Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation

United States of America

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IPC Class
H03K 19/195 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one output; Inverting circuits using specified components using superconductive devices 100
H01L 39/22 - Devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, e.g. Josephson-effect devices 52
H03K 3/38 - Generators characterised by the type of circuit or by the means used for producing pulses by the use, as active elements, of superconductive devices 51
G11C 11/44 - Digital stores characterised by the use of particular electric or magnetic storage elements; Storage elements therefor using electric elements using super-conductive elements, e.g. cryotron 46
H01L 39/02 - Devices using superconductivity or hyperconductivity; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof - Details 42
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1.

BACK-BARRIER FOR GALLIUM NITRIDE BASED HIGH ELECTRON MOBILITY TRANSISTORS

      
Application Number 18049064
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-10-23
First Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Coffie, Robert

Abstract

A high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) device including a substrate, an AlGaN buffer layer on the substrate, where the buffer layer has a percentage of Al between 1% and 6%, an InGaN layer on the buffer layer, where the InGaN layer has about 10% of In, a GaN channel layer on the InGaN layer, and an AlGaN barrier layer on the channel layer. In one embodiment, the buffer layer is Al0.04Ga0.96N, the InGaN layer is about 2 nm thick, and the barrier layer is Al0.34Ga0.66N. The HEMT device may include a nucleation layer between the substrate and the buffer layer, a GaN spacer layer between the buffer layer and the InGaN layer, and/or an AlN interlayer between the channel layer and the barrier layer.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 29/778 - Field-effect transistors with two-dimensional charge carrier gas channel, e.g. HEMT
  • H01L 29/20 - Semiconductor bodies characterised by the materials of which they are formed including, apart from doping materials or other impurities, only AIIIBV compounds
  • H01L 29/205 - Semiconductor bodies characterised by the materials of which they are formed including, apart from doping materials or other impurities, only AIIIBV compounds including two or more compounds in different semiconductor regions

2.

JOSEPHSON JUNCTION DEVICE WITH ORTHOGONAL ELECTRODES

      
Application Number 17967584
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-10-17
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Warner, Patrick R.
  • Hackley, Justin C.
  • Keebaugh, Shawn A.
  • Graninger, Aurelius L.

Abstract

A Josephson junction (JJ) device is disclosed that includes a first superconductor structure having a bottom superconductor arm portion and a second superconductor structure having a top superconductor arm portion disposed substantially orthogonal to the bottom superconductor arm portion and overlapping the bottom superconductor arm portion in a JJ operation region. The JJ device further includes a dielectric material layer acting as a tunnel barrier disposed between the bottom superconductor arm portion and the top superconductor arm portion in the JJ operation region to form an operating JJ.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 39/02 - Devices using superconductivity or hyperconductivity; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof - Details
  • H01L 39/12 - Devices using superconductivity or hyperconductivity; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof - Details characterised by the material
  • H01L 39/22 - Devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, e.g. Josephson-effect devices
  • H01L 39/24 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of devices provided for in group or of parts thereof

3.

AXIAL FLUX MACHINE FOR USE WITH PROJECTILES

      
Application Number 18097666
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-01-17
First Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Parrow, Jacob M.
  • Fong, Matthew
  • Monzo, Glen

Abstract

A powered projectile having a nose portion, a body portion, a tail portion, and a central axis. In various embodiments a collar is rotatably mounted to a control support portion with a plurality of aerodynamic surfaces thereon for despinning the collar. An alternator configured as an axial flux machine with a stator arranged can be axially adjacent to one or more rotors, the stator including a plurality of windings and the one or more rotors each including a plurality of permanent magnets arranged about the face of the respective one or more rotor. In various embodiments the projectile includes an assembly of projectile control circuitry. In one or more embodiments, upon relative motion of the rotor with respect to the stator, magnetic flux from the magnets interacts with the windings of the stator and passes through an air gap between the one or more rotors and stator.

IPC Classes  ?

4.

DESPUN WING CONTROL SYSTEM FOR GUIDED PROJECTILE MANEUVERS

      
Application Number 18107554
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-02-09
First Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor Wilson, Michael J.

Abstract

A guided projectile having a nose portion, a body portion, a tail portion, and a central axis. In various embodiments the projectile includes a control support portion and a collar assembly pivotally mounted to the control support portion. In various embodiments the collar assembly includes a collar having an exterior sidewall with a plurality of fixed aerodynamic surfaces thereon for spinning the collar and a plurality of variable sweep wings for directional control of the projectile. In various embodiments the plurality of variable sweep wings each have a first end coupled to a wing actuator configured to rotate a second end portion between and including a first position, where the wings are oriented generally parallel to the central axis of the projectile to a second position, where the lengthwise wing axis of the plurality of wings are oriented generally perpendicular to the central axis of the projectile.

IPC Classes  ?

5.

RF MODULES WITH AN ENCLOSURE HAVING A MICROMACHINED INTERIOR USING SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION

      
Application Number 17899750
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-08-31
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Duan, Dah-Weih
  • Kunkee, Elizabeth T

Abstract

An exemplary RF module includes a dielectric substrate with metal traces on one surface that connect high frequency components and provide reference ground. Other metal traces on the other surface of the substrate also provide high frequency transmission lines and reference ground. An enclosure made using semiconductor manufacturing technology is mounted to the substrate and has conductive interior recesses defined by extending walls that are connected to the reference ground. The recesses surround the respective components and provide electromagnetic shielding. The dimensional precision in the location and smoothness of the walls and recesses due to the semiconductor manufacturing technology provides repeatable unit-to-unit RF characteristics of the RF module. One way of mounting the enclosure to the substrate uses a plurality of metal bonding bumps extending outwardly from the walls to engage reference ground metal traces on the substrate. Applied pressure deforms the bonding bumps to form a metal-to-metal bond.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01Q 9/04 - Resonant antennas
  • C23C 14/02 - Pretreatment of the material to be coated
  • C23C 14/18 - Metallic material, boron or silicon on other inorganic substrates
  • C23C 14/34 - Sputtering
  • C23C 28/02 - Coating for obtaining at least two superposed coatings either by methods not provided for in a single one of main groups , or by combinations of methods provided for in subclasses and only coatings of metallic material
  • C25D 3/48 - Electroplating; Baths therefor from solutions of gold
  • C25D 5/54 - Electroplating of non-metallic surfaces
  • C25D 7/12 - Semiconductors
  • H01Q 1/48 - Earthing means; Earth screens; Counterpoises

6.

Active fuel thermal conditioning for aircraft

      
Application Number 16927754
Grant Number 11939078
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-13
First Publication Date 2024-03-26
Grant Date 2024-03-26
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Lui, Clarence
  • Dooley, Matthew

Abstract

Fuel used as a coolant in an aircraft can be thermally conditioned for active thermal management of the airframe and engine. The fuel can be thermally conditioned using the residual cooling capacity of a power and thermal module (PTM), providing flexibility of thermal system design, or via a compact engine-mounted turbo cooler, to maximize system efficiency. The fuel can be stored in a thermal reserve tank to provide a missionized heat sink capable serviceable for periodic high heat flux equipment. The cooling and provision of cooled fuel to aircraft components can be intelligently controlled to provide efficient cooling and effectively unlimited ground hold times.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64D 37/34 - Conditioning fuel, e.g. heating
  • B64D 13/06 - Arrangements or adaptations of air-treatment apparatus for aircraft crew or passengers, or freight space the air being conditioned
  • B64D 13/08 - Arrangements or adaptations of air-treatment apparatus for aircraft crew or passengers, or freight space the air being conditioned the air being heated or cooled
  • B64D 37/02 - Tanks
  • F02C 7/224 - Heating fuel before feeding to the burner

7.

MAP ITEM CLUSTER CONTROL

      
Application Number 17858237
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-07-06
First Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Dyer, Douglas M.
  • Devlin, Verner Keith
  • Smith, William R.

Abstract

A map control module receives a stream of map data characterizing a geographic region proximal to a vehicle and outputs a moving map, and the moving map is divisible into a matrix of cells. A map item control receives a stream of point of interest (POI) data characterizing a plurality of POIs within the boundary and categorizes each of the plurality of POIs to define a set of categories. The map item control determines a display location of a map item within the matrix of cells for each of the plurality of POIs and determines an importance for each POI within a same category. The map item control forms a set of clusters of map items. Each map item in a given cluster of map items has a same cell and a same category. The map item control selects a top-item for each cluster of map items.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 16/29 - Geographical information databases
  • G06F 16/28 - Databases characterised by their database models, e.g. relational or object models

8.

MAGNETO-OPTICAL TRAP SYSTEM

      
Application Number 17945775
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-09-15
First Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Chavez, Dora
  • Imhof, Eric A.
  • Larsen, Michael S.

Abstract

One example includes a MOT system. The system includes first optical source configured to provide a plurality of first optical beams parallel to a central axis associated with the MOT system, and a first set of optics configured to focus the first optical beams to the central axis through a trapping region comprising a vapor of atoms. The system also includes a second optical source configured to provide a plurality of second optical beams parallel to the central axis associated with the MOT system, and a second set of optics configured to focus the second optical beams to the central axis through the trapping region. Each of the second optical beams can be coaxial with a respective one of the first optical beams, such that each of the first optical beams is counterpropagating with a respective one of the second optical beams.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G21K 1/00 - Arrangements for handling particles or ionising radiation, e.g. focusing or moderating

9.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS FOR FORMING HIGH-TEMPERATURE COMPOSITE STRUCTURES AND RELATED STRUCTURES

      
Application Number 18508839
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-14
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Thrasher, Talbot P.
  • Dominick, Timothy E.

Abstract

Methods for fabricating high-temperature composite structures (e.g., structures comprising carbon-carbon composite materials or ceramic composite matrix (CMC) materials and configured for use at temperature at or exceeding about 2000° F. (1093° C.)) include forming precursor structures by additive manufacturing (“AM”) (e.g., “3D printing”) with a filament drawn from a spool. The precursor structures are exposed to high temperatures to pyrolyze a precursor matric material of the initial 3D printed structure. A liquid resin is used to impregnate the pyrolyzed structure, to densify the structure into a near-net final shape. Use of expensive and time-consuming molds and post-processing machining may be avoided. Large, unitary, integrally formed parts conducive for use in high-temperature environments may be formed using the methods of the disclosure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C04B 35/83 - Carbon fibres in a carbon matrix
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/30 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
  • C04B 35/622 - Forming processes; Processing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products
  • C04B 35/628 - Coating the powders
  • C04B 35/64 - Burning or sintering processes

10.

VEHICLE CAPTURE ASSEMBLIES AND RELATED DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

      
Application Number 18518985
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-25
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Michel, Matthew Alan
  • Tosto, Michael Alfred
  • Tebbe, Kevin David
  • Inoyama, Daisaku
  • Papayanopoulos, John Francis

Abstract

Vehicle capture assemblies and related devices, systems, and methods include one or more probe assemblies for engaging with and securing the target vehicle. The one or more probe assemblies may include one or more attenuation features or movable joints to enable and/or dampen movement of the one or more probe assemblies relative to a capture vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64G 1/64 - Systems for coupling or separating cosmonautic vehicles or parts thereof, e.g. docking arrangements

11.

ELECTROMETER WITH OPTICAL RYDBERG FREQUENCY TUNING

      
Application Number 18465040
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-11
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Imhof, Eric A.

Abstract

One embodiment includes an electrometer system. The system includes a sensor cell comprising alkali metal atoms within, and an optical beam system configured to provide at least one optical beam through the sensor cell to provide a first Rydberg energy state of the alkali metal atoms, the at least one optical beam exiting the sensor cell as a detection beam. The system also includes a tuning laser configured to generate a tuning beam having a predetermined tuning frequency between the first Rydberg energy state and an intermediate energy state of the alkali metal atoms. The system further includes a detection system configured to monitor the detection beam to detect an external signal having a frequency that is approximately equal to an energy difference between the first Rydberg energy state and a second Rydberg energy state based on monitoring the detection beam.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 29/08 - Measuring electromagnetic field characteristics
  • G01R 29/12 - Measuring electrostatic fields

12.

Firing switch for compact capacitive discharge unit

      
Application Number 16602843
Grant Number 11927431
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-12-10
First Publication Date 2024-03-12
Grant Date 2024-03-12
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Lucas, James D.
  • Mcdonough, Eric M.

Abstract

A capacitive discharge unit (CDU) for detonating an explosive in response to a control signal comprises a set of CDU components, including an exploding foil initiator (EFI), a trigger circuit, a firing capacitor, and an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) firing switch. In various embodiments the components are arranged on a board for mechanically and electrically supporting the components in an ordered arrangement along a CDU axis where the CDU having an axial length defined by the ordered arrangement of two or more of the EFI, the firing capacitor, and the IBGT firing switch, wherein the trigger circuit is offset from the CDU axis such that the trigger circuit does not contribute to the axial length.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F42B 3/12 - Bridge initiators
  • F42C 11/04 - Electric fuzes with current induction
  • F42D 1/05 - Electric circuits for blasting
  • H01L 23/498 - Leads on insulating substrates
  • H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components

13.

