Abstract: The invention provides a brush cartridge for a commutator-type motor. The brush cartridge includes a housing that is made of an electrically conductive material and that has an integrally formed terminal so that the cartridge can be plugged into a circuit without the need for wiring. The brush cartridge also includes a brush supported in the housing for sliding movement relative thereto and a spring member for biasing the brush into engagement with a commutator on the motor when the cartridge is installed. The brush cartridge also includes a flexible shunt connected between the housing and the brush. The shunt limits the range of sliding movement of the brush to permanently retain the brush in the housing.

Abstract: An electric tool including a variable speed switch assembly including a potentiometer having a central rotatable member defining a bore with a noncircular cross section and a molded plastic speed control wheel housing the potentiometer. The speed control wheel includes a central post with a cross section corresponding to the cross section of the central potentiometer bore such that the central post can be housed in the central bore in only one relative position with respect to the central rotatable member. The variable speed switch assembly also includes a switch cover having projections which snap into designated holes provided in a circuit board such that the switch cover and the circuit cannot be incorrectly assembled. The switch cover includes a stop member that extends into a semi-circular recess in the speed control wheel to provide mechanical stops so that rotational movement of the speed control wheel corresponds with the range of the potentiometer.

Abstract: An electrical wire terminal block including a hinged marking strip overlaying a transversely disposed apertured ledge and arranged to either include an integrally molded "living" hinge area of reduced cross-section or, in the alternative, including the hinge portion intermediate its ends and with a retainer portion detachably retained in a dual purpose orintation aperture in the ledge. The remaining apertures in the ledge provide access means for adjusting clamping screws, in addition to providing a retention means for detachably receiving a detent element on the marking strip.