U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
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Classification Index
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(definitions have been obtained from the
Patents ASSIST CD-ROM which
is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Electronic Products Branch)
Class 200
ELECTRICITY: CIRCUIT MAKERS AND BREAKERS
Class Definition:
This is the generic class for devices, per se, of general
application which are used for closing or opening electrical
circuits and the combination of these devices with their
operating means. In the combined devices there must be
something more than the mere inclusion of a circuit maker or
breaker broadly.
Combinations of circuit makers and breakers with electrical
plugs, sockets, or other connectors are in this class.
This class includes devices known as "controllers",
"circuit-closers", "switches", "circuit-breakers",
"interrupters", "distributers", "thermal-cut-offs", "fuses",
and "electrical thermostats".
Electrical systems or circuits are excluded from this class.
These systems or circuits are classified in the various
electrical or art classes, depending on the particular form
of electrical system or of the apparatus controlled.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
A circuit maker or breaker of this class (200) can be
distinguished from an electrical connector of Class 439,
Electrical Connectors, in that a circuit maker or breaker
comprises an assemblage of parts including both a movable
contact and its mating contact wherein there is a positive
(permanent) physical connection between the contacts such
that a contact is restricted to move with respect to a mating
contact along a prescribed path each time the circuit maker
or breaker operates, whereas an electrical connector is
physically separated from the distinct, mating connector each
time the circuit is broken.
The combination of an electrical circuit maker or breaker
with an electrical connector will be found in this class
(200). For example, an electrical connector with a distinct
switch actuated by a mating connector is included in this
class (200), especially in subclasses 61.58+. An electrical
connector that includes integrally therewith a "switching"
component actuated by coupling engagement with a mating
connector is to be found in Class 439. Search especially
Class 439, subclass 188 for an electrical connector having
circuit interrupting provision effected by mating.
An electrical connector, per se, may include movable contacts
and be in the class of electrical connectors. For example,
Search Class 439, subclasses 43+ for an electrical connector
with a selectable circuit wherein no details of the circuit
structure is set forth; subclasses 152+ for an electrical
connector detachable from a mating connector by snap or
quick-break action; subclasses 259+ for a connector with a
contact moved laterally into engagement with a mating contact
in a "zero insertion force device"; subclasses 296+ for an
electrical connector with coupling movement-actuating means
or retaining means in addition to the contact, especially
subclasses 310+ for a retaining means with distinct
movement-actuating means to move a coupling part axially; and
subclasses 374+ for an electrical connector with guiding
means for mating of a coupling part.
This class (200) has not been screened to verify placement
according to this line.
Search should be made in the art or special application
classes for circuit-controllers of such special type as to be
peculiarly adapted for those arts-- e.g., telegraph keys in
Class 178, Telegraphy, telephone-switches in Class 379,
Telephonic Communications.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use
Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, for patents claiming a metal
composition, e.g., an alloy or a composition having a
continuous phase of free metal made by consolidating metal
particles.
148, Metal Treatment, subclasses 400+ for elemental metal
or alloys which (a) are the product of a Class 148 process
(e.g., heat treated, age hardened), (b) are claimed in terms
of specific magnetic properties or as having particular
internal structure which affects the magnetic properties, (c)
are amorphous, (d) possess the property of shape memory, (e)
are the product of a significant Class 164, Metal Founding,
step (e.g., chill cast, directionally solidified, etc.), (f)
are the product of the dispersion of particulate matter in
molten metal which particulate retains its identity in the
final product (e.g., dispersion strengthened, etc.).
178, Telegraphy, see Lines With Other Classes and Within This
Class, above.
234, Selective Cutting (e.g., Punching), appropriate
subclasses, and particularly subclasses 59+ for a
pattern-controlled selective cutting machine wherein the
pattern sensor may involve electrical circuit-controllers.
252, Compositions, subclasses 500+ for electrically
conductive compositions and devices defined solely in terms
of the composition of which they are composed. Included are
contacts and switches defined solely in terms of their
composition or stock.
313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate
subclasses. Class 313 is the generic class for space
discharge devices. See subclasses 146+ of Class 313 for
discharge devices which are provided with a movable
electrode. Some discharge devices are closely analogous in
structure to some types of circuit makers and breakers. See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class in Class 313
for the distinction between a space discharge device and a
circuit maker and breaker.
314, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Consumable
Electrodes, appropriate subclasses for electric space
discharge devices designed to pass an electric current (e.g.,
arc, spark, etc.) between two electrodes spaced apart in a
vacuum or a gas or vapor atmosphere (including atmospheric
air). See Class 314 where the discharge device is provided
with an electrode which is consumed during the operation and
has means to feed the electrodes together to compensate for
the consumption of the electrode.
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, subclasses 101+
for plural channel systems including branched circuits with
switching, subclass 13 for resonator type breakdown discharge
system, e.g., T-R or R-T systems, and subclass 262 for long
line elements and components which may perform a switching or
blocking function, e.g., long line short circuiting switches
and long line shorting plugs.
334, Tuners, subclasses 47+ for tuners which are varied or
adjusted by a switching operation which usually involves a
make and break type switch.
343, Communications: Radio Wave Antennas, subclass 768 for
slot type antennas with periodic control of the slot or
coupling; subclass 777 for plural wave guide type antennas
with control of the individual antenna; subclass 876 for
antennas with switching between the antennas and lines; and
subclass 904 for antennas which may be combined with a
switch.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses
600+ for arrangements of circuit closures on a mounting or
in a housing. See also, subclass 115 for specific circuit
breaker structure in protection of safety of a system or
device.
379, Telephonic Communications, see Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class, above.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for alloys containing
metal or metallic compositions which contain a continuous
phase of metal.
427, Coating Processes, subclasses 58+ for coating
processes, per se, wherein an electrical product is
produced.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate
subclasses, especially subclasses 379+ for coated
electrical conductors which may include contacts and
switches, but which are merely coated bases recited solely as
a substrate with a particular coating therein; see also
subclasses 411.1+ for a composite web or sheet which is
characterized solely by the compositions of the layers.
439, Electrical Connectors, see Lines With Other Classes and
Within This Class, above.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which a plurality of contacts are arranged to control two
or more circuits.
(1) Note. This group includes motor and resistance
controllers, per se, the combination of these with
electro-magnetic control, and operators peculiar to this type
of circuit control.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.01 for devices for the periodic control of a plurality of
circuits.
subclasses 33+ for combinations with retarding means.
subclasses 51+ especially subclasses 51.03-51.06 for
multiple circuit control switches actuated by or claimed in
combination with a plug, socket, or other connector coupling
device.
Subclass:
2
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Devices for
connecting a loop or shunt circuit into a main circuit
without at any time completely interrupting the circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 51+ especially subclass 51.1 for such devices
actuated by or claimed in combination with a plug, socket, or
other connector coupling device.
Subclass:
3
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Devices include
combinations with thermal current cut outs or fuses. These
devices are generally used for starting alternating-current
motors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, for thermal-current cut outs, per se.
Subclass:
4
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Devices in which
a contactor moving in a circular path is combined with one
moving in a straight line.
Subclass:
5
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Devices
comprising a plurality of switches each being separately
operated and usually provided with interlocking means to
permit their operation only in a definite order.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for multiple contact or pivoted contact of plural switch
devices.
13 for dial-type plural switch devices.
18 for plural switch devices with operating means.
50.01 for retarded interlocking switches.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, subclasses 22+
for a keyboard controlled code transmitter.
Subclass:
6
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Devices in which
the contactors are mounted so as to move in a circular path.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for combined pivoted and reciprocating contact switches.
37 for retarded multiple contact rotary switches.
Subclass:
7
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Devices
comprising two or more of the following different types of
pivoted contact controllers.
Subclass:
8
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Devices in which
the contact-pressure between the fixed and movable contacts
is exerted in a line radial to the arc of movement of the
pivoted contact.
(1) Note. This type comprises largely the devices known as
"drum-controllers".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
7 for radial contact pressure pivoted switch combined with
other type.
17 for radial contact pressure switches with operating
means.
Subclass:
9
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Devices in which
two or more controllers have movement relative to one
another.
Subclass:
10
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Devices in which
special means are provided for extinguishing or preventing
the formation of arcs upon separation of the contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
218, High-Voltage Switches With Arc Preventing or
Extinguishing Devices, subclasses 1+ for arc preventing or
extinguishing devices
Subclass:
11
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Devices
comprising two or more contacts arranged in the arc of a
circle, the contact-surface being in a plane and having a
pivoted cooperating sliding contact moving in a plane
parallel to that of the contact-surfaces.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
7 for dial-type switch combined with other type.
17 for dial type switch with operating means.
Subclass:
12
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Devices in which
the movable contact is biased toward a certain position,
usually the off position, and is adapted to be held in some
other position and released by means of an electromagnet.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 2+ for electromagnetically
actuated circuit controllers generally.
Subclass:
13
This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Devices in which
there are two or more controllers which have movement
relative to one another.
Subclass:
14
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Devices
comprising two or more dial-type controllers which have
movement relative to one another.
Subclass:
15
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Devices
comprising conducting blades adapted to make contact by being
projected between conducting leaves.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for pivoted contact knife blade switch combined with
thermal current.
7 for pivoted contact knife blade switch combined with other
type of pivoted contact switch.
subclasses 554+ for single-contact switches of the
knife-blade type.
Subclass:
16
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Devices in which
the movable contact operates in a straight line.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for combined reciprocating contact and pivoted contact
switch.
Subclass:
17
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Means peculiarly
adapted for the operation of multiple-circuit controllers.
(1) Note. Search should be extended to appropriate
subclasses in this group of multiple-circuit control.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, for operators of general
application; and subclass 565 for controller checks.
Subclass:
18
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices for
operating two or more controllers which have movement
relative to one another.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for radial pivoted contact pressure plural switches.
13 for dial-type plural switch, electromagnetic release.
14 for dial-type plural switch.
Subclass:
19.01
PERIODIC:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which the circuit is made and broken intermittently or at
constantly recurring intervals.
(1) Note. There is usually a constantly driven member which
operates a contact or plurality of contacts to intermittently
make and break the contact.
(2) Note. This group includes devices known as
"interrupters", "distributors", and "flashers".
Subclass:
19.02
Combined:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Devices
comprising a plurality of circuit-controllers, one at least
of which is of the intermittent type.
Subclass:
19.03
Rotary and cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.02. Subject
matter in which a rotating intermittent contact is combined
with a cam-operated contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.07 for rotary multiple contact.
19.13 for cam-operated multiple contact.
19.18 for periodic rotary contact.
Subclass:
19.04
Timer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.03. Subject
matter including a special clock mechanism used to perform
switching operations at predetermined time intervals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.08 for rotary multiple-contact timer.
19.29 for cam-operated periodic contact timer.
19.31 for periodic contact breaker assembly timer.
Subclass:
19.05
Adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.03. Subject
matter in which means are provided for changing the relative
positions of the fixed and movable contacts to vary the time
of contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.11 for adjustable rotary multiple contact.
19.19 for periodic adjustable rotary contact.
19.21 for adjustable cam-operated contact.
Subclass:
19.06
Multiple contacts:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter in which a plurality of moveable contacts are arranged
for engagement with a plurality of fixed contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 1+ for multiple-circuit control generally.
Subclass:
19.07
Rotary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.06. Subject
matter in which a rotating contact cooperates with a
plurality of contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.03 for periodic rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.18 for periodic rotary contact.
subclasses 36+ for retarded clock train, plural-contact
rotary switch.
Subclass:
19.08
Timer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.07. Subject
matter wherein the rotary contact is used in a special clock
mechanism to perform switching operations at predetermined
time intervals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.04 for rotary and cam contact timer.
19.29 for cam-operated periodic contact timer.
19.31 for periodic contact breaker assembly timer.
Subclass:
19.09
Commutator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.07. Subject
matter wherein the rotary contact is used in a direct current
generator to reverse the direction of an electric current and
maintain a current flowing in one direction.
Subclass:
19.1
Distributor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.07. Subject
matter wherein the rotary contact is used in a device in a
multicylinder engine for distributing the ignition voltage to
the spark plugs in a definite sequence.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.14 for automotive distributor.
19.24 for cam-operated distributor plate.
Subclass:
19.11
Adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.07. Subject
matter in which the relative positions of the fixed and
movable contacts may be changed to vary the time of contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.05 for adjustable rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.19 for adjustable rotary-operated contact.
19.21 for adjustable cam-operated contact.
Subclass:
19.12
Radial contact pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.07. Subject
matter in which the contact pressure between the fixed and
movable contacts is exerted in a line radial to the arc of
movement of the pivoted contact.
Subclass:
19.13
Cam operated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.06. Subject
matter in which the movable contacts are operated by a
rotating cam or cams.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.03 for periodic rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.2 for periodic cam-operated contact.
Subclass:
19.14
For automotive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.13. Subject
matter in which the switches are used in automobiles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.1 for rotary multiple-contact distributor.
19.24 for periodic cam-operated distributor plate, per se.
Subclass:
19.15
Programming timer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.13. Subject
matter including an electromechanical timer which repeats a
preset program continuously.
Subclass:
19.16
For sign display:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.15. Subject
matter in which the switches are used for general advertising
and display.
Subclass:
19.17
Traffic control signs:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.16. Subject
matter whose use as the display sign is directly associated
with a traffic control for automobiles, airplanes, elevators,
etc.
Subclass:
19.18
Rotary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter in which a rotating contact cooperates with a fixed
contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.03 for periodic rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.07 for rotary multiple contact.
19.13 for cam-operated multiple contact.
subclasses 36+ for retarded clock train rotary switch.
Subclass:
19.19
Adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.18. Subject
matter in which the relative positions of the fixed and
movable contacts may be changed to vary the time of contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.05 for adjustable rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.11 for adjustable rotary multiple contact.
19.21 for adjustable cam-operated contact.
Subclass:
19.2
Cam operated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter in which the movable contact is actuated by a cam.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.03 for periodic rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.13 for periodic cam-operated multiple contact.
subclasses 38+ for retarded clock train, cam-operated
switch.
Subclass:
19.21
Adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.2. Subject matter
wherein means are provided for changing the relative
positions of the cam and cooperating contact.
(1) Note. The adjustment may be manual or automatic.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.05 for adjustable rotary and cam-operated contact.
19.11 for adjustable rotary multiple contact.
19.19 for periodic adjustable rotary contact.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, subclasses 1+ for a speed
responsive device for adjusting the relative rotational
position of coupled members.
Subclass:
19.22
Contact breaker assemblies:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.21. Subject
matter including complete adjustable operating units so that
the adjustment of the breaker contact points is made during
actuation of the cam.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.26 for automotive distributor contact assembly.
19.3 for periodic contact breaker assembly.
Subclass:
19.23
Centrifugal advance mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.21. Subject
matter including a mechanism directed outward away from a
center that is used for automatically advancing the time of
the spark in response to a predetermined increase in engine
speed.
(1) Note. The centrifugal advance mechanism may be used
singly or in combination with a vacuum or suction controlled
advance mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.25 for vacuum or suction controlled advance mechanism.
Subclass:
19.24
Distributor plate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.21. Subject
matter including a broad, thin sheet of metal to which the
contact breaker structure may be mounted.
(1) Note. The mounting of the plate assembly may be
adjacent to the shaft and also to the housing. The mounting
structure prevents undue vibration of the contact breaker
assembly.
(2) Note. The distributor plate assembly may also be
referred to as "cam plate" or "interrupter plate".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.01 for periodic breakers of general utility.
Subclass:
19.25
Vacuum or suction controlled advance mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.21. Subject
matter wherein the process or condition of sucking controls
advance mechanism, directly responsive to changes in engine
temperature, automatically adjusts the time of the spark.
Subclass:
19.26
Automotive distributor contact breaker assembly:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.2. Subject matter
wherein the cam-operated contact breaker assembly is used in
automotive distributors.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.22 for adjustable contact breaker assembly.
19.3 for general contact breaker assemblies of periodic
switches.
Subclass:
19.27
Contact breaker lever detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.26. Subject
matter comprising details of a rigid bar turning upon an axis
and its associated support members and contacts.
(1) Note. The support member includes pivot post and cam
follower.
Subclass:
19.28
Ignition point detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.26. Subject
matter comprising details of a set of ignition points.
Subclass:
19.29
Timer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.26. Subject
matter including a special clock mechanism used to perform
switching operations at predetermined time interval.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.04 for rotary and cam contact timer.
19.08 for rotary multiple-contact timer.
19.31 for periodic contact breaker assembly timer.
Subclass:
19.3
Contact breaker detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter comprising details of a contact breaker.
(1) Note. The contact breaker assembly may be either (a) a
distributor cap-rotor combination or (b) cam operated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.22 for adjustable contact breaker assembly.
19.26 for automotive distributor contact assembly.
Subclass:
19.31
Timer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.3. Subject matter
including a special clock mechanism used to perform switching
operations at predetermined time intervals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.04 for rotary and cam-contact timer.
19.08 for rotary multiple-contact timer.
19.29 for cam-operated periodic contact timer.
Subclass:
19.32
Distributor cap detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter comprising details of a distributor cap which may
include fixed contact arrangements, adjustability of cap to
housing, electrical connection of wires to the cap,
ventilation means, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.38 for protective cover means disposed on the distributor
or wires for multipurpose shielding functions.
Subclass:
19.33
Distributor rotor detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter comprising details of a distributor rotor-contact
arrangement.
Subclass:
19.34
Elevated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter in which the circuit breaker is lifted up for easy
access.
Subclass:
19.35
Locks:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter including a mechanism for preventing operation of the
distributor contact assembly or removal of the distributor
cap.
Subclass:
19.36
Magnet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter which contains a plurality of switches operated
periodically by a fixed or rotatable permanent magnet
assembly.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, subclass 154 for
electromagnetically actuated switches.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 205+ for permanent magnet
actuated nonperiodic switches.
Subclass:
19.37
Traffic signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter wherein the circuit breaker produces a set of signals
operating the movement of vehicles, ships, or persons in an
area.
Subclass:
19.38
Wire guard:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter in which a protective cover means (e.g., rubber,
metal, wood, etc.) encapsulates the distributor housing or
cap and wires.
(1) Note. The protective cover means shields the internal
distributor from moisture, etc. and also may serve as radio
interference shielding means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.32 for distributor cap.
Subclass:
19.39
Distributor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.01. Subject
matter in which a rotary contact is used in a device in a
multicylinder engine for distributing the ignition voltage to
the spark plugs in a definite sequence.
Subclass:
19.4
With noise preventing means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.39. Subject
matter including means to suppress noise which radiates from
the ignition distributor.
Subclass:
33
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
including means for timing or delaying the operation of the
contacts.
(1) Note. These devices include the so-called
"time-switches".
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
178, Telegraphy, subclass 76 for retarded circuit closers
peculiar to telegraph systems.
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclasses 141+ for a switching system including a time
delay or retardation means controlling a switch actuation.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 59+ for electromagnetically
operated retarded circuit-makers.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, appropriate subclasses for electrothermally and
thermally actuated switches with retarded action.
