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3D Images of Switches
This page hosts several 3D images of commonly used switches. All devices are owned by the author.
Fig 1 is called a "Minor Switch". It has a step-up electromagnet and a reset magnet. This one was likely made by CP Clare or the Automatic Electric Company. The remnant wire type hints at this being used in a non-telephone facility or device. However, Western Electric made a very similar switch called a 204E Selector. It was used as a digit counter in the 207C single-digit Intercom unit for example.
Following Fig 1 are rotating 3D images. There is some slight image distortion due to the intricate nature of the device. It was captured in a light box with a rotating stage. About 75 images were captured to make each 3D image.
Fig 1, Minor Switch, step-up, reset electromagnets
The video below is a so-called minor switch in 3D rotation.
Next is a video showing an Automatic Electric type 45 stepper switch. There are some unintended artifacts present.
The next video shows a Western Electric U-1154 relay. There are some unintended artifacts between the contacts.
See the History of the Relay in Telephony for the fascinating story behind the relay's rise to power.
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