Abstract: A table top for use in constricted areas has a plurality of support arms abutting at one end to form a hub. The support arms are arranged in equidistant, spaced-apart relation to each other at the ends distal to the hub. A plurality of work surface leaf sections mounted between the support arms are individually pivotable through 360 degrees about their longitudinal axes. The table top additionally has a plurality of distal leaves, each distal leaf being attached to the distal end of one of the arms. The distal leaves are pivotable between an upright position level with the support arms and a stored position below the support arms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing ceramic articles and the articles, the process comprising the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and/or chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) of a honeycomb structure.Specifically the present invention relates to a method for the production of a ceramic honeycomb structure, including:(a) obtaining a loosely woven fabric/binder wherein the fabric consists essentially of metallic, ceramic or organic fiber and the binder consists essentially of an organic or inorganic material wherein the fabric/binder has and retains a honeycomb shape, with the proviso that when the fabric is metallic or ceramic the binder is organic only;(b) substantially evenly depositing at least one layer of a ceramic on the fabric/binder of step (a); and(c) recovering the ceramic coated fiber honeycomb structure.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for training of the human visual accommodation system. Specifically, the apparatus is useful for training a person to volitionally control his focus to his far point (normally infinity) from a position of myopia due to functional causes. The functional causes could be due, for example, to a behavioral accommodative spasm or the effects of an empty field. The device may also be used to measure accommodation, the accommodation resting position and the near and far points of vision. The device comprises a number of optical elements arranged on a single optical axis (74). Several of the elements are arranged in order on a movable stage (20) in fixed relationship to each other: a light source (30), a lens (32), a target (36), an aperture (42), (48) or (52) and second lens (58). On base (18) and in fixed relationship to each other are eyepiece (70) and third lens (64).

Abstract: An Laser Doppler Velocimeter multiplexer interface (20) includes an event pulse synchronizer (162), which synchronizes data pulses from events A, B and C. Clock control (164) is connected to receive timing information on the data pulses from the synchronizer (162). Displays (24, 26, 28) are connected to receive clock signals from the clock control (164) for indicating a data rate for each of the measured events A, B and C. Display (30) is connected to receive clock signals from the clock control (164) to indicate a coincidence rate between data pulses for any selected combination of the measured events A, B and C. A multiplexer (156) receives the data pulses from the events A, B and C and rate data from the clock control (164). Multiplexer (156) has output (180) for supplying the data pulses and rate data to a single input of a data processing system.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a novel class of fire- and heat-resistant bisimide resins prepared by thermal polymerization of maleimido or citraconimido substituded 1-[(dialkoxyphosphonyl)-methyl]-2-4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes. Typical polymer presursors have the chemical structure: ##STR1## wherein R is alkyl, substituted alkyl or aryl, and R.sup.1 is hydrogen or lower alkyl.The polymer precursors are prepared by reacting 1-[(diorganooxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2-4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes with maleic anhydride or citraconic anhydride in a mole ratio 1:2. Chains extension of the monomers is achieved by reacting the mono-N-maleimido derivatives of 1-[(diorganooxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2,4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes with aryl tetracarboxylic dianhydrides, such as benzophenone tetracarboxylic diandydride, or aryl diisocyanates, such as methylenebis(4-phenylisocyanate), in a mole ratio 2:1.

Abstract: A high performance aircraft capable of subsonic, transonic and supersonic speeds employs a forward swept wing planform and at least one first-and-second-solution ejector located on the inboard section of the wing. A high degree of flow control on the inboard sections of the wing is achieved along with improved maneuverability and control of pitch, roll and yaw. Lift loss is delayed to higher angles of attack than in conventional aircraft. In one embodiment the ejectors may be advantageously positioned spanwise on the wing while the ductwork is kept to a minimum.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polyorganoborosilane ceramic precursor polymer comprising a plurality of repeating units of the formula: ##STR1## with the segments being linked together by second units of the formula: --(R.sup.2)--Si--R.sup.3)--q, where R.sup.1 is lower alkyl, cycloalkyl, phenyl, or ##STR2## and R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are each independently selected from hydrogen, lower alkyl, vinyl, cycloalkyl, or aryl, n is an integer between 1 and 100; p is an integer between 1 and 100; and q is an integer between 1 and 100. These materials are prepared by combining an organoborohalide of the formula R.sup.4 -B-(X.sup.1).sub.2 where R.sup.4 is selected from halogen, lower alkyl, cycloalkyl, or aryl, and an organohalosilane of the formula : R.sup.2 (R.sup.3) Si(X.sup.2).sub.2 where R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are each independently selected from lower alkyl, cycloalkyl, or aryl, and X.sup.1 and X.sup.

