Extension Or Remote Patents (Class 200/331)
  • Patent number: 6483060
    Abstract: A transitional member for attaching between an elongate member and a tip that selectively engages operational catches on electrical distribution equipment mounted on poles of an electrical distribution system, in which the transitional member has a body with a connecter for engaging a distal end of the elongate member at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member and a portion of the body opposing the connector defines a second connector for engaging a tip at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member, so that the tip, being engaged at the second angle in the operational catch on electrical distribution equipment, operates the electrical distribution equipment by selective movement of the elongate member. A light source is operatively associated with the transition member. A method of operating a catch on remote electrical distribution equipment is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Taylor-Maddox Technical, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6460910
    Abstract: A testing tool having a handle with an attached tool head. The tool head has a branch rising upward from the handle and two branches extending perpendicularly from the handle. The perpendicular branches contain specific features that allow for the tool to be used in a more efficient manner. The tool head extends upward from the perpendicular branches and curves in a 90-degree manner outward from the perpendicular branches. The curved branch contains a raised square area on the end of the curved section. The raised section contains a tapered object that tapers in circumference from the top (wider) through the raised section to the bottom (narrower) of the raised area. The tool can be used with or without an extendable assembly as needed to perform the specified functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey George Prass
  • Publication number: 20020134655
    Abstract: An electric switch requiring mechanical movement for actuation is mounted to a surface mountable switch mounting plate by standoffs so as to position a toggle bat in position for actuation by a planar switch cover plate adapted for sliding engagement, in parallel juxtaposition, with the switch mounting plate. The switch cover plate is adapted for engagement with the electric switch for actuation thereof by sliding engagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Ralph K. Davis
  • Publication number: 20020117387
    Abstract: An auxiliary switch activation mechanism is provided for use with a circuit breaker having an auxiliary switch and an operating mechanism for opening and closing main electrical contacts. The auxiliary switch activation mechanism includes a lever having a first end removably connectable to the operating mechanism, a second end of said lever removably connectable to the auxiliary switch, and a spring, mechanically coupled to the lever, which imparts a rotational bias on the lever. The lever provides an assisting force to the operating mechanism for opening the main electrical contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Roger N. Castonguay, Dave S. Christensen, Girish Hassan, Dean A. Robarge
  • Patent number: 6437262
    Abstract: A handle operating assembly suitable for use with an electric disconnect switch assembly having a circuit breaker. The handle operating assembly comprises a handle operator extending outward from the electric disconnect switch and movable between an ON and an OFF position and a face plate having a slot therein. The handle operator slidably moves in the slot between the OFF position and the ON position. The face plate mounts to the electric disconnect switch assembly and is positionable between a first position to prevent access to the circuit breaker and a second position to provide access to the circuit breaker. The handle operating assembly provides ease of accessibility to the electrical disconnect switch and ease of assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Pankaj Gupta, Ranjit Sunil Acharya, Amit Narang, John Joseph Struble, Jr., Edgar Yee, David Edward Thorn, Elwood Rau Combs
  • Patent number: 6424519
    Abstract: A draw out unit with improved drawout box and handle assembly is disclosed. The drawout box is designed to accommodate an improved terminal assembly of the present invention, which reduces the dimensions of the box, and further provides access to the interior of the box by providing an open side for allowing service of an electrtical device within the bucket thus permitting the motor control center to remain active during service. The drawout box of the present invention further includes an improved handle assembly with operable connection to a circuit breaker handle within the confines of the smaller drawout box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Gilbert Anthony Soares, Richard Emery Bernier, Charles Piper, Edgar Yee, John Joseph Struble, Jr., Edward Bruce Bynum, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6423919
    Abstract: A mechanism for switching a pull switch for a lighting fixture having having a vertical post, a socket mounted at an upper end of the vertical post, and a pull switch fitted within the socket, the switch being operatively connected with a mechanism, characterized in that the mechanism comprises a fixing seat mounted under the socket, the fixing seat having a center opening for passage of the vertical post, a driving member having a first end pivotally connected with the fixing seat, a string connecting the pull switch and a second end of the driving member, and a rod having an upper end connected with an intermediate portion of the driving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventors: Sheng-Huei Liao, Shu Fang Lee
  • Publication number: 20020070103
