Abstract: The present invention comprises holder to be used by the blind or other visually impaired persons to locate items on a night table. The holder comprises a power inlet to the device, and a power outlet such as an AC socket into which may be plugged a reading lamp, bedside radio, etc. The device of the invention further comprises an internal appliance such as a small lamp or radio which is mounted so as to facilitate the location and retrieval of an item placed in the holder in the dark. A normally closed switch is located between the power inlet and the power outlet so that the AC current from the inlet is normally available at the power outlet for lighting a reading lamp or the like. When an item is placed in the holder, the device plugged into the outlet is turned off. Also, when the item is placed in the holder, the switch closes in response thereto to supply power to the internal appliance which stays on as the item remains in the holder to facilitate retrieval of it in a dark room.

Abstract: A float switch arrangement includes a holding and sealing component which is made of an electrically conductive material. An electric switch is accommodated in the holding and sealing component. An electric cable is connected to the electric switch and includes an end portion situated at a connection zone. Electric conductors extend from the end portion of the current supply cable through the connection zone to the electric switch and are electrically connected to the electric switch. A gravity actuation arrangement which is operative for actuating the electric switch is also accommodated in the holding and sealing component. A float housing constituted solely by a body of a closed-pore integral foam surrounds the holding and sealing component, the electric switch, the gravity actuation arrangement, and the end portion of the gavity actuation arrangement and the electric conductors at the connection zone and seals the connection zone against penetration of moisture therethrough.

Abstract: The temperature control of an electric blanket changes the preset temperature in accordance with the presence or absence of a human body so as to ensure comfortable sleeping. The preset temperature is changed to a higher temperature setting upon connecting the power source. When the user goes to bed so that the human body is detected by human body detecting means, the higher temperature setting is automatically decreased by setting changing means to the temperature preset by temperature setting means. Also, when the user rises for the time being after having fallen asleep, the preset temperature is automatically raised so that the user is again allowed to fall asleep comfortably.

Abstract: A sheet material for a pressure-sensitive detecting device has a corrugated and electrically conductive net having a multiplicity of corrugations on each side thereof and covered by an electrically insulating material. The net is embedded in an electrically insulating material, except for its corrugations which are exposed from the insulating film and the insulating material.

Abstract: The measuring device is constructed as an oval chain link which upon experiencing load will tend to lengthen so that its long sides move closer to each other; switching devices or other proximity sensing devices respond to this approach to signal, for example, overload.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an eyeglass holder which may have a suitable ornamental appearance, a power inlet to the device, and a power outlet such as an AC socket into which may be plugged a reading lamp, bedside radio, etc. The device of the invention further comprises a night light such as a small lamp which is mounted so as to facilitate the location and retrieval of the eyeglasses in the dark. A normally closed switch is located between the power inlet and the power outlet so that the AC current from the inlet is normally available at the power outlet for lighting a reading lamp or the like. When a pair of eyeglasses is placed in the holder, the device plugged into the outlet is turned off. Also, when the eyeglasses are placed in the holder, the switch closes in response thereto to supply power to the night lamp which remains lit so long as the eyeglasses remain in the holder to facilitate retrieval of the glasses in a dark room.

Abstract: An alarm system for an electric range which detects when a burner is energized without a utensil in place on the burner wherein the sensing means comprises an electrical switch mounted below the stovetop having a first switch position and a second switch position, a pin slidably passing through an opening in the stovetop beneath the rim of the dish under the heating element in contact with the underside of the rim and biased against the rim with a pressure sufficient to lift the rim from the stovetop when no utensil is present on the heating element, but insufficient to lift the rim when a utensil is in place on the heating element; and means connecting said pin with the switch to operate the switch between first and second positions corresponding to the position of the pin when a utensil is present or absent from the heating element.

