Abstract: A chair occupancy monitoring device having pressure sensitive switch housed within a flexible cover. A cushion formed by a pair of foam pads positioned between the cover and the switch protects the switch and increases patient comfort. The switch includes first and second oppositely disposed base members. First and second electrical conductors are mounted to an interior portion of the first and second base members, respectively, on the surface facing the opposing base member. A gap is created between the electrical conductors by a pair of separator members which are disposed intermediate the oppositely disposed surfaces of the first and second base members and are mounted to a side portion of at least one of the base members. At least one electrically non-conductive contact limiter member is disposed intermediate the electrical conductors, covering a portion of the second electrical conductor.

Abstract: A weight sensing means for a forklift includes an elongated sleeve having a closed end and an open end in communication with an interior chamber. The interior chamber is dimensioned to receive a forklift lifting member. A weight sensing means is received within the interior chamber and is attached to the inner surface of the sleeve. The weight sensing means is in communication with a display means mounted on the forklift dashboard allowing a forklift operator to readily determine the weight of an object resting on the forklift blades. The weight sensing means is also in communication with an audible alarm means to alert a user whenever the lifting capacity of the forklift has been exceeded.

Abstract: A crime prevention display device is disclosed which includes a casing (21) provided therein with a chuck mechanism (20) for gripping a wire (W) inserted therethrough, a crime prevention alarm circuit (3) connected to the casing and a load detection means (40, 66, 25) for detecting a variation in load applied from an exhibit to the device. The load detection means (40) detects that removal of the exhibit held on the display device causes the device to be unloaded, so that the crime prevention alarm circuit (3) generates an alarm, leading to warning of the abnormality. Also, the crime prevention alarm circuit (3) generates an alarm sound, which is then collected by a sound wave receiver, followed by inputting of the alarm sound to a centralized control equipment (13), so that it may positively exhibit a crime prevention alarm function without causing any malfunction.

Abstract: A shoe size fit sensor indicates by a perceptible alarm that the shoe of an infant, a toddler or other small child is too tight for wear. The shoe fit sensor sets off a perceptible visual and or audible alarm when a child's toe makes constant with the sensor when the shoe is too tight. To avoid false alarms when the child kicks with the shoe, a time delay is provided so that incidental touching of the sensor by momentary kicks does not set off the constant alarm. The sensor also determines when a sock is "bunched up" in the toe area, and distinguishes this condition from a condition where constant contact by a portion of the child's foot indicates that the shoe is too tight.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive sparkless switching device includes a layer of piezoresistive cellular polymer foam, at least two conductive layers, and an insulative spacer element having at least one opening. When pressure is applied to the device the piezoresistive foam disposes itself through the opening of the spacer element and makes electrical contact between the conductive layers. The resistance of the piezoresistive foam varies with the amount of pressure applied to provide an analog as well as on-off function. The device may also provide multiple switching, and shear detection capabilities.

Abstract: An automotive air bag system and a method are provided which restrict activation of an air bag to situations in which the weight of the vehicle occupant meets or exceeds a predetermined amount, e.g., 50 pounds. Occupant weight is determined using a weight pressure sensor positioned underneath the vehicle seat such that it bears pressure from the weight of the seat occupant.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for effecting continuous automated querying of collection receptacles from a passing motor vehicle to ascertain whether articles have been deposited in each collection receptacle. Each collection receptacle has a detector capable of detecting whether at least one article has been placed within the collection receptacle, and a radio frequency transceiver. A motor vehicle provided for the purpose of collecting articles from the collection receptacles also has a transceiver. The transceiver of the motor vehicle continuously transmits a querying signal which is recognizable by the transceiver of each collection receptacle. When the detector has detected an article and a querying signal is received, the collection receptacle transmits an encoded response signal. This response signal is recognized by the transceiver of the motor vehicle, the identity of the transmitting collection receptacle is determined, and the results are annunciated to the operator of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: Deflections in supporting structures, due to external stress factors, can be detected with one or more energy beams generated along a path adjacent to the structure. Receivers are positioned in or near the path. Target blocks are positioned along the support structure. When a deflection occurs in the support structure, the targets are concurrently displaced into or out of the path. The receiver registers a change in state and activates an alarm. Multiple beams can be used to detect deflection in one of a number of predefined zones, the alarm indicating the zone in which the beam path was broken by the deflection.

