Abstract: Position control methods are described for satellites and spacecraft for controlling transition from thruster control to momentum wheel control in a three-axis stabilized spacecraft. Transition from a high-bandwidth, high-torque thruster-controlled stationkeeping (SK) mode to a low bandwidth, low torque momentum wheel On-Orbit Mode is carried out. Usually a unique threshold entry method to automatically initiate the transition mode at the point with the most favorable dynamics. Also, the disclosed method eliminates the use of nutation in conjunction with a deadbeat thruster sequence to correct the spacecraft attitude to improve pointing performance and significantly shorten the time spent in the transition mode.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a friction article wherein a fiber material (14) having a continuous and substantially uniform three dimensional matrix which is filled with a slurry (24) made up of fillers, friction modifiers, a reinforcing material and a liquid binder. The filled fiber material is conveyed to a dryer (32) where the volatile solution is evaporated leaving the fillers, friction modifiers, reinforcing material and binder. The filled fiber material (14) is thereafter placed in an oven (50) where a compressive force is applied thereto while the binder is cured to define a second matrix which holds the fillers, friction modifiers, and reinforcing material in the three dimensional matrix.

Abstract: A method of constructing a brake pedal comprises the steps of generating a continuous tubular member (18) by pultruding a thermoplastic or B staged thermosetting plastic resin through a die (16), attaching cross members (26 and 28) to the continuous tubular member (18), cutting the continuous tubular member (18) into segments (30 . . . 30.sup.N) of predetermined length, and deforming each segment (30 . . . 30.sup.N) to substantially define a pedal (60). The resin carries strands (14) and the segments (30 . . . 30.sup.N) are exposed to heat and pressure to permanently set the shape of the pedal (60). The cross members (26 and 28) are used to pivotally secure the brake pedal (60) to a vehicle in its installed position and also to connect the brake pedal (60) to an input member for a master cylinder or brake booster assembly.

Abstract: A strain of Erwinia herbicola identified as EHO-10 has been found to have a broad spectrum of inhibitory activity against pathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria inhibited by EHO-10 includes those from the following genera: Agrobacterium, Corynebacterium, Erwinia, Pseudomonas, and Xanthomonas. EHO-10 has inhibitory activity against Erwinia amylovora, a bacteria pathogen causing fire blight disease of pear and other trees.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a friction article wherein a fiber material (14) having a continuous and substantially uniform three dimensional matrix which is filled with a slurry (24) made up of fillers, friction modifiers, a reinforcing material and a liquid binder. The filled fiber material is conveyed to a dryer (32) where the volatile solution is evaporated leaving the fillers, friction modifiers, reinforcing material and binder. The filled fiber material (14) is thereafter placed in an oven (50) where a compressive force is applied thereto while the binder is cured to define a second matrix which holds the fillers, friction modifiers, and reinforcing material in the three dimensional matrix.

Abstract: A process for producing an organic friction article from a composition of materials in a dust free environment. Water is mixed with the composition of organic materials to produce a slurry. A fixed volume of the slurry is communicated into a first mold. The slurry in the first mold is compressed to remove up to 95% by weight of the water to form a briquette. The briquette is conveyed to a force air oven or dielectric heater where the water is further reduced to about 1% of the weight of the briquette. This dry briquette is then placed in a second mold and pressed into the shape of a friction pad. The pressed friction pad is placed in an oven and heated to cure the resin in the composition of materials to complete the manufacture of the organic friction pad.