US1776872A - Rotary switch - Google Patents

Description

Sept. 30, 1930. T. VAN RYAN ET AL 1,776,872

ROTARY SWITCH Filed June 151927 e Sheng-sheet 1 Sept. 30, 1930.

T. VAN RYAN El' AL ROTARY swITcH Filed June 1,4, 1927 6 Sheets-Sheet 2- Zwam sept. 3o, 1930.

n Filed June 14, 1927 T. VAN RYAN Er AL ROTARY SWITCH 6 Sheets-Sheet 3- mm www Sept.` 30, 1930. T. vAN RYAN Er AL' ROTARY SWITCH Filed June 14 Sept. 30, 1930. T. VAN RYAN Er AL 1,776,872

ROTARY swr'ra Filed June 14, 1927 6 Sheets-Sheet 5 I l l1 :lm W.. sw al Jin/@972m l Mi m r6 sa er {afm/5655. fil/A `1))1 f /Ma/@ @j 6 Sheets-Sheet 6 Sept. 30, 1930.

\ T. VAN RYAN Er AL f ROTARY SWITCH Filed .June 14. 1927 named sept. 3o, 1930` VUNITED STATES PA TENT -ol-Flclez TONY 'VAN RYAN AND ALFRED ALSAKER, OIE CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, ASSIGNOBS TO THE DELTA-STAR ELECTRIC COMPANY, F CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, A CORPORATION OF ILLINOIS lROTARY SWITCH Application le'd .Tune 14,

yOur invention pertains to electrical switches and more particularly to rotary switches.

We propose to provide an improved outdoor type of rotary switch including essen- 5 tially a pair-of spaced terminals, a rotatable blade cooperable therewith, and a mounting for the blade positioned between the terminals. The blade is of such a construction as is commonly actuated manually by means of an operating arm or crank. v

Now it will be appreciated that in the operation of the switch blade considerable friction must be overcome due to the sliding engagement between the ends of the blade and the terminals. If the switch is large it is only with great exertion that the operator can open or close the switch, In opening the rotary switch the operator must, of necessity, exert considerable force upon the blade initially in order to overcome the friction between the sliding blade andthe terminals. Once the blade is clear be turned with' facility. Similarly, when the operator closes the switch he must, at the latter part of the movement of the blade, overcome once again the friction incident to the ends of the blade sliding on the terminals.

Thus it will be evident that the operation of l the switch would be much easier if this sliding engagement was eliminated.

e have provided a switch wherein this sliding engagement of the blade upon the terminals is eliminated. The blade, in being moved to its open position, is first moved in a' direction parallel with-its mounting until the blade ends are entirely clear of the terminals. Thereafter, the blade is rotated away from'the terminals. On theother hand, in

closing the switch the blade is first rotatedI ends are properly y and thereafter the into a position wherein its aligned with the terminals blade is plunged into a -quick and positive engagement with the terminals.

.Another object ofl my invention is to prov1de novel means for protecting the terminal from the deteriorating effects of the sleet, snow, and rain. 'This preferably takes the form of a shield which we term a sleet shield. One of of the terminals and it serves to prevent the of the terminals it may these shields is associated with eachA 1927. Vfeial Np. 198,769.

end of the switch blade from being frozen to the terminal. Also, when theblade end is clear of the terminal the sleet shield serves to prevent the natural elements from marring the contact surface of the same.

In accordance ywith the general features of our invention, we mount the switch blade upon a rotatable insulator. Associated with one lend of the insulator is the rotary mounting of our invention. This mounting permits of the insulator being moved in the direction of its axis, as well as being rotated.

In accordance with other features ofmy in,- vention, we mount in each end of the switch blade a laminated contact mechanism ada ted to cooperate with the contact surface o the associated terminal. The end of the blade also hasa protecting hood portion disposed about the contact mechanism in such a manner that the mechanism is only accessible from below.

Still another feature of our invention is the provision of an adjustable connection between the rotatable insulator and the switch blade. This connection or mounting enables the blades tov be suitably with respect to the spaced terminals.

tion will more fully appear rom the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings which illustrate` several embodiments thereof and, in which:-

Figure 1 is an' elevation of the preferred form of our rotary switch;

Figure 2 is a plan elevation of the switch shown in Figure 1;

v Figure 3 is a fragmentary sectional view drawn to an enlarged scale and taken on substantially the line 3--3 of Figure 2 looking upwardly@ Figure 4 is a cross sectional view taken 011 the line 4- 4 of Figure 3 looking in the direction indicated by the arrows;

76' adjustedv and aligned Other objects and advantages of our inventail the mounting carried by the insulator 22 stantially the line 6-6 of Figure 2 looking upwardly;

Figure 7 is a sectional view taken on the liner7-7 of Figure 6 looking in the direction indlcated by the arrows;

Figure 8 is a View similar to Figure 7 illustrating the'position of the sleet shield when the contact end of the switch blade is moved out of cooperation with the terminal;

Figure 9 is a sectional view drawn to an enlarged scale and taken on substantially the line 9 9 of Figure 1 looking in the direction indicated by the arrows;

Figure 10 is a sectional view taken on the line .l0-10 of Figure 9 looking downwardly;

Figure 11 is a sectional view taken on the line 11-11 of Figure 9 looking downwardly;

Figure 12 is a fragmentary sectional view taken on the line 12-12 of Figure 9;

Figure 13 is a fragmentary sectional view taken on the line 13-13 of Figure 9;

Figure 14 is a fragmentary sectional view similar to Figure 12 of a modified form of operating mechanism for the rotary insulator;

Figure 15 is a fragmentary elevation similar to Figure 1 of a modified form of rotary switch;

Figure 16 is a fragmentary plan elevation of the switch shown in Figure 15;

Figure 17 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view taken on substantially the line 17-17 of Figure 16, illustrating another form of contact mechanism for establishing contact between the end of the blade land the terminal and Figure 18 is a fragmentary sectional view taken on the line 18-18 of Figure 15 looking .in the direction indicated by the arrows'and drawn to an enlarged scale.

