Abstract: A method and apparatus for establishing an average test time (TA) include determining a first time interval (TG) nominally associated with non-failing testing of a unit under test (UUT), and determining a second time interval (TPR) nominally associated with troubleshooting and repairing a failed unit under test. Additionally, a percent yield (Y) nominally associated with a proportion of non-failing units under test is determined. The average test time is a sum of the first time interval associated with the non-failing testing of the UUT, and a ratio of the second time interval associated with troubleshooting and repair of a failed UUT with respect to the yield.

Abstract: A device for calculating the steady state behavior of a controller includes an amount generating unit for generating the amount of deviation of the regulator, a first threshold value calculation unit that detects whether the amount of deviation of the regulator has fallen below a first threshold value and then starts a lag time delay unit, and a second threshold value calculation unit that detects whether the amount of deviation of the regulator has fallen below a second threshold value. A signal transmission unit transmits a ready message signal when the lag time delay unit has reached a predetermined lag time and the second threshold value calculation unit has detected that the amount of deviation of the regulator has fallen below the second threshold value.

Abstract: The swim lap counter comprises a top section and a bottom section. In one aspect of the invention, the bottom section is suspended from the top section and comprises a pressure sensitive panel and a submersible digital display. The submersible digital display is disposed proximate the bottom edge of the bottom section.

Abstract: A display device for displaying an event and method for monitoring and displaying a time interval related to a non-displayed past event and/or a non-displayed future event. A displayed event of a person or event is displayed on a support member, such as a frame or plaque. A timer is provided to calculate an accumulating time interval and/or a reducing time interval. The accumulating time interval measures the current elapsed time from a non-displayed past event. The reducing time interval measures the time remaining from a current time to a non-displayed future event. The time intervals are displayed on a timer display that is disposed adjacent the displayed event to remind an observer of the time to a non-displayed future event and/or of the time from a non-displayed past event.

Abstract: Time or time-temperature indicating articles are described comprising a housing enclosing: (a) a first fluid reservoir at least partially filled with a first fluid; (b) a substrate comprising a plurality of channels; (c) a second fluid reservoir in fluid communication with at least one channel of the substrate; and (d) a barrier located between the first fluid reservoir and the second fluid reservoir. The article can be manipulated at a desired point in time by opening the barrier to allow at least a portion of the fluid to flow from the first reservoir to the second reservoir and to contact at least one channel of the substrate. The article is designed to provide an indication of the progress of the fluid as it moves through the channels of the substrate.

Abstract: A traffic signal includes a micro-controller in communication with a switching system. The micro-controller executes a process for controlling a signal indicator according to a selected signal cycle. First and second actuators communicate with the corresponding first and second input terminals of the micro-controller. The first actuator causes the micro-controller to execute a first signal cycle. The second actuator causes the micro-controller to execute a second signal cycle.

Abstract: A portable device that helps a person control food consumption by slowing the eating process to a pace that provides time for the human brain to signal (through hormones such as Sulfated Cholecystokinin) a “sensation of fullness” before overeating or “binge eating” can occur, to normalize mealtime social behavior by encouraging relaxation and conversation when eating with others, and to control medical conditions including Bulimia and Anorexia. The apparatus includes red and green lights (22, 20), a circuit (46) that controls energization of the lights, and a pushbutton switch (42) that operates a portion of a circuit. When the push button (44) is depressed, the circuit energizes the red light (22) for a predetermined wait period such as 20 seconds (which can be varied), to indicate that the person should not eat. Then, the circuit energizes the green light (20), to indicate that the person can take one or two bites of food at his/her convenience.

Abstract: The invention provides microstructured time dependent indicators including timers, time/temperature indicators, etc. The indicators are preferably highly accurate and easy to read. The invention also includes indicators which are game pieces, calendars, greeting cards, etc. The indicators function by flow of a material through channels of a microstructured substrate.

Abstract: A device for calculating a time gap between successive transitions of an incident signal includes an input stage which detects and selects transitions of an incident signal and calculates the time gap between each selected transition and an edge of a sampling clock signal. An assemblage of at least three blocks is also included. Each of the blocks includes a storage cell and a counter regulated by the sampling clock signal. In response to each selected current transition, a checking circuit or processor initializes the counter of the first block of the assemblage and stores in the cell of the first block the value of the time gap corresponding to the selected current transition. The contents of a block of the assemblage may then be transferred into a next block. The time interval between two successive selected transitions is determined based upon the counter values and the time gaps.

