Abstract: An indicator for sensing the degree of tension in a tensile member. An indicator element defined by a deformable elastomeric member is positioned within a translucent containment wall. Upon application of a tensile force to the tensile member the indicator element is caused to be compressed and expanded radially outwardly into contact with the containment wall. The degree of contact of the indicator element and the containment wall varies as a function of the amount of tension applied to the tensile member. As a consequence the appearance of the indicator element as viewed through the translucent containment wall will vary as a function of the tension applied to the tensile member.The invention also has application in compression systems. One particular application disclosed is an indicator for sensing the appropriate degree of compression as applied to glass curtain walls used in dry pressure glazing systems.

Abstract: An assembly apparatus and method for use in the manufacture of strain indicators of the type in which a window and an indicator area are provided in a fluid filled capsule. Movement of the indicator area with respect to the window gives a visual indication of the load condition of the indicator. The assembly apparatus comprises means to provide for the initial placement of the fluid filled capsule into the tensile member of the strain indicator. Thereafter a compressive force is exerted on the capsule in order to bring the indicator area of the capsule in close proximity to the window with the tensile element in a relaxed condition. Following initial assembly the apparatus of this invention exerts a tensile pull on the tensile member of the strain indicator which causes the indicator area of the capsule to be separated from the window. Gap measuring means are employed to measure the distance between the window and the indicator area with the tensile element in a state of tension.

Abstract: An assembly apparatus and method for use in the manufacture of strain indicators of the type in which a window and an indicator area are provided in a fluid filled capsule. Movement of the indicator area with respect to the window gives a visual indication of the load condition of the indicator. The assembly apparatus comprises means to provide for the initial placement of the fluid filled capsule into the tensile member of the strain indicator. Thereafter a compressive force is exerted on the capsule in order to bring the indicator area of the capsule in close proximity to the window with the tensile element in a relaxed condition. Following initial assembly the apparatus of this invention exerts a tensile pull on the tensile member of the strain indicator which causes the indicator area of the capsule to be separated from the window. Gap measuring means are employed to measure the distance between the window and the indicator area with the tensile element in a state of tension.

Abstract: An optical indicator of the type wherein the lessening of the load on a member under strain produces movement of an indicator element. Such movement takes place when the relaxation of the member under strain has reached a certain predetermined value thereby giving an immediate visual indication of that fact.

Abstract: A temperature indicator of the type wherein the heating of the indicator to a predetermined temperature produces a change in color of a visual indicator. An indicator area and a light-absorbing indicator fluid are sealed in a fluid holding member that also includes a window. The fluid holding member is fastened to the temperature indicator. At such time as the temperature indicator reaches a predetermined temperature, a portion of the sealing wall of the fluid holding member is caused to be interrupted with the result that fluid is caused to flow out of the fluid holding member thereby producing a visual indication through the window of the indicator that a high temperature limit has been reached.

Abstract: A strain indicator of the type wherein a change in length of a strain member produces a change in color of a visual indicator. An indicator area and a light-absorbing indicator fluid are encapsulated in a member that also includes a window. The capsule is fastened to the strain member with an adhesive. A change in length of the strain member causes the indicator area to become separated from the window with the result that light-absorbing indicator fluid is caused to flow between the indicator area and the window.