Abstract: A high voltage reed switch that opens and closes in response to a magnetic flux field. The switch comprises a pair of parallel partially overlapping flexible reed contacts hermetically sealed in a tubular envelope and extending through ends thereof to provide external contacts. The preferred switch also comprises at least one non-magnetic member or a plurality of magnets for generally counteracting the electrostatic attraction produced between the open reed contacts while high voltage is applied to the switch.

Abstract: Assembly for unidirectional magnetic proximity detecting wherein a magnet is used in conjunction with a permeable plate for absorbing magnetic flux and a reed type switch. The switch contacts remain open due to the absorption of the magnetic flux away from the contacts and into the permeable plate. Proximation of a permeable target object near the magnet enhances the magnetic flux creating an opposite magnetic flux across the switch contacts; thus, actuating the switch closed. Proximation of the permeable target object is only effective in actuating the switch when it approaches the sensing area defined adjacent to the magnet portion opposite the permeable plate. A preferred apparatus includes an enclosure which provides a weatherproof environment for the detector assembly.

Abstract: Apparatus for proximity magnetic switching wherein magnet assemblies are used in combination with magnetic reed switches by placement of the reed switch axis in a magnetic field null position which is shifted or unbalanced by proximation of certain magnetic materials to actuate the magnetic reed switch. In particular, such proximity magnetic switch is made weather proof and entirely sealed from its environment by molding the magnet assembly and reed switch assembly in fixed orientation within a potting compound which then exposes an actuating surface for sensing the presence of a magnetically permeable material.

Abstract: Apparatus for proximity magnetic switching wherein magnet assemblies are used in combination with magnetic reed switches by placement of the reed switch axis in a magnetic field null position which is shifted or unbalanced by proximation of certain magnetic materials to actuate the magnetic reed switch. In particular, such proximity magnetic switch is made weather proof and entirely sealed from its environment by molding the magnet assembly and reed switch assembly in fixed orientation within a potted compound which then exposes an actuating surface for sensing the presence of a magnetically permeable material.

Abstract: A power receptacle with alarm switch that is actuatable by a standard grounded three-prong plug to output a switch indication. The device consists of at least one three-prong receptacle wherein the third prong contact assures a common or ground connection upon insertion of a three-prong plug. A switch device is secured on the receptacle to extend an actuating arm adjacent the third prong hole in interfering position such that insertion and removal of the plug causes the third prong to move the actuating arm and produce a characteristic switch indication. An improved form of alarm switch uses a hermetically sealed magnetic switch in association with a spring-loaded plunger/magnet assembly to provide corrosion-proof switching.