ALIGNMENT OF A COORDINATE FRAME WITH A BORESIGHT AXIS OF AN OPTICAL TRACKING DEVICE

      
Application Number 17901255
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-09-01
First Publication Date 2024-03-07
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Tazartes, Daniel A.
  • Dahlen, Neal Joseph

Abstract

One example includes a navigation system. The navigation system includes an inertial navigation system (INS) that is configured to provide a coordinate frame corresponding to an inertial reference of the INS relative to a geodetic coordinate system. The coordinate frame includes a reference axis that defines a reference orientation of the INS. The system also includes an optical tracking device configured to obtain a reference image to determine an orientation of a boresight axis of the optical tracking device. The system further includes an alignment controller configured to compare the reference axis based on the coordinate frame and the boresight axis based on the reference image to determine an angular misalignment between the reference axis and the boresight axis, and to adjust the reference orientation to align the reference axis to the boresight axis based on the determined angular misalignment.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/16 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups by using measurement of speed or acceleration executed aboard the object being navigated; Dead reckoning by integrating acceleration or speed, i.e. inertial navigation
  • G01B 11/27 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes

14.

SYSTEM FOR FABRICATING AN OPTICAL ELEMENT

      
Application Number 18500196
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-02
First Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Goodno, Gregory D.
  • Rothenberg, Joshua E.
  • Ho, James G.
  • Guenther, Dustin

Abstract

A system for fabricating an optical element. The system includes means for welding an array of fibers to the optical element, means for measuring an angle error and a position error of each fiber, means for calculating a correction for each fiber for the angle error and the position error and means for correcting the angle and position of each fiber using the calculated corrections.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C03B 37/15 - Re-forming fibres or filaments with heat application, e.g. for making optical fibres
  • G02B 27/09 - Beam shaping, e.g. changing the cross-sectioned area, not otherwise provided for
  • G02B 27/62 - Optical apparatus specially adapted for adjusting optical elements during the assembly of optical systems

15.

TESTING A SIGNAL PATH

      
Application Number 17819578
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-08-12
First Publication Date 2024-02-15
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Cross, David I.
  • Egan, Jonathan D.
  • March, Robert J.
  • Barkdoll, Ty L.

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to testing one or more signal paths. For example, a signal path may include a phase shifter that may impart a phase shift to signals passing through the signal path. Some embodiments may test a phase shift imparted to a signal by the signal path, including the phase shifter. Some embodiments may test the phase shift by comparing the phase of a signal at an input of the signal path with the phase of a signal at the output of the signal path. Some embodiments may test the phase shift by providing a signal at inputs of two phase paths and comparing the phases of signals at the outputs of the signal paths. Some embodiments may further adjust a phase shifter responsive to the test. Related devices, systems and methods are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04B 17/309 - Measuring or estimating channel quality parameters

16.

ATOMIC CLOCK SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18365265
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-04
First Publication Date 2024-02-08
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Jefferts, Steven Ryan
  • Lebedev, Vyacheslav

Abstract

An atomic clock system includes a waveguide cavity that is sealed and comprises a gas enclosed therein. The waveguide cavity has a length that is an integer multiple of approximately one half-wavelength of a resonant frequency of the gas between two states. An oscillator system generates an RF signal through the waveguide cavity. The RF signal has a signal frequency that is approximately equal to the resonant frequency of the gas. A detection system measures a characteristic of the RF signal through the waveguide cavity to detect a maximum transition between the two states of the gas and to provide a feedback signal to the oscillator system to lock the signal frequency of the RF signal to the resonant frequency of the gas based on detecting the maximum transition. The detection system provides a frequency reference output signal based on the signal frequency of the RF signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03L 7/26 - Automatic control of frequency or phase; Synchronisation using energy levels of molecules, atoms, or subatomic particles as a frequency reference
  • H01P 3/12 - Hollow waveguides

17.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE OPTICAL ABSORBER COMPRISING FUNCTIONALIZED, NON-WOVEN, CNT SHEET AND TEXTURIZED POLYMER FILM OR TEXTURIZED POLYMER COATING AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF

      
Application Number 18379365
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-12
First Publication Date 2024-02-08
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Starkovich, John A.
  • Silverman, Edward M.

Abstract

A method using capillary force lamination (CFL) for manufacturing a high-performance optical absorber, includes: texturizing a base layer of the high-performance optical absorber, the base layer comprising one or more of a polymer film and a polymer coating; joining a surface layer of the high-performance optical absorber to the base layer, the surface layer comprising a non-woven carbon nanotube (CNT) sheet; wetting the joined surface layer and base layer with a solvent; allowing surface tension forces of the solvent to draw the non-woven CNT sheet into the base layer, thereby texturizing the surface layer; drying the joined surface layer and base layer; and treating the resulting base layer with plasma, creating the high-performance optical absorber.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 5/00 - Optical elements other than lenses
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
  • B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

18.

CHANNELIZED FILTER USING SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION

      
Application Number 18382598
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-23
First Publication Date 2024-02-08
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Duan, Dah-Weih
  • Kunkee, Elizabeth T.
  • Larouche, Stephane

Abstract

A semiconductor technology implemented high-frequency channelized filter includes a dielectric substrate with metal traces disposed on one of two major surfaces of the substrate. An input and output port disposed on the substrate and one of the metal traces carrying a high-frequency signal to be filtered between the input and output port. Other of the metal traces are connected to the one metal trace at intervals along the length of the one metal trace each providing a reactance to the high-frequency signal where the reactance varies with frequency and additional traces of the metal traces serving as a reference ground for the one metal trace and the other metal traces. A silicon enclosure mounted to the substrate with a first planar surface with cavities in the enclosure that extend through the first surface, and internal walls within the silicon enclosure defining the cavities. A layer of conductive metal covers the first planar surface, cavities and the internal walls. The silicon enclosure having substantially continuous areas of metal on the first planar surface about the periphery of the silicon enclosure that engage corresponding areas of the additional traces about the periphery of the substrate. The cavities surround the respective other metal traces with the internal cavity walls engaging the additional traces adjacent the respective other metal traces to individually surround each of the other metal traces with a conductive metal thereby providing electromagnetic field isolation between each of the other metal traces.

IPC Classes  ?

19.

NANOIMPRINTED PHOTONIC INTEGRATED CIRCUITS

      
Application Number 18479418
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-02
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Knight, Mark William
  • Sandor-Leahy, Stephanie Roxane
  • Narasimhan, Lakshminarayanan Ravi

Abstract

A method of making a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) is provided. The method comprises depositing a functional resist material layer over a substrate, disposing and pressing a stamp with a plurality of nanopatterns into the functional resist material for a period of time, and removing the stamp from the functional resist material to provide nanofeatures that are inverted versions of the nanopatterns, wherein the nanofeatures form one or more optical elements.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 6/136 - Integrated optical circuits characterised by the manufacturing method by etching

20.

ELECTROMETER SYSTEM WITH RYDBERG DECAY FLUORESCENCE DETECTION

      
Application Number 18349711
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-10
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Imhof, Eric A.
  • Jefferts, Steven Ryan
  • Walker, Thad G.
  • Lebedev, Vyacheslav

Abstract

One example includes an electrometer system. The system includes a sensor cell comprising an alkali metal vapor within. The system also includes an excitation beam system configured to provide at least one excitation optical beam through the sensor cell to excite the alkali metal atoms from a ground state to a Rydberg energy state. The system also includes a stimulated emission beam system configured to provide a stimulated emission optical beam through the sensor cell to provide energy decay of the alkali metal atoms to a decay energy state that is less than the Rydberg energy state. The system further includes a detection system configured to monitor fluorescent detection light emitted from the alkali metal atoms as the alkali metal atoms decay from the decay state to the ground state to determine signal characteristics of an external signal based on an intensity of the fluorescent detection light.

IPC Classes  ?

21.

VAPOR CELL DETECTION SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18297899
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-10
First Publication Date 2023-12-28
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Mcclenehan, August John
  • Jefferts, Steven Ryan
  • Lebedev, Vyacheslav

Abstract

One example includes a vapor cell. The cell includes a transparent enclosure and alkali metal atoms enclosed within the transparent enclosure. The alkali metal atoms can be configured to be stimulated from a first energy state to a second energy state in response to an optical beam provided through the vapor cell and to emit fluorescent light in response to energy of the alkali metal atoms decaying from the second energy state to the first energy state. The cell further includes a reflective coating that is provided on an exterior surface of the transparent enclosure to surround the vapor cell to provide a reflective interior surface with respect to the transparent enclosure of the vapor cell to reflect the fluorescent light. The reflective coating can include a detection window configured to facilitate escape of the fluorescent light from the vapor cell for optical detection.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 33/26 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables involving magnetic resonance for measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux using optical pumping
  • G01R 33/00 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables

22.

ACTIVE MOAT SYSTEM FOR FLUX TRAPPING

      
Application Number 17844880
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-21
First Publication Date 2023-12-21
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Przybysz, Anthony Joseph
  • Graninger, Aurelius L.
  • Lee, Aaron Christopher

Abstract

A superconductor system is provided that includes a superconductor device comprising a plurality of superconductor layers and dielectric layers interleaved with the plurality of superconductor layers, wherein at least one superconductor layer is a ground plane. The superconductor device further includes superconductor circuitry that resides within one or more of the plurality of superconductor layers, and one or more active moats extending through the plurality of superconductor layers and the dielectric layers, wherein at least one flux vortex caused by cryogenic cooling can be removed from at least one of the plurality of superconductor layers into the one or more active moats by the activating and deactivating of the one or more active moats.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05K 9/00 - Screening of apparatus or components against electric or magnetic fields
  • H01B 12/06 - Films or wires on bases or cores
  • H01B 12/16 - Superconductive or hyperconductive conductors, cables or transmission lines characterised by cooling

23.

AERIAL VEHICLE HAVING ANTENNA ASSEMBLIES, ANTENNA ASSEMBLIES, AND RELATED METHODS AND COMPONENTS

      
Application Number 18457223
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-28
First Publication Date 2023-12-21
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Goldberg, Mark Russell
  • Hunsberger, Harold Kregg
  • Mills, Helen J.

Abstract

An aerial vehicle includes a body and an antenna assembly mounted to the body. The antenna assembly includes a fairing component comprising a hollow body, a conductive coating formed on at least an inner surface of the fairing component, a plurality of antenna elements formed in the conductive coating, each antenna element including a first slot line defining a first transmission line and a second slot line defining a second transmission line, an insulator sleeve disposed within the fairing component, wherein an outer surface of the insulator sleeve at least substantially matches an inner surface of the fairing component, and a plurality of cable assemblies operably coupled to the plurality of antenna elements, wherein each cable assembly is coupled to a respective antenna element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01Q 13/08 - Radiating ends of two-conductor microwave transmission lines, e.g. of coaxial lines, of microstrip lines
  • H01Q 21/06 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart
  • H01Q 1/28 - Adaptation for use in or on aircraft, missiles, satellites, or balloons

24.

TAPERED MAGNETIC ION TRANSPORT TUNNEL FOR PARTICLE COLLECTION

      
Application Number 18459749
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-01
First Publication Date 2023-12-21
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Ryan, Vivian W.
  • Wanis, Sameh S.
  • Freidhoff, Carl B.
  • Ung, Clinton

Abstract

An apparatus for particle collection is provided. The apparatus includes a magnetic element configured to generate a tapered magnetic ion transport tunnel that collects particles from a local environment, a detector configured to perform one or more measurements of the collected particles, and ion optics configured to transport the collected particles to the detector.

IPC Classes  ?

25.

ELECTRICAL TRANSFORMER

      
Application Number 18449573
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-14
First Publication Date 2023-12-14
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Rackson, Gary M.

Abstract

In some examples, an isolation transformer can include a first wire having a first insulation thickness and a second wire having a second insulation thickness that is different than the first insulation thickness. The isolation transformer can further include a plurality of magnetic cores of magnetic material that can be configured to surround portions of each of the first and second wires along respective circumferences of the first and second wires to provide the isolation transformer.

IPC Classes  ?

26.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MEASURING CHARACTERISTICS OF CRYOGENIC ELECTRONIC DEVICES

      
Application Number 17830665
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-02
First Publication Date 2023-12-07
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Allwine, Scott F.
  • Bagga, Sunny
  • Cadwell, Brian J.
  • Goodwin, Shaun Mark

Abstract

This disclosure relates to systems and methods for measuring impedance characteristics of a cryogenic device under test (DUT). A channel select circuit can be configured in a first state to electrically isolate a channel output circuit from the cryogenic DUT and in a second state to electrically couple the channel output circuit to the cryogenic DUT, and at least one resistor can be positioned along a transmission path that couples a pattern generator circuit to a channel output circuit that includes the channel select circuit. A controller can be configured to cause respective test current signals to be provided along the transmission path when the channel select circuit is in respective first and second states to establish respective first and second voltages across the at least one resistor, determine first and second impedance characteristics of the transmission path for determining an impedance of the cryogenic DUT.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 27/16 - Measuring impedance of element or network through which a current is passing from another source, e.g. cable, power line

27.

CONTROLLING A ROBOT TO REMEDY A PROBLEM

      
Application Number 17831106
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-02
First Publication Date 2023-12-07
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Chou, Sibo
  • Plawecki, Daniel W.

