Abstract: A passive guidance system including a viewpoint capture system (VCS) including a first processor in communication with first memory and a first SWIR imager for creating a viewpoint image database having a plurality of images, at least one of the images having a target point. A weapon guidance module is in communication with the VCS and coupled to a weapon. The weapon guidance module includes a second processor in communication with second memory and a second SWIR imager for storing the viewpoint image database and correlating in-flight images from the second SWIR imager to provide guidance commands directing the weapon to the target point.

Abstract: A liquid level sensor used for determining liquid levels in a sealed container includes a heat source bonded to the container, a first temperature sensor mounted on the container adjacent the heat source, and a second temperature sensor mounted on the container spaced from the heat source. The temperatures at the first and second temperature sensors are sensed while the heat source is operating, and the differential in the temperatures is measured and used to control power to the heater. Changes in the differential in temperature between the first and second temperature sensors indicates when the heat conductivity between the first and second temperature sensors changes, due to presence or absence of a liquid in the container at the level of the temperature sensors.

Abstract: A mass flow sensor is disclosed comprising: a heated probe having a predetermined length for disposition in the path of mass flow; at least two first temperature measuring devices disposed at different points along the probe length for measuring temperatures of the heated probe at such points in the presence of the mass flow; a second temperature measuring device for disposition in the path of mass flow for measuring the temperature of the mass flow; and a processing unit for determining mass flow as a function of the temperature measurements of the first and second temperature measuring devices.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a enclosure for a control surface position transmitter used on aerospace vehicles. The enclosure has improved capability for protecting the components of the position transmitter from damage caused by moisture-induced corrosion. The enclosure is a can-shaped structure that includes separate compartments for its mechanical and electronic components. A series of channels and passageways allow air to circulate freely in and out of the mechanical component compartment, and the electronic component compartment includes a low power heater to keep the electronic components dry and moisture-free.

Abstract: An air data probe (10) such as a pitot probe, pitot-static probe, or total air temperature probe incorporates heaters (42) within the wall (30) of the device. The heater (42) extends from the base (12) of the probe (10) to the tip (18) of the probe (10). In a preferred embodiment, the heater (42) is a wire heater that extends in the wall (30) of the probe (10) from the base (12) to the tip (18), and surrounds a sampling chamber (24) in the probe (10) in a spiral pattern.

Abstract: Methods for the design and fabrication of micro-electro-mechanical switches are disclosed. Two different switch designs with three different switch fabrication techniques are presented for a total of six switch structures. Each switch has a multiple-layer armature with a suspended biasing electrode and a conducting transmission line affixed to the structural layer of the armature. A conducting dimple is connected to the conducting line to provide a reliable region of contact for the switch. The switch is fabricated using silicon nitride as the armature structural layer and silicon dioxide as the sacrificial layer supporting the armature during fabrication. Hydrofluoric acid is used to remove the silicon dioxide layer with post-processing in a critical point dryer to increase yield.