Delayed return devices

摘要

A device in which a displaced member will automatically return to its rest position after a delay comprises a container partially filled with a viscous fluid. The container is mounted so that it can be moved between a first, stable (rest) position and a second, semistable position in which the fluid will flow slowly away from its rest position. When the fluid has moved away from its rest position sufficiently, it will cause the center of gravity of the container to shift to one side of a pivot, whereupon the container will make an automatically delayed return to its first position. The container is employed as a box lid which will close automatically a predetermined time after being opened so that it can be used as an interval timer and/or a scent release mechanism. The container is also mounted in a human novelty figure in such a manner that if it is tipped over it will return automatically to an upright position after a predetermined delay.