Subclass:
34
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Devices in which
the retarding means is a dashpot.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, subclasses 297+ for a dashpot, per se.
Subclass:
35
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Devices in which
clocks, clock-trains, or similar gearing are used as a
retarding means.
Subclass:
36
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Devices in which
the movable contact has a rotary motion.
Subclass:
37
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Devices in which
the movable contact cooperates with a plurality of fixed
contacts.
Subclass:
38
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Devices in which
the contacts are operated by means of a rotating cam.
Subclass:
39
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Devices in which
the switch contact is held from movement by means of a latch
which is released by a clock mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 405+ for oscillating contact double snap
switch.
subclasses 427+ for reciprocating contact latch switch.
subclasses 468+ for oscillating contact single snap of
switch.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 39+ for electromagnetically
actuated retarded trips in automatic circuit interrupters,
and subclasses 174+ for electromagnetically actuated latch
trips.
Subclass:
40
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Devices in which
the tripping of the latch releases a motor, usually a
spring-motor, which operates the contact.
Subclass:
41
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Devices in which
the tripping of the latch releases a weight, which in falling
operates the contact.
Subclass:
42.01
PLURAL SWITCHES CONTROL SINGLE CIRCUIT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
wherein a single circuit is closed or opened by placing a
plurality of circuit controlling switches in a specified
relationship to complete or open the circuit.
(1) Note. These devices are commonly known as permutation
switches.
(2) Note. The switches are normally in series when the
desired state is circuit completion and the switches are
normally parallel when the desired state is an open circuit.
Subclass:
42.02
Coded removable actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42.01. Devices
including a separate and distinct actuator for opening or
closing the switches in a predetermined pattern, which
actuator can be withdrawn from the switch (e.g., key).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
43.06 for devices of the type where each individual switch
controls a circuit.
Subclass:
43.01
SWITCH ACTIVATION INHIBITOR (e.g., UNAUTHORIZED INADVERTENT
USE PREVENTION):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
having structure to prohibit or restrain the operation of a
switch actuator including for example coded elements (e.g.,
combination codes), locks or other circuit completing means.
(1) Note. The term "switch" is a device for making or
breaking an electrical circuit and it normally activated by
an "actuator". The actuator may take many forms such as
button, handles, keys or some other type of element. A
"coded element" may be in the form of a special tool, key,
combinations such as permutation codes or combination locks.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 5+ and 50.01+, for interlock switches which have
the actuator blocked depending upon the condition of the
plug, the switch housing or another switch.
304 and 333, for switch shields which limit access to the
actuator but which do not block the actuator or prevent
access to the actuator.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
380, Cryptography, particularly subclasses 26+ for
mechanical control of signal encryption.
Subclass:
43.02
Combined which connector coupling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
wherein a lock-type switch is associated with an electrical
connector for opening and closing an electrical circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 51+ for connector couplers which do not include
restraining or inhibiting means and see the definitions of
51+ for placement of combined switches and electrical
connectors classifiable in this subclass and subclasses 51+.
Subclass:
43.03
Engine starter protector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
having structure which prevents an actuator for an ignition
switch from being returned to start position after being
activated without first being moved to "off", standby or some
other nonactivated position.
Subclass:
43.04
Removable actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
wherein the actuator is designed to be readily removable.
(1) Note. The actuator is in many instances termed a key.
Subclass:
43.05
Actuator is circuit completing element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.04. Devices
wherein the switch is activated by introducing a coded
actuator which becomes part of the circuit-completing means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, appropriate subclasses for
contact plugs in general.
Subclass:
43.06
Plural switches actuated by a single coded element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.04. Devices
comprising multiple switch contacts to activate multiple
circuits where all circuits are selectively actuated by
introducing a single coded element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
42.02 for devices of the type where a single circuit is
controlled by the switches.
Subclass:
43.07
Reciprocating actuator activates switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.04. Devices
wherein the switch device includes structure which is
mechanically moved to an activated condition by inserting a
coded element, and to a nonactivated condition by removal of
the coded element.
(1) Note. The activated condition may be either opened or
closed.
Subclass:
43.08
By rotation of actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.04. Devices
wherein the actuator is a coded element normally referred to
as a key which key activates a switch device typically
including structure such as lock cylinders and plungers.
(1) Note. The devices provided for in this subclass require
a key which will only operate a switch having a matching
plunger configuration.
Subclass:
43.09
Combination automatically actuates switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
wherein contacts are spontaneously activated by means of a
series of combination moves of a combination lock.
(1) Note. The combination locks provided for in this
subclass are generally disclosed as tumbler type, where a
series of correct rotations of the operating mechanism
releases a part of the lock to automatically activate the
switch contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
43.12 for combination lock which control a separate locked
actuator and the actuator must first be unlocked before it
can be manipulated.
Subclass:
43.11
Actuator locking device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
including means that prevent unauthorized movement of the
actuator or the contacts, or prohibits access to the
actuator, until the lock is opened.
Subclass:
43.12
Combination lock control actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.11. Devices
wherein a combination type lock prevents manipulation of a
separate and distinct switch actuator.
Subclass:
43.13
Reciprocating actuator (e.g., push button):
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.11. Devices
wherein the actuator is a button or knob that when pushed
operates to open or close an electric circuit, and including
a lock which prevents operations of the button or knob.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 159+ and 340+, for various types of push button
actuators including push-push and push-pull.
Subclass:
43.14
Circuit breaker handle type (i.e., padlock):
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.11. Devices
wherein the actuator comprises a handle type assembly which
is prevented from any movement by means of a removable lock.
(1) Note. The padlock device must be removable for proper
classification in this subclass.
Subclass:
43.15
Including attachments to lock handle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.14. Devices
wherein the actuator is prevented from movement by means
attached to the handle assembly in addition to the lock.
Subclass:
43.16
Actuator blocking device (e.g., latch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
including structure which prevents the inadvertent movement
of the actuator, and which must be moved or removed in order
to move the actuator.
Subclass:
43.17
Hand grip type (e.g., power tool):
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.16. Devices
wherein the actuator preventing means is structurally
attached to the handle portion of a hand held appliance.
Subclass:
43.18
Push button type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.16. Devices
wherein the blocking device prevents the urging or depression
of a button or knob.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
43.13 for push button type actuators that are locked and
must be unlocked before the button can be depressed.
Subclass:
43.19
Removable blocking element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.16. Devices
wherein the means that block the movement of the actuator
must be completely removed from the switch assembly before
the actuator can be moved.
Subclass:
43.21
Mounted on actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.19. Devices
wherein the blocking element is mounted on the actuator
handle, lever, plunger or other type actuator and the
blocking element must be removed to enable movement of the
actuator.
Subclass:
43.22
Locked cover prevents access to actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43.01. Devices
including means to enclose and lock the switch assembly.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
333 for actuator covers which are not of the unauthorized
prevention type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
220, Receptacles, subclass 242 for closures for face plate
type openings.
Subclass:
46
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which the contact is controlled by means of a perforated
or embossed sheet, card, or strip.
(1) Note. This subclass is limited to such devices, per
se.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
84, Music, in most subclasses of "Automatic" that have the
word "electric" in the titles, for combinations of
pattern-sheet-controlled circuit closers in a system.
178, Telegraphy, subclass 3 for pattern-operated automatic
telegraph systems, and subclass 17 for pattern-operated
telegraph transmitters or recorders.
234, Selective Cutting (e.g., Punching), subclasses 59+ for
a pattern controlled selective cutting machine which may
involve electrical circuit controllers.
235, Registers, subclass 56 for voting machines using sheet
controlled switches, and subclasses 441+, 444+ and 452 for
record-sensing devices wherein switches may be opened or
closed or circuits made in accordance with areas on the
record that contain coded indicia, the area where said
indicia is sensed conveying particular information.
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, subclasses 20+
and 173+ for a pulse code transmitter of general utility.
345, Computer Graphics Processing, Operator Interface
Processing, and Selective Visual Display Systems, subclasses
108+ for visual display systems including plural
mechanically movable display elements with selective
electrical control.
Subclass:
47
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
include circuit-controllers adapted to limit the travel of
electrically-driven devices. They are generally used in
hoisting devices to break the circuit at the desired limits
of travel.
Subclass:
48
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
especially adapted for breaking high-voltage circuits.
(1) Notes. These breakers are generally used out of doors
and contacts separate in the air. They are usually provided
with horn arc-dissipating means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
49 for high potential type switches adapted for use as pole
switches.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate
subclasses for electric space discharge devices, including
arc and spark discharge devices.
Subclass:
49
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
adapted to be mounted on a telephone-pole to disconnect the
transmission-line. They are usually adapted to be operated
from indoors and isolate the telephone during a storm.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
48 for high potential type switches.
subclasses 538+ for mechanical pull type switches.
Subclass:
50.01
Interlocking:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which means are provided for insuring a predetermined
sequence of operation of a plurality of switches or of a
switch and an associated element, as the switch-casing cover
or an auxiliary plug.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5 for multiple switch for multiple circuit control, having
interlocking means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 483 for
interlocking devices generally.
246, Railway Switches and Signals, subclasses 131+ for
railway signaling systems involving interlocking switch
arrangements.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 120 and 60 for an interlock
associated with electrical power distribution systems and
devices.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, subclass 43, 201 and 339 for an interlock
associated with electrothemally or thermally actuated
switches, and subclasses 284+ for a plurality of fusible
switches selectively or sequentially inserted in the same
circuit.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses
601+ for an interlock associated with electrical power
distribution system and devices.
Subclass:
50.02
Between switches and housing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.01. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking means associated between the
switch and a casing, a box, or a container having a cover or
a door to facilitate engagement and disengagement of switch
operating mechanism.
Subclass:
50.03
Handle latches cover:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter wherein the element includes means attached to the
housing to be gripped by the hand to latch the cover or the
door when the switch is closed.
Subclass:
50.04
Simultaneous operation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.03. Subject
matter including means to actuate the cover or the door and
the switch to be opened or closed at the same time.
Subclass:
50.05
Handle disconnected from actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.03. Subject
matter including means attached to the cover of the switch
box so that the cover may be opened and closed and
automatically disengages and engages the handle from an
interior switch actuator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
50.06 for engaging and disengaging handle from an interior
switch actuator.
Subclass:
50.06
Handle disconnected from actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter wherein the element includes means to be gripped by
the hand so that automatically disengages and engages the
handle from an interior switch actuator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
50.05 for handle latching cover.
Subclass:
50.07
Fuse blocks:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter wherein an insulating base or slab houses a protective
device, usually a short piece of wire but sometimes a
chemical compound which melts and breaks a circuit when a
current exceeds a rated value.
Subclass:
50.08
Contacts shielding member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter including a barrier member for protecting or screening
terminal contacts of the switch from electric or magnetic
fields generated within the device.
Subclass:
50.09
With key-controlled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter including a metal instrument inserted into the
interlocking means to move its bolt to operate the device.
Subclass:
50.1
Lid-controlled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking means is controlled by a
movable piece, separate or hinged, for closing the opening of
the housing.
Subclass:
50.11
Switch handle locking means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter including a mechanical means for fastening or securing
a switch handle in a position.
Subclass:
50.12
Dual interlocked between door and switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking means is operatively
connected between the switch mechanism and the door so that
the opening of the switch is prerequisite to the opening of
the door, and the closing of the door is prerequisite to the
closing of the switch.
Subclass:
50.13
Door independently opened:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.12. Subject
matter including means to open or close the door when the
switch is opened.
Subclass:
50.14
Lid carrying switch elements (e.g., contacts, terminals, or
movable switch member):
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.12. Subject
matter wherein the housing cover carries the switching
elements such as contacts, terminals, or a moving switch
member.
Subclass:
50.15
Defeater interlock:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.12. Subject
matter including means to deactivate the interlocking means
so that the door can be open while the switch is closed.
Subclass:
50.16
Independently locked switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.12. Subject
matter including a second locking mechanism, independent of
the interlocking means, to lock the switch in its closed or
open positions.
Subclass:
50.17
Drawout-type switchgear:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.12. Subject
matter comprising an aggregate of switching facilities having
components on a sliding box or receptacle that is opened by
pulling out and closed by pushing in, combined with an
enclosure for a power station or transforming station.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
50.21 for interlocking means, per se.
Subclass:
50.18
Switch latches cover:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter including means automatically locks a lid of the
switch housing in a closed position when the switch is
electrically closed.
Subclass:
50.19
Predetermined handle position locks or unlocks switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter including means attached to the housing to be gripped
by the hand for selectively locking or unlocking a cover of
the switch housing closed in one or more predetermined
positions of such handle corresponding to the opened and
closed condition of the switch.
Subclass:
50.2
For bus-duct type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.02. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking means is used for a duct run
containing bus bars and a connector box having retractable
contacts and an interlock cover to prevent the opening of the
box when the contacts are in the engaged position.
Subclass:
50.21
Drawout-type switchgear:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.01. Subject
matter comprising an aggregate of switching facilities having
components on a sliding box or receptacle that is opened by
pulling out and closed by pushing in, combined with an
enclosure for a power station or transforming station.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
50.17 for dual interlocked between door and switch.
Subclass:
50.22
Shutter over contacts:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.21. Subject
matter wherein the interlock means is in the form of a
sliding guard or shutter which physically closes off
connecting apertures to the switch gear contacts.
Subclass:
50.23
Truck type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.21. subject
matter wherein the drawout-type switch gear is carried by a
carriage with wheels.
Subclass:
50.24
With racking mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.21. Subject
matter including a force amplifying or levering mechanism for
locking the breaker in each of its plurality of positions
automatically without need for guesswork by the operator as
to how far the circuit breaker must be moved to place it in
the desired position.
Subclass:
50.25
Racking screw:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.24. Subject
matter wherein the racking mechanism is a forming a
continuous helical rib, or thread, with the cylindrical
shank, or spindle, from which it projects.
Subclass:
50.26
With position indicating means (i.e., connect, disconnect, or
test):
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.21. Subject
matter including means providing a visual indication of the
connect, disconnect, or test positions of the circuit
interrupter unit in the draw-out type switchgear.
Subclass:
50.27
Contact or contact mounting structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.21. Subject
matter comprising structural details of support to hold
electrode, or electrode which engages or disengages to open
or close the circuit within the circuit interrupter,
Subclass:
50.28
Between switch and connector assembly:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.01. Subject
matter wherein the locking means is associated with the
switch and a connector assembly comprising a plug and an
outlet to facilitate engagement and disengagement of switch
operating mechanism.
Subclass:
50.29
Switch locks plug:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.28. Subject
matter wherein the locking means prevents the withdrawal of
the plug except when the switch is in the off position.
Subclass:
50.3
Dual interlock:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.28. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking means is operatively
connected between the switch mechanism and the connector
assembly so that the opening of the switch is prerequisite to
the opening the plug from the receptacle, and the locking the
plug on the receptacle is prerequisite to the closing the
switch.
Subclass:
50.31
Plug controls switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.28. Subject
matter including means which prevents withdrawal of the plug
from the receptacle when the switch is in the on position,
and to prevent movement of the switch into the on position in
the absence of a plug positioned in the receptacle.
Subclass:
50.32
Between plural switches:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.01. Subject
matter including two or more switches with the interlocking
mechanism connecting the switches such that the operation of
one or more of those switches affects the operation of the
others of the switches.
Subclass:
50.33
Alternately operated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.32. Subject
matter including means to control the operation of the
electrical switch, to maintain one electrical switch in an
inoperative condition during the time that another electrical
switch is energized.
Subclass:
50.34
Rotary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.33. Subject
matter wherein the switches which turn and variable interleaf
in a circular or orbital path about a fixed axis.
Subclass:
50.35
Pivot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.33. Subject
matter including a pin or shaft on the end of which the
switch is rested and turned or rotated.
Subclass:
50.36
Push button:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.33. Subject
matter wherein the switch contacts are moved into engagement
or disengagement by a push button actuator having a single
surface on which pressure is exerted to engage and disengage
the contacts.
Subclass:
50.37
Sequentially operated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.32. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking arrangement for two or more
operating mechanisms of two or more switches in series
conducting relation whereby one switch must be opened before
the other switch or switches can be opened.
Subclass:
50.38
Grounding transformer switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.37. Subject
matter including a transformer switch intended primarily for
the purpose of providing a neutral point for grounding
purposes.
Subclass:
50.39
Disconnect switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.37. Subject
matter including an electrical switch of the bypass type for
removing a load from its electrical supply sources.
Subclass:
50.4
With handle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.37. Subject
matter wherein the interlocking means is gripped by the hand
to control the operation of the electrical switches.
Subclass:
51
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Connector coupling devices (a) combined with a switch in a
unitary structure, or (b) capable of functioning as a switch;
i.e., having means specially provided for holding the
complementary coupling parts in mechanically coupled but
open-circuit position. (For exceptions, see especially Note
(4) below).
(1) Note. "Connector coupling" as used above refers to
electrical connectors, other than mere binding posts,
comprising a pair of complementary parts each having contact
means adapted to be readily engaged or disengaged by
manipulation of said parts. Such parts are commonly known as
plugs, sockets, receptacles, and the like.
(2) Note. For the distinction between "connectors" and
"switches", see Note (3) to the main class definition.
(3) Note. The plug, socket, et cetera, may constitute or be
combined with the base of a lamp, heater, or other
translating device and mere recitation by name only of the
lamp, heater, or such other device does not exclude the
patent from this class.
(4) Note. Combinations of connector-coupling devices with
the following specified types of circuit makers and breakers
are excluded from this subclass and will be found in the
subclasses indicated below in Search This Class, Subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 19+ for periodic switches.
subclasses 33+ for retarded switches.
50.01 for switches and connectors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclasses
32+ for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices
which have structurally combined therewith an electric
switch, note especially subclasses 32, 47, 63, 64+,
subclasses 72, 73, and 74+.
439, Electrical Connectors, especially subclass 188 for an
electrical connector having circuit interrupting provision
effected by mating or having a "dead" contact actuated after
mating. See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class
in this class (200) for more details of the lines between
this class and Class 439.
Subclass:
51.01
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Devices the
parts of which are specially shaped or arranged to resemble a
candle or to permit the assembly to be inclosed in a
relatively elongated tubular sheath having the appearance of
a candle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
362, Illumination, subclass 190, 202 and 392+ for such
devices claimed in combination with light modifying or
distributing means.
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 123+ for electrical
connectors, per se, which simulate a candle in shape.
Subclass:
51.02
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Devices having a
plurality of separate plug, socket, or other coupling parts
for cooperation with a like number of complementary coupling
parts.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, (a) devices
having a plug at one end and a socket at the other, sometimes
known as adapters, (b) lamp sockets having one or more plug
receptacles combined therewith, and (c) multiple lamp
sockets, sometimes known as cluster lamp sockets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 638+ for two or more
plural contact coupling part connectors combined in one
integral unit.
Subclass:
51.03
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.02. Devices in
which single or plural switching means may be so operated as
to open or close a selected part only of the total number of
circuits under control of the switching means.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, multiple
lamp sockets having a switch which can be operated to light
any desired number of lamps at will of the operator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 1+ for switches, per se, for multiple-circuit
control.
