Electrical shorting device

Abstract

In an electrical switch for making and breaking electric connection between an energized electric conductor and a de-energizable electric conductor that are separated by an insulator and are controllable through manipulation of a pivotably movable switch element, a grounding mechanism is provided for connecting the de-energizable electric conductor to ground potential in the open condition of the switch to pass any electric current that might flow through the insulator to ground in the event the insulator might have become defective for any reason to such extent that it allows passage of electric current therethrough. The grounding mechanism may include a grounding connector element that may be connected to ground through a suitable grounding conductor and may also include grounding contact means that establishes electrical contact with the grounding conductor element in the open position of the switch. The grounding contact means may conveniently take the form of a pair of blade elements that are physically supported by the movable switch element and which are connected in a suitable manner to the de-energizable conductor that is controlled through manipulation of the switch. Following movement of the movable switch element from its closed position, the grounding contact means, which may conveniently take the form of a pair of grounding contact blades may be received in friction retained engagement with the grounding contactor thereby establishing a conductor path from the insulator to ground potential and preventing accidental injury to any workman that might come into contact with the de-energizable conductor.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.