EP2141715B1 - Safety switch - Google Patents
Safety switch Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2141715B1 EP2141715B1 EP20080011840 EP08011840A EP2141715B1 EP 2141715 B1 EP2141715 B1 EP 2141715B1 EP 20080011840 EP20080011840 EP 20080011840 EP 08011840 A EP08011840 A EP 08011840A EP 2141715 B1 EP2141715 B1 EP 2141715B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- slider
- switch
- push button
- box
- spring
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 238000013519 translation Methods 0.000 claims description 17
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000014616 translation Effects 0.000 description 11
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000006399 behavior Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000001674 Agaricus brunnescens Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000750 progressive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
- H01H3/02—Operating parts, i.e. for operating driving mechanism by a mechanical force external to the switch
- H01H3/022—Emergency operating parts, e.g. for stop-switch in dangerous conditions
Definitions
- the present invention generally finds application in the art of electric safety equipment and particularly relates to a push button safety switch adapted to be mounted in machines or systems to cut off the power supply thereto, particularly in case of emergency.
- Push button safety switches are known to be mounted to electric machines or systems to ensure safe operation thereof, by cutting off power supply in case of danger or whenever their operation needs to be stopped.
- safety switches include a manually operable push button which is coupled to a switching unit adapted to selectively open and close the power circuit, thereby switching the electric load.
- the switches are required to keep the switching circuit open whenever the control push button is unable to properly transmit the contact opening control due to the switching unit being disengaged or improperly engaged therewith. Furthermore, a danger warning is required to be transmitted whenever the switching unit is not correctly operating.
- Certain safety switch solutions such as those disclosed in WO2006/094928 and EP1801830 include an additional electrically conductive element connected to the push button to allow the power circuit to only open if the switching unit is correctly coupled to the push button.
- JP2003308756 and JP2003272468 provide a mechanical coupling device interposed between the switching unit and the push button, so that the circuit can only close if the coupling device is properly coupled to the push button by a lock lever.
- certain applications provide indication of proper coupling between the push button and the switching unit by intermediate abutment members, such as movable tabs that actuate elastic contacts, without checking the position of the slider of the switching unit.
- EP1801827 discloses a prior art safety switch of the type described above, in which the switching contacts are coupled to a common bridge integral with a slider which is adapted to be driven by the control push button.
- the power circuit is closed by a spring-biased snap mechanism and is held in the closed position by spring action.
- the object of this invention is to overcome the above drawbacks, by providing a safety switch that achieves high efficiency and relative cost effectiveness.
- a particular object is to provide a safety switch that ensures safety in case of improper coupling of its parts, using a considerably simplified construction, even in case of welded contacts.
- a further object is to provide a safety switch that allows simple and inexpensive fabrication and assembly.
- Yet another object is to provide a safety switch that ensures high reliability and has a relatively low risk of rupture and jamming of its parts.
- Another important object of the invention is to provide a safety switch in which proper assembly is checked by direct checking of the slider of the switching unit.
- positive opening of the power circuit is intended to indicate an opening caused by a motion of the switching contacts caused by driving means that do not include elastic elements, as defined in the standard IEC-947-5-1.
- the switch of the invention allows safe opening of the circuit, in case of disengagement or improper engagement of the box-like body containing the contacts with respect to the push button, using a considerably simplified construction.
- the rigidity of the driving means allows reliable and constant operation of the switch with time, and also ensures positive opening of the contacts after a preset travel of the push button, which is also constant with time and not susceptible to changes caused by elastic elements.
- the safety switch of the invention may be mounted to machines or industrial electric systems and be used, for instance, as a safety or emergency switch for cutting off the power supply to the machine or system by switching an electric load.
- a safety switch of the invention comprises a box-like body 2 having a longitudinal axis L and housing therein at least one pair of stationary contacts 3, 4 to be connected to the terminals of a power circuit of the machine or system, not shown.
- a first slider 5 is slideably housed in the box-like body 2 and is movable parallel to the longitudinal axis L between lower A and upper B end positions, corresponding to open and closed circuit positions respectively.
- the first slider 5 has at least one pair of movable contacts 6, 7 operably connected thereto, to translate relative to the stationary contacts 3, 4 between the end positions A, B and cause the electric load to be switched by opening and closing the circuit respectively.
- the switch 1 further has a control push button 8 normally coupled to the box-like body 2 and operably associated to the first slider 5 to cause the latter to slide within the box-like body 2 between the end positions A, B.
- the push button 8 may be, for instance, an emergency mushroom or a machine stop button and may have, as shown in the figures, a stationary portion 9, designed to be fastened to the frame T of a machine or system to be served and to be coupled to the box-like body 2, and a movable portion 10 with a pushing member 11 axially sliding in response to pressure exerted by a user.
