THERMAL SWITCH

摘要

In a single use thermal switch having a fusible pellet that melts at a predetermined temperature and utilizing a slidable contact member, it would be most desirable if the contact member could easily slide in the casing when disconnecting the circuit. A thermal switch incorporates a mechanical isolation cage (28) which is axially movable. The cage is normally urged by a helical compression spring (33) against a fusible pellet (26) which melts at a temperature at which it is desired to disconnect the electrical circuit. An electrically conductive contact member (35) extending transversely through the isolation cage is normally urged by a helical compression spring (41) toward one end of the cage and against the end of one electrical lead (19) that is coaxial with the casing (10). The contact member is foldable along a line across its center. The force of the contact member pressed against the end (24) of the lead urges the contact member to fold to cause the ends thereof to be forced against the inside wall of the casing to establish electrical connection between the casing and the lead through the contact member. The thermal switch is utilized in small home appliances subject to overheating upon failure.