Abstract: A charge controller that includes an input interface that receives input DC electrical signals. A converter section converts the input DC electrical signals to output DC electrical signals. Control means is operably coupled to the converter section. The control means includes means for operating the converter section at an estimated maximum power point of the input DC electrical signals. The estimated maximum power point is derived by a novel control scheme that quickly adapts to changing conditions and thus affords optimum energy harvest from the source and improved energy conversion efficiencies.

Abstract: A power takeoff and lighting unit for a fluorescent fixture is disclosed and comprises an elongate housing having spaced apart connectors on opposite ends for connection to a standard fluorescent lighting fixture. The housing includes a first segment containing electronics for converting power to usable power, such as direct current, and has a power cord that extends outwardly from the segment. Preferably, the unit has a maximum diameter less than twice the diameter of a standard fluorescent tube, and preferably less than 11/2 times the diameter of a standard fluorescent tube, thus providing a compact profile and enabling modular replacement of a standard bulb with the power takeoff lighting unit.

Abstract: A torso attitude sensor for attachment to a human A torso at the waist. It senses when a human torso bends past a predetermined lumbosacral angle and sounds an alarm. The sensor may be worn on the left or right side of the waist because it includes two attitude responsive switches which are inclined in directions opposite to each other. The device further includes a counter for determining the number of times the electrical circuit is connected thereby providing the person, or his or her manager, with an indication of the number of times improper bending occurs. A timer is included with which actuation of an attitude responsive switch must persist for a minimum time interval before an alarm signal or excessive bending signal is generated.

Abstract: An intrusion alarm is encased within a housing hung from a doorknob by a conductive strap which makes electrical contact with the doorknob apparatus. A monitoring circuit within the housing is connected to the hanging strap for sensing capacitance changes corresponding to touching of the exterior portion of the doorknob apparatus by a would-be intruder. Alarm means within the housing are activated by the monitoring circuit to generate a local audible alarm or an FM transmission signal sent to a remote receiver or both. A latching circuit maintains the alarm means in an activated state after the capacitance coupled to the doorknob apparatus has been removed, and switch means on the exterior of the housing are provided for resetting the alarm to a non-activated state to permit sensing of a subsequent capacitance change. The alarm further includes means for temporarily disabling the alarm device for a predetermined period of time during which it may be touched without activating an alarm signal.