combination of signals in different channels being represented by a fixed frequency
• H01Q 9/04 - Resonant antennas
• H01Q 1/22 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 21/08 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart the units being spaced along, or adjacent to, a rectilinear path

Abstract

The present invention is a temperature sensor for cryogenic systems using a fiber optic interrogation system that is capable of a large number of temperature readings across the cryogenic environment at high resolutions. The invention also includes a method of using such a system to measure temperatures in a cryogenic environment and a method of making such a system.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01K 13/00 - Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes
• G01K 11/32 - Measuring temperature based on physical or chemical changes not covered by group , , , or using changes in transmittance, scattering or luminescence in optical fibres
• G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
• G02B 6/02 - Optical fibres with cladding
• G01L 1/24 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations of optical properties of material when it is stressed, e.g. by photoelastic stress analysis

Abstract

Methods and systems for analyzing and processing digital data comprising a plurality of infra-red (IR) video images acquired by a pulse thermography system are used to compute video data from the raw and smoothed video data acquired for the performance of non-destructive evaluation. New video data types computed may include but are not limited to contrast evolution data such as normalized contrast, converted contrast and normalized temperature contrast. Additionally, video data types computed comprise surface temperature, surface temperature rise and temperature simple contrast.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
• G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
• G06T 7/62 - Analysis of geometric attributes of area, perimeter, diameter or volume
• G01N 25/72 - Investigating presence of flaws
• G06T 5/20 - Image enhancement or restoration using local operators

Abstract

The present invention proposes an automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADS-B) architecture and process, in which priority aircraft and ADS-B IN and radar traffic information are included in the transmission of data through the telemetry communications to a remote ground control station. The present invention further proposes methods for displaying general aviation traffic information in three and/or four dimension trajectories using an industry standard Earth browser for increased situation awareness and enhanced visual acquisition of traffic for conflict detection. The present invention enable the applications of enhanced visual acquisition of traffic, traffic alerts, and en-route and terminal surveillance used to augment pilot situational awareness through ADS-B IN display and information in three or four dimensions for self-separation awareness.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/91 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for traffic control
• G01S 13/93 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
• G01S 13/86 - Combinations of radar systems with non-radar systems, e.g. sonar, direction finder
• G01S 19/03 - Cooperating elementsInteraction or communication between different cooperating elements or between cooperating elements and receivers
• G01S 7/00 - Details of systems according to groups , ,

Abstract

In an embodiment, a relative deflection detector may include at least two structural arcs, and a predetermined number of means for measuring position capable of determining the relative deflection in a first component. The at least two structural arcs may be for example, comprised of a first and second structural arc whereby the first and second structural arcs are attached to the first component at respective first and second predetermined locations and whereby each arc is comprised of a respective sequence of indicators, such as, for example, codes inscribed on the outer circumference of each arc. The first and second structural arcs may be positioned in concentric and coplanar relationship with each other. The predetermined number of sensors may be comprised of a first and second optical encoder sensor each positioned in proximate and coplanar relationship with the first and second structural arcs so as to read the first sequence of codes, second sequence of codes, or both, and thereby detect positions of each structural arc (e.g., a first position corresponding to the first structural arc and a second position corresponding to the second structural arc). The first and second positions may be used to calculate and thereby determine a relative deflection of the first component.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01L 3/08 - Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft involving optical means for indicating
• B25J 9/12 - Programme-controlled manipulators characterised by positioning means for manipulator elements electric
• B25J 9/10 - Programme-controlled manipulators characterised by positioning means for manipulator elements
• B25J 13/08 - Controls for manipulators by means of sensing devices, e.g. viewing or touching devices
• F16H 55/14 - Construction providing resilience or vibration-damping
• F16H 55/17 - Toothed wheels
• G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
• G01L 3/14 - Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element is other than a torsionally-flexible shaft
• G01L 3/12 - Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft involving electric or magnetic means for indicating involving photoelectric means
• G01L 3/10 - Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft involving electric or magnetic means for indicating

Abstract

A passive beamforming rectenna includes a plurality of antennas, a plurality of terminal port rectifying circuits, and a beamforming network. The beamforming network includes (a) a plurality of antenna ports connecting to the plurality of antennas, and (b) a plurality of terminal ports connecting to the plurality of terminal port rectifying circuits. The beamforming network further includes a microwave lens or any of a variety of other structures. The beamforming rectenna is characterized by a plurality of radiation distribution patterns. Electromagnetic power is received through the plurality of antennas. The beamforming network directs the received electromagnetic power, in substantial portion, to a subset of the plurality of terminal ports associated with particular radiation distribution patterns whose amplitudes, in the direction from which the electromagnetic power was received, are large relative to the amplitudes, in the same direction, of other radiation distribution patterns associated with other terminal ports.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01F 27/42 - Circuits specially adapted for the purpose of modifying, or compensating for, electric characteristics of transformers, reactors or choke coils
• H02J 50/27 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using microwaves or radio frequency waves characterised by the type of receiving antennas, e.g. rectennas
• H04B 7/06 - Diversity systemsMulti-antenna systems, i.e. transmission or reception using multiple antennas using two or more spaced independent antennas at the transmitting station
• H04B 7/04 - Diversity systemsMulti-antenna systems, i.e. transmission or reception using multiple antennas using two or more spaced independent antennas
• H04B 7/0456 - Selection of precoding matrices or codebooks, e.g. using matrices for antenna weighting
• H02J 7/02 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from AC mains by converters

Abstract

Methods and systems for analyzing and processing digital data comprising a plurality of infra-red (IR) video images acquired by a pulse thermography system are used to compute video data from the raw and smoothed video data acquired for the performance of non-destructive evaluation. New video data types computed may include but are not limited to contrast evolution data such as normalized contrast, converted contrast and normalized temperature contrast. Additionally, video data types computed comprise surface temperature, surface temperature rise and temperature simple contrast.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
• G06T 7/62 - Analysis of geometric attributes of area, perimeter, diameter or volume
• G06T 7/50 - Depth or shape recovery
• G01N 25/72 - Investigating presence of flaws
• G06T 5/20 - Image enhancement or restoration using local operators

Abstract

An apparatus, method, and system for controlling motion in six degrees of freedom is described. The apparatus includes a support structure, a first pedal and a second pedal. A first set of three independent articulating mechanisms is operatively connected to the support structure and the first pedal. The first set of three independent articulating mechanisms, in combination, enable motion of the first pedal in three control axes corresponding to three discrete degrees of freedom. A second set of three independent articulating mechanisms, operatively connected to the second pedal, enable motion, in combination, in three control axes corresponding to a discrete second set of three degrees of freedom. The apparatus may also include first and second sensors configured to detect the motion of the first and second pedals.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05G 11/00 - Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with two or more controlling members co-operating with one single controlled member
• G05G 1/44 - Controlling members actuated by foot pivoting

