USRE39731E1 - Alarm switch - Google Patents

Alarm switch Download PDF

Info

Publication number
USRE39731E1
USRE39731E1 US09/916,535 US91653501A USRE39731E US RE39731 E1 USRE39731 E1 US RE39731E1 US 91653501 A US91653501 A US 91653501A US RE39731 E USRE39731 E US RE39731E
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
switch
switch element
magnet
members
contact surface
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US09/916,535
Inventor
Randall Woods
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Magnasphere Corp
Original Assignee
Magnasphere Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Magnasphere Corp filed Critical Magnasphere Corp
Priority to US09/916,535 priority Critical patent/USRE39731E1/en
Assigned to MAGNASPHERE CORPORATION reassignment MAGNASPHERE CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WOODS, RANDALL
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of USRE39731E1 publication Critical patent/USRE39731E1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01HELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H36/00Switches actuated by change of magnetic field or of electric field, e.g. by change of relative position of magnet and switch, by shielding
    • H01H36/0073Switches actuated by change of magnetic field or of electric field, e.g. by change of relative position of magnet and switch, by shielding actuated by relative movement between two magnets

Definitions

  • the present invention is concerned with the field of magnetic switches.
  • the invention is concerned with a magnetic switch apparatus that detects relative movement between first and second members and defeats attempted external magnetic manipulation of the apparatus.
  • Prior art security alarm systems use magnetic switches attached to doors and windows and integrated with the system for detecting unauthorized opening indicating an intruder.
  • One common type of magnetic switch is a so-called reed switch. This type of switch is subject to manipulation by an external magnet. That is, an intruder can use a magnet to hold the read switch closed (or open depending upon the control scheme) and thereby open a door or window without triggering the alarm system.
  • the present invention solves the prior art problem discussed above and provides a distinct advance in the state of the art. More particularly, the alarm switch hereof is configured to defeat attempts at external magnetic manipulation.
  • the preferred embodiment includes a rod-shaped, first switch element positioned transverse to and centrally aligned with a convex, second switch element and spaced therefrom.
  • a ring-shaped first magnet is positioned about the first switch element and spaced from the second element in order to pull a ferromagnetic body into a switch-open position out of contact with the second switch element.
  • These components are mounted to the first member such as a door frame.
  • a second magnet mounted to the second member, such as the door is positioned and magnetically sufficient to pull the body into a switch-closed position in contact with both of the switch elements when the members are in an adjacent position, that is, when the door is closed.
  • the second member When the second member is moved to a separating position relative to the first member such as when the door is open, the second magnet is no longer effective to hold the body against both switch elements and the first magnet pulls the body out of contact with the second switch element to trigger the alarm system. Any use of an external magnet pulls the ferromagnetic body away from the centrally located first element thereby simulating an open door condition and triggering the alarm system.
  • Other preferred aspects of the present invention are disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates preferred magnetic switch apparatus (shown in dashed lines) in accordance with the present invention and shown in use with a door frame and door;
  • FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along lines 2 — 2 of FIG. 1 and also showing an intruder magnet;
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the preferred alarm system using the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a top front pictorial view of the preferred magnet switch assembly of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 1 illustrates preferred magnetic switch apparatus 10 (dashed lines) in accordance with the present invention shown in use with a door frame 12 and door 14 .
  • FIG. 2 more clearly illustrates the details of apparatus 10 which broadly includes switch assembly 16 and operating magnet 18 .
  • Switch assembly 16 includes first switch element 20 , second switch element 22 , a ferromagnetic body in the form of ball 24 , retraction magnet 26 and electrically insulating upper wall 28 .
  • First switch element 20 has a generally rod-shaped configuration and presents lower end 30 and upper end 32 with flange 34 therebetween nearest upper end 32 .
  • Element 20 is preferably composed of metal to be electrically conductive.
  • Electrically conductive, second switch element 22 is integrally formed of sheet metal such as by stamping and includes disk-shaped bottom wall 36 presenting contact surface 38 and further includes side wall 40 circumscribing bottom wall 36 . As illustrated in FIG. 2 , bottom wall 36 is shaped so that contact surface 38 presents a convex configuration and in particular, a reversed, conically shaped configuration.
  • Upper wall 28 is preferably composed of glass (or other insulating material) and electrically insulates switch elements 20 , 22 from one another. Upper wall 28 is spaced from contact surface 38 and is circumscribed by side wall 40 . The outboard face of upper wall 28 is flush with the upper edge of side wall 40 .
  • Upper wall 28 also includes central opening 42 defined therein for receiving the lower portion of first switch element 20 with flange 34 thereof engaging the outboard face of upper wall 28 . This positions first switch element 20 in alignment with the axis of contact surface 38 and spaces lower end 30 from contact surface 38 .
  • Upper wall 28 , bottom wall 36 and side wall 40 define switch chamber 44 with ferromagnetic ball 24 contained therein.
  • ball 24 is electrically conductive and can be configured in other shapes such as a cube or cylinder, although the spherical shape is preferred.
  • Ball 24 is shiftable within chamber 44 between a switch-open position and a switch-closed position. In the switch-open position, ball 24 is not in contact with both switch elements 20 , 22 . Such a position is illustrated by the dashed lines in FIG. 2 wherein ball 24 is in contact with only one of the switch elements, namely first switch element 20 . The switch-open position can occur also if ball 24 shifts along contact surface 38 toward side wall 40 and out of contact with switch element 20 . The switch-closed position is illustrated by the solid lines in FIG. 2 in which ball 24 is in contact with both switch elements 20 , 22 .
  • Retraction magnet 26 presents a ring-shaped configuration in the nature of a torus and is positioned adjacent the outboard face of upper wall 28 surrounding flange 34 and thereby in surrounding relationship with first switch element 20 . This arrangement positions magnet 18 spaced from contact surface 38 .
  • the magnet field strength of magnet 26 is sufficient to shift ball 24 to the switch-open position illustrated in FIG. 2 in the absence of other magnetic effects such as that of operating magnet 18 discussed further herein. It will be appreciated that magnet 26 can take other shapes such as a rod, cylinder or ball or any other shape that would fit above the switch unit and serve to shift ball 24 .
  • switch assembly 16 is installed in door frame 12 and operating magnet 18 is installed in door 14 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
  • frame 12 and door 14 are in an adjacent position with operating magnet 18 aligned with switch assembly 16 .
  • Magnet 18 presents sufficient field strength to shift ball 24 to the switch-closed position.
  • FIG. 2 also illustrates intruder magnet 46 positioned adjacent the side of switch assembly 16 . Placement of intruder magnet 46 as shown causes ball 24 to shift along contact surface 38 toward side wall 40 in the direction of intruder magnet 46 . This is also a switch-open position and simulates the opening of door 14 . Thus, the use of an intruder magnet results in an alarm condition because of the structure of switch assembly 16 . In this way, apparatus 10 defeats the use of an intruder magnet which has been a problem with the prior art.
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the preferred alarm 48 system using preferred apparatus 10 .
  • System 48 includes conventional alarm control 50 and an alarm output such as alarm bell 52 .
  • Apparatus 10 is used in system 48 as a contact switch triggering alarm control 50 whenever apparatus 10 is in the switch-open position, unless system 48 has been disarmed.