Abstract: An underground vehicle sensing system extends below a vehicle travel surface to detect the presence of a vehicle. A conduit extends substantially horizontally underground from an access hole placed at the side of the vehicle travel surface. A plurality of sensors are spaced apart in the conduit to detect localized changes in the magnetic field. A plurality of sections house the probes and wiring to orient and position the probes. Sections detachably clip together to form a lightweight support structure and may be added one by one through the access hole. Lightweight extension members are utilized in some configurations between the support sections for positioning and supporting the probes.

Abstract: A weight overload alarm is provided including a plurality of shock absorbers with at least one having a limit switch. The limit switch is adapted to transmit an actuation signal upon the detection of an excessive weight on the vehicle. A light and an audible alarm are included for actuating upon the receipt of the actuation signal.

Abstract: A narrow, pressure-sensitive sensor pad for installation on top of and across the width of a mattress proximate the midsection of a reclining patient has both central and edge switching areas. The central pressure sensitive switch indicates the presence of a patient in the center of the bed. When a patient moves toward either edge of the bed, an edge switch is activated which generates an early warning signal indicating to attending personnel that a patient has moved from the center of the bed to an edge and may be attempting to exit the bed unattended. This early warning signal provides time for an attendant to reach the patient before he or she has actually evacuated the bed. In addition, the in-room alarm may remind a patient previously instructed not to leave the bed unassisted. The system prevents falls of dizzy or disoriented patients attempting to exit the bed without assistance.

Abstract: A vehicle detector for installation on the surface of a multi-lane road, comprising at least a coaxial detector cable provided with a central conductor, a metallic cladding and a filler material between the cladding and the conductor. The coaxial detector cable comprises at least one region which is referred to as the active region and in which the filler material is mechanoelectric, and also comprises at least one adjoining region which is referred to as a neutral region and in which the filler material is neither mechanoelectric nor potentially mechanoelectric.

Abstract: An instrument case and alarm is disclosed that provides a reliable alarm system that selectively uses audio, visual and radio alerts to attract attention to the case and instrument. In one preferred embodiment, the alarm emits a separate and distinct audible alarm if the instrument is removed from the case. The case comprises housing that protectively encloses the instrument. A door hinged mounts the housing to provide access therein. Several feet project from the housing to support the case. The alarm mounts inside the housing. A primary set switch penetrates the instrument case housing and the alarm frame. This primary switch is preferably key-operated. The switch sets the alarm. Preferably, my alarm has a selective down time. The alarm uses several triggers to sense detonation stimuli. The case trigger comprises two separately actuable sensor arrays. Preferably, at least one sensor on each array penetrates a case foot. Another trigger detects motions of the case. Another trigger detects case openings.

Abstract: The invention relates to a highly reliable mat sensor which can also detect temporary faults in a sensor portion. Two sensor portions are provided, and agreement or disagreement of an ON/OFF condition of the output from the two sensor portions is detected, and when the output conditions of the two sensor portions are in agreement, then a normal judgment signal for both sensor portions is generated. When the normal judgment signal is generated and the two sensor portions are OFF, an operation permit signal for a movable portion of a machine is generated. Moreover, the presence or absence of a body is detected from a change in value of the electrostatic capacity of one sensor portion. In this way, a temporary poor contact attributable to deterioration of the sensor portion can also be detected, and the movable portion of the machine can be stopped.

Abstract: This invention provides an overload protection device wherein a dangerous situation warning is given to workers in architectural construction when a load value imposed on a temporary column reaches a preset value. The device comprises a load pedestal above and a base pedestal below, a load detecting equipment which detects the load value on the load pedestal after converting the load value into a hydraulic pressure value, a pressure detecting equipment which operates when the pressure reaches the preset value, and a notice equipment which informs workers that the load value imposed on the temporary column has reached the preset value.

Abstract: A sensing unit to be positioned between the matress of a bed and the bed frame for monitoring an occupant of the bed, the sensor consisting of thinly spaced upper and lower steel plates between which is located a point sensor such as a Hall effect transducer or a reed switch. The upper plate flexes in response to the weight of an occupant above. The sensing unit is to be attached to a control unit which generates an audible and visible alarm signal when the occupant leaves the bed. In a different embodiment, sensors are located in the bed frame to monitor the occupant of the bed.