Abstract

An apparatus for improving a pointing capability of an optical pointing system includes a star tracker attitude control system for maintaining an alignment between the optical pointing system and a target, a beam steering mirror controlled by the star tracker attitude control system to direct an optical signal to impinge on the target, a fixed optical assembly configured to direct a portion of the optical signal from the bean steering mirror into a field of view of a star tracker telescope of the star tracker attitude control system, and a detector array for detecting the portion of the optical signal superimposed over a location in a current star scene in the star tracker telescope field of view, where the star tracker attitude control system is configured to operate the beam steering mirror to maintain the optical signal on the target by maintaining the superimposed signal on the location in the star scene.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 17/66 - Tracking systems using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
• H04B 10/112 - Line-of-sight transmission over an extended range
• G02B 27/10 - Beam splitting or combining systems
• G02B 23/02 - Telescopes, e.g. binocularsPeriscopesInstruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodiesViewfindersOptical aiming or sighting devices involving prisms or mirrors

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system for frequency multiplexing includes, in one exemplary embodiment, and RFID interrogator configured for generating an RFID signal, wherein a channel frequency of the RFID signal changes over time; a first narrow band antenna, characterized by a first passband, the first passband corresponding to a first range of frequencies; a second narrow band antenna, characterized by a second passband, the second passband corresponding to a second range of frequencies, wherein the second range of frequencies differs from the first range of frequencies, whereby the second passband differs from the first passband; and first and second feed lines configured for feeding the RFID signal to each of the first and second narrow band antennas, respectively. Other embodiments include systems and methods including similar and different RFID components and aspects for frequency multiplexing.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

A method is provided for manufacturing a humidity sensing material. Particles of a trivalent rare earth hydroxide or oxide (such as lanthanum hydroxide) are mixed with particles of barium oxide and titanium dioxide in specified proportions. The particle mixture is heated to generate a sintered mixture that is milled. The resulting milled particles are mixed with glass particles, an organic surfactant, a solvent, an organic vehicle, and an alkali hydroxide. The resulting liquid mixture is deposited as a layer thereof onto a substrate. The substrate and layer thereon are processed to remove liquid portions of the liquid mixture. Such liquid removal processing includes at least one cycle of heating the layer followed by a corresponding cycle of cooling the layer in a nitrogen atmosphere containing less than 25 parts per million of oxygen.

IPC Classes  ?

• B05D 3/02 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by baking
• B05D 3/04 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by exposure to gases
• C04B 35/63 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches using additives specially adapted for forming the products
• C04B 35/64 - Burning or sintering processes
• C04B 35/468 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides based on titanium oxides or titanates based on titanates based on alkaline earth metal titanates based on barium titanates
• C04B 35/622 - Forming processesProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products
• C04B 35/626 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches
• G01N 27/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating impedance by investigating capacitance

Abstract

A system and sensor provides for radio frequency identification (RFID)-enabled information collection. The system includes a ring-shaped element and an antenna. The ring-shaped element includes a conductive ring and an RFID integrated circuit. The antenna is spaced apart from the ring-shaped element and defines an electrically-conductive path commensurate in size and shape to at least a portion of the conductive ring. In an alternate embodiment, the sensor system further comprises a reference ring-shaped element in a fixed relationship with respect to the antenna, with the reference ring-shaped element defining another series circuit to include an electrically-conductive reference ring and a reference RFID integrated circuit. The system may include an interrogator for energizing the ring-shaped element and receiving a data transmission from the RFID integrated circuit that has been energized for further processing by a processor.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

A two-way microwave power divider (the “power divider”) may include an input port and two output ports. The power divider may also include a junction that is configured to split a feedline from the input port into a first transmission line and a second transmission line. One or more resistors may be placed along the first transmission line and the second transmission line to provide isolation between the two output ports.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01P 5/18 - Conjugate devices, i.e. devices having at least one port decoupled from one other port consisting of two coupled guides, e.g. directional couplers

Abstract

A navigation system includes an image acquisition device for acquiring a range image of a target vehicle, at least one processor, a memory including a target vehicle model and computer readable program code, where the processor and the computer readable program code are configured to cause the navigation system to convert the range image to a point cloud having three dimensions, compute a transform from the target vehicle model to the point cloud, and use the transform to estimate the target vehicle's attitude and position for capturing the target vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/00 - NavigationNavigational instruments not provided for in groups
• B60R 1/00 - Optical viewing arrangementsReal-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles
• G06T 7/20 - Analysis of motion
• G06T 3/00 - Geometric image transformations in the plane of the image
• G06T 3/60 - Rotation of whole images or parts thereof
• G06K 9/52 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image by deriving mathematical or geometrical properties from the whole image

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system for frequency multiplexing includes, in an exemplary embodiment, an RFID interrogator configured for generating an RFID signal, wherein a channel frequency of the RFID signal changes over time within an operating bandwidth; and one or more electromagnetic transmissive elements each extending between a first end thereof and a second end thereof, each of the electromagnetic transmissive elements electrically coupled with the RFID interrogator at the first end thereof, each of the electromagnetic transmissive elements comprising a frequency dependent load at the second end thereof and configured for transmitting the RFID signal from the RFID interrogator to the frequency dependent load, wherein the frequency dependent load presents different electromagnetic characteristics to the RFID signal transmitted to the frequency dependent load depending on the channel frequency of the RFID signal. Other embodiments include a method for frequency multiplexing including similar components.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• H01Q 1/22 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H01Q 3/22 - Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system varying the orientation in accordance with variation of frequency of radiated wave

Abstract

The present invention provides a system for delivering a time-varying stimulation field to a subject. In the system, a power source, a control component and a transmission component operate as a stimulation field generator to provide a predetermined time-varying stimulation field to up-regulate or down-regulate an expression level of human genes. The present invention also provides a wearable apparatus for delivering the time-varying magnetic field to mammalian cells associated with bone formation in a subject. The wearable apparatus contains the stimulation field generator in a housing. The resulted modification on gene regulation of these genes and mammalian cells promotes the retention, repair of and reduction of compromised mammalian cartilage, bone, and associated tissue.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61N 2/02 - Magnetotherapy using magnetic fields produced by coils, including single turn loops or electromagnets
• C12N 13/00 - Treatment of microorganisms or enzymes with electrical or wave energy, e.g. magnetism, sonic waves

Abstract

A clinker for use in cement manufacturing includes a cement clinker mixture having crystals of an element that is less electronegative than carbon and carbon bonded to at least a portion of the crystals.

IPC Classes  ?

• C04B 22/00 - Use of inorganic materials as active ingredients for mortars, concrete or artificial stone, e.g. accelerators

Abstract

A method is provided for manufacturing a humidity sensing material. Particles of a trivalent rare earth hydroxide or oxide (such as lanthanum hydroxide) are mixed with particles of barium oxide and titanium dioxide in specified proportions. The particle mixture is heated to generate a sintered mixture that is milled. The resulting milled particles are mixed with glass particles, an organic surfactant, a solvent, an organic vehicle, and an alkali hydroxide. The resulting liquid mixture is deposited as a layer thereof onto a substrate. The substrate and layer thereon are processed to remove liquid portions of the liquid mixture. Such liquid removal processing includes at least one cycle of heating the layer followed by a corresponding cycle of cooling the layer in a nitrogen atmosphere containing less than 25 parts per million of oxygen.

