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US 4,567,375 AGranted
Soft switch with positive on and off states
OwnerBruce D. Jimerson, Henry H. Nakasoneinventors
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The specification discloses an electromechanical time delay combination for gradually applying power to the filament of an incandescent lamp. Following actuation to the "on" state, the conduction angle gradually changes from zero to 360.degree.. Following deactuation, the conduction angle lingers at 180.degree. for several seconds before returning to the non-conduction state. A set of mechanical contacts and a potentiometer may be added to effect proportional dimming.
Claims7
A switching apparatus having an "on" state and an "off" state comprising:
- actuating means for mechanically changing said switching apparatus from one state to another;
- a first pair of contacts having a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal;
- means for closing said first pair of contacts at the time said actuating means is operated to cause said switching apparatus to change from the "off" state to the "on" state;
- a second pair of contacts having a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal;
- means for delaying the closing of said second pair of contacts until after said first pair of contacts have closed;
- a two terminal variable conduction angle network having a first terminal connected to the first electrode terminal of said first pair of contacts;
- means for connecting first electrode terminal of said first pair of contacts to said first electrode terminal of said second pair of contacts;
- means connecting said second terminal of said second pair of contacts to the second terminal of said two terminal variable conduction angle network.
5 more elements
A switching device comprising:
- a first pair of mercury contacts adapted to close at the time said switching device is actuated to the "on" position, and adapted to open at the time said switching device is actuated to the "off" position;
- a first impedance network connected in series with said first pair of mercury contacts;
- a second pair of mercury contacts connected to short across said first impedance network;
- means for delaying the closure of said second pair of mercury contacts until after said first pair of mercury contacts are closed.
1 more element
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.