Abstract: A new Pressure Controlled Alarm Clock System for providing an alarm clock alarm which can not be turned off unless a user is removed from a bed, and where the alarm restarts if the user returns to the bed in a predetermined amount of time. The inventive device includes an alarm clock, a pressure switch normally open and in communication with the alarm clock to control the alarm, the pressure switch is positioned mesial a box spring and a mattress for determing if the user is in or out of the bed. The pressure switch further includes an adjustment member for adjusting the sensivity of the pressure switch. A heat sensing pad may be utilized as an alternative to the pressure switch thereby detecting the user's body heat near the surface of the mattress.

Abstract: A vehicular telecommunications system having user detection features. A telephone controller 504 is comprised in a vehicle and adapted to process a plurality of telephone signals. A telephone 37 is configured to receive telephone calls for the user from sources external to the vehicle in which the telephone is installed. A user detector 52 is operably coupled to the telephone controller 504 and configured to provide a signal to the telephone controller 504 indicative of whether the user associated with the telephone is determined to be present in a predetermined location of the vehicle, such that the telephone controller directs a received telephone call for the user to the telephone responsive to the signal. Exemplary user detectors include passive infrared detectors 52c and switching mechanisms 52a, 52b associated with a coupled seatbelt 523 or the user's presence in or near a seat 501.

Abstract: A vehicle safety system having crash detection circuitry and an airbag adjacent a vehicle seat further includes a system for determining the weight of a passenger on the vehicle seat. If the detected weight of the passenger does not exceed a predetermined weight threshold, the airbag is disabled. A forward sensor and a rear sensor are mounted in a vehicle seat adjacent a ferromagnetic structure element in the seat. The sensors measure strain on the ferromagnetic element, which is proportional to weight on the vehicle seat. A comparison of the measurements of the two sensors also provides an indication of the position of the passenger on the vehicle seat, such that the airbag may be disabled if the passenger is sitting too close to the airbag. Each of the sensors preferably comprises an electromagnet generating an oscillating magnetic field of a known frequency and a coil. Strain on the ferromagnetic element alters the magnetic field and such strain is detected by the coil.

Abstract: A low voltage switch pad that is placed outside an entrance door on a car seat or under a car floor mat, allowing a pet or person to activate a bell buzzer or a car warning device. This relates to providing a way for a pet to signal its owner eliminating long waiting periods at the door. It also provides a protection device when it is concealed on the seat of an automobile or under car floor mat. Other objects of the invention is to provide a multiple switch pad that is simple in design easy to build inexpensive to manufacture easy to use and is efficient in operation. These and other objects will become apparent upon the study of the following specifications.

Abstract: A detection device for data relating to the passage of vehicles over a road. The detection device is to be placed in a groove provided in the upper portion of the road and comprises a first profiled strip provided with an upper cavity in a U-shape, and a piezoelectric cable of the coaxial type arranged in the bottom of the cavity of the first profiled strip. A second profiled strip is arranged in the cavity of the first profiled strip on top of the coaxial cable. The second strip has a shape and dimensions such that it fills up the remaining volume of the cavity above the cable and seals this cavity.

Abstract: A work zone intrusion alarm system which sounds a siren to warn highway workers in the event a vehicle enters a work zone. Workers may thus react to errant vehicles in time to avoid injury. The work zone intrusion alarm system is composed of a series of pneumatic sensing lines arranged within a highway work zone adjacent a perimeter separating the work zone from oncoming traffic. The sensing lines are connected at junction boxes which include pressure switches. A warning alarm including a siren is activated by the pressure switch upon the compression of a sensing line when driven over by an errant vehicle.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a long term care device having a sensor thereon for detecting the presence of a patient on the device includes a microprocessor responsive to a resident program. A first circuit connected to the microprocessor and to the sensor automatically activates operation of the microprocessor to a "monitor" mode upon detection by the sensor of the patient's presence on the device, maintains operation of the microprocessor for a predetermined time period at least equal to a running time of the program and terminates operation of the microprocessor at the expiration of the predetermined time period after detection by the sensor of termination of the patient's presence on the device prior to expiration of the predetermined time period. A second circuit operates the system in response to commands manually applied to the second circuit to deactivate the system to a "hold/reset" mode after activating of the system to the "monitor" mode.

