Abstract: A non-contaminating radiant heater for analytical laboratory use with a controller providing a closed-loop, precise regulation of sequencing patterns of energy emission delivered to a sample at a programmed rate preventing hotspots until a preselected temperature is reached for a preselected time interval all. within a programmed schedule. The radiant heater includes a supporting base functioning as a sample platform, a vertical support member secured to the base and sample platform, and an electrically powered radiant heating element is enclosed by a sealed surrounding and supporting fixture fastened to the vertical supporting member providing a uniform radiation footprint.

Abstract: A tension control apparatus for a material winder of the type including a material supply package and a material take-up package, an electric motor for driving the take-up package and a tension responsive dancer arm positioned intermediate the material supply package and the material take-up package for angular movement about an axis proportional to tension variation in the moving material. The tension control apparatus includes a polar magnet mounted for axial rotation about the axis of movement of the dancer arm in fixed relation to the movement of the dancer arm about the axis. A magnetic angular position sensor is positioned in magnetic field sensing relation to the polar magnet for sensing the change in the angular position of the polar magnet responsive to tension variation in the moving material and outputting an electrical signal proportional to the angular position of the polar magnet.

Abstract: A continuous cycle peritoneal dialysis system which includes a source (14) of dialysis fluid, and an inflow line (34) and outflow line (35) connected to a catheter (26) implanted in the peritoneal cavity (28). A fill pump (B) pumps dialysis fluid from the source to the catheter during a fill cycle. A drain pump C pumps fluid from the catheter to a drain during a drain cycle. A function of a volume of the dialysis fluid in the peritoneal cavity is detected by a manometer (D). A process controller (A) controls the fill and drain pumps in response to signals from a high fluid level detector (50) and a low fluid level detector (52) on a fluid column tube (48) to pump a calibrated fill volume of fluid into the cavity and a calibrated drain volume of fluid out of the cavity continuously in alternating fill and drain cycles in a manner that the fluid flows through the cavity generally with zero dwell time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for remotely adjusting the temperature of a closed environment such as a home or building comprising a means for transmitting a coded up-temperature signal and a down-temperature signal as a modulated radio frequency carrier wave, from a portable, battery-powered command module to a stationary receiver operatively connected to a heating/cooling unit. The received signal, upon decoding, activates the heating/cooling unit until the sensed temperature of the building matches the desired temperature. Additionally, a preset temperature stored in memory may be replaced remotely using the command module with a new preset temperature. The apparatus is designed to replace an existing thermostat and to be easily usable, especially by those who are disabled, bedridden or handicapped, to alter the temperature of their environments to comfortable levels.

Abstract: A glove apparatus for deterring thumbsucking, including a glove body to which is affixed a battery-operated electrical alarm arrangement. The alarm arrangement includes a module containing a battery, an alarm device, and an electrical contact mounted in the wristband of the glove body for surface contact by the electrical contact with the user's wrist. An electrical wire lead extending through the glove body connects the module electrically with another electrical contact insulatively attached to the outward surface of the thumb portion of the glove body to be exposed outwardly without being in surface or other electrical contact with the user's thumb. When the user inserts the thumb into the mouth, a continuous electrical circuit is completed through the alarm arrangement and through the user's body to enable the battery to activate the alarm device to sound an audible alarm alerting the user to remove the thumb from the mouth.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for regulating alternating current electrical power conducted to an electrical load wherein a gate control bidirectional semiconductor switch is controlled by a sensing circuit which includes feedback elements for responding to fluctuation in voltage supplied from a power source and in current demanded by the load for maintaining a predetermined average voltage delivered through the apparatus and in accordance with the method.

Abstract: An alarm device and system which is adaptable to a variety of uses and conditions for protecting homes, equipment, buildings and the like by alerting or informing distant or nearby personnel to changes of conditions from within predetermined limits.