    Abstract: An apparatus for electrically operating a circuit breaker arranged such that the change-over lever movable between an electrical operation mode position and a manual operation mode position has provided therewith a blocking portion which, while allowing the operation of the manual operation handle when the change-over lever is in the manual operation mode position, engages the manual operation handle to prevent the operation of the manual operation handle when the change-over lever is at the electrical operation mode position. Therefore, the operation of the manual operation handle in the electrical operation mode can be ensured to be prevented, avoiding the damages to the electrical operating apparatus, thsu enabling to provide a highly reliable apparatus for electrically operating a circuit breaker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kohei Kurata
  • Patent number: 6403903
    Abstract: A wall switch extension is provided for operation of a wall switch in which a single rigid extension is attached to either a conventional toggle or a rocker type wall switch for rotation thereto. The extension includes separate methods for engaging the lever of the toggle switch and the operating surface of the rocker. Upon rotation of the extension the switch can either be turned on or turned off. A decorative member is positioned over and pivotally attached to the extension and is fixedly attached to the switch housing. To further enhance the visual presentation of the wall switch extension, the extension is configured to form a visual continuation of the decorative member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Pro-Perfect, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Montano, Richard S. Carlisle
  • Patent number: 6380501
    Abstract: A trip indicator for handle operator for controlling a handle of a circuit breaker comprises a cover having a window sufficiently sized to view indicia indicating a position of the handle, a trip flag having indicia indicating a TRIPPED condition, and a connection between a chuck of the handle operator and the trip flag configured to move the trip flag such that the indicia is visible through the window when the handle is in a TRIPPED position and is not visible through said window when the handle is not in the TRIPPED position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Alberto A. Figueroa, Joseph Criniti, Farshid Attarian, Javier Ignacio Larranaga, Joseph B. Kalaita
  • Patent number: 6373004
    Abstract: A retention device for removably carrying a leverage arm on a switchgear cabinet includes a mounting member structured to be mounted on a housing of the switchgear cabinet and a tab structured to extend outwardly from the housing. The tab is formed with an opening that slidably receives a shank of the leverage arm therein, the opening being configured to resist movement of a head of the leverage arm through the opening. A moveable cover is positioned in relation to the retention device to retain the leverage arm on the retention device when the cover is in a closed position, yet permit the leverage arm to be removed from the retention device when the cover is in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Eugene Jackson
  • Publication number: 20020038759
    Abstract: A handle-operating mechanism is used for a circuit breaker. The mechanism includes a rotary operating handle operated to open and close a main-circuit contact of a circuit breaker, a rotating gear connected to the operating handle, and a contact opening-and-closing mechanism having a toggle gear meshing with the rotating gear. The contact opening-and-closing mechanism is linked to the operating handle through the rotating gear and the toggle gear. A clutch gear is interposed between the operating handle and the rotating gear to provide an idle stroke. Thus, when the circuit breaker is turned on, the operating handle runs idly after the rotation of the operating handle has been started and before the rotating gear drives the toggle gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Publication date: April 4, 2002
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Hamada, Kentaro Toyama, Tatsunori Takahashi, Naoshi Uchida
  • Patent number: 6350958
    Abstract: An actuating device (60) operated by a hookstick (4) is attached to a manually operated fused cutout switch (2) or a oil circuit recloser switch (14). The device (60) comprises a cantilever (62) with a pair of opposing hook-shaped receptacles (70, 72) for receiving a hookstick (4) that is used to alternatively open or close the switch. A method of actuating a manually operated switch is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Taylor-Maddox Technical, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6313421
    Abstract: The invention relates to a modular electrical contact in which the electrical components are separated in a separate module, and in which the others of the modules of the contact are built without electrical components. An advantageous embodiment according to the invention comprises a mechanical motion transmission advantageous for the purpose, where one or more contacts (53) may be activated through pressure operation. The device comprises a guide rail (52) with an activating element (51) which comprises a pressure element (55) and an extension element (54) and arranged with fixing means with respect to the guide rail so that the pressure element is slidable therein for activation of one or more contacts (53) arranged at the end of the pressure element. This provides an extremely simple, sturdy and flat structure which is simple to manufacture and simple to mount. This operating device is particularly suitable for use in foot pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventor: John Abrahamsen
  • Patent number: 6242704
