With Interlock Patents (Class 361/615)
  • Patent number: 11955780
    Abstract: Motor control centers have units or buckets with an extendable/retractable power connection (stab) assembly and one or more operating lever interlocks that include a unit latch to latch to a cabinet and a power connection position interlock that blocks the handle of the units or buckets based on position of the power connection assembly, optionally also including a shutter cam that slides a shutter right and left.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Daniel Boyd Kroushl, Alfred Gregory Beard, Edgar Yee
  • Patent number: 11876355
    Abstract: Disclosed in the present invention is an electric switching apparatus, comprising a drawer apparatus, an electric connection apparatus, a driving mechanism, and a locking mechanism. A busbar of the breaker body at the separate position is separated from the electric connection apparatus, and the breaker body cannot be switched on. The busbar of the breaker body at the trial position is separated from the electric connection apparatus, and the breaker body can be switched on. The busbar of the breaker body at the connected but not clamped position is in touch with the electric connection apparatus, the electric connection apparatus does not clamp the busbar, and the breaker body cannot be switched on. The busbar of the breaker body at the connected and clamped position is in touch with the electric connection apparatus, the electric connection apparatus clamps the busbar, and the breaker body can be switched on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignees: SHANGHAI LEADING CONNECTION MECHATRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., JIANGSU LUOKAI MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Zheng Shi
  • Patent number: 11855395
    Abstract: A power distribution system includes a busway and a bus plug. A mechanical assembly rotatably mounts the bus plug relative to the busway. The system includes a remote racking device including a mechanism having a first mechanical component coupled to the bus plug and a second mechanical component coupled to the busway. The remote racking device rotates the bus plug relative to the busway about a rotation axis defined by the mechanical assembly based on mechanical interaction of the first mechanical component and the second mechanical component. Methods of connecting and disconnecting a bus plug relative to a busway with a remote racking device are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: EATON INTELLIGENT POWER LIMITED
    Inventors: Kundan Deore, Gordon Pettersen, Shrikant Machale
  • Patent number: 11728103
    Abstract: An electrical system includes an enclosure for housing an electrical device. The enclosure includes a door with an operating handle connected to a shaft when the door is closed, which can then be used to turn the electrical device on or off. The shaft rotation is further operable to simultaneously displace an interlock mechanism for engagement or disengagement to a busway structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Mateusz A. Sadowski, Mateusz Sekula
  • Patent number: 11677217
    Abstract: Motor control centers have units or buckets with an extendable/retractable power connection (stab) assembly and one or more operating lever interlocks that include a unit latch to latch to a cabinet and a power connection position interlock that blocks the handle of the units or buckets based on position of the power connection assembly, optionally also including a shutter cam that slides a shutter right and left.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Daniel Boyd Kroushl, Alfred Gregory Beard, Edgar Yee
  • Patent number: 11482840
    Abstract: A multiphase switchgear includes a switch panel, a vertical input housing module and a vertical switch housing module. The switch housing module and the input housing module are spaced apart from one another by a transverse housing module. The input housing module, the transverse housing module and the switch housing module form a first phase block. A plurality of phase blocks are located flush one behind the other in the direction of the transverse housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Siemens Energy Global GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Beutel, Christian Halm, Andreas Kleinschmidt
  • Patent number: 10965345
    Abstract: Accessory device for a low or medium voltage switching device including an outer housing, first electrical connection means adapted to electrically connect the accessory device with an auxiliary power line and first mechanical connection means adapted to mechanically connect the accessory device with a mechanical support component of the switching device. The accessory device includes a power line communication unit electrically connectable with the auxiliary power line through the first electrical connection means and adapted to communicate with outer electronic equipment electrically connected with the auxiliary power line by transmitting and receiving communication signals along the auxiliary power line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: ABB S.P.A.
