Abstract: A pivoted-actuator switch having a switch operator including a pivotally-mounted contact actuator and a manually-grasped, removable operating lever or "key" snap-in mounted to the contact actuator for actuating the switch. A spring-biased pivotal lock bar is normally retracted by the operating lever into the contact actuator so as to clear the rim of the hole in the switch housing through which the contact actuator extends. When the operating lever is removed, the spring pivots the lock bar to extend out from the contactor actuator and to catch on the rim of the hole thereby to prevent operation of the switch from off to on position. When the switch is on, it can nevertheless be turned off because this lock bar is shaped for one-way cam-in past the rim and then to pivot out again to abut the top of the rim. The operating lever has a projecting finger effective when inserted into the contact actuator to pivot the lock bar inwardly to clear the housing rim and thus to allow normal switch operation.

Abstract: A pivoted-actuator safety switch of the type having a spring-biased lock lever within the sub-actuator that extends out to catch beneath the rim of the hole in the switch frame or housing to lock the pivoted-actuator in its "off" position, and a removable insertable actuator, covering the sub-actuator, has a projecting cam effective when inserted to retract the lock lever to allow normal operation, but removal thereof prevents unlocking of the sub-actuator and thus prevents operation from "off" to "on". A half-guard integral with the frame guards the actuator in "off" position to meet the "palm test", that is, it cannot be turned on accidentally by bumping or striking with the palm of the hand, while providing open access to the actuator in its "on" position so that it can be quickly turned off. This half-guard consists of upstanding plates integral with the frame on opposite sides of and extending higher than the actuator in "off" position.

Abstract: A method of and means for securing a toggle type operating lever in place in an electric switch or the like. The lever is provided with integral trunnions that are fitted into pivot sockets formed internally in a switch mounting bushing. Tab portions partially sheared out the bushing wall are bent inwardly to underlie the pivot trunnions to retain the latter in place.

Abstract: Improved pivoting and sliding contactors and an operating member for lever and rocker operated electric switches are disclosed. A resiliently pivotally mounted forked operating member engages with the contactors adjacent opposite sides thereof and pivots and slides the contactors on a common contact terminal into and out of sliding engagement with contact terminals on either side of the common terminal. Separate contactor forms for maintained ON-OFF-ON and momentary ON-ON type circuit commutations are used.

Abstract: An improved method and means for making electrical connections for an internal indicating lamp within a small switch. The conducting leads of the lamp and/or a voltage dropping resistor are connected to and held in good electrical engagement with stationary terminals of the switch as an incident to the terminals being seated in place of the switch housing and secured thereto thereby eliminating the need for special connectors or soldering or welding of the leads to the terminals.

Abstract: The snap-in means includes a snap-in member carried in a recess provided in the outer end portion of a bushing which extends from a switch frame mounted on a switch base of an electrical toggle switch asembly and pivotally supports a toggle lever for actuating switch contacts housed in the switch base. The snap-in member, which is preferably molded from a synthetic plastic material, is adapted for mounting the switch assembly in a support panel mounting hole and includes a radially compressible locking flange having a lower or inner edge which engages the front side of the panel upon insertion of the outer end portion of the bushing through the panel mounting hole. The snap-in member also includes a radially extending, generally annular ridge having a bearing surface which is engageable with the backside rim of the panel mounting hole and cooperates with the locking flange to securely hold the switch assembly on the support panel.

Abstract: A rocker switch having a spring-biased lock lever within the contact actuator that extends out to catch beneath the rim of the hole in the frame to lock the rocker button in the "off" position. An insertable key, which may include the entire face of the rocker button, has a projecting cam effective when inserted to retract the lock lever to allow normal operation. Removal of the key prevents unlocking of the rocker switch for operation to "on" position. The lock lever has an angular end that allows actuation of the rocker button from "on" to "off" position even when the key is removed. This angular end cams on the frame to momentarily depress the lock lever and allow it to snap below the rim of the hole in the frame. This lock lever is then inaccessible except to the projecting cam of the key.

Abstract: A toggle lever for operating an electric switch and easily assembled, anti-rotation means for mounting the lever for limited pivotal movement within the mounting bushing of the switch. The toggle lever has an intermediate enlarged spherical portion including two short trunnions extending in opposite directions therefrom. The mounting means comprises a pair of interlocking semi-cylindrical molded insert halves having on their inner surfaces an annular socket for the spherical portion and each having a central hole to journal the corresponding trunnion when the two halves are placed therearound to form a subassembly.

Abstract: A rocker switch having a spring-biased lock lever within the contact actuator that extends out to catch beneath the rim of the hole in the frame to lock the rocker button in the "off" position. An insertable key, which may include the entire face of the rocker button, has a projecting cam effective when inserted to retract the lock lever to allow normal operation. Removal of the key prevents unlocking of the rocker switch for operation to "on" position. The lock lever has an angular end that allows actuation of the rocker button from "on" to "off" position even when the key is removed. This angular end cams on the frame to momentarily depress the lock lever and allow it to snap below the rim of the hole in the frame. This lock lever is then inaccessible except to the projecting cam of the key.