Abstract: A mechanical finger comprises a plurality of phalanges coupled to a single actuator using a kinematic linkage and a differential linkage arranged in parallel. The mechanical finger is capable of exhibiting consistent predictable motion when moving in free space or when contacting an object at the fingertip, and of curling in order to conform to an object when the contact is at other locations on the finger.

Abstract: A self-bracing shelter includes a frame and a skin. First and second subframes are arranged in vertical planes, each including first and second feet and a central portion. A ridge beam extends axially between the first and second subframes and includes opposite first and second ends that extend axially beyond the first and second subframes, respectively, such that the opposite ends of the beam are located outside a footprint of a planform defined by the feet of the subframes. A first pair of outer tension members is connected between the first end of the beam and the first subframe on opposite sides of the beam. A second pair of outer tension members is connected between the second end of the beam and the second subframe on opposite sides of the beam.

Abstract: A modular rotational electric actuator includes an output housing and internal drive components that include integrated control electronics, a torque sensor, and a portion of a joint assembly. The joint assembly includes a joint connector coupled to the internal drive components, including integrated control electronics, e.g., by a resilient member. The resilient member elastically couples the joint connector to a portion of the output housing, the joint connector including a portion that extends outward therefrom.

Abstract: An air treatment system for a vehicle includes a first compressor selectively coupled to a first vehicle power source. A second compressor is selectively coupled to a second vehicle power source. A first heat exchanger communicates with an interior space in the vehicle. A second heat exchanger communicates with an environment outside the vehicle. A valve member, in a first position, couples an inlet of each of the first and second compressors to an outlet of the first heat exchanger and an outlet of each of the compressors to an inlet of the second heat exchanger. In a second position, the valve member couples the outlets of the compressors to an inlet of the first heat exchanger and the inlets of the compressors to an outlet of the second heat exchanger. A controller selectively actuates at least one of the first and second compressors and the valve member.

Abstract: A mechanical finger comprises a plurality of phalanges coupled to a single actuator using a kinematic linkage and a differential linkage arranged in parallel. The mechanical finger is capable of exhibiting consistent predictable motion when moving in free space or when contacting an object at the fingertip, and of curling in order to conform to an object when the contact is at other locations on the finger.

Abstract: A self-bracing shelter includes a frame and a skin. First and second subframes are arranged in vertical planes, each including first and second feet and a central portion. A ridge beam extends axially between the first and second subframes and includes opposite first and second ends that extend axially beyond the first and second subframes, respectively, such that the opposite ends of the beam are located outside a footprint of a planform defined by the feet of the subframes. A first pair of outer tension members is connected between the first end of the beam and the first subframe on opposite sides of the beam. A second pair of outer tension members is connected between the second end of the beam and the second subframe on opposite sides of the beam.

Abstract: A gas-particulate filter canister includes a filter canister body and first and second canister end caps secured to opposing ends of the filter canister body. First and second filter cartridges are supported within the filter canister body for filtering a gas in series. The filter cartridges can be standalone units which are built independently and are installed into the filter canister body. The filter cartridges can be concentrically arranged and can include a particulate filter cartridge and a gas filter cartridge.

Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a high ballistic coefficient wind sonde device and a method of determining wind speed and wind direction measurements relative to altitude with a high velocity wind sonde device. The device includes a streamlined body including a first end, a second end, a longitudinal axis, and an internal cavity. A tail extension includes a first end that is connected to the body second end and a second end, wherein the tail extends along the longitudinal axis of the streamlined body. At least one pair of oppositely extending fins are mounted to the tail adjacent its second end. An electronic assembly is located in the internal cavity for generating wind and altitude data. A transmitting antenna is mounted to at least one of the body and the tail for transmitting the wind and altitude data generated by the electronic assembly.

Abstract: A reinforced inflatable structure includes an inflatable member having a longitudinal axis. The member includes a bladder and a braided restraint layer mounted to the bladder. A plurality of spaced supports is mounted on the member and extends outwardly therefrom. A plurality of spaced bracing cables are connected at each end to a respective one of the plurality of supports. The cables are oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the member and are held at a generally fixed distance from the member by the supports. The inflatable member tensions the bracing cables rendering them capable of resisting bending.

Abstract: An inflatable structure is augmented with transverse frames and bracing cables to make a truss-like structure. This feature is adaptable for adding strength to a plain inflatable structure and to an inflatable structure forming a structural arch. It can also be incorporated into an inflatable wing.