US1754443A - Electric-circuit-controlling appliance - Google Patents

Description

April 15, 1930. J. SACHS ELECTRIC CIRCUIT CONTROLLING APPLIANCE Filed Dec. 10

6 Sheets-Sheet 5 W h n i d m 50% ma 3 April 15, 1930. J. SACHS 1,754,443

ELECTRIC CIRCUIT CONTROLLING APPLIANCE Filed Dec. 10, 1926 6 sheets-Sheet 2 I fnyEnL-pr Jasguh 555/75 ttarmg/ April 15, 1930.

J. sAcHs ELECTRIC CIRCUIT CONTROLLING APPLIANCE Fil ed Dec. 10, 1926 6 Sheets-Sheet 5 fim zytar c/usepfz 555/75 1/ )4. timing;

:5, 1930. J. SACHS ELECTRIC CIRCUIT CONTROLLING APPLIANCE April Filed Dec. 10 1926 6 Sheets-Sheet fnzkeni'ar dasspfz Sachs W 1/- ttarney April 15, 1930. J. sAcHs 1,754,443

ELECTRIC CIRCUIT CONTROLLING APPLIANCE Filed Dec. 10, 1926 s Shets-Sheet Patented Apr. 15, 1930 JOSEPHSACHS, OF WEST HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT ELECTBIC-CIRCUIT-CONTROLLING APPLIANCE Application filed December 10, 1926. Serial' No. 153,966.

The invention relates particularly to a circuit controlling appliance such as a fused switch, but as to some of its features it is not necessarily limited to a fused switch. The

type of construction to which the invention is particularly applicable comprises a base spaced from a rear supporting wall and or- .dinarily carrying fuse contacts at the front thereof and also comprises switching means located between the base and the supporting wall and including a sliding member movable parallelly with the supporting wall. Constructions of this type aredisclosed in my copending applications for electric circuit controlling appliances, Serial No. 746,911, filed October 30, 1924, Serial No. 131,043,--filed August 23, 1926, and Serial No. 150,586, filed November 24, 1926.

A fused switch embodying the invention may be and preferably is enclosed in a cabinet. The cabinet may, if desired, be adapted tobe readily associated with a meter; and the cabinet, whether or not associated with a meter, may be provided with a cover normally covering the fuses and cooperatively related .or interlocked with the switching means so that the cover cannot be movedto open position when the switch is closed and so that the switch cannot be closedwhen the cover is open.

One of the objects of the invention is to provide a fused switch of the type described, constructed and adapted for breaking the circuit at each side of the fuse and preferably in two or more places at each side of the fuse.

Another object of the invention is' to provide a switch of the type described, whether fused or unfused, having stationary switch contactsand a rectilinearly movable switch 40 member operatively associated in an improved relationship with an insulating base.

Still another ob]ect of the invention is to provide a switch of the type described, whether fused or unfused, havlng improved details of switch construction and mounting for the stationary switch contacts and the movable switching member.

Still another object of the invention is to provide a fused switch of the type described having thefuse contacts positioned generally in front of the stationary switch contacts and other switch parts, the fuse contacts ordi narily being at the front of an insulating base and the switch contacts being at the rear thereof. A still further object of thev invention is to provide an improved arrangement of fuses and switching elements wherein a plurality of pairs of switch contacts are mounted on the front face of the base and wherein a plurality of switching. devices of the type described are associated with the base at the rear thereof and connected and arranged in a novel and advantageous manner.

An additional object of the invention is to .6 provide a novel relative arrangement of fuse andsw'itchcontacts wherein the switch contacts are clearly visible and easily accessible and are not concealed either bythe fuse contacts or by the base. 7 Another object of the invention is to provide a novel arrangement of the operating means with respect to the switch parts whereby simplicit and compactness are attained.

Still anot er object of the invention is to provide improved operating mechanismfor a switch of the type described.

. Other objects of the invention will be apparent from the following specification and claims: so In the accompanying drawings I have shown several embodiments 'of the invention,

but it will be understood that these several embodiments are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not to be construed as defining or limiting the scope of the invention, the claims forming a part of this specification being relied upon for that purpose.

Of the drawings: Figural is a front view of an appliance embodying the invention, this view showing the switch handle in the position correspond ing to the closed position of the switch and showing the fuse cover in closed position.

Fig. 2 is a side elevation of the parts shown inFig.1.-

Fig, 3 is a fragmentary front view similar to Fig. 1, but showing the handle in the position corresponding. tothe open position of the switch and showing the fuse cover in open position.

Fig. 4is a front view of the switch and fuse block separate from the cabinet.

Fi 5 is a bottom view of the switch and fuse )lock shown in Fig. 4, this view also showing the switch operating handle and in addition showin the cabinet in section along the line 55 of ig. 2.

Fig. 6 is a sectional view taken along the line 66 of F ig. 5.

Fig; 7 is a sectional view taken along the lines 7-7 of Figs. 4 and 6.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of one of the sliding switch members.

Fig. 9 is a view similar to Fig. 4 but showing an alternate embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 10 is a sectional view taken along the line 10-10 of Fig. 9. 3

Fig. 11 is a fragmentar perspective view of the supporting means or the base shown in Figs. 9 and 10.

Fig. 12 is a fragmentary perspective view showing an alternate switch contact and wire terminal construction which may be substituted for that shown in Figs. 9 and 10.

Fig. 13 is a front view of an appliance constituting a different embodiment of the invention, this view showing the enclosing cabinet and a part of a meter but not the entire cabinet cover which may be substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 14 is a fragmentary bottom view of the parts shown in Fig. 13, this View also 4 showing the operating handle for the switch and showing the cabinet in section.

. Fig. 15 is a vertical sectional View taken along the line 1515 of 'Fig.,13.

Fig. 16 is a view somewhat similar to Fig. 13 but showing an appliance constituting a different embodiment of the invention.-

.Fig. 17 is a bottom view of the parts shown in Fig. 16, this view also showing the oper ating handle for the switch and showing the cabinet in section.

Fig. 18 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 18.18 of Fig. 16.

Fig. 19 is a fragmentary perspective view of the supporting means for the base shown in Figs. 16 to 18.

Fig. 20.is a front view of an appliance constituting a still different embodiment of the invention, this view showing the enclos ing cabinet but not the entire front cover therefor which may be similar in construction to that shown in Fig. 1. e I

Fig. 21 is a bottom view ofthe parts shown in Fig. 20, this view also showing the switch operating handle and "showing the cabinet in section.

line 22-22 of Fig. 20.

Fig. 22 is a sectional view taken along the Fig. 24 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 2424 of Fig. 20.

