Abstract: A magnetostrictive pressure regulating system includes a magnetostrictive valve that incorporates a magnetostrictive actuator with at least one current-carrying coil disposed thereabout. A pressure force sensor, in fluid communication with the fluid exiting the valve, includes (i) a magnetostrictive material, (ii) a magnetic field generator in proximity to the magnetostrictive material for inducing a magnetic field in and surrounding the magnetostrictive material wherein lines of magnetic flux passing through the magnetostrictive material are defined, and (iii) a sensor positioned adjacent to the magnetostrictive material and in the magnetic field for measuring changes in at least one of flux angle and flux density when the magnetostrictive material experiences an applied force that is aligned with the lines of magnetic flux. The pressure of the fluid exiting the valve causes the applied force.

Abstract: A force sensor includes a magnetostrictive material and a magnetic field generator positioned in proximity thereto. A magnetic field is induced in and surrounding the magnetostrictive material such that lines of magnetic flux pass through the magnetostrictive material. A sensor positioned in the vicinity of the magnetostrictive material measures changes in one of flux angle and flux density when the magnetostrictive material experiences an applied force that is aligned with the lines of magnetic flux.

Abstract: A crossconnect system utilizes a computer accessed matrix of crosspoints formed by a set of parallel conductors oriented perpendicular to a second set of parallel conductors with the sets lying in parallel planes. The crosspoints form open contacts which can be closed by stepper motor driven spring contacts to connect selected conductors from one set with selected conductors from the other set. A microprocessor system drives the stepper motor and implements movement of the spring contacts to the selected crosspoints.

Abstract: A testing system for testing a selected telephone carrier channel wherein that channel is selectively interrupted at a selected repeater station along its route and bi-directionally looped back for testing. Selection and the looping back process is controlled by a central control unit located at a central telephone exchange and remote control units located at repeater stations. Significantly, the central unit is operated by a dialed telephone call to it, and responsive to additionally dialed digits, it effects the selection of the particular route for the channel in question and a particular repeater station and channel. Actual looping back is effected by a transformer coupling arrangement which additionally provides for the D.C. integrity of the channel.

Abstract: A telephone-telephone line tester wherein a telephone line serving a user is selectively coupled and uncoupled to either or both an audio amplifier or a user's telephone circuit whereby telephone user difficulties may be readily determined as between the telephone line or user's circuit and equipment.