Patent ID: 7932805
Filing Date: 2011-04-26
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A fuse comprising: a fuse body having an exterior surface; electrical terminal elements coupled to the fuse body; and a fuse state indicator on the exterior surface of the fuse body, the fuse state indicator including: an electrically conductive element electrically connected to and extending between the terminal elements and configured for resistive heating in an overcurrent condition; and a temperature sensitive element proximate the electrically conductive element and in thermal contact therewith, wherein the temperature sensitive element comprises material capable of changing color when heated to a predetermined transition temperature to form a mark on the temperature sensitive element, wherein the fuse state indicator is configured to form a first mark on the temperature sensitive element due to heat transferring from the electrically conductive element to the temperature sensitive element in response to a first overcurrent condition, and is configured to form a second mark, distinct from the first mark, on the temperature sensitive element due to heat transferring from the electrically conductive element to the temperature sensitive element in response to a second overcurrent condition distinct from the first overcurrent condition, wherein the first mark comprises an image of the electrically conductive element, and the second mark comprises an image of the electrically conductive element and deviated marks that deviate from the image of the electrically conductive element.