Abstract: A discrete iterative and recursive operator reminder system and method for modifying recognized unwanted behavior, such as nail biting or poor posture. The system uses a combination of manual operator input and prior history to establish the timing of future prompting signals and lead a user successively to the desired result. It calculates the timing of each future prompting signal based upon the most recent operator response indicating whether the operator was engaged in the monitored behavior at the time of prompting signal generation. The system houses its microprocessor in a familiar object used for another purpose, such as a writing implement, wristwatch, or pocket-sized trinket, or is adapted for use within the programmed structure of a personal computer, cell phone, electronic notebook, pager, hand-held organizer, or other similar electronic device. The system may optionally display behavior related data, such as current date, time, progress graph, and average signal interval.

Abstract: A timing device for use in athletic workouts which measures the passage of short intervals of time such as the recovery periods between successive sets of exercise is disclosed. The present timing device is contained in a housing which may be worn on an elastic band about a user's thumb and actuated by a single finger on the same hand. In one embodiment the timing device includes a sliding interval selector switch that enables the user to select preset time intervals of fifteen, thirty, forty-five, and sixty seconds. The interval selector switch actuates a count-down timer which transmits a signal to a miniature speaker to produce an audible alarm, or in the alternative, to a vibratory device advantageous to visually or hearing impaired users. In an alternative embodiment the timing device includes a microprocessor having memory and computing functions which permit desired time intervals to be programmed by the user.

Abstract: A food storage monitoring system device comprising a battery powered digital timer device having an LCD digital readout describing the elapsed days and hours per day, and a reset button to reset the timer. A magnet is permanently attached to the timer device, and removably attached to a ferromagnetic catch having a double sided adhesive tape attached to one face for attaching the catch to a food storage container. A set of devices can be stored on a refrigerator or freezer door. The catch is adhesively attached to a food storage container, and the timer device is magnetically attached to the catch with the timer device started. Upon retrieving the food container and emptying its contents, the timer device and the first magnet portion is returned to the refrigerator or freezer door, and the empty container and the attached catch can be washed in a dishwasher.

Abstract: The present invention provides a convenient, effective, and interactive system to aid children or others in managing and understanding the concept of time and in remembering scheduled events. The present event clock visually demonstrates the time during which at least one predetermined event is scheduled to occur. Generally, the event clock includes a timing mechanism, an indicator operatively connected to the timing mechanism, and at least one (and preferably several) event marker(s). Each event marker visually symbolizes (through pictures, words, or otherwise) a scheduled event and is disposed in relation to the indicator such that the indicator provides a signal during the time the event is scheduled to occur.

Abstract: A children's timer device for assisting children in determining the difference between waking time and sleeping time is provided. The device comprises a housing having a viewing opening and a viewing cylinder rotatably mounted within the housing. The viewing cylinder has at least a first scenic image and a second scenic image with each scenic image alternatingly viewable through the viewing opening in the housing. A clock mechanism sets a predetermined time period for viewing at least the first scenic image wherein upon rotation of the viewing cylinder to display only the first scenic image through the viewing opening, the entire first scenic image remains viewable through the viewing opening for the duration of the predetermined time period such that upon expiration of the predetermined time period, the viewing cylinder begins rotation and rotates until only the second scenic image is viewable through the viewing opening.

Abstract: A timer is made up of a base unit and an operation unit. The base unit is composed of a support body, a disk, and a core located between the support body and the disk. The disk is provided with a retaining ring having an indentation, and a timing scale. The core has a rotary shaft extending toward the disk. The operation unit consists of a lower housing, an upper housing, an action member, and an elastic member. The upper housing has a cylindrical portion provided with a sliding portion and a shaft fastening portion. The shaft fastening portion is provided with an axial hole in which the rotary shaft of the core of the base unit is retained. The upper housing is disposed on the lower housing and provided with a pointer corresponding in location to the scale of the disk of the base unit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that is attachable to a receptacle for timing a predetermined interval according to a timing schedule of a set of timing schedules. The apparatus has an electronic timing circuit that provides an alarm signal at the expiration of the predetermined time interval. The timing circuit includes a set of inputs and a set of outputs that are both connected to processing circuitry. The processing circuitry defines the set of selectable timing schedules. The inputs correspond to the timing schedules, and the outputs issue the alarm signals. The apparatus also includes a sensing mechanism for selectively engaging an input based on the position of the mechanism. Each timing schedule is selectable by the device through the inputs that are engaged and disengaged.

