Abstract: Adaptive decision feedback equalizer apparatus for processing information stored on disk or tape media or the like including a data input buffer (34), a gain acquisition circuit (42), a timing acquisition circuit (40) operative to generate timing error signals for controlling the sampling phase of the read signals input to the input buffer, a synchronizing circuit (44) for generating sync detect signals and polarity signals, an FIR filter (36) for generating linear filter output signals, register means (39), feedforward update logic (38) for adjusting the equalizer coefficient signals to develop undated coefficient signals, a dual ported RAM (50) for storing a plurality of the equalizer coefficient signals, feedback logic (48) responsive to the linear filter output signals, equalizer coefficient signals obtained from the RAM, and train data signals, and operative to compute the equalizer error signals and equalizer output signals, feedback update logic (52) for adjusting the values of the coefficient signals

Abstract: A swimming pool alarm responsive to wave motion that will produce a signal when two waves exceeding a threshold level of amplitude are sensed within a preset duration of time. A transducer senses air or water pressure changes and produces electrical signals corresponding to the changes. A comparator system, connected to the transducer, receives the transducer signals and, if the signals exceed a preset threshold level, transmits a signal to the discriminator system. The discriminator times the signals received from the comparator and when two signals are received within a specified period of time, a third signal is generated. A warning device such as an alarm is connected to the discriminator and will be activated by the third signal.

Abstract: A VTOL aircraft including a fuselage with four nacelles, three vertical stabilizers and a horizontal stabilizer attached to the fuselage. The fuselage and the nacelles are lifting bodies that are configured to jointly form an aerodynamic lifting body which cooperates with the horizontal stabilizer to provide aerodynamic lift to the aircraft in forward flight. Each nacelle contains two rotary engines directly driving corresponding fans which face each other and operate in counter-rotating directions. Each nacelle also contains a system of vanes located at the rear opening thereof, and actuators for extending and retracting the vanes to deflect the airflow over a predetermined range of angles from the horizontal. Each engine utilizes the dynamic pressure of the air behind the fans to provide a source of air for cooling the rotors and exhaust system.

Abstract: A method whereby the image produced in a coherence probe microscope is modified by means of a certain specific additive electronic transformation for the purpose of improving the measurement of selected features. The technique improves measurement accuracy on optically complex materials, in particular it improves the accuracy of linewidth measurement on semiconductor linewidths.

Abstract: A shock absorbing wrap for sporting equipment that will absorb vibrations felt by a player using said equipment as well as aid the players grip on the equipment. The wrap may be wound in an overlapping fashion and securely clamped in place or it may be adhered to the piece of equipment. The outer facing of the wrap can be perforated to provide a non-slip surface. Alternatively, the wrap can be used underneath a more traditional leather wrap.

Abstract: The combination tire valve and pressure gauge of the present invention is formed to be substantially the same size as current tire valve stems, such that it may be used as a replacement part therefore. The device includes a pressure sensitive bellows disposed within the stem, the movement of which is counteracted by a calibrated spring. Movements of the bellows, caused by changes in the tire pressure, are mechanically translated to a rotary motion of a pressure indicator. A window is formed in the tire stem to permit viewing of the pressure indicator, whereby different numerals corresponding to different tire pressures become visible in the window upon rotation of the indicator which is caused by movement of the bellows. An air channel is formed through the device to permit air to be pumped into the tire. A rotary indicator having an internal spiral groove rotates upon a driving rod formed with projecting driving pin members that project into the spiral groove to cause the rotation of the indicator.

Abstract: An apparatus for cooling shaker heads including an air cooling system wherein coolant air is blown upon the drive belts, sling surfaces and through the interior of the pillow pads. Also includes is a water cooling system in which coolant water is sprayed upon the outer surfaces of the slings. The coolant water may contain a fungicide which inhibits the spread of fungus diseases from tree to tree through contact with the slings.

Abstract: A gaming chip that has a circular bar code imprinted thereon so as to convey information about the issuer of the chip, the chip's denomination, and a serial number which can be utilized to verify the authenticity of the chip. A chip validating device rotates the chip while being maintained in a stationary linear position, such that the encoded information is repeatedly passed before a stationary bar code reader. The validator then uses this information to determine the authenticity of the chip, to indicate the denomination of the chip being wagered, and to accept or reject the chip.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for a multi-dimensional measurement of magnetic resonance in defined small volume regions of solid-state samples. The samples are arranged in a uniform homogeneous magnetic field and, in a predetermined manner, irradiated with a sequence of high frequency pulses as well as exposed to a sequence of gradient magnetic field pulses. This is done in such a way that the spin magnetization to be measured is maintained for a time interval which is longer then the amount of time needed to switch-off the gradient magnetic field pulses. Initially, in a first time interval, the magnetization of a single slice only of the sample is transferred into a transverse magnetization tilted by 90.degree. with respect to the direction of the constant homogeneous magnetic field. Thereupon, in a second time interval, volume selective gradient magnetic field pulses are irradiated on the sample.