Abstract

A robot intelligence engine receives highly immersive virtual environment (HIVE) data characterizing a set of robot tasks executed by a test robot in a HIVE, wherein the robot tasks of the set of robot tasks include a robot skill. The robot intelligence engine receives sensor data from a problem detecting robot deployed in an environment of operation that characterizes conditions corresponding to a detected problem and searches the set of robot tasks to identify a subset of the robot tasks that are potentially employable to remedy the detected problem. The robot intelligence engine simulates the subset of robot tasks to determine a likelihood of success for the subset of robot tasks. The simulation generates a set of unsupervised robot tasks that are potentially employable to remedy the detected problem. The robot intelligence engine selects one of the subset of robot tasks or one of the unsupervised robot tasks.

IPC Classes  ?

28.

Chain of trust

      
Application Number 16189305
Grant Number 11831786
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-11-13
First Publication Date 2023-11-28
Grant Date 2023-11-28
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Ratts, Steven D.
  • Noe, Brian J.
  • Afinidad, Francis B.

Abstract

A system for establishing and maintaining a chain of trust can include a root of trust (RoT) executing a root trusted server that pushes authenticated code and data into memory of a given node in a plurality of nodes. The RoT can also record a memory address range of a static portion of the authenticated code and a corresponding static data in the given node and cause the given node to execute the authenticated code in response to the pushing to establish a trusted relationship between the trusted server of the RoT and the given node. The root trusted server also monitors the given node to ensure that the given node executes trusted operations. The authenticated code in the memory of the given node can include a trusted server that pushes authenticated code into memory of another node in the plurality of nodes.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/00 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols
  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
  • G06F 21/64 - Protecting data integrity, e.g. using checksums, certificates or signatures
  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities

29.

QUANTUM LIDAR SYSTEM

      
Application Number 17746692
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-17
First Publication Date 2023-11-23
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Fitelson, Michael Manuel
  • Sprigg, Jane Noble
  • Kelber, Scott Ian

Abstract

One example includes a quantum lidar system. The system includes a beam generator configured to generate a signal beam and an idler beam and a beam combiner configured to generate a combined optical beam comprising the signal beam and the idler beam. The system also includes a lidar transmitter configured to transmit the combined optical beam to a target and a lidar receiver configured to receive the combined optical beam and a reflected beam of the combined optical beam reflected from the target to generate lidar data associated with the target.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 17/89 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
  • G01S 7/48 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group

30.

JOSEPHSON JUNCTION DEVICE AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME

      
Application Number 17746724
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-17
First Publication Date 2023-11-23
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hackley, Justin C.
  • Warner, Patrick R.

Abstract

A Josephson junction (JJ) device is provided. The JJ device comprises an operating JJ, a first hydrogen-trapping JJ having a first end coupled to a first end of the operating JJ and a second end coupled to a first superconductor wire, and a second hydrogen-trapping JJ having a first end coupled to a second end of the operating JJ and a second end coupled to a second superconductor wire. The first hydrogen-trapping JJ and the second hydrogen-trapping JJ mitigates hydrogen diffusion into the operating JJ.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 39/22 - Devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, e.g. Josephson-effect devices
  • G06N 10/40 - Physical realisations or architectures of quantum processors or components for manipulating qubits, e.g. qubit coupling or qubit control
  • H01L 39/02 - Devices using superconductivity or hyperconductivity; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof - Details

31.

Magnetic flux mitigation in superconducting circuits

      
Application Number 17749298
Grant Number 11937518
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-20
First Publication Date 2023-11-23
Grant Date 2024-03-19
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Queen, Daniel Robert

Abstract

One example includes a superconducting circuit. The circuit superconducting circuitry fabricated on a first surface of a circuit layer. The circuit layer includes a dielectric material. The circuit also includes a metal layer formed on a second surface of the circuit layer opposite the first surface and a through-substrate via (TSV) conductively coupled to the metal layer and extending through the circuit layer to the first surface. The circuit further includes a flux gasket conductively coupled to and extending from the TSV on the first surface proximal to the superconducting circuitry. The flux gasket can be configured to divert magnetic fields away from the superconducting circuitry.

IPC Classes  ?

32.

SPACECRAFT SERVICING DEVICES AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

      
Application Number 18225137
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-23
First Publication Date 2023-11-16
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicholson, James Garret
  • Meyer, Thomas Fred
  • Guadagnoli, Daniel

Abstract

Spacecraft servicing devices and related methods may include a propellant tank configured to store a propellant and to be placed into fluid communication with a portion of the target spacecraft.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64G 1/10 - Artificial satellites; Systems of such satellites; Interplanetary vehicles
  • B64G 1/24 - Guiding or controlling apparatus, e.g. for attitude control
  • B64G 1/40 - Arrangements or adaptations of propulsion systems
  • B64G 1/64 - Systems for coupling or separating cosmonautic vehicles or parts thereof, e.g. docking arrangements

33.

BUMP STRUCTURES FOR LOW TEMPERATURE CHIP BONDING

      
Application Number 17745363
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-16
First Publication Date 2023-11-16
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hackley, Justin C.
  • Hartman, Jeffrey David

Abstract

A method of forming a multi-chip system is disclosed. The method includes forming one or more bumps on respective conductive contact pads of a first electronic device, forming one or more mini-bumps on respective conductive contact pads of a second electronic device, and aligning respective one or more mini-bumps with respective one or more bumps. The method further includes performing a bump bonding process that exerts compression force on one or both the first electronic device and the second electronic device to compress the one or more mini-bumps into the one or more bumps to form one or more bump bond structures that bond the second electronic device to the first electronic device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 23/00 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details of semiconductor or other solid state devices

34.

UNDERWATER VEHICLE DOCKING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18315919
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-11
First Publication Date 2023-11-16
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hamilton, Andrew
  • Hobson, Brett
  • Cazenave, François
  • Jensen, Scott

Abstract

One example includes an underwater docking system. The system includes an underwater dock that includes a docking rod. The docking rod includes electrical contacts around a periphery of the docking rod. The system also includes a docking assembly mounted on an underwater vehicle. The docking assembly includes an actuator and a hook assembly that includes a docking arm and a jaw assembly. The docking arm physically guides the docking rod into the jaw assembly and the actuator closes the jaw assembly around the docking rod to provide electrical connection of brush contacts of the jaw assembly with the electrical contacts of the docking rod to provide electrical power from a power source via the electrical contacts to the underwater vehicle. Each of the electrical contacts and the brush contacts can be formed from a self-passivating material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B63G 8/00 - Underwater vessels, e.g. submarines

35.

Pulse-generator-based bias-level sensors for reciprocal quantum logic

      
Application Number 17736517
Grant Number 11942937
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-04
First Publication Date 2023-11-09
Grant Date 2024-03-26
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Wallace, Charles Ryan
  • Nielsen, Max E.
  • Braun, Alexander Louis
  • Dosch, Daniel George
  • Pleim, Kurt
  • Dai, Haitao O.

Abstract

Pulse-generator-based reciprocal quantum logic (RQL) bias-level sensors are fabricated on an RQL integrated circuit (IC) to sample AC or DC bias values provided to operational RQL circuitry on the RQL IC. The bias-level sensors include pulse generators having strengthened or weakened bias taps (transformer couplings to RQL AC clock resonators or DC bias lines) as compared to bias taps of Josephson transmission lines in the operational RQL circuitry, or Josephson junctions (JJs) with larger or smaller critical currents as compared to JJs in the operational RQL circuitry. Pulse generators with weakened bias taps or larger JJs can have lower limits of their operational ranges placed near an optimal bias point at the centroid of the operating region of the operational RQL circuitry. The bias-level sensors can be staged by relative strength to indicate whether a provided bias value is an improvement when varied over a range.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 19/195 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one output; Inverting circuits using specified components using superconductive devices
  • H03K 3/38 - Generators characterised by the type of circuit or by the means used for producing pulses by the use, as active elements, of superconductive devices
  • H03K 19/17736 - Structural details of routing resources
  • H03K 19/20 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one output; Inverting circuits characterised by logic function, e.g. AND, OR, NOR, NOT circuits

36.

BIAS-LEVEL SENSORS FOR RECIPROCAL QUANTUM LOGIC

      
Application Number 17736463
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-04
First Publication Date 2023-11-09
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Nielsen, Max E.
  • Braun, Alexander Louis
  • Dosch, Daniel George
  • Pleim, Kurt
  • Dai, Haitao O.
  • Wallace, Charles R.

Abstract

Reciprocal quantum logic (RQL) bias-level sensors are fabricated on an RQL integrated circuit (IC) to sample AC or DC bias values provided to operational RQL circuitry on the RQL IC. The bias-level sensors, or samplers, include Josephson transmission lines (JTLs) or logic gates having strengthened or weakened bias taps as compared to bias taps of JTLs or logic gates in the operational RQL circuitry. Sampler JTLs or logic gates with weakened bias taps to AC clock resonators can have lower limits of their operational ranges placed near an optimal bias point at the centroid of the operating region of the operational RQL circuitry. Staging relative strengths of the bias taps of the samplers in an ensemble of samplers allows for outputs of wrapper circuitry to be indicative of whether a provided bias value is an improvement or optimization of the bias value when varied over a range.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06N 10/40 - Physical realisations or architectures of quantum processors or components for manipulating qubits, e.g. qubit coupling or qubit control
  • H01L 39/22 - Devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, e.g. Josephson-effect devices

37.

SQUID STACK PULSE HEIGHT BIAS-LEVEL SENSOR FOR RECIPROCAL QUANTUM LOGIC

      
Application Number 17736646
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-04
First Publication Date 2023-11-09
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Dai, Haitao O.
  • Nielsen, Max E.
  • Braun, Alexander Louis
  • Dosch, Daniel George
  • Pleim, Kurt
  • Wallace, Charles Ryan

Abstract

An output-amplifier-based reciprocal quantum logic (RQL) bias-level sensor is used to measure and/or calibrate bias parameters of AC and/or DC bias signals provided to RQL circuitry. The bias signals can include an output amplifier output bias current. The bias-level sensor includes a stack of DC SQUIDs that are supplied their inputs from outputs of respective Josephson transmission lines (JTLs) to which the SQUIDs are transformer-coupled. Staging relative strengths of the bias taps of the JTLs, or the critical currents of the Josephson junctions in the DC SQUIDs, allows an output voltage signal of the bias-level sensor to be indicative of whether a provided bias value is an improvement or optimization of the bias value when varied over a range. The outputs of two such bias-level sensors driven by I and Q clocks can be compared to adjust AC bias amplitudes of the clocks. Relative clock phase can be similarly adjusted.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06N 10/40 - Physical realisations or architectures of quantum processors or components for manipulating qubits, e.g. qubit coupling or qubit control
  • G01R 33/035 - Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux using superconductive devices

38.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MULTI-PATH MESH NETWORK COMMUNICATIONS

      
Application Number 18219169
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-07
First Publication Date 2023-11-02
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Rosich, Garrett
  • Houser, Peter
  • Caulfield, Bob
  • Houser, Matthew

Abstract

The disclosed invention provides system and method for multi-path mesh network communications. The network system utilizes multiple communication paths and linearly encoded and disassembled packets through mathematical coding techniques that respectively travel the communication paths. The system includes an encoder, a transmitter, a decoder and a receiver. The encoder receives data from an external source and linearly encodes and simultaneously disassembles the data to generate copackets. None of the individual copackets contain decodable information of the data. The transmitter is coupled to the multiple communication paths and respectively transmits the copackets through different communication paths. The receiver receives the copackets transmitted through the communication paths. The decoder decodes available copackets and reassembles the data from the available copackets if a number of the available copackets are no less than a mathematically calculated number. The reassembled data has the complete information of the data originally transmitted.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 45/24 - Multipath
  • H03M 13/15 - Cyclic codes, i.e. cyclic shifts of codewords produce other codewords, e.g. codes defined by a generator polynomial, Bose-Chaudhuri-Hocquenghem [BCH] codes
  • H03M 13/11 - Error detection or forward error correction by redundancy in data representation, i.e. code words containing more digits than the source words using block codes, i.e. a predetermined number of check bits joined to a predetermined number of information bits using multiple parity bits
  • H04L 69/326 - Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions in the transport layer [OSI layer 4]

39.

Phase-mode bit-addressable sensing register

      
Application Number 17736564
Grant Number 11804275
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-04
First Publication Date 2023-10-31
Grant Date 2023-10-31
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Braun, Alexander Louis
  • Nielsen, Max E.
  • Dosch, Daniel George
  • Pleim, Kurt
  • Dai, Haitao O.
  • Wallace, Charles Ryan

Abstract

Shift register elements of a phase-mode bit-addressable sensing register sample varied AC or DC bias values provided to operational RQL circuitry on the RQL IC via clock resonators or DC bias lines. The shift register can be constructed of phase-mode D flip-flops and JTLs as data and clock lines. A method of using the sensing register includes shifting in a data bit pattern while a bias parameter (e.g., AC amplitude, DC value, or phase) is set to a nominal value; stopping the logical clock that controls the shifting of values through the sensing register, varying the bias parameter value, inputting one assertion SFQ pulse or reciprocal pulse pair into the logical clock, restoring the bias parameter to the nominal value, restarting the logical clock to shift out an output data bit pattern, and observing the output data bit pattern to determine the effect of the bias parameter value change.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G11C 19/32 - Digital stores in which the information is moved stepwise, e.g. shift registers using super-conductive elements
  • H03L 7/081 - Automatic control of frequency or phase; Synchronisation using a reference signal applied to a frequency- or phase-locked loop - Details of the phase-locked loop provided with an additional controlled phase shifter
  • H03K 3/037 - Bistable circuits
  • H03K 19/195 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one output; Inverting circuits using specified components using superconductive devices
  • H03L 7/08 - Automatic control of frequency or phase; Synchronisation using a reference signal applied to a frequency- or phase-locked loop - Details of the phase-locked loop
  • H03K 3/38 - Generators characterised by the type of circuit or by the means used for producing pulses by the use, as active elements, of superconductive devices

40.

