CA1159868A - Fluid pressure actuated electrical switch - Google Patents
Fluid pressure actuated electrical switchInfo
- Publication number
- CA1159868A CA1159868A CA000364469A CA364469A CA1159868A CA 1159868 A CA1159868 A CA 1159868A CA 000364469 A CA000364469 A CA 000364469A CA 364469 A CA364469 A CA 364469A CA 1159868 A CA1159868 A CA 1159868A
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- electrical
- electrical contact
- electrically conductive
- switch assembly
- assembly according
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Abstract
FLUID PRESSURE ACTUATED ELECTRICAL SWITCH
Abstract of the Disclosure An electrical switch assembly is shown as having a housing carrying three electrical terminals with first and second of such terminals respectively terminating in first and second fixed electrical contacts and the third of such termi-nals being electrically connected to a conductive spring; a further third fixed electrical contact, spaced from the first and second fixed contacts of the first and second terminals, has an aperture formed therein permitting the extension therethrough of an actuator which in turn carries a movable contact which is situated generally between the third fixed contact and the first and second fixed contacts with the spring engaging and urging the movable contact and actuator in a direction whereby the movable contact is moved toward the third fixed contact; a pressure responsive diaphragm situated generally at a side of the third fixed contact operatively engages the actuator and upon sensing sufficient pressure is effective to move the actuator and movable contact against the spring and towards the first and second fixed contacts of the first and second terminals.
Abstract of the Disclosure An electrical switch assembly is shown as having a housing carrying three electrical terminals with first and second of such terminals respectively terminating in first and second fixed electrical contacts and the third of such termi-nals being electrically connected to a conductive spring; a further third fixed electrical contact, spaced from the first and second fixed contacts of the first and second terminals, has an aperture formed therein permitting the extension therethrough of an actuator which in turn carries a movable contact which is situated generally between the third fixed contact and the first and second fixed contacts with the spring engaging and urging the movable contact and actuator in a direction whereby the movable contact is moved toward the third fixed contact; a pressure responsive diaphragm situated generally at a side of the third fixed contact operatively engages the actuator and upon sensing sufficient pressure is effective to move the actuator and movable contact against the spring and towards the first and second fixed contacts of the first and second terminals.
Description
- ~ ~ -FLUID PRESSURE ACTUATED ELECTRICAL SWITCH
Fielcl of Invention This invention relates generally to electrical switch and, in particular, to electrical switches respon-sive to fluid pressure.
Bac]cground of the Invention Heretofore the prior art has proposed various embo-dimen$s of Eluid pressure responsive electrical switches.
However, such prior art switches have usually required the use of pressure responsive diaphragms, or the like, which carried a movable contact or contacts where such contact or contacts were secured to the diaphragm as by rivet means, or the like, eY~tending through the diaphragm. Such rivet means, in turn, created leakage paths by which the pressurized fluid being monitored often passed eventually causing a failure of the switch assembly.
Accorcdingly, the invention as herein disclosed and claimed is primarily intended for the solution of the problems of the prior art as well as other related and attendant pro-blems.
Summary of the Invention According to the invention,an electrical switch assem-bly comprises first and second electrical contact means spaced from each other, third electrical contact means spaced from both said first and second electrical contact means, and fourth electrical contact means movable to and from at least two operating positions, said fourth electrical contact means when in one of said two operating positions being electri-cally operatively engaged with said first and second electrical contact means, said fourth electrical contact means when in the other of said two operatlng positions being electrically operatively engaged with sald third elec-trical contact means, said fourth electrical contact means comprising at leas-c first and second separate electrically conduetive paths, said fourth electrical contact means when in said one of said operating positions causing said first separate electrically conductive path to complete an electrical circuit as between said first and seeond contact means, said fourth electrical contact means when in said other of said operating positions causing said second separate electrically conductive path to complete an electrical circuit with said third eleetrieal eontaet means.
Various general and speeifie objects, advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent when reference is made to the following detailed description considered in eonjune'cion with the aeeompanying drawings.
Brief Deserip'cion of the Drawings In the drawings, wherein for purposes of elarity cer-tain details and/or elements may be omit-ted from one or more views:
Figure 1 is an a~ial eross-seetional view of an elee-trieal switeh assembly embodying teachings of the invention;
Figure 2 is a transverse cross-sectional view taken generally on the plane of line 2---2 of Figure 1 looking in the direetion of the arrows and illustrating, in hidden line, some portions of the elements below the plane of view;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken generally on the plane of line 3---3 of Figure 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 4 is a top plan view of one of the elements of the structure of Figure 1 taken on the plane of line 4---4 of Figure 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 5 is a top plan view of another of the elements of the structure of Figure 1 taken as on the plane of line 5---5 of Figure 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 6 is a view similar to that of Figure 1 but illustrating a second embodiment of structure employing teach-
Fielcl of Invention This invention relates generally to electrical switch and, in particular, to electrical switches respon-sive to fluid pressure.
Bac]cground of the Invention Heretofore the prior art has proposed various embo-dimen$s of Eluid pressure responsive electrical switches.
However, such prior art switches have usually required the use of pressure responsive diaphragms, or the like, which carried a movable contact or contacts where such contact or contacts were secured to the diaphragm as by rivet means, or the like, eY~tending through the diaphragm. Such rivet means, in turn, created leakage paths by which the pressurized fluid being monitored often passed eventually causing a failure of the switch assembly.
Accorcdingly, the invention as herein disclosed and claimed is primarily intended for the solution of the problems of the prior art as well as other related and attendant pro-blems.
