Abstract: A make-before-break bypass switch is combined with a pair of probes projecting from a support where a member is provided with sockets to slidably receive the probes. The probes define a gap in a first RF circuit. The corresponding sockets are connected by a second RF circuit. A pair of spring clips on the support are connected by a bypass circuit on the support and are designed on retraction of the sockets from the probes to connect a bypass circuit between the probes before the sockets are completely disconnected from the probes. On application of the sockets, the sockets are designed to connect to the probes before a part of the member disconnects the spring clips from the probe. If the first RF circuit may carry signals in either direction and the second RF circuit is directional, the probes and sockets may be arranged to allow reversal of the sockets relative to the probes.

Abstract: An electromechanical switching device connects and disconnects a second lamp means from a first circuit powering a first lamp means upon alternate powerings of the first circuit. A mechanical device switches the switching means and an electrical circuit across the first circuit has a relay to control the mechanical device.

Abstract: The present invention is capable of applying a voltage across the contacts of a switch or connector in an audio system, the voltage being of sufficient level to provide a sufficiently high current to break down an insulating layer which has built up in the contacts thereof, improving the sound quality of the system. The invention may be an independent unit or may be incorporated in the overall audio system as an integral part thereof.

Abstract: A multi-function circuit controller provides auxiliary control functions for an existing single-pole, single-throw toggle switch by counting the number of changes of state of the switch that occur within predesignated delay periods from one state change to the next. An encoder responsive to a sequencer counter develops control functions such as dimming and timing functions which attenuate the power delivered to the load and regulate the on-off time of the load. The invention may be used in conjunction with a household lighting circuit to provide these functions for an existing wall-mounted switch, thereby providing dimmer and programmable timing for the lighting normally controlled by the switch.

Abstract: A digital circuit is described for controlling functions of a camera wherein the circuit is powered by a potential source which is connected to the circuit through a relay actuated switch. The circuit employs a plurality of D-flip flops to regulate functions such as film transport and opening and closing of the camera shutter as a function of the light intensity of the scene being photographed. A reset signal generator is used to provide stable and reliable control over the starting condition of the flip flops and render the circuit insensitive to voltage transients as may occur from contact bounce effects at the relay actuated switch. The reset signal generator employs an inverter delay chain to provide like reset pulses when such contact bounce occurs. Various control features are described.

Abstract: Two reed switches are alternately closed by a magnet rotating with a shaft of a water meter or the like which is to be read remotely. A capacitor discharges through the reed switches when the same are closed, increasing the switch current without increasing the external power source current, thereby producing temporary partial fusion of the switch contacts and maximum contact effectiveness. A low-pass filter and a snap action circuit such as a Schmitt trigger are connected to the switches to eliminate the effects of contact bouncing and noise signals from the output of the circuit.

Abstract: Apparatus, and a related method, for proportionately varying from a master unit the durations of irrigation at a plurality of valve stations controlled by a number of satellite units, and for transmitting over a single pair of wires control signals for starting a programmed sequence of valve operations at all of the satellites in a selected one of two groups of satellites, or for resetting all of the satellites to a "home" position. One disclosed embodiment includes adjustable timing circuitry in the master unit to generate a timing signal which is transmitted to the satellite units over a separate wire, and is utilized to vary the duty cycle of a station timing motor which measures the durations of irrigation. In an alternate embodiment, station timing at each satellite is measured by means of a digital pulse counter, and the irrigation times at all of the stations can be varied to the same degree by adjustment of a variable-frequency pulse generator at the master unit.

Abstract: A flasher switch of the type for flashing automobile lamps is provided with outage indication consisting of a split capacitor or two parallel capacitors connected in series with one of two coils producing opposed magnetic forces in a core controlling the operation of the switch armature. The contacts controlled by the armature are held closed by discharge of the capacitors through the coil. Upon detection of a decrease in current being flashed below a predetermined value one of the capacitors is prevented from discharging, thereby abruptly increasing the flashing rate.