Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the value of one or more physical parameters, the apparatus including a plurality of physical monitoring modules, master electronics, and structure for interconnecting each of the modules and the master electronics. Each module includes a logic section and a transducer section. The logic section receives a logic signal and responds by activating the transducer. The logic signal is passed to the next module according to a clock pulse which is generated from the master electronics. The transducer senses a physical parameter. When activated, the transducer responds to the physical parameter with an electrical signal and communicates the electrical signal to the master electronics which utilizes the electrical signal for monitoring purposes.

Abstract: A temperature increase or excursion sensor and locator consisting of a temperature sensitive cable which includes three electrical conductors, two conductors are separated by a dielectric member to form a linear strip capacitor and one of the two conductors has a number of thermostatic devices connected serially. Over or under temperature excursions are sensed and located by the cable when it is connected to control electronics by detecting the continuity and by measuring the capacitance of the cable. Under normal conditions, all of the thermostatic devices are electrically conducting and the control electronics measures the full capacitance from both ends of the cable and detects continuity over the full length of the cable. Upon a temperature increase or an excursion, one or more thermostatic devices become non-conductive, creating a discontinuity in one of the conductors and in addition the resulting capacitance is proportionately reduced.