Multilayered metal nanowire array

      
Application Number 17456965
Grant Number 11800602
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-11-30
First Publication Date 2023-10-24
Grant Date 2023-10-24
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Barako, Michael T.
  • Tice, Jesse B.
  • Kuciej, Max H.

Abstract

A multilayered metal nanowire array including a plurality of stacked and separated nanowire array layers each including a plurality of vertically aligned metal nanowires, and a lateral interposer positioned in a gap between each pair of adjacent nanowire array layers and being thermally coupled to the nanowires in the adjacent layers so that the lateral interposers provide thermal conduction between the nanowire array layers and laterally across each nanowire array layer. The nanowire array layers between the interposers can have the same or different thicknesses, the diameter and density of the nanowires can be the same or different, and the nanowire metal can be the same or different.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B23K 20/02 - Non-electric welding by applying impact or other pressure, with or without the application of heat, e.g. cladding or plating by means of a press
  • H05B 3/34 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater flexible, e.g. heating nets or webs
  • B32B 5/02 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments
  • B32B 5/12 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments characterised by the relative arrangement of fibres or filaments of adjacent layers
  • B32B 5/26 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by the presence of two or more layers which comprise fibres, filaments, granules, or powder, or are foamed or specifically porous one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer also being fibrous or filamentary
  • C25D 5/34 - Pretreatment of metallic surfaces to be electroplated
  • H01L 23/373 - Cooling facilitated by selection of materials for the device
  • H05B 3/00 - Ohmic-resistance heating
  • H05K 7/20 - Modifications to facilitate cooling, ventilating, or heating

41.

Image scaler

      
Application Number 17553885
Grant Number 11798129
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-17
First Publication Date 2023-10-24
Grant Date 2023-10-24
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Rehling, John F.

Abstract

In the described examples, a compiled image scaler includes a set of machine executable instructions that generate a scaled image that is a scaled version of a source image with integer and bitwise operations. The compiled image scaler employs filtering to blend colors of adjacent pixels in the source image to generate the scaled image, and each filtering operation concurrently scales three color channels of a pixel in the source image.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 3/40 - Scaling of a whole image or part thereof
  • G06T 1/20 - Processor architectures; Processor configuration, e.g. pipelining
  • G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
  • G06T 5/20 - Image enhancement or restoration by the use of local operators
  • G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics

42.

ATOMIC OPTICAL REFERENCE SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18297886
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-10
First Publication Date 2023-10-19
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Imhof, Eric A.
  • Jefferts, Steven Ryan
  • Lebedev, Vyacheslav

Abstract

One example includes an atomic optical reference system. The system includes an optical system comprising a laser configured to generate an optical beam. The system also includes a vapor cell comprising alkali metal atoms that are stimulated in response to a modulated beam corresponding to an amplitude-modulated version of the optical beam. The system also includes a detection system configured to monitor at least one detection signal corresponding to light emitted from or absorbed by the vapor cell and to generate at least one feedback signal in response to the at least one detection signal. The system further includes a beam modulator configured to amplitude-modulate the optical beam to generate the modulated beam and to frequency shift the optical beam to generate an output beam having a stable frequency in response to the at least one feedback signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
  • G05D 25/02 - Control of light, e.g. intensity, colour or phase characterised by the use of electric means
  • H03L 7/26 - Automatic control of frequency or phase; Synchronisation using energy levels of molecules, atoms, or subatomic particles as a frequency reference
  • G04F 5/14 - Apparatus for producing preselected time intervals for use as timing standards using atomic clocks

43.

RECONFIGURABLE SOLAR ARRAY FOR STABLE OUTPUT VOLTAGE OVER A RANGE OF TEMPERATURES WITH HIGH OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

      
Application Number 17721469
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-04-15
First Publication Date 2023-10-19
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Gordon, Jay Michael
  • Matthews, Paul James
  • Knight, Thomas Joseph

Abstract

A reconfigurable solar array has a plurality of photovoltaic cells and an interconnect circuit including a plurality of switches for interconnecting the photovoltaic cells. A thermostatic feedback control circuit in communication with a temperature sensor is configured to produce a temperature signal that is proportional to a temperature of the photovoltaic cells. The thermostatic feedback control circuit is configured to cause at least one of the switches to change state at a preset temperature that is independent of supply voltage. When the temperature is above the preset temperature, the photovoltaic cells are arranged in a plurality of strings connected in parallel. When the temperature is at or below the preset temperature, at least one photovoltaic cell in each string is disconnected from a respective string and reconnected in series to each other to form a new string connected in parallel to the other strings.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
  • H02S 40/40 - Thermal components
  • H02S 50/00 - Monitoring or testing of PV systems, e.g. load balancing or fault identification
  • H01L 31/02 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof - Details
  • H02S 40/36 - Electrical components characterised by special electrical interconnection means between two or more PV modules, e.g. electrical module-to-module connection

44.

Temperature compensated current source for cryogenic electronic testing

      
Application Number 17830697
Grant Number 11789065
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-06-02
First Publication Date 2023-10-17
Grant Date 2023-10-17
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Allwine, Scott F.
  • Bagga, Sunny
  • Cadwell, Brian J.
  • Goodwin, Shaun Mark

Abstract

This disclosure relates to systems and methods for current source temperature compensation for use during cryogenic electronic testing. A temperature compensation circuit can provide a temperature compensation signal to a current source circuit configured to provide an electrical current for testing a cryogenic device under test to compensate for temperature effects on the current source circuit based on a time constant adjustment signal. The time constant adjustment signal can adjust a time constant of the temperature compensation circuit to delay by a given amount of time that the temperature compensation circuit compensates for the temperature effects on the current source circuit. A controller can be configured to execute a temperature compensation method to provide the time constant adjustment signal based on at least one temperature signal characterizing a temperature of an environment that includes the current source circuit or a temperature of the current source circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01K 3/00 - Thermometers giving results other than momentary value of temperature
  • G01R 19/165 - Indicating that current or voltage is either above or below a predetermined value or within or outside a predetermined range of values
  • G01R 31/28 - Testing of electronic circuits, e.g. by signal tracer

45.

Radar image interface system

      
Application Number 17461507
Grant Number 11782152
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-30
First Publication Date 2023-10-10
Grant Date 2023-10-10
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Devlin, Verner Keith
  • Hobbs, David A.
  • Dyer, Douglas M.

Abstract

One example includes a radar image interface system. The system includes an image processor configured to receive synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image data associated with a region of interest and to generate a radar image of the region of interest based on the SAR image data. The image processor can be further configured to divide the radar image into a plurality of sequential units corresponding to respective zones of the region of interest. The system also includes a display system configured to display zoomed sequential units corresponding to respective zoomed versions of the sequential units of the radar image to a user. The system further includes an input interface configured to facilitate sequentially indexing through each of the zoomed versions of the sequential units on the display system in response to an indexing input provided by the user.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 13/90 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging using synthetic aperture techniques
  • G01S 7/41 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group using analysis of echo signal for target characterisation; Target signature; Target cross-section

46.

Semiconductor device passive thermal management

      
Application Number 17952433
Grant Number 11784107
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-26
First Publication Date 2023-10-10
Grant Date 2023-10-10
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Starkovich, John A.
  • Tice, Jesse B.
  • Gambin, Vincent

Abstract

A semiconductor device is provided with a first layer having a first layer conductive contact and being doped at a first concentration of a first dopant type. The first dopant type being a P type dopant. A second layer is on top the first layer and being doped at a second concentration of the first dopant type. The second concentration being less than the first concentration. A third layer is on top of the second layer and having a third layer conductive contact and being doped with a second dopant type, the second dopant type being an N type dopant. A fourth layer is on top of the third layer and having a fourth layer conductive contact and being doped with the first dopant type, wherein at least one of the first and second layers is a boron arsenide (BAs) layer.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 23/373 - Cooling facilitated by selection of materials for the device

47.

FRINGE-GATED CASTELLATED FET

      
Application Number 17702334
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-03-23
First Publication Date 2023-09-28
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Frey, Kevin M.
  • Nagamatsu, Ken
  • Chang, Josephine
  • Howell, Robert S.

Abstract

A field effect transistor, comprising: a substrate and a superlattice of stacked conducting channels on the substrate; a source and a drain spaced-apart from each other on the superlattice; alternating castellations and trenches formed in the superlattice between the source and the drain, wherein the castellations have sidewalls that cut-down through the superlattice to form the trenches and edges of the stacked conducting channels that terminate at the sidewalls; a fringe field dielectric that fills lower volumes of the trenches up to a height on the sidewalls that is higher than first edges of first conducting channels among the stacked conducting channels, such that the fringe field dielectric is adjacent to the first edges; and a gate electrode overlaying the fringe field dielectric and the castellations such that the gate electrode is not adjacent to the first edges.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 29/778 - Field-effect transistors with two-dimensional charge carrier gas channel, e.g. HEMT
  • H01L 29/15 - Structures with periodic or quasi periodic potential variation, e.g. multiple quantum wells, superlattices
  • H01L 29/20 - Semiconductor bodies characterised by the materials of which they are formed including, apart from doping materials or other impurities, only AIIIBV compounds
  • H01L 29/205 - Semiconductor bodies characterised by the materials of which they are formed including, apart from doping materials or other impurities, only AIIIBV compounds including two or more compounds in different semiconductor regions
  • H01L 29/423 - Electrodes characterised by their shape, relative sizes or dispositions not carrying the current to be rectified, amplified or switched
  • H01L 29/40 - Electrodes
  • H01L 29/66 - Types of semiconductor device

48.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL HYPERSPECTRAL IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING A LIGHT DETECTION AND RANGING (LIDAR) FOCAL PLANE ARRAY

      
Application Number 18129157
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-03-31
First Publication Date 2023-09-28
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor Wong, Chung Ming

Abstract

A system having an illumination source configured to illuminate a target object using broadband laser light. A dispersive element is configured to spectrally separate light received from the target object into different colors A focal plane array (FPA) is configured to: (1) receive the light from the dispersive element; (2) acquire spatial information regarding the target object in one dimension in the plane of the FPA; acquire spectral information in a second dimension in the plane of the FPA, wherein the second dimension is perpendicular to the first dimension; (4) obtain information regarding a distance from the FPA to the target object by obtaining different times of flight of at least two wavelengths; and (5) detect a single photon of light, thereby hyperspectrally imaging the target object in three dimensions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 17/08 - Systems determining position data of a target for measuring distance only
  • G01S 17/42 - Simultaneous measurement of distance and other coordinates
  • G01S 17/89 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
  • G01S 7/48 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
  • G01S 7/481 - Constructional features, e.g. arrangements of optical elements
  • G01J 3/02 - Spectrometry; Spectrophotometry; Monochromators; Measuring colours - Details
  • G01J 3/28 - Investigating the spectrum
  • G01J 3/44 - Raman spectrometry; Scattering spectrometry

49.

Output impedance and load independent latch-off timer for voltage-limit mode protection

      
Application Number 17704089
Grant Number 11949224
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-25
First Publication Date 2023-09-28
Grant Date 2024-04-02
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hsia, Timothy T.
  • Lee, Victor K.

Abstract

One example includes a power supply system. The system includes a voltage-limit power regulator to generate an output voltage and an instantaneous overvoltage sensor configured to detect an overvoltage condition associated with the output voltage. The system further includes an overvoltage latch-off timer system configured to initiate a latch-off timer in response to detecting the overvoltage condition. The latch-off timer can be uninterrupted by an amplitude of the output voltage. The overvoltage latch-off timer system can further be configured to detect a persistent overvoltage fault in response to detecting the overvoltage condition after expiration of the latch-off timer. The overvoltage latch-off timer system can be configured to generate a fault signal to disable the voltage-limit power regulator in response to detecting the persistent overvoltage fault.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02H 3/20 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess voltage
  • H02H 1/00 - EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS - Details of emergency protective circuit arrangements

50.

ACOUSTIC RESONATOR FILTER SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18181718
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-03-10
First Publication Date 2023-09-21
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Torpey, Matthew S.

Abstract

One example includes an acoustic resonator filter system. The system includes a plurality of filter blocks. Each of the filter blocks can include a plurality of tunable filter elements. Each of the tunable filter elements can include an acoustic resonator. The system also includes a switching network that receives a radio frequency (RF) input signal and provides a filtered RF output signal. The switching network can be configured to selectively switch at least one of the filter blocks in a signal path of the RF input signal to provide the RF output signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03H 9/54 - Filters comprising resonators of piezoelectric or electrostrictive material
  • H03H 7/00 - Multiple-port networks comprising only passive electrical elements as network components
  • H03H 9/02 - Networks comprising electromechanical or electro-acoustic elements; Electromechanical resonators - Details

51.

ACOUSTIC RESONATOR FILTER BANK SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18181698
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-03-10
First Publication Date 2023-09-21
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Torpey, Matthew S.
  • Howell, Robert S.

