Abstract: An actuator means for an electrical switch concealed in a housing and operated by a handle externally mounted to the cover thereof, whereby, upon closing the cover, the actuator automatically moves in a rectilinear direction to locate the toggle operating lever of the switch and rotatably moves the externally viewed handle to preposition it to indicate the energization state of the switch. Alternatively, the actuator permits operation of the switch by rotating the externally accessible handle. This invention is especially suited to circuit breaker switches contained in explosion-proof or hazardous location-rated enclosures.

Abstract: A low profile tactile keyswitch including a horizontally positioned elastic column spring which buckles under an axial load to provide a tactile feel for the keyswitch. The ends of the spring are maintained between two spring holders which are urged together as the keybutton is depressed. Stabilizing arms pivotally attached to the keybutton are used to stabilize the keybutton and also to carry extensions which engage the spring holders to move them together as the keybutton is depressed. The keyswitch is operable to be placed in an inactive configuration in which the keybutton is lowered without placing the spring under added compression.

Abstract: A protective cover for a hand operated computer control, sometimes referred to as a "mouse" where the protective cover has a cavity in which the "mouse" is held and shielded from dust and dirt. The cover has pivotal levers with downwardly projecting adjustable projections that contact buttons on the "mouse" to signal commands to a computer.

Abstract: An electronic housing structure including an enclosure for containing at least one electronic device having a plurality of user interface switches. The electronic housing structure further has a user interface pad attached to the enclosure near the user interface switches for operating said user interface switches. The user interface pad further seals the enclosure to completely seal and protect the electronic device. The enclosure and the user interface pad are composed of a waterproof, dust-proof and mud-proof material whereby said electronic device can be operated in an outdoor condition.

Abstract: A switch actuator mounted in a housing for axial and rotary movement operates a rotary switch on the actuator axis through an axial lost motion connection. A pushbutton switch offset from the axis is engaged by a semi-circular plate radially extending from the actuator and is actuated upon axial movement of the actuator for any rotary position of the actuator. Optionally, the plate has apertures which register with the pushbutton switch at selected actuator rotary positions to disable pushbutton operation at the selected positions. The actuator is made of light conducting transparent plastic to illuminate an indicator on the switch knob from a bulb within the housing. A flexible detent finger integrally molded into the housing engages the plate during its axial movement to impart tactile feel.

Abstract: A push switch includes a support, a switching-element assembly arranged on the support, and an actuator assembly arranged on the switching-element assembly. The switching-element assembly includes first and second contacts vertically arranged, with the second contact being elastically movable toward the first contact and making contact with the first contact when depressed by the actuator assembly. The basic actuator assembly includes an airtight enclosure of an elastic film having a domed shape and a gas enclosed therein, so that the bottom surface of the airtight enclosure depresses the second contact by a depression force onto the top surface thereof.

Abstract: The handle of a circuit breaker is controlled manually by sliding a linkage member right, or left, upon a flat surface of the housing of the circuit breaker. The linkage member is at one end pivotally attached through a knurled pin to the handle and, at the other end, a handhold portion is provided with a recess admitting a finger, or thumb, to push or pull the linkage member and actuate the circuit breaker through its handle.

Abstract: A switching mechanism is provided including a control member and a switching element which is coupled to the control member and by means of a coupling element can be moved between a first and a second position. The switching mechanism includes two coupling elements which are arranged in series in the switching direction, each coupling element being constituted by a hinging V-shaped member, a point of intersection of a V-shaped member being alternately located within range for action thereon by the control member.

Abstract: A merchandise security system sensor encloses a microswitch operated by an overtravel actuator projecting from the sensor housing. The microswitch is adapted to be electrically connected to a monitoring system which generates an alarm signal in response to a change of state of the microswitch. Attachment of the sensor to a protected article operates to depress the microswitch actuator and places the microswitch in a first state. Unauthorized removal of the sensor from the article releases the actuator causing the microswitch to revert to its initial state thereby triggering the alarm.

