Inventors:
Christian V. Pellon - Norton MA
Karen M. Litwin - Saunderstown RI
Roland G. Morin - Cumberland RI
Peter G. Berg - North Attleboro MA
Assignee:
Texas Instruments Incorporated - Dallas TX
International Classification:
H01H 7158
US Classification:
337 66, 337 72, 337348, 337358, 200 4313, 200 4318, 200 5009
Abstract:
A pushbutton resettable circuit breaker is shown having features to prevent manual opening by simply pulling outwardly on the pushbutton. In one embodiment, the pushbutton ( ) is formed with slots ( ) which are configured to provide a reaction surface essentially inaccessible without a special purpose contact opening tool ( ). The tool is provided with portions that are insertable into the slots and into engagement with the reaction surfaces for pulling the pushbutton out and manually opening the contacts. In a second embodiment, a small aperture is formed through the rating tab and top and wall of the button and in alignment with a movable plunger ( ). A special purpose contact opening tool ( ) can be inserted through the aperture to apply a force to the plunger and mechanically trip the circuit breaker.