Abstract: Set of switches mutual locking devices, comprising switches with actuator toggles and locking elements, each of the switches having a rocker supported by an elastic element and having Bowden type cables to be connected to the two arms of the rockers, the free end of a first cable of a switch being operationally connected to elements of actuation of a second switch and the free end of a second cable being operationally connected to the elements of actuation of a third switch, and the rockers being loaded at their ends to come into operational contact with the locking elements.

Abstract: A breaker device is provided in which a lever can be locked in specified positions with an improved reliability and unlocking can be easily effected. A slider (60) carried by a lever (30) and a panel (22) of a casing (20) define a locking mechanism of the device. When the lever (30) is in a specified rotation position, the slider (60) and the panel (22) are engaged with each other to lock the lever (30) in that position. An unlock portion (62) for unlocking the locking mechanism is provided in a position to be covered by a handle portion (32) of the lever (30). Since this unlock portion (62) is protected by the handle portion (32), a tool or the like cannot come into contact with or strike the unlock portion (62). On the other hand, if a finger is placed on the handle portion (32) to rotate the lever (30), the tip of this finger is located at the underside of the handle portion (32), so that the unlock portion (62) can be easily operated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of monitoring electrical wear on selector switch disconnectors in a bay of a high voltage station that includes a set of distribution busbars connected to at least three electrical circuits constituted by an inlet bay, an outlet bay, and a bay for coupling together the busbars.

Abstract: A switch-off device for airport series circuits (2) has input terminals (3, 4) which are connected to a current source (1). It also has output terminals (5, 6) which are connected to a series circuit (2) and connecting elements (7, 8) by means of which the input terminals (3, 4) and the output terminals (5, 6) can be connected to one another. The switch-off device has an actuator (11) for the purpose of simplifying operation and permitting a plurality of different, clearly visible operating states. In a normal position, the actuator positions the connecting elements (7, 8) such that each input terminal (3, 4) is connected to an output terminal (5, 6). In a service position, it positions the connecting elements (7, 8) so that the input terminals (3, 4) are disconnected from the output terminals (5, 6) and are connected to a grounding terminal (9), while the output terminals (5, 6) are connected to one another and to the grounding terminal (9).

Abstract: A multi-switch control device is useful for controlling a variety of functions on a variety of vehicle subsystems or peripheral devices. The control device includes a specifically contoured base portion that enhances the usability of the device without distracting the vehicle operator from the task of driving. In one embodiment, a plurality of grooves are provided for receiving the fingers of the user of the device and a switch is provided within each groove that is readily usable by an individual regardless of the specific size of their fingers. Another embodiment includes a plurality of raised beads or grooves that provide a tactile indication of the position of the user's fingers on the device. The contoured portions also provide the ability of the user to make adjustments to a selected vehicle subsystem through conventional "touch-pad" technology.

Abstract: A rotary control device and an electronic apparatus in which it is used are disclosed. The control device includes a flat cylindrical switch plate for selectively exposing function switches to the outside of the electronic apparatus in accordance with rotation of the switch plate. A plurality of switches are disposed on the switch plate, for generating manipulating signals. The switches are disposed along the circumference of the switch plate, and are selectively exposed to the outside of the electronic apparatus. The user can rotate the switch plate clockwise or counterclockwise to selectively expose the intended switches for activation.

Abstract: Disclosed is an automatic transfer switch (ATS) having "operate," "test" and "isolate" positions for the switch per se. A handle selects one of the positions and a mechanical linkage couples the ATS and the handle to one another. In the improvement, the linkage has first and second members for applying motive force to the switch. The mechanical linkage has first and second rotary driver devices in engagement with the first and second members, respectively, thereby providing redundant switch-positioning mechanisms. The new ATS may be combined with a bypass switch having "normal," "auto" and "emergency" contact positions. A switch interlock linkage extends between the transfer switch and the bypass switch and includes a bypass plate and a transfer plate coupled to one another by a bar. The bypass switch includes a pivot-mounted first bypass interlock member obstructing substantial movement of the bypass plate when the bypass switch electrical contacts are in the "normal" position.