Referring now to the drawings in detail, 1n which like reference numerals designate similar parts throughout the several views',

.2O denotes a tubular member or switch blade (Figure l). The blade 2O is positioned above three spaced insulators 21, 22 and 23. The blade 20 is rigidly fastened to the upper end of the insulator 22 which we term the rotary insulator.

We shall now proceed to describe in defor the tubular blade 20.

Formed integral with the upper end of the insulator 22 is an iron member 24 preferably annular in shape. Positioned on this member 24 is a blade support or adapter 25 upon which the blade 20 is disposed in a longitudinal position. The adapter 25 (Figure 3) includes an annular portion 26 of a diameter slightly larger than that of the top of the member 24 Projecting downwardly from thc portion 26 is an annular flange 27 which surrounds the upper edge of member 24. The support 25 is fastened to the member 24 by means of bolts 28 threaded into the top the member 24, whereas its upperl end is threaded into the aperture 29. The bushing 30 surrounds' the shank of the bolt 28 andhas its uppermost end provided with a screw driver slot 31. :Now as will become more apy parent hereinafter, it is possible by removing the bolts 28 to turn the bushings 30 for the purpose of adjusting the position of the `support 25 upon the member 24 so as to align theends of the blade 20 with the terminals".

Extending laterally lfrom the portion 26 are a pair of diametrically opposed projections 33 and 3 4, the end of each projection 33-34 being provided with a pair ofy spaced flanges 35 and 36 which define a pocket or a seat for the blade 20. In Figure 4 we have designated the pocket or seat by the reference character 37. The fianges35 and the fianges 36 of the mounting 25 are connected by longitudinal ribs 39 and 40 which extend parallel to the blade .20 (Figure 5). The ribs.

39 and 40' are each provided with an arcuate shape for accommodating lthe periphery of the blade 20 as is evident from Figures 3, 4 and 5. Furthermore, it will be obvious from Figure 3 that the flanges 39 and 40 extend across the top of the portion 26 so as to afford support for the blade between the ends of the two projections 33 and 34.

The blade 20 is fastened to the flanges 35 and 36 by means of a clamping member 41 provided with flanges 43 and 44 cooperable with the flanges 35 and 36. Bolts 45 extend through the flanges 43 and 44 and serve to tightly clamp the blade 20 against the( seat 37 provided in the free end of the associated extension or projection 33--34. Itwill 4be also observed that the top portion of the blade 20 extends into a pocket 46 in the clamp member 41. Furthermore, the top of 'the blade 2O is engaged at points .47 and 48- b the two flanges 43 and 44. In the` pocket 37 the blade 20 is engaged at points 49 and 50 by the flanges 35 and 36. When the flanges are tightly bolted together the points 47, 48, 49 and 50 tightly embrace the 'periphery of the blade.20. Thus it will be evident that we have provided a very rigid mounting forthe intermediate part ofthe blade 20.

The ends of the blade 20 are adapted to be aligned with the terminals carried by the insulators 121 an'd 23. Since both of these terminals are identical, it is believed that a description of one will suffice -for both. Incidentally, should it appearftha't the blade 20 does not quite align with the two termi nals carried bythe insulators 21 and 23,`it is possible to adjust the blade with respect toits mounting ,25 as previously mentioned.

This adjustment is accomplished by removing bolts 28 and by turning the bushings 30.

consists 1n varying the space separating the portion 26 from the to of the member 24. The bushings 30 permlt of the portion 26 being disposed atl a slight angle with respect I to the plane of the top of the portion 24.

Thus if the blade 2() is slightly out of'true it may be compensated for at the'mounting 25.

The Contact mechanism andv the sleet shields of our invention are illustrated in detail in Figures 6, 7 and 8. Each free end of the blade is telescoped by a tubular member 52l having formed integralfwith'it a hood member 53 in which is disposed our novel contactmechanism designated generally by the reference character 55. The hood member protects the mechanism from sleet,

` snow and rain. Also, the contact mechanism 55 (Figure 6) is only accessible from below,

Contact mechanism 55 is adapted to engage the top of a terminal plate 56 secured to a'terminal member 57 fastened to the top vof the associated insulator 21-23. The

plate 56 is 'preferably made of copper and hasl a lateral extension 58 fastened to an extension 59 formed integral with the terminal member 57 A tubular conductor 60 is firmly secured to the plate 58 by means of a clamping member Gland vby clamping boltsI 62. AIt will be noted from Figure 6 that the plate-56 carries an arcuate shaped support 63 for the end ofthe conductor 60 and that the blade is lirmly gripped by the two members 61 and 63 which are tied together by The )Contact mechanism l includes a U- shaped channel 65 adapted to be reciprocated f between two pairs of webs 66 and 67 forme'd integral with the interiorsurface of the hood 53. Thechannel 65 is provided with' an opening 68 through which extends a bolt 69 having its upper end threaded intoa boss 70 formed inte ral with the cover 53. A' small set screw 1. is threaded from the top of the cover 53 downwardly in the 'boss 70 andy into engagement with the upper end olv the bolt 69. This set screw 71 has a screw driver slot 72 by means of which the same may be turned. The function ofthe set screw 71 is to lock the bolt 69 against rotation,l as is evident from Figure 7.

