Abstract: An impact sensor system includes at least one impact sensor including at least a first conductive layer, at least a second conductive layer, and at least one insulating layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. The insulating layer maintains the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer in spaced, non-contacting relation. The first conducting layer and the insulating layer are deformable upon an impact to the first conducting layer such that separation between the first conducting layer and the second conducting layer decreases upon an impact of a predefined nature. The impact sensor system also includes circuitry in connection with the impact sensor to measure a change in at least one electrical property of the impact sensor resulting from the decrease in the separation between the first conducting layer and the second conducting layer.

Abstract: A motion sensor having an electrically-conductive ball and at least a second ball to damp the motion of the electrically-conductive ball. Both balls are confined within a housing. A plurality of electrical contact elements are disposed within the housing. During movement, the electrically-conductive ball successively forms electrical connection with the electrical contact elements within the housing. The motion sensor also includes detection circuitry in electrical connection with the electrical contact elements to detect if the electrically-conducting ball is moving.

Abstract: The present invention provides a self-contained breathing apparatus ("SCBA") having a personal alert safety system ("PASS") fully integrated therewith. The PASS is structurally integrated with the SCBA such that it is protected from damage by both the air cylinder and the frame. The integrated PASS device is not only automatically activated when the SCBA is being used but can still be activated manually if the SCBA is not in service. Additionally, the integrated PASS device utilizes a unique electrical/mechanical connection assembly between its various parts which greatly increases its ruggedness and durability.

Abstract: Processes and equipment for preparation and cooking of edible materials, particularly for the automatic slicing and deep frying of vegetables, especially potatoes, to form crisps. The procedure comprises the steps of forming unwashed and undried slices of the edible material, individually feeding the slices without washing and drying into a bath of hot cooking oil, then when said slices subsequently float to the surface of the oil due to the formation of steam bubbles on the slices forcibly submerging the slices in said hot cooking oil for a further period in which cooking of the slices is substantially completed to give the slices a crisp consistency, and finally removing the cooked slices from the cooking oil and dispensing the cooked slices.

Abstract: A container (2) such as a plant holder is provided with formations at its lower end to enable it to be stacked on other such holders in a staggered formation so that none of the supporting containers need be closed off. The containers are polygonal, so that they can be interlocked in edge to edge formation A or corner to corner formation B. Drain holes are provided so as to enable the upper containers of an array to drain into the lower ones and then to supporting trays (3).