Abstract: A matrix switch board used for connecting and disconnecting a switching-system line and a subscriber line. The matrix switch board includes a board made of an insulating material, and first and second wiring patterns respectively formed on front and back sides of the board so as to cross each other. The matrix switch board further includes through holes provided at cross points of the first and second wiring patterns. In the matrix switch board, when a connection pin is inserted into at least one of the through holes, at least one of the first wiring patterns on the front side and at least one of the second wiring patterns on the back side are electrically connected to each other.

Abstract: An input apparatus that allows those who are severely physically handicapped for example to enter characters with comparative ease and minimizes the chance of making error entries.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a switch-fuse unit provided with a control block to activate auxiliary circuits, this control block being provided with a rotating shaft fitted with a handle for selecting the unit's functions. This unit comprises an accessory device (10) mounted on the control block (11) and is provided with at least one microswitch (13) associated with an auxiliary circuit and a rotating part (18) mounted on said rotation shaft, this part being fitted with at least one activation cam (17). Each microswitch (13) comprises a mobile actuator (14) controlled by a plunger (15) via a support (12), this plunger (15) itself being controlled by the activation cam (17) associated with it, when the rotating part is moving. This accessory device (10) is particularly compact, easy to access and use and is suitable for all switching logics.

Abstract: A switch for use in transformer tap changing is modular in design, having standardized fixed contact units mounted in alignment on a base. Each contact unit has an electrical contact embedded in an insulating body, with a hollow bore formed through the insulating body and the embedded electrical contact. A cylindrical movable contactor having spaced contact bands is mounted on a shaft to be driven through the hollow bores of the fixed contact units between positions at which its contact bands engage the electrical contacts within adjacent fixed contact units. The electrical contacts of the fixed contact units are connected to different taps of the transformer to allow the transformer turns ratio to be adjusted by changing the position of the movable contactor. The drive shaft is connected by a mechanism to a handle mounted outside the tank of the transformer that can be operated to move the movable contact a selected distance to change the tap connections to the transformer.

Abstract: A compact, thin switch of a simple contact structure to be operated for switching operations by an external pressure comprises a base, four stationary contacts arranged on the base and isolated from each other, a curved, self-resetting first movable contact plate formed of a conductive spring material, and mounted on the base, and a curved, second movable contact plate formed of a conductive spring material, and put on top of the first movable contact plate.

Abstract: Electrical plate terminals 18 and 21 are provided on the left and right sides of a main switch box. Between these is provided a switch mechanism chamber 15 in which associated rod terminals 26 and 27 project from right and left. A connecting tube 28 is provided between the rod terminals 26 and 27 and is mounted for sliding movement in conjunction with pivotal movement of a lever 12 so as to connect and disconnect the terminals 27 and 28. The switch mechanism has a low operating force.

Abstract: A deadman switch (4) comprises a pressing plate (5), a shaft (7) provided at the pressing plate (5), a dog plate (6) fitted over the shaft (7), a plurality of bosses (34), a spacer (9) fitted over the shaft (7), a spring (8) provided at the shaft outer circumferential portion, and three-point type limit switches (41), (42) attached on a back plate (3) and such that when dogs (41a), (42a) are engaged with the dog plate (6) so that the limit switches are in free state, they are turned OFF, when the dog plate (6) slightly pushes the dogs (41a), (42a), the limit switches are turned ON, and when the dog plate (6) comes into contact with the spacer (9) to further deeply push the dogs (41a), (42a) against spring force of the spring (8), the limit switches are turned OFF. Since this portable controller is securely turned OFF even if operator tightly grips the portable controller in the panic state based on runaway, etc. of robot, an extremely safety portable controller for robot of the fail-safe type can be provided.

Abstract: An electrical switch, particularly for a breaking circuit includes first and second changeover switches. The first and second changeover switches each comprise first and second stationary contacts and a switching contact. A plunger is operatively connected to a rocker for causing the rocker to pivot between a non-operated position and an operated position. The second stationary contacts are associated with the non-operated position of the plunger. A spring is connected between the rocker and the switching contacts. The spring is arranged on the rocker and on the switching contacts so that at least when switching over from the second stationary contacts to the first stationary contacts the switching contacts are lifted off the second stationary contacts essentially synchronously.

