Abstract: A digital thermometer for cooking includes an outer casing having a bottom wall that defines a closed lower end and a side wall that projects upwardly from the bottom wall to define an open upper end, and a housing for electronic components disposed inside the outer casing and being surrounded by the side wall of the outer casing. A printed circuit board is disposed inside the housing, and a microprocessor and a visual display component are mounted on the printed circuit board. An insulating assembly is disposed inside the outer casing and is located between the bottom wall of the outer casing and the housing containing the electronic components. A temperature sensing probe projects from the bottom wall of the outer casing for obtaining temperature readings and transmitting the temperature readings to the microprocessor. The side wall of the outer casing is spaced from the housing to define a heat vent for dissipating heat.

Abstract: The invention provides a display device. The display device including: a driving mechanism; a rolling mechanism; and a flexible display, the flexible display is supported by the rolling mechanism, and the driving mechanism drives the rolling mechanism to roll in cycles. The display device of the present invention can realize rotational display, thereby satisfying the diversified demand of users.

Abstract: A signaling device for signaling heating in a mechanical system susceptible to undergo contact heating during operation. The signaling device includes a body containing a thermally triggered charge generating combustion gas, ignition of the charge able to be triggered under the effect of a predetermined heat contribution, from a heating area of the body toward the charge, or under the action of an ignition command, a reservoir containing a fluid, and delivery means delivering pressurized fluid outside the reservoir through the action, directly or through an intermediate member moving in the reservoir, of the combustion gases. The signaling device also comprises at least one visual signaling element for visually signaling combustion of the charge, the visual signaling element being visible at an outer peripheral area of the signaling device after combustion of the charge. The invention also relates to a mechanical system equipped with at least one such signaling device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a micro-electro-mechanical-system (MEMS) temperature sensor that employs a suspended spiral comprising a material with a positive coefficient of thermal expansion. The thermal expansion of the suspended spiral is guided to by a set of guideposts to provide a linear movement of the free end of the suspended spiral, which is converted to an electrical signal by a set of conductive rotor azimuthal fins that are interdigitated with a set of conductive stator azimuthal fins by measuring the amount of capacitive coupling therebetween. Real time temperature may thus be measured through the in-situ measurement of the capacitive coupling. Optionally, the MEMS temperature sensor may have a ratchet and a pawl to enable ex-situ measurement.

Abstract: To provide a temperature sensing tube for an expansion valve in which a hunting can be prevented by slowing of a temperature reaction rate of an expansion valve, a ceramic sintered member serving as a heat transfer delay member (3) in a temperature sensing tube (1) is fixed so as not to directly contact with a tubular member (2) by fixing springs (4, 4) provided at both end portions (13, 13), whereby a heat transfer from the tubular member (2) to the ceramic sintered member becomes slow, temperature is not transferred from a mated piping directly via the tubular member, whichever outer surface of the temperature sensing tube 1 contacts with the piping, and a reaction rate with respect to a temperature rise of the expansion valve can be made slow.

Abstract: An environment sensitive device is disclosed. The device includes a substrate, a three-dimensional structure established on the substrate, a first coating established on a first portion of the three-dimensional structure, and a second coating established on a second portion of the three-dimensional structure. The first and second coatings contain different materials that are configured to respond differently when exposed to a predetermined external stimulus.

Abstract: A temperature recorder in the form of a tubular cover and with an inside piston, in which an altered position of the piston is carried out by a mechanical movement released from a bimetal washer, which, when making a sudden change, changes its form from convex to concave when a determined temperature level is reached. Two line-formed screen patterns, a picture formed by colored lines on the inner surface of the tubular cover, shows a certain pattern in the original position, and a different pattern is shown when an inside piston has been moved vertically inside the outer tubular cover. Friction between the outside of the piston and the inner surface of the tubular cover forms a braking means. A reset button can by means of a magnet or a spring repulse or press back the piston which is in the top of the tubular cover and has a magnet and the piston will be pressed back within the tubular cover to its original position and the first patterns will be shown clearly again by the line-formed screen pattern.