Abstract: A smoke detector indicator for a fire alarm system having an ON-OFF switch indicator system that permits the audio alarm to be turned off for false alarm situations, but has a visual indication that the system is not in operation. In a system including a circuit connecting a smoke detector, battery and an audio alarm, all in a single enclosure, the improvement comprises a switch in the circuit to open the circuit and prevent the alarm from sounding, and a visual indicator associated with the switch, visually apparent when the circuit is open, and not visually apparent when the circuit is closed.

Abstract: An improved switch apparatus for monitor presence of the patient in a hospital or nursing home bed and responsible to distortion by the weight of the patient, the switch being formed of an elongated, thin rectangular base member of insulating, flexible material having an elongated generally rectangular cutout in it, a first and second plastic cover members encompassing the base member, the plastic cover members being sealed around the edges and the plastic cover members having conductive layers affixed to the opposed surfaces on either side of the base member and arranged so that the conductive layers are spaced apart from each other in the area of the cutout and held apart by the memory of the base and plastic covers and a cable having one conductor connected to the conductive layer on one cover member and another conductor connected to the conductive layer on the other cover member, the conductive surfaces contacting each other through the cutout in the base member when the switch apparatus is subject to be

Abstract: A low voltage battery powered door mat alarm having an alarm buzzer circuit with mat circuit contact closure by the weight of the pet such as a cat walking across the mat to or from an animal pet door. This activates the buzzer to indicate generally that the pet is approaching the door to go out or has just returned through the pet door with the mat positioned just inside the door so the pet must pass over the mat to go out or come in through the door.

Abstract: The invention relates to a squeeze switch assembly or switch housing which is particularly adapted for inclusion in a stuffed toy that has some type of electrical mechanism within it. A flat layer of resilient material is attached on one surface to a switch plate and on the other surface to a cover plate. The cover plate and the layer of resilient material have an aperture passing through them so that the apertures are coaxial. The cover plate is attached to and seals a container which contains a switch to and optionally the electrical mechanism. A plunger passes through the apertures in the layer of resilient material and the cover plate and slides when the switch plate is moved toward the cover plate so that the sliding action of the plunger actuates the switch thereby energizing the electrical mechanism.

Abstract: A pressure-sensitive element for use in a keyboard switch etc., comprising a conductive porous material which is rugged, an elastic insulator which bulges more than convex parts of the conductive porous material without covering the convex parts, and a conductive layer which opposes to the conductive porous material through the elastic insulator. When no pressure is applied, openings are formed between the convex parts of the conductive porous material and the conductive layer through the elastic insulator, whereby the pressure-sensitive element is in its nonconductive state. When a pressure is applied, the elastic insulator is deformed to bring the convex part of the conductive porous material into contact with the conductive layer, whereby the pressure-sensitive element is brought into its conductive state.

Abstract: This invention relates to a body height and weight measuring machine, which operates by means of a winding transmission cord means to drive a sliding plate having sensing, measuring, and digital display functions. When the sliding plate moving upwards, the sensing means will receive the refracted infrared rays as a result of a person's height to cause said winding transmission cord means to stop moving; then, a correct height and weight will be displayed thru digital display means. The aforesaid height measurement and its digital display are done by means of a photocell sensing means being coupled to a scale plate that includes a black and transparent strip in alternate arrangement and equal width so as to have said photocell sensing means generating a forward or reverse sequence sensing signal during the sliding plate moving; then, said signals will be shown on a display means driven with driving circuit.