    Abstract: The Control “STIK” is to be used in connection with a ceiling fan for snaring the pull chain and to engage the slide switch to control the rotation of the motor. The “STIK” is comprised of a long pole with an integrated snare hook at one end approximately 45 degrees with reference to the pole. The snare hook is a V-shaped or cone-shaped component that is used to permit the pull chain to slip into the snare hook sufficiently to engage the operation of the chain. The rectangular notch, located just below the snare hook, is used to engage the slide switch actuator and lower or raise it to a desired position for controlling the rotational direction of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventors: Joan Marie Ambrose, John Ambrose, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6130391
    Abstract: An actuating device operated by a hookstick is attached to an existing ring on a manually operated fused cutout switch or oil circuit recloser switch. The device comprises a cantilever and a clamp for attaching the cantilever about the existing ring. The cantilever a pair of lever arms, each having a hook-shaped receptacle for receiving a hookstick that is used to alternatively open or close the switch. Methods of actuating a manually operated recloser and lock-out switch and modifying such a switch to facilitate manual operation are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Taylor-Maddox Technical, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6093901
    Abstract: An actuating device operated by a hookstick is attached to a manually operated oil circuit recloser switch. The device comprises a cantilever and an affixed switch lever. The cantilever includes a pair of lever arms, each having a hook-shaped receptacle for receiving a hookstick that is used to alternatively open or close the switch. Methods of actuating a manually operated switch in a recloser and lock-out device and modifying such a switch to facilitate manual operation are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Taylor Maddox Technical, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6051799
    Abstract: Apparatus having a wall and a button arranged in an area of the wall, button actuating means, a switch which is remote from the button actuating means, switch actuating means, and transmission means arranged between the button actuating means and the switch actuating means. The button actuating means is formed by a bell-crank lever which is pivotable about a pivot which is displaced toward the switch in a direction parallel to the wall of the apparatus. The transmission means is formed by a transmission bar supported so as to be movable at least substantially in a direction parallel to the wall and which extends substantially in that direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: Karl Fuhrmann
  • Patent number: 6036330
    Abstract: A light switch extender (10) comprising an elongate actuator (12). An assembly (14) is for vertically mounting the elongate actuator (12) in a sliding manner to a switch plate (16) of a light switch (18) located in a junction box (20) in a wall (22). The elongate actuator (12) engages a lever (24) of the light switch (18) and extends downwardly therefrom. A small child (26) who normally cannot reach the lever (24) of the light switch (18) can now operate the lever (24) of the light switch (18) between an on and off position, by sliding the elongate actuator (12) up and down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Michael Sanguedolce
  • Patent number: 5998747
    Abstract: In the present invention, a switch plate cover for an electrical toggle switch comprises three components. The first is a face plate which has an orifice and two standard screw holes for mounting to the switch. The second is a shaped toggle actuator cover which fits over the toggle actuator of the switch and partially through the orifice. The third is a base plate with a rectangular orifice for passage of the toggle switch/dimmer actuator to the toggle actuator cover. The combined components of the switch plate cover are mounted onto the toggle actuator of an electrical switch by placing the orifice of the third component and the hollow vertical second component directly on top of the toggle actuator and then affixing the combined face plate assembly to the switch plate with screws. In operation, the second component is slid up or down, such that the above-mentioned rectilinear displacement causes the actuator to move from one of its positions to the other of its positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventors: Francis Fredrick Kelso, James Patrick Reilly
  • Patent number: 5998748
    Abstract: An actuating device operated by a hookstick is attached to an existing ring on a manually operated fused cutout switch or oil circuit recloser switch. The device comprises a cantilever and a clamp for attaching the cantilever about the existing ring. The cantilever a pair of lever arms, each having a hook-shaped receptacle for receiving a hookstick that is used to alternatively open or close the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: David G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5993159
    Abstract: A pull cord deflector is comprised of a plate, having a channel, that is positioned between a ceiling fan housing and a switch locking nut. An extension arm is hingedly attached to the plate. The notched end of the extension arm is dimensioned to terminate beyond the periphery of a light globe of the ceiling fan. One or more optional springs extend between the plate and the extension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Jackie B. Mack
  • Patent number: 5973279
