Abstract: An ignition key switch apparatus having a compact size, high current capability, and a snap action mechanism. A pre-loaded snap spring can be configured to include a fixed end attached to an anchor and a free end attached to a movable contact operable between normal and actuated positions. A cam can be utilized to convert a rotary motion at a key interface into a linear movement of a plunger for snap spring blade actuation. The unique pre-loaded snap spring generates a fast (e.g., instantaneous) movement from an open to a closed position and vice versa upon application/removal of a load to reduce the effect of arcing on associated contacts and conductors. The pre-loaded snap spring also ensures that the movable contact does not remain in any intermittent position, other than the two extreme positions given at any position of the plunger.

Abstract: A drive-by-wire throttle control apparatus and method includes a variable resistance sensor. A contact arm can be mechanically connected between a thumb lever and a variable resistance sensor. The variable resistance sensor possesses a resistive film that includes a fixed resistor and a variable resistor configured from a carbon film. As the thumb lever rotates, the contact arm traverses the resistive film, thereby altering the resistance of the variable resistor, determining the position of the thumb lever and thereafter generating a signal based on the sensed position. The signal can be sent to an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) in the form of a varying voltage, which in turn controls the throttle of a vehicle.

Abstract: An ignition key switch apparatus having a compact size, high current capability, and a snap action mechanism. A pre-loaded snap spring can be configured to include a fixed end attached to an anchor and a free end attached to a movable contact operable between normal and actuated positions. A cam can be utilized to convert a rotary motion at a key interface into a linear movement of a plunger for snap spring blade actuation. The unique pre-loaded snap spring generates a fast (e.g., instantaneous) movement from an open to a closed position and vice versa upon application/removal of a load to reduce the effect of arcing on associated contacts and conductors. The pre-loaded snap spring also ensures that the movable contact does not remain in any intermittent position, other than the two extreme positions given at any position of the plunger.

Abstract: A drive-by-wire throttle control apparatus and method includes a variable resistance sensor. A contact arm can be mechanically connected between a thumb lever and a variable resistance sensor. The variable resistance sensor possesses a resistive film that includes a fixed resistor and a variable resistor configured from a carbon film. As the thumb lever rotates, the contact arm traverses the resistive film, thereby altering the resistance of the variable resistor, determining the position of the thumb lever and thereafter generating a signal based on the sensed position. The signal can be sent to an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) in the form of a varying voltage, which in turn controls the throttle of a vehicle.

Abstract: A collision detecting device includes a damper which is a hollow member with a fluid sealed into the interior thereof, and is formed, on its side abutted against an object to which it is to be mounted, in a concave shape conforming to the shape of a corner of the object, and is formed, on its side opposite to the concave shape, in a convex shape conforming to the shape of the corner of the object; and a detecting section for detecting an internal pressure of the damper.

Abstract: A C-arm x-ray machine includes a compact yoke and a support arm interposed between the yoke and the support base to reduce overall length of the machine and to increase overscan. The support arm is designed to lower the axis of rotation such that the axis of rotation nearly coincides with the center of gravity of the C-arm. The compact yoke is designed with a thin pivot point and includes a steel sleeve to enclose a pin situated at the first end of the yoke. The steel sleeve is required to strengthen the yoke at the critical load bearing area near the first end of the yoke.

Abstract: A C-arm x-ray machine includes a compact yoke and a support arm interposed between the yoke and the support base to reduce overall length of the machine and to increase overscan. The support arm is designed to lower the axis of rotation such that the axis of rotation nearly coincides with the center of gravity of the C-arm. The compact yoke is designed with a thin pivot point and includes a steel sleeve to enclose a pin situated at the first end of the yoke. The steel sleeve is required to strengthen the yoke at the critical load bearing area near the first end of the yoke.