Abstract: An improved membrane switch (12) of greater sensitivity and simplified, lightweight construction which is particularly adapted for sensing material levels in hoppers, comprises a first non-conductive sheet (18) with conductive open contacts (22), leads (24), and contactor (28) provided on one side thereof. The first sheet (18) is folded back on itself and secured to a spacer or second sheet (20) such that the contacts (22) and contactor (28) are in aligned, normally spaced apart relationship. A second embodiment of the membrane switch (50) comprises four non-conductive sheets (52, 54, 70 and 74) stacked, instead of folded, and interconnected to form a thin yieldable envelope for the normally open contact (62) and contactor (76). In the second embodiment, the third sheet (70) acts as the spacer.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the presence of a patient in a hospital bed including an elongated, thin, generally rectangular base member of insulating flexible material, such as high-density polyethylene foam, having a generally rectangular cutout opening therein, a rectangular, thin, electrically conductive member affixed to each surface of the base, the base serving to normally maintain the conductive elements spaced apart from each other, a plastic cover cemented to the exterior surface of each of the conductive elements, the edges of the plastic cover being sealed around the full periphery of the device, a cable having two conductors, one conductor being attached to each of the conductive members, the device being generally about 4 inches wide and 34 inches long so that it may be positioned under a patient in a hospital bed, the weight of the patient serving to distort the device so that the conductive members are in contact, providing a closed signal, and the device being sufficiently rigid so that in the

Abstract: An improved alarm system sensing and triggering apparatus for remote detection of interruptions or alterations in an otherwise closed electrical alarm circuit. Exposed electrodes are embedded together with a substantially deformable current conducting element in a recessed housing cavity. The conducting element is compressable or deformable, momentarily, to an altered shape to activate the alarm system without the need for partially or completely detaching the sensor itself from the article to which it is connected. The recessed cavity together with the exposed electrodes and deformable conducting means cooperate with the sensor housing and alarm system integration conductors and with sensor attachment devices to provide the improved security features.

Abstract: An adjustable pressure switch is disclosed which has a generally cylindrical plastic case with a cylindrical cavity formed in one side. A mating, cylindrical pressure plate fits within the cavity and is spaced away from the bottom of the cavity by a resilient annular member. A top electrical contact member is mounted to the pressure plate and a bottom electrical contact member is mounted in the case, with the two contact members being normally maintained in spaced relation by the resilient member. A compression ring fitting within a groove in the cavity in the case holds the pressure plate firmly in position. Force applied to the pressure plate urges the same toward the bottom of the cavity until the two contact members make electrical contact. The amount of force required to close the switches can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the top contact member, formed as a set screw threaded into the pressure plate, or by selecting the shape or material of the resilient annular member.

Abstract: A seat switch assembly (11) which includes a ribbon switch (22) over which a corrugated actuating member (24) is laid, the assembly being imbedded within the bottom cushion (14) of the seat. The corrugations of the actuating member engage the ribbon switch at a plurality of spaced points and insure that the switch will be actuated by the weight of an operator applied at essentially any point on the bottom cushion.

Abstract: An electrically non-conductive separator having a hole formed therethrough is interposed between a pair of switch contacts having a modulus of elasticity. A cover of electrically non-conductive flexible material covers the switch contacts. Electrically conductive leads are electrically connected to, and extend from, the switch contacts. The positions of the switch contacts relative to each other are determined by differences in pressure and control the operation of an electrical circuit electrically connected to the leads to operate a circuit to perform a function.

Abstract: A pressure operated electrical switch and an alarm system for use in hospitals and nursing homes is constructed such that a force is applied to a pressure plate therein. Once the load is reduced below a predetermined value the pressure plate will move under spring influence to close/open a microswitch or electrical contact means. The normal force applied to the pressure plate is the load on the leg of the hospital bed when occupied. If the bed occupant gets out of the bed the load on the pressure plate is reduced below a predetermined value, and the consequent movement of the pressure plate opens/closes the switch means to actuate the alarm.

Abstract: A pressure operated electrical switch and an alarm system for use in hospitals and nursing homes is constructed such that a force is applied to the upper surface of a leaf spring therein. Once the load is reduced below a predetermined value the leaf spring will move to close/open a microswitch or electrical contact means. The normal force applied to the leaf spring is the load on the leg of the hospital bed when occupied. If the bed occupant gets out of the bed the load on the leaf spring is reduced below a predetermined value and the consequent movement of the leaf spring opens/closes the switch means to actuate the alarm.

