Abstract: A reversibly deployable energy absorbing assembly includes a rigid support structure having at least one inlet and at least one outlet; a flexible covering sealingly engaged with the rigid support structure to define an inflatable interior region; a gas source in fluid communication with the at least one inlet; an inlet control valve positioned intermediate the gas source and the at least one inlet; and an actively controlled pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the at least one outlet. The inlet control valve and the pressure relief valve are adapted to provide a response suitable for use in vehicle impact management.

Abstract: A reversibly deployable energy absorbing assembly includes a rigid support structure having at least one inlet and at least one outlet; a flexible covering sealingly engaged with the rigid support structure to define an inflatable interior region; a gas source in fluid communication with the at least one inlet; an inlet control valve positioned intermediate the gas source and the at least one inlet; and an actively controlled pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the at least one outlet. The inlet control valve and the pressure relief valve are adapted to provide a response suitable for use in vehicle impact management.

Abstract: An optical metrology system having an optical metrology sensor assembly and a target is disclosed. The optical metrology sensor assembly transmits a light beam to the target and then uses the reflected beam from the target to determine the position of the target in three dimensions. The optical metrology sensor can comprise a light source, a ranging device, and a two-dimensional sensor. The optical metrology system is suitable for applications such as determining the position, orientation, and shape of a spacecraft antenna, so as to facilitate movement thereof to enhance operation of the antenna.

Abstract: An adaptive surface has a dielectric surface with a repeating pattern of electrically conductive structures disposed thereon or therein, the dielectric surface in combination with repeating pattern of electrically conductive structures forming a metasurface for binding surface waves thereto. A plurality of actuators on the dielectric surface alter the shape of the metasurface in response to control signals. A plurality of sensors on the dielectric surface for measuring a desired parameter and converting it to data. A plurality of rectennae disposed on the dielectric surface for providing electrical power to said actuators and to said sensors. A plurality of data antennas are disposed on or in the dielectric surface, the data antennas being coupled with data receivers and data transmitters for receiving data from an external source for controlling the actuators and for transmitting data from said sensors to an external receiver.

Abstract: In some embodiments, an actuator is provided having a graphite comprising actuation region located between electrodes. An ion storage region is located between the electrodes, with a separator region between the actuation and the storage region. The actuation region may include graphite structures embedded in an elastic matrix, the elastic matrix is adapted to allow transport of chemical species capable of intercalating within the graphite structures. A separator region is located between the electrodes, along with an ion generation region capable of reversible electrochemical production and elimination of ions. In some embodiments, an actuator is provided with at least one of the electrode and the counter electrode including graphite. An electrolyte therebetween having a graphite intercalate ion source.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in deploying a wireless communication device is provided that includes an antenna element and a reflector secured proximate a first end of the element. The reflector includes a base, and a flexible wall with a first end positioned proximate the base extending away to a second end positioned about the element. The wall can be deformed from an original position to a deformed position where the second end is temporarily positioned proximate the element and released such that the wall returns to the original position. The method includes deforming the reflector from an original position to an altered position where portions of a rim are proximate the element. The reflector is positioned in contact with the communication device, secured in the altered position, maintained in the altered position with a reduced profile, and released such the reflector elastically returns to the original position.

Abstract: An antenna having dual reflectors connected by a moving mechanism for moving the reflectors between stowed and deployed positions. In the stowed position the reflectors overlap and are positioned close to each other. In the deployed position the reflectors are spaced apart.