Abstract: A switch for starting and stopping at least one operating unit of a motor vehicle configured to cooperate with an anti-theft lock having a stator and a rotor that can be rotated inside the stator and that has at least one permanent magnet secured to the rotor has at least two Reed bulbs provided with flexible leads and electrically linked by the leads to the contacts of a connector. Said Reed bulbs are arranged on a connector body designed to be fixed removably to said stator in a so-called operating position.

Abstract: First rotator (25) and second rotator (29) rotating according to a rocking operation of outer lever (23) are provided. Magnetism of magnets (26) and (30) mounted on these rotators are detected by magnetic detecting elements (32) and (33) and output as a detected signal. Control portion (34) detects a rotation angle of each rotator from this detected signal and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the detected rotation angle.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring the integrity of a container specifically adapted for the system and constructed with at least one door. A sensor is secured in the container for detecting proximity of the at least one door relative to another area of the container and for providing sensor data that may be communicated from the container relative to its integrity.

Abstract: A membrane actuator includes a magnetically actuatable membrane and a magnetic trigger. The membrane includes a shape memory alloy (SMA), and the magnetic trigger is configured to induce a martensitic transformation in the SMA, to produce a larger force than would be achievable with non-SMA-based materials. Such a membrane actuator can be beneficially incorporated into a wide variety of devices, including fluid pumps, shock absorbing systems, and synthetic jet producing devices for use in an aircraft. The membrane/diaphragm can be formed from a ferromagnetic SMA, or a ferromagnetic material can be coupled with an SMA such that the SMA and the ferromagnetic material move together. A hybrid magnetic trigger, including a permanent magnet and an electromagnet, is preferably used for the magnetic trigger, as hybrid magnetic triggers are easy to control, and produce larger magnetic gradients than permanent magnets or electromagnets alone.

Abstract: An electrical device has a battery, a load, wiring connecting the battery to the load, and a switch in the wiring closable by a magnetic field to energize the load from the battery. It is enclosed in a package or support having an envelope surrounding the electrical device, a magnet shiftable on the envelope between an on position juxtaposed with and actuating the switch and an off position spaced from and not actuating the switch, and a spring urging the magnet into the off position.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus that employ a coil-less magnetoelectric flux switch arrangement to repeatedly switch magnetic flux from at least one permanent magnet for the purposes of generating motive force and/or electrical energy.

Abstract: A multiple operation type input device includes: an operating body that is integrated with a rotating shaft A plurality of permanent magnets are provided on the operating body at the same interval in the circumferential direction thereof. A frame supports the rotating shaft. Sliders support tilting shafts of the frame; holders that supports the sliders such that the sliders can be moved in the vertical direction. A cam member is fixed to the rotating shaft. A steel ball is engaged with or disengaged from the cam member during a rotating operation, and keeps the operating body at an intermittent rotation position when the operating body is not operated. A magnetoresistive element detects a magnetic field intensity of the permanent magnets. A determining unit determines the operational state of the operating body on the basis of signals output from the magnetoresistive element.

Abstract: An actuator for moving a load has a frame forming a race between two surfaces thereof, at least two elements joined together by at least one flexible member, the elements and the at least one flexible member being disposed between the two surfaces of the frame that forms a race, one of the elements further joined to the load by a portion of the at least one flexible member, wherein when an element comes into contact with a surface of the frame it will stick thereto absent a repelling force, and moving means disposed to selectively attract or repel a corresponding element towards or away from one or the other of the two surfaces of the frame that forms the race. The actuator effects movement of the load in a direction towards or away from the elements, by changing a position of at least one of the elements on a surface of the frame that forms the race.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a non-contact rotary movement sensor capable of, by making magnetic fields from a plurality of permanent magnets not mutually affected, independently implementing an output signal and a switching signal using the same. It is another object of the present invention to provide a non-contact rotary movement sensor provided with an independent switch which outputs an output signal by using a permanent magnet and a Hall device and outputs a switching signal using a contact switch.

