Abstract: A device for attaching to and detecting wetness in diapers. The device including a pair of probes (28) supported on a module box (10) slidably mounted between the guides (36) of a slide section (34). The device is attachable to the diaper (56) by sliding the module box (10) toward the slide section (34) such as to trap a fold of the fabric item between the probes (28) and the slide section (34). The module box (10) contains a signal circuit (14) which is activated when wetness is present between the probes (28) in the fold of the fabric item. The signal can be a melody playing IC chip or LCD time display, or both.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the presence of a liquid in a region, including an electrically passive sensor adapted for contacting the liquid, and an electrically active detector. The sensor is a circuit with a pair of spaced-apart terminals connected to a switch that closes in the presence of the liquid. The detector carries an alternating current with a resonant frequency. When the sensor is placed in a region and liquid is present in the region, the circuit of the sensor is closed. By bringing the detector close to the sensor, an alternating current is induced in the sensor that will, in turn, alter the resonant frequency of the detector. The change in the resonant frequency is signaled by a transducer. The switch can operate by a change in conductivity of a material between the terminals of the sensor or by expansion of a liquid absorber that pushes the two terminals together, or by a change in the conductivity of the space between the terminals as a result of the presence of the liquid.

Abstract: In an apparatus for determining the material moisture of a medium by measuring the dielectric coefficient of the medium around a measuring probe, wherein the apparatus includes a signal generator providing to one end of the probe a pulse signal, the echo of which, when returning from the other end of the probe, is received by a receiver, and a timing device determining the time elapsed between the introduction of the pulse signal and the return of the echo, the probe consists of a body structure which has electrical signal conductors disposed on its surface.

Abstract: A monitoring system for detecting urine includes an electric circuit for activating an indicator, having a break in continuity bordered by a pair of electrodes, a sheet of material for absorbing and retaining urine to permit the urine to provide a conductive path to complete the circuit and activate the indicator, two lead members attached to the sheet of material, the lead members being in a spaced apart relationship from each other, and a mechanism for snap fastening or magnetically fastening each electrode to one lead member. The mechanism for snap fastening includes a male or female snap fastener half attached to one electrode and a female or male snap fastener half attached to the sheet of material and in electrical contact with one lead member, wherein the male snap fastener half can be removably inserted into the female snap fastener half to establish electrical contact between the electrode and the lead member.

Abstract: A thermal dispersion flow/level switch includes a dual element probe assembly. Each element comprises an RTD sensor. The two RTD's are driven at different currents at a fixed ratio so that one RTD is self heated to establish a temperature differential. When a process product comes in contact with the heated sensor, the thermal differential is diminished. The differential is set to determine presence or absence of a process media and provide a change of contact state responsive thereto. In a flow application under no flow or low flow conditions, the RTDs will stabilize with a sufficient temperature differential which decreases in response to higher flow rates.

Abstract: An improved water sensor unit wherein a plurality of water-related appliances or equipment can be simultaneously monitored and, in the event of sensing water with respect to any one of the several items being monitored, appropriate action is taken, such as shutting off the power to the unit and simultaneously shutting off the water supply to that particular unit. The sensor unit comprises a plurality of electronic circuits which include thermal circuit breakers acting as a "fault memory." When a fault occurs, the circuit breakers are tripped. Thus, the fault condition will be "remembered" indefinitely until human intervention.

Abstract: A temperature sensor (10), which is connected to a sampling/recording meter (14), is imbedded in a diaper (22). The meter measures and records the temperature of the sensor at time intervals of, for example, one minute over a predetermined period of, for example, three days. The temperature and time data are then loaded from the meter to a computer (30), which causes a printer (40) to plot temperature versus time data in graphical format, and numerical format. Voiding events are identified. Thereafter, at a short time before the person will void, the person can voluntarily use a toilet or bed pan either alone or with the assistance of care giver. This voluntary voiding is an example of intervention. The meter includes an event button (44) that allows the recording and later printing of a symbol representing a specific event and the time the event occurred. The symbols may be used in identifying voiding events.

