Abstract: An overload protection switch having a push button for manually initiating actuation of the overload protection switch and a movable contact member forming a switching path and having at least one fixed contact. There is a lockable trip mechanism actuated by the push button for controlling the movable contact member during actuation of the overload protection switch and a bimetal element which includes a locking lever pivotal into a locking position and pivotal into its unlocking position. A trip slide is articulated to the movable contact member and is charged in a turn-off direction. The trip slide is additionally supported in its path of movement by a housing groove at a counterslope fixed to the housing. An essentially wedge-shaped inner angle is formed to reduce friction forces at the locking lever and produce a lower tripping force at the bimetal element.

Abstract: A multi-pole excess current circuit breaker assembly has a plurality of single-pole circuit breakers. In each of the latter the electric contacts are openable by a spring-loaded tripping mechanism actuated by a release lever as the release lever is moved from a first position to a second position by an excess current responsive device. The actuated tripping mechanism moves the release lever from the second position to a third position.