Abstract: A floor covering anchor is used to secure a rug to a runner or other desired object and has a plate member that has a plurality of upwardly extending fingers, each finger being configured to have either a relatively releasable grip or a relatively secure grip. A first adhesive portion, which may have a double tack configuration, is disposed on the top surface of the plate while a second adhesive portion, which may also have a double tack configuration, is disposed on the bottom surface. An optional plurality of fingers extends downwardly from the plate. Spacers can be used with the device for relatively thin rugs.

Abstract: An anchoring device that securely attaches a carpet runner to an underlying carpet that is inexpensive to manufacture, easy to install, does not create a raised area to cause one to trip and fall or create a wear spot in the carpet runner or carpet, and can be easily removed without damage to the carpet runner or the underlying carpet.

Abstract: An electronic sensor apparatus for determining motion of a movable element has a sensor housing for accurately positioning the sensor at a preselected distance from the movable element in response to contact with the movable element. A holding means maintains the sensor housing at the desired position. Heretofore, similar sensing systems have employed the use of customized sensor bodies or manually inserted shims to establish the sensing system at its required location.

Abstract: A latching solenoid has a first inductive coil for selectively positioning a member at a preselected location where it is locked against longitudinal movement by a mechanical latching means. The latching means includes a plunger moveable within a bore and positionable within a bifurcated end portion of the member. Inserting the plunger into the member radially expands the bifurcated end portion, capturing the end portion between the plunger and bore wall. A second inductive coil selectively withdraws the plunger from the bifurcated end portion, releasing the member from the latched position. Each of the coils is required to be energized only momentarily, thereby avoiding problems associated with constantly energized solenoids (e.g. heat dissipation, life expectancy, size, etc.).

Abstract: A leak detection apparatus (18) is provided in a pressurized assembly (10) to signal a loss of pressure or vacuum downstream from a source of pressure or vacuum. A rod (60,160,260) is carried on a valve (62,162) and a diaphragm (38,138) which seals the source of pressure or vacuum from the system. A loss of pressure or vacuum downstream of the valve (62,162) and diaphragm (38,138) moves the rod (60,160,260) to a signalling position to alert an interested party that the system is lacking pressure or vacuum.

Abstract: A device capable of sensing forces exerted by fluids, particularly liquids, and thus may be used to sense fluid level and fluid flow. Preferred embodiments of the device include a switch means capable of being actuated without the exertion of substantial mechanical force thereon and an elongated body of low mass mounted for pivotal movement about an end thereof with switch actuation means at an end thereof in operative relation to the switch means only when the axis of elongation of the body is aligned with the switch means. Features of the device provide reduced inertial effects and reduced gravitational force requirements, as well as reduced wear, in operation.

Abstract: A system for giving warning of the existence of an undesirable state of one or more of a plurality of monitored operating conditions of an engine-powered vehicle. Three degrees of warning are given, depending upon the criticality of the monitored condition. Individually energizable low-intensity warning indicators are provided for each of the monitored conditions, and a multiplexing circuit is provided for staggered pulsing of these indicators. The existence of any critical fault will cause an intermittent operation of a more intense warning device, while the existence of a highly critical fault will give an additional intermittent warning of a still greater degree of intensity.

Abstract: An engine control wherein a shaft driven by the engine causes a first signal to be generated and then a second signal after the shaft has rotated through a predetermined degree. The first signal starts a timer into operation, the timer producing a timer pulse of predetermined duration. Time coincidence of the timer signal and second signal indicates that a critical engine speed has been reached and such time coincidence is used to effect a control function. If the shaft rotates in the opposite direction the sequence of generation of the first and second signals in such direction is detected and used to generate a reverse-direction signal which is used to effect a control function. An automatic impedance-changing circuit enables the control to be used with a wide range of batteries.

Abstract: A monitor system for indicating the existence of one or more undesirable operating conditions of an engine-powered vehicle, and including three separate indicator panels. The first panel is energized prior to starting the engine and indicates individual prestart-condition faults, the indicators being disabled after the engine is in operation. The second panel indicates individual operating-condition faults and gives warnings of a different magnitude depending on the criticality of the faults. The third panel is for sevice faults and latches service-fault indications for general presentation to the vehicle operator and individual presentation to service personnel after the vehicle has been shut down.

Abstract: Operating parameters of an engine, such as coolant temperature, oil pressure, air filter flow and the like, are continuously monitored by an electrical circuit responsive to sensor switches. The circuit distinguishes between conditions which require immediate correction, such as low oil pressure for example, and conditions such as reduced porosity of the air filter which need not necessarily be corrected immediately but which should be attended to at the end of the current vehicle operation. The two types of conditions are signalled to the operator by different means and the signalling means for noncritical conditions remains latched on after the engine has been shut down to alert maintenance personnel to the need for corrections. Means are provided for selectively testing the system, for discriminating against nonsignificant, brief, actuations of a sensor switch and for selectively turning off signalling means which have been latched on.

Abstract: An engine control wherein a shaft driven by the engine causes a first signal to be generated and then a second signal after the shaft has rotated through a predetermined degree. The first signal starts a timer into operation, the timer producing a timer pulse of predetermined duration. Time coincidence of the timer signal and second signal indicates that a critical engine speed has been reached and such time coincidence is used to effect a control function. If the shaft rotates in the opposite direction the sequence of generation of the first and second signals in such direction is detected and used to generate a reverse-direction signal which is used to effect a control function. An automatic impedance-changing circuit enables the control to be used with a wide range of batteries.