Abstract: An initiator with fuse device for an automatic self-contained fire suppressor and method are provided herein. Stovetop fires are a well-known residential and commercial hazard. An initiator with fuse device provides a reliable activation of an automatic stovetop fire suppressor. A device and method which provides a secure and robust attachment of an initiator to a fire suppressor, while reducing required component parts, manufacturing time, and labor, is provided herein. An initiator cup with integral cylindrical extension affords a thermoform attachment of the cup to the fire suppressor container while providing a secure mechanical attachment of the fuse to the initiator cup.

Abstract: A system and method of dynamic distributed control with network topology discovery and load discovery in an isolated distribution grid is provided. Source modules connect to AC generators and output high voltage DC power on ports. Load modules receive the high voltage DC power on connected ports and convert the DC power to AC power. Loads are connected to AC outlets on load modules. A source module discovers the connected network topology through a series of states following the reading of a configuration file and creates an adjacency map. Each module has a microprocessor. Each microprocessor runs load discovery algorithms using its adjacency map as input. Load changes are detected and adjacency maps are amended to maintain consistency across all adjacency maps. Priority is afforded to desired loads when demand exceeds capacity.

Abstract: A method and system for attaching a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to an ordnance is provided. By tailoring the packaged tag and electronics to accommodate existing ordnance body cavities the integrity of the bomb casing is maintained. Likewise, fin assemblies also remain intact and are mounted in a conventional manner to the tagged ordnance. Numerous ordnance types, to include the mark (MK) 80 series general purpose bombs and equivalents are compatible with the tagging method and system described herein. Set screw mounted tail assemblies of various fin configurations are readily assembled onto the metal body casings of tagged ordnances. A curved dipole antenna provides access to external query signals and transmission of tag locating signals. As described herein, tag antennas can mount between ordnance assembly parts, adding to the ease of retrofitting existing ordnance inventory for a RFID tag localizing system.

Abstract: A system and method of dynamic distributed control with network topology discovery in an isolated distribution grid is provided. Source modules connect to AC generators and output high voltage DC power on ports. Load modules receive the high voltage DC power on connected ports and convert the DC power to AC power. Loads are connected to AC outlets on load modules. A source module discovers the connected network topology through a series of states following the reading of a configuration file. Each module has a microprocessor. Each microprocessor runs control algorithms using its adjacency map as input. Respective adjacency maps are monitored, compared, and amended as needed to maintain consistency across all adjacency maps, thus ensuring consistent distributed control of the power distribution grid.

Abstract: A digital voltage detector system that is compatible with existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets is described. Adjustment of under and over voltage trip points is accommodated in accordance with conventional means. The digital voltage detector is compatible with all conventional Voltage Detector interface cables and adapters. Unlike the conventional voltage detector of existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets, over-voltage trips do not blow a fuse, eliminating the need to have replacement fuses or redundant conventional voltage detectors in an Armament Circuits Preload Test Set. Additionally, the digital voltage detector provides a digital voltage readout allowing the user to view the input voltage during a Presence of Voltage test. The digital voltage detector system facilitates timely and efficient execution of the Armament Circuits Preload Test series.

Abstract: Repeated inserting, tightening, loosening, and removing of external threads to internal threads can increase the likelihood of cross threading and thread damage. A spring loaded gear bolt assembly, which promotes alignment of mating threads before applying torque, is described. A spring is disposed on the back end of a bolt shaft to promote alignment of lead mating threads before twisting to engage external to internal threads. A gear chain translates a single hand rotation to thread two bolts into respective affixed internal threaded holes, simultaneously. A spring loaded gear bolt assembly and method described herein promote increased thread life and ease of use ease for test plate securing. Efficient single handed manipulation of multiple bolts simultaneously can be achieved using a test plate assembly, which included spring loaded gear bolt assemblies, as described herein. Applications of a spring loaded gear bolt include infrared adapter test plate assemblies.

Abstract: An electrical connector for testing of missile launch rail is provided. The electrical contacts of the connector move from a rear disengaged position to forward engaged positions via the energy of a compressed spring. The connector base has rail mounts for securing to a missile launch rail. A housing attaches to the base and houses a plunger, an insulator, electrical contacts, and a tube, which move forward and aft as a unit. A knob on a rear tube end enables user to limit the initial impact of the electrical contacts on contact pins or striker points of missile launch rail. The connector can provide electrical connection with launch rail pins as rail pins recede into the missile launch rail. Electrical contact position is governed, in part, by locating pins which ride in a track cut into an outer surface of the tube and move with rotation of an indexing ring.