19.01 for switch devices for periodic control of a plurality
of circuits.
51.05 for single coupling connector devices combined with
multiple-circuit, selective switching means.
Subclass:
51.04
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.03. Devices in
which the switching means comprises two or more independent
switches, each complete in itself, and having separate
operating means.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, multiple
lamp socket devices, each socket of which is provided with an
individual switch.
Subclass:
51.05
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Single coupling
connector devices in which single or plural switching means
may be so operated as to open or close a selected part only
of the total number of circuits under control of the
switching means.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, lamp sockets
combined with switching means for selectively controlling a
remote lamp in addition to the lamp in the socket.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 1+ for switches, per se, for multiple-circuit
control.
51.03 for multiple-coupling connector devices combined with
selective switching means.
Subclass:
51.06
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.05. Devices in
which the coupling member has three or more insulated
contacts for cooperation with the contacts of a complementary
coupling member.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example,
multiple-filament lamp sockets having switching means for
selectively lighting the filaments to effect different
degrees of illumination.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclasses
64+ for such devices claimed in combination with a multiple
filament lamp.
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 626+ for a
plural-contact coupling part which may have three or more
contacts.
Subclass:
51.07
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Devices in which
the two complementary parts of a connector coupling may be
moved relative to one another to open or close a circuit,
without completely uncoupling the parts.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, plug and
socket devices wherein the circuit may be broken by turning
the plug in the socket without removing the plug from the
socket.
(2) Note. Where the circuit can be broken by partially
uncoupling the plug from its socket, this subclass includes
only those wherein special means (latch, detent, etc.) is
provided for holding the parts in their partially uncoupled
relation. Thus, this subclass does not take mere
screw-threading coupling devices, such as screw-shell lamp
sockets in which the lamp may be extinguished by partially
unscrewing the same from the socket, unless special means are
provided for holding the lamp in the "Off" position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.09 for connector coupling devices wherein a switching
means automatically operated by the act of separating the
parts of the coupling.
Subclass:
51.08
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.07. Devices in
which the coupling is of the "Bayonet" type; i.e., coupling
of the parts is effected by engagement of a pin, stud, or
other projection carried by one of the parts in a slot or
groove having entrance and seat portions and formed in the
other part.
Subclass:
51.09
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Devices in which
a switch is automatically operated upon engagement or
disengagement of the complementary coupling parts.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, lamp sockets
wherein upon removal of the lamp therefrom, a switch
automatically opens the circuit of the socket contacts, thus
preventing short-circuiting of the socket contacts by tools,
foreign matter, etc., or preventing shock by accidental
touching of the contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.07 for connector coupling devices in which a circuit is
made or broken by relative motion of a coupling member with
respect to a complementary coupling member without completely
separating the coupled parts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 135+ and especially
subclasses 137+ for connectors having movable nonuse covering
means operable upon disengagement of the coupling parts to
cover or prevent access to any contact thereof; and
subclasses 310+ for an electrical connector having a "dead"
contact actuated after mating.
Subclass:
51.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.09. Devices in
which separation of the coupling members automatically close
a switch, usually to "short-circuit" the contacts of one of
the coupling members.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, (a) lamp
sockets for series lighting systems having switching means
automatically operable upon removal of the lamp to
"short-circuit" the contacts of the socket thus permitting
the remainder of the lamps in series therewith to remain lit,
and (b) connector couplings used in train-line signaling
systems in which separation of the coupling members causes
the contacts of one of the coupling members to come together,
thus completing a circuit for signaling or other purposes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.11 for connector coupling devices having independent
manually operated switching means for short circuiting the
contacts of one of the coupling members.
118 for connector coupling devices having shunt-circuit
closing means automatically operable in response to an
over-load in the circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, subclass 188 for an electrical
connector having a circuit interrupting provision effected by
mating or having a "dead" contact actuated after mating; and
see Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class in this
class (Class 200) definition. Search subclasses 507+ for a
jumper to be temporarily inserted across an electrical flow
path having means for matching or interengaging union with
such connector to divert or shunt the flow of electricity so
as to shorten the path and/or to preserve the circuit
continuity.
Subclass:
51.11
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Connector
coupling members in which the switch contacts are in parallel
with or "bridge" the coupling contacts thus short circuiting
the coupling contacts when the switch is closed.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, lamp sockets
for use in series lighting systems having a push-button or
other switch for short circuiting the filament of the lamp.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.1 for connector coupling devices having short circuiting
means automatically operable upon separation of the
complementary coupling members.
118 for connector coupling devices having shunt-circuit
closing means automatically operable in response to an
over-load, in the circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, subclass 188 for an electrical
connector having a circuit interrupting provision effected by
mating or having a "dead" contact actuated after mating; and
see the line notes in Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class, in this class (Class 200) definition.
Subclass:
51.12
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Connector
coupling devices comprised of two separable coupling members,
in which one of the switch contacts is mounted in or on one
of the coupling members and a cooperating switch contact is
mounted in or on the complementary coupling member, said
switch contacts serving also as coupling contacts of the
respective members.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, lamp sockets
of the screw-shell type, the center contact of which may be
disengaged from the center contact of the lamp base by an
actuating means without disturbing the relation between the
lamp and the socket.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.07 for connector coupling devices wherein the circuit is
opened or closed by relative movement between the coupled
members without complete separation thereof.
Subclass:
51.13
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Connector
coupling devices in which the coupling is of the "Bayonet"
type, i.e., coupling of the parts is effected by engagement
of a pin, stud, or other projection carried by one of the
parts in a slot or groove having entrance and seat portions,
and formed in the other part.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.08 for bayonet-type couplings in which the circuit may be
made or broken without completely uncoupling the parts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 671+ for a
plural-contact coupling part having a bayonet-coupling
contact, and see the search note appended thereto for another
type of bayonet coupling electrical connector.
Subclass:
51.14
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Devices in which
one of the coupling members is screwed into the other to
effect coupling thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 661+ for a
plural-contact coupling part having a screw-thread-coupling
contact, and see the search notes appended thereto for the
location of other screw coupling type electrical connectors,
per se.
Subclass:
51.15
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.14. Devices in
which the switch is operated by means of a pull chain or
cord.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 410+ for rotary contact pull snap switches.
subclasses 464+ for mechanical rotating pull switches.
519 for pull switches.
Subclass:
51.16
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.14. Devices in
which the switch is operated by means of a pushbutton.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
156 for rotating pull switch.
subclasses 159+ for push button type switch.
410 for rotating contact pull snap switch.
Subclass:
51.17
This subclass is indented under subclass 51.14. Devices in
which the switch is operated by means of a rotatable key.
Subclass:
52
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which the circuit maker or breaker is associated with
various devices acting either as special operators for or
modified to carry the circuit controller. The circuit
controller must be an essential element of the combination.
A mere conventional or incidental showing of the circuit
controller is not enough.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclasses
76+ for systems for supplying electric energy to lamps
and/or electric space discharge devices of the gaseous
ionization type, the system including an electric switch
which is associated with a particular device (as a brake
pedal), the switch being operated by the movement of some
part of the device.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 500+ for
electric alarm systems which are automatically responsive to
a condition, which condition may control a switch.
396, Photography, subclasses 180+ for illumination means
with a camera shutter synchronizer wherein a switch is
operated concurrently with the actuation of the shutter.
Subclass:
56
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.
Circuit-controllers are arranged to cooperate with the
pointer of an indicating instrument or there is a common
operator for the pointer and the circuit-controller.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, for most measuring instruments
(see the Notes to that class for other measuring instrument
classes) and for the combination of a Class 73 measuring
instrument and a circuit controller wherein the circuit
controller is claimed broadly (Class 200 subclass 56
provides for the combination when specific structure of the
circuit controller is claimed).
Subclass:
60
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers which are specially adapted for use with portable
hand flashlights.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
362, Illumination, subclasses 205+ for combinations of
circuit controllers with portable self-contained electric
lamp structures.
Subclass:
61
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers especially adapted to be used with incubators and
operated by the lever which controls the heater-damper.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
119, Animal Husbandry, subclasses 318+ for incubator in
combination with the switch.
Subclass:
61.01
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers which are operatively responsive to compressional
impulses propogated in an elastic medium.
Subclass:
61.02
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers comprising means whose action is initiated by
energy received from a source of illumination.
(1) Note. These devices for the most part comprise means
initiated by photo- sensitive gases.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 200+ for photo cells,
circuits and apparatus, and see (7) Note (Class 250, subclass
200) for a field of search for photocells, per se.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 600 for electric
automatic radiant energy responsive indicating systems.
Subclass:
61.03
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers comprising means whose action is initiated by the
presence of non-liquid fluids including colloidal suspensions
of solid particles in a gas.
(1) Note. These circuit controllers may involve mechanisms
which become unbalanced as a result of exothermic reaction,
breakdown of surface tension, or buoyancy due to the presence
of the gas.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.04 for liquid or moisture responsive devices.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 628-634 for
electric automatic gas or smoke responsive indicating
systems.
Subclass:
61.04
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers having means which become operative as a result
of contact with nongaseous fluid(s) whose presence is merely
Adventitious, or with vapor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 603+ for
electric automatic fluent material responsive indicating
systems.
Subclass:
61.05
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.04. Devices in
which a circuit is completed by an electrolyte, that is,
liquid bridges the gap between the electrical conductors.
Subclass:
61.06
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.04. Devices
having hygroscopic means responsive to the presence of vapor
in the atmosphere.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 29.02 for hygrometers
and hygrostats.
236, Automatic Temperature and Humidity Regulation, subclass
44 for apparatus controlling the humidity of a room, etc.,
by means of a device responsive to the relative humidity
therein.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 602 for
electrical automatic moisture or humidity responsive
indicating systems.
Subclass:
61.07
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.06. Devices in
which a certain quantity of water taken up by the hygroscopic
means causes operation of the circuit controller.
Subclass:
61.08
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Current
Conductors which become circuit interrupters or cut-outs by
their destruction by other than thermal action.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, appropriate subclasses for switches responsive to
heat generated by current in the circuit or heat from some
external source or a combination of both.
Subclass:
61.09
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers which are responsive to the presence, in a
particular zone, of metal articles or particles whose
presence in that zone is not desired.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclass 204 for
fluid material examination, and subclasses 228+ for testing
material by means of a magnetic field.
Subclass:
61.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus in
which a propelled or independently movable element of a game
or amusement device brings about the actuation of a switch by
that element's contacting with, or proximity to, a switch
part.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
273, Amusement Devices: Games, subclasses 108+ and 317+
for game devices involving aerial and surface projectiles,
and subclass 238 for removable and discrete game pieces which
change the status of an electrical circuit located in a game
board.
Subclass:
61.11
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.1. Apparatus in
which the propelled or independently movable element is a
sphere.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
273, Amusement Devices: Games, subclass 118 for game
devices involving a ball rolling on a surface.
Subclass:
61.12
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers responsive to a change in chain tension or
direction of movement of the braking or driving mechanisms of
velocipedes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.39 for circuit makers and breakers controlled by
direction of rotation of a shaft or spindle and not
associated with a bicycle.
Subclass:
61.13
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers in which the operating mechanisms thereof are
controlled by continuous or indefinite lengths of material
such as motion picture film, rope, yarn, endless belts and
the like, travelling in a given path or being wound onto or
unwound from spools or reels.
(1) Note. For textile machines, including fiber preparation
apparatus, which have an electrical switch controlled by a
thread or strand, search the following classes listed
below.:
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
19, Textiles: Fiber Preparation, subclass 165.
28, Textiles: Manufacturing, subclass 187 and 227.
57, Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, subclass 81.
66, Textiles: Knitting, subclass 161 and 163.
139, Textiles: Weaving, subclasses 353+.
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate
subclasses for methods of, and apparatus for, feeding
material without utilizing the leading or trailing ends to
effect movement of the material, especially subclasses 10+
for a feeder provided with material responsive control
means.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, subclass 390.1, 390.2+,
413+, 418.1, 419.1, 420.5, 421.5, 472.9+, 479.9+, 484.8,
484.9+, 534+, 563+, 564.1, and 565 for machine control or
stop for regulating running material.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 675-677 for
alarms controlled by web, sheet or work feeding.
Subclass:
61.14
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.13. Devices
wherein the control is effected by a special configuration or
characteristic given or applied to the material at a definite
point along its length.
(1) Note. For textile machines including fiber preparation
apparatus which have an electrical switch controlled by a
knot or variation in diameter of a thread or stand, search
the following classes listed below:
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
28, Textiles: Manufacturing, subclass 187 and 227.
57, Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, subclass 81.
66, Textiles: Knitting, subclass 161 and 163.
139, Textiles: Weaving, subclasses 353+.
Subclass:
61.15
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.13. Devices
wherein the response of the circuit maker or breaker
corresponds to the attainment of a given amount of material
wound upon a spool or reel.
Subclass:
61.16
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.15. Devices
wherein the amount of material on the spool or reel is
determined by means responsive to the distance the material
is built up from the axis of spool rotation.
Subclass:
61.17
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.13. Devices in
which the controller is actuated concurrently with the
attainment of or departure from a predetermined rotational
speed (including zero rpm) of a member which is in rolling
frictional contact with the material.
Subclass:
61.18
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.13. Circuit
controllers in which the actuation is in response to slack or
reduction in tautness, breakage, runout or failure to travel
along the intended path of the material being fed.
(1) Note. For textile machines including fiber preparation
apparatus which have an electrical switch controlled by the
slack, breakage, runout or failure to properly track of a
thread or strand, search the following classes listed below:
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
19, Textile: Fiber Preparation, subclass 165.
28, Textiles: Manufacturing, subclass 187.
57, Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, subclass 81.
66, Textiles: Knitting, subclass 161 and 163.
139, Textiles: Weaving, subclasses 353+.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 668 for
electrical automatic tension responsive indicating systems.
Subclass:
61.19
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit
controllers comprising a nonconductive body located between
the contacts of a circuit maker to hold the said contacts
physically separated during the presence of said body,
absence thereof permitting the said contacts to come into
abutting or face-to-face relation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses
126+ for high voltage dissipators, per se, comprising
interposed nonconductive compositions.
Subclass:
61.2
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers which are actuated by an element which responds,
in circuit making or breaking manner, to the height or volume
within a receptacle of the surface of material contained
thereby.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 612+ for
electrical automatic fluent material level responsive
indicating systems.
Subclass:
61.21
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.2. Devices in
which the said element responds to the volume within the said
receptacle of particulate nonfluid material.
Subclass:
61.22
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers associated with a pneumatic tire for a vehicle
in use, whose actuation is controlled by means responsive to
an increase and/or decrease above or below a normal operating
pressure range of the air or other gas used to maintain the
tire in its inflated condition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.45 for circuit controllers actuated in response to the
tilting of a vehicle when a tire becomes deflated.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 146.2 for a fluid
pressure gauge combined with a vehicle wheel, tire or tire
stem.
116, Signals and Indicators, subclass 34 for mechanical
signals, indicators or alarms associated with tires and
responsive to pressure conditions therein.
137, Fluid Handling, subclasses 224+ for pressure sensitive
switches utilized to control the pressure within the tire and
see the search notes thereto.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 442+ for
electric signals automatically actuated by a change in the
pressure within pneumatic tires.
Subclass:
61.23
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.22. Devices in
which the control means is a sensing member which contacts
the "bulge" at the ground engaging area of the tire casing
which results from the deflation of the tire.
Subclass:
61.24
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.22. Devices in
which the control means is actuated by a member which moves
into contact with the vehicle supporting surface as a result
of the lowering of the vehicle caused by the deflation of the
tire.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.44 for vehicle mounted feelers actuated by contact with
an object proximate the path of the vehicle.
Subclass:
61.25
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.22. Devices
wherein the control means is operated by the pressurized
fluid within the tire casing. Included are such means as
bellows, Bourdon tubes, pistons and diaphragms.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 81+ for fluid pressure operated circuit makers
and breakers other than those operatively associated with
vehicle tires while in use.
Subclass:
61.26
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.25. Devices in
which the fluid pressure actuated control means is feeler
means which is resiliently urged into contact with the gas
confining tube of the tire and which moves as a result of the
softening of the tube due to a decrease in gas pressure.
Subclass:
61.27
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers especially adapted for use on vehicles to
control the supply of current to vehicle turn indicating
devices, and being generally operated by movement of a
vehicle controlling means or by independent manual or pedal
means.
(1) Note. Switches disclosed for use with illuminating
means, as for example, auxiliary headlamps (e.g., curve
lamps) which are switch controlled by vehicle turning, are
included in this group together with other disclosed vehicle
turning switch controlled devices.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclass
80 for systems for supplying electric energy to lamp and/or
electric space discharge devices of the gas or vapor
ionization type, the system including a switch which is
operated by the movement of a vehicle controlling means
(steering wheel, hand or foot lever).
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 465 for signals
which automatically respond to vehicle turning or steering
and subclasses 475+ for turn signals which are manually
actuated and may be automatically cancelled.
Subclass:
61.28
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.27. Devices
supported in or on the manual transmission ratio changer.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.88 for switches actuated concurrently with the movement
of a gear shift lever into operating positions.
Subclass:
61.29
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.27. Devices
supported on a foot operated vehicle controlling means and/or
which are foot operated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.89 for circuit makers and breakers actuated concurrently
with the operation of a vehicle pedal.
86.5 for other foot operated (other than the force of
gravity acting through the foot) controllers.
Subclass:
61.3
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.27. Devices which
are restored to inoperative position by the return of the
vehicle to a straight ahead course.
(1) Note. Devices in which the initiation of the turning
restores the switch to inoperative position are classified in
subclass 61.27, the generic subclass of the group.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 476+ for
automatically reset vehicle turn signals.
Subclass:
61.31
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.3. Devices in
which the setting to signal indicating position of the
circuit controller is accomplished by the turning of the
vehicle from its straight ahead course.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 465 for automatic
signals for indicating vehicle turning.
Subclass:
61.32
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.31. Devices
provided with additional means for manually setting the said
circuit controller, or an additional circuit controller, to
signal indicating position prior to turning.
Subclass:
61.33
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.31. Devices in
which circuit controller movement is accomplished through the
motion of a vehicle's steering arm, draglink or tie rod.
Subclass:
61.34
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.3. Devices in
which the restoring means comprises a pivotally movable
unidirectionally acting member of rachet-like or pawl-like
function brought into position for restoring engagement with
some part of the steering mechanism by a manual switch
setting lever or operator.
(1) Note. The rachet-like action or unidirectional
engagement of the dog may not be accomplished by the mere
resilient or elastic nature of the member, but rather by
being pivoted out of engagement while the steering mechanism
moves to initiate a turn.
Subclass:
61.35
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.3. Devices in
which the restoring means acts as a result of the movement of
a steering wheel or steering rod relative to the steering rod
casing or housing.
Subclass:
61.36
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.35. Devices in
which restoration is accomplished by the physical engagement
of the steering wheel or an attachment thereof with some part
of the manual switch setting lever or operator, or
functionally integral extension thereof.