- the push button 8 and the box-like body 2 may be coupled together by means of a pair of side tabs 12, 12' integral with the stationary portion 9 of the push button 8, which are designed for engagement with respective specially shaped side extensions 13, 13' of the box-like body 2.
- coupling elements 12, 12'; 13, 13' may be provided, and the push button 8 may also be configured to be different from the one as shown herein, without departure from the scope of the present invention.
- positive driving means 14 may be interposed between the push button 8 and the first slider 5 to cause interaction between the movable contacts 6, 7 and the stationary contacts 3, 4 and, as a result, positive opening of the circuit both as the push button 8 is pressed, when it is normally coupled to the box-like body 2 and as the box-like body 2 accidentally disengages from the push-button 8 or when the box-like body 2 is not properly coupled thereto.
- the positive driving means 14 may be free of any elastic elements and snap mechanisms, to allow progressive separation of the movable switching contacts 6, 7 from the stationary contacts 3, 4 as the push button 8 is being pressed.
- the motion transmission means 14 may include a second slider 15, at least partially held within the box-like body 2 and free to axially slide within the box-like body 2.
- the second slider 15 may be operably connected to the pushing member 11 of the push button 8 to transfer the pressing motion of the latter to the first slider 5, thereby causing translation of the movable contacts 6, 7 to open/close the circuit.
- the two sliders 5, 15 may be arranged to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L, with the second slider 15 having a first outer end portion 17 facing towards the pushing member 11 and interacting therewith to rigidly transfer the motion of the push button 8 to the first slider 5.
- the second slider 15 may have a hollow central portion 18 for receiving the first slider 5, which will be able to axially slide therein.
- the first slider 5 may have a T-shape and be operably connected to the movable contacts 6, 7 by a contact bridge 20 which may be either separated from such first slider 5 or integrated with the latter at one end thereof.
- the single bridge 20 may be replaced by two separate bridges, in parallel arrangement or connected together, and having each at least one pair of movable contacts 6, 7.
- the driving means 14 may include an articulated linkage 21 with a pair of levers 22, 23, each having a pair of arms 24, 24'; 25, 25' designed for interaction with the first 5 and the second sliders 15 respectively to force the movable contacts 6, 7 into an open position C intermediate between the two end positions A, B in a state of disengagement or improper coupling of the box-like body 2.
- the levers 22, 23 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis L and may be articulated at a central portion about respective axes of rotation X, Y substantially transverse and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L.
- the second slider 15 may have a substantially transverse wall 26 in its hollow central portion 18, with a substantially flat inner surface 27, adapted to interact with the first slider 5 to drive it in its longitudinal motion after a first longitudinal translation t 1 of the second slider 15 in the direction of introduction thereof in the box-like body 2 with a predetermined maximum travel.
- the transverse wall 26 may also have an appropriately shaped outer surface 28 with an outwardly directed convexity, which is designed to interact with respective arms 24', 25' of the levers 22, 23, after a second longitudinal translation t 2 in the direction opposite the first translation t 1 with a predetermined travel, upon even partial disengagement of the box-like body 2.
- the second slider 15 will drive the levers 22, 24 to pivot about their respective transverse axes X, Y, with a predetermined angle a, which is sufficient to allow interaction of the arms 24, 25 with the first slider 5.
- the levers 22, 23 will be thereby locked in a tilted position, whereby they will lock the first slider 5 in an intermediate position C between the two end positions A, B, to cause forced disengagement of the movable contacts 6, 7 from the stationary contacts 3, 4 and open the circuit.
- Elastic counteracting means 29 may be also provided in the box-like body 2 to operate on the first 5 and second sliders 15 and exert respective forces of predetermined strength on the first 5 and second sliders 15.
- the elastic means 29 will be also used to return the sliders 5, 15, particularly when the box-like body 2 is coupled and the push button 8 is not pressed, to move the first slider 5 in the closed circuit, upper end position B.
- the elastic means 29 will include a first spring 30 operating on the contact bridge 20 and hence on the first slider 5 to force the bridge 20 outwards and move the movable contacts 6, 7 from the open power circuit position A to the closed power circuit position B.
- the elastic force generated by the first spring 30 will be entirely transmitted to the bridge 20. Therefore, the first spring 30 will not have to overcome the resistance of the first slider 5, and this will allow the circuit to close.
- the elastic means 29 may include a second spring 31 operating on the second slider 15 to counteract its sliding introduction motion and urge it outwards.
- the first 30 and second 31 springs may have different spring moduli, with the spring modulus of the second spring 31 higher than the spring modulus of the first spring 30.
- Figs. 8 to 10 show a second preferred embodiment of a box-like body 2 with its driving means 14 and elastic means 29, as shown in three different operating positions identical to those that are shown in Figs. 5 to 7 respectively.