Surrounding the' shankl of the bolt 69 andpositioned between the top of the cover 53 and the channel 65 isa compression spring 7 4 which functions to at alltimes urge the channel 65 downwardly towards the copper plate 56. Referrinf'r now to Figure 6, it will be noted that a flattened copper sleeve 75 abuts vbe the lower surface of the channel 65. This sleeve-is (flattened upon one end of a weblike conductor 76, preferably made'of wire mesh. The conductor 76 vis suitably fastened to the blade 20, and Aserves to establish an electrical connectionV between the contact mechanism and the blade 20. The shank of the bolt 69 extends through an open'n 77 in the sleeve 75 and has ahead port'on T8 positioned between two laminated contact constructions 79 and 80. Each of the contact structures 79 and 8O comprises a plurality of laminations which may be made of any suitable material suchfor example, as phosphor bronze. We have designated the laminations by reference character 81 (Figure 7). The laminations 81 each have substantially a U-shape and are piled one upon another as is clearly shown in Figures 6 and 7. The ends of the laminations engage the surfface of the copper insertplate 56. Also the laminations 81 are secured to the bottom of the channel 65 by means of a clamp element 82-and a bolt and nut 83. Thus it will be evident that the pair of contacts 79 and 80 are urged into engagement with 'the top of the plate 56 by means of the spring 74. This spring permits the contacts to have a floating engagement with the contact plate.

Referring/again to thehood portion 53 (Figure 7), it will be observed that one of its sides is provided with a downwardly extending flange portion 84 adapted to engage the side of the top member 57 on the insulator. This ange 84 serves as a stop for limiting the movement of the blade and for also insuring that the contact mechanism 55 will properly aligned with the` contact plate urthermore, we preferably provide one "end ofthe hood portion 53 (Figure 6) with a downwardly extending projection 85 spaced fromvthe member 57 This projection serves to it will be noted that the offset portion 58 of the Contact plate 56 is disposed below the plane of the contact plate 56. The purpose of this construction is to enablethe contact arm or end of the plate 56 to be removed from the terminal without interference. However, in order to prevent the snow and sleet from being blown into the hood 53 from the outer end of the hood, we purposely extend the side 86 of the hood downwardly toward the extension 58 as is clearly shown in Figure 6. The side of the hoodopposite the flange 84 (Figure 7)' is purposely made shorter than the other side as indicated at 87. That is to say, the end of the side 87 is disposed a slight way above the top of the member-57 in order to prevent Athis sidefrom'engaging the contact plate 56.

prevent sleet and rain from being .blown into the interior of the hood 53. Moreover,

top of the insulator, is a swivel bolt 91. This bolt is preferably secured to the member by means of lock nuts 92. Pivotally mounted upon this bolt 91 is a sleet shield which comprises essentially a pair of pivotally \con nected plates 93 and 94 (Figure 8). We have designated the shield by the reference character 95.

The upper end of the sleet shield plate 94 is provided with two hinges 96 and 97 through which the bolt or pin 91 extends. Furthermore, the plate 94 is at all times urged downwardly by means of a spring 98, positioned between the hinges and encircling the intermediate portion of the bolt 91. The spring 98 is clearly shown in Figures 1 and'2. One end of the spring is anchored to the plate 94 and the other end is fastened to the bolt 91. The function of the spring is to urge the plate 94 at all times towards the position in which it is shown in Figure 8. In other words, the spring urges the plate 94 downwardly.

The two plates 93 and 94 are hinged together at 99. This hinge provides a pivotal connection between the two plates. We preferably form this hinge 99 by providing the plates 93 and 94 with Socket portions for receiving a pivot pin 100. This arrangement is conventional in the hinge art. The free end of plate 93 is curved as indicated at 101. When the plate 93 .is in the position shown in Figure 8 this curved portion 101 fits over the associated curved edge of the top member 57 Also plate 93 is provided with a pair of side flanges 102. Similarly, plate 94 is furnished with side flanges 103.

Now when the contact mechanism is in engagement with the plate 56 the hood portion 53 of the blade 20 will force the sleet shield to the position shown in Figure 7. It will be observed from this position that the top of the hood 53 engages .the plate 94 and holds it away from the insulator. However, when the contact mechanism is moved out of cooperation with the plate 56 the sleet shield 95 is caused to gravitate to the position shown in Figure 8. The spring 98 augments this movement of the shield. During this movement of the shield the ends of the plates pivot about the hinge pin 100 causing the plate 93 to be disposed immediately over the contact plate 56 for the purpose of protecting it from the effect of the natural elements.

