Abstract: A selective spraying weed control system utilizes weed detectors that identify weeds in a field of view and releases herbicide from individual nozzles. The timing of the release of herbicide from each nozzle is controlled to correspond to the actual ground speed of each nozzle. Such actual ground speed is extrapolated from direct measurements of ground speed taken from two separate locations in the weed spraying apparatus, and from the location of each nozzle within the apparatus.

Abstract: A vision system and proximity detector is provided in the form of an occluding mask with multiple high aspect light pathways positioned over a light detecting surface. Pixel-based images can be generated to provide a vision system utilizing a variety of illumination modes. Proximity can be measured with a triangulating beam.

Abstract: A vertical axis wind turbine is supported by a frame held in place by an encircling series of crescent-shaped tubular deflector vanes. The vanes widen towards the turbine core, concentrating the wind. The wind is trapped momentarily on entering the turbine cavities. Air can be supplied to such cavities from a compressed air source driven by wave action on a body of water.

Abstract: A rack for keys and small articles has multiple split rings to receive and carry such items. The rings are held by a support with feet and a handle. By providing two rows of five rings, keys may be classified and stored on a decimal basis, that cross-references to the last digit of an auto license plate.

Abstract: A needle tip protecting device is provided for catheters having an insertion needle. The device is small enough to be stored at the base of the catheter needle prior to and during use. After use it may be slip to cover the needle tip where it automatically self-attaches and becomes non-removable. Various embodiments of mechanisms to achieve this effect are described.

Abstract: A portable skidway utilizes tubular skidding cylinders joined by connecting rods that encircle the ends of the cylinders and are contained within flanges. The rods align tangentially with the outer surface of the cylinders to locate such rods directly on the ground when the skidway is in use.

Abstract: A method for ultra-analysis of water for trace impurities. An effective trapping media functions by binding gels that carry ultratrace analytes on their surfaces.

Abstract: A selective spraying weed control system utilizes weed detectors that process four bands of reflected illumination from a field of view that may contain weeds. The system uses distributed processes assigned individually to control associated spray nozzles.

Abstract: Article converging/diverging chamfered walls gripping anvils are provided having two protuberances extending from a body portion. The protuberances have top and bottom chamfered, converging inner sides for gripping a square-bobbin-shaped interface therebetween. The protuberances have diverging notches in their outer walls for locating between top and bottom chamfered protrusions on an interface.

Abstract: An end effector clamping jaw interface for attachment to an orbital replacement unit wherein the interface consists of a bodying having a reduced waist portion and V-shaped clamping faces that project laterally outwardly from opposite sides of the waist portion for engagement by an end effector. The interface may also incorporate a latching mechanism that is used for releasably latching the interface and the orbital replacement unit to which it is attached to a compatible system. A latch actuator is provided which serves to release the latch mechanism when the interface is engaged by a complimentary end effector.

Abstract: A bifurcated, orbital replacement unit interface comprises a body and two pairs of fingers extending outwardly from opposite sides of the body, wherein each pair of fingers provides a bifurcation between their inner sides in the form of an inwardly tapering recess. All of the inner sides of the fingers are bevelled for aligning a correspondingly shaped anvil in the tapering recess.

Abstract: A tension-activated disconnecting coupling operates by having a plug portion penetrate and pick-up an expandable locking ring. On partial with withdrawal of the plug, the locking ring is carried into a confining region where expansion of the ring is constrained and the plug is effectively locked within the coupling. Applied tension thereafter overcomes an internal spring resistance and allows the locking ring to move out further, into a space where it may expand and release the plug.

Abstract: A tether, and foot restraining device, securing handrail bracket is provided, suitable for use by an astronaut performing tasks outside a spacecraft, comprising a handrail column having a foot restraining socket and anchor pin. The column is attached to a mounting flange which has an upstanding, column reinforcing rib provided with a tether securing aperture.

Abstract: An automatic ventilator closure which operates on the basis of a pressure differential condition within the conduit is provided with an air flow detector to ensure that the control system for the closure does not cycle. The pressure sensor and air flow detector are both in the form of vanes that are integrally connected to each other.

Abstract: A cartridge 10 for low-mass, frangible projectiles 60 comprises a cartridge ase 12 having a primer 14 at its base and a sabot 30 or piston 30 at its mouth. The piston 30 can be provided with longitudinal orifices 44, diagonal orifices, 44a, grooves 64 or any combination of orifices and grooves. The projectile 60 is inserted into a cylindrical recess 46 in the front portion of the sabot 30. The orifices 44 are in communication with this recess 46 to permit propellant gas to bleed through and accelerate the projectile 60 upon ignition. The case 12 and the sabot 30 can be provided respectively with a crimp 24 and a stepped portion 48 in order to limit travel of the sabot 30 out of the case.

Abstract: An outer-sole to be worn over footwear is characterized by having a curled forward or toe portion, and optionally heel portion as well, that holds the front portion of the outer-sole in contact with the footwear to which it is attached.

Abstract: A needle tip protecting device is provided for hypodermic needles, catheters, and the like. The device is small enough to be stored at the base of the needle prior to and during use. After use it may be slid to cover the needle tip where it automatically self-attaches and becomes non-removable. Various embodiments of mechanisms to achieve this effect are described.

Abstract: An in-line connector for a hose is provided with an automatic release mechanism which allows the connector to uncouple when a predetermined level of tension is applied to the connector through the hose.

Abstract: An automatic ventilator closure is described which operates on the basis of an over-pressure within the conduit leading up to the ventilator outlet. Electrical interlocks control a motor to place the closure in an open or closed condition.