    Inventors: Marco Stucchi, Riccardo Panseri
  • Patent number: 9218922
    Abstract: A fuse assembly structured for use with a power circuit includes: a fuse holder defining a space and including first and second terminals structured to electrically connect to the power circuit; a fuse disposed in the space defined by the fuse holder; and a relay disposed in the space defined by the fuse holder. The relay includes separable contacts, an operating mechanism structured to open and close said separable contacts, and a control circuit cooperating with said operating mechanism to cause said operating mechanism to open or close said separable contacts. Current flowing between the first and second terminals flows through the separable contacts and the fuse and opening the separable contacts interrupts said current flowing between said first and second terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventor: Charles John Luebke
  • Patent number: 9040976
    Abstract: An organic light emitting display panel includes a substrate, an organic light emitting diode disposed on a first side of the substrate, and a first light scattering layer disposed on a second side of the substrate opposite to the first side of the substrate, where the first light scattering layer includes a transparent thin layer including an indium, and a plurality of first micro-lenses is disposed on a plasma-treated side of the first light scattering layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Myoung-Gu Lee
  • Patent number: 8902568
    Abstract: A power supply interface system for a medical device may include a battery compartment and a battery interlocking system. The battery compartment may define at least a first battery area and a second battery area, the first battery area configured to receive a first battery and the second battery area configured to receive a second battery. The battery interlocking system may include a first interlock mechanism including a first locking portion and a first selector. The first locking portion may be configured to move between a locking position and a non-locking position, the locking position substantially preventing removal of the first battery from the first battery area, and the non-locking position not preventing removal of the first battery from the first battery area. The first selector may be configured to move the first locking portion from the locking position to the non-locking position in response to the second battery being received in the second battery area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Mahmoud Janbakhsh, Mark Jacobus Van Kerkwyk, Himanshu J. Chokshi
  • Patent number: 8890017
    Abstract: A motor operator for switchgear (1) for use in mains power distribution systems such as public medium high voltage distribution systems, where the switchgear comprises a closed cabinet (2) with an operating shaft (6) accessible from the front surface (4). The operating shaft is rotatable at least between two positions and has, a coupling part. The motor operator comprises a worm gear in a separate worm gear housing (11), which is mountable on the external surface of the switchgear cabinet. An adapter (21) with a connection shaft (22) is located in a recess in the worm wheel (16). The worm of the worm gear is connected to a motor which could be located remotely from the worm gear housing and connected to the worm preferably by means of a flexible shaft (15). This renders it possible to mount the motor operator in confined spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventor: Claus Hegelund Sørensen
  • Patent number: 8873223
    Abstract: A circuit interconnect device racking apparatus is disclosed. The circuit interconnect device racking apparatus has a body adapted to couple to a circuit interconnect device, one or more frame connectors coupled to the body, a racking lever coupled to the body by a lever pivot, the racking lever having a cam mechanism component, and one or more bus connectors configured to connect to or disconnect from one or more bus bars responsive to rotation of the racking lever. Circuit interconnect device racking assemblies having the circuit interconnect device racking apparatus and methods of connecting circuit interconnect devices to one or more bus bars are disclosed, as are other aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Megan Rahn, Brian Campbell, Russell J. Wedemeyer, Thomas W. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 8817454
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for coordinating the installation and removal a motor control center subunit with the power connection and interruption thereof. A system of interlocks and indicators causes an operator to install a motor control center subunit into a motor control center, and connect supply and control power thereto, in a particular order. Embodiments of the invention may prevent actuation of line contacts of the bucket, and shield the line contacts, until the bucket is fully installed in the motor control center. Other embodiments also prevent circuit breaker closure until the line contacts are engaged with a bus of the motor control center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Morris, Scott E. McPherren, Daniel J. Leeman
  • Patent number: 8797720
