Abstract: A modular emergency stop device including a switch unit and a control unit. The switch unit includes a switch which converts from a normal state to an emergency state when an emergency stop is necessary and a housing for the switch. The control unit includes a controller which controls a power source for a machine and a housing for the controller. The switch unit's housing and the control unit's housing are adapted to be selectively coupled together and uncoupled from each other. The switch is operably coupled to the controller when the housings are coupled together whereby the controller may appropriately control the machine's power source when the switch is converted to the emergency state. To replace the switch, the switch's housing is uncoupled from the controller's housing to remove the switch unit and a new switch unit is coupled to the controller's housing.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for safeguarding fab operators and workpieces such as semiconductor wafers from harm as a result of collision between an operator and a transport assembly for the workpieces as the workpieces are transported between tools and storage nests within a tool bay.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gasoline motor powered, hand-operated working machine, which is stopped by short-circuiting an electric circuit (70), said stop device being designed in the form of an electric switch comprising a stop control (11), which can be moved manually between two end positions; a drive position for start of the motor and for motion of the motor, in which drive position said circuit is not short-circuited, and a fixed stop position in which the circuit is short-circuited and the stop control is locked.

Abstract: An electric discharging personal safety device includes a main body and a plurality of spaced electrodes covered with respective coverings. Each of the coverings has a plurality of holes defined therein for discharge of electricity therethrough, and is colored to match the main body whereby the personal safety device is disguised to prevent an attacker being forewarned of the punishment available from the device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a speed regulator for an automatically closing slide door for regulating a closing speed of an automatically closing slide door which is closed automatically, comprising; a generator associated with said slide door; an one-way clutch means for converting a linear movement caused during a closing motion of said slide door into a rotational movement and for transmitting said rotational movement to said generator; a resistor connected to an output of said generator; and a speed change means for changing said closing speed of said slide door, at a predetermined position before the closed position of said slide door, from a first predetermined speed to a second predetermined speed slower than said first predetermined speed by changing a resistance value of said resistor.

Abstract: Electrically operated folding operable walls controlled by an electrical operation circuit of the type having a key switch, a control panel, an extend limit, a stack limit, control relays and a motor. The invention consists of a mechanism designed to provide safety during the operation of said folding walls by sensing a person or object with a lead edge sensor, floor mat sensors, and a wireless transmitter and receiver assembly that, when wired to the folding wall control panel, will shut down the operation of the folding wall. Another mechanism provides for the restarting of the folding wall by resetting the relay inside the control panel.

Abstract: In a case where a left-hand push-button switch is ON, a second relay RL2 is electrically de-energized to open a normally close contact RL2-1 of the second relay RL2 so that a relay contact circuit RC is opened. If, in this state, a right-hand push-button switch is shifted to a second OFF state, a normally close contact R3-1 of the right-hand push-button switch is opened. Thus, a third relay RL3 is not electrically de-energized and a first and a second circuits are in cutoff until both the right-hand and the left-hand push-button switches are returned to a first OFF state.

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety switching device for connecting and safely disconnecting an electrical load, in particular an electrically driven machine. The safety switching device comprises at least a first and a second electronic switching element, at least a first and a second output terminal, and at least one input terminal for a first switching signal that acts on the switching elements. According to one aspect of the invention, the first and the second switching element each have an output which, depending on the first switching signal, produces an output signal at a first potential or at a second potential. The output of the first switching element is connected to the first output terminal, and the output of the second switching element is connected to the second output terminal. The invention further relates to a system of safety switching devices of this kind.

Abstract: A robotic crash protection device is adapted to be interposed between a robot arm and a robotic tool for detecting a crash. The device includes a housing, a piston having a generally central bore movably mounted within the housing, an actuator for engaging the piston and moving the piston in response to a crash, and a switch disposed within the housing and generally aligned with the bore of the piston. The switch contacts are disposed such that in a default position the bore of the piston engages the contacts and maintains the contacts in one switch state, and in the event of a crash the piston moves and permits the contacts to assume the opposite switch state. A non-circular contact surface between the actuator and the piston ensures a consistent response to lateral forces applied in to the axial direction in any radial direction.

