Compact electric safety switch

Abstract

A compact electric safety switch including a rotatably mounted double contact assembly. Heavy duty compression springs are positioned under the blade assembly for rapid make and break connection between a pair of contact stabs. The series arrangement between the pair of contact stabs generates a corresponding pair of electrical arcs during the make and break occurrence which is less intense and of shorter duration than standard single contact arrangements. The pair of less intense arcs of short duration allow for a corresponding pair of arc chutes of smaller size than standard single arc chute arrangements. The contact stabs that receive the double contact blade are staggered to reduce electromagnetic attraction between the contact and the stabs.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.