Abstract: A security sensor system comprises one or more laser detection and ranging (LADAR) sensors configured for accumulation of three-dimensional image data. In one embodiment, the one or more LADAR sensors each comprise a LADAR device, such as a MEMS device, configured to transmit a plurality of laser pulses, and a microprocessor operatively coupled to the LADAR device. One or more data storage devices is operatively coupled to the microprocessor and configured to store the three-dimensional image data, as well as predetermined protected area boundary and fixed object definitions. A GPS receiver can be operatively coupled to the microprocessor and a GPS antenna. The microprocessor is configured to perform a LADAR image analysis that compares the three-dimensional image data with the protected area boundary and fixed object definitions to identify one or more potential intruders.

Abstract: A security sensor system comprises one or more laser detection and ranging (LADAR) sensors configured for accumulation of three-dimensional image data. In one embodiment, the one or more LADAR sensors each comprise a LADAR device, such as a MEMS device, configured to transmit a plurality of laser pulses, and a microprocessor operatively coupled to the LADAR device. One or more data storage devices is operatively coupled to the microprocessor and configured to store the three-dimensional image data, as well as predetermined protected area boundary and fixed object definitions. A GPS receiver can be operatively coupled to the microprocessor and a GPS antenna. The microprocessor is configured to perform a LADAR image analysis that compares the three-dimensional image data with the protected area boundary and fixed object definitions to identify one or more potential intruders.

Abstract: One exemplary embodiment is directed to a method of automatically maintaining a line-of-sight communication channel. The method comprises determining information about each communication resource that is accessible in a region through which a mobile system is moving. The method further comprises determining information about the mobile system. The method further comprises performing a line-of-sight (LOS) analysis for each of the communication resources based at least in part on a respective location and a respective elevation for the respective communication resource and the current location of the mobile system and a current elevation for the mobile system. The method further comprises determining if a new communication link should be established with at least one of the communication resources based at least on the LOS analyses that were performed and establishing the new communication link if it is determined that the new communication link should be established.

Abstract: Systems and methods for passive thermal management using phase change material are provided. In one embodiment, a thermal management method is provided. The method comprises securing an electronics assembly to a mounting surface using a thermally insulative support structure; insulating a phase change material within the support structure; and melting the phase change material to reduce heat transfer from an external environment to the electronics assembly during a high temperature transient thermal condition.

Abstract: One exemplary embodiment is directed to a method of automatically maintaining a line-of-sight communication channel. The method comprises determining information about each communication resource that is accessible in a region through which a mobile system is moving. The method further comprises determining information about the mobile system. The method further comprises performing a line-of-sight (LOS) analysis for each of the communication resources based at least in part on a respective location and a respective elevation for the respective communication resource and the current location of the mobile system and a current elevation for the mobile system. The method further comprises determining if a new communication link should be established with at least one of the communication resources based at least on the LOS analyses that were performed and establishing the new communication link if it is determined that the new communication link should be established.

Abstract: A security sensor system comprises one or more laser detection and ranging (LADAR) sensors configured for accumulation of three-dimensional image data. In one embodiment, the one or more LADAR sensors each comprise a LADAR device, such as a MEMS device, configured to transmit a plurality of laser pulses, and a microprocessor operatively coupled to the LADAR device. One or more data storage devices is operatively coupled to the microprocessor and configured to store the three-dimensional image data, as well as predetermined protected area boundary and fixed object definitions. A GPS receiver can be operatively coupled to the microprocessor and a GPS antenna. The microprocessor is configured to perform a LADAR image analysis that compares the three-dimensional image data with the protected area boundary and fixed object definitions to identify one or more potential intruders.

Abstract: Systems and methods for passive thermal management using phase change material are provided. In one embodiment, a thermal management method is provided. The method comprises securing an electronics assembly to a mounting surface using a thermally insulative support structure; insulating a phase change material within the support structure; and melting the phase change material to reduce heat transfer from an external environment to the electronics assembly during a high temperature transient thermal condition.

Abstract: An electronic sensor is disclosed. The electronic sensor includes a processor, a processor memory coupled to the processor, and at least one input/output block in communication with the processor and with at least one external component monitor. The sensor further includes one or more accelerometers in communication with the processor and coupled directly to at least one component, the one or more accelerometers sensing one or more mechanical vibrations from the at least one component, and the one or more mechanical vibrations oscillating below 1 MHz. The processor compares the one or more mechanical vibrations with a plurality of vibration samples programmed into the processor memory, each vibration sample specific to at least one sensor application.

Abstract: A method for testing a unit is described where the unit includes one or more of electrical, electronic, mechanical, and electromechanical components. The described method includes applying at least one stimulus to the unit, receiving sound emissions from the unit, converting the sound emissions into one or more acoustic signatures, comparing the acoustic signatures based on the received emissions to stored acoustic signatures expected as a result of the at least one stimulus, and determining a status for the unit based on the comparisons.