Abstract: A device for warning when a person is submerged beneath water, comprising a timing circuit having first and second terminals and being responsive to a voltage applied to the first terminal for connecting the second terminal to the first terminal after a predetermined time interval and an alarm unit connected to the second terminal of the timing circuit. A normally open water-sensitive switch is provided for attaching to a part of the person's body which is normally above water and is coupled to the first terminal of the timing circuit. An electrical supply is coupled to the water-sensitive switch for applying the required voltage to the first terminal of the timing circuit when the water-sensitive switch is submerged beneath water. A normally deflated float may be worn by the person so as to be automatically inflated in response to the alarm signal.

Abstract: An improved downed water skier warning system for alerting the operator of a skier tow-boat and the operators of nearby boats when a skier falls into the water or releases the skier towrope. The system includes electronic water sensors for sensing when the rope-handle of the skier tow-rope lands in the water, and pressure sensors for sensing when the water skier releases the rope handle. The water and pressure sensors are in remote communication with audible and visual tow-boat operator alarms and visual "skier-down" warning indicators, for enabling said alarms and indicators when a "downed skier" situation occurs. The improved warning system is designed for use in conjunction with marine warning devices and indicators commonly available, such as the "skier-down" flag and bow or stem directional lights.

Abstract: A wetting indicator for a diaper including a seat having an inclined surface and a slot, a sensor provided with a head portion and a blade portion extending from said head portion, a positive contact member disposed within said blade portion and being in communication with the perforations of said blade portion, a negative contact member disposed with said blade portion and being in communication with the perforations of said blade portion, a battery disposed within said head portion and having a positive electrode and a negative electrode, the positive electrode being connected with said positive contact member, and a music IC disposed within said head portion and electrically connected with the positive electrode of said battery and said negative contact member.

Abstract: A device for signaling a wet condition in a diaper (12). The device includes a sensing means (10) for sensing wet conditions in the diaper (12) and signal means (15) connected to the sensing means (10) for producing a signal substantially concurrently with sensing the wet conditions in the diaper (12). The sensing means (10) are insulated from the wearer when the diaper (12) is dry and are activated by the diaper (12) once the diaper (12) becomes wet.

Abstract: A moisture content measuring apparatus and method wherein a sensor station produces calibration data corresponding to measurements of light at two different wavelengths reflected from a material, and the calibration data is then transferred to a hand held computer. The moisture content of a sample of the material is measured and input to the hand held computer. The process is repeated after changing the wetness of the material, and the hand held computer creates a table correlating reflection data to moisture content. The table is transferred to the sensor station which then continuously generates signals representing moisture content in response to real time reflection data and the table. The cost effectiveness of the sensor stations readily facilitates the use of a dedicated sensor station at each of a plurality of conveyors carrying different materials to be combined into a composite of predetermined proportions by weight.

Abstract: A compact self-contained bedwetting alarm uses intermittent vibration to awaken the user. Sensors on the surface of the alarm enclosure sense the presence of urine and activate a low frequency vibration. The vibration is turned on and off by a timer so that the user is not lulled to sleep by the vibration. The alarm may be worn in close proximity to the source of urine. There are no external wires to entangle, and the position of the alarm close to the source of urine reminds the user to control the emission of urine when the alarm is on.

Abstract: A leak detection and shut-off apparatus for preventing damage from leaking hot water tanks. The invention features a unique three-layered sensor that completes encases the hot water tank thus detecting the occurrence of leaks anywhere on the tank. Circuitry controls the sensor that provides for accurate detection of even small amounts of moisture so that any potential leak problems can be remedied before a major spill occurs. The device also features a water shut off control mechanism plus audible alarm in the event a leak is detected. The unit is powered by connecting it to 110 house current. A 9 volt battery back-up is provided in case of power failures.

Abstract: The flooring structure of this invention controls electrostatic charges. The normal presence of moisture will not affect the floor structure's ability to control electrostatic charges. A moisture detector circuit will, however, indicate the presence of moisture, and can activate means for drying this moisture. The resistance of the flooring structure can be adjusted so that electrostatic charges are dissipated at different rates. Multiple floor structures with different resistance values can be placed side by side. Improper grounding of the flooring structure can be detected and corrected, and the resistance of the flooring structure system can be determined.

