Abstract: An apparatus for testing infrared detectors in response to a selectively controlled electron beam within a cryogenically shielded environment includes a cryostat having an aperture which is positioned adjacent to a scanning electron microscope. An electron beam emitted from the microscope propagates through the aperture to illuminate an infrared detector mounted within the cryostat so that the detector can be tested in an environment substantially free of spurious infrared radiation.

Abstract: Apparatus for releasing a binding which fastens a ski boot to a ski, produces one or more electrical signals corresponding to the force between the ski and the ski boot and the torque between the ski and the ski boot, and actuates a ski boot release mechanism when the force or torque or a combination of both exceed predetermined values.

Abstract: A transducer comprising a balanced bridge circuit having substantially similar pre-stressed force responsive components, force transmitting means for transmitting input force to a portion of the components and force relieving means for reducing the pre-stress on the remainder of the components in conjunction with the transmission of said input force, to effect a strong output signal of the transducer when an electrical potential is connected across the circuit.

Abstract: A ski binding for releasably securing a ski boot to a ski and for releasing the ski boot upon the application of predetermined forces to the boot, the ski binding comprising a boot engaging member movable in a linear path between a boot engaging position and a releasing position, apparatus for biasing the boot engaging member towards the releasing position, a latching mechanism for retaining the boot engaging member in the boot engaging position, and an unlatching mechanism for deactivating the latching mechanism in response to the application of the predetermined forces to the ski boot to free the biasing means to drive the boot engaging member to the releasing position.

Abstract: Improved thermal coupling for a fragile member having a low tolerance to hanical stress is provided by use of thin sheets of common household aluminum foil having impressed thereon a uniform pattern of indentations. The indentations create raised projections which resiliently support the fragile member by the application of a minimum pressure to provide a uniform, non-varying contact therebetween, thereby enabling the mechanical motion therebetween to be absorbed without damage to the fragile member.

Abstract: A transducer comprising a balanced bridge, circuit having substantially similar pre-stressed force responsive components, force transmitting means for transmitting input force to a portion of the components and force relieving means for reducing the pre-stress on the remainder of the components in conjunction with the transmission of said input force, to effect a strong output signal of the transducer when an electrical potential is connected across the circuit.

Abstract: Apparatus for holding a bag open comprising an arch, a pair of retaining members for receiving the ends of the arch and holding the arch in a vertical position, means for securing a part of the periphery of the open end of a bag to the arch, and a base member for controlling the separation between the retaining members and for holding another part of the periphery of the bag against the ground.

Abstract: A system for providing information to a scuba diver relating to his position and movement in a body of water, including electronic circuitry for generating electrical signals reflective of the pressure over a period of time, and for comparing such signals with signals reflective of predetermined maximum rates of pressure change required for safe ascent. The system warns the diver when his rate of ascent exceeds the maximum allowable rate. The circuitry of the system generates additional signals for informing the diver of his direction of vertical movement, his down time, his depth, and the water temperature.