Abstract: The invention is an electronic device used to prevent electrical shock to users of arc welding equipment. The device utilizes the electrical power supplied by the welder, it has no internal power supply. The unit is designed with a high amperage SCR, connected between the welder and either the electrode holder or the work-piece. A control circuit is situated in parallel with the SCR and is used to control the SCR. The control circuit constantly monitors the status of the electrode. A high resistance between the electrode and the work-piece causes the unit to revert to an off condition preventing electrical power from reaching the electrode. Upon striking the electrode against the work-piece, the control circuit detects the internal voltage drop that occurs within the control circuit and then outputs an appropriate signal to cause the unit to switch to an on condition. The predetermined resistance value is set to 40 ohms or less.

Abstract: A system involving disconnectably connectable sensor and adaptor units which can be employed to allow for the collection and communication, along with ECG data, of other physiologic parameter data whose condition is helpful in a evaluating communicative ECG data. Connection between the adaptor and sensor units of the invention effects the establishment of circuitry which allows (a) for the use of conventional ECG lead conductors alone to be responsible for carrying all categories of data, (b) for providing fail-safe communication of ECG data, and (c) for defining through different interfacial connective structures the actual characters of other-parameter data that will be communicated outwardly from a subject.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing the activation of an electrical component within an electrical distribution network. The apparatus comprises an electrical component, such as a disconnect switch, a means for the actuation thereof, and an independently moving restriction means. When the electrical component is in a deactivated condition, the actuation and restriction members are capable of being coupled together with a locking device, such as a padlock, to prevent activation of the electrical component. Conversely, when the electrical component is in an activated condition, the actuation member may moved to deactivate the electrical component, regardless of the installation of one or more locking devices in the two members. Hence, the electronic component may not be restricted to the activated condition.

Abstract: Electrically operated folding operable walls controlled by an electrical operation circuit of the type having a key switch, a control panel, an extend limit, a stack limit, control relays and a motor. The invention consists of a mechanism designed to provide safety during the operation of said folding walls by sensing a person or object with a lead edge sensor, floor mat sensors, and a wireless transmitter and receiver assembly that, when wired to the folding wall control panel, will shut down the operation of the folding wall. Another mechanism provides for the restarting of the folding wall by resetting the relay inside the control panel.

Abstract: The detectors, which are adapted to detect operation signals from operating devices for inputting actuation commands to a work machine, and hydraulic system locking switch, which is adapted to command locking so as to halt the work machine or unlocking to enable the work machine to resume working, are connected to a logic circuit adapted to compute the method of locking the work machine based on signals input from these components. A hydraulic system locking electromagnetic selector valve adapted to maintain or release the work machine at or from the locked state is connected to the logic circuit. In case an unlocking command is sent in the situation where there is an outstanding operation signal input to the work machine, the logic circuit maintains the work machine at the locked state until a safety check is performed.

Abstract: A safety circuit is described that monitors a number of sensors for intrusion of objects or people into the workspace of a robot and controls the drive power to the motion control system via an emergency-stop circuit. The system monitors the motion control system and models it as just another sensor to ensure that it is working properly. In the event that there is intrusion, the safety circuit assigns a degree of intrusion (e.g., precautionary or serious). For serious intrusions, the safety circuit kills drive power thereby preventing additional motion of the robot. Killing drive power (de-energizing the emergency-stop circuit) requires a qualified operator to restart for further operation. For precautionary intrusions, the safety circuit takes control of the motion control system by disabling the power stages of motion control amplifiers but retaining drive power there. This inhibits further motion. The safety circuit keeps the amplifiers inhibited for a period to permit the intrusion time to clear.

Abstract: An electric energy source includes a battery, a positive and a negative booster clamps coupled to the battery for coupling the battery to the vehicle battery, and a device for selectively coupling the battery to the positive and the negative booster clamps when the positive and the negative booster clamps are correctly coupled to the vehicle battery. The battery may supply the energy to the booster clamps when the booster clamps are correctly coupled to the vehicle battery, and will not supply the energy when the clamps are wrongly coupled to the vehicle battery.

Abstract: A switching circuit for use with an electrical appliance, and comprising first and second normally open switch terminals and a high sensitivity impedance measuring circuit coupled to the first and second switch terminals for measuring an impedance therebetween, and producing at an output thereof a switching signal if the impendance is lower than a predetermined threshold of 500 M&OHgr;. The appliance is coupled to the output of the impedance measuring circuit so as to be responsive to the switching signal. The circuit finds particular application for controlling and protecting electrical appliances operating from an a.c. electrical means supply, in which case one of the switch terminals is connected to a virtual ground connection which is electrically floating with respect to a ground feeder of an electrical mains supply.