Summary of the Invention According to the invention,an electrical switch assem-bly comprises first and second electrical contact means spaced from each other, third electrical contact means spaced from both said first and second electrical contact means, and fourth electrical contact means movable to and from at least two operating positions, said fourth electrical contact means when in one of said two operating positions being electri-cally operatively engaged with said first and second electrical contact means, said fourth electrical contact means when in the other of said two operatlng positions being electrically operatively engaged with sald third elec-trical contact means, said fourth electrical contact means comprising at leas-c first and second separate electrically conduetive paths, said fourth electrical contact means when in said one of said operating positions causing said first separate electrically conductive path to complete an electrical circuit as between said first and seeond contact means, said fourth electrical contact means when in said other of said operating positions causing said second separate electrically conductive path to complete an electrical circuit with said third eleetrieal eontaet means.
Various general and speeifie objects, advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent when reference is made to the following detailed description considered in eonjune'cion with the aeeompanying drawings.
Brief Deserip'cion of the Drawings In the drawings, wherein for purposes of elarity cer-tain details and/or elements may be omit-ted from one or more views:
Figure 1 is an a~ial eross-seetional view of an elee-trieal switeh assembly embodying teachings of the invention;
Figure 2 is a transverse cross-sectional view taken generally on the plane of line 2---2 of Figure 1 looking in the direetion of the arrows and illustrating, in hidden line, some portions of the elements below the plane of view;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken generally on the plane of line 3---3 of Figure 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 4 is a top plan view of one of the elements of the structure of Figure 1 taken on the plane of line 4---4 of Figure 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 5 is a top plan view of another of the elements of the structure of Figure 1 taken as on the plane of line 5---5 of Figure 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 6 is a view similar to that of Figure 1 but illustrating a second embodiment of structure employing teach-
-2-ings of the invention;
Figure 7 is an enlarged top plan view of one of the elements of the structure of Figure 6 taken on the plane of line 7---7 of Figure 6 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken generally on the plane of line 8---8 of Figure 7 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 9 is a view similar to that of Figure 5 illustra-ting a modification thereof;
Figure 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a frag-mentary portion of the element shown in Figure 9 taken generally on the plane of line 10---10 of Figure 9 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 11 is a side elevational view of another embodi-ment of one of the elements shown in Figures 1 and 6;
Figure 12 is a view of a fragmentary portion of the switch means of Figure 6 employed in combination with an elec-trical circuit applicable to an engine system; and Figure 13 is a view similar to that of Figure 6 but illustrating a further embodiment of structure employing teach-ings of the invention.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now in greater detail to the drawings, Figure 1 illustrates a switch assembly 10 as comprising housing means 12, in turn, comprising an upper housing or body section 14 and a lower housing or body section 16. In the preferred embodiment upper body section 14 is comprised of suitable dielectric material a.nd formed as to have generally cylindrical portions 18 and 20 with portion 20 being generally tubular or defining, in effect, an inverted cup-like configuration, having a chamber-like space 22, and terminating as in an annular end surface 24.
In the embodiment illustrated a plurality of lead or terminal means 26, 28 and 30 are operatively fixedly secured to and carried by upper housing section 14. Terminal means 26, an electrically conductive first fixed member, comprises a shank-like portion 32 which, preferably, continues in its extension beyond housing section 14 and its operatively connected to or integrally formed with a contact portion 34. As generally de-picted, in the preferred embodiment, contact portion abuts against a portion of housing section 14. Similarly, terminal means 30, an electrically conductive second fixed member, com-prises a shank-like portion 36 which, preferably, continues in its extension beyond housing section 14 and is operatively con-nected to or integrally formed with a contact portion 38 which, in turn, preferably also abuts against a juxtaposed portion of housing section 14. Lead or terminal means 28 comprises a shank-like portion 40 which,preferably, continues in its exten-sion beyond housing section 14 and is operatively connected to or integrally formed with a leg-like contact portion 42 which is received as within a generally transverse slot or recess 44 formed in housing section 14. Preferably, contact portion 42 is provided with an aperture 45 through which extends a post-like pilot portion 46 which may be formed integrally with body section 14. Although not illustrated, it is contemplated that the post portion 46 may be of an inverted truncated conical con-figuration (as would be viewed in Figure 1) with contact portion 42 being formed to provide a complementary conical-like cap which would fit over such contemplated post.
Housing or body section 16,which, in the preferred embodiment, is comprised of electrically conductive material, has an open upper end and a cylindrical inner surface 48 which closely receives the cylindrical portion 20 of upper body section 14. A generally transversely oriented inner annular 8~
axial end surface 50 generally meets with passage means 52 which, in turn, is effective for communicating with a related source 54 of fluid pressure being monitored by the switch assembly 10.
Preferably, the lower portion of housing section 16 is externa-lly threaded as at 56 so as to enable the switch asse~bly 10 to be fluid-tight threadably engaged with related structure 58 which, in fact, may contain the monitored fluid pressure, and, for example, comprise a portion of an internal combustion engine or the like. To assist in affecting such threadable engagement, the housing section 16 is preferably provided with appropriate tool-engaging surface means such as that depicted, for example, at 62 of Figure 2.