    Abstract: A circuit protection system has a normal mode, and a maintenance mode with reduced potential arc flash energy. A downstream circuit breaker is mounted within a first enclosure comprising a first access panel. A locking mechanism locks the first access panel closed. An upstream breaker is mounted within a second enclosure comprising a second access panel. A current sensor senses current and is in communication with an electronic trip unit that controls current interruptions by the upstream breaker based on a trip setting. A user interface device is accessible when second enclosure is closed, and allows user selections of normal and maintenance modes. When maintenance mode is selected, the trip unit changes the trip setting such that potential arc flash energy is reduced. The system is configured to keep the first access panel locked closed based on normal mode being selected, and allow unlocking based on maintenance mode being selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignees: Utility Relay Company, Kirk Key Interlock Company LLC
    Inventors: Helmut Weiher, Sean McGuinness
  • Patent number: 8760853
    Abstract: A disconnect mechanism, an electrical component assembly including the disconnect mechanism, and an electrical circuit protector in turn including the electrical component assembly. The disconnect mechanism includes a carriage, as well as a switch actuator connected to the carriage for moving the carriage between a switch-closed position and a switch-open position. A contactor is mounted to the carriage so as to move with the carriage, the contactor including first and second contactor terminals and providing selective electrical connection between the contactor terminals. A movable disconnect switch contact is connected to the first contactor terminal, and is movable with the carriage and the contactor. A fixed disconnect switch contact is positioned for selective engagement with the movable disconnect switch contact as the carriage moves to the switch-closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Electro-Mechanical Corporation
    Inventor: Scott A. Bullock
  • Publication number: 20140029167
    Abstract: The invention relates to an accessory device assembly for a low or medium voltage switching device. The accessory device assembly comprises at least a first accessory device comprising a first external housing, first electrical connection means for electrical connection with said switching device, second electrical connection means for electrical connection with outside equipment, third electrical connection means for electrical connection with a second accessory device, first mechanical connection means for mechanical connection with said second accessory device and second mechanical connection means for mechanical connection with said switching device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: ABB S.p.A.
    Inventor: ABB S.p.A.
  • Patent number: 8305736
    Abstract: A system and method for connecting supply power to motor control components includes use of a motor control center subunit with moveable supply power contacts. After a motor control center subunit is secured into a motor control center compartment, the supply power contacts may be advanced to engage supply power buses. For disconnection, the supply power contacts may be refracted and isolated from the buses before physical removal of the subunit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Edgar Yee, Robert A. Morris, Scott E. McPherren, Neal Edward Rowe
  • Patent number: 8248761
    Abstract: A subunit is provided for a motor control center including an enclosure, a number of compartments, a plurality of power lines, and a number of covers for covering the compartments. The subunit includes a housing removably disposed within a corresponding one of the compartments, a plurality of electrical contacts movably coupled to the housing, and an actuating assembly for moving the electrical contacts into and out of electrical contact with the power lines. The subunit further includes at least one of a locking assembly, a panel assembly, and a secondary disconnect assembly. The locking assembly locks the position of the electrical contacts and restricts access to the actuating assembly. The panel assembly is pivotable and translatable with respect to the subunit housing. The secondary disconnect assembly is independent from the actuating assembly in order that movement of the electrical contacts does not move the secondary disconnect assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Jason Leeman, Edgar Yee, Robert Allan Morris, Marsha Jean Harris
  • Patent number: 8243422
    Abstract: A subunit is provided for a motor control center including an enclosure, a number of compartments, a plurality of power lines, and a number of covers for covering the compartments. The subunit includes a housing removably disposed within a corresponding one of the compartments, a plurality of electrical contacts movably coupled to the housing, and an actuating assembly for moving the electrical contacts into and out of electrical contact with the power lines. The subunit further includes at least one of a locking assembly, a panel assembly, and a secondary disconnect assembly. The locking assembly locks the position of the electrical contacts and restricts access to the actuating assembly. The panel assembly is pivotable and translatable with respect to the subunit housing. The secondary disconnect assembly is independent from the actuating assembly in order that movement of the electrical contacts does not move the secondary disconnect assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Jason Leeman, Edgar Yee, Robert Allan Morris, Marsha Jean Harris
  • Patent number: 8199022
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for coordinating the installation and removal a motor control center subunit with the power connection and interruption thereof. A system of interlocks and indicators causes an operator to install a motor control center subunit into a motor control center, and connect supply and control power thereto, in a particular order. Once installed, a test module system included with the subunit provides for pass-through connection of signals from equipment test points. The test module can thus relay internal conditions of the subunit to the operator without a need for disengaging or opening the subunit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Morris, Scott E. McPherren, Edgar Yee
