Patent ID: 6992260
Filing Date: 2006-01-31
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A float switch and clamping member assembly for use in association with a fluid collection container having a top edge to shut off a system providing fluid to the container once a pre-determined fluid depth has been reached, said assembly comprising: a housing having a front portion with an interior space, an open bottom end, a rear wall, at least one air vent opening through said rear wall, and a threaded bore centrally through said top, said housing also having a rear portion with at least two upper connecting members; at least one thumbscrew; a clamping member configured for creating a substantially J-shaped slot between said rear portion of said housing and said clamping member when they are joined during use, said clamping member also having at least one threaded opening therethrough that is configured for engagement of said at least one thumbscrew, said clamping member further having an upper connection means engaging with said at least two upper connecting members of said housing; at least two fasteners adapted for securely fixing said connection means of said clamping member and said at least two upper connecting members of said housing to one another; a shaft with a threaded top portion secured within said threaded bore in said top surface of said housing, said shaft also having a bottom end with a stop; a float switch body concentric with said shaft and positioned for free movement along said shaft; fastening means securely attaching said shaft to said housing; and lead wires connected between said float switch body and the system providing fluid to the collection container with which said assembly is associated, so that when the top edge of the container is positioned within said J-shaped slot between said clamping member and said housing, said at least two fasteners fixedly secure said upper connecting members of said housing to said connection means of said clamping member and said at least one thumbscrew is tightened in said at least one threaded opening through said clamping member, said float switch body is positioned to move freely along said shaft between said stop and said fastening means in response to rising and falling fluid levels in the attached container, and whereby when a pre-determined maximum depth of fluid accumulation is reached said float switch body shuts off the system to prevent fluid overflow in the container.