Referring still to Figure 1, an annular gasket member 64, comprised of rubber or other suitable material, is situated against the inner annular end surface 50 and serves, in effect, as a seating or sealing surface for a pressure responsive diaphragm member 66 placed thereacross in a manner so that a generally peripheral annular portion thereof is in annular juxtaposition with gasket member 64. In the preferred embodi-ment, diaphragm member 66 is formed of "Kapton". "Kapton" is a trademark of the E.I. duPont de Nemours & Company for a polyimide film (usually 1 to 5 mils thick). Polymide is a polymer derived from pyromellitic dianhydride and an aromatic diamine. Generally, the properties of polyimide have been reported as: (a) specific gravity 1O42; (b) tensile strength 13,500 psi; (c) water absorption (24 hrs. at 77K) 0.3%;
(d) heat distortion point above 500F; (d) dielectric constant at 2000 m.c. 3.2; and (f) coefficient of linear expansion 28.4 x 10 6in./in./F; with excellent frictional characteristics, good w~ar resistance at high temperatures, resistant to organic materials at high temperatures and resists combustion.
A generally inverted cup-like electrically conductive member 68, which may be considered as being a third electri-cally conductive fixed member having a laterally extending annular flange portion 70, is situated generally on the other side of diaphragm member 66 in a manner as to peripherally con-tain and retain the diaphragm between the flange pGrtion 70 and gasket 64 as to effectively seal conduit means 52 from communi-cation with chamber 22. As also shown in Figure 5, electrically conductive member or contact 68 has an upper-most wall portion 72 through which is formed an aperture 74 for slidably receiv-ing a generally cylindrical body portion 76 of a plunger-like or actuator member 78 which has a lower disposed head-like portion 80 of an effective diameter or width sufficiently large to prevent its passage through aperture or passage means 74. The lower disposed surface 82 of head 80 is preferably curvilinear or spherically or generally of rounded contour.
Actuator or motion transmitting member 78 has its body 76 ter-minate as at an upper planar surface 84 from which, centrally thereof, an extension portion 86 (which may be integrally for-med with body 76) extends upwardly.
An annular electrically conductive movable contact member 88 (also shown in Figure 4) is situated against actuator surface 84 and retained thereon against lateral movement relative thereto by the cooperative action of extension 86 being received through an aperture 90 formed in contact 88.
Electrically conductive spring means, such as, for example,a coiled compression spring 92, is situated as to have its opposite ends in respective electrical engagement with contact portion 42 of lead or terminal means 28 and movable contact means 88. Preferably, the spring 92 is positioned as to have its opposite ends respectively situated about posts 46 and 86 thereby preventing undue transverse or later~l movement of such spring ends.
With the various elemen~s described and depicted in Figure 1, the upper open end 94 of lower housing section 16 may be, for example, rolled-over and against an annular shoulder 96 of upper housing section 14 to thereby retain the elements in assembled relationship.
Operation The switch assembly of the invention may, of course, be employed in any electrical environment; for purposes of illustration the switch assembly 10 is shown operatively conn-ected to circuit means 98, 100 and 102. Circuit means 98 com-prises conductor means 104 electrically connected to lead or terminal means 26 and electrical load means 106 which, in turn, is electrically grounded as at 108. Circuit means 100 is illus-trated as comprising a source of electrical potential 110, grounded as at 112, and electrically connected via conductor means 114 to electrical load means, such as an indicator bulb 116, and through conductor means 118 to lead or terminal means 28. Circuit means 102 is illustrated as comprising load means 120 electrically connected as via conductor means 122 to lead or terminal means 30 and grounded as at 124. Another electrical path is illustrated as being established by lower housing section 16, and associated structure 58 leading to ground as at 126.
During conditions wherein the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure is less than a preselected or predetermined magnitude, spring means 92 is effective to hold movable contact 88 against the bridging fixed contact 68. In so doing the motion transmitting means or plunger-like member 78 is also held in its down-most position wherein, for example, end surface 84 thereof may be effectiveIy coplanar with the top surface of wall portion 72 of fixed contact 68. During such an assumed condition of operation, with assumed circuit means -as illustrated, a circuit is completed as described by ground 112, source of electrical potential 110, conductor 114, load 116, conductor 118, lead or terminal means 28, spring 92, movable contact 88, fixed contact 68, lower housing section 16, structure 58 and back to ground as at 126. Of course, any load in such described circuit would become energized.
When the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure becomes sufficiently great, the resulting force created against diaphragm 66 becomes sufficient to overcome the preload force of spring 92; that is, at that time, diaphragm 66 moves against and causes actuator 78 to move upwardly there-by first lifting movable contact 88 off of fixed contact 68 (thereby opening the circuit previously described) and even-tually moving such contact 88 up and into operative engagement with fixed contact portions 34 and 36, as illustrated in Figure 1. When that happens second and third circuits are closed. :~`
That is, such second circuit would be comprised of ground 112, source of electrical potential 110, conductor 114, load 116, conductor 118, lead or terminal means 28, spring 92, movable contact 88, contact portion 34, shank portion 32, conductor 104, load 106 and back to ground as at 108. Similarly, such third circuit would be comprised of ground 112, source of electrical potential 110, conductor 114, load 116, conductor 118, lead or terminal means 28, spring 92, movable contact 88 ?
contact portion 38, shank portion 36, conductor 122, load 120 and back to ground as at 124. As should be obvious, when in the condition depicted in Figure 1, two parallel branch cir~
cuits are supplied by the source 110.
Second Embodiment -Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figure 6. All elements therein which are like or similar to those of Figure 1 are identified with like reference numerals provided with a suffix "a".
In comparing the structures of Figures 1 and 6, it will be seen that the two are illustrated as being identical with the exception that movable contact means 188 of Figure 6 differs from movable contact means 88 of Figure 1. The moyable contact means 188 is better illustrated, in relatively enlarged scale, in Figures 7 and 8.
