Abstract: An apparatus, which allows a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader to recover quickly from transient input to its receiving subsystem when transitioning from writing to an RFID transponder to reading its response. In particular, this apparatus is comprised of muting circuits, which both attenuate transients in its receiving subsystem while writing to a transponder, and help the receiving subsystem settle quickly after experiencing such transients.

Abstract: An apparatus, which allows a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader to recover quickly from transient input to its receiving subsystem when transitioning from writing to an RFID transponder to reading its response. In particular, this apparatus is comprised of muting circuits, which both attenuate transients in its receiving subsystem while writing to a transponder, and help the receiving subsystem settle quickly after experiencing such transients.

Abstract: An apparatus, which allows a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader to recover quickly from transient input to its receiving subsystem when transitioning from writing to an RFID transponder to reading its response. In particular, this apparatus is comprised of muting circuits, which both attenuate transients in its receiving subsystem while writing to a transponder, and help the receiving subsystem settle quickly after experiencing such transients.

Abstract: A system and method using for energy harvesting from a data bus is provided. A first node of a data bus network is connected to a second node of a data bus network. Each of the first and second nodes transmit and receive data signals. A switching circuit is connected between the first and second node within the data bus network. The switching circuit intercepts data signals transmitted from the first node to the second node. An energy harvesting circuit is connected to the switching circuit. The switching circuit selectively redirects at least a portion of the data signals to the energy harvesting circuit, based on a rule set. A control logic processor is connected to the energy harvesting circuit and the switching circuit. The control logic processor provides the rule set to the switching circuit based on feedback from the energy harvesting circuit and the switching circuit.

Abstract: A system and method using for energy harvesting from a data bus is provided. A first node of a data bus network is connected to a second node of a data bus network. Each of the first and second nodes transmit and receive data signals. A switching circuit is connected between the first and second node within the data bus network. The switching circuit intercepts data signals transmitted from the first node to the second node. An energy harvesting circuit is connected to the switching circuit. The switching circuit selectively redirects at least a portion of the data signals to the energy harvesting circuit, based on a rule set. A control logic processor is connected to the energy harvesting circuit and the switching circuit. The control logic processor provides the rule set to the switching circuit based on feedback from the energy harvesting circuit and the switching circuit.

Abstract: A system and method using Differential Pulse Position Modulation (DPPM) to encode digital data so that it can be transmitted using an infrared (IR) link. The digital data is then decoded upon receipt. This invention can be implemented in software and run on an FPGA (or the like) for prototyping and integration with existing designs. The encoding, decoding and sensitive timing are handled by dedicated hardware, which greatly increases the speed of these processes because it frees up the processor to accomplish other tasks.

Abstract: A system and method using Differential Pulse Position Modulation (DPPM) to encode digital data so that it can be transmitted using an infrared (IR) link. The digital data is then decoded upon receipt. This invention can be implemented in software and run on an FPGA (or the like) for prototyping and integration with existing designs. The encoding, decoding and sensitive timing are handled by dedicated hardware, which greatly increases the speed of these processes because it frees up the processor to accomplish other tasks.

Abstract: A folding deck assembly is provided which is mounted on a fifth wheel truck rearwardly of the cab of the truck. The folding cargo deck assembly may be selectively moved from a stowed position rearwardly of the cab of the truck to a position which extends rearwardly from the cab so that the cargo deck assembly may support cargo thereon when the truck is not being used to pull a trailer.

Abstract: A folding deck assembly is provided which is mounted on a fifth wheel truck rearwardly of the cab of the truck. The folding cargo deck assembly may be selectively moved from a stowed position rearwardly of the cab of the truck to a position which extends rearwardly from the cab so that the cargo deck assembly may support cargo thereon when the truck is not being used to pull a trailer.

Abstract: A spacecraft includes an articulating sunshield assembly that is capable of simultaneously performing thermal control functions and solar torque balancing for the spacecraft. The sunshield assembly includes a pair of shield members that can be controllably positioned as the spacecraft orbits about a primary body. Control functionality is provided for periodically adjusting the positions of the shield members to maintain a neutral solar torque stability condition for the spacecraft. In one embodiment, solar torque balancing is performed in each of three independent rotational directions or planes (i.e., roll, pitch, and yaw) using the sunshield assembly. Functionality is also provided for performing momentum dumping tasks using the sunshield assembly in place of, or in conjunction with, on-board thrusters.

Abstract: A quick-connect coupling for connecting and hydraulically sealing two tubes that carry fluid has a cage fixed to the end of one tube and a garter spring retained in the cage. The second tube, which can be fitted over the first tube, has a flared end, which, when forced into contact with the spring, causes the spring to expand until it clears the flared end after which it contracts. During the contraction process a snap ring fitted on the outer surface of the cage is dislodged abruptly and produces a positive indication that the tubes have been properly connected.