Abstract: A high frequency switch to be mounted on a board, which includes an insulating housing to be mounted on a board of a high frequency apparatus on which ground and signal conductors are disposed; a pair of parallel ground conductive plates disposed on opposite sides of the insulating housing in a direction perpendicular to the board such that when the insulating housing is mounted on the board, the ground plates are connected to the ground conductors on the board; an non-ground conductive plate disposed in the insulating housing between and at right angles with the parallel ground conductive plates such that when the insulating housing is mounted on the board, the non-ground conductive plate is connected to the signal conductor, the non-ground conductive plate including: a switching spring to be connected to one of the signal conductors on an input side, and a connection plate to be connected to one of the signal conductors on an output side; a free end of the switching spring being pressed against a free end o

Abstract: A double pole single throw electric switch has normally closed contacts of one pole connected in a dynamic braking circuit with a motor load and normally open contacts connecting the motor to a source of power. A partial movable contact conductively connected to movable contacts of the normally open contacts is disposed in normally open position relative to one contact of the normally closed contacts to provide a parallel path through the switch for making and breaking the circuit to the power source.

Abstract: A system of modules is provided in which each module has a set of n connectors which are spatially invariant as the module is rotated in steps of 360/n degrees about a module axis. The connectors are configured for axial engagement and a switching one of the modules includes a switch that can connect any one of its connectors with any other of its connectors. The modules are coaxially arranged with respective connectors of adjacent modules engaged. This arrangement is spatially compact and any one of the modules can be selectively connected to any other. In other embodiments, the modules have polygon-shaped perimeters and the connectors are configured for axial and radial engagement. These modules can be arranged both in vertical stacking and planar tiling relationships.

Abstract: An inverter contact switch has a first pair of spaced fixed contacts connected to respective terminals of an inverter circuit for selectively disconnecting and connecting the inverter to a DC power bus. A first pair of spaced movable contacts are positioned on opposite sides of the fixed contacts. A drive actuator is coupled to the movable contacts for concurrently driving the movable contacts into substantially simultaneous engagement with the pair of fixed contacts for establishing a circuit path from one of the fixed contacts through each of the movable contacts to another of the fixed contacts. The switch may include a second pair of fixed and movable contacts operatively connected to a DC return bus and another terminal of the inverter for isolating the inverter from both the power and return buses.

Abstract: A low inductance triaxial semiconductor switching module. The module permits high power semiconductor switching devices to operated at high frequency but with low inductance. The module incorporates compositional, geometrical and electrical symmetry in connection with a triaxial terminal subassembly having coplanar contact areas. The terminal subassembly is readily fabricated and assembled into the module. The module also includes short internal leads, a special circumferential array of substrates subassemblies, and a circular circuit board having gate and Kelvin circuit patterns.

Abstract: A modular electrical switch provides a wiping or shearing action upon closing and opening thereof. A contact carrier disposed within a housing linearly carries a movable contact into engagement with a stationary contact. The contact carrier is guided by movable slide plates disposed on either side thereof and movable along with the contact carrier as a contact assembly. The guide plates also provide pivot recesses for pivot bosses of the contact carrier. The contact carrier is constrained to linear motion up to the point of contact between the movable contact and the stationary contact by a cam trace in the housing. After contact between the movable contact and the stationary contact, the contact carrier reaches a pocket defined by the cam trace, ceases linear movement and upwardly pivots to provide a wiping action between the movable contact and the stationary contact.

Abstract: A method for combining the operation of the electrical disconnecting safety switch of an electric motor within the motor's electrical terminal housing. This method of operation results in a single, compact housing directly mounted to the electric motor body which is used for both the safety disconnect function as well as the termination point for the incoming power leads and the motor wire taps. This method of operation may be employed for single phase and three phase alternating current motors as well as commonly wired direct current motors. The method further provides for a simple and economical way of mounting the device to a variety of motor frames with the use of appropriate adapter plates. The incorporated motor safety disconnect function is available in either of two configurations. The disconnect function may be operated as a rotary tumbler switch with an external rotary hand operator which allows a fully weatherproof design.

Abstract: The basic element of a modular, bidirectional broadband programmable switch system is a switch module having a thin rectangular housing with a single first connector preferably in the center of an elongated rear face and n second connectors equally spaced along the elongated front face. Broadband switches within the module selectively connect the single first connector with any one of the second connectors to provide an n.times.1 or 1.times.n switch. Up to n of the switch modules can be stacked side-by-side with an additional module extending transversely with its n second connectors connected to the first connectors on the stacked modules to provide an n.sup.2 .times.1 or 1.times.n.sup.2 switch. The first connectors on the additional modules of two such stacks can be connected to provide an n.sup.2.times.n.sup.2 switch.