Abstract

One example includes an acoustic resonator filter bank system. The system includes a multiplex passive filter that is configured to provide a plurality of filtered versions of a radio frequency (RF) input signal. The system also includes a filter bank that comprises a plurality of filter blocks that are each configured to provide a plurality of pass-bands across a frequency spectrum. Each of the filter blocks includes an acoustic resonator. The system further includes a switch matrix that is configured to provide one of the filtered versions of the RF input signal to one of the filter blocks in the filter bank to provide an RF output signal having a frequency band corresponding to a respective one of the pass-bands.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03H 9/64 - Filters using surface acoustic waves
  • H03H 9/72 - Networks using surface acoustic waves

52.

Multi-int maritime threat detection

      
Application Number 16793626
Grant Number 11763184
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-02-18
First Publication Date 2023-09-19
Grant Date 2023-09-19
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor Schurmann, Stuart R.

Abstract

A system for detecting threats using an overt threat detector, the system includes a computer-readable memory configured to store computer executable instructions; a processor configured to execute the computer executable instructions, the computer executable instructions comprising receiving historical data regarding vessel patterns in a geographic area; generating, using a computer processor, at least one overt threat model based on the received historical data; receiving tracking data of vessels currently in the geographic area; analyzing, using the computer processor, the tracking data of vessels using the at least one overt threat model; and modifying, using the computer processor, the tracking data of vessels based on the results of the analyzing step; and an output device configured to output the modified tracking data of vessels is disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06N 5/047 - Pattern matching networks; Rete networks
  • G01S 13/66 - Radar-tracking systems; Analogous systems
  • B63B 79/00 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation

53.

PRECURSOR COMPOSITIONS FOR AN INSULATION AND RELATED METHODS

      
Application Number 18064703
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-12-12
First Publication Date 2023-09-14
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Gajiwala, Himansu M.
  • Hall, Steven B.

Abstract

A precursor composition comprising, before curing, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), an aramid, and a carbon material comprising carbon nanotubes, graphite, or a combination thereof. A rocket motor including a reaction product of the precursor composition and a method of insulating a rocket motor are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F02K 9/34 - Casings; Combustion chambers; Liners thereof
  • C08L 9/00 - Compositions of homopolymers or copolymers of conjugated diene hydrocarbons
  • C08K 3/04 - Carbon
  • C08L 23/08 - Copolymers of ethene
  • C08L 77/10 - Polyamides derived from aromatically bound amino and carboxyl groups of amino carboxylic acids or of polyamines and polycarboxylic acids
  • C08L 23/14 - Copolymers of propene
  • C08L 23/16 - Ethene-propene or ethene-propene-diene copolymers

54.

METHOD FOR PREDICTIVE LINK PLANNING

      
Application Number 18140282
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-27
First Publication Date 2023-09-07
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hetrick, James M.
  • Stewart Meadows, Erin Yvonne Elissa

Abstract

A method of transmitting data from a transmitting terminal to a receiving terminal over a channel is provided in which a series of locations for each of the receiving terminals is determined. The method further includes the steps of determining a link geometry of the channel between the transmitting terminal and the receiving terminal for each location in the series of locations, wherein determining the link geometry comprises determining a distance between the transmitting and receiving terminals for each location in the series of locations; determining channel impairments for the link geometries; predicting signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of the channel for the link geometries and the channel impairments; storing channel parameters based on the predicted SNRs in a lookup table; retrieving the channel parameters from the lookup table using the distance between the transmitting and receiving terminals; and transmitting data from the transmitting terminal using the channel parameters.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 1/00 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received

55.

SPACECRAFT SERVICING DEVICES AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

      
Application Number 18141979
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-01
First Publication Date 2023-08-31
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicholson, James Garret
  • Treachler, Daniel Carl
  • Ortiz, Oliver Benjamin
  • Sullivan, Robert Bryan
  • Niederstrasser, Carlos Guillermo
  • Glogowski, Michael Joseph
  • Llorens, William A.
  • Chow, Kenneth Siu-Kin
  • Cipollo, Peter Michael

Abstract

Spacecraft servicing systems include a spacecraft servicing device and at least one mission extension pod comprising at least one spacecraft servicing component. The spacecraft servicing device is configured to transfer the at least pod to a target spacecraft in order to service the target spacecraft with the at least one spacecraft servicing component of the at least one pod. Spacecraft servicing pods configured to be supplied to a spacecraft with a spacecraft servicing device include at least one spacecraft servicing component.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64G 1/10 - Artificial satellites; Systems of such satellites; Interplanetary vehicles
  • B64G 1/00 - Cosmonautic vehicles
  • B64G 1/40 - Arrangements or adaptations of propulsion systems
  • B64G 1/64 - Systems for coupling or separating cosmonautic vehicles or parts thereof, e.g. docking arrangements

56.

SPECTRALLY-SELECTIVE OPTICAL ELEMENT

      
Application Number 17677016
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-22
First Publication Date 2023-08-24
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Romero, Kevin J.

Abstract

One example includes an optical element. The optical element includes a first optical material structure comprising a first index of refraction across a frequency spectrum. The optical element also includes a second optical material structure configured to exhibit an index anomaly corresponding to a change in index of refraction from the first index of refraction to a second index of refraction across a portion of the frequency spectrum and a change from the second index of refraction to the first index of refraction along the frequency spectrum. The optical element further includes a diffractive interface corresponding to a non-planar material contact junction between the first optical material structure and the second optical material structure. The diffractive interface can be configured to manipulate in a predetermined manner an optical beam having an optical path through the diffractive interface and having a frequency in the portion of the frequency spectrum.

IPC Classes  ?

57.

Systems and methods for inter-partition communication

      
Application Number 17381764
Grant Number 11734083
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-07-21
First Publication Date 2023-08-22
Grant Date 2023-08-22
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Ikegami, Michael C.
  • Palecek, Stephen P.
  • Moore, Daniel
  • Butikofer, Drew

Abstract

In an example, a method can include determining, at a first inter-partition messenger, a message type for a message generated by a first application. The first inter-partition messenger and the first application can reside on a first virtual machine. The method can include identifying, at the first inter-partition messenger, a second application that is to receive the message based on the message type and message subscription data, generating, at the first inter-partition messenger, message routing data for routing of the message from the first virtual machine to the second virtual machine, causing, at the first inter-partition messenger, the message to be routed from the first virtual machine to the second virtual machine based on the message routing data, and receiving, at the second inter-partition messenger, the message for use thereof by the second application. The second inter-partition messenger and the second application can reside on the second virtual machine.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 9/54 - Interprogram communication
  • G06F 9/455 - Emulation; Interpretation; Software simulation, e.g. virtualisation or emulation of application or operating system execution engines
  • G06F 9/50 - Allocation of resources, e.g. of the central processing unit [CPU]

58.

FLUX-TRAPPING MAGNETIC FILMS IN SUPERCONDUCTING CIRCUITS

      
Application Number 17670678
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-14
First Publication Date 2023-08-17
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Queen, Daniel Robert

Abstract

One example includes a superconducting circuit. The circuit includes superconducting circuitry fabricated in a circuit layer. The circuit layer includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The circuit also includes a flux moat comprising a dielectric material formed in the circuit layer. The flux moat can be configured to trap a magnetic flux as the superconducting circuit is cooled to below a superconducting critical temperature. The circuit further includes a magnetic film arranged proximal to the flux moat on at least one of the first and second surfaces of the circuit layer. The magnetic film can be configured to guide the magnetic flux to the flux moat as the superconducting circuit is cooled to below the superconducting critical temperature.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01B 12/06 - Films or wires on bases or cores
  • H01B 12/16 - Superconductive or hyperconductive conductors, cables or transmission lines characterised by cooling
  • H01F 10/16 - Thin magnetic films, e.g. of one-domain structure characterised by magnetic layers characterised by the composition being metals or alloys containing cobalt
  • H01F 10/14 - Thin magnetic films, e.g. of one-domain structure characterised by magnetic layers characterised by the composition being metals or alloys containing iron or nickel

59.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATING SYSTEM-OF-SYSTEMS FOR CYBER VULNERABILITIES

      
Application Number 17674565
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-17
First Publication Date 2023-08-17
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Oddo, Louis A.
  • Connors, Charles
  • Mckinney, Kenneth F.

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an evaluation of system-of-systems (SoS) architectures for cyber vulnerabilities. In an example, architecture description data and component description data for an SoS can be received. Architecture definition file (ADF) data can be generated based on the architecture and component description data. A model of a target SoS architecture for the SoS can be generated based on the ADF data. The target SoS architecture for the SoS can be evaluated to identify potential cyber-attack vectors with respect to the target SoS architecture, and a probabilistic analysis of the potential cyber-attack vectors can be executed to compute a probability for each cyber-attack vector indicative of a likelihood that a respective cyber-attack results in a mission failure by the SoS based on the target SoS architecture. Display data can be generated for visualization on an output device that includes each identified potential cyber-attack vector and associated computed probability.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities

60.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PLATFORM CYBER VULNERABILITY EVALUATION

      
Application Number 17674588
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-17
First Publication Date 2023-08-17
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Connors, Charles
  • Janjua, Geoffrey R.
  • Mckinney, Kenneth F.
  • Nagorski, Victoria
  • Negus, Charles
  • Squiller, David
  • Walker, Lyndsay
  • Ward, Matthew
  • Weidele, Kenneth R.

Abstract

In an example, a component analyzer can compute a respective part score for each part of the platform based on a part property table, and a respective connection score for each connection of the platform based on a connection property table. The component analyzer can provide the respective part and connection scores as score data to an architecture modeling engine to compute a probability model based on the score data and an architecture model. The probability model can include a part probability value and a connection probability value, and the architecture model can characterize a target architecture of the platform. A survivability analysis engine can evaluate the probability model and the architecture model to determine a likelihood that one or more potential cyber-attacks on the platform based on the target architecture are successful or unsuccessful in compromising at least one part of the platform.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/40 - Network security protocols
  • H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
  • H04L 41/16 - Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks using machine learning or artificial intelligence

61.

MACHINE LEARNING FINGERPRINTING OF WIRELESS SIGNALS AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIA

      
Application Number 17666353
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-07
First Publication Date 2023-08-10
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Gookin, Benjamin C.
  • Domico, David
  • Kopacz, Justin
  • Popovich, Matthew D.
  • Jin, Michelle
  • Harmon, Nathanael M.

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed toward systems and methods for fingerprinting wireless communications using few-shot learning techniques. The systems and methods relate to storing fingerprint data indicating device fingerprint features detected for a plurality of identified transmitting devices in a database. The methods further relate to receiving, at a communication device, wireless communications from an unidentified transmitting device. Additionally, the systems and methods illustrate determining a device fingerprint responsive to a portion of each of the wireless communications using few-shot learning techniques and comparing the determined device fingerprint to the stored fingerprint data in the database.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
  • G06V 10/44 - Local feature extraction by analysis of parts of the pattern, e.g. by detecting edges, contours, loops, corners, strokes or intersections; Connectivity analysis, e.g. of connected components
  • G06V 40/12 - Fingerprints or palmprints
  • H04W 12/10 - Integrity
  • H04W 12/062 - Pre-authentication
  • G06N 3/08 - Learning methods
  • H04W 12/69 - Identity-dependent

62.

AUTOMATED METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING SHEETS OF COMPOSITE MATERIAL AND COMPOSITE STRUCTURES, PATTERN PREPARATION AND FORMING SYSTEMS, AND SHEETS OF COMPOSITE MATERIAL

      
Application Number 17592738
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-04
First Publication Date 2023-08-10
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Madsen, Christopher J.
  • Benson, Vernon M.

Abstract

Automated methods of forming composite structures may include applying fibers having various predetermined lengths to a removable backing material to form a net shape or near net shape pattern for forming a composite structure having a varying transverse cross-section. Sheets of composite material may comprise strips of composite material adhered to a backing material in a net shape or near net shape pattern for forming a composite structure with a varying transverse cross-section. Further methods of manufacturing sheets of composite material may comprise applying fibers having various predetermined lengths to a removable backing material in a net shape or near net shape pattern for forming a composite structure having a varying transverse cross-section. Pattern preparation systems may include a material placement device programmed and configured to apply fibers having various predetermined lengths to a removable backing material. Forming systems may include an indicia locating device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 70/38 - Automated lay-up, e.g. using robots, laying filaments according to predetermined patterns
  • B29C 70/54 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations

63.

SECURE KEY GENERATION

      
Application Number 17667832
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-02-09
First Publication Date 2023-08-10
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Burnett, Benjamin Adams
  • Stanley, Calvin Bansal
  • Happel, Lisa P.
  • Green, Jonathan E.

Abstract

A key updater for a first party operating on a network generates a mutually distilled key for communication between the first party and a second party. The key updater determines a set of verifying parties operating on the network needed to authenticate the mutually distilled key, wherein each verifying party of the set of verifying parties operates on the network. The key updater iteratively executes a key equivalency test for each verifying party in the set of verifying parties to determine a nonce sum until the key equivalency test has been executed for each of the verifying parties in the set of verifying parties or until it is determined that at least one node on the network has been compromised. The key updater generates a final key for communication between the first party and the second party based on the nonce sum and the mutually distilled key.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/08 - Key distribution
  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
  • H04L 9/14 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols using a plurality of keys or algorithms

64.