  • Patent number: 8139345
    Abstract: A power operator for switchgear (1) for mains power distribution systems, where the switchgear comprises a closed cabinet (5) with an operating shaft protruding there from. The operating shaft is rotable at least between two positions and has a coupling part (2, 3). The operator comprises a housing (10), which is mountable on the external surface (4) of the switchgear housing, and a rotatable connection shaft (14) connected to an electric drive mechanism (11). It has a first coupling part to fit with the coupling part of the operating shaft in a longitudinal axial sliding and non-rotational interlocking manner. The coupling part of the connection shaft (14) is a separate interchangeable part (24, 24a) of the connection shaft attached thereto by non-rotational interlocking means. Further, it has an activation knob (16) extending from the housing (10) to operate the switch manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventors: Bruno Christensen, Anders Lorenzen, Verner Smidt, Jens N. Paulsen, Glenn Smith
  • Patent number: 8085527
    Abstract: A plug-in housing module for forming an-explosion-proof switchgear/distribution panel including a number of plug-in points, where when the plug-in housing module is in a plugged-in position at a corresponding plug-in point of the number of plug-in points, the plug-in housing module is brought into contact with electrical connection devices and is detachably fixed to carrier rails of a frame of the switchgear/distribution panel, the plug-in housing module including at least one switching device for switching between a locking position and a release position, and when the at least one switching device is in the release position, the plug-in housing module can be moved out of the plugged-in position into a separation position, where in the separation position, the contact with the electrical connection devices is interrupted, while maintaining a flameproof mechanical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Cooper Crouse-Hinds GmbH
    Inventors: Reiner Naumann, Gerhard Schwarz, Markus Reinhart
  • Patent number: 7978458
    Abstract: A locking device for an electric switch is disclosed which is movably guided in a withdrawable rack via an actuating shaft wherein the electric switch is placed in a preferred position, in particular in a disconnected position. In at least one embodiment, the locking device is movable from a release position in which the switch is displaceable in the withdrawable rack to a locking position in which the locking device blocks the switch displacement in a predetermined direction and the actuating shaft is actuated via an actuating crank. In order to safe the switch locking in the preferred position thereof, the locking device is movable to the locking position when the actuating crank actuation is blocked, only. The withdrawable rack, provided with the inventive locking device for the electric switch displaceable in the withdrawable rack via the actuating shaft, is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Peter Bohnen
  • Patent number: 7965493
    Abstract: A subunit is provided for a motor control center including an enclosure, a number of compartments, a plurality of power lines, and a number of covers for covering the compartments. The subunit includes a housing removably disposed within a corresponding one of the compartments, a plurality of electrical contacts movably coupled to the housing, and an actuating assembly for moving the electrical contacts into and out of electrical contact with the power lines. The subunit further includes at least one of a locking assembly, a panel assembly, and a secondary disconnect assembly. The locking assembly locks the position of the electrical contacts and restricts access to the actuating assembly. The panel assembly is pivotable and translatable with respect to the subunit housing. The secondary disconnect assembly is independent from the actuating assembly in order that movement of the electrical contacts does not move the secondary disconnect assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Jason Leeman, Edgar Yee, Robert Allan Morris, Marsha Jean Harris
  • Patent number: 7821775
    Abstract: Disclosed is a racking mechanism for a drawout circuit breaker including a cross shaft movably positioned in an enclosure and at least one input link in operable communication with the cross shaft via at least one connecting link. At least one racking cam is movably positioned in the enclosure and is in operable communication with the input link. Each racking cam has at least one cam slot receptive of a portion of the circuit breaker. Movement of the cross shaft about an axis of the cross shaft is capable of moving the at least one racking cam from an open position toward a closed position with the portion of the circuit breaker disposed in the at least one cam slot, thereby securing the circuit breaker in the enclosure and the at least one racking cam is in the closed position. A method for securing a circuit breaker in an enclosure and a circuit breaker assembly are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Soundararajan Narayanasamy, Janakiraman Narayanan, Yatin Vilas Newase, Partha Sarathy Doddapadam Srinivasa Raghavachar
  • Patent number: 7638711
