Abstract: An alignment and centering arrangement is provided for effecting the self-centering of a first contact assembly and for effecting the self-alignment of the first contact assembly with a second contact assembly as the contact assemblies are positioned together for engagement. The alignment and centering arrangement provides a predetermined maximum range of pivoting movement of the first contact assembly with respect to a predetermined position while requiring minimal forces for effecting the self-alignment. Additionally, the alignment and centering arrangement accurately establishes a predetermined center position with orientation of the first contact assembly along a predetermined axis. In one configuration, the alignment and centering arrangement includes the resilient mounting of the first contact assembly with respect to a reference plane.

Abstract: An arrangement including an insulative support column provides independent rotary and linear drive outputs for the operation of electrical switches, circuit interrupters and/or disconnects or the like. A first, linear drive linkage provides translating motion at a first output in response to linear translating motion at a first input. The linear drive arrangement is provided by an elongated, insulative operating member that is disposed within an elongated bore of the insulative support column, with the operating member extending through the top and bottom ends of the column. A second, rotary drive output is provided by rotation of the support column. The column fixedly carries a lower base member which is rotatably supported within a base housing. The operating member extends through and exits the base member and cooperates with a bearing carried by the base member. The lower end of the operating member is coupled to the linear drive linkage input.

Abstract: A manually operated handle assembly for operating high voltage circuit interrupter devices which are suitable for circuit opening operations but which are not suitable for circuit closing operations. Interrupter devices for which the handle assembly embodied in the present invention is suitable, therefore, are intended to be used in conjunction with a disconnect switch that is suitable for circuit-closing operations. By removing a lock bar, which unless removed prevents movement of the operating handle, and raising the operating handle to the horizontal position, the operating handle can be pivoted to rotate an operating shaft which causes the interrupter device to trip open. Closing the interrupter device is accomplished by pivoting the operating handle farther and thereby rotating the operating shaft an additional amount.

Abstract: Motorized high voltage switch operating mechanisms may have local control switches located on the front thereof which may be operated to control the operation of the switch operating mechanism. It is desirable to limit access to the local control switches by a cover that may be locked to prevent unauthorized tampering or actuation. A cover is provided that is pivotable on a hinge to cover the switches. The cover is arranged so that it may be opened in two ways. First, when a lock is removed, the cover may be first moved upwardly to disengage a flange mounted on a door of the switch operating mechanism so that the cover can be pivoted to an open position. Second, even when the lock is in place, the door can be opened so that the flange disengages the cover so that the cover can be pivoted to an open position.