Abstract: A movable barrier operator (10) can have at least two automatic modes of operation. These modes of operation can differ from one another at least with respect to their respective utilized maximum-applied-force thresholds, such that one of the modes of operation correlates to a reduced maximum-applied-force threshold. Selection between these available maximum-applied-force thresholds can be based, at least in part, upon whether an obstacle detector is operably coupled to the movable barrier operator. In one embodiment, a primary controller (30) and a secondary controller (31) can be utilized to effect the controlled selection and usage of the available maximum-applied-force thresholds. In another embodiment, maximum permitted speed of travel for the movable barrier can also be determined, at least in part, as a function of whether an obstacle detector is available to the movable barrier operator.

Abstract: A system for detecting tactile information includes strain-gauge touch sensors and a controller. Based on the sum output from each of tough-sensor sensor units, an analyzer in the controller calculates touch force Fi(t) at each measurement point. An automatic gain control adjusts the voltage amplitude Ai(t) of a sine wave of frequency fi applied to the sensor units at each measurement point to bring the voltage amplitude measured at each measurement point in line with a target voltage. The adjusted voltage Ai(t) is applied to the bandpass filter with a composite sine wave y(t) which includes sine waves of each frequency corresponding to the adjusted voltage amplitude Ai(t). This makes it possible to reduce the number of lines between the controller and touch sensors that includes numerous measurement points, and enables the gain of the touch sensors constituted by strain gauges to be controlled within an appropriate range.

Abstract: A computer shut down system includes a sitting detection assembly that is mounted in a seat cushion. The sitting detection assembly includes a pressure indicator for detecting when a weight is positioned on the seat cushion. A transmitter is operationally coupled to the pressure indicator. The transmitter is adapted for sending a wireless signal when the pressure indicator detects the weight. A receiver for receiving the wireless signal is electrically coupled to the computer processor such that the receiver may relay the wireless signal to the computer processor. The computer processor may selectively power down or power up the computer system upon reception of the wireless signal sent by the transmitter.

Abstract: The medical alert mat and the accompanying pager unit is a device utilized primarily for those providing primary care for patients or loved one requiring continual supervision and assistance who are bedridden or medicated to the point where the patient or loved one requires assistance to perform tasks outside of the bed confinement, including toilet access, walking to a chair or general movement, the device having a mat on the floor in a chosen location, the mat having contact plates activated by any pressure on the surface of the mat, sending a wireless signal to a base unit plugged into any 120 volt AC outlet, the base unit having a receiving source activating an audible alarm within a connected or disconnected paging unit sounding the audible alarm when pressure has been applied to the mat. This device may also be used in front of the door of a child's room to indicate the child departure from their room and also serve as a portable security system to detect intruders either at home or during travel.

Abstract: An occupant weight detecting device includes a load detecting device and a control device. The load detecting device detects a load applied to a seat body. The control device detects an occupant sitting on the seat body based on a load detection value detected by the load detecting device. The occupant weight detecting device further includes a power supplying device for supplying power to the load detecting device and a memorizing device for memorizing the load detection value having been detected by the load detecting device. The control device performs primary filter calculation during a predetermined time based on the average of plural load detection values having been memorized to the memorizing device and a current load detection value. The control device performs secondary filter calculation after an elapse of the predetermined time based on one load detection value having been memorized to the memorizing device and the current load detection value.

Abstract: It is a subject of the present invention to provide a hydraulic shovel concurrently used for crane operations in which an operator may immediately be ascertained of conditions during crane operations as well as dangerous conditions occurring on the implement or the vehicle body so that operations may be performed in a stable and rapid manner, this being achieved by a hydraulic shovel concurrently used for crane operations which comprises an implement including a boom, an arm, a bucket and a hook for enabling crane operations, which further comprises a monitor device including a monitor screen, wherein a parameter display portion for displaying parameters related to load factors of safe-working load, an engine condition display portion for displaying engine conditions and an alarm information display portion for displaying alarm information are provided on the monitor screen during crane operations, wherein a plurality of display items of the alarm information display portion may be sequentially switched and d

Abstract: A low cost system and method are provided for long-term monitoring of the quality of a building structure utilizing a semiconductor integrated circuit device buried in the structure. A monitoring chip includes a sensor, a microprocessor, a memory, a radio interface, an electric power controller and an electric power generator. The monitoring chip intermittently receives power to intermittently monitor information such as whether concrete is adequately cured, whether the quantity of moisture and chloride ions in concrete paste is adequate, or whether a state of stress inside concrete is in question. Temperature sensors, electric resistance sensors and pressure sensors respectively built in the monitoring chip use the built-in electric power generator as a power source, and the system store any abnormal measured values in a built-in memory. Collected quality data is transmitted according to an external request to indicate building structure quality.

