Abstract: An overflow control system for use with home appliances such as washing machines, incorporating conventional stand pipe which receives the outlet conduit from the appliance, the stand pipe being provided with an attachment having a displacement, conductivity or a pressure sensor installed for sensing the height of liquids in the stand pipe. This stand pipe may be vertically connected to the sewage line outlet found in a home and the signals from the sensors may be used to shut off the power to the appliance and to excite an alarm. Connected in parallel with the sensors may be a moisture sensor deployed under the appliance which again shuts the power off whenever the machine is inadvertently filled beyond its limits or when leakage occurs.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the level, volume or rate of flow of an electrically conductive fluid, such as water, includes a reference conductor connected to a reference potential and a plurality of additional, vertically spaced conductors affixed to an insulating surface. The reference conductor is normally placed at the lowest point of the liquid container whereas the other conductors are positioned within the liquid container at various points above the reference conductor. When the level of the liquid is above the position of one or more of the additional conductors, the liquid effects an electrical conduction path between the conductors below the liqid level and the reference conductor and thus with the reference potential. The conductors are connected through a logic circuit to a plurality of display elements, which are selectively actuated to provide an indication of the level of the liquid corresponding to the uppermost conductor covered by the liquid and thereby connected to the reference potential.

Abstract: A current control device for connection in series with an AC load where it is not convenient to make connections in parallel with the load. The device comprises a pair of terminals for connection in series with an AC load, a triac for controlling the flow of current through the load, and a control circuit for controlling the triac. A circuit for supplying current to power supply rails when current is flowing through the load comprises a transformer having a primary winding connected in series with the terminals, and a secondary winding connected across the input of a rectifier, the output of which is connected across the supply rails. A circuit for supplying power to the rails when the flow of current through the load is prevented comprises a resistor bridged by a capacitor connected in series with a zener diode between the terminals, a rectifying diode and a smoothing capacitor.

Abstract: In an automatic train-line air brake pressure monitoring system, a peak detector and hold circuit determines the peak voltage of an input signal representing the air pressure in the air brake system. A signal representing the present peak voltage of the input signal from the previously detected peak voltage is subtracted from the presently detected peak voltage to provide a subtraction output signal such that signals representative of the air brake pressure can be generated. The monitoring system may provide emergency air brake condition signals, as well as a number of programmable monitoring signals representative of different pressures within the air brake pressure system.

Abstract: A timer means having a time delay on reapplication of control allows a single probe low water cutoff and feedwater makeup device to function. The time delay preventing reapplication of power to a burner while simultaneously causing a feedwater mechanism to add water to a boiler provides safe operation of the boiler without oscillations caused by momentary losses of water.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sensing air pressure in pneumatic suspension units for a vehicle, such as a motorcycle, comprising: air pressure sensors capable of sensing air pressures in pneumatic suspension units to generate an output signal when the air pressures are below a predetermined level; a vehicle speed sensor capable of sensing vehicle speed to generate an output signal when the vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined level; a signal processor adapted to receive output signals from the pressure sensors and the vehicle speed sensor and generate an output when the air pressures in the pneumatic suspension units are below a predetermined level while the vehicle speed continues to be in excess of a predetermined level for more than a predetermined period of time. An indicating device produces an indicating signal when it receives an output signal from the signal processor.

Abstract: A conductive fluid probe, one particularly used in sensing a boiler water, is operated with pulsed energy from the charging and discharging of a capacitor. The charging is allowed to occur in a normal resistance-capacitor manner, while the discharge is rapidly accomplished. The energy of both halves of the charge and discharge cycle are substantially the same even though the magnitudes of peak voltages are substantially different thereby operating the probe with a minimum of electrolysis and a maximum cleaning action.

Abstract: Switching apparatus for energizing a load from an a.c. current source where the apparatus is actuated to an "on" condition by the application of a source of light, such as a match. A photo-responsive, solid-state element such as a light actuable SCR is mounted within the apparatus at the end of a passageway of length and width selected to preclude an influence of ambient lighting. The "on" condition of the device is sustained through the utilization of a feedback light path, the source of which is an incandescent lamp. Switching "off" the apparatus is carried out by blowing on an opaque flap from a rest to a transient position temporarily blocking the feedback light path.