IPC Classes  ?

• B05D 3/02 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by baking
• C04B 35/468 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides based on titanium oxides or titanates based on titanates based on alkaline earth metal titanates based on barium titanates
• C04B 35/626 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches
• C04B 35/63 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches using additives specially adapted for forming the products
• C04B 35/622 - Forming processesProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products
• C04B 35/64 - Burning or sintering processes
• G01N 27/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating impedance by investigating capacitance
• B05D 3/04 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by exposure to gases

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system includes an RFID interrogator and an RFID tag having a plurality of information sources and a beamforming network. The tag receives electromagnetic radiation from the interrogator. The beamforming network directs the received electromagnetic radiation to a subset of the plurality of information sources. The RFID tag transmits a response to the received electromagnetic radiation, based on the subset of the plurality of information sources to which the received electromagnetic radiation was directed. Method and other embodiments are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/76 - Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systemsAnalogous systems wherein pulse-type signals are transmitted
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• H01Q 3/40 - Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system varying the relative phase or relative amplitude of energisation between two or more active radiating elementsArrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system varying the distribution of energy across a radiating aperture varying the phase by electrical means with phasing matrix
• H01Q 1/22 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H04B 7/0408 - Diversity systemsMulti-antenna systems, i.e. transmission or reception using multiple antennas using two or more spaced independent antennas using two or more beams, i.e. beam diversity
• G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers

Abstract

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) computations are performed at time increments using structural properties of the nozzle and flow properties of combustion products flowing through the nozzle. Each CFD computation accounts for movement of the wall geometry of the rocket nozzle due to the flowfield. Structural dynamics computations are performed at each time increment using the CFD computations in order to describe the movement of the wall geometry. Mesh dynamics computations at each time increment redefine the flowfield to account for the movement of the wall geometry. The mesh dynamics computations are based on a spring analogy process. The computations are iterated to solution convergence at each time increment with results being output to an output device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 7/60 - Methods or arrangements for performing computations using a digital non-denominational number representation, i.e. number representation without radixComputing devices using combinations of denominational and non-denominational quantity representations
• G06F 17/50 - Computer-aided design
• G06F 17/10 - Complex mathematical operations

Abstract

An angular position sensing system includes a first support with ring-shaped elements disposed thereon and spaced apart from one another in a curvilinear arrangement. Each ring-shaped element includes an electrically-conductive ring and an RFID integrated circuit electrically coupled to its electrically-conductive ring. A second support has an antenna coupled thereto that defines an electrically-conductive path commensurate in size and shape to at least a portion of the electrically-conductive ring. An interrogator transmits a signal to the antenna wherein electric current is generated along the antenna's electrically-conductive path and electromagnetic energy emanates from the antenna. Any ring-shaped element and its RFID integrated circuit energized by the electromagnetic energy generates in response a data transmission for receipt by the interrogator. A processor coupled to the interrogator derives information related to an angular position of one of the first support and second support using the data transmission.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 5/12 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means

Abstract

The invention is a system and method of air launching a powered launch vehicle into space or high altitude. More specifically, the invention is a tow aircraft which tows an unpowered glider, with the powered launch vehicle attached thereto, to launch altitude. The powered launch vehicle is released from the unpowered glider and powered on for launch.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64G 1/00 - Cosmonautic vehicles
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64C 31/02 - Gliders, e.g. sailplanes
• B64C 39/04 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for having multiple fuselages or tail booms

Abstract

An apparatus and method of wirelessly powering an aerospace vehicle while the vehicle is on the ground is provided to solve a problem of supplying electric power for aircraft while idling on taxiways. Present systems typically require fuel-driven auxiliary power units (APU's) to generate electricity. Running APU's to power aircraft while idling requires over 443 million gallons of jet fuel annually at a cost of $1.3 billion dollars. This results in an estimated 4.7 megatons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. At the gate, shore power is provided via hardline connection.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells
• H02J 50/10 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling
• B64G 1/42 - Arrangements or adaptations of power supply systems

Abstract

The present invention provides a heterogeneous spacecraft network including a network management architecture to facilitate communication between a plurality of operations centers and a plurality of data user communities. The network management architecture includes a plurality of network nodes in communication with the plurality of operations centers. The present invention also provides a method of communication for a heterogeneous spacecraft network. The method includes: transmitting data from a first space segment to a first ground segment; transmitting the data from the first ground segment to a network management architecture; transmitting data from a second space segment to a second ground segment, the second space and ground segments having incompatible communication systems with the first space and ground segments; transmitting the data from the second ground station to the network management architecture; and, transmitting data from the network management architecture to a plurality of data user communities.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04B 7/185 - Space-based or airborne stations

Abstract

Chemical pretreatments are used to produce usable water by treating a water source with a chemical pretreatment that contains a hexavalent chromium and an acid to generate a treated water source, wherein the concentration of sulfate compounds in the acid is negligible, and wherein the treated water source remains substantially free of precipitates after the addition of the chemical pretreatment. Other methods include reducing the pH in urine to be distilled for potable water extraction by pretreating the urine before distillation with a pretreatment solution comprising one or more acid sources selected from a group consisting of phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid, wherein the urine remains substantially precipitate free after the addition of the pretreatment solution. Another method described comprises a process for reducing precipitation in urine to be processed for water extraction by mixing the urine with a pretreatment solution comprising hexavalent chromium compound and phosphoric acid.

IPC Classes  ?

• C02F 1/50 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by addition or application of a germicide or by oligodynamic treatment
• C02F 1/04 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by heating by distillation or evaporation
• C02F 1/66 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by neutralisationTreatment of water, waste water, or sewage pH adjustment
• C02F 1/72 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by oxidation

Abstract

An extremum-seeking control system for formation flight that uses blended performance parameters in a conglomerate performance function that better approximates drag reduction than performance functions formed from individual measurements. Generally, a variety of different measurements are taken and fed to a control system, the measurements are weighted, and are then subjected to a peak-seeking control algorithm. As measurements are continually taken, the aircraft will be guided to a relative position which optimizes the drag reduction of the formation. Two embodiments are discussed. Two approaches are shown for determining relative weightings: “a priori” by which they are qualitatively determined (by minimizing the error between the conglomerate function and the drag reduction function), and by periodically updating the weightings as the formation evolves.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions

