Abstract: This invention uses a single eddy current coil to measure multiple parameters of conductive target simultaneously using a single fixed frequency. For example, the system consisting of the sensor coil, connecting cable, and signal conditioning electronics, can measure the thickness of a target and the distance of the target from the coil. Alternatively, it could simultaneously measure the distance of the target to the coil, i.e. lift-off, and one of the electrical properties of the target, such as the resistivity. The present system is useful in material characterization of targets where the lift-off information can be used to correct for any lift-off induced error in the apparent resistivity. In general, it can determine any pair of two characteristics of the target/sensor relationship simultaneously.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for linearizing an analog signal. The signal is converted into a digital form and digital gain and offset words are fetched based upon the value of the measurement signal and any other parameters which affect linearity, such as temperature for example. The digital gain and offset words are converted to analog values and inserted into an analog signal path of the measurement signal.

Abstract: A novel thin, three-terminal capacitive transducer which is positioned in a clearance gap to be measured is presented. This transducer comprises an insulated assembly having three parallel conductive planes with the first and second plane each containing a single electrode and the third plane containing a pair of spaced electrodes. Preferably, each electrode is composed of a thin layer of copper mounted on an insulated substrate such as an epoxy-glass composite. An air space is provided between each of the pair of electrodes in the third plane and the single electrode in the second plane. Another important feature of the present invention is a novel electronic circuit for use in conjunction with the novel three terminal capacitive transducer. This circuit provides a means of "synthetic resonance" whereby a small capacitance (such as generated by the three-terminal capacitive sensor of this invention) functions as if it were at or near series resonance with a synthesized large inductance.

Abstract: A male quick disconnect SMA connector is provided which may be easily and readily installed on any existing female SMA connector by simply installing an adapter ring. The male SMA connector includes an inner sub-assembly comprised of an inner housing having a hermetically glass sealed male connector pin extending therefrom. An outer housing is received over the inner sub-assembly and a compressive spring is positioned in a cavity between the inner and outer housings. An insert is provided to the front of the outer housing. The insert includes several recesses for retaining rolling locking pins therein. These locking pins are raised when the outer housing is retracted (thereby compressing the spring) in a first direction. Thereafter, the locking pins are lowered into retaining openings in an adapter ring on the female SMA by releasing the outer housing to its original orientation with respect to the inner housing.

Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator used with a segmented optical element includes a central pole piece that is affixed at one end to the segment, and is movable along a displacement axis. Oppositely wound, longitudinally displaced electical coils on the pole piece are encompassed by an outer magnet. Pole piece displacement is the result of the net axial force generated from the current flowing through the coils.