Abstract: A flashlight and holder cooperate to automatically turn the flashlight on when the flashlight is removed from the holder and turn the flashlight off when the flashlight is returned to the holder. The flashlight includes a bottom cap with a magnetically actuated switch. The holder includes a magnet which cooperates with the switch to turn off the flashlight. The magnet also provides some degree of attraction for retaining the flashlight in the holder. The holder may be a stationary holder for holding a flashlight in a home or workplace, or may be a holster.

Abstract: An operating device for an electric hob has an operating element for performing operating functions, which is rotatable and rests in a removable manner on a support. The operating element is configured to be shape-variable, such as being compressible, such that it can be pressed onto the support. Upon approaching the support, a control indication is detected for initiating a further operating function of the electric hob as a consequence of the detection of said approach. In one embodiment, the underside of the operating element is made from elastic foam material.

Abstract: A cabinet tamper detection device is disclosed. The tamper detection device includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a housing and a first magnet movable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position. The second portion includes a second magnet. The first and the second magnets are configured such that the second magnet applies a magnetic force on the first magnet to keep the first magnet at the first position when the first and the second magnets are at a predetermined relative position. When at least one of the first and the second magnets is moved from the predetermined relative position, the first magnet moves from the first position to the second position to trigger a tamper warning.

Abstract: When a magnetic substance (104) is brought close to or separated away from an MR sensor (102), so that a direction of a magnetic flux (103) caused to flow through the MR sensor (102) is changed, an output voltage from the MR sensor (102) changes. Also, when a change in output voltage from the MR sensor (102) exceeds a threshold set by a designer, a comparison portion (303) judges that switches (309a, 309b) should be turned ON, and outputs suitable signals to corresponding portions, respectively.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus having a magnetic switch includes a first body, at least one magnetic component, a second body, and a magnetism barrier. In this case, the first body has at least one space. The magnetic component is accommodated in the space. The second body has at least one magnetizer, which is opposite to the magnetic component. The second body is pivoted on the first body. When the first body and the second body are closed, the magnetic component and the magnetizer face to each other. The magnetism barrier is disposed in the space of the first body. The magnetism barrier is disposed between the first body and the magnetic component.

Abstract: A tactile feedback switching mechanism having a plurality of switching states. The tactile feedback switching mechanism includes a plunger switch having a plunger. When the plunger is displaced a given distance the switch changes state. A covering lies at least over the plunger switch and includes a border section and a deformation section. The covering may be formed from an elastic material such as an elastomer. When a user depresses the plunger, confirmation of a change in the state of the switch can be tacitly sensed by a change in resistance provided by the covering. The resistance of the covering changes by deformation of the deformation portion of the covering while the plunger is depressed.

Abstract: A trackball device of the present invention includes an operating ball, multiple rollers which rotate by contacting the ball while it is rotated, multipole permanent magnets which co-rotate with these rollers, and a reed switch disposed in a position where it turns on and off as a result of changes in magnetic flux caused by the rotation of the permanent magnets so as to provide tactile feedback when the ball is rotated. The trackball device is configured to make an attractive force generated between the reed switch and permanent magnet affect the rotation of the rollers.

Abstract: A MEM's reed switch array is provided having a first switch having a sensitivity causing the first switch to open or close due to a magnetic flux, and a second switch of lesser sensitivity than the first switch causing the second switch to open or close due to a magnetic flux. The first switch can be parallel to the second switch, or the first switch can be proximate to the second switch so that a center line of the first switch is coaxial to a center line of the second switch. Further, a security device for residential and/or commercial use is provided, having a magnet housing having a magnet, a switch housing having a MEM's reed switch array with a first switch and a second switch, and a gap between the magnet housing and the switch housing.

Abstract: An improved, low-cost magnetic switch assembly (16, 16a) is provided having an easily fabricated housing (24, 24a) and cover (29, 29a) formed of non-conducting synthetic resin material. A pair of electrically conductive switch elements (30, 32, 30a, 32a) are positioned in spaced relationship with the housing (24, 24a) along with a body (40, 40a) shiftable between a first position in simultaneous contact with the switch elements (30, 32, 30a, 32a), and a second position out of such simultaneous contact. The housing (24, 24a) is also equipped with a first attractive component (38, 38a) which magnetically reacts with the body (40, 40a) to hold the latter in one of the positions thereof when the assembly (16, 16a) experiences a first magnetic field condition, but allows the body (40, 40a) to move to the other of the positions thereof when a second magnetic field condition is experienced adjacent the assembly (16, 16a).

