Abstract: A method is provided for generating a group digital signature wherein each of a group of individuals may sign a message M to create a group digital signature S, wherein M corresponds to a number representative of a message, 0≦M≦n−1, n is a composite number formed from the product of a number k of distinct random prime factors p1·p2· . . . ·pk, k is an integer greater than 2, and S≡Md(mod n). The method may include: performing a first partial digital signature subtask on a message M using a first individual private key to produce a first partial digital signature S1; performing at least a second partial digital signature subtask on the message M using a second individual private key to produce a second partial digital signature S2; and combining the partial digital signature results to produce a group digital signature S.

Abstract: A combined defense and navigational system on a naval vessel is disclosed. The disclosed system includes a track-while-scan pulse radar which is controlled to provide either navigational information or tracking information on selected targets. Additionally, the disclosed system includes a plurality of guided missiles, each of which may be vertically launched and directed toward intercept of a selected target either by commands from the track-while-scan radar or from an active guidance system in each such missile.

Abstract: A laser employing a tapered, thin film interference filter as a tuning element. Tapered, thin film interference filters employing dielectric layers are disclosed for use in tuning lasers. Methods of tuning a laser by adjustably positioning a tapered thin film interference filter are disclosed. Also included are a method for tuning a laser to account or thermal wavelength drift, a method of mounting an etalon in a substantially stress free manner, and a mount therefor.

Abstract: The present invention is a self-developing compact camera having a housing that encloses, in a common cavity thereof, an arrangement comprising a taking lens, shutter, a light-reflector, viewfinder, power source, actuator, a self-developing film compartment, and a spring biased exit flap. The present invention also includes a method of manufacturing said camera.

Abstract: A composite detector device that incorporates a plurality of types of detector elements to cover a broad wavelength range. There may be one or more individual detector elements of each detector type. The individual detector elements are positioned upon a single substrate so that when light from a sample passes through a spectral dispersing element, each detector element is exposed to light of a predetermined, limited wavelength range.

Abstract: An elongated open ended tube has a square or rectangular cross-section and light reflecting inner surfaces. The tube is formed with flat semi-rigid side walls flexibly connected at the corners for collapsing or folding the tube between a generally flat storage and shipping position and an expanded tubular position for installation. The tube extends within an attic of a building with its upper open end portion covered by a light transmitting skylight attached to the roof of the building and its lower open end portion covered by a light transmitting and diffusing panel or lens attached to a ceiling of the building.

Abstract: A method provided for determining an optimal number k of prime factors p1, p2, . . . pk for developing a modulus N for use in a cryptographic system providing computational performance that increases as the number of constituent prime factors of the modulus increases, wherein use of the optimal number k of prime factors enables the system to provide optimal computational performance while maintaining a determined level of security.

Abstract: A business method is disclosed wherein a company promotes health awareness, education and access to a healthcare system. The company advertises its services to reach prospective patients with a specified medical condition and has patient advocate personnel to answer inquiries. The company arranges with doctors and medical suppliers who specialize in the specified medical condition and with other entities to become contributors for funding of a healthcare pathway. A patient advocate shepherds assigned patients through the healthcare pathway at no cost to the patient. The company arranges with not-for-profit associations to provide affinity grant funding in return for supplying prospective patients. The healthcare pathway provides the patients with expedited treatment and enables doctors and suppliers specializing in the specific medical condition to be more efficient and enables the company to be financially self-sustaining.

Abstract: The present invention is a self-developing compact camera having a housing that encloses, in a common cavity thereof, an arrangement comprising a taking lens, shutter, a light-reflector, viewfinder, power source, actuator, a self-developing film compartment, and a spring biased exit flap. The present invention also includes a method of manufacturing said camera.

Abstract: A microwave-based process for dental casting includes the use of microwave radiation to obtain burnout of a wax pattern from an investment mold. Phosphate-based, thermal investment materials have been found suitable for use in the process.

Abstract: A microwave-based process for dental casting includes the use of microwave radiation to obtain burnout of a wax pattern from an investment mold. Phosphate-based, thermal investment materials have been found suitable for use in the process.

Abstract: In a video conference system, participants are provided with a greater sense of presence. A pair of monitors are positioned at each location and provide a presence view image and a shared space image of the other location. With this system, participants can overlap their finger pointing at a shared image while maintaining eye-to-eye contact.

Abstract: A gas analysis apparatus for analysis of sample gas wherein the apparatus has a mechanism for cleaning optical elements such as reflectors and windows in the apparatus is provided. The gas analysis apparatus includes a light source for emitting light, a body having an isolated cavity in which the light emitted by the light source propagates, a detector for analyzing light scattered by the sample gas in the isolated cavity, and a spraying system connected to the body to spray a sublimable substance. The isolated cavity has one or more optical elements each with a surface. The spray of the sublimable substance is directed onto such a surface for in situ removal of contaminants. The body has a sample inlet port for introducing the sample gas into the cavity and an outlet port for venting gas from the cavity.

Abstract: A camera shutter and focus encoder assembly comprises an encoder mask fixed in a camera housing and having an arcuate window having alternating opaque and transmissive portions, and an encoder sheet mounted in the housing in abutting relationship with the encoder mask, the encoder sheet being movable with exposure blades and the focus lens of the camera and having an arcuate window having alternating opaque and transmissive portions therein. Means are provided for pressing the encoder mask and the encoder sheet together with the mask and sheet windows in registration with each other. A sensor passes pulses of light through the mask and sheet windows when the transmissive portions thereof are in registration and detects the pulses of light, converts the light pulses to electrical signals, and transmits the electrical signals.

Abstract: An arrangement of air foils in a duct bend for channeling an air flow through the duct in a manner which enhances the accuracy of pressure measurements taken at one or more points in the channels formed in the duct between the air foils.

Abstract: A camera shutter and focus lens assembly includes a rotary motor having a central shaft, and a rotary beam actuator connected to the shaft. A moveable focus lens, a first shutter blade, and a second shutter blade are in mechanical communication with the actuator beam. Rotation of the shaft by the motor operates to cause movement of the focus lens to effect a selected focusing relationship between the focus lens and a fixed lens proximate thereto, and further operates to cause movement of the first and second shutter blades to cause the shutter blades cooperatively to define an opening to permit light to pass therethrough.

Abstract: A multi-directional after-air port for controlling air flow to a furnace in a staged combustion system has multiple sets of louvers or dampers oriented perpendicular to each other for improved control over combustion air-flow direction.

Abstract: A spectrograph having a collimating lens unit, a reflective diffraction grating, a focusing lens unit, and a light detector is provided. The collimating lens unit has at least one optical element with at least one aspheric surface for collimating light from a light source. This lens unit has a positive optical power and a focal ratio of at most 1.7. The reflective diffraction grating diffracts the collimated light from the collimating lens unit. The focusing lens unit also has at least one lens with at least one aspheric surface. It focuses the first order diffracted light on the light detector and has a focal length that provides an overall magnification of 0.8 to 2.0 when combined with the collimating lens unit and the diffraction grating.