Abstract: A compact molded case circuit breaker with increased ampere rating employs a latch assembly for maintaining the circuit breaker operating mechanism in a closed condition against a pair of powerful operating springs. To increase the mechanical advantage required to move the operating handle against the springs, a retractable handle extender is attached to the handle. For higher-rated circuit applications, a lug cover extension is added to the line end of the breaker to assist in extinguishing the intense arc that occurs during circuit interruption and to protect the line lugs from inter-phasal circuit faults. A visual access slot is arranged next to the circuit breaker handle to ascertain and verify the condition of the circuit breaker contacts.

Abstract: An electric switching device for making or breaking the electric continuity between electric connecting elements under the action of an external force includes, in a single case, at least one electric switch having a control member therefor, a movable operating member specific to each switch mounted in the casing for sliding movement along the switch, a tapping in each operating member having its axis parallel to the sliding direction of the operating member, and a rod threadedly cooperating with each tapping, each threaded rod having a first end on which the external force is directly exerted and a second end which can be rotated by an appropriate tool passing through a wall of the case, and the operating member comprises a substantially cylindrical sleeve acting against a coaxially mounted resilient return member, the sleeve having a member directly cooperating with the control member of the switch.

Abstract: A switch operator is provided that is capable of field retrofit installation by being affixed to manually operable switchgear to provide power operation thereof. The switch operator includes provisions for connecting the drive output of the switch operator to a switch-operating shaft of a manually operable switch within the switchgear. The drive output provisions of the switch operator include a selectively operable decoupling arrangement which is operable without the need for tools. The switch operator also provides for manual operation without the need for decoupling or the disconnection of parts. The drive output of the switch operator is defined at an output shaft of a motor/gear train. Two coaxially arranged levers, an operator drive lever and a switch drive lever, are selectively coupled to transmit the drive output of the switch operator to the switch-operating shaft. A manual drive connection is affixed to the output shaft which is rotatable to provide manual operation via a handle.

Abstract: A control device for an electrical switch is suggested, which is composed, among other things, of an actuation element (1) as well as at least one latching pin (3) that is under the effect of a compression spring (2) and a system having at least one latching track (4) interacting with the latching pin (3). In the latching track (4), at least one molded pathway (7) lying inclined to the actuation directions is present, which upon a displacement of the latching pin (3) in one of the actuation directions necessarily produces a simultaneous displacement of the latching pin (3) in the other actuation direction. The control device designed in such a way serves the purpose of realizing the functions of both angular and axial displacement and in addition, of insuring that the electrical switch can only be brought into permissible switching positions by movement of the actuation element (1).

Abstract: A fast operating disconnect switch minimizes the arc that occurs when the switch contacts are opened or closed by operation of a rotor assembly while the switch is electrically energized. A powerful operating spring within the operating mechanism under the control of a handle operator assembly overcenters upon the ON-OFF as well as OFF-ON movement of the handle operator. The handle operator assembly is adapted for either left-hand or right-hand mounting to a common rotor assembly.

Abstract: An electrical slide switch contains an extendible actuator mechanism. The actuator mechanism is initially flush with the housing, in an inactive position, and can be extended outwardly from the housing and locked in an active switching position after the switch is inserted into a printed circuit board. The actuator is movable along a guide ramp from the inactive position to the active position in which the actuator button and control carrier are locked together for further movement.

Abstract: An improved keyboard is provided with a flexible metal cover, normally closed switches, and multiple throw switches. The metal cover is made flexible in the area of each key or switch by the provision of grooves in the metal surrounding each flexible portion. The normally closed and multiple throw switches include pellets which transmit the actuating force on a key or switch through a substrate on which a switch is mounted. The device may be configured in such a way that the pellet will push the normally closed contacts of a switch out of contact, or the pellet or pellets may mechanically link a stacked set of switches in order to provided ganged, multiple throw operation.