Abstract: In order to form a device for detecting and preprocessing weights acting on a vehicle seat in such a way that it can be used in particular in conditions which are very difficult in terms of measuring technology, and in particular under the other special ambient conditions within a vehicle, and the weighing signal of which is substantially uninfluenced by this and can consequently provide a reliable parameter for airbag activation, it is proposed that this device comprises at least three load cells, which are disposed on load-carrying parts of the vehicle seat at corner points of an imaginary polygonal area and in each case generate a weighing signal corresponding to the weight, and an electronic evaluation circuit, which receives and preprocesses the weighing signals of the load cells and generates an output signal based on the weighing signals, the evaluation circuit comprising an evaluation function with which a localization of the center of gravity of the weight acting on the vehicle seat can be carried ou

Abstract: Sensor means for monitoring the awareness status of an individual within a monitored environment (50) comprising means (55) for determining the attainment of at least one predetermined condition identifying the requirement for the awareness of an individual to be monitored, and operative to trigger an alarm (70), means (15) operable by the monitored individual for inhibiting the operation of the alarm, and delay means for delaying the triggering of the alarm (70) for a predetermined period after the attainment of the said predetermined condition.

Abstract: In a passenger weight measuring apparatus, each of bend parts of front and rear brackets for supporting a seat to a vehicle main body side becomes bent and deformed in response to the load applied by the weight of the passenger sit in the seat. A load sensor on each the bend part detects the load based on the bend deformation and outputs a voltage signal of magnitude responsive to the load to a signal processor. The processor generates a load detection signal clamped in the voltage range corresponding to a preset passenger weight load range from the voltage signal and outputs the load detection signal to an output terminal. When the detected load is a collision load set in a load region out of the load range, the processor outputs an abnormal load detection signal different from the load detection signal to the same output terminal.

Abstract: An integrated piezo-resistive sensor for determining mirror position in an optical switch. One or more piezo-resistive layers may be formed in silicon springs supporting a movable mirror in the switch. Change in resistivity of those layers due to spring deformation during mirror motion is measured and related to the mirror deflection angle. Information about the angle may be used to provide feedback to the motion actuator, which then may be operated to orient the mirror more accurately. A sensor's sensitivity may be increased by appropriately orienting the springs with respect to the crystallographic axes of the silicon.

Abstract: The invention discloses a system including floor tiles for monitoring the movements of individuals across a floor surface. The system is comprised of a plurality of floor tiles electrically and mechanically interconnected. The floor tiles are monitored to determine where, when and how weight is applied to the floor tiles. The system may also comprise an identification system comprising individual transmitters and a receiver. The receiver is tied into the tile monitoring system to allow the identification of an individual on the floor surface.

Abstract: An operator presence sensing apparatus for a seat of a vehicle includes a base member (7, 8) for supporting the seat (6), and a relay member (9) extending vertically between the base member and the seat. The seat is oscillatable about a pivot axis (X) extending in a transverse direction in the base member. The relay member is pivotably supported at one end thereof by the pivot axis and at the other end by the base member through a cushion spring (10). A seat lift-up spring (12) is disposed between an underside of the seat and the base member for receiving part of the weight of the seat. The seat unoccupied by the operator is oscillated to a floating position lifted from the relay member by the lift-up spring.

Abstract: An improved force-measurement system utilizes active magnetostrictive sensors for generating a signal representative of a force, such as the weight of a person or thing on a seat within a motor vehicle, or the force applied to the horn sensor switch on a vehicle steering wheel. The active magnetostrictive sensor includes an excitation coil and a detection coil.

