Abstract: A multi-media/simulation training system, in conjunction with a specifically developed and utilized training process, that improves target recognition skills and enhances gunnery training. The system has implications in other cognitive development activities, as well as—but not limited to—medical, technological, biological, anthropological and other areas of study with objects requiring accurate recognition and designation, as well as personnel identification devices, games, and entertainment systems. The system uses a combination of verbal and visual error correction, including magnification and rotation of both the test image and the incorrect image identified by the trainee, to enhance observation and knowledge of visible differences.

Abstract: Differential image data compression systems and techniques are disclosed for use in video telephone systems for full duplex, real time transmission of audio and video images over nominal 3 kHz residential telephone lines and other narrow bandwidth channels. Each video telephone device consists of a transmitting portion and a receiving portion. In the transmitting section a reduced grey-scale (luminance) image, preferably consisting of only black-and-white pixels, is compared in an image processing module with a similarly reduced image derived from previous values to determine pixel positions that have changed. Information representative of the changes is then encoded and modulated and (time or frequency) multiplexed with the audio and/or chrominance signals for transmission. At the receiver, the incoming signal is demodulated and demultiplexed to separate the audio and video portions, the image portion is decoded and the luminance value is updated by an image updating unit.

Abstract: A pattern (e.g., the normal or abnormal characteristics of a biological cell) within an image is recognized based on visual characteristics of the pattern, the image being represented by signals whose values correspond to the visual characteristics, using a location channel which determines the location of the pattern within the image based on the signal values, and a classification channel which categorizes the pattern based on the signal values, the location channel and the classification channel operating in parallel and cooperatively to recognize the pattern.

Abstract: Apparatus for simulating an exoatmospheric structure, such as a spin stabilized satellite, in an environment subject to gravitational forces. The apparatus includes a floating structure which is pivotally and rotationally supported upon a gimballed bearing structure positioned adjacent the center of mass of the floating structure and suspended upon a support structure. The floating structure is translatable in either vertical direction relative to the supporting structure upon a vertically movable suspension system connected to the supporting structure. The supporting structure is provided with bearing assemblies which are adapted to engage a supporting surface for permitting freedom of movement of the supporting structure over the supporting structure in any direction.

Abstract: A generic algorithm search is applied to determine an optimum set of values (e.g., interconnection weights in a neural network), each value being associated with a pair of elements drawn from a universe of N elements, N an integer greater than zero, where the utility of any possible set of said values may be measured. An initial possible set of values is assembled, the values being organized in a matrix whose rows and columns correspond to the elements. A genetic algorithm operator is applied to generate successor matrices from said matrix. Matrix computations are performed on the successor matrices to generate measures of the relative utilities of the successor matrices. A surviving matrix is selected from the successor matrices on the basis of the metrics. The steps are repeated until the metric of the surviving matrix is satisfactory.