Abstract: Device for rapidly and automatically deploying and retracting a combiner attached to a visored helmet. A combination of opposing springs, one made from conventional materials and the other from shape memory alloy (SMA), effects a detent mechanism and the retracting and deploying mechanism. The conventional spring normally exerts a greater force than the SMA spring, but the latter exerts the greater force upon being heated, preferably by means of an electric current passing through the spring. Alternative deployment and retraction means include a solenoid-conventional spring combination or an electrical motor which used in conjunction with a locking and unlocking means incorporating a SMA spring.

Abstract: A sensitive to a change in the physical dimension(s) of the exterior surface of a pressure vessel transducer and attached to the exterior surface thereof the pressure vessel may be a vacuum chamber. The transducer measures exterior dimension change, representing interior pressure change information, without intrusion. The measurements are displayed using distinctive lights or audible alarms which signal if the pressure inside the vessel is within a predetermined range. If the pressure within the vessel varies outside of the predetermined range, a more precise display device such as a meter, is provided to aid facility personnel in deciding when repairs are necessary.

Abstract: A liquid crystal display assembly includes an untwisted nematic liquid crystal cell structure. The light transmittance of each pixel element of the assembly is a function of the pixel drive voltage. A phase compensating plate reduces the voltage necessary to permit switching, permitting compatibility with conventional thin film transistor (TFT) arrays but capable of greatly shortened response times. The configuration includes a combination linear polarizer and quarter wave plate which functions as a circular polarizer for blocking reflections from internal specularly reflecting surfaces within the liquid crystal display, thereby enhancing high ambient viewability.

Abstract: A disposable diagnostic pinwheel for use in testing for nerve dysfunction. The pinwheel can be applied to a handle which incorporates a pressure absorbing mechanism so that a more constant and controllable test can be conducted. The pinwheel can also include a removable cover which protects sharp points on the pinwheel from inadvertently injuring the user. In one embodiment the cover may also function as the grasping means during use of the pinwheel in testing procedures. In such a use the cover also includes the pressure absorbing mechanism.

Abstract: A scanning probe microscope is provided with a piezo-ceramic tube to carry the sensitive probe at its free end to translationally move the probe in the X and Y directions. Large stationary surfaces can then be scanned by probe tip motion. The tube is also capable of movement in the Z direction so that the tip can follow the contours of the surface. Optical detection means track the motion of the probe tip and generate signals corresponding to and representative of surface contours. In one mode of operation, the signals are used in a feed back loop to keep constant the spacing between the tip and the surface, in which case the error or control signals represent the contours.

Abstract: A combiner eyepiece with an enhancement imagery source and a collimating mirror is equipped with two oblique partially reflective mirrors. Both mirrors reflect some of the light impinging on their partially reflective sides and transmit substantially all of the rest of such light. The result is a collimated beam of light travelling toward the viewer along the viewing axis and expanded in vertical extent. This expanded vertical extent eases the requirement for the viewer to place his eyes in a precise location at the near end of the eyepiece. It also allows a smaller and lighter construction for an eyepiece where the vertical extent of the viewing area has been specified.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for increasing resolution and expanding the displayed field of view. The imagery is collimated and split into two paths by a partially reflective mirror set at an oblique angle to the image source. Either path may be blocked by a combination of polarizers and at least one controllable polarization shifting cell(s) (.pi.-cells). This mechanism allows one image source to supply, in alternating sequence, separate imagery to two separate but contiguous portions of a wide angle display. The two collimated image paths are merged about the viewing axis by a one way mirror before being recollimated at the device exit pupil.

Abstract: The efficiency of LC displays is improved by the use of a polymeric chiral nematic liquid crystal rear polarizer and reflective backlight housing which increases the net transmission of light and, at the same time, reduces the weight of the assemblage and increases battery life by utilizing lower levels of illumination. The polymeric chiral nematic liquid crystal can be a freestanding film or films, or can be supported by a single glass substrate. The liquid crystal polarizer can have a bandwidth sufficient to transmit electromagnetic radiation across the entire visible spectrum.

Abstract: A digital communications network for digital data comprising packets of a predetermined size. A transmitter and a receiver are connected to a set of buffers which are connected to a microprocessor which controls the data flow into and out of the buffers. The size of the buffers and hence the size of the data packets is relatively large. This allows the processor to perform per-packet operations in software which would otherwise be done in hardware, including routing decisions and error detection and correction. The network allows various topologies, is speed scalable, and simplifies resource allocation.

Abstract: A kit for replacing existing incandescent fixtures with a 2 D fluorescent fixture includes a plate with a ballast/transformer on the upper surface and a 2 D lamp socket on the lower surface. The ballast/transformer is coupled to the source of power through a separable connector which can be terminated either in an electrical plug which fits into an existing socket or, using conventional wire nut connectors, can be "hard wired" into place. Spring hangers, which can be attached to existing housing features, are loosely held to the upper surface of the plate so that in a first orientation, the plate is below the housing and access may be had to the housing interior and in a second orientation, the plate is held secure against the housing. A diffuser globe can be provided for installations which are not recessed.

Abstract: A system for controlling drainage of the female bladder comprising a valved catheter, a stylet for placing the catheter in the female urethra, and a spike for opening the valve in the catheter to allow voiding of the contents of the bladder. The system also includes a sizing device for determining the length of the urethra so that the proper fitting catheter is used. The catheter comprises a hollow shaft with a extendable sealing portion on one end for placement through the urethra and a crown on the other end for placement external of the body. The valve may be integral with the shaft or insertable after the catheter is placed in the urethra.