Referring again to Figures 1 and 2 it will be observed that each of the insulators'21 and 23 has its lower end rovided with a casting 105, preferably of 1ron, clamped to the flanges of a pair of spaced channel beams 106. The beams 106 are firmly clamped together by means of connecting plates 107. These plates 107 may be either bolted or riveted to the anges of the beams 106. The channel beams 106 are. disposed with their open sides facing each other. The 'beams of a rotatable tubular element 114. The bolts for securing the two anges111 and 112 together are designated by the reference character 113 (Figure 9). AThe tubular member 114 extends downwardly into and telescopes a bearing member 115 havin a flange 116. The flange 116 is secured by olts and nuts 117 to the legs 118 of the channels 106. Also the lower' end of the member 115 is provided with a flange 119 secured by bolts 121 (Figure 10) to a gear casing 120. l

a Associated with the other legs 122 of the bhannels 106 are a pair of clamping elements 123 both of which are identical. These elelnents 123 not only serve to hold the member 115 downwardly in engagement with the legs 122, but also serve to revent rotation of the member 115. Each o these elements 123 has a pair of lateral extensions 124 spaced a given distance apart. Extending into the space separating these projections 124 is a lug 125 formed integral with the flange 119 of member 115. Also each of the elements 123 is provided with a pair of circular apertures 126 into each of which is tightly fitted the shank of a bolt 127. The two bolts 127 serve ,to firmly fasten each clamping element 123 to its associated leg 122 of the channel 106. Furthermore, since the bolts 127 are tightly fitted in r'the iopenings 126 it must necessarily follow that when the bolts are tight the clamp elements 123 will be drawn bodily downward to iirm contact with the flange 119 of member 115.

Positioned between the members 114 and 115 is a brass sleeve or tube 130, the lower endy of which abuts a shoulder 131 formed in member 115. The upper end of tube is pro' vided with suitable openings 132 which communicate with an annular space 133 which constitutes an oil or grease pocket. Any rsuitable lubricating medium may be projected into the oil or grease space 133 by conventional mechanism such; for example,l as a grease gun fitting. Itwill also be observed that the member 114 is provided with an annular recess 134 directly opposite the openings ,132, which recess facilitates lubrication of the periphery of member 114. Extending upwardly into the member 114 is a shaft 135 the upper end of which is'reduced at 136 and has mounted on its reduced end a threaded elelun llU

ment 137. Elment 137 is held against shoulinrasva,

v der 138 on shaft 135 by means of a nut 139 threaded upon the extreme end'140 of shaft 135. Also, the element 137 is provided with ment 137. is provided with an annular ringl portion 142 equipped with a helical groove 143 adapted to mesh with the thread 141. on the element 137. The purpose of this helical groove construction will be more full-y exf plained hereinafter.

The shaft 135`has an enlarged intermediate portion 144 and a slightly reduced portion 145 connected tothe lower end of portlon 144. Surrounding the portion 145 of shaft 135 are a pair of ball bearing units 146 and 147. The unit 146 is disposed upon an annular 'shoulder 148 formed in the member 115. This latter unit vincludes a pair of races 149 and 150 between which are disposed a plurality of antifrictional elements or balls 151. Race 149 abuts the intermediate portion 135 and race 150 abuts the shoulder 148 on member 115.

The unit 147 also includes a pair of races 152 ,and 153 between which are /disposed a plurality of balls 154. The upper race 152 abuts the shoulder 155 formed 011l the member 115 and the lower race 153 abuts a collar 156 mounted on the reduced lower'end 157 of shaft 135.v The two ball bearing units 146 and 147 serve as both radial and thrust bear- The member 114 has a pair of substantially L-shaped slots', or grooves 160 (Fi ure 10) each of which includes a horizonta leg 161 acter 176 (Fig. 11). The casing 120 has a pair of diametrically opposed flanges 177 and 178 which abut .the sides of the elements'17-9 and a vertical leg 162 (Figure 9). .Located I in each slot 160 (Figure 12v)` is a roller 163 mounted on the end 164 ofa trunnion bolt 165. The head 166 of the bolt is disposed on the exterior of the member 115, whereas the shank 165 is threadedV into` an opening 167 inthe wall of the member 115. Thel side of each roller engages the intermediate portion 144 of shaft 135 as is obvious `from Figure on the shaft. The `worm wheel 173 is located in the casing120 and .meshes with a worm 17 5 disposed atright angles to the shaft 135. Worm 175 is located in an lauxiliary casing designated generally by the vreference charand 18O. Each of the elements 170 and 180 telescopes the casin 17 6 and is equipped with flanges 181. The anges 181 arel secured to the associated anges of the casing 120 as well Y as the casing 17 6 by means of bolts 182. The worm 175 is splined to a horizontal shaft 185 which may be actuated either manually or automatically. If it is so desired, a crank may be mounted upon an end of shaft 185 by means of which the switch vmay be operated. -Also the shaft 185 is preferably common to a bank of three switches such as the switch Awe have disclosed.

In Fi re 14 we have illustrated a slightly modilieduform of the operating mechanism. In this modification the slots 160' are disposed in the outer member 11'5 and not in the member 114. Also the vertical leg 162 of each slot 160 extends downwardly from the horizontal leg 161. The roller 163 is mounted' upon a bolt 166 threaded at 167 into the wall o'f member 114. This form of the invention is not as desirable as the form shown in Figure 12, inasmuch as the slots 160 are open to the atmosphere. The operation of vthis modification, however, is substantially like that of the form shown in Figure 12.

