(under the class definition) Connector coupling devices (a) combined with a switch in a unitary structure, or (b) capable of functioning as a switch; i.e., having means specially provided for holding the complementary coupling parts in mechanically coupled but open-circuit position. (For exceptions, see especially Note (4) below).
(1) Note. "Connector coupling" as used above refers to electrical connectors, other than mere binding posts, comprising a pair of complementary parts each having contact means adapted to be readily engaged or disengaged by manipulation of said parts. Such parts are commonly known as plugs, sockets, receptacles, and the like.
(2) Note. For the distinction between "connectors" and "switches", see Note (3) to the main class definition.
(3) Note. The plug, socket, et cetera, may constitute or be combined with the base of a lamp, heater, or other translating device and mere recitation by name only of the lamp, heater, or such other device does not exclude the patent from this class.
(4) Note. Combinations of connector-coupling devices with the following specified types of circuit makers and breakers are excluded from this subclass and will be found in the subclasses indicated below in Search This Class, Subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS: 19+, for periodic switches.
33+, for retarded switches.
50.01+, for switches and connectors.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS
315, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems,
32+, for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices which have structurally combined therewith an electric switch, note especially subclasses 32, 47, 63, 64+, subclasses 72, 73, and 74+.
439, Electrical Connectors, especially
188, for an electrical connector having circuit interrupting provision effected by mating or having a "dead" contact actuated after mating. See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class in this class (200) for more details of the lines between this class and Class 439.
