Abstract: A connection interface system positions and electrically connects a testing device to a device under test. The testing device exercises and tests the device under test. The connection interface system includes a receiver module electrically connected to the device under test and including receiver electrical connectors. The receiver module includes a top frame and a bottom frame, movable with respect to the top frame and operatively connected thereto. The bottom frame includes at least one receiver module having at least one receiver electrical connector. The receiver module further includes an engagement mechanism movably connected to the bottom frame and to the top frame which either engages or disengages the bottom frame and the top frame in response to an external stimulus to engage or disengage receiver electrical connectors in the bottom frame to external electrical connectors.

Abstract: An electrical test probe assembly for loaded board testing includes a housing having a hollow interior, and first and second opposite shields positioned and axially slidable in the housing and outwardly biased against each other. The first and second opposite shields form first and second shield cavities, respectively. In addition, the electrical test probe assembly includes first and second opposite insulators positioned and axially slidable in the first and second shield cavities, respectively. The first and second opposite insulators form an insulator cavity extending along the housing. Finally, the electrical test probe assembly includes first and second opposite plungers positioned and axially slidable in the insulator cavity of the first and second opposite insulators and outwardly biased against each other.

Abstract: A mobile satellite system includes a satellite communication switching office and network system having a satellite antenna for receiving and transmitting a satellite message via a satellite to and from a mobile earth station. A central controller receives and transmits the satellite message from the mobile earth station to and from the satellite communication switching office. The mobile communication system includes a user interface system through which a user has access to services supported by the mobile satellite system and an antenna system which provides an interface between the mobile communication system and the mobile satellite system. The mobile satellite system comprises a network operations center (NOC) that manages and controls the resources of the satellite network system and conducts the administrative functions associated with the management of the satellite network system. The NOC communicates with the various internal and external entities via a control network.

Abstract: Data transfer efficiencies of a frequency division and/or time division multiple access (FDMA/TDMA) communication systems are improved over prior art systems by distributing signalling and messaging activities over all return channels of a channel group, by varying forward to return channel data rate ratios, and by reducing message transport delays with respect to prior art communication systems, based on message traffic over such channel group. Return channels of a defined channel group are time division controlled and are generic to operate either in a signalling mode or in a messaging mode. Data rates for the forward channel and the return channels may by selected from predefined combinations of forward and return channel data rates.

Abstract: A computer implemented process simulates the application of a tension force in an element of an assembly. The process defines a finite element model for the element, and creates a pre-tension surface in the finite element model of the element for applying the tension force. Conditions are prescribed relative to the pre-tension surface for applying the tension force in the simulation. The conditions include prescribing an assembly load including either a tension force or tightening adjustment. The assembly load is then applied to the pre-tension surface of the element to simulate the tension in the element of the assembly. The results of the simulation are then evaluated for structural integrity, and subsequent structural redesign of the element is performed when necessary.

Abstract: A computer architecture for executing a simulation model which describes characteristics of a physical system. The computer architecture includes an editor processor that prompts a user to define a graphical object (GO) representing static properties of the physical system, and that prompts the user to define dynamic variables of the physical system. The computer architecture also includes a compiler for binding the dynamic variables of the physical system to a physical data source. The physical data source provides dynamic properties of the physical system over time as values for the dynamic variables. The computer architecture also includes a run time processor that executes the simulation model and displays the graphical object with the dynamic properties of the physical system.

Abstract: A modified poker card game allows a player to sequentially build a card hand after each round of play. The rules of play for the card game including dealing a first pair of cards to the player. The player then selects one of the pair of cards for the card hand, and discards the other card. The player repeats this process until the player has selected a predetermined number of cards that form the card hand. The resulting card hand is then compared to a predetermined winning schedule and/or to other players playing the modified poker game.

Abstract: A self-storing billiard table includes a table top with ball pockets and side cushions. A support frame is disposed below the table top to support it. A plurality of retractable support legs are also provided to support the billiard table. A first set of support legs is located near a first side of the billiard table, and a second set of support legs is located near a second side of the billiard table. The first set of support legs is retractably connected to the support frame. A plurality of wheels are also retractably connected to the support legs. At least one retractable ram pivotally supports the billiard table when moved from an upright storage position to a horizontal playing position, and from a horizontal playing position to an upright storage position.

Abstract: A method registers a vehicle in a road toll facility that is provided with radio transmitter and receiver units (7). The radio transmitter and receiver units are configured to communicate with at least one vehicle unit (12) arranged in the vehicle (4). The vehicle unit is configured with radio transmitter-receiver equipment so that on receipt of a command from the radio transmitter unit (7) of the road toll facility, the vehicle unit communicates adequate data for performance of a debiting operation regarding a toll. Upon the entry of the vehicle into the toll facility area, the transmitter and receiver units (7) of the toll facility determine whether the vehicle (4) is equipped with a vehicle unit capable of performing a correct debiting transaction.