Referring in greater detail to Figures 7 and 8, the movable contact means 188 is illustrated as comprising a disc-like annular body 130 of electrically non-conductive material preferably having a circular outer periphery 132 and a centra-lly located aperture or passage 134. The upper 136 and lower 138 surfaces of body 130 carry electrically conductive portions or paths thereon. For ease and clarity of illustration such conductive paths or portions, hereinafter described, are illustrated, in cross-section, in heavy black lines. A layer of electrically conductive material 140, carried at and by the lower surface 138, is, preferably, of annular configuration as to, effectively, be coextensive with surface 138. A generally cylindrical or tubular layer or portion 142 of electrically conductive material is carried against and by the surface of aperture or passage 134. The portions or layers 140 and 142 are effectively joined to each other as to, in effect, form a single electrical path. A first annular or ring-like electri-cally conductive portion 144 is carried at and by the upper surface 136 of body 130 as to form, when viewed for example in Figure 8, an annular flange-like portion having an effective outer periphery 146. As should be apparent, portions 144, 142 and 140 cooperate to define one electrically conductive path.
A second annular or ring-like electrically conductive portion 148 is carried at and by the upRer surface 136. As illustrated, the inner periphery 150 is spaced from the outer periphery 145 _g ~9~3fi8 of portion 144 while the outer periphery of portion 148 may be coextensive with the outer periphery of body 130. As also should be apparent, electrically conductive portion 148 is elec-trically isolated or insulated from conductive portions 144, 142 and 140.
In the preferred embodiment of movable contact means 188, the various electrically conductive portions and paths, already described, are formed on body 130 by a process or pro-cesses commonly employed in making printed circuit boards or the like. However as should be obvious, such electrically con-ductive paths and/or portions may be formed as by electrically conductive material suitably affixed to a related electrically insulating body 130 with such being done, for example, by me-chanical fastening means or suitable cementing means.
Operation of Second Embodiment As with regard to switch assembly 10, switch assembly 10a may, of course, be employed in any electrical environment;
for purposes of illustration the switch assembly 10a is shown operatively connected to circuit means 152, 154 and 156.
Circuit means 152 comprises conductor means 158 electrically connected to lead or terminal means 26a and through conductor means 16Q to a source of electrical potential 162 which, in turn, is electrically grounded as at 167. Circuit means 154 is llustrated as comprising conductor means 166 electrically connected to lead or terminal means 28a and to an electrical load, such as bulb means 168, and through conductor means 170 to conductor 16OJ source 162 and ground 164. Circuit 156 is illustrated as comprising load means 172 electrically connected via conductor means 174 to lead or terminal means 30a and grounded as at 176. A further electrical path is illustrated as being established by lower housing section 16a and associa-ted structure 58a leading to ground as at 126a.
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During conditions wherein the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure is less than a preselected or predetermined magnitude, spring means 92a is effective to hold movable contact means 188 against bridging fixed contact 68a.
In so doing, the motion transmitting means or plunger-like member 78a is also held in its effectiveIy down-most position wherein, for example, end surface 84a thereof may be effectively coplanar with the top surface of wall portion 72a of fixed contact 68a. During such an assumed condition of operation, with assumed circuit means as illustrated, a circuit is com-pleted as described by ground 164 source of electrical poten-tial 162, conductors 160, 170, load or lamp 168, conductor 166, shank portion 40a and contact portion 42a of lead or terminal means 28a, spring 92a, annular conductive portion 144 against which the lower end of spring 92a engages (of movable contact means 188), tubular conductive portion 142 (of contact means 188), annular conductive portion 140 (of contact means 188), fixed contact 68a (which is at such time in electrical engage-ment with conductive portion 140), housing section 16a, struc-ture 58a and back to ground as at 126a. At this time the assumed load 168 is energized.
When the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure becomes sufficiently great, the resulting force created against diaphragm 66a becomes sufficient to overcome the preload force of spring 92a; that is, at that time) diaphragm 66a moves against and causes actuator 78a to move upwardly thereby first lifting movable contact means 188 off of fixed contact 68a (thereby opening the immediately pre~iously described closed circuit) and eventually moving such contact means 188 up and into operative engagement with fixed cont;act portions 34a and 36a, as depicted in Figure 6. When that happens a different circuit is closed and such is comprised of circuit means 152 and 156. More specifically, with contact means 188 in its Figure 6 position, a circuit is completed and described by ground 164, source of electrical potential 162, conductors 160, 158, shank portion 32a and contact portion 34a of lead or terminal means 26a, annular conductive portion 148 of movable contact means 188, fixed contact~portion 38a and shank por~ion 36a of lead or terminal means 30a, conductor means 174, electrical load means 172 and back to ground as at 176. As should be apparent, in the Figure 6 depicted condition, the circuit as between spring 92a and fixed contact 68a is open and the space between inner periphery 150 of annular con-tact portion 148 and the outer periphery 146 of annular contact portion 144 precludes energization of load 168.
Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a contemplated further embodiment of the fixed contact member 68 and/or 68a. All elements in Figures 9 and 10 which are like or similar to those of Figures 1, 5 and/or Figure 6 are identified with reference numbers corresponding to those of Figures 1 and/or 5.
Referring in greater detail to Figures 9 and 10, the fixed contact 68 is illustrated as comprising a portion 178 struck or cut out of the flange portion 70 (as to leave sides 180 and 182 in flange 70) and formed as to have a relati~ely upwardly inclined configuration as depicted, for example, in Figure 10. In the forming of fixed contact 68 and tang-like' portion 178, such portion 178 is preferably formed s'omewhat-effectiveIy longer as to thereby have its free end 184'extend-ing beyond the circumferential limit of flange 70. According~ly, when assembling the fixed contact 68 to housing section 16~' it is pressed into the interior of housing section 16 and in so doing the tang or tab 184 is somewhat resiliently de-flected. However, upon the fixed contact 68 being seated against diaphragm 66 or 66a, such tab or tang continues to inherently urge itself into electrical contact with surface 48 (or 48a) of the lower housing section 16 (or 16a) thereby assur-ing a continued electrical connection therebetween.