Abstract: A secure magnetic sensor has a first magnetic switch activatable by a first magnetic field and a second magnetic switch activatable by a second magnetic field which is stronger than the first magnetic field. The first magnetic switch is electrically connected in series to the second magnetic switch. In the default position, the first magnetic switch is in the open position whereas the second magnetic switch is in the closed position. When the secure magnetic sensor is normally activated, the first magnetic switch is activated to close. However, when the secure magnetic sensor is tampered by the addition of a supplemental magnet, this causes the second magnetic switch to be in an open position thereby sounding an alarm.

Abstract: An operating mechanism for a medical device comprises a photo-interrupter that can designate specified functional operations, an air-tight unit that can accommodate this photo-interrupter air-tightly, a moving member which is disposed inside the air-tight unit, and which moves between a position in which the photo-interrupter designates an operation and a position in which the photo-interrupter does not designate an operation, a coil spring which directly or indirectly biases the moving member to the position in which no operation is designated, an operating member which is disposed on the outside of the air-tight unit, and which can be operated by an operator, and a pair of magnets which transmit a magnetic force that moves the moving member into the position in which an operation is designated against the elastic force of the coil spring in accordance with the operation of the operating member.

Abstract: The invention presents an information processing apparatus having a simple structure and which is capable of distinguishing between states of use, automatically changing over the display direction of the display screen, and excellent in shock durability, protection from water drops and dust, as well as power savings. The information processing apparatus includes a main body having a first contact-free sensor element, a display unit having a display panel and a second contact-free sensor element, a hinge having axes of rotation for coupling the main body and the display unit, and a display processor for rotating the display of the display panel. At least either the first contact-free sensor element or the second contact-free sensor element sends a first signal to the display processor when the first contact-free sensor element and the second contact-free sensor element are placed face to face, and the display processor rotates the display of the display panel according to the first signal.

Abstract: A switch mechanism for use in medical apparatuses, includes an airtight unit being able to retain airtight therein, a first magnet provided outside the airtight unit, an operation unit provided outside the airtight unit and being able to move the first magnet with respect to the airtight unit, a second magnet provided in the airtight unit and being able to receive a force from the first magnet in accordance with a position of the first magnet, and a switch unit provided in the airtight unit and being able to be switched on and off by using a force acting between the first magnet and the second magnet.

Abstract: Provided are a pointing device allowing accurate depressing operation on a key top and involving no erroneous input or erroneous operation, and a key sheet for the pointing device. On the back surface of a base sheet (14) of a key sheet (15) for a pointing device, an accommodating portion (17) for a magnet (13), for accommodating portion greatly protrudes toward a board (P) beyond a pusher (14b) is provided. When the key top (12) is depressed, the accommodating portion (17) and the magnet (13) come into contact with the board (P), and causes the depressed key top (12) to tilt using the point of contact as a fulcrum, thereby pressing the pusher (14b) against a contact switch (Pi, Po). Thus, it is possible to reduce the thickness and weight of the pointing device (10) and the key sheet (15) for the pointing device. Further, a reduction is achieved in terms of the possibility of erroneous input and erroneous operation, making it possible to reliably effect confirmation input.

Abstract: A reed switch apparatus utilizes one or more reed switches to communicate with one or more devices. In one configuration, the reed switch apparatus utilizes a single magnetic field to simultaneously activate two or more reed switches. In another configuration, two or more reed switches, each acting independent of one another are simultaneously activated by a single magnetic field. Additionally, a method of controlling at least two devices includes exposing a reed switch apparatus to a single magnetic field. Yet another method includes a activating a device via the use of a single reed switch mounted to a portion of a warehouse structure.

Abstract: An improved switch interface is provided that does not rely on direct contact by the user interface element to the switch apparatus. This feature enables the switch to be enclosed within a sealed housing, thereby improving reliability and longevity of the switch mechanism.

Abstract: A power control circuit is used to control the power supplied to a circuit from a power source. The power control circuit is operable to connect and disconnect the power source from the circuit. The power control circuit connects the power source to the circuit in response to an externally applied magnetic field.

