Extension Or Remote Patents (Class 200/331)
  • Publication number: 20130146431
    Abstract: A system for remotely operating an electrical switch may employ a linear actuator having an actuator rod configured for engagement with a handle of the electrical switch. An actuator switch may be interposed between a power supply and the linear actuator. The actuator switch may be displaced from the linear actuator. An electromagnetic clamp may be attached to the linear actuator and configured to hold the linear actuator in position so that linear motion of the actuator rod produces movement of the handle of the electrical switch when power is applied to the linear actuator from the power supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: JENNIFER SMITH, Robert Smith
  • Patent number: 8456259
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for a portable actuator for actuating a trip button and a close button of a circuit breaker. In one embodiment, the trip button is actuated by a linear actuator that transmits rotation forces produced by a motor to the trip button in response to a trip signal. The close button is actuated by a rotating arm that uses an anti-friction roller to apply a rotating motion to the close button in response to a close signal. The portable actuator is configured to receive the input signals from a remote location with a remote controller that is in electronic communication with the portable actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: MarTek Limited
    Inventors: Russell R. Safreed, III, Charles Mark McClung
  • Publication number: 20130112536
    Abstract: One embodiment may take the form of a slide switch for electronic devices having a connecting rod and a first joint coupling a first end of the connecting rod to a button. The first joint allows rotation of the connecting rod relative to the button. A second joint couples a second end of the connecting rod to a support structure. The second joint allows the connecting rod to rotate relative to the support structure. The second joint is offset laterally from the button. The button is constrained to move along a straight path between a first resting position and a second resting position. The connecting rod is configured to resist displacement of the button from one of the first or second resting positions until the button passes a threshold displacement distance, at which point the connecting rod snaps the button into the other resting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Dhaval Shah, Jared M. Kole, Michael Wittenberg
  • Patent number: 8436266
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a circuit board with a changeover switch and a housing having two surfaces extending in parallel and a side surface connecting edges of the two surfaces, holding the circuit board with a space between the circuit board and the housing and having an opening for operation at a portion which faces the changeover switch. A housed part at a position between one side of the circuit board and the side surface of the housing, prevents the changeover switch from being visually recognized through the opening. An operation member includes an operation piece placed outside the side surface of the housing to receive a slide operation, and an operation arm extends inside the housing from the operation piece through the opening, bypassing the housed part to come in contact with the changeover switch. The changeover switch is switchable when the operation piece receives the slide operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Takashi Iijima, Yuta Iizuka
  • Patent number: 8432266
    Abstract: A pull station for an alarm includes a housing having an actuator mounted for movement with respect thereto. The actuator has a standby (i.e., normal) position and an alarm position. The actuator has a contoured actuation surface configured such that downward pressure on the actuation surface moves the actuator from the standby position to the alarm position. The actuator may be rotatably or slidably coupled to the housing. The actuation surface may extend beyond the front face of the housing when in the standby position. In some embodiments, the actuation surface is cup-shaped. In other embodiments, the actuation surface is v-shaped, with first and second angled portions forming oblique angles with respect to a lateral axis of the housing. Thus arranged, the actuator can be operated by a disabled who may not have complete hand or finger dexterity. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: SimplexGrinnell LP
    Inventor: Steven T. Varieur
  • Patent number: 8431846
    Abstract: Disclosed is a transfer device for an automatic transfer switch. With the configuration of the transfer device, the transfer device, which is installed between a plurality of air circuit breakers to allow switching of a closed state and a tripped state of the plurality of air circuit breakers, can be modularized so as to be easily assembled. A length of a transmission rod can be adjusted so as to facilitate assembly and maintenance of the transfer device and also minimize the probability of occurring an assembly error, allowing accurate closing and trip operations. The transmission rod may be provided with a buffer to reduce impact noise generated upon switching of the closing and trip operations of each air circuit breaker and enhance reliability of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae Goo Lyu
  • Patent number: 8404986
    Abstract: The invention relates to a manual drive for a tap changer for a tap-changing transformer having a locking unit. The locking unit has a catch which can pivot and has different locking means; the catch can be operated from the outside before an intended switching operation. The locking unit offers high a degree as possible of safety against inadvertent or else deliberate incorrect operations of the manual drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH
    Inventors: Armin Burghauser, Silke Wrede
  • Publication number: 20130043112
