Abstract: Apparatus and methods for remotely sensing meteorological conditions and for building models from the sensed conditions. More particularly, networks and systems are provided for gathering remotely sensed profiles of the meteorological conditions and for building the meteorological model. The networks and systems can also predict the weather. Also, various remote profilers are provided including LIDAR, RADAR, nano-sondes, microwave, and even GPS (Global Positioning System) related instruments.

Abstract: Airborne meteorological radars and related networks and models. In one embodiment a network for creating a meteorological model includes a mobile sensing node and a modeling node. The sensing node includes a meteorological RADAR that senses the wind velocity. Data from the meteorological RADAR regarding the wind velocity is received by a processor of the modeling node which determines a model of the wind from the wind velocity. The modeling node combines data from a second sampling node with the data from the first sampling node to create a resultant wind velocity vector. Preferably, the modeling node and the sampling node(s) communicate over an airborne WAN. Another embodiment provides a method of measuring the wind velocity. The method includes steering an RADAR signal out of the plane of travel of the mobile platform. The wind velocity is measured using a return of the RADAR signal.

Abstract: A focal plane imaging array (FPIA) (16) for use in a direct detection imaging device (10) for conducting radiometric imaging at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies is disclosed as having an internal electronic calibration source (36). The plurality of energy detecting pixel elements (14) which comprise the FPIA (16) include a detection circuit (34) and a calibration circuit (36). The calibration circuit (36) is uni-directionally coupled to the detection circuit (34) to allow a known calibration signal "pulse" to be introduced into the detection circuit (34). The calibration pulse is processed by the pixel detection circuit and the output signal is compared with the pixel's responsivity value. Adjustments in the pixel gain and sensitivity may then be made as appropriate.

Abstract: A microwave locating system is provided for locating known features and distinguishing between different types of features. The locating system includes a plurality of modulated microwave power sources located on known features and radiating modulated microwave signals having modulated frequencies selected in accordance with the known features. A video detection sensor camera is located remote from the sources for sensing microwave signals within a field of view and providing location signals for each of the sources. The camera includes an array of receiver elements which provide narrow bandwidth filtering so as to identify received signals as one of a plurality of selected modulated frequencies. The locating system further provides an image of the location signals which distinguishes between different selected located features.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus for preserving fluid foodstuffs, and more particularly, is directed to such methods and apparatus for extending the shelf life of perishable fluid foodstuffs such as dairy products, fruit juices and liquid egg products, which are growth media for microorganisms. The present invention is also directed to preserved liquid foodstuffs which have extended shelf life.

Abstract: Methods for food product preservation by inactivation of microorganisms and/or enzymes by applying pulses of very intense, very short duration pulses of light in the visible and near visible frequencies to the surface of food products to be preserved. Also disclosed are packaging methods and apparatus utilizing such intense, short pulses of polychromatic, incoherent light.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for food product preservation by inactivation of microorganisms and/or enzymes by applying pulses of very intense, very short duration pulses of light in the visible and near visible frequencies to the surface of food products to be preserved. Also disclosed are packaging methods and apparatus utilizing such intense, short pulses of polychromatic, incoherent light.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for food product preservation by inactivation of microorganisms and/or enzymes by applying pulses of very intense, very short duration pulses of light in the visible and near visible frequencies to the surface of food products to be preserved. Also disclosed are packaging methods and apparatus utilizing such intense, short pulses of polychromatic, incoherent light.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preserving fluid food products by subjecting the fluid foodstuffs such as diary products, fruit juices and fluid egg products to controlled, pulsed, high voltage electric field treatment. The methods and apparatus further contemplate the utilization of treatment for storage temperature control in the preservation of perishable fluid foodstuffs.

Abstract: Filter apparatus for use in x-ray equipment including a repetitively pulsed x-ray source, a window for transmitting x-rays generated by the source to an object to be irradiated, and a vacuum chamber containing the x-ray source and the filter apparatus. The filter apparatus includes a baffle for diffusing hot gases and directing them away from the window. The filter apparatus further includes an ultraviolet light absorber which overlies the window with respect to the x-ray source whereby undesirable components generated with the x-rays by the x-ray source are substantially eliminated prior to reaching the window. Also disclosed is a method of eliminating undersirable by-products of x-ray generation.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preserving fluid food products by subjecting the fluid foodstuffs such as dairy products, fruit juices and fluid egg products to controlled, pulsed, high voltage electric field treatment. The methods and apparatus further contemplate the utilization of treatment for storage temperature control in the preservation of perishable fluid foodstuffs.

Abstract: A system for generating soft X rays. This system includes valve apparatus for repetitively providing bursts of a gas of brief duration and a magnetic pulse compression power supply for providing high current pulses. The system further includes a transmission line connected to the power supply for transmitting power pulses from the supply to discharge through bursts of gas. The power supply includes a plurality of series saturable inductor magnetic switches and a plurality of shunt capacitors. Thus, upon synchronized provision of a burst of gas from the valve apparatus and a power pulse from the power supply, a high current discharge generates plasma and an intense magnetic field which radially compresses the plasma, resulting in a dense, high temperature plasma which is an intense source of soft X rays.

Abstract: A transmission line connecting a power supply, for supplying power pulses, to a load disposed inside of a vacuum chamber. Electrically conductive debris in both gaseous and non-gaseous forms is generated in response to the application of the power pulse to the load. The transmission line includes first and second conductors electrically connecting the power supply to the load. An insulator extends between the conductors and partially defines the vacuum chamber. A dump for debris in non-gaseous form is disposed between load and the insulator and the transmission line further includes a system for ejecting gaseous debris from between the conductors so that substantial debris is prevented from accumulating on the insulator, which accumulation, if allowed to form, could result in flashover of the transmission line.