Abstract: A universal magnetic switching assembly for detecting relative movement between first and second members, the universal switching assembly including, a flux directing device for selectively directing a majority of applied magnetic flux, such that an externally applied magnetic field cannot be used to defeat the magnetic switch assembly. The magnetic switching assembly also including at least one tamper switch to detect application of an external magnetic field.

Abstract: A passive magnetic latch is disclosed. The latch includes, according to various embodiments, a magnetically-actuated switch and a hard, non-linear biasing magnet. The switch may include components that, when polarized, cause the switch to transition from a first state to a second state. The biasing magnet is positioned proximate to the switch such that when the magnetization of the biasing magnet is changed by an external effect to thereby induce a modified magnetic field from the biasing magnet, the modified magnetic field polarizes the components of the switch such that the switch transitions from the first state to the second state and remains in the second state after the external effect is removed. A second external effect may be used to again change the magnetization of the biasing magnet such that the components of the switch depolarize and the switch transitions back the first state. As such, the magnetic latch may act like a remote ON/OFF switch.

Abstract: A modular reed switch assembly and method for making the same are provided. A switch assembly (101) includes a reed switch (206, 106) that is enclosed between a primary reed switch cover (208) and a reed switch base (104) wherein the reed switch cover and reed switch base are recessed to accommodate the reed switch. A secondary reed switch cover (102) further covers the primary reed switch cover (208) and the secondary reed switch cover (102) connects with the reed switch base (104). A protrusion (106) provides access to the electrical contacts (302) of the reed switch (206, 106) through the primary reed switch cover (208) and secondary reed switch covers (102).

Abstract: An improved magnetic switching assembly for detecting relative movement between first and second members, the switching assembly including a flux directing device for channeling a majority of applied magnetic flux away from a shiftable body such that an externally applied magnetic field cannot be used to defeat the magnetic switch assembly. The improved magnetic switching assembly also including at least one tamper switch to detect application of an external magnetic field.

Abstract: A locking system (1) for a safety switch includes a read head (2) and an actuator (3), each of which is provided with first or second componentry (10, 14) encompassing electrical and/or electronic components that interact with each other in an electrically contactless manner, thereby controlling the safety switch. The locking system actuator (3) can be locked to the read head (2) by a switchable electromagnet (7) which interacts with a counterelement (12). The locking action is controlled by a sensor element (31, 32, 33, 34), the output signal of which depends on the magnetic field generated by the electromagnet (7).

Abstract: A magnetically actuated apparatus, which enlarges, extends and makes continuous magnetic fields used by magnetically controlled devices, such as a magnetic reed switch for use in physical security monitoring systems is shown. Apparatus includes a sensor and a magnetic actuator for use with a movable closure member. The sensor is mounted into to a fixed support member that is arranged for displacement relative to a second movable support member. The sensor has a pair of contacts that are connectable to an electronic circuit. The contacts form a switch that is actuated by the magnetic actuator. The magnetic actuator comprises a unique elongated magnet with specific polarity or a plurality of aligned, alike permanent magnets that are mountable to the second support member.

Abstract: A movable contact unit arrangement includes a movable contact disposed close to a magnetic sensor. The movable contact unit includes a base sheet made of insulating resin, and a movable contact made of elastic metal plate material and having a downwardly opening dome shape. The movable contact is stuck to the base sheet. The magnetic sensor has an operation magnetic flux density during operation, and the movable contact is a demagnetized movable contact so that a residual magnetic flux density of the movable contact is smaller than the operation flux density of the magnetic sensor.

Abstract: An electromagnetic driver transducer free of torque in the presence of an external magnetic field, of any direction and orientation (such as in a Magnetic Resonance Imaging environment). The transducer includes a housing. At least one coil is associated with the housing. A plurality of magnets within the housing are aligned along an axis in an anti-parallel orientation. The magnets are free to move along an axis, wherein vibration of the magnets causes vibration of the housing. The transducer may be, for example, fixed to an ossicle.