Method of manufacturing a high-performance optical absorber using capillary force lamination

      
Application Number 18125204
Grant Number 11835740
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-03-23
First Publication Date 2023-08-03
Grant Date 2023-12-05
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Starkovich, John A
  • Silverman, Edward M.

Abstract

A method using capillary force lamination (CFL) for manufacturing a high-performance optical absorber, includes: texturizing a base layer of the high-performance optical absorber, the base layer comprising one or more of a polymer film and a polymer coating; joining a surface layer of the high-performance optical absorber to the base layer, the surface layer comprising a non-woven carbon nanotube (CNT) sheet; wetting the joined surface layer and base layer with a solvent; drying the joined surface layer and base layer; and treating the resulting base layer with plasma, creating the high-performance optical absorber.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 5/00 - Optical elements other than lenses
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
  • B29D 11/00 - Producing optical elements, e.g. lenses or prisms

65.

Superconductor junction for a solid state cooler

      
Application Number 17592329
Grant Number 11950510
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-03
First Publication Date 2023-08-03
Grant Date 2024-04-02
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hathaway, Aaron Ashley
  • Engbrecht, Edward R.
  • Przybysz, John X.
  • Young, Robert Miles

Abstract

A superconductor junction includes a normal metal layer having a first side and a second side, an insulating layer overlying the second side of the normal metal layer, and a first superconductor layer formed of a first superconductor material that overlies a side of the insulating layer opposite the side that overlies the normal metal layer. The superconductor junction further includes a second superconductor layer formed of a second superconductor material with a first side overlying a side of the first superconductor material opposite the side that overlies the insulating layer. The second superconductor material has a higher diffusion coefficient than the first superconductor material and/or the second superconductor material has a lower recombination coefficient than the first superconductor metal layer. A normal metal layer quasiparticle trap is coupled to a second side of the second superconductor layer.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H10N 10/17 - Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects characterised by the structure or configuration of the cell or thermocouple forming the device
  • H10N 10/01 - Manufacture or treatment
  • H10N 10/82 - Connection of interconnections
  • H10N 10/855 - Thermoelectric active materials comprising inorganic compositions comprising compounds containing boron, carbon, oxygen or nitrogen

66.

Channelized filter using semiconductor fabrication

      
Application Number 18123467
Grant Number 11837561
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-03-20
First Publication Date 2023-07-20
Grant Date 2023-12-05
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Duan, Dah-Weih
  • Kunkee, Elizabeth T.
  • Larouche, Stephane

Abstract

A semiconductor technology implemented high-frequency channelized filter includes a dielectric substrate with metal traces disposed on one of two major surfaces of the substrate. An input and output port disposed on the substrate and one of the metal traces carrying a high-frequency signal to be filtered between the input and output port. Other of the metal traces are connected to the one metal trace at intervals along the length of the one metal trace each providing a reactance to the high-frequency signal where the reactance varies with frequency and additional traces of the metal traces serving as a reference ground for the one metal trace and the other metal traces. A silicon enclosure mounted to the substrate with a first planar surface with cavities in the enclosure that extend through the first surface, and internal walls within the silicon enclosure defining the cavities. A layer of conductive metal covers the first planar surface, cavities and the internal walls. The silicon enclosure having substantially continuous areas of metal on the first planar surface about the periphery of the silicon enclosure that engage corresponding areas of the additional traces about the periphery of the substrate. The cavities surround the respective other metal traces with the internal cavity walls engaging the additional traces adjacent the respective other metal traces to individually surround each of the other metal traces with a conductive metal thereby providing electromagnetic field isolation between each of the other metal traces.

IPC Classes  ?

67.

SELF-INSULATING HIGH BANDWIDTH EXTERNAL MEDIA STORAGE DEVICE

      
Application Number 17576127
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-01-14
First Publication Date 2023-07-20
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Gray, Andrew C.
  • Claycomb, Kevin D.
  • Windgassen, James R.
  • Gallagher, Kevin

Abstract

A data storage system including a docking station, and a dockable external data storage device operates in an underwater environment. The dockable external data storage device includes a housing, a memory disposed within the housing to store data, and a connector assembly mounted on the housing. The connector assembly includes at least one optical transmitter configured to transfer data from the memory to a corresponding optical receiver in the docking station. The connector assembly also includes a self-passivating electrical contact configured to transfer electrical power to the dockable external data storage device from a corresponding power contact in the docking station.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/06 - Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers
  • G06F 1/26 - Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof

68.

Direct glue compact two dimensional fiber launcher assembly

      
Application Number 17647775
Grant Number 11914168
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-01-12
First Publication Date 2023-07-13
Grant Date 2024-02-27
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Guenther, Dustin
  • Goodno, Gregory D.
  • Ho, James

Abstract

A method for assembling a two-dimensional fiber array launcher assembly. The method includes providing an alignment structure having a two-dimensional alignment plate with holes at one end and a two-dimensional beam shaper with micro-lenses at an opposite end. An endcap having a fiber attached thereto is systematically positioned in each hole, and is aligned with one of the micro-lenses with a high precision tolerance. The aligned endcap is then secured in the hole using a curable glue. This process is continued until all of the holes have aligned endcaps. If one of the endcaps is mis-aligned or becomes damaged, the glue can be heated and the endcap realigned or replaced.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 27/62 - Optical apparatus specially adapted for adjusting optical elements during the assembly of optical systems
  • G02B 6/26 - Optical coupling means
  • G02B 27/10 - Beam splitting or combining systems

69.

LATTICED STRUCTURE FOR VIBRATION CONTROL IN DYNAMIC ENVIRONMENTS

      
Application Number 18091444
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-12-30
First Publication Date 2023-07-06
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Bottlinger, Esteen
  • Chandler, Nicholas R.
  • Grosserode, Patrick
  • Hoffecker, Paul
  • Meitz, Richard
  • Rowland, Scott R.
  • Pirtle, Trevor J.

Abstract

Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a vibration control system and a vibration control device for structurally isolating a load from a vibration source. In various embodiments a vibration isolation device includes a first and support structure and a sidewall extending between and defining a body of the vibration isolation component. In embodiments the sidewall is configured to structurally support the load. In embodiments the sidewall includes one or more lattice portions occupying at least part of a total area of the sidewall, the lattice portions configured to attenuate a transfer of vibrations through the sidewall between the first and second support structures for reducing vibration transfer from the spacecraft vibration source and the load. In embodiments the body of the vibration isolation device is approximately the same as a component without one or more lattice portions such that the payload interface cone is a drop-in replacement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64G 1/64 - Systems for coupling or separating cosmonautic vehicles or parts thereof, e.g. docking arrangements
  • C08K 3/04 - Carbon
  • C08J 5/18 - Manufacture of films or sheets

70.

Selectively switchable wideband RF summer

      
Application Number 18114401
Grant Number 11817831
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-02-27
First Publication Date 2023-07-06
Grant Date 2023-11-14
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Wagner, Eric C.
  • Larocca, Timothy R.

Abstract

0/3. Further, when the switch is moved to the closed position and the amplifier is switched to the off state a passive mode of operation is implemented and when the switch is moved to the open position and the amplifier is switched to the on state an active mode of operation is implemented. The RF summer circuit develops a summed signal at the third port equal to a sum of signals at the first and second ports modified by one of first and second gain values.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03F 1/56 - Modifications of input or output impedances, not otherwise provided for
  • H03F 3/72 - Gated amplifiers, i.e. amplifiers which are rendered operative or inoperative by means of a control signal
  • H03F 3/195 - High-frequency amplifiers, e.g. radio frequency amplifiers with semiconductor devices only in integrated circuits

71.

Expandable hybrid reflector antenna structures and associated components and methods

      
Application Number 17555814
Grant Number 11721909
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-20
First Publication Date 2023-06-22
Grant Date 2023-08-08
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor Yi, Jack

Abstract

An antenna structure may include a solid antenna structure and a mesh antenna structure. The mesh antenna structure may be coupled to an outer edge of the solid antenna structure through two or more ribs. The two or more ribs may be configured to extend away from the solid antenna structure to expand the mesh antenna structure and increase a surface area of the antenna structure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01Q 15/16 - Reflecting surfaces; Equivalent structures curved in two dimensions, e.g. paraboloidal
  • H01Q 1/28 - Adaptation for use in or on aircraft, missiles, satellites, or balloons

72.

METHODS OF FORMING A STRUCTURE, AND RELATED TOOLS FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING THE STRUCTURE

      
Application Number 17553581
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-12-16
First Publication Date 2023-06-22
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Garcia, Benjamin W.
  • Barnes, Eric G.

Abstract

A method of forming a structure comprising a continuous fiber material comprises continuously feeding, through a continuous fiber nozzle assembly of an additive manufacturing tool, a feed material comprising a continuous fiber material and a thermoset resin material, heating or cooling the feed material to maintain a temperature of the feed material to a temperature sufficient to tackify the feed material and at least partially cure the feed material and initiate adhesion of the feed material on a build platform or a previously formed portion of a structure, and moving the continuous fiber nozzle assembly in three dimensions while depositing the feed material on the build platform or the previously formed portion of the structure to form the structure comprising the continuous fiber material extending in three dimensions. Related methods of forming a composite structure, and related tools for additively manufacturing a structure are disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B28B 1/00 - Producing shaped articles from the material
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/30 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
  • B28B 11/04 - Apparatus or processes for treating or working the shaped articles for coating
  • B28B 11/24 - Apparatus or processes for treating or working the shaped articles for curing, setting or hardening

73.

Cybersecurity for configuration and software updates of vehicle hardware and software based on fleet level information

      
Application Number 17564913
Grant Number 11681811
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-29
First Publication Date 2023-06-20
Grant Date 2023-06-20
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor Dixit, Sunil

Abstract

A method, implemented by a ground-based computing system, identifies cybersecurity threats originating from proposed updates to software, firmware or configuration file instructions resident in hardware components in a fleet of vehicles. In a proposed update, a valid encrypted signature block of the developer must be present. The proposed update is contained as a last file of a series of linked sequential blockchain files of prior updates. Upon a determination that the proposed update contains a valid signature block and is the last file in a validated series of linked blockchain files, the update is analyzed for any cybersecurity threats. If no cybersecurity threats are found, the update is transmitted to the vehicles in the fleet for implementation in the respective hardware components.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
  • G06F 8/65 - Updates

74.

METHODS OF PRODUCING GLYCIDYL NITRATE AND RELATED SYSTEMS

      
Application Number 18063841
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-12-09
First Publication Date 2023-06-15
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Christensen, Christina N.
  • Scavuzzo, Joseph J.
  • Mileham, Melissa L.

Abstract

A method of producing glycidyl nitrate comprises reacting a glycerol solution and nitric acid in a microfluidic reactor to form a dinitroglycerol solution. The glycerol solution exhibits a viscosity of less than or equal to about 150 cP at about 20° C. The dinitroglycerol solution is reacted with a base in the microfluidic reactor to form glycidyl nitrate. Related systems and methods are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C07D 303/36 - Compounds containing oxirane rings with hydrocarbon radicals, substituted by nitrogen atoms
  • B01J 19/00 - Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus

75.

Cooler device with aluminum oxide insulators

      
Application Number 18163203
Grant Number 11839165
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-02-01
First Publication Date 2023-06-08
Grant Date 2023-12-05
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Hathaway, Aaron Ashley
  • Przybysz, John X.
  • Young, Robert Miles
  • Engbrecht, Edward R.

Abstract

A solid state cooler device is disclosed that comprises a first normal metal pad, a first aluminum layer and a second aluminum layer disposed on the first normal metal pad and separated from one another by a gap, a first aluminum oxide layer formed on the first aluminum layer, and a second aluminum oxide layer formed on the second aluminum layer, and a first superconductor pad disposed on the first aluminum oxide layer and a second superconductor pad disposed on the second aluminum oxide layer. The device further comprises a first conductive pad coupled to the first superconductor pad, and a second conductive pad coupled to the second superconductor pad, wherein hot electrons are removed from the first normal metal pad when a bias voltage is applied between the first conductive pad and the second conductive pad.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H10N 60/82 - Current path
  • F25B 21/02 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect
  • H10N 60/80 - Constructional details
  • H10N 60/01 - Manufacture or treatment

76.

FIBER LASER WITH DOUBLE-PASSED PUMP ARCHITECTURE

      
Application Number 17643261
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-12-08
First Publication Date 2023-06-08
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Goodno, Gregory

Abstract

A fiber laser amplifier system including a first dual-clad delivery fiber receiving a signal beam and a pump beam, a doped amplifying fiber coupled to the first delivery fiber and receiving the signal beam and the pump beam, and amplifying the signal beam using the pump beam, and a second dual-clad delivery fiber coupled to the amplifying fiber and receiving the amplified signal beam and the pump beam. The system also includes an endcap having an input facet and an output facet. The input facet is coupled to the second delivery fiber and receives the amplified signal beam and the pump beam, and the output facet is configured to pass the amplified signal beam and reflect the pump beam back onto the second delivery fiber to be directed back to the doped amplifying fiber.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01S 3/067 - Fibre lasers
  • H01S 3/094 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping using optical pumping by coherent light
  • H01S 3/06 - Construction or shape of active medium
  • H01S 3/0941 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping using optical pumping by coherent light of a semiconductor laser, e.g. of a laser diode

77.

