US5097252A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Motion sensor which produces an asymmetrical signal in response to symmetrical movement
Assignee: VPI NEWCO Inc
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Filing: 1989-10-26
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Granted: 1992-03-17
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Expires: 2009-10-26
Abstract
Abstract In one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of sensors are placed over the joints of a hand. Each motion sensor comprises an optical fiber disposed between a light source and a light sensor. An upper portion of the fiber is treated so that transmission loss of light being communicated through the optical fiber is increased only when the fiber bends in one direction. In another embodiment of the invention, a flexible tube is disposed in close proximity to a finger joint and bends in response to bending of the finger. A light source and light sensor are provided on opposite ends of the tube for continuously indicating the extent of bending of the tube. A wedge is disposed between the tube and the finger for setting the tube straight when the finger is hyperextended for eliminating the symmetry of the output signal which ordinarily would result from bending of the tube on opposite sides of the axis of movement. In a further embodiment of the invention, a light source and light sensor are positioned in close proximity to a finger joint so that bending of the finger toward the palm causes the source and sensor to move away from each other. Bending the finger in the opposite direction causes the source and sensor to move toward each other.
Inventors
- 👤 Young L. Harvill
- 👤 Thomas G. Zimmerman
- 👤 Jean-Jacques G. Grimaud
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 13:07
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06F; G06F3/00; G06F3/01; G06F3/011; G06F3/014; A; A61; A61B; A61B5/00; A61B5/103; A61B5/11; A61B5/1126; A61B5/68; A61B5/6801; A61B5/6802; A61B5/6804; A61B5/6806; G01; G01B; G01B11/00; G01B11/16; G01D; G01D5/00; G01D5/26; G01D5/268; G06F3/03; G06F3/0304; G06F3/033; G06F3/0338; A61B5/1124; A61B5/1125; Y; Y10; Y10S; Y10S200/00; Y10S200/02
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 47
Claim 1
Independent Claim
187 words
A motion sensor comprising: a signal source for emitting light; a signal sensor for sensing the light from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned over a joint of a body which pivots symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane; asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal source and signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the body relative to the axis in the plane; wherein the signal sensor further comprises: an optical fiber for communicating light emitted by the signal source; a light detector for detecting light communicated through the optical fiber; and wherein the asymmetrical signal means further comprises transmission loss means, including a modified upper surface of the optical fiber, for increasing transmission loss of light being communicated through the optical fiber when the fiber is bent.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
187 words
A motion sensor comprising: a signal source for emitting light; a signal sensor for sensing the light from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned over a joint of a body which pivots symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane; asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal source and signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the body relative to the axis in the plane; wherein the signal sensor further comprises: an optical fiber for communicating light emitted by the signal source; a light detector for detecting light communicated through the optical fiber; and wherein the asymmetrical signal means further comprises transmission loss means, including a modified upper surface of the optical fiber, for increasing transmission loss of light being communicated through the optical fiber when the fiber is bent.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
21 words
The motion sensor according to claim 1 wherein the optical fiber is disposed between the signal source and the light detector.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
64 words
The motion sensor according to claim 1 wherein both the signal source and the light detector are disposed on one end of the optical fiber and further comprising a reflecting means, disposed on the other end of the optical fiber for reflecting light emitted by the signal source so that the reflected light is communicated back to the light detector by the optical fiber.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
166 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body moves symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane, the signal sensor including an optical fiber for communicating light emitted by the signal source; and asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical movement of the body relative to the axis in the plane, the asymmetrical signal means comprising transmission loss means including a modified upper surface of the optical fiber, for the optical fiber when the fiber is bent in the plane.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
166 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body moves symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane, the signal sensor including an optical fiber for communicating light emitted by the signal source; and asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical movement of the body relative to the axis in the plane, the asymmetrical signal means comprising transmission loss means including a modified upper surface of the optical fiber, for the optical fiber when the fiber is bent in the plane.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
23 words
The motion sensor according to claim 4 wherein the upper surface of the optical fiber is abraded for forming the transmission loss means.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
24 words
The motion sensor according to claim 4 wherein the upper surface of the optical fiber has a notch for forming the transmission loss means.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
205 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned over a joint of a body which pivots symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane; asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal source and signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the body relative to the axis in the plane; wherein the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the signal source and sensed by the signal sensor is visible light; and wherein the signal sensor further comprises a flexible tube disposed in close proximity to a part of the body for bending in response to movement of the body, and wherein the asymmetrical signal means comprises setting means, disposed between the tube and the body, for setting the tube in a prescribed orientation when the body is in a prescribed position.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
205 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned over a joint of a body which pivots symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane; asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal source and signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the body relative to the axis in the plane; wherein the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the signal source and sensed by the signal sensor is visible light; and wherein the signal sensor further comprises a flexible tube disposed in close proximity to a part of the body for bending in response to movement of the body, and wherein the asymmetrical signal means comprises setting means, disposed between the tube and the body, for setting the tube in a prescribed orientation when the body is in a prescribed position.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
40 words
The motion sensor according to claim 7 wherein the tube is disposed on a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body so that the tube bends when the first and second members pivot relative to each other.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
