Abstract: Application of tension simultaneously to three cords extending through respective coil springs and attached off the axes of the springs causes movement of tactile members on the ends of the springs to grasp, lift and rotate a workpiece. A capacity sensitive sensor positions the coil assembly relative to the object so that the tactile members will grasp the workpiece in a uniform manner irrespective of workpiece size.

Abstract: A plurality of electrically conductive plates, preferably ring-shaped, are spaced from one another and electrically insulated from a conventional conductive probe rod, but movable therewith. The sizes and spacing of the plates are selected to provide a desired variation in capacitance between the plates and the object as the probe rod and the plates are moved toward the object. The capacitance between the probe rod and the object also increases as the probe rod moves toward the object. By appropriately combining these two capactiances, a nearly consant net capacitance occurs when the probe tip is very near a desired distance from the object, for a range of object sizes.

Abstract: The invention is a variable gain non-Lambertian screen surface (12) for employment in a visual display system. The screen surface provides constant image brightness, independent of changes in viewing angle (22). It is therefore suitable for off-axis viewing. The screen gain continuously varies from a magnitude of one to infinity at different portions on the screen surface in such a manner that the equivalent gain preceived by an off-axis viewer (16) corresponds to the viewer perceiving constant image brightness, independent of changes in the viewing angle.

Abstract: This disclosure describes an apparatus for an optical visual display in a simulator training apparatus to develop a realistic infinity virtual image. Two spherical mirrors are positioned facing each other a multiple of their radius apart so that an image projected from above will be focused by one mirror so that an observer viewing the other of the two spherical mirrors will see an infinity virtual image. A modification of this arrangement is described also as providing a tilt in the projected image to develop a startling three-dimensional effect in the viewed image. A modification of this arrangement is described also as providing dual viewing of two differing infinity virtual images utilizing a single optical system.

Abstract: A capacitive sensing device for detecting the presence of conducting and nonconducting objects with the distance between sensing tip and object remaining nearly constant regardless of their size or mass is disclosed. The device is particularly useful with the camera optical probe of an aircraft simulator for training pilots, and is mounted on the camera probe such that it generates a capacitance at its output which varies with the distance between the camera probe and objects on a terrain model board as the probe travels about the model board. Thus, if the optical probe approaches too close to an object, (especially an object outside the field of view of the pilot trainee) it generates a control signal to prevent the optical probe from crashing into such an object.

Abstract: Apparatus for abrading or polishing a spherical or other curved surface is disclosed. This apparatus includes a support base which is held and manipulated by an operator. A multiplicity of dowels having various lengths are permanently attached perpendicular to a surface of the support base. The length of the dowels is selected such that the unattached ends of the dowels defines a surface which conforms to the curved surface to be abraded or polished. A sheet of material for abrading or polishing the curved surface is stretched over the unattached ends of the dowels such that when in operation the working sheet also conforms to the surface. Pads may be included on the ends of the dowels which support the working sheet to provide resilience.

Abstract: A terrain model board and method of construction for use with the closed circuit television display system of a vehicle simulator is disclosed. According to this invention a multiplicity of panels containing the detail of a simulated terrain are joined together in a manner which allows quick and easy disassembly of one or all of the panels. A packing strip having a cord secured to its top surface is inserted into the spaces between adjoining panels prior to filling the spaces or seams with an elastic and adhesive seam filling compound. Thus, one or more of the panels can easily be removed for repair or replacement by simply gripping the string and pulling it up and along the seam thereby cutting through the adhesive.

Abstract: A cellulose acetate butyrate lacquer film containing minute beads of the clear lacquer is backed by a reflective surface, to form a high resolution front projection screen of selective gain. The gain of the screen depends upon the thickness of the lacquer film and the reflectivity of the backing member.

Abstract: Optical fibers which protrude through a base plate to simulate airfield lights in a closed-circuit television visual display are accurately and securely yet removably positioned with a desired angular orientation and a desired protrusion by means of attached keying or aligning pins which register with a key plate. The key pins are attached to the optical fibers using heat-shrinkable tubing. The other ends of the fibers also may be accurately positioned using heat-shrinkable tubing.