    Abstract: A switching mechanism interfaces a flexible shaft to the handle of a circuit interrupter which handle is rotated in a arcuate path between an on position and an off position. The switching mechanism includes a handle attachment for rotating between the on position and off position. The switching mechanism includes a base plate which is attached to the circuit interrupter and secures a flexible shaft thereto. The other end of the flexible shaft is connected to a remote, exteriorly mounted operating handle. The base plate has a perpendicularly extended tab with ears thereon which feeds through an opening in a portion of the linearly moving part of the handle mechanism actuator. Since the present apparatus is to be disposed on the side of the circuit breaker, there is a likelihood for sideways twisting or torsional rotation of the yoke in the direction perpendicular to the plane in which the arc of the handle of the circuit breaker is to move during opening and closing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Turner, Craig J. Puhalla, Eric V. Eiselt
  • Patent number: 5957270
    Abstract: A switch assembly activates an electronic apparatus in such a manner that, despite unavoidable gaps existing between different components of the switch assembly, force is effectively transmitted from a push button to an activating switch. Between the push button and a transmitting member, a plunger and a socket together with a spring are disposed, and ratchets are formed on the plunger and the socket. Thus, the gaps between the different components of the switch assembly are eliminated. The ratchets are buttless threads which transmit the force from the push button to the transmitting member. The plunger is provided with a protrusion for coupling with a slot of the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hae-Won Ahn
  • Patent number: 5951074
    Abstract: This tool makes it easy to reach up and operate the control switch levers of a typical ceiling fan. A slot in the washer at the end of a rod is used to engage a pull chain in order to turn on the lights or change the fan motor speed. The washer is also used to operate the reversing lever. By placing the washer above or below the switch lever, and pulling it down or pushing it up it will set the switch in the desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventors: Pasquale Guzzi, Jeanne M Guzzi
  • Patent number: 5934452
    Abstract: An extender (12) for a rocker type light switch (14) installed within a switch box (16) in a wall (18). The rocker type light switch (14) is of the type having a rocker lever (20), a switch plate (22) and a pair of mounting screws (24). The extender (12) comprises a slide handle (26), a cam button (28) in the slide handle (26) and a structure (30) for connecting the slide handle (26) in an upright position over the switch plate (22) via the mounting screws (24). The slide handle (26) can be manually moved up and down by a small child (32), allowing the cam button (28) to operate the rocker lever (20) of the rocker type light switch (14) between an on and off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Michael Sanguedolce
  • Patent number: 5911316
    Abstract: A device for manually turning-on at least one circuit-breaker from the front panel of a cabinet includes at least one sleeve having a front end and a rear end. The sleeve extends through an aperture in the front panel and is movable between a backward position, in which the front end of the sleeve projects slightly from the front panel, and a forward position, in which the front end of the sleeve projects away from the front panel. A spring is compressed to push the sleeve from the forward position to the backward position. A rod is operably connected to the sleeve so as to be displaced following the forward movement of the sleeve and to remain in its position uneffected by the backward movement of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Acbel Polytech, Inc.
    Inventor: Chien-Ming Chu
  • Patent number: 5878871
    Abstract: A strap that incorporates a breakaway connector that extends between a chain on a switch contained on a fixture and a bedpost or other fixed or stationary object. The strap has an attachment mean, such as hook and loop fastener, on a lower end for making a loop to attach the strap to the object. The upper end has a breakaway connector with a chain attaching device attached. The chain attaching device attaches the strap with the breakaway connector to the chain on a switch on a fixture. The breakaway connector disconnects the strap from the switch if the strap is pulled to hard, yanked or jerked. The breakaway connector disconnects to protect the switch from breaking. The connector is easily reconnected once disconnected. A shock absorber is also provided for additional protection and to prevent unnecessary disconnects during momentary pulls near or slightly over the disconnect tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Fred A. Miesner
  • Patent number: 5875886
    Abstract: A switch extension device for actuating a switch having an actuator projecting from a fascia plate. The actuator has upward and downward positions corresponding to "on" and "off" positions of the actuating member. The switch extension device has a front cover plate where the back surface includes grooves for receiving in slidable relationship a slider device. The front cover plate is secured to the fascia plate. The slider device has lower and upper parts, the upper part being slidably mounted on the back surface of the front cover plate in the grooves and the lower part of the slider device protruding downwardly from the front cover plate. The slider device may be adapted to actuate a flat rocker-type switch or a conventional toggle switch. The lower part of the switch extension device further has an extension strip of an appropriate length to extend downwardly the possibility of actuating the switch. In an embodiment, the extension strip is pivotably connected to the lower part of the slider device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Illumination S.L.E. Inc.
