Abstract: A sliding lock mechanism that utilizes a binding bar to prevent movement of a sliding member on a slide rail in at least one direction. A spring mechanism exerts a biasing force on the binding bar to maintain the locked position. The binding bar can be moved to an unlocking position by overcoming the bias of the spring. This then allows movement of the sliding member in two directions on the slide rail. An actuating rod moves the binding bar between the first and second positions. The mechanism can be added to a stowing mechanism for a laptop or other device that can secure different devices with varying widths within a compartment due to a drive spring mechanism. The addition of the locking mechanism allows for greater security of the laptop during periods of vibration and prevents backdriving of the spring mechanism.

Abstract: A stowing mechanism for a laptop or other device can secure different devices with varying thicknesses and widths within a compartment. The mechanism includes a cover which serves as the actuator for a jack mechanism. A pressure plate pivotally attached to the jack mechanism pushes against the device when the lid is closed, thereby securing the device within the compartment. The device can be released from the secure position by opening the cover. A buffer spring operating in conjunction with the jacking mechanism allows the mechanism to secure devices having different thicknesses and widths, while the pivotal pressure plate allows the plate to conform to devices having different shapes.

Abstract: An avionics LRU which is coupled to an avionics rack and/or mounting tray on an aircraft or a test station through a floating connector. The floating connection allows for reduced stress and strain on the pins and sockets in the connector during blind mating of the LRU to the rack or mounting tray or test station.

Abstract: An avionics test unit adapter for interfacing between an avionics test station and an avionics line replaceable unit, where the test unit adapter is blind mated with both. The test unit adapter has therein at least two rigid circuit cards used for signal distribution or transmission. The two rigid circuit cards being rigidly coupled to each other through an edge connector while each circuit card is mounted within the test unit adapter with the ability to float therein in at least three orthogonal directions.

Abstract: An improved avionics fluorescent lamp including a fluorescent tube having a resistive element disposed on its exterior and a terminal block for receiving an inserted fluorescent tube, the terminal block having a semi-rigid electrical contact for contacting the resistive element when the tube is inserted inside the terminal block. A plurality of connectors are disposed on the exterior of the terminal block for providing easy connection between the lamp wiring harness and the filament pins of the fluorescent tube and the resistive element by the semi-rigid connector. And a display device having the fluorescent lamp of the present invention disposed therein where the resistive element is disposed on the reflector side of the tube.

Abstract: A luminaire including one or more fluorescent tubes and associated reflectors for use in backlighting a projection type liquid crystal display matrix. The reflectors have special arcuate shapes designed to forwardly project light to the display matrix and also to direct diffuse light outward from behind the fluorescent tubes so that all of the light generated by the tubes can be efficiently projected for use in illuminating the display matrix.