Abstract: A method and system are provided, which provides reliable fire detection. In one implementation, the automated system includes a combination of sensors configured to measure various factors associated with a hazard, such as a fire or gas leakage, and generate sensor readings. Factors measured can include smoke, carbon monoxide and heat. The system further includes a detection device that is configured to determine whether a hazard or fire exists by performing a fuzzy analysis of sensor readings. The fuzzy analysis includes categorizing respective sensor readings into fuzzy sets, and determining whether the hazard exists based on a combination of the categorizations. In addition the size and direction of a fire can be determined from multiple sensors.

Abstract: An electrical connector for testing of a missile launch rail is provided. The electrical contacts of the connector move from a rear disengaged position to forward engaged positions via the energy of a compressed spring. The connector base has rail mounts for securing to a missile launch rail. A housing attaches to the base and houses a plunger, an insulator, electrical contacts, and a tube, which move forward and aft as a unit. A knob on a rear tube end enables a user to limit the initial impact of the electrical contacts on contact pins or striker points of a missile launch rail. The connector can provide electrical connection with launch rail pins as rail pins recede into the missile launch rail. Electrical contact position is governed, in part, by locating pins which ride in a track cut into an outer surface of the tube and move with rotation of an indexing ring.

Abstract: A digital voltage detector system that is compatible with existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets is described. Adjustment of under and over voltage trip points is accommodated in accordance with conventional means. The digital voltage detector is compatible with all conventional Voltage Detector interface cables and adapters. Unlike the conventional voltage detector of existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets, over-voltage trips do not blow a fuse, eliminating the need to have replacement fuses or redundant conventional voltage detectors in an Armament Circuits Preload Test Set. Additionally, the digital voltage detector provides a digital voltage readout allowing the user to view the input voltage during a Presence of Voltage test. The digital voltage detector system facilitates timely and efficient execution of the Armament Circuits Preload Test series.

Abstract: A method and system for attaching a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to an ordnance is provided. By tailoring the packaged tag and electronics to accommodate existing ordnance body cavities the integrity of the bomb casing is maintained. Likewise, fin assemblies also remain intact and are mounted in a conventional manner to the tagged ordnance. Numerous ordnance types, to include the mark (MK) 80 series general purpose bombs and equivalents are compatible with the tagging method and system described herein. Set screw mounted tail assemblies of various fin configurations are readily assembled onto the metal body casings of tagged ordnances. A curved dipole antenna provides access to external query signals and transmission of tag locating signals. As described herein, tag antennas can mount between ordnance assembly parts, adding to the ease of retrofitting existing ordnance inventory for a RFID tag localizing system.

Abstract: An anchored 522 male electrical connector is provided. A stationary housing 520 is combined with a coupling ring 540 to form an outer housing. An internal plunger 560 is housed in and spans the length of the outer housing. The stationary housing 520 mounts onto an anchoring surface via an anchor mount 522, while the coupling ring 540 is free to rotate about the internal plunger 560. The coupling ring is rotated via a hand grasp 441. The coupling ring rotation 442, 443 translates into forward and aft movement of the pin assembly 515. The connector provides forward 520-1 and backward stops 520-4 for limiting pin insertion and extraction moves to desired distances. Rotation via triple start threads 548, 525 readily overcomes insertion and extraction resistance of a bulky multi-pin assembly 515 and provides a smooth and controlled electrical connection. The connector may be sized to meet multi-pin connector needs or military standards.

Abstract: A digital voltage detector system that is compatible with existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets is described. Adjustment of under and over voltage trip points is accommodated in accordance with conventional means. The digital voltage detector is compatible with all conventional Voltage Detector interface cables and adapters. Unlike the conventional voltage detector of existing Armament Circuits Preload Test Sets, over-voltage trips do not blow a fuse, eliminating the need to have replacement fuses or redundant conventional voltage detectors in an Armament Circuits Preload Test Set. Additionally, the digital voltage detector provides a digital voltage readout allowing the user to view the input voltage during a Presence of Voltage test. The digital voltage detector system facilitates timely and efficient execution of the Armament Circuits Preload Test series.

