Abstract: A system is provided for applying a force to selected compliant material ch is in adjacent relationship with the inner surface of a rigid spherical segment. The system includes an elastomeric spherical segment having an apex and a radius of curvature which is less than the radius of curvature of the inner surface of the rigid spherical segment when the elastomeric segment is in an undeformed condition. Operative structure is provided for initially spacing the elastomeric segment from the rigid spherical segment, so that the elastomeric segment is in point contact relationship with the compliant material, and for controllably urging the elastomeric segment toward the compliant material after the initial spacing, until the curvature of the elastomeric segment is conformed to the curvature of the inner surface of the spherical segment.

Abstract: A coupling which is readily attachable to a plate, panel or like structure ncludes a rotatable shaft for thrusting a bearing element through a circular hole in the structure when the bearing element and the hole are in concentric relationship. Thereafter, the shaft is rotated by less than a complete revolution to bring the bearing element and the hole into a selected eccentric relationship, and also to activate a locking mechanism to maintain the eccentric relationship. When the bearing element and hole are in the eccentric relationship, a bearing surface of the bearing element abutts the structure to impose substantial force thereupon.

Abstract: Apparatus for protectively housing radiation transmitting or receiving eqment is provided with a window in the form of a spherical segment, which is formed of material transmissive to radiation of the frequencies of the equipment, and which has a seating surface. A mounting for providing forces to support the window and to resist external pressure applied thereto has a bearing surface, and a heated bearing gasket abutts both the bearing and seating surfaces. The gasket is provided for resisting wear between the bearing and seating surfaces, and also for transferring selected amounts of heat to the window. A heat regulator is coupled between the window and the gasket to control the amount of heat transferred to the window by the gasket, and structure is provided for continuously joining the window, the mounting and the gasket.

Abstract: Apparatus for scanning microimages containing graphic information which iudes a film provided with a matrix of microimage spaces, at least some of the spaces being occupied by microimages, and a light source for illuminating the microimages to generate light images of the graphic information contained on the microimages. The apparatus further includes light sensing devices for generating analog signals which represent the graphic information contained upon the microimages and missing image sensors for generating a signal which signifies that a given microimage space of the matrix is not occupied by a microimage.