Abstract: A ground handling system for an airship which comprises a first track system to allow a plurality of docking carts to move from a hangar to a weathervane/launching/landing ring R. The docking carts are configured to complete a second track system. Carried by each of the docking carts is a mooring cart that carries a mooring structure. Upon the completion of the second track system by each of the docking carts, the mooring carts are able to move about the second track system. Thereby allowing the airship to be oriented in a desired manner to facilitate its launch or landing.

Abstract: An optical flow is disclosed having a shell with a first portion and a second portion. The first portion provides a light entry aperture, and the second portion provides an imaging aperture. An inlet tube and an outlet tube are retained between the first portion and the second portion. A viewing assembly is retained between the first portion and the second portion. The viewing assembly includes a reference plate and a flow channel. The flow channel fluidly communicates with the inlet tube and the outlet tube. The reference plate extends from the shell to serve as a repeatable reference point for properly positioning the optical flow cell.

Abstract: An optical debris analysis fixture for obtaining a precise focus point for imaging debris passing through an optical flow cell, includes a support rod assembly having a mounting block at one end and a camera block at an opposite end. A flow cell block slidably carried by the support rod assembly and a fixed rod is secured at one end to the mounting block and at an opposite end to the flow cell block. The support assembly includes a pair of parallel, spaced apart rods of substantially equal length. The parallel rods are made of a different material than the center rod so that any change in temperature causes the optical flow cell block to move no more than 50 microns with respect to the camera block.