Referring to the drawings, particularly Figs. 1 to 8 thereof, 1 represents an insulating base which is preferably unitary in construction. In the case of a fused switch the base 1 serves for supporting the fuse contacts and the switch contacts are immediately associated with the said base, some of them being ordinarily directly connected therewith. Ordinarily when both fuse contacts and switch contacts are provided, these contacts are located on different faces of the base with the fuse contacts at the front and with the switch contacts and switching member, constituting the switching means, at the back and preferably opposite or substantially opposite the fuse contacts. The fuse and switch contacts may be carried directly by the said base, which may be a single integral piece, and they are herein so shown and described. It will be understood that in describing the base as unitary, I do not mean that it is necessarily integral, but that it is so constructed that it can be put in place or removed as a unitary' entirety.

In the drawings, I have shown two pairs of fuse contacts and two sets of switch con tacts, but it will be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular number of fuses and switches. The fuse and switch contacts as shown are symmetrically disposed with respect to the vertical central plane of the appliance and for the sake of convenience and simplicity of description, I

V will describe only those parts on one side of the said plane, it being understood that the parts on the other side are, or may be,-the same in construction except for reversal of positions.

The two fuse contacts are shown at 2 an 3, these being accessible from the front and preferably mounted directly on the front face of the base 1. The fuse contacts shown are adapted for receiving a cartridge enclosed fuse such as F but will be understood that the invention is not limited for usev with fuses of this particular type.

Preferably and in accordance with one phase of the invention, I provide two switch contacts 4 and '5, which are connected respectively with the fuse contacts 2 and 3 and which are located behind a transverse plane through the rear parts of the fusecontacts. When a base such as 1 is provided the fuse contacts are ordinarily mounted on the front face thereof, and the switch contacts are associated therewith adjacent the back face. The switch contacts 4 and 5 may if desired be directly connected with or carried by the base 1 and they may be located substantially opposite the fuse contacts 2 and 3. These contacts 4 and 5 when directly connected with the base extend from the rear face thereof toward the supporting wall. Suitable wire connectingterminals and 7 are provided each adapted for the connection of either an incoming circuit-wire or an outgoing circuit;

- cludes two contact elements insulated from each other and adapted respectively to engage and disengage the said stationary contacts 4 and 5. As preferred and as illustrated, the sliding switch member comprises an in sulating element 8 preferably in the form of a fiat bar or plate having opposite parallel guiding edges and it also comprises two conducting'connectors or contact elements 9 and 10 which are carried by the insulating element and are so spaced as to be adapted to substantially simultafi'eously engage and disengage the said stationary contacts 4 and 5. The said movable switch contacts 9 and 10 are normally in electrical connection with the said wire connecting terminals 6 and 7 respectively and it'will therefore be apparent that by sliding the switch member longitudinally, the said contacts 9 and 10 thereof can be moved out of their engaging position, as shown in Fig. 6, into a disengaging position wherein they are out of engagement with the said stationary switchcontacts 4 and 5 so that the circuit is broken at both sides of the fuse, that is, between each fuse contact and the corresponding wire attaching terminal. It will be observed that inasmuch as the circuit is broken at both sides of the fuse, the fuse is entirely disconnected from the main line or incoming circuit wire irrespective of whether the said wire is connected to'the terminal 6 or to the terminal 7.

Preferably, the switch mechanism is so constructed that the circuit may be broken at two points at at least one side of the fuse and preferably at two points at each side thereof. To this end,'I provide in addition to the stationary switch contacts 4 and 5, two other stationary switch contacts 11 and 12 directly con nected respectively with the wire terminals 6 nand -7 and located respectively in opposed relationship with the saidstationary contacts 4 and 5. In referring to the opposed rela tionship of the switch contacts of each pair I mean that the said contacts are similarly disposed with respect to the path of movement of the switching member and are at opposite sides thereof, andI do not mean to indicate construction of the contacts;

by. the said expression any of the details of When there are four 'such'stationary' contacts, the movable contact elements 9 and 10 of the switching member extend from one to the other of the opposite sides of the insulating element'9 so as to provide, when in their engaging positions, a direct connection respectively between the contacts 4 and 11 and the contacts 5. and

12. It will be seen that w l en the switch member is moved longitudinally out of the position shown in Fig. 6, thecircuit will be broken at two points at each side of the fuse, thus making a total of fourbreaks. It will be understood that by providing additional stationary and movable switch contacts in series with those already described the total number of breaks may be increased as desired. Theprovision of multiple breaks as described, adapts the switch for breaking heavier currents and higher voltages with a minimum of arcing than is possible with a 'single break.

The insulating element 8 of the switch member serves not only as a carrier for each contact element 9 or 10. but it also serves as a barrier which is moved between the opposed stationary contacts immediately upon the disengagement of the corresponding movable contact element 9 or 10 therefrom. It

thus'be pp that in accordance with n16 invention, the circuit is not only broke at twopoints at the corresponding side of he fuse, but that the opposed stationary contactsare separated by an insulating barrier which serves to positively prevent any direct arcing between thesaid stationary contacts.

By reason ofthe use of a switch member providing a barrier as described, the said station- .arv'contacts can be placed much closer together than would otherwise be possible, thus enabling me to make the entire switch block, and in factthe entire appliance, much smaller than would otherwise be necessary.

In the particular embodiment of the invention as shown more particularly in Figs. 4 to 8, there are certain details of switch construction which are highly advantageous, and as concerns these features of the invention, I do not necessarily limit myself to any particu lar location of the switch parts with respect to the base or to the use of the said switch parts in the described relationship with fuse contacts. Furthermore, I do'not limit myself to either one or two pairs of stationary switch contacts, as the number of such pairs may be varied to suit requirements. As illustrated, the several stationary switch contacts 4, 5, 11 and 12 are provided with flat supporting elements preferably in the form of rec- Y tangular brackets or straps 13, 14, l5 and 16.-

The manner of mounting the several" supporting elements may lee varied, but they may be mounted directly on the base. "As showneach of the supporting elements has a portion which projects rearward from the rear face of the base substantially perpendicularlying elements 13 and 14 is provided with a portion 17 adapted to lie fiat against the rear face of the base, this portion 17 being mechanically and electrically connected with the corresponding fuse contact by means of a screw 18 as clearly shown in Fig. 7. Each' of the supporting elements and 16 is provided with aportion 19 adapted to lie flat against the rear face of the base, and held in place by screws 20. Connected with the said portion 19 is the corresponding wire terminal 6 or 7, the wire terminal in each case being carried .directly by an extension on the supporting element. Each of the switch contacts 4, 5, 11 and 12 comprises a piece of resilient sheet metal preferably bent into U-shaped form with a fiat extension adapted to be connected by riveting or otherwise with the rearward projecting portion of the corresponding supporting element. The said contacts are so arranged that the free portions of the contacts of each pair are adjacent each other and properly spaced to provide oppositely facing parallel contact faces spaced away from the face of the base and adapted to engage the corresponding movable contact 9 or 10.

