Abstract: An object in a digital image is automatically recognized by obtaining the digital image, generating a first vector representation of a plurality of pixels of the obtained digital image, randomizing the first vector representation to generate a first generalized vector representation of the digital image that is substantially an order of magnitude smaller than the first vector representation, and searching a repository of hierarchically generalized vector representations of previously recognized digital images, to determine whether the first generalized vector representation of the digital image matches one or more of the previously recognized digital images, within a predetermined threshold value, based on determining a focus area within the obtained digital image, using associative memory.

Abstract: A NoFoam system which permits the environmentally safe testing of the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicle's foam delivery system by using a surrogate fluid to test the foam delivery system. The NoFoam system includes the piping, valves, and connecting elements to interface with the fire vehicle's foam delivery system, while minimizing the release of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) to the environment.

Abstract: A magnetoplasmadynamic switch adapted to be coupled in parallel with an ictive energy storage circuit carrying current through an initially closed circuit interrupter. The switch includes an electrode spaced by a gap from an arcjet source which is triggered by a capacitor. The capacitor is connected to the arcjet source by a closing switch so that a plasma jet is created between the source and the electrode. The voltage on the capacitor is chosen such that the arcjet source current will equal the current in the energy storage circuit at the time when the circuit interrupter has completely opened. The circuit interrupter is opened after the plasma jet is established between the source and the electrode, and the energy storage circuit current is conducted by the magnetoplasmadynamic switch until the dielectric strength of the circuit interrupter reaches a satisfactory level. Another switch is then closed providing a low impedance conduction path parallel to the arcjet source current.