Abstract: A device for measuring mean staying time of persons inside a building by processing signals from an entry/exit detector that outputs entry and exit signals when persons enter into and exit from the building. The device includes a staying measurer for determining the number of persons staying inside the building by subtracting the number of exit signals from the number of entry signals, an entry or exit measurer for determining the number of persons who have entered into or exited from the building by counting the entry or exit signals per predetermined period of time, and a calculating section for calculating the mean staying time of persons in the building during such a time period by dividing the number of persons staying inside at the time the unit time has expired by the number of persons who have exited.

Abstract: A time measurement device useful with laser range cameras and time-of-flight measuring methods includes a light transmitter responsive to start and stop signals for transmitting the light during a time interval to be measured, and a light receiver for receiving the light and for providing an output signal related to an exposure of the light during the time interval time between start and stop signals to the transmitter The output signal thus providing a measurement of the time between the start and the stop signals. The transmitter includes a light emitting diode to which an electrical current is provided for generating a constant output light source for the transmitter. The light receiver includes charged coupled devices (CCD) having a linear response to an amount of exposure to the light received from the light transmitter. As a result, the CCD provides the output signal in a linear relationship to the amount of exposure to the light, and thus a measurement of the time interval.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring, calculating and displaying swim related information includes a waterproof enclosure with an internal microcomputer programmed to calculate various indicators of swim performance including number of strokes, stroke cycle, stroke rate, velocity and swim stroke efficiency among others. The device is self contained and strapped to the swimmer's wrist during swimming. Function buttons on the exterior of the device control its operation and allow the swimmer to select from various exercise modes and display features. A swim stroke is detected by the use of metallic sensors which extend along the top surface of the device. The sensors act as a short circuit when submerged in water to cause an interrupt condition of the internal microprocessor corresponding to a stroke. The device is secured to a swimmer's wrist by one or more adjustable straps.

Abstract: A teaching clock with removable repositionable pieces for representing different periods of time including a housing having an interior and an opening for allowing access to the interior; a timing mechanism disposed within the interior of the housing for keeping track of a current hour of a day; a dial face plate extended over the timing mechanism of the housing; an hour hand coupled to the timing mechanism, disposed over the dial face plate, and rotatable relative to the dial face plate for indicating the current hour; a plurality of different-sized and generally pie-shaped pieces positionable upon the dial face plate and below the hour hand, each piece subtending a sectoral region on the dial face plate in relation to the hour hand for representing a period of time when a certain activity is to be performed; and a first coupling mechanism for removably coupling the pieces to the dial face plate.

Abstract: A device for mounting on the wrist of an individual. The device includes a motion-sensing element that is coupled to and starts a timing unit when the wrist is moved--as in raising an utensil of food to the mouth. The timing unit is coupled to a signal generator that it actuates after a given interval of time. The signal generator actuates an annunciator unit, in contact with the wrist of the individual, that produces a tangible sensation on the wrist of the individual to advise the individual that it is time for more food, and that the cycle can be repeated. The tangible sensation may be a physical prodding or and electrical stimulus, but it must not be apparent to anyone but the individual. The given interval may be adjusted to the needs of the individual.

Abstract: While the electric power source is turned on, capacitor 1 is charged to a voltage EO by a direct current constant voltage supplier through transistor 4. When the electric power is disconnected, transistor 4 is switched off to discharge capacitor 1 through resistor R1. When the power source is turned on, the voltage of capacitor 1 is read by A/D converter to be produced and stored in CPU 12 memory. Then transistor 4 is switched on to charge capacitor 1 to the voltage EO. Then transistor 4 is switched off and transistor 5 is switched on to discharge capacitor 1 through resistor R2 and a counter stars. When the voltage of capacitor 1 reduces to the same voltage stored in the memory, transistor 5 is switched off to stop the counter and to obtain the counted value t2. Then transistor 4 is switched on to prepare for the next operation. The time lapse t1 after the power source being turned off is obtained by a formula (R1/R2).times.t2.

Abstract: A display unit is arranged in cooperation with a twenty-four hour clock to effect registration and storage of timed events and permitting recall of the timed events, with the unit arranged for ease of mounting within an emergency vehicle and the like.