Abstract: The resistances of resistors arranged in a matrix form in a pressure-sensitive resistor mat are measured with high accuracy and using simple circuitry by the fact that the output of an operational amplifier is connected to each row conductor and each column conductor, which are connected to the resistor. A voltage is selectively applied to the individual resistors by appropriately activating the operational amplifiers. Each operational amplifier associated with the row or column conductors is equipped with a current balancing circuit which detects the output current of the operational amplifier connected to the selected resistor which flows through this resistor. A processor determines the individual resistance values from the currents flowing through the individual resistors and the voltage drops across those resistors.

Abstract: An overload detection device for a high-lift work vehicle is capable of detecting the load on the work platform. A base 10 of the work platform is supported with a bracket 9 at, at least, three supporting portions. Load sensors 11 each constituted of a plate member 14 and distortion gauges 15˜18 detect the extent of flexure of at least two of the supporting portions.

Abstract: A communication apparatus (100) includes a plurality of distributed communication elements (200). Each communication element (200) functions to communicate only with other neighboring communication elements. The coverage is so set as to allow local communications with other neighboring communication elements. The local communications allow a signal to be successively communicated between the communication elements, thereby conveying the signal to the communication element at the destination. The plurality of communication elements are divided into ranks according to their management functions. Route data can be set in each rank, thereby allowing a signal to be efficiently conveyed to the final destination.

Abstract: The present invention provides a truck assembly for use on a skateboard. The truck assembly preferably includes a base block having a battery chamber and a circuit board cavity, a battery contained within the battery chamber, a circuit board housed inside the circuit board cavity, wherein the circuit board is in electrical communication with the battery, and an effect module that is operably connected to the circuit board to produce a selected effect.

Abstract: A load cell mounting assembly for a bed. The bed includes a base unit. Two pairs of lift arms are pivotally attached to the base unit. Extending between each pair of lift arms is a torque bar. A frame is secured to the torque bars by a plurality of torque bar mounting brackets. Coupled to each torque bar are a number of load cells. The load cells are electrically connected to a control unit that is configured to receive signals from the load cells and to determine patient information from the load cell signals. When the bed is in its lowest position, the load cells engage the floor and the bed is supported only by the load cells.

Abstract: A system including piezoelectric material wherein a force exerted on the piezoelectric material is determined by subjecting the piezoelectric material to an input signal of sweeping frequency and evaluating the response of the piezoelectric material to the applied signal.

Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide a measuring apparatus which can surely prevent the collision of a moving member.

Abstract: A function monitor (10) broadly comprises a detector (14) to sense a condition, a transmitter (18) to monitor the detector (14), and a base unit (20) to receive a status signal from the transmitter (18) indicative of the detector's status. The detector (14) may comprise a pressure switch, a position switch, a level switch, a temperature switch, and/or virtually any device that may be used to electrically monitor the condition. The transmitter (18) preferably receives power through a wireless connection to the base unit (20). The base unit (20) preferably receives the status signal from the pallet transmitter (18) over the wireless connection and actuates a output (30) according to the status signal. The output (30) that may be used to warn an operator of the condition, or take other necessary actions, such as preventing a pump from running.

Abstract: A tamper-indicating fastener has a cylindrical body with threads extending from one end along a portion of the body, and a tamper indicating having a transducer for converting physical properties of the body into electronic data; electronics for recording the electronic data; and means for communicating the recorded information to a remote location from said fastener. The electronics includes a capacitor that varies as a function of force applied by the fastener, and non-volatile memory for recording instances when the capacitance varies, providing an indication of unauthorized access.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for a switch that is activated by a predetermined mechanical load includes a first layer of plastic material, a second layer of plastic material, a layer of elastomeric material having first and second surfaces, the first surface bonded to the first layer of plastic material by a layer of adhesive material and the second surface of the elastomeric material bonded to the second layer of plastic material by a layer of adhesive; and a conductor disposed in contact with one or more of the layers of material wherein a conductive path of the conductor is broken when at least one of the adhesive bonds is displaced by the predetermined mechanical load.

