Abstract: A multidirectional input device includes ring-shaped resistance element layer 18, first conductive layer 22 and second conductive layer 23 shaping in arcs corresponding to resistance element layer 18, and knob 14 having ring-shaped protruded section 14D. Resistance element layer 18 has at least a pair of electrodes and is formed on flexible insulating substrate 16. Protruded section 14D brings resistance element layer 18 into contact with first conductive layer 22 or second conductive layer 23 when the knob is tilted. When a given voltage is applied to the electrodes and the knob is tilted, resistance element layer 18 comes in contact with first conductive layer 22 or second conductive layer 23, so that an output signal of a high resolution concerning a tilt angle can be obtained. The output signal is supplied to a microprocessor and calculated, then an angle or a direction is detected and recognized.

Abstract: A compact, low-cost pad pointing device with improved performance, reliability and durability, having an integrated selection switch, that can be used as a cursor pointing device and selection mechanism for computers, remote controls, web TV, TV guide browsers, video games, consumer electronics, industrial controllers, medical, automotive and other applications. A contact surface can be deflected to positions on an electrical medium that results in the generation of speed and direction signals while a selection switch may be simultaneously activated through the same control element.

Abstract: A low-cost pad pointing device with improved performance, reliability and durability, that can be used as a cursor pointing device for computers, remote controls, web TV, TV guide browsers, video games, consumer electronics, industrial controllers, medical, automotive and other applications. A protruding plus shaped segment can be deflected to positions on an electrical medium that results in the generation of a speed and direction signal to be interpreted by low cost available circuitry including microcontrollers.

Abstract: A self-configuring photoelectric control circuit for controlling operation of a load based on ambient light. The photocontrol circuit comprises a photocell responsive to ambient light, a heating resistor connected to the photocell, a bimetallic element in proximity to the heating resistor and movable in response to generation of heat from the heating resistor. A switch is operated by the bimetallic element and is connected between an input connected to a power source and an output connected to the load. A series resistor is connected to the heating resistor and a shunt is connected across the series resistor to provide a current bypass around the series resistor for operation with a low voltage power source, for instance 120 volts. The shunt is maintained in a flexed condition to form the bypass and a connection of the shunt across the series resistor is formed of a meltable material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a resistor device for controlling a rotational speed of a motor which has no directional property and provides a convenient setting. A resistance unit is positioned which includes at least four connecting points connected to connecting terminals at an upper predetermined position of a housing, and a heat sink having at least four supporting legs is provided to form passing paths open in all directions on the housing. Also, the resistance unit is adhered on the heat sink through an insulating layer, a second heat sink corresponding to the first heat sink is adhered on the resistance unit through the insulating layer, and short-circuit means having a soldered portion to be fused at a predetermined temperature upon an overloading of the motor is provided between the resistance unit and any one terminal.

Abstract: A resistor device for controlling a rotational speed of a resistance unit and an open-circuit means. A receiving recess is provided to any one side surface of a heat sink vertically affixed to a top surface plate of a housing. A resistance unit, which is protected by a film and made of metal material forming a resistor circuit for gradually controlling the rotational speed of a motor, is received within the recess in the heat sink and connected to a terminal. An open-circuit means, having a soldered portion which is fused at a predetermined temperature upon an overload of the motor, is provided at a predetermined distance between the resistance unit and a terminal.

Abstract: A voltage divider which can be manipulated so as to vary the output voltage thereof, prevents mechanical wear of the voltage divider element, provides continuous contact, and can be sealed so as to prevent interaction with the ambient atmosphere including first and second non-conductive substrates with a predetermined spaced portion therebetween. A first conductive strip on the second substrate is depressed across the spaced portion so as to contact at least one of a plurality of conductive taps on the first substrate, each of which are in contact with a voltage divider element so as to complete a desired circuit. By sliding while depressing the second substrate along its surface where the conductive strip is positioned, one or more successive taps are contacted so as to vary the voltage supplied to the circuit.

Abstract: A surge protector, particularly for protecting components in a telecommunication system, has a thin ceramic substrate on a surface of which is formed a surge protector resistor having a spiral pattern in the form of a double spiral having two parallel resistor paths in series, the width of the paths and the distance between adjacent path lengths being relatively narrow. Resistance trimming links are provided for increasing the length of a resistor path, there being substantially even distribution of surge effects under surge conditions.

Abstract: A circuit assembly as for an attenuation circuit is constructed upon a glass or ceramic substrate. T-element attenuators are formed on one face of the substrate by a film-circuit technique. Connections to electrodes of the T-element resistances are made by contact elements having clamping portions which engage an edge of the substrate to overlie the respective electrodes. One side of each contact element is extended from the clamping portion to form a contact arm having a forked end spaced adjacent the face of the substrate. The electrodes and contact elements are spaced apart longitudinally of the substrate and the contact arms alternate longitudinally between front and back faces thereof. Wire bridge connections are then readily made between successive arms on one or the other side of the substrate to turn on or off the individual T-element attenuator.