Abstract: A method and system for attaching a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to an ordnance is provided. By tailoring the packaged tag and electronics to accommodate existing ordnance body cavities the integrity of the bomb casing is maintained. Likewise, fin assemblies also remain intact and are mounted in a conventional manner to the tagged ordnance. Numerous ordnance types, to include the mark (MK) 80 series general purpose bombs and equivalents are compatible with the tagging method and system described herein. Set screw mounted tail assemblies of various fin configurations are readily assembled onto the metal body casings of tagged ordnances. A curved dipole antenna provides access to external query signals and transmission of tag locating signals. As described herein, tag antennas can mount between ordnance assembly parts, adding to the ease of retrofitting existing ordnance inventory for a RFID tag localizing system.

Abstract: Repeated inserting, tightening, loosening, and removing of external threads to internal threads can increase the likelihood of cross threading and thread damage. A spring loaded gear bolt assembly, which promotes alignment of mating threads before applying torque, is described. A spring is disposed on the back end of a bolt shaft to promote alignment of lead mating threads before twisting to engage external to internal threads. A gear chain translates a single hand rotation to thread two bolts into respective affixed internal threaded holes, simultaneously. A spring loaded gear bolt assembly and method described herein promote increased thread life and ease of use ease for test plate securing. Efficient single handed manipulation of multiple bolts simultaneously can be achieved using a test plate assembly, which included spring loaded gear bolt assemblies, as described herein. Applications of a spring loaded gear bolt include infrared adapter test plate assemblies.

Abstract: A method and system for attaching a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to an ordnance is provided. By tailoring the packaged tag and electronics to accommodate existing ordnance body cavities the integrity of the bomb casing is maintained. Likewise, fin assemblies also remain intact and are mounted in a conventional manner to the tagged ordnance. Numerous ordnance types, to include the mark (MK) 80 series general purpose bombs and equivalents are compatible with the tagging method and system described herein. Set screw mounted tail assemblies of various fin configurations are readily assembled onto the metal body casings of tagged ordinances. A curved dipole antenna provides access to external query signals and transmission of tag locating signals. As described herein, tag antennas can mount between ordnance assembly parts, adding to the ease of retrofitting existing ordnance inventory for a RFID tag localizing system.

Abstract: A method is provided, which optimizes a represented route of a traveling object. The method herein provides route representation compatible with various sampling protocols and accounts for high velocity states and near stand still states. In addition, route representation can be optimized for a given number of waypoints, accommodating a maximum waypoint storage file size. Waypoints are captured and significance scores are calculated and compared. The least significant waypoint is discarded in favor of a subsequently captured waypoint and the significance of waypoints surrounding the discarded waypoint are recalculated. By quantified waypoint selection the user can obtain an optimized route representation with quantified errors from a manageable number of waypoints.

Abstract: A method is provided, which optimizes a represented route of a traveling object. The method herein provides route representation compatible with various sampling protocols and accounts for high velocity states and near stand still states. In addition, route representation can be optimized for a given number of waypoints, accommodating a maximum waypoint storage file size. Waypoints are captured and significance scores are calculated and compared. The least significant waypoint is discarded in favor of a subsequently captured waypoint and the significance of waypoints surrounding the discarded waypoint are recalculated. By quantified waypoint selection the user can obtain an optimized route representation with quantified errors from a manageable number of waypoints.

Abstract: Communications between a central station and plural nodes is managed at the central station. The central station has an answer channel, a number of data channels, and a data channel manager. A node transmits a channel request, which is received by the answer channel. The answer channel queries the data channel manager, which determines if a data channel is available. If so, then the answer channel passes the node's request to the open data channel, which then communicates with the node. The answer channel is freed to handle channel requests from other nodes. The node is unaware of the passing off as the node does not change the address for the central station. A data channel is freed to communicate with other nodes by either receiving a disconnect message from the node or by timing out the connection.

Abstract: A method and system are provided, which provides reliable fire detection. In one implementation, the automated system includes a combination of sensors configured to measure various factors associated with a hazard, such as a fire or gas leakage, and generate sensor readings. Factors measured can include smoke, carbon monoxide and heat. The system further includes a detection device that is configured to determine whether a hazard or fire exists by performing a fuzzy analysis of sensor readings. The fuzzy analysis includes categorizing respective sensor readings into fuzzy sets, and determining whether the hazard exists based on a combination of the categorizations. In addition the size and direction of a fire can be determined from multiple sensors.