Abstract: An optical treadle of extended longevity is disclosed. The treadle is of unitary construction with an improved cross-sectional passageway shape that more effectively interrupts light when a vehicle tire passes thereover. A treadle assembly with permanently affixed light transmitting and light receiving means is also provided such that a failed assembly can be quickly replaced as a unit. Further, a roadway treadle assembly comprising a frame for installation in a roadway and an adapter plate for adapting a preexisting treadle frame are provided for mounting the treadle assembly across a surface portion of a roadway.

Abstract: A system for monitoring an infant-bearing device includes a microprocessor responsive to a resident program. A first circuit connected to the microprocessor and to a sensor automatically activates operation of the microprocessor to a "monitor" mode upon detection of the infant's presence, maintains operation of the microprocessor for a predetermined time period at least equal to a running time of the program and terminates operation of the microprocessor at the expiration of the predetermined time period if termination of the patient's presence occurs prior to expiration of the predetermined time period. A second circuit operates the system in response to signals received from a remote control device to deactivate the system from the "monitor" mode. The microprocessor is further responsive to the first circuit to activate the system to the "monitor" mode after deactivation if the sensor subsequently detects termination and resumption of the infant's presence on the device.

Abstract: A crime prevention display device is disclosed which includes a casing (21) provided therein with a chuck mechanism (20) for gripping a wire (W) inserted therethrough, a crime prevention alarm circuit (3) connected to the casing and a load detection means (40, 66, 25) for detecting a variation in load applied from an exhibit to the device. The load detection means (40) detects that removal of the exhibit held on the display device causes the device to be unloaded, so that the crime prevention alarm circuit (3) generates an alarm, leading to warning of the abnormality. Also, the crime prevention alarm circuit (3) generates an alarm sound, which is then collected by a sound wave receiver, followed by inputting of the alarm sound to a centralized control equipment (13), so that it may positively exhibit a crime prevention alarm function without causing any malfunction.

Abstract: A system connectible to an electrical power source for monitoring a short term care device having a sensor thereon for detecting the presence of a patient on the device includes a microprocessor and a plurality of circuits connected to the microprocessor. A first circuit connected to the microprocessor and to the sensor automatically initiates operation of the microprocessor upon detection by the sensor of the patient's presence on the device. A second circuit connected to the microprocessor provides an alarm upon demand by the microprocessor. A third circuit connected to the microprocessor is adapted to be interfaced with a nurse call station for generating signals to the station upon demand by the microprocessor. A fourth circuit connected to the microprocessor programs the system in response to commands manually applied to the fourth circuit.

Abstract: An alarm system as a support of an elevated floor, whose plurality of pressure sensing devices are installed as a support outside the floor of the protection area, wherein a pressure sensing device comprises: a cover in direct contact with the lower side of the floor; a vessel, mounted below the cover, having a basin in its middle below the cover, to be filled with liquid, the basin of the vessel having a hole, through which the liquid can flow; a seal, inserted between the cover and said vessel along the circumference of the basin to impermeably seal the basin, said cover and said vessel being not in contact with each other to leave a gap for the cover to move down; an elastic membrane, which is mounted tightly on the vessel at the place of the opening of the hole; and a sensor, which is in contact with the elastic membrane to sense the deformation of this membrane under the pressure of said liquid; whereat, when an external weight exerts pressure on the floor, the cover, having undergone pressure, in turn p

Abstract: Device for alarming foot weight capable of operating without restricting an individual's movement. The device comprising a power supply, at least one resistive force sensor, signal conditioning means, calibrating means, programming means and alarm generating means. The alarm generating means generates an alarm when the weight applied to the foot force sensor is at, within or above at least one weight limit or weight range.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive switch mat capable of interconnection with other such switch mats on all sides to eliminate non-activation zones as disclosed. The switch mat has a main switch mat portion and an activation edge on all sides of the switch mat. The activation edge includes a connector retainer lip, an actuation platform and an end portion. When an actuation force is applied to the actuation platform, the switch mat is actuated. A bridge connector for connecting adjacent pressure sensitive switch mats to eliminate non-activation zones therebetween is disclosed. Additionally, a control circuit for the switch mat system that has an integrity monitoring system for providing reliable control of the switch mat system is disclosed.

