Switch
US4132902A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 30, 1976 |
| Grant date | Jan 2, 1979 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 1996 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K17/9645
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An electrically powered instrument having a handle which is adapted to be engaged by the hand of a user during the utilization of the instrument can include a switch-type structure which is actuated by the mere engagement of the hand with the handle without any physical or mechanical motion occurring. The switch includes electrodes extending along the handle which are electrically insulated from one another and which are located in such a manner that they are electrically connected through the user's hand when the hand engages the handle. The switch also includes a power source or supply for applying a voltage between the electrodes and a discriminating or detection structure for detecting the change in the electrical resistance between the electrodes occurring either when the handle is engaged by the hand of the user or when the handle is released by the hand of the user. The discriminating or detection structure serves to "release" power so as to operate to turn on the instrument when the electrodes are connected by the hand of the user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.