Abstract: An electric vehicle-level control device is provided for controlling an electrically operated fluid pressure control device for a pneumatic, hydraulic or hydro-pneumatic suspension unit such as a hydro-pneumatic suspension strut of a self-levelling suspension system for an automotive vehicle. The control device comprises a timing or delay circuit adapted to deliver an output signal at a predetermined retarded timing following generation of (1) a signal responsive to a vehicle level higher or lower than a predetermined value, or (2) a signal responsive to shutdown of a power plant such as an internal combustion engine of an automotive vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically controlling a watering system in response to a comparison of an ambient condition with a time-varying reference level having an adjustable maximum value is disclosed. The invention includes an electrical circuit for monitoring and sensing the magnitude of the ambient condition and for converting the sensed magnitude into a proportional electrical signal. The invention further includes a first timer circuit for generating a triggering signal when the time-varying reference level exceeds the magnitude of the proportional electrical signal. This triggering signal is applied to a second timer circuit which actuates the watering system for a predetermined period of time in response to the triggering signal.

Abstract: A humidity sensor as well as a humidity detection circuit are disclosed, the former employing a humidity sensitive material the electric resistance of which varies in response to the variance of humidity in an atmosphere and the latter employing such humidity sensitive material. The humidity sensor comprises a base plate made of aluminum or the like with a humidity sensitive material formed on the base plate so as to form a film of a high molecular polymer unit which contains a reactive cationic monomer unit, is capable of detecting humidity over a wide range shows little variance in nature in a high humidity atmosphere of organic gas, and has a long life. The humidity detection circuit comprises an oscillation circuit, a pair of electrodes which are connected by means of the humidity sensor and to one of which is supplied the output of the oscillation circuit as an input, and an amplifier circuit which is connected to the other one of the pair of electrodes.

Abstract: An automatic flood control valve apparatus having a normally open valve, in combination with a latching relay for closing the valve, which latches the valve in a closed position when the relay is energized and until it is manually reset, and a single transistor sensor circuit for energizing the relay in response to a flood. A power supply circuit is also disclosed.

Abstract: In a control circuit to prevent the overheating of a conductively backed recording medium, a closed loop control circuit is provided wherein heat is provided to the heating electrodes of the circuit by one subcircuit under the control of a speed responsive control subcircuit. A feedback loop to a summing junction in the latter subcircuits is monitored to determine a deviation from virtual zero at that junction. A deviation from such virtual zero at that junction is used to control a shutdown safety circuit.

Abstract: An automatic headlight extinguishing switch apparatus especially adapted to interfit with an existing automobile light switch member which comprises a switch means and a wiring harness. The headlight extinguishing switch apparatus comprises an adapter apparatus which interfits between the switch means and the wiring harness, and a normally open pressure sensitive switch device which is operatively connected to the adapter apparatus. The pressure sensitive switch device is adapted to be connected to an automobile vacuum line or an automobile pressurized oil line, such that the switch will be closed when the engine is turned on and will open when the engine is turned off. A manually operable override switch member is provided which bypasses the pressure sensitive switch device and permits the automobile lights to be operated when the engine is turned off.

Abstract: An automatic water safety valve assembly having sensors adapted to be placed in various locations on the floors of a building so that an expandable element in each of the sensors having an electrically conductive plate expands when wetted to operate a circuit which causes the water safety valve to close and shut off the main water line to the building. The valve, when activated, also operates a power interrupter which deactivates the connections to the device from the AC power source.

Abstract: The invention contemplates a unitary magnetically sensitive circuit element or network and a flexibly articulatable elongate assembly of a plurality of such elements or networks, with electrical interconnection of the same, such assembly being inherently suited to precision operation as a function of length, whatever the length selected for a particular application or use. In one application to liquid-depth indication within a tank, the longate assembly is merely inserted into the tube along which a float-borne permanent magnet is guided, and the magnetically sensitive element of each successive unit is actuated as the float tracks liquid level and is displaced from actuating relation with one and then to the next-adjacent one of the circuit-element units. The connection of circuit-element units is such that electrical-resistance observation from one end of the assembly provides a direct indication of the liquid level at which the float magnet is currently operative.