Abstract: Cutting machines with high-speed safety systems, and actuators used in high-speed safety systems, are disclosed. The cutting machines may include a detection system adapted to detect a dangerous condition between a cutting tool and a person. A reaction system performs a specified action, such as stopping the cutting tool, upon detection of the dangerous condition. An actuator may be used to trigger the reaction system to perform the specified action.

Abstract: A method and a device for use in underground mining for the detection of the presence of persons at mine faces supported by support frames, whereby detection sensors (25) are provided on at least some of the support frames (10), and which are coupled to control units (27) for the support frames (10), whereby the detection sensors (25) sample the working and operating area (24) of the associated support frame (10) and bring the latter to a standstill in its movement sequence, if the detection sensors (25) detect the presence of a person in a detection area (30). In accordance with the invention the detection sensors (25) of the individual support frames (10) can be switched on and off by the control units (27) and are only activated when the associated support frame (10) is to be moved and are again de-activated after completion of the movement of the associated support frame (10).

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety switching device for connecting and safely disconnecting an electrical load, in particular an electrically driven machine. The safety switching device comprises at least a first and a second electronic switching element, at least a first and a second output terminal, and at least one input terminal for a first switching signal that acts on the switching elements. According to one aspect of the invention, the first and the second switching element each have an output which, depending on the first switching signal, produces an output signal at a first potential or at a second potential. The output of the first switching element is connected to the first output terminal, and the output of the second switching element is connected to the second output terminal. The invention further relates to a system of safety switching devices of this kind.

Abstract: A control lever for heavy machinery includes a proximity sensor for reducing the likelihood of inadvertent activation of the heavy machinery components. The proximity sensor is disposed adjacent an operating position of the control implement and detects when an operator's hand is in an operating position on the control implement in accordance with a capacitance of the operator's hand. The sensing circuit outputs an activate signal to a controller circuit for controlling the heavy machinery components when the operator's hand is in the operating position on the control implement. As a consequence, the operator is not required to perform excessive operations to effect control of the heavy machinery and has both hands available for machine operation.

Abstract: The present invention is a remotely actuated emergency stop (E-stop) switch, with equipment control circuitry, providing a method for testing the E-stop switch and control circuitry to assure circuit and switch integrity, anytime, without equipment operational interruption, and without negating the manual actuation function of the E-stop switch to immediately cut all power to the equipment. The E-stop switch includes a first relay governing a first control circuit and a second relay governing a second control circuit. Each control circuit governs a motor source control contactor, which, when closed, provides power to the equipment. Transferring energization, and motor control, from the first control circuit to the second control circuit, and vice-versa, allows testing, in turn, of the de-energized components of the E-stop switch and control circuitry while the equipment remains operational. Remote actuation and circuit monitoring and testing is controlled by a Program Logic Controller (PLC).

Abstract: A machine such as a saw, jointer, planer, etc. is disclosed. The machine has cutting tool, a direct drive mechanism configured to move the cutting tool, a detection system adapted to detect the occurrence of an unsafe condition between a person and the cutting tool, and a reaction system adapted to mitigate the unsafe condition upon the detection of the unsafe condition by the detection system. An electrical signal is imparted on the cutting tool, and the signal is used to determine the occurrence of the unsafe condition. The direct drive mechanism is electrically isolated so that the electric signal may be imparted on the cutting tool. The electric isolation may be achieved through configurations such as insulated bearings, a substantially non-conductive housing, and a substantially non-conductive coupling joining two shaft portions.

Abstract: A powered trap door device for a vehicle including a trap door hinged at a floor of a vestibule with steps of the vehicle and a sliding vehicle door. A screw driving mechanism that opens/closes the trap door and is driven by an electric motor with an electromagnetic brake. A first limit switch for detecting opening of the sliding door of the vehicle. A second limit switch for detecting closing of the trap door, the trap door being openable only when the sliding door is opened and the sliding door being closable only when the trap door is closed. A sensor of a periphery monitoring system provided on the vestibule to check safety of a peripheral area of the trap door, wherein the trap door can be opened/closed by the electric motor with the electromagnetic brake after the periphery monitoring system has checked safety.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a circuit arrangement for safe disconnection of an installation, in particular a machine installation. The arrangement comprises a signaling device which produces a defined output signal depending on an operating condition of the installation. Furthermore, it comprises a safety switching device which disconnects the installation in a fail-safe manner depending on the defined output signal. The defined output signal comprises a steady-state signal level over a period of time during operation of the installation. According to one aspect of the invention, the safety switching device comprises a clock generator for generating a clock signal, and an input stage which modulates the output signal from the signaling device with the clock signal.