Abstract: A rotary power control unit is capable of functioning as many different switches. The power control unit includes a housing, a shaft-actuator assembly, a circuit board with a variable resistor, and a strap for containing these elements in the housing. The shaft-actuator assembly is rotatably attached to the floor of the housing, and passes through the circuit board and strap where it is connected to a control knob. The shaft is also fastened to a wiper shoe which rotates with the shaft and varies the resistance of the circuit. By interchanging shaft-actuator assemblies, and adding appropriate components to the circuit board, the rotary power control unit may take the form of:a simple rotary control,a rotary control with full-on bypass,a simple push control,a three-way push control, ora tandem push control.

Abstract: A button set and switch particularly useful for an automotive power seat switch are disclosed. The button set is a single one-piece, molded set of buttons each connecting by living hinge to a frame such that each button may be displaced independently but are physically arranged to simulate a preselected design. A printed circuit board may be mounted to the button set and may include a series a clicket switches appropriately positioned to be engaged by each botton for providing appropriate signals to obtain the desired output controlled by the switch.

Abstract: The contactor incorporates, in a cavity (70), a fixed contact blade (20) and a movable contact blade (21) pushed elastically away from the fixed contact blade (20) in the opposite direction to the direction in which the follower (13) is pushed, the follower (13) being capable of cooperating in thrust with the piston mechanism (2) of the casing of the servomotor in which the contactor is mounted, the movable contact blade being coupled to a plunger (15) mounted so as to slide in the follower (13) and incorporating a shoulder (16) which is capable of cooperating with an abutment (18) of the follower. The cavity (70) isoldated hermetically from the outside, communicates freely and permanently with the rear working chamber (4) of the servomotor through passages (12).

Abstract: A door panel position sensor assembly for a transit vehicle is provided which comprises a door mounted actuator device and a vehicle mounted switch operating mechanism which is mounted adjacent to the path of travel of the door and is actuated by the door-mounted actuator device during movement of the door between open and closed positions. The switch operating mechanism comprises a signalling switch whose switching state indicates the position of the door and a single actuator lever which is movable by the door mounted actuator device between first and second positions to control actuation and de-actuation of the switch. A spring arrangement is located between actuator arm and the signalling switch which assists in toggling of the actuator lever and which, under the control of the actuator lever, engages the switch to provide actuation thereof.

Abstract: A conductive elastomeric ink is described comprised of very fine nickel particles admixed in a silicone binder. The ink has utility in elastomeric switch control devices, printed circuits and the like.

Abstract: A tactile or snap action membrane keyboard is presented wherein the tactile or snap action key elements are protrusions in a membrane sheet, the protrusions being asymmetrical to preprogram the collapse of the tactile element.

Abstract: A joystick controller assembly for making switch closures in response to X-Y coordinate movements of a joystick in which means are provided for limiting the force which can be applied to a switch.

Abstract: A switch actuator mechanism including a slider which can execute movement in steps along a linear track, the step-wise movement being governed by the interaction of a pair of cam-followers, carried by the slider, with respective cam-surfaces disposed alongside the track, one to either side thereof. The cam-followers are resiliently urged into contact with their respective cam surfaces and permit the slider to assume, alternately, stable and unstable conditions at locations disposed in series along the track.

Abstract: Video disc player includes a mechanism for actuating a transfer switch for selectively connecting either the antenna or the player to the television receiver.

Abstract: A weighted trigger device in which the centrifugal force of weights revolving in conjunction with an input shaft is used to displace a movable element axially and in opposition to the force of a spring in order to trigger a control system. The resistance of the weight system is positive and greater at all points to the resistance of the spring.

