Shawn A Martin

US Patent:

6437263, Aug 20, 2002

Filed:

Oct 11, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/975421

Inventors:

Lester E. Burgess - Swarthmore PA 19081
Gary Kovac - Sewikley PA 15143
Richard Lerch - Media PA 19063
Shawn Martin - Harrisburg PA 17112

International Classification:

H01H 316

US Classification:

200 6143, 200 6173

Abstract:

A pressure actuated switching device for free hanging from a horizontal support, such as a drape sensor, includes an outer electrically non-conductive cover having an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a bottom edge portion. A plurality of weep holes are disposed along the bottom edge for drainage of moisture which may condense in the interior of the device. The device also includes a first electrically conductive coating deposited on the interior surface of the cover sheet, an interior sheet having at least a first surface with a second electrically conductive coating deposited thereon, and an electrically non-conductive spacer disposed between the first electrically conductive coating and the second electrically conductive coating. The non-conductive spacer preferably possesses a plurality of zig-zag shaped ribs. The pressure actuated switching device includes a sensitizing bracket to laterally direct forces applied to its side, and tolerates extreme conditions of moisture, heat and cold.