Abstract

A low cost thin-film based heliostat with advanced stowing and wind survival capabilities. The heliostat may include a plurality of reflective surfaces held together via a plurality of double acting magnetic hinges. The heliostat may also include a drive mechanism attached to a post, and configured to stow the plurality of facets in any desired position.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24J 2/54 - specially adapted for rotary movement
• F24J 2/00 - Use of solar heat, e.g. solar heat collectors (distillation or evaporation of water using solar energy C02F 1/14;roof covering aspects of energy collecting devices E04D 13/18;devices for producing mechanical power from solar energy F03G 6/00;semiconductor devices specially adapted for converting solar energy into electrical energy H01L 31/00;photovoltaic [PV] cells including means directly associated with the PV cell to utilise heat energy H01L 31/525;PV modules including means associated with the PV module to utilise heat energy H02S 40/44)
• H01L 31/052 - Cooling means directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. integrated Peltier elements for active cooling or heat sinks directly associated with the PV cells

Abstract

A method of forming a smooth aerodynamic surface that permits laminar flow of air over the smooth aerodynamic surface. Selected portions of a surface of a substrate material are ablated utilizing a laser to form a treated substrate surface having a predefined roughness. The treated substrate surface is coated to form a solid layer of material having a smooth aerodynamic surface that promotes laminar flow. The solid layer of material has a lower modulus of elasticity than the substrate material to provide durotaxis when an insect impacts the solid layer of epoxy material to thereby reduce adhesion of insect residue or other matter to the smooth aerodynamic surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• B05D 3/00 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials
• B05D 3/06 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by exposure to radiation
• B05D 5/00 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures
• B08B 17/06 - Preventing deposition of fouling or of dust by giving articles subject to fouling a special shape for arrangement

Abstract

A dual band infrared imaging system self-contained to fit within a small spacecraft is provided. The imaging system uses a detector array cooled by a mini cryocooler, and includes telescope optics and two bandpass filters for fire detection and thermal and evapotranspiration Earth science.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/33 - Transforming infrared radiation
• G02B 5/20 - Filters
• G02B 17/08 - Catadioptric systems
• B64G 1/10 - Artificial satellitesSystems of such satellitesInterplanetary vehicles
• B64G 1/66 - Arrangements or adaptations of apparatus or instruments, not otherwise provided for
• H04N 5/232 - Devices for controlling television cameras, e.g. remote control

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses and systems for radio frequency identification (RFID)-enabled information collection are disclosed, including an enclosure, a collector coupled to the enclosure, an interrogator, a processor, and one or more RFID field sensors, each having an individual identification, disposed within the enclosure. In operation, the interrogator transmits an incident signal to the collector, causing the collector to generate an electromagnetic field within the enclosure. The electromagnetic field is affected by one or more influences. RFID sensors respond to the electromagnetic field by transmitting reflected signals containing the individual identifications of the responding RFID sensors to the interrogator. The interrogator receives the reflected signals, measures one or more returned signal strength indications (“RSSI”) of the reflected signals and sends the RSSI measurements and identification of the responding RFID sensors to the processor to determine one or more facts about the influences. Other embodiments are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/14 - Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles
• G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
• G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
• G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer

Abstract

Methods and systems for converting an image contrast evolution of an object to a temperature contrast evolution and vice versa are disclosed, including methods for assessing an emissivity of the object; calculating an afterglow heat flux evolution; calculating a measurement region of interest temperature change; calculating a reference region of interest temperature change; calculating a reflection temperature change; calculating the image contrast evolution or the temperature contrast evolution; and converting the image contrast evolution to the temperature contrast evolution or vice versa, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/33 - Transforming infrared radiation
• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 3/09 - Scanning details of television systemsCombination thereof with generation of supply voltages by optical-mechanical means only having a moving reflector for electromagnetic radiation in the invisible region, e.g. infrared
• G01B 11/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
• G01J 5/00 - Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry
• G01J 5/60 - Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry using determination of colour temperature
• G01N 25/18 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of thermal means by investigating thermal conductivity
• B41M 5/26 - Thermography

Abstract

A sensor and system provide for radio frequency identification (RFID)-enabled information collection. The sensor includes a ring-shaped element and an antenna. The ring-shaped element includes a conductive ring and an RFID integrated circuit. The antenna is spaced apart from the ring-shaped element and defines an electrically-conductive path commensurate in size and shape to at least a portion of the conductive ring. The system may include an interrogator for energizing the ring-shaped element and receiving a data transmission from the RFID integrated circuit that has been energized for further processing by a processor.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04Q 5/22 - Selecting arrangements wherein two or more subscriber stations are connected by the same line to the exchange with indirect connection, i.e. through subordinate switching centre the subordinate centre not permitting interconnection of subscribers connected thereto
• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

An authentication procedure utilizes multiple independent sources of data to determine whether usage of a device, such as a desktop computer, is authorized. When a comparison indicates an anomaly from the base-line usage data, the system, provides a notice that access of the first device is not authorized.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol

Abstract

A system and method is provided for traversing inside one or more pipes. In an embodiment, a fluid is injected into the one or more pipes thereby promoting a fluid flow. An inspection device is deployed into the one or more pipes at least partially filled with a flowing fluid. The inspection device comprises a housing wherein the housing is designed to exploit the hydrokinetic effects associated with a fluid flow in one or more pipes as well as maneuver past a variety of pipe configurations. The inspection device may contain one or more sensors capable of performing a variety of inspection tasks.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16L 55/38 - Constructional aspects of the propulsion means, e.g. towed by cables driven by fluid pressure
• F17D 5/00 - Protection or supervision of installations
• F16L 55/40 - Constructional aspects of the body
• B65G 51/04 - Conveying the articles in carriers having a cross-section approximating that of the pipe or tubeTube mail systems
• G01M 3/00 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures

Abstract

An eye movement-based methodology and assessment tool may be used to quantify many aspects of human dynamic visual processing using a relatively simple and short oculomotor task, noninvasive video-based eye tracking, and validated oculometric analysis techniques. By examining the eye movement responses to a task including a radially-organized appropriately randomized sequence of Rashbass-like step-ramp pursuit-tracking trials, distinct performance measurements may be generated that may be associated with, for example, pursuit initiation (e.g., latency and open-loop pursuit acceleration), steady-state tracking (e.g., gain, catch-up saccade amplitude, and the proportion of the steady-state response consisting of smooth movement), direction tuning (e.g., oblique effect amplitude, horizontal-vertical asymmetry, and direction noise), and speed tuning (e.g., speed responsiveness and noise). This quantitative approach may provide fast and results (e.g., a multi-dimensional set of oculometrics and a single scalar impairment index) that can be interpreted by one without a high degree of scientific sophistication or extensive training.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 3/113 - Objective types, i.e. instruments for examining the eyes independent of the patients perceptions or reactions for determining or recording eye movement
• A61B 3/00 - Apparatus for testing the eyesInstruments for examining the eyes
• A61B 3/032 - Devices for presenting test symbols or characters, e.g. test chart projectors