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides for a cap that slips on the toggle component of a switch comprising a hollow body with a first end and a second end; said first end comprising an opening to slip said cap onto said toggle component; said second end being closed; and glow in the dark pigmentation in said body and a method of extending the size and increasing the visibility of the toggle component of a switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: LEFRAN, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Frank Rubio, Leticia Primero
  • Patent number: 8379404
    Abstract: An exemplary electronic device includes a shell, a circuit board located in an inner side of the shell, a toggle switch positioned on the circuit board, and a slide button. The toggle switch includes a pin. The shell defines a through hole therein. The slide button includes an operating portion located at an outer side of the shell, a curved body extending obliquely from a side of the operating portion. The body of the slide button extends through the through hole of the shell. A distal end of the body of the slide button engages with the pin of the toggle switch. The pin of the toggle switch can be caused to move by moving the slide button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ji-Feng Qiu, Hong Li, Xiao-Hui Zhou, Hai-Tao Wang
  • Patent number: 8362379
    Abstract: The invention provides a device and method for actuating electrical switches remotely. The device is removably attached to the switch and is actuated through the transfer of a user's force. The user is able to remain physically removed from the switch site obviating need for protective equipment. The device and method allow rapid, safe actuation of high-voltage or high-current carrying electrical switches or circuit breakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: U.S. Department of Energy
    Inventors: Edwin Gerard Haas, Ronald Beauman, Maria Anna Palo
  • Patent number: 8357866
    Abstract: A weatherproof toggle switch cover adapter assembly comprises a cover plate adapted for placement over a toggle switch and coupling with an electrical junction box. A lever rotationally pivotably coupled with the cover plate is in mechanical communication with the toggle switch through a yoke. When the lever is moved to an on position, the toggle switch also moves to an on position. The yoke comprises two opposing tines defining a yoke spanning gap having a perimeter edge, the yoke spanning gap sized to straddle the toggle switch. An adapter ring comprising an external perimeter edge and an internal perimeter edge is interposed between the yoke and the toggle switch. The external perimeter edge is in communication with the perimeter edge of the yoke. The internal perimeter edge is inside two opposing tines and is disposed about an adapter spanning gap sized to straddle the toggle switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas A. Miserendino, Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 8310339
    Abstract: A system and methods are provided for triggering an operating device. In one embodiment, a triggering device includes a receiving unit configured to receive one or more wireless control signals. The receiving unit may include a switch and a processor, wherein the processor is configured to control the switch for activation of an operating device coupled to a signaling line based, at least in part, on the one or more wireless control signals. According to another embodiment, the triggering device may include a connector configured to electrically couple the receiving unit to the signaling line, the connector having one or more contacts and a housing configured to clasp the signaling line and couple the one or more contacts to the signaling line. Additionally, the signaling line may relate to existing wiring of the operating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventors: Gallen Ka Leung Tsui, Philip Y. W. Tsui
  • Patent number: 8253049
    Abstract: A slip on cover for the end portion of the toggle of a light switch is disclosed. The cover can slip over the toggle and adhere by suction or friction. The cover can provide a variety of decorative features, including color and glow in the dark feature to allow a person to easily find the light switch in the dark. It can provide protection for the light switch toggle to limit damage. The light switch cover can also incorporate various decorative features at the end of the light switch, including balls and hats and a wide variety of other shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony Grisby
  • Patent number: 8220730
    Abstract: An interlock system for actuating a switch to interrupt a flow of electrical current to a component of a domestic electrical appliance is described. The current is interrupted unless a sensor indicates that the appliance is in a safe condition, and the system includes a rod-like member which is turned about its own axis through at least a predetermined angle, when the appliance is safe, to actuate the switch to permit current to flow. The safe condition is typified by the secure placement of a lid or cover on a receptacle in a manner intended for operation of the appliance. Moreover, the lid or cover for the receptacle may be formed with an upstanding, chimney-like feed-tube through which food items can be added for processing in the receptacle, and a “pusher” device, sized to fit closely within the feed tube, is further provided, by means of which a user can urge foodstuffs into the receptacle for processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Kenwood Limited
    Inventors: Robin Ferraby, Christina Goodrick-Meech, Johan Santer
  • Patent number: 8217286
    Abstract: A portable switch enables an operator to open and close an electrical conductive pathway, such as a circuit, from a remote location. The tool may comprise a handle assembly selectively attached to an associated object. The handle assembly has a first member, which has a first position and a second position. A base clamping assembly is selectively attached to an associated open point, such as, but not limited to, an underground switch. A cable has a first end and a second end. The first end is operatively connected to the base clamping system. The second end is connected to an insulating portion. The insulating portion may be interposed between the base clamping assembly and the handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: FirstEnergy Corp.
