Abstract: In one embodiment, a technique is provided for creating assemblies of model objects in a modeling space of a computer aided design (CAD) application utilizing virtual connectors (i.e. “named intelligent connectors” (NICs)). Model objects may be associated with one or more NICs that represent possible points of connection to other model objects. In response to instructions in the user interface of the CAD application, a connection may be formed by recording invariant information in the NICs. Further, a connected position and orientation of a model object in a global coordinate system of the modeling space may be calculated using the invariant information in the NICs.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a technique is provided for manipulating an object of a multidimensional (e.g., 2-D, 3-D, etc.) model within a modeling environment using a special placement dashboard. The placement dashboard operates as both as a control interface for manipulating the object in multidimensional space, and as a measurement interface for displaying measurements related to the manipulated object. While serving this dual role, the placement dashboard may selectively limit displayed interface elements, and limit manipulations that may be performed on the manipulated object based on the type of the manipulated object itself, and based on its interaction with one or more other objects of the multidimensional model.

Abstract: The invention is related to a modular missile launching assembly, more particularly, a compact modular missile launching assembly that is easily attachable to smaller sized watercrafts, allowing for quick installation. The missile launching assembly is encased in a substantially rectangular container with a launching lid to which one or more missiles are attached. A hydraulic lifting device within the substantially rectangular container is used to lift the launching lid from a closed or stowage position to an open or operational position.

Abstract: A system for broadcasting data (30) that includes a message flow optimizer (150) that forms a single concatenated message (180) from a number of discrete messages (190, 200), and a number of broadcast message receivers (250) operable to isolate a portion of the single concatenated message (180).

Abstract: A system (10) for transmitting data is presented. The system (10) includes a data transmission medium (12, 28) and an overhead generator (40) connected to the data transmission medium (12, 28), such as through a switch. The overhead generator (40) digitally encodes control data into one or more bytes in a data transmission frame (70) used to transmit data over the system (10). The system also includes a monitor/selector (22) coupled to the data transmission medium (12, 28). The monitor/selector (22) reads the digitally encoded control data in the byte in the data transmission frame (70). A processor (24) coupled to the monitor/selector (22) processes the digitally encoded control data in the data transmission frame (70).

Abstract: A system for optimizing data for transmission that includes a data collector operable to collect a plurality of data packets, wherein each data packet includes an address label, a data assembler operable to order the data packets by address label and assemble all data packets with a common address label into a single data block with a single address label, and a transmitter for transmitting the data blocks, wherein the transmitter is operable to broadcast the data blocks.

Abstract: A method to verify the integrity of replicated databases that includes the steps of determining a checksum for a first database after updating the first database, determining a checksum for each of a number of second databases after updating each of the second databases, and comparing the checksums for the first database to that of each of the second databases to verify the integrity of each of the second databases.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for mounting flexographic printing plate in registration onto a printing cylinder with a mounting bar and a carrier sheet having the plate mounted thereto. The mounting bar and the carrier sheet each have multiple openings which are located to assure consistent alignment between the bar and carrier sheet. The carrier sheet is secured in registration to the mounting bar by aligning the openings of the bar to the carrier sheet and inserting locking pins into the aligned openings. The method for mounting a flexographic printing plate further includes an apparatus for retaining an end of the carrier sheet to prevent its movement while drilling or punching the multiple openings.

Abstract: An apparatus for drilling holes in flexible materials used for flexographic printing includes a table which receives single sheets of flexible material which are to be drilled by a downwardly moveable drill. An optical mirror, TV-camera and monitor serve as viewing means to directly view the exact position on the surface of the material to be drilled. The optical mirror occupies a first position between the moveable drill and the flexible material, the first position being directly below the drill and directly above a target location on a single sheet. The optical mirror is retractable to a second position away from the path of the moveable drill, the optical mirror being replaced in the first position after the drilling is accomplished.