Patent ID: 6380499
Filing Date: 2002-04-30
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A float sensor employing a reed switch comprising:a structure forming a reservoir for holding a selected liquid, the structure having an impervious wall for separating the selected liquid from a portion of the structure; a reed switch molded within a solid body of glass filled polyester; two leads extending from the solid body of plastic, the leads connected to the reed switch within the solid body of glass filled polyester so that when the reed switch is closed a short circuit is formed between the leads; a portion of the body of glass filled polyester forming a means for positioning and retaining the body on a structure, so the body is spaced from the reservoir by the impervious wall; a magnet mounted to a float positioned within the reservoir, and a float support structure, having two opposed rails which position the float support structure on the structure forming a reserve; and an arm mounted to the float support structure at a second end, and having a first end attached to the float, wherein the magnet is positioned between the float and the second end, the arm being positioned so that when the selected liquid is not present, the magnet is adjacent the impervious wall, and when the selected liquid is present, the float lifts the magnet away from the impervious wall so that a change in the selected liquid level within the reservoir will move the magnet into and out of actuation range of the reed switch.