Abstract

Method and systems are disclosed for training state-classifiers for classification of cognitive state. A set of multimodal signals indicating physiological responses of an operator are sampled over a time period. A depiction of operation by the operator during the time period is displayed. In response to user input selecting a cognitive state for a portion of the time period, the one or more state-classifiers are trained. In training the state-classifiers, the set of multimodal signals sampled in the portion of the time period are used as input to the one or more state-classifiers and the selected one of the set of cognitive states is used as a target result to be indicated by the one or more state-classifiers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06N 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
• G06N 5/04 - Inference or reasoning models
• G06F 3/0482 - Interaction with lists of selectable items, e.g. menus
• G06F 3/147 - Digital output to display device using display panels
• A63F 13/211 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using inertial sensors, e.g. accelerometers or gyroscopes
• A63F 13/213 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types comprising photodetecting means, e.g. cameras, photodiodes or infrared cells
• A63F 13/42 - Processing input control signals of video game devices, e.g. signals generated by the player or derived from the environment by mapping the input signals into game commands, e.g. mapping the displacement of a stylus on a touch screen to the steering angle of a virtual vehicle
• A63F 13/212 - Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using sensors worn by the player, e.g. for measuring heart beat or leg activity

Abstract

An ink of the formula: 60-80% by weight BaTi03 particles coated with Si02; 5-50% by weight high dielectric constant glass; 0.1-5% by weight surfactant; 5-25%, by weight solvent; and 5-25% weight organic vehicle. Also a method of manufacturing a capacitor comprising the steps of: heating particles of BaTi03 for a special heating cycle, under a mixture of 70-96% by volume N2 and 4-30% by volume H2 gas; depositing a film of Si02 over the particles; mechanically separating the particles; Incorporating them into the above described ink formulation; depositing the ink on a substrate; and heating at 850-900°C for less than 5 minutes and allowing the ink and substrate to cool to ambient in N2 atmosphere. Also a dielectric made by: heating particles of BaTi03 for a special heating cycle, under a mixture of 70-96% by volume N2 and 4-30% by volume H2 gas; depositing a film of Si02 over the particles; mechanically separating me particles; forming them into a layer; and heating at 850-900°C and allowing the layer to cool in N2 atmosphere.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01G 4/12 - Ceramic dielectrics
• H01G 4/06 - Solid dielectrics
• C04B 35/468 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides based on titanium oxides or titanates based on titanates based on alkaline earth metal titanates based on barium titanates
• C04B 35/628 - Coating the powders
• C04B 35/64 - Burning or sintering processes
• H01B 3/12 - Insulators or insulating bodies characterised by the insulating materialsSelection of materials for their insulating or dielectric properties mainly consisting of inorganic substances ceramics

Abstract

2 atmosphere.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01G 11/84 - Processes for the manufacture of hybrid or EDL capacitors, or components thereof
• C04B 35/468 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides based on titanium oxides or titanates based on titanates based on alkaline earth metal titanates based on barium titanates
• H01G 4/12 - Ceramic dielectrics
• C04B 35/628 - Coating the powders
• C04B 35/626 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches
• C04B 35/63 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches using additives specially adapted for forming the products
• C04B 35/638 - Removal thereof
• H01G 11/56 - Solid electrolytes, e.g. gelsAdditives therein
• C04B 35/64 - Burning or sintering processes
• C04B 35/622 - Forming processesProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products

Abstract

A method and associated system for processing waste gases, liquids and solids, produced by human activity, to separate (i) liquids suitable for processing to produce potable water, (ii) solids and liquids suitable for construction of walls suitable for enclosing a habitat volume and for radiation shielding, and (iii) other fluids and solids that are not suitable for processing. A forward osmosis process and a reverse osmosis process are sequentially combined to reduce fouling and to permit accumulation of different processable substances. The invention may be used for long term life support of human activity.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 61/00 - Processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis or ultrafiltrationApparatus, accessories or auxiliary operations specially adapted therefor
• B01D 11/00 - Solvent extraction
• C02F 1/44 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by dialysis, osmosis or reverse osmosis
• B01D 61/24 - Dialysis
• C02F 9/00 - Multistage treatment of water, waste water or sewage

Abstract

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system includes an RFID interrogator and an RFID tag having a plurality of information sources and a beamforming network. The tag receives electromagnetic radiation from the interrogator. The beamforming network directs the received electromagnetic radiation to a subset of the plurality of information sources. The RFID tag transmits a response to the received electromagnetic radiation, based on the subset of the plurality of information sources to which the received electromagnetic radiation was directed. Method and other embodiments are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
• G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
• H01Q 1/22 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H04B 7/0408 - Diversity systemsMulti-antenna systems, i.e. transmission or reception using multiple antennas using two or more spaced independent antennas using two or more beams, i.e. beam diversity

Abstract

A low power voltage control circuit for use in space missions includes a switching device coupled between an input voltage and an output voltage. The switching device includes a control input coupled to an enable signal, wherein the control input is configured to selectively turn the output voltage on or off based at least in part on the enable signal. A current monitoring circuit is coupled to the output voltage and configured to produce a trip signal, wherein the trip signal is active when a load current flowing through the switching device is determined to exceed a predetermined threshold and is inactive otherwise. The power voltage control circuit is constructed of space qualified components.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/14 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks for adjusting voltage in ac networks by changing a characteristic of the network load by switching loads on to, or off from, network, e.g. progressively balanced loading
• H02J 1/00 - Circuit arrangements for dc mains or dc distribution networks
• H02H 3/087 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess current for DC applications

Abstract

Various embodiments provide epoxy modified fluorinated urethane compositions that may provide desirable bulk mechanical properties of conventional coatings, adhesives, or structural matrix resins, while simultaneously exhibiting surface properties that may reduce surface contamination. Various embodiments provide formulations comprising epoxy modified fluorinated alkyl ether including urethane oligomer or polymer resins that may possess the requisite thermal, mechanical, chemical, and optical properties while achieving low surface energy. In various embodiments, such resins may be prepared from random urethane oligomer compositions including fluorinated alkyl ether segments, in which the oligomers may be terminated with amino groups and subsequently reacted with epoxy including monomers or oligomers.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 175/12 - Polyurethanes from compounds containing nitrogen and active hydrogen, the nitrogen atom not being part of an isocyanate group
• B05D 1/02 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials performed by spraying
• C08K 3/22 - OxidesHydroxides of metals

Abstract

An electro hydrodynamic pump apparatus includes a cartridge body member that includes an interior cavity portion and openings on either end of the cartridge body member. A first electrode member is disposed within the interior cavity portion of the cartridge body member. The first electrode member includes a conductive bar member which has a plurality of spaced apart elements extending therefrom. A second electrode member is also disposed within the interior cavity portion of the cartridge body member. The second electrode member also includes a conductive bar with a plurality of spaced apart elements extending therefrom. The elements of the first electrode member are configure to be interspersed with the elements of the second electrode member when the first electrode member and the second electrode member are disposed within the interior cavity portion of the cartridge body member.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 44/04 - Conduction pumps
• F04B 19/00 - Machines or pumps having pertinent characteristics not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups

Abstract

A thermal protection system that reduces a mismatch of thermal expansion coefficients CTE between a first material layer (CTE1) and a second material layer (CTE2) at a first layer-second layer interface. A portion of aluminum borosilicate (abs) or another suitable additive (add), whose CTE value, CTE(add), satisfies (CTE(add)−CTE1)(CTE(add)−CTE2)<0, is distributed with variable additive density, ρ(z;add), in the first material layer and/or in the second material layer, with ρ(z;add) near the materials interface being relatively high (alternatively, relatively low) and ρ(z;add) in a region spaced apart from the interface being relatively low (alternatively, relatively high).