199 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body when the body moves symmetrically relative to the axis, the signal sensor including a flexible tube disposed over a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body for communicating electromagnetic radiation from the signal source to the signal sensor and for bending in response to movement of the first and second members; and asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal in response to symmetrical movement of the first and second members relative to the axis, the asymmetrical signal means comprising: setting means, disposed between the tube and the body, for setting the tube in a prescribed orientation when the first and second members are in a prescribed position, the setting means including a wedge disposed between the tube and the junction.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
199 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body when the body moves symmetrically relative to the axis, the signal sensor including a flexible tube disposed over a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body for communicating electromagnetic radiation from the signal source to the signal sensor and for bending in response to movement of the first and second members; and asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal in response to symmetrical movement of the first and second members relative to the axis, the asymmetrical signal means comprising: setting means, disposed between the tube and the body, for setting the tube in a prescribed orientation when the first and second members are in a prescribed position, the setting means including a wedge disposed between the tube and the junction.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
76 words
The motion sensor according to claim 9 wherein the first and second members are capable of pivoting symmetrically with respect to a boundary, the pivoting on one side of the boundary being termed the normal field of movement, and the pivoting on the other side of the boundary being termed the null field of movement, and wherein the wedge sets the tube generally straight when the first and second members are positioned in the null field.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
126 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically with respect to an axis so that movement of the body causes the signal source and signal sensor to move relative to each other; and guide means for facing the light emitted by the signal source toward the signal sensor when the signal source and signal sensor move relative to each other, the guide means including an optical fiber connected to one of the signal source or signal sensor, the optical fiber having a free end facing the other of the signal source or signal sensor.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
126 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically with respect to an axis so that movement of the body causes the signal source and signal sensor to move relative to each other; and guide means for facing the light emitted by the signal source toward the signal sensor when the signal source and signal sensor move relative to each other, the guide means including an optical fiber connected to one of the signal source or signal sensor, the optical fiber having a free end facing the other of the signal source or signal sensor.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
35 words
The motion sensor according to claim 11 wherein the guide means further comprises a tube disposed between the signal source and signal sensor, the free end of the optical fiber being disposed within the tube.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
26 words
The motion sensor according to claim 12 wherein the optical fiber is connected to the signal source and the tube is connected to the signal sensor.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
26 words
The motion sensor according to claim 12 wherein the optical fiber is connected to the signal sensor and the tube is connected to the signal source.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
33 words
The motion sensor according to claim 12 wherein the free end of the optical fiber moves away from the facing signal source or signal sensor when the body moves in a prescribed direction.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
111 words
The motion sensor according to claim 15 wherein the signal source and signal sensor are disposed across a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body, the first and second members being capable of pivoting symmetrically with respect to an axis, the pivoting on one side of the axis being termed the normal field of movement, and the pivoting on the other side of the axis being termed the null field of movement, and wherein the free end of the optical fiber moves away from the facing signal source or signal sensor when the first and second members pivot away from the axis in the normal field of movement.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
41 words
The motion sensor according to claim 16 wherein the free end of the optical fiber moves toward the facing signal source or signal sensor when the first and second members pivot away from the axis in the null field of movement.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
118 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being disposed proximate a physical body so that movement of the body causes the signal source and signal sensor to move relative to each other; and guide means for directing the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the signal source toward the signal sensor when the signal source and signal sensor move relative to each other, the guide means including a radiation conduit coupled to one of the signal source of signal sensor, the conduit having a free end facing the other of the signal source or signal sensor.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
118 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being disposed proximate a physical body so that movement of the body causes the signal source and signal sensor to move relative to each other; and guide means for directing the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the signal source toward the signal sensor when the signal source and signal sensor move relative to each other, the guide means including a radiation conduit coupled to one of the signal source of signal sensor, the conduit having a free end facing the other of the signal source or signal sensor.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
21 words
The motion sensor according to claim 18 wherein the electromagnetic radiation is light, and wherein the conduit is an optical fiber.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
35 words
The motion sensor according to claim 19 wherein the guide means further comprises a tube disposed between the signal source and signal sensor, the free end of the optical fiber being disposed within the tube.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
111 words
The motion sensor according to claim 20 wherein the signal source and signal sensor are disposed across a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body, the first and second members being capable of pivoting symmetrically with respect to an axis, the pivoting on one side of the axis being termed the normal field of movement, and the pivoting on the other side of the axis being termed the null field of movement, and wherein the free end of the optical fiber moves away from the facing signal source or signal sensor when the first and second members pivot away from the axis in the normal field of movement.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
41 words
The motion sensor according to claim 21 wherein the free end of the optical fiber moves toward the facing signal source or signal sensor when the first and second members pivot away from the boundary in the null field of movement.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
47 words
The motion sensor according to claim 21 further comprising stop means for preventing the free end of the optical fiber from moving toward the facing signal source or signal sensor when the first and second members pivot away from the boundary in the null field of movement.