Abstract: A passenger determination device includes a load sensor attached to a seat main body, a controller for calculating a detected load value on the basis of an outputted load value of the load sensor and for determining a passenger on the basis of a large and small relationship between the detected load value and a predetermined determination threshold value, a load variations detecting device for detecting variations of the detected load value when the large and small relationship between the detected load value and a predetermined determination threshold value changes and a prohibition device for prohibiting from changing the determination of the passenger by the change of the large and small relationship between the detected load value and a predetermined determination threshold value when the detected load variations is small.

Abstract: A system electronically detects and registers contact, especially in contact sport embodiments. An example contacting instrument includes a switch, a tone generator and a conductive mesh. An example detecting instrument includes a conductive mesh and a tone decoder. In a contact sport embodiment, each combatant possesses, for example, as part of the combatant's respective uniform, one or more contacting instruments and one or more detecting instruments embedded in prescribed contact zones. The basic goal of a combatant is to strike a contact zone of their opponent with one of their contacting instruments. The detecting instrument will recognize the tone, thereby recognizing a hit.

Abstract: The invention comprises a micromechanical shock sensor that is formed on the surface of a micro-substrate. A moveable proof mass is formed on the surface with at least one spring connected to the proof mass and the surface. The spring allows the proof mass to move a predetermined distance. Latching means are formed on the surface the predetermined distance from the proof mass. When the sensor is subjected to a sufficient shock, the proof mass moves and contacts the latching means. An indicator means is provided to allow this contact to be readily known by the user.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting measurement signals into digital signals suitable for processing in a microprocessor (12), with the signals having been initiated in a piezo sensor (6) by accelerations acting on the sensor during the impacts of a percussion device (1), particularly a hydraulic hammer, and being used to determine the number of work strokes that have been executed in the impact direction (arrow 3) of the percussion device (1).

Abstract: The force sensing switch comprising a housing and a movable member movable relative to the housing upon having a predetermined force applied thereagainst by an adjacent moving structure when the structure becomes misaligned, the movable member engaging circuitry within the housing which will produce an alarm signal and will stop the adjacent structure from moving.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus, system and method for detecting a user's oral health habits and providing the oral health data over a network for access by a remote user. For example, the user may utilize an oral health apparatus to brush his teeth. During brushing, oral health data may be obtained relating to the user's oral health habits and usage of the oral health apparatus. The oral health data may then be provided over a network to a remote user, such as the user's dental health professional or parent in the case of a young child.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining an approximate mass of a fabric load in an automatic clothes dryer wherein the dryer utilizes a motor including a centrifugal switch which closes upon the motor achieving a predetermined speed at a start of the motor. A timer device is provided which is capable of timing intervals of time measured in milliseconds. A current detecting mechanism is arranged in a current supply line for the dryer motor and is arranged to start the timer upon detecting a start of the dryer motor. A voltage measuring mechanism is arranged at a power supply for the motor to provide a voltage measurement. An arrangement is provided to detect the closure of the centrifugal switch of the motor and is arranged to stop the timer upon detecting the closure of the centrifugal switch to provide a start time. A calculating device is provided for receiving the start time and the voltage measurement and for providing a calculated mass of the fabric load in the dryer.

Abstract: A security mat alarm system having a pressure sensor sheet that is capable of detecting pressure and outputting a pressure sensed signal. A wireless transmitter is electrically connected to the pressure sensor sheet. The wireless transmitter is capable of transmitting an alarm signal upon detection of the pressure sensed signal. A wireless alarm receiver is capable of receiving the alarm signal and alarming.

Abstract: The implementation of dual-stage inflators in some production vehicles is quickly becoming a common reality. A dual-stage inflator has two firing squibs that can fire independently, simultaneously or in a delayed mode. This tailorability provides the ability to fire a low level, high level or staged delay level depending on the impact velocity or other means. For each restraint condition, the inflator output threshold speeds are identified. A biomechanical gray zone, for each injury assessment reference value, is defined based on occupant performance. The upper and lower bound of each biomechanical gray zone is associated with a type of occupant, inflator output, belt restraint and injury parameter.

