Abstract: The present disclosure describes a latch assembly wherein structural members are coupled to each other by an electric match-type device interposed therebetween. The latter device generally comprises a body portion having electrical connections thereto and a rigid mass of combustible material firmly adhered to an extremity thereof. At least a pair of the structural members are individually coupled to the combustible material. Remote activation of the match by the passage of electric current therethrough results in the firing of the combustible material and the consequent opening of the latch through the elimination of the coupling force between the structural members.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system for detecting very small displacements of an object with respect to a self oscillating piezoelectric crystal by means of acoustic interference at the crystal. Acoustic energy transmitted by the oscillator is reflected by the object, and movement of the latter causes changes in the phase of the reflected energy. Such changes in turn result in variations in the amplitude of the oscillations. An electronic circuit responsive to the last mentioned variations generates output signals indicative of the instantaneous position of the object.