Indicators Patents (Class 200/308)
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Patent number: 9270092Abstract: Roll on floor (ROF) circuit breakers include a plurality of support wheels configured to contact a support surface as the ROF circuit breaker is moved between locations. The support wheels have a rocker configuration whereby weight of the ROF circuit breaker is transferred between different sets of the wheels during movement to thereby facilitate ease of movement.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2013Date of Patent: February 23, 2016Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: James Jeffery Benke, Daniel Evan Palmieri, Douglas Michael Brandt
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Patent number: 9263212Abstract: A gas density monitoring system for high voltage gas circuit breakers. The gas density monitoring system comprising a gas density device mounted directly on a circuit breaker tank end cover. When the gas density device is fully secured to the tank end cover, the gas density device works in conjunction with a self-sealing valve body to provide a self-sealing, direct pathway between the pressurized tank and a sensing element of the gas density device. This pathway permits the gas density device to sense the circuit breaker tank pressure via an angled port through the tank end cover that limits pressure transients that may result from the normal operation of the circuit breaker. The gas density device contact settings may be verified without removal of the density device from the gas circuit breaker or venting the enclosed gas inside the gas circuit breaker to the atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2014Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC POWER PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Jeremy A. Hensberger, Kevin J. Goldstein, Edward J. Besong
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Patent number: 9246256Abstract: A terminal cover is capable of improving the workability. The terminal device includes a first cover portion to be positioned above the first screw terminals, wherein the first cover portion including the first operation openings which respectively expose screws of the first screw terminals, a second cover portion to be positioned above the second screw terminals, the second cover portion including the second operation openings which respectively expose screws of the second screw terminals. And the terminal device further includes a connecting portion connecting the first cover portion with the second cover portion and including wire insertion holes through which electric wires connected to the first screw terminals respectively pass and wire insertion paths which communicate with the wire insertion holes and through which the electric wires respectively pass, each insertion path being provided on an upper surface of the second cover portion between two adjacent second operation openings.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2014Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.Inventors: Tomoaki Sasaki, Yasuhiro Sumino
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Patent number: 9099255Abstract: A housing having activated structure by remotely activates an embedded switch. The case includes a front panel having an inner and outer surface, an operation button, a first elastic member, a latch member having a lead-in portion at one end and an activating portion at the other end, and a lever. The operation button is arranged on the outer face and contacts the lead-in portion. The lever pivotally connects the front panel and selectively contacts the latch member and the switch. When the operation button is pressed, the first elastic member is compressed and the lead-in portion shifts accordingly. The activating portion further applies a force to the lever which then tilts toward the switch, allowing activation. When the first elastic member decompresses, a force applies to the latch member and the latch member returns to the original position.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2013Date of Patent: August 4, 2015Assignees: LITE-ON ELECTRONICS (GUANGZHOU) LIMITED, LITE-ON TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Po-Yu Cheng
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Patent number: 9035206Abstract: An embodiment relates to an electric switch, particularly an electric circuit-breaker, including a rotor housing that can be turned to an ON and an OFF position and at least one electric contact arm that is mounted rotatably in the rotor housing and can be swiveled jointly with as well as relatively to it. A display element is included that is coupled indirectly or directly to the rotor housing and which in one display position indicates the ON position of the rotor housing and in another display position indicates the OFF position of the rotor housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2012Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Lukas Kalous, Pavel Mrtvy, Milos Petracek, Daniel Vavra
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Patent number: 8952826Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes, a first contact and a second contact, the second contact being moveable relative to the first contact, a drive assembly structured to move the second contact relative to the first contact, and an erosion monitoring device including a linear transducer coupled to a portion of the drive assembly. The liner transducer is structured to generate an output signal representative of an amount of linear displacement of the portion of the drive assembly, wherein the erosion monitoring device is structured to monitor a degree of erosion of at least one of the first contact and the second contact based on the output signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2012Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Brad R. Leccia, Steven Castelein, Robert Yanniello, Johan De Jong
