Electricity: circuit makers and breakers – Special application – Change of inclination or of rate of motion responsive
Reexamination Certificate
2000-02-22
2001-10-09
Friedhofer, Michael (Department: 2832)
Electricity: circuit makers and breakers
Special application
Change of inclination or of rate of motion responsive
C200S061520, C315S053000, C362S806000, C439S651000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06300581
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a Christmas tree safety device for indoor use that incorporates a safety tip switch with an electrical receptacle for interrupting power to Christmas tree lights and other electrically powered devices when the Christmas tree is tipped from the normal position relative to the ground. Thus, the device acts as a power cord capable of being tethered to the trunk of a Christmas tree, and acts as a circuit breaker should the tree be tipped or fall, providing a safety mechanism to protect against fire hazard and the danger of electric shock.
The prior art shows tip switches of various types, used in various devices for interrupting power. The prior art also shows various power switching arrangements for electric light bulbs used in connection with decorating Christmas trees. The prior art does not show, however, the use of a tip or tilt switch in conjunction with a Christmas tree or other ornamental plant that carries, inter alia, electric light bulbs and other electrically operated devices.
The dangers of Christmas trees and the like being tipped over by children or pets is well known, and such tipping may result in a fire hazard. This is especially so where light bulbs are broken, and the wires exposed. There is also the hazard of electric shock.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a cord and switch mechanism with receptacles for the insertion of electric plugs and a plug end for insertion into a wall outlet. The cord, receptacle and switch being adapted for attachment to the trunk of a Christmas tree, natural or artificial, where a tip switch is employed in the device to sense departure of the tree from the normal position with respect to the ground, and interrupting power to the receptacle, thereby interrupting power to any electric device attached to the cord by means of the receptacle;
Another object of this invention is to provide an improved safety device which may be attached to the trunk of a Christmas tree or other member in a convenient location;
Another object of this invention is to provide a visual indicium for orienting the device and the tree in the normal position with respect to the ground;
Another object of this invention is to provide a leveling means for orienting the device and the tree in the normal position with respect to the ground.
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Brucker Marc
Dweck Richard
Canelias Peter S.
Friedhofer Michael
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