Subclass:
61.37
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.35. Devices in
which restoration is accomplished by motion imparted to some
member of the switching organization through rolling contact
means by a rotating steering wheel or post.
Subclass:
61.38
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.35. Devices in
which the switching organization is mounted or supported on
or in the steering wheel.
Subclass:
61.39
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus in
which a circuit is made or broken in response to a mere
change in direction of rotation (not to angular acceleration
or deceleration) of a shaft, the manner of making or breaking
the circuit consequent upon rotation of the shaft in one
direction differing from that corresponding to rotation in
the opposite direction.
(1) Note. Although it is a form of acceleration, the change
in direction of rotation involved in a shaft's going from
rest to rotation in either direction is considered a mere
change of direction for this subclass.
(2) Note. The difference in function, dependent upon
direction of rotation, may comprise the closing of
alternative circuits, for instance; or by way of additional
example, the making of a circuit corresponding with rotation
of a shaft in one direction and the breaking of such circuit
upon rotation in the opposite direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.12 for circuit makers and breakers associated with
bicycle sprocket or brake shafts which are controlled by the
direction of rotation of said shafts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 672 for signals
responsive to the direction of rotation of a shaft.
Subclass:
61.4
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Devices in which
the circuit maker and breaker is actuated by the
accomplishment of a predetermined change in the diameter of a
workpiece or of an element in an organized device.
Subclass:
61.41
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus which
operates to open or close a circuit in response to the motion
of a fixedly supported mechanical tentacle or movable
obstruction (feeler), which motion is brought about by the
presence of an object moving through the zone of operation of
such feeler.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.13 for switch-actuating detectors or feelers responsive
to the presence or absence of a running length of web or
strand material.
Subclass:
61.42
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Devices which
operate to open or close a circuit in response to the motion
of a mechanical tentacle or movable obstruction (feeler)
which motion is brought about by the impingement of such
feeler against an object (either moving or stationary) due to
the motion of the feeler support.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.62 for circuit makers and breakers necessarily operated
concurrently with the operation or use of a closure member,
operator or accessory.
Subclass:
61.43
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.42. Apparatus in
which an edge of a closure is provided with circuit making
and breaking means constituting a feeler means, contacting of
an object by such edge resulting in circuit controlling
movement.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.62 for circuit makers and breakers necessarily operated
concurrently with the operation or use of a closure member,
operator or accessory.
Subclass:
61.44
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.42. Circuit
makers and breakers the support for whose feeler element is
transported by a conveyance (aerial, ground or marine) so
that at least a component of the sensing motion of the feeler
is imparted to it by the motion of the conveyance.
Subclass:
61.45
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers operated by (a) the action of gravity on a part
thereof when the relation of the circuit controller as a unit
to the horizontal is changed and/or (b) the tendency of a
part thereof to remain at rest or to continue moving at a
constant rate of speed when the circuit controller as a unit
is caused to be accelerated or decelerated.
(1) Note. Those circuit controllers which are actuated in
response to (a) a change in direction of motion, (b) linear
displacement, or (c) the attainment of a predetermined speed,
without regard to the rate at which (a), (b), or (c) is
accomplished are not in this subclass or in those indented
hereunder, but will be found in other appropriate subclasses
in this class.
(2) Note. As applied to vehicles these controllers are
generally known as collision or upset switches.
(3) Note. The duration of the period of acceleration (or
deceleration) may be imperceptible or minute such as when the
circuit controller is jarred or vibrated.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 669 for
electrical automatic acceleration responsive indicating
systems.
Subclass:
61.46
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.45. Devices in
which a circuit controller is operated by the change in the
relative rotational velocities of two rotating units one of
which is an inertia member.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
31.39 for circuit controllers responsive to a mere change in
direction of rotation.
Subclass:
61.47
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.45. Devices in
which a body of current conducting liquid flows under the
influence of gravity, or by reason of its inertia, into or
out of circuit closing position.
(1) Note. The switch operation must be by virtue of the
inertia of the conducting fluid or by the change of
inclination of the fluid containing vessel without the use of
actuating levers, the fluid containing vessel being rigid
with respect to the body whose inclination is changed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
152 for circuit controllers utilizing conducting fluids to
make contact and wherein levers or other actuators are
employed to cause the flow of the conducting fluid.
Subclass:
61.48
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.45. Devices in
which an inertia body forming a part of the circuit
controller unit moves with a swinging motion (relative to the
circuit controller support) in response to a change in
inclination or rate of motion of the said circuit controller
support.
Subclass:
61.49
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.48. Devices
wherein the inertia member is constrained to move in an
arcuate path by a flexible springy elongated member fixed at
one end and free at the other, the said member being attached
to the free end.
Subclass:
61.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.48. Devices
provided with means for preventing the swinging inertia
member from reverting to the position occupied by it prior to
being disturbed by the change of inclination or rate of
motion.
Subclass:
61.51
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.48. Devices in
which the swinging inertia member and/or its supporting arm
conduct electrical current when the circuit controller is in
its disturbed or other than normal position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.49 for conducting oscillating controllers supported by a
resilient arm.
Subclass:
61.52
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.45. Devices whose
circuit controlling member moves under the influence of
gravity alone when the circuit maker and breaker undergoes a
change in inclination.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.47 and 61.48+, respectively, for tilt responsive circuit
controllers utilizing conducting liquids and oscillating
members.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
212, Traversing Hoists, subclasses 276+ for tilt-responsive
switches which shut down or otherwise regulate a crane.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 689 for
electrical automatic tilt responsive indicating systems.
Subclass:
61.53
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.45. Devices in
which the circuit controlling member is constrained to move
along a straight line path.
(1) Note. Patents in this subclass are generally provided
with means restraining the moving members thereby requiring
that an accelerating force be applied thereto to the
restraining means. For those linearly moving controlling
members which are unrestrained, see subclass 61.08, tilt
responsive.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.52 and see (1) Note above.
Subclass:
61.54
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers supported or carried by a vehicle steering
wheel, steering rod, or steering rod casing or housing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.27 for turn indicator type switches mounted on a steering
wheel shaft or column.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclasses
80+ for systems for supplying electric energy to lamp
and/or electric space discharge devices of the gas or vapor
ionization type, the system including a switch which is
operated by the movement of a vehicle controlling means
(steering wheel, hand or foot lever).
Subclass:
61.55
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.54. Devices at
the center of the steering wheel and spring urged to circuit
breaking position, closing the circuit requiring the
overcoming of the spring means.
Subclass:
61.56
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.55. Devices
having an actuating lever outwardly extending from the center
whereby the circuit can be closed from a region proximate the
periphery of the wheel.
Subclass:
61.57
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.54. Devices
mounted on or in the peripheral portion of the wheel.
Subclass:
61.58
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Circuit makers
and breakers which are so connected with apparatus other than
switch means that the volitional use of such apparatus, in
the normal manner, necessarily brings about a substantially
simultaneous actuation of such circuit maker and breaker.
(1) Note. The volitional use (referred to above) requires
that the utilizing act which initiates the circuit
controlling action be brought about by human agency (e.g.,
through opening of a door, turning of a handle, etc.), not
merely by the attainment of a certain point in the cycle of
operation of a mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
379, Telephonic Communications, subclass 90.01 for telephone
systems combined with other electrical systems such as fire,
burglar, etc..
396, Photography, subclasses 180+ for illumination means
with a camera shutter synchronizer wherein a switch is
operated concurrently with the actuation of the shutter.
Subclass:
61.59
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Devices in
whose operation or use the volitional act, which initiates
the circuit-controlling action, is the insertion of an
article into the art device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 568.1 for alarms
indicating the placement or removal of an article.
Subclass:
61.6
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Apparatus in
whose operation the volitional use comprises the coupling of
a fluid conduit to another member, such as a wall outlet or
another conduit.
Subclass:
61.61
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Means in
whose operation the volitional use comprises the movement of
a sliding compartment, till, or receptacle within an
encompassing receptacle or cabinet.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 570 for
electrical automatic drawer responsive indicating systems.
Subclass:
61.62
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Circuit
makers and breakers whose circuit-controlling operation is
brought about by the movement of a closure member, an
operator therefor or an accessory thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.42 for closures which in their operation may or may not
cause a circuit to be made or broken, and subclass 291 for
such closures of the sensitive edge type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
49, Movable or Removable Closures, appropriate subclasses,
for a closure of the type provided for and see the search
note thereto in section IV for the loci of closures in other
classes.
312, Supports: Cabinet Structure, subclasses 271+ for
cabinets having movable components actuated by movement of
the closure.
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclass
84 for systems for supplying electric energy to lamps and/or
electric space discharge devices of the gas or vapor
ionization type, the systems having a switch which is
operated by the movement of a door or window sash.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 542+ and
545.1+ for electric automatic lock or door or window movement
responsive indicating systems.
396, Photography, subclasses 180+ for illumination means
with a camera shutter synchronizer wherein a switch is
operated concurrently with the actuation of the shutter.
Subclass:
61.63
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Devices in
which the closure member or closure operator is associated
with a mail slot or receptacle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.59 for letter boxes which comprise circuit controlling
means which respond to the insertion or presence of a letter
in the box in addition to or instead of means responsive to
the movement of a closure or its operator.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
232, Deposit and Collection Receptacles, subclass 35, 36 and
37 for alarms signals and indicators operated by the movement
of letter box doors.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 569 for alarms
operated during placement or removal of contents of mail
boxes.
Subclass:
61.64
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Devices
actuated by the movement of a securing means, as for example
a lock, bolt or keeper, or of an operating means therefor,
such as a key.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
43.11 for switches provided with means for locking the
movable element of the switch.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 542+ for
communications comprising means responsive to the operation
of a lock.
Subclass:
61.65
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.64. Devices in
which the securing means is a bar lock applied to an elevator
gate or door.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.67 for other operators which move bolts or the like and
also move circuit controlling elements.
Subclass:
61.66
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.64. Devices in
which (1) a substitute implement or the like, not intended
for use with the lock, or (2) the mere insertion of an
implement (key) or substitute therefor causes the circuit to
be made.
(1) Note. The unauthorized keys of section (1) under this
subclass definition do not, of course, serve as operators for
the locks or bolts; however, those which are proper operate
to move the latch or lock-bolt without changing the circuit
condition then present.
Subclass:
61.67
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.64. Devices
having a bar like securing means which is movable to engage
or disengage a retaining means and also controls a circuit.
The securing means is either a part of the circuit or else
acts as the circuit controller.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.65 for circuit controllers which are moved by a bolt or
the like and are associated with elevator locks.
Subclass:
61.68
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.67. Devices in
which the movement of the securing means into engagement with
the retaining means either (1) makes direct electrical
contact therewith or (2) moves a circuit maker within said
retaining means.
Subclass:
61.69
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Means
including a circuit maker and breaker whose operation
requires the movement of a plurality of closures into a
predetermined position, or a circuit maker and breaker whose
cycle of operation (i.e., a making and breaking of the
circuit) corresponds to more than one closure operating cycle
(i.e., more than one opening and closing of a closure).
Subclass:
61.7
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Devices whose
circuit-controlling member is a part of the means for
pivotally mounting a closure on its supporting structure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclasses 221+ for hinges, per
se.
Subclass:
61.71
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Apparatus in
which the closure member follows a linear path in its
restricted or guided end or edgewise circuit-controlling
movement.
Subclass:
61.72
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.71. Devices
including a circuit maker and breaker having a part which is
constrained, by frictional contact with the closure member,
to move in conjunction with the closure member.
Subclass:
61.73
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.71. Means in
which the closure member, in its circuit-controlling
movement, meets a circuit-maker-and-breaker actuator in
abutting or face-to-face relationship, causing the latter to
make or break a circuit.
Subclass:
61.74
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.71. Apparatus in
which at least one of the contacts of the circuit making and
breaking member is resiliently urged into or out of
contact-making position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.76 for resiliently urged circuit controllers associated
with a type of closure other than sliding.
Subclass:
61.75
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.74. Means in
which either the slidable closure member or its guideway or
track is modified to receive or support a part of the circuit
making and breaking device.
Subclass:
61.76
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Devices in
which at least one of the contacts of the circuit making and
breaking member is resiliently urged into or out of the
contact-making position.
Subclass:
61.77
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.76. Apparatus
wherein the resilient switch has a pull chain type operator
and has means responsive to opening or closing movement of a
closure, to pull the said chain.
Subclass:
61.78
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.76. Devices in
which at least one of the contacting members of the circuit
making and breaking means or the immediate support of such
member, which is movable therewith, is itself resilient.
Subclass:
61.79
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.76.
Circuit-controllers which may be adjusted in such a manner
that opening or closing movement of the associated closure
produces no circuit-making or breaking effect.
Subclass:
61.8
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.76. Apparatus
which, after responding in circuit-opening or -closing manner
to an opening or closing of a closure, requires an adjustment
by some means other than the reverse motion of such closure
before it can respond again in the same manner to the same
stimulus.
Subclass:
61.81
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.76. Devices which
are mounted upon a closure frame or a wall of an enclosure to
which such closure gives access, as well as being operatively
connected to such closure itself.
(1) Note. The enclosure referred to in the definition may
be, for instance, a room, cabinet, box, etc.
Subclass:
61.82
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.81. Means in
which the frame or wall mounted portion of the device is
disposed within a recess in such frame or wall.
Subclass:
61.83
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Apparatus in
which at least one of the circuit making and breaking members
is urged by gravity into or out of contact-making position.
Subclass:
61.84
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.62. Apparatus
which responds, in circuit-controlling manner, to the
movement of a member mounted on or adjacent to a window and
which member serves as an adjunct to such window.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 550 for
communications comprising means responsive to the condition
of screens, gratings or curtains.
Subclass:
61.85
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Devices in
whose operation the volitional use comprises the normal or
intended movement of a manually graspable guiding, lifting,
or actuating member.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclasses
80+ for systems for supplying electric energy to lamp
and/or electric space discharge devices of the gas or vapor
ionization type, the system including a switch which is
operated by the movement of a vehicle controlling (steering
wheel, hand or foot) lever.
Subclass:
61.86
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.85. Devices in
which movement of the actuating member results in the
actuation of a circuit controller and of a valve.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 81+ for fluid pressure actuated switches, and
especially 81.9 for flow responsive devices where the valve
or obstruction, if any, is present merely to operate the
switch element(s).
Subclass:
61.87
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.85. Means in
which the operating handle functions to control a vehicle
retarding device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 457.3 for signals
responsive to the position of a hand brake lever.
Subclass:
61.88
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.85. Apparatus in
which the operating handle functions to vary the relation of
gears in a train, one to another, to effect a change in speed
ratio or in relative directions of rotation, between the
input and output of such gearing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.28 for turn indicator type switches mounted on gear shift
levers.
Subclass:
61.89
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Means in
whose operation the volitional use comprises the actuation of
a foot operated member for controlling the functioning of a
conveyance part.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclasses
80+ for systems for supplying electric energy to lamp
and/or electric space discharge devices of the gas or vapor
ionization type, the system including a switch which is
operated by the movement of a vehicle controlling (steering
wheel, hand or foot) lever.
Subclass:
61.9
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.89. Devices whose
circuit making or breaking effect is nullified by (1)
disabling the vehicle pedal as a circuit controller actuator,
or (2) use of a series related circuit disabling switch,
brought about by the attainment of a predetermined condition
of the vehicle's engine.
Subclass:
61.91
This subclass is indented under subclass 61.58. Apparatus in
whose operation the volitional use comprises the
rearrangement of gears in a speed-change gearing train and in
which the circuit controlling elements are not directly
affected by a gear shift lever.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.88 for circuit makers and breakers actuated concurrently
with the use of a gear shift lever.
Subclass:
61.93
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.
Circuit-controllers which are actuated by the attempted entry
into or egress from a room, compartment, building, or other
enclosure, through the use of unauthorized methods or means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 541+ for
electrical automatic intrusion responsive indicating
systems.
Subclass:
-2
SNAP.
This group relates to circuit makers and breakers which are
constructed to operate with a quick motion. They are limited
to those switches in which the quick motion of the contacts
is not dependent on the rate of movement of the operator.
This is usually accomplished by a spring connection between
the operator and the switch-contact, so that the initial
movement of the operator puts the spring under tension and
when the contact is released it is snapped by action of the
spring.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
154 for quick-action switches in which the contact is
positively controlled by the operator, the quick action being
derived through lever mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, the subclasses under the
heading "Mechanical Movements" especially subclass 97.1 and
100.1+, for mechanical movements, per se, involving snap
actions.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, appropriate subclasses for electrothermal and
thermally actuated snap switches.
Subclass:
79
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Circuit-controllers used in transmission or trolley lines
which are operated by the breaking of the wire to disconnect
the broken section.
Subclass:
80
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Circuit-controllers in which the contact is operated by means
responsive to centrifugal force.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclasses 535+ for a speed
responsive device of the centrifugal weight type, per se.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses
236+ for speed controlled systems which may include
centrifugally operated switches.
Subclass:
81
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which the operating means is responsive to pressure of a
liquid, gas, or vapor. The pressure may be caused by a
confined fluid or by the flow of a fluid.
(1) Note. This group includes devices responsive to
vacuum.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclasses 632+, for one shot explosion
actuated expansible chamber type motors.
92, Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate subclasses for an
expansible chamber device, per se.
235, Registers, subclass 452 for record-sensing devices
wherein a switch may be opened or closed or circuits made in
accordance with areas on the record that contain coded
indicia, the area where said indicia is sensed conveying
particular information.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, subclasses 114+ for electrothermally operated
switches employing expansible or vaporizable fluid and
subclasses 306+ for similar thermally actuated switches.
Subclass:
81.4
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Combinations, of
two or more distinct circuit makers and breakers, each having
its own operating means, at least one of said operating means
being responsive to pressure of a fluid or to vacuum.
Subclass:
81.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Devices, having
two or more distinct operating means, at least one of which
is responsive to pressure of a fluid or to vacuum.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81.4 for combinations of two or more distinct circuit makers
and breakers, each having its own operating means, at least
one of said operating means being responsive to pressure of a
fluid or to vacuum.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 625+ for
gearing having provision for operation by either manual or
power means, and subclass 479.01 for manually operated
control lever and linkage systems having a plurality of
controlling elements.
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, subclass 179.1 for
starters equipped with dual operators.
236, Automatic Temperature and Humidity Regulation, subclass
91 for devices operated by a plurality of thermostats.
Subclass:
81.6
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Devices of the
type in which the fluid pressure (or vacuum) acts upon a body
of conductive liquid causing the latter to move so as to open
or close a circuit including the conductive liquid.
(1) Note. The fluid pressure or vacuum may be applied
either directly to the conductive liquid, or indirectly
through a piston or diaphragm, so that the change in pressure
causes liquid motion, as distinguished from fluid pressure
operated means that cause change in position of a liquid
contact switch, liquid motion being due to such change in
position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 182+ for miscellaneous circuit makers and
breakers employing liquid contact means.
subclasses 200+ for periodic circuit makers and breakers
employing liquid contact means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclasses 747+ for manometric
type pressure gauges.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, subclass 122 and 331 for electrothermal or
thermally actuated switches with conductive fluid contacts.
