Abstract: A joystick actuator for controlling the positioning of objects, for instance, displays on CRTs, having a pivotally mounted control stick operatively engaging and driving a pair of optical-mask members. The optical-mask members are retained for rectilinear sliding motion relative to fixed mounted opto-switches and include spaced fins positioned to interrupt light communication within respective opto-switches. Positioning of the opto-switches and spacing of the mask fins are selected to provide successive unblocking of the interrupted light communication as the control column is displaced from neutral thereby encoding both the direction and magnitude of stick deflection.

Abstract: A dispenser for liquid soap includes a compressible nipple having an annular flange mountable on a soap container in communication with the outlet opening thereof, and clamping therebetween a valve assembly including a slitted flexible diaphragm and a backing disc. The disc has a discharge opening in alignment with a check valve slit in the diaphragm for controlling discharge of soap into the nipple for dispensing upon compression of the nipple. The disc and the nipple flange respectively have annular grooves formed in the facing surfaces thereof, a vent valve slit in the diaphragm being aligned with these grooves. The flange groove communicates with the outside of the nipple through a vent opening and the disc groove communicates with the outlet opening of a container through a vent orifice in the disc.

Abstract: To join two pipe sections carrying fluids that may be at relatively high pressures, a coupling body into which the ends of the pipe sections are inserted has a gasket seal at each end thereof. In order to electrically insulate the sections of pipe from one another, an insulating sleeve is located along a length of the internal surface of the coupling body. An insulating stop member is slidable within the sleeve to separate the ends of the sections of pipe, the stop member being prevented from entering the length of the coupling body that does not have an insulating sleeve. Threads for coupling nuts utilized in achieving the fluid tight seal are formed in the outer surface of the coupling body at each end thereof.