    Abstract: A bus bar system with an assembly unit having a base plate with side limbs and fixing items which are connected to the assembly unit. The assembly unit forms a receiving element for a bus bar holder and bus bars which are covered with cover elements and/or adapters for peripheral devices. The covers and/or adapters are mechanically connected to the bus bars by plug-in receiving elements and/or locking receiving elements and the adapters are also electrically connected to the bus bars. An assembly unit, which can be produced and mounted at low cost without impeding functional requirements, is provided and the assembly unit forms locking receiving elements together with retaining flanges, which protrude at a distance on the outer sides of the side limbs, and fixing flanges, wherein bar-shaped fixing items can be inserted into and/or locked inside the receiving elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Rittal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hans Wagener
  • Patent number: 7629074
    Abstract: A battery cover latching assembly (30) is used in a portable electronic device (9). The portable electronic device has a housing (10) and a battery cover (20). The battery cover has a flange (242) extending from one end portion thereof. The housing defines a receiving cavity (18) in one end portion thereof. The battery cover latching assembly includes a button (40) and a wedging block (52). The button has a first wedging surface (4462) formed at one end thereof. The wedging block has a second wedging surface (522) formed at a first end thereof. The button and the wedging block are elastically mounted in the receiving cavity. The first wedging surface mates with the second wedging surface. The flange is releasably mounted with the wedging block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Shao-Long Li, Shui-Yuan Qin, Chia-Hua Chen, Hsiao-Hua Tu
  • Patent number: 7560654
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a rotary handle. More particularly, the invention encompasses an improved support bracket for a deliberate action rotary handle. The invention further includes an improved support bracket to support an extended drive-plate deliberate action rotary handle, such that to turn on a component, such as, a circuit breaker, requires a deliberate manual action by the user. If a deliberate action is not taken by a user but the handle is accidentally pushed then the handle does not engage with a drive shaft and the handle moves to an outer edge of a drive plate thus preventing the engagement of the handle with the other components to turn on the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Blankemeyer, Sheenfar Fong, Jose Hurtado, Huy Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7518877
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus for mounting a circuit board that is electrically connectable with at least one hard disk drive, includes a chassis for receiving the circuit board, a bracket for receiving the at least one hard disk drive, and a securing member for pressing the circuit board. The bracket is mounted to the chassis. A rear end of the bracket faces the circuit board. The securing member is pivotably mounted to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wen-Tang Peng, Mo-Ming Yu, Shun-Hai Lin
  • Patent number: 7440259
    Abstract: A closure device for a withdrawable rack adapted for receiving power circuit breaker includes a plate arrangement having at least two plates provided with openings and movable relative to one another so that the plate arrangement is changeable between an open position in which the openings of the plates are in alignment and a closed position in which the openings are out of alignment. An actuating mechanism is acted upon by the power circuit breaker as it is inserted to cause a movement of at least one of the plates to thereby change the plate arrangement between the closed and open positions. The actuating mechanism includes two V-shaped linkage assemblies. Each linkage assembly has two legs connected by a hinge to allow the linkage assembly to spread apart, with one of the legs having a free end which is connected to the at least one of the plates, and a coupler is connected to the hinge. Both couplers are jointly articulated to actuating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Erhard Deylitz, Burkhard Engemann, Stefan Losch
  • Patent number: 7149557
    Abstract: A mobile communication device includes a display assembly that may be extended from the housing of the mobile communication device to provide a larger display surface for displaying information to a user of the mobile communication device. The display assembly is movable between a retracted position wherein the display assembly is retracted within a cavity formed in the housing and an extended position wherein the display assembly is extended from the housing. The display assembly includes a display for displaying information to a user of the mobile communication device. A window is provided in the housing for allowing the user to view at least part of the display when the display assembly is retracted within the cavity. Information displayed by the display is mapped to the display so that the information may be viewed through the window while the display assembly is retracted within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: Lovleen Chadha
  • Patent number: 7095113