Also, it is contemplated that the motion transmitting means 78 or 78a (as shown at Figures 1 or 6) may take different forms. For example, Figure 11 illustrates a modified embodiment of such motion transmitting or actuator means; in Figure 11, elements which are like or similar to those of the embodiments 78 or 78à are identified with like reference numerals provided with a suffix "b". An inspection of the structure of Figure 11 will disclose that, in the main, actuator means 78b is much like actuator means 78 and/or 78a with the exception that, pre-ferably, the effective width or diameter of head portion 80b is substantially greater than that of either 80 or 80a and that the lower disposed end surface 186 of actuator means 78b is relatively flat over its effective area, instead of rounded as at 82 or 82a of Figures 1 or 6, thereby enabling a greater portion of the cooperating diaphragm 66 or 66a to more quickly and effectively engage the total end surface 186 in moving the actuator 78b upwardly during conditions as hereinbefore des-cribed.
Figure 12, in somewhat greater detail illustrates the switch assembly lOa within an environment of, for example, an internal combustion engine wherein portion 58a (Figure 6) may form a part of the engine and wherein 54a (Figure 6) may be the engine oil or lubricating system so that the pressure of such oil is continually monitored by and reacted to by the switch assembly lOa, In comparing Figures 6 and 12, it can be seen that the load 172 of Figure 6 is identified in Figure 12 as being the vehicle engine induction system choke control means.
For example, some engine induction system choke means operate 9~
on the basis of causing the choke means to be opened or actuated to a preselected position immediately upon the engine becoming started. Usually, for all practical purposes, the engine oil pressure can be assumed to reach its normal relatively high operating pressure simultaneously with the engine becoming started.
Accordingly, still referring to both Figures 6 and 12, it can be seen that, with the related engine being cold and shut-down, upon closing of the ignition switch means 190 (thereby energizing the ignition system 192 and related engine cranking means~ the monitored oil pressure will be relatively low thereby ha~ing switch contact means 188 in its lower-most position and completing the electrical circuit from terminal means 28a through ground 126a resulting in oil pressure indi-cator lamp 168 being energized signaling a low oil pressure, At this time the circuit between terminal contacts 34a and 38a is opened. When the engine is started, the monitored oil pressure increases to a sufficiently high magnitude resulting in diaphragm 66a moving contact means 188 to the position depicted in Figure 6 thereby opening the previously established electrical circuit between terminal means 28a and ground 126a and, instead, closing the electrical circuit between contact portions 34a and 38a of terminal means 26a and 30a as to cause de-energization of the low-pressure indicator lamp 168 and-~the energization of the vehicle engine induction system choke con-trol means 172.
Third Embodiment Another embodiment of the invention is illustxated in Figure 13. All eIements ;therein as are like or similar to those of Figure 6 or Figure 11 are identified with like ref~
erence numerals provided with a suffix "c", with modification and/or changes being designated by succeeding next higher reference numbers.
In comparing the structures of Figures 6 (modified as in view of Figure 11) and 13, it will be seen that the two are illustrated as being generally identical with the exceptions that contact 68c is provided with an arm-like portion or exten-sion 200 and the axial end 202 of upper body or housing por-tion 14c may be stepped as to generally confine, within such annular step, the flange 70c of contact 68c thereby preventing the completion of an electrical circuit as between contact 68c and lower housing or body section 16c. That is, the embodiment depicted in Figure 13 may be considered as a non-grounding type whereby no electrical ground circuit is completed through the housing section 16c. Obviously, other means may be employed for so preventing the completion of such a ground circuit. For example, the housing section 16c could be made of dielectric material; or if housing section 16c were to be of electrically conductive material, then, of course, contact means 68c could be suitably peripherally insulated therefrom or the housing section 16c could be electrically insulated as from the groun ded or ground structure 58c as by, for example, an electrically insulating material intermediate the housing section 16c and structure 58c.
As depicted in Figure 13, the conductive arm means 200 may be struck and formed from the transverse wall portion 72c and, preferably, provided with a projecting-like contacting portion 204 which electrically contacts terminal means 30c as by electrical engagement with shank portion 36c thereof.
The switch assembly 10c is illustrated as in an overall electrical system which comprises a source of electrical po-tential 162 electrically connected as by conductor means 206 to switch contact means 208 which may comprise the usual vehi-cular engine ignition and engine starter key operated switch.
6~
As generally depicted, the switch 208, when in an "off" posi-tion is as shown in solid line while when moved to an engine cranking condition it assumes a position as partially indica~
ted in phantGm line at 208'. Upon the engine being started, the switch member 208 is permitted to be moved from the phantom line position of 208' to the phantom line position of 208".
Obviously, as schematically depicted, when in the 208' posi-tion both fixed contacts 210 and 212 are in electrical engage-ment therewith and when in the 208" position only fixed contact 212 is electrically connected thereto.