Each of the movable switch contacts 9 and 10 is preferably constructed and secured to the conducting element 8 as shown in detail :o in Fig, 8. Each conductingcontact element comprises a single strip of sheet metal bent .to provide two opposite separated contact portions immediately adjacent opposite faces of the said insulating element 8. Preferably,

in order to provide for securely holding each of the said contacts, the said insulating element 8 is formed with a slot 21 for each contact, which slot is preferably arranged transversely of the longitudinal lines of the said element. When slots such as 21 are pro vided as shown and described. each contact 9 or 10 is bent into the form'of a U with flat sides. I have shown the insulating element 8 as formed with additional slots 22 parallel with the slots 21 and I have also shown the contacts 9 and 10 as formed with end portions adapted to enter the slots 22, 22 the said contacts thus being in the form of substantially Y closed loops. Initially each loop may be partly formed separately from the element 8 with the portions immediately adjacent the ends turned inward. Before being entirely closed each contact is entered in the slot 21 and the opposite sides of the loop are then bent inward so as to move the inward turned end portions into the other slot 22. Thus the contact is formed with two flat contact portions located at opposite sides of the insulating element 8 and directly connected C3 with each other electrically. The construction not only provides the required direct electrical connection between the two sides,'.

but it is strong mechanically and inexpensive to manufacture.

It will be observed that the contact faces upon the breaking of the circuit.

- scribed in detail.

of each of the contact elements 9 and 10 are spaced laterally outward from the respective planes of the opposite surfaces of the insulating element or plate 8. This construction makes it possible for the stationary switch contacts to be engaged by the said contact elements when the switching members rubbing off of metallic particles from the switch contacts onto the said insulating element. If the insulating element were allowed to engage the switch contacts small metallic. particles would gradually accumulate on the surfaces of the said element and these particles would tend to maintain arcs The base 1 is so mounted as to lie in fixed relationship with a rear support or rear supporting means, which support or supporting means may be the back wall of-an enclosing cabinet such as will presently be de- The base is so located with relation to the said supporting means that a suitable space is provided for the switch parts which have already been described. For guiding the insulatin element 8 of the switch member for longitu inal sliding movement, I may utilize the said supporting means at the rear and I may provide another guide means at the front which latter means may be the base itself. As illustrated, the inner edge of the insulating element 8 directly engages the supporting wall and the outer edge of the said element directly engages the base at the rear. The said switch member is thus held against forward or backward movement by means of the base and the supporting means.

- I do not herein claim as a part of the present invention the construction and arrangement whereby the switching member is guided as concerns lateral movement solely by means of the stationary switch contacts, this feature being set forth and claimed in my copending application for electric circuit controlling appliance, Serial No. 165,645 filed February 3rd, 1927, which application as to a part of its subject matter is a continuation of this present application.

The basemay be provided with a groove 23 cabinet.

comprising blocks 25, 25 and 26 of insulating tive connection with the base.

supporting wall is the rear wall of a cabinet the said base supporting means is entirely independent of the side walls and cover of the I have shown the base support as material which serve to hold the said base in spaced relationship with the rear supporting wall and which also have other functions as will presently appear. Preferably, there are two or more screws 27, 27 which extend rearward through thevbase and through the corresponding blocks and engage the supporting wall to hold the base and the blocks in place.

As illustrated, each screw 27 is surrounded by a tube or bushing 27 which frictionally engages the sides of the holes in the-base 1 and in the block 25. The tubes serve to hold the base and blocks in assembled relation before the screws are in place. As sh59wn most clearly in Fig. 6, the blocks 25, 2 and 26 are recessed at the corners to provide spaces for the switch contacts 4, 5, 11 and 12 and the parts associated therewith. Preferably, the supporting elements 13 and 14 directly engage the block 26 to hold it against lateral or vertical movement and the supporting elements 15 and 16 engage the corresponding block 25 to hold it against pivotal movement about the corresponding holding screw 27.

The base 1, being held solely by the screws 27, 27, is readily detachable. As already stated the switching members are guided .between the base and the rear supporting wall and the switching members are without posi- Inasmuch as the base is detachably mounted it will be obvious that when the base is removed the switching member may be disengaged from the supporting means. It will further be clear that when the base is removed the switching member may be separated from the base and also from the stationary switch contacts in a direction perpendicular to the direction of normal longitudinal movement,

, in this case in the rearward direction.

Between the two pairs of stationary con-. tacts, the blocks 25 and 26 may be formed with walls forming a narrow or restricted path approximately the same in width as the thic ess-of the contacts 9 and 10. If it be assumed that in opening, the switch member moves downward from the position shown in Fig. 6, it will be apparent that one of the contacts, that is, the contact 10 will move into the above described restricted path and that there will thus be a tendency to break any are that might form as the are would not readily follow into the restricted passageway but would on the contrary expand outward into the unrestricted space. In this respect, the said walls cooperate directly with the-insulating element 8 which acts as a barrier as already described.

It may be desirable .to make .a still further provision for mufliing or extinguishing any arcs which might be formed. For this purpose, I prefer to provide a construction 0 the type set forth in my Patent 1,554,528, dated September 22, 1925. In each of the walls forming the before-mentioned restricted path for the movable switch contact, I provide a chambers 28, 28 and become cooled and con-- densed so that the arcs are immediately ruptured. These chambers provide large or extended areas of cooling surfaces which instantly condense the hot are formed gases. Vents 28', 28 may be provided for some of the chambers 28, 28. It will be understood that if desired similar provision may be made a for muffling or rupturing the arcs which may be formed at the other switch contacts but this is ordinarily not necessary and such means are therefore not shown.

a As already stated, the fuse and switch block is preferably enclosed in a casing or cabinet, this ordinarily being so constructed that it can be sealed'so as to prevent unauthorized access to any of the enclosed parts, excepting in some cases the fuse contacts. In Figs. 1, 2, 3 and 5, I have shown an enclosing cabinet 29 of sheet metal having a rear wall 30, side walls 31, 31 and end walls 32, 32. The cabinet has an openable front cover 33, which is'shown as being hin ed at 34, 34 to' the bottom end wall 32. uitable means, such as a spring latch 35 is provided for holding the cover in closed position and a seal 4 36 ma be provided for preventing the opening 0 the cover except by breaking the seal.

A means is provided for operating the switch member or members and when there is an enclosing cabinet, such as 29, the said means includes a handle located externally of the cabinet so that the switch can be operated when the cabinet is closed. Preferably, the cabinet is utilized as a means for sup porting the switch operating means and I have shown a switch operating means of the type set forth in m aforesaid copending application, Serial 0. 131,043. As shown,

.there is an operating spindle comprising a rod 37- including a pivot section 38 positioned closely adjacent the rear wall 30 of the cabinet and extending through an opening in one side wall 31 thereof. The said rodis bent to form a manually operable handle 39 outside of'the cabinet. and also to form a crank section 40 inside of the cabinet and.

sectio1f38 of the rod, this hearing clip being secur "directly to the back wall of the cabinet. Breferably, in addition to the pivot section 38 there is formed a second pivot section 43 in alignment with the pivot section 38 and held by a bearing clip 44 similar to the bearing clip 42.

