Abstract: Discloses a proximity detection system mounted in combination with a TV receiver adapted to disrupt the programs of the receiver at the times when objects of at least the dimensions of children are positioned within a designated distance from the television picture. Detection system includes actuation means supplying electrical power to energize detection system. An acoustic pulse transducer means produces discrete periodic acoustic pulses into the viewing area and detects acoustic signals reflected back from the viewing area. A comparator means receives a signal corresponding to each of electrical pulses and echo signals and produces an actuating signal as a function of the distance between the transducer and target object. A receiver program disruption means operates to disrupt the TV program during such time when object is within a designated distance from the transducer.

Abstract: Discloses an improved instrument dial illuminating system including a light transmitting optical element formed with a thickness diminishing in the vicinity of one edge of the optical element to the vicinity of an opposite edge of the element and with a prescribed generally convex surface extending from the thick edge to across the element. Profile is of configuration prescribed to cause light rays refracted within the element from a light source to be reflected from such surface at angles closer to normal with respect to a dial face located adjacent to the light source. Such surface of optical element may be formed with a localized regional surface located intermediate the edges of such element and formed of configuration designated to cause light rays refracted within such optical element from said light source to be reflected from such regional surface at angles closer to normal with respect to such dial face.