Abstract:
The present invention relates to a connector configured as a fastening element. Some embodiments are in the form of a wearable "smart" electrical connector and associated connector system in the form of a modular network, which for the first time integrates electronics into protective clothing in a body-conformable and comfortable fashion. It has these unique features: wearability compatible with existing and future military/civilian vests/uniforms; a button-like snap-fastener that can be snapped and unsnapped "blindly" with one hand; and resilience to harsh temperature/humidity, chemicals, water and laundering. Another embodiment is employed in a carton-centric system to indicate tampering with the carton during transit.
Abstract:
An improved stacked rotary connector assembly with a pair of rings (figure 2) that are split (figure 3) so that either ring may be removed from the stacked connector assembly without requiring removal of any other rotary connector and without disturbin the input/output buses of the assembly.
Abstract:
A Lobster Eye X-ray Imaging System based on a unique Lobster Eye (LE) structure, X-ray generator, scintillator-based detector and cooled CCD (or Intensified CCD) for real-time, safe, staring Compton backscatter X-ray detection of objects hidden under ground, in containers, behind walls, bulkheads etc.. In contrast to existing scanning pencil beam systems, Lobster Eye X-Ray Imaging System's true focusing X-ray optics simultaneously acquire ballistic Compton backscattering photons (CBPs) from an entire scene irradiated by a wide-open cone beam from one or more X-ray generators. The Lobster Eye X-ray Imaging System collects (focuses) thousands of times more backscattered hard X- rays in the range from 40 to 120 keV (or wavelength ? = 0.31 to 0.1 A) than current backscatter imaging sensors (BISs), giving high sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and penetration through ground, metal walls etc.. The collection efficiency of Lobster Eye X-ray Imaging System is optimized to reduce emitted X-ray power and miniaturize the device. This device is especially advantageous for and satisfies requirements of X-ray-based inspection systems, namely, penetration of the X-rays through ground, metal and other material concealments; safely; and man-portability. The advanced technology disclosed herein is also applicable to medical diagnostics and military applications such as mine detection, securily screening and a like.
Abstract:
An entirely wearable electrical connector for power/data connectivity. The principal element of a modular network is the wearable electrical connector, which is integrated into a personal area network with USB compatibility. Several wearable connector embodiments are disclosed. An enhancement to the wearable connector includes OSI Layer 2 (and potentially Layer 3) functionality. Data Link layer functionality is supported by including electronic serial numbers at wearable snap-connector points.
Abstract:
A light diffuser is fabricated by first producing a metal shim submaster (30 ) or other high temperature resistant diffuser having a surface relief structu re on one surface. A glass substrate material (56) is heated to a suitable temperature and at least one exposed surface is thereby softened to a desire d degree. The submaster diffuser (30), and particularly the surface relief structure, is placed in contact with the exposed and softened glass substrat e material (56) in order to replicate the surface relief structure in the glas s material (56). The submaster diffuser (30) and the glass substrate (56) are separated and then the glass is allowed to cool to form a glass diffuser.