The associated combustion engine, depicted at 214, has a related ignition system 216 which is electrically connected to contact 212 as by conductor means 218. Terminal means 26c is also electrically connected to contact 212 as through con-ductor means 220 and a portion of conductor means 218. An engine cranking or starter motor 222, connected to ground as at 224, is electrically connected to contact 210 as via conduc-tor means 226 and terminal means 28c may be electrically conn-ected to contact 210 by conductor means 228 generally through the starter motor 222 or, as depicted in dash line at 230, directly to contact 210 as through, for example, a portion of conductor means 226. An engine fuel pump 232 is operatively connected to and driven by an electric motor 234 which is grounded as at 236 and electrically connected to terminal means 30c as by conductor means 238.
Opera_ion of Figure 13 Embodiment For purposes of discussion, let it be assumed that the engine 214 is shut down and switch 208 is in its illustrated "off7' position. At this time the magnitude of the monitored engine oil pressure at 54c will be zero (or relatively low) thereby having contact means 188c held against lower fixed contact 68c by the action of spring 92c. Consequently, as through switch lOc at such time, an electrical circuit is esta-blished and completed from terminal means 28c, through spring 92c, conductive portions 144,/and 140 (Figure 8) of contact means 188c, lower fixed contact 68c, arm or extension 200 and contact portion 204 thereof, and, to shank portion 36c of terminal means 30c. Accordingly, it can be seen that at such an engine shut-down condition, when switch contact 208 is moved to its position at 208' the starter or engine cranking motor 222 is energized, via conductor means 226, and the fuel pump motor 234 is also energized (through the described closed circuit of switch means lOc) as by conductor means 228 and conductor means 238. Also, of course, during such engine cranking the gnition system 216 is energized as through conductor means 218 and contact 212.
When the engine 214 is started and becomes self-sus-taining, the engine oil monitored pressure almost i~mediately becomes of a sufficiently high magnitude causing diaphragm'66c to move actuator 78c and contact means 188c upwardly to the respective positions depicted in Figure 13. Also, as the engine 214 is thusly started, the operator positionable switch 208 is moved from its position at 208' to its positi.on . at 208". As a consequence thereof the electrical cirCuit.
between conductive portion 140 (Figure 8) of contact means l88c and lower fixed contact 68c is opened. However ? u.pon cont'àct means 188c being moved to the position shown in Figure'13,' the generally annular conductive portion 148 (Figure 8~? of contact means 188c serves as an electrical bridging contact.
completing a circuit as between contact portions 34c and 3:~.c of terminal means 26c and 36c, respectively, . Therefore ? .the switch means lOc continues to provide energization to fuel pump motor 234 (as by the circuit comprised:of contact 212 ?
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a portion of conductor 218, conductor means 220, terminal shank 32c, terminal contact 34c, conductive portion 148 (Figure 8), terminal contact 38c, terminal shank 36c, and con-ductor means 238) while the engine ignition system 216 con-tinues to be energized through conductor means 218.
Although only a preferred embodiment and select number of modifications of the invention have been disclosed and described, it is apparent that other embodiments and modifica-tions of the invention are possible within the scope of the appended claims.
Figure 7 is an enlarged top plan view of one of the elements of the structure of Figure 6 taken on the plane of line 7---7 of Figure 6 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken generally on the plane of line 8---8 of Figure 7 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 9 is a view similar to that of Figure 5 illustra-ting a modification thereof;
Figure 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a frag-mentary portion of the element shown in Figure 9 taken generally on the plane of line 10---10 of Figure 9 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
Figure 11 is a side elevational view of another embodi-ment of one of the elements shown in Figures 1 and 6;
Figure 12 is a view of a fragmentary portion of the switch means of Figure 6 employed in combination with an elec-trical circuit applicable to an engine system; and Figure 13 is a view similar to that of Figure 6 but illustrating a further embodiment of structure employing teach-ings of the invention.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now in greater detail to the drawings, Figure 1 illustrates a switch assembly 10 as comprising housing means 12, in turn, comprising an upper housing or body section 14 and a lower housing or body section 16. In the preferred embodiment upper body section 14 is comprised of suitable dielectric material a.nd formed as to have generally cylindrical portions 18 and 20 with portion 20 being generally tubular or defining, in effect, an inverted cup-like configuration, having a chamber-like space 22, and terminating as in an annular end surface 24.
In the embodiment illustrated a plurality of lead or terminal means 26, 28 and 30 are operatively fixedly secured to and carried by upper housing section 14. Terminal means 26, an electrically conductive first fixed member, comprises a shank-like portion 32 which, preferably, continues in its extension beyond housing section 14 and its operatively connected to or integrally formed with a contact portion 34. As generally de-picted, in the preferred embodiment, contact portion abuts against a portion of housing section 14. Similarly, terminal means 30, an electrically conductive second fixed member, com-prises a shank-like portion 36 which, preferably, continues in its extension beyond housing section 14 and is operatively con-nected to or integrally formed with a contact portion 38 which, in turn, preferably also abuts against a juxtaposed portion of housing section 14. Lead or terminal means 28 comprises a shank-like portion 40 which,preferably, continues in its exten-sion beyond housing section 14 and is operatively connected to or integrally formed with a leg-like contact portion 42 which is received as within a generally transverse slot or recess 44 formed in housing section 14. Preferably, contact portion 42 is provided with an aperture 45 through which extends a post-like pilot portion 46 which may be formed integrally with body section 14. Although not illustrated, it is contemplated that the post portion 46 may be of an inverted truncated conical con-figuration (as would be viewed in Figure 1) with contact portion 42 being formed to provide a complementary conical-like cap which would fit over such contemplated post.
Housing or body section 16,which, in the preferred embodiment, is comprised of electrically conductive material, has an open upper end and a cylindrical inner surface 48 which closely receives the cylindrical portion 20 of upper body section 14. A generally transversely oriented inner annular 8~
axial end surface 50 generally meets with passage means 52 which, in turn, is effective for communicating with a related source 54 of fluid pressure being monitored by the switch assembly 10.
