Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for constructing a vehicle-mounted single core broom system for use in clearing snow or debris from airport runways. The rotatable broom system utilizes a single piece hollow tubular core which is attached to the front of the vehicle. A low speed/high torque radial piston hydraulic motor is mounted inside one end of the broom core. The motor case rotates as the motor operates. Because the motor case is directly connected to the broom core, this rotation causes the broom core to rotate. A rotatable mounting is attached to the opposite end of the broom core. The broom core is 46 inches in diameter and dynamically balanced. These features enable higher broom tip speed and improved sweeping efficiency. Linear bristle cassettes are slid horizontally into the broom core sections, facilitating easy removal and replacement of the bristles as they become worn.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for reducing the wobble tendency in an axle-mounted caster wheel assembly on a vehicle-mounted broom system. The caster wheel is mounted on an axle which is connected to a yoke. The yoke is attached to an upwardly extending column member. Movement of the column member is controlled by an adjustable braking mechanism located at the top of the column member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for directing a low turbulence vehicle-mounted air blast for use in clearing snow or debris from a road or runway. An air blast system is mounted in the central portion of the vehicle underneath the chassis. An air duct is positioned on either side of the truck adjacent to a channel which passes under the truck. The air ducts are designed with minimal curvature and internal baffles in order to minimize air flow turbulence.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a method for reducing the viscosity of the settled mud or underflow of a raked thickener thereby reducing the torque necessary to move the rake blade through the settled mud. The method includes the step of delivering a viscosity modifier to the settled mud and in front of the rake blade by pumping the viscosity modifier down the rake arm to an area in front of the rake blade. The method also includes an improved rake mechanism that includes a means for delivering viscosity modifier to the settled mud and in front of the rake blade. The present invention also includes a method for increasing the rate of consolidation of flocculated solids in a slurry.

Abstract: A static video telephone for sending an image captured by an image capture-system and receiving a video signal transmitted over a telephone line. A video signal formed for transmission has a frame format including a phase shift correction data signal in addition to a frame synchronization signal, an amplitude calibration signal, an ID (information data) signal, and image data signal. The video telephone includes a frequency shift correction data generating circuit which is activated when frequency shifts are detected in the received signal and produces frequency-shift correction data. The frequency-shift correction data is then delivered to a subsequent demodulation timing generating circuit which scales phase errors in the received signal to produce phase error correction data. Both frequency-shift correction data and phase error correction data are combined together to produce a demodulation timing signal. With this signal, the received signal is demodulated.

Abstract: Apparatus for enhancing and thresholding scanned microfilm images, specifically for removing single pixel noise therefrom, and accompanying methods for use therein are disclosed. Specifically, this apparatus convolves each one of a pre-defined group of incoming pixel values with a corresponding one of a pre-defined set of coefficients in order to generate an convolved pixel value. The convolved pixel is then compared against a threshold level to produce a thresholded pixel value indicative of the results of the comparison. The inventive apparatus also includes a noise processing circuit that contains a noise tracker and a noise detector and filter circuit. The noise tracker is used to produce a noise value that tracks a noise level present in the threshold pixel value.

Abstract: A circuit and a method deaverages a stream of digital data in order to reconstruct an original non-averaged data stream therefrom, and particularly for reconstructing non-averaged (original) pixel values from a scan line containing averaged odd/even pixel values. If "n" equals the number of separate values used to determine each average value, deaveraging is accomplished by multiplying an incoming averaged digital data value by a pre-determined amount to yield a multiplied average value; subtracting "m" successive prior data values in a reconstructed stream of original non-averaged data values from the multiplied average value in order to yield a current value, wherein the value of "m" equals "n-1"; delaying the current value by "m" successive delay intervals in order to provide "m" separate corresponding ones of the prior data values; and routing the current value to an output point as being a current non-averaged value in said reconstructed data stream.

Abstract: Apparatus, and an accompanying method, for use in an image enhancement system for providing background and noise values which, in many instances, are more representative of background and noise levels occurring in a scanned video image than those values previously obtainable in the art. This apparatus, which in its general form can be used to implement both a noise tracking circuit and/or a background tracking circuit, includes a two-dimensional non-linear, preferably infinite impulse response, filter that provides an output filtered value based upon the value of an incoming pixel situated on a current scan line and to first and second prior output values. The first prior output value is the output filtered value that is associated with a pixel located on a pre-determined one of a plurality of prior scan lines and situated to the right of the current pixel.

Abstract: The improved archery bowstring release device of the invention includes a frame, a pair of opposable jaws pivotably connected to the front of the frame with the bowstring-retaining ends of the jaws at the front thereof and with the opposite or rear ends thereof defining a space when the front ends abut. A plunger with a specially configured head having a wider diameter at its front end is slideably disposed in the frame, the plunger head being urged forward into the space by a spring so as to keep the front ends of the jaws closed, trapping a bowstring therein. A trigger is secured to the plunger and enables the archer to urge the plunger rearward in the frame and out of the space so as to permit the front ends of the jaws to open and release the trapped bowstring. An adjustable stop may be provided to finely control the extent to which the head can be urged into the space and thus the extent of rearward movement of the trigger necessary to withdraw the head from the space.