Abstract: A keyboard assembly comprises a base, a plurality of pressure-operated switches mounted on said base, a keyboard comprising support means overlying the switches and having a plurality of key locations formed therewith, each including a key hinged at one side to the support means and disposed in operative relation to one of the switches, the support means defining a first aperture in each key location to permit movement of the key therethrough, each of the keys including a cantilever switch actuator which is initially formed in a first position on one side of the support means and then rotated so that it extends beneath said key from a toggle hinge on one side thereof to a second aperture in each key location on an opposite side of said key, said actuator being positioned to engage the corresponding switch when the key is depressed, an enlarged end portion of said switch actuating means being received in said second aperture, and coacting therewith during key depressing movement, said switch actuating means be

Abstract: A multiple pressure switch comprising a first and a second snap switch, which under spring pre-stress each assume a starting position and have a first and second point of application respectively for an actuating member, which is supported on a total of three application points lying on the corners of a conceived triangle, and with gradual increase of an external force acting on the actuating member within the triangle causes first the first and then the second snap switch to snap over into a final position. Relative to a base plane normal to the direction of application of the external force the first point of application in its starting position lies higher and in its end position lies deeper then the second point of application in its original position, and the second point of application in its starting position lies higher and in its end position lies lower than the third point of application.

Abstract: An activation device is presented for a tactile keyboard of the type having a molded monolithic plastic layer of tactile elements. The actuator is a thermocompressively molded monolithic plastic layer which incorporates a matrix of geometrically designed strikers, the actuator layer being interposed between the keys and the molded monolithic plastic layer of tactile elements in a keyboard assembly.

Abstract: A portable electric tool speed control switch of the trigger actuated type having an adjustable trigger stop that affords selective setting of the maximum speed point to any one of a multiplicity of speed points. The trigger stop is integrally mounted in the trigger and abuts the switch housing to limit trigger depression. A spring-biased plunger pin (16) extends rearwardly through the trigger head (10) toward the housing and an adjusting knob (20) recessed in and rotatably mounted in the trigger head has a notched helical track (20b) that engages a tooth at the head of the pin so that rotation of the knob adjusts the plunger pin to provide a trigger stop by abutting the housing at the selected point of trigger depression thus setting the speed point of the tool and affording returning repeatedly to the same speed point.

Abstract: A switch structure characterized by a pushbutton-rotatable switch handle and a plurality of switch blocks mounted in tandem, the switch blocks comprising molded base and cover portions which provide an insulating barrier between the moving and stationary contact arms for increased current capabilities, and the switches having reciprocable switch operating plungers which are actuated either together or separately by longitudinal or rotary movement of the switch actuator.

Abstract: A switch actuating device adapted for conjoint rotation with a rotatable assembly of a prime mover. Means for mounting to the rotatable assembly so as to be conjointly rotatable therewith includes a pair of sets of opposite surfaces, and switch operating means conjointly rotatable with the mounting means is arranged for axial movement thereon between a pair of opposite positions. A pair of centrifugal weight members are responsive to the rotational speed of the device to effect the axial movement of the switch operating means between its opposite positions and include a pair of sets of means arranged for guiding engagement on the oppposite surface set pair upon the axial movement of the switch operating means between its opposite positions, respectively. A pair of springs are respectively biased between the centrifugal members.A method of assembling a switch actuating device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A slide switch actuating apparatus for operating a slide switch located inside a housing from the exterior thereof. A flexible retaining member engages the slide switch to be actuated on the interior of the housing. The housing is formed with a slot through which flexible hook members are received into a socket portion of a button member located exterior to the housing in a snap-fit fashion. A plurality of bosses with inclined surfaces are positioned on the interior of the housing adjacent to the slot opening to contact end portions of the flexible retaining member to effect a detent action upon sliding actuation of the switch located inside the housing.

Abstract: A mechanism for transmitting movement of an operating handle located at the exterior of an enclosure to an operating handle of a circuit breaker mounted within the enclosure. The mechanism includes components which may be adjusted so the operating handle and circuit breaker may be vertically spaced varying distances from each other and adjustments which will compensate for manufacturing tolerance deviations in the externally mounted operating handle and the circuit breaker which will cause the two operating handles to move concurrently to their two full operating positions.