Abstract: An electrically and mechanically robust microelectromechanical transducer is formed of a pleated dielectric sheet having patterned electrical conductors on the opposing faces thereof. The pleats define a plurality of spaced apart walls, with each wall including an electrically conductive portion at one side thereof. Positive and negative voltages, applied to opposite faces of the pleated sheet, cause the walls to move towards one another by electrostatic attraction. The walls can also move away from one another by electrostatic repulsion upon application of appropriate voltages. The microelectromechanical transducer may be fabricated by fabricating a sheet with integral pleats or by forming a "self-pleating" flat sheet which forms pleats after conductor fabrication thereon.

Abstract: A switch device is proposed which includes a plurality of stationary contacts fixedly formed on an insulating substrate, a plurality of movable contacts capable of sliding on the insulating substrate for independently contacting with and separating from the stationary contacts, a common holder case fixed to the insulating substrate, and positioning member provided between the insulating substrate and the holder case for positioning the insulating substrate and the holder case relative to each other. The movable contacts are supported slidably so as to be brought into and out of contact with the stationary contact in a switching manner. Thus, the positioning of the movable contacts relative to the stationary contact is extremely easy, thereby providing an improved assembling efficiency.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel high-speed actuated high-voltage RF switch for such purposes as the cold switching of short very high current RF pulses in applications such as solid-state Loran-C transmitters and the like, as for switching between coupling/output networks thereof. The switch comprises planar upper and lower unconnected pairs of longitudinally extending input and output bus strips electrically connectable by the transverse insertion of planar link strips slightly separated therefrom and the rapid compression thereof against the adjacent end portions of the unconnected input and output bus strips, enabling rapid switching absent wear of the contact surfaces, but with the provision of adequate spacing for high voltage operation and adequate contact pressure to eliminate current arcing.

Abstract: A user interface controller for use by physically challenged persons has multiple function capabilities to operate an electronic device such as a computer or video game system. The controller provides activation of a plurality of first type control devices through a first type movement of a mouthpiece actuator, selection of one or more banks of second type control devices through a second different type movement of the mouthpiece, and activation of one or more second control devices within a selected bank of second control devices through puff and sip operations performed through the mouthpiece.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical transducer including a plurality of strips arranged in an array and maintained in a closely spaced relation by a plurality of spacers. An electrically conductive layer on portions of the strips and spacers distributes electrical signal within the transducer to cause adjacent portions of the strips to move together. The strips and spacers may be formed from a common dielectric layer using microelectronic fabrication techniques. Two transducers may be coupled at an angle offset from parallel for two-dimensional micropositioning. A photodetector and Fresnel lens may be combined with the micropositioner using the transducers for optical scanning microscopy.

Abstract: A relatively quiet switch assembly having a plurality of spaced contact sets with snap-acting transfer actuation and interconnected by a common bus plate. The bus plate is formed of a swandwich construction having a thin (0.001 Inch) core layer of visco-elastic polymer and thicker layers of copper bonded to both sides of the core layer for sound attenuation upon contact transfer. Where the bus plate is formed to a right-angle bend of R/t-1.2 the inner layer is formed of half-hard material and the outer layer of fully annealed material.

Abstract: A switching and/or signalling apparatus is provided including a case formed of a base and a lid in which at least one manually or remote controlled switching unit is housed, particularly a contactor with an electro-thermal relay which is associated therewith, and the control members provided on the lid for actuating the switching unit, wherein, between the control unit and the side walls of the case, there is provided at least one fixed support element for at least one control element associated with the switching unit and actuated by the corresponding control member.

Abstract: An improved triggering switch for DC motors having a base support, a pressing member operatively mounted over the base support, a coupling stand with an open section installed in an upper portion of the base support, a set of motor terminals and power source terminals combined with a contact shaft respectively disposed in the open section of the coupling stand, and a selection button adjustably installed at the base support and movably connected to the contact shaft.

