Abstract: A thermal switch comprises a first and second electrically conducting terminals and a pre-stressable electrically conducting connecting device such as a compression spring member. The connecting device, in a compressed state, contacts at most one of the first and second terminals, and, in a released state, electrically connects the first and second terminals. The thermal switch further comprises a retainer device retaining the connecting device in the compressed state. The retainer device comprises a retaining material that melts at or above a predetermined temperature for releasing the connecting device into the released state. In the compressed state of the connecting device, the first and second terminals are electrically insulated from each other by a hollow space formed between the connecting device and at least one of the first and second terminals.

Abstract: A thermal switch comprises a first and second electrically conducting terminals and a pre-stressable electrically conducting connecting device such as a compression spring member. The connecting device, in a compressed state, contacts at most one of the first and second terminals, and, in a released state, electrically connects the first and second terminals. The thermal switch further comprises a retainer device retaining the connecting device in the compressed state. The retainer device comprises a retaining material that melts at or above a predetermined temperature for releasing the connecting device into the released state. In the compressed state of the connecting device, the first and second terminals are electrically insulated from each other by a hollow space formed between the connecting device and at least one of the first and second terminals.

Abstract: A method of providing an electrical component with surface-mountable metallic terminals, the component comprising two substantially parallel faces (S.sub.1, S.sub.2) with which electrical contact can be made, the perpendicular separation of these faces (S.sub.1, S.sub.2) having a value t, which method comprises the following steps:(a) Providing a substantially planar lead-frame in which an open area is framed by metallic strips, the open area containing a first peninsular protrusion and a second peninsular protrusion which emerge from oppositely located strips, the first protrusion emerging as a stub and then bifurcating into two arms, the second protrusion emerging as a stub and then continuing as a single arm which extends between the two arms of the first protrusion;(b) Bending a step into the second protrusion, so that part of its stub remains within the plane P.sub.0 of the strips but that part of its single arm is displaced into a plane P.sub.2 substantially parallel to P.sub.