Abstract: Measurement of the area and shape of contact between a vehicle's wheels or racks and the surface over which it moves is automated by having the vehicle drive over an array of switches connected in a matrix including X and Y conductors. The matrix is systematically scanned to produce a pulse train with one pulse therein for each closed switch, with the locations of said pulses indicating the shape of the area of contact. Circuit means are provided to count the number of pulses to indicate the area of contact and to operate a small scale display which indicates the shape of the area of contact.

Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention are particularly adapted to monitor for leaks from a fluid container which is situated in a porous or semiporous medium, such as earth. A series of sensors is placed in the medium at a position which would intercept the path of fluid leaking from the container. The sensors react to the presence of fluid thereby providing an indication of the presence of a leak and the approximate location of the leak.

Abstract: The light output of pyrotechnic luminants under dynamic conditions can be nitored to obtain data representative of ground surface illumination as a function of time and position of the illumination source. An array of photocells is disposed at substantially ground level throughout the range testing area, these photocells being sequentially scanned to provide a serial electrical data output during the firing of a pyrotechnic luminant-containing projectile over the range testing area. The serial data is transmitted to a remote control location whereat the data is received, sequentially demodulated, and converted into an optical display synchronously with the scanning in a pattern which simulates the illumination impinging on the photocell array. The position of the projectile over the range testing area is simultaneously tracked and a tracking information display is also provided.