Landscapes

  • Switches That Are Operated By Magnetic Or Electric Fields (AREA)

Abstract

A magnetic switch apparatus (10) detects relative movement between first (12) and second (14) members and defeats attempted external magnetic manipulation of the apparatus. A rod-shaped, first switch element (20) is positioned transverse to and centrally aligned with a convex, second switch element (22) and spaced therefrom. A ring-shaped first magnet (26) is positioned about the first switch element (20) and spaced from the second element (22) in order to pull a ferromagnetic body (24) into a switch-open position out of contact with the second switch element (22) with these components mounted to the first member (12). A second magnet (18) mounted to the second member (14) is positioned and magnetically sufficient to pull the body (24) into a switch-closed position in contact with both of the switch elements (20, 22) when the members (12, 14) are in an adjacent position.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
Not applicable.
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
Not applicable.
MICROFICHE APPENDIX
Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is concerned with the field of magnetic switches. In particular, the invention is concerned with a magnetic switch apparatus that detects relative movement between first and second members and defeats attempted external magnetic manipulation of the apparatus.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Prior art security alarm systems use magnetic switches attached to doors and windows and integrated with the system for detecting unauthorized opening indicating an intruder. One common type of magnetic switch is a so-called reed switch. This type of switch is subject to manipulation by an external magnet. That is, an intruder can use a magnet to hold the read switch closed (or open depending upon the control scheme) and thereby open a door or window without triggering the alarm system.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention solves the prior art problem discussed above and provides a distinct advance in the state of the art. More particularly, the alarm switch hereof is configured to defeat attempts at external magnetic manipulation.
The preferred embodiment includes a rod-shaped, first switch element positioned transverse to and centrally aligned with a convex, second switch element and spaced therefrom. A ring-shaped first magnet is positioned about the first switch element and spaced from the second element in order to pull a ferromagnetic body into a switch-open position out of contact with the second switch element. These components are mounted to the first member such as a door frame. A second magnet mounted to the second member, such as the door, is positioned and magnetically sufficient to pull the body into a switch-closed position in contact with both of the switch elements when the members are in an adjacent position, that is, when the door is closed.
When the second member is moved to a separating position relative to the first member such as when the door is open, the second magnet is no longer effective to hold the body against both switch elements and the first magnet pulls the body out of contact with the second switch element to trigger the alarm system. Any use of an external magnet pulls the ferromagnetic body away from the centrally located first element thereby simulating an open door condition and triggering the alarm system. Other preferred aspects of the present invention are disclosed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates preferred magnetic switch apparatus (shown in dashed lines) in accordance with the present invention and shown in use with a door frame and door;
FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along lines 22 of FIG. 1 and also showing an intruder magnet;
FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the preferred alarm system using the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention; and
FIG. 4 is a top front pictorial view of the preferred magnet switch assembly of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
FIG. 1 illustrates preferred magnetic switch apparatus 10 (dashed lines) in accordance with the present invention shown in use with a door frame 12 and door 14. FIG. 2 more clearly illustrates the details of apparatus 10 which broadly includes switch assembly 16 and operating magnet 18.
Switch assembly 16 includes first switch element 20, second switch element 22, a ferromagnetic body in the form of ball 24, retraction magnet 26 and electrically insulating upper wall 28. First switch element 20 has a generally rod-shaped configuration and presents lower end 30 and upper end 32 with flange 34 therebetween nearest upper end 32. Element 20 is preferably composed of metal to be electrically conductive.
Electrically conductive, second switch element 22 is integrally formed of sheet metal such as by stamping and includes disk-shaped bottom wall 36 presenting contact surface 38 and further includes side wall 40 circumscribing bottom wall 36. As illustrated in FIG. 2, bottom wall 36 is shaped so that contact surface 38 presents a convex configuration and in particular, a reversed, conically shaped configuration.
Upper wall 28 is preferably composed of glass (or other insulating material) and electrically insulates switch elements 20, 22 from one another. Upper wall 28 is spaced from contact surface 38 and is circumscribed by side wall 40. The outboard face of upper wall 28 is flush with the upper edge of side wall 40.
Upper wall 28 also includes central opening 42 defined therein for receiving the lower portion of first switch element 20 with flange 34 thereof engaging the outboard face of upper wall 28. This positions first switch element 20 in alignment with the axis of contact surface 38 and spaces lower end 30 from contact surface 38.
Upper wall 28, bottom wall 36 and side wall 40 define switch chamber 44 with ferromagnetic ball 24 contained therein. As will be appreciated, ball 24 is electrically conductive and can be configured in other shapes such as a cube or cylinder, although the spherical shape is preferred.
Ball 24 is shiftable within chamber 44 between a switch-open position and a switch-closed position. In the switch-open position, ball 24 is not in contact with both switch elements 20, 22. Such a position is illustrated by the dashed lines in FIG. 2 wherein ball 24 is in contact with only one of the switch elements, namely first switch element 20. The switch-open position can occur also if ball 24 shifts along contact surface 38 toward side wall 40 and out of contact with switch element 20. The switch-closed position is illustrated by the solid lines in FIG. 2 in which ball 24 is in contact with both switch elements 20, 22.
Retraction magnet 26 presents a ring-shaped configuration in the nature of a torus and is positioned adjacent the outboard face of upper wall 28 surrounding flange 34 and thereby in surrounding relationship with first switch element 20. This arrangement positions magnet 18 spaced from contact surface 38. The magnet field strength of magnet 26 is sufficient to shift ball 24 to the switch-open position illustrated in FIG. 2 in the absence of other magnetic effects such as that of operating magnet 18 discussed further herein. It will be appreciated that magnet 26 can take other shapes such as a rod, cylinder or ball or any other shape that would fit above the switch unit and serve to shift ball 24.
In use, switch assembly 16 is installed in door frame 12 and operating magnet 18 is installed in door 14 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. With door 14 closed, frame 12 and door 14 are in an adjacent position with operating magnet 18 aligned with switch assembly 16. Magnet 18 presents sufficient field strength to shift ball 24 to the switch-closed position.
When door 14 is open, door frame 12 and door 14 are in a separated position and operating magnet 18 is no longer aligned with switch assembly 16. This allows retraction magnet 26 to shift ball 24 to the switch-open position.
FIG. 2 also illustrates intruder magnet 46 positioned adjacent the side of switch assembly 16. Placement of intruder magnet 46 as shown causes ball 24 to shift along contact surface 38 toward side wall 40 in the direction of intruder magnet 46. This is also a switch-open position and simulates the opening of door 14. Thus, the use of an intruder magnet results in an alarm condition because of the structure of switch assembly 16. In this way, apparatus 10 defeats the use of an intruder magnet which has been a problem with the prior art.
FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the preferred alarm 48 system using preferred apparatus 10. System 48 includes conventional alarm control 50 and an alarm output such as alarm bell 52. Apparatus 10 is used in system 48 as a contact switch triggering alarm control 50 whenever apparatus 10 is in the switch-open position, unless system 48 has been disarmed.

Claims (45)

