Patent ID: 7709756
Filing Date: 2010-05-04
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A safety switch assembly that is partially enclosed by a support structure that forms part of an enclosure positioned about an electrically powered apparatus and that prevents exposure of users to the electrically powered apparatus, the safety switch assembly comprising: a base plate having a conductor passage; a pair of electrical contacts that are supported by the base plate and arranged to control a supply of electricity to the electrically powered apparatus located within the enclosure; a cam arrangement; an actuator that cooperates with the cam arrangement to alter a condition of the electrical contacts; a slot formed in a first side of the support structure to allow the actuator to engage the cam arrangement from a first direction; and an opening formed in a side of the support structure that is not aligned with the first direction so that the support structure encloses the electrical contacts from atmosphere and in a manner that aligns the cam arrangement with the slot; and wherein the base plate cooperates with the opening to enclose the safety switch assembly in the support structure so that the safety switch assembly can only be removed from the support structure from a location inside the enclosure and the conductor passage allows connection of the electrical contacts to the electrically powered apparatus.