    Abstract: A semiconductor device is provided having a single-piece clip that interlocks into a lead frame using one or more forks on the clip that mate with one or more corresponding slots in the lead frame. A semiconductor die is mounted to a pad of the lead frame and the clip couples the die to a conductive lead of the lead frame. The interlocking coupling forms a lever that allows adjustment of a position of the clip relative to a region of the semiconductor die. Interference between the clip fork and a slot corresponding to the clip fork confines the lever motion or pivoting of the clip relative to the mounted semiconductor die. The coupling between the clip fork and the slot furthermore confines motion of the clip in each of a first dimension and a second dimension relative to a position of the lead frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Diodes Incorporated
    Inventors: Tan Xiaochun, Shi Jingping
  • Patent number: 7019228
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling an electrical switching module which can be displaced between an entry position and an exit position. The switching module comprises switching contacts of vacuum switching tubes; an isolating element which can be also be displaced in the switching module and comprises isolating contacts which can be connected to, and disconnected from, corresponding mating contacts inside an enclosed switchboard section, as required; and connector contacts and mating connector contacts in the low voltage range. The switching contacts of the vacuum switching tubes support the closing and opening processes, under the control influence of a closing spring which can be influenced by a closing catch (EK) and an opening spring which can be influenced by an opening catch, and prominent functional positions of the isolating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Nils Anger, Karsten Fleck, Ralph Löser, Dietrich Rudolph, Holger Schumann, Jay Schwartz
  • Patent number: 6898074
    Abstract: A buckling-up structure for latching a battery lid (3) to a casing (2) of a PDA is disclosed. The battery lid (3) is used for covering a battery accommodation groove (5). The structure comprises a latching lock (9) forming a plurality of wedging hooks (94) thereon, a plurality of wedging hooks (32, 34) on two sides of the battery lid (3), respectively. An elastic body (8) is used to exert a pushing force to the latching lock. An operation button (7) is secured to the latching lock, whereby when the operation button is moved the latching lock and the elastic body move correspondingly. When the battery lid is locked to the casing, the wedging hooks (32) engage in recessing holes (52) of the casing, and the wedging hooks (34) engage with the wedging hooks (94).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: High Tech Computer Corp.
    Inventors: Hsi-Hsing Hsu, Shih-Chieh Wang
  • Patent number: 6661656
    Abstract: An enclosure includes a base having an interior portion defined by a first side panel and a second side panel and a frame joined to the first side panel and the second side panel such that the frame extends across the interior portion the base. A computer system includes a motherboard having a central processing unit, a power supply capable of supplying power to the motherboard, and an enclosure capable of housing the motherboard and the power supply. The enclosure includes a base having an interior portion defined by a first side panel and a second side panel and a frame joined to the first side panel and the second side panel such that the frame extends across the interior portion of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Kim, William W. Ruckman, Anthony Kozaczuk
  • Patent number: 6643122
    Abstract: For use with a rack for supporting a first battery having first terminals and a second battery having second terminals, an interlock kit comprising a partition mount and a partition. The partition mount is couplable to the rack proximate the first battery and the second battery. The partition is coupled to the partition mount and translatable between a first battery access position that allows access to ends of the first terminals and obstructs access to the second terminals and a second battery access position that allows access to ends of the second terminals and obstructs access to the first terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward C. Fontana, Vincent M. Byrne, Michael R. Buskmiller
  • Patent number: 6621689
    Abstract: An interlock assembly for an electrical panel which includes a primary switch arrangement interconnected with a primary power source, and an auxiliary switch arrangement interconnected with an auxiliary power source for supplying power to the electrical panel in the event of an interruption in the primary power source. The interlock assembly includes an interlock member that is movable between first and second interlock positions, for preventing the primary and auxiliary switch arrangements from simultaneously being in the ON position, to ensure that power from only a single power source is supplied to electrical panel at any one time. The interlock assembly includes a movable interlock member interconnected with a support arrangement mounted to the electrical panel within a space defined between the primary and auxiliary switch arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Michael O. Flegel
  • Patent number: 6545859
    Abstract: An automatically operating interlock device prevents access to the interior of an electrical cabinet when the device within the cabinet is electrically connected with a power supply. The interlock device is particularly suited for arc resistant circuit breaker cabinets. The circuit breakers within such cabinets typically move from a rearward position within the cabinet, wherein a pair of stabs on the back of the circuit breaker are electrically connected to a corresponding pair of quick disconnects, and a forward position within the stabs are disconnected from the quick disconnects. A levering in assembly including a levering in block controlled by a threaded rod is typically used to move the circuit breaker from one position to the other. The interlock device includes a cam pivotally secured near the forwardmost position of the levering in block, and a locking bar pivotally secured to the cam. The cam is biased so that the locking bar engages the cabinet door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Brad R. Leccia
