Abstract: Arresting material test apparatus, test probes and test methods enable testing of compressive gradient strength of cellular concrete, and materials having similar characteristics, on a continuous basis from the surface of a section to a typical internal penetration depth of at least 60 percent of thickness. Previous testing of cellular concrete typically focused on testing to confirm a minimum structural strength prior to structural failure or shattering of a test sample. For an aircraft arresting bed, for example, cellular concrete must exhibit a compressive gradient strength in a relatively narrow precalculated range continuously from the surface to penetration depth equal to 60 to 80 percent of sample thickness. Precalculated and controlled compressive gradient strength is critical to enabling an aircraft to be safely stopped within a set distance, without giving rise to drag forces exceeding main landing gear structural limits.

Abstract: A dental floss dispenser in a card format formed by a base panel having a shallow well surrounded by a peripheral ridge, and a face panel superposed on the base panel and bonded to the ridge. Adjacent the front end of the face panel are an aperture and a miniature cutting blade. Nested in the well is a supply of dental floss constituted by an unsupported flattened helical coil. The floss filament from which the coil is wound has a starting end at the front of the coil, the filament at the rear of the coil passing internally through the coil to emerge from its front as a pull out lead which is threaded through the aperture in the face panel. The starting end of the coil is bonded to adjacent convolutions and thereby prevent unwinding of the unsupported coil. To obtain a useable length of floss, the user pulls on the lead to partially unwind the coil and then cuts off the length on the blade.

Abstract: A multifunction antenna system is selectively operative over the UHF and VHF frequency ranges using a novel arrangement of symmetrically disposed phased radiating elements that function as a dipole turnstile type array at UHF and as a monopole at VHF. At VHF the UHF radiating elements and feedlines are fed in parallel against ground to produce a pattern similar to that of a short vertical monopole. VHF and UHF coupling networks offer low VSWR and minimize circuit losses when utilized with a folded dipole array. The compact, lightweight structure is adaptable to oceanic communications by installing in a towed radome adapted for water flotation, and provides low angle hemispherical UHF radiation without pattern switching, with the water surface providing a reflective ground plane.

Abstract: In a warehouse, for example, incoming packages may bear dataforms of a variety of different types such as 1D bar codes, 2D bar codes and matrix codes. By use of image features distinctive for different dataforms, a hand-held reader is enabled to autodiscriminate among different 1D and 2D bar codes and matrix codes. If the sampled image data permits identification of a specific type of dataform, a decoder employing a suitable decoding protocol is used to decode the dataform. Iterative use of additional image features and sampling patterns increases the accuracy of dataform identification. Data decoded from each incoming dataform is recoded and autotranslated into a preselected standardized dataform label placed on each respective package. Subsequent reading of package dataforms thereby requires reading and decoding of only the single standardized dataform format. Systems and methods are described.

Abstract: An image sensor array system is arranged to enable oblique access for readout of image data from a stepped pixel pattern of sensor cells. The stepped pixel pattern represents an oblique line component of an image portion containing a 2-D bar code or other dataform. An obliquely aligned bar code image can thus be read out along oblique lines which follow rows of bar code elements traversing the elements. The sensor array (16) is accessed by horizontal and vertical readout circuits (22 and 24) under the control of address signals from an address unit (20). Location signals, from a source (12), indicative of a selected image portion (39) may be used by the address unit (20) to provide address signals representative of the stepped pixel pattern for a particular oblique line component.

Abstract: Snore reducing device 10 includes the combination of left and right gripping portions 12 and 14 and arch section 20. Each gripping portion 12 and 14 is configured for gripping between a user's upper and lower molars and has a wedge shape which is thicker in front. Raised side edges 16 and 18 and use of thermo-deformable material for compliant shaping to the user's molar surfaces aid in providing a comfortable fit during sleep. The arch section 20 extends upward from and between the gripping portions 12 and 14. Arch section 20 is shaped to fit adjacent to upper elements of the user's mouth in contact or spaced relationship. The snore reducing devices described do not include any front portion extending between the user's incisors to inhibit air flow into or out of the mouth during sleep.

Abstract: An image sensor array system is arranged to enable oblique access for readout of image data from a stepped pixel pattern of sensor cells. The stepped pixel pattern represents an oblique line component of an image portion containing a 2-D bar code or other dataform. An obliquely aligned bar code image can thus be read out along oblique lines which follow rows of bar code elements traversing the elements. The sensor array (16) is accessed by horizontal and vertical readout circuits (22 and 24) under the control of address signals from an address unit (20). Location signals, from a source (12), indicative of a selected image portion (39) may be used by the address unit (20) to provide address signals representative of the stepped pixel pattern for a particular oblique line component.

