Abstract: The present invention is a compact directional receiving antenna utilizing true-time-delay methods to achieve a wide pattern bandwidth and small real estate footprint. In one embodiment, two right-triangular-shaped loops are positioned in mirrored relation, one to another, with less than 1/100 wavelength spacing. In another embodiment, two of these pairs of loops are positioned in an orthogonal manner to form an electronically rotatable antenna array. In yet another embodiment, a single loop is provided with a pair of spaced couplers. Finally, in another embodiment, a pair of single loops is arranged in orthogonal relation to form an electronically rotatable array.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for detecting foreign material in containers in a product stream. Two X-ray emitters and two sensor arrays are positioned in a constellation to improve the detection of foreign material. A first x-ray emitter is positioned so that it projects an x-ray beam in a downward manner through the product stream. A second x-ray emitter is positioned so that it projects an x-ray beam in an upward manner through the product stream. Two sensor arrays are each positioned in receiving relation to each of the x-ray beams to receive and provide signals from each of the beams after they have interacted with the product stream. Signals from each of the two sensor arrays are processed and compared with user defined thresholds to detect and indicate the presence of foreign material in containers.

Abstract: An electromagnetic energy measurement apparatus and method for measuring first, second, and third wavelength components includes first and second coated optical elements having non-parallel surfaces. Proper selection of the parameters of the optical elements reduces the level of coma and astigmatism in the apparatus. Additionally, filters pass the first, second, and third wavelength components to first, second, and third sensors. Improvement in the alignment of the field of view between sensors is realized by applying an adjustable compressive force on the filters to individually adjust the field of view.

Abstract: The present invention is a vibratory distribution system which utilizes a metering gate assembly useful for selectively passing and diverting articles from a stream of articles to either or both a downstream conveyor or a cross conveyor. The metering gate assembly is capable of providing a proportional distribution in response to a user specified control point. The metering gate assembly includes an actuator that is borne by the conveyor bed, and a control valve that is operable to hold a slide gate in a desired position despite the violent vibratory motion imparted by the conveyor bed.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for acquiring an image of an object and its contents from a stream of objects as they are transported by a conveyor. The image of the object is acquired by projecting a beam of electromagnetic radiation through the object and converting the resultant electromagnetic radiation by a sensor. The sensor accumulates the resultant electromagnetic radiation over a period of time that is a pre-defined relationship or function of the spatial relationship between the position of the object and the beam of electromagnetic radiation. A setup means is provided which allows a user to pre-define a set of constants in the pre-defined relationship.

Abstract: A shock absorber includes a first cylinder having a first fluid port and a second cylinder having a second fluid port. A response adjustment mechanism is connected in fluid transmission relation between the first and second fluid ports. The response adjustment mechanism includes three adjustable valves for controlling the operation of the shock absorber. One of the adjustable valves has a stem that is rotatable by a tool during operation. The remaining adjustable valves each have a shaft that is rotatable by a tool during operation. The adjustable valves of the response adjustment mechanism are coaxially positioned so that a first valve is coaxially positioned within a second valve, and the first and second valves are coaxially positioned within a third valve.

Abstract: To this end, the present invention comprises a headgear apparatus comprising a sleeve, a first strap portion and a second strap portion. The sleeve comprises a chin portion and a top portion. The top portion is integrally connected to the chin portion. The first strap portion is connected to a first part of the sleeve near the top portion. The second strap portion is connected to a second part of the sleeve near the chin portion. A nosepiece may be fastened to the headgear apparatus via the first strap portion and the second strap portion.

Abstract: The present invention is an athlete training device and method useful in training athletes for track and field events including the high jump, pole vault, discus, long jump and shot put. The ramp may be adjusted to a number of discrete ramp angles with the use of either supports and stops or supports and channels.