Abstract: The present invention provides a pushbutton switch cover sheet formed by using a thin metal plate, in which damage or deformation, such as bending or denting, of the thin metal plate is prevented, thereby making it possible to continuously maintain a satisfactory design. The pushbutton switch cover sheet comprising: a plurality of display portions; a plurality of depressing-operation portions for effecting key input on the display portions, respectively; a base sheet formed of a rubber-like elastic material; and a thin metal plate provided on the base sheet, wherein a reinforcing member formed of a polymeric material is provided for each depressing-operation portion so as to be adjacent to the thin metal plate in a direction of a thickness of the thin metal plate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pushbutton switch cover sheet formed by using a thin metal plate, in which damage or deformation, such as bending or denting, of the thin metal plate is prevented, thereby making it possible to continuously maintain a satisfactory design. The pushbutton switch cover sheet comprising: a plurality of display portions; a plurality of depressing-operation portions for effecting key input on the display portions, respectively; a base sheet formed of a rubber-like elastic material; and a thin metal plate provided on the base sheet, wherein a reinforcing member formed of a polymeric material is provided for each depressing-operation portion so as to be adjacent to the thin metal plate in a direction of a thickness of the thin metal plate.

Abstract: An anti-switch on/off device mounted on a power supplier, which is used for driving an electronic equipment, is provided for preventing an erroneous touch on the switch of the power supplier to avoid the power supplier from instantly stopping supplying power. The power supplier includes an electric connecting slot and a power switch on/off unit. The power switch on/off unit has, mounted thereon, a press control button for being pressed by the user to control power on/off. The present invention utilizes an anti-error cover covered on the electric connecting slot and the power switch on/off unit, wherein the anti-error cover has an electric connecting opening mounted thereon for passing therethrough the connection with the external power source and an accommodating space for accommodating the press control button, so that an erroneous touch on the switch and an instant power disconnection can be prevented without interfering a normal power input.

Abstract: A switch lock apparatus includes a switching mechanism configured to switch a switch provided at a main body part where a cover body is rotatably provided to a lock-off state where operation can be done or a lock-on state where the operation cannot be done, and an interlocking mechanism configured to control the switching mechanism so that the switch is switched to be in the lock-on state based on the cover body being rotated to a closing position.

Abstract: A device for preventing an unintentional key input in a mobile terminal with a removable outer case is provided. The device includes a connection section to which the outer case is connected, a sensing unit for sensing whether the outer case is opened or closed, and a control unit for sensing whether the outer case is connected to the mobile terminal through the connection section. The control unit activates a key input unit of the mobile terminal when the sensing unit senses that the outer case is opened.

Abstract: A lockout device is provided for an operable instrument mounted to a structure with a first set of fasteners. The lockout device includes a base member having first and second side walls, an opening disposed between the side walls, a lock tab, and at least one mounting plate removably attached to the first and second side walls. The opening receives the instrument when the base member is mounted to the structure. The lock tab includes an aperture for receiving a locking member. The mounting plate includes a mounting feature for receiving a portion of one of the first set of fasteners to mount the base member to the structure. The lockout device further includes a cover member attachable to the base member and movable between a lockout position and an open position. The cover member includes an outer portion for covering the instrument when the base member is mounted to the structure and the cover member is in the lockout position.

Abstract: A switching instrument, in particular circuit breaker and/or ground fault circuit interrupter, includes a switch lever for manual closing and/or opening of switching contacts, and a tripping unit for automatically separating the switching contacts. The switch lever has an actuating projection and a separate grip which is attached onto the actuating projection.

Abstract: An enclosure for an electronic device includes a base having an outwardly extending peripheral wall which forms a compartment for receiving the electronic device. A caseplate is mounted to the peripheral wall for enclosing the electronic device. The caseplate has an access opening extending completely through the caseplate and located at a switch on the electronic device. The access opening is covered by a thin membrane which protects the electronic device and yet permits actuation of the switch. The caseplate can be decorated by art work on by another layer of material or can be clear and cover the device and an optional art work insert.