    Inventor: Simon L. Elster
  • Patent number: 5862712
    Abstract: A detachable front panel of an electronic device, containing push-buttons corresponding to actuating rods in the chassis of the device. The push buttons are provided with springs which urge the buttons against the actuating rod, and causes the buttons to be moved into the front panel when the panel is detached from the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventors: Pierre Guilleminot, Bruno Aubert
  • Patent number: 5847340
    Abstract: The arrangement for mutually locking the actuation of at least two power switches (A, B, C) has a position indicator (7) and an evaluation apparatus (10) for each power switch (A, B, C). A carrying plate (6) accommodating the position indicator (7) and the evaluation apparatus (10) is assigned to a side wall of the power switch (A, B, C). A shaft coupling (30) and a driver coupling (31) establish the connection with a switching shaft or a control shaft, respectively, of a device (32) that releases or locks the actuation of the power switch (A, B, C) when the carrying plate (6) is mounted on the power switch (A, B, C) or on a withdrawable rack (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Ludvik Godesa
  • Patent number: 5847341
    Abstract: An evaluation apparatus for the transmission of mechanical motion used in a system for mutually locking power switches. The apparatus has a first input slide with a coupling member, which can be detachably installed as a driver for an output slide. A guide is provided on a carrier for a second input slide, arranged as a mirror image to the first input slide in relation to the output slide. The evaluation apparatus operates as an AND element when the output slide is equipped with a roller, and the output slide operates optionally as an AND or an OR element when the input slide is provided with one or more additional coupling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Ludvik Godesa
  • Patent number: 5782342
    Abstract: An improved light switch assembly and a method for its use, wherein the improvement comprises an extension comprising a rod attached on one of its ends to a ring, with the ring being suspended from a hole formed near the end of the lever component of a conventional toggle-type light switch assembly. Applications may include, but are not limited to, use by children for autonomous use of toggle-type light switches, use by an elderly or infirm person who has fallen to signal for help by blinking the light associated with the switch, and use by people restricted to wheelchairs to avoid the expense of lowering electrical switches in a home to a position within their reach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventors: Leslie N. Hewitt, Roy B. Hewitt
  • Patent number: 5779029
    Abstract: A device for setting actuators of a DIP switch is desired positions. A device having a number of notches and protrusions on an edge thereof can be swiped over the actuators of a DIP switch thereby causing the protrusions to engage and move desired actuators into the "on" position, whereas the notches on the device will slide over the actuators without engagement thereby keeping those actuators in the "off" position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Jack Gershfeld
  • Patent number: 5769209
    Abstract: A toggle switch handle for a toggle switch mounted to the dash of a truck consists in substantial part essentially of a resilient bendable material. The switch is generally spatulate in shape with a base, a distal end, rounded side edges and recessed or concave major opposed surfaces. The handle is elongated with a longitudinal axis. The handle has a stiffness in bending in response to a force applied at the distal end of the handle and in a direction perpendicular to longitudinal axis from twenty-five pounds to thirty pounds per inch at seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit and most preferably twenty-eight pounds per inch. The handle may be of an elastomeric material of a durometer of from 85 to 95, and most preferably about 90, on the Shore A scale measured at seventy-three degrees Fahrenheit. The handle is coupled to switch components by a lever. The extent to which the lever projects into the base of the handle is limited so that the lever has a minimal impact on the bendability of the toggle switch handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Freightliner Corporation
    Inventor: William G. Massey, III
  • Patent number: 5762180
    Abstract: A retrofit switch actuator for a circuit breaker control switch in a power distribution network provides for remote control and automation of the control switch. A solenoid of the switch actuator is energized to move the output shaft of the solenoid. The movement of the solenoid output shaft is converted into rotational motion by an adapter rotatably mounted at one end to the solenoid output shaft and fixedly mounted at the other end to the control shaft of the circuit breaker. The rotational motion of the control shaft mechanically engages the existing circuit breaker control switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: System Analysis and Integration, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence A. Pomatto, Ronald Bruce Tinkham
  • Patent number: 5722534