Abstract: A stand for an electric iron incorporates an automatic time delay safety switch arrangement which reduces the chances of fires being started by an unattended iron and serves to save a substantial amount of electric energy by cutting off the current to the iron when it is left turned-on but unattended. The stand includes a hinged, spring biased platform of insulating material for supporting an electric iron during non-use periods. Placement of the iron on the platform causes the platform to pivot closing a normally open switch. Closure of the switch energizes a standard electrically energized time delay relay mounted on the platform. After lapse of a predetermined time period, the time delay relay actuates a manually resettable electric relay from a first condition allowing the electric iron to be energized from a power supply socket on the platform to a second latched condition whereby the iron is deenergized.

Abstract: A hand held power tool, particularly of the type of a dental handpiece or the like is provided with power shut-off means disposed directly within the handle. The shut-off means is mechanically connected with a suspension means for suspending the hand piece or the like power tool such that the weight of the tool shuts off power supply to the tool. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a dental handpiece is disclosed wherein the suspension means is a magnet, whereby the handpiece can be suspended on any ferromagnetic surface without having to reach to a suspension fork which, in the known devices, is itself associated with a shut-off valve. The basic idea of the invention has broad application in many different fields of technology.

Abstract: A liquid activatable alarm device for providing continuous monitoring of the presence or absence of a patient in a hospital bed. When the patient attempts to leave the bed, a pressure sensitive switch responds sounding an alarm warning the hospital staff.

Abstract: A device for controlling evaporation of a liquid has a container and a heating element for heating and evaporating liquid in the container. The container is disposed on a base plate which is supported by a leaf spring which allows the base plate to move between two microswitches depending upon the amount of liquid in the container. The microswitches are connected to a control circuit for activating the heating element and interrupt the flow of power to the heating element when little or no liquid is present in the container, or when a maximum amount of liquid is present in the container.

Abstract: A theft prevention system for use with business machines having a housing, including a base and a removable cover includes an alarm, which is connected to a microswitch having a spring biased plunger that projects downwardly, through an aperture formed in the base of the housing, and abuts the surface upon which the machine rests. The microswitch is positioned such that when the machine is lifted from the resting surface, the plunger is biased into an active position thereby actuating the alarm. A protective sleeve which is fixedly connected to the resting surface surrounds the plunger and extends upwardly into the housing through the associated aperture thereby inhibiting tampering with the microswitch. A second microswitch may be provided which includes a spring biased member that is disposed in abutting relationship with the cover of the housing and functions to actuate the alarm when an attempt is made to separate the cover from the base.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for indicating that the level of a dosable material has fallen below a predetermined level in a dosing container having a shaft mounted horizontally for rotation inside of the container and a dosing brush mounted on the shaft. This device comprises an elastic contact tongue radially fixed to the shaft for rotation therewith, the contact tongue being sufficiently elastic so that it assumes a bent configuration having a first radius when rotated in contact over a predetermined portion of its length with the dosable material and so that it assumes an extended configuration having a second radius when rotated so that it is not in contact over the predetermined portion of its length with the dosable material; a contact pin mounted at a distance from the shaft greater than the first radius but not greater than the second radius, so as to be contacted by the contact tongue in its extended configuration; and means for producing a signal when the contact tongue contacts the contact pin.

Abstract: An overload indication device for a lever hoist comprises an operating lever consisting of a main lever and a handle having one end pivoted to the main lever, a spring for normally holding the handle in an aligned position with the main lever, a magnification lever for deforming the spring by the rocking movement of the handle by a force corresponding to an overloading and a warning device for warning of the overloading, such as a buzzer, whistle or colored indicator adapted to be operated when the handle rocks to assume an angular position relative to the main lever.