Abstract: The present invention describes a device for protecting a machine system against undesired operation. The protective device has at least one central power switch, which is arranged on the input side in series in a power supply path of the machine system. It also has a central control part, which has a substantially dust-tight enclosure, with a defined number of inputs for connecting decentralized operating elements. In this case, the central control part activates the at least one central power switch in accordance with the connected operating elements. The protective device also has at least one decentralized operating element, which is spatially arranged in a hazard area of the machine system and is connected via a cable connection to one of the inputs of the central control part.

Abstract: A timed safety device is connected to the gas or electrical supply line of a kitchen appliance. The timed safety device includes a timer, a voltage transformer, and a shutoff device that is connected to the supply power line for the appliance. The shutoff device is controlled by the timer, which is powered by the voltage transformer and is set by a user to a predefined time period before turning on the appliance. When the pre-set timer period expires, the shutoff device cuts off the supply of gas or electrical power to the appliance.

Abstract: A safety shut off mechanism for a sealing machine includes a housing having a front board, and a door panel rotatably secured to the front board and rotatable between an outward position, an inner position, and an intermediate position. A switch member may be attached to either the board or the door panel and may be actuated when the door panel is disengaged from the intermediate position or moved inward or outward toward the outward position or the inner position, so as to shut off the sealing machine when the door panel is not in the intermediate position.

Abstract: A grounding mat for connection to a power source, having a sheet including an outer perimeter and a central area. The outer perimeter surrounds the central area. A single continuous conductive member is attached to the sheet, the continuous conductive member having two unitary portions. The one portion is disposed in the central area of the sheet in a grid pattern, and the other portion is disposed in the outer perimeter of the sheet in a border pattern surrounding the one portion. The continuous conductive member has a connection end portion for electrical connection to the power source.

Abstract: A control lever for heavy machinery includes a proximity sensor for reducing the likelihood of inadvertent activation of the heavy machinery components. The proximity sensor is disposed adjacent an operating position of the control implement and detects when an operator's hand is in an operating position on the control implement in accordance with a capacitance of the operator's hand. The sensing circuit outputs an activate signal to a controller circuit for controlling the heavy machinery components when the operator's hand is in the operating position on the control implement. As a consequence, the operator is not required to perform excessive operations to effect control of the heavy machinery and has both hands available for machine operation.

Abstract: A fixed member 11 is provided with an input terminal 2 to be connected with a battery 100 and an output terminal 9 to be connected with an electric load 101. A movable member 12 is provided with the first current pass 4 that has connecting terminals 1 and 8 to be connected with the terminal members 2 and 9 respectively in a state where the movable member 12 is attached to the fixed member 11. The fixed member 11 is provided with the second current pass 15 for connecting the terminals 2 and 9 separately from the first current pass 4, and terminal protecting contacts 30 and 31 included in the second current pass 15.

Abstract: A finger operated control panel for electrically operated equipment that has safety measures to assure that the machinery cannot be left unattended while in operation. Pressure must be applied to the touch sensitive metallic disc in order for the machinery to operate.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling equipment in response to a proximity signal from one or more chips and sensors for detecting proximity of an individual with respect to a manufacturing device. A chip can be retained by an individual and a sensor can be mounted on the manufacturing device. When the individual retaining the chip comes into a predetermined proximity with the sensor, the sensor can emit a signal. The signal can be received by an electric control device for disengaging operation of the machine or for placing the machine in a safe mode in response to the signal. The chip and the signal can interact in a first manner where the chip emits a signal receivable by the sensor. Alternatively, the chip and sensor can interact where the sensor emits a signal creating a field for identifying when a chip enters the signal generated field.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for safeguarding fab operators and workpieces such as semiconductor wafers from harm as a result of collision between an operator and a transport assembly for the workpieces as the workpieces are transported between tools and storage nests within a tool bay.

Abstract: A hydraulic winch limit switch circuit for preventing a winch cable from moving beyond its normal stop position which insures that the winch cable and research equipment attached to the cable are not damaged. The circuit includes a single pole limit switch with a diode connected across the contact of the limit switch. In normal operation the limit switch is closed and current flow is through switch to a winch electronic displacement controller which controls the operation of the winch motor and the winch. When the winch reaches a stop position during payin of the winch cable, the limit switch opens as the result of the limit switch arm engaging a tow bar attached to the end of the winch cable. opening the limit switch stops current flow through the winch electronic displacement controller since the diode is reversed biased during payin of the winch cable. This de-energizes the winch motor which results preventing the winch cable from moving beyond its normal stop position.