Abstract: An operation mechanism of a switch comprises a first slidable device connected to a moving electrode of the switch; a second slidable device faced to the first slidable device with a gap; and a wedge type element which is inserted between both slidable devices to move the first slidable device depending upon the movement by a driving means and to move the moving electrode, whereby the electrode of switch is turned on and off depending upon the movement of the wedge type element inserted between both of the slidable devices.

Abstract: A persistence switch comprises a diode and superconductive wire in thermal contact with the diode. The heat evolved by current through the forward biased diode raises the temperature of the superconductor above the transition temperature. The diode characteristic of the switch permits a plurality of such switches to be arranged in a network for selection by a relatively few signal conductors.

Abstract: A data entry keyboard includes a key array overlying a switching assembly so that a switch is operated when a corresponding key is depressed. The key array is made by forming a transparent plastic sheet into a blank having a number of upwardly extending key projections and having a downwardly extending switch actuating projection adjacent each key projection. Indicia are applied to the underside of the sheet so the indicia are both visible and protected from wear. A back coat overlies the indicia on the underside of the sheet. The blank is cut to remove material surrounding each key and to define an integral hinge permitting deflection of each key and its associated switch actuating projection. The key array is assembled with the switching assembly, and a mask overlies the key array and permits access to individual keys.

Abstract: A switched microphone hang-up bracket includes an outer case for receiving a microphone which is releasably secured thereto. The microphone is of the type which may be used in a mobile two-way radio system having a continuous tone coded squelch system (CTCSS) disable switch. The bracket includes a camming device for mechanically placing the switch in either the enable or disable mode to selectively place the receiver in a "noise squelch" and "channel monitoring" mode or in the off position, as desired, while the microphone is in place in its bracket.

Abstract: A mounting device for a pivotally movable member. The mounting device has means for pivotally mounting the member, means for supporting the mounting means, and a pair of means for abutment with the mounting means so as to generally constrain its movement therebetween. Means for displacement preventing engagement with the mounting means includes means disposed generally in overlaying relation with the mounting means for retaining it against displacement from the supporting means between the abutment means, and means extending through the supporting means into engagement with a portion thereof for maintaining the overlaying relation of the retaining means with respect to the mounting means.

Abstract: A low profile keyboard having a flat cover to enhance appearance and facilitate cleaning. Tactile feedback of switch actuation is provided by using snap acting discs for the switches and tactile feedback members interposed between the discs and the cover. Feedback members of several forms are shown including a discrete member for each disc as well as a member for several discs.

Abstract: A flat keyboard assembly including a printed circuit board having conductors on one side thereof. Resilient dome switch elements are supported on the one side of the board in spaced-apart relationship in peripheral contact with certain conductors and adapted to make center contact with other conductors upon the application of force thereon. A sheet of relatively thin insulating material covers the one side of the board, the dome elements and the conductors thereon. A switch-actuating member formed of relatively thin, flexible insulating material is in facing relationship with the insulator sheet and has switch-actuating protrusions thereon respectively in alignment with the switch elements and extending toward and contacting the insulator sheet. The actuating member also has isolator protrusions thereon intermediate the switch-actuating protrusions and respectively in alignment with the spaces between the dome elements and extending toward the insulator sheet.

Abstract: A control system for a pair of hydraulic lift actuators for adjusting the position of a blade-carrying frame of a motor grader includes a pair of control levers respectively operatively connected to a pair of direction control valves which are, in turn, respectively connected to the pair of actuators and selectively operable by means of the levers to place the actuators in neutral, extension, retraction, and float conditions. Each of the levers includes a hollow handle section having an electric switch mounted therein and a finger-operable sleeve is reciprocably mounted on the handle section for selectively closing the switch. Each switch is connected to an electrically responsive portion of a respective one of the control valves and when closed causes the valve to shift to effect the float condition in an associated one of the actuators.