Abstract: A bed mat having a sensor for detecting abnormally high temperatures and for detecting when the occupant of the bed is not in it is connected to a control console which has circuits for producing a first electrical signal having a first characteristic in response to the detection of an abnormally high bed temperature and a second signal having a second characteristic in response to the detection of the absence of the bed occupant. In one form of the invention, these signals are applied to the conventional nurse call system to produce sensory signals at the nurses' station, for example, indicative of the detection of high temperature or absence in a way such that they can each be distinguished from the signal produced at the nurse's station by the use of the nurse call button by the patient. Provision is also made for coupling of a smoke detector into the system for actuating the high temperature alarm signaller if smoke is detected.

Abstract: A pressure operated electrical switch and an alarm system for use in hospitals and nursing homes. The switch is constructed such that a force is applied to a pressure plate therein, and once the load is reduced below a predetermined value the pressure plate will move under spring influence to close/open a microswitch or electrical contact means. The normal force applied to the pressure plate is the load on the leg of a hospital bed when occupied. If the bed occupant gets out of the bed the load on the pressure plate is reduced below the predetermined value and the consequent movement of the pressure plate opens/closes the switch means to actuate the alarm.

Abstract: A liquid level control wherein a receptacle for collecting liquid is carried on a support for movement in accordance with the weight of the liquid collected therein. A switch is mounted adjacent the receptacle so as to be actuated as an incident of movement of the receptacle. A control is provided which is adjustably retained on the support adjacent the receptacle to provide a selectively adjustable resistance to movement of the receptacle whereby the weight of the collected liquid necessary to actuate the switch may be selectively adjusted. The control is arranged to be fail-safe in that should the control loosen, actuation of the switch is effected by a minimum weight of collected liquid in the receptacle.

Abstract: An alarm activating device is provided for closing a normally open circuit upon release of body pressure upon the rearward wall of the device, comprising a first, second, and third plate supported respectively in substantially parallel alignment behind a mounting plate, which mounting plate is adapted to be secured behind a belt in close proximity to a body, the first and third plates being spaced-apart and movable together from a position wherein one contacts the second plate, to a position where the other contacts the second plate, including means for applying constant positive pressure to the first plate opposite the second plate, and further including a first and a second contact in series circuit relationship, supported adjacent one another in alignment on the first and second plates.

Abstract: An installation in a vehicle for indicating the load distribution and for warning against overloads with load-value transmitters coordinated to the vehicle axles; in which a first load-value transmitter coordinated with a vehicle axle for respective lateral sides of the vehicle includes a load-dependent threshold switch whereby the two threshold switches connect the positive terminal of the battery by way of the ignition lock with a filter, and the filter output is connected with a switching device which turns on the load-distribution indication and/or the overload warning.

Abstract: A monitoring device which monitors the extent of infusion of intravenous solutions and provides an alarm signal when such infusion has progressed to a predetermined degree. The device comprises a cylindrical container to which is coupled, at its upper end, an attaching member for suspending the device from an intravenous solution supporting stand. Peripherally disposed about the cylindrical container are electrical sockets adapted such that each socket may accept an associated electrical plug. Extending through and below the lower end of the cylindrical container is a suspension member having a hook section for suspending an intravenous solution container. A helical spring is disposed within the cylindrical container, coaxially surrounding that portion of the suspension member which extends into the cylindrical container. The vertical position of the spring is defined by the lower internal end of the cylindrical container and by the upper extremity of the suspension member disposed within the container.

Abstract: A resilient insulative layer of a plastic foam material is sandwiched between a dimpled carbon powder loaded plastic sheet and a resilient carbon powder loaded plastic foam pad. The dimples extend part way through holes provided therefor in the insulative layer. This sandwich assembly being placed under a bed mattress serves as a mattress-switch indicating electrically by contact between the sheet and the pad the presence of an occupant in the bed or his absence by lack of such contact. The characteristic time of the pad material for returning to its original shape is substantially longer than the corresponding return time of the insulative layer. Reliable operation is obtained for a wide range of occupant weights regardless of the weight(s) of the previous occupants.