    Inventor: James E. Ross
  • Publication number: 20120162940
    Abstract: An exemplary electronic device includes a shell, a circuit board located in an inner side of the shell, a toggle switch positioned on the circuit board, and a slide button. The toggle switch includes a pin. The shell defines a through hole therein. The slide button includes an operating portion located at an outer side of the shell, a curved body extending obliquely from a side of the operating portion. The body of the slide button extends through the through hole of the shell. A distal end of the body of the slide button engages with the pin of the toggle switch. The pin of the toggle switch can be caused to move by moving the slide button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JI-FENG QIU, HONG LI, XIAO-HUI ZHOU, HAI-TAO WANG
  • Publication number: 20120162861
    Abstract: An actuator system for operating a switch is described herein. The actuator system can include a shaft of a handle assembly. The shaft couples to a handle and a male coupling element and has a number of positions. Further, a coupling body of a switch assembly can be positioned in the number of positions. The coupling body engages the switch and has a female coupling element, which has a slotted portion that receives the male coupling element and an angled terminus that aligns the shaft to a first position as the shaft couples to the coupling body. The slotted portion receives and engages the male coupling element when the shaft is coupled to the coupling body. The slotted portion prevents the male coupling element from disengaging when the coupling body is in a second position, and disengages the male coupling element when the coupling body is in the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Michael Manahan
  • Patent number: 8178806
    Abstract: A coupling between a motor operator and a circuit breaker includes a base plate of the motor operator having a top side and a bottom side, the base plate comprising an aperture, and a pin having a first end, the pin being captured within the aperture such that the first end of the pin protrudes through a first surface of the bottom side of the base plate, wherein the pin is further configured to engage the circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Samir Rajauria, Lars Pommerencke
  • Patent number: 8153918
    Abstract: An automatic switch control includes a wheel member having a cam member with a ramp surface. A first plunger mechanism has a first spring member that is operable to urge a first cam follower into sliding engagement with the ramp surface. A second plunger mechanism has a second spring member that is operable to urge a second cam follower into sliding engagement with the ramp surface. The second plunger mechanism is disposed on an opposite side of the toggle from the first plunger mechanism when the automatic switch control is installed over the switch. An electric motor is operable to rotate the cam member to position the first plunger mechanism in a retracted condition and to position the second plunger mechanism in an extended condition that is operable to move the toggle to the on position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Agronin, David Campbell, Marco Mattucci, Scott Pollard, David Logan Baker, Daniel P. Smith, William J. Mussig, Breck Andrew Petrillo
  • Publication number: 20120067708
    Abstract: A switch module applied for a power supply system is disclosed. The switch module comprises a power switch, an insulating member, a surge absorber and a pyrocondensation belt. The power switch is connected with the power supply system, the insulating member is set on the power switch, the surge absorber is electrically connected with the power switch and adjacent to the power switch, the pyrocondensation belt is connected with the surge absorber and the insulating member. The pyrocondensation belt shrinks with a temperature of the surge absorber. When the insulating member is in the initial state, the insulating member does not affect the power switch. The insulating member makes the power switch off when the shrinkage degree of the pyrocondensation belt develops enough to block the power switch from being on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: POWERTECH INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YU-LUNG LEE, JUNG-HUI HSU
  • Patent number: 8134091
    Abstract: An electronic manually controllable adjustment device for adjusting electric power provided to an electric load connectable to the device is described. The device comprises first switching elements, a tilting control button which may interact with the first switching elements, and first hinge elements for defining a first hinge axis allowing rotation of the control button around the first axis between a first operating position and a second operating position. The control button can interact with the first switching elements when reaching the first and second operating position. The device further comprises second switching elements and second hinge elements. The second hinge elements can define a second hinge axis perpendicular to the first hinge axis and allow rotation of the control button around the second hinge axis for actuation of the second switching elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: BTICINO S.p.A.