Abstract: A leak detection device for preventing damage from leaking hot water tanks. The invention features a unique three layered sensor that completely encircles the hot water tank thus detecting the occurrence of leaks any where around the tank. Circuitry controls the sensor that provides for accurate detection of even small amounts of moisture so that any potential leak problems can be remedied before a major spill occurs. The device is powered by connecting it to 110 house current. A 9 volt battery is provided for battery operation of the device and is also provided a back-up in case of power failures.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for monitoring an environment for the occurrence of an unexpected event, such as monitoring a containment vessel's surroundings for the presence of the contained substance outside of the vessel due to a leak. The method detects the probability that a leak has occurred as opposed to mere natural fluctuations in substance concentration in the surrounding environment. A sensor near the vessel measures substance concentration. The concentrations sensed are transformed into a signal representing substance concentration outside the vessel as a function of time. A statistical analyzer then monitors the signal for specific patterns which indicate that a leak has occurred. Various algorithms are utilizable to determine the probability that a leak has occurred.

Abstract: A water-activated survival lamp unit for mounting to a flotation device in proximity to the water line. The survival lamp unit comprises a hermetically sealed light transmissive housing in which are mounted a light source and a battery in an electrical circuit together. A water-responsive actuator is provided, including a pair of electric terminals extending outside the housing in a spaced apart relationship. The actuator is responsive to a momentary electrical path established between the terminals through a coherent body of water to close the electrical circuit between the battery and the light source for a predetermined time period largely exceeding the duration of the electrical path, thus causing timed actuation of the light source. Periodic water splashing of the electric terminals allows to reestablish at intervals the electric path, each time resetting the actuator which closes the electrical circuit for an additional time period.

Abstract: An monitoring system for detecting urine includes an electric circuit for activating an indicator, having a break in continuity bordered by a pair of electrodes, a lead member extending from each electrode, the lead members being in a spaced apart relationship from each other, and a sheet of hydrophilic material extending over and resting against the lead members for absorbing and retaining urine to permit the urine to provide a conductive path between the lead members to complete the circuit and activate the indicator. The indicator is either a light or a sound generator. The system may additionally include a flexible sheet of waterproof material to which the lead members are joined. The flexible sheet of waterproof material optionally fits into a pocket of a bed pad. The system may additionally include a heat sensor for monitoring the temperature of a person resting against the sheet of hydrophilic material.

Abstract: A portable water activated alert system is disclosed. The system has an RF transmitter and receiver which incorporate special features. Both are battery operated and portable. The receiver includes both an audible alarm and an illuminated directional and proximity indicator.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting and reporting the presence of liquid on a surface has a detector unit that rests on the surface with the detector unit including at least one pair of spaced-apart electrodes for conductively detecting the liquid, with the detector unit resting on the surface via the electrodes, and with the detector unit further including a sensor that is directed toward the surface and serves for optically detecting the liquid. The apparatus also comprises an operations unit, with the detector unit and the operations unit being electrically interconnected.

Abstract: A wet diaper detector comprises an elongated strip of material sized to be positioned in a diaper with a portion of the strip residing in a region of the diaper subject to wetness and an end of the strip protruding from the diaper at the upper rear or front portion thereof. The strip carries a pair of spaced conductors that extend along the length of the strip and terminate at the protruding end thereof. A detector and alarm assembly is adapted to be releasably coupled to the protruding end of the elongated strip and is configured to monitor the electrical resistance between the spaced conductors of the strip. When the diaper is wet by its wearer, the resistance between the spaced conductors of the strips falls below a pre-established value whereupon the detector activates the alarm to alert an attendant to change the diaper. When the diaper is changed, the detector and alarm assembly is decoupled from the strip for reuse and the strip is discarded along with the soiled diaper.

Abstract: A device for signaling a wet condition in a diaper. The device includes a sensing means for sensing wet conditions in the diaper and signal means connected to the sensing means for producing a signal substantially concurrently with sensing the wet conditions in the diaper. The sensing means are insulated from the wearer when the diaper is dry and are activated by the diaper once the diaper becomes wet.

Abstract: A temperature sensor (10), which is connected to a sampling/recording meter (14), is imbedded in a diaper (22). The meter measures and records the temperature of the sensor at time intervals of, for example, one minute over a predetermined period of, for example, three days. The temperature and time data are then loaded from the meter to a computer (30), which causes a printer (40) to plot temperature versus time data in graphical format, and numerical format. Voiding events are identified. Thereafter, at a short time before the person will void, the person can voluntarily use a toilet or bed pan either alone or with the assistance of care giver. This voluntary voiding is an example of intervention. The meter includes an event button (44) that allows the recording and later printing of a symbol representing a specific event and the time the event occurred. The symbols may be used in identifying voiding events.

