Range infinite switch with integral GFCI subsystem
US9214798B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 5, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 15, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 5, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF24C7/083
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A range infinite switch including a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) subsystem is provided. The GFCI subsystem operates a solenoid and plunger arrangement that activates a mechanical interlock within the switch permitting axial movement of a cam customarily used to bias temperature controlling contacts within the switch. Upon detection of a ground fault the latching mechanism is released and the cam moves to a position where the temperature controlling contacts are opened so as to disconnect power to a range heating element. In an appliance having more than one heating element, each heating element would be separately protected from ground fault conditions by use of the disclosed switch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.