The operation ofour switch is brieiyas follows: When the switch blade 2O isin the engaged position shown in Figure 1, that isto say, in cooperation with the terminals carried by the twoinsulators 21 and 23, the rollers 163 will be in the position indicated in dotted lines in Figure '9. In other words, each roller 163, will turn in the vertical leg 162 of the associated slot 160. Now byturning the shaft 185 a rotary motion will be imparted tov A v the shaft 135 withinthe member` 114. This motion through the means of the threaded element 137 and the helical groove 143 on the inner wall of the member 114 causes the member each end of thev blade 20 will have been moved outl of engagement with the associated ter-J minal plates 56. Obviously, the blade 2O in beingmoved vertically also moves the hood or sleet shield 95 along with it. Furthermore, oncetherollers 163 are in the horizon- 'ta'l legs 161 of the slots 160, the shaft 135 and the member 114 will rotate as a unit.. This will result in the blade 20 being rotated away from the terminals.

As each end of the switch blade 20 leaves A the associated terminal plate 56 the associated shield 95 is caused to'gravitate until it reaches the position shown in Figure 8. In this position the plate 93 Vof the shield completely covers the contact or terminal platev 56 onftop l of the insulator.

When it is desired to move the blade 20'into Scooperation with the terminals carried by the two insulators 21 and 23, the shaft 185 is rotated in an opposite direction causing the vertical shaft 135 to turntherewith. Inthis move- 5 ment of the shaft 135 the rollers 163 are caused to roll in the horizontal legs 161 of the slots 160. The rotation of member 114 results in the alignment of the vertical slot legs'.162 with the rollers 163. Thereafter, the rollers 163 are caused to turn in the vertical legs 162 of the slots 160 due to the vertical movement of member 114. During this movement of the rollers the threaded portion 137 cooperates with the helical groove 143 to cause the insulator 28 to be drawn downwardly thus bringing the ends of the blade 20 into cooperation with the terminals.

It will be evident from Figures 7 and 8 that when the end of the blade 20; namely, the hood portion 53, comes into contact with the plate 94 of the shield 95 the shield will be moved out of cooperation with the terminal plate 56 and into the position shownin Figure 7. When the shield is in the position shown inv Figure 8 it serves to completely cover the late 56, whereas when it is in the position s own in Figure 7 it functions-to cover the end of the` hood portion 53. As previousl pointed out, the movement of the blade 1s limited by the flan or stop portion 84 on the hood portion 53 (Figure 7) coming into engagement with the side of the member 57 on to of the insulator.

We s all now proceed to describe in detail the modification of our invention show in Figures 15 to 18, inclusive.

In this form of our invention the blade 220 comprises an I beam having its lateral flanges secured tothe cast iron member 224 by means of bolts 225. The rcast iron member may be secured in any desired manner to the rotary insulator 242. Also, the rotary insulator lmay be actuatedby either of the- `two forms of operating mechanism previously described.4 It will be evident from'Figure 18 that each lateral flange 219 of the blade 220 is fastened by two bolts 225 to the member 224. The member 224 has a plurality of apertures 219 in which are disposed the ford access to the nuts for the purpose of tightening them on the bolts.I

Spaced from the rotary insulator 222 are.

Terminals 230' (Figure 17 )I include a nuts 218 threaded on the shanks of the bolts- 225. These apertures or openings 219 af 4the bolts 241 are threaded at 242 into the plate 235. Also surrounding each bolt is a spring 244. The function of each spring.244 is to at all times urge the plate 240 upwardly. These springs, in reality, provide a, resilient mounting for the plate 240 and cushion the jars incident to the engagement of the plate by the blade 220.

Suitably fastened to the top of plate 240 is an iron member 245 lto which is fastened a flattened copper sleeve 246. The sleeve ,246 is flattened upon one end of` a braided copper conductor 247. This conductor extends 'through an opening 248 in the hood 238 and is fastened outside of the hood to the extension 249 formed integral with the hood and fastened to the extension 237 of the plate 235. The end of the power line may besuitably fastened to the extension 249, thus securing a direct connection between the power line and the end of the blade.

It will be observed from Figures 15 and 17 that the hood 238 is notonly a fixed construction but is also provided with one side that is open to the atmosphereso as to permit the end of the blade 228 to be moved into coop.-

eration with the terminal 2230".' The fioating construction carried by the plate 235 always ,secures a good electricalcontact between the end of the blade and the structure 247.

In the operation of the form of our invention shown in Fi res 15 to 18, inclusive,

the, blade 220 is imtially moved vertically.. i'

out of engagement with the terminal and thereafter it is rotated to its disengaged po= sition. When it isdesired to move the blade into cooperation with the terminals, it is first rotated into alignment with the terminals and'thereafter it is drawn downwardly into engagement with-the copper sleeves 246.