Preferably, the lower portion of housing section 16 is externa-lly threaded as at 56 so as to enable the switch asse~bly 10 to be fluid-tight threadably engaged with related structure 58 which, in fact, may contain the monitored fluid pressure, and, for example, comprise a portion of an internal combustion engine or the like. To assist in affecting such threadable engagement, the housing section 16 is preferably provided with appropriate tool-engaging surface means such as that depicted, for example, at 62 of Figure 2.
Referring still to Figure 1, an annular gasket member 64, comprised of rubber or other suitable material, is situated against the inner annular end surface 50 and serves, in effect, as a seating or sealing surface for a pressure responsive diaphragm member 66 placed thereacross in a manner so that a generally peripheral annular portion thereof is in annular juxtaposition with gasket member 64. In the preferred embodi-ment, diaphragm member 66 is formed of "Kapton". "Kapton" is a trademark of the E.I. duPont de Nemours & Company for a polyimide film (usually 1 to 5 mils thick). Polymide is a polymer derived from pyromellitic dianhydride and an aromatic diamine. Generally, the properties of polyimide have been reported as: (a) specific gravity 1O42; (b) tensile strength 13,500 psi; (c) water absorption (24 hrs. at 77K) 0.3%;
(d) heat distortion point above 500F; (d) dielectric constant at 2000 m.c. 3.2; and (f) coefficient of linear expansion 28.4 x 10 6in./in./F; with excellent frictional characteristics, good w~ar resistance at high temperatures, resistant to organic materials at high temperatures and resists combustion.
A generally inverted cup-like electrically conductive member 68, which may be considered as being a third electri-cally conductive fixed member having a laterally extending annular flange portion 70, is situated generally on the other side of diaphragm member 66 in a manner as to peripherally con-tain and retain the diaphragm between the flange pGrtion 70 and gasket 64 as to effectively seal conduit means 52 from communi-cation with chamber 22. As also shown in Figure 5, electrically conductive member or contact 68 has an upper-most wall portion 72 through which is formed an aperture 74 for slidably receiv-ing a generally cylindrical body portion 76 of a plunger-like or actuator member 78 which has a lower disposed head-like portion 80 of an effective diameter or width sufficiently large to prevent its passage through aperture or passage means 74. The lower disposed surface 82 of head 80 is preferably curvilinear or spherically or generally of rounded contour.
Actuator or motion transmitting member 78 has its body 76 ter-minate as at an upper planar surface 84 from which, centrally thereof, an extension portion 86 (which may be integrally for-med with body 76) extends upwardly.
An annular electrically conductive movable contact member 88 (also shown in Figure 4) is situated against actuator surface 84 and retained thereon against lateral movement relative thereto by the cooperative action of extension 86 being received through an aperture 90 formed in contact 88.
Electrically conductive spring means, such as, for example,a coiled compression spring 92, is situated as to have its opposite ends in respective electrical engagement with contact portion 42 of lead or terminal means 28 and movable contact means 88. Preferably, the spring 92 is positioned as to have its opposite ends respectively situated about posts 46 and 86 thereby preventing undue transverse or later~l movement of such spring ends.
With the various elemen~s described and depicted in Figure 1, the upper open end 94 of lower housing section 16 may be, for example, rolled-over and against an annular shoulder 96 of upper housing section 14 to thereby retain the elements in assembled relationship.
Operation The switch assembly of the invention may, of course, be employed in any electrical environment; for purposes of illustration the switch assembly 10 is shown operatively conn-ected to circuit means 98, 100 and 102. Circuit means 98 com-prises conductor means 104 electrically connected to lead or terminal means 26 and electrical load means 106 which, in turn, is electrically grounded as at 108. Circuit means 100 is illus-trated as comprising a source of electrical potential 110, grounded as at 112, and electrically connected via conductor means 114 to electrical load means, such as an indicator bulb 116, and through conductor means 118 to lead or terminal means 28. Circuit means 102 is illustrated as comprising load means 120 electrically connected as via conductor means 122 to lead or terminal means 30 and grounded as at 124. Another electrical path is illustrated as being established by lower housing section 16, and associated structure 58 leading to ground as at 126.
During conditions wherein the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure is less than a preselected or predetermined magnitude, spring means 92 is effective to hold movable contact 88 against the bridging fixed contact 68. In so doing the motion transmitting means or plunger-like member 78 is also held in its down-most position wherein, for example, end surface 84 thereof may be effectiveIy coplanar with the top surface of wall portion 72 of fixed contact 68. During such an assumed condition of operation, with assumed circuit means -as illustrated, a circuit is completed as described by ground 112, source of electrical potential 110, conductor 114, load 116, conductor 118, lead or terminal means 28, spring 92, movable contact 88, fixed contact 68, lower housing section 16, structure 58 and back to ground as at 126. Of course, any load in such described circuit would become energized.
When the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure becomes sufficiently great, the resulting force created against diaphragm 66 becomes sufficient to overcome the preload force of spring 92; that is, at that time, diaphragm 66 moves against and causes actuator 78 to move upwardly there-by first lifting movable contact 88 off of fixed contact 68 (thereby opening the circuit previously described) and even-tually moving such contact 88 up and into operative engagement with fixed contact portions 34 and 36, as illustrated in Figure 1. When that happens second and third circuits are closed. :~`
That is, such second circuit would be comprised of ground 112, source of electrical potential 110, conductor 114, load 116, conductor 118, lead or terminal means 28, spring 92, movable contact 88, contact portion 34, shank portion 32, conductor 104, load 106 and back to ground as at 108. Similarly, such third circuit would be comprised of ground 112, source of electrical potential 110, conductor 114, load 116, conductor 118, lead or terminal means 28, spring 92, movable contact 88 ?
contact portion 38, shank portion 36, conductor 122, load 120 and back to ground as at 124. As should be obvious, when in the condition depicted in Figure 1, two parallel branch cir~
cuits are supplied by the source 110.