Abstract: A rugged, miniature, waterproof and lightweight magnetic latching indicator with an auxiliary switch. The indicator includes a solenoid, an elongated plunger mounted in the solenoid, the plunger supporting a first permanent magnet with the magnet being surrounded by specially dimensioned non-magnetic spacers. The plunger and solenoid are packaged in a non-magnetic housing with a solenoid locator, a top cap and a bottom cap maintaining the indicator in a compact waterproof package. An indicator button is mounted to the plunger and a reed switch biasing spring and second permanent magnet are located between the bottom cap and the solenoid. The plunger moves from a retracted latching position to an extended position. In the retracted position, the indicator button is retracted and not readily visible and the second permanent magnet maintains the reed switch in a closed position.

Abstract: A universal magnetic switching assembly for detecting relative movement between first and second members, the universal switching assembly mounted on a bracket that may be used to adjust the positioning of the magnetic components relative to each other on opposing members to maintain the operational gap between the opposing magnetic components.

Abstract: A dial assembly for a magnetically driven gauge. The dial assembly, including a rotatable dial magnet, a reed switch and a bias magnet. The bias magnet and reed switch being positioned such that when the poles of the bias magnet and the dial magnet are in a first orientation the reed switch be held in a first position (such as a closed contact position) and that when the dial magnet rotates to a second position such that the poles of the dial magnet and bias magnet are in a second orientation, the reed switch will be held at a second orientation (such as an open, non-contact orientation).

Abstract: Inertia switches in insulating housings are used to make or break electrical contact. The switches may be small in size, and may be used with flashing light systems in footwear or other articles. One embodiment is a directional switch sensitive to the orientation of the switch and the motion of the switch due to outside forces. Footwear with flashing light systems that use these inertia switches may make the wearer or user more visible at night, adding a measure of safety as well as fun. Flashing light systems using these inertia switches may also be used to illuminate personal accessories and articles of clothing.

Abstract: A magnetic switch and children's apparatuses, such as print media apparatuses and plush dolls, which include magnetic switches are disclosed. One magnetic switch includes a first conductor and a second conductor spaced apart from the first conductor. A third conductor is disposed under the first and second conductors, the third conductor being formed from a magnetic material. A magnet is also included, the magnet being adapted to move the third conductor towards the first and second conductors so as to form a conductive bridge. Another magnetic switch includes a first conductor and a second conductor spaced apart from the first conductor. A first magnet is disposed under the first and second conductors. A second magnet is also included, the second magnet being adapted to move the first magnet so that the first and second conductors form a conductive bridge.

Abstract: A magnet seat for engagement with a magnet in a warning system includes a base and a column extending upward from a side face of the base for extending through the magnet and having a stop formed on a free end of the bar for permanently fixing the position of the magnet on top of the base. Multiple slits are defined in the side face of the base for receiving therein glue. Supporting bars are concentrically located on the side face of the base for surrounding and supporting the magnet.

Abstract: A three-position push-pull switch assembly is disclosed that includes two magnetic reed switches mounted to a circuit board located within the switch housing. A magnet is mounted to an actuator that extends into the switch housing and is axially translatable from a center position to a pushed in position and a pulled out position. When in the center position, the two magnetic reed switches are in a first closed-open operational state. When force is applied to the actuator shaft to move it into the pushed-in position, the reed switches are in a second closed-open operational state. Similarly, when force is applied to move the actuator shaft to the pulled out position, the magnetic reed switches are in a third closed-open operational state.

Abstract: A tamper detection switch is primarily for use in an enclosure of a security system component. The enclosure has a base and a cover that may be repositioned relative to the base. One of the cover and the base holds a conductive magnetic element free to translate within a predetermined range generally perpendicular to the respective cover or base. The other of the cover and the base holds at least two ferrous metal contacts of an open tamper circuit in proximity of a conductive magnetic element. In the closed position the conductive magnetic element bridges the ferrous contacts and closes the tamper circuit. Attempts to tamper with the enclosure separate the ferrous contacts from the conductive magnetic element, opening the tamper circuit and signaling a possible attack.