Abstract: A space station (20) includes a plurality of modules (24) and berthing hubs (22), joined by interconnections (26) which are sideways connectable. The modules (24) and hubs (22) are fastened together in a triangular configuration in three dimensions. The interconnections (26) include a pair of opposed, axially aligned, flanged ports (50) and a clamp latch (52) formed from a plurality of sections (54, 56 and 58) hinged along their length and extending circumferentially around the flanged ports (50). A hermetic seal (63) is formed between the ports (50). A utilities connection channel (68) extends between the ports (50). The channel (68) has a shell (70) with utilities connectors (74) movable between an extended position to mating connectors in the modules (24) and a withdrawn position. Assembly sequence and common module shell structure is detailed.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a ceramic reusable externally applied thermal protection system (TPS). The system functions by using the composite device created by combining an upper shell, thermal insulation and lower tile components shown in FIG. 2. The upper shell effectively separates its primary functions as a toughened outer-surface and load carrier. In a preferred embodiment, a structurally strong ceramic/ceramic upper shell is manufactured from ceramic cloth upon which additional ceramic material has been deposited and maintains the configuration of the upper shell. The lower tile is composed of lightweight ceramic normally acceptable in this application. One or more lightweight rigid or flexible insulation materials are used in the cavity created by combining the upper shell and lower tile. The assembly of the overall tile is facilitated by attachment means effective to withstand the temperature and stress conditions.

Abstract: An airborne tracking sun photometer apparatus has a rotatable dome (14). An azimuth drive motor (32) is connected to rotate the dome (14). The dome (14) has an equatorial slot (36). A cylindrical housing (38) is pivotally mounted inside the dome (14) at the equatorial slot (36). A photometer (22) is mounted in the housing (38) to move in the equatorial slot (36) as the housing (38) pivots. The photometer (22) has an end facing outward from the slot (36) with an optical flat transparent window (62). An elevation drive motor (40) is connected to pivot the cylindrical housing (38). The rotatable dome (14) is mounted in bulkhead (18) of an aircraft to extend from the interior (16) of the aircraft. A sun sensor (50) causes the photometer to track the sun automatically. Alternatively, the photometer may be oriented manually (by voltages (117, 119)) or by computer (20).

Abstract: A laser velocimeter (12) has a laser beam generator (18) for generating first and second laser beams (20, 22) having a waist (40) of reduced cross-section area. A first focusing lens (28) has a first focal length F1 for focusing the first and second laser beams (20, 22) so that their waists focused by the lens (28) intersect at a focal point (26) at which a measurement is to be made. A second focusing lens (30) is positioned between the laser beam generator (18) and the first focusing lens (28). The second focusing lens (30) has a second focal length F2. The second focusing lens (30) is positioned from the first focusing lens (28) at a distance corresponding to a sum of the first and the second focal lengths F1 and F2. A third focusing lens (36) having a third focal length F3 is positioned between the laser beam generator (18) and the second lens (30). The third lens (36) is positioned from the second lens (30) a distance corresponding to the sum of the second and third focal lengths F3 and F2.

Abstract: An electro-expulsive system 20 has one or more overlapped conductors OC1-OCN each comprising a flexible ribbon conductor 32 which is folded back on itself. The conductors are embedded in an elastomeric material 33. Large current pulses are fed to the conductors OC1-OCN from power storage units 1-N. As a result of the antiparallel currents I and I', the opposed segments of a conductor 32 are forcefully separated and the elastomeric material is distended. Void 34 in the elastomer aids the separation of the conductor segments. The distention is almost instantaneous when a current pulse reaches the conductor and the distention tends to remove any solid body on the surface of the elastomeric material.

Abstract: 1-[(Diorganooxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2,4- and -2,6-dinitro- and diamino benzenes are prepared by nitrating an (organophosphonyl)methyl benzene to produce The dinitro compounds which are then reduced to the diamino compounds. The organo groups (alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl) on the phosphorus may be removed to give the free acids, (HO).sub.2 P(.dbd.O)--. The diamino compounds may be polymerized with dianhydrides or diacyl halides to produce fire and flame resistant polymers which are useful in the manufacture of aircraft structures.

Abstract: Solenoid valve (10) has a valve chamber (18) within valve body (12). Inlet and outlet tubes (22) and (24) extend through plate (14) into the chamber (18). Movable core (32) in chamber (18) extends into solenoid coil (30). Distal end (38) of core (32) has a silicone rubber plug (40). Other than when solenoid (30) is energized, compressed spring (48) biases core (32) downward so that surface (44) of the plug (40) is in sealing engagement with ends (26) and (28) of the tubes (22) and (24). Any leak at ends (26) and (28) increases pressure in the chamber (18), resulting in increased sealing force of the plug (40) against the other end (26) or (28). Flow direction through the valve (20) is easily reversed by changing connections to the tubes (22) and (24).