1. A magnetic switch apparatus for detecting relative movement between first and second members, said apparatus comprising:
a switch assembly for mounting to the first member, said assembly including
a first switch element presenting a generally rod-shaped configuration,
a second switch element presenting a generally disc-shaped configuration and having a contact surface,
structure positioning said first switch element generally transverse to said contact surface and spaced therefrom,
a ferromagnetic body shiftable between a switch-open position in which said body is out of contact with both of said first and second elements and a switch-closed position in which said body is in electrical contact with both said element and said contact surface; and
a first magnet spaced from said contact surface and positioned for magnetically shifting said body to said switch-open position; and
a second magnet for mounting to the second member and positioned on an opposed side of said contact surface relative to said first switch element, said second magnet being magnetically sufficient for shifting said body to said switch-closed position when the members are in an adjacent position, and for allowing said first magnet to shift said body to said switch-open position when the members are separated.
2. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, said contact surface presenting a generally convex configuration relative to said first switch element.
3. The apparatus as set forth in claim 2, said contact surface presenting a generally reversed conically shaped configuration.
4. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, said contact surface presenting a central axis with said first switch contact generally aligned with said axis.
5. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, said second switch element including a side wall circumscribing said contact surface as a bottom wall.
6. The apparatus as set forth in claim 5, said second switch element being integrally formed of metal.
7. The apparatus as set forth in claim 6, said switch assembly including an electrically insulating top wall spaced from said contact surface and circumscribed by said bottom wall to define a switching chamber containing said body.
8. The apparatus as set forth in claim 7, said first switch element including an extended portion extending outwardly through said top wall.
9. The apparatus as set forth in claim 8, said first magnet being ring-shaped and positioned adjacent said top wall and surrounding said extended portion.
10. The apparatus as set forth in claim 9, said body presenting a generally spherical configuration.
11. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, said body presenting a generally spherical configuration.
12. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, said switch-open position being an electrically open switch position, said switch-closed position being an electrically closed switch position.
13. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, said switch elements being located so that said body shifts to a switch-open position when the members are in the adjacent position and when an external magnet is applied in the vicinity of the first member in an attempt to manipulate magnetically said apparatus.
14. A magnetic switch apparatus for detecting relative movement between first and second members, said apparatus comprising:
a switch assembly for mounting to the first member, said assembly including
a first switch element presenting a generally rod-shaped configuration,
a second switch element presenting a generally disc-shaped configuration and having a convex contact surface presenting a central axis
an electrically insulating top wall spaced from said contact surface, centrally receiving an extension portion of said first switch element therethrough, and positioning said first switch element generally aligned with said axis of said contact surface and spaced therefrom,
a ferromagnetic ball shiftable between a switch-open position in which said body is out of contact with both of said elements and a switch-closed position in which said body is in electrical contact with both said element and said contact surface, said switch-open position being an electrically open switch position, said switch-closed position being an electrically closed switch position, and
a ring-shaped, first magnet surrounding said extension portion and positioned for magnetically shifting said body to said switch-open position; and
a second magnet for mounting to the second member and positioned on an opposed side of said contact surface relative to said first switch element, said second magnet being sufficient magnetically for shifting said body to said switch-closed position when the members are in an adjacent position, and for allowing said first magnet to shift said body to said switch-open position when the members are separated.
15. An alarm system for activating an alarm upon shifting of first and second members from an adjacent position to a separated position and upon attempted manipulation by an external magnet of the alarm system when the members are in the adjacent position, said system comprising:
a switch apparatus; and
an alarm control coupled with said switch apparatus and responsive to a change in state thereof for activating an alarm, said switch apparatus including
a switch assembly for mounting to the first member, said assembly including
a first switch element presenting a generally rod-shaped configuration,
a second switch element presenting a generally disc-shaped configuration and having a contact surface,
structure positioning said first switch element generally transverse to said contact surface and spaced therefrom,
a ferromagnetic body shiftable between a switch-open position in which said body is out of contact with both of said elements and a switch-closed position in which said body is in electrical contact with both said element and said contact surface,
a first magnet spaced from said contact surface and positioned for magnetically shifting said body to said switch-open position,
a second magnet for mounting to the second member and positioned on an opposed side of said contact surface relative to said first switch element, said second magnet being sufficient magnetically for shifting said body to said switch-closed position when the members are in an adjacent position, and for allowing said first magnet to shift said body to said switch-open position when the members are separated,
said switch elements being located so that said body shifts to a switch-open position when the members are in the adjacent position and when an eternal magnet is applied in the vicinity of the first member in an attempt to manipulate magnetically said apparatus.
16. A method of detecting the relative movement between first and second members from a close position where the members are adjacent, and an open position where the members are separated, said method comprising the steps of:
installing a switch assembly on said first member, said switch assembly including a first elongated switch element, a second switch element disposed in spaced relationship to the first element and a ferromagnetic body located adjacent the first and second switch elements;
when said members are in said close position, using a magnetic field of sufficient strength to maintain the ferromagnetic body in a first switch orientation in simultaneous contact with said first and second switch elements;