    Inventor: Alberto Basilico
  • Patent number: 8115128
    Abstract: A multifunction switch has a switch body; a main switch toggle rotationally mounted to the switch body for controlling completion of an electric circuit. The main switch toggle has an on position and an off position. A toggle switch button is mounted to the main switch toggle. The toggle switch button is generally planar. A secondary switch button is mounted to the toggle switch button. A secondary switch is mounted to the switch body. The secondary switch is mounted adjacent to the main switch toggle. A generally planar faceplate has a switch button opening. The switch button opening is sized to receive the toggle switch button. An offset gap is formed when the toggle switch button is moved to the main switch off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Kevin Yang
  • Publication number: 20120012447
    Abstract: A light switch extender for application on a light switch comprising: a plate, where said plate includes two elongated openings and switch opening; an extending arm, said arm extends vertically downward from the plate; and a handle at the distal end of the extending arm, where said handle enables the vertically movement of the arm. The plate is placed under a light switch plate to engage a light switch. In one particular embodiment, the handle includes an opening and the arm is at least one foot in length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: Kathi SIMPSON
  • Publication number: 20110240448
    Abstract: A protective case system for a tablet computing device is described herein. The protective case enables a person that does not want to or is physically unable to hold a tablet computing device to interact with an inserted tablet computing device. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, description, and drawings that form this document.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: STAND FOR STUFF LLC
    Inventors: Martin A. Springer, Jeremy Ellison, Jake Levine
  • Patent number: 7985935
    Abstract: The systems and methods described herein are directed to a switch for electronic devices. The systems and methods provide for a switch disposed on a bottom surface of a circuit board enclosed in a housing of an electronic device. The circuit board may include an aperture. An actuating pin of the switch may extend through the aperture towards the top surface of the circuit board. An external actuator may be coupled to the actuating pin in the aperture on the circuit board. The external actuator may extend out through an opening in the housing for providing a user with access to the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Emery Sanford
  • Patent number: 7985937
    Abstract: A switching device includes a paddle actuator biased to a rest position and configured to pivot relative to a housing to a depressed position to engage an air-gap switch disposed within the housing. The air-gap switch is configured to change a first state of a load connected to the switching device upon engagement by the paddle actuator. The paddle actuator is defined by a pair of opposing long sides and a pair of opposing short sides and has at least one slot defined therein parallel to the pair of opposing short sides thereof and centrally disposed between the pair of opposing long sides thereof. A rocker actuator is disposed in the at least one slot defined in the paddle actuator and is configured to pivot relative thereto to engage at least one switch. The at least one switch is configured to change a second state of the load connected to the switching device upon engagement by the rocker actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun Wu, Alfred J. Lombardi, Cheng-Lung Chou, Azer Ilkhanov
  • Publication number: 20110168533
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a cam disc and to a spring deflection switch having a cam disc for a spring-loaded drive, wherein the cam disc includes a first, second and third circumferential region, each having at least one corresponding radial extension, for actuating a pushbutton including a switching hysteresis. The at least one second radial extension is larger than the at least one third radial extension, which in turn is larger than the at least one first radial extension. The pushbutton can interact with the cam disc in the spring deflection switch such that when the pushbutton is applied by the first circumferential region, the switching contact assumes a first switching position, and when the pushbutton is applied by the second circumferential region, the switching contact assumes a second switching position, and when the pushbutton is applied by the third circumferential region, the switching contact remains in the switching position assumed earlier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: ABB TECHNOLOGY AG
    Inventor: Joachim BOHLÄNDER
  • Patent number: 7977594
    Abstract: A weatherproof toggle switch cover adapter assembly comprises a cover plate adapted for placement over a toggle switch and coupling with an electrical junction box. A lever rotationally pivotably coupled with the cover plate is in mechanical communication with the toggle switch through a yoke. When the lever is moved to an on position, the toggle switch also moves to an on position. The yoke comprises two opposing tines defining a yoke spanning gap having a perimeter edge, the yoke spanning gap sized to straddle the toggle switch. An adapter ring comprising an external perimeter edge and an internal perimeter edge is interposed between the yoke and the toggle switch. The external perimeter edge is in communication with the perimeter edge of the yoke. The internal perimeter edge is inside two opposing tines and is disposed about an adapter spanning gap sized to straddle the toggle switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas A. Miserendino, Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Publication number: 20110120846
