Abstract: A control mechanism includes an optically transparent member, a knob with a reflective surface, an optical light source, and an optical receiver. The optical light source directs light toward the knob that is reflected to the optical receiver.

Abstract: A system for accepting user input including a switch arranged in an array of switches. Each switch in the array of switches is located at the edge of a pressure member. The system includes a display that displays at least one option and includes a pressure member. The pressure member has multiple sections and is positioned in relation to the array of switches such that when a force is applied, by a user, to one of the multiple sections corresponding to the switch, the pressure member transmits a resulting force to the switch causing a switch actuation. One of the multiple sections of the pressure member is spatially associated with a desired option of the at least one option. The system also includes a control circuit, wherein the control circuit is configured to translate the switch actuation into a system state.

Abstract: Scan a plurality of broadcast signals, select and receive one of the scanned broadcast signals and determine parameters about the received broadcast signal. Assign a priority to the received broadcast signal based on the parameters, and store the parameters and priority in memory. Redetermine the parameters in priority order in a manner that reduces the time for redetermining. Reassign a priority to the received broadcast signal based on the redetermined parameters, and update in memory the redetermined parameters and priority.

Abstract: An acoustic device having a heat producing device, such as an amplifier and a heat sink for transferring heat from the amplifier. The acoustic device has a cone having an inner surface, and a support structure defining a volume. The heat producing element and the heat sink are positioned in the volume.

Abstract: An alarm device is provided in a car. A criminal act such as braking of a window of the car is detected and a criminal act signal is produced. In accordance with the criminal act signal, the alarm device is operated. When an ignition switch of the car is operated by an ignition key within a first predetermined time after opening of a door of the car, the production of the criminal act signal is stopped.

Abstract: An alarm device is provided in a car. A criminal act such as braking of a window of the car is detected and a criminal act signal is produced. In accordance with the criminal act signal, the alarm device is operated. When an ignition switch of the car is operated by an ignition key within a first predetermined time after opening of a door of the car, the production of the criminal act signal is stopped.

Abstract: A car stereo has a removable panel attached to a body of the car stereo, the panel having a plurality of operation buttons for operating the car stereo. An alarm device is provided in a motor vehicle. A first detector is provided for detecting removing of the panel from the body, and a second detector is provided for detecting turning on of an ignition switch of the motor vehicle. A third detector is provided for detecting opening of a door of the motor vehicle. At lapse of a predetermined first period of time after the detection of the door open, the alarm device is operated unless detection of attaching of the panel and turning on of the ignition switch.