I provide a suitable operative connecting means between the swinging crank section 40 and each of the rectilinearly movable switch members. Preferably this connecting means is so constructed as to permit the assembly or disassembly of the insulating element and the base with or from the operating means and the cabinet by the simple act of moving the said base and insulating element rearward or forward. For this purpose, I have shown in each insulating element 8 a portion provided with a slot 45 adapted to receive the crank section 40. The slot 45 is preferably open at one end, that is, at the back end, so as to facilitate assembly or disassembly' as described. The slot 45 is shown as being 'near the lower end of the insulating element,

but it will be understood that I do not limit myself to this location.

When it is desired to place the crank sec tion 40 of the operating spindle very close to the contacts, the said crank section may be surrounded by insulating material in order to avoid any possible short circuits. This insulating material may vary as to details, but

I have shown a round tube 46 which may be longitudinally split along one side in order to permit its assembly upon the spindle. It

will be understood that the slot 45 is wide enough to receive not only the crank section of the spindle but also the tube 46 thereon. I do not herein claim the switch operating mechanism including a tube or other insulation surrounding the crank portion of the spindle, as this subject matter is set forth and claimed in my copending application for switch operating mechanism, Serial No. 3(i5,-

420, filed May 23, 1929, as a continuation-inpart of this present application.

From the foregoing description, it will be obvious that by moving the handle 39 each of the switch members can be moved longitudinally upward or downward, as desired. The two pivot sections 38 and 43 with the bearing clips therefor insure uniformmove ment of both switch members. Vith the handle in its uppermost position as shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 5, the switch members will be held in their uppermost positions as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, thus completing the circuit through the appliance. When the handle 39 is moved to its lower position as shown in GO Fig. 3, the switch members will be moved to their lower positions, thus separating the movable contacts 9 and 10 from the stationary contacts 4 and 11 and 5 and 12 respectively and thus breaking each leg of the circuit at four points as already fully described.

is such that the base serves to entirely close the said opening when the cover is in closed position. As shown, the cover is fiat and is provided with a depressed portion 48 which terminates at the said opening 47 and the base is provided with an extension 49 which surrounds the fuse contacts and fuses and which engages or approximately engages with the cover depression 48 when the cover is in closed position. Preferably, a part of the extension 49 projects through the opening 47 so as to positively prevent the insertion of wires or other conductors through the opening into engagement with live parts within the cabinet. I preferably provide a cover for the opening 47 and I further preferably so construct the parts that the fuse cover cannot be opened when the switch handle 39 is in the position corresponding to the closed position of the switch and so that the handle 39 cannot be moved to the position corresponding to the open position of the switch when the cover is open. I have shown a sidewise opening flat cover 50 for the fuses, this coverpreferably directly engaging the main cover 33 for sliding movement thereon. Rigidly secured to the main cover 33 is a sheet metal guide 51 having an opening 52 therein .which registers with the opening 47 in the main cover. The guide 51 is spaced from the main cover so that the fuse cover 50 is slidably mounted between the said parts. The said fuse cover 50 is provided with a knob 53 which serves as a means for moving the fuse cover and which also serves as a stop for limiting the movement of the said cover in either direction. Fig. 1 shows the cover 50 in' its left hand closed position and Fig. 3 shows the said cover in its right hand open position. It will be observed that when the fuse cover is in closed position and the handle 39 in the switch closing position, the said handle directly obstructs the cover and prevents the opening movement-thereof. When the fuse cover is in its open position as shown in Fig. 3, the said cover directly obstructs thehandle 39 and prevents its movement to switch closing position. The specific construction and inter-relationship as herein described between a sidewise opening cover and a switch operating handle are not claimed as part of the present invention, these being set forth in my patents for enclosed fused switches, Nos. 1,721,493, 1,721,494 and 1,721,495 all issued July 16, 1929.

In Figs. 9 to 11, I have shown an alternate embodiment of the invention adapted for the same general classes of service as the construction shown in Figs. 1 to 8, but nevertheless differing in several important details and particularly in the location of the switch contacts.

A base 1 is provided which is or may be similar to the base 1 and which is or may be similarly provided with fuse contacts 2 and 3 at its front. The several stationary switch contacts 4, 5 11 and 12, while separated by the base from the fuse contacts and while operatively extending from the rear face of the base toward the supporting wall, are located beyond the top and bottom edges of the base so as to be readily visible and accessible from the front. As clearly shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the fuse connected contacts4 and 5* are carried respectively by supporting elements 1 and 15, each of which extends beyond the corresponding edge of the base and then extends rearward. Each supporting element is held in place and connected with the corresponding fuse contact 2 or 3 by means of a screw 18. The terminal connected contacts 11 and 12 are carried respectively by supporting elements 15 and 16 which ex tend beyond the corresponding ed e of the base and then extend rearward. ach supporting element is held in place by screws 20 and the corresponding wire terminal 6 or 7 is mounted directly on the supporting element. The contacts 4*, 5, 11 and 12 are preferably removably secured to the respective supporting elements by means of screws It will be observed that with the construction shown in Figs. 9 to 11, the stationary switch contacts are exposed for convenient inspection and can be easily cleaned when 'necessary without disassembling any parts of the device. Recesses 61, 61 may be provided in the edges of the base 1 to facilitate inspection and cleaning. It will I furthermore be observed that the stationary switch contacts can be easily removed in case replacement is desired, this removal being possible by merely unscrewing the screws 54, 54 and without di sturbing any other parts of the device.

An insulating element 8 is provided similar to the element 8 already described but having the contact elements 9 and 10 thereon differently spaced in accordance with the dif-.

'ferent locations of the stationary switch, coning baflie plate 26 is provided. bptween the two sets of switch contacts. This is shown as being held in a slot in the base 1 and a suitable opening26 provides clearance for the operating spindle.

As shown particularly in Figs. 10 and 11, a base supporting means is provided which is different in detail from. that shown in Figs. 4 to 7, but which is nevertheless similar in principle in that it engagesthe rear wall of the cabinet independently of the side walls thereof. Instead of' providing for this purpose insulating blocks I provide sheet metal brackets 55, of which one is shown. Difierent details of construction may be provided for the brackets 55, but as shown each bracket has a flange 56 adapted to be welded or otherwise secured to the rear wall of the cabinet, and it has two spaced strips 57, 57 terminating in a flange 58 to which the base may be secured by means of screwsv 27*. Space is provided between the strips 57, 57 for the operating spindle 37, and preferably the flange 56 is formed with an arched portion 59 providinga bearing for the operating spindle.