Subclass:
81.8
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Devices, of the
type in which the operating means includes a flexible,
arc-shaped tube, the curvature of which changes in response
to changes in the fluid-pressure therein.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclasses 732+ for pressure
gauges of the Bourdon tube type.
Subclass:
81.9
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Devices of the
type in which the operating means is responsive to the flow
of a fluid (including air-currents, wind, etc.), as
distinguished from those which are responsive merely to the
static pressure of the fluid.
(1) Note. See alphabetical index to the classification of
patents, the title "Flow" for the distribution of flow
controlled devices in the several classes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, particularly subclasses 98+, 107, 459+,
486+, 496, and 497+ for valves with flow responsive actuating
means.
Subclass:
82
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Devices in which
the fluid acts on a piston which moves in a cylinder.
Subclass:
83
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Devices in which
the fluid acts on a flexible sheet member confined in a
housing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
92, Expansible Chamber Devices, subclasses 96+ for a
diaphragm type expansible chamber device.
Subclass:
84
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
in which the contact is operated by the movement of a float.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 308 and 313 for float
operated switches combined with measuring structures.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, subclasses 314+ for thermally actuated switches
employing an expansible fluid with float means.
Subclass:
85
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Circuit-controllers in which the operator is adapted to be
moved by having a weight applied to it and subjected to the
action of gravity.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 666 for electric
alarms which are automatically responsive to weight.
Subclass:
86
This subclass is indented under subclass 85.
Circuit-controllers incorporated in mats or treads and
adapted to be operated by a person stepping upon them.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 666 for electric
alarms which are automatically responsive to the movement of
a tread or treadle.
Subclass:
86.5
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Circuit-controllers in which the operator by its nature,
mounting or association with a device is adapted to be moved
by foot applied force other than the force of gravity acting
through the foot.
Subclass:
175
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
wherein the claimed device includes contact selecting means
which in itself is acting, or automatic, the contact
selecting structure operating by its own self-contained
mechanism when activated by some impersonal influence as for
example a signalling current or voltage transmitted from a
distance, and which is not manual and requiring personal
intervention; i.e., not requiring the presence of an
operator. The art to be found in this and the indented
subclasses is analogous to the structure to be found in Class
335, subclasses 111+ and in Class 379, Telephonic
Communications, subclasses 242+.
(1) Note. (a) The structure to be found in Class 335 is
restricted to devices which are magnetically operated and of
general utility and not restricted by the language in the
claims to any one art device specifically classifiable
elsewhere. (b) The structure to be found in Class 379 is
restricted by language in the claims, other than in the
preamble, which is generally recognized as restricting the
device to telephony. (c) The patents classified in this and
the indented subclasses are formerly in the telephone art but
were found not to be restricted to the telephone art by any
language other than perhaps in the preamble to the claims,
and not recited as magnetically operated. A similar group of
patents, not restricted to any otherwise classifiable art,
but which are specifically claimed as magnetically activated
are to be found in Class 335 subclasses 110+.
(2) Note. The search to be complete must be extended to the
appropriate subclasses in Classes 379 and 335 as discussed,
supra.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 for devices under the class definition in which a
plurality of contacts are arranged to control two or more
circuits and where the arrangement is not restricted to
automatic selective means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 76 for electric motor
controlled switches with plural contacts, subclasses 92+ for
electromagnetically controlled vibrators with plural contact
activating means, and subclasses 111+ for electromagnetically
activated switches with plural contacts and not forming a
part of a specific art device, which is otherwise
classifiable, and wherein the activating structure comprises
self acting (automatic) means similar to the telephone type.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 825+ for
remote control selective systems for controlling the
operation of plural devices at a distance, the said control
being exercised over a lesser number of communication lines
than the number of different results which can be obtained.
379, Telephonic Communications, subclasses 242+ for
automatic telephone systems limited to instrument and their
combinations for effecting the transmission of spoken sounds
by means of electricity and in which connection between
subscribers are automatically and mechanically made at a
central station, without the aid or presence of an operator.
Subclass:
176
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Subject matter
wherein the claimed structure includes means whereby the
movable contactor or wiper structure is caused to be first in
one direction, and then at least in one other direction, the
final selection being the result of the plurality of motions,
or whereby at least two or more contactor or wiper structures
are caused to have movement relative to one another. The
movements may include vertical, rotary, radial or other
motions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 17+ for means under subclass 1 which is
peculiarly adapted for the operation of multiple circuit
controllers and subclass 18 for means for operating two or
more controllers which have movement relative to one
another.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 112+ for switches which are
of similar type, but magnetically activated, subclasses 122+
for devices wherein a plurality of individual controlled
circuits are completed selectively, cyclically, alternately
or intermittently by other than automatic means which may
involve compound motions, subclasses 140+ for plural contact
switches utilizing plural magnetic means which may or may not
produce multi-directional movement.
379, Telephonic Communications, subclasses 242+ for
combined rotary and nonrotary switch lock out arrangements.
Subclass:
177
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
wherein the plurality of directional motions are caused to
take place in different planes, as for example a first
rectilinear motion in a vertical plane combined with a rotary
motion in a horizontal plane.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24 for combined rotary and nonrotary switch arrangements.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 113 for automatic magnetically
activated multiple contact switches having motion conversion
means such as, rotary to reciprocal.
379, Telephonic Communications, subclasses 299+ for
automatic telephone switches utilizing combined rotary and
nonrotary operating means.
Subclass:
178
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Subject matter
wherein the claimed structure includes apparatus whereby one
or more carriers for the contact selecting means is caused to
move or reciprocate in a single plane. The motion usually
takes place in a vertical plane.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
16 for multiple circuit control switches with reciprocating
contact means, subclass 46 for pattern-sheet controlled
switches which may comprise any number of contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 118 for multiple contact
switches automatically operated in a single plane, subclass
130 for plural contact switches having reciprocating or
linearly sliding means whereby the contacts are selectively
cyclically, alternately or intermittently activated, and
subclasses 131+ for plural contact switches having
reciprocating means whereby the plurality of contacts are
simultaneously activated.
379, Telephonic Communications, subclasses 299+ for
automatic telephone switches establishing circuit connections
by devices having motions in which a line terminal or
connector moves in a longitudinal, transverse, vertical or
radial direction.
Subclass:
179
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
wherein the claimed structure includes at least one wiper or
movable contactor which is adapted to be brought into contact
with fixed contacts selectively through the medium of a
carrier or rotor turning about a fixed axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 24+ for periodic multiple contact switches with
rotary motion, subclass 37 for retarded clocktrain rotary
switch with multiple contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 575+ for pawl
and ratchet movements.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 64 for retarded or delayed type
switches in which a plurality of contacts are alternately,
consecutively or selectively activated by mechanical means,
subclass 103 for alternating or fluctuating current activated
switches utilizing induction or eddy current rotary means,
subclass 117 for automatic plural contact switches with
rotary selector motion, subclasses 126+ for plural contact
type switches with rotary or compound motion means for
selectively, cyclically, alternately or intermittent contact
selection not automatic, subclasses 142+ for step by step
type switches utilizing rotary motion devices which are
magnetically activated.
379, Telephonic Communications, subclasses 258+ for
automatic percentage telephone switching systems, utilizing
rotary single level switches.
Subclass:
180
This subclass is indented under subclass 179. Subject matter
wherein the claimed structure comprises a clutch mechanism
connecting a driving means to the carrier or rotor whereby
the rotor may be disassociated from the driving means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 37 for
reciprocating control means utilizing belt or chain means
with a clutch, subclass 110 for reciprocating to
reciprocating motion mechanical drive means with clutch.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses 30+ for
clutches in general.
246, Railway Switches and Signals, subclasses 132+ for
railway signal type switching means, comprising plural
contact sets and means for selecting any one or any
combination of the contact sets with interlocking or clutch
means.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 121 for plural contact
automatically operated switches with motor driven contact
activation means including clutch means, subclass 126 for
nonautomatic plural contact switches with rotary or compound
motion means for selectively activating the contacts.
Subclass:
181
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the claimed apparatus comprises means whereby
the completion or interruption of at least one electrical
circuit is accomplished by means utilizing either the
phenomenon wherein some materials experience an elastic
strain as the result of an electric field, this strain being
independent of the polarity of the field or by means
utilizing the laws of electrostatics, i.e., the phenomena
wherein, due to the mutual repulsion of all electricity for
electricity of the same kind (of like polarity), a conductor
of one polarity with its surrounding electric field is caused
to attract or repulse another conductor with an electric
field.
(1) Note. All crystals, in addition to their first order
piezo-electric effect, have a second order electrostrictive
effect in which a distortion occurs which is proportional to
the electric displacement. Patents in which piezo-electric
devices are utilized for their electrostrictive effect, for
the purpose of causing the control of one or more electric
circuits, are to be found here.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
40, Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, subclasses 463+ for
changeable exhibitors which may utilize electrostrictive or
electrostatic effects for controlled action.
102, Ammunition and Explosive Devices, subclasses 200+ for
fuses or ignition devices utilizing electrical magnetic wave
or radiant energy.
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclass 91 for devices for magnetic or electrostatic field
control, subclass 104 for electromagnet and highly inductive
connection systems, subclass 109 for pulse producing systems
utilizing the discharge of a capacitor and subclasses 125+
for switching systems responsive to electrical conditions and
which may utilize electrostrictive or electrostatic
principles.
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, subclass 300
for nondynamo-electric generator or motor structure,
subclasses 311+ for piezo-electric devices, per se, and
subclasses 10+ for dynamo-electric generator or motor
structure.
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, subclass 118 for
magnetostrictive motor devices.
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclass 74 for
motor type devices which may utilize the electrostrictive or
electrostatic principles, subclass 109 for devices for
measuring or testing electricity and consisting of
piezo-electric or electrostatic devices and subclass 144 for
testing devices with an electromagnetic field.
327, Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices,
Circuits, and Systems, subclasses 509+ for miscellaneous
externally effected circuits.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclass 18 for automatic circuit
breaking devices responsive to reverse currents or voltages,
subclass 35 for automatic circuit breaking devices with trip
means which may depend in part on electrostrictive or
electrostatic means, subclasses 78+ for switching devices in
which the movement of an armature depends upon the direction
of a current in the armature controlling circuit, subclass
215 for relay devices utilizing the magnetostrictive
principle for obtaining mechanical force, subclass 223 for
relays utilizing relatively movable conductors, e.g.,
dynamometer type.
336, Inductor Devices, appropriate subclasses for particular
inductor arrangements.
347, Incremental Printing of Symbolic Information, subclasses
112+ for electrostatic marking.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclass
207 for electric circuits for relays and electromagnets
which utilize the electrostatic principle, subclasses 258+
for electrostatic igniting systems.
Subclass:
182
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Switching devices in which electrical connection is made
between two or more contacts or terminals by means of
conducting liquid, usually mercury.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.04 for other electrically-conducting-liquid switching
devices of special application.
81.6 for other liquid-contact switches of the type in which
a fluid pressure (or vacuum) acts upon a body of conductive
liquid causing the latter to move so as to open or close a
circuit including the conductive liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, subclasses 163+
for electric discharge devices which have a liquid
electrode.
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclasses 92+
for devices for measuring, testing or sensing electricity,
per se, and utilizing fluid conductors.
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 47+ for magnetically
operated switches utilizing conductive liquid.
337, Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches, subclass 21, 80+, 331, and 373 for electrothermal
or thermally controlled switches utilizing liquid contacts.
445, Electric Lamp or Space Discharge Component or Device
Manufacturing, subclasses 1+ and 60+ and the classes
specified in the Notes to the definitions of those
subclasses, for the apparatus and processes for the
manufacture of electric lamp and electric space discharge
devices, such apparatus and processes being analogous to
those in making mercury switches.
Subclass:
183
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the liquid contact switch is claimed in combination
with another art device having an added purpose or utility
independent of the switch and which claimed combination does
not include sufficient structure details of the other art
device for classification elsewhere or the combination is not
provided for elsewhere.
Subclass:
184
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Subject matter
wherein the liquid contact switch is combined with an
illumination means.
Subclass:
185
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Subject matter
wherein the liquid contact switch is combined with an
electrical resistor (e.g., the resistor may be in the form of
a heating coil).
Subclass:
186
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein some means of delaying electrical connection between
the switch contact and the liquid is employed.
Subclass:
187
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein more than one switch is contained in a single
housing. The housing may be the only means by which the
electrically conductive liquid is contained, wherein there
are solid dividers which separate the liquid, or each switch
may further be contained in an additional enclosure (e.g., a
glass envelope) which is mounted within the single housing.
Subclass:
188
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Plural switches
wherein the switches are electrically connected by a solid
metal conductor or by the liquid conductor of each switch
(e.g., by the flowing-together of the liquid conductor by
means of an aperture in a wall or septum).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 221+ for similar type connections occurring
within a single switch.
Subclass:
189
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Subject matter
wherein a number of circuits are to be successively completed
in a predetermined sequence, responsive to the relative
movement of the contacts and the liquid.
Subclass:
190
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein electrical connection of the liquid contact switch is
made or broken responsive to the level or height of the
liquid in the enclosing housing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.2 for similar switches of special application.
230 for switches wherein electrical connection is made or
broken by the buoyancy of a float which is responsive to the
rise and fall of a liquid (not to be confused with the liquid
which is part of the switch).
Subclass:
191
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the conductive-liquid container includes a capillary
tube.
Subclass:
192
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the phenomenon of electro-capillarity is utilized.
Electro-capillarity action involves generation of a force
when current flows from one conductive liquid to another in a
capillarity tube, the force being a surface tension force at
the boundary between the liquids. The direction of movement
of the liquids is the same as the direction of the current.
Subclass:
193
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the conductive liquid constitutes and electrolyte.
Subclass:
194
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Subject matter
wherein the constituents of the electrolyte are specified by
name or characteristics.
Subclass:
195
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the conductive liquid is converted into a spray or
jet stream. Usually the conversion takes place by using a
pump to transfer the liquid from a tank to a centrifugal
force device which is responsible for creating the spray or
jet stream which in turn establishes an electrical connection
across at least two contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
80 for circuit controllers under the class definition in
which a contact is operated by means responsive to
centrifugal force.
Subclass:
196
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Subject matter
wherein electrical connection is made or broken at
predetermined time intervals.
Subclass:
197
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter
wherein a wave-shaped conductive liquid jet is utilized for
effecting the closing or interruption of an electric circuit.
The wave-shape of the liquid jet is generally produced by
the interaction of a current carrying liquid jet and a
magnetic field.
Subclass:
198
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter
wherein the contacts move relative to the container of the
conductive liquid and dip into the liquid spray or jet.
Subclass:
199
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the contacts move relative to the container of the
conductive liquid and dip into the liquid.
Subclass:
200
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Subject matter
wherein electrical connection is made or broken at
predetermined time intervals.
Subclass:
201
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
wherein a number of circuits are to be successively completed
in a predetermined sequence, responsive to the relative
movement of the contacts and the liquid.
Subclass:
202
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
wherein a cam is used to actuate the switch.
Subclass:
203
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein a cam is used to actuate the switch.
Subclass:
204
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Subject matter
wherein the cam actuation results in a wobbly motion of the
container of the conductive liquid.
Subclass:
205
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Subject matter
wherein electrical connection is made or broken at
predetermined time intervals.
Subclass:
206
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Subject matter
wherein more than one switch is involved, but not in the same
housing.
(1) Note. Where two or more switches are claimed as being
in the same housing classification is in subclasses 187+.
Subclass:
207
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Subject matter
wherein the cam actuation results in a wobbly motion of the
container of the conductive liquid.
Subclass:
208
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein electrical connection is made or broken at
predetermined time intervals.
Subclass:
209
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein piston means (e.g., rod or plunger) are used to force
the conductive liquid into electrical connection with the
switch contacts.
Subclass:
210
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Subject matter
wherein the piston functions as a contact or carries a
contact to make or break the circuit.
Subclass:
211
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the switch is operated by a pressure deformable or
flexible element, such as a diaphragm, a bellows or a bourdon
tube. The movement of the deformable flexible means produces
relative movement between the liquid and the contacts.
Subclass:
212
This subclass is indented under subclass 211. Subject matter
wherein a number of circuits are to be successively completed
in a predetermined sequence, responsive to the relative
movement of the contacts and the liquid.
Subclass:
213
This subclass is indented under subclass 211. Subject matter
wherein contact means are attached to the flexible element
for movement into the conductive liquid to close the switch.
Subclass:
214
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the switch circuit is broken by utilizing some
mechanical means for separating the conductive liquid into at
least two bodies, or shifting the liquid.
Subclass:
215
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
including housing or support means which is external to the
switch, per se, (i.e., external to the envelope or container
which contains the electrically conductive liquid and the
contacts).
Subclass:
216
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein the external housing is hermetically sealed. This
sealing does not concern the switch envelope (usually a
sealed glass container) which is almost always sealed to
prevent loss of the liquid and air-evacuated to remove
harmful oxidizing gases.
Subclass:
217
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein an electrical contact of the switch extends through
the switch housing or envelope and serves as a support
element for the switch.
Subclass:
218
This subclass is indented under subclass 217. Subject matter
wherein the actuator means of the switch is held under a
resilient securing means usually for the purpose of imparting
on-off stop limits or a resistance to the movement of the
actuating means.
Subclass:
219
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein the housing or support includes actuating means for
moving the switch, per se, into circuit-making or breaking
position.
Subclass:
220
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the switch is actuated either by tilting or
rotating.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.47 for switch devices of special application in which a
body of current conducting liquid flows under the influence
of gravity, or by reason of its inertia, into or out of
circuit closing position. (See also Note (1) under this
subclass).
Subclass:
221
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein the container for the liquid is divided into plural
liquid containing chambers with fluid passage means
interconnecting the chambers. Actuation of the switch causes
the liquid of one or more of the chambers to flow into
circuit closing relationship with contact elements of the
switch.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
188 for plural switches in a single housing with a common
conductive liquid.
Subclass:
222
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Subject matter
wherein the switch envelope or container is formed of one or
more metal parts and at least one of these parts is used as
an electrical terminal for the switch, per se.
Subclass:
223
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein a contact is of such a shape (e.g., ring, disk or
cone shaped) that the electrical circuit is completed when
the switch is positioned within certain predetermined angular
limits and the electrical circuit is broken when the switch
is not positioned within the said predetermined angular
limits.
Subclass:
224
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein a common contact may be moved into more than one
contact closing position to establish electrical connections
in one of a plurality of electrical circuits.
Subclass:
225
This subclass is indented under subclass 224. Subject matter
wherein the common contact member is the single pole type and
is limited to closing the electrical connection by movement
into either of two contact closing positions.
Subclass:
226
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein the switch envelope or container is formed of one or
more metal parts and at least one of these parts is used as
an electrical terminal for the switch, per se.
Subclass:
227
This subclass is indented under subclass 226. Subject matter
wherein the liquid container contains a restrictive element
of insulative material which forms a recess or groove in the
container for receiving the conductive liquid in order to
make or break the switch circuit.