Abstract: The present invention provides a means for easily ganging together a traditional-style dimmer switch and a designer-style dimmer switch in a multi-gang designer-style faceplate. Specifically, a faceplate adapter for a load control device according to the present invention comprises a front surface, an adapter opening in the front surface, and an attachment post. The front surface defines a first area substantially the same size as a faceplate opening of a designer-style faceplate. The adapter opening defines a second area substantially the same size as a faceplate opening of a traditional-style faceplate. The attachment post allows the adapter to be secured to the load control device.

Abstract: A vehicle switch includes a case having a through-hole through the top face thereof, an operating body, a switch contact, an elastic cover, and a sliding part. The top end of the operating body projects from the through-hole. The operating body is housed in the case vertically movable. The switch contact is brought into and out of electrical contact by the vertical movement of the operating body. The elastic cover covers the through-hole of the case and the top end of the operating body. The sliding part that has a smaller friction coefficient than that of the elastic cover is provided in the top portion of the elastic cover, and covers at least the rim of the top portion of the elastic cover, or protrudes from the top face of the top portion and has an arc-shaped curved surface in the outer periphery of the upper rim thereof.

Abstract: A switch flip pack for the interior of an automobile comprising a door trim panel with a switch panel carrying at least one electrical switch, a flip cover pivotally attached to the switch panel, and a electroluminescent lamp mounted to the flip cover. The flip cover has an opened position in which the electrical switch is accessible and a closed position in which the electrical switch is inaccessible. When energized, the electroluminescent lamp is positioned for emitting visible light to illuminate the electrical switch when the flip cover is in the opened position. A method is also provided for forming the flip cover and electroluminescent lamp by an injection molding process.

Abstract: An electronic device comprises a housing, a circuit board, a cover and a switch. The housing comprises an opening receiving a card. The circuit board is disposed in the housing. The cover is disposed on the housing corresponding to the opening. The switch is disposed on the circuit board, wherein when the cover is moved, the cover actuates the switch to control the circuit board.

Abstract: A cover for a decor light switch or an old fashioned light switch, comprises a hollow frame having a left side, a right side, a top, a bottom, a flat or convex front and an open rear, a first small annular member projecting from the front in an area of the top and having a depth corresponding to a width of the left and right sides, a first cylindrical magnet inside the first small annular member, a second small annular member projecting from the front in an area of the bottom and having a depth corresponding to a width of the left and right side, a second cylindrical magnet inside the second small annular member, each of the magnets positioned so that they are aligned with and able to contact a head of a metal screw on the base plate, the magnets together strong enough to hold the cover. For the old fashioned light switch, the convex front has a central area of sufficient height to receive a switch element of the old-fashioned toggle light switch.

Abstract: A rocker switch assembly has several rocker shells that define cavities to receive inserts of several varieties that allow the user to provide several rockers in a side-by-side assembly of rocker switches with a wave pattern that allows each switch to be easily identified as to function and/or indicates switch condition. Reversing the orientation of every other rocker shell provides the wave pattern, and the use of different inserts allows variation in the illumination level of individual rocker switches, yet each rocker shell shares a common geometry.

Abstract: A circuit breaker includes terminals with screws on a power supply side and a load side disposed at a front end section and a rear end section of a main body case containing a current interrupting unit and a switching mechanism. A terminal cover is detachably attached onto the main body case at a position corresponding to the terminals on at least one of the power supply side and the load side. A terminal cover attaching surface is formed on an upper surface on the power supply side and/or the load side of the main body case. The terminal cover is inserted while sliding on the attaching surface from a front end, so that the terminal cover is attached to the main body case with a snap-fit coupling unit at an assembling position.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a method for changing a direction of an electrostatic discharge includes: providing a structure having a path capable of passing an electrostatic discharge, and changing by over about 90° (ninety degrees) a direction of an electrostatic discharge passing through the path. In another embodiment, a case assembly includes: a case member; and a light pipe assembly coupled to the case member. The light pipe assembly includes a body, a leg member coupled to and depending from the body, and a head supported by the body. In an embodiment, a case assembly includes a switch actuator assembly coupled to the case member and capable of activating when pushed a switch supported by a circuit board.