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Patent number: 8907239Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes an indicator apparatus having a pair of movable elements and a connection apparatus that enables the pair of movable elements to be cooperable. One of the movable elements is connected with an indicator element that indicates an OPEN and/or a CLOSED condition of the circuit interrupter. A pair of engagement structures are situated on the pair of movable elements and enable the pair of movable elements to be engageable with one another. A biasing element extends between the pair of movable elements and is configured to absorb some of the kinetic energy of a trip event, which resists breakage of the indicator apparatus. The indicator element changes states when the set of separable contacts are at a relatively small amount of separation and does not require the set of separable contacts to reach the end of their travel before changing state.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Andrew Lawrence Gottschalk, Brian John Schaltenbrand
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Publication number: 20140346024Abstract: An operating key includes a recessed portion on a top surface thereof, and the recessed portion includes a bottom surface and wall surfaces. A graphic is configured with paint on the bottom surface, and the graphic is circumscribed by at least a portion of the wall surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2014Publication date: November 27, 2014Applicant: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Seiji YAMAUCHI
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Patent number: 8822858Abstract: Embodiments of a backlit keyboard assembly are described. A keycap assembly is mounted into a case web having intersecting ribs. A flange, which can be angled, is on the bottom perimeter of the keycap and a correspondingly shaped flange is on each rib of the case web. An overlap of the keycap flange and the case web flanges prevents direct sighting of the backlight light source and also provides a more evenly distributed halo around the keycap, thereby improving both aesthetics and functionality by providing better light control and contrast.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: James J. Niu, Harold J. Welch, Chad A. Bronstein, Patrick Kessler, Chris Ligtenberg
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Publication number: 20140174898Abstract: Included are: a movable plate which is coupled to a main shaft of the switchgear and performs motion in accordance with the movement of the main shaft; an ON/OFF display plate in which a display showing the state of the switchgear, such as “ON”/“OFF,” is provided on each of different two faces, and mechanically rotates or performs linear motion and thus displaying the opening/closing state of the contact; and an ON/OFF display plate link which is mechanically connected to the movable plate and the ON/OFF display plate and converts the motion of the movable plate to transfer to the ON/OFF display plate. The display of the ON/OFF display plate is arranged at a tilt toward the upper side or the lower side so as to point at an optional angle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2012Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Toshihiro Matsunaga, Toru Kimura, Hideki Miyatake
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Publication number: 20140144764Abstract: A key that includes a body with an optically transmissive or light permeable region and an optical film coupled to or carried by the light permeable region. The key also includes a resilient structure coupled to the body. The key can be assembled or coupled to, or disposed relative or adjacent to, a display screen. The key also includes a switch actuator (e.g., an electromechanical switch actuator or contact element). Displacement of the key, more specifically the body of the key, displaces the switch actuator for actuating a switch. The resilient structure is configured to bias the body at a first position. The body can be actuated or displaced from the first position to a second position for effectuating corresponding displacement of the switch actuator and actuation of the switch. The resilient structure provides or establishes a positive tactile feedback upon user-directed or user-controlled actuation or displacement of the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2011Publication date: May 29, 2014Inventors: John Wilson, Robert Garrett, Aaron Julin
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Publication number: 20140097070Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an accessory for light, appliance, and other activation switches and switch panels. Specifically, the invention relates to a switch identification cover, sheath, boot, or similar covering that is configured to attach to a switch in order to make that switch more readily identifiable. Throughout this disclosure, the invention may be referred to as a switch identification cover, switch identification sheath, or switch identification boot, as well as any combination or derivative thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventor: Sean Michael McDonnell
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Publication number: 20140090965Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes, a first contact and a second contact, the second contact being moveable relative to the first contact, a drive assembly structured to move the second contact relative to the first contact, and an erosion monitoring device including a linear transducer coupled to a portion of the drive assembly. The liner transducer is structured to generate an output signal representative of an amount of linear displacement of the portion of the drive assembly, wherein the erosion monitoring device is structured to monitor a degree of erosion of at least one of the first contact and the second contact based on the output signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2012Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicant: EATON CORPORATIONInventors: Brad R. Leccia, Steven Castelein, Robert Yanniello, Johan De Jong
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Publication number: 20140034466Abstract: Embodiments disclose an electrical contact position indicator. The indicator includes a mechanical indicator and an accessory actuator configured and adapted to mount in a circuit breaker housing, the accessory actuator being coupled to the mechanical indicator. The mechanical indicator is configured and operable to provide a non-electrical indication of an operational configuration of the electrical contact assembly, and actuate the accessory actuator. The accessory actuator is operable to provide an electrical indication of an operational configuration of the electrical contact assembly. Electrical contact position indicator assemblies and methods of operating the same are provided, as are other aspects.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.Inventor: Kevin R. Warne
