Abstract: A pneumatically actuated switching device has an elliptical dome with spaced apart support columns protruding from a concave inner face surface for anchoring to a floor of a wedge shaped base. The base is elliptical and bounded by an endless upstanding sidewall having a projected edge that varies continuously in height about one of the major axis and the minor axis, the projected edge having one of a channel and a locking lip and the other of the channel and the locking lip being formed on the elliptical edge for interlocking engagement in an air tight fashion. An electrically conductive switch is coupled by a duct for responding to a volume of pressurized air within the dome and the base by deflection of the convex actuating wall.

Abstract: A patient monitoring system incorporating a pneumatic switch which is responsive to a pair of pressure generators, including a first armable pressure generator which is attached to the patient and which is triggered upon movement of the patient beyond a certain range and a second force actuated generator having a portion to which a patient applies pressure.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a patient located on an item of furniture such as a bed is disclosed. The system includes a pneumatically actuated switch for providing a signal circuit to notify of undesired movement of the patient beyond a predetermined range. The pneumatic switch is responsive to a pneumatic pulse which is released from an armable pneumatic pressure generator having a spring loaded plunger and piston combination. The piston is maintained in an extracted and armed position through a releasable clip positionable within a notch in the piston and attached to the patient by a length of cord.