Abstract: A safety switching arrangement has at least two break switches (12a, 12b, 12c) which are connected in series to an evaluation unit (11), in which case the evaluation unit (11) initiates a safety signal, in particular an alarm signal and/or disconnection signal, when at least one of the break switches (12a, 12b, 12c) opens, and determines which of the break switches (12a, 12b, 12c) has opened.

Abstract: A safety system for grounding an operator at a fueling station prior to removing a fuel fill nozzle from a fuel tank upon completion of a fuel filling operation is provided which includes a fuel tank port in communication with the fuel tank for receiving and retaining the nozzle during the fuel filling operation and a grounding device adjacent to the fuel tank port which includes a grounding switch having a contact member that receives physical contact by the operator and where physical contact of the contact member activates the grounding switch. A releasable interlock is included that provides a lock position wherein the nozzle is locked into the port upon insertion of the nozzle into the port and a release position wherein the nozzle is releasable from the port upon completion of the fuel filling operation and after physical contact of the contact member is accomplished.

Abstract: The invention comprises a programmable emergency-stop circuit apparatus and method that provides advanced functions not found in other systems. The circuit centralizes the control of high voltage motor power into one place, by providing connections for, in its minimum configuration, several different kill switches, a motors-on button, and an AC motor power relay coil. In the present invention, kill switches, emergency-stop and motors-on buttons, computer ready and watchdog signals are all conveniently connected in one location, alongside the AC motor power relay coil driver.

Abstract: A sensor apparatus and a safety apparatus which can ensure significantly enhanced safety by monitoring constantly whether the sensor apparatus is operating normally. An auxiliary electrode plate of a small area is disposed in parallel and in opposition to an electrode plate with a short distance therefrom. A switching element is turned on every second for a period of milliseconds repetitively. When the switching element is turned on under the control of a central processing unit, the auxiliary electrode plate is connected to the ground potential, as a result of which a capacitance &Dgr;C effective between the auxiliary electrode plate and the electrode plate is electrically connected in parallel with a capacitor C0 effective between the electrode plate and a machine component, resulting in that the capacitance C0 is increased by a proportion corresponding to the capacitance &Dgr;C.

Abstract: Provided are a plug that makes it possible to readily connect a power supply such as a solar battery or fuel cell to an external load or system power and to enhance safety, as well as a power converter and power generating apparatus having the plug. The plug has a movable insulating member for covering the plug electrodes when the plug is connected to an outlet and for exposing the electrodes when the plug is not connected to the outlet. In another example of the plug, the plug has at least two electrodes and switches corresponding to respective ones of the electrodes, wherein the switches are opened (turned off) when the plug is pulled out of the outlet. In still another example of the plug, the plug has at least two electrodes and a switch that is opened/closed in dependence upon the state of the connection between the electrodes and the outlet. When the plug is connected to the outlet, the switch is closed (turned on) to thereby sense the fact that the plug has been connected to the outlet.

Abstract: A safety mount for a tool on robotic apparatus, for protection of the tool should it encounter an obstruction to movement by the apparatus. The mount includes a hollow housing having a first end, a second end and a central axis passing through the ends. The housing is attachable at its first end to the robotic apparatus. Electrical switches are mounted in the housing radially outward of the axis, each switch having an operating member facing toward the first end of the housing and being biased toward the first end to a position establishing a first circuit condition and movable to a pressed-down position establishing a second circuit condition. A presser head is mounted in the housing and is biased for pressing down the switch-operating members. The presser head has a stem extending generally on the axis out of the second end of the housing for attachment of a tool holder thereto.

Abstract: An electric system having electrical module which can be hot swapped is comprised of a system frame having a plurality of first connectors, and a plurality of electrical modules each of which includes a second connector respectively connected to one of the first connectors and is swappable from the system frame. Each of the first connectors is provided with a plug part including conductive socket pieces and the second connector includes conductive projecting pieces for contacting the plug part. In particular, both of the first connector and the second connector are compliant with the requirements defined in IEC320 safety regulation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gasoline motor powered, hand-operated working machine, which is stopped by short-circuiting an electric circuit (70), said stop device being designed in the form of an electric switch comprising a stop control (11), which can be moved manually between two end positions; a drive position for start of the motor and for motion of the motor, in which drive position said circuit is not short-circuited, and a fixed stop position in which the circuit is short-circuited and the stop control is locked.

