Stepping Switch

An electromagnetically actuated switch having contact wipers which are successively rotated over fixed bank contacts. The contact wipers are progressively advanced over the fixed bank contacts through a repetitive series of stepping operations. The stepping operation may be a continuous forward rotation acting through 360 degrees to return to its normal unoperated position or it may be designed to include an electromagnetic and/or mechanical means for releasing and resetting the switch to its released position for a subsequent operation. The contact wipers may be mechanically held in contact with the fixed bank contacts after the armature of the actuating coil has released. The switch may be released at the end of its travel or at any intermediate position. It includes items designed with two electromagnetic actuators that enable the switch to operate in either direction. For items having the dual function of a switch and a relay assembled together on a common mounting, see relay-switch. For other than electromagnetically actuated switches whose contact wipers are manually rotated over fixed bank contacts, see switch, rotary. Excludes relay, rotary and switch, telephone (as modified).