Abstract: A sensor system is for detecting forces which, particularly in the case of a motor vehicle, lead to a deformation of components, e.g. body parts as the result of an accident. The sensor system includes a number of contact elements which are arranged on the component staggered one behind the other in a possible deformation direction, compressible insulation layers being disposed between the contact elements. The contact elements are electroconductively connected to an electronic evaluation circuit by which a contacting and/or de-contacting of adjacent contact elements, caused by a deformation, is able to be detected and converted into control and or regulating signals.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the structural condition of a helicopter rotor assembly component includes a piezoelectric sensor. Acoustic emission signal techniques allow for recognizing the relatively high frequency stress waves associated with the propagation of cracks or defects in a rotor assembly component. A signal conditioner processes the sensor signal and provides an output signal that includes at least one characteristic that is indicative of the content of the sensor signal and, therefore, the structural condition of the item of interest. A signal analyzer utilizes the output signal from the signal processor to determine the structural condition of the component.

Abstract: Disclosed is a remote monitoring method which is capable of continuously sensing and checking amounts of deformation or amounts of inclination variation of respective unit structures such as tunnels, bridges, large buildings and so on and rapidly carrying out a safety diagnosis for the corresponding structure with the deformation and inclination variation amount data to thereby display the safety diagnosis result on two-dimensional or three-dimensional moving picture screen, whereby an unexpected collapse of the structure can be previously prevented.

Abstract: To sense the occupancy status of the seat surface of a seat, in particular in a vehicle, an electrically conductive foamed plastic is used, at least in sections, in the seat surface, and a signal corresponding to the resistance value between a top-side and a bottom-side electrode is utilized for discrimination purposes to determine whether the seat is occupied or not. An array of a plurality of parallel strips or a matrix of patches of the conductive foamed plastic permits a more thorough discrimination in terms of the occupying object or the occupying person.

Abstract: A seat-occupant sensing device for a car seat is provided, such that a heater can be installed in the seat without deterioration of sitting comfort. A load sensor is mounted to a cushion frame of a car seat. The end of a flexible cushion support is linked with the load sensor. Because the flexible cushion support flexes when a person sits on the seat, the load sensor detects the moment when the person sits on the seat.

Abstract: A deflection sensor for a taut wire perimeter fence detection system, which can be installed after the fence wire has been installed easily, and the sensor the operates in line with the wire tension. The sensor includes a plate member adapted to be pivotally mounted, a first wire attachment point at one end of said plate member, a second wire attachment point remote from said first wire attachment point and a transducer or sensor element located on said plate member between the attachment points. The taut wire type detection system including at least one taut wire for a perimeter fence supported by a plurality of posts, at least one deflection sensor being pivotally mounted to one of the posts or a support thereon and a sensor processing circuit for interrogating the at least one deflection sensor and to provide an alarm indication on tampering of the at least one taut wire or the at least one deflection sensor.

Abstract: A fishing pole holder in which a cradle is normally supported at an obtuse angle relative to a stable surface by a support member. A bite on the bait or lure at the end of a line from the pole results in a tug on the pole which releases the cradle, causing the cradle to engage the support member thereby actuating a signal to the fisherman that he or she has a bite on the line.

Abstract: An occupant restraint assembly and for a motor vehicle operates to sense the tension forces on a seat belt to detect the presence of a human occupant or a child restraint seat. A sensor attached to the seat belt measures tension forces. The sensor is mounted in line with the seat belt. A strain gauge senses tension on the seat belt. An additional embodiment of the sensor includes three prongs attached to a common beam that allow the sensor to be slipped onto the seat belt without modification to the seat belt. A middle prong includes the strain gauge to sense movement relative to outside prongs. The seat belt threads over the outside prongs and under the middle prong such that tension on the seat belt forces the middle prong transversely to tension exerted on the seat belt.

Abstract: A rotary signal coupler for providing signal coupling to a Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) device (4) mounted on a shaft (5) comprises a first electrically conducting loop (21) mounted on a disc (23) and connected to the SAW device (4), and a second electrically conductive loop (22) mounted on a disc (24) and connected to external electronic circuitry. The disc (23) is fixed relative to the shaft (5) and the disc (24) is fixed relative to the structure in which the shaft (5) rotates so that the loops (21, 22) are inductively coupled. A grounded screen (27), which preferably takes the form of a plurality of radially extending fingers, is located on the disc (23) and positioned between the loops (21, 22) to eliminate capacitive coupling therebetween.

