Abstract: A thin film interconnect module utilizes a plurality of electroplated conductors disposed in one or more signal layers and surrounded by a dielectric having substantially the same thickness as the conductors to form a substantially planar layer. A metal/dielectric film is employed electrically to interconnect with various ones of the conductors during the electroplating process. After electroplating, selected ones of the electrical interconnections are broken by heating or irradiating selected ones of the interconnections. A dielectric-like film composed of microscopic non-contacting metal islands is used to link conductors that may subsequently need to be electrically connected, the electrical connection being achieved by melting the islands to form a continuous metal film. Interconnections between different planar layers may be achieved by the use of plated through holes. The process permits high density, high aspect ratio conductors to be fabricated on a multi-layer interconnect module.

Abstract: A locking fastener such as a threaded nut, bolt or screw includes a body portion with a flange at the workpiece engaging end defining a bearing surface. Segments of the flange are rendered rigid by brace structure associated with the body portion of the fastener. Locking teeth project from the bearing surface in resilient segments of the flange located between the rigid segments. Upon tightening of the fastener against a workpiece, substantial clamp loads are imposed by the rigid flange segments while engagement of the teeth with the workpiece causes axial deflection of the resilient segments so that loss of clamp load and decrease in release torque due to tooth embedment is prevented.

Abstract: A toy gun or similar device usable with reflective target apparatus utilizes a pulsed light source and a self-contained light detector for detecting light reflected from the target apparatus back to the light detector. The gun includes an audible indicator responsive to the light detector for indicating each time a "hit" is made on the target apparatus, and also includes a resettable counter that provides an indication of the total number of such "hits" achieved in a given time period. The invention also provides a target having a pulsed light source to energize or actuate the light detector.