Abstract: The flooring structure of this invention controls electrostatic charges. The normal presence of moisture will not affect the floor structure's ability to control electrostatic charges. A moisture detector circuit will, however, indicate the presence of moisture, and can activate means for drying this moisture. The resistance of the flooring structure can be adjusted so that electrostatic charges are dissipated at different rates. Multiple floor structures with different resistance values can be placed side by side. Improper grounding of the flooring structure can be detected and corrected, and the resistance of the flooring structure system can be determined.

Abstract: Liquid leak detector apparatus and method including a fluid system having two fluid tanks which are fluid flow interconnected and which have a fluid flow-rate switch operative between the tanks for detecting the quantity of flow for establishing equilibrium between the tanks and thereby detecting the leakage of fluid in the system.

Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having one or more chambers having concrete or grating floors. Each chamber contains one or a series of real or simulated items such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer has a smoke generating system with an outlet for each chamber. The trainer also includes a propane gas flame generating system. The trainer has a main control panel for regulating the flame generating system and the smoke generating system and for controlling the fire, or fires, and smoke in each chamber. The trainer also has a sensor assembly in each chamber, which senses water.

Abstract: In an apparatus for determining the moisture content of a material by measuring the dielectric constant of the material by means of a measuring conductor which is disposed such that the material becomes a dielectric for the measuring conductor and wherein the time lapse between the application of an electrical signal to the measuring conductor and the return of the echo of the signal is employed as an indication of the dielectric constant and consequently the moisture content of the material, the electrical signal is a pulsed signal with a pulse duration which is greater than the time lapse between signal start and return of the echo of the signal start and an independent oscillator is provided whose cycles are counted during the opening state of a gate circuit which is open between the application of electrical signal to the measuring conductor and the return of the echo thereof, the counted cycles thereby providing an indication for the time lapsed from signal start to echo return in a simple manner with si

Abstract: A floating key finder is disclosed which includes a housing which is buoyant and has a key ring attached to the housing and designed to hold a plurality of keys. An electrical circuit is contained within the housing and includes a moisture sensing switch which is enclosed when immersed in liquid. Such immersion causes activation of a signal such as a flashing light, an audible horn or beeper, or both.

Abstract: A device for sensing the presence of liquids or other substances and warning of potential hazards. The device includes a mat which is constructed of metalized sheets. This mat may be cut to any size or shape on site. A monitoring device is electrically connected to the mat and monitors a change in capacitance or resistance of the mat. Such a change is an indication of the presence of unwanted substance. The monitoring device may then either activate an alarm or turn off any electrical devices as deemed necessary. The mat can include a sensitivity layer which may be included to require a greater amount of liquid or other substances to trip the monitoring device. The control module preferably operates on a large range of power voltages, preferably the same as the equipment being monitored.

Abstract: A leak detection apparatus is shown for monitoring leakage from household water systems. Upon detection of a leak, the water supply valve is automatically shut off. A pair of spaced apart wires are imbedded in an insulating tape with liquid cell sensor elements formed at spaced intervals about uninsulated sections of the wires. The tape is placed about the pipe to be monitored so as to collect the leaking water within the liquid cell sensor elements to electrically connect the conductors within a cell. Electronic circuitry actuates a servo to turn off a supply valve and/or sound an alarm. The water collecting elements eliminate unintended alarms due to condensation.

Abstract: A device for measuring the temperature of humans having a measuring device which is placed in contact with the skin and a triggering mechanism for activating the temperature measurement. The triggering mechanism is activated by a change in polarization impedance which is measured by a sensor. The sensor's impedance may vary as a result of contact with bodily fluids, such as urine or sweat. After the temperature measurement is made, the results may be transmitted, displayed, or stored in the memory of the device.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting corrosive conditions in pipelines comprises a wire having an electric potential different from the electric potential of the pipeline. The wire is disposed in the pipeline in a housing which prevents it from coming into contact with a pig used to clean the interior of the pipeline. The wire is spaced from the interior of the pipeline so that it normally is not in direct electrical contact with the pipeline. The wire extends out of the pipeline and is electrically connected to an indicator. The indicator is also electrically connected to the pipeline. When corrosive fluid, such as briny water, is present in the pipeline and comes into contact with the wire and the interior of the pipeline, an electric current is electrochemically produced due to the difference in electric potential between the pipeline and the wire. The indicator detects this current and indicates that corrosive conditions are present in the pipeline.