Abstract: A weightlessness simulator (10) has a chamber (12) and a suit (56) in the chamber (12). O-rings (26) and valves (30, 38, 42 and 66) hermetically seal the chamber (12). A vacuum pump (32) connected to the chamber (12) establishes a pressure in the chamber (12) less than atmospheric pressure. A water supply tank (34) and water supply line (38) supply a body of water (44) to the chamber (12) as a result of partial vacuum created in the chamber (12). In use, an astronaut enters the pressure suit (56) through port (60), which remains open to ambient atmosphere, thus supplying air to the astronaut during use. The pressure less than atmospheric pressure in the chamber (12) is chosen so that the pressure differential from the inside to the outside of the suit (56) corresponds to the pressure differential with the suit (56) in outer space.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing B-trichloroborazine, B.sub.3 N.sub.3 Cl.sub.3 H.sub.3. Generally, the method includes the combination of gaseous boron trichloride in an anhydrous aprotic organic solvent followed by addition of excess gaseous ammonia at ambient temperature or below. The reaction mixture is heated to between about 100.degree. to 140.degree. C. followed by cooling, removal of the solid ammonium chloride at ambient temperature, distillation of the solvent under vacuum if necessary at a temperature of up to about 112.degree. C., and recovery of the B-trichloroborazine. Solvents include, toluene, benzene, xylene, chlorinated hydrocarbons, chlorinated aromatic compounds, or mixtures thereof. Toluene is a preferred solvent. The process provides a convenient synthesis of a material which often decomposes on standing. B-trichloroborazine is useful in a number of chemical reactions, and particularly in the formation of high temperature inorganic polymers and polymer precursors.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a novel class of fire- and heat-resistant bisimide resins prepared by thermal polymerization of maleimido or citraconimido substituted 1-[(dialkoxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2-4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes. Typical polymer precursors have the chemical structure: ##STR1## wherein R is alkyl, substituted alkyl or aryl, and R.sup.1 is hydrogen or lower alkyl.The polymer precursors are prepared by reacting 1-[(diorganooxyphosphony)methyl]-2-4- and -2,6-diaminobenzenes with maleic anhydride or citraconic anhydride in a mole ratio 1:2. Chain extension of the monomers is achieved by reacting the mono-N-maleimido derivatives of 1-[(diorganooxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2,4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes with aryl tetracarboxylic dianhydrides, such as benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, or aryl diisocyanates, such as methylenebis(4-phenylisocyanate), in a mole ratio 2:1.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a novel class of fire- and heat-resistant bisimide resins prepared by thermal polymerization of maleimido or citraconimido substituted 1-[(dialkoxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2-4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes. Typical polymer precursors have the chemical structure: ##STR1## wherein R is alkyl, substituted alkyl or aryl, and R.sup.1 is hydrogen or lower alkyl.The polymer precursors are prepared by reacting 1-[(diorganooxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2-4- and -2,6-diaminobenzenes with maleic anhydride or citraconic anhydride in a mole ratio 1:2. Chain extension of the monomers is achieved by reacting the mono-N-maleimido derivatives of 1-[(diorganooxyphosphonyl)methyl]-2,4 and -2,6-diaminobenzenes with aryl tetracarboxylic dianhydrides, such as benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, or aryl diisocyanates, such as methylenebis(4-phenylisocyanate), in a mole ratio 2:1.

Abstract: A swashplate control system (10) has a first gimbal ring (26) pivotally mounted at (32) along a longitudinal axis. A second gimbal ring (24) is pivotally attached at (28) to the first gimbal ring (26) along a lateral axis. A longitudinal cyclic actuator (14) pivots the first gimbal ring (26) along the longitudinal axis. A lateral cyclic actuator (16) pivots the second gimbal ring (24) along the lateral axis. The lateral cyclic actuator (16) is mounted on the first gimbal ring (26). A swashplate (12) is rotatably mounted on the second gimbal ring (24).

Abstract: Aminophenoxycyclotriphosphazenes such as hexakis(4-aminophenoxy)cyclotriphosphazene and tris(4-aminophenoxy)-tris phenoxyclyclotriphosphazene are used as curing agents for epoxy resins. These 1,2-epoxy resins are selected from di- or polyepoxide-containing organic moieties of the formula (CH.sub.2 --CHO--CH.sub.2).sub.m --W--R--W--(CH.sub.2 CH--CH.sub.2 O).sub.m where R is diphenyldimethylmethane, diphenylmethane, bis(dibromophenyl)dimethylmethane, or ##STR1## W is a nitrogen or oxygen atom; and m is 1 when W is oxygen and 2 when W is nitrogen. The resins are cured thermally in stages at between about 110.degree. to 135.degree. C. for between about 1 and 10 min, then at between about 175.degree. to 185.degree. C. for between about 0.5 to 10 hr and post-cured at between about 215.degree. and 235.degree. C. for between abut 0.1 and 2 hr. These resins are useful for making fire-resistant elevated temperature stable composites, laminates (e.g.