- the positive motion transmission means 14 may include an actuator mechanism 32 of the rack-and-pinion type.
- the mechanism 32 may consist of a pair of first and second racks, 33, 33'; 34, 34' respectively, which face towards each other and are rigidly connected to the first slider 5 and the second slider 15 respectively, and a pair of pinions 35, 36 pivoting about respective fixed transverse axes relative to the box-like body 2, and interposed between and meshing with the respective first and second racks 33, 33'; 34, 34'.
- the size of the pinions 35, 36 may be selected so that a longitudinal translation of one of the sliders 5, 15 in a given direction will cause a translation of the other slider 15, 5 in the opposite direction, thereby obtaining an effect similar to that produced by the above described transmission means 14.
- the first slider 5 may be designed as a bridge integral with the movable contacts 6, 7 for two elastic counteracting and return elements 37, 38 to operate thereon, with the same function as the above described first spring 30.
- the pushing member 11 associated therewith may interact with the second sliders 15 to push it into the box-like body 2 and cause its translation t 1 against the elastic action of the second spring 31.
- the first slider 5 may be axially disengaged from the second slider 15 and the transverse wall 26 will not be in contact with the levers 22, 23, which will allow the first slider 5 to translate integrally with the bridge 20 by the bias of the first spring 30, to reach the upper end position B corresponding to the closed circuit condition.
- the pushing member 11 will press the second slider 15 into the box-like body 2.
- the second slider 15 will translate longitudinally with a translational motion t 3 having a predetermined maximum travel value, thereby moving the transverse wall 26 to contact with the first slider 5 and to push it from the upper end position B to the open circuit lower end position A, by overcoming the resistance of both springs 30, 31, as shown in Figs. 2 and 6 .
- the pushing member 11 cannot exert its action on the second slider 15, wherefore the latter will undergo a translation t 2 due to the bias of the second spring 31.
- the convex surface 28 of the transverse wall 26 may interact with the arms 24', 25' of the levers 22, 23 to cause them to pivot, thereby transferring the translational motion t 2 to the first slider 5.
- the levers 22, 23 will push the first slider 5 in a direction opposite the direction of motion of the second slider 15.
- the first slider 5 will move from one of the two end positions A, B to the intermediate position C, which may even be coincident with the end position A, thereby separating the movable contacts 6, 7 from the stationary contacts 3, 4 and open the circuit.
- the function of the levers 22, 23 will be performed by the pinions 35, 36 and the first racks 33, 33', which will operate to push the first slider 5 from the closed circuit end position B to the open circuit intermediate position C upon the release of the second slider 15 resulting from the disengagement of the box-like body 2 from the push button 8, as shown in Fig. 10 .
- the second slider 15 is allowed to rigidly interact with the first slider 5 to push it to the open circuit lower end position A, as shown in Fig. 9 .
- FIG. 11 shows the typical circuit opening and closing diagrams of a safety switch of the invention.
- the position C corresponds to the state in which the second slider 15 is entirely removed, which occurs when the box-like body 2 is disengaged from or not correctly coupled to the push button 8.
- the positions B and A corresponding to the closed circuit and open circuit states, are reached by the second slider 15 as a result of longitudinal translations, with travels c 1 and c 2 respectively, with respect to the position C.
Landscapes
- Push-Button Switches (AREA)
- Control Of Combustion (AREA)
- Air Bags (AREA)
Description
- The present invention generally finds application in the art of electric safety equipment and particularly relates to a push button safety switch adapted to be mounted in machines or systems to cut off the power supply thereto, particularly in case of emergency.
- Push button safety switches are known to be mounted to electric machines or systems to ensure safe operation thereof, by cutting off power supply in case of danger or whenever their operation needs to be stopped.
- Typically, safety switches include a manually operable push button which is coupled to a switching unit adapted to selectively open and close the power circuit, thereby switching the electric load.
- As the push button is operated, a change of state occurs in the switching unit, which causes the contacts to open and the machine or system to be stopped.
- For obvious reasons, the switches are required to keep the switching circuit open whenever the control push button is unable to properly transmit the contact opening control due to the switching unit being disengaged or improperly engaged therewith. Furthermore, a danger warning is required to be transmitted whenever the switching unit is not correctly operating.
- Certain safety switch solutions, such as those disclosed in
WO2006/094928 andEP1801830 include an additional electrically conductive element connected to the push button to allow the power circuit to only open if the switching unit is correctly coupled to the push button. -
US6198058 ,DE10047998 ,EP0932171 andDE4101493 disclose prior art safety switches having a first contact that opens the power circuit as the push button is pressed, whereas a second contact only closes if the switching unit is properly coupled to the push button, possibly by a sliding bridge contact. - Further solutions, as disclosed in
JP2003308756 JP2003272468 - Nevertheless, these prior art solutions have the apparent drawback of requiring a large number of parts, which add complexity and affect reliability.