Abstract: A top structure for a keypad, comprising a number of key caps. The structure comprises a solid flexible layer, which is placed above the key caps or directly on them, and arranged to yield when the key is felt. The material, properties and thickness of the flexible layer are selected so that the key cap can be perceived by a sensation of touch and found under the layer, when the key is felt. The flexible layer is, for example, of a textile or textile-imitating material. The top structure can be utilized in a keypad component, in an electronic device, particularly a mobile phone, and in clothing provided with a keypad.

Abstract: A cover for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. In a first embodiment, which is particularly well suited for rocker-type switches, the cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis and including two planar surfaces, each of the planar surfaces being parallel to and passing through the axis. The cover also comprises a cover plate having a switch handle aperture for receiving the handle cover. The cover plate includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation.

Abstract: Bosses 7a and 7b are formed on spacers 5a and 5b provided between a top rubber 4 and a top hoop 3. Guide holes 8a and 8b for respectively guiding the movements of the bosses 7a and 7b in accordance with a pounding operation on the top rubber 4 are formed in a flat plate portion 3a of the top hoop 3. Bushings 10, made of a high wear-resistant resin, are mounted respectively in the guide holes 8a and 8b. By doing so, switch-mounting portions 9a and 9b, switch drive portions 6a and 6b and so on, provided at the top hoop 3 and the spacers 5a and 5b, are formed with high positional precision.

Abstract: A Sabbath Switch Cover that easily mounts with adhesive film inside any major kitchen appliance directly adjacent to the switch housing, and which incorporates a self-adhesive cover plate and a slide member that can be urged in or out of the cover plate, thereby selectively covering the recessed spring-detent of the appliance switch. The slide member stays in place over the spring switch until it is manually slid back into the switch cover plate, when normal light operations resume. The Sabbath Switch Cover can be used to selectively disable or enable the internal lighting system of most major kitchen appliances in order to assist in keeping the Jewish Sabbath and Holidays, and it is easily manufactured, inexpensive to produce and purchase, and convenient to apply and use.

Abstract: The present invention disclosures a two-position three-wire switch comprising a shell and two three-wire switches located in the shell.

Abstract: A switch assembly for a laptop computer includes a push member connected to the lid of the computer. An activation member is disposed to a base of the computer. A switch is located at a position where the activation member movably touches the switch when the lid is pivoted toward the base and the activation member is moved by a movement of the push member.

Abstract: An operating switch for a motor vehicle with a housing having an operating opening for accessing an operating element, and a protective device movable relative to the operating opening for temporarily covering the operating element on the operating side. The protective device is formed as a slide member guided in the housing, displaceable at right angles to the access direction of the operating opening, the slide member and the operating element being pivotable together so that the slide member is movable from a first position, in which the operating element is arranged in the operating opening, to a second position in which the operating element is covered within the housing and the operating opening is closed by the slide member.

Abstract: A cover for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. In a first embodiment, which is particularly well suited for rocker-type switches, the cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis and including two planar surfaces, each of the planar surfaces being parallel to and passing through the axis. The cover also comprises a cover plate having a switch handle aperture for receiving the handle cover. The cover plate includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation.

Abstract: A computer mouse cover provides a grip for a computer mouse. The computer mouse has a top, a bottom and a peripheral side wall. The peripheral edge including a rounded end opposite of an end has actuators thereon. The cover includes a panel having a shape and size adapted for covering the top of the mouse from the rounded end to the actuators. The panel has a pair of side edges and an end edge. A perimeter wall is attached to and extends downward from the side edges and the end edge. The perimeter wall is adapted for frictionally engaging the peripheral side wall of the mouse. A badge having indicia thereon is positioned in a depression extending into an outer surface of the panel.