in response to relative movement of the members from said close to said open position, magnetically shifting said ferromagnetic body to a second switch orientation out of contact with said second switch element; and
generating a signal when said ferromagnetic body is shifted.
17. The method of claim 16, including the further step of using a magnet located in said second member to provide said magnetic field of sufficient strength.
18. The method of claim 16, said first switch element being in a generally upright orientation, with said second switch element spaced below the first switch element, said maintaining step comprising the step of maintaining the ferromagnetic body in a lower first switch orientation, said magnetic shifting step comprising the step of shifting the ferromagnetic body upwardly to said second switch orientation.
19. The method of claim 18, including the step of shifting said body upwardly using a retraction magnet located above said first element.
20. The method of claim 16, said first switch element comprising an elongated, rod-like member.
21. The method of claim 16, said second switch element being generally disc-shaped.
22. The method of claim 16, said body being spherical in shape.
23. A magnetic switch apparatus for detecting relative movement between first and second members from a close position where the members are adjacent, and an open position where the members are separated, said apparatus comprising a switch assembly for mounting to the first member, including a first, elongated switch element and a second switch element in spaced relationship to said first switch element, and a magnet assembly including a ferromagnetic body adjacent said first and second switch elements, said assembly operable to shift said ferromagnetic body in a first switch orientation in simultaneous contact with said first and second switch elements when said members are in said close position, and to shift said ferromagnetic body to a second switch orientation out of contact with said second switch element in response to relative movement of the members to said open position.
24. The apparatus of claim 23, said body being spherical.
25. The apparatus of claim 23, said first switch element being generally rod-shaped in configuration.
26. The apparatus of claim 23, said second switch element being generally disc-shaped.
27. The apparatus of claim 26, said second switch element including a contact surface presenting a generally reversed conically shaped configuration.
28. The apparatus of claim 23, said magnet assembly further including a first magnet disposed above said first contact, and a second magnet for mounting to the second member.
29. The apparatus of claim 23, said first switch element being in a generally upright orientation, with said second switch element disposed below the first switch element.
30. A method of detecting the relative movement between first and second members from a close position where the members are adjacent, and an open position where the members are separated, said method comprising the steps of:
installing a switch assembly on said first member, said switch assembly including a first elongated switch element, a second switch element disposed in spaced relationship to the first element, and a shiftable body movable between a first position in simultaneous contact with said first and second switch elements, and a second position out of said simultaneous contact;
when said members are in said close position, using a magnetic field of sufficient strength to maintain said body in one of said first and second positions;
in response to movement of the members from said close to said open position, magnetically moving the body to the other of said first and second positions; and
generating a signal when said body is moved.
31. The method of claim 30, said magnetic moving step comprising the steps of using a magnetic field developed between said body and a first cooperable component on said first member.
32. The method of claim 31, said first component comprising a ring-shaped magnet.
33. The method of claim 30, said magnetic field of sufficient strength being developed between said body and a second cooperable component on said second member.
34. The method of claim 33, said second component comprising a magnet mounted on said second member.
35. The method of claim 30, said first switch element being in a generally upright orientation, with said second switch element spaced below the first switch element, said maintaining step comprising the step of maintaining the ferromagnetic body in a lower first switch orientation, said magnetic moving step comprising the step of shifting the ferromagnetic body upwardly to said second switch orientation.
36. A method comprising the steps of:
providing a switch assembly including a first elongated switch element, a second switch element disposed in spaced relationship to the first element and a shiftable body movable between a first position in simultaneous contact with said first and second switch elements, and a second position out of said simultaneous contact;
using a magnetic field of sufficient strength to maintain said body in one of said first and second positions; and
magnetically shifting the body to the other of first and second positions in response to a change of magnetic condition proximal to the switch assembly.
37. The method of claim 36, including the step of mounting said switch assembly on a first member, said change of condition comprising moving a second member relative to the first member.
38. The method of claim 37, said second member being equipped with a magnet, said magnetic moving step occurring by virtue of the magnetic attraction between said body and said second member magnet.
39. A switch assembly comprising:
a first wall, a second wall, and a circumscribing side wall cooperatively defining a switch chamber;
a first switch element, at least portion of which extends into said switch chamber; and
a shiftable body located within said switch chamber; and
a component associated with one of said first or second walls;
said body and component cooperatively formed to be magnetically attractive so that the body is magnetically moved within said chamber by virtue of the presence of said component.
40. The switch assembly of claim 39, said second wall and said side wall comprising a second switch element.
41. The switch assembly of claim 40, said body being shiftable between a first position in simultaneous contact with said first and second switch elements and a second position out of said simultaneous contact.
42. The switch assembly of claim 41, said component comprising a magnet.
43. The switch assembly of claim 42, said body retained in said second position by virtue of the magnetic attraction between said body and said component and shiftable to said first position in response to a change of magnetic condition proximal to the switch assembly.
44. The switch assembly of claim 39, said first switch element presenting an elongated, rod-like configuration which is oriented in a substantially upright manner.
45. The switch assembly of claim 39, said component secured to said first wall.
US09/916,535 1998-03-04 2001-07-27 Alarm switch Expired - Lifetime USRE39731E1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/916,535 USRE39731E1 (en) 1998-03-04 2001-07-27 Alarm switch