    Abstract: A power disconnect switch having a generally parallelepiped base with first and second electrical conductors mounted thereon. A switch piece pivots on one of the electrical conductors to connect to the other electrical conductor. The switch piece has an insulated handle, and a projection extends from the handle. The projection has a shape which allows it to fit snugly into a holder tool, and this allows an operator to open the switch without danger of electrocution. An angled insulating plate which fits next to the parallelepiped base has a side portion which insulates the switch from adjacent switches, and a bottom portion which insulates screws in the parallelepiped base from a metal panel, shelf, or box, on which the switch may be mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Jere Wright
  • Patent number: 5671624
    Abstract: A plastic key extension cover having an extending handle. The cover is mounted on the key to be turned either by a friction fit or by inserting a member through the key's ring hole and a complementary cover hole. When the handle is pulled towards a user, the in-place key turns in its keyhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: Homer C. Sivils
  • Patent number: 5657859
    Abstract: A device and method for adjusting the height at which an alarm pull-station may be actuated. The device and method involve the use of a mechanical system in mechanical communication with an alarm pull-station. The height at which existing alarm pull-stations may be actuated is decreased without structurally, mechanically or electronically altering existing pull-stations. The device for adjusting the height at which an alarm pull-station may be actuated includes an alarm trigger operatively engageable with an alarm trigger lever of the pull-station, a rod operatively associated with the alarm trigger, and a mounting portion operatively associated with the rod, wherein the mounting portion is attached to a fixed structure and the device is disposed externally of the alarm pull-station. A spring is used between elements of the device to inhibit any unwanted downward movement of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Firecom, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard F. Concannon, Benjamin W. Exner, Howard Kogen
  • Patent number: 5634553
    Abstract: A handle assembly for use with a circuit breaker includes an elongated shaft mounted through a hole in a cover of an enclosure containing a circuit breaker having an actuator lever movable between a plurality of different positions. The shaft is mounted to the cover to undergo rotational movement about, but not translational movement along, a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The outer end portion of the shaft extends outwardly from an exterior side of the cover, while an inner end portion of the shaft extends inwardly from an interior side of the cover into the enclosure, terminating at a location spaced from the actuator lever of the circuit breaker in the enclosure. The handle assembly also includes a handle attached to the outer end portion of the shaft so as to undergo rotation with the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Douglas A. Hopper, Michael W. Miller
  • Patent number: 5627341
    Abstract: A raceway assembly is provided for repositioning an electrical fire alarm pull station from a first position to a second lower position on a wall. The assembly covers the opening in the wall at the first position so that patching of the opening at the first position is not necessary. The assembly also covers the electrical wiring which extends from the first position to the second position within the assembly, and the assembly has a low side profile to provide a pleasing appearance and minimal intrusion into the adjacent hallway or room space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventor: David S. Bernstein
  • Patent number: 5623844
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for assisting in the operation of a key in a lock. A leverage extender is provided having a base member comprising a pair of opposed ends secured to a pair of opposed sides and a pair of opposed tops secured respectively to the opposed ends and the opposed sides such that a longitudinal aperture is formed therebetween. A handle member is secured to one of the opposed sides, comprising an angular disposition relative to a plane of the base and having handle sides thereof parallel to the opposed sides. At least one set screw aperture is disposed in one of the opposed sides and is adapted to threadably receiving a set screw. A set screw member is threadably disposed in the set screw aperture. The apparatus is secured to flanges of a lock cylinder and a key is passed between the top members of the leverage extender and into the lock cylinder. Force is then applied to the handle member to operate the lock cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: Richard L. Draeger
  • Patent number: 5590759
    Abstract: Fire alarm extension apparatuses (30, 100) permit actuation of a fire alarm pull switch (11, 21) by persons with a handicap by lowering the position at which the fire alarm pull switch (11, 21) can be actuated. The fire alarm extension apparatuses (30, 100) each comprise a clip (33, 133) for attachment to a pull lever (14, 24) of the fire alarm pull switches (11, 21). An elongated member (32, 132) is attached to the clip (33, 133) for permitting movement of the clip (33, 133) and the pull lever (14, 24) while at a position remote from the pull lever (14, 24) in a direction to permit actuation of the fire alarm pull switch (11, 21). In a first embodiment (30), the elongated member (33) is a flat rigid shaft which is mounted to a wall (31) via a mounting block (36) and is guided by dual parallel rails (37a, 37b) situated on the mounting block (36). Further, the lever (14, 24) is engaged by a C-shaped clip (33), and the shaft (32) has a T-shaped handle (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventors: J. Riley Hawkins, Nicole E. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 5579900
