Patents by Inventor Gerald W. Martin

Gerald W. Martin has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Electrical switch having a two stage snap action interface for enhanced operation
    Patent number: 5262752
    Abstract: An electrical switch assembly includes a snap action switch which is actuated from one to another conduction state by a snap action interface mechanism moved by an external actuation element between first and second corresponding positions. The snap action interface mechanism prevents the snap action switch from operating improperly when the external actuation element is of the type which provides a slowly moving, low actuation force. A preferred embodiment has as a part of the interface mechanism, a lever having a ferromagnetic portion which snaps between the first and second positions under the influence of at least one magnet. The switch assembly is particularly suitable for actuation by the bimetal coil strip which commonly forms the temperature responsive element in a thermostat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: Kenny Truong, Gerald W. Martin, Donald P. Kolbow, Richard B. Porter, John M. Whitney