- In Fig. 12, I have shown an alternate con;-

struction for mounting the wire terminals and the terminal connected switch contacts. 'The supporting element 15 has no rearward proectmg portion and the switch contact 11' is formed, with an extension overlying the supporting element 15" and secured thereto .means of a screw 54. The supporting element 15 has a lateral extension 60 to which the corresponding wire terminal is directly secured. I

In Figs. 13 to 15, I have shown another embodiment of the inventionwhich is in many respects similar to that shown in Figs. 1 to 8, but which differs primarily in that provision enclosed appliance with an electric meter and that provision is also made for the testing of the meter. In view of the similarity of the construction to that shown'in Figs. 1 to 8, it will not be necessary to repeat the description of all of the details, it being obvious that ex-- cept as hereinafter described, the constructions are similar, differing only in relative proportions.

As shown in Fig. 13, the cabinet 29 has'its upper end wall 32 provided with an opening therein adapted to'receive and approximately fit the terminal portion of an electric meter M'. With this construction, the cabinet 29 serves not only to enclose the switch and fuse block,

but also to-enclose the terminal portion of the meter together with the connections between the meter and the said fuse and switch block.

In addition to the parts already described 'in connection with Figs. .1 to 8, the base 1 as shown in Figs. 13 to 15 is shown as provided with means ordinarily located on the front face for facilitating the testing of the meter. The details of the testing means may be varied according to the conditions of use. For three wire service I preferably provide at least one movable test link at each side of the base, the

'is made for the protective association-of the, I

link being adapted to be included in the circuit between the meter and the load wires and.

the meter from the load wires While testing is" being carried on. Ordinarily and preferably, the incoming circuit wires S, S are connected with theterminals 6, 6, and as shown a neutral wire S is also provided. The circuit extends from these terminals 6, 6 through the switch and fuse in the manner already described to the terminals 7, 7 which are indirectly connected with the outgoing circuit throu h the meter M. Meter connections C and 2 are shown extending from the terminals 7, 7 to the meter. Other meter connections C and C extend from the meter to Wire connecting terminals 62, 62 mounted on the base preferably near the outer edges thereof. The outgoing circuit wires L, L are connected directly with terminals 63, 63 which terminals are connected respectively with the terminals 62, 62 by means of movable testing links 64, 64. The testing links 64, 64 are of a well known construction, each link being slotted near its 5 ends and thusadapted to receive studs 65 and 66 connected respectively with the terminals 62 and 63. It will be seen that by removing the links 64, 64, the circuit may be broken between the said terminals 62, 62 and 63, 63.

Preferably, in addition to the links 64, 64, I provide other similar links 67, 67 interposed between the terminals 7, 7 and the corresponding switch contacts 12. As clearly shown in Fig. 15 the supporting element 16 is connected by means of screws. 68 and 69 with a short conductor 7 0' on the front face of the base. Each link 67 engages the corresponding stud 68 at one end and a similar stud 71 connected with the terminal 7.

In addition to the removable links 64, 64 and 67, 67 I also provideauxiliary contacts adapted forthe attachment of a short circuiting connection from the switch contact 12 to the terminal 63. For this purpose, I utilize the before-mentioned stud 69 and a similar stud 72 connected with the said terminal 63.

A link 73 may be provided as shown in dot and dash lines in Fig. 13 for connecting the said studs 69 and 72. It will be seen that when the links 73, 73 are in place, the circuit will extend directly through the switch and fuse to the terminals 63. It is then possible to either partly or entirely disconnect the meter by re-- moving some or all of the links 64, 64 and The metertesting devices herein shown and described do not of themselves constitute a part of the present invention, being set forth and claimed in my copending applications for electric meter service appliances, Serial No. 715,320 filed May 23, 1924, Serial No. 170,784 filed February 25, 1927 and Serial No. 247,730 filed January 18, 1928.

As already described, the terminals 6,. 6

are preferably used for the'incomig'g circuit wires and the terminals 63, 63 for the outgoing circuit wires. However, the appliance is operative even though the installing workman should by reason of carelessness or ignorance attach the incoming wires to the terminals 63, 63 and the outgoing wires to the terminals 6, 6. Inasmuch as the circuit is broken at both sides of the fuse, the fuse contacts are entirely disconnected from the in coming line when the switch is open. Furthermore, with the connections made as last described, it is possible to test the meter substantially as already described, the principal difference being that the links 67, 67 are used, instead of the links 64, 64 for disconnecting the meter from the outgoing circuit wires.

In addition to the differences in construction already described, the appliance shown in Figs. 13 to 15 is shown as being provided with a single integral block 74 of insulating material for supporting the main base and holding it in proper spaced relationship with the supporting wall, that is, with the back wall of the cabinet. This single integral block takes the place of the three blocks 25, 25

and 26 shown in Figs. 5 to 7. The said block 74 is provided with recesses 75, 75 adapted to contain the stationary switch contacts and the movable switching members. These recesses are formed in the front portion of the block and extend rearward, but terminate in front of the back face of the block. The walls at the bottoms of the recesses serve to assist in guiding the corresponding insulating elements of the switching members.

Chambers 28, 28 may be provided for receiving and condensing arc-formed gases, these being similar in construction and function to the chambers 28, 28 already described.

In Figs. 16 to 19, I have shown a construction which is similar to that shown in Figs. 1 to 8 as concerns the construction and arrangement of the switch contacts; which.

For the purpose of supporting the base 1 and holding it in fixed position in the cabinet, two brackets 55155 are provided, these brackets being somewhat similar to the brackets 55 and similarly being welded or otherwise secured to the back walls of the cabinet. The brackethasfianges 56 and 58 and the mam body 57 of the bracket is shown as being an imperforatesheet instead of two strips. Thearched portion 59.- proa the at the ottom 0 the bracket instead of inthe middle.

For separating the two movable switch eleviding'bzgarin for the operating spindle is ments and thetwo sets of stationary switc contacts, I preferably provide a barrier plate 26 of insulating material which is seated at its outer edge in a groove 76 formed in the base 1. The rear edge of the barrier plate 26 engages an insulating plate 24 extending along the front surface of the back wall-of the cabinet. In order to prevent vertical movement of the barrier plate 26 and in order to assist in holding the in sulating sheet 24, I preferably provide the said plate with lugs 77, 77 engaging the base 1 and lugs 78, 78 engaging the sheet 24 and if desired entering registering holes in the back wall of the cabinet.

In Figs. 20 to 24, I have shown a construction which is similar in function to those shown in Figs. 13 to 15 and Figs. 16 to719, but differing in many details of construction.

