Abstract: The present invention is a system for increasing Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in a wireless communication system comprising a plurality of antennas each antenna providing a signal, a device for selecting a subset of signals provided by the plurality of antennas, a maximum ratio combiner for summing the selected subset of signals provided by the plurality of antennas, and a decision device for measuring the selected subset of signals against a predefined threshold. The device for selecting the subset of signals is coupled to the plurality of antennas. The maximum ratio combiner is coupled to the selected subset of signals and the decision device for measuring the selected subset of signals against a predefined threshold. The decision device is coupled to the selecting device such that one selected signal of the selected subset of signals is replaced by an unused signal provided by the plurality of antennas.

Abstract: The invention, as embodied herein, comprises an improved portable maritime scoring and simulation system that comprises three or more buoys that are deployed in an area of water selected for maritime combat training. Attached to each buoy are a global positioning system receiver, an RF radio system, an acoustic analysis system, and a microprocessor. The acoustic analysis system is designed to capture an acoustic signature of ordnance impacting the water with predetermined characteristics. The system includes an RF radio repeater system linked to a system controller to control and monitor the elements of the system. In operation, when an acoustic signature is captured by the acoustic analysis system, the RF radio system, in one embodiment, transmits the time of the capture along with the GPS location of the buoy to the RF radio repeater system linked to the system controller.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for locking and/or unlocking a door, window or the like comprises a barrel having a number of apertures, each aperture being connected to a light emitter or a light sensor via an optic fibre. A key for insertion into the barrel is also provided with a number of apertures internally connected via optic fibres for optically connecting selected ones of the apertures in the barrel together. When the key is in place, continuous light paths are provided between the light emitters and the light sensors, the latter being arranged to actuate the locking mechanism.