Abstract: A system for sensing and controlling the level of fluent material in a reservoir or other receptacle. In electrically conducting materials levels are sensed by low voltage direct current conduction between electrode pairs placed at desired "high" and "low" control levels which send D.C. digital logic sensing signals over connecting wires to very high resistance "high" and "low" inputs of a digital logic signal processing circuit, while nonconducting material levels are sensed by suitable transducers which upon immersion can send D.C. digital logic signals. The digital signal processing circuit receives the sensor signals and provides a digital output signal or absence thereof, depending on the relative state and sequence of the sensing signals and transmits a digital output signal to a solid state relay which controls the power of flow control means to maintain desired levels of the fluent material.

Abstract: A self-contained float switch for use in conjunction with water pumps and the like. The float switch operates to actuate and de-actuate such a pump at particular depths of water (L.sub.1) and (L.sub.2) which define an adjustable pumping range (R). In one embodiment the float switch consists of a cylindrical water-tight float (24) having an electrical cable (26) coming out of one end and terminating at a piggy-back plug (29) for insertion between a power output (20) and electric pump plug (18). The float contains six mercury switches (70-80) disposed obliquely to the axis of the float and equally spaced around the axis. Further circuitry including a relay (48) is provided to switch the heavier current load of the pump (12) in response to the electrical state of the mercury switches.

Abstract: A resistive fluid or boiler water type of detecting system has been disclosed. A single conductor type of probe having a plurality of conducting regions that are capable of conducting a bidirectional electric current in either a full bidirectional mode or in a unidirectional mode has been disclosed. The single probe element is capable of three separate and distinct states of operation. The first state is when there is an absence of current, the second is when there is a unidirectional portion of the bidirectional current flowing, and the third state is when the full bidirectional electric current is allowed to flow. An output device is responsive to these three states to provide different types or levels of control.

Abstract: A pressure switch is shown as having two terminals extending externally of a switch housing within which are two stationary adjustably prepositioned fixed contacts respectively electrically connected to the two terminals; two movable contacts are also situated within the housing and, in response to sensed pressure, move toward (or away from) the fixed contacts in a manner causing sequential closing of electrical circuit portions as between respective movable contacts and fixed contacts; related electrical circuit means electrically connected to such contacts serves to energize and/or de-energize related output means as, for example, electrically operated clutch means.

Abstract: This relates to a circuit for delivering a linear voltage (V.sub.P) which is inversely proportional to the capacitance of a pressure sensitive capacitive transducer. A constant current I.sub.O is alternately switched into a reference capacitor (C.sub.R) and the transducer capacitor (C.sub.P). When the voltage across C.sub.P reaches V.sub.P, a flip-flop is toggled to direct current to C.sub.R. When the voltage across C.sub.R reaches a reference voltage (V.sub.R), the flip-flop is again toggled directing current to C.sub.P. A duty cycle detector charges integrator capacitors until the feedback voltage V.sub.P is such as to render equal the charging times of C.sub.P and C.sub.R.

Abstract: An improved system for sensing and controlling the level of fluent material in two reservoirs when material is transferred from one reservoir to the other. In electrically conducting materials, levels are sensed by direct current conduction between electrode pairs placed in each reservoir at desired "high" and "low" control levels which send D.C. digital logic sensing signals from these four sensors over connecting wires to four high resistance input circuits of a digital signal processing circuit; in electrically nonconducting materials, levels are sensed by suitable transducers which upon immersion send D.C. digital logic sensing signals to the digital signal processing circuit.

Abstract: Contactor comprising at least two fixed studs, at least one movable stud capable of making or breaking an electric contact between the two fixed studs, and at least one membrane which can deform under the action of a fluid. The movable stud is fastened to the membrane in such a manner that the movable stud is isolated from the two fixed studs in position of rest. The contactor is characterized by the fact that the membrane comprises the following two parts:(a) at least one substantially nondeformable base to which the movable stud is fastened; and(b) flanks which are elastic with respect to the base and firmly attached to the base, the deformation of the membrane being obtained substantially solely by stretching of the flanks, this deformation causing a displacement of the base and therefore a displacement of the movable stud.

Abstract: An underwater light circuit employs electrodes exposed to water, a light, and circuitry connected with the electrodes and light filament to control current flow to the filament.