Abstract: A combination electronic digital wristwatch and electronic shift scheduler using a digital liquid crystal display, enclosed within a watch-type case, for use primarily by firefighters. The invention provides both a device and a method that allows an individual who needs to keep track of platoon and shift schedule information to enter, display, review, search, and modify that information on a full-function wristwatch. The combination includes time and date display, a chronograph function, and an alarm clock with chime. Four switches are connected to a signal conditioner for encoding each switch closure to be input into a CPU which generates the required signals for the display after reference to the calendar information stored in the ROM and the user input information stored in the RAM. The CPU makes the calculations required for the operation of this invention.

Abstract: A simple and inexpensive, preferably disposable, medication package which is capable of reminding a user when it is time to take the medication. In one embodiment the package is an ordinary medicine bottle with the cap modified so as to include a timer, a battery, a buzzer or display light and a means for closing a circuit. When the cap is closed, the circuit is automatically closed through contact with a conducting material on the upper edge of the bottle. In another embodiment, the container is of the foil pack variety. A receptacle is provided. When the foil pack is inserted into the receptacle, the circuit is closed energizing the timer and related mechanisms. In a third embodiment, the container is again of the foil pack variety where the foil has a suitable resistivity. No receptacle is included. Rather, the timer mechanism is activated through the sensing of a resistance change as the foil is ruptures whenever each of the pills is removed.

Abstract: In a pressure instrument with depth/altitude and time display, a measurement time period from a starting instant up to a stopping instant of the time measurement is measured by measurement-time counting means, and also another measurement data is acquired by detecting pressures from the starting instant up to the stopping instant of the pressure measurement. After the measurements are taken and when a measurement stop signal is outputted, a determination is made whether or not the measured time periods are longer than a predetermined time period. If the measured time period is longer than a predetermined time period, this dive is regarded as one for which it is required to store a record, and then the measurement data acquired between the starting instant and the stopping instant of the measurement are stored in a memory.

Abstract: Swim/sporting event timer/counter. A waterproof housing has upwardly projecting digital displays and two spaced ultrasonic receivers. A swimmer wears an ultrasonic transmitter tuned to ultrasonic receivers. by measuring the time differential for the ultrasonic signals from the transmitter to reach the receivers in the housing, the position of the swimmer (i.e., in front of, directly over, or behind the housing), is determined. Laps are identified by determining when the transmitted signal changes from being received by the two receivers by an increasing time differential to being received by a decreasing time differential. Each time the swimmer passes over the housing, the numbers on the display are inverted so that the swimmer may look down into the water and see the time regardless of which direction the swimmer is traveling in the lane or other predetermined course.

Abstract: A swim/sporting event timer/counter times a athlete moveing along a predetermined path based on signals received from the athlete. A time counter begins when movement of the athlete is detected. Based upon the amount of time it takes for the athlete to pass by the timing system, the time counter is automatically adjusted, if necessary, to account for the time counter having been started at an incorrect time.

Abstract: A device for displaying information by means of a hand which is driven by a stepping motor rotatable in both forward and backward directions and which moves within a limited range, in which the stepping motor receives a driving signal enough to move and scan the hand in one direction in the whole range of the limited region for facilitating the attachment of the hand, and depending on the object to be measured, overtravel inhibiting circuit means are added to prevent any misdisplay.

Abstract: A control unit for indicating the status of a procedure is provided with a first indicator for indicating that the start of the procedure is imminent, a second indicator for indicating that the procedure has commenced, and a third indicator for indicating that the procedure is complete. A controller is provided to ensure that only one of the second and third indicators is energized after the procedure has been commenced and that neither indicator is energized until the procedure has commenced. Remote indicator units having their own sets of first, second and third indicators that operate in slaved configuration with the first, second and third indicators may also be provided. When used in connection with a treatment room, the first indicator also indicates that the room is occupied.

Abstract: An electronic stop watch measures an elapsed time, and stores each measured elapsed time together with measurement date data. The measurement date data is also read out and displayed when the stored elapsed time is read out and displayed, so as to represent when the readout and displayed elapsed time was measured.