- Furthermore, certain applications provide indication of proper coupling between the push button and the switching unit by intermediate abutment members, such as movable tabs that actuate elastic contacts, without checking the position of the slider of the switching unit.
- Here, there is a high risk of bending failure of the elastic elements which are particularly subjected to shocks when the switching unit is disengaged from the push button.
- Further solutions only check proper engagement of the push button and the intermediate element, thereby involving the risk that, in case of accidental separation of the switching unit from the intermediate element, the electric contact will be unable to open, and any operation of the push button will not cause the contact to open, because the contact is separated from the rest of the switch.
-
EP1801827 discloses a prior art safety switch of the type described above, in which the switching contacts are coupled to a common bridge integral with a slider which is adapted to be driven by the control push button. - With the push button properly coupled and not actuated, the power circuit is closed by a spring-biased snap mechanism and is held in the closed position by spring action.
- While this solution provides a simpler and more reliable safety switch, by allowing the contact to open even in case of incorrect coupling between the push button and the switching unit, it still has the drawback of involving the use of elastic elements that are not easily mounted and exposed to higher jamming and rupture risks.
- Furthermore, the presence of elastic elements for contact actuation does not ensure forced opening of the circuit, wherefore the switch might not operate if the switching contacts become "welded" to the terminals of the circuit being served, for example due to overload conditions.
- The object of this invention is to overcome the above drawbacks, by providing a safety switch that achieves high efficiency and relative cost effectiveness.
- A particular object is to provide a safety switch that ensures safety in case of improper coupling of its parts, using a considerably simplified construction, even in case of welded contacts.
- A further object is to provide a safety switch that allows simple and inexpensive fabrication and assembly.
- Yet another object is to provide a safety switch that ensures high reliability and has a relatively low risk of rupture and jamming of its parts.
- Another important object of the invention is to provide a safety switch in which proper assembly is checked by direct checking of the slider of the switching unit.
- These and other objects, as better explained hereafter, are fulfilled by a safety switch as defined in claim 1.
- As used herein, the term "positive opening of the power circuit" is intended to indicate an opening caused by a motion of the switching contacts caused by driving means that do not include elastic elements, as defined in the standard IEC-947-5-1.
- Thanks to this particular configuration, the switch of the invention allows safe opening of the circuit, in case of disengagement or improper engagement of the box-like body containing the contacts with respect to the push button, using a considerably simplified construction.
- Furthermore, the rigidity of the driving means allows reliable and constant operation of the switch with time, and also ensures positive opening of the contacts after a preset travel of the push button, which is also constant with time and not susceptible to changes caused by elastic elements.
- Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description of a few preferred non exclusive embodiments of a safety switch of invention, which are described by way of a non limiting example with the help of the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a front view of a safety switch of the invention according to a first embodiment, with the push button coupled and the circuit closed; -
FIG. 2 is a front view of the switch ofFig. 1 with the push button coupled and the circuit open; -
FIG. 3 is a front view of the switch ofFig. 1 with the push button disengaged; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a detail of the switch ofFig. 1 with the push button coupled and the circuit closed; -
FIGS. 5 to 7 are sectional views of a detail of the switch ofFig. 1 in three operating conditions corresponding to the configurations ofFigs. 1 to 3 ; -
FIGS. 8 to 10 are sectional views of a detail of a switch of the invention in a second preferred configuration and in three operating conditions; -
FIG. 11 shows the circuit opening and closing diagrams of a safety switch of the invention; -
FIG. 12 shows the circuit opening and closing diagrams of a safety switch of the prior art. - Referring to the above figures, the safety switch of the invention, generally designated by numeral 1, may be mounted to machines or industrial electric systems and be used, for instance, as a safety or emergency switch for cutting off the power supply to the machine or system by switching an electric load.