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Publication number: 20140014483Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes an indicator apparatus having a pair of movable elements and a connection apparatus that enables the pair of movable elements to be cooperable. One of the movable elements is connected with an indicator element that indicates an OPEN and/or a CLOSED condition of the circuit interrupter. A pair of engagement structures are situated on the pair of movable elements and enable the pair of movable elements to be engageable with one another. A biasing element extends between the pair of movable elements and is configured to absorb some of the kinetic energy of a trip event, which resists breakage of the indicator apparatus. The indicator element changes states when the set of separable contacts are at a relatively small amount of separation and does not require the set of separable contacts to reach the end of their travel before changing state.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Inventors: Andrew Lawrence Gottschalk, Brian John Schaltenbrand
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Patent number: 8624145Abstract: An indicator device displays a status of switching contacts of a circuit breaker that includes an energy store. The indicator device includes a lever and a coupling element. The lever includes a display element and is movable between a triggered position and a non-triggered position based upon at least one operational parameter. The coupling element is operatively connected to the lever so as to be movable between a triggered, position and a non-triggered position by the lever. The coupling element is configured to be further operatively connected to a first actuator of the energy store so as to be movable by the first actuator into the non-triggered position when energy is stored in the first energy store and so as to not be moved from the non-triggered position into the triggered position when energy stored in the energy store is released.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2011Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Eaton Industries GmbHInventors: Gregor Fleitmann, Volker Heins, Wolfgang Wagner
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Patent number: 8610012Abstract: An arrangement includes an electrical switch which has a handle that can assume at least three different positions, namely an ON position, an OFF position and a TRIPPED position, and a motor drive that is mounted on said switch and is provided for the purpose of activating the handle. According to an embodiment of the invention, provision is made for the motor drive to feature a motor-drive-specific indicator entity which indicates whether the switch can be closed by way of the motor drive, wherein the motor-drive-specific indicator entity is connected to at least one switch-specific actuator and to at least one motor-drive-specific actuator, and indicates a closure-unreadiness of the arrangement if at least one of the actuators signals a closure-unreadiness.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2011Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Marc Liebetruth
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Patent number: 8598476Abstract: A keypad assembly, and an associated method, is constructed in a manner to permit application of a finish, such as a decoration or painting, to any desired portion of the keys of the assembly, including at interstitial portions between adjacent keys. The keypad assembly includes a carrier membrane upon which keys forming a keypad array and key membrane pieces are supported. The carrier membrane is wrapped about a cylindrical fixture to position all portions of the keys in orientations to permit application of the finish thereto.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2011Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: BlackBerry LimitedInventors: Matthew Michael Ignor, Timothy Herbert Kyowski
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Publication number: 20130300491Abstract: It is described a switching device comprising a semiconductor switching unit; a contactor electrically coupled in series with the semiconductor switching unit; and a controller being configured for activating an electrically isolating state of the switching device and/or activating an electrically conducting state of the switching device based on a command signal or based on a comparison of a measured value and predetermined activation condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2011Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventors: Ove Boe, Espen Haugan, Asle Einar Skjellnes
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Publication number: 20130300217Abstract: An electric switching device for a low voltage circuit includes an electronic unit configured to be operatively connected to a first communication bus implementing a first communication protocol, a communication module configured to be operatively connected to the first communication bus and to a second communication bus implementing a second communication protocol, which is different than the first communication protocol. The communication module is configured to place the first communication bus in communication with the second communication bus, and to detect a condition of the switching device and make it available externally thereto by means of the first communication bus and/or the second communication bus.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2013Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventors: Luca RACITI, Romano MANZOLI