Second Embodiment -Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figure 6. All elements therein which are like or similar to those of Figure 1 are identified with like reference numerals provided with a suffix "a".
In comparing the structures of Figures 1 and 6, it will be seen that the two are illustrated as being identical with the exception that movable contact means 188 of Figure 6 differs from movable contact means 88 of Figure 1. The moyable contact means 188 is better illustrated, in relatively enlarged scale, in Figures 7 and 8.
Referring in greater detail to Figures 7 and 8, the movable contact means 188 is illustrated as comprising a disc-like annular body 130 of electrically non-conductive material preferably having a circular outer periphery 132 and a centra-lly located aperture or passage 134. The upper 136 and lower 138 surfaces of body 130 carry electrically conductive portions or paths thereon. For ease and clarity of illustration such conductive paths or portions, hereinafter described, are illustrated, in cross-section, in heavy black lines. A layer of electrically conductive material 140, carried at and by the lower surface 138, is, preferably, of annular configuration as to, effectively, be coextensive with surface 138. A generally cylindrical or tubular layer or portion 142 of electrically conductive material is carried against and by the surface of aperture or passage 134. The portions or layers 140 and 142 are effectively joined to each other as to, in effect, form a single electrical path. A first annular or ring-like electri-cally conductive portion 144 is carried at and by the upper surface 136 of body 130 as to form, when viewed for example in Figure 8, an annular flange-like portion having an effective outer periphery 146. As should be apparent, portions 144, 142 and 140 cooperate to define one electrically conductive path.
A second annular or ring-like electrically conductive portion 148 is carried at and by the upRer surface 136. As illustrated, the inner periphery 150 is spaced from the outer periphery 145 _g ~9~3fi8 of portion 144 while the outer periphery of portion 148 may be coextensive with the outer periphery of body 130. As also should be apparent, electrically conductive portion 148 is elec-trically isolated or insulated from conductive portions 144, 142 and 140.
In the preferred embodiment of movable contact means 188, the various electrically conductive portions and paths, already described, are formed on body 130 by a process or pro-cesses commonly employed in making printed circuit boards or the like. However as should be obvious, such electrically con-ductive paths and/or portions may be formed as by electrically conductive material suitably affixed to a related electrically insulating body 130 with such being done, for example, by me-chanical fastening means or suitable cementing means.
Operation of Second Embodiment As with regard to switch assembly 10, switch assembly 10a may, of course, be employed in any electrical environment;
for purposes of illustration the switch assembly 10a is shown operatively connected to circuit means 152, 154 and 156.
Circuit means 152 comprises conductor means 158 electrically connected to lead or terminal means 26a and through conductor means 16Q to a source of electrical potential 162 which, in turn, is electrically grounded as at 167. Circuit means 154 is llustrated as comprising conductor means 166 electrically connected to lead or terminal means 28a and to an electrical load, such as bulb means 168, and through conductor means 170 to conductor 16OJ source 162 and ground 164. Circuit 156 is illustrated as comprising load means 172 electrically connected via conductor means 174 to lead or terminal means 30a and grounded as at 176. A further electrical path is illustrated as being established by lower housing section 16a and associa-ted structure 58a leading to ground as at 126a.
~ ~9~ 6~
During conditions wherein the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure is less than a preselected or predetermined magnitude, spring means 92a is effective to hold movable contact means 188 against bridging fixed contact 68a.
In so doing, the motion transmitting means or plunger-like member 78a is also held in its effectiveIy down-most position wherein, for example, end surface 84a thereof may be effectively coplanar with the top surface of wall portion 72a of fixed contact 68a. During such an assumed condition of operation, with assumed circuit means as illustrated, a circuit is com-pleted as described by ground 164 source of electrical poten-tial 162, conductors 160, 170, load or lamp 168, conductor 166, shank portion 40a and contact portion 42a of lead or terminal means 28a, spring 92a, annular conductive portion 144 against which the lower end of spring 92a engages (of movable contact means 188), tubular conductive portion 142 (of contact means 188), annular conductive portion 140 (of contact means 188), fixed contact 68a (which is at such time in electrical engage-ment with conductive portion 140), housing section 16a, struc-ture 58a and back to ground as at 126a. At this time the assumed load 168 is energized.
When the magnitude of the pressure of the monitored fluid pressure becomes sufficiently great, the resulting force created against diaphragm 66a becomes sufficient to overcome the preload force of spring 92a; that is, at that time) diaphragm 66a moves against and causes actuator 78a to move upwardly thereby first lifting movable contact means 188 off of fixed contact 68a (thereby opening the immediately pre~iously described closed circuit) and eventually moving such contact means 188 up and into operative engagement with fixed cont;act portions 34a and 36a, as depicted in Figure 6. When that happens a different circuit is closed and such is comprised of circuit means 152 and 156. More specifically, with contact means 188 in its Figure 6 position, a circuit is completed and described by ground 164, source of electrical potential 162, conductors 160, 158, shank portion 32a and contact portion 34a of lead or terminal means 26a, annular conductive portion 148 of movable contact means 188, fixed contact~portion 38a and