The base is shown at 1 and, instead of separate blocks or other supporting means bein provided between the base and the supporting wall, the base is provided with 1n-.

tegral rearward extensions 25, 25 and 26 to engage directly with least with an insulating As shown,

which are adapted the said wall or at plate carried by the said wall.

base is secured to the back wall 30 of the cabinet by means of screws 27", 27. The fuse contacts are adapted for receiving screw plug fuses F instead of cartridge fuses, the two contacts of each pair being shown at 2 and 3. The base is provided with wire connecting terminals 6, 6 adapted for the connection of incoming circuit wires and with terminals 7 7 adapted for connection with the load indirectly through the meter. Recesses are provided at the back of the base for receiving stationary switch contacts 4, 5,

11 and 12 which are similar in arrangement and in function to the contacts 4, 5, 11 and 12 already described. One terminal 6 is connected with the contact 11 by means of a supporting element 15 as shown in detail in Figs. 21 and 23. The switch fuse contact 4 is connected with the outer fuse contact 2 by means of a supporting element 13 as shown in detail in Figs. 22 and 23. The inner fuse contact 3 is connected with the switch contact 12 by means of a supporting element 16 as shown in detail in Figs. 22 and 23. The switch contact 5 is connected with the terminal 7 by means of a supporting element 14 which is similar to the supporting element 15 already described. The switch member comprises an insulating element 8 and movable conducting contacts 9 and 10 similar in construction to the corresponding parts already described. The switching element 8 has a slot 45 open at the front. When the switch member is in the position shown in Fig. 23, a circuit is established from the terminal 6 through the switch contacts h contacts 12, 10 and 5 ,to the terminal 7.

.When the" switch member is moved to its lower position the circuit is broken at two places at each side of the fuse, the action being similar to that already described.

In addition to the terminals 6, 6 and 7,

7, I preferably provide terminals 62, 62

for attachment of meter leads and terminals 63, 63 for the attachment of outgoing circuit wires. Interposed between the terminals 62, 62 and 63, 63 are test switches. The detailed construction of these switches-may be varied, but as shown each switch comprises a movable blade 64 pivotally connected with one of the terminals as for instance the terminal 63. The blade 64 is adapted to engage a stationary contact 65 connected with the other wire connecting terminal such as the terminal 62. The blade 64 carries a handle 79 ofinsulating material whereby it may be moved into open position as shown at the right hand side of Fig. 20. Preferably, for convenience in moving the plate, the

handle 79 is provided with an elongated slot 80 adapted to, receive the point of a screw driver. By inserting the screw driver into the slot 80 and turning it the blade may be conveniently moved in either the opening dialready described in connection with Figs. 13

I have herein shownand described several embodiments of my invention, and it is ob- 'vious that there are various other arrangements for the relativeassociation and positioning of the base with'its associated fuse receiving contacts, switching contacts and switching members, and the positioning and mounting of this co-operating combination of parts on a mounting surface as for instance the rear wall of the enclosing cabinet or casing. In the combination of parts forming the complete appliance, it is to be observed that there is a base having fuse receiving contacts mounted thereon in a for ward or outward facing position, and that there are also stationary switch contacts with their cooperatively associated movable switching members, or other parts functioning for the opening and closing of the electric circuit, positioned relatively rearward or further away from the front than the position of the fuse receiving contacts. It'is also to be observed that the combination of contacts and movable parts forming the switching means is positioned in a substantially overlapping relationship to the forward or out-- which may be conceived as extending between them and parallel with the supporting wall.

I do not herein claim those features of invention, disclosed in Figs. 4 to 8, in Figs. 13 to 15 and in Figs. to 25, which involve or relate to the positioning of the movable switching member for movement in a slot or passage in the insulating body, or which involve or relate to the mounting of the base proper on separate insulating blocks. These and other related features of invention are set forth and claimed in my copending application for electric circuit controlling appliance, Serial No. 374,727 filed June 29, 1929, as a division of this present application.

What I claim is:

1. In a fused switch appliance, the combination of an insulating base, a pair of fuse receiving contacts mounted on the base, two

stationary switch contacts immediately associated with the base and electrically connected respectively with the said fuse contacts, a switching member slidably engaging the base and guided in part thereby, the said switching member including two contact elements insulated from each other and adapted respectively to normally engage the said stationary switch contacts, and means for slidably moving the switching member to disen- I gage the movable contact elements thereof from the stationary switch contacts or to reengage them therewith whereby the circuit is groken or re-established at both sides of the use.

2. In an enclosed fused switch, the combination of an enclosing cabinet having an Openable front cover, an insulating base mounted in fixed position within the cabinet, a pair of fuse receiving contacts mounted on the front face of the base, two stationary switch contacts connected with the base adj acent the back face thereof and electrically connected respectively with the said fuse contacts, a switching member positioned with its rear edge immediately adjacent the rear wall of the cabinet and with its front edge engaging the base to be guided in part thereby for rectilinear movement parallelly with the said rear wall, the said switching member including two contact elements insulated from each other and adapted respectively to normally engage the said stationary switch contacts and means including a handle located externally of the cabinet for rectilinearly moving ,the switching member as aforesaid to disengage the movable contact elements thereof from the stationary switch contacts or to reengage them therewith whereby the circuit ifs broken or re-established at both sides of the use.

3. In a fused switch appliance, the combination of an insulating base, a pair of fuse receiving contacts mounted on the base, two stationary switch contacts connected with the base and electrically connected respectively with the said fuse contacts, two other stationary switch contacts associated with the base respectively adjacent the first said switch contacts but separated therefrom, the last said contacts being electrically connectible respectively with incoming and outgoing circuit wires, a switching member slidably engaging the base and guided in part thereby, the said switching member including two contact elem nts insulated from each other and to re-engage them therewith whereby the circuit is broken or re-established at each of the four stationary contacts.

4. In an electric switch, the combination of an insulating base normally held in a fixed position, a movable switching member positioned at least in part adjacent the main body of the base and guided for movement thereon, the said member including an insulating element and also including a conducting element having contact portions at opposite sides of the insulating element, two stationary switch contacts at opposite sides of the insulating element and positioned to be normally engaged respectively by the said contact portions of the conducting element to establish an electrical connection through the switch, and a separately supported pivoted member.

having a cranked portion engaging the insulating element for moving the said switching member as aforesaid in either direction to disengage the conducting element thereof from or re-engage it with the said stationary contacts.

5. In an electric switch, the combination of a switching member movable rectilinearly in either direction and including an insulating element having opposite parallel faces and also including a conducting element having parallel contact faces at opposite sides of the insulating element and spaced outward from the respective opposite faces thereof, two stationary switch contacts at opposite sides of the insulating element and having parallel contact faces positioned to be normally engaged respectively by the said contact faces of the conducting element to establish an electrical connection through the switch, and means for moving the said switch- '7 plate between the said contacts so as to con-- partly guide it, a contact element carried by direction to disengage the conducting element thereof from or re-engage it with the said stationary contacts.

6. In an electric switch, the combination of an insulating base, a pair of stationary switch contacts associated with the base adjacent-one face thereof and electrically insulated'from each other whenthe switch is open, the said contacts respectively having mally engaging both of the stationary switch contacts, and means for rectilinearly moving the switching member to disengage the contact element thereof from the stationary switch contacts and to move the insulating stitute an insulating barrier between them.