XX coupler for persistent current qubits

      
Application Number 17585173
Grant Number 11664804
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-01-26
First Publication Date 2023-05-30
Grant Date 2023-05-30
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Epstein, Ryan J.

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for coupling two qubits. A first persistent current qubit is fabricated with a first superconducting loop interrupted by a first Josephson junction isolated by a first inductor and a second inductor from a second Josephson junction. A second persistent current qubit is fabricated with a second superconducting loop interrupted by a third Josephson junction isolated by a third inductor and a fourth inductor from a fourth Josephson junction. Nodes defined by the Josephson junctions of the first qubit and their neighboring inductors are connected to corresponding nodes defined by the third Josephson junction and the third inductor via a first capacitor, with one pair of connections swapped such that the nodes are not connected to their respective corresponding nodes.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 19/017 - Modifications for accelerating switching in field-effect transistor circuits
  • H03K 19/0175 - Coupling arrangements; Interface arrangements
  • H03K 19/195 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one output; Inverting circuits using specified components using superconductive devices
  • H01L 39/24 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of devices provided for in group or of parts thereof
  • H01L 39/22 - Devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, e.g. Josephson-effect devices
  • H01L 27/18 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including components exhibiting superconductivity

78.

Vibrating-mass sensor system

      
Application Number 17521229
Grant Number 11788840
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-11-08
First Publication Date 2023-05-11
Grant Date 2023-10-17
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Pavlath, George Attila

Abstract

One example includes a radar image interface system. The system includes an image processor configured to receive synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image data associated with a region of interest and to generate a radar image of the region of interest based on the SAR image data. The image processor can be further configured to divide the radar image into a plurality of sequential units corresponding to respective zones of the region of interest. The system also includes a display system configured to display zoomed sequential units corresponding to respective zoomed versions of the sequential units of the radar image to a user. The system further includes an input interface configured to facilitate sequentially indexing through each of the zoomed versions of the sequential units on the display system in response to an indexing input provided by the user.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 19/56 - Turn-sensitive devices using vibrating masses, e.g. vibratory angular rate sensors based on Coriolis forces

79.

Microwave-based reset of persistent current qubits

      
Application Number 17745408
Grant Number 11646734
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-16
First Publication Date 2023-05-09
Grant Date 2023-05-09
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Marakov, Alexander
  • Przybysz, Anthony Joseph
  • Medford, James R.

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for resetting a qubit comprising a superconducting loop and a compound Josephson junction. A first bias flux is provided to the superconducting loop. A second bias flux is provided to the compound Josephson junction. Each of the first bias flux and the second bias flux are provided such that a given excited state of the qubit is near a top of a potential barrier associated with a potential of the qubit. A continuous microwave signal is generated having a frequency equal to a transition frequency between an other excited state of the qubit and the given excited state.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 17/92 - Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and -breaking characterised by the use of specified components by the use, as active elements, of superconductive devices

80.

Superconducting DC switch system

      
Application Number 17375199
Grant Number 11757446
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-07-14
First Publication Date 2023-04-27
Grant Date 2023-09-12
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Graninger, Aurelius L.

Abstract

A superconducting DC switch system is provided. The superconducting DC switch system comprises one or more Josephson junctions (JJs), and a magnetic field generator that is configured to switch from inducing a magnetic field in a plane of the one or more JJs, and providing no magnetic field in the plane of the one or more JJs. A DC input signal applied at an input of the one or more JJs is passed through to an output the one or more JJs in the absence of an induced magnetic field, and the DC input signal is substantially suppressed at the output of the one or more JJs in the presence of the magnetic field.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 17/92 - Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and -breaking characterised by the use of specified components by the use, as active elements, of superconductive devices
  • H10N 60/12 - Josephson-effect devices

81.

Nanoimprinted photonic integrated circuits

      
Application Number 17508030
Grant Number 11835763
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-10-22
First Publication Date 2023-04-27
Grant Date 2023-12-05
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Knight, Mark William
  • Sandor-Leahy, Stephanie Roxane
  • Narasimhan, Lakshminarayanan Ravi

Abstract

A method of making a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) is provided. The method comprises depositing a functional resist material layer over a substrate, disposing and pressing a stamp with a plurality of nanopatterns into the functional resist material for a period of time, and removing the stamp from the functional resist material to provide nanofeatures that are inverted versions of the nanopatterns, wherein the nanofeatures form one or more optical elements.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 6/136 - Integrated optical circuits characterised by the manufacturing method by etching
  • G02B 6/12 - Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings of the optical waveguide type of the integrated circuit kind

82.

MULTI-FUNCTIONAL LAYER FOR STOP ETCH IN LASER COATING REMOVAL

      
Application Number 17498270
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-10-11
First Publication Date 2023-04-13
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Knight, Mark W.
  • Shindo, Patrick W.
  • Limburg, Connor
  • Tice, Jesse

Abstract

An aircraft skin coating assembly for an aircraft. The coating assembly includes a primer layer deposited on the aircraft skin, an optical stop-etch layer deposited on the primer layer that is reflective at a predetermined wavelength, a coating stack-up deposited on the optical etch-stop layer that provides performance features for the aircraft, and a sealant layer deposited on the stack-up. When a laser coating removal process employing a laser beam is used to remove the coating stack-up for replacement, the stop-etch layer reflects the laser beam to prevent it from penetrating and possibly damaging the aircraft skin.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B23K 26/00 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
  • B05D 5/06 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures to obtain multicolour or other optical effects
  • B05D 7/00 - Processes, other than flocking, specially adapted for applying liquids or other fluent materials to particular surfaces or for applying particular liquids or other fluent materials
  • B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
  • B64C 1/12 - Construction or attachment of skin panels

83.

Munition with controlled self neutralization

      
Application Number 17180093
Grant Number 11619476
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-02-19
First Publication Date 2023-04-04
Grant Date 2023-04-04
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Lucas, James D.
  • Warp, William E.
  • Miller, Nathan W.
  • Fink, Kenneth
  • Lorentz, Thomas

Abstract

Methods, systems, and devices for an area-denial munition configured for self-neutralization of an explosive ordnance. In one or more embodiments the munition including a housing including a chassis defining one or more openings such that the housing is an at least partially open structure exposing an interior to an ambient environment. In various embodiments the munition includes a detonation module including a detonation initiator and a deflagration module including a deflagration initiator coupled with a pyrotechnic primer, and munition control circuitry. In various embodiments the munition control circuitry receives instructions to deflagrate the explosive ordnance and instructs the deflagration module to activate the deflagration initiator. In various embodiments, the deflagration initiator causes a deflagration of the explosive ordnance for self-neutralization of the munition resulting in safe destruction of the munition's explosive charge and control electronics.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F42D 5/04 - Rendering explosive charges harmless, e.g. destroying ammunition; Rendering detonation of explosive charges harmless
  • F42B 3/12 - Bridge initiators

84.

Balanced Amplifiers with Wideband Linearization

      
Application Number 17471535
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-09-10
First Publication Date 2023-03-30
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Ghanevati, Manouchehr
  • Siddiqui, Mansoor K.
  • Miller, David J.
  • Herndon, Michael

Abstract

An RF amplifier utilizes first and second main amplifiers in a balanced amplifier configuration with first and second auxiliary amplifiers connected in parallel across the first and second main amplifiers, respectively. The main and the auxiliary amplifiers are biased such that the third-order nonlinearity components in the combined output current are reduced. A common or independent bias control circuit(s) control(s) the DC operating bias of the auxiliary amplifiers and establishes DC operating points on curves representing third-order nonlinear components within the drain current having a positive slope (opposite to the corresponding slope of the main amplifiers). This results in reduction of overall third-order nonlinear components in combined currents at the output. In another embodiment, a phase shift of an input to one auxiliary amplifier is used to provide a peak in minimization at a frequency associated with the phase shift.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03F 1/32 - Modifications of amplifiers to reduce non-linear distortion
  • H03F 1/02 - Modifications of amplifiers to raise the efficiency, e.g. gliding Class A stages, use of an auxiliary oscillation
  • H03F 3/19 - High-frequency amplifiers, e.g. radio frequency amplifiers with semiconductor devices only
  • H03F 1/42 - Modifications of amplifiers to extend the bandwidth

85.

Prefragmented warheads with enhanced performance

      
Application Number 17460678
Grant Number 11614311
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-30
First Publication Date 2023-03-28
Grant Date 2023-03-28
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Bonnstetter, Gabriel J.
  • Truitt, Richard M.
  • Wagnild, Reid W.

Abstract

An explosive device, such as a missile, artillery round, aerial bomb, mortar round, or mine, that utilizes a wall structure that upon detonation provides displacement of smaller fragments interstitially between larger fragments. The displacement of the smaller fragments into the interstitial spaces at detonation creates an expanding fragmentation curtain that momentarily contains expanding gases to increase the impulse pressure of the explosion, thereby increasing the kinetic energy imparted to the fragments. In some embodiments, the wall structure includes ordered layers of preformed metal fragments encased in binder material that suspends the fragments in a desired arrangement prior to detonation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F42B 12/32 - Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect of high-explosive type with fragmentation-hull construction the hull or case comprising a plurality of discrete bodies, e.g. steel balls, embedded therein
  • F42B 33/02 - Filling cartridges, missiles, or fuzes; Inserting propellant or explosive charges
  • F42B 12/56 - Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for signalling for dispensing discrete solid bodies
  • B29C 39/10 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. casting around inserts or for coating articles
  • B29K 705/00 - Use of metals, their alloys or their compounds, for preformed parts, e.g. for inserts
  • B29L 31/00 - Other particular articles
  • B29K 101/12 - Thermoplastic materials
  • B29C 39/02 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles

86.

METHODS OF PASSIVATING FUEL MATERIALS FOR USE IN SOLID PROPELLANTS, AND RELATED SOLID FUELS, RAMJET ENGINES, AND METHODS

      
Application Number 17408798
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-08-23
First Publication Date 2023-03-23
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Swanson, Devon S.
  • Scott, Matthew S.

Abstract

A method of forming a solid fuel. The method comprises passivating a fuel material comprising a metalloid. Passivating the fuel material comprises combining the fuel material, a solvent, and an isocyanate passivation agent to form a solution, and passivating exposed surfaces of the fuel material with the isocyanate passivation agent to form a passivated fuel material. The method further comprises combining the passivated fuel material with at least one binder to form a mixture, and combining a curing agent with the mixture to form a solid fuel. Related solid fuels, solid fuel ramjet engines, and methods of passivating boron and forming a solid fuel ramjet engine are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C10L 7/02 - Fuels produced by solidifying fluid fuels liquid fuels
  • F42B 15/00 - Self-propelled projectiles or missiles, e.g. rockets; Guided missiles

87.

MACHINE LEARNING CLASSIFICATION OF SIGNALS AND RELATED SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIA

      
Application Number 17404160
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-08-17
First Publication Date 2023-03-09
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Gookin, Benjamin C.
  • Harmon, Nathanael M.
  • Kopacz, Justin
  • Herndon, Michael

Abstract

Classification of signals using machine learning and related systems, methods and computer-readable media are disclosed. A signal classification system includes a sentence embedding model network, a convolutional generator network, and a classifier network. The sentence embedding model network is trained to convert a body of sentences correlated to different signal modulation schemes into a latent space. The convolutional generator network is configured to project samples of a measured signal into the latent space. The classifier network is configured to classify the measured signal from the latent space responsive to a projection of the samples of the measured signal into the latent space. A method includes training a sentence embedding model network to convert descriptive sentences to a latent space, the descriptive sentences correlated to different signal modulation schemes. The method also includes training a convolutional generator network to project samples of a measured signal into the latent space.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06N 3/08 - Learning methods
  • G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means

88.

COMPACT ANTENNA SYSTEM FOR MUNITION

      
Application Number 17825389
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-26
First Publication Date 2023-03-02
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Parrow, Jacob M.
  • Sainati, Robert A.

Abstract

A compact munition antenna system that includes a curvilinear transmit antenna on a top and bottom of a ring-shaped substrate, and a curvilinear receive antenna on the top and bottom of the substrate. The transmit antenna and receive antenna are positioned opposite one another on the substrate, and are separated by a pair of isolation barriers to reduce coupling of the two antennas. The munition antenna system may be mounted on a metal cylindrical portion of a guidance system in a nose section of the munition, using a vertical convex surface of the cylindrical portion and a horizontal surface of the munition as a reflector for improving antenna performance.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01Q 1/28 - Adaptation for use in or on aircraft, missiles, satellites, or balloons
  • H01Q 19/10 - Combinations of primary active antenna elements and units with secondary devices, e.g. with quasi-optical devices, for giving the antenna a desired directional characteristic using reflecting surfaces
  • H01Q 1/52 - Means for reducing coupling between antennas; Means for reducing coupling between an antenna and another structure
  • H01Q 11/08 - Helical antennas

89.