Abstract: There is disclosed a keypad apparatus and a method for determining the status of a keypad apparatus. In one embodiment, the keypad apparatus includes a keypad having a plurality of keys and a keypad matrix associated with the keypad and having a switch. The keypad apparatus also includes a cover moveable between an open and a closed position. The keypad apparatus still further includes a means for engaging that cooperates with and allows the switch to provide a status indicating a position of the cover.

Abstract: A light dimmer capable of receiving a faceplate fastener while thermally insulating the fastener from a heat-generating device, such as a triac or a field-effect transistor, is presented. In a preferred embodiment, the dimmer includes a thermally insulating boss integrally formed with the body of the dimmer such that the boss includes a fastener-receiving aperture adapted to be axially aligned with the fastener-receiving openings of the faceplate. In addition, the dimmer includes a heat-dissipating aluminum yoke to which the heat-generating device is in thermal communication, thereby allowing the yoke to act as a heat sink. The yoke has a fastener-receiving aperture formed therein in axial alignment with the fastener-receiving aperture of the thermally insulating boss, with the yoke fastener-receiving aperture proportioned to receive the fastener therethrough in non-contacting relationship.

Abstract: One embodiment in accordance with the present invention includes a “plug-in” button module for a personal digital assistant (PDA). Specifically, the “plug-in” button module includes a button frame module having a membrane layer (e.g., thermo-plastic urethane or thermo-plastic elastomer) molded over it. The plug-in module can be snapped into the PDA over its button array. In this manner, the plug-in button module provides a seal for the buttons of the PDA that restricts dirt, grim, and other foreign particles from getting underneath them. Furthermore, since the plug-in button module is modular, it can be manufactured separately from the rest of the PDA in a wide variety of ways. For example, the membrane layer of the plug-in button module can be fabricated with different shapes, colors, hardnesses, decorations, textures, and opacities. In this manner, a user is able to personalize their PDA by snapping in a particular plug-in button module.

Abstract: A surface mounted switchplate having a removable toggle cover for use as an auxiliary switching device with a prior art toggle switch unit. The invention completely encloses the terminal set while providing an auxiliary moveable cover mounted on pivot shafts, which when rocked back and forth, acts upon the toggle switch to open and close the electrical circuit. A second embodiment contains a clear button formed in the cover to allow light from an illuminated rocker switch to shine therethrough.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for activating an opening mechanism for lockable moving parts on vehicles. The device has a manual activator, which acts on a contact sensor (13) of a switch (12) for activation purposes. An outer skin (40) is provided on the vehicle. A part (43′) of the actual outer skin (40) is made elastically deformable (43′) and this part (43′) is used as the activator for the switch (12).

Abstract: There is disclosed a keypad apparatus and a method for determining the status of a keypad apparatus. In one embodiment, the keypad apparatus includes a keypad having a plurality of keys and a keypad matrix associated with the keypad and having a switch. The keypad apparatus also includes a cover moveable between an open and a closed position. The keypad apparatus still further includes a means for engaging that cooperates with and allows the switch to provide a status indicating a position of the cover.

Abstract: A switch matrix is disclosed for keypads used in devices such as primary control points for automation systems in homes vehicles, or businesses. The switch matrix preferably includes a support frame for supporting a grid of key positioning members arranged in a series of rows and columns. The key positioning members each preferably include cantilevers which can be deflected by pressing the keys to activate switches associated with the keypad. The cantilevers preferably have knobs which are received in corresponding openings in the keys so that the keys can be removably attached to the cantilevers with a compression fit. This allows keys of different sizes and shapes to be easily attached to the keypad in various configurations without the need for different attaching devices for each situation.