    Abstract: An automobile instrument cluster assembly includes a printed circuit board and a display unit coupled to the circuit board. The display unit includes a light source for displaying information. The instrument cluster further includes a switch having a depressible push-button moveable between an ON position and an OFF position for interacting with the displayed information. The instrument cluster further includes a switch actuator assembly having a plunger for moving the push-button between the ON and OFF positions. The switch actuator assembly further includes a plunger support member removably attached to the circuit board in a snap-fit arrangement for movably supporting the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Michael E. Pryor, Bradley S. Chupp, Emily A. Graffeo
  • Patent number: 5577602
    Abstract: A switch extender for electrical switches having a front plate slidably coupled to a back plate which in turn is attached to a wall-mounted switch plate. The back plate includes a knock-out portion which allows use of the invention with both toggle switches and rocker switches. A pair of cylindrical bars are positioned within an opening in the front plate. A toggle switch fits within a slot between the bars, and the corners of a rocker switch fit within slots outside of the bars on the front plate. Sliding the front plate relative to the back plate actuates the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignees: Glenn C. Conner, Martin J. Rapozo
    Inventors: Glenn C. Conner, Martin J. Rapozo, Scott M. Perry
  • Patent number: 5577603
    Abstract: The remote, self adjusting operator for a circuit breaker according to the present invention allows a circuit breaker toggle to be operated from the exterior of the an explosion-proof enclosure over the circuit breaker panel. The operator includes a shaft having one end extending outside of an enclosure door and another end extending inside the enclosure door. A handle is attached to the shaft at the exterior of the door and an operating fork is attached to the shaft at the inside of the door. The operating fork having a slot for receiving the toggle is designed to prevent damage to the circuit breaker toggle or the operating fork if the door is close when the fork is not properly aligned with the toggle. A spring is provided on the shaft between the fork and the inside surface of the door which allows the fork to move axially on the shaft when it engages the toggle. A sloped surface on the bottom of the fork will cause the fork to move across the toggle until the slot is aligned over the toggle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Andris Bogdanovs, Paul J. Bartlett
  • Patent number: 5577601
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an actuating device for a power switch of a monitor, in which an actuator member for activating the power switch is slidably coupled either internally or externally, to a supporting plate of a frame which holds a printed circuit board. The coupling of the actuating device to the supporting plate of the frame holds the actuating device in alignment independent of the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dae-il Chung, Sung-gil Cha
  • Patent number: 5550341
    Abstract: A switch is specifically shaped to be retained in position within an apparatus, such as a household appliance, by inserting edges of an opening formed in the sheet material of the apparatus into first and second slots shaped into the housing of the switch. The first and second slots can be formed in opposite edge surfaces of the switch housing structure, either within the flat edges or at the corners of the housing structure. When attached to an appliance, no screws or other fasteners are necessary to rigidly attach the switch to the apparatus. The switch can be pushed into a slot formed in an edge of one panel of the apparatus and then captivated by an opening in another panel of the apparatus. Alternatively, the switch can be inserted into a larger portion of a single opening and then moved into a narrower portion of that opening. Another device can then be inserted into the larger portion of the opening to prevent inadvertent removal of the switch from its attached position within the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: Larry J. Bohnert, Richard R. Ellis, Michael G. Marchini
  • Patent number: 5504290
    Abstract: A remote controlled circuit breaker including a mechanism linked to a handle by a drive lever equipped with a roller cooperating with a recharging cam of an energy storage system including a spring. A bearing surface is arranged to block the roller in the charged position, without requiring the presence of a special latching stage, since the line of action of the reaction R of the roller passes via the transmission shaft of the cam. A step-by-step motor of the vibrating type drives the transmission shaft in rotation, and enables almost instantaneous stopping of the cam when the roller is in contact with the bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Merlin Gerin
    Inventors: Pierre Baginski, Jean-Pierre Nebon
  • Patent number: 5498845
    Abstract: An extension for facilitating operation of a light switch from a distance below the switch. The inventive device includes an elongated member having a handle at a first end thereof and an engaging assembly at a second thereof. The engaging assembly can be releasably coupled to the toggle member of the switch to facilitate operation of the switch by a child positioned below the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Inventor: William E. Browning