Abstract: An electronic component includes a first trace configured to transmit a first signal and a second trace configured to transmit a second signal. The electronic component further includes a layer of conductive material separated from the first and second traces by a layer of insulative material. The electronic component further includes a first vertical wall formed in direct contact with the layer of conductive material. The electronic component further includes a second vertical wall formed in direct contact with the layer of conductive material. The second vertical wall is separated from the first vertical wall by a void, and the void extends between the first trace and the second trace.

Abstract: Radiation shields include an outer composite wall, an inner composite wall, and an enclosed fuel chamber disposed between the inner and outer composite walls. A fuel may be contained within the enclosed fuel chamber. Spacecraft include one or more such radiation shields, and may further include a fuel cell and a conduit providing fluid communication between the fuel chamber of the radiation shield and the fuel cell. Methods of forming a radiation shield system include forming an enclosed fuel chamber between an outer composite wall and an inner composite wall of a radiation shield, and providing fuel within the enclosed fuel chamber.

Abstract: A multifunctional composite having high strength, low weight, low distortion, low CTE, impact resistance, and multi-faceted radiation protection.

Abstract: Radiation shields include an outer composite wall, an inner composite wall, and an enclosed fuel chamber disposed between the inner and outer composite walls. A fuel may be contained within the enclosed fuel chamber. Spacecraft include one or more such radiation shields, and may further include a fuel cell and a conduit providing fluid communication between the fuel chamber of the radiation shield and the fuel cell. Methods of forming a radiation shield system include forming an enclosed fuel chamber between an outer composite wall and an inner composite wall of a radiation shield, and providing fuel within the enclosed fuel chamber.

Abstract: A modular vertical pump assembly has a motor, a coupling, a pump, a frame, and a base. The frame installs on the base around the pump, and supports of the frame hold a mount for the motor. The shaft from the motor extends through the mount, and the coupling installs between the motor shaft and a pump shaft. Preferably, the coupling uses an adapter and a stuffing box. Three supports fixedly attach to the mount and base, while one support is removable. To remove the pump for repair or replacement, the removable support detaches from the frame, and the pump detaches from the base and lifts from the frame's free side. Like the pump, the motor can be removed independently from the mount. In both cases, the coupling allows the pump's shaft to freely separate from the motor's shaft.

Abstract: A multifunctional composite having high strength, low weight, low distortion, low CTE, impact resistance, and multi-faceted radiation protection.

Abstract: Communication devices and communication network techniques are employed to meet safety-critical, operational requirements for train location and control in railroad and public transit applications. On-board and trackside communication radios participate in a synchronous, time-slotted communication network, providing contentionless and highly responsive access to all participants. Encrypted, validated, and error protected communication links provide reliable and redundant transfer of information among the train, trackside, and control station radios. Spread spectrum communication techniques enable range measurements between all participants. These wireless communication links relay train range measurements to control or processing stations and relay control information (principally speed commands) from the processing stations to the trains. High resolution position location is determined along elevated, at-grade, and in-tunnel tracks using wireless methods and sparse device placement.