Patents Assigned to Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
  • Method and apparatus for real-time, on-line monitoring of wear in machinery
    Patent number: 4766373
    Abstract: The specification describes a method and an apparatus for detecting and quantitatively assessing wear of a machine having ferromagnetic components subjected to wear during operation resulting in the production of ferromagnetic particulate wear debris, and a lubrication system utilizing a lubricating fluid, in which the wear debris becomes entrained, for lubricating the components. The method comprises the steps of passing a sample stream of the lubricating fluid at a predetermined rate of flow axially through the core of an inductance coil of a sample oscillator for producing a time varying signal which deviates from a predetermined value in proportion to the mass of ferromagnetic material contained in the fluid passing through the core, monitoring the rate of change of signal and activating an indicator when the rate of change of the signal exceeds a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Keith W. Chambers, Clinton A. Waggoner
  • Integrated optics spectrum analyzer
    Patent number: 4762735
    Abstract: An optical waveguide comprises two out-diffused optical waveguide sections an in-diffused optical waveguide section, and two narrow transition region intimately connecting the out-diffused waveguide sections and the in-diffused waveguide section. This waveguide structure can decrease the level of in-plane scattering caused by surface irregularities and reduce the difficulty of coupling light into and out of the waveguide. The structure can be made to perform as a transverse magnetic mode filter and increase the intensity of light focussed into the guide beyond the limits imposed by the optical damage resistance of a strictly in-diffused waveguide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Dennis J. Gregoris, Roger Arsenault, Velimir M. Ristic
  • Device for measuring the electronic characteristics of solid materials
    Patent number: 4763064
    Abstract: A device for measuring the electronic characteristics of solid electrolytes or solid-state electrochemical cells under varying conditions is provided. The device consists of two small flat plates which provide uniform physical and electrical contact with the material to be measured, a spring for applying pressure to the plates and the material, and electrical connections. The device keeps the plates rigid and parallel, and permits easy temperature measurement and handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian Government
    Inventor: Arthur W. Johnson
  • Integrated optics spectrum analyzer
    Patent number: 4761048
    Abstract: An optical waveguide comprises two out-diffused optical waveguide sections, an in-diffused optical waveguide section, and two narrow transition regions intimately connecting the out-diffused waveguide sections and the in-diffused waveguide section. This waveguide structure can decrease the level of in-plane scattering caused by surface irregularities and reduce the difficulty of coupling light into and out or the waveguide. The structure can be made to perform as a transverse magnetic mode filter and increase the intensity of light focussed into the guide beyond the limits imposed by the optical damage resistance of a strictly in-diffused waveguide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Dennis J. Gregoris, Roger Arsenault, Velimir M. Ristic
  • Pyrotechnic delay for high g's application
    Patent number: 4760792
    Abstract: An acceleration resistant pyrotechnic delay unit delays the ignition of a warhead subjected to high acceleration on launch and high deceleration on impact. The delay unit includes a delay cup housing a pyrotechnic train. The delay cup has a primer cavity a delay cavity and a detonator cavity. A frusto-conical passage extends between the primer cavity and the delay cavity, with the small diameter end opening into the delay cavity. Primer, delay and detonator components of the pyrotechnic train fill the respective cavities in the delay cup. The various components of the train are well supported on all surfaces to prevent fracture due to high acceleration and deceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Ghislain M. Dumas, Roger Lavertu, Jean-Francois Drolet
  • Phased array antenna feed
    Patent number: 4757318
    Abstract: An RF signal receiving/transmitting apparatus for use with a phased array antenna having a plurality of antenna elements comprises a plurality of signal processing circuits, each circuit being connected to and associated with one of the antenna elements and including a signal distributing/combining device connected to its associated element, a plurality of sampling gates for spatially sampling a distributed signal or applying analog samples to the distributing/combining device, and analog-to-digital or digital-to-analog converters connected to an analyzer for analyzing/generating a plurality of digital samples which are received or to be transmitted by the antenna elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Paul I. Pulsifer, William D. Cornish, Larry J. Conway
  • Variable depth sonar line handling system
    Patent number: 4754442
    Abstract: A variable depth towed sonar line handling system is arranged to provide a level wind of the sonar cable onto a cable winding drum without significant lateral deflection of the cable. The system includes a boom with sheaves at the inboard and outboard ends and an inboard winch with a cable winding drum. The winch is mounted for axial movement past the boom and is translated axially in synchronism with its rotation so that the fleet angle of the cable remains constant. In preferred embodiments, the winch is located beside the boom and translates fore and aft. This allows the cable to be taken off along the pivot axis of the boom, eliminating cable excursion through the sheaves in boom bobbing. Other features include a fairleading saddle and a combined passive and active shock absorbing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Henry O. Baker, Robert S. Norminton
