Abstract: Systems for controlling flow effector control surfaces. The system comprises a flow effector control coupled to an elongated bar at one end of the bar. The elongated bar is coupled at the other end to the middle of a T-shaped member. A compliant link is coupled to the bar between the control surface and the T-shaped member. At each end of the T-shaped member is coupled a shape memory alloy wire which acts as an actuating means. When one of the shape memory alloy wire contracts, the elongated bar pivots about the compliant link and activates or retracts the flow effector control surface.

Abstract: A hand-held prodder capable of distinguishing inert rock from potentially hazardous landmines or other unknown objects. The prodder comprises a rod which is placed into contact with an object. A high frequency acoustic or incident wave is introduced into rod and travels along the rod to the object where it is reflected back towards the piezoelectric crystal. The piezoelectric crystal converts the reflected wave to an electric signal and a signal processor determines values representative of the frequency-time-amplitude characteristics of the object. Different materials exhibit different mechanical impedances and frequency damping characteristics. By comparing reflected wave characteristics to pre-determined characteristics for known materials, inert rocks and potentially hazardous plastic or metallic objects are distinguishable. Visual or audible signals inform the user whether rock (safe) or unidentified or known hazardous object were contacted.

Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to gun-launched target projectiles wherein a radar-augmentor is included to increase the radar cross-section of the projectile to simulate on radar, an actual airborne threat such as aircraft and missiles. The radar augmentor comprises a base member, a uniform dielectric lens attached to said base member and a resilient support means between said base member and said lens. The dielectric lens is configured to provide a frontal radar return echo which simulates the actual airborne threat on radar.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the rapid transfer of substantially all of a sample adsorbed in a gas sampler tube into a gas or other chromatograph analysis system, in which the chromatograph carrier gas or other fluid is circulated through the chromatograph and a bypass valve in an injection device mounted externally thereof so as to establish equilibrium conditions therein and simultaneously permitting loading of the sampler tube into the injection device without disturbing the fluid flow. The sample is heated and then the fluid flow is diverted through the sampler tube to desorb the sample and carry it directly to the chromatograph column.