Abstract: Board warp analysis includes dividing a temperature profile with respect to an electronic component by a predetermined time. A relaxation elastic modulus of the electronic component corresponding to the divisional time is obtained by shifting on a time base of a master curve related to the electronic component A curing degree of the electronic component is calculated based on a relationship between a time after shift and an actually applied temperature. A warp of the electronic component is analyzed based on a relaxation elastic modulus on the master curve or a relaxation elastic modulus calculated based on a relationship between the curing degree and the elastic constant according to a value of the curing degree calculated.

Abstract: A shape memory material activated device of the present invention uses a shape memory material activator to create a path through a shell wall of the device. The path through the shell wall may release a substance contained in the shell or allow a substance to enter the shell. The path may be created by fracturing, puncturing, exploding, imploding, peeling, tearing, stretching, separating, debonding, abrading or otherwise opening the shell and, may be permanent or reversible. The substance may be released in one location while the device is stationary or along a path while it is traveling, self-powered by the shape memory material activator. In addition, the substance may be delivered to an object upon contact with its surface. The self powering abilities allow these devices to be used as substance delivery devices as well as actuators, transporters, and energy conversion systems with modular characteristics and growth potential.

Abstract: A temperature sensor is described that includes a base, a first set of posts attached to the base having a first coefficient of thermal expansion, a second set of posts attached to the base and having a second coefficient of thermal expansion, and two substantially parallel conductive plates forming a capacitor. The first of the conductive plates is fixed to the first set of posts and the second of the conductive plates is fixed to the second set of posts. Temperature changes cause the first set of posts and the second set of posts to elongate at different rates, thereby changing a distance between the conductive plates and therefore the resulting capacitance. A system and method are also described for determining resonant frequency associated with the sensor which correlates to the temperature at the sensor when multiple sensors are networked across a system.

Abstract: Embodiments of separating apparatuses are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. In one embodiment, a thermal sensor assembly includes a shape memory substrate anchored within an isolation housing and braced between first and second anchors. The shape memory substrate is configured to transition from the strained configuration to the fractured configuration at a specified temperature range, and the first substrate end fractures from the second substrate end at the specified temperature. In another embodiment, a fracture indicator is coupled with the shape memory substrate, and the fracture indicator is configured to indicate the fractured configuration corresponding to meeting or exceeding of the specified temperature. In one example, the specified temperature range includes a range of temperatures or a single temperature.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement includes, in some embodiments, a magnetostrictive element configured to output magnetic signals in response to a magnetic field. A sensor is configured to sense a value of a property of a selected object, and to provide an electrical resistance that varies in response to variations in the sensed value. The sensor cooperates with the magnetostrictive element to vary the frequency of the signals output by the magnetostrictive element based on variations of the electrical resistance provided by the sensor. A transmitter provides an alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive element, and a receiver picks up the magnetic signals generated by the magnetostrictive element. The frequency of the signals received is correlated with the sensor resistance, and the resistance is correlated to a value of the property sensed.

Abstract: A temperature monitoring apparatus for high-voltage or medium-voltage components has a transducer which can produce a mechanical signal, which is dependent on the temperature of the component to be monitored. The mechanical signal is transmitted to an electrically isolating transmission element, for example in the form of a rod, and from the transmission element to a movement sensor. The transmission element can be arranged in an electrically isolating hollow body. This arrangement allows the movement sensor to be isolated from high voltages. The apparatus is composed of robust components, and can have a long life.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for measuring the deformation of a tethered or untethered cantilever by projecting a radiation beam onto the cantilever, detecting an interference pattern reflected from or transmitted through the cantilever, and calculating the deformation of the cantilever by measuring the intensity variation within at least a portion of the interference pattern.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement includes, in some embodiments, a magnetostrictive element configured to output magnetic signals in response to a magnetic field. A sensor is configured to sense a value of a property of a selected object, and to provide an electrical resistance that varies in response to variations in the sensed value. The sensor cooperates with the magnetostrictive element to vary the frequency of the signals output by the magnetostrictive element based on variations of the electrical resistance provided by the sensor. A transmitter provides an alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive element, and a receiver picks up the magnetic signals generated by the magnetostrictive element. The frequency of the signals received is correlated with the sensor resistance, and the resistance is correlated to a value of the property sensed.

