David R Howie

US Patent:

56915209, Nov 25, 1997

Filed:

Dec 8, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/569467

Inventors:

Kenyon A. Hapke - Libertyville IL
David M. Howie - Waukesha WI
Spencer C. Schantz - Dousman WI

Assignee:

U.S. Controls Corporation - New Berlin WI

International Classification:

H01H 2104

US Classification:

200 6162

Abstract:

A self-adjusting lid switch for a type washing machine connects the switch to the lid by means of a slip joint composed of intermeshing toothed plates spring biased together. The first time the washing lid is closed the plates slip with respect to each other so that the switch is just actuated when the lid is closed. In this way a limited and predictable lifting of the lid de-actuates the switch so as to stop the washing machine before access to the washing machine tub is obtained.

US Patent:

58282815, Oct 27, 1998

Filed:

Jun 28, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/496272

Inventors:

Kenyon A. Hapke - Libertyville IL
David M. Howie - Waukesha WI
Spencer C. Schantz - Dousman WI

Assignee:

U.S. Controls Corporation - New Berlin WI

International Classification:

H01F 720

US Classification:

335286

Abstract:

A rotary switch adapted to be integrated into a push-to-start electrical control for a clothes dryer or the like employs a rotatable and axially translatable operator having an outwardly extending arm supporting a downward finger which travels across a pivotally mounted and downwardly arcuate lever to open and close contacts mounted on one end of the lever with rotation of the operator. Stops on rotation ensure that the finger is positioned on the lever so as to provide positive biasing of the operator to its end positions. The armature of a relay is actuated by a second arm from the operator contacting the armature within a triangle formed by the electromagnet coil and pivot supports preventing de-stabilization of the armature by the operator. Assembly of the relay to a base of the switch is provided by integrally molded hooks receiving tabs which cover holes necessary for the hook's manufacture. The operator is supported in a socket having a thin bottom wall that breaks free upon axial impact against the operator such as otherwise would be expected to damage the integrity of the switch housing.

US Patent:

59413743, Aug 24, 1999

Filed:

Oct 15, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/950895

Inventors:

Kenyon A. Hapke - Libertyville IL
David Koth - East Troy WI
David M. Howie - Waukesha WI
Spencer C. Schantz - late of Dousman WI

Assignee:

U.S. Controls Corporation - New Berlin WI

International Classification:

H01H 312

US Classification:

200345

Abstract:

A switch for a washing lid or the like has a collapsing operator. Over travel in the adjustment of the switch with the first lid closure is prevented by the incorporation of a deformable dampening element fitting within the collapsible portion of the operator.

US Patent:

56827725, Nov 4, 1997

Filed:

Feb 29, 1996

Appl. No.:

8/605569

Inventors:

Kenyon A. Hapke - Libertyville IL
Spencer C. Schantz - Dousman WI
David M. Howie - Waukesha WI

Assignee:

U.S. Controls Corporation - New Berlin WI

International Classification:

B08B 302

US Classification:

68 1226

Abstract:

A switch for a washing machine lid or the like detects welded load contact through an auxiliary set of contacts which shunt the load when the first set of contacts should be open and thus provide a high-current path when those contacts are welded. A series fusible link mechanically activates a set of disconnect contacts which disconnects the washing machine motor. The resulting switch has a single operator that may be collapsible to be self-adjusting permitting the switch to snap in place without the need for a separate adjustment step in the manufacturing process.