IPC Classes  ?

• B32B 5/14 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts, e.g. denser near its faces
• B32B 7/02 - Physical, chemical or physicochemical properties

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a method for powder coating a metal substrate using a low-melt polyamic acid (PAA) polymer that readily imidizes to polyimides. These low-melt PAAs have been shown to be useful in resins applied as powder coatings to metal surfaces. The resin includes an end-capping material capable of providing crosslinking functionality to at least one end of the low-melt PAA polymer. The end-capping material functions dually as a polymerization chain terminator and crosslinking agent, thus producing resins that have molecular weights low enough to flow well and form good cured films applicable for use in powder coating.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 179/08 - PolyimidesPolyester-imidesPolyamide-imidesPolyamide acids or similar polyimide precursors

Abstract

The present invention is a dielectric ink and means for printing using said ink. Approximately 10-20% of the ink is a custom organic vehicle made of a polar solvent and a binder. Approximately 30-70% of the ink is a dielectric powder having an average particle diameter of approximately 10-750 nm. Approximately 5-15% of the ink is a dielectric constant glass. Approximately 10-35% of the ink is an additional amount of solvent. The ink is deposited on a printing substrate to form at least one printed product, which is then dried and cured to remove the solvent and binder, respectively. The printed product then undergoes sintering in an inert gas atmosphere.

IPC Classes  ?

• B05D 5/12 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures to obtain a coating with specific electrical properties

Abstract

A test apparatus for thermal energy measurement of disk-shaped test specimens has a cold mass assembly locatable within a sealable chamber with a guard vessel having a guard chamber to receive a liquid fluid and a bottom surface to contact a cold side of a test specimen, and a test vessel having a test chamber to receive a liquid fluid and encompassed on one side by a center portion of the bottom surface shared with the guard vessel. A lateral wall assembly of the test vessel is closed by a vessel top, the lateral wall assembly comprising an outer wall and an inner wall having opposing surfaces that define a thermal break including a condensable vapor pocket to inhibit heat transfer through the lateral wall from the guard vessel to the test vessel. A warm boundary temperature surface is in thermal communication with a lower surface of the test specimen.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 25/72 - Investigating presence of flaws

Abstract

A valve assembly for an in-space propulsion system includes an inlet tube, an outlet tube, a valve body coupling the inlet tube to the outlet tube and defining a propellant flow path, a valve stem assembly disposed within the valve body, an actuator body coupled to the valve body, the valve stem assembly extending from an interior of the valve body to an interior of the actuator body, and an actuator assembly disposed within the actuator body and coupled to the valve stem assembly, the actuator assembly including a shape memory actuator member that when heated to a transition temperature is configured to enable the valve stem assembly to engage the outlet tube and seal the propellant flow path.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16K 17/14 - Safety valvesEqualising valves opening on surplus pressure on one sideSafety valvesEqualising valves closing on insufficient pressure on one side with fracturing member
• F16K 31/02 - Operating meansReleasing devices electricOperating meansReleasing devices magnetic
• F16K 31/46 - Mechanical actuating means for remote operation
• F02K 9/00 - Rocket-engine plants, i.e. plants carrying both fuel and oxidant thereforControl thereof

Abstract

The modular fixturing system of the present invention is modular, reusable and capable of significant customization, both in terms of system radius and system height, allowing it to be arranged and rearranged in numerous unique configurations. The system includes multiple modular stanchions having stanchion shafts and stanchion feet that removably attach to apertures in a table. Angle brackets attached to the modular stanchions support shelves. These shelves in turn provide support to work pieces during fabrication processes such as welding.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 37/00 - Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted for a procedure covered by only one of the other main groups of this subclass
• B23K 37/04 - Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted for a procedure covered by only one of the other main groups of this subclass for holding or positioning work

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for designing and fabricating contact-free support structures for overhang geometries of parts fabricated using electron beam additive manufacturing. One or more layers of un-melted metallic powder are disposed in an elongate gap between an upper horizontal surface of the support structure and a lower surface of the overhang geometry. The powder conducts heat from the overhang geometry to the support structure. The support structure acts as a heat sink to enhance heat transfer and reduce the temperature and severe thermal gradients due to poor thermal conductivity of metallic powders underneath the overhang. Because the support structure is minimally or not connected to the part, the support structure can be removed with minimal or no post-processing step.

IPC Classes  ?

• B32B 3/10 - Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shapeLayered products comprising a layer having particular features of form characterised by a discontinuous layer, i.e. apertured or formed of separate pieces of material
• B22F 3/105 - Sintering only by using electric current, laser radiation or plasma
• B33Y 50/00 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
• B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
• G06F 17/50 - Computer-aided design
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing

Abstract

A system for radio frequency identification (RFID) includes an enclosure defining an interior region interior to the enclosure, and a feed for generating an electromagnetic field in the interior region in response to a signal received from an RFID reader via a radio frequency (RF) transmission line and, in response to the electromagnetic field, receiving a signal from an RFID sensor attached to an item in the interior region. The structure of the enclosure may be conductive and may include a metamaterial portion, an electromagnetically absorbing portion, or a wall extending in the interior region. Related apparatuses and methods for performing RFID are provided.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation

Abstract

A system and method for providing visual depictions of a predictive weather forecast for in-route vehicle trajectory planning. The method includes displaying weather information on a graphical display, displaying vehicle position information on the graphical display, selecting a predictive interval, displaying predictive weather information for the predictive interval on the graphical display, and displaying predictive vehicle position information for the predictive interval on the graphical display, such that the predictive vehicle position information is displayed relative to the predictive weather information, for in-route trajectory planning.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 17/05 - Geographic models

Abstract

An inked electrical conductor comprises a mixture of silver powder and ethyl cellulose. The silver powder is in a range of approximately 99.0 weight percent of the mixture to approximately 99.5 weight percent of the mixture. The ethyl cellulose is in a range of approximately 0.5 weight percent of the mixture to approximately 1.0 weight percent of the mixture.

IPC Classes  ?

