Sensor

Abstract

A velocity or acceleration responsive sensor includes a housing having a cavity including a pair of spaced side walls which taper relative to each other and define a predetermined included angle. The side walls are joined by proximal and distal end walls. A pair of bands of flexible spring material within the housing cavity are of generally figure 8 configuration. The bands are of generally elongate shape, with their adjacent abutting portions located coplanar with the bisector of the included angle and their remote portions bearing on the side walls of the cavity. The abutting portions are commonly secured to each other and each remote portion is secured to a respective side wall. The force of the bands tending to return from their elongate shape to their free shape urges the bands toward the distal end wall of the cavity to provide a preload force. When a predetermined velocity change or acceleration change occurs, the bands roll along the side walls oppositely of each other and further elongate relative to the proximal end wall. Electrical contacts adjacent the proximal end walls are contacted by the bands to complete a circuit across a source of power and a device to be actuated.