    Abstract: A breaker includes a contact unit provided in an airtight container. The contact unit has fixed contact points and a movable contact point which selectively contacts with the fixed contact points. Further, the breaker include a movable shaft having a part projecting outward from the airtight container, for moving the movable contact point to and from the fixed contact points, and a metal member for ensuring airtightness of the airtight container. The metal member has one end fixed to the airtight container and the other end fixed to the movable shaft and is extensible and contractible in accordance with the movement of the movable shaft. Moreover, the breaker includes a lever unit for moving the movable shaft between a closed position where the movable contact point is in contact with the fixed contact points and an open position where the movable contact point is separated from the fixed contact points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro ITO, Katumi YOSITANI, Katsuya URUMA
  • Publication number: 20110083948
    Abstract: A switch conversion apparatus including an interface device, a mounting plate configured to mount to a toggle switch and including at least one aperture for receiving a toggle arm of a toggle switch, and an actuator plate configured to slidably engage the mounting plate and including at least one aperture for receiving and engaging a toggle arm of a toggle switch when engaged by the interface device so as to transition the state of the switch. Other embodiments of a switch conversion apparatus include one or more mechanical, electrical, and/or pneumatic timers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Mahle, Mark Patrick Rau, Daniel John Bentley, Scott D. Reiner, Christopher Jon Lundgren, Craig T. Hofmann, Craig Person, John F. Kasper
  • Publication number: 20110073450
    Abstract: An extender for a wall mounted switch enabling the switch to be operated by short or disabled people, which otherwise would be difficult for them to reach or operate. The switch extender is composed of a switch adaptor, extender arm, wall mounted base guiding fixture and a handle, preventing it from moving to direction that may damage the apparatus or switch. The arm's length should be designed according to the height of the switch and the height of the person requiring the use of this apparatus. The switch extender should include a limiting fixture to prevent damage due to access stress. A locking pin may be used to prevent a toddler from operating the switch. The switch adaptor length may be varied to provide leverage to enable a toddler to operate a ‘hard moving’ switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: GOOLIMA L.T.D
    Inventor: Oren Wass
  • Patent number: 7915555
    Abstract: A rotary drive for a switch actuated by a toggle lever includes an operative connection which swivels, a first catch element on the operative connection, coupled to the toggle lever, and a second catch element on the operative connection. A mounting plate parallel to the switch base and a rotatable shaft are provided, the rotatable shaft disposed through the mounting plate. The rotary drive further includes a swivel arm on the shaft, a rotary knob coupled to the shaft configured to rotate the shaft. A mechanical connection couples the swivel arm to the second catch element, converting movement of the shaft into a movement of the operative connection. A swivel movement of the toggle lever is transferred to the second catch element, and the swivel arm enables the operative connection to swivel through a rotation of the shaft to move the toggle lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Industries GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Schneider, Walter Gilgen, Klaus-Dieter Nuerenberg, Bernd Howald
  • Publication number: 20110036695
    Abstract: Disclosed is a transfer device for an automatic transfer switch. With the configuration of the transfer device, the transfer device, which is installed between a plurality of air circuit breakers to allow switching of a closed state and a tripped state of the plurality of air circuit breakers, can be modularized so as to be easily assembled. A length of a transmission rod can be adjusted so as to facilitate assembly and maintenance of the transfer device and also minimize the probability of occurring an assembly error, allowing accurate closing and trip operations. The transmission rod may be provided with a buffer to reduce impact noise generated upon switching of the closing and trip operations of each air circuit breaker and enhance reliability of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: LS INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jae Goo LYU
  • Patent number: 7837344
    Abstract: A load control device, for controlling the amount of power delivered to a electrical load from an AC power source, comprises a user interface adapted to be received in an opening of a traditional-style faceplate and providing a plurality of functionalities on a single control button. A transitory actuation of the control button controls the power delivered to the load. Pulling the control button away from the load control device actuates an air-gap switch to provide an air-gap break in the electrical connection between the source and the load. A linear array of status indicators is provided on a front surface of the control button and displays a visual representation of the amount of power being delivered to the load. A plurality of light pipes are provided inside the control button to conduct the light from a plurality of light-emitting diodes to the front surface of the control button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory S. Altonen, Samuel F. Chambers, Eric Johnathan Mace, Matthew J. Ochs, Louis G. Rollo
  • Publication number: 20100282584