- As shown in
FIG. 1 , a safety switch of the invention comprises a box-like body 2 having a longitudinal axis L and housing therein at least one pair ofstationary contacts - A
first slider 5 is slideably housed in the box-like body 2 and is movable parallel to the longitudinal axis L between lower A and upper B end positions, corresponding to open and closed circuit positions respectively. - The
first slider 5 has at least one pair ofmovable contacts stationary contacts - The switch 1 further has a
control push button 8 normally coupled to the box-like body 2 and operably associated to thefirst slider 5 to cause the latter to slide within the box-like body 2 between the end positions A, B. - The
push button 8 may be, for instance, an emergency mushroom or a machine stop button and may have, as shown in the figures, astationary portion 9, designed to be fastened to the frame T of a machine or system to be served and to be coupled to the box-like body 2, and amovable portion 10 with a pushing member 11 axially sliding in response to pressure exerted by a user. - For example, the
push button 8 and the box-like body 2 may be coupled together by means of a pair ofside tabs 12, 12' integral with thestationary portion 9 of thepush button 8, which are designed for engagement with respective specially shapedside extensions 13, 13' of the box-like body 2. - Further embodiments of the
coupling elements 12, 12'; 13, 13' may be provided, and thepush button 8 may also be configured to be different from the one as shown herein, without departure from the scope of the present invention. - In accordance with a particular feature of the invention, positive driving means 14 may be interposed between the
push button 8 and thefirst slider 5 to cause interaction between themovable contacts stationary contacts push button 8 is pressed, when it is normally coupled to the box-like body 2 and as the box-like body 2 accidentally disengages from the push-button 8 or when the box-like body 2 is not properly coupled thereto. - Conveniently, the positive driving means 14 may be free of any elastic elements and snap mechanisms, to allow progressive separation of the
movable switching contacts stationary contacts push button 8 is being pressed. - In a preferred, non exclusive embodiment of the invention, the motion transmission means 14 may include a
second slider 15, at least partially held within the box-like body 2 and free to axially slide within the box-like body 2. - The
second slider 15 may be operably connected to the pushing member 11 of thepush button 8 to transfer the pressing motion of the latter to thefirst slider 5, thereby causing translation of themovable contacts - For instance, the two
sliders second slider 15 having a firstouter end portion 17 facing towards the pushing member 11 and interacting therewith to rigidly transfer the motion of thepush button 8 to thefirst slider 5. - Furthermore, as shown in the sectional views of
Figs. 5 to 7 , thesecond slider 15 may have a hollowcentral portion 18 for receiving thefirst slider 5, which will be able to axially slide therein. - The
first slider 5 may have a T-shape and be operably connected to themovable contacts contact bridge 20 which may be either separated from suchfirst slider 5 or integrated with the latter at one end thereof. - Nonethess, alternative configurations for the
bridge 20 and themovable contacts single bridge 20 may be replaced by two separate bridges, in parallel arrangement or connected together, and having each at least one pair ofmovable contacts - In the embodiment of
Figs. 1 to 7 , the driving means 14 may include anarticulated linkage 21 with a pair oflevers arms 24, 24'; 25, 25' designed for interaction with the first 5 and thesecond sliders 15 respectively to force themovable contacts like body 2. - The
levers - Nonetheless, it shall be understood that the number of
levers like body 2 may differ from what is shown herein, without departure from the scope of the invention. - As more clearly shown in
Figs. 5 to 7 , thesecond slider 15 may have a substantiallytransverse wall 26 in its hollowcentral portion 18, with a substantially flat inner surface 27, adapted to interact with thefirst slider 5 to drive it in its longitudinal motion after a first longitudinal translation t1 of thesecond slider 15 in the direction of introduction thereof in the box-like body 2 with a predetermined maximum travel. - The
transverse wall 26 may also have an appropriately shapedouter surface 28 with an outwardly directed convexity, which is designed to interact with respective arms 24', 25' of thelevers like body 2. - Thus, by its outward axial translation the
second slider 15 will drive thelevers arms first slider 5. - The
levers first slider 5 in an intermediate position C between the two end positions A, B, to cause forced disengagement of themovable contacts stationary contacts - Elastic counteracting means 29 may be also provided in the box-
like body 2 to operate on the first 5 andsecond sliders 15 and exert respective forces of predetermined strength on the first 5 andsecond sliders 15. - The elastic means 29 will be also used to return the
sliders like body 2 is coupled and thepush button 8 is not pressed, to move thefirst slider 5 in the closed circuit, upper end position B. - Conversely, upon disengagement of the box-
like body 2, the elastic means 29 will operate to counteract the pivotal motion of thelevers - In the exemplary configuration of
Figs. 1 to 7 , the elastic means 29 will include afirst spring 30 operating on thecontact bridge 20 and hence on thefirst slider 5 to force thebridge 20 outwards and move themovable contacts - If the
bridge 20 is separated from thefirst slider 5, in the closed circuit condition corresponding to the end position B, the elastic force generated by thefirst spring 30 will be entirely transmitted to thebridge 20. Therefore, thefirst spring 30 will not have to overcome the resistance of thefirst slider 5, and this will allow the circuit to close. - The elastic means 29 may include a