Abstract: The invention relates to a load limiter for lifting apparatus which triggers an electric signal when a vertical tensile stress exceeds a predetermined threshold, the constitution of said load limiter allowing a smaller lost height. The limiter according to the invention is characterized by the fact that it comprises two blocks which extend horizontally on either side of a a narrow common portion which forms a pivot so as to delimit a free space extending between the two essentially vertical facing surfaces of said blocks and at whose open end said elastic system is disposed horizontally and in that two fixed supports are provided on either side of said common portion to bend said load limiter. Application to electrical lifting devices such as hoists.

Abstract: A novel device is provided to determine the traveling habits of game, in particular, deer.A battery operated timer is started with a pressure switch kept in the "on" position by the pressure of a tidbit, such as an apple, or a switch lever. The device is placed in a known deer trail and when the animal removes the tidbit, the timer stops. The hunter may determine when the animal passed that particular location.

Abstract: A specialized switch particularly suited for use by the disabled is disclosed. The inventive switch comprises a resilient contacting assembly, having a pair of electrically conducting members, in a housing. The contacting members are maintained out of electrical contact with each other by suitable means associated with the assembly. Application of pressure to the housing brings the members into contact with each other, closing the switch.

Abstract: Sensing devices responsive to changes in the physical condition of the area in which they are located are disposed in elongate, flexible carriers to form a detecting unit which can be arranged in a tortuous, undulating array to cover an undefined area of any shape desired with a detecting density of any chosen value. The detecting unit can assume various forms including that of a pair of conducting elements disposed within an insulating tube in opposed relation positioned to complete the continuity of a switching circuit when the tube is flexed to cause engagement of the conductors. Another embodiment comprises a plurality of braided strands of insulating material extending lengthwise within an insulating carrier cable sheath. A pair of conductors is included in the braiding in a spiral disposition with each conductor being disposed along the entire length in opposed relation to the other conductor.

Abstract: An alarm system for an invalid in a hopsital bed includes electric switches placed on top of the side rails and foot rail so that a force applied to any of said switches by a patient results in activation of a warning device. In addition, means is provided for selectively illuminating the hospital bed. Two basic configurations of electric switches are provided, both of which are characterized by the provision of a first switch member which is actuated by light pressure or force, and a second switch member which is actuated by heavier pressure, e.g. when the patient attempts to climb or crawl out of the bed, which could result in injury to the patient due to a fall from the bed to the floor. The switch members when actuated serve to close electric circuits which may sound a buzzer, and/or a call bell, and/or illuminate the bed, so that a nurse or attendant is amply alerted to give attention to the patient.

Abstract: A load responsive switch actuator mechanism comprises a body of deformable material (e.g., an elastomeric material) which deforms under either compressive or tensile forces to actuate a switch. In one preferred embodiment the deformable material is in the form of a solid, generally cylindrical configuration which, when compressed, will expand in diameter to actuate a load responsive switch. In a second preferred embodiment the deformable material is in the form of a generally cylindrical tube which, when subjected to a tensile load, will decrease in diameter and actuate a load responsive switch.

Abstract: A cover for a cup dispenser includes an indicating device which provides a warning when the dispenser is nearly empty. A weight at the end of a spring controlled wire reel mounted in the cover is placed in the uppermost cup and moves down as cups are dispensed. At a predetermined distance of travel of the wire and weight, a microswitch is actuated which connects a battery to turn on a light bulb or other warning or indicator device on the cover. When a new supply of cups is inserted, the weight is lifted and the spring rewinds the wire and opens the switch connecting the light and battery.