Abstract: An overload detection device for a high-lift work vehicle, capable of detecting the load on the work platform with a high degree of accuracy while adopting an inexpensive device configuration is provided. A base 10 of the work platform is supported with a bracket 9 at, at least, three supporting portions. Load sensors 11 each constituted of a plate member 14 and distortion gauges 15˜18 pasted onto the plate member 14 to detect the extent of its flexure are mounted at, at least, two of the supporting portions. The load sensors 11 are each mounted by connecting the two ends of the plate member 14 to the bracket 9 and the base 10 with bolts 22 and 25. Over the area where each load sensor is connected with either the bracket or the base 10, an elastic member such as disk springs 27˜29, which allows a displacement of the load sensor 11 relative to the bracket 9 or the base 10 along the upward direction and the downward direction is provided.

Abstract: A recording device allows wireless interrogation to determine its identity and its state. The state indicates whether one or more physical or chemical events have taken place. In effect, the one or more physical or chemical events are recorded by the device. The identity of the device allows it to be distinguished from a number of similar devices. The recording device may be used in an array of devices that allows wireless probing by an interrogation unit. When probed, each device tells the interrogator who it is and what state it is in. The devices allow multiple use and the interrogator may use a logical reset to determine the state of each device. The interrogator can thus easily identify particular items in an array that have reached a particular condition. The device may record the status of each device in a database to maintain a history for each.

Abstract: A method for monitoring an in-ground pipeline by detecting an occurrence of a contact with an in-ground pipeline via an acoustic sensor employing a first selected detection parameter and a second sensor employing a second selected detection parameter, which is different from the first selected detection parameter. The locations of the acoustic sensor and the second sensor are known and the input signals from the sensors arrive at a processor at different times and at known respective speeds such as to permit a determination of the point of contact with the in-ground pipeline.

Abstract: A sensor system (1; 20; 30; 40) is proposed for detecting forces which, particularly in the case of a motor vehicle, lead to a deformation of components, e.g. body parts (10) as the result of an accident. The sensor system (1; 20; 30; 40) has a number of contact elements (2, 3, 4; 21, 22, 23; 31, 32, 33) which are arranged on the component (10) staggered one behind the other in a possible deformation direction (11), compressible insulation layers (5, 6, 7; 24, 25; 35, 36) being disposed between the contact elements (2, 3, 4; 21, 22, 23; 31, 32, 33). The contact elements (2, 3, 4; 21, 22, 23; 31, 32, 33) are electroconductively connected to an electronic evaluation circuit by which a contacting and/or de-contacting of adjacent contact elements (2, 3, 4; 21, 22, 23; 31, 32, 33), caused by a deformation, is able to be detected and converted into control and or regulating signals.

Abstract: An oil pressure damper device for an architectural structure and a monitor and control system of the damper device without requiring an exclusive network for connecting between the damper devices and the monitor and control system, and is able to monitor operations without regard to the distance between the damper devices and the monitor system. The oil pressure damper device includes a detection unit for detecting conditions of the damper device, a communication unit for transmitting information detected by the detection unit through a public communication network and/or a local area network, and a monitor for receiving the information from the communication unit and monitoring the conditions of the damper devices of the architectural structure.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus is provided that comprises a shock detector for detecting a shock received by an electronic apparatus such as a portable telephone, a controller for comparing the value of the shock as detected by the shock detector with a reference value, and a memory element for storing an identifying signal generated when the value of a shock has exceeded the reference value and the value of shock, thereby enabling easy determination as to whether or not a breakdown has been caused by the shock.

Abstract: A pet training device designed to alert a pet owner that his/her pet would like to enter or exit the home.

Abstract: A vehicular sensor system of the present invention includes a plurality of bumper sensors mounted to a front bumper of a vehicle in a spaced relationship in a widthwise direction thereof, and a controller for controlling operations of two actuators for lifting up a trailing end of a hood responsive to output signals from the bumper sensors. The controller converts accelerations, detected by the respective bumper sensors, into deformation speeds, with the deformation speeds, associated with the sensors which are adjacent to one another, being added. When an added deformation speed exceeds a predetermined threshold level, the controller controls the actuators to be initiated.