Abstract: A two-piece doorbell button mounting device for securing doorbell pushbuttons to structures having vinyl siding or stucco. The device includes an enclosure and a cover member. The enclosure includes a peripheral wall, a flange extending from the base of the wall, and projections from the top of the wall. Fasteners may be installed through the flange to secure the enclosure directly to an exposed substrate. Alternately, for installation in finished structures, the flange includes a break away feature that allows it to be broken away from the enclosure. A hole is then cut in the exterior siding or stucco and the enclosure inserted through the hole and against the substrate. Fasteners may then be fed through apertures in the interior of the enclosure to secure the enclosure to the substrate. A cover member including an opening is then secured to the enclosure. Wiring is fed through the enclosure and cover member, connections are completed, and a doorbell button secured to the cover.

Abstract: A device for controlling an electric appliance having a door, a main power circuit, and a switch for automatically shutting off the main circuit when the door is opened the switch is a reactivatable magnetic switch, which selectively assumes a closed position and an open position respectively closing and opening the main circuit. The magnetic switch is powered by an activating circuit, which is cut off when the door is opened and a movable part of a hinge supporting the door is rotated. When the activating circuit is cut off, the magnetic switch is moved into the open position by the actin of a spring which keeps the magnetic switch in the open position even when the activating circuit is closed again. The user, after closing the door, must reactivate the magnetic switch by pressing a push-button to move the magnetic switch into the closed position.

Abstract: A cover for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. In a first embodiment, which is particularly well suited for rocker-type switches, the cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis and including two planar surfaces, each of the planar surfaces being parallel to and passing through the axis. The cover also comprises a cover plate having a switch handle aperture for receiving the handle cover. The cover plate includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation.

Abstract: This invention concerns an element for identifying functions associated with the keys of a computer keyboard, characterised by the fact that it features an edging surround (14) in the shape of an elastic band intended to tightly surround the four side faces of a single key, and a flat top section (15) carrying an indication of a function associated with the key and intended to be at least partially superimposed on the upper face of the key to which it is fitted.

Abstract: A power transfer arrangement is provided for supplying power from a generator the electrical system of a building. The power transfer arrangement includes a power transfer switching mechanism adapted for interconnection with the building electrical system. The power transfer switching mechanism includes a cabinet having panel structure provided with various electrical components for transferring power to various load circuits. A transparent cover assembly is movably mounted to the cabinet for selectively preventing and permitting access to the electrical component and the front panel while simultaneously allowing constant visual monitoring of the components of the panel structure.

Abstract: This invention relates to keypads with push buttons and in particular to integrating different parts of a keypad to provide better and more secure functioning.

Abstract: An indicator on a stored energy motor operator indicates that the circuit breaker is “on” when the contacts are closed and the handle is in an on position and when the contacts are open and the handle is in an on position. The indicator only indicates that the circuit breaker is “off” when the contacts are open and the handle is in an off position. To achieve these conditions, the stored energy motor operator includes a flag bearing on and off indicia, the flag attached to one end of a connecting bar, the other end of the connecting bar pivotally connected within the stored energy motor operator. A lever is attached to a central portion of the connecting bar at a spring, the lever including a hook portion for hooking onto a pin within the motor operator. When the contacts are closed, thus indicating an “on” condition, the lever remains hooked onto the pin.

Abstract: A socket provides power to a mating connector plug when actuated by a switch integral with the socket. The switch can be actuated by insertion of the connector plug, by pivoting open a socket cover, by sliding a slide cover into an operational position, or by a combination of the above. The switch is isolated from the power supplied to the socket and acts as a power supply signal to enable socket power. The socket is powered only when needed as indicated by the actuation method, thereby reducing draw on a power supply connected to the socket. The switch actuation methods described also provide safety features by disabling power to the socket unless the socket is actually in use. The socket cover and slide cover also prevent access to the socket unless positioned to receive a connector.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus having at least two of a plurality of functions including copying, facsimile and printer functions includes a main power switch that is provided on an outer surface of the apparatus and a cover to cover the main power switch. The cover is capable of opening and closing. Because the main power switch cannot be operated unless the cover is opened, when a user inadvertently tries to turn off the main power switch, for example, at the end of a day, the user must first touch the cover and is thereby reminded that the switch which the user is trying to turn off, is actually the main power switch for the apparatus. Thus, the main power switch is prevented from being inadvertently or unconsciously turned off.

