Push button switch assembly having independent operator interlock in at least two rows latching at least one operator

Claim 1

A switch assembly comprising: a first switch block including a first frame member, a plurality of first push button switches supported by said first frame member, a first latch member common to and engaging said first switches and a first spring operatively associated with said first latch member for urging said first latch member toward a position latching said first switches; a second switch block arranged generally parallel to said first switch block, said second switch block including a second frame member, a plurality of second push button switches supported by said second frame member and a second latch member common to and engaging said second switches, said second latch member being adapted to move into a position latching said second switches; means for detachably connecting the end portions of said first frame member to adjacent end portions of said second frame member, said connecting means including first and second connector members each comprised of a resilient material and including portions detachably and resiliently interfitting with respective adjacent end portions of said frame members; and a first lever pivotally connected to one of said connector members and having generally opposing end portions thereof engaging with first adjacent ends of said first and second latch members respectively in such a manner that movement of said second latch member in one direction away from a latching position is transmitted through said first lever by a pivotal movement thereof to said first latch member causing said first latch member to move in the other direction away from the latching position thereof against the force of said first spring.