• H05K 1/09 - Use of materials for the metallic pattern
• B05D 5/12 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures to obtain a coating with specific electrical properties
• C09D 11/10 - Printing inks based on artificial resins

Abstract

The present invention is a system and method for aircraft ground collision avoidance (iGCAS) comprising a modular array of software, including a sense own state module configured to gather data to compute trajectory, a sense terrain module including a digital terrain map (DTM) and map manger routine to store and retrieve terrain elevations, a predict collision threat module configured to generate an elevation profile corresponding to the terrain under the trajectory computed by said sense own state module, a predict avoidance trajectory module configured to simulate avoidance maneuvers ahead of the aircraft, a determine need to avoid module configured to determine which avoidance maneuver should be used, when it should be initiated, and when it should be terminated, a notify Module configured to display each maneuver's viability to the pilot by a colored GUI, a pilot controls module configured to turn the system on and off, and an avoid module configured to define how an aircraft will perform avoidance maneuvers through 3-dimensional space.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• B64D 45/04 - Landing aidsSafety measures to prevent collision with earth's surface
• G06F 17/50 - Computer-aided design
• G08G 5/06 - Traffic control systems for aircraft for control when on the ground

Abstract

Acoustic liners for aircraft noise reduction include one or more chambers that are configured to provide a pressure-release surface such that the engine noise generation process is inhibited and/or absorb sound by converting the sound into heat energy. The size and shape of the chambers can be selected to inhibit the noise generation process and/or absorb sound at selected frequencies.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 1/40 - Sound or heat insulation
• B64C 25/00 - Alighting gear

Abstract

A non-pyrotechnic, normally-closed, zero-leak valve is a replacement for the pyrovalve used for both in-space and launch vehicle applications. The valve utilizes a magnetostrictive alloy for actuation, rather than pyrotechnic charges. The alloy, such as Terfenol-D, experiences magnetostriction, i.e. a gross elongation, when exposed to a magnetic field. This elongation fractures a parent metal seal, allowing fluid flow through the valve. The required magnetic field is generated by redundant coils that are isolated from the working fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16K 17/40 - Safety valvesEqualising valves with fracturing member, e.g. fracturing diaphragm, fusible joint
• F16K 31/06 - Operating meansReleasing devices electricOperating meansReleasing devices magnetic using a magnet

Abstract

The present invention is a system and method of visualizing fluid flow around an object, such as an aircraft or wind turbine, by aligning the object between an imaging system and a celestial object having a speckled background, taking images, and comparing those images to obtain fluid flow visualization.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 1/00 - Measuring angles
• G01F 1/708 - Measuring the time taken to traverse a fixed distance
• G01P 3/38 - Devices characterised by the use of optical means, e.g. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light using photographic means

Abstract

A system, method, and computer-readable storage devices for a 6U CubeSat with a magnetometer boom. The example 6U CubeSat can include an on-board computing device connected to an electrical power system, wherein the electrical power system receives power from at least one of a battery and at least one solar panel, a first fluxgate sensor attached to an extendable boom, a release mechanism for extending the extendable boom, at least one second fluxgate sensor fixed within the satellite, an ion neutral mass spectrometer, and a relativistic electron/proton telescope. The on-board computing device can receive data from the first fluxgate sensor, the at least one second fluxgate sensor, the ion neutral mass spectrometer, and the relativistic electron/proton telescope via the bus, and can then process the data via an algorithm to deduce a geophysical signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64G 1/10 - Artificial satellitesSystems of such satellitesInterplanetary vehicles
• B64G 1/22 - Parts of, or equipment specially adapted for fitting in or to, cosmonautic vehicles
• B64G 1/66 - Arrangements or adaptations of apparatus or instruments, not otherwise provided for
• B64G 1/44 - Arrangements or adaptations of power supply systems using radiation, e.g. deployable solar arrays
• H01J 49/26 - Mass spectrometers or separator tubes

Abstract

A low-density article comprising a flexible substrate and a pyrolizable material impregnated therein, methods of preparing, and devices using the article are disclosed. The pyrolizable material pyrolizes above 350 C and does not flow at temperatures below the pyrolysis temperature. The low-density article remains flexible after impregnation and continues to remain flexible when the pyrolizable material is fully pyrolized.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64G 1/58 - Thermal protection, e.g. heat shields
• F16L 59/02 - Shape or form of insulating materials, with or without coverings integral with the insulating materials

Abstract

Systems, methods, instruments and devices of the various embodiments enable improved characterization and comparison of the level and species of surface contaminants from photo- induced emission analysis. The various embodiments may provide flexibility for calculating and analyzing the time-dependence of emission efficiencies. Irregular and heterogeneous surfaces, including regionally multiply -connected surface compositions, may be analyzed according to the various embodiments, and the various embodiments include techniques that support specific contaminant identification. Various embodiment focusing techniques may enhance assessment of spatially differential regional analysis of the substrate for more critical applications. The various embodiments may also include differential comparison with reference surfaces, either through differential comparison while scanning, or by comparison to digitally stored responses to known contaminants.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/33 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using ultraviolet light
• G01N 23/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material
• G01N 23/227 - Measuring photoelectric effect , e.g. photoelectron emission microscopy [PEEM]
• G01Q 30/02 - Non-SPM analysing devices, e.g. SEM [Scanning Electron Microscope], spectrometer or optical microscope

Abstract

Embodiments provide ice adhesion mitigating surface coatings and methods for generating the same. Embodiments may provide anti-icing coating with at least one monomeric species exhibiting molecular flexibility. The molecular flexibility in the monomeric species may be imparted through an aliphatic or heteroaliphatic chain that may exist as a portion of the monomer backbone, as a pendant group, or as both the portion of the monomer backbone and the pendant group. In various embodiments epoxy coatings including an epoxy resin and an amine-terminated hardener may be generated. At least a portion of the amine-terminated hardener may include at least a monomeric species that exhibits molecular flexibility arising from an aliphatic chain or heteroaliphatic chain that may be within the polymer backbone and/or may persist as a pendant group.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08K 5/17 - AminesQuaternary ammonium compounds
• C08K 5/18 - AminesQuaternary ammonium compounds with aromatically bound amino groups

Abstract

2 in a non-superconducting metal or a lower transition temperature material; wherein a spatially varying order parameter is created by a proximity effect, such that the non-superconducting metal or the lower transition temperature material becomes superconductive as a temperature is lowered, creating a flux-free Meissner state at a center thereof, in order to sweep magnetic flux lines to the periphery.

IPC Classes  ?

• H05K 9/00 - Screening of apparatus or components against electric or magnetic fields
• G01R 33/00 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables
• G01R 33/025 - Compensating stray fields

Abstract

A RiG may simulate visual conditions of a real world environment, and generate the necessary amount of pixels in a visual simulation at rates up to 120 frames per second. RiG may also include a database generation system capable of producing visual databases suitable to drive the visual fidelity required by the RiG.

IPC Classes  ?

