Abstract: A switch that can vary at least two controllable parameters and can vary the upper, lower and any intermediary limits of the switch. The switch has a pair of nested coaxial rotary knobs each attached by shafts to sensors that determine the radial position of a reference point on each knob. The knobs rotate with respect to each other and are constructed to allow rotation of the knobs with one hand. The sensors are attached to the controls of the parameters, such that rotation of the knobs varies the output of the parameters. The sensors are coupled to a magnetic clutch that engages and prevents rotation of one of the knobs, when the knob is rotated into a predetermined radial position. A computer can be connected to the magnetic clutch and sensors. The computer receives input signals from the sensors and produces an output signal to the clutch, to engage the clutch and prevent rotation of the knob in accordance with a computer program within the computer.

Abstract: A silent audio switch provides switching between multiple audio sources while eliminating the "pop" caused by switching spikes. Two internal buses are used for each visible external bus, whereby a new audio signal is first switched to an off-air bus opposite an on-air bus, any switching spike is allowed to subside, and then a fast mix is made between the two buses to derive the new audio signal as the switch output signal.

Abstract: An electrical switch on a chassis of a magnetic-tape-apparatus has a switching lever movable between a center switch open position, an unstable switched closed position to one side of center, and a stable switched closed position to the other side of center, with an over-center position between the center and stable closed positions. Spaced projections on a head-mounting plate engage the lever during movement between a playing position and a stop/ejection position, so as to cause the lever to move between the center and the stable closed position. With the plate in the stop/ejection position, an actuating rod can pass between the projections to move the lever to the unstable closed position and hold it in that position. When the plate is in the playing position, clearance of the projections from the lever is such that the plate can move a certain distance, for example for fast winding, without engaging the lever.

Abstract: A selection switch is disclosed which is capable of accomplishing a clearly defined and smooth switching operation and contributing to the miniaturization of an apparatus such as a tape recorder. The switch includes a guide member for guiding a cassette of a tape by bending one of spring-biased contact members and a selector having a triangular projection outwardly projecting from the guide member wherein the triangular projection is backwardly pushed by the cassette while bending the other spring-biased contact member as a function of the shape of the cassette to actuate contacts of the contact members, to thereby select the deformation.

Abstract: A mode selecting device for a video tape reproducing apparatus of the type in which a magnetic tape is transported past rotary magnetic heads, includes a control shaft adapted to rotate about an axis, a control knob connected to the upper end of the control shaft for manually controlling the rotation of the control shaft, a photo-disk rotatable with the control shaft, a pair of photo-detectors associated with the photo-disk for detecting the rotational speed, the angular position and the direction of rotation of the control shaft about the axis, a latch mechanism for maintaining the control shaft in either a first or second axial position along the axis and for effecting successive change-overs between the first and second axial positions in response to successive depressions of the control knob, the speed of movement of the tape being controlled in response to the detection of the angular position when the control shaft is maintained in the first axial position and the speed of movement of the tape being con

Abstract: A tape recorder capable of detecting and discriminating the position of an operating button by the touch of a finger tip comprises a projected wall having a predetermined configuration positioned along each of the operating buttons provided in the tape recorder casing.

Abstract: A switch mechanism for a phonograph disposed in an openable and closable casing having a movable contact piece and a pivotally movable pick-up bracket. The contact piece, which is in electrical communication with a source of power, is moved by a pivotally movable pick-up bracket to break the electrical circuit. The switch mechanism, also, includes a switch actuator which pushes the contact piece from the same direction as the pick-up bracket. A pawl is mounted onto the casing and is movable therewithin. When the casing is closed, the pawl pushes the switch actuator away from the contact piece to permit the circuit to be closed.