Abstract: A hookswitch actuator including an activating mechanism which maintains the hookswitch circuit of a telephone in an "on hook" state when the activating mechanism is in a first position, or in an "off hook" state when the activating mechanism is in the second position. The movement of the activating mechanism between the two positions is accomplished through the use of a shape memory alloy mechanism. The shape memory alloy mechanism is coupled to the activating mechanism in such a way that heating or cooling of the shape memory alloy mechanism moves the activating mechanism between its two positions. Control of the heating and cooling of the shape memory alloy mechanism is effectuated by controlling the amount of electric current passing through it.

Abstract: A communications headset includes a headset enclosure and a receiver enclosure coupled thereto by various means allowing displacement of the receiver enclosure with respect to the headset enclosure at any of a variety of angles, rotations, and distances. The adaptable positioning of the receiver enclosure allows the headset to be used by a wide variety of users having different ear shapes and sizes, while providing a stable, comfortable fit and ensuring good acoustic performance. In one embodiment the receiver enclosure is slidably coupled to a ball tube having a ball that rests in a socket of the headset enclosure. The receiver enclosure can telescope along the length of the ball tube and can rotate about an axis of the tube. The ball can be rotated in the socket to position the receiver enclosure at any of a variety of angles relative to the headset enclosure. A voice transmitter is also coupled to the headset enclosure so as to allow adjustment of length, angular position, and rotation.