• G09B 9/08 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of aircraft, e.g. Link trainer
• G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor

Abstract

The present invention is an improved fiber optic sensing system (FOSS) having the ability to provide both high spatial resolution and high frequency strain measurements. The inventive hybrid FOSS fiber combines sensors from high acquisition speed and low spatial resolution Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (WDM) systems and from low acquisition speed and high spatial resolution Optical Frequency Domain Reflection (OFDR) systems. Two unique light sources utilizing different wavelengths are coupled with the hybrid FOSS fiber to generate reflected data from both the WDM sensors and OFDR sensors operating on a single fiber optic cable without incurring interference from one another. The two data sets are then de-multiplexed for analysis, optionally with conventionally-available WDM and OFDR system analyzers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01B 11/16 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring the deformation in a solid, e.g. optical strain gauge
• G02B 6/02 - Optical fibres with cladding
• G02B 6/293 - Optical coupling means having data bus means, i.e. plural waveguides interconnected and providing an inherently bidirectional system by mixing and splitting signals with wavelength selective means

Abstract

A method of fabricating circuitry in a wafer includes depositing a superconducting metal on a silicon on insulator wafer having a handle wafer, coating the wafer with a sacrificial layer and bonding the wafer to a thermally oxide silicon wafer with a first epoxy. The method includes flipping the wafer, thinning the flipped wafer by removing a handle wafer, etching a buried oxide layer, depositing a superconducting layer, bonding the wafer to a thermally oxidized silicon wafer having a handle wafer using an epoxy, flipping the wafer again, thinning the flipped wafer, etching a buried oxide layer from the wafer and etching the sacrificial layer from the wafer. The result is a wafer having superconductive circuitry on both sides of an ultra-thin silicon layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 39/24 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of devices provided for in group or of parts thereof

Abstract

A dynamic constraint avoidance route system automatically analyzes routes of aircraft flying, or to be flown, in or near constraint regions and attempts to find more time and fuel efficient reroutes around current and predicted constraints. The dynamic constraint avoidance route system continuously analyzes all flight routes and provides reroute advisories that are dynamically updated in real time. The dynamic constraint avoidance route system includes a graphical user interface that allows users to visualize, evaluate, modify if necessary, and implement proposed reroutes.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G06G 7/70 - Analogue computers for specific processes, systems, or devices, e.g. simulators for vehicles, e.g. to determine permissible loading of ships
• G06G 7/76 - Analogue computers for specific processes, systems, or devices, e.g. simulators for traffic
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

An electronic assembly for use in space missions that includes a PCB and one or more multi-pin CGA devices coupled to the PCB. The PCB has one or more via-in-pad features and each via-in-pad feature comprises a land pad configured to couple a pin of the one or more multi-pin CGA devices to the via. The PCB also includes a plurality of layers arranged symmetrically in a two-halves configuration above and below a central plane of the PCB.

IPC Classes  ?

• H05K 7/10 - Plug-in assemblages of components
• H05K 7/12 - Resilient or clamping means for holding component to structure
• H05K 1/11 - Printed elements for providing electric connections to or between printed circuits

Abstract

Miniature release mechanisms constrain objects, such as deployables during the launch of space vehicles, such as small satellites and nanosatellites, and enable the release of the objects once a desired destination is reached by the space vehicle. Constraint and release of the objects are achieved by providing a secure threaded interface that may be released by the release mechanisms. The release mechanisms include a housing structure; a release block can include a threaded interface; one or more retracting pins; one or more release springs; a breakable link, such as a plastic link; a cable harness clamp; and a circuit board. The release mechanism can be 0.1875 inches (approximately 4.8 mm) thick.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64G 1/22 - Parts of, or equipment specially adapted for fitting in or to, cosmonautic vehicles
• B64G 1/44 - Arrangements or adaptations of power supply systems using radiation, e.g. deployable solar arrays

Abstract

An integrated hybrid crystal Light Emitting Diode (“LED”) display device that may emit red, green, and blue colors on a single wafer. The various embodiments may provide double-sided hetero crystal growth with hexagonal wurtzite III-Nitride compound semiconductor on one side of (0001) c-plane sapphire media and cubic zinc-blended III-V or II-VI compound semiconductor on the opposite side of c-plane sapphire media. The c-plane sapphire media may be a bulk single crystalline c-plane sapphire wafer, a thin free standing c-plane sapphire layer, or crack-and-bonded c-plane sapphire layer on any substrate. The bandgap energies and lattice constants of the compound semiconductor alloys may be changed by mixing different amounts of ingredients of the same group into the compound semiconductor. The bandgap energy and lattice constant may be engineered by changing the alloy composition within the cubic group IV, group III-V, and group II-VI semiconductors and within the hexagonal III-Nitrides.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 33/00 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof
• H01L 33/08 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a plurality of light emitting regions, e.g. laterally discontinuous light emitting layer or photoluminescent region integrated within the semiconductor body
• H01L 33/16 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a particular crystal structure or orientation, e.g. polycrystalline, amorphous or porous
• H01L 27/15 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including semiconductor components with at least one potential-jump barrier or surface barrier, specially adapted for light emission

Abstract

3 nanowires or nanotubes, quantum dots of CdS or PbS, and Ag or Au nanostructures. The cathode can comprise a conductive gas diffusion layer with nanostructures of an electro-catalyst such as Cu or Co.

IPC Classes  ?

• C25B 9/18 - Assemblies comprising a plurality of cells
• C25B 3/04 - Electrolytic production of organic compounds by reduction
• C25B 1/00 - Electrolytic production of inorganic compounds or non-metals

Abstract

A vibrating gyroscope includes a piezoelectric strip having length and width dimensions. The piezoelectric strip includes a piezoelectric material and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) substantially aligned and polled along the strip's length dimension. A spindle having an axis of rotation is coupled to the piezoelectric strip. The axis of rotation is parallel to the strip's width dimension. A first capacitance sensor is mechanically coupled to the spindle for rotation therewith. The first capacitance sensor is positioned at one of the strip's opposing ends and is spaced apart from one of the strip's opposing faces. A second capacitance sensor is mechanically coupled to the spindle for rotation therewith. The second capacitance sensor is positioned at another of the strip's opposing ends and is spaced apart from another of the strip's opposing faces. A voltage source applies an AC voltage to the piezoelectric strip.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01P 3/44 - Devices characterised by the use of electric or magnetic means for measuring angular speed
• G01C 19/56 - Turn-sensitive devices using vibrating masses, e.g. vibratory angular rate sensors based on Coriolis forces
• B82Y 30/00 - Nanotechnology for materials or surface science, e.g. nanocomposites

Abstract

A method according to an illustrative embodiment includes generating first, second, third, and fourth signals. The method also includes transmitting from an antenna, the first signal, and transmitting the antenna, the second signal. The first and second signals are configured such that when the signals are transmitted simultaneously the signals constructively interact to form a first beam signal. The first beam signal has a first look angle. The method also includes transmitting from the antenna the third signal and from the antenna the fourth signal. The third and fourth signals are configured such that when the signals are transmitted simultaneously the signals constructively interact to form a second beam signal. The second beam signal has a second look angle. The method also includes receiving a first and second reflected signals and generating an interferogram utilizing information in the first and second reflected signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01S 13/524 - Discriminating between fixed and moving objects or between objects moving at different speeds using transmissions of interrupted pulse modulated waves based upon the phase or frequency shift resulting from movement of objects, with reference to the transmitted signals, e.g. coherent MTi
• G01S 13/90 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging using synthetic aperture techniques
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis