Abstract: A system and method for controlling a wind turbine, including controlling yaw or other parameters. In accordance with an embodiment, each of several basic operating parameters of a wind turbine can be measured to provide turbine operating parameters, including both turbine current parameters and turbine operating extremes. Key operating parameters of the controller itself are also monitored. External/ambient measurement devices or sensors can be used to provide measurements about the environment as a whole, such as external/ambient wind data or other external data. The turbine operating parameters are used by the controller logic to calculate measured energy production. The external/ambient measurements are used by the controller logic to calculate estimated energy production. Comparing these indications provides useful feedback, such as diagnostics and/or efficiency; and/or can be used to control yaw or other parameters in a wind turbine.

Abstract: A passive radiation sensor suitable for homeland security applications or other monitoring of locations deemed at high risk to radiation exposure. The sensor further incorporates a method to provide a statistically derived detection threshold algorithm that guarantees a predetermined and configurable false-alarm rate and rapid detection of low-level radiation.

Abstract: Systems and methods for selecting a ground station for air-ground communications are disclosed. In an embodiment, a system includes a communications device operable to maintain bi-directional communications between an aircraft and a selected ground station, and a communications processor coupled to the device that is configured to select the ground station by executing a logical rule that is based upon a signal strength value of the ground station and at least one of an aircraft altitude and an occupancy value of the frequency channel.

Abstract: System and method for the adaptive control of VHF communications in aircraft. In one embodiment, the invention includes an adaptive communications system for an aircraft having a communications processor that accesses a communications switching model to select a preferred ground communications station. In another embodiment, a method of communication between an aircraft and a ground station includes receiving a communications switching model and determining a flight parameter for the aircraft as the aircraft navigates along a flight route and selecting a ground station based upon the determined flight parameter. The aircraft then communicates with the selected ground station. In still another embodiment, a method for compiling a communications switching model includes receiving signals from a ground station and measuring a signal strength. A preferred ground station is selected based upon the measured signal strength value.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for testing industrial control modules. Input and output stimulus signals, communication lines, measurement device lines and relay contacts are provided at a tester interface panel. This allows for a test developer to configure the relay contacts in any way that the developer desires to provide appropriate connections of stimulus, communications and measurements for a given industrial control module. The switching of the relays between a normally closed position and a normally open position can be controlled by output modules coupled to a computer. The relays can be insertable and releasable in a socket for easy fault isolation and replacement. Furthermore, the same relays or similar relays can be employed for both low current measurements and high power stimulus.