Subclass:
228
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein the liquid container contains a restrictive element
of insulative material which forms a recess or groove in the
container for receiving the conductive liquid in order to
make or break the switch circuit.
Subclass:
229
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein the conductive liquid container has a recess formed
integrally therewith.
Subclass:
230
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein electrical connection is made or broken by the
buoyancy of a float located in the conductive liquid.
Whenever the liquid rises or falls, the float carried by the
liquid is moved into contact opening or closing position.
The float itself may constitute the contact, or it may carry
a contact thereon.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
190 for fluid-level switching devices that do not require a
float.
Subclass:
231
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein the sealing of a contact or contacts to the switch
container is set forth in specific details. The mere
statement that the contact is sealed to the container is not
sufficient to cause classification in this subclass.
Subclass:
232
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter
wherein some means is specified for preventing splashing of
the liquid conductor within the container whenever the switch
is actuated.
Subclass:
233
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the constituents of the conductive liquid are
specified.
Subclass:
234
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Subject matter
wherein the liquid contains a contact-wetting agent.
Subclass:
235
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Subject matter
wherein the contact structure has specific details or the
material of a contact is specified.
Subclass:
236
This subclass is indented under subclass 235. Subject matter
wherein the mounting or attaching means of the contact is set
forth in specific details.
Subclass:
237
This subclass relates to an element of an electrical switch
of this class (200) wherein the element is characterized by
some significant structural detail or details. If a claim is
drawn to a sufficient number of elements which cooperate to
form a complete switch, the patent is normally classified
higher in the schedule and crossed in a "detail" subclass.
Subclass:
238
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. A contact or
contacts, wherein significant details are claimed which
relate solely to some distinct characteristics concerning the
contact.
(1) Note. An electrical contact is defined as being one of
at least two elements that constitutes the electrical
connection point of a circuit maker and breaker, the elements
being relatively movable to open and close a circuit.
Subclass:
239
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the manner of cooperation or engagement between the
contacts constitutes abutting. This type of engagement is
characterized in that the relative movement between the
contacts, whenever the contacts are approaching each other,
terminates when the surface of one of the contacts touches
the surface of the other contact. Generally, there is no
further movement between the contacts after the initial
touch.
Subclass:
240
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein the engagement of the contacts by abutting is
followed immediately by a rolling motion between the
contacts, generally due to the curvature of at least one of
the contacts. This rolling motion precludes any wiping or
sliding movement between the contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
241 for "Subsequent Sliding" movement.
Subclass:
241
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein the engagement of the contacts by abutting is
followed immediately by a sliding or wiping motion between
the contacts. This sliding or wiping motion precludes any
rolling motion between the contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
240 for "subsequent rolling" movement.
Subclass:
242
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Subject matter,
wherein the sliding or wiping motion between the contacts is
designed for cleaning the contact surfaces.
Subclass:
243
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein there are at least two contact elements mounted on a
common support and electrically connected, usually by the
conductive material forming the support.
Subclass:
244
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein the moving contact is mounted on a rigid pivoted
member.
Subclass:
245
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein each of the abutting contacts are mounted on a
separate piece of resilient support, such support having the
ability to bounce or spring back into shape, position, etc.,
after being pressed or stretched.
Subclass:
246
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter,
wherein the resilient material is a spring blade support.
Subclass:
247
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the resilient contact supports is
held in position or guided by a slot or hole in a structural
element such as an insulating block.
Subclass:
248
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the abutting contacts is mounted in a
semi-universal manner such that the contact will pivot or
rotate to a position whereby the contact aligns itself
squarely with its cooperating contact to give an efficient
electrical connection.
Subclass:
249
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein adjusting means (e.g., a screw) is provided for
positioning one of the contacts relative to its cooperating
contact. This positioning includes the setting of the gap
between the cooperating contacts and/or the horizontal or
sideways aligning between the contacts.
Subclass:
250
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the abutting contacts is biased or
pressed by some means into good electrical connection with
the cooperating contact. Frequently, the biased contact is
biased inherently in the material of which it is made.
Subclass:
251
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Subject matter,
wherein the biasing means includes means (e.g., a screw) for
changing or adjusting the biasing pressure in order to
improve the electrical connection between the cooperating
contacts.
Subclass:
252
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the manner of cooperation or engagement between a
fixed contact and a moving contact constitutes sliding or
wiping. This type of engagement is characterized in that the
relative movement between the contacts, whenever the contacts
are approaching each other, does "not" terminate when the
surface of one of the contacts touches the surface of the
other contact, but rather there is a further movement between
the contacts which constitutes a sliding or wiping motion
after the initial touch.
Subclass:
253
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter,
wherein the sliding or wiping motion between the contacts is
designed for cleaning the contact surfaces.
Subclass:
253.1
Plug type contacts:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter
wherein the contacts, when engaged, are arranged in such a
manner that one contact is inserted into another mating
part.
Subclass:
254
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter,
wherein the sliding or wiping motion is effected by a knife
blade and clip type of contacts.
Subclass:
255
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the relatively sliding contacts
(usually the fixed or nonmoving contact) is biased or pressed
by some means into good electrical connection with the
cooperating contact. Frequently, the biased contact is
biased inherently in the material of which it is made.
Subclass:
256
This subclass is indented under subclass 255. Subject matter,
wherein the biasing means includes means (e.g., a screw) for
changing or adjusting the biasing pressure in order to
improve the electrical connection between the cooperating
contacts.
Subclass:
257
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter,
wherein the relative moving contacts, usually only one of
these contacts, are mounted on a separate piece of resilient
support, such supports having the ability to bounce or spring
back into shape, position, etc., after being pressed or
stretched.
Subclass:
258
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the relative moving contacts, usually
the fixed contact, is mounted such that the contact will
pivot, rotate, or spring (according to the nature and
structure of the material) into a position whereby the
contact aligns itself squarely with its cooperating contact
to give an efficient electrical connection.
Subclass:
259
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter,
wherein adjusting means (e.g., a screw) is provided for
positioning one of the contacts relative to its cooperating
contact. This positioning includes the setting of the gap
between the cooperating contacts and/or the horizontal or
sideways aligning between the contacts.
Subclass:
260
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the relatively sliding contacts is
biased or pressed by some means into good electrical
connection with the cooperating contact. Frequently, the
biased contact is biased inherently in the material of which
it is made.
Subclass:
261
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter,
wherein the biasing means including means (e.g., a screw) for
changing or adjusting the biasing pressure in order to
improve the electrical connection between the cooperating
contacts.
Subclass:
262
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is specific to the material therein.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclasses
544+ for a metallic contact claimed nominally, that is, of
some, but insufficient structural detail for limitation as an
element in a circuit maker or breaker.
Subclass:
263
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the material of each of the cooperating contacts
(i.e., a contact which abuts or slides against and relative
to another contact) is different.
Subclass:
264
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact comprises a porous substance in which the
pores have been filled (infiltrated) with a different
material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 545
for composite stock material comprising a porous metallic
powder compact impregnated with a nonmetal.
Subclass:
265
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact material constitutes a physical mixture
of various ingredients, not alloyed.
Subclass:
266
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact material constitutes a chemically
combined mixture of various metals or compounds of metals.
Subclass:
267
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact material constitutes one layer.
(1) Note. The support to which the layer is attached does
not constitute a layer.
(2) Note. For purposes of classification in this subclass,
the term "layer" is meant to include sheet material or
coating material, either material being adhesively bonded to
a support (e.g., weld, resin, cold flow, etc.) or to another
layer as indicated in subclasses 268 and 269.
Subclass:
268
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact material constitutes two layers. Each
layer material is different from the other layer.
(1) Note. The support to which the layers are attached does
not constitute a layer.
(2) Note. For purposes of classification in this subclass,
the term "layer", is meant to include sheet material or
coating material, either material being adhesively bonded to
a support (e.g., weld, resin, cold flow, etc.), or to another
layer as indicated in subclasses 268 and 269.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclasses
615+ for a metallic composite defined in terms of the
composition of its components, especially subclasses 616+ for
bimetallic temperature-sensitive stock.
Subclass:
269
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact material constitutes three or more
layers. Each adjacent layer of material is different from
each other layer, however, every other layer of material
could possibly be similar to each other (e.g., layers 1 and
3, layers 2 and 4, or layers 3 and 5, etc.).
(1) Note. The support to which the layers are attached does
not constitute a layer.
(2) Note. For purposes of classification in this subclass,
the term "layer" is meant to include sheet material or
coating material, either material being adhesively bonded to
a support (e.g., weld, resin, cold flow, etc.), or to another
layer as indicated in subclasses 268 and 269.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 617
for composite metallic stock having more than two components
and deflectable by a temperature change, and subclass 635 for
composite metallic stock having four or more distinct
components with alternate recurrence of each type component.
Subclass:
270
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter,
wherein the contact material constitutes an element of the
periodic table. There may be more than one element, however
they must be individual elements, not chemically combined.
Subclass:
271
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
relating to the structure of a movable contact, referred to
frequently, by the term "blade", or "pole plate".
Subclass:
272
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Subject matter,
wherein the movable contact is combined with support means.
Subclass:
273
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Subject matter,
wherein the movable contact is structured for rotary
movement.
Subclass:
274
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Subject matter,
wherein the rotary contact is combined with support means.
Subclass:
275
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is characterized by a particular shape or
structure.
Subclass:
276
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is in the form of a coil spring.
Subclass:
276.1
With push button actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 276. Subject matter
wherein the switch includes a push button actuator to cause
the coil spring to engage or disengage the stationary
contacts.
Subclass:
277
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the contact elements has a rolling
configuration (e.g., cylindrical, sphere, etc.).
Subclass:
277.1
With push button actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter
wherein the switch includes a push button actuator to cause
the cylindrical or spherical contact to engage or disengage
the stationary contact.
Subclass:
277.2
With rocker actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter
including an actuator adapted to oscillate in a limited arc
to move the contacts into engagement or disengagement.
Subclass:
278
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Subject matter,
wherein the contact constitutes two or more sheets of
material which are physically bonded together (e.g., screw,
clamp, etc.).
Subclass:
279
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is characterized by the shape or
structure of the contact-making surface (e.g., grooved).
Subclass:
280
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact or the support thereof may be
repositioned or rearranged in order to alter the operation of
the switch.
Subclass:
281
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact may be readily replaced by a new contact
(e.g., replaceable insert); or the contact making surface may
be renewed by manipulating the contact so that a different
area is presented for use (e.g., reversing).
Subclass:
282
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is a generally U-shaped structure,
usually made of spring material, which grips another contact
or the contact portion of a blade.
Subclass:
283
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is supported by a leaf spring. The leaf
spring itself may be the contact.
(1) Note. Compare this definition with the definition of
subclass 284.
Subclass:
284
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is integrally supported by a structure
which also constitutes a terminal.
(1) Note. This subclass is not intended to include the leaf
spring with terminal as provided for in subclass 283.
Subclass:
285
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact has specialized structure or material for
enhancing the freedom of movement when touching another
contact.
Subclass:
286
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
which relates to the adjusting of the contact position
relative to its carrier or support. Such a combination is
sometimes called a contact finger. This subclass also
provides for contact pressure adjusting not limited to
claimed cooperating contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
249 and 259, for position adjustment of a contact relative
to its cooperating contact.
251 256 and 261, for pressure adjustment between cooperating
contacts.
Subclass:
287
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Subject matter,
wherein the adjusting of the contact is automatically
performed.
Subclass:
288
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact has structure which reduces or prevents
bounce when connection is made with another contact.
Subclass:
289
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact has structure for the purpose of cooling
itself.
Subclass:
290
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein the contact is biased or pressed into connection with
its cooperating contact by spring means (e.g., coil spring,
rubber spring, etc.).
(1) Note. The spring means is in addition to the contact
supporting structure.
Subclass:
291
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein a moving contact has detent means which is adapted
for stopping and releasing the contact relative to its rigid
support. An example of the detent means is a ball, carried
by the contact or by the contact mounting, which is
spring-biased into a slot in the rigid support.
Subclass:
292
This subclass is indented under subclass 238. Subject matter,
wherein at least one of the contacts constitutes a printed
conductor and its support.
Subclass:
293
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter,
wherein the switch cases or switch mounting bases constitute
specific housing structure or specific supporting structure.
Subclass:
293.1
Unitary switch mounted in handle or handgrip:
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter
wherein a switch with its own housing is mounted in a tool
handle or handgrip and wherein the switch is the actuator of
the tool.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
332.2 for devices that also have an auxiliary housing.
502 for switches having an auxiliary actuator, and
Subclass:
294
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the housing or base has significant structural
details for attachment onto a surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
296 for housings or bases that extend into and through a
surface.
Subclass:
295
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the attaching structure of the housing or base
constitutes flexible or resilient structure (e.g., metal
spring, plastic spring, usually integral with housing,
etc.).
Subclass:
296
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the housing or base has significant structure which
is adapted for mounting in or through a panel.
Subclass:
297
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the switch casing or base has significant structure
which is adapted for adjusting the switch casing or base for
proper fit and alignment in a box, commonly known as an
electrical outlet box or switch box. These boxes are normally
located in walls of houses and other buildings.
Subclass:
298
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the switch case is suspended (i.e., hanging) by or on
flexible cord or other means.
Subclass:
299
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter,
wherein the pendant housing is combined with a lamp socket.
Subclass:
300
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the housing includes a portion which can be readily
shattered, cut or destroyed (e.g., fire box cover of glass).
Subclass:
301
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the housing or base contains a means for
counter-acting the effects of vibration (e.g., foam rubber
mounted inside the housing).
Subclass:
302.1
Dust, dirt, or moisture excluding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter
wherein the switch housing contains means which inhibits the
ingress of dust, dirt, moisture, etc.
Subclass:
302.2
Seal for push button actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 302.1. Subject
matter wherein the excluding means includes a seal between a
push button actuator and the housing.
Subclass:
302.3
Seal for rocker or lever actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 302.2. Subject
matter wherein the excluding means includes a seal between a
rocker actuator and the housing, or a seal between a lever
actuator and the housing.
Subclass:
303
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the housing is divided into components which are
normally detachable or separable.
Subclass:
304
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein a portion of the casing has means which serves
particularly in a protective capacity.
(1) Note. This subclass does not include hermetical sealing
and total exclusion of the elements as does subclass 302.
Subclass:
305
This subclass is indented under subclass 304. Subject matter,
wherein the shield portion has electrical grounding means.
Subclass:
306
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the housing has significant means for venting (e.g.,
air holes in housing).
Subclass:
307
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter,
wherein the switch casings are provided with structural means
for attaching a plurality of switch casings to each other.
Subclass:
308
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter,
wherein indicating means are utilized for showing "on" or
"off" position of the switch or for showing the location of
the switch.
Subclass:
309
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Subject matter,
wherein the indicating means are inserts designed to be
readily interchangeable. Typical interchangeable inserts
carry different words.
Subclass:
310
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Subject matter,
wherein the indicating means include illumination means.
Subclass:
311
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter,
wherein the illuminating means of the indicator is filtered
or changed into a color by using one or more transparent
color elements.
Subclass:
312
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter,
wherein the illuminating means is supplemented with an
additional type of indicating means. The indicating means has
to be more than mere numerals, letters or words. For
example, projections indicating the switch setting position
would constitute a proper type of additional indicating
means.
Subclass:
313
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter,
wherein the illumination is visible through the actuator.
Subclass:
314
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator is a push button type.
Subclass:
315
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator is a rocker or toggle type.
Subclass:
316
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator is rotatable.
Subclass:
317
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter,
wherein the illumination is visible through the switch
housing or base.
Subclass:
318
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter,
wherein a latch or detent device is utilized for holding the
contacts of a switch in a desired position. The contacts are
usually latched in circuit-closing position to prevent
accidental opening, however; the contacts may also be latched
in a circuit-opening position, or in both a circuit-closing
and a circuit-opening position. The latch is usually
released by hand or some other physical means when desired.
Subclass:
318.1
Mechanism to hold push button down:
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter
including a push button and a mechanism to hold the push
button in a desired position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 523+ for push/pull devices which include
alternate action mechanism.
Subclass:
318.2
Auxiliary motion of actuator required to release (e.g., turn
or slide):
This subclass is indented under subclass 318.1. Subject
matter wherein the push button must be physically moved,
either by turning or sliding, etc., in order to move the push
button from its latched position.
Subclass:
319
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter,
wherein the latch cannot be released due to vibrating and
jarring conditions.
Subclass:
320
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter,
wherein more than one latch is utilized in a switch.
Subclass:
321
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter,
wherein the latch is closed or opened manually.
Subclass:
322
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Subject matter,
wherein the latching means comprises a plate or lever-type
element which is movable into a position necessary for
locking or releasing the contacts.
Subclass:
323
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter,
wherein the latch includes self actuating means to cause its
operation.
Subclass:
324
This subclass is indented under subclass 323. Subject matter,
wherein the self-operating latching means comprises a
cam-type element (e.g., plate, lever, etc.), which is movable
into a position necessary for locking the contacts.
Subclass:
325
This subclass is indented under subclass 324. Subject matter,
wherein the cam-type element is either a spring itself or a
spring-biased element.
Subclass:
326
This subclass is indented under subclass 323. Subject matter,
wherein the latching means is operated by gravity.
Subclass:
327
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter,
wherein one contact is stopped in a predetermined position by
a detent or some other type stop element which is usually
located on or near the other cooperating contact.
Subclass:
329
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Subject matter,
wherein the devices include structure of the operating
handles or buttons.
Subclass:
330
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein an additional actuator operates the primary operating
handle or button.
Subclass:
331
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Subject matter,
wherein the additional or auxiliary actuator is extended to
provide remote operating means for the primary operating
handle or button.
Subclass:
332
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Subject matter,
wherein the additional or auxiliary actuator is a handle or
button which pivots about a point remote from the point of
the applied or operating force.
Subclass:
332.1
Having auxiliary housing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Subject matter
including detailed structure of an auxiliary housing and
actuator into which a switch having its own housing and
actuator is inserted.
(1) Note. The mounted or encased switch is often referred
to as a microswitch.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 330+ for auxiliary actuators which move the
actuator of a switch.
Subclass:
332.2
Housing is a handle or handgrip for tool or appliance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 332.1. Subject
matter wherein the auxiliary housing is a hand-held housing
generally in the shape of an elongated graspable handle or in
the shape of a handgrip.
(1) Note. The switch housing is generally an electrical
tool or appliance, e.g., drill, vacuum cleaner, router, etc.
Subclass:
333
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator is provided with covering means.
Subclass:
334
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator is provided with safety structure to
prevent accidental actuation of the switch.
Subclass:
335
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator is a handle or button which pivots about
a point remote from the point of the applied or operating
force.
Subclass:
336
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator rotates in an arcuate plane.
Subclass:
337
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator comprises linkages connected between the
operating handle or button and the moveable contact.
Subclass:
338
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator includes additional structure for
securing it to the switching mechanism and may also serve as
guiding means.
