Abstract: A method for providing alternating current electric power to a power consuming device includes moving a first line switch and a second line switch of a switch assembly from open circuit positions to closed circuit positions in a non-simultaneous manner to complete the electrical circuit between the power consuming device and an alternating current power source to avoid harmful sparks. The first line switch and second line switch are respectfully conductively coupled to first and second lines of the electric circuit so that when the first and second line switches are moved to their open circuit positions, no power drain is experienced. A shield may also be disposed between the first line switch and the second line switch for preventing magnetic induction of current.

Abstract: An electronic switch includes a rigid base, a circuit board supported by the base which includes an aperture therethrough defined, at least in part, by spaced apart conductive terminals of an electrically conductive circuit, a resiliently flexible casing attached to the base and overlying the circuit board, and a plunger attached to the casing and extending therefrom through the circuit board aperture. The plunger includes a conductive portion which is adjacent to the casing, and a non-conductive portion. The casing is resiliently biased so as to normally position the plunger such that the non-conductive portion thereof extends through the circuit board aperture. Depression of the casing, however, places the conductive portion within the aperture and into contact with the spaced apart conductive terminals to close the electrically conductive circuit. The electronic switch may be utilized in connection with, for example, a drowsiness warning device which includes a band securable about a wearer's neck.

Abstract: A drowsiness warning device includes a band which is securable about a wearer's neck, and an alarm positioned by the band below the wearer's chin for producing a tactile and an aural warning as the chin contacts the alarm device. The band includes a central section formed with a vertically stiff plastic material which is capable of holding a lower elongated body of the alarm therein. An upper rounded dome section of the alarm extends above the central section. The band also includes a pair of straps having hook and loop tape fasteners, and intermediate sections between the straps and the central section lined with a fibrous material for wearer comfort. In one embodiment, the alarm includes a hollow elastomeric ball having a mechanical noisemaker disposed within an air inlet/outlet aperture for the ball. In another embodiment, the alarm includes an electrically actuated speaker connectable to a battery on depression of the upper rounded dome.