Abstract: A switch construction comprises a waterproof housing and first and second contact assemblies in the housing which are operative for effecting and interrupting electrical continuity in first and second lines, respectively, of an electrical circuit connected to the switch. The switch is operable by manually depressing a rubberized cover on the housing to effect continuity in the first and second contact assemblies; and when pressure is released from the cover, the contact assemblies are resiliently returned to their original positions and continuity is interrupted in the switch.

Abstract: A safety switch for automatically interrupting a circuit when its main contacts are fused or stuck together in the "ON" position comprises a housing containing a pair of main contacts and auxiliary safety contacts which are normally closed but are automatically opened when the main contacts fuse together. One main contact is an "ON" contact, and the other main contact is carried by a movable switch arm. A first spring in the housing mechanically coupled to the movable switch arm normally urges the movable main contact into open position away from the engagement with the ON contact. Switch operating means include a movable actuator to overcome the biasing force of the spring for moving the movable main contact to closed position into engagement with the ON main contact for energizing a circuit controlled by the main contacts.

Abstract: A switch for providing a safety function when its main contacts are fused or stuck together in the "ON" position, comprising a housing containing a pair of main contacts, one being designated an ON contact, and the other main contact being carried by a movable switch arm in the housing. This switch arm has a first end which carries the movable main contact and a second end, and spring means mechanically coupled to the movable switch arm normally bias the movable main contact toward open position away from engagement with the ON contact. Switch operating means including movable actuator means overcome the biasing force of the spring means for moving the movable main contact to closed position into engagement with the ON main contact.

Abstract: In devices such as electronic calculators, which perform mathematical or like functions and require plurality of data inputs to perform their functions; a data input key is pivotally maintained within the body of said device and is adapted to provide a plurality of input data. The data input key has an upper exposed portion having an opening configured and adapted to be engaged by the thumb or finger of the user whereby the key may be manipulated to various contact positions situated in a circular or longitudinal path. These various contact positions provide different input data to the device. In another embodiment, a plurality of the input keys may be used to accommodate a large number of inputs, for example, the inputs of a typewriter.

Abstract: A pair of separate electrical switches are disclosed, each including a fixed contact supported by and electrically connected to a printed circuit board, and a movable contact comprising a deflectable portion of a strip of springy, conducting material. A single such strip is supported by and electrically connected to terminals of the circuit board in a central portion of the strip, the opposite end portions forming the movable switch contacts. A pair of push rods are carried by spaced, flexible, rubber boots which position the push rods and move them axially to urge the respective ends of the strip to a deflected position which moves one strip end away from the associated pin, opening a normally closed switch, and moves the other strip end to contact the pin, closing a normally open switch. The electrical and physical configuration of the switches is particularly suited to use as test and reset switches of a ground fault circuit interrupter device, in which context the invention is disclosed.

Abstract: An array of fluid filled cells bearing symbols on their faces transmit applied pressure or displacement to a remote end of the cell which have a mating array of electrical switches normally maintained in an open position. Pressure or displacement of the upper surface of the cell is transmitted to the lower surface to operate (close) the switch. Upon removal of the applied pressure, the cell returns to its initial position. A second embodiment of the invention shows an entirely modular key formed from a rubber-like material or from a self-skin foam material such as a polyurethane. The modular key has the keyface, body and switch elements formed integrally so that the keys can be added to a premated matrix. Still another embodiment of the present invention shows a totally sealed electronic terminal or device which is specially adapted to accept the modular keys.

Abstract: A multiple position switch includes a housing containing a plurality of membrane switches located in a predetermined pattern. A spring-based, normally centered actuator is mounted in the housing for selective movement to actuate one of the switches. A finder plate is attached to the housing and has a notched circular opening in alignment with the plurality of switches. The actuator is guided to a selective switch location by its engagement with one of the finder plate notches when the actuator is moved in close proximity to a selective switch location.

Abstract: A plurality of electrical load switches of the type operable to at least two operating conditions by the actuation of an operating member are connected in respective motor vehicle load circuits and are mounted in a switching unit having an actuating mechanism for actuating the switch operating members that is selectively locatable in each of a plurality of switch operating positions in each of which it is in register with an operating member. The switching unit is controlled by a microprocessor that effects the locating of the actuating mechanism in the switch operating position in which it may actuate the operating member of a load switch selected to be operated and the operating of the actuating mechanism when so located in response to function select electrical signals that indicate the load switches selected for operation.