Abstract: A table-edge hanger having a hook for hanging a personal item such as a purse or a jacket. The hook may be movably attached so it can swing side to side. The hanger can also have a decorative attachment which can be a timepiece for keeping time. Preferably, the hanger has a microswitch for triggering an alarm if the personal item is removed from the hook or removed from the table together with the hanger. The alarm can be disabled with an on/off switch if desired.

Abstract: An intruder detecting device, which is to be installed in an integrated raised flooring system that includes a floor panel assembly and a plurality of pedestals for supporting the floor panel assembly on a base floor, has a housing, a restoring member, a switch unit and a piston. The housing includes a lower housing part and an upper housing part disposed coaxially and connected slidably and sealingly to the lower housing part so as to confine a sealed chamber therewith. The lower housing part is adapted to be disposed on one of the pedestals. The upper housing part is adapted to support the floor panel assembly thereon and is formed with an air hole and a hollow piston guide which opens downwardly and which is aligned axially with the air hole. The sealed chamber contains hydraulic fluid therein. The restoring member is disposed in the sealed chamber to bias the upper housing part away from the lower housing part.

Abstract: The system of the invention employs a control module in communication with a remote keyboard pad module and sensor housing, wherein typically a plurality of sensor housing are arranged, one mounted under a passenger and another under a drive portion of the associated vehicle seat, such that actuation of each or one of the sensors will effect actuation of an associated alarm upon failure to properly enter an associated numerical code into the keypad module upon lapse of an associated time interval. The sensors are arranged for mounting to the seat springs in a readily retrofit manner relative to an associated vehicle to orient the associated sensor plates of the sensor housing in proper orientation relative to the seat.

Abstract: The system includes (1) a sensor for detecting a separation of the portable computer from an object, the sensor transitioning from an inactivated state to an activated state when the portable computer is separated and (2) an alarm circuit coupled to the sensor and having a disarmed state and an armed state, the alarm circuit detecting when the sensor is in the activated state and issuing a notification when the alarm circuit is in the armed state and the sensor is in the activated state.

Abstract: An anti-car jacking/theft device for detecting an unauthorized person who is attempting to operate a vehicle and activating an alarm including a measurement mechanism adapted to be coupled to a driver's seat of a vehicle for transmitting an input weight signal indicating a person's weight; a key receiving mechanism adapted for receiving a user-supplied key and transmitting a reset signal when the key is activated, a set signal when the key is de-activated, and a key status ready signal having one mode indicating that the key receiving mechanism is active and another mode indicating that the key means is inactive; control circuitry for receiving the input weight signal from the measurement means and the reset signal, set signal, and key status ready signal from the key receiving means, comparing the input weight signal with a resident reference weight signal and a resident input threshold signal with the control circuitry having one mode for transmitting an alarm command signal indicating that an unauthorized

Abstract: A warning apparatus comprising a plurality of warning mat units interconnected and arranged side by side in a such manner as to surround a dangerous area, in which the warning mat units each comprise a base plate, a flexible cover sheet secured to an upper side of the base plate, the cover sheet being provided with a plurality of upwardly expanded shells having an inside hollow room and air circulation apertures, and a warning sound generator accommodated in the inside room of the shell, in which the warning sound generator comprises a closed elastic tube fastened on the base plate and a whistle affixed to a wall aperture of the closed elastic tube so as to give forth sound by the effect of air flow passing between an inside and an outside of the closed elastic tube.

