Patent ID: 6121864
Filing Date: 2000-09-19
Classification: G08B,H01H

Abstract:
An electrical switch, comprising:a magnetically actuated switch;a permanent magnet;path defining means mechanically coupled to said permanent magnet for allowing said magnet to move in a defined path, a particular part of which path lies adjacent to a portion of said magnetically actuated switch, which particular part is close enough to said magnetically actuated switch so that the magnetic fields of said magnet, when lying at said particular part of said path, actuate said magnetically actuated switch, whereby said magnet, at a particular position along said path will cause said magnetically actuated switch to assume one of first and second states;energy storage means coupled to at least said magnet for urging said magnet toward one end of said path;an elongated, nonelastic flexible actuator coupled to at least said magnet, for, in use, applying tension to said magnet in a direction which urges said magnet toward an other end of said path; andremovable holding means associated with said path defining means, for, when present, holding said magnet at said particular part of said path, and for, when not present, allowing said magnet to move along said path under the influence of said energy storage means and said actuator.