Patent ID: 6013881
Filing Date: 2000-01-11
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
An operating head for a key operated safety switch comprising:a) a cam and a plurality of locking members, the locking members having opposing lock blocks for contacting said cam to prevent rotation thereof;b) a housing with a keyhole and having a central cavity containing an axle bearing and bosses for nonrotabably supporting the locking members;c) a shaft fitted in the axle bearing for mounting the locking members and for rotatably mounting the cam;d) the cam and locking members mounted on the shaft, the cam surrounded and captivated by the locking members in a cam captivating position;e) biasing means for biasing the locking members to the cam captivating position;f) a plunger contacting the cam for movement between 1st and 2nd plunger positions;g) a key having four faces constructed and arranged to displace the locking members along the shaft to a cam noncaptivating position, and;h) the key further having a cross bar surface for engaging the cam and having a void allowing the key to surround the cam when the key is fully inserted into the operating head.