Abstract: The method, terminal and computer program product determine the acceleration of a mobile terminal associated with the short-range communication transceiver and adjusts the power consumption of the short-range communication transceiver based upon whether a predefined acceleration threshold has been exceeded. To adjust the power consumption, the frequency at which the transceiver is activated may be altered. Thus, the power consumption of the transceiver may be reduced when the acceleration threshold is exceeded and/or may be increased when the acceleration threshold is not exceeded. Due to the adjustment of power consumption by transceivers, power is conserved in the mobile terminals associated with transceivers, which permits the mobile terminals and the transceivers to operate longer without requiring charging or replacement of the power supply.

Abstract: A jog dial switch, which functions as a key switch, includes a key sheet, a rotatable key top arranged on the key sheet, and a movement amount detector for detecting movement amount of the key top. The movement amount detector includes four permanent magnets arranged on the key top, three Hall elements, and an electric circuit for processing signals output from the Hall elements. The Hall elements and the electric circuit are arranged below the key sheet. The key sheet is formed by a water resistant material and covers the electric circuit.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus implementing and using techniques for sensing rotations of a rotating device, including using at least one switch located in a first plane and a magnet rotating in a plane substantially parallel to the first plane about a rotation axis, the magnet having a north-south axis tilted at an oblique angle to the first plane. The magnet causes the at least one switch to open and close as the magnet rotates about the rotation axis.

Abstract: This magnetic actuator comprises a fixed magnetic part (3) cooperating magnetically with a mobile magnetic part (1) and means (4) for initiating movement of the mobile magnetic part (1). The mobile magnetic part (1) comprises at least one magnet (1-1) and the fixed magnetic part (3) has at least two attraction zones (3-2) onto which the mobile magnetic part is able to come to attach itself. The mobile magnetic part (1) levitates when it is not attached to one of attraction zones (3-2), its movement being magnetically guided.

Abstract: A magnetic flow switch (1) is described that includes a body (2) defining a chamber (20) destined to have a fluid flow pass through it, an excitation magnet (4) placed in a shuttle (3) mounted such that it can slide within the chamber (20) of the body to pass from an initial front position to a final rear position, a Reed switch (6) arranged on the body (2) of the flow switch to detect the magnetic field generated by the displacement of the excitation magnet (4) and to accordingly send a control signal to an electronic control board, and at least one attraction magnet (7) arranged on the body (2) of the flow switch, in a position such as to generate an attraction magnetic field able to attract the excitation magnet (4) to make the shuttle (3) move to the initial front position.

Abstract: An extremely compact low cost magnetic induction switch which may be activated by an extremely small operation force (approximately 1 g) has a movable member (2) and a coil spring (3) arranged inside a switch case (1), the spring coil (3) supporting the movable member (2), and the movable member protruding from an opening (1D) of an upper surface portion of the switch case (1). A Hall IC (4) is arranged in a switch case (1). When the upper portion is pushed, a magnet (6) fixed to the movable member (2) moves downward so that an output signal of the Hall IC (4) is changed from OFF to ON.

Abstract: A reed switch device connects to a door facing of a door. The reed switch device includes an impact unit, adapted to stop movement of the door, and a reed switch. In one configuration, the reed switch device replace a pre-existing part on the door facing. In another configuration, the reed switch device is an adaptation of a pre-existing part on the door facing. Additional configurations include an impact unit, which receives a reed switch, and a kit which enables connection of the reed switch to the impact unit. Additionally, methods of installing a reed switch device to a door facing are disclosed In a first method, an impact unit with a reed switch is mounted to the door. In a second method a pre-existing part of the door is utilized. In a third method, a pre-existing part of the door of the door is adapted.

Abstract: A magnetic switch apparatus (10) detects relative movement between first (12) and second (14) members and defeats attempted external magnetic manipulation of the apparatus. A rod-shaped, first switch element (20) is positioned transverse to and centrally aligned with a convex, second switch element (22) and spaced therefrom. A ring-shaped first magnet (26) is positioned about the first switch element (20) and spaced from the second element (22) in order to pull a ferromagnetic body (24) into a switch-open position out of contact with the second switch element (22) with these components mounted to the first member (12). A second magnet (18) mounted to the second member (14) is positioned and magnetically sufficient to pull the body (24) into a switch-closed position in contact with both of the switch elements (20, 22) when the members (12, 14) are in an adjacent position.