Abstract: A method for improving modal bandwidth in computer networks using multimode optical fiber and laser sources is disclosed in which an annular beam is generate by the laser source, thus preventing center fiber transmission modes from reaching the detector. This prevents or lessens a pulse-splitting effect at the detector. The annular beam is generated preferably by configuring a vertical cavity surface emitting laser to have a center totally-reflecting block of 5-7 microns to generate a substantially dark-centered beam.

Abstract: A method of improving modal bandwidth in computer networks using multimode optical fiber and single mode sources is disclosed in which the optical signal from a center of the optical fiber is prevented from reaching the detector. This is accomplished according to a number of different techniques including the use of opaque spots on the fiber media/fiber couplers or the use of dark-cored fiber couplers. These configurations prevent pulse splitting that occurs in single mode source/multimode fiber systems by preventing light from the multimode fiber's center from interfering with the detector. When this is achieved, the detector is insulated from the effects of pulse splitting, supporting increased data rates by increasing the modal bandwidth.

Abstract: A method for improving modal bandwidth in computer networks using multimode optical fiber and single mode sources is disclosed in which the optical signal from a center of the optical fiber is blocked from reaching detector. This is accomplished according to a number of different techniques including the use of opaque spots on the fiber media/fiber couplers or the use of dark-cored fiber couplers. These configurations prevent pulse splitting that occurs in single mode source/multimode fiber systems by preventing light from the multimode fiber's center from interfering with the detector. When this is achieved, the detector is insulated from the effects of any pulse splitting, supporting data rates of greater than one GBPS by increasing the modal bandwidth.

Abstract: A friction pad configuration and a method and apparatus for fastening said pads to a disk core member wherein the base of the pad is formed with a plurality of extended tabs that are inserted in slots in the core and secured to the tabs of a pad on the opposite surface of the core by a clip that draws the base-to-base mounted pads together on the core. Alternatively, and for mounting on a single face surface of the core, U-clips are mounted on the tabs and inserted through the core to the opposite surface thereof and the ends of the U-clips are bent down into annular grooves in the face surface of the core to securely mount the pads to the core.

Abstract: A friction pad configuration and a method and apparatus for fastening said pads to a disk core member wherein the base of the pad is formed with a plurality of extended tabs that are inserted in slots in the core and secured to the tabs of a pad on the opposite surface of the core by a clip that draws the base-to-base mounted pads together on the core. Alternatively, and for mounting on a single face surface of the core, U-clips are mounted on the tabs and inserted through the core to the opposite surface therof and the ends of the U-clips are bent down into annular grooves in the face surface of the core to securely mount the pads to the core.

Abstract: An improved aircraft wheel configuration obviates the hazard of wheel failure during take-off and landing situations when tire deflation occurs and the wheel accepts full loading on its flanges. The wheel is configured to provide a differential flange height between the inboard and outboard flanges such that the total load applied to the wheel is distributed equally between the flanges. Alternatively, and/or in addition the flanges are restructured to provide an increased section modulus and the inboard flange is designed to provide a wider contact surface.

Abstract: A signal communicator for transmitting an electrical signal from one member rotating relative to another member is in the configuration of a journal bearing and comprises at least one conically shaped annular graphite ring supported by inner and outer electrically conductive races. While one race is insulatively mounted on the rotating member and electrically connected to a condition sensor, the other race is insulatively mounted on the relatively stationary member and electrically connected to a signal detector, and the graphite ring is an electrical conductor interconnecting the sensor and detector via the two races. Alternatively, two opposing and contacting graphite rings are mounted in nonconducting carriers, one of the carriers keyed for rotation with the sensor while the other is mounted on the relatively stationary member.