Abstract: An actuator for selectively actuating a circular array of electric switches. The actuator includes a molded plastic rotor part that contains particles of magnetic material. One portion of the rotor is magnetized to provide a permanent magnet that is effective to attract a switch actuating arm that is pivoted to the rotor. Another tubular portion of the rotor is magnetized to provide the rotor of an electric stepper motor. The stepper motor rotates the rotor to various positions. The arm can be attracted by an electromagnet and pivoted to a position in which it operates one of the circular array of switches.

Abstract: A plurality of individual electrical load switches each having an operating tab are so mounted and oriented that the operating tabs extend toward a central axis to define a circle substantially normal to the central axis and operate substantially in the direction of the central axis. An operating arm having ends thereof arranged to be brought into register with each operating tab at mutually exclusive angular positions is normally tilt mounted in a first direction upon a rotor that may be positioned in selected ones of a plurality of angular positions by a step motor. Upon one end of the arm being brought into register with a switch operating tab, the arm is tilted in the opposite direction to effect the operation of the operating tab with which the one end thereof is in register to place the corresponding individual electrical load switch in a selected circuit condition.

Abstract: A patch or access module usable with an insertable patch plug having a plurality of electrical contact elements. The patch or access module includes a circuit board, a first electrical circuit electrically connected with a first point on the circuit board, a second electrical circuit electrically connected with the second point on the circuit board and switch contact means for selectively making electrical connection between the first point and the second point and for making electrical connection between the first point and the electrical contact elements of the patch plug upon insertion of the patch plug into the patch or access module.

Abstract: A multipolar switch has elements which can be readily assembled and combined for obtaining closing conracts or opening contacts. The body of the apparatus comprises a mounting base and an upper portion, the mounting base receiving an operating member which is movable in translation, the upper portion receiving a cover to close laterally some housings for terminals, some passageways for the retention of contacts, and some breaking chambers.

Abstract: An optically coated, flexible glass plate cemented to a sheet of polarizing aterial combine to provide a high contrast, non-glare, polarizing filter that can be used in combination with an illuminated switch assembly such as with conventional membrane switches.

Abstract: A wall switch incorporating therewith a selector switch which enables the connection of the wall switch in any one of several circuits whereby the switch may be made to control any one of several outlets in a room. The selection of the desired circuit or outlet is conveniently made by means of the selector switch which is accessible through a hole provided in the cover plate of the wall switch.

Abstract: A circuit selector, particularly adapted for the control of stage lights and the like. A support frame carries a group of input buss bars that are individually connected to power sources through dimmer control devices. A load control switch corresponding to each connected buss bar is also mounted on the support frame. At least one load slider member is arranged to be repositioned and engaged with a selected one of the input buss bars while making electrical contact through a slide or guide rail for the slider member between a selected input buss bar and the corresponding load control switch. The slider member is yieldably actuated to a circuit making position and is positively latched in a retracted condition to freely move along the guide rail as it is positioned for engagement with a selected input buss bar.

Abstract: A switch apparatus is provided which closely approximates transmission medium parameters for reducing impedance discontinuities by utilizing a high frequency contact arrangement permitting high bandwidth operation. The apparatus is adaptable for use with both high and low impedance circuitry.

Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly of miniature switches and impedances selectively pluggable into a DIP allowing impedance programming directly on a printed circuit board to which the DIP is mounted.

Abstract: An electrical switch has a housing with a plurality of switch means movable therein for operation between circuit controlling positions. Means is movable in the housing for engaging each switch means of the switch means plurality to effect the operation thereof from one of the circuit controlling positions toward another of the circuit controlling positions, respectively. The engaging and actuating means include means interiorly of the housing for camming at least two switch means of the switch means plurality so as to effect the operation of the at least two switch means from the one circuit controlling positions toward the another circuit controlling position thereof.

Abstract: A switching device is provided which permits connection of two incompatibly wired electrical components. The electrical signal from each lead on the first electrical component is isolated on a particular switch assembly and re-routed along a selected path to a desired terminal, which then feeds the signal to a particular lead on the second electrical component. Each switch assembly operates independently of the other switch levels, thereby permitting any combination of electrical routes or paths to be selected and accommodating a great variety of wiring designs.