    Abstract: A zipper switch for the DC motor of a ceiling fan includes upper and lower cases matching with each other. The upper case is disposed with a driving disk, an elastic element, and a zipper that can rotates the driving disk in one direction. The driving disk is urged by the elastic element to rotate in the opposite direction. The driving disk has a pushing part for pushing a rotating block pivotally disposed in the lower case. The rotating block is disposed with a metal plate with a plurality of electrical contacts. Both sides of the lower case are disposed with a conductive chip, respectively. When the pushing part rotates the rotating block, each electrical contact has intermittent electrical contacts with the conductive chips to start the DC motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Teng-san TSENG
  • Patent number: 7820928
    Abstract: A remote switch actuator assembly includes a handle bar, a first actuator lever mounted to the handle bar, a mounting bracket configured to secure a drill to the handle bar such that a chuck end of the drill faces the handle bar, a second actuator lever secured to the mounting bracket so as to be in proximity with an actuation switch of the drill when the drill is secured by the mounting bracket, and a cable extending between and coupled with the first actuator lever and the second actuator lever. The first actuator lever is movable with respect to the handle bar to effect movement of the cable and corresponding movement of the second actuator lever toward the mounting bracket and the actuation switch of the drill when the drill is secured by the mounting bracket, and movement of the second actuator lever facilitates actuation of the drill secured by the mounting bracket by engaging with the actuation switch of the drill in response to movement of the first actuator lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Paul John Simon
  • Publication number: 20100264002
    Abstract: A coupling between a motor operator and a circuit breaker includes a base plate of the motor operator having a top side and a bottom side, the base plate comprising an aperture, and a pin having a first end, the pin being captured within the aperture such that the first end of the pin protrudes through a first surface of the bottom side of the base plate, wherein the pin is further configured to engage the circuit breaker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Samir Rajauria, Lars Pommerencke
  • Publication number: 20100237714
    Abstract: A safety device for the emergency interruption of the drilling maneuvering in a drilling machine is provided with a guide tower or mast (17) and a device (10) for realizing the driving in the ground of drilling elements. The device includes at least a frame (12) fixed to the mast and provided with at least an arm or a door (11) rotating around an axis (Y) with respect to the frame. A microswitch (23) is activated by the movements of rotation given to the door (11) for stopping at least some of the dangerous drilling maneuvering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Soilmec S.p.A.
    Inventor: Alessandro Ditillo
  • Patent number: 7781687
    Abstract: A control unit including a monitoring apparatus is disclosed, with the monitoring apparatus having an operating element and an attachment element. In at least one embodiment, the control unit is in two parts and includes an operating unit and switching elements. The required spatial association between the operating unit and the switching element is intended to be monitored in a cost-effective and reliable manner. For this purpose, when the monitoring apparatus is installed correctly, at least one second switching element can be operated by way of an operating member, and a first switching element is operated at the same time by way of the operating element of the monitoring apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Josef Scherl, Rudolf Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 7781689
    Abstract: A retrofit operating handle assembly structured to allow a CM22 type circuit breaker to be operatively coupled to a MG 8 or 9 type circuit breaker tank is provided. The operating handle assembly includes a tank assembly, which is coupled to the MG 8 or 9 type circuit breaker tank, and a circuit breaker, which is coupled to the CM22 type circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur J. Jur, John M. Kokenda, Mark A. Faulkner, Stephen W. Oneufer, John R. Moffat, Richard L. Hotchkiss
  • Patent number: 7777145
    Abstract: A switch for controlling delivery of electrical current to a light. The switch may include a frame, a controller connected to the frame, and a toggle connected to the frame to pivot through a range of motion having a first extreme and a second extreme, opposite the first extreme. The toggle may toggle between a first position proximate the first extreme and a second position proximate the second extreme. The switch may further include a sensor connected to the frame and positioned to detect the toggle in the second position, and a tactile switch connected to the frame and positioned to be actuated by the toggle pivoting past the first position toward the first extreme. The switch may also include a controller connected to the sensor and tactile switch to receive inputs therefrom and to execute logic to control the delivery in accordance with the inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventors: Douglas Burrell, David Clare
  • Patent number: 7763817
    Abstract: A button assembly for pressing a switch in a computer bezel includes a button connected to an arm. A cutout is defined in the computer bezel. The button is inserted in the cutout, and the arm is pivotably mounted on the computer bezel. A pressing portion extends outward from a side of the arm. A slanted pressing plane is formed on the pressing portion. Pressing the button moves the arm so that one end of the slanted pressing plane away from the arm contacts the switch. The switch resists the pressing portion, causing the arm to rotate so that the other end of the slanted pressing plane moves forward, thereby the slanted pressing plane entirely contacts and activates the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhi-Ping Wu, Chih-Hang Chao, Yu-Hsu Lin, Jeng-Da Wu
