Abstract: An improved means for triggering high voltage spark gap devices for current injection and pulse power applications which utilizes the high voltage source itself to trigger the discharge. A switch initially directs current flow from the high voltage source through a trigger resistor which creates sufficient potential difference between a primary electrode and the trigger electrode to fire the spark gap. A second blocking resistor inhibits current flow through the trigger electrode and directs the discharge through the load. The trigger circuit has very little influence on the discharge waveform due to the very high impedance of the resistor string.

Abstract: A ceramic armor having a tough backup plate and metal reinforcement in the ceramic to minimize damage thereto as projectiles smash into the armor and are shattered.

Abstract: To simulate the output of a laser to a Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement ystem (MILES), an electronic circuit having a PLL subcircuit and a microprocessor is used to detect an acoustic signal having a predetermined frequency and pulse rate. Upon detection of the correct acoustic signal, a prestored universal kill code is provided to an inductive loop magnetically coupled to the antenna coil of a harness to which the MILES is integrated. The thus received inductive signal is recognized by the MILES which in turn outputs an audio alarm to indicate that a kill has occurred.

Abstract: To provide a combat identification device not affected by adverse environtal conditions, thermoelectric modules are incorporated to a rotatable panel coupled to a target vehicle. By supplying the appropriate power to the thermoelectric modules, one surface of each thermoelectric module would exhibit coolness while the other surface of the module would exhibit heat. The panel to which the thermoelectric modules are incorporated therefore has a cold surface and a hot surface. And by rotating the panel, an identification signature is provided to an infra-red reviewer of an attacker to indicate that the vehicle to which the assembly of the instant invention is attached is a friendly vehicle. Instead of a single panel, two panels may be joined together in an inverted-V shape.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for encoding information on a chaotic system by causing tiny perturbations in an accessible system control variable, or trajectory, uses the natural underlying symbolic dynamics of the system to encode the information. The system is allowed to behave chaotically even while tracking a pre-specified information-containing symbol sequence, thus maximizing the efficiency of information encoding and transmission.

Abstract: A system uses laser optic technology for non-obtrusive monitoring of movements a missile control surface undergoing electromagnetic testing. The system includes a laser source, a detector positioned opposite the laser source, an attenuator assembly positioned between the laser source and the detector, and a recorder for recording data processed by the detector. The attenuator assembly consists of a framed translucent gray scale shaded window mounted on a block member, which in turn is mounted to the missile control surface. The control surface is a pivotally mounted canard member on the missile body. Generated laser beams project onto the gray scale shaded window. The gray scale shading affects the intensity of the directed laser beams (darker areas attenuate more light and lighter areas allow more light to pass through).

Abstract: A technique and apparatus for measurement of resistances of 0.025 ohm and ss without disconnection from the circuit. The invention is used for measurement of degradation in cable shields. The method can also be used for measurement of junction resistances in high current circuits such as auto starters. The invention allows measurements to be made with the circuits connected so that the faults are present in the measurement setup. The method includes inductive coupling of long duration repetitive current pulses onto the circuit under test, measurement and display of induced current and voltage pulses, and display of induced current and voltage pulses on an oscilloscope.

Abstract: An individual mine launcher is designed to pneumatically launch high explve VOLCANO and MOPMS mines to simulate flight and impact typically encountered in field use. Electronic components and controls are used to monitor and initiate the arming sequence of the mine. Two configurations are used with the same pneumatic and electronic controls. The air-launch configuration allows the mine to be launched into the air at various specified testing elevation angles. The control impact configuration shoots the mine into a chamber where the mine hits an impact surface and then falls into a test monitoring area below.

Abstract: A process for visualization of a blast wave, which is the shock wave resulting from an explosive charge, is practiced by observing disturbance contours on a liquid-air cloud and interpreting resulting graphical and calculated data to evaluate matters related to the explosive blast wave.

Abstract: An ultra wide band DC to GHz balun consisting of transmission lines, a small inverting junction, and an RC network connecting the shields of the balanced load transmission lines such that an unbalanced source sees a matched load from DC to GHz.

Abstract: An RF-insensitive semiconductor slapper ignitor is created using a silicon ubstrate having a first metallized portion centrally located on its bottom face to form a Schottky barrier diode thereon, and a second substantially smaller metallized portion centrally located on its top face to form a consumable plug. A flyer disc is disposed atop the second metallized portion and is propelled when the consumable plug vaporizes in response to the high current density associated with ignition. In various embodiments the flyer disc is either an insulating material such as plastic, or polyimide, or formed integral to a top contact metal layer.