Abstract: A battery-powered, liquid-detection alarm and shut-off system includes an elongated sensor, an electronic controller, and a spring biased shut-off valve assembly. The sensor comprises two partially exposed conductors separated by protruding ridges of insulation. The protruding-ridge configuration enables the sensor to detect small quantities of surface water and yet be insensitive to humidity. The electronic controller maximizes battery life and protects against false alarms caused by electrical interference. The shut-off valve assembly comprises a 1/4 turn ball valve and a valve-actuating assembly. The valve is set by being manually cocked to an open position, engaging a lever actuated cam and preloading a valve shut-off spring. The valve is then closed by momentarily passing an electrical current through a temperature-activated memory-shaped spring located on the valve assembly. The current is supplied by the electronic controller in response to detection of liquid by the sensor.

Abstract: An alarm mounted within a housing, such as a drain housing of an air conditioner, including an elongate, planar sponge sheet, the sponge sheet mounted to a collar that is orthogonally affixed to a lower terminal end of a support tube, a switch includes a first component mounted on the sheet, and a second component fixedly secured to the tube space above the collar, wherein the sponge sheet is defined by a first thickness in a dehydrated configuration and wherein the sheet expands to a second thickness in a moistened configuration to effect electrical communication between the first and second member of the switch to complete an electrical circuit and effect actuation of an audible and/or visual signal member.

Abstract: A fixture containing a compact rotational position sensor mounted directly to a driving contrivance for detecting movement of a member. The fixture comprises an attachment flange having a central bore with a front face for engagement with the driving contrivance. The front face has a recess proximate to the central bore and an opening from the outer surface of the attachment flange in communication with the recess. A control shaft passes through a central bore whereby the control end is attached to the member and the free end is attached to the driving contrivance. The sensor for detecting the rotational position of the control shaft is disposed in the recess whereby the attachment flange conceals the sensor when it is attached to the driving contrivance.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus having a humidity detector which is detachably attached to the main apparatus body that accommodates an image forming member. The humidity detector detects a humidity in the vicinity of the image forming member, converts the detected humidity into a relative humidity and outputs it. Based on the value of the output relative humidity, image forming conditions, such as the amount of exposure, are set. The humidity detecting unit contains a time detecting unit for detecting the time for replacement.

Abstract: A bed covering device provides monitoring signals responsive to movement and urination of a person lying upon a bed. The device is constructed of a fitted bedsheet having a perimeter adapted to embrace a mattress, a waterproof sheet disposed above the fitted bedsheet, moisture detectors disposed upon the upper surface of the waterproof sheet, and pressure sensors disposed upon the lower surface of the waterproof sheet. The moisture and pressure sensors generate electrical signals that can be used for monitoring or alerting purposes.

Abstract: A water immersion alarm system mounts a water sensor-transmitter carrier unit on the person of a child in a manner that prevents the child or a friend of the child from removing the carrier unit from the child and that prevents a stick, wire, or other elongate object from sliding between the carrier unit and the body of the child to impale the child.

Abstract: A narrow wall or slotted wall which is introduced into a geological substratum or foundation, including a sealing wall composition contained therein, and at least one sealing wall plate which, for example, is constituted of glass. The sealing wall plate which is fixed in the sealing wall composition or, the sealing wall plates, possesses or possess devices for the detection and recognition of leakages. These devices can be constituted from hollow profile members which are connected with the sealing wall plates; in essence, can be integrated therein.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices for detecting the moisture content of material such as a diaper using a change in bulk dielectric constant. More particularly, the invention relates to a moisture sensing device which provides an accurate indication of the moisture content of a material such as a diaper when merely placed in the vicinity of the diaper. In a preferred embodiment, the device is a hand-held device which can be readily transported and which can detect diaper moisture without piercing the diaper or attaching electrodes directly to the diaper.