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Publication number: 20130270080Abstract: An electrical installation switching device includes a housing, a contact lever and a switch position indication, which is formed from a slide which is guided in the housing such that it can move longitudinally between a first indication position and a second indication position. The sliding movement of the slide is coupled to the movement of the contact lever. Latching means are provided on the slide and on the housing to detachably latch the slider to the housing in the first indication position, and thus to prevent inadvertent movement from the first indication position.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2012Publication date: October 17, 2013Inventors: Heiko STOLZ, Dirk HAUCK
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Patent number: 8555660Abstract: An operation unit for a vehicle air conditioner includes a display device, a setting input portion of a control parameter of the air conditioner other than a set temperature, an obtaining portion configured to obtain a present set value of the control parameter, and an operating state identification portion configured to identify whether an air-conditioning operating state is in a plurality of predetermined operating states of the air conditioner. In the operation unit, a moving pattern of a pointer of the display device is changed according to the operating state of the air conditioner. For example, a pointer operation control portion can be configured to control an operation of a pointer driving motor such that the pointer moves on a dial of the display device at different moving speeds according to the air-conditioning operating state.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignees: Denso Corporation, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kenichi Takenaka, Kuniharu Kutsuna, Kazumutsu Azuma, Hiroki Iwashita, Yuji Kawamoto
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Publication number: 20130264180Abstract: Identification accessories, circuit breaker caps, and labeling kits for labeling electrical switch devices, such as circuit breakers, are presented herein. An identification accessory is disclosed for identifying an electrical switch device in proximity to its operating mechanism. The identification accessory includes an accessory shell with a lid having first and second endwalls projecting from the lid.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2012Publication date: October 10, 2013Applicant: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.Inventor: William J. Broghammer
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Patent number: 8537518Abstract: A system and method are provided for remotely actuating a subunit disconnect in a motor control center subunit. A motor control center subunit includes a subunit housing configured to fit within a motor control center and a subunit disconnect configured to selectively control a supply power to motor control components of the subunit housing. A control mechanism is attached to the subunit housing to activate and deactivate the subunit disconnect and a remote control device communicates with the control mechanism and is configured to operate the control mechanism to activate and deactivate the subunit disconnect.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Robert A. Morris, Edgar Yee, Jared A. Bryll, Daniel J. Leeman, Daniel B. Kroushl
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Patent number: 8531310Abstract: An electric function module assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes an electric switch box having a pair of electrical contacts adapted for slidable connective engagement with a respective pair of electrical contacts of a switch cover. The contacts of the switch cover are electrically connected to a function indicator to operate the function indicator.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2010Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Inventor: Paul Cutler
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Patent number: 8525056Abstract: This invention is directed to a switch for use in an electronic device. As the user actuates the switch, different labels may be visible to indicate to the user the current state of the switch. To allow the switch to be positioned adjacent to an edge of the device, the switch may include only a single label that moves with the switch. For example, the switch may include a label positioned adjacent to a nub that the user may operate. The label may be sized such that only the label is visible when the switch is in a first position. The electronic device may also include a second label that is fixed to a non-moving portion of the electronic device. When the user moves the switch, the switch may move away from and uncover the second label while hiding the label that is included in the switch.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventor: Emery Sanford
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Patent number: 8502098Abstract: An appliance control panel is described. The control panel is a laminate assembly of a front metal panel and a rear polymeric film. The film carries various electronic circuits and other components which are operable from the metal panel.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: American Trim, LLCInventors: Robert M. Byrne, Bret E. Kline, Steven J. Couvillon, Frank J. Catanzarite
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Patent number: 8492667Abstract: An electrical circuit breaker, in particular a high-voltage circuit breaker filled with insulating gas, is described. The circuit breaker is furnished with a first contact, in particular, a contact pin and a second contact, in particular, a tulip contact that are movable in opposite directions. The circuit breaker is furnished with a drive mechanism that is coupled to the second contact. The circuit breaker is furnished with a reversing gear that produces a coupling between the second and the first contact. A first indicator element is provided that is associated with the reversing gear.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Areva Energietechnik GmbHInventor: Achim Stelter
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Publication number: 20130118870Abstract: An embodiment relates to an electric switch, particularly an electric circuit-breaker, including a rotor housing that can be turned to an ON and an OFF position and at least one electric contact arm that is mounted rotatably in the rotor housing and can be swiveled jointly with as well as relatively to it. A display element is included that is coupled indirectly or directly to the rotor housing and which in one display position indicates the ON position of the rotor housing and in another display position indicates the OFF position of the rotor housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2012Publication date: May 16, 2013Inventors: Lukas KALOUS, Pavel MRTVY, Milos PETRACEK, Daniel VAVRA