Abstract: An oven occupancy warning apparatus for domestic cooking ovens which senses the presence of an object within the oven and provides a warning of such presence. Except for the subject apparatus, the oven is of conventional construction and thus has a heating chamber and a food rack supported in the chamber. The apparatus supports the rack for slight pivoting or rocking movement about a horizontal axis in response to the presence of an object resting on the rack, regardless of where on the rack the object is located. An alarm activator associated with the rack is activated when the rack pivots in response to the presence of an object thereon, and an alarm is activated by the alarm activator to alert a user of the oven that an object is in the oven. The apparatus is useful with both gas and electrically heated ovens and is especially useful to alert a user of an object in the oven before preheating the oven, an action frequently taken without opening the oven.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for simultaneously activating a warning device and deactivating turning rolls on which a vessel rotatably rests whenever the vessel rises off of one of the turning rolls. The device is provided with two safety switches which are positioned under and at either end of the vessel and adjusted so that a switch roller provided on a distal end of an upwardly biased switch arm of each safety switch engages the vessel, thereby causing the switch arm to move downward and thereby closing the switch. When the vessel moves upward, the switch opens. The switches are connected in a series circuit, with one leg of the series circuit supplying power to a contactor holding coil which controls a current controlling contactor in order to repeatedly make and break a circuit which supplies power to the turning rolls and a second leg of the series circuit supplying power to the warning device. The turning rolls are activated and the warning device is deactivated when all switches are closed.

Abstract: A traffic sensor including piezoelectric sensors having different polarities in different lanes of the roadway so that traffic data for different lanes of a roadway may be discriminated from the polarity of the received signal(s). Preferably, the piezoelectric sensors are formed by splicing oppositely polarized piezoelectric cables or films, by changing the applied electric field during manufacture so that adjacent portions of a piezoelectric cable or film have different polarities, or by applying an electric field of a reversed polarity to respective longitudinal sections of a piezoelectric film. Traffic data from up to 8 different lanes of traffic may be discriminated using only two piezoelectric sensors in accordance with the invention by providing unique combinations of output polarities for deflections of the piezoelectric sensors in the different lanes.

Abstract: A bidirectional road traffic sensor include several respective lengths of coaxial piezoelectric cable each having a conductive core, a conductive polymer surrounding the core, a conductive sheath therearound and an electrically non-conductive jacket therearound. The cables are spliced together such that conductive core and conductive sheath of one length of piezoelectric cable is spliced respectively to the conductive sheath and conductive core of another piezoelectric cable. The splices are encapsulated in an electrically non-conductive material so that the spliced lengths of piezoelectric cables respectively constitutes positive, neutral and negative piezoelectric sensors. Pressure changes in the piezoelectric sensors are caused by vehicle passage thereover. In such a manner, electrical pulses are responsively produced by passage of vehicles traversing respective detection zones defined by the sensors and moving in respective particular directions so that such passage of such vehicles may be registered.

Abstract: An intrusion detection device that can be used singly or in multiplicity to immediately and silently alert the user of attempts to climb over a security fencing system. The invention consists of a base element which attaches to the security fencing, and an alarming arm. The alarming arm is equipped with barrier material, such as concertina wire or barbed wire. The alarming arm is connected to the base element both at a pivot point and through a tensioning means. Attempts to climb over the barrier material result in additional loading of the alarming arm which rotates transversely about the pivot point, and against the force of the tensioning means. This rotational displacement of the alarming arm enables an electrical sensing device which then signals that an intrusion is in progress.

Abstract: A wire fence alarm system 10 comprises a plurality of zones in which a wire or set of wires is stretched between two anchor posts. A sensing post includes sensors for detecting deflection of one of the wires and a processor for generating alarms responsive to signals from the sensors. One or more of the anchor posts comprise rotating members attached to the wires. Use of the anchor post to climb the fence will result in an imbalance in the forces applied to the rotating members by the wires, thereby initiating an alarm condition.

Abstract: In an intrusion detection system, at least one optical cable is provided, through which light enters at one of its ends and exits at the other end, at which other end a device for detecting changes in the light intensity passing through the cable is also provided. The system is usually part of a fence, but it can be used in structures such as roofs, windows, etc. When an intruder exerts force on the optical cable, its movement actuates a mechanical device so that a member thereof exerts pressure at a certain place on the cable, deforming the optical cable and causing light attenuation which is detected and actuates an alarm. When used as part of a fence, such mechanical sensing devices are provided at certain intervals from each other. Optical cables can be provided at different heights of such a fence, with light intensity attenuation means as described above.

