Abstract: A device to be used for the control of animals, which has a latching feature to prevent their passage during certain periods of time. The latching element is comprised of a mechanism activated by a timing device. When the mechanism is activated by the timing device, a latch is retracted, allowing a self closing door to open by swinging in either direction. When the mechanism is not activated by the timing device, the latch is extended and prevents the door from opening, or swinging, in one direction, while allowing it to open in the other direction.

Abstract: A device for use as a float switch device for use in a liquid medium is disclosed which has a magnetic latching feature used to produce an offset, with the switch actuating in a first manner when the liquid level drops to a first level, and actuating in a second manner when the liquid level rises to a second level which is aabove the first level by a selected offset distance. The float element has two buoyant disks on the ends of a hollow cylinder, with switching magnets being located intermediate the two buoyant disks, and latch magnets being located on the bottom of the bottom buoyant disk. The float element slides vertically on a switch stem having a magnetic reed switch therein and a steel washer on the bottom thereof, with the float element being latched in a downward position by the latch magnets until the liquid level rises to the level of the upper buoyant disk, resulting in crisp and precise operation of the switching function.

Abstract: A control system for use with recording apparatus enables the recording of programs simultaneously desired by a user and authorized by a program provider, typically a broadcaster. The broadcaster attaches a code signal to each program segment which the user's control system recognizes. The control system contains a second code indicative of a preselected program and of authorization to record the program. When the codes correspond the control system activates the user's recorder to record the desired program.

Abstract: A selective receiving and/or recording technique for broadcast audio and/or video programs where the broadcast signal has a tone code preceding each program segment to which a monitoring-receiving-recording device is responsive, either matching the tone code with a prestored list of orders for receiving and/or recording that broadcast segment or responding to a particular code so as to disable its associated recorder to thus protect copyrighted information.