Abstract: Edge definition in FLIR images is improved by assigning to each pixel (X) the average intensity value of that 3.times.3 pixel sub-matrix (30a-30i) containing the pixel (X) which exhibits the smallest edge value. Apparatus for obtaining that intensity value in real time is disclosed. This process can be iteratively repeated on the same image, with each iteration creating more enhanced edges and greater area smoothing between edges.

Abstract: A cascadable seventeen-bit self-testing comparator (20) is produced on a twenty-four pin GAL.RTM. 39V18 generic array logic chip by so interconnecting the data pins (1-17) with the logic macro cells (24a-h, 26a-i), and configuring the macro cells, that any data applied to the pins is registered in the macro cells (24a-h, 26a-i) upon pulsing the clock (35), and any exact coincidence of subsequent data with the registered data causes one of the macro cells (26j) to generate a match-indicating output (61).

Abstract: The efficiency of a metal silicide infrared detector (10) in greatly enhanced by depositing on the substrate (14) a stack (30) of alternating metal silicide (12,24) and silicon layers (22). The metal silicide layers (12,24) are connected to each other and to a contact pad (20) in the substrate (14) by a metal silicide deposit (32) on one side of the stack (30) and the silicon layers (22) are connected to each other and to the substrate (14) by a silicon deposit (34) on another side of the stack (30). The stacking of layers is made possible by depositing the silicon layers (22) at a rate of 1 .ANG./sec or less in a vacuum of 10.sup.-9 torr or better at a temperature of about 250.degree. C.

Abstract: Information-theoretic notions are employed to establish the predictability of a random number generated from a circuit exhibiting chaos in order to obtain a number from a sequence of numbers with a known level of randomness and security. The method provides a measure of information loss whereby one may select the number of iterations before or between bit sampling in order to extract a secure pseudo-random number. A chaotic output is obtained by use of a sample and hold circuit coupled in a feedback loop to a variable frequency oscillator, such as a voltage controlled oscillator circuit, and operated with a positive Lyapunov exponent. A source signal generator, such as a periodic wave generator, provides a driving signal to the sample and hold circuit.