Abstract: A method comprising the step of partitioning a 3D model domain into disjoint subsets of interaction and propagation subdomain volumes, wherein propagator methods transport plenoptic field through extents of volumetric media between interaction subdomain boundaries, wherein distinct interaction methods are applied to each interaction subdomain separately and govern the solution process within the subdomain and field-exchange at boundary.

Abstract: A method comprising the step of partitioning a 3D model domain into disjoint subsets of interaction and propagation subdomain volumes, wherein propagator methods transport plenoptic field through extents of volumetric media between interaction subdomain boundaries, wherein distinct interaction methods are applied to each interaction subdomain separately and govern the solution process within the subdomain and field-exchange at boundary.

Abstract: A method for characterizing an atmospheric propagation channel comprising: generating a database of atmospheric modulation transfer functions (MTFs) over a range of known values for at least one image-quality-related parameter; capturing at least one image of an object with an image capture device, wherein the image capture device is separated from the object by the atmospheric channel; deconvolving the captured image with every atmospheric MTF in the database to create a plurality of deconvolved, captured images; scoring each deconvolved, captured image according to an image quality metric (IQM); using an optimization-decision algorithm to find the best IQM score; and characterizing the atmospheric propagation channel as possessing the type and value of the image-quality-related parameters that are associated with the corresponding MTFs used to deconvolve the image having the best IQM score.

Abstract: An exemplary breaking or excavating tool includes a body having a mounting end and a working end. A seating surface at the working end includes a cavity and axially projecting sidewalls formed integral to the body, an insert mounted within the cavity has a tip at an axially forwardmost end, a tapered forward surface, a side surface and a transition edge at an intersection of the forward surface and the side surface. A ring located radially outward of the projecting sidewalls is formed of a material harder than the body of the tool. The transition edge and an axially forwardmost surface of each of the sidewalls and the ring are arranged in an axially rearwardly extending stepped configuration. A material removal machine on which the breaking or excavating tool is mounted and a method of manufacturing the breaking or excavating tool are also disclosed.

Abstract: An exemplary breaking or excavating tool includes a body having a mounting end and a working end. A seating surface at the working end includes a cavity and axially projecting sidewalls formed integral to the body, an insert mounted within the cavity has a tip at an axially forwardmost end, a tapered forward surface, a side surface and a transition edge at an intersection of the forward surface and the side surface. A ring located radially outward of the projecting sidewalls is formed of a material harder than the body of the tool. The transition edge and an axially forwardmost surface of each of the sidewalls and the ring are arranged in an axially rearwardly extending stepped configuration. A material removal machine on which the breaking or excavating tool is mounted and a method of manufacturing the breaking or excavating tool are also disclosed.

Abstract: A rock bolt assembly incorporating a friction reducing washer of plastics material between the nut and the plate washer to give an increased tension in the bolt for a given torque.