Abstract: A stage installation for vertical movement of multiple stage elements has a computer controlled winch assembly comprising a support member having a channel, a platform adjacent the support member, electrical control and electrical power raceways in the channel, and a multiplicity of winches supported on the platform. The winches include a housing, a bidirectional servomotor, a rotating drum driven by the motor in either direction to haul or pay out cables operatively connected to the stage elements. Connectors are coupled to the electrical power and electrical control raceways, and a remote computer terminal transmits signals to the winches to initiate and terminate operation of the servomotor.

Abstract: Stage effects are moved by a computer which has stored data indicative of individual stage effects to be moved, their start and finish positions, the speed of movement, and timing and order of movement. The computer controls drive assemblies for moving the effects by a program which, while the program is running, displays on the monitor data concerning movement of the effects and enables the operator to modify at least some of the data previously established.

Abstract: A light weight armor for combat vehicles, having at least three laminations f which at least the two outermost have the same mass, but with all having significantly differing densities and thicknesses.