Abstract: A record handling device is disclosed which includes a frame which defines a handle and an arcuate record contacting member. This contacting member defines an arcuate groove sized to receive the peripheral edge of a record. A record retaining member is pivotably mounted to the frame so as to move between an open position, in which a record can freely be inserted in or removed from the groove, and a closed position, in which the record is captured in the groove. The record gripping device of this invention allows a record such as a phonographic record to be handled and transported safely and securely, without damage to the delicate recording surface. In addition, an album opening device is disclosed which comprises a groove defined by two sloping sidewalls and a base, and a blade situated within the groove.

Abstract: A sound reproduction system is disclosed which includes a main amplifier which drives two main speakers via a fader control. An auxiliary speaker powered by an auxiliary amplifier is coupled to the sound reproduction system in such a way that the loudness ratio between one of the two main speakers and the auxiliary speaker remains constant, regardless of the setting of the fader control, and the loudness between the front main speaker and auxiliary speaker can be balanced. In one embodiment, the auxiliary amplifier is coupled to a voltage divider circuit, which is in turn coupled in parallel with the rear main speaker. In a second embodiment, the auxiliary amplifier is coupled via a variable resistor to a preamplifier which is coupled in parallel with the main amplifier. The variable resistor is mechanically coupled to the fader control such that manual adjustment of the fader control automatically adjusts the variable resistor to cause the variable resistor to track the fader control.

Abstract: A video game joystick controller is disclosed which includes a lower housing which defines a lower convex bearing surface, an upper housing which defines an upper concave bearing surface concentric with the lower bearing surface, and a handle which defines inner and outer bearing surfaces. The inner bearing surface of the handle is adapted to mate with the lower bearing surface of the lower housing, and the outer bearing surface of the handle is adapted to mate with the upper bearing surface of the upper housing such that the handle is free to pivot with a smooth action. A plate is mounted to the lower end of the handle, and this plate bears four switch actuators, one of which is higher than the other three. A circuit board is mounted to the upper housing, and it serves to mount four coplanar switches, each of which is situated directly above a respective one of the four actuators.

Abstract: A demagnetizing device for a cassette tape player includes a cassette shell which defines a generally oval-shaped guide track extending around the interior of the shell. A magnet assembly is provided with shafts which fit within the guide track such that the magnet assembly is free to rotate within the guide track and to translate along the length of the guide track. The magnet assembly is rotated by a drive belt which in turn is driven by two hubs rotatably mounted in the cassette shell. An automatic shutoff lever is disclosed which acts automatically to shutoff a tape player equipped with automatic shutoff features when the magnet assembly reaches one of two predetermined positions on the guide track. By properly positioning the guide track, the single magnet assembly can be used to demagnetize multiple components of a tape player distributed around the cassette shell. For example, the single magnet assembly can be used to demagnetize two capstans and a tape head in a single operation.

Abstract: A mounting bracket and an arrangement for mounting an electronic accessory device within the mounting bracket when installed in a vehicle not only holds the device for its intended use but also permits limited withdrawal for insured and normal access to the control panel for desired adjustment. The mounting bracket is comprised of a base plate and a pair of opposed, complementary flat arms depending from opposite ends of the base plate for stationing of an electronic device within the mounting bracket. Each of the arms includes a pair of channels for guiding displacement of the stationed device within the mounting bracket. One of the channels is generally straight, and the second of the channels is generally serpentine and spaced from the first channel between the first channel and the base plate.

Abstract: An acoustical transducer and grille combined into a single unit. The grille is acoustically transparent and includes a plurality of wave guides separated for through-passage of sound. Situated in the midst of the grille is a mounting for the acoustical transducer. The transducer mounting has a central opening and an annular groove formed about the periphery of the central opening into which the acoustical transducer is mounted. A second acoustical transducer, larger in dimension than the first acoustical transducer, may be employed as well, also mounted within the confines of the grille. For greatest acoustical clarity, the first and second acoustical transducers are coaxially oriented.

Abstract: An automated system for electronically testing the response and the quality of the output produced by radio receivers and the like is provided, wherein various tests including frequency response, harmonic distortion, sensitivity, selectivity, signal-to-noise ratio, fidelity, stereophonic separation and the like may be effectively and efficiently performed for testing a plurality of broadcast bands and signals without the aid of skilled technicians or trained personnel.