Abstract: A motorcycle chassis embodies novel techniques, geometries and configurations in order to enhance performance. A mechanical arrangement is implemented to impose steering of front and rear wheels simultaneously for quicker steering response and maneuverability. The rear wheel steers at a smaller but proportional angle to that of the front, in the same direction. This allows a quicker roll rate when a turn is initiated. New techniques stabilize vehicle motion characteristics. A first is improved elevation attitude stability is achieved by the employment of anti-drive and anti-squat suspension control geometry to give essentially flat (elevation) attitude during acceleration and/or deceleration. A second is continuity of tire/pavement contact during acceleration and/or deceleration is further improved through use of a longer than normal wheel base and lower center of gravity.

Abstract: A motorcycle chassis embodies novel techniques, geometries, and configurations to provide enhanced performance, including new techniques to enhance braking performance. A first feature facilitates the application of braking force to each wheel in proportion to its traction capability. Maximum deceleration rates are provided prior to wheel lockup. A second feature applies liquid cooling to a brake disk. Liquid cooling eliminates brake fade caused by overheating of the brake pad material. Aerodynamic control features in concert with unique component arrangement better protect the rider from wind forces and also reduce aerodynamic drag. Narrow steering bars enclosed by bodywork and deep leg notches in the fairing contour largely remove rider induced air flow trips. The leg notches serve to brace the rider during deceleration, unloading his wrists from much of the braking force. An exhaust system routed over the engine permits a totally smooth body undercarriage to reduce aerodynamic drag.

Abstract: A mirror arrangement includes a flexible faceplate having a reflective surface and a flexible backing plate which are so mounted on a support that the backing plate is situated behind the faceplate with a gap in between. An array of elongated actuators is arranged on the support rearwardly of and perpendicularly to the backing plate. Each actuator includes an actuating member which is movable in the longitudinal direction of the actuator and exerts a selected force on the backing member at least when the respective actuator is energized. This force is transmitted to the faceplate through respective actuator posts. The gap is sealed with respect to the exterior of the mirror arrangement to form an enclosed cooling chamber.

Abstract: A beam steering mirror is trunnion mounted about a primary axis relative to ring structure and the ring structure is trunnion mounted on a secondary axis 90.degree. from the axis of the beam steering mirror and in the same plane and the ring structure is trunnion mounted about its secondary axis relative to a stationary support structure, and the ring structure and the beam steering mirror each have electric torque motor actuators for adjusting the beam steering mirror and the ring structure relative to the stationary support structure.

Abstract: Viscoelastic damping material (45, 80 and 105) effectively damps the resonant responses of a mirror (10) and a mount (12) therefor to vibratory disturbances thereof by such phenomena as pressure pulses in a pulsed chemical laser cavity.

Abstract: A system for, and a method of, replicating the known (i.e., ascertained) operational coolant fluid flow local pressure in an optical surface (such as a mirror surface) of the heat exchanger portion of a fluid cooled cylindrical optic. The system essentially comprises a precision numerically controlled lathe having a selectively rotatable spindle on which is mounted, with a hollow adapter, the cylindrical optic in which is retained a fluid connector that is in communication with the adapter which, in turn, is in communication with a source of pressurized fluid containing a fluid whose rate of flow and pressure can be regulated.

Abstract: A deformable mirror system employs pressure-operated actuators that vary in extension in response to pressure changes within a cylindrical pressure vessel. Each pressure vessel has its pressure controlled in response to signals generated in a wavefront control system.

Abstract: A laser power meter is disclosed which includes a housing, an optical win in the housing through which the laser radiation is transmitted, and an optic in the housing in the path of the laser radiation. The optic absorbs a portion of the incident laser radiation, the absorbed laser radiation being converted into heat, and reflects a portion of the incident laser radiation. The heat generated at the optic is transferred to a cooling fluid flowing through a flow channel adjacent the optic. The width of the flow channel is defined by the space between the optic and a gap control disk. Apparatus is provided for urging the gap control disk toward the optic in order to maintain the width of the flow channel in the event the width of the flow channel changes as a result of thermal distortions suffered by the optic.

Abstract: A cooled mirror for high power optical systems is fabricated by chemical vapor deposition of material on coolant tube forms.

Abstract: A protective structure is disclosed which provides a compound cushioning effect to impact-loading from an external source. The structure comprises a plurality of cells formed between two layers of plastic film material. The cells contain a sealed-in pneumatic substance which substantially surrounds a core of low density, plastic foam material. Vents may be provided through the layers' intermediate adjacent cells to provide for the flow of air. A cover of fabric material may be provided over the layers of plastic film material depending on the desired use of the structure.

Abstract: An adjustable fluid flow and spray control for use in conjunction with a manifold. The rate of flow of a fluid, and the rate of spraying of the fluid, are controlled by moving a pintle, instead of further deforming the manifold, as is conventionally done.