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/034,670 US5977873A (en) 1998-03-04 1998-03-04 Alarm switch
US09/916,535 USRE39731E1 (en) 1998-03-04 2001-07-27 Alarm switch

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/034,670 Reissue US5977873A (en) 1998-03-04 1998-03-04 Alarm switch

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
USRE39731E1 true USRE39731E1 (en) 2007-07-17

Family

ID=21877863

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/034,670 Expired - Lifetime US5977873A (en) 1998-03-04 1998-03-04 Alarm switch
US09/916,535 Expired - Lifetime USRE39731E1 (en) 1998-03-04 2001-07-27 Alarm switch

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/034,670 Expired - Lifetime US5977873A (en) 1998-03-04 1998-03-04 Alarm switch

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (2) US5977873A (en)

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120194307A1 (en) * 2011-02-02 2012-08-02 Magnasphere Corporation High security switch assembly
WO2012115894A1 (en) 2011-02-21 2012-08-30 Yale Security Inc. Door lockset
US20130200964A1 (en) * 2012-01-23 2013-08-08 Christopher Woods Security switch
US8638185B1 (en) * 2012-12-12 2014-01-28 Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Magnetically-sensitive switch and electronic device with magnetically-sensitive switch
US20140197909A1 (en) * 2010-10-15 2014-07-17 Jennifer Oetjen High security switch device
US20140204512A1 (en) * 2011-08-11 2014-07-24 Wistron Corporation Magnetic switch device and electronic device having the same
US9685290B1 (en) 2016-03-18 2017-06-20 Magnasphere Corporation Compact magnetic switch for circuit boards
US9704680B1 (en) 2016-02-15 2017-07-11 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic switch
US10541095B2 (en) 2017-05-22 2020-01-21 Magnasphere Corporation Four-contact magnetic switch apparatus

Families Citing this family (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6225903B1 (en) * 1999-12-06 2001-05-01 Napco Security Systems, Inc. Alarm system armed and disarmed by a deadbolt on a door
US6400267B1 (en) * 2001-01-05 2002-06-04 Calstar Systems Group, Inc. Wireless reed switch-based burglar alarm
US9256356B2 (en) * 2001-03-29 2016-02-09 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for providing feedback for docking a content pane in a host window
US6506987B1 (en) * 2001-07-19 2003-01-14 Randy Woods Magnetic switch
US6549109B1 (en) * 2001-09-21 2003-04-15 Ping-Feng Yang Magnet-sensible triggering doorbell mechanism
US6603378B1 (en) * 2002-09-19 2003-08-05 Magnasphere Corp. Magnetic switch assembly
US6812836B2 (en) 2002-11-07 2004-11-02 Napco Security Systems, Inc. Alarm system armed and disarmed by a door contact
US7023308B2 (en) * 2003-11-20 2006-04-04 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic switch assembly
NZ550395A (en) * 2004-04-02 2009-09-25 Won Door Corp Method and apparatus for directionally controlling a movable partition
US7291794B2 (en) * 2005-04-15 2007-11-06 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic switch assembly
US7825801B2 (en) * 2006-03-09 2010-11-02 Magnasphere Corporation Security switch assemblies for shipping containers and the like
US20080007398A1 (en) * 2006-07-05 2008-01-10 General Electric Company System and method for tracking assets
US7466237B1 (en) 2006-08-16 2008-12-16 Cook Francis E Door suicide alarm
US7560007B2 (en) * 2006-09-11 2009-07-14 Lam Research Corporation In-situ wafer temperature measurement and control
US7564351B2 (en) 2006-09-12 2009-07-21 Invue Security Products Inc. Theft deterrent device for use with sliding doors
US20090160646A1 (en) * 2007-12-20 2009-06-25 General Electric Company System and method for monitoring and tracking inventories
US7944334B2 (en) * 2008-07-14 2011-05-17 Magnasphere Corp. Tamper-resistant alarm switch assembly
US8228191B2 (en) * 2009-03-30 2012-07-24 Magnasphere Corp. Anti-tamper assembly for surface mounted security switch
US8648720B2 (en) * 2010-11-10 2014-02-11 Magnasphere Corporation High security burglar alarm device
US20160203928A1 (en) * 2014-12-22 2016-07-14 David Michael Mervine Magnetic deadman switch
US9685289B1 (en) 2016-08-02 2017-06-20 Magnasphere Corporation Wireless alarm switch assembly
EP4214527A1 (en) 2020-09-15 2023-07-26 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic proximity sensor

