Abstract: Systems and methods additively manufacturing an object by applying heat to a first plurality of metallic particles in a powder bed using a first heat source, wherein the first heat source is one of multiple heat sources configured into an array, and the first heat source generates a first melt pool. Heat is simultaneously applied to a second plurality of metallic particles in the powder bed using a second heat source of the multiple heat sources in the array to generate a second melt pool. The first plurality of metallic particles are separated from the second plurality of metallic particles by a distance, wherein the distance and an amount of heat from each heat source is controlled to generate a combined melt pool that is larger in size and encompasses the first and second melt pools. The combined melt pool is allowed to solidify to form the object.

Abstract: In some examples, a structural framework component for an aerial platform comprises a body defining a cavity to receive a support system, and an arm to receive a payload, wherein the arm comprises a conduit to receive cabling linking a support system and a payload.

Abstract: A method of determining an absorption or turbidity coefficient of a liquid involves storing a set of data describing a plurality of droplets or other discrete bodies of liquid of different shapes, sizes and absorption or turbidity coefficients. Each body is captured as a combination of a measurable transmission parameter obtained by modelling the interaction of light with a drop, and of one or more dimensional measurements selected from lengths, areas and volumes. The absorption or turbidity coefficient is indicated also. By measuring the transmission of light through a real body of liquid, and making measurements allowing the droplet to be specified, the absorption or turbidity coefficient associated with a droplet giving rise to the same behaviour in transmitting light can be identified from the data set.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus determines the parameters, such as size, shape, and position, of figures on a surface. It includes a camera means generating a video signal. A table assembly adjusts the position of the camera and surface on the table with respect to each other as specified by position signals. Control circuitry generates the position signals so as to bring at least a portion of a figure into the camera's field of view. The video signal generated when this portion of a figure is in view is used by processing circuitry to determine the figure's parameters.In one embodiment, the expected parameter values for a figure are retrieved from storage circuitry and compared against the parameter values as determined by the processing circuitry. If the parameter values are out of range, an error signal is generated. Error data may be recorded or transmitted to an external device for statistical analysis.