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Publication number: 20130098741Abstract: In a method a membrane for switching operation is made by providing a transparent sheet, forming a graphical layer by image-wise providing a curable ink layer using inkjet printing on a surface of the transparent sheet, wherein the graphical layer has a thickness of at most 35 micron, curing the graphical layer, and forming a flexible layer by providing an ink layer using screen printing over the graphical layer. The switching membrane is durable for switching operation and may be made at low-cost in small quantities.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: OCE TECHNOLOGIES B.V.Inventors: Hylke VEENSTRA, Paul VAN MIERLO, Matheus WIJNSTEKERS, Henricus Cornelis Maria VAN GENUCHTEN
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Publication number: 20130062172Abstract: Provided herein is a circuit breaker trip unit with a displaying device. The displaying device has a first displaying region, a second displaying region and optionally a third displaying region. The first displaying region is adapted to show one or more icons alone or together with text arranged in horizontal lines; the second displaying region is adapted to show text arranged in horizontal lines or graphics; the third displaying region is adapted to show text arranged in a horizontal line.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventors: Randal Paul Shvach, John Anthony Massoud, James Leo Lagree
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Patent number: 8354603Abstract: A switching device includes a switching appliance, a cap, at least one connecting device for firm connection of the switching appliance to the cap, and a monitoring device. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring device includes a sensor and a tripping element, whose position is variable after connection and which, when the switching appliance is ready to operate, is located in a position in which the tripping element can be detected by the sensor, the monitoring device further including a signal unit which is connected to the sensor and is used to signal operational readiness once the sensor has detected this.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ladislav Dostal, Lukas Jerabek, Libor Krivanek, Christian Rohrwild
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Publication number: 20120318653Abstract: This invention is directed to a switch for use in an electronic device. As the user actuates the switch, different labels may be visible to indicate to the user the current state of the switch. To allow the switch to be positioned adjacent to an edge of the device, the switch may include only a single label that moves with the switch. For example, the switch may include a label positioned adjacent to a nub that the user may operate. The label may be sized such that only the label is visible when the switch is in a first position. The electronic device may also include a second label that is fixed to a non-moving portion of the electronic device. When the user moves the switch, the switch may move away from and uncover the second label while hiding the label that is included in the switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Applicant: APPLE INC.Inventor: Emery Sanford
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Publication number: 20120279839Abstract: A system includes a switch operation unit configured to be mechanically operated to be in on or off state; a detecting unit configured to detect whether the switch operation unit is in on or off state; a first mechanism configured to close electrical contacts of at least one circuit when the switch operation unit is operated to be in on state; a second mechanism configured to maintain the contacts in closed state and switch the contacts to open state in response to electrical signals of off, on, and, off while the switch operation unit is in off state when the switch operation unit is operated to be in off state; and a first unit configured to notify a user of an abnormal state when the contacts are in the closed state and the switch operation unit is in off state at start of control.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2012Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventor: Atsuki IWATA
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Patent number: 8299380Abstract: Disclosed are a position indicating apparatus for a circuit breaker and a circuit breaker having the same. The circuit breaker having a position indicating apparatus comprises a cradle having a bus bar terminal and a load terminal; a main body having a bus bar connection unit and a load connection unit respectively connected to the bus bar terminal and the load terminal, and configured to be movable to a run position that the terminals and the connection units are connected to each other, and to a test position that the terminals and the connection units are separated from each other; and a position indicating apparatus configured to outwardly display a position of the main body by interworking with motion of the main body, wherein the position indicating apparatus comprises: a movable pin interworking with motion of the main body; and a display unit configured to display a position of the main body corresponding to a position of the movable pin by interworking with motion of the movable pin.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd.Inventors: In-Kyum Kim, Kil-Young Ahn