Abstract: An electromechanical temperature detection device for a cooking appliance comprises a first rod-shaped sensor part and a second tubular-shaped sensor part. The first sensor part and the second sensor part are made from materials having different thermal expansion co-efficients. The first sensor part is positioned inside the second sensor part. An end area of the first sensor part is connected to the second sensor part in the end area of the second sensor part and the opposite end area of the first sensor part is connected to a switching device. The second sensor part consists of a sheet metal stamped part which is embodied along a longitudinal axis such that it surrounds a longitudinal area in a tubular like manner with a first sensor part positioned inside the tubular part.

Abstract: Cumulative thermal exposures monitors and remote indicating cumulative thermal exposure monitors and system for reading the same are disclosed. The monitors have a thermally insulative housing with a cavity and a thermally-responsive member therein formed of shape memory material, which may be provided with a coating or sheath of insulative or shape memory polymer material, that gradually changes from a first shape to a second shape over a prescribed temperature range wherein the thermal capacity and insulative properties of the housing, cavity, and shape memory material transition temperature range are correlated relative to one another and calibrated to closely match a thermal decay profile (time-temperature profile) of the product being monitored. In remote indicating embodiments, the data can be retrieved remotely via RF transponder technology without directly viewing the monitor device.

Abstract: A temperature indicator for a siding panel senses panel temperature and indicates on a graphic scale the corresponding effect of thermal expansion over differences in temperature. The temperature indicator can be various forms of contact thermometer, temperature strip or sensor and can be integral or temporarily affixed during installation or for later assessment for correct panel gapping. The indicator shows how closely the edge of the panel can be placed to an adjacent surface while avoiding interference over a range of thermal expansion temperatures.

Abstract: Temperature sensor with a temperature-dependent actuating device (12) comprising a capillary tube (14) which is filled with a gaseous or liquid medium which—in case of temperature changes along a measuring distance formed by the capillary tube (14)—effects a pressure or volume change and which comprises a path transmission element (16) which is provided medium-tight at one end of the capillary tube (14) and exerts a stroke movement depending on the pressure or volume in the capillary tube (14), and with a sensor which is designed as a Hall-effect probe (27) and which detects, contact-free, the stroke movement of the path transmission element (16) via a magnet (34) arranged on the path transmission element (16) or a section pointing toward the Hall-effect probe (27) on the path transmission element (16) of a magnetic material, characterized in that the path transmission element (16) is fixed on the housing bottom (25), and that a printed circuit board (28) taking up the Hall-effect probe (27) is arranged—separ

Abstract: A biochip has an integrated temperature sensor comprising a micro mechanical actuator (20) having a deformation dependent on temperature, and a detector (30) arranged to output a signal according to a deformation of the actuator. The actuator can be formed of LC material in an elastomeric network. The detector (30) can be optical, magnetic or capacitive. The actuator can be arranged as a layer and the deformation be a curling of the layer.

Abstract: An arrangement for controlling a radiant heater of a cooktop comprising a power controller, a changeover switch and a rod controller in a first operating mode which provides for the interruption of operation at temperatures of approximately 600° C. at a first switching point on the rod controller. In a second operating mode, a switch in the rod controller is set to a different switching point resulting in interruption of the power supply at temperatures of approximately 80° C., so that the radiant heater makes it possible to keep food hot without boiling.