Abstract: A keyboard overlay that may be adjusted to fit over a variety of keyboards. The overlay is self-supporting so that potential damage to the keyboard is limited, and requires no straps or other retaining devices so that removal and replacement of the overlay is simple. It is particularly intended for use by young children. The overlay includes a support having telescoping crossbeams configured to permit adjustments for keyboards of varying sizes.

Abstract: A channel cover is used to protect nonfunctional buttons until such time as the nonfunctional buttons are made functional in consequence of a system upgrade. The channel cover includes a bight, a first leg and a second leg. The first leg has a lip for mating engagement with female structure on at least one of the buttons.

Abstract: A circuit board provides a first elevation adapted for printing and bonding of conductor and resistor traces and monolithic ceramic capacitors, and provides through holes adapted for locating conductors. A second elevation is adapted for location and containment of a semiconductor quadrac. A third elevation is adapted for location and containment of a circuit board which is selectively adjustable through an R-C network coupled between the semiconductor quadrac and an input power source. An electric phase control uses mechanical movement for actuation. Provision is provided for mounting the phase control mechanism and the circuit so as to be manually accessed. A planar switch cover plate is adapted for sliding engagement, in parallel juxtaposition, with the mounting devices, the switch cover plate further adapted for engagement with the phase control mechanism for actuation through sliding engagement.

Abstract: A cover for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. In a first embodiment, which is particularly well suited for rocker-type switches, the cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis and including two planar surfaces, each of the planar surfaces being parallel to and passing through the axis. The cover also comprises a cover plate having a switch handle aperture for receiving the handle cover. The cover plate includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus having at least two of a plurality of functions including copying, facsimile and printer functions includes a main power switch that is provided on an outer surface of the apparatus and a cover to cover the main power switch. The cover is capable of opening and closing. Because the main power switch cannot be operated unless the cover is opened, when a user inadvertently tries to turn off the main power switch, for example, at the end of a day, the user must first touch the cover and is thereby reminded that the switch which the user is trying to turn off, is actually the main power switch for the apparatus. Thus, the main power switch is prevented from being inadvertently or unconsciously turned off.

Abstract: A cover for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. In a first embodiment, which is particularly well suited for rocker-type switches, the cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis and including two planar surfaces, each of the planar surfaces being parallel to and passing through the axis. The cover also comprises a cover plate having a switch handle aperture for receiving the handle cover. The cover plate includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation.

Abstract: A cover structure for the cover of an electronic device where a first part is movable in relation to a second part is described. The first part comprises a certain electrical component (303, 503) and means (307, 308, 309, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510) for forming an electrically conducting connection between the first and second parts. The first part comprises an outer cover part (301, 501) and an inner cover part (302, 502) of substantially the same size, whereby the electrical component is located between the inner cover part and the outer cover part. Further the first part comprises slide conductors (308, 309, 506, 507) on such a surface of the inner cover part which is not against the outer cover part.

Abstract: A cover is provided for a control switch in a vehicle that is movable between open and closed positions. In the cover open position, the switch paddle is freely accessible. In the cover closed position, the switch paddle is partially covered to limit access to the paddle and alert the operator to thereby avoid unintended actuation of the switch. In the closed position, the paddle is still accessible if needed to actuate the switch in an emergency without first opening the cover.

Abstract: A switch system wherein the housing consists of a spatially injection-molded conductor support (MID technique). The switch system is designed such that it can be largely adapted to the requirements of automotive technology. To that end, the top of the housing has a surface which can be equipped as desired with electrical and/or mechanical components and its underside has pin-like projections which are connected to strip conductor and act as plugs.