second spring 31 operating on thesecond slider 15 to counteract its sliding introduction motion and urge it outwards. - The first 30 and second 31 springs may have different spring moduli, with the spring modulus of the
second spring 31 higher than the spring modulus of thefirst spring 30. -
Figs. 8 to 10 show a second preferred embodiment of a box-like body 2 with its driving means 14 andelastic means 29, as shown in three different operating positions identical to those that are shown inFigs. 5 to 7 respectively. - In this embodiment, the positive motion transmission means 14 may include an
actuator mechanism 32 of the rack-and-pinion type. - The
mechanism 32 may consist of a pair of first and second racks, 33, 33'; 34, 34' respectively, which face towards each other and are rigidly connected to thefirst slider 5 and thesecond slider 15 respectively, and a pair ofpinions like body 2, and interposed between and meshing with the respective first andsecond racks 33, 33'; 34, 34'. - The size of the
pinions sliders other slider - The
first slider 5 may be designed as a bridge integral with themovable contacts elements first spring 30. - In operation, when the
push button 8 is properly engaged with the box likebody 2, as shown inFigs. 1 ,4 and5 , the pushing member 11 associated therewith may interact with thesecond sliders 15 to push it into the box-like body 2 and cause its translation t1 against the elastic action of thesecond spring 31. - Under these conditions, the
first slider 5 may be axially disengaged from thesecond slider 15 and thetransverse wall 26 will not be in contact with thelevers first slider 5 to translate integrally with thebridge 20 by the bias of thefirst spring 30, to reach the upper end position B corresponding to the closed circuit condition. - As the
push button 8 is pressed by a user to cut off the power supply to the machine or systems, the pushing member 11 will press thesecond slider 15 into the box-like body 2. - Thus, the
second slider 15 will translate longitudinally with a translational motion t3 having a predetermined maximum travel value, thereby moving thetransverse wall 26 to contact with thefirst slider 5 and to push it from the upper end position B to the open circuit lower end position A, by overcoming the resistance of bothsprings Figs. 2 and6 . - If the box-
like body 2 disengages from theslider 8, or is not correctly coupled thereto, the pushing member 11 cannot exert its action on thesecond slider 15, wherefore the latter will undergo a translation t2 due to the bias of thesecond spring 31. - As a result, the
convex surface 28 of thetransverse wall 26 may interact with the arms 24', 25' of thelevers first slider 5. Particularly, thelevers first slider 5 in a direction opposite the direction of motion of thesecond slider 15. - The
first slider 5 will move from one of the two end positions A, B to the intermediate position C, which may even be coincident with the end position A, thereby separating themovable contacts stationary contacts - In this operating condition, which is shown in
figs. 3 to 7 , the counteraction of thefirst spring 30 will be overcome by the return force exerted by thesecond spring 31 with a higher spring modulus, wherefore thefirst spring 30 will not be able to prevent the release of thesecond slider 15. - Nonetheless, the presence of the elastic means 29 will apparently not interfere with the transmission of motion from the
push button 8 to thefirst slider 5 and hence to thecontact bridge 20. - Motion will be anyway transmitted in a rigid manner, and the circuit opening mechanism will be always of positive opening type.
- The operation of the switch 1 according to the embodiment of
Figs. 8 to 10 will be substantially similar to that described hereinabove. - In this case, the function of the
levers pinions first racks 33, 33', which will operate to push thefirst slider 5 from the closed circuit end position B to the open circuit intermediate position C upon the release of thesecond slider 15 resulting from the disengagement of the box-like body 2 from thepush button 8, as shown inFig. 10 . - When the
push button 8 is correctly coupled and not pressed, as shown inFig. 8 , thefirst racks 33, 33' will not interact with thefirst slider 5, which will be pushed by theelastic elements - As the
push button 8 is pressed, thesecond slider 15 is allowed to rigidly interact with thefirst slider 5 to push it to the open circuit lower end position A, as shown inFig. 9 . - The pivotal motion of the
pinions second racks 34, 34', upon translation of thesecond slider 15. -
FIG. 11 shows the typical circuit opening and closing diagrams of a safety switch of the invention. In these diagrams, the position C corresponds to the state in which thesecond slider 15 is entirely removed, which occurs when the box-like body 2 is disengaged from or not correctly coupled to thepush button 8. The positions B and A, corresponding to the closed circuit and open circuit states, are reached by thesecond slider 15 as a result of longitudinal translations, with travels c1 and c2 respectively, with respect to the position C. - These diagrams show that the motion transmission means 14 are specially designed for the switch 1 to have the same behavior both when it moves from the position C into the position A through the position B and vice versa.
- This diagram is very different from that of a prior art switch, as exemplarily shown in
Fig. 12 , which has snap transmission means and will have different behaviors when passing from the disengaged box-like state to the pressed push button state and vice versa. - The above disclosure clearly shows that the invention fulfils the intended objects and particularly meets the requirement of providing a safety switch that allows safe opening of the circuit in case of disengagement or incorrect coupling of the push button and the box-like body containing the contacts, through the use of a considerably simpler construction and positive motion.
- The switch of this invention is susceptible to a number of changes and variants, within the inventive principle disclosed in the appended claims.