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Patent number: 8289192Abstract: A control device, such as a keypad device, for use in a load control system for controlling the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load comprises a switch, a yoke fixedly mounted with respect to the switch, and a removable button assembly that may be removed from the control device. The removable button assembly comprises a spring tree having a frame portion and at least one button pivotably coupled to the frame portion. The button assembly is received within a channel of the yoke and is positioned such that the button is operable to actuate the switch when the button is pressed. The button assembly is adapted to slide through the channel, such that the button assembly may be removed from the control device. Accordingly, the button of the control device may be easily changed after installation of the control device.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2010Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventor: Brian R. O'Donnell
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Publication number: 20120242429Abstract: A circuit breaker is disclosed that provides a warning that the current through the circuit breaker exceeds a warning threshold. The circuit breaker comprises: a switch that carries a current I; an indicator for alternatively indicating: (i) that the current I has not exceeded IW, and (ii) that the current I has exceeded IW; and an actuator in series with the switch that: (i) causes the indicator to indicate that the current I has exceeded IW when and only when the current I has exceeded IW, and (ii) opens the switch when and only when the current I exceeds IT; wherein 0<IW<IT.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2012Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventors: Walter Michael Pitio, Allen Francis Santamaria
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Patent number: 8264232Abstract: A device for measuring the wear of the contacts of a switchgear device is described. The switchgear device is of the open circuit breaker type with offset pole-shaft, and the movable contact is mounted on a sliding support. Measurement of the wear of the contacts is based on evaluation of the over-travel of the movable contact in the closed position when the latter slides in its support. This over-travel is determined by measuring the residual rotation of the pole-shaft, preferably by a contact-less magnetic rotation sensor.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2010Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SASInventor: Marc Rival
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Patent number: 8247721Abstract: This invention is directed to a switch for use in an electronic device. As the user actuates the switch, different labels may be visible to indicate to the user the current state of the switch. To allow the switch to be positioned adjacent to an edge of the device, the switch may include only a single label that moves with the switch. For example, the switch may include a label positioned adjacent to a nub that the user may operate. The label may be sized such that only the label is visible when the switch is in a first position. The electronic device may also include a second label that is fixed to a non-moving portion of the electronic device. When the user moves the switch, the switch may move away from and uncover the second label while hiding the label that is included in the switch.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2008Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventor: Emery Sanford
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Publication number: 20120199455Abstract: Embodiments of a backlit keyboard assembly are described. A keycap assembly is mounted into a case web having intersecting ribs. A flange, which can be angled, is on the bottom perimeter of the keycap and a correspondingly shaped flange is on each rib of the case web. An overlap of the keycap flange and the case web flanges prevents direct sighting of the backlight light source and also provides a more evenly distributed halo around the keycap, thereby improving both aesthetics and functionality by providing better light control and contrast.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2011Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: Apple Inc.Inventors: James J. NIU, Harold J. Welch, Chad A. Bronstein, Patrick Kessler, Chris Ligtenberg
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Patent number: 8232489Abstract: A switching device, in particular an automatic switch, a disconnecting switch or a contactor, installable according to different operating configurations and preferably for use in low voltage systems. The device comprises a case containing at least a pair of contacts, one or more accessory devices for controlling and/or setting the operation of the switching device and user interface means, capable of performing output and/or input functions relative to the accessory devices. These interface means comprise at least a display which shows information relative to the output and/or input functions according to a viewing direction. The switching device also comprises means to select the viewing direction which are operatively connected to the display. These selection means allow selection of the viewing direction on the display as a function of the installation configuration of the switching device.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2008Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: ABB S.p.A.Inventors: Giovanni Frassineti, Federico Gamba
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Publication number: 20120186958Abstract: The present disclosure provides a button assembly used in an electronic device. The button assembly includes a base, a switch arranged on the base and a button. A raised logo is arranged on the switch. The button is movably arranged on the switch, and a through hole is defined on the button to receive the raised logo. An electronic device using the button assembly is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2011Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD .Inventor: WEN-YAN YANG
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Patent number: 8222552Abstract: A run/test position indicator device of a vacuum circuit breaker includes: a position indication cam installed between a girder, a fixed body, and a main body of a carriage, a moving body, and rotating at a certain angle according to a change in the space between the girder and the main body of the carriage; and an indication member, to which the position indication cam is rotatably coupled, having a mark symbol to allow the position indication cam to indicate a run and test position of a main body of circuit breaker.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hyun Jae Kim, Kil Young Ahn
