Importance

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Abstract

An interlock mechanism ensures that a first switch does not switch to a first position unless a second switch is in a second position and that the second switch does not switch from the second position while the first switch is in the first position. The interlock mechanism includes a moveable body with a notch configured to associate a position of the moveable body with a switching of the second switch. The associated position of the moveable body locates the notch in an engagement position when the switch is in a second position and locates the notch out of the engagement position when the switch is not in the second position. The interlock mechanism also includes a rod structured and arranged to engage the notch of the moveable body when the first switch is in a first position and to disengage the notch of the moveable body when the first switch is switched from a first position. When the rod engages the notch of the moveable body the rod blocks movement of the moveable body in a first direction thus preventing the second switch from switching from a second position, and when the notch of the moveable body is not in the engagement position then the rod may not engage the notch and the first switch is prevented from switching to a first position.

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First Claim