Abstract: A load-detecting device 1 includes a load detection sensor unit SU and a base 2 on which the load detection sensor unit SU is mounted, and the load detection sensor unit SU includes an upper surface 47S configured to be pressed by a seat cushion SC, a first electrode 52, and a second electrode 62. The upper surface 47S moves with respect to the mount surface 21S such that an angle of the upper surface 47S with respect to the mount surface 21S changes.

Abstract: A load-detecting device 1 includes a load detection sensor unit SU and a base 2 on which the load detection sensor unit SU is mounted, and the load detection sensor unit SU includes an upper surface 47S configured to be pressed by a seat cushion SC, a first electrode 52, and a second electrode 62. The upper surface 47S moves with respect to the mount surface 21S such that an angle of the upper surface 47S with respect to the mount surface 21S changes.

Abstract: A shock absorbing steering apparatus has a steering column having a steering shaft pivotably supported thereon, a distance bracket secured to the column, and a column bracket for fixing the column to a vehicle body through the distance bracket. The steering apparatus further has a curling plate provided between a fastening bolt inserted in the distance bracket and the column bracket, and a curling plate bent portion controlling guide member secured to the column side for containing the curling plate and restraining the U-shaped bent portion thereon. That portion of the distance bracket in which the fastening bolt is inserted is opened to the steering wheel side, and the curling plate, when shocked, has its U-shaped bent portion plastically deformed and moved while being restrained by the guide member, thereby absorbing shock energy.

Abstract: A heat insulated tank is disclosed having inner and outer walls between which a supporting material is interposed. The material comprises a molding of alkaline earth metal silicates or a molding of composite material based thereon having a continuous open cell structure and subjected to heat treatment under vacuum. Inside and outside faces of said supporting material are provided with a suitable number of grooves. The entire surface of said supporting material is impregnated with a solution of sodium silicate, potassium silicate or ethyl silicate and subjected to baking.The supporting material has a high insulating capability and a high resistance to compression, thus it is applicable to square shaped tanks in addition to conventional spherical or cylindrical ones. The tank is easy to manufacture with increased storage capacity.