Abstract: The invention relates to a re-settable, single-phase, thermo/electric circuit breaker utilizing a U-shape bimetallic element of substantial resistance properties in the circuit, so that when a predetermined overload current occurs the bimetallic element self heats and moves to trip a mechanism that opens the breaker circuit. The invention replaces the double-contact break configuration normally associated with a breaker of this type, with a single contact break configuration designed to produce a sliding action between contacts during the normal reset operation, providing a more reliable continuity at the moveable and stationary contact interface that is also less expensive to produce.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a three phase aircraft circuit breaker in which a single push-pull manual operator controls a single mechanical latch for the three poles. Slidable contact carriers in each of the phases are controlled by thermally actuated latches in each of the poles which are released upon the occurrence of an electrical overload by a current responsive bimetal in each pole. An ambient temperature responsive bimetal is provided in each phase. A common trip mechanism effects opening of all poles of the circuit breaker upon the occurrence of an overload in any phase.

Abstract: A two pole circuit breaker is assembled in a case comprising two identical halves. Each case half contains one pole comprising like terminals and contacts. An actuating mechanism for both poles of the circuit breaker is mounted on the center line of the case so as to be clamped by the two case halves. The case halves also hold the external terminals and support the conductors and contacts of each pole of the circuit breaker. Bimetallic elements are secured to one of the terminals of each pole, bridging members containing contacts at opposite ends thereof, completing a circuit between the other of the terminals on each pole and the bimetal thereof when the contacts are in the closed condition. When an overload heats one or both of the bimetals, the bridging member is released, opening both contacts thereon and advancing a common trip bar of the operating mechanism to interrupt the circuit through the other pole. By pushing the manual operator inwardly, the contacts of both poles are reset.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an over-temperature limit switch for automatically making or breaking an electrical circuit at a predetermined temperature. The actuating force for the switch is provided by a temperature dependent bimetallic spring and the latching function of the switch is provided by a pair of magnets. One of the magnets, a permanent magnet, is secured to the bimetallic spring and the other magnet, a non-permanent or "soft" magnet, is disposed in the base of the switch opposite the permanent magnet. The non-permanent magnet has a transition temperature associated therewith indicating the temperature above which the permeability of the magnet diminishes to such an extent that it can no longer carry sufficient magnetic lines of flux from the permanent magnet to hold it against the force of the bimetallic spring. The bimetallic spring is adapted to exert a bias force tending to open the switch at a temperature below the transition temperature of the non-permanent magnet.