Abstract: Liquid level sensing means comprising galvano-magneto effect transducing means, magnet means for applying magnetic flux to the transducing means, switching means movable with respect to the transducing means and having an influence on the magnetic flux applied from the magnetic means to the transducing means so that an electric signal is produced by the transducing means when the switching means has passed by the transducing means from one side to the other side thereof, one of the transducing means and the switching means being held stationary, and the other being movable in accordance with a change in liquid level.

Abstract: A wet-niche type lamp for providing underwater illumination in a swimming pool or the like includes an over-temperature protection circuit which interrupts the supply of electrical energy to the lamp when the level of the cooling water surrounding the lamp drops below a predetermined level. The circuit includes thermistor mounted in an heat exchange relationship with the surrounding water so that heat energy generated in the thermistor, as a consequence of the current flow through it, is normally transferred to the surrounding water. Should the level of the surrounding water drop below that of the thermistor, the thermistor heat energy quickly evaporates any remaining water film on the exterior surface of the thermistor to allow its temperature to rise. The control circuit, in response to the temperature increase, interrupts the flow of electrical energy to the lamp to prevent over-temperature operation.

Abstract: An electronic pressure switch composed of a flexible diaphragm carrying a conductive plate and two axially displaceable electronic proximity switch members each disposed at a respective opposite side of the diaphragm, each switch member being arranged to be actuated upon movement of the plate to within a predetermined distance therefrom, under the action of a pressure medium acting on one side of the diaphragm.

Abstract: An arrangement for installing electronic counters in a petrol pump comprising a pressure-tight casing for accommodating the counters, means for providing an excess air pressure in the interior of the casing and a pressure-controlled switch inside the casing for interrupting the current supply to the counters when the pressure falls below a specific level.

Abstract: An improved control system for hand-held appliances, in particular but not exclusively dental instruments is disclosed. The basic features of the improved control system are a closed or sealed enclosure or container to be mounted on a part of the appliance, preferably on the exterior surface of a handle portion thereof. The enclosure contains a deformable working medium body such as a fluid body which is adapted to effect actuation, operation or control of an actuatable device associated with the appliance. The actuatable device may be a regulator, a transducer or a motor. The control system is an indirectly acting type in which the working medium is displaced by locally compressing the enclosure. This displacement is used to move or operate a movable wall part of the enclosure which, in turn, operates a transducer or regulator unit in response to the degree of compression of the enclosure.

Abstract: A plurality of probes are situated as to experience being touched by liquid which is being monitored; when both of such probes are touched by the liquid, related electrical circuit means becomes energized as to cause related pumping means to be activated thereby pumping some of the monitored liquid to, in turn, reduce the level of such monitored liquid; when the level of the monitored liquid decreases to a predetermined level, the pumping means is automatically de-activated; during periods wherein there might occur a momentary splashing or sloshing of the monitored liquid, time delay means serves to delay activation of said pumping means thereby preventing unnecessary activation of the pumping means.

Abstract: The Automatic Memory and Environmental Security System is a solid state electronic device to be employed in a motor vehicle for the specific purpose of closing any and all electrically operated windows, and roof panel, and locking any and all electrically operated door locks, which may have been left open or unlocked purposely or inadvertently. The system is also designed to close any and all electrically operated windows and roof panel left open when the surrounding humidity reaches 100% (the appearance of rain, drizzle, etc.). The unit is designed so that there is no interference with the normal operation of the above-named electrical device(s) after being employed in the said vehicle.

Abstract: An amplifier system includes an operational amplifier having a reference applied to one input terminal. A voltage above or below the reference voltage is applied to the other input terminal by way of an interface circuit. The interface circuit adapts the input for use with a switch or, alternatively, the interface may be disabled to permit use of a variable resistor input such as a thermistor. The output of the operational amplifier may be a switching circuit. The amplifier system is adapted for use in a fluid level system to permit the alternate use of a switch type or thermistor level sensor.

Abstract: A plurality of probes are situated as to experience being touched by the liquid being monitored; when at least one of such probes is touched by the liquid related electrical circuit means becomes energized as to cause related pumping means to be activated thereby pumping some of the monitored liquid to, in turn, reduce the level of such monitored liquid; when the level of the monitored liquid decreases to a predetermined level, the pumping means is automatically de-activated; during periods wherein there might occur a momentary splashing or sloshing of the monitored liquid, time delay means serves to correspondingly delay activation of said pumping means thereby preventing unnecessary activation of the pumping means.