Abstract: An apparatus including a lid for surroundingly mounting an underlying container. The lid includes a recessed top surface to pivotally mount a first and second arm for indication of a month and associated day appearing on the lid in an annular array about the lid. A locking hub is provided at the axis of the arms, wherein the locking hub is provided with a scalloped lower terminal edge receivable within recesses mounted within the lid. A modification includes the hub formed with a "J" shaped shank receivable within a rectangular slot axially formed through the lid, wherein the shank is rotatable within the slot ninety degrees to depress an associated locking spring formed with edges to embed within the underlying container to securably lock the container to the lid.

Abstract: A safety belt assembly of the present invention measures the amount of force exerted on the assembly and also the point in time when a force was exerted on the assembly. The assembly includes a first and second member associated with one another, mechanism associated with the first and second members for resiliently restraining relative movement and movably retaining said members with respect to one another; a mechanism responsive to relative movement of the first and second members for enabing a measurement of force and indicating a point in time when a force was exerted on the assembly; and a mechanism for securing the assembly to a safety belt and/or a buckle or anchor. A chemical timer for measuring the elapsed time since a force was exerted on the assembly.

Abstract: A directional starting spring which ensures that an AC synchronous motor is rotating in the proper direction is disclosed. The AC synchronous motor includes a circular magnet rotating in "synch" with the frequency of the alternating current. The magnet rotates a worm gear attached to the center on its axial face. This worm gear drives a second worm gear positioned perpendicular to the first worm gear. The second worm gear drives a series of gears which display the elapsed time. Attached to this second worm gear is the directional starting spring. If the motor is rotating in the proper direction the spring contacts the housing of the meter and slides on the second worm gear. If the motor is rotating in the wrong direction the spring contacts the axial face of the magnet stopping the rotating magnet and pushing it in the proper direction.

Abstract: A mechanical interval timer and method of manufacturing same including an adjustable bearing permitting adjustment of the space between the escape wheel and the escape lever disc to obtain an accurate timing rate through precalibration of one sample made from a selected group of parts for the timer.

Abstract: A telecontrol system for a motor-vehicle (1) includes receiver (2) and transmitter (3). The receiver (2) is incorporated in the rearview mirror (4) of a motor-vehicle (1) and includes an electronic digital clock whose display (5) is provided on the back of the mirror and can be viewed through the windshield. The transmitter (3) controls also the elctric actuators (8) for locking and unlocking an doors of the vehicle (1), and the anti-theft device. The transmitter is of pocket size and comprises an electronic minute-counter with respective display (15). Through the provision of a control key (13) on the transmitter (3), the indication of the time is made visible and locked on the display (5) of the electronic clock of the receiver (2), and at the same time the minute-counter of the transmitter (3) is started. Two further control keys (11,12) on the transmitter (3) enable the door-locks of the motor-vehicle (1) to be unlocked and locked, and the anti-theft device (17) to be deactivated and activated.

Abstract: A mechanical interval timer and method of manufacturing same including an adjustable bearing permitting adjustment of the space between the escape wheel and the escape lever disc to obtain an accurate timing rate through precalibration of one sample made from a selected group of parts for the timer.

Abstract: An electronic stop watch measures an elapsed time, and stores each measured elapsed time together with measurement date data. The measurement date data is also read out and displayed when the stored elapsed time is read out and displayed, so as to represent when the readout and displayed elapsed time was measured.

Abstract: A self contained electronic timer device for controlling the length of time that a peripheral device connected to the timer will operate. The timer has a novel way of use a capacitor bank with charge ladling so that a precision time can be selected with a minimal of cheap components.

Abstract: A timing mechanism for use with a board game to indicate by sound and movement the time period allotted for answering a question or performing a turn or function. It includes a sphere such as a marble which rolls on a circular saucer having an upwardly facing conical plastic surface with a central depression. The central depression is sized to receive and hold the marble. An inclined ramp is formed at the periphery of the circular saucer and it has a width and incline sufficient to permit the marble to roll from the ramp onto the upwardly facing concave surface. A starting pad is located at the top of the inclined ramp on which to place the sphere to begin its downwardly roll. The starting pad is inclined so that the sphere and marble will not rest on the starting pad, but will immediately start its downwardly inclination when released.

Abstract: A method and arrangement for entering a switching program into an electronic timer, in particular a kitchen range timer, wherein the switching program consists of at least one switching cycle within a predetermined time range, preferably within 23 hours and 59 minutes. The switching cycle is timely defined through any two of three entities consisting of switching cycle-start, switching cycle-period and switching cycle-end, wherein the entry is effected serially in the form of sequential input pulses, which have an information relative to the setting direction (forward or backwards) associated therewith, and which is preferably counted in a forward-backward counter arrangement.