Now we desire it understood that although we have illustrated andy described in detail,

the preferred forms of our invention, the invention is not to be thus limited but only in so far as defined by the scope'and spirit of the appended claims. I f

We claim 1. In a switch, a switch blade, a protectin hood mounted on one end of the blade,"sai hood being open at one end, floating contact mechanism mounted within said hood, and a j terminal adapted to be engaged by said mechanism, said mechanism comprising a guide element connected to the'hood, a member reciprocably mounted -on said element, a con- Aby said mechanism, ing a floating member and a contact fastened to said member, said hood having a plurality tact element secured to silient means .between the member and said hood for urging the contact element toward the open end of the hoodand into engagea ment with said terminal. l

2. In a. switch, a switch blade, a protecting hood mounted on .one end of the blade. floating contactY mechanism mounted Within said hood, and a terminal adapted to be engaged by said mechanism, said mechanism comprising a uide element connected to ytho hood, a mem er reciprocably mounted on said element, laminated contact springs 'socured to said member, and a spring between the member and said hood for. urging the contact springs into engagement with said terminal.

3.' In a switch, a switch blade, hood mounted on one end of the blade, floating contact mechanism mounted within said hood, and a terminal adapted to be engaged said mechanism includa protecting of flanges formed on its interior for guiding the said floating member in its movement.

4. In a switch, a switch blade, a protectin hood mounted on one end of the blade, floating contact mechanismmounted within said hood, and a terminal adaptedto be engaged by said mechanism, saidmechanism including' a. channel element, said hood having formed therein a plurality of webs for guiding said channel element.

` 5. In a switch, a switch blade, a protecting hood associ-ated with one end of the blade, contact mechanism mounted Within said hood, and a terminal adapted to be engaged by said mechanism, saidmechanism including a channel element, contacts fastened to the said element, and a spring interposed between the channel elementand the hood for urgin the cont-acts into engagement with the terminal.

6. In a switch, a switch blade, a protecting hood associated with 'one end of the the blade, contact mechanism mounted within said hood, and 'a terminal adapted to be engaged by said mechanism, said mechanismmoinp'rising'a substantially U-shaped channel element, a plurality of laminated contacts fastened to .said element, and a spring interposed between the element and the hood having one end seated.

between the flanges of the channel, said hood v having webs for guiding the channel element.

7. In a switch, a switch blade, anop'en ended protecting hood associated Withone end of the blade, contact mechanism mounted ywithin said hood, and a terminal adapted to be engaged by said mechanism, said mecha nism including al guide element and a contact structure reciprocably mounted on said elef ment for movement to and from the open end of the hood, said hood having a boss in which an end of the said guide element is mounted.

said member, and re-v 8. In aswitch, a switch blade, a protecting hood associated with one end of the blade, contact mechanism mounted within said hood, and a terminal adapted to be engaged by said mechanism, said mechanism including a floatv` sets of lamito the said 10. In a switch, a switch blade, and contact I mechanism associated therewith comprising a Xed guide element, a channel reciprocably mounted on said element, resilient means surrounding the guide element for urging the c annel in a given direction, and a pair of c ntacts fastened to said side of the element, each of said contacts comg prising a plurality of substantially U-shaped laminations securedv together by a fastening element.

1l. In a/switch, an insulator including a top member having a recessed portion, a terminal including a plate disposed in said recess channel one on each and having a lateral extension, said top member having an extension disposed under the plateextension for supporting the same, and an electrical conductor connected t0 said plate extension.

12. In va switch, an insulator including a top member having a recessed portion,-a terminal including a plate disposed in said recess and having a lateral extension, said top g member having an extension disposed under the plate extension for supporting the same, an electrical conductor connected to said plate extension, and clamping means for rigidly securing the conductor to said extensions.

13. In a switch, a terminal, and a sleet shield for covering said plurality of pivotally connected parts.

14. In a switch, a terminal, and a sleet shield forcovering said terminal including a pair of plates one of which is pivotally connected to the terminal and tion between the plates.

15. In a switch, a terminal, and a sleet Y shield for covering said terminal including a plurality of plates and a hinge connection terminal including a V a pivotal connecbetween the plates, each of said plates having a side flange.

u 16. In a switch, a terminal, and a sleet shield therefor including a pair of pivotally connected parts, said parts being movable to bring one of said parts directly onto the top of the terminal.-

`17. In a switch, a terminal, and a sleet connected parts, said parts being movable so that when one of said parts is at right angles to the other it will be resting on the top of the terminal. 18. In a switch, a blade, a terminal cooperable therewith,` a sleet shield therefor, and a support for the sleet shield, said shield including a pair of plates and a pivotal connection between them, one of said plates being connected to the support and the other being adapted to be flush with the terminal when the blade is clear of the terminal.

19. In a switch, an insulator, a blade mounting carried by the insulator, a blade4 on said mounting, terminals cooperable with the blade, said mounting including an element disposed on .top of the insulator, and means for adjustably securing said element to said insulator, said adjustable means permitting the blade to be properly aligned with the terminals.

i 20. In a switch, an insulator, a blade mounting carried by the insulator, and a tubular blade on said mounting, said mounting com rising a cap portion fastened to the top of t e insulator, a' pair of lateral arms connected to saidiportion, said arms defining a substantially semi-annular trough for receiving the said blade, means for adjustably securing said cap portion to said insulator, and means for clamping the blade to the arms.

21. In a switch, a blade comprising a metallic tube, a protective hood construction abutting an end of the tube, and a sleeve connected to the hook and disposed 'in telescoping relation with said end of the tube.

22. In a switch, a blade comprising a metallic tube, and a protective hood associated with an end 0f the tube including a shoulder abutting said end of the tube and a sleeve portion for telescoping the tube.