  • Publication number: 20100170773
    Abstract: A slip on cover for the end portion of the toggle of a light switch is disclosed. The cover can slip over the toggle and adhere by suction or friction. The cover can provide a variety of decorative features, including color and glow in the dark feature to allow a person to easily find the light switch in the dark. It can provide protection for the light switch toggle to limit damage. The light switch cover can also incorporate various decorative features at the end of the light switch, including balls and hats and a wide variety of other shapes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony Grisby
  • Patent number: 7728241
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus, an imaging apparatus, and a printer are provided. The electronic apparatus includes a main body case; a cover that is provided on the main body case so as to be openable and closable; a button, which is provided on the cover, for making a pressing operation; and a switch that is provided on the main body case, the switch being pressed by receiving a pressing force from the button in a state where the cover is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Ito
  • Patent number: 7692112
    Abstract: A control module for selectively switching electrical power from a circuit breaker with the circuit breaker including a load lug coupled to a load wire and mounted in a panelboard. The control module includes a housing in-line with and directly attached to the circuit breaker inside the panelboard and a pair of contacts coupled to an actuator mounted in the housing. One contact is coupled to the load lug and one contact is coupled to the load wire. The actuator is operated from a location remote from the control module and the contacts operate independently from the circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: John Deboer, Brian Timothy McCoy, Drew Stephen Hancock
  • Patent number: 7679017
    Abstract: A switch structure includes a switch body, a holding member, a torsion member, and a swinging lever. The switch body includes a base included a front surface and a rear surface, a pushing portion, two fixing portion, each fixing portion defining a guiding slot. The holding member defines two cavities. The switch body is rotatably installed onto the holding member by inserting the fixing portion into the cavity. The torsion member includes two elastic arms and a connecting pole, one of the elastic arm is hooked to the holding member. The swinging lever includes a first end movably connected to the switch body, a second end movably connected to the other elastic arm, and a connecting portion connecting the first and second end, the swinging lever rotatably installed to the holding member via the connecting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tung-Chi Tsai
  • Patent number: 7671711
    Abstract: A remote operation includes an electromagnetic linear actuator that has a moving part linked to a handle of a circuit breaker, and drives the handle according to a remote operation command to perform change-over operations on the handle to ON, OFF, and RESET positions. The electromagnetic linear actuator is composed of permanent magnet type linear pulse motors each including a field section having a plurality of permanent magnets arranged in a row and a coil section having a three-leg type magnetic yoke and actuation coils wound around the legs of the magnetic yoke and opposing the field section. Electric current in the actuation coils is controlled by sequentially changing-over excitation patterns during the operation process, and the moving part is driven in a stepwise motion to drive the handle of the circuit breaker to the end position of the changeover operation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Fuji Electric FA Components & Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7667155
    Abstract: An electrical rocker paddle switch assembly having a switch housing; a manually movable rocker paddle coupled to the housing; an actuator having a first end and a second end, the actuator being attached to the rocker paddle at the first end and the second end configured to activate a switch in response to a corresponding movement of the rocker paddle; a bored member having a first end that is attached to an underside of the rocker paddle near a pivot axis of the rocker paddle, and a second end that has an opening configured to retain a roller member and allow a portion of the roller member to extend beyond an end of the bored member, the bored member extending in a substantially perpendicular direction from the rocker paddle. A spring and a ball are configured to be retained in the bored member, the spring configured in the bored member to urge the ball towards the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Zhejiang Yuelong Mechanical and Electrical Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Lidong Ni, He Mian Xiao
  • Publication number: 20100018846
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mold cased circuit breaker (MCCB) comprising a plurality of single pole breaking units simultaneously opened and closed by a pair of common shaft pins. The MCCB effectively transmits a torque for opening or closing contacts to adjacent single pole breaking unit for electrical pole with a minimized loss, and prevents the shaft pins from being bent. The MCCB comprises a crank installed across the pair of shaft pins so as to connect the shaft pins to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: LS INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Young-Deug BAE
  • Publication number: 20090301851
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Robert A. Morris, Edgar Yee, Jared A. Bryll, Daniel J. Leeman, Daniel B. Kroushl