SPACECRAFT SERVICING DEVICES AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

      
Application Number 17980236
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-11-03
First Publication Date 2023-02-23
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Nicholson, James Garret
  • Treachler, Daniel Carl
  • Ortiz, Oliver Benjamin
  • Reavill, James Dulin
  • Hekman, Benjamin Michael
  • Sullivan, Robert Bryan
  • Niederstrasser, Carlos Guillermo
  • Lieberbaum, Mark
  • Glogowski, Michael Joseph
  • Llorens, William A.
  • Chow, Kenneth Siu-Kin

Abstract

Spacecraft servicing devices or pods and related methods may be configured to be deployed from a carrier spacecraft and include at least one spacecraft servicing component configured to perform at least one servicing operation on the target spacecraft. The spacecraft servicing devices may be configured to be transported from an initial orbit to another orbit after the spacecraft servicing device is deployed from the carrier spacecraft.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64G 1/64 - Systems for coupling or separating cosmonautic vehicles or parts thereof, e.g. docking arrangements

90.

METHOD TO INTEGRATE DC & RF PHASE CHANGE SWITCHES INTO HIGH-SPEED SIGE BICMOS

      
Application Number 17981744
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-11-07
First Publication Date 2023-02-23
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Shea, Patrick B.
  • Young, Robert M.
  • Chung, Keith H.
  • Ezis, Andris
  • Wathuthanthri, Ishan

Abstract

A method of integrating a phase change switch (PCS) into a Bipolar (Bi)/Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) (BiCMOS) process, comprises providing a base structure including BiCMOS circuitry on a semiconductor substrate, and forming on the base structure a dielectric contact window layer having metal through-plugs that contact the BiCMOS circuitry. The method includes constructing the PCS on the contact window layer. The PCS includes: a phase change region, between ohmic contacts on the phase change region, to operate as a switch controlled by heat. The method further includes forming, on the contact window layer and the PCS, a stack of alternating patterned metal layers and dielectric layers that interconnect the patterned metal layers, such that the stack connects a first of the ohmic contacts to the BiCMOS circuitry and provides connections to a second of the ohmic contacts and to the resistive heater.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01L 27/24 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including solid state components for rectifying, amplifying, or switching without a potential-jump barrier or surface barrier
  • H01L 45/00 - Solid state devices specially adapted for rectifying, amplifying, oscillating, or switching without a potential-jump barrier or surface barrier, e.g. dielectric triodes; Ovshinsky-effect devices; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof
  • H01L 21/8249 - Bipolar and MOS technology

91.

Ultrasonic compaction device using reciprocating disk horns

      
Application Number 17400619
Grant Number 11872761
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-12
First Publication Date 2023-02-16
Grant Date 2024-01-16
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Benson, Vernon M.

Abstract

A continuous filament additive manufacturing machine for building a part by laying down a continuous mono-filament or composite filament material layer by layer on a tool or substrate. The machine includes a system, such as a robot, operable to move in at least three degrees of freedom, and a placement module coupled to the system and being configured to deposit the continuous filament material. The placement module includes a guide for guiding the material to the part, an ultrasonic compaction device including an ultrasonic driver, an attachment frame and an ultrasonic disk horn coupled to the attachment frame. The ultrasonic driver is coupled to the disk horn and ultrasonically vibrates the horn in a reciprocating manner to melt or flow the material and cause the material to fuse and be compacted to the tool or substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/295 - Heating elements
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/218 - Rollers

92.

Ultrasonic device for compaction allowing coordinated actuation and motion of multiple ultrasonic compaction horns

      
Application Number 17400701
Grant Number 11958241
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-12
First Publication Date 2023-02-16
Grant Date 2024-04-16
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Benson, Vernon M.

Abstract

A continuous filament additive manufacturing machine for building a part by laying down a continuous mono-filament or composite filament material layer by layer on a tool or substrate. The machine includes a system operable to move in at least three degrees of freedom, and a placement module coupled to the system and being configured to deposit the continuous filament material. The placement module includes a guide for guiding the material to the part and an ultrasonic compaction device for compacting the material as it is being deposited from the placement module. The compaction device includes an ultrasonic driver, an attachment member and a plurality of ultrasonic horns independently coupled to the attachment member and being movable independent of each other. The plurality of ultrasonic horns are ultrasonically vibrated to melt or flow the material and cause the material to fuse and be compacted to the tool or substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/194 - Processes of additive manufacturing involving additional operations performed on the added layers, e.g. smoothing, grinding or thickness control during lay-up
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/209 - Heads; Nozzles
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor

93.

Circuits for converting SFQ-based RZ and NRZ signaling to bilevel voltage NRZ signaling

      
Application Number 17401526
Grant Number 11757467
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-13
First Publication Date 2023-02-16
Grant Date 2023-09-12
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Knee, Derek L.
  • Ketchen, Mark B.
  • Burnett, Randall M.

Abstract

Edge-sensitive, state-based single flux quantum (SFQ) based circuitry and related methods convert return-to-zero (RZ) or non-return-to-zero (NRZ) encoded SFQ-pulse-based signals to bilevel NRZ phase signals that can subsequently be converted to bilevel voltage signals by an output amplifier (OA). The SFQ-based circuitry can be integrated with a current amplification stage of a driver that can be coupled to a stage of the OA. The SFQ-based circuitry can be made to be compatible with RQL-encoded input signals that can be either RZ or NRZ. The SFQ-based circuitry can thus be compatible with both wave-pipelined (WPL) and phase-mode (PML) RQL circuitry. Because the SFQ-based circuitry and related methods are edge-sensitive and state-based, they can function at system clock rates in excess of 1 GHz with reduced glitches and improved bit error rates as compared to other superconducting RZ-NRZ conversion circuitry and methods.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03M 7/12 - Conversion to or from weighted codes, i.e. the weight given to a digit depending on the position of the digit within the block or code word having two radices, e.g. binary-coded-decimal code
  • H03M 5/14 - Code representation, e.g. transition, for a given bit cell depending on the information in one or more adjacent bit cells, e.g. delay modulation code, double density code
  • H03K 19/003 - Modifications for increasing the reliability
  • H03M 5/02 - Conversion to or from representation by pulses
  • H03K 19/195 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one output; Inverting circuits using specified components using superconductive devices

94.

Ultrasonic material placement and compaction device with material passing through the ultrasonic horn element

      
Application Number 17400748
Grant Number 11964432
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-12
First Publication Date 2023-02-16
Grant Date 2024-04-23
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Benson, Vernon M.

Abstract

A continuous filament additive manufacturing machine for building a part by laying down a continuous mono-filament or composite filament material layer by layer on a tool or substrate. The machine includes a system, such as a robot, operable to move in three degrees of freedom, and a placement module coupled to the system and being configured to deposit the continuous filament material. The placement module includes a guide for guiding the material to the part and an ultrasonic compaction device for compacting the material as it is being deposited from the placement module. The compaction device includes an ultrasonic horn having at least one guide hole through which the material passes before it is laid down and compacted. The ultrasonic horn is ultrasonically vibrated to melt or flow the material and cause the material to fuse and be compacted to the tool or substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/295 - Heating elements
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/218 - Rollers
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor

95.

Ultrasonic consolidation of continuous filament materials for additive manufacturing

      
Application Number 17400543
Grant Number 11911965
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-12
First Publication Date 2023-02-16
Grant Date 2024-02-27
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Barnes, Eric
  • Benson, Vernon M.
  • Ivankovich, David

Abstract

A continuous filament additive manufacturing machine for building a part by laying down a continuous mono-filament or composite filament material layer by layer on a tool or substrate. The machine includes a system, such as a robot, operable to move in at least three degrees of freedom, and a placement module coupled to the system and being configured to deposit the continuous filament material. The placement module includes a guide for guiding the material to the part, a heat source for pre-heating the material as it is being deposited from the placement module and a compaction device for compacting the material as it is being deposited from the placement module. The compaction device includes an ultrasonic horn that is ultrasonically vibrated to melt or flow the material and cause the material to fuse and be compacted to the tool or substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/295 - Heating elements
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor
  • B29C 64/118 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using filamentary material being melted, e.g. fused deposition modelling [FDM]
  • B29C 64/218 - Rollers
  • B33Y 40/10 - Pre-treatment

96.

Detecting body spin on a projectile

      
Application Number 16350321
Grant Number 11578956
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-11-01
First Publication Date 2023-02-14
Grant Date 2023-02-14
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Cheung, Philip
  • Wall, Jared
  • Lamberg, John
  • Contons, Matthew P.
  • Balk, Michael
  • Sainati, Robert A.
  • Nohre, David

Abstract

A body spin detection device for a projectile, the device including a perturbing element and a detection element electrically connected to detection circuitry in the projectile. The detection circuitry configured to receive, via the detection element, a first and second input signals and determine that the first input signal is different from the second input signal based on signal characteristics for the first and second input signals. The detection circuitry is further configured to determine a spin rate for at least one of the despun control portion and the chassis by determining a time period between receiving the first input signal and the second input signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F42B 10/14 - Stabilising arrangements using fins spread or deployed after launch, e.g. after leaving the barrel

97.

Flexline wrap antenna for projectile

      
Application Number 16974169
Grant Number 11581632
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-29
First Publication Date 2023-02-14
Grant Date 2023-02-14
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Parrow, Jacob M.
  • Mckellips, Christopher A.
  • Aliaghai, Hossein

Abstract

A projectile circuitry assembly for use in projectiles comprising a chassis defining a generally cylindrical a main body portion and further defining an interior cavity for containing one or more projectile components and further defining an antenna aperture through the body portion to expose the interior cavity. In various embodiments the projectile circuitry assembly comprises a plurality of circuit boards and a wrap antenna, the plurality of circuit boards and wrap antenna interconnected via an integrated flex-line to define a single unitary device without the use of a connector, the wrap antenna comprising one or more antenna elements defined on a flexible antenna substrate layer, wherein the plurality of circuit boards are positioned in the interior cavity and the wrap antenna is threaded through the antenna aperture and wrapped circumferentially about an exterior of the cylindrical wall of the body portion.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01Q 1/27 - Adaptation for use in or on movable bodies
  • H01Q 1/36 - Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella
  • F42B 33/00 - Manufacture of ammunition; Dismantling of ammunition; Apparatus therefor
  • F42B 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass

98.

Process for constructing lightning strike protection for adhesively bonded graphite composite joints

      
Application Number 16522832
Grant Number 11575220
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-07-26
First Publication Date 2023-02-07
Grant Date 2023-02-07
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor
  • Crain, Bruce R.
  • Cramer, Eric S.
  • Hofmeister, Michael C.
  • Gallenstein, Kevin M.
  • Pearce, Jessica N.
  • Stash, Sandra J.
  • Suh, Daniel E.

Abstract

A bonded joint for use in bonding composite materials is provided and includes a composite rib having electrically conductive properties and a composite structure having electrically conductive properties. An electrically conductive preform is provided that facilitates a bond between the composite rib and the composite structure. A mesh composition that bonds the composite rib to the preform and that bonds the preform to the composite structure is provided and is electrically conductive to conduct current between the composite rib and the composite structure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16B 11/00 - Connecting constructional elements or machine parts by sticking or pressing them together, e.g. cold pressure welding
  • H01R 4/64 - Connections between or with conductive parts having primarily a non-electric function, e.g. frame, casing, rail
  • B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed parts; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C 65/48 - Joining of preformed parts; Apparatus therefor using adhesives
  • H01R 4/04 - Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation using electrically conductive adhesives
  • H01R 43/00 - Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
  • B64D 45/02 - Lightning protectors; Static dischargers
  • B29L 31/30 - Vehicles, e.g. ships or aircraft, or body parts thereof

99.

Axial flux machine for use with projectiles

      
Application Number 17300443
Grant Number 11573069
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-07-01
First Publication Date 2023-02-07
Grant Date 2023-02-07
Owner Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (USA)
Inventor
  • Parrow, Jacob M.
  • Fong, Matthew
  • Monzo, Glen

Abstract

A powered projectile having a nose portion, a body portion, a tail portion, and a central axis. In various embodiments a collar is rotatably mounted to a control support portion with a plurality of aerodynamic surfaces thereon for despinning the collar. An alternator configured as an axial flux machine with a stator arranged can be axially adjacent to one or more rotors, the stator including a plurality of windings and the one or more rotors each including a plurality of permanent magnets arranged about the face of the respective one or more rotor. In various embodiments the projectile includes an assembly of projectile control circuitry. In one or more embodiments, upon relative motion of the rotor with respect to the stator, magnetic flux from the magnets interacts with the windings of the stator and passes through an air gap between the one or more rotors and stator.

IPC Classes  ?

100.

Method for scanning a transmitted beam through a 360° field-of-view (FOV)

      
Application Number 17935635
Grant Number 11906665
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-27
First Publication Date 2023-02-02
Grant Date 2024-02-20
Owner NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION (USA)
Inventor Rumala, Yisa S.

Abstract

A system and method for scanning an amplitude modulated transmitted beam through a 360° FOV. The method includes generating a laser beam to be transmitted, intensity modulating the laser beam at multiple modulation frequencies, directing the laser beam to a spiral phase plate resonator (SPPR) device, directing a transmitted beam from the SPPR device onto a conical mirror to direct the transmitted beam at a certain angle therefrom depending on the frequency of the laser beam and processing a return beam.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 7/48 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
  • G01S 7/481 - Constructional features, e.g. arrangements of optical elements
  • G01S 17/32 - Systems determining position data of a target for measuring distance only using transmission of continuous waves, whether amplitude-, frequency-, or phase-modulated, or unmodulated
  • G01S 7/4863 - Detector arrays, e.g. charge-transfer gates
  • G02B 26/10 - Scanning systems
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