23. In a switch, a blade, a terminal cooperable withv an end of the blade, and a protective hood connected to said end of the blade and provided with an extension adapted t engage said terminal, said extension serving as a stop foi` limiting the movement of said blade i-n a given direction.

24. In a switch of the class described, a terminal, a rotary switch .blade cooperable therewith, means for actuating said blade,

' and a support for the actuating means and blade comprising a pair of channels spaced.

from each other with their open sides facing each other, said actuating means including a tubular member having-fianges connected y to the flanges of said channels.

25. In a switch of the class described. a terminal, a rotary switch blade cooperable therewith, meansfor actuating said blade, a

l comprising a support for the actuating means and blade pair of channels spaced from each othervwit their open sides facing each other, said actuating means including a tubular member havin flanges connected to the flanges of said cannels, and clamping means fo connecting said flanges including a clamp element fastened to a flange of a channel and having a pair of spaced lugs for engaging'a flange on said tubular member, said latter flange having a lug disposed between said spaced lugs and serving to resist rotary movement on the Ipart of the tubular member.

26. In a switch of the class described a terminal, a rotary switch blade cooperable therewith, means for actuating said blade, a support for the actuating means and blade comprising a pair ofwchannels spaced from each other with their open sides facing each other, said actuating means including a tubular member having flanges connected to the flanges of said channels, a gear box fastened to a 'flange on said tubular member disposed below the channels, said actuating means including a worm wheel in said box and a worm for meshing with said wheel and disposed without said box, a shaft on which said worm is mounted, and a casing for the worm in which said shaft is journaled connected to said gear box.

27. In a switch of the class described, a terminal, a rotary switch blade cooper'able therewith, means fo'r actuating said blade, a support for the actuating means and blade comprising a pair of channels spaced from each other with their open sides facing each other, said actuating means including a tubular member having flanges connected to the flanges of said channels, a gear box fastened to a fiange on said tubular member disposed below the channels, said actuating means including a worm wheel in said box and a worm for meshing with said wheel and disposed without'said box, a shaft on which said worm is mounted, and a casing for the worm connected to said gear box, said last mentioned means including a readily detachable member in which said shaft is journaled.

28. In an electric switch, a switch blade having successive rectilinear and rotary movements, a housing carried by the switch blade, and a floating contact within the housin and having a movement with respect to the blade in the direction of rectilinear movement of the blade, said contact being mounted in said housing.

29. In an' electric switch, a switch blade having successive rectilinear and rotary movements, a floating contact carried by the blade, said contact being mounted for movement with respect to the blade in the direction of the rectilinear movement of the blade.

30. In an -electric switch, a stationary switch contact, a movable switch blade, a housingopen at the lower end mounted on the switch blade, means for moving the open end of the housing adjacent the stationary .means within the housing for resiliently the movement o f said second contact, ya contact within the housing movable towards and away from the open end of the housing, and means for moving the last mentioned contact into engagement with the lirst mentioned contact..

31. In an electric switch, a stationary contact, a movable switch blade, a housing open at the lower end mounted on the switch blade, means-for moving the open end of the housing adjacent the stationary contact, a contact within the housing movable towards and away from the open end of the housing, and

urging the last mentioned contact towards thel first mentioned contact.

32. In an electric switch, a switch blade, a contact housing at one end thereof, said housing being open at the bot-tom, a substantially fiat contact within the housing adjacent the open end, and spring means within the housing .for forcing the contact towards the open end of the vhousing.

33. In an electric switch, a stationary contact and a movable contact, and means for moving the contacts out of engagement with a each other,

said means including means forgiving the movable contact a rectilinear movement at a substantial angle to the contacting surface, followed by a swinging movement.

34. In an electric switch, a switch contact, a sleet hood collapsed upon the contact, a second contact enclosed in a second sleet hood, means for moving the two contacts into engagement,- said first hood being expanded by hood to form an enclosing covering for both of the contacts.

35. In an electric switch, a stationary contact, a sleet hood normally collapsed thereon, a second Contact, a sleet hood therefor, and means for moving said contacts into switchclosing position, said collapsed hood bein expanded by saidA movement to cover sai other hood.

36. In a switch, the combination of two spaced insulator stacks, contacts carried by said stacks, an intermediate insulator stack positioned between 'said spaced stacks, a

. switch blade mounted at its center on said intermediate insulator stack, means for successively rotating and imparting a rectilinear motion to the switch blade to move the same towards and away from-the contacts, the contact makingand breaking movement being rectilinear whereby bending stresses in the insulator stacksare avoided, and spring mounted contacts at the ends of the switch blades for engagement with the first mentioned contacts, said springmountings permitting a rec-` tilinear movement of the blade contacts in the direction of rectilinear movement of'the blade, thereby distributingthe stress on the two sides ofthe intermediate insulator stack.

37. In a vgang operated switching system, a plurality of mova le, insulators each for controlling the movement of one switch, a worm' 38. A switch comprising a pair of insulated contacts, insulator supports for the contacts, a switch blade cooperating with said contacts to establish a circuit between them, means including a rotatable and axially movable insulating member supported between said supports and supporting said switch blade above said contacts, said blade being moved into and out of butting engagement with both of said contacts. by the actuation of said means, said insulating member being'placed under tension and the contact supports being placed -under .compression upon closure of the switch and said blade vhaving a resilient yielding engagement with both of said contacts whereby excessive stresses in the inmisalignment of one of said contacts.