Abstract: Apparatus for a gas charged and initiating mechanism launches a projectile f a relatively low mass at a low velocity. The apparatus has a chamber which has an opening at one end. A burst diaphragm is seated within this opening and seals it. The opening also houses the projectile. A check valve is mounted in an aperture at the opposite end of the chamber. The compressed gas is charged through the check valve. The bursting of the diaphragm is accomplished by a pointed rod protruding from the rear of the projectile or by an electrically-powered squib associated with the diaphragm. The bursting of the diaphragm provides a quick-acting means for releasing the compressed gas whereby the projectile is accelerated down the barrel of a weapon. Additionally, a safety device is mounted within the cartridge for preventing the accidental functioning of the launching projectile.

Abstract: A passive RF limiting circuit device providing protection for receiver front ends and the like by utilizing PIN diodes acting as switching devices which transform a low-loss T-network attenuator circuit into a high-loss .pi.-network attenuator circuit under high power conditions.

Abstract: A covert remote electronic warfare simulator is disclosed which includes eiving and signal processing apparatus for incorporating various electronic signal parameters and variables representing propagation effects from the environment borne by a low power control signal for redirection from a "victim" antenna into a "victim" receiving apparatus. The invention includes methods and apparatus for the subsequent replay of stored data representing the resulting signal(s) for data collection and detailed analysis in a laboratory setting. The simulator apparatus is interconnected between a "victim" receiving antenna and a "victim" transceiver to provide a simulated jamming signal.

Abstract: A mount for supporting a silicon v-groove array that contains delicate opal fibers. Optical fibers are arranged in a planar silicon v-groove array to form a focal plane array, which is connected to a first L-bracket. The focal plane array and the first L-bracket combination are attached to a second L-bracket via a shock/vibration isolation pad. The second L-bracket includes an extended cylinder which is threaded so that a strain relief can be screwed directly into the second L-bracket and the fibers extending out the first L-bracket can be fed through the second L-bracket and directly into a monocoil. The second L-bracket also includes space to attach front, side and top covers over the focal plane array. In a related method, the silicon v-groove array is epoxied to the first L-bracket. After preparation of the focal plane array, e.g. polishing of the fibers, is completed, the focal plane array/first bracket combination is connected to the second L-bracket, with the pad therebetween.

Abstract: An optical fiber connector distribution assembly including a front piece, a an out area, and a back piece. A bundle of thin optical fibers from a focal plane array is connected to the assembly by a monocoil and a strain relief. A bottom half and a top half of the front piece include eight corresponding semi-cylindrical recesses, four on each side of a relatively larger central recess having a connection for the strain relief. When the top and bottom halves of the front piece are connected, each of the eight cylindrical portions formed by the corresponding semi-cylindrical recesses receives first and second halves of an optical fiber connector. Bottom and top halves of the back piece also similarly house first and second halves of connectors. Once inside the assembly, the fibers are split into groups in the fan out area. Each group then enters the first half of the connector where it is transformed into a linear array of fibers.

Abstract: A training device substantially identical in size and shape to the Claymore antipersonnel mine that cooperates with the existing MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement Set) system. The training device includes a directional acoustic signal that approximates the effectiveness range of the actual Claymore mine.

Abstract: An acoustic training device for simulating the effects of a weapon posing omnidirectional threat in a tactical engagement simulation system generates an audible signal of a predetermined frequency and duration once activated. The amplitude of the signal generated corresponds to the kill-zone of the weapon being simulated. The signal may be modulated so as to produce a predetermined number of pulses which are easily distinguished from other noises associated with the tactical exercise.

Abstract: A fuel-air explosive apparatus comprising a standard plastic beverage bot, a plastic burster tube, a conventional detonator, a detonating cord, Teflon.RTM. tape and a liquid fuel. All of the components of the fuel-air explosive apparatus are readily available, standard materials.

Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for positively identifying the vehicles, troops, and landmarks of friendly forces to reduce or eliminate the threat of fratricide includes a light display comprising a plurality of flexible electroluminescent panels which are conformable with and affixable to visible outer surface of friendly or noncombatant vehicles, troop helmets, or landmarks. Each of the panels is electrically energized and modulated under computer control to provide various combinations of pattern display, color, intensity, and activation times to transmit a desired identification code.