Circuit interrupter that produces snap-action connection and disconnection between electrical contacts

摘要

An apparatus and method to minimize teasing and contact welding at contact points includes a switch having a first contact movable toward a second contact from a switch-deactuated position to a switch-actuated position and movable away from the second contact from the switch-actuated position back to the switch-deactuated position. A transfer carriage is operatively engaged with the first contact and includes a flip-flop mechanism for bringing the first contact into contact with the second contact and releasing the first contact from the second contact. The flip-flop mechanism utilizes a transfer barrier to switch between the switch-actuated and switch-deactuated positions. An actuator imparts movement on the transfer carriage to overcome the transfer barrier when moving between the switch-deactuated and switch-actuated positions.