The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Mar. 21, 2000
Filed:
Jan. 22, 1999
Richard E Peters, Tipp City, OH (US);
A. O. Smith Corporation, Milwaukee, WI (US);
Abstract
Provided is a plug for changing an operating condition of an electric motor. The plug includes at least one electrical contact. A support structure includes at least one electrical contact. The plug is electrically connectable to the support structure in at least first and second positions in which at least one plug electrical contact engages at least one support structure electrical contact. The plug and the support structure engage each other independently of the electrical connection between the electrical contacts. The independent engagement means ensures that the plug may only be positioned in a predetermined number of suitable positions and may not be positioned in an unacceptable position which the plug would be positionable absent the independent engagement means. Indicating means are provided to further ensure that the proper electrical connection is made depending on the desired operating condition of the electric motor.