초록 ▼

The present invention comprises a Mercury Float Switch that is, a float operable by variations in the water level in the bilge of a boat to control the operation of a bilge pump or control the operation of a sump pump, both operable when the water level in the bilge or sump is above normal. The pres

The present invention comprises a Mercury Float Switch that is, a float operable by variations in the water level in the bilge of a boat to control the operation of a bilge pump or control the operation of a sump pump, both operable when the water level in the bilge or sump is above normal. The present float switch comprises a mercury containing tube having two switch contacts extending into one end of the tube which when bridged by the mercury in the tube will cause operation of a bilge pump or a sump pump or the operation of a visible or audible signal. The mercury tube is embedded in a polyurethane foam float which holds it firmly in position and protects it and the contacts from water seepage and corrosion. The tube is bent intermediate its ends at an angle so that the mercury will not be moved to bridge the switch contacts during normal vibration of the tube under normal variance of the water level in the bilge or sump. The float which encloses the tube in polyurethane foam has a hollow shaft made from a substantially rigid material which extends through one end. The float being fixedly attached to the hollow shaft is mounted for pivotal movement on a support bracket about the longitudinal axis of the hollow shaft. The lead wires which conduct the current for controlling operation of the pump or signal extend from each end into the hollow shaft which has an opening cut therein to permit connection of the wires to the switch contacts that extend into the tube. The joints of the conducting wires with the contacts are protected by a suitable epoxy which serves to hold the parts in position as well as to protect the connections of wires and contacts from corrosive materials. The wires extend out the ends of the hollow shaft and have shrinkable sleeves over the ends of the shaft and portions of the wires adjacent thereto to form a seal at this point which prevents moisture leakage into the float as well as to prevent breakage or cracking of the insulation of the wires at these points.

대표청구항 ▼

A mercury float switch comprising a float body formed of light, corrosion, resisting foam material, a mounting bracket disposed in supporting engagement relative to said float body, a mercury tube having a globule of mercury contained therein, said mercury tube potted on the interior of said foam ma

A mercury float switch comprising a float body formed of light, corrosion, resisting foam material, a mounting bracket disposed in supporting engagement relative to said float body, a mercury tube having a globule of mercury contained therein, said mercury tube potted on the interior of said foam material, a pair of switch contacts mounted on the interior of said mercury tube, a hollow shaft attached to said float body and so disposed to have its opposite ends extend outwardly therefrom, said hollow shaft having a slot formed therein intermediate its opposite ends, said slot disposed in communicating relation with said switch contacts, lead electrical wires, one each extending through each end of said hollow shaft and connected to said electrical contacts through said slot, said hollow shaft pivotally mounted on said mouting bracket and fixedly connected in supporting relation to said float body, said hollow shaft and said float body rotatable about the longitudinal axis of said hollow shaft, said globule of mercury disposed to bridge said contacts and electrically interconnect said lead electrical wires upon predetermined pivotal movement of said float body.