Abstract: A control circuit for an air-spring shock absorber controls pressurization or depressurization of the air chamber of the shock absorber in response to the output signal condition of a level sensor. The control circuit includes a first signal path that conditions the operation of an air pump for pressurizing the air chamber, and a second signal path that conditions the operation of an exhaust valve for depressurizing the air chamber. A timing circuit delays the enablement of the air pump and exhaust valve until the level sensor output signal condition associated with the actuation of the pump or valve has existed for a minimum predetermined time period. The timing circuit includes an R-C time delay circuit with an instant reset to avoid cumulative signal build-up. The control circuit is comprised of a set of digital logic gates which are preferably implemented by standard integrated circuit chips.

Abstract: A solid state electronic controller for humidification devices employs an electronic humidity sensor to create an electronic signal proportional to the humidity in the space to be controlled, and massages or processes this proportional signal to create a cyclic series of time-proportioned control signals to cause the operation of the humidification devices in each cycle for a period proportional to the difference between the sensed humidity and the desired humidity.

Abstract: A device which facilitates the testing of pressure switches included in the brake systems of locomotives. An air line is tapped into the pressure line of each switch and is provided with a quick connect coupling conveniently located on a test panel. Another quick connect coupling on the panel connects with the main air reservoir of the brake system. Also located on the test panel adjacent to the respective couplings are pairs of electrical receptacles for each switch. The receptacles connect with electrical conductors which lead to opposite sides of each switch contact. A preselected test pressure may be applied to each switch by connecting an air hose equipped with an adjustable reducing valve and pressure gauge between the main air reservoir coupling and the coupling for the switch to be tested. An ohmmeter may be connected across the receptacles for the switch contact under test to indicate whether the switch contact is open or closed at the test pressure.

Abstract: A detector for liquid media has a swelling body which in the presence of the liquid expands to break open an ampule of electrolyte solution under pressure, enclosed in a rubber sheath together with a dry-charged galvanic element. The electrolyte enters the galvanic element, which starts producing electric current, thereby signalling presence of liquid.

Abstract: An electrical switch responsive to air flow having an insulated base with a snap action switch mounted thereupon. The snap action switch with an actuating pin impinging on one end of a bar that is mounted on a pivot and axially movable. The other end of the bar extends to clamp an alloy wire exhibiting a high linear coefficient of expansion and which is tied to a spring fixed on the insulated base. From same said spring a second alloy wire is extended to a fixed point on the insulated based in close proximity to the clamp on the bar. The first alloy wire is internally heated by a fixed voltage, the second alloy wire is internally heated by a voltage that is less than the fixed voltage and which is applied only when the snap action switch is deactuated. The second alloy wire provides means for obtaining temperature compensation and smaller differential between the actuating and deactuating air flow.

Abstract: A housing containing a pair of electronic circuit boards removably mounts on the side of an engine air filter housing. The circuit board housing has a generally concave inner face matching the convex contour of the air filter housing side wall and is disposed over air circulation openings in the air filter housing side wall. In a first embodiment, the circuit board housing is of one-piece construction and the electronic circuit boards are disposed interiorly of the outer wall of the circuit board housing and in generally parallel relationship therewith. In a second embodiment, the circuit board housing is of two-piece construction having upper and lower halves. In this embodiment, the circuit boards are horizontally disposed, one each in each of the two housing halves. Connectors for effecting connection of the circuit boards with the other components of the system which are located exteriorly of the air cleaner housing extend through holes in the circuit board housing.

Abstract: There is disclosed a capacitance transmitter that is ideally suited for use with a capacitance probe for level, pressure or proximity measurement in which the capacitance of the probe member responds to the sensed physical parameter. The transmitter has only two conductors which furnish the operational voltage and which transmit the output current signal.

Abstract: A machine control circuit in which the sharpness of a machine tool cutting edge is sensed as a function of the pressure in a hydraulic tool-feed cylinder, and in which the machine is automatically de-activated for tool inspection after a pass is completed when the feed pressure reaches a preselected level.