  • Patent number: 6433999
    Abstract: An access panel located in a motor control center for inspecting and accessing various bus connections, for example, a particular phase vertical to horizontal bus connection or a horizontal bus bar splice connection. The surface of the panel includes one or more apertures positioned to align with one or more bus bar connections. Covers are pivotally mounted along the surface of the panel adjacent to the apertures in order to access and isolate the bus connections within the motor control center. The cover is mounted to the surface of the panel such that it can be moveable between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Peter D. Muse, James H. Cook, Gilbert A. Soares
  • Patent number: 6388868
    Abstract: An automatically operating interlock prevents connection of an electrical device within a cabinet unless the cabinet door is closed. The interlock is particularly useful for circuit breakers contained within arc-resistant cabinets. The interlock includes a spring-biased locking plate reciprocating between a locked position wherein the locking plate resists movement of the levering-in locking plate, and an unlocked position wherein the locking plate permits movement of the levering-in locking plate. The locking plate is spring-biased towards its locked position, and is pushed from its locked position to its unlocked position when the cabinet door is closed. Access to the hex drive of the levering-in rod is thereby resisted when the cabinet door is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Brad R. Leccia, Mary Beth Hill
  • Patent number: 6222597
    Abstract: A liquid crystal device is provided having a structure which allows an conductive connection to be achieved using only a panel supporting member, without necessitating an additional component such as a cover, thus reducing cost. The liquid crystal device 1 includes a liquid crystal panel 2 including a liquid crystal enclosed between a pair of substrates 7a and 7b, at least one of which includes a panel-side electrode terminal 11, a light guide 17 for supporting the liquid crystal panel 2 on a main substrate 23 including a main substrate-side electrode terminal 28, and an elastic connector 4 for conductively connecting the panel-side electrode terminal 11 and the main substrate-side electrode terminal 28 to each other. The light guide 17 includes an engagement pawl 24 for engagement with the main substrate 23 and a uniformly pressing member 31 for uniformly applying pressure to the elastic connector 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Eiji Muramatsu
  • Patent number: 6160487
    Abstract: A single battery lockout mechanism for a multiple battery compartment in an electrical unit, preferably a smoke detector or a carbon monoxide detector. The lockout mechanism prevents the battery compartment from being enclosed when fewer than all batteries are present in the compartment. The detector unit is of the bracket mounted type in which the lockout mechanism prevents the detector base from being mounted to a wall or ceiling affixed bracket. The electrical detector includes a detector base adapted to mount to the mounting bracket over a mating region. The detector base has a multiple battery compartment comprised of a plurality of battery receiving regions. A single lockout actuator is movably mounted on the base for movement between obstructing and non-obstructing positions. A spring supported by the detector base biases the lockout actuator towards the obstructing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph G. DeLuca
  • Patent number: 6038125
    Abstract: The electronic device comprises a casing, an insertion port through which an electronic package is inserted in the casing, a power input inlet which is provided in the casing for connection to a power input cord, and a protection member capable of moving between a first position in which it opens the insertion port and blocks the inlet and a second position in which it blocks the insertion port and opens the inlet. The protection member comprises a first portion capable of blocking the insertion hole, a second portion capable of blocking the power input inlet, and a pivotable supporting portion between the first and second portions. The insertion hole can be covered by an closure having an end projection engageable with the protection member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Toshiaki Anzai
  • Patent number: 6002579
    Abstract: A switchgear unit comprising two switching devices (1, 2) which are provided with a reversing combination, which switchgear unit is of simple design and allows easy assembly and disassembly by the customer. The reversing combination comprises an assembly which is composed of a support (3) and an anchor (4) and is inserted into slots (7, 8) in connecting side walls (5, 6) of the switching devices (1, 2). The anchor (4) prevents the contact carriers (10) of the switching devices (1, 2) from being released at the same time and, when one of the switching devices (1 or 2) is switched on, prevents the contact carrier (10) of the other switching device (2 or 1) from being released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Johann Drexler, Manfred Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5963420
