Dual action switch assembly
US4431883A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 1982 |
| Grant date | Feb 14, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2002 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H15/14
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
This invention relates to an improved dual action switch assembly in which each of two pairs of electrical contacts is alternatively locked in open position by a tensioned locking element upon the interaction of a driving mechanism partially positioned within a frame on a slider unit. The switch assembly in a preferred form includes a base, two movable contact arms and two corresponding fixed contact brackets mounted on the base. The contact arms are mounted for pivotal rotation about mounting terminals. A biasing member, as for example a coil spring, is attached to each of the contact arms to provide a resilient force against pivoting opening movement of the contact arms. A tensioned locking element, preferably formed of two bent, over-center, leaf springs, is mounted between the slider unit and the base. The slider unit is capable of slidable movement along the base upon the action of a driving mechanism such that the slider unit alternatively contacts one of the contact arms at a time, causing that contact arm to pivot and separate from its connection with its corresponding contact bracket. When this occurs the tensioned locking element locks the contact arm and contact bracket …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.