7. In an electricswitch, the combination of a pair of stationary switch contacts electrically insulateddrom each other when the switch is open and respectively having opposite parallel contact faces facing toward each other, afiat insulating plate rectilinearly movable between the said contacts, the thickness of the late being less than the minimum spacing etween the contacts, means engaging the plate to guide it for rectilinear movement as aforesaid, and a conducting contact element carried by the insulating plate between the edges thereof and having. opposite'parallel flat contact faces spaced laterally outward from the respective planes of the opposite surfaces of the said plate, the said faces of the conducting element being respectively adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage an disengage the contact faces of the stationary switch contacts to make and break electrical connection between them. U8, In an electric switch,'the combination of an insulating base,'two similar pairs of stationary switch basea-djacent one face thereof,,the contacts of each pair being electrically insulated from each other when-the switch is open and respectively having opposite parallel contact faces facing toward each other and spaced away from the said face of the base, a flat insulating plate rectilinearily movable between the said contacts of both pairs with one edge thereof engaged by the base and thereby guided in part for movement as aforesaid, the thickness of the plate being less than'the minimum spacing between the contacts of contacts associated'with the each pair, and two longitudinally s aced conducting contact elements carried ythe invsulating plate between the edges thereof and "each having opposite parallel flat contact faces spaced laterally outward from the respective planes of the opposite surfaces of the said plate, the said faces of the two conducting elements being respectively adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage and disengage the contact faces of the stationary switch contacts of the two pairs to make and break electrical connection between them.

9. In an electric switch, the combination of an insulating base, a pair of stationary switch contacts associated with the base adj acent one face thereof and electrically'insulated from each other when the switch is open,

the said contacts respectively having oppo-' 'sitely facing parallel contact faces substan:

tially perpendicular toand spaced away from the said face of the base, a relatively thin flat insulating plate substantially perpendicular to the said face of the base and rectilinearly movable between the said contacts with one edge thereof detachably engaged by the base and thereby guided in part for movement as aforesaid, means detachably engaging the edge of the plate opposite the base to also adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage and disengage the contact faces of the stationary switch contacts to make and break electrical connection between them, and an operating member for the plate detachably connected therewith and permitting free removalof the insulating plate and contact element when the plate is-disengaged by the last said guide means.

10. In an electric switch, the combinationv of an insulating base, means for detachably holding the base in fixed spaced relation with a rear supporting means, a movable insulating element between the base and the supporting means having opposite flat faces posi tioned perpendicularly to-the rear face of the base, the said element being rectilinearly movable parallelly with the said rear face of the base and guided in part by the said base and in part by the said rear supportingmeans and being free from positive connection with the base and readily removable therefrom, a

conducting contact element carried by the insulating element and having opposite flat faces in planes closely adjacent the planes of the opposite fiat faces of the insulating element, a pair of stationary switch contacts associated with thebase and located between the plane of the rear face of the base and the supporting wall, the two contacts of the said pair being positioned to engage the opposite faces of the contact element, and means for connecting the said stationary contacts in an electric circuit.

11. In an electric switch, the combination the base adjacent the back thereof, a fiat insulating element located between the main body of the base and the rear wall of the cabinet and positioned perpendicularly to the latter, the said element being movable in either direction in a plane perpendicular to the said rear wall, a contact element carried by the insulating element and adapted to be engaged with or disengaged from the said stationary contacts, amanually operable spindle for moving the insulating element including a handle outside of the cabinet and two aligned spaced pivot sections positioned with one of them extending through an aper-' ture in a side wall of the said cabinet, the said spindle also including a crank section inside of the cabinet between thepivot sections, and an operative connection between the insulating element and the said crank section permitting the free forward or backward as sembly or disassembly of the insulating element and base with or from the spindle and the cabinet.

12. In an electric switch, the combination of an enclosing cabinet including an openable cover, an insulating base in the cabinet, means for detachably holding the said base in fixed position in the cabinet with the back thereof facing the rear wall of'the cabinet, a stationary switch contact connected with the base adjacent the back thereof, a flat insulating element located between the main body of the base and the rear wall of the cabinet and positioned perpendicularly to the latter, the said element being rectilinearly movable in either direction parallelly with the said rear wall and having therein a transverse slot extending from one edge of the element and open at the said edge, a contact element carried by the insulating element and adapted to be engaged with or disengaged from the said stationary contact when the said insulating element is moved, and a manually operablespindle for moving the insulating element including a handle outside of the cabinet and two aligned spaced pivot sections positioned with one of them extending through an aperture in a side wall of the said cabinet, the said spindle also including a crank section inside of the cabinet between the pivot sections and extending through the open slot in the insulat-ing element.

13. As an article of manufacture, a rectilinearly movable switching member comprisin in combination a relatively thin flat plate of insulating material having opposite parcent the respective opposite surfaces of the plate. 7 I

14. As an article of manufacture, a switching member comprising in combination a relatively thin flat plate of insulating material having opposite parallel guiding edges and having a slot therein extending transtversely with respect to the said edges and open at one of them, and.two contact elements carried by the said plate and spaced from the said guiding edges thereof, the said contact elements being longitudinally spaced from each other and from the said slot and each of them having two opposed contact faces opposite each other and adjacent the respective opposite surfaces of the plate.

15. As an article of manufacturefa switch ing member comprising in combination a relatively thin flat plate of insulating material having opposite parallel guiding edges and having a slot therein of substantially uniform width extending transversely with respect to the said edges and open at one of them for receiving the crank portion of an operating spindle, and a contact element carried by the said plate and spaced from the said guiding edges thereof, the said contact element being longitudinally spaced from the said slot and having two opposed contact faces opposite each other and spaced laterally outward from the respective planes of the opposite surfaces of the plate.

16. As an article of manufacture, a rectilinearly movable switching member comprising in combination a relatively thin flat plate of insulating material having at least one guiding edge and having means for engagement with a suitable operating member, and a contact element carried by the said plate and spaced from'the said guiding edge thereof, the said contact element being spaced from the said engagement means and comprising a strip of sheet metal bent to provide two opposite separated contact faces immediately adjacent the opposite flat faces of the insulating plate.

17. As an article of manufacture, a movable switching member comprising in combination a relatively thin flat plate of insulating material having means for engagement with a suitable operating member, the said plate having therein a transverse closedended slot longitudinally spaced from the said engagement means, and a contact element comprising a strip of sheet metal extending through the slotandbent to provide two opposite separated contact faces immediately adjacent the opposite, faces of the said insulatin plate.

18. In an e ectric switch, the combination of an insulating support, a pair of parallel closely spaced conducting supporting elements associated with the support and ex-' tending substantially perpendicularly from the plane of one face thereof, a pair of resilient stationary switch contacts secured to the respective supporting elements and having opposite parallel contact faces perpendicular to the said face of the base and facing toward each other, and a movable switching member comprising a contact element moyable into and out of engagement with the contact faces of the switch contacts to make and break electrical connection between them.