    Abstract: An electrical apparatus housing having a door for accessing the apparatus within the interior of the housing and a switch for activating the apparatus accessible from the exterior of the housing. When in the on position, the switch is operable to block the door from being opened; thus functioning as an interlock to prevent access to the interior of the housing when the apparatus is activated. The invention includes a key for bypassing the interlock so that under certain circumstances the housing door can be opened while the equipment is operating, so it can be tested in its energized state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: James Rodney Bailey, Douglas Eugene Frushour, Alfred Lee Randall
  • Patent number: 5892298
    Abstract: A circuit which includes a primary power source, a reserve power source, switch means, a first diode, a second diode, and processing means selectively provide power to each of the lock actuator and the processing means from either the primary power source or the reserve power source. The reserve power source is connected between ground and the lock actuator and the switch means is connected between the reserve power source and the lock actuator. The first diode is connected between the reserve power source and the switch means and the second diode is operatively connected between the primary power source and the switch means such that a cathode of the second diode is connected between the first diode and the switch means. The processing means includes a first input operatively connected between the switch means and the lock actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Coin Acceptors, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Leo Levasseur
  • Patent number: 5829997
    Abstract: A connecting apparatus which permits the connection of a connector unit (9) to a connector of external equipment (2) by the actuation of an operating lever (11) only when the external equipment (2) is placed in a mounting recess (6), whereas when no external equipment is placed in the recess (6), associated parts for moving the connector unit (9) do not respond to the actuation of the operating lever (11). Hence, movable terminals of the connector unit (9) will not be exposed to the outside even if the operating lever (11) is actuated inadvertently. The connecting apparatus is provided with a sensor mechanism for sensing the presence of the external equipment (2), and a switching mechanism operatively associated with the sensor mechanism to selectively engage the operating lever (11) with a part (12) for moving the connector unit (9) or disengage them from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignees: Victor Company of Japan, SMK Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Okano, Takeshi Matsuda
  • Patent number: 5642256
    Abstract: An interlock mechanism in a motor control unit is provided for preventing the motor control unit from being engaged with current carrying bus bars within an enclosure when a handle disposed on the motor control unit is in an ON position, the handle controls a switching device disposed in the motor control unit, the interlock mechanism interacts with the switching device and automatically engages when the control unit is connected to the current carrying bus bars whereby preventing the motor control unit from being disengaged from the current carrying bus bars once the control unit becomes engaged with the current carrying bus bars and the handle is moved to the ON position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventors: Richard D. Pugh, Conrad S. Weiden
  • Patent number: 5581133
    Abstract: An apparatus selectively connects a normal power line and an emergency power line to a load, and includes two interlocked switching mechanisms, each having individual interlocks, for selectively connecting the power lines to the load, and an interlock mechanism for interlocking the switching mechanisms in order that only one of the power lines at a time is connected to the load. The switching mechanisms may each have two drawout cassettes including associated switching devices for switching the power lines to the load and, also, including an isolated position for isolation of the associated switching device from at least one of the switched power lines and the load. Each switching device may be a circuit breaker having a trip unit for sensing current flowing from a power line to the load and tripping the circuit breaker. The interlock mechanisms may include keylock mechanisms which selectively disable closing of the switching devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: George A. Smith, Thomas K. Fogle, Larry S. Lakes
  • Patent number: 5424910
    Abstract: The present invention provides a lever assembly for reversibly inserting a control device into a cell of a center for controlling electrical service. The center has electrical terminals and a post extending perpendicularly into the cell and the control device has a frame of cross-members. The assembly includes a left hand lever, a right hand lever, and a fastener adapted to secure the levers to one of the cross-members and position the levers to engage the post as the device is inserted into the cell. Each lever includes a pivot hole positioned towards one end of the lever. The pivot holes receive the fastener and allow rotation of each lever about the fastener. Each lever also includes an open-ended slot to engage the post in the control center. Each lever also includes means for manually rotating the lever about the pivot hole. The rotating means connects to the end of each lever opposite the open end of the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventor: Gerald E. Lees