Abstract: A circuit for detecting hydrocarbons comprises an input circuit receptive of an input signal representative of the electron movement in an unknown sample to be detected for producing a first amplified signal and a signal processing circuit receptive of the first amplified signal from the input circuit for producing a first output signal when the input signal represents the presence of hydrocarbons. The input circuit comprises four transistors connected as common base amplifiers with the base of a first of the four transistors receptive of the input signal, the base of a second of the four transistors connected to the emitter of the first transistor, the base of a third of the four transistors connected to the emitter of the second transistor, the base of a fourth of the four transistors connected to the emitter of the third transistor to produce the first amplified signal at the collector of the fourth transistor and wherein for the first transistor 70<hfe.ltoreq.120, for the second transistor 150.ltoreq.

Abstract: Devices for detecting and obtaining information about an event, for example the presence of a liquid, which comprise (1) a swellable member which swells upon occurrence of the event and (2) a restraining member which, when the swellable member swells, restricts movement of the swellable member and thus causes the impedance of the device to change. In a preferred embodiment the device comprises two elongate conductors helically wrapped around a support core, a swellable, conductive polymer member surrounding the conductors. Occurrence of an event causes the swellable material to swell and form a conductive bridge between the conductors.

Abstract: A polymeric insert is arranged for securement within a base portion of a water cooler housing to accommodate drainage from a water cooler top wall. Drainage and condensation is accommodated to minimize corrosion of a lower portion of the water cooler housing. A modification of the structure includes a fungicide and herbicide distribution reservoir and an alarm indicating stoppage of the associated drain structure of the organization.

Abstract: A leak alarm system monitors the wetness of a floor. The alarm system comprises a housing having a flat bottom surface and support feet for supporting the housing off the floor such that each one of the support feet is in contact with the floor. Each support foot comprises an electrode of the alarm system. A low resistance condition between two electrodes of opposite polarity, such as occurs in the presence of a water leak, activates the alarm.

Abstract: A device for sensing the presence of liquids or other substances and warning of potential hazards. The device includes a mat which is constructed of metallized sheets. This mat may be cut to any size or shape on site. A monitor device is electrically connected to the mat and monitors a change in capacitance or resistance of the mat. Such a change is an indication of the presence of unwanted substace. The monitoring device may then either activate an alarm or turn off any electrical device as deemed necessary.

Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring a communications cable for moisture penetration. A line signal generator is connected to a metal armour layer of the cable to apply a line signal to the armour. Changes in the line signal current are monitored to detect the condition of the cable. Moisture penetration can be monitored throughout the length of the cable. The armour layer is maintained at a negative potential with respective ground. This provides an additional cathodic protection to the cable.

Abstract: A light assembly includes a light bulb, a socket, batteries, a novel water activated electrical switch, a novel manual override, a novel desiccant to keep the ambient air dry, and a case for housing all components. This invention includes four novel water-activated switching methods: (a) by tape that is made of water soluble material, (b) by adhesive that is water soluble, (c) by crystal that is also water soluble, and (d) by media that will absorb water and expand their volumes.

Abstract: An apparatus which is worn to condition the wearer against bed wetting is disclosed. The apparatus includes a wetness sensor that has a circuit pattern in which a multiplicity of interleaved, spaced apart conductive fingers reside on a non-conductive substrate. The circuit pattern is optimized to quickly and reliably detect small quantities of urine. The substrate is curved into a three dimensional, cup-like shape which has an edge that conforms to the urogenital area of the wearer. A foam pad is positioned at this edge to help seal the wetness sensor against the wearer and to make the wetness sensor comfortable to wear. Electrical components couple to the wetness sensor and drive a speaker. The electrical components include a battery and a relay. The realy is configured to oscillate when the wetness sensor detects urine, and the oscillating relay causes the speaker to broadcast an alarm signal.

Abstract: The flooring structure of this invention controls electrostatic charges. The normal presence of moisture will not affect the flooring structure's ability to control electrostatic charges. A moisture detector circuit will, however, indicate the presence of moisture, and can activate means for drying this moisture. The resistance of the flooring structure can be adjusted so that electrostatic charges are dissipated at different rates. Multiple flooring structures with different resistance values can be placed side by side.