Abstract: A digitizing CCD array system calibrates the CCD array precisely, masks a data medium automatically, and recovers data from the data medium accurately. The system uses a substantially opaque film mask to eliminate the effects of diffused light and flare during a digitization process when the data medium is smaller than an illumination source. A multiple optical density filters are used in calibrating the CCD array to provide a precise optical density reference for digitization of the data medium. In addition, the invention increases contrast sensitivity in data recovery by selectively switching the CCD array on and off to control the duration of multiple exposure times, i.e., integration periods, during a single line scan.

Abstract: An apparatus and method using non-destructive testing and evaluation analyzes pipes to accurately measure the depth of corrosion and/or erosion in the pipe. Two penetrameter shims are attached to the outside surface of the pipe near the area of corrosion. Then, a radiograph of the pipe in the area of corrosion is generated using an X-ray source and an X-ray sensitive film. The radiograph is subsequently digitized, and the digital information is entered into a computer. A computer operator (user) is then asked to input several parameters concerning the diameter of the pipe, the thickness of the shims, etc., using, for example, a keyboard and to select the areas of interest using, for example, a computer mouse. All the while the computer operator is navigated through several user-friendly screens in a window environment driven by a Graphical User Interface.

Abstract: A digitizing CCD array system calibrates the CCD array precisely, masks a data medium automatically, and recovers data from the data medium accurately. The system uses a substantially opaque film mask to eliminate the effects of diffused light and flare during a digitization process when the data medium is smaller than an illumination source. A multiple optical density filters are used in calibrating the CCD array to provide a precise optical density reference for digitization of the data medium. In addition, the invention increases contrast sensitivity in data recovery by selectively switching the CCD array on and off to control the duration of multiple exposure times, i.e., integration periods, during a single line scan.

Abstract: Optical device for coupling to an optical gunsight. A housing supports an optical assembly in line with the axis of the gunsight. The optical assembly includes an optical plate adjacent the gunsight exit pupil which is in contact with a beamsplitter. The beamsplitter includes first and second prisms having diagonal surfaces abutting one another and including a semi-reflective coating. An optical coating is placed on surfaces of the prisms adjacent the diagonal, to provide for a continuous light transmissivity through the beamsplitter optical plate combination. A relay lens is a located along a folded axis provided by the beamsplitter. The relay lens includes a prism for folding the folded axis a second time, so that the image is reinverted and reoriented right to left. A camera is coupled to the relay lens for monitoring the relayed image.

Abstract: A cable soldering fixture which supports a cable conductor during soldering. A heat sink is supported at one end of a support frame for maintaining a cable being soldered parallel to the axis of a support frame. A tool elevator is supported by a guide plate so that it is movable along an axis parallel to the support frame and coincident to the axis of the cable. The end of the tool elevator is connected to a solder tool which can be accurately positioned adjacent an end of the cable conductor. The tool elevator may either support a solder pot for tinning the exposed conductor or a connector chuck for maintaining a connector aligned with the cable conductor during a soldering operation.

Abstract: A device for providing multiple optical ports on an optical gunsight with a minimum impact on eye relief and which preserves full viewing angle is provided. A housing which includes first and second hinged housing portions is clamped about the circumference of the gunsight. A lens assembly is supported by one of the housing portions having an optical axis in line with the gunsight optical axis. A front lens and aspheric optical distortion lens relay a gunsight image to the beamsplitter. The beamsplitter directs first and second images from a gunsight image along axes which are in line an perpendicular to the gunsight axes. The assembly also includes identical third and fourth lenses which produce images of the gunsight exit pupil along each of these axes.

Abstract: In an external gunsight viewing apparatus, a housing is provided having a first port coupled to the eyepiece of a gunner's optical sight. A prism is disposed along a common axis between the gunner's eyepiece and a viewing port. The prism folds the image path to an Erfle lens which produces an internal image. The internal image is viewable through a beam combining means, along with a second projected image, folded via a mirror, into the image combining means. A second relay means and additional mirror means direct the combined image along a relay means where they are located along the common axis between the eyepiece and first viewing port.

Abstract: A computer controlled visual display system utilizing a complex set of inputs to develop a video display of a preselected terrain. The computer program utilizes three dimensional topographical data in combination with an aerial photograph to generate a series of images, each slightly difference from the previous one in the series, which, when displayed in the proper order, give the impression of proceeding along a predetermined flight path over a preselected terrain. The display can be used to brief pilots prior to a mission in order to familiarize the pilot with the terrain over which the mission will be flown.