Subclass:
339
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter,
wherein the actuator pivots about an axis (e.g., toggle or
rocker).
Subclass:
341
Push button:
This subclass is indented under subclass 329. Subject matter
wherein the operating structure comprises a push button
element having a single surface on which pressure can be
exerted.
(1) Note. Included herein are push buttons with a single
pushing surface or with two surfaces when the surfaces are
coaxial.
(2) Note. Push buttons are also called keys or caps, often
with the actual pushing surface called a keypad.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
400, Typewriting Machines, subclasses 472+ under
appropriate titles for key-board or key lever actuating
mechanisms.
Subclass:
342
Including lost motion connection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 341. Subject matter
including a means connected to the push button to allow
pretravel motion prior to moving the contacts into
engagement, or to permit the push button to have overtravel
motion after moving the contacts into engagement.
Subclass:
343
Hinged button (e.g., piano key):
This subclass is indented under subclass 341. Subject matter
wherein the push button is connected in a flexible manner to
a supporting structure permitting pivotal motion of the push
button in only one plane pivoted about an axis along the
connection.
Subclass:
344
Mechanism to keep key level:
This subclass is indented under subclass 341. Subject matter
wherein structure is included to prevent tilting or sideways
motion of the push button when other than a direct
straight-line force is applied.
(1) Note. The surface of the push button is normally in the
form of a bar similar to a space bar of a typewriter.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
400, Typewriting Machines, subclasses 490+ for key-cap or
key-stem structure used in typewriting machines.
Subclass:
345
Cap/stem and stem/housing details:
This subclass is indented under subclass 341. Subject matter
wherein the particular connecting structure between (a) the
cap and a stem or plunger, or (b) between the stem and a
housing or casing, are structurally defined.
Subclass:
400
CONTACT MOVED BY SUDDEN RELEASE OF STORED ENERGY (E.G.,
SPRING CHARGER):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the switch device includes (a) means to stress
a spring device, (b) a latching device for holding the
stressed spring from operating after being stressed, and (c)
an actuating device to release the stored energy of the
spring to open or close a circuit.
(1) Note. Often the spring or stored energy device is
charged by an electric motor.
(2) Note. These switches differ from snap switches in that
snap switches have an actuator (e.g., a lever, rocker, push
button, knob, etc.) which charges a spring and then during
its motion releases the spring.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 2, for similar
type devices for releasing or tripping portions of machines
to cause other portions to automatically operate due to the
expenditure of the potential energy possessed by such parts.
Subclass:
401
Toggle mechanisms:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising an actuator having mechanical linkage
connections between the actuator and a movable contact; the
linkage includes at least two links between the actuator and
the contact; the switch also having a biasing member, usually
a coil spring, to hold the links in various positions.
Subclass:
402
Snap:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising a switch having a moveable contact and an
actuator, and wherein the contact is quickly or abruptly
moved independently of the actuator during actuation.
(1) Note. Contact movement is usually accomplished by a
spring connection between the actuator and contact stressed
during initial movement of the actuator followed by a quick
or abrupt movement of the contact when the actuator is moved
beyond a predetermined point (i.e., trigger point).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 97.1 for a
mechanical movement of the oscillating to oscillating kind
and wherein movement of the driving member causes an
initially delayed but subsequently rapid movement of the
driven member, and subclasses 100.1+ for a mechanical
movement of the reciprocating to or from oscillating kind and
wherein movement of the driving member causes an initially
delayed but subsequently rapid movement of the driven
member.
Subclass:
403
Mercury snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter,
wherein the moveable contact is a metallic conducting fluid,
(i.e., mercury).
Subclass:
404
Magnetic snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter
including a magnet to cause a rapid or abrupt motion of the
moveable contact independent of the actuator.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
335, Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets, subclasses 205+ for permanent
magnet-actuated switches.
Subclass:
405
Double snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter
wherein the moveable contact is quickly or abruptly moved
independently of the actuator (i.e., snapped) towards both an
open and a closed position.
Subclass:
406
Including raised flexible snap element (e.g., dome):
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
having a flexible spring element and wherein the spring
element has a dome like configuration, the shape of the
spring being such that when it is actuated the direction of
the spring reverses to cause snapping.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
516 for snap domes used in membrane switches.
Subclass:
407
Blade element stressed to twisted configuration:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein the moveable contact is moved by a planar spring
which is prestressed to have two stable positions separated
by maximum stress over center position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 453+ for blades which are bent in a U-shape and
act as a compression spring.
Subclass:
408
Spring buckle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a spring with each of its ends secured to a switch
housing in a stressed arched state, wherein the snap movement
is caused by the buckling movement of the arched spring past
a line defined by the two secured ends.
(1) Note. Normally the spring is held in an arched state
wherein snap occurs when the direction of the arch is
reversed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
535 for switches having the contacts controlled by a spring
held at both ends where the motion is nonsnap.
Subclass:
409
Spring compressed between two points at a fixed distance from
each other:
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Subject matter
wherein the spring ends are separated by a fixed distance
with the spring under stress, and the ends of the spring
generally attached to a housing.
(1) Note. Normally the spring has its ends fixed to a
housing and the actuator exerts pressure at a point between
the ends.
Subclass:
410
Rotating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein the moveable contact moves in an arc of a circle
relative to a stationary contact in a continuous unlimited
rotary motion.
(1) Note. The rotary movement is usually in one direction.
Subclass:
411
Contact movement blocked until spring is charged (e.g.,
latch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 410. Subject matter
including a spring connection between the actuator and
contact, and an element that (a) blocks the contact movement
until the actuator has moved to stress the spring and (b)
moves the blocking element from its blocking position.
Subclass:
412
Push button actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 411. Subject matter
including a reciprocating type push button to move the
contacts.
Subclass:
413
Pull cord actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 411. Subject matter
wherein the actuator includes an elongated flexible member
attached to the switch to actuate the switch when a pull
force is exerted thereon.
Subclass:
414
Including radial motion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 411. Subject matter
wherein the blocking means moves in a radial direction to
release the contact for rotary motion.
Subclass:
415
Contact restrained until spring is charged (e.g., detent):
This subclass is indented under subclass 410. Subject matter
including a spring connection between the actuator and
contact, and a spring biased restraining element which
releases the contact when the force of the connecting spring
reaches a predetermined release level to cause snap motion of
the contact.
Subclass:
416
Cam actuated contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 410. Subject matter
wherein the contact is moved by a cam, wedge or inclined
surface and is quickly or abruptly released after the contact
passes over the highest point of the cam, wedge or inclined
surface.
(1) Note. This is also referred to in the art as the
"hill-and-valley" type.
Subclass:
417
Push button actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Subject matter
wherein the switch device includes a reciprocating type
button to actuate the contact.
Subclass:
418
Pull cord actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Subject matter
wherein the actuator includes an elongated flexible member
attached to the switch when a pull force is exerted thereon.
Subclass:
419
Ratchet controlled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 410. Subject matter
comprising a spring biased rotary contact which is part of a
ratchet and pawl system for limiting the rotation of the
contact to a one-way rotary motion.
Subclass:
420
Pull cord actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter
wherein the switch device includes an elongated flexible
member to actuate the switch when a pull force is exerted on
the flexible member.
Subclass:
421
Pawl carries contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Subject matter
wherein the pawl is a contact that cooperates with the
rotating contact on the ratchet.
(1) Note. The pawl is usually a leaf spring.
Subclass:
422
Push button actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 421. Subject matter
including a reciprocating type push button actuator.
Subclass:
423
Pull cord actuated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 421. Subject matter
wherein the switch device includes an elongated flexible
member to actuate the switch when a pull force is exerted on
the flexible member.
Subclass:
424
Contact movement is blocked until spring is charged:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including, a spring connection between the actuator and
moveable contact, and an element which blocks the movement of
the contact until the actuator has moved to stress the spring
and moves the blocking element from its blocking position.
(1) Note. Included herein are devices wherein the blocking
element is part of the actuator.
(2) Note. Normally one end of the spring is directly driven
by the actuator and the other end of the spring directly
drives the contacts. However, the switch may also include
intermediate linkages between both the actuator and a spring
driving element and the contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
411 for similar-type devices using a rotating contact.
Subclass:
425
Blocked by distinct latch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 424. Subject matter
including a separate mechanical blocking element which is
moved or tripped to a nonblocking position by the actuator.
Subclass:
426
Driving and driven element oscillate about a common axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Subject matter
wherein the ends of the connecting spring are mounted on a
driving and a driven element, both of which oscillate about a
common axis.
Subclass:
427
With reciprocating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter
including a linkage to translate the oscillating motion of
the driven element into a reciprocating motion of the
contact.
Subclass:
428
Including cam or wedge release:
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Subject matter
including a cam and a spring biased cam follower element
wherein movement of the cam follower relative to the cam over
a high point causes a component of the bias force of the cam
follower to reverse direction and wherein the actuator moves
the latch to release the contact after the cam follower is
past the reversal point.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 431+ and especially 437 for similar type cam or
wedge release devices which do not include a latch.
Subclass:
429
Including reciprocating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Subject matter
wherein the contact is moved in a straight line to a closed
or opened circuit position.
Subclass:
430
Contact movement is restrained until spring is charged (e.g.,
detent):
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a connecting spring between the actuator and the
moveable contact, and a spring biased restraining element
which releases the contact when the force of the connecting
spring reaches a predetermined release level to cause snap
motion of the contact.
Subclass:
431
Cam or wedge release:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a cam and spring biased cam follower element
wherein movement of the cam follower relative to the cam over
a high point causes a component of the bias force of the cam
follower to reverse direction causing a quick or abrupt
motion of the contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
428 for similar type devices which include a latch.
Subclass:
432
Roller contacts acts as cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
wherein a spherical or cylindrical type element is utilized
as both the actuating cam and the contact.
Subclass:
433
Contact slides over pivot point:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
wherein the contact is moved with a sliding motion over a
pivot point by the actuator which causes the contact to cross
over the pivot point with an abrupt snap motion.
(1) Note. Normally the contact is spring biased towards the
pivot point by a plunger type element carried by the
actuator, however spring biased pivot points and rigid
coupling of the contact to the actuator are included.
Subclass:
434
Reciprocating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
wherein the contact moves in a straight line to a closed or
opened circuit position.
Subclass:
435
Contact carrier snaps in opposite direction from actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter
wherein the actuator carries either the cam or cam follower
element, with the moveable contact carried by the other
element, and with the contact reciprocating in the opposite
direction from the actuator.
(1) Note. Normally the actuator takes the form of a push
button but other actuators are herein classified.
Subclass:
436
Including lost motion coupling to cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
including a lost motion connection between the actuator and
the cam or cam follower to permit with the cam or cam
follower to rapidly complete its movement independently of
the actuator once the high point of the cam is past.
(1) Note. Normally the cam follower is in the form of a
spring with the cam in the form of a square.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
469 for similar devices wherein the cam snaps in one
direction only.
Subclass:
437
Spring biased element slides over pivoted element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
wherein a spring biased element acts against an inclined
pivoted element and is suddenly released, after passing the
highest point on the element, to move the contact.
(1) Note. Normally the moveable contact is carried by or is
the pivoted element although linkages may be used.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
438 for similar type devices wherein the spring bias is
provided by the pivoted element which engages a rigid cam
follower.
Subclass:
438
Spring biased pivoted element snapped when cam follower
crosses pivot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
wherein a cam follower acts against a spring biased, pivoted
element which abruptly pivots when the cam follower crosses
the pivot point.
(1) Note. Normally the spring bias for the pivoted element
is in the form of a leaf spring carried by the pivoted
element with the follower directly engaging the spring or in
the form of a spring biased pivot.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
437 for similar type devices utilizing a spring biased cam
follower.
Subclass:
439
Wedge on reciprocating actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 431. Subject matter
wherein the actuator includes a wedge shaped cam which forms
part of the actuator and the wedge is carried by the actuator
as it moves in a straight line motion to move the contacts.
Subclass:
440
With mechanism to insure positive separation of contacts
(i.e., positive kick):
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
combined with a mechanical linkage to positively move the
contacts during a portion of the actuator travel.
(1) Note. These devices are usually intended to break
welded contacts or to overcome friction to enable the normal
spring system to snap the contacts.
Subclass:
441
Contact moved by separate lever:
This subclass is indented under subclass 440. Subject matter
including a distinct lever which is moved by the actuator to
initiate movement of the contact, wherein movement of the
lever is at the end of the travel of the actuator.
Subclass:
442
Actuator moves contact near limit of travel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 440. Subject matter
including abutments on the actuator which engage the contact
when the actuator is near the limits of its travel.
Subclass:
443
Contact driven by impact element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a lost motion coupling between the moveable contact
and an element which strikes a hammerlike blow to the contact
to break contact welds or overcome friction.
(1) Note. These devices are intended to break contact welds
or overcome friction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
446 for similar devices where the snapped element engages
the contacts before the snapped element is moved overcenter
by the actuator.
Subclass:
444
Having weight drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter
wherein the striking element is a mass acted upon by
gravity.
Subclass:
445
Snap spring system using multiple diverse springs:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including two or more dissimilar springs (e.g., leaf springs,
coil springs) which cause the rapid abrupt movement of the
contact.
(1) Note. Herein included are systems having two or more
sequential snap motions involved in the movement of the
contact.
Subclass:
446
Systems having lost motion connections between the actuator,
an intermediate snapped element, and the contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including, an intermediate snapped element and nonrigid
connections between the actuator, intermediate snapped
element, and the contact to allow independent motion of the
actuator, snapped element, and contact.
Subclass:
447
Double ended type (e.g., reciprocating bridging contacts):
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein there are at least two moveable contacts carried
symmetrically by a support.
(1) Note. The snapped element is normally the contacts and
is normally in the shape of a disc or a rectangle with one or
two springs coupling the rectangle to the rod or with a dome
type spring coupling the disc to the rod.
Subclass:
448
Contact pivots moved by actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Subject matter
wherein the snap action of the contacts is caused by the
movement of a contact pivot point; movement of the contact
pivot point is caused by movement of the common support.
(1) Note. The pivot point of the contacts is usually on the
common support.
Subclass:
449
Reciprocating contacts:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein the contact is caused to move in a straight line
between open and closed positions.
(1) Note. Normally the contact is driven by a pivoted
element which is snapped.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 462+ for similar snap devices using pivoted
contacts, where the pivoted contact is normally the snapped
element and corresponds to the pivoted driven element.
Subclass:
450
Compression spring type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 449. Subject matter
wherein a spring held in a prestressed state is utilized to
cause the contact to snap.
(1) Note. The element being snapped is pivoted and there is
a linkage between the snapped element and contacts to cause
the contact to reciprocate in a straight line motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
453 for similar devices wherein the contact is pivoted or
oscillates about a limited arc where the pivoted contact is
normally the snapped element and corresponds to the pivoted
drive element.
Subclass:
451
End of blade pivotally carries element compressing blade:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a prestressed bladelike spring element and wherein
one end of the blade normally carries a contact, and wherein
the other end is attached to a housing and is adapted for
pivotal movement during actuation.
Subclass:
452
Both ends of blade are freely floating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a bladelike element with one end of the blade
carrying the moveable contact and with the other end of the
blade normally being moved to cause actuation.
(1) Note. There is no definitive fixed pivot point for the
blade. The blade is mounted normally by two compression
springs or by a compression spring and a rigid link normally
mounted between the ends of the blade.
Subclass:
453
Compression spring (e.g., push force):
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein the snapping action is caused by a resilient member
(e.g., spring) prestressed (i.e., compressed) by colinear,
opposed forces.
(1) Note. Included herein are one piece leaf spring
elements which are shaped to have legs in both compression
and tension. The nature of the leg under compression governs
classification.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
450 for similar snap devices using a linkage to cause the
oscillated snap element to drive the contact in a
reciprocating straight line motion.
Subclass:
454
Both ends of spring move:
This subclass is indented under subclass 453. Subject matter
wherein the spring has an initial position prior to
actuation, and assumes another position after actuation, and
wherein after an abrupt motion both ends of the spring are
located in a new position.
Subclass:
455
Having roller contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Subject matter
including a spherical or cylindrical-type contact.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass are devices which
utilizes a track for the roller rather than a pivoted link.
In these cases the pivot point is taken to be the center of
curvature of the track.
Subclass:
456
Both ends of spring are carried by blade (e.g., leaf
spring):
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Subject matter
including a bladelike member and wherein the prestressed
spring is carried between two portions of the blade.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass are leaf spring blades
where the compression spring is an integral part of the leaf
spring blade.
Subclass:
457
Axially compressed coil spring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Subject matter
including a spiral shaped spring which is subjected to a
force along its longitudinal axis during actuation.
Subclass:
458
One end of spring is carried by actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Subject matter
wherein a one piece actuator directly carries one end of the
spring.
(1) Note. The actuator is that part of the switch which is
first moved to change the make or break status. There are no
other mechanical connections between the actuator and the
spring.
Subclass:
459
One end of spring is fixed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 453. Subject matter
wherein one end of the spring engages a fixed abutment on a
support and the other end of the spring engages a moveable
member which is caused to move with a snapping action when
the spring passes a fixed point.
Subclass:
460
Central portion of spring is moved to cause snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 459. Subject matter
wherein the central portion of the spring is directly moved
by an actuator.
Subclass:
461
Blade is moved to cause snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 459. Subject matter
wherein the compression spring is a resilient blade and
wherein an actuator directly engages the blade to cause the
blade to snap.
Subclass:
462
Tension spring (e.g., pull force):
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
including a spring which is used to exert a pulling force to
cause the quick abrupt motion of the contacts.
(1) Note. Normally the contacts are pivoted and directly
connected to the spring although there may be a linkage
between the snapped element and the contacts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
449 for similar snap devices normally using a pivoted
snapped member with a linkage to cause the contacts to
reciprocate in a straight line motion.
Subclass:
463
Contact pivot point is moved to cause snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 462. Subject matter
including a pivoted contact which is caused to snap when its
pivot point is moved beyond a line connecting the two ends of
the spring.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
448 for similar devices having an even number of contacts
pivoted on the actuator normally using a tension spring
connected between at least two of the contacts.
Subclass:
464
Pivot point is carried by actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 463. Subject matter
wherein the pivot point of the contact is directly mounted on
the actuator.
Subclass:
465
Both ends of spring move:
This subclass is indented under subclass 462. Subject matter
wherein the spring has an initial position prior to
actuation, and assumes another position after actuation, and
wherein after an abrupt motion both ends of the spring are
located in a new position.
Subclass:
466
One end of spring is carried by actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 465. Subject matter
wherein a one piece actuator directly carries one end of the
spring.
Subclass:
467
One end of spring is fixed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 462. Subject matter
wherein one end of the spring engages a fixed abutment on a
support and the other end of the spring engages a moveable
member which is caused to move with a snapping action when
the spring passes a fixed point.
Subclass:
468
Single snap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter
wherein the contact is caused to abruptly or quickly move
during part of the actuator travel in only one direction,
with the contact being fully controlled by the actuator in
the other direction.
