Abstract: In a glass mounting plate, which is provided on the underside with a partly transparent and partly non-transparent mask, is fitted an electric hotplate. An illuminating chamber illuminating by a lamp is connected to its underside. The mask gives rise to a marginal area through which light shines to the outside for indicating the operating state of the hotplate. The mounting plate can also be made from non-transparent material, such as sheet metal. The light then passes through a permeable seal or other transparent mounting components.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting load weight on a conveyor belt. The belt is supported by an elongated roller which is carried on an elongated axle. Each axle end is received within a different one of two spaced axle supports. A deformation detector is connected to each support and generates an electrical signal directly related to force carried through the support. The detectors are connected in a circuit which produces a composite output signal directly related to vertical force only carried through both supports.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the drying of lumber and the like. During drying, the weight of a lumber charge is continuously monitored to indicate both total weight loss and rate of weight loss. These data are employed, either automatically or manually, to adjust drying action so as to control the moisture-removal rate, and to stop drying action when the desired terminal dryness is reached. Multi-point weight monitoring is used to provide localized moisture-content data. The latter data is used further to adjust drying action so as to promote uniform moisture levels throughout a charge during drying.