Abstract: A capacitive sensor pad includes a foam plastic pad and heavy aluminum foil plates located to the opposite side thereof. The plates are adhesively bonded to the inner surfaces of an outer cover. The capacitor of the pad is connected in circuit with an oscillator and produces a frequency-related output. A ripple counter establishes a frequency-related output proportional to the capacitance. A microprocessor reads the counter output and a plurality of samples are averaged to establish a reference base and the true weight affect of the patient on the sensing pad. Other factors which might effect the signal are readily attended to by programmed compensation. Each subsequent sample is averaged and compared with the reference base. If within a permitted range, the latest and current signal is averaged with the reference base and establishes a new base, and continuously tracks changes in the sensing system.

Abstract: Deflections in support structures, due to external stress factors, can be detected by a series of laser beams. A laser is positioned at the perimeter of the structure. The laser generates a laser beam along a path adjacent to the structure, and the beam strikes a receiver across from the laser. Solid target blocks are positioned along the support structure. When deflection occurs in the support structure, the targets are concurrently displaced into the path of the laser beam. The receiver registers the break in the laser beam and activates an alarm. Each beam is set to detect deflection in the structure within predefined zones, and the alarm indicates the zone in which the laser beam path was broken by the deflection.

Abstract: The security device receives longitudinal tension from a taut wire of a fence and preferably is placed in-line in the taut wire system away from posts used to support the fence. The security device senses variations in the longitudinal tension in the taut wire and produces a tension signal which is transmitted to a central location when it senses such a tension deviation. The security device may be used in conjunction with a resistance sensing device to provide further protection. The resistance of a conductive loop formed either by the taut wire or by the combination of the taut wire and another conductor is monitored and a resistance signal is produced when it senses either a discontinuity or a variation in the resistance of the loop. The method of the present invention includes steps for receiving the tension in the taut wire and producing a signal when the tension in the taut wire varies more than a triggering amount.

Abstract: A traffic counting cord has a plurality of sections designed to be identical in physical characteristics, set-up procedures, durability and performance as a road tube. Each section has a portion with conductive upper and lower members and a portion with non-conductive upper and lower members. The upper and lower members are separated by resilient, non-conductive material. Embedded within the members are a plurality of wires insulated with nylon or other material and at least one non-insulated wire which is in contact with the conductive member. A count occurs when traffic impacting the cord causes the upper and lower members of a section to make contact. Individual counts for each lane can be obtained by cross-wiring the sections, so that the uninsulated conductors of each section are routed to a counter through insulated conductors or wires of the other sections. Any even or odd number of lanes, typically four, six, or eight lanes can be accommodated, although there is no theoretical limit.

Abstract: A sensing and detecting apparatus includes an elongate sensor for placement parallel to one axis of a bed. The sensor includes a first and second conductive members, the first conductive member having a resistance-per-unit-length substantially different from that of the second conductive member. One of the conductive members is electrically coupled to a source of electrical power wherein the weight of the body in the bed urges the first and second conductive members together to define an electrical path for output of a sensor signal, which varies in magnitude responsive to the position of the body along the sensor. The apparatus according to the present invention further includes an alarm circuit, with means for comparing the sensor signal to predetermined position and activity level values, and triggering an alarm or alarm signal in the event the position and or activity level values are exceeded.

Abstract: A unitary flexible housing includes a top wall, having first and second contact plates mounted within a housing alarm cavity positioned between the top wall and the bottom wall, wherein a control housing is arranged to effect actuation of an audible alarm upon the first and second contact plates directed in communication relative to one another upon a vehicle directing the contact plates together. A visual alarm is optionally employed. The housing includes a bottom wall, including projecting nodes for effecting a non-skid bottom wall surface.

Abstract: A safety device which is responsive to excessive wave motion of a body of water includes a housing having a pivotable telescoping arm connected thereto. A pair of spaced apart probes are mounted on the end of the arm. The probes are connected to a control circuit located in the housing. The control circuit measures the electrical resistance between the two probes, which is normally an open circuit. In use, the arm is manipulated so as to position the probes a desired distance above the normal water level when no one is in the pool. Thus, the space separating the two probes is normally not bridged by water from the pool. When a person enters the pool, however, larger waves are created. These larger waves splash across the probes, bridging the space therebetween. As a result, the electrical resistance between the probes decreases. The control circuit is responsive to this change for generating an alarm. The safety device may also include a pressure responsive switch secured to a step of a ladder in the pool.