- 19. In an electric switch, the combination of an insulating support, aipair of parallel closely spaced supporting elements associated with the support and extending substantially perpendicularly from the plane of one face thereof, a pair of resilient stationary switch contacts each comprising a strip of sheetmetal secured at one end to the corresponding supporting element and having its main portion bent into a U-shape to form a resiliently held contact portion, the two contacts being oppositely disposed relatively to' their reelements to position their spective supportin jacent each other and parcontact portions a 'allel, and a movable. switching membercom prising a contact element movable into and out of engagement with the contact faces of the switch contacts to make and break electrical connection between them, j

20. In a fused electricswitch, the combination of a pair of fuse receiving contacts,

means for holding the said contacts in fixedrear supporting wall, a pair of stationar switch contacts held in fixed relation wit the said rear supporting walland electrically insulated from each other when the switch is open, the said switch contacts respectively having oppositely facing para-llelccontact faces substantially perpendicular to and spaced away from the said wall and onejof them being electrically con-. nectible with" one of the fuse contacts, a switching member rectilinearly movable bespaced relation to a tween the said switch contacts and compris ing an insulatin element and a conducting contact element carried by the insulating element, the said conducting element having opposite parallel contact faces adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage and disengage the contact faces' of the vstationary switch connection between them, and means for engaging the switching member at the front to partly guide it. for movement as aforesaid.

21. In a fused switch appliance, the combination of an insulating base, a,pair of fuse receiving contacts mounted on the base, a pair of stationary switch contacts associated with ducting contacts to make and break electrical element, each to substantially simultanenously disengage the movable contact element from the stationary switch contacts.

22. In a fused switch appliance, the combination of an insulating base, a pair of fuse receiving contacts mounted on the base, a pair of stationary switch contacts associated wlth the base in opposed relationship to each other, one of the said contacts bein electrically connected with one of the said fuse contacts, a rectilinearly movable switching member comprising an insulatin element having opposite flat faces and having opposite parallel guiding edges and also comprising a-conducting contact element carried by the insulating element and having opposite flatv faces in planes closely adjacent the planes of the opposite of the stationary switch contacts, stationary means engaging the said guiding edges of the insulating element to at least partly guide it for rectilinear movement, and means for moving the switching member as aforesaid to substantially simultaneously disengage the 'movable contact element from the stationary switch cont-acts.

23. In a fused switch appliance, the comfiat faces of the insulating element, the c said contact element normally engaging both bination of an insulating base,-a pair of fuse receiving contacts mounted on the base, two pairs of stationary switch contactsconnected with the base, the contacts of each pair being in opposed relationship to each other and one of the contacts of each pair bein electrically connectible with the corresponding fuse. contact, and the other being electrically oonnectible'with' a circuit wire, a movable switching member adjacent the base and including an insulating element having opposed flat faces and also including two separated concontact elements carried by the insulating element and each having opposite flat faces in planes closely adjacent the planes of the opposite flat faces of the insulating of the said contact elements normally'engagin both of the stationary switch contacts 0 the corresponding pair, and meansfor movingthe switching mem-- ber to substantially simultanenousl disengage the movable contact elements rom the correspgnding stationary switch contacts.

at in afused swit appl ance, the com-.

binatio to an insulating base, a pair of fuse receivi g contacts on the base, two similar pairs 0 tionary switch contacts associated with the ase adjacent one face thereof and electrically insulated from each other when the switch is open, the said contacts respectively having oppositely facing parallel contact faces substantially perpendicular to and spaced away from the said face of the base and one of the contacts of each pair being electrically connectible with the corresponding fuse contact, and the other being electrically connectible with a circuit wire, a relatively thin fiat insulating plate substantially perpendicular to the said face of the base and rectilinearly movable between the said switch contacts of both pairs with one edge thereof engaged by the base and thereby guided in part for movement as aforesaid, and two longitudinally spaced contact elements carried by the insulating plate and having opposite parallel flat contact faces respectively adjacent the opposite surfaces of the said plate, the said faces of the contact elements being respectively adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage and disengage thecontact faces of the stationary switch contacts of the two pairs to make and break electrical connection between them.

25. In fused electric switch, the combination of a pair of forward facing fuse receiving contacts, means for holding the said contacts in fixed spaced relation to a rear supporting wall, a pair of stationary switch contacts located between the said rear supporting wall and a plane through the rear parts of the fuse contacts and electrically insulated from each other when the switch is open, the said switch contacts respectively having oppositely facing parallel contact faces substantially perpendicular to and spaced away from the said wall and one of them being electrically connectible with one of the fuse contacts, and a switching member rectilinearly movable between the said switch contacts and behind the fuse contacts and comprising an insulating element and a contact element carriedvby the insulating element and having opposite parallel contact faces adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage and disengage the contact faces of the stationary switch contacts to make and break electrical vconnection between them.

' 26. In a fused electric switch, the combination of a pair of forward facing fuse receiving contacts, means for holding the said contacts in normally fixed spaced relation to a rear supporting wall, two similar pairs of stationary switch contacts located between the said rear support-ing wall and a plane through the rear parts of the fuse contacts, the contacts of each pair being electrically insulated from each other when the switch is open and respectively having oppositely facing parallel contact faces substantially said wall and one of the contacts of each pair being electrically connectible with the corresponding fuse contact, and a switching member rectilinearly movable between the said switch contacts and behind the fuse contacts and comprising an insulating element and two longitudinally spaced contact elements carried by the insulating element and each having opposite parallel contact faces respectively adapted upon rectilinear movement to engage and disengage the cont-act faces of the stationary switch contacts of the two pairs to make and break electrical connection between them.

27: In a fused switch appliance, the combination of an insulating base, means for holding the base in fixed relation with a rear supporting wall, a pair of forward facing fuse receiving contacts on the front face of the base, two pairs of stationary switch contacts associated with the base and separated thereby from the fuse contacts, the said switch contacts being located between the base and the supporting wall with the contacts of each pair in opposed relationship to each other and one of the contacts of each pair being electrically connected with the corresponding fuse contact, and the other being electrically connectible with a circuit wire, a movable switching member adjacent the base and includin an insulating element having opposed atfaces and also including two separated conducting cont-act elements carried by the insulating element and each having opposite flat faces in planes closely adjacent the planes of the opposite flat faces of the insulating element, each of the said contact elements normally engaging both of the stationary switch contacts of the corresponding pair, and means moving the switching member to substantially simultaneously disemgage the movable contact elements from the corresponding stationary switch contacts.

28. In a fused electric switch, the combination of an insulating base, means for holding .the said base in normally fixed spaced relation to a rear supporting wall, a pair of forward facing fuse receiving contacts on the base at the front thereof, a pair of stationary switch contacts located between the said rear supporting wall and a plane through the rear parts of the base and electrically insulated from each other when the switch is open, the said switch contacts respectively having oppositely facing parallel contact faces substantially perpendicular to and spaced away from both the" said wall and the rear face of the base and one of them being electrically connectible with one of the fuse contacts, and a switching member rectilinearly movable between the said switch contacts and behind the base and comprising an insulating element having opposite guiding edges respectively engaging the supporting wall and the base

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