Citations (36)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1051962A (en) * 1911-02-11 1913-02-04 Frank A Lundquist Burglar-alarm.
US1192893A (en) * 1915-06-05 1916-08-01 Morris L Harvey Burglar-alarm.
US1868923A (en) * 1929-10-26 1932-07-26 Arthur F Semon Burglar alarm
US3516036A (en) * 1969-01-03 1970-06-02 Lawrence N Lea Magnetic shunt switches and the like
US3535664A (en) * 1967-08-25 1970-10-20 Marcel Jules Helene Staar Device for breaking a beam of light rays or the like and/or electric current
US3630168A (en) * 1970-02-17 1971-12-28 Foster C Findlay Inertia-operated indicating apparatus
US3650347A (en) * 1969-10-03 1972-03-21 Adolph J Campos Automobile safety and anti-theft device
US3763484A (en) * 1972-09-27 1973-10-02 W Byers Inertia-tilt switch
US3816680A (en) * 1971-08-18 1974-06-11 Tokai Rika Co Ltd Acceleration responsive switch
US3842377A (en) * 1973-07-05 1974-10-15 Martin C Magnetic switch
US4042796A (en) * 1975-10-15 1977-08-16 Zink Enterprises Security Systems Inertia switch for sensing vibration forces
US4057773A (en) * 1976-02-09 1977-11-08 Morton Cohen Magnetic switch
US4062314A (en) * 1976-09-20 1977-12-13 Charles Nick Morris Magnetically operated warning device
US4168410A (en) * 1977-02-11 1979-09-18 Norris Albert B Motion sensing alarm switch
US4275391A (en) * 1978-04-03 1981-06-23 Honda Lock Mfg. Co., Ltd. Key controlled, position sensitive, portable alarm
US4293860A (en) * 1980-01-16 1981-10-06 Iwata Electric Co., Ltd. Antenna alarm assembly for vehicle
US4326196A (en) * 1980-05-08 1982-04-20 Plevy Arthur L Universal gravity operated intrusion sensing device
US4336518A (en) * 1980-11-17 1982-06-22 Sentrol, Inc. Plunger operated magnetic contact switch assembly
US4450326A (en) * 1981-10-19 1984-05-22 Ledger Curtis G Anti-theft vibration detector switch and system
US4456897A (en) * 1981-06-08 1984-06-26 Sentrol, Inc. Plunger-operated switch unit
US4553134A (en) * 1982-12-23 1985-11-12 Alarm Accessory Ltd. Electrical alarm system for installation in a window casing
US4567846A (en) * 1985-03-25 1986-02-04 Kurtz Thomas D Magnetically operated door chime
US4628160A (en) * 1985-10-28 1986-12-09 Allied Corporation Electrical tilt switch
US4656458A (en) * 1985-04-11 1987-04-07 Iwata Electric Co., Ltd. Motion sensor
US4733324A (en) * 1987-04-06 1988-03-22 Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Surge arrestor
US4788517A (en) * 1987-10-08 1988-11-29 Beta Mfg. Co. Sealed proximity switch assembly
US4982058A (en) * 1989-11-21 1991-01-01 Schroeder Alfred A Safety interlock switch system
US5192839A (en) * 1990-12-26 1993-03-09 Nsk Ltd. Acceleration sensor
US5248861A (en) * 1989-08-11 1993-09-28 Tdk Corporation Acceleration sensor
US5248959A (en) * 1992-06-04 1993-09-28 Chern Wen Bin Earthquake warning device
US5332992A (en) * 1993-04-06 1994-07-26 Randall Woods Security alarm switch
US5530428A (en) * 1993-04-06 1996-06-25 Woods; Randall Security alarm switch
US5543767A (en) * 1995-02-02 1996-08-06 Elenbaas; George H. Electrical switch
US5673021A (en) * 1996-05-22 1997-09-30 Woods; Randall Magnetic switch assembly for detecting unauthorized opening of doors or windows
US5867082A (en) * 1995-06-02 1999-02-02 Duraswitch, Inc. Switch with magnetically-coupled armature
US5880659A (en) * 1997-03-17 1999-03-09 Woods; Randell Magnetic switch assembly for detecting unauthorized opening of doors or windows

