Abstract: A diffractive optical element is interposed between the exit beams from a ring laser gyro readout and the photodetectors for detecting such beams. The diffractive optical element permits the use of photodetectors much reduced in size in order to minimize gyro performance degradation due to radiation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in testing devices under high-g environments is disclosed in which an elastic beam, rigidly fastened at least at one end, carries the device under test; the beam being pre-loaded to a bent position by a force producing member which may be suddenly removed to allow the stored energy of the beam to be released, and to apply a high-g force to the device.

Abstract: A ball grid array mounted circuit includes a stress relief substrate having spaced conductive vias extending between its surfaces and connection pads at the surfaces. Solder connections formed from solder balls connect between pads at the top surface and connection pads at an electronic component. Solder connections formed from solder balls connect between pads at the bottom surface and connection pads at a printed circuit board (PCB). The solder connections absorb at least a portion of the stress due to differences between the thermal coefficient of expansion of the electronic component and the PCB.

Abstract: A microactuator device is disclosed that includes a plurality of generally parallel thin flexible sheets bonded together in a predetermined pattern to form an array of unit cells. Preferably, each of the sheets has only a single electrode layer located on one side of the sheet. Pairs of such sheets are then bonded together at spaced bonding locations with the electrode layers facing one another. Several sets of such sheet pairs can then be bonded together to form a microactuator device.

Abstract: By using the GPS satellite transmitted signals that are tracked on a satellite and those that should be tracked but are not due to the attitude of the satellite and rotating the satellite, two estimations of satellite attitude are made that are used to change the satellite attitude so that all the GPS signals are tracked.

Abstract: An integrated circuit package for use in radiation environments includes a base for receiving an integrated circuit die and has a peripheral surface for receiving a lid. The lid has an inner surface facing the die that has a cladding of a low atomic number material to limit electron emission due to absorbed radiation.

Abstract: A circuit and method for assuring rapid initiation of resonant oscillation of an electromechanically oscillatory system driven by phase lock loop circuits. An open loop starting signal commences driving of the object at a starting frequency above the resonant frequency. The starting signal reduces the drive frequency until the resonant frequency of the system is reached and the starting signal is removed.