Abstract: A device is described which comprises in combination at least one resistor means placed at a determined level on the inner wall surface of the vat, said resistor means having a resistance which is variable in response to the presence or absence of the liquid at the level thereof; switching means responsive to a control signal for causing the feed pump means for the liquid to be stopped, and control means for producing the control signal for the switching means, said control means comprising impedance means which includes the resistance of the said at least one resistor means, whereby the said resistance being varied by the presence or absence of the liquid in the vat at the level thereof causes the control means to operate the switching means thereby to stop or restart the feed pump means.

Abstract: A system for disconnecting an oil well pump driving apparatus from a circuit in the absence of a liquid or the like in a pipeline connected from the pump. A vertical member having a cavity in communication with the interior of the pipeline has vertically spaced differential pressure unit (DPU) inlets. The DPU shuts down the pump motor when there is no liquid in the pipeline.

Abstract: A solid state fluid sensitive switching member which utilizes fluid contained in a cavity to conduct the heat generated during high current switching operations away from the temperature-sensitive solid state elements of the switching member. A heat sinc tab thermally connected to the solids state elements is positioned in the cavity where the presence or absence of a fluid is to be monitored. When fluid is present in this cavity, the solid state elements which produce heat are in a closed circuit configuration and the heat sinc tab directly conducts heat from the heat-producing solid state members into the fluid being monitored. When no fluid is present in the monitored fluid cavity, the heat sinc potentials of such fluid are absent. However, in this configuration the solid state circuit elements are in an open circuit configuration and do not produce substantial amounts of heat, so that no heat sinc is required.

Abstract: A circuit for sensing and controlling the level of fluid within a reservoir includes a pump for controlling the level of fluid. The circuit further includes two sub-circuits each including a probe adapted to contact the fluid. Each sub-circuit further includes an SCR and an oppositely poled diode. Also included is a relay coupled to the sub-circuits for operating the pump. The relay is designed to energize the pump only upon submersion of both of the probes. The circuit is coupled to an AC transformer having, in one embodiment, an off-set center tap such that upon submersion of the first probe the first sub-circuit conducts a first magnitude of energy that is insufficient to pull in the relay but is sufficient to hold in the relay once it is actuated. In an alternative embodiment, the transformer includes first and second resistors coupled between the relay and the first and second sub-circuits, respectively.

Abstract: A material sensing device comprising a flexible or collapsible tube with a light sensitive device therein which receives light through the tube from a spaced apart light emitting device. The signal from the light sensitive device is amplified and used to operate a silicon controlled rectifier that snap actuates a solenoid operated switch. The invention includes an amplifying circuit in which the amplifier is the load for the silicon controlled rectifier and a generally fixed bias is provided to the gate of the SCR with the result that the circuit automatically resets the SCR during normal operation.

Abstract: A pump control for a pipeline milking system in which milk collects in a receiver and is pumped out periodically. The control has a liquid level sensing circuit connected with an electrode in the receiver. The sensing circuit includes a transistor amplifier, a source of alternating signal, a circuit connecting the source through the electrode and liquid with the base of the transistor and a sensitivity resistor connected in shunt with the transistor base. A timer actuated by conduction of the transistor controls the pump operation. The circuit has provision for control of the pump operation during washing with a switch selecting the milk or wash control electrode and selecting the appropriate time period for the timer.

Abstract: A measuring system based on using a ratio of variable capacitance measurements derived from alternate sampling and referencing of at least two capacitance devices and use of a single channel for the capacitance outputs so that the measurements are basically independent of the circuit components, supply voltage, temperature drift problems. The measurements can be high resolution digital signals.

Abstract: A liquid flow activated switch is operative to effect completion of an electrical circuit and energizing of an electrical power using device, such as an electric water heater, upon commencing of liquid flow through a liquid inlet of a housing having walls defining a chamber therein. A switch member is pivotally mounted in the chamber and has a first portion positioned between the liquid inlet and a liquid outlet so that liquid entering the chamber impinges upon the first portion of the switch member to move a second portion of the switch member and a magnet thereon to a second position energizing magnetically operated components mounted on the housing and electrically connected to the electrical circuit.

Abstract: Fluid flow control systems for lawn sprinkling flow control systems which include rain override means and continuously available rain alarm signals during rainfall. Provisions are provided to prevent valve flutter during light or intermittent rainfall by means of conventional time delay relays. A novel, simple, and economic hermetically sealed outdoor casing is provided. Use of unique remote transformer plug and cord insures consumer product safety compliance against electrical shock hazzard.