Patent Citations (36)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1051962A (en) * 1911-02-11 1913-02-04 Frank A Lundquist Burglar-alarm.
US1192893A (en) * 1915-06-05 1916-08-01 Morris L Harvey Burglar-alarm.
US1868923A (en) * 1929-10-26 1932-07-26 Arthur F Semon Burglar alarm
US3535664A (en) * 1967-08-25 1970-10-20 Marcel Jules Helene Staar Device for breaking a beam of light rays or the like and/or electric current
US3516036A (en) * 1969-01-03 1970-06-02 Lawrence N Lea Magnetic shunt switches and the like
US3650347A (en) * 1969-10-03 1972-03-21 Adolph J Campos Automobile safety and anti-theft device
US3630168A (en) * 1970-02-17 1971-12-28 Foster C Findlay Inertia-operated indicating apparatus
US3816680A (en) * 1971-08-18 1974-06-11 Tokai Rika Co Ltd Acceleration responsive switch
US3763484A (en) * 1972-09-27 1973-10-02 W Byers Inertia-tilt switch
US3842377A (en) * 1973-07-05 1974-10-15 Martin C Magnetic switch
US4042796A (en) * 1975-10-15 1977-08-16 Zink Enterprises Security Systems Inertia switch for sensing vibration forces
US4057773A (en) * 1976-02-09 1977-11-08 Morton Cohen Magnetic switch
US4062314A (en) * 1976-09-20 1977-12-13 Charles Nick Morris Magnetically operated warning device
US4168410A (en) * 1977-02-11 1979-09-18 Norris Albert B Motion sensing alarm switch
US4275391A (en) * 1978-04-03 1981-06-23 Honda Lock Mfg. Co., Ltd. Key controlled, position sensitive, portable alarm
US4293860A (en) * 1980-01-16 1981-10-06 Iwata Electric Co., Ltd. Antenna alarm assembly for vehicle
US4326196A (en) * 1980-05-08 1982-04-20 Plevy Arthur L Universal gravity operated intrusion sensing device
US4336518A (en) * 1980-11-17 1982-06-22 Sentrol, Inc. Plunger operated magnetic contact switch assembly
US4456897A (en) * 1981-06-08 1984-06-26 Sentrol, Inc. Plunger-operated switch unit
US4450326A (en) * 1981-10-19 1984-05-22 Ledger Curtis G Anti-theft vibration detector switch and system
US4553134A (en) * 1982-12-23 1985-11-12 Alarm Accessory Ltd. Electrical alarm system for installation in a window casing
US4567846A (en) * 1985-03-25 1986-02-04 Kurtz Thomas D Magnetically operated door chime
US4656458A (en) * 1985-04-11 1987-04-07 Iwata Electric Co., Ltd. Motion sensor
US4628160A (en) * 1985-10-28 1986-12-09 Allied Corporation Electrical tilt switch
US4733324A (en) * 1987-04-06 1988-03-22 Franklin Electric Co., Inc. Surge arrestor
US4788517A (en) * 1987-10-08 1988-11-29 Beta Mfg. Co. Sealed proximity switch assembly
US5248861A (en) * 1989-08-11 1993-09-28 Tdk Corporation Acceleration sensor
US4982058A (en) * 1989-11-21 1991-01-01 Schroeder Alfred A Safety interlock switch system
US5192839A (en) * 1990-12-26 1993-03-09 Nsk Ltd. Acceleration sensor
US5248959A (en) * 1992-06-04 1993-09-28 Chern Wen Bin Earthquake warning device
US5332992A (en) * 1993-04-06 1994-07-26 Randall Woods Security alarm switch
US5530428A (en) * 1993-04-06 1996-06-25 Woods; Randall Security alarm switch
US5543767A (en) * 1995-02-02 1996-08-06 Elenbaas; George H. Electrical switch
US5867082A (en) * 1995-06-02 1999-02-02 Duraswitch, Inc. Switch with magnetically-coupled armature
US5673021A (en) * 1996-05-22 1997-09-30 Woods; Randall Magnetic switch assembly for detecting unauthorized opening of doors or windows
US5880659A (en) * 1997-03-17 1999-03-09 Woods; Randell Magnetic switch assembly for detecting unauthorized opening of doors or windows