  • Signal processing apparatus for selectively filtering digital signal parameter packets
    Patent number: 4748438
    Abstract: A direct access filter includes an array of memories for processing digital signal data from signal sources such as sensors in a radar system. The parameters in a packet are tested against a predetermined set of corresponding data. Each set of data can be considered as a window. If the value of each tested parameter falls within the window, then the packet matches the filter criteria. There can be several sets of filter criteria, and hence all sets must be sequentially tested. Upon finding a filter match, two actions can result: "excision", wherein occurrence of a match results in that parameter packet being discarded from the data flow, or "track", which results in the transfer of the parameter data to a follow on processor. Processing time is saved when a match occurs and no updating of previous data is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventor: James F. Mickeal
  • Rocket firing system for sequential firing of rocket motor groups
    Patent number: 4736583
    Abstract: An aerial target vehicle has an aerodynamically stabilized body carrying plural rocket motors. An ignition system for the motors serves to fire the motors in selected groups at selected time intervals. The ignition system uses a capacitor as its sole power source. The capacitor is charged only after the motors are in place and the vehicle is ready for launch. A capacitor-powered logic circuit ignites the motor groups at the selected time intervals. The sequential firing of the rocket motors provides a quasi-maneuverable target with relatively long range and flight time. The capacitive power arrangement is a safety factor that prevents premature firing of the rocket due to transient currents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Henry P. Hudema, Stanley K. Burton, Alexander B. Markov, Clayton G. Coffey
  • Method and apparatus for detecting presence and concentration of vapors in gaseous fluids
    Patent number: 4735081
    Abstract: A method of determining the concentration of a vapor in a gaseous fluid comprises the steps of passing a sample of the fluid through a channel having a crystal oscillator therein coated with a substance which absorbs the vapor, monitoring the deviation of the frequency of the oscillator from a base-line frequency representative of a fluid sample having a zero concentration of the vapor and converting the frequencydeviation, if any, to a numerical value indicative of the concentration of the vapor in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Gregory A. Luoma, Lannie K. Yee, Barrie D. Turnham
  • Spinning assembly for explosive munitions
    Patent number: 4719797
    Abstract: In the testing of explosive munitions, particularly sub-munitions such as self-forging fragment and shaped charge devices, the munitions are spun about a longitudinal axis to simulate a spin-stabilized munition. An assembly for spinning the munition includes a stationary hub, a rotating hub and an arrangement for mounting the munition concentrically on the hub. A detonator mount positions a detonator and an explosive booster on the axle near the explosive. The stationary mounting of the detonator and booster allows a safer disarming of the munition in the event of misfire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Chris A. Weickert, Thomas A. Storrie
  • Thermo-electronic system to correct for thermal deformation of a restrained plate
    Patent number: 4718323
    Abstract: The thermal deformation of an edge-restrained plate is expressed as a deflection of the plate out of its plane. Where the plate is used as a reference plane, the deformation of the plate can be quantitatively monitored and compensated for. In the case of a radiantly heated plate, the temperature gradient adjacent an edge of the plate is a linear function of the plate deformation. With convective cooling, the temperature drop from an initial condition relates linearly to deformation. Consequently, relatively simple temperature measurements will provide the necessary information. The invention has particular application to the roof of a military tank turret that is used as a reference plane for a gun sighting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: David H. Gladstone, Jacques Dubois, Raymond Carbonneau, Gedeon Drouin
  • Computer controlled constant concentration and size particulate general system
    Patent number: 4710887
    Abstract: An aerosol generating system for maintaining a constant concentration of aerosol in a chamber is disclosed. The system includes an aerosol generator in a closed chamber. A small fan in the chamber distributes the aerosol within the chamber. A particle analyzer connected to the chamber draws aerosol samples and analyses samples to monitor at least one characteristic property of the aerosol. Typically, these are particulate concentration and particulate size. The system includes a control responsive to signals from the analyzer representing changes in the monitored characteristic property to control operation of the aerosol generator. The control is such as to maintain the characteristic property substantially constant. The system may also be equipped with humidity and temperature control elements for maintaining these factors constant within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventor: Jim Y. W. Ho