Abstract: The present safety belt assembly measures the amount of force exerted on the assembly and, also, the point in time when a force was exerted on the assembly. The assembly comprises a first and second member; a mechanism coupled with the first and second members which provides incremental movement of the members; a resilient biasing member in communication with the members for maintaining the members in a first relaxed position; the resilient biasing member enabling the measurement of an amount of force exerted on the assembly; a mechanism for indicating when a force is exerted on the assembly and a mechanism for securing the assembly to a belt and buckle.

Abstract: A clock construction and method for making the same are provided, the clock construction comprising a frame, an interval timer carried by the frame, and a selector shaft rotatably carried by the frame while being axially movable relative thereto and being operatively interconnected to the timer to set the same to a selected time period upon rotation of the selector shaft. The timer has a cam member rotatably disposed on the shaft and has a slot in one side thereof. The shaft has a drive member disposed in the slot to rotate the cam member in unison with rotation of the shaft in any axial position of the shaft. A spring is disposed between the frame and the drive member to tend to maintain the shaft in one axial position thereof. The spring is confined completely within the slot of the cam in all axial positions of the shaft relative to the frame.

Abstract: A color change indicator including: a liquid having a predetermined index of refraction and rate of evaporation; a reservoir for holding the liquid; and an opacifying layer of microporous material. The opacifying layer has an index of refraction approximately the same as that of the liquid and overlies the reservoir. The opacifying layer has an open-cell network of pores for absorbing the liquid from the reservoir and is in a first radiation scattering condition when the liquid occupies the opacifying layer and in a second scattering condition when the liquid is depleted from the opacifying layer.

Abstract: An elapsed time indicator in which an indicator, such as a flowable colorant, is releasably contained within an enclosure at least a portion of which is a volatilizable, preferably sublimable, substance.

Abstract: An inspecting liquid is dropped onto a resist layer formed on a gravure printing plate and is allowed to permeate the resist layer or gelatin resist layer to reach the printing plate so that a short circuit is formed between the inspecting liquid and the printing plate. The time required for forming the short circuit in the resist layer is measured by utilizing an oscillator pulse counting circuit to determine the conditions of the resist layer thereby to improve the quality of the finished printing plate.

Abstract: Disclosed is a digital menstrual cycle indicator for indicating the fertile portion of a woman's menstrual cycle. A standard watch module that can be continuously operated in a certain adjust mode, has a multidigit display and a clock pulse source, so the module serves as an inexpensive display and clock pulse source. A divider circuit is used to divide the output of the clock pulse source and increment the multidigit display by "1" once each twenty-four hours, after the module has been forced into the adjust mode. A hidden switch is used to force the module into the adjust mode, clear the divider and clear the display. Failsafe circuits are included to prevent the erroneous display of data due to a weak battery or an interruption of the power or ground buses.

Abstract: A resuscitation-assistive timer is utilized to provide audio or visual signals which act as cues to aid pediatric and adult resuscitations by indicating timing for chest compression and respiratory effort in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. Short audio and visual signals are utilized to indicate the compression period whereas an elongated audio and/or visual signal is used to indicate the period for respiratory effort. For infants a ratio of five compressions to each respiratory effort is utilized, with the respiratory effort taking approximately two times as long as the cardiac compression. In one embodiment short pulses to signal chest compression are provided by a one-shot multivibrator which is actuated by a series of counted-down pulses from a variable frequency oscillator which may be set in accordance with the age of the individual to whom resuscitation is applied.

Abstract: A medication organizing apparatus comprises a timer module (11) and medication containers (12, 13, 14). The timer module (1) and medication containers (12, 13, 14) include dovetail flanges (31) and dovetail grooves (30) for interconnection thereof. The timer module (11) further includes a time interval selecting means (21), indicator (160, 154), and timing means (210, 228, 234, 242, 222) for producing a signal indicating the end of the selected time interval on a recurring basis.

Abstract: A countdown timer designed for counting down predetermined intervals of time and periodically announcing the progressive elapse of the countdown period thru the use of a voice synthesizer. The time interval between the spoken announcements is decreased as the end of the period approaches. An automatic restart period is incorporated which recycles to a predetermined time to begin the countdown again the number of the restart cycle being counted down is displayed.