Cited By (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9136070B2 (en) * 2010-10-15 2015-09-15 Jennifer Oetjen High security switch device
US20140197909A1 (en) * 2010-10-15 2014-07-17 Jennifer Oetjen High security switch device
US8487726B2 (en) * 2011-02-02 2013-07-16 Magnasphere Corporation High security switch assembly
US20120194307A1 (en) * 2011-02-02 2012-08-02 Magnasphere Corporation High security switch assembly
WO2012115894A1 (en) 2011-02-21 2012-08-30 Yale Security Inc. Door lockset
US9019052B2 (en) * 2011-08-11 2015-04-28 Wistron Corporation Magnetic switch device and electronic device having the same
US20140204512A1 (en) * 2011-08-11 2014-07-24 Wistron Corporation Magnetic switch device and electronic device having the same
US20130200964A1 (en) * 2012-01-23 2013-08-08 Christopher Woods Security switch
US8638185B1 (en) * 2012-12-12 2014-01-28 Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Magnetically-sensitive switch and electronic device with magnetically-sensitive switch
US9704680B1 (en) 2016-02-15 2017-07-11 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic switch
WO2017142649A1 (en) 2016-02-15 2017-08-24 Magnasphere Corporation Improved magnetic switch
US9934921B2 (en) 2016-02-15 2018-04-03 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic switch
US11069496B2 (en) 2016-02-15 2021-07-20 Magnasphere Corporation Magnetic switch
US9685290B1 (en) 2016-03-18 2017-06-20 Magnasphere Corporation Compact magnetic switch for circuit boards
US10541095B2 (en) 2017-05-22 2020-01-21 Magnasphere Corporation Four-contact magnetic switch apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US5977873A (en) 1999-11-02

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
USRE39731E1 (en) Alarm switch
US6803845B2 (en) Magnetic switch
US5332992A (en) Security alarm switch
US5530428A (en) Security alarm switch
US5673021A (en) Magnetic switch assembly for detecting unauthorized opening of doors or windows
AU2002330902A1 (en) Magnetic switch
US6603378B1 (en) Magnetic switch assembly
US7291794B2 (en) Magnetic switch assembly
US8314698B2 (en) Anti-tamper assembly for surface mounted security switch
US5880659A (en) Magnetic switch assembly for detecting unauthorized opening of doors or windows
US7825801B2 (en) Security switch assemblies for shipping containers and the like
US7023308B2 (en) Magnetic switch assembly
US8648720B2 (en) High security burglar alarm device
US9136070B2 (en) High security switch device
US9685289B1 (en) Wireless alarm switch assembly
US5929731A (en) Balanced magnetic proximity switch assembly
US5841349A (en) Alarm tag
US3849614A (en) Tamper switch device for detection of relative motion
EP0746829B1 (en) Security alarm switch
US4075588A (en) Switching apparatus
JPS5858696A (en) Invader sensor

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: MAGNASPHERE CORPORATION, WISCONSIN

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:WOODS, RANDALL;REEL/FRAME:013036/0093

Effective date: 20020512

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 12