Patent ID: 6448883
Filing Date: 2002-09-10
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A switch having a temperature-dependent switching mechanism that comprises a stationary contact element; a movable contact element coacting with the stationary contact element; and a bimetallic element, having a predetermined functional service life, that as a function of its temperature lifts the movable contact element away from the stationary contact element, the two contact elements being, in one switch position, in contact with one another in order to carry a current that is to be guided through the switch, and in a second switch position, lifted away from one another so that the switch is open, which switch is equipped with a first connection electrode joined to the stationary contact element and with a second connection electrode joined to the movable contact element, wherein the switching mechanism has a spring element that is joined at its first end to the second connection electrode and at its second end to the bimetallic element that carries the movable contact element at its free end,wherein the two contact elements are having different geometries in a horizontal cross section and are arranged and coordinated with one another in such a way that when the functional service life of the bimetallic element is reached, the switching mechanism is welded in the second switch position.