- While the switch has been described with particular reference to the accompanying figures, the numerals referred to in the disclosure and claims are only used for the sake of a better intelligibility of the invention and shall not be intended to limit the claimed scope in any manner.
Claims (12)
- A push button safety switch comprising:- a box-like body (2) with a longitudinal axis (L) and housing therein:- at least one pair of stationary contacts (3, 4), which are designed to be connected to the power circuit of a machine or system;- a first slider (5) movable parallel to said longitudinal axis (L) between two end positions (A, B), i.e. open circuit and closed circuit positions respectively;- at least one pair of movable contacts (6, 7) operably connected to said first slider (5), to translate relative to said stationary contacts (3, 4) between said end positions (A, B) and cause opening and closing of the circuit respectively;- a control push button (8) which is designed to be fixed to a machine or system and having a stationary portion (9) designed to be fixed to said box-like body (2) and a mobile portion (10) designed to interact with said first slider (5) to cause it to slide within said box-like body (2) between said end positions (A, B);- driving means (14) interposed between said push button (8) and said first slider (5) to cause, when said push button (8) is coupled to said box-like body (2) and is pressed, the interaction between said movable contacts (6, 7) and said stationary contacts (3, 4);wherein said driving means (14) are substantially rigid to cause said first slider (5) to directly interact with said push button (8) and to open said movable contacts (6, 7) as said box-like body (2) is at least partially accidentally disengaged from said push button (8),
characterized in that said driving means (14) further comprises a second slider (15) which is slideably housed in said box-like body (2) and operably connected to said driving means (14) and said push button (8) to transmit a pressing motion from this latter to said first slider (5), said driving means (14) comprising either an articulated linkage (21) or a rack-and-pinion mechanism (32) which are designed for interaction with said first slider (5) and said second slider (15) to force said movable contacts (6, 7) into said open position (A) in a state of proper engagement or in a state of disengagement or improper coupling of said box-like body (2) with said push button (8). - A switch as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said first slider (5) and said second slider (15) are substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis (L).
- A switch as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that said second slider (15) has a hollow central portion (18) for slideably housing said first slider (5).
- A switch as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that said articulated linkage (21) comprises one or more levers (22, 23), each lever (22, 23) having a pair of arms (24, 24'; 25, 25') designed for interaction with said first slider (5) and said second slider (15) respectively, to force said movable contacts (6, 7) into said open position (A) in a state of disengagement or improper coupling of said box-like body (2) and said push button (8).
- A switch as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that said articulated linkage (21) includes a pair of levers (22, 23) substantially symmetrical with respect to said longitudinal axis (L) and centrally articulated about respective axes of rotation (X, Y) substantially transverse and perpendicular to said longitudinal axis (L).
- A switch as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said second slider (15) has a transverse wall (26) in said hollow central portion (18), with a substantially flat inner surface (27), adapted to interact with said first slider (5) to drive it along said longitudinal axis (L) after a first longitudinal translation (t1) of said second slider (15) with a predetermined maximum travel (c2).
- A switch as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that said transverse wall (26) has a specially shaped outer surface (28) which is designed to interact with respective arms (24', 25') of said levers (22, 23), after a second translation (t2) in the direction opposite the first translation (t1) of said second slider (15), with a predetermined longitudinal travel (c1), to drive said levers (22, 23) into rotation about said respective transverse axes (X, Y) and lock said movable contacts (6, 7) into an open position (C) intermediate between said end positions (A, B).
- A switch as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that said levers (22, 23) are designed of such a size as to pivot, after said second translation (t2) of said second slider (15), through a predetermined angle (a) sufficient to allow interaction of said arms (24, 25) with said first slider (5) and lock said movable contacts (6, 7) in said intermediate position (C).
- A switch as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises elastic return means (29) operating on said first slider (5) and said second slider (15) respectively, to exert respective counteracting forces of predetermined strength thereon, to counteract the pivotal motion of said levers (22, 23).
- A switch as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that said elastic return means (29) include a first spring (30) operating on said first slider (5) to urge it outwards and move said movable contacts (6, 7) from said open position (A) to said close position (B) of the power circuit and a second spring (31) operating on said second slider (15) to urge it outwards.
- A switch as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that said first and second springs (30, 31) have different spring moduli, the spring modulus of said second spring (31) being higher than the spring modulus of said first spring (30).