Abstract: A convertible seat for a motorcycle in which a solo seat optionally conceals a passenger seat within a cavity. The passenger seat may be wholly enclosed within the solo seat or withdrawn and secured to the motorcycle fender for use. A pair of tracks may be included for maintaining the passenger seat in position when extended. A fastener permits securing the passenger seat to a fender of the motorcycle, and the passenger seat is configured to preclude accidental total withdrawal from the solo seat. The solo seat may include a flexible flap for enclosing and concealing the passenger seat within the operator seat when the passenger seat is not in use. Alternatively, the rear end of the passenger seat may be shaped to conform to the rear opening in the operator seat to mask the presence of the passenger seat when not in use.

Abstract: Where two or more antenna beams may receive signals from the same cellular communication system user, post-reception beam channel gain variations may obscure choice of the channel providing the strongest user signal. Thermal atmospheric noise, assumed to equally enter each beam, is utilized as a standard signal level in order to calibrate the relative gain factor for each channel. Thermal noise level is measured by use of a single common receiver (32) sequentially coupled to each channel (22-25) to listen for lowest signal levels during inactive intervals, over periods of time which may extend for hours. Lowest signal levels provide thresholds for each channel from which gain correction factors are developed. When a user signal is received in two channels, the gain correction factors are employed to select the channel providing the best signal, on a substantially real time basis. A long-term lowest signal level monitoring algorithm is described.

Abstract: Dataform readers using two-dimensional sensor array cameras provide image frames comprising successive first and second fields of image data. In hand-held operation, hand jitter results in image offset causing registration errors between fields. Resolution and decoding performance are enhanced by described readers and methods. Decoding is implemented first by use of image data of a first field and the results of such decoding are supplemented by results of decoding of remaining portions of the dataform by use of second field image data. Decoding may also be carried out by first determining the magnitude of a disparity vector extending in the direction of image offset. The disparity vector is then used to provide enhanced decoding by use of first field image data and registration-corrected second field image data.

Abstract: Interactive decoding of machine readable dataforms provides improved control of decoding avoiding inaccurate reading of dataforms. While data is entered (12) and encoded (14) an image of the resulting dataform, such as a data code matrix or two-dimensional bar code, is displayed (16) and continuously updated as the dataform (20) fills with entered data. Using the display (16) and an input unit (12) such as a keyboard, digitizer or scanner, data can be edited to add, modify or delete data while observing the resulting dataform (20). On completion, the final dataform code signals are provided for further use (24) or a copy of the dataform (20) is provided by printing, for example. During decoding, an image of the dataform (20) as captured by a reader (32), such as a laser scanner, CCD matrix or CMOS camera, is displayed (34). Observing the display (34), the operator can determine if the image is too small, out of focus, partially out of view, etc., and take action (33) to improve the reader (32) performance.

Abstract: A bulkhead system to resist waterfront wave forces and reduce or eliminate erosion damage to waterfront property and structures. The bulkhead system is comprised of one or more rows of spaced nominally vertical piles, the piles extending into and above a ground surface in a self-supporting configuration. A stack of annular units, each in the form of a vehicle tire filled with concrete or other ballast material, is positioned on each of a plurality of the piles. Adjacent piles are positioned to have a pile-to-pile spacing to accommodate adjacent stacks of annular units and to form a substantially continuous wall or bulkhead. Intercoupling means, such as cabling, is also provided to couple adjacent groupings of piles so that wave forces incident on one or more piles are distributed to other piles on a shared basis.

Abstract: Dataform readers and methods provide operation with a sequence of overlapping exposure periods for successive lines of sensor elements of an array. Also, the exposure periods for successive lines of sensor elements, or successive subsets of lines, can be independently determined. In operation of a dataform reader illumination of a target area is turned on before exposure of the first line of sensor elements, each line of sensor elements is exposed by reflected illumination in an exposure period which overlaps with the exposure period of one or more other lines, and illumination is then turned off. Using a CMOS construction, for example, the level of image signals read from one line of sensor elements is referred to a look-up table to determine an appropriate exposure period for a subsequent line or lines of elements of an array. This process is repeated to achieve exposure periods adjusted for localized exposure conditions for each successive line or subset of lines of sensor elements.