Abstract: A temperature detecting device includes a heat receiving plate, a displacement transmitting part, a deforming part, a deformation generating part and a displacement detecting part. The heat receiving plate is restrained at its rim portion to generate a displacement of a central portion in its thickness direction with respect to the rim portion in accordance with the temperature of an atmospheric gas. The displacement transmitting part is displaced in accordance with the displacement of the central portion of the heat receiving plate. The deforming part is deformed by the displacement transmitting part. The deformation generating part maintains a distance between the rim portion of the heat receiving plate and the deforming part. The displacement detecting part detects a deformation of the deforming part and outputs an electric signal.

Abstract: A temperature alert device to warn of imminent devitrification due to warming of a biological specimen that uses shape memory materials. The temperature induced phase transformation of shape memory materials causes a temperature responsive actuator to extend an alert rod upon warming as the specimen temperature approaches the devitrification temperature (e.g. ?130° C.). The temperature alert device is automatically reset upon immersion in liquid nitrogen.

Abstract: A shape memory material activated device of the present invention uses a shape memory material activator to create a path through a shell wall of the device. The path through the shell wall may release a substance contained in the shell or allow a substance to enter the shell. The path may be created by fracturing, puncturing, exploding, imploding, peeling, tearing, stretching, separating, debonding, abrading or otherwise opening the shell and, may be permanent or reversible. The substance may be released in one location while the device is stationary or along a path while it is traveling, self-powered by the shape memory material activator. In addition, the substance may be delivered to an object upon contact with its surface. The self powering abilities allow these devices to be used as substance delivery devices as well as actuators, transporters, and energy conversion systems with modular characteristics and growth potential.

Abstract: A method of determining a temperature of a coolant in a coolant circulation system is disclosed. The coolant circulation system includes a coolant flow valve having a valve housing and an expansion element provided in the valve housing for controlling flow of the coolant through the valve housing. According to the method, an ohmic resistance of the expansion element is measured. The temperature of the coolant is determined by correlating the ohmic resistance of the expansion element with the temperature of the coolant.

Abstract: A system and a method for determining a change of temperature of a SBT pixel element are provided. The method includes determining a first value indicating an amount of surface charge of the SBT pixel element due to a spontaneous polarization of the SBT pixel element at a first time. The method further includes determining a second value indicating an amount of surface charge of the SBT pixel element due to a spontaneous polarization of the SBT pixel element at a second time. The method further includes determining a third value proportional to a difference between the first value and the second value. The method further includes determining a third value proportional to a difference between the first value indicative of the change of temperature of the SBT pixel element based on the third value. The method further includes storing the fourth value indicative of the change of temperature of the SBT pixel element in a memory device.

Abstract: A temperature measuring device includes a temperature-responsive element that mechanically moves a first inductive assembly component relative to a second inductive assembly component in response to temperature changes. The movement of the first inductive assembly component relative to the second inductive assembly component generates a change in a local eddy current pattern that corresponds to the sensed temperature.

Abstract: Thermally reactive elements of an intumescent material that expands when heated above a trigger temperature are arranged in an enclosed space, e.g a freight compartment of an aircraft. An optical sensor in the enclosed space has a field of view encompassing the elements. An evolving fire heats one of the elements above the trigger temperature so the intumescent material expands. This expansion of the element is sensed by the optical sensor, for an early detection of the fire at temperatures substantially below 300° C. With the elements arranged in a predefined pattern, the location of the fire can be determined based on the element(s) that has/have expanded. The intumescent material may be an adhesive tape adhered onto the ceiling of the freight compartment. Light sources or optical targets arranged along lines of sight behind the elements enhance the unambiguous recognition of the thermally expanded condition of a respective element.

Abstract: In order to determine the temperature in the winding region of an electric motor, especially linear motor, a measuring line made of uniform; electrically conductive material is integrated in a winding, preferably in sections between winding teeth. The measuring line may be configured as insulated double line which is short-circuited on one side. A change in the resistance value of the measuring line allows conclusion about a temperature change and is easy to ascertain.