39. A switch comprising a tubular element including means for securing the same to a support, an insulator supporting member fitting into the element and maintained by said element against tilting, said member including an internally threaded portion within the element,an operating member extending into said element and threaded into said supporting member, bearings between the tubular element and the operating member,

and means between the contacting walls of the tubular element and the insulator supporting member for imparting a guided longitudinal and rotary motion to the insulator supporting member upon rotation of the operating member.

40. A switch comprising a pair of spaced contact supporting insulators, means including an actuating insulator disposed between the two and adapted to have a rotary and vlongitudinal motion imparted thereto to establish a connection between the contact supporting insulators, an actuator tending by a single movement to impart, both motions to the actuating insulator, and means for guiding the motion of the actuating insulator` throughout its entire range of travel to establish a definite single position of the actlating insulator Yfor each position of the actuator.

41. A switch comprising a pair of spaced contact supporting insulators, meansincluding an actuating insulator disposed between the two and adapted to have a rotary and longitudinal motion imparted thereto to establish a connection between porting insulators, an actuator tending by a single movement to impart both motions to the actuating insulator, and means for guiding the motion of the actuating insulator throughoutfits entire range of travel to esthe contact supl Sulating member are avoided in the event of tablish a delinite single position of the actuating insulator for each position of the actuator, said means including a pin and slot connection in engagement during the entire travel of the actuating insulator.

42. A switch comprising a pair of spaced parallel insulators, contacts mounted thereon, a rotatable and longitudinal movable insulator midway between and parallel to said first insulators, a switch blade supported by said movable insulator above said contacts and actu'ated by the movable insulator to establish a bridging circuit between said contacts, means for rotating said blade supporting insulator to bring the blade in a position above the contacts and thereafter moving the same longitudinally to bring the blade and the contacts into butting engagement, said contact supporting insulators being placed under compression and said rotatable insulator being placed under tension, said blade and contacts having an engagement yielding in the direction of longitudinal motion of the blade, thereby Iavolding excessive stresses in the insulators in the event of a misalignment between either of the contacts and the blade.

43. An electric switch comprising a support, a pair of spaced insulators mounted on said support, contacts mounted on said insulators, a rotatable and longitudinally movable actuating insulator on said support and between said insulators, a switch blade car- -ried by said actuating insulator and moved thereby into and out of circuit closing position with both of said contacts, the switch closing. movement including a -longitudinal motion towards the supports and said blade having a Aresilient engagement with both of said contacts `which is yielding in the direction of movement of the actuating insulator whereby excessive-stresses in the actuating insulator are avoided in the event of rmsalignment of the contacts, and the opening movement including a longitudinal motion away from the support, whereby if the contacts and the switch blade tend to stick together the actuating insulator is placed under compression and said first mentioned insulators are placed in tension.

44. An electric switch comprising a sup port, a pair of spaced insulators mounted on said support, contacts .mounted on said insulators, a rotatable and longitudinally movable actuating insulator on said supportand between said insulators, a switch blade carried by said actuating insulator and moved thereby into and out of circuit closing position with both of said contacts, the switch closing movement including a longitudinal motion towards the support and said blade having a resilient engagement with both of said contacts which is yielding in the direction of movement of the actuating insulator whereby vexcessive stresses lin the actuating insulator are avoided in the event of misalignment of the contacts, and the opening movementlincluding a longitudinal motion away from the support, whereby if the contacts and the switch blade tend to stick together the actuating insulator is placed under compression and said irst mentioned insulators are placed in tension, stationary tubular guiding member mounted] on the support for guiding the movement of the actuating insulator, a member supporting the actuating insulator and extending into the tubular member, and means including a slot in one of said membersand a cooperating pin on the other member for guiding the movement of the insulator supporting member.

45. An`electric switch comprising a support, a pair ot' spaced insulators mounted on said support,`c9ntacts mounted on said insulators, a rotatable and longitudinally movable actuating insulator on said su port and between said insulators, a switch ii ade carried by said actuating insulator and moved thereby into and out of circuit closing position with both of said contacts, the switch closing movement including a longitudinal motion towards the support and said blade having a resilient engagement with both of said contacts which is yielding in the direction of movement of the actuating insulator whereby excessive stresses in the actuating insulator are avoided in the event of misalignment of the contacts, and the opening movement including a longitudinal motion away from the support, whereby if the contacts and the switch blade tend to stick together the actuating insulator 'is placed under compression and said irst mentioned iusulators are placed in tension, a stationary `tubular guiding member mounted on the Y support for guiding the movement of the actuating insulator, a member supporting the actuating insulator and extending into the tubular member, means including a slot in one of said members and a cooperating pin on the other member for guiding the move ment of the insulator supporting member, and means including an irreversible gearing located on the side of the pin and slot opposite the actuating insulator for actuating the insulator supporting member.

46. A switch ycomprising a tubular bearing, an insulator supporting member extending from one end thereof, an operating member extending from the opposite end thereof and telescoping with the supporting member, said insulator supporting member having guided linear motion and guided rotary motion, and means. for rotatin said operating member to impart said motions to the insulator supporting member.

In witness'whereof, we hereunto subscribe our names this 9th day of June, 1927.

TONY VAN RYAN. ALFRED ALSAKER.

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