Abstract: The modular gas cylinder storage system of the present invention includes several gas cylinder holding devices which are incorporated into an overall cylinder holding system which holds different-sized cylinders. It includes a rack structure that is modular and designed to hold large tanks. A plurality of smaller cylinders are held in several differing basket configurations which basket configurations are formed to mate with the modular rack structure. Barriers for dividing cylinders holding incompatible chemicals are held in place by brackets attaching the barriers to the rack structure. Secure fastening of large cylinders is achieved utilizing a gas cylinder gas storage bracket which is bolted to other structural members having a concave face which mates with the curved surface of the gas cylinder. A flexible strap with an adjustabe buckle passes through the bracket and around the cylinder for a tight, secure engagement of the cylinder within the bracket.

Abstract: Recycled lumber is used to create modular units of fencing that is superior both economically and in strength to new lumber. Composite redwood boards are comprised of three 5/8".times.7" panel sections and two elongated 1".times.1" rails having a dado running the length of the rail. The panels are lap jointed together, and the dadoed rails brace the panels and provide stability. The rails are stapled to the panels and create a nominal 1".times.8" composite board.

Abstract: An improved ride plate apparatus for attachment to the lower aft portion of a personal watercraft, in place of the normal ride plate, and including a rudder mechanism pivotally connected to the ride plate together with steering linkage for coupling the rudder mechanism to the jet outlet nozzle so that, when the nozzle is rotated, with or without driving thrust applied, the rudder follows to effect a positive steering of the watercraft.

Abstract: A transponder system including a transponder and an interrogator having a transmission coil for producing a high-intensity electromagnetic field for inductively powering the transponder and two receiver coils for receiving a low-intensity electromagnetic field reradiated by the transponder. The transmission coil includes one or more conductive windings circumscribing a substantially polygonal volume of space. The receiver coils are diametrically disposed opposite one another within the volume space of the transmitter and are electrically connected to each other in a differential circuit relationship, the output of which is at a minimum when the two receiver coils receive approximately equal quantities of energy and is at a maximum when one of the receiver coils receives more electromagnetic energy from the transponder than the other receiver coil. The transponder uses a coil to derive both a power source and a clock pulse from the high-intensity field for powering and driving an identification circuit.

Abstract: A junction assembly with leak detection means comprising a pair of mating surfaces forming the junction of two fluid conduits, means forming an annular containment chamber in at least one of the surfaces circumscribing the conduit passageway, a pair of spaced apart O-ring seals respectively disposed on opposite sides of the containment chamber, a fluid sensor extending into the containment chamber for sensing the presence of unwanted fluids therein due to the failure of an O-ring seal and a control system for responding to an output signal generated by the sensor to deactivate the system in the event of failure.

Abstract: The positive-displacement pump apparatus and method for detection of leaks in pressurized pipelines disclosed herein measures volume changes at different pressures to determine thermally compensated leak rates. The apparatus uses a positive-displacement pump apparatus to precisely determine volume changes.

Abstract: A coil assembly for use in an inductively powered transponder including a primary coil and a secondary coil wrapped around the same coil forming ferrite rod. The primary coil's leads are left floating while the secondary coil's leads are connected to the integrated identification circuit of the transponder. There are approximately three times as many turns to the primary coil as there are turns to the secondary coil. The primary coil is configured to self resonate at the operating frequency of the identification circuit when brought within range of an interrogator's magnetic field, thereby creating a voltage across the primary coil having a high source impedance.

Abstract: Apparatus for remotely adjusting transmission vacuum modulators including a clawlike gripping mechanism which can be clamped to the vacuum modulator and including a drive wheel for engaging the modulator adjustment dial wheel, a motor for driving the drive wheel, and an optical detector for monitoring the adjustment process. A remote control unit is connected to the clamping device and includes operator input controls for energizing the drive motor and indicator means responsive to the output of the optical detector for providing an indication of the adjustments made.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence and temperature compensated volumetric flow rate of leaks in fluid pressurized pipelines. The pipeline is maintained at a first pressure and the fluid volume change per unit time is calculated. The pressure is then maintained at a second different pressure and a second fluid volume change per unit time is calculated. The system is then maintained at the first pressure while a third fluid volume change per unit time is calculated. The first and third rates are combined with the second rate to obtain a temperature compensated leak volumetric flow rate.

Abstract: A diode imaging system using a single objective lens and a single cylindrical lens. This imaging system does not image perfectly point-to-point, and although not an apparent extension of imaging systems known in the prior art, it works advantageously for imaging beams from diode lasers having long narrow junctions used in pumping solid-state lasers.

Abstract: An improved DC to DC converter apparatus including a metal-backed PC board which serves as the base plate of the device and has the principal power consuming components affixed thereto, and a conventional circuit board having the relatively lower power consuming electronic components affixed to it, the latter board being secured in closely spaced relationship to the metal-backed board using connecting elements which provide both electrical and thermal interconnection between the two boards. All device connect pins extend from the conventional board, and the entire device is potted in a thermally conductive potting material.