Abstract: A device and method for operating automotive battery system relays and related switches. By aligning a magnetic field with a direction of current flow in a contact plate disposed between magnets that are producing the field, a generated Lorentz force can be used to promote arc extinguishing during a relay opening sequence, while simultaneously reducing the tendency of the Lorentz forces to interfere with the operation of a solenoid or other switch-activating mechanisms. By using a rotary-based mechanism to establish contact between a contact plate and current-carrying terminals, the likelihood of inadvertent opening of the relay is reduced. Such devices and methods may be used in conjunction with hybrid-powered and electric-powered vehicles.

Abstract: A device and method for operating automotive battery system relays and related switches. By aligning a magnetic field with a direction of current flow in a contact plate disposed between magnets that are producing the field, a generated Lorentz force can be used to promote arc extinguishing during a relay opening sequence, while simultaneously reducing the tendency of the Lorentz forces to interfere with the operation of a solenoid or other switch-activating mechanisms. By using a rotary-based mechanism to establish contact between a contact plate and current-carrying terminals, the likelihood of inadvertent opening of the relay is reduced. Such devices and methods may be used in conjunction with hybrid-powered and electric-powered vehicles.

Abstract: A control circuit for a circuit interrupting switch having a non-stored energy operator reduces the time period between a switch command and a change of the switch contacts. The time period is reduced by prearming the mechanical operating linkage after each switch operation. By prearming the mechanical operating linkage, the linkage has less distance to travel and hence the time period between a switch command and a change in the switch contacts is greatly reduced.

Abstract: A non-duplicative switching arrangement for controlling a video or radio frequency switch is used in a cable television system for controlling the application of a distant station signal to the cable system to eliminate duplication in programming. A clock provides an output indicative of the day and time while a timing means, responsive to the output of the clock provides timing signals. Switching is programmed on a transparent matrix disc which has a plurality of concentric circular rows of matrix positions. Each row corresponds to a day of the week and the matrix positions are aligned radially with respect to the disc in columns which correspond to daily time segments. The light transmitting characteristics of selected ones of the matrix positions are altered impermanently in order to program the switching arrangement. A stepping motor is provided for rotating the disc at predetermined times and an optical reader determines the light transmitting characteristics at each successive matrix position.