Abstract: A keyboard switch assembly having an apertured plate, a plurality of pushbuttons supported in the apertures and a hinge for so supporting the pushbuttons that is integral with both the panel and the pushbuttons. The hinge has a web extending between the panel and the pushbutton, and the web is formed with a plurality of grooved portions at which the web deforms in response to the reciprocable movement of the pushbutton within its associated aperture to permit a degree of reciprocable and lateral movement of the pushbutton within the aperture. Switch contacts having operative portions secured to the pushbutton so that the contacts are moved to make or break an electric circuit in response to reciprocable movement of the pushbutton relative the panel.

Abstract: A resettable high-voltage fusing device including a vacuum interrupter and an arrangement of magnetically displaceable rod members which are displaced by the magnetic forces resulting from overload currents flowing through them. For currents below the "blow" rating, a spring arrangement keeps the rods in place by applying axially opposing forces at the ends thereof, and the vacuum interrupter is kept closed. After rod displacement caused by overload current the vacuum interrupter opens in response to one of the springs released by displacement of the rods.

Abstract: A reset assembly for an overload relay adapted to function in conjunction with a contactor for controlling an electric load such as a three-phase motor. The overload reset assembly is characterized by a reset rod and an extension rod detachably mounted on the reset rod which rods comprise detachable interlocking means for assembly and disassembly whereby the extension rod extends from the reset rod to the access door of a metal enclosure containing the overload relay.

Abstract: An electrical switch has a housing with means operable generally therein for switching power through the switch. Means is rotatable in the housing between a plurality of indexed positions for actuating the switching means, and means is provided for releasably holding the actuating means in each of its indexed positions. Means is also provided for retarding the rotation of the actuating means between at least some of its indexed positions.A method of operating an electrical switch, and an indexing system for an electrical switch are also disclosed.

Abstract: A flexible, self-biasing switching element is disclosed herein for closing a circuit by flexing the element from an initial non-contacting position to a second contacting position and for opening the circuit by releasing the element and permitting it to return to a non-contacting position from the contacting position. The element includes a flexible non-conductive substrate having on one side thereof a plurality of spaced conductive contacts or areas. A two-sided pressure sensitive adhesive film for mounting the element is die cut and applied to the substrate in a manner so as to surround the conductive contact areas. The adhesive film provides an insulating medium between the contact points so as to prevent transmission of current between the contact points.

Abstract: An integrally formed sensing switch for use with a seat belt retractor assembly and having a housing portion provided with an integrally hinged seat belt follower push arm plate adapted for pivotal movement in association therewith. The push arm plate has a fixed actuator pin extension on the lower surface thereof which selectively extends into the housing in response to movement of the push arm plate and depresses a spring leaf contact element provided in the housing portion so as to selectively open and close an electrical sensing circuit made thus responsive to spool condition as webbing is extended or webbing is retracted. The upper surface of the push arm plate engages the outer surface of seat belt webbing coiled on the retractor spool and is biased to move therewith as the seat belt pays into and out of the retractor assembly.

Abstract: RFI (radio frequency interference) is eliminated by placing conductive grease between the toggle lever and its pivot pin in an electric switch to insure good connection of the toggle lever to ground through the housing. This conductive grease also prevents any tendency for the rubber seal material forcing its way into the space between the pivot pin and the toggle lever during the in situ molding operation which otherwise might insulate the toggle lever and cause RFI radiation due to its antenna effect.

Abstract: The present invention relates to switches and switch actuating devices to be operated for purposes of arming a bomb or other missile as it is dropped or released from an aircraft. The particular bomb or missile in which this invention is applied is one in which there is a plurality of circuits which are to be armed by the closing of switches upon dropping or releasing of the bomb. The operation of the switches to closed position is normally accomplished by means of a pull-out wire; that is, a wire which is withdrawn from the bomb or missile at the time of release of the bomb, one end of the wire being attached to the aircraft. The conditions to be met are that the arming switches must be positively and surely maintained in open position until the bomb is released and the arming action is effected. The action of the pull-out wire in achieving the arming action must be sure and positive with minimum danger of malfunctioning, jamming or binding.