Subclass:
469
Including lost motion coupling to cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 468. Subject matter
including a cam, cam follower, and a lost motion connection
between the cam and actuator, wherein the quick abrupt motion
of the contact is caused when the high point of the cam is
moved past the cam follower with the cam then quickly moving
independent of the actuator.
(1) Note. Normally the cam follower is a spring biased
contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
436 for similar devices wherein the cam snaps in both
directions.
Subclass:
470
Contact movement is blocked by latch until spring is
charged:
This subclass is indented under subclass 468. Subject matter
including a spring connection between the actuator and
contact, and an element which blocks the movement of the
contact until the actuator has moved to stress the spring and
moves the blocking element from its blocking position.
Subclass:
471
Contact restrained before snap spring is charged (e.g.,
detent):
This subclass is indented under subclass 468. Subject matter
including a spring connection between the actuator and
contact, and a spring biased restraining element which
releases the contact when the force of the connecting spring
reaches a predetermined release level to cause snap motion of
the contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
430 for similar devices wherein the contact is snapped in
both directions.
Subclass:
472
Detent function performed by spring biased contact (e.g.,
knife blade):
This subclass is indented under subclass 471. Subject matter
wherein the stationary contact acts as a spring biased
detent, restraining the moving contact until a spring
connected to the moving contact, overcomes the detent spring
force allowing the moving contact to quickly separate.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass are double throw
switches which snap away from both contacts. These are
considered single snap devices because the contacts do not
snap closed.
Subclass:
500
Helical drive mechanism:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the opening or closing of an electrical
circuit is operated by a helical element.
(1) Note. The helical drive mechanism may include rack and
pinions, worm drive devices, screw-type drive or helical
grooves on the driving shaft.
Subclass:
501
Gear driven:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising relatively rotatable bodies or combinations
of such bodies each provided with circumferential teeth
intermeshing with each other to impart a drive motion to move
a contact member to open or close a circuit.
Subclass:
502
Solid contact:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein an electrical circuit si completed by the
physical engagement and disengagement of two solid conductive
elements (i.e., contacts) to form a complete switch.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass are devices which may
have plural sets of contacts, however, the plurality herein
is an obvious duplication of a single contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 1+ for devices arranged to control two or more
circuits.
Subclass:
503
Rolamite-type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
comprising a flexible roller band or spring band device
wherein at least a pair of rotatable roller contact members
are disposed within a switch housing and the flexible
resilient band is convoluted around the roller contact
members in S-shaped configuration so as to maintain the
roller axes parallel as they move within the housing when
actuated.
Subclass:
504
Coaxial switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein the switch is used to switch a signal between a first
and a second coaxial cable.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
333, Wave Transmission Lines and Networks, subclasses 260+
for the combination of a coaxial conductor system including
switches.
Subclass:
505
Hand held squeeze actuated switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
including a switch device comprising a housing which normally
consists of a bulb or sleeve element on which a pressure is
exerted especially on opposite sides to actuate the
conductive elements.
(1) Note. These devices lack a clearly identifiable
actuator projecting from a housing such as a lever or push
button element to operate the switch device.
Subclass:
506
Interposed nonconductor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
including a nonconductive element which is inserted between
the solid conductive elements to hold the conductive elements
physically separated during the presence of the nonconductive
element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61.19 for similar type devices in combination with a special
application.
Subclass:
507
Screw used as moving contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein a movable threaded member is utilized as the solid
contact member for completing the electrical circuit.
Subclass:
508
Both contacts are moved:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
including structure to move each solid conductive element
separately into engagement or disengagement in relation to
each other.
(1) Note. There are no stationary contacts present in the
switch.
Subclass:
509
Bimodal (e.g., single stroke make/break-no make on return):
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein the contacts travel in one path upon actuation and
includes mechanism to divert the contacts into another path
upon their return.
(1) Note. The initial actuating stroke causes a closing and
then opening (or vice-versa) of the contacts. The return
stroke of the actuator returns the movable contact to its
original position, but the mechanism does not permit
reactuation.
Subclass:
510
Push button actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 509. Subject matter
including a reciprocating-type push button having a single
surface on which pressure is exerted to actuate the
contacts.
Subclass:
511
Compressible elastomer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein a circuit is completed by an elastomeric material
containing discrete particles of electrically conductive
materials embedded therein and wherein, in the compressed
state, the particles come into contact with each other to
complete the circuit, and as the compression is released, the
particles again separate to open the circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
338, Electrical Resistors, subclass 114, for variable
resistors using elastomeric conductors. These switches
differ from the resistors in the amount of change of
resistance with pressure. The switch normally changes from
open or infinite resistance to closed or low resistance with
only a small change in pressure. The resistor has a gradual
change in resistance such that intermediate resistance can be
obtained.
Subclass:
512
Membrane type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein the switch includes at least one contact member which
is carried on or actuated by a flexible sheet, which
cooperates with another contact on a substrate to open or
close a circuit.
(1) Note. The membrane switch normally comprises a
substrate and a flexible sheet sealed together with a
separate spacer which is normally used to separate the
substrate, and the flexible sheet normally carries the moving
contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5 for similar type switches arranged in keyboard manner.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, subclasses 20+
for an operator actuated code transmitter including
circuitry.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclass
288.
400, Typewriting Machines, subclass 479.1, for push button
controllers using variable capacitance. The capacitor
normally has a substrate with a conductive plate and a
flexible membrane with a moveable conductive plate like a
membrane switch but has in addition an insulative layer to
prevent the plates from contact.
Subclass:
513
Specific dome shape:
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Subject matter
wherein the flexible sheet comprises a particularly defined
convex configuration, designed to buckle under pressure, and
having the moving contact within or under the convex area.
Subclass:
514
Specific nonconductive materials:
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Subject matter
comprising a substrate and a flexible member, and wherein
there is disposed a spacer separating the substrate and
flexible member, the spacer or flexible member being of
specified nonconductive materials.
Subclass:
515
Pressure equalizing means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Subject matter
including means to vent a compartment formed between the
flexible member and the substrate, to either the atmosphere
or to another compartment so as to equalize the pressure of
air or other fluid displaced by the flexible sheet member
when actuated.
Subclass:
516
Including auxiliary dome/disc type spring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Subject matter
including an arched disc or dome type spring disposed between
the flexible sheet member and the substrate, wherein the
spring may be utilized as the moveable contact.
Subclass:
517
Including additional actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 512. Subject matter
wherein the membrane switch includes additional means to
actuate the membrane switch.
(1) Note. The additional means is usually attached or
applied above the flexible member in order to press on the
flexible member.
Subclass:
518
Plural actuators operate single switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
including two or more actuating devices utilized to engage
and disengage the solid conductive elements of a single
switch device, each of the actuating devices can operate the
switch individually.
Subclass:
519
Push and/or pull with 3 or more positions:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein the contacts are moved into engagement or
disengagement by manually grasping, guiding, pushing or
lifting a rigid device which can be manipulated into three or
more positions into and out of a switch housing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 538+ for similar type push/pull mechanical
devices but which devices include only two position
movements.
Subclass:
520
Push button operated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
wherein the contacts are moved into engagement or
disengagement by a push button actuator having a single
surface on which pressure is exerted to engage and disengage
the contacts.
(1) Note. Included herein are also actuators which
reciprocate with one pushing surface, and also pivoted or
hinged type actuators which have a single pushing surface.
All of these type actuators are inherently two positions
switches.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 538+ and 553+, for switches which have two
pushing surfaces, and 51.16, for push button switches
associated with connector couplings, (i.e., light bulbs).
Subclass:
521
Including tactile feedback mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein structure is provided to simulate a varied resistance
to depression of the push button to indicate by feel the
position of the contacts.
(1) Note. These devices generally try to simulate the
effects of a snap switch which reaches maximum resistance to
travel prior to switch-over followed by an abrupt decline in
resistance after the contacts are closed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
400, Typewriting Machines, subclass 491.3 for tactile
feedback type mechanisms used in typewriters.
Subclass:
522
Trigger actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein the push button is a lever-type element to control
the engagement or disengagement of the contacts.
(1) Note. The push button is normally in the shape of a
trigger on a firearm or an actuator on an electrical tool,
etc.
Subclass:
523
Including alternate action mechanism, (e.g., push-pull):
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein the position of the solid conductive element is
alternated between opened and closed with each actuation of
the push button and wherein the solid conductive element
remains in the last position until the push button is further
actuated.
Subclass:
524
With heart-shape cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Subject matter
including a cam track having a generally cardioid shape which
is utilized to hold the position of the solid conductive
element in engagement or disengagement.
Subclass:
525
With W-shaped rocking element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Subject matter
wherein a w-shaped element is utilized to change the position
of the solid conductive elements by rocking the w-shaped
element from one side to the other with the push button and
further includes means to engage alternate grooves of the
w-shaped element during actuation.
Subclass:
526
With rotating member, (e.g., ball point pen type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 523. Subject matter
including a rotating member and a mechanism to convert a
generally reciprocating motion of the push button into
unlimited rotary motion of the rotating member, wherein each
actuation of the push button indexes the rotary member a
predetermined amount.
(1) Note. These devices may be similar to ball point pen
retraction mechanisms having ratchet type movements.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
417 419, 422, 526, and 532, for similar type mechanisms
wherein the rotating element is a contact which is snapped.
Subclass:
527
Including rotating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 526. Subject matter
wherein the rotating member carries, or is the solid
conductive member which moves in an arc of a circle, engages
and disengages a solid stationary conductive element.
Subclass:
528
Rotating cam moves contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 526. Subject matter
wherein the rotating member is a cam which engages a moveable
conductive element to engage and disengage with a stationary
conductive member.
Subclass:
529
Mechanism to transfer reciprocating to rotary or rocking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
including a mechanism to convert reciprocating motion of the
push button to rotary or rocking motion during actuation of
the push button.
Subclass:
530
Contact carried by push button:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein the push button carries the solid conductive member.
Subclass:
531
Sliding contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 530. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element carried by the push
button engages a fixed solid conductive element in a sliding
manner.
Subclass:
532
Leaf spring contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 530. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element is carried by the push
button and is in the form of a leaf spring.
Subclass:
533
Cam actuated contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein actuation of the push button causes relative movement
between a cam and cam follower to cause motion of the solid
conductive element.
Subclass:
534
Abutting contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein engagement between the solid conductive element is
characterized in that the relative movement between one of
the solid conductive elements terminates when the surface of
one touches the surface of the other.
(1) Note. Generally there is no further movement between
the conductive elements after the initial touch.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
508 for switches wherein both solid conductive elements are
caused to engage in an abutting fashion, however there are no
stationary solid conductive elements included in these
switches.
Subclass:
535
Leaf spring contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 534. Subject matter
wherein leaf springs are utilized as either the movable or
stationary conductive elements.
Subclass:
536
Sliding contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive elements are engaged and
disengaged in a sliding manner.
Subclass:
537
Reciprocating actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
comprising means for moving or controlling the solid
conductive elements into engagement or disengagement in a
straight line motion.
Subclass:
538
Push/pull rod:
This subclass is indented under subclass 537. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive elements are moved into
engagement by a rigid rod actuating member and disengaged
when the rigid rod actuating member is moved in the opposite
direction.
(1) Note. These switch devices are generally the reverse of
a push button switch, being pulled into engagement rather
than pushed into engagement. Also included in this subclass
are push rods that require a push at one end to actuate and a
push at the other end to deactuate.
Subclass:
539
Specific detent structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 538. Subject matter
including detailed mechanical structure of means to hold the
actuating rod member in an engaged position.
Subclass:
540
Contact carried by rod:
This subclass is indented under subclass 538. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element is carried by the rigid
rod actuating member.
Subclass:
541
Sliding contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive elements are engaged and
disengaged in a sliding manner.
Subclass:
542
Cam actuated contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 538. Subject matter
wherein movement of the rigid rod actuating member causes
relative movement between a cam and cam follower to cause
motion of a solid conductive element.
Subclass:
543
Pull cord:
This subclass is indented under subclass 537. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive members are moved into
engagement and disengagement by pulling an elongated flexible
member on which a pulling force can be exerted.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
413 418, 420, and 423, for snap switches using rotating
contacts wherein a pull cord is used to actuate the switch,
and also 51.15 for switches combined with or actuated by
connector coupling and operated by a pull chain or cord.
Subclass:
544
Rotating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Subject matter
wherein one of the solid conductive elements moves in an arc
of a circle, relative to a stationary contact, in a
continuous unlimited rotary motion.
Subclass:
545
Cam actuated contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Subject matter
wherein a pull force of the elongated flexible member causes
relative movement between a cam and cam follower to cause
motion of the solid conductive elements.
Subclass:
546
Leaf spring contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 543. Subject matter
including a leaf spring and wherein the leaf spring is
utilized as either the movable or stationary conductive
elements.
Subclass:
547
Slide switch (handle projects perpendicular to motion):
This subclass is indented under subclass 537. Subject matter
including a switch housing and a sliding actuator wherein the
actuator protrudes from the housing at right angles relative
to the housing, and relative to its sliding direction.
Subclass:
548
Housing and actuator form detent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 547. Subject matter
wherein the housing and actuator include a mechanism which
incorporates a holding device to retain the actuator in a
given position.
Subclass:
549
Contact carried by slide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 547. Subject matter
wherein the actuator carries the solid conductive element.
Subclass:
550
Sliding contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 549. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element, carried by the
actuator, engages a fixed solid conductive element in a
sliding manner.
Subclass:
551
Cam actuator contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 547. Subject matter
wherein movement of the actuator causes relative movement
between a cam and cam follower to cause motion of a solid
conductive element.
Subclass:
552
Two button switches (noncoaxial parallel buttons):
This subclass is indented under subclass 537. Subject matter
wherein there are two push buttons which are movable
independently of each other to engage or disengage the solid
contact elements.
Subclass:
553
Rocking actuator (e.g., rocker, lever):
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
including an actuator having at least two pushing surfaces
wherein the actuator oscillates in a limited arc about an
axis parallel to the outer surface of a switch housing from
which the actuator projects.
(1) Note. The switches in this subclass are generally
characterized by having an actuator with two pushing surfaces
that cause an element, normally the actuator itself, to
oscillate. Often the push buttons are an integral part of
the oscillating member. The two button switches in this
subclass normally have both buttons projecting from the same
side of the housing. Switches with the rocking actuator
mounted to the side of the housing, rather than within the
housing, are included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
538 for switches with two button actuators where the two
buttons reciprocate along the same axis. These switches
normally have the buttons projecting from opposite sides of
the housing.
Subclass:
554
Knife blade contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
comprising a movable blade type conducting element and a
generally U-shaped fixed receiving member so that the movable
blade member can engage the U-shaped member for closing or
opening a circuit.
Subclass:
555
With catch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 554. Subject matter
including means to hold the blade conducting element and the
U-shaped receiving member in a fixed opened or closed
position.
Subclass:
556
Housing and actuator form detent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
including a housing and an actuator which further includes a
mechanism which incorporates a holding device to retain the
actuator in a desired position.
Subclass:
557
Actuator biasing mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
including specific spring type means to urge the actuator to
return to a normal nonactuated center position after
momentary motion of the actuator to either side.
Subclass:
558
Cam actuated contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
wherein movement of the actuator causes relative movement
between a cam and cam follower to cause motion of the movable
solid conductive elements.
Subclass:
559
Leaf spring contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 558. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element, operated by the cam, is
a leaf spring.
Subclass:
560
Rotating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
wherein one of the solid conductive elements moves in an arc
of a circle, relative to a stationary contact, in a limited
rotary motion.
Subclass:
561
Reciprocating contact in straight-line motion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
including mechanism to convert the oscillating motion of the
actuator to limited straight-line motion.
Subclass:
562
Contact carried by actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Subject matter
wherein the actuator carries the movable solid conductive
element.
Subclass:
563
Sliding contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 562. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element, carried by the
oscillating actuator engages a fixed solid conductive element
in a sliding manner.
Subclass:
564
Rotating actuator (e.g., dial):
This subclass is indented under subclass 502. Subject matter
including a housing and an actuator having a graspable
extension for manipulating the actuator about an axis in a
limited or unlimited circular motion relative to the
housing.
(1) Note. The graspable extension may also function as a
dial to indicate position of the actuator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51.17 for devices in which a switch is operated by means of
a rotatable key.
Subclass:
565
Housing and actuator form detent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Subject matter
wherein the housing and the actuator incorporate a mechanism
for holding the actuator in a desired position.
Subclass:
566
Auxiliary motion required to actuate or release (e.g., push
to rotate):
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Subject matter
wherein the actuator is in an initial hold or lock state and
wherein the actuator must be physically moved, such as by
push or pull force in order to release the actuator from its
hold or lock state prior to actuation.
Subclass:
567
Rotation about a longitudinal axis of tool or appliance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Subject matter
wherein the circular motion of the actuator is around the
longitudinal axis of the body of a housing of a tool or
appliance.
Subclass:
568
Contact actuated by cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Subject matter
including a cam and cam follower, wherein movement of the
actuator causes relative movement between the cam and cam
follower to actuate the solid conductive element.
Subclass:
569
Leaf spring contact operated by cam on actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 568. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element is a leaf spring-type
contact and wherein the leaf spring contact is actuated by a
cam carried by the actuator.
Subclass:
570
Rotating contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Subject matter
wherein one of the solid conductive elements moves in an arc
of a circle, relative to a stationary contact, in an
unlimited rotary motion.
Subclass:
571
Sliding contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 570. Subject matter
wherein the solid conductive element, carried by the
oscillating actuator engages a fixed solid conductive element
in a sliding manner.
Subclass:
572
Linear moving contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 564. Subject matter
including mechanism to convert the circular motion of the
actuator into straight-line motion of the contact.
Subclass:
573
Cam operates contact or microswitch:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including a cam which imparts motion directly to the
contact to open or close an electrical circuit, or imparts
motion to a unitary switch, (i.e., microswitch) to actuate
the switch.
(1) Note. A unitary switch is basically comprised of its
own housing, actuator and terminal. It is generally within
another device.
Subclass:
574
Peripheral cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Subject matter
wherein the cam includes, on its outer circumferential
surface, eccentric or disc-type structure which engages the
contacts of the unitary switch to impart periodic motion to
the contacts.
Subclass:
600
CAPACITIVE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein a capacitor is the circuit closing and opening
device.
(1) Note. A capacitor switch plus circuitry is classified
elsewhere.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclasses 112+ for a capacitive device controlled
switching circuit.
320, Electricity: Battery or Capacitor Charging or
Discharging, subclasses 166+ for capacitor charging or
discharging.
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclasses 658+
for measuring capacitance.
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, subclass 33 for a
capacitive keyboard controlled code transmitter.
345, Computer Graphics Processing, Operator Interface
Processing, and Selective Visual Display Systems, subclasses
168+ for a display with a capacitive keyboard.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses
287+ for a mechanically variable capacitor, per se.
400, Typewriting Machines, subclass 479.1 for a typewriter
keyboard with a capacitance operated switch.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000