Abstract: A temperature measuring device includes a temperature-responsive element that mechanically moves a first inductive assembly component relative to a second inductive assembly component in response to temperature changes. The movement of the first inductive assembly component relative to the second inductive assembly component generates a change in a local eddy current pattern that corresponds to the sensed temperature.

Abstract: A cooking thermometer having an audible alarm includes a skewer having a segment of a shape memory alloy wire disposed therein. The upper end of the shape memory allow wire is secured to a connecting rod which is operatively associated with a cam assembly. When the skewer and hence the shape memory alloy wire is heated, the shape memory alloy commences a phase transformation from martensite to austenite and contracts. The cam assembly serves to translate the up and down motion of the connecting rod into rotational motion which is transmitted through a spur gear assembly to a pivoting pointer positionable over a temperature indicia plate. A helical spring assembly is positioned on the top of the connecting rod which exerts stress on the connecting rod and shape memory alloy wire during the phase transformation to extend the temperature transformation range and improve and optimize the linearity of the transition.

Abstract: The invention is directed towards a cooking thermometer having an audible alarm and triggering mechanism therefore. The cooking thermometer includes a skewer having a segment of nitinol wire disposed therein. The nitinol wire is secured to a connecting wire which extends upwardly into the housing and is vertically displaceable within the skewer. The connecting wire extends out of the skewer into a wire guide having a curvilinear passage therein which is adapted to allow sliding displacement of the connecting wire therethrough. The upper end of the connecting wire is fixedly attached to a gear assembly whereby sliding displacement of the connecting wire causes the rotation of the gear assembly, which engages a spur gear train which is connected to a pivoting pointer positionable over the temperature indicia plate.

Abstract: A cumulative thermal exposure monitor (10) having a housing (11) with a fluid sealed interior cavity (16) and a thermally-responsive member (20) therein formed of a shape memory material which moves an indicator (21), wherein the thermal properties of the housing, cavity, and shape memory material transition temperature range are calibrated relative to one another to function in mutual cooperation such that the thermally-responsive member gradually changes from a first shape to a second shape upon absorption of heat energy over time to closely match a thermal deterioration profile of a perishable product, and to indicate the cumulative amount of heat energy absorbed and whether, at any time, the temperature has been above a preferred storage temperature range for a period of time sufficient to cause any degree of deterioration based on a known time and temperature thermal deterioration profile of the perishable product.

Abstract: A sensor provides a persistent indication that it has been exposed to temperatures below a certain critical temperature for a predetermined time period. An element of the sensor made from shape memory alloy changes shape when exposed, even temporarily, to temperatures below the Austenitic start temperature As and well into Martensite finish temperature Mf off the shape memory alloy. The shape change of the SMA element causes the sensor to change between two readily distinguishable states. The sensor includes a one-way stop element that creates a persistent indication of the temperature history, allowing the sensor to be manufactured and stored at temperatures above the Austenitic temperature without causing the indication of an over-temperature event.

Abstract: The invention is directed towards a cooking thermometer having an audible alarm and triggering mechanism therefore. The cooking thermometer includes a skewer having a segment of nitinol wire disposed therein. The nitinol wire is secured to a connecting wire which extends upwardly into the housing and is vertically displaceable within the skewer. The connecting wire extends out of the skewer into a wire guide having a curvilinear passage therein which is adapted to allow sliding displacement of the connecting wire therethrough. The upper end of the connecting wire is fixedly attached to a gear assembly whereby sliding displacement of the connecting wire causes the rotation of the gear assembly, which engages a spur gear train which is connected to a pivoting pointer positionable over the temperature indicia plate.

