Abstract: A backplane connector system for electrically interconnecting an electronic module to a backplane assembly using a solder-free technique is described. A plurality of mating pads of conductive material are positioned on the surface of the backplane as a system interface. A corresponding series of plunger contacts are embedded in rows of cavities within a single connector body. At least one button spring having an elastic response to deformation is positioned within the cavities and touches the plunger contacts. The connector body, which has a variety of configurations, is attached to either the electronic module or to the backplane assembly. Upon installation of the electronic module into the backplane assembly, the plunger contacts depress into the button springs. The elastic response of the button springs holds the connection in compression and forms a compliant, solder-free, electrical interface.

Abstract: In a multiplexed and microprocessor-based data acquisition system involving temperature measurement with temperature resistor thermometer devices (RTD), automatic signal substitution for calibration is effected without physically interrupting the measurement signal path by taking three measurements between the three wires at the input and using with the microprocessor a cancellation algorithm.

Abstract: The level and duration of RF current flowing in the neutral grounding circuit of a generator is monitored to determine internal arcing conditions.

Abstract: A termination rack suitable for mounting in a 19 inch instrument cabinet is designed to provide separate cable troughs associated with each of a plurality of printed circuit board housings to permit versatile and high density packaging of electronic circuitry.

Abstract: A system for monitoring vibration or mechanical motion of equipment utilizing an optical waveguide sensor coupled to the equipment. The optical waveguide sensor is formed into a coil or a sinuous path which exceeds the bend radius or critical angle for internally reflected light directed through the waveguide. Vibration or mechanical force imparted to the waveguide from the equipment being monitored further alters the bending losses in the waveguide, and this change in bending losses is used to generate a signal as a function of the vibration or mechanical force.

Abstract: A control system for coupling redundant logic channels while maintaining electrical and physical isolation between channels. The separate redundant logic channels each include an electro-optic modulator, which are connected by fiber optic links, with system condition sensors generating signals which are applied to the electro-optic modulators to control the light transmission characteristics of the electro-optic medium in response to a predetermined system condition. A light source is connected by input fiber optics to the logic channels, and output fiber optics connect the logic channels to a light detector.

Abstract: A sensing mechanism for determining the open or closed condition of a valve member located at a remote location. First and second optical fiber sections are aligned with a rotatable light modulator between the sections. Rotational movement of the modulator is governed by movement of a portion of the valve such that the light transmitted through the modulator may be detected to provide an indication of valve condition.

Abstract: In a system wherein a single input signal is transmitted via a plurality of output signal channels for various signal processing and control functions, optical isolating circuits in combination with current limiting resistors provide operational isolation among the respective output signal transmitting channels such that a component failure in one channel will not adversely affect the operation of the remaining channels.