Abstract: A control system is disclosed that is configurable (e.g., by a programmer) so as to enable input from multiple sources to capture to multiple controls. Also or alternatively, the system is configurable so as to enable input from multiple sources to capture to a single control. The system also provides a consistent and extendable scheme for filtering out conflicting events for individual controls. In one embodiment, this means that the system is configurable (e.g., based on the programmer's asserted preferences) so as to enable a selective determination as to whether additional inputs can be captured for a given control.

Abstract: The invention is a separation system for releasably securing first and second structural members together along mating edges thereof. For example, the segments of a launch vehicle faring used to protect the payload until orbit is reached. In detail, the invention includes a plurality of latches with each latch including a male portion mounted in proximity the edge of the first structural member and a female portion mounted on the second structural member in proximity to the edge thereof. A locking device is mounted on the second structural member in proximity to the edge thereof, movable from a locked position securing the male portion to the female portion to a second position unlocking the male portion from the female portion. An actuation device is provided for sequentially moving the locking device of each latch from the first position to the second position, unlocking the male portions from the female portions of the plurality of latches.

Abstract: A seawater hydraulic rock drill having a trigger which when engaged by a diver allows pressurized seawater to be directed through an open supply poppet valve assembly into a drive chamber having a plunger. The pressurized seawater drives the plunger into a piston, an anvil, and a drill bit creating a percussive impact into a rock surface breaking up the rock surface. At the same time pressurized seawater exits the drive chamber through an orifice into a reversible seawater hydraulic motor which rotates the drill bit thereby pulverizing the broken rock. As the plunger approaches the end of a drive cycle, the supply poppet is pressurized closing the supply poppet valve assembly and cutting off the flow of seawater to the drive chamber. Pressurized seawater then drives the piston and plunger to their initial positions, the supply poppet valve assembly opens, and the cycle is repeated.