Abstract: A system for measuring a condition of a turbine engine component comprises an assemblage of at least a film comprising an electrically conducting material disposed on a film of an electrically non-conducting material, the assemblage being disposed on a surface of the turbine engine component without removing material from the turbine engine component to compensate for thickness of at least one of the films. The electrically non-conducting material has a thermal expansion coefficient such that each of the films remains adhered to adjacent films through at least one cycle of extreme operating temperature. In addition, communication links can be provided to transmit the measurement representing the condition of the turbine engine to a remote user.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pyrometer system and comprises an elevator tube. The elevator tube comprises an inner tube and an outer tube surrounding the inner tube in telescoping arrangement and extending from a top to a bottom thereof, the arrangement defining a fluid passageway therebetween. The elevator tube further comprises a port associated with the outer tube that is operable to transmit a cooling gas therethrough into the fluid passageway. A pyrometer head is coupled to the bottom of the inner tube and is operable to transmit and receive radiation through the inner tube. The system further comprises a spider collar coupled to at least one of a top of the inner tube or outer tube, and is operable to support a work piece for thermal measurement thereof.

Abstract: A shape memory material activated device of the present invention uses a shape memory material activator to create a path through a shell wall of the device. The path through the shell wall may release a substance contained in the shell or allow a substance to enter the shell. The path may be created by fracturing, puncturing, exploding, imploding, peeling, tearing, stretching, separating, debonding or otherwise opening the shell. The devices according to the present invention may be used as temperature sensors or warning devices, drug delivery devices, and the like.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a sensing element mounted with a body. The sensing element comprises a portion made with a shape memory alloy. The sensing element mounts with the body, fixedly at two ends. The fixed mounting at one end, however, is configured so that it can be converted to allow a moveable relationship between the body and the sensing element. While the mounting is fixed, the sensing element is prevented from indicating temperature deviations, and the apparatus can be stored and handled freely. After the mounting is converted to provide a moveable relationship, however, a temporary temperature excursion can cause the SMA portion to contract, providing a discernible change in the relationship between the sensing element and the body.

Abstract: A temperature sensor includes a sensor tube and a sensor rod received in the sensor tube and having a thermal expansion coefficient which differs from a thermal expansion coefficient of the sensor tube. The sensor rod has one end, which is supported by a free end of the sensor tube, and another end, which forms an actuating element of a switching contact assembly. An insulating member at least partly surrounds the switching contact assembly and has an opening for passage of the sensor tube with accommodated sensor rod. Mounted to the insulating member in the area of the opening is a support plate which is connected at least indirectly to the sensor tube by a welding process such that an opening-surrounding wall portion of the insulating member is held in place.

Abstract: A device in a process control system includes an electrical element which has a resistance. Self-heating circuitry coupled to the element provides a self-heating current to determine the self-heating index (SHI) of the element. Diagnostic information about the electrical element is provided based upon the self-heating index.

Abstract: A thermal exposure monitor has a thermally-conductive housing adapted to be placed in close proximity to a product to be monitored and at least one thermally-responsive shape memory alloy member in the housing that has a first shape at temperatures below a critical temperature and a second shape at temperatures above the critical temperature and a transformation temperature range encompassing a prescribed detrimental temperature related to the product being monitored. An indicator associated with the thermally-responsive member is moved from an initial position as the thermally-responsive member changes from the first shape to the second shape so as to be visually observed through a window on the housing to visually indicate whether the product being monitored has been exposed to temperatures above the prescribed detrimental temperature for a period of time that would be detrimental to the product.

Abstract: A temperature indicating device utilizing a housing having an exterior and an interior which includes first and second chambers. First and second chambers communicate with one another. An opening through the housing allows communication between the interior and exterior of the housing. A bimetallic element which is capable of assuming first and second configurations is positioned within the second chamber. A movable member is found in the first chamber and contacts the bimetallic elements when the bimetallic elements assumes the first configuration. A spring bias the contact between the movable member and the bimetallic element and urges movement therebetween when the bimetallic element assumes the second configuration. A signal indicates such movement by utilization of the opening between the exterior and interior of the housing.