Abstract: Prior methods of reading MaxiCode dataforms have been subject to reduced resolution image scaling and processing and speed constraints of Fourier transform computations. Described spatial domain data extraction methods provide bull's eye center location by T-sequence pixel pattern analysis, axis identification by moment analysis of data cell pairs, and integral width square wave analysis of illumination transitions to avoid reading-line cell fragmentation. The center and top of a MaxiCode are identified in high-resolution pixel data, without scaling reduction or Fourier type frequency domain processing. Data is extracted serially from rows of data cells by sampling along lines of pixels aligned by fragmentation analysis so as to traverse complete rows of data cells. Dynamic thresholding accurately defines illumination value transitions between adjacent linear groups of data cells, each group consisting of one or more data cells of the same reflectivity.

Abstract: Thin panel antennas, suitable for mounting on the side of a building, display a graphic representation and coloration compatible with the surface form and coloration of the building. A graphic display structure functions as a radome covering the front of an antenna utilizing slot arrays or other radiating elements. The graphic representation positioned on such display structure provides an image and coloration which may simulate the surface form and coloration of the building, simulate a structural feature, or otherwise provide a compatible visual relationship with a building or other structure.

Abstract: Skin treatment solutions are applied to the face, for example, by use of a flexible opaque mask 10. On a timed basis, one or more treatment solutions from vials 24-26 are provided to various facial areas via flexible tubes 20. In order to enable use of active treatment solutions including vitamin formulations subject to oxidation degradation in the presence of air, for example, a neutral atmosphere is provided. This is accomplished by supplying a neutral gas, such as nitrogen, from a cylinder 50 to mask 10 via flexible tubes 48. The neutral gas is infused between the mask 10 and the underlying skin at a low over pressure sufficient to drive air out from under the mask. Single treatment quantities of treatment solutions can be intermittently applied on a timed basis by the action of pump 36 operating under the control of programmable timers 30 and 40.

Abstract: In a communication system, two multi-beam antennas laterally spaced from each other each provide coverage of an azimuth sector for receiving signals from a system user. Each antenna provides lower gain performance at regions of crossover between its beams, as compared to peak gain along the center line of each beam. By aligning the two multi-beam antennas at different azimuths within the sector of interest, angular diversity is achieved. With the peak gain beam center lines of one multi-beam antenna aligned with regions of beam crossover of a similar antenna, a minimum gain improvement of 5 dB may typically be obtained with two four-beam antennas, as compared to coverage of the same sector by one or more antennas each having a single sector-wide beam. Systems and methods for achieving angular diversity/spaced diversity operation are described.

Abstract: A disposable diaper includes a refresh assembly configured to be activated while the diaper is worn, so as to provide an additional period of comfort until the diaper can be changed. The refresh assembly comprises an extendible panel having a length stored in a non-extended condition interior to a first diaper section. A pull line with line guide arrangement can be activated to extend the extendible panel between the interior of the diaper and the wearer. The extendible panel may include both a liquid impervious barrier, to isolate a wearer from a soiled portion of the diaper, and an absorbent layer to absorb moisture, thereby providing additional comfort to the wearer until the diaper can be changed.

Abstract: An automatic exposure imaging system operating on a single frame image capture basis is adapted for single chip CMOS type construction. For reading dataforms, such as two-dimensional bar codes and matrix codes, the system can provide automatic gain control, automatic exposure control, automatic focus sensing and single frame imaging and decoding, with reduced power consumption. A fixed focus distance sensor element array assembly and optical distance sensing enable automatic initiation of exposure when the image is in-focus. Exposure provided by image illuminators is automatically controlled by sensing of the cumulative level of reflected light during the exposure period. Alternatively, exposure time is determined from a look-up table, based upon the level of light reflected during an initial illumination period of fixed duration. Automatic system turn-off or re-reading can be provided, depending upon whether a dataform is successfully decoded.

Abstract: Impacts to the case of a portable electronic unit including a display are dissipated by a plurality of thermoplastic elastomeric damping elements which isolate an internal frame unit, carrying the display and associated electronic components, from contact with the enclosure. Each damping element is provided with corresponding positioning structures within the case to ensure that the frame unit "floats" on protective shock absorbing material to provide three-dimensional support and damping of impacts incident from any direction. Damping elements may take the form of small caps of elastomeric material at spaced positions around the periphery of the frame unit. Electronic connections to the display screen are accomplished using flexible connectors to maintain the mechanical isolation of the display screen from the rest of the unit.