Abstract: This motor/generator produces rotational torque and/or electrical energy employing a flexible magnetically permeable circular band as a rotor that in operation is in physical contact with the stator, arching and curving forward in response to advancing magnetic fields along the stator surface. The stator may be comprised of either a typical three-phase winding, or a series of magnetic actuators arranged in a toroid for which the rotor band acts as a continuous armature. The rotor rotates as follows: an actuator to the left or right of an active actuator is activated to pull a rotor arch down to the stator surface; as this occurs, the previously active actuator is turned off and that part of the rotor springs away; the rotor moves clockwise or counterclockwise as the arches of the rotor are advanced forward or backward, respectively. Differential rotor movement provides speed reduction and torque enhancement without gears.

Abstract: This motor/generator produces rotational torque and/or electrical energy employing a flexible magnetically permeable circular band as a rotor that in operation is in physical contact with the stator, arching and curving forward in response to advancing magnetic fields along the stator surface. The stator may be comprised of either a typical three-phase winding, or a series of magnetic actuators arranged in a toroid for which the rotor band acts as a continuous armature. The rotor rotates as follows: an actuator to the left or right of an active actuator is activated to pull a rotor arch down to the stator surface; as this occurs, the previously active actuator is turned off and that part of the rotor springs away; the rotor moves clockwise or counterclockwise as the arches of the rotor are advanced forward or backward, respectively. Differential rotor movement provides speed reduction and torque enhancement without gears.

Abstract: A drive system, suitable for use as a self propelled wheel on a wheelchair or the like, includes a wheel which rotates about a stationary axle assembly. The torque producing electrical motor and the batteries which supply power therefor are mounted on and rotate with the wheel. Command signals are optically coupled from the frame on which the stationary axle is supported to the rotating wheel where they are employed to control the rotational speed and direction of rotation.

Abstract: A gravity assisted lifting device which permits a load such as a folded wheelchair to be easily transferred between the cargo storage compartment of an unaltered passenger vehicle and the ground. The lifting device includes a pivotal frame, which raises and lowers the load between generally vertical and generally horizontal orientations, and a slide subassembly, which permits the load to be moved into or out of the storage compartment when in the horizontal orientation.

Abstract: Apparatus which enables a foldable wheelchair to be retrofitted with an electrical propulsion system without significantly compromising the ability to fold the chair. The apparatus includes a drive unit for each wheel to be driven. The drive units can be mounted on the stationary axles of the driven wheels and apply torque, generated by a separate motor in each drive unit, to the wheels at a plurality of symmetrically located points which are radially displaced from the axles.

Abstract: An infrared data repeater adapted for providing communication of infrared signals across an infrared transmission barrier comprises a pair of relay units mounted at opposite ends of a housing. The housing may be mounted in the wall of a building. Arrays of receiver and transmitter elements of the relay units are configured to provide communication over substantial solid angles. The relay units may be selectively directionally orientated. The elements define different effective pre-established solid angles of reception and transmission. The elements are arranged so that there is an inverse relationship between the solid angle and the distance between the element and a corresponding infrared receiver or transmitter.

Abstract: The rate and total quantity of a fluid being delivered intravenously to a patient are accurately controlled by a restrictor which operates under the supervision of a microprocessor. The microprocessor provides control signals to a stepping motor which, through appropriate gearing, causes movement of a plunger so as to increase or decrease the compression of a plastic tube of an IV set which is captured in a disposable adapter mounted in registration with the plunger.

Abstract: Apparatus for generating coded signals commensurate with information to be entered into associated equipment includes a matrix of magnetically operated switches. The switches are disposed beneath a generally planar data entry area and transparent indicia bearing overlays are received on the data entry area; the overlays including target points aligned with individual switches and there typically being fewer target points than switches whereby the overlay has space for the indicia and a plurality of overlays are utilized to take full advantage of the capability of the matrix. The apparatus may also include light emitting devices associated with the switches to provide operator feedback or guidance.