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety switch arrangement for switching the power supply of a tool on and off by means of at least two actuators. The actuators are connected to a code generator. The code generator can issue a numerical word divided into two partial words, the values of which can be influenced by a respective one of the at least two actuators. If the actuators are activated, the values for the partial words are changed continuously. As a result of the deactivation of an actuator, the assigned partial word assumes a fixed, predetermined value. In order to check the switching states of the actuators, the partial words are read synchronously into an evaluation unit. The power supply of the tool is switched “on” only when the at least two actuators are activated to the “on” state and the partial words correspond to the predetermined fixed value.

Abstract: A fault protective device (48) for limiting the maximum current and voltage applicable to electronic components and wiring (26, 30) located in the fuel tank (10) of an aircraft. Particularly, a fuel gauging system circuit (18) extends from a generator (20) located outside the tank to at least one probe (14) located in the tank and from the probe to instrumentation (24) outside the tank. The device is electrically coupled to the circuit at the tank wall (28) and includes a voltage clamp (50) and series inductor-capacitor resonant circuit (46), so that the resonant circuit provides a low series impedance when applied with a signal at the operating frequency of the input signal applied by the generator but provides a high series impedance when experiencing a signal of a different frequency indicative of a system fault.

Abstract: A powered trap door device for a vehicle including a trap door hinged at a floor of a vestibule with steps of the vehicle and a sliding vehicle door. A screw driving mechanism that opens/closes the trap door and is driven by an electric motor with an electromagnetic brake. A first limit switch for detecting opening of the sliding door of the vehicle. A second limit switch for detecting closing of the trap door, the trap door being openable only when the sliding door is opened and the sliding door being closable only when the trap door is closed. A sensor of a periphery monitoring system provided on the vestibule to check safety of a peripheral area of the trap door, wherein the trap door can be opened/closed by the electric motor with the electromagnetic brake after the periphery monitoring system has checked safety.

Abstract: A safety relay for supervising and ensuring safe operation of a machine industrial process and corresponding safety devices and actuators. The safety relay has at least one input, which is monitored for short circuits and open circuits, for connection to said safety devices and actuators, at least one output for connection to said machine or process, one or more than one stop relay for maintaining and interrupting, respectively, the connection to said machine or process depending on a momentary status of said safety devices and actuators, and a reset circuit with at least one capacitor and a reset input. The capacitor receives and stores electrical energy in a first state, while discharging the electrical energy in a second state for resetting the safety relay to a normal state of operation.

Abstract: A modular emergency stop device including a switch unit and a control unit. The switch unit includes a switch which converts from a normal state to an emergency state when an emergency stop is necessary and a housing for the switch. The control unit includes a controller which controls a power source for a machine and a housing for the controller. The switch unit's housing and the control unit's housing are adapted to be selectively coupled together and uncoupled from each other. The switch is operably coupled to the controller when the housings are coupled together whereby the controller may appropriately control the machine's power source when the switch is converted to the emergency state. To replace the switch, the switch's housing is uncoupled from the controller's housing to remove the switch unit and a new switch unit is coupled to the controller's housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for controlling at least one electrically operated functional device (3), which is designed to replace a main unit (5) for controlling the said at least one functional device (3), and which can be plugged into terminals (7, 9, 11) for connecting the latter that are provided for this purpose. The said apparatus (1) comprises, for each functional device (3), a manually operated switch (12) interposed between a line (14) for delivering an electric control potential, this line being intended to be connected to an associated supply terminal (9), and an associated line (16) for transmitting the electric control potential to the said at least one functional device (3).

Abstract: Motorized operating mechanisms for vehicle portal closure members, such as windows, sunroofs, sliding doors, hatches, or convertible tops are common in modern automobiles. Inadvertent operation of such closure members, however, has been known to cause injury and entrapment when such a member is directed to close at an inappropriate moment. A vehicle entrapment prevention system is provided which prevents undesired and possibly injurious operation of such a vehicle portal closure member. Undesired operation often occurs when younger occupants, such as small children, accidentally trigger the operating mechanism, which can cause the closure member to entrap an unsuspecting victim. Such an entrapment prevention system ensures safe operation by determining the presence of a responsible operator through the use of various sensors, and permits operation of a portal closure member only in the presence of such a responsible operator.