Abstract: Under a same heating condition as a sample to be measured, a physical property is measured for a reference substance whose temperature dependency of a physical property value is previously known. Reversely, a temperature profile of the reference substance is read so that the temperature profile is applied to a physical property measurement result for the sample. Thus, thermal analysis for the large diameter sample is made accurately without the necessity of arranging a temperature sensor in the vicinity of the sample.

Abstract: A temperature sensor and manufacturing method therefor using a shape memory alloy comprise a strip unit constituted in an aggregate as a plurality of shape memory alloys including a removal member and/or an elastic member made of another shape memory alloy, in which the temperature sensor is fixed on a container of products or goods by stapler to have a second shape under critical temperature or a first shape when exposed, even temporarily, to temperatures above critical temperature of the shape memory alloy, thereby to indicate a damage of the product or being escaped from the product and/or a removal function portion to indicate a damage of the product.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the temperature of substrates in a thermal processing chamber in the presence of either an oxidizing atmosphere or a reducing atmosphere is disclosed. Specifically, temperature determinations made in accordance with the present invention are generally for calibrating other temperature sensing devices that may be used in conjunction with the thermal processing chamber. The method of the present invention is generally directed to heating a substrate containing a reactive coating within a thermal processing chamber in an oxidizing atmosphere or reducing atmosphere. As the wafer is heated, the reactive coating reacts with gases contained within the chamber based upon the temperature to which the substrate is exposed. After heated, the thickness of any coating that is formed on the substrate is then measured for determining the temperature to which the substrate was heated.

Abstract: A time-temperature indicator indicates the useful shelf life of an associated product which may be affected by the passage of time and an applied temperature. A creeping material has a first end connected to a first fixed location and a second end connected to a load applying device such as a spring. In response to application of the load applying device, the passage of time, and the application of various temperatures, the creeping material will increase in length in a known manner. An indicator associated with the creeping material indicates whether the passage of time and application of various temperatures have caused the associated product to exceed its useful shelf life.

Abstract: An integrated circuit and method are provided for sensing activity such as temperature variations in a surrounding environment. The integrated released beam sensor preferably includes a switch detecting circuit region and a sensor switching region connected to the switch detecting circuit region. The sensor switching region preferably includes a fixed contact layer, a sacrificial layer on the fixed contact layer, and a floating contact on the sacrificial layer and having portions thereof overlying the fixed contact layer in spaced relation therefrom in an open switch position and extending lengthwise generally transverse to a predetermined direction. The floating contact preferably includes at least two layers of material. Each of the at least two layers have a different thermal expansion coefficient so that the floating contact displaces in the predetermined direction responsive to a predetermined temperature variation so as to contact the fixed contact layer and thereby form a closed switch position.

Abstract: For measuring and controlling the temperature of a splice portion between two optical fiber (1, 1') ends, during the splicing process when the material of the ends is heated to be fusioned, the time-dependency of the surface tension effect for viscous liquids is utilized. Then the fiber (1, 1') ends are placed for splicing with a relatively large lateral offset in the retainers (39) of a fiber splicer and are spliced by the heat of an electric arc generated between the welding electrodes (43). The heating of the fiber ends is continued, whereby the offset of the fiber ends will gradually decrease due to the surface tension. The offset is then measured at different times during the continued heating and from these determined values and the times when they were measured the temperature of the heated fiber end portions is determined. This temperature value may then be compared to a predetermined set value for control of the heating of the splice region.

Abstract: A sensor permanently indicates that it has been exposed to temperatures exceeding a critical temperature for a predetermined time period. An element of the sensor made from shape memory alloy changes shape when exposed, even temporarily, to temperatures above the Austenitic temperature of the shape memory alloy. The shape change of the SMA element causes the sensor to change between two readily distinguishable states.