- A switch as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said rack-and-pinion mechanism (32) comprises at least one first (33) and at least one second (34) racks, which face towards each other and are operably connected to said first (5) and said second (15) sliders respectively, and a pinion (35) interposed between and meshing with said first (33) and said second (34) racks and pivoting about a fixed axis relative to said box-like body (2), so that a longitudinal translation of one of said sliders (5, 15) in a given direction causes a translation of the other slider (15, 5) in the opposite direction.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
ITVI20080160 ITVI20080160A1 (en) | 2008-06-30 | 2008-06-30 | SAFETY SWITCH. |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2141715A1 EP2141715A1 (en) | 2010-01-06 |
EP2141715B1 true EP2141715B1 (en) | 2015-04-08 |
Family
ID=40302280
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP20080011840 Active EP2141715B1 (en) | 2008-06-30 | 2008-07-01 | Safety switch |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2141715B1 (en) |
IT (1) | ITVI20080160A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP6007498B2 (en) * | 2012-01-31 | 2016-10-12 | オムロン株式会社 | Operation switch |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE4101493C2 (en) | 1991-01-19 | 2001-07-19 | Schlegel Georg Gmbh & Co | Electrical switch with a contact device and a plunger |
US5696662A (en) | 1995-08-21 | 1997-12-09 | Honeywell Inc. | Electrostatically operated micromechanical capacitor |
US6198058B1 (en) | 1999-09-27 | 2001-03-06 | Rockwell Technologies, Llc | Switch contact mechanism |
JP4169995B2 (en) | 2002-03-13 | 2008-10-22 | Idec株式会社 | Operation switch |
JP4147049B2 (en) | 2002-04-17 | 2008-09-10 | Idec株式会社 | Operation switch |
DE102005010661B4 (en) | 2005-03-08 | 2006-12-21 | Siemens Ag | Command switch, in particular EMERGENCY STOP switch |
EP1801827B1 (en) | 2005-12-20 | 2008-08-20 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | A system with a control device and a switching element |
EP1801830A1 (en) | 2005-12-20 | 2007-06-27 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Switch with switching element monitoring |
-
2008
- 2008-06-30 IT ITVI20080160 patent/ITVI20080160A1/en unknown
- 2008-07-01 EP EP20080011840 patent/EP2141715B1/en active Active
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2141715A1 (en) | 2010-01-06 |
ITVI20080160A1 (en) | 2010-01-01 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
EP1801827B1 (en) | A system with a control device and a switching element | |
US7982151B2 (en) | Electrical switch with lateral operation and assembly comprising such a switch mounted on a plate | |
US9349550B2 (en) | Emergency stop device adaptable for a man-machine dialog system | |
EP3166121B1 (en) | Electrical pushbutton switch | |
EP1876616B1 (en) | Reset device for limit switch and limit switch incorporating such device | |
CN113963978B (en) | Rotary switch | |
CN112164641A (en) | Rotary operator and rotary switch | |
CN111033663A (en) | Push-button switch | |
EP2141715B1 (en) | Safety switch | |
EP1858043B1 (en) | Position switch with movable contacts having positive operation | |
CN108022789B (en) | Instantaneous structure of miniature toggle switch | |
CN107644773B (en) | Toggle switch actuating mechanism | |
CN100466138C (en) | External operating handle device for circuit breaker | |
EP3799088B1 (en) | Indicating device of dual-power automatic transfer switch and dual-power automatic transfer switch | |
AU2022203223B2 (en) | An indicating device for a dual-power automatic transfer switch | |
CN111161963B (en) | Switch assembly with safety accessory solution for emergency stop device | |
US20100025208A1 (en) | Secure Enabling Switch | |
CN212542320U (en) | Clutch transmission assembly and circuit breaker | |
CN113972109A (en) | Clutch transmission assembly and circuit breaker | |
US10319544B2 (en) | Bolted pressure switch motor arrangement | |
JP2007134148A (en) | External operation handle device of circuit breaker | |
CN217158024U (en) | Overlapping and disengaging mechanism of isolating switch, operating mechanism and isolating switch | |
CN110349779B (en) | Electric anti-misoperation device | |
EP2003667B1 (en) | Electrical switch with positive status indication | |
KR20160133598A (en) | Mechanism of circuit breaker |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: AL BA MK RS |
|
AKX | Designation fees paid |
Designated state(s): DE FR GB IT |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20100706 |
|
RBV | Designated contracting states (corrected) |
Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 20100909 |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20141029 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 721088 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20150515 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602008037499 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20150521 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MK05 Ref document number: 721088 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20150408 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: VDEP Effective date: 20150408 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG4D |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150810 Ref country code: NO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150708 Ref country code: HR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150709 Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150808 Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602008037499 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20160111 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150701 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150731 Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150731 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 9 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150701 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20080701 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20150408 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 10 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 11 |
|
P01 | Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered |
Effective date: 20230525 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Payment date: 20230623 Year of fee payment: 16 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Payment date: 20230721 Year of fee payment: 16 Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20230725 Year of fee payment: 16 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20230725 Year of fee payment: 16 Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20230726 Year of fee payment: 16 |