  • Algorithm for radar coordinate conversion in digital scan converters
    Patent number: 4697185
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for high speed conversion of radar formats from polar coordinates to cartesian coordinates. From an initial address X.sub.i Y.sub.i where a radar pulse crosses a display, subsequent addresses are determined by adding constant values sin .theta..sub.i and cos .theta..sub.i to X.sub.i and Y.sub.i. This is faster than the prior method of calculating x.sub.i and Y.sub.i by multiplying R.sub.i (range) by sin .theta..sub.i and cos .theta..sub.i. Also disclosed is a system for filling the display between adjacent radials at long ranges where spoking of the display tends to occur. This is done by adding constant increments to one cartesian value on one vector until the next vector is reached while maintaining the other cartesian value constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignees: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence, Control Data Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: David M. Thomas, Leonard J. Tubb
  • Remote identification device
    Patent number: 4694297
    Abstract: The conventional way of achieving an identification, friend or foe (IFF) function for a moveable subject requires the subject to carry a transponder that emits a coded return when a radar pulse is received by its receiver. In the present invention, an IFF system is disclosed which departs from the conventional transponder method and employs no radio-frequency power source. Instead, it uses the scattering or reflecting properties of an antenna to modulate, in a distinctive manner, the radar return from a moveable subject. A binary sequence code generator modulates the impedance of a receiver antenna, with the reflected signal being detected and correlated with a synchronized code sequence at the radar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventor: Alan Sewards
  • Polyurethane-based elastomeric material
    Patent number: 4689385
    Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to an elastomeric polyurethane-based material which is resistant to penetration by chemical-warfare agents and as such is suitable for use in protective clothing such as facemasks. The novel materials are made according to a process which comprises reacting a saturated hydroxyl-terminated polyol with a polyisocyanate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian Government
    Inventors: Kenneth E. MacPhee, John L. Barton
  • Optoelectronically switched phase shifter for radar and satellite phased array antennas
    Patent number: 4686533
    Abstract: This invention utilizes an opto-electronic matrix switch to select a set of fixed value phase shifters. Signals which are selectively phase shifted by this apparatus may be introduced into the signal path of each antenna element of a phased array antenna. In one embodiment the input signal is converted into an intensity modulated optical signal which is then split between paths of different length to provide different delays and hence different phase shifts. The matrix then selects a particular set of the phase shifted signals which are converted back to electrical signals and fed to the antenna array elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian Government
    Inventors: Robert I. MacDonald, Elmer H. Hara, Arthur L. Poirier
  • Intelligent broad band digital RF memory
    Patent number: 4679168
    Abstract: This invention describes a system for digitally storing high-frequency signals with the ability to retrieve and transmit these stored signals repetitively or with various selectable delays. The invention provides means to store the radio frequency signal by sampling the voltage of the wave distributed along delay line means at a number of points in parallel. These voltages are then quantized and stored in a digital memory. The wave is reconstructed at the output by the reverse process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventors: Larry J. Conway, Paul I. Pulsifer
  • Personal webbing
    Patent number: 4676419
    Abstract: A personal webbing system includes a novel coupling for connecting components of the system. For each two components to be connected, one of the components has at least two apertures through it, spaced apart a fixed distance. The other component is equipped with a hooking element having a resilient base and a pair of hooks projecting from the base. The spacing of the hooks is such as to permit the insertion of the hooks into the apertures when the base is flexed and to retain the hooks in the apertures when the base is relaxed. The apertures may be arranged in two parallel rows along a belt and otherwise in pairs on other components of the system. The hooking elements preferably are combined with straps carrying "Velcro" fasteners for securing the connection between the two components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence
    Inventor: William E. Victor
  • Jig for inscribing a substrate
    Patent number: 4659179
    Abstract: The invention disclosed is a jig to facilitate the inscription of a pattern on a substrate, typically a glass microscope slide. The jig includes means for positioning the substrate and template means overlying the substrate. The pattern is preferably u-shaped to define a liquid flow channel along the long dimension of the slide for use of the inscribed slide in ferrography.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian Government
    Inventors: Harry P. Dominique, Clinton A. Waggoner