Abstract: This switching device comprises at least one pair of fixed contacts and, for each pair of fixed contacts, a movable contact that is movable between a closed position and an open position. A contact holder capable of holding in place each movable contact is also provided. The contact holder is movable along a vertical direction between a first position corresponding to the closed position of each movable contact and a second position corresponding to the open position of the or each movable contact. The device also includes a plate capable of applying a force on the movable contact holder so as to move it between its first and second positions. The plate is movable relative to the movable contact holder. The device includes a sensor capable of measuring the movement of the movable plate relative to the movable contact holder, during the actuation of the movement of the plate in order to drive the movement of the contact holder from its first position to its second position.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electromagnetic switch (16) for a starting device (10), comprising two contacts (180, 181) that are electroconductively inter-connected by a mobile contact bridge (184). At least one of the two contacts (180, 181) preferably comprises a contact surface (300) fixed to a contact stud (150, 151).

Abstract: An arc member is provided for an electrical switching apparatus. The electrical switching apparatus includes an operating mechanism for opening and closing separable contacts, and an arc chute disposed proximate the separable contacts to attract an arc generated thereby. The separable contacts include a stationary contact and a movable contact. The stationary contact has an edge, which is disposed in a plane. The arc member includes an arc element disposed between the stationary contact and the arc chute. The arc element has first and second portions and first and second arc attractors. The first arc attractor extends outwardly from the first portion toward the plane of the edge of the stationary contact to draw the arc from the separable contacts to the arc member. The second arc attractors, which are disposed on the second portion of the arc element, direct the arc into the arc chute.