Claim 30
Independent Claim
128 words
A method for indicating movement of first and second body segments which are coupled to each other through a pivot point and which pivot symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, comprising the steps of: emitting electromagnetic radiation with a signal source associated with the first body segment; communicating the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source and across the pivot point through an electromagnetic radiation conduit; sensing the communicated electromagnetic radiation with a signal sensor; disposing a wedge between the conduit and the pivot point; and emitting an asymmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the first and second body segments in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the first and second body segments relative to the axis in the plane.
Claim 31
Independent Claim
128 words
A method for indicating movement of first and second body segments which are coupled to each other through a pivot point and which pivot symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, comprising the steps of: emitting electromagnetic radiation with a signal source associated with the first body segment; communicating the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source and across the pivot point through an electromagnetic radiation conduit; sensing the communicated electromagnetic radiation with a signal sensor; disposing a wedge between the conduit and the pivot point; and emitting an asymmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the first and second body segments in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the first and second body segments relative to the axis in the plane.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
58 words
The method according to claim 24 wherein the conduit comprises a first medium adjacent to a second medium, and further comprising the steps of: communicating the electromagnetic radiation through the first medium; reflecting the electromagnetic radiation from an interface between the first medium and the second medium for maintaining the propagation of electromagnetic radiation through the first medium.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
13 words
The method according to claim 25 wherein the electromagnetic radiation is visible light.
Claim 34
Independent Claim
166 words
A method for indicating movement of first and second body segments which are coupled to each other through a pivot point and which pivot symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, comprising the steps of: emitting electromagnetic radiation with a signal source associated with the first body segment; communicating the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source and across the pivot point through an optical fiber; sensing the communicated electromagnetic radiation with a signal sensor; pivoting the optical fiber symmetrically when the first and second body segments pivot symmetrically relative to the axis; modifying an upper surface of the optical fiber; increasing transmission loss through the upper surface of the optical fiber when the optical fiber pivots to one side of the pivot point; and emitting an asymmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the first and second body segments in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the first and second body segments relative to the axis in the plane.
Claim 35
Independent Claim
166 words
A method for indicating movement of first and second body segments which are coupled to each other through a pivot point and which pivot symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, comprising the steps of: emitting electromagnetic radiation with a signal source associated with the first body segment; communicating the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source and across the pivot point through an optical fiber; sensing the communicated electromagnetic radiation with a signal sensor; pivoting the optical fiber symmetrically when the first and second body segments pivot symmetrically relative to the axis; modifying an upper surface of the optical fiber; increasing transmission loss through the upper surface of the optical fiber when the optical fiber pivots to one side of the pivot point; and emitting an asymmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the first and second body segments in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the first and second body segments relative to the axis in the plane.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method according to claim 27 wherein the modifying step further comprises the step of abrading the upper surface of the optical fiber.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method according to claim 27 wherein the modifying step further comprises the step of etching the optical fiber.
Claim 38
Independent Claim
151 words
A method for indicating movement of first and second body segments which are coupled to each other through a pivot point and which pivot symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, comprising the steps of: emitting electromagnetic radiation with a signal source associated with the first body segment; communicating the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source and across the pivot point through an electromagnetic radiation conduit; sensing the communicated electromagnetic radiation with a signal sensor; connecting the radiation conduit for movement with one of the signal source or signal sensor; facing a free end of the radiation conduit toward the other of the signal source or signal sensor; and emitting an asymmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extend of movement of the first and second body segments in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the first and second body segments relative to the axis in the plane.