Abstract: Three different embodiments of the ultrasensitive differential point contact relay configuration of this invention are disclosed. The first or basic embodiment is particularly suited for use in intrusion detection systems or as a strain gauge/accelerometer and the like. The second embodiment is particularly suited for use as an ultrasensitive electrically actuated relay and the like. The third embodiment performs the function of an ultrasensitive strain gauge/accelerometer whose output is the mix of the mechanical and electrical stimulus. The basic embodiment comprises a point contact relay housed in a two section case or container. The two sections of the container are joined by a lower modulus section. A movable contact arm is spring biased against a second movable contact and the base of the contact arm floats in a viscous fluid. In the second embodiment the case or container is formed as one section and a piezoelectric crystal is mechanically coupled to the second contact.

Abstract: An elongated air inflated flexible bag is placed below the mattress of a hospital or nursing home bed and connected to a pressure actuated electrical switch signal at a remote attendant's station. The switch is a normally closed low pressure switch that remains open for as long as a patient's weight maintains an air pressure greater than the preset actuating pressure of the switch and closes when the patient's weight is removed and the pressure in the bag is thereby lowered, energizing a signal at the attendant's station.

Abstract: Apparatus adapted for cooperation with the human foot for performing a switching function in response to ambulation. A substrate is provided with a generally centrally located contact. Posts extend from the substrate and space a flexible disc from the contact while allowing the central portion of the disc to flex into electrical communication therewith. The assembly may be positioned in the heel portion of a shoe insole so as to switch between open and closed positions as weight is placed on the heel and removed, as in walking. The switch may be employed in association with muscle and/or nerve stimulators for objectives such as combating foot drop or providing hip stabilization. In addition, proper selection of the flexible disc and post spacing will provide a normally open switch which will close when a preselected limb load has been applied. Also, the apparatus may be made bi-directional such that the same insole assembly may be employed with either foot.

Abstract: A switch assembly for sensing velocity of airflow along an airflow path and having a vane for disposition in the airflow. The vane is pivoted in a case of framework and rotational movement of the vane about the pivot axis actuates a magnetic reed switch mounted within the framework. A variety of weights are provided for attachment to the side of the vane opposite the side upon which the airflow impinges for providing a variety of unbalance torques to the vane which are counter to torque produced by airflow impingement. A consequent variety of airflow velocity switching points may be obtained. For airflow paths which are small in cross section, the pivot axis of the vane may extend parallel to the cross section and the angle through which the vane may move approaches 80.degree. from the plane of the cross section so that a minimal surface of the vane will oppose airflow through the path.

Abstract: A digital pressure/range transducer is disclosed. The transducer transforms n applied force into a mechanical movement which in turn closes a plurality of switches in ordered sequence. The number of switches closed gives a measure of the applied force. The transducer can be configured as a cable and when so configured the location of a closed switch or switches along the length of the cable can be determined.

Abstract: Load limiter making it possible to set off an electric signal subsequent to a tensile stress exceeding a certain maximum value. It is based on the principle of rotation by axial stretching of a twisted part, the said rotation deplacing an armature of an electric contact switch.

Abstract: A device for signaling a patient when a predetermined load is placed on the patient's foot comprises a resilient foot pad having a toe end and a heel end and adapted to substantially cover the inner sole of a shoe. A resilient liquid filled tube is mounted within the pad with the tube extending from adjacent the toe end to adjacent the heel end of the pad. A signaling device is controlled by a pressure responsive means in communication with the liquid in the tube for the actuation of the signaling means at a predetermined pressure of said liquid.

Abstract: A precision cut-off weighing apparatus having a balance type weighing device on which a desired weight is placed on one side and a bag to be filled with a fluid such as blood on the other. A magnet is mounted on the arm of the balance on which the bag is placed and a reed switch in a circuit mounted in proximity of the magnet to be influenced to close the circuit when the arm swings to the balanced position and bag has been filled to substantially the exact weight desired. The circuit is connected to a lever mounted on a support through which a tube extends to the bag whereby when the reed switch has been actuated, the lever swings to compress the tube and thereby prevent any further flow of fluid to the bag.