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Publication number: 20120061217Abstract: A portable electronic device including a main body, a physical key module, and a control module is provided. The physical key module assembled to the main body has a display surface, and the physical key module includes at least two overlapped icon units. The control module electrically connected to the physical key module activates one of the icon units according to an operating state of the main body, so that an icon of the activated icon unit is displayed on the display surface. A method for switching icons is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: HTC CORPORATIONInventors: Ching-Liang Chiang, Tsung-Yuan Ou, Yi-Shen Wang
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Publication number: 20120048695Abstract: An arrangement includes an electrical switch which has a handle that can assume at least three different positions, namely an ON position, an OFF position and a TRIPPED position, and a motor drive that is mounted on said switch and is provided for the purpose of activating the handle. According to an embodiment of the invention, provision is made for the motor drive to feature a motor-drive-specific indicator entity which indicates whether the switch can be closed by way of the motor drive, wherein the motor-drive-specific indicator entity is connected to at least one switch-specific actuator and to at least one motor-drive-specific actuator, and indicates a closure-unreadiness of the arrangement if at least one of the actuators signals a closure-unreadiness.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventor: Marc Liebetruth
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Patent number: 8106322Abstract: A flexible amperage flag that indicates an amperage rating of a trip unit in a circuit breaker. The flag is molded with a housing of the trip unit so that it remains with the trip unit even when installed into a different circuit breaker. The flag includes an attachment member secured to a wall of the trip unit and a flexible leg integral with the attachment member. A top surface member indicates the amperage rating and protrudes through an auxiliary cover of the circuit breaker so as to be visible through the panelboard into which the circuit breaker is installed and is connected to the top surface member. During a circuit interruption, the pressure created by the exploding gas forces the auxiliary cover away from the trip unit, creating stress on the flag. The flexible leg permits the flag to move with the auxiliary cover and return to its original form without breaking.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2009Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.Inventor: Dennis W. Fleege
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Patent number: 8053694Abstract: A circuit interrupter mechanism includes a first member movable in a first longitudinal direction and an opposite second longitudinal direction, and a second member pivotal in a first pivotal direction and an opposite second pivotal direction. A first tab is fixedly coupled to one of the first and second members, and a second tab is pivotally coupled to the other of the members. The first tab engages and disengages from the second tab during movement of the first member in the first longitudinal direction and in the second longitudinal direction. The second tab pivots with respect to the other of the members when engaged by the first tab during movement of the first member in the first longitudinal direction. The second tab does not pivot with respect to the other of the members when engaged by the first tab during movement of the first member in the second longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Yuri C. Spitsberg, Thomas A. Whitaker
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Publication number: 20110266122Abstract: Directional indicators on the control buttons of an electrical control for a light dimmer or a motor controller are formed by triangular lines with vertices pointing away from one another and in a direction related to the change initiated by pressing the related button. The indicia are formed by narrow lines of length less than about one hundred thousands of an inch, and tend to disappear from view as an observer is farther away from the control buttons. The buttons are formed of right triangles with adjacent spaced hypotenuses and fit into a rectangular area. On/off rectangular buttons of the same color as the control buttons are atop and below the rectangular area.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2010Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventors: Walter S. Zaharchuk, Elliot G. Jacoby, JR., Nathan Butler, Joel S. Spira
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Patent number: 8039768Abstract: An electrical switch includes a rotary switch actuator device, and an actuator locking device. The actuator locking device inhibits the rotation of the rotary switch actuator device when the contacts of the switch are closed. Only when the operator tries to open the switch with an operating handle and the contacts do actually open, a lock release device will release the actuator locking device, and allow the operator to move the operator handle to the position corresponding to the open condition. When the contacts do not open, e.g., because they are welded, the actuator locking device will remain locked and the handle movement is blocked. This provides a robust and safe switch that never gives a false “OFF” indication.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Eaton Electric B.V.Inventor: Albert Jozef Peter Postmus
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Patent number: RE44974Abstract: Disclosed is a keypad assembly including a light guide panel, light, at least one light extracting pattern provided on the light guide panel so that light propagating inside the light guide panel is directed out of the light guide panel, a switch board having at least one switch; and at least one light source for coupling light to the inside of the light guide panel, wherein the light guide panel has a thickness of 0.03-0.6 mm.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yu-Sheop Lee, Sun-Tae Jung, Joo-Hoon Lee