Patent ID: 7659802
Filing Date: 2010-02-09
Classification: G02B,H01F,H02K

Abstract:
1. A bi-stable magnetic switch assembly, comprising: a stator having an axis and at least first and second magnetic portions angularly disposed there around; a rotor having at least one magnetic region configured for attraction to said first and said second portions, said rotor configured for rotation about the axis between (1) a first latched position wherein said region resides proximate to and spaced apart from said first portion, and (2) a second latched position wherein said region resides proximate to and spaced apart from said second portion; a spring coupled to said rotor for biasing said rotor to a position where said magnetic region resides intermediate said first and said second portions; and a coil associated with at least one of said first portion, said second portion, and said region for reducing the force of attraction between said region and (1) said first portion when said rotor is in the first latched position, and (2) said second portion when said rotor is in the second latched position.