Abstract: A step-on actuated foot switch is disclosed preferably for use in connection with X-ray examination devices to automatically turn off motor servo drives when an operator's feet are positioned adjacent moving portions of the X-ray examination device. The switch device includes a support plate having a step-on plate suspended above the floor plate and parallel thereto with interposed switching elements which are actuated by relative movement of the two plates. The switch elements are bent spring contact devices which have fulcrum points positioned thereunder about which portions of the spring bend during relative movement of the two plates to break a contact.

Abstract: An apparatus for X-ray examination is used for so-called mammagraphic work. It includes an X-ray tube, a supporting surface for the exposure material and a compressing device. The invention is particularly characterized in that a constant distance is maintained between the X-ray tube and the supporting surface for the exposure material and in that the compressing device is adjustable independently from the X-ray tube and/or the supporting surface. By way of example, the compressing device may be a compression tube supported so as to be movable in the direction toward the supporting surface.