Abstract: An infant monitoring system includes a bladder configured for communication with an infant having a mass and measurable biological functions and properties. The bladder contains a substantially non-toxic fluid adapted to transmit fluid pressure. The infant monitoring system also includes a single pressure sensor that selectively monitors the fluid pressure. The pressure sensor detects a presence of the infant by monitoring for a substantially continuous pressure due to the mass of the infant. The infant monitoring system also includes an electronic module operatively connected to the pressure sensor, which electronic module receives a signal indicative of the fluid pressure monitored by the pressure sensor. The electronic module emits a notification if the signal is substantially outside of a predetermined boundary.

Abstract: A manually-operated control for generating a vector signal comprises a handle with an elongate axis pivotally mounted to the housing for universal rotation about a pivot point on the axis of the handle. An imaged surface moves in two directions with the rotation of the handle about two perpendicular axes intersecting at the pivot point. A camera and LED are focused on the imaged surface. A microprocessor-based controller inputs and processes images sequentially input from the camera for detecting and quantifying the movement of the imaged surface in two directions and generates a vector signal indicative thereof.

Abstract: A device for invasively measuring fluid pressure is disclosed. The device includes a disposable housing having a fluid contacting area and a non-fluid contacting area. A disposable diaphragm in a substantially non-elastic state is disposed within the housing and separates the fluid contacting area from the non-fluid contacting area. A side of the diaphragm is adapted to contact the fluid, and the diaphragm has sufficient flexibility to move a distance axially within the non-fluid contacting area in response to fluid contact. The distance is substantially proportional to the fluid pressure. An electronic sensing device is removably attached adjacent the non-fluid contacting area of the housing, and is spaced from the diaphragm. The electronic sensing device is capable of determining the fluid pressure.

Abstract: An illuminated indicator is disclosed. The illuminated indicator includes graphics disposed on a rear surface of a lightpipe and a housing that supports the rear surface of lightpipe. The housing defines an outer perimeter light channel. The illuminated indicator also includes a plurality of light sources that are disposed about the outer perimeter light channel. The outer perimeter light channel directs light from the plurality of light sources to an outer perimeter edge of the lightpipe to evenly illuminate the graphics.

Abstract: A printed circuit board on the rear of an automotive instrument cluster is covered by a flat panel of polystyrene in contact with the circuit board to protect circuit components against electrostatic discharge. Openings in the panel allow large components which are not sensitive to ESD to protrude beyond the panel.

Abstract: In an apparatus for applying hydraulic trailer brakes a sleeve member secured to a trailer towed by a towing vehicle is pivotally supported at the top of an upstanding post member that is secured to the towing vehicle. An arm extends rearwardly from the sleeve member and a hydraulic master cylinder apparatus is mounted within the arm for actuation upon pivotal movement of the arm with respect to the upstanding post member. Springs and shock absorbers are mounted between the arm and the upstanding post member for regulating pivotal movement therebetween.