Claim 39
Independent Claim
151 words
A method for indicating movement of first and second body segments which are coupled to each other through a pivot point and which pivot symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, comprising the steps of: emitting electromagnetic radiation with a signal source associated with the first body segment; communicating the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source and across the pivot point through an electromagnetic radiation conduit; sensing the communicated electromagnetic radiation with a signal sensor; connecting the radiation conduit for movement with one of the signal source or signal sensor; facing a free end of the radiation conduit toward the other of the signal source or signal sensor; and emitting an asymmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extend of movement of the first and second body segments in the plane in response to symmetrical pivoting of the first and second body segments relative to the axis in the plane.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
42 words
The method according to claim 30 further comprising the step of asymmetrically moving the free end of the radiation conduit relative to the facing signal source or signal sensor when the first and second body segments pivot relative to the pivot point.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method according to claim 31 wherein the radiation communicating step further comprises the step of communicating the electromagnetic radiation through an optical fiber.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
174 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane, the signal sensor including an optical fiber for communicating light emitted by the signal source; and asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical movement of the body about the axis in the plane, the asymmetrical signal means comprising transmission loss means disposed on an upper surface of the optical fiber, for increasing transmission loss of light being communicated through the optical fiber only when the fiber is bent in the plane.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
174 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which moves symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane, the signal sensor including an optical fiber for communicating light emitted by the signal source; and asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal indicating movement in the plane in response to symmetrical movement of the body about the axis in the plane, the asymmetrical signal means comprising transmission loss means disposed on an upper surface of the optical fiber, for increasing transmission loss of light being communicated through the optical fiber only when the fiber is bent in the plane.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
255 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which pivots symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane, the signal sensor including a flexible radiation conduit disposed over a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body for communicating electromagnetic radiation from the signal source to the signal sensor and for bending in response to movement of the first and second member; wherein the radiation conduit comprises a first medium adjacent to a second medium so that electromagnetic radiation propagates through the first medium and is at least in part reflected from an interface between the first medium and the second medium for maintaining the propagation of electromagnetic radiation through the first medium; asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal in response to symmetrical movement of the first and second members, the asymmetrical signal means comprising: setting means, disposed between the radiation conduit and the body, for setting the radiation conduit in a prescribed orientation when the body is in a prescribed position, the setting means including a wedge disposed between the radiation conduit and the junction.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
255 words
A motion sensor comprising: an electromagnetic signal source for emitting electromagnetic radiation; an electromagnetic signal sensor for sensing the electromagnetic radiation from the signal source, the signal source and signal sensor being positioned on a physical body which pivots symmetrically in a plane with respect to an axis, and the signal sensor ordinarily providing a symmetrical output signal indicating the continuous extent of movement of the body in the plane when the body pivots symmetrically relative to the axis in the plane, the signal sensor including a flexible radiation conduit disposed over a pivoting junction between first and second members of the body for communicating electromagnetic radiation from the signal source to the signal sensor and for bending in response to movement of the first and second member; wherein the radiation conduit comprises a first medium adjacent to a second medium so that electromagnetic radiation propagates through the first medium and is at least in part reflected from an interface between the first medium and the second medium for maintaining the propagation of electromagnetic radiation through the first medium; asymmetrical signal means, associated with the signal sensor, for causing the signal sensor to emit an asymmetrical output signal in response to symmetrical movement of the first and second members, the asymmetrical signal means comprising: setting means, disposed between the radiation conduit and the body, for setting the radiation conduit in a prescribed orientation when the body is in a prescribed position, the setting means including a wedge disposed between the radiation conduit and the junction.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
75 words
The motion sensor according to claim 34 wherein the first and second members are capable of pivoting symmetrically relative to the axis, the pivoting on one side of the axis being termed the normal field of movement, and the pivoting on the other side of the axis being termed the null field of movement, and wherein the wedge sets the conduit generally straight when the first and second members are positioned in the null field.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
14 words
The motion sensor according to claim 35 wherein the electromagnetic radiation comprises visible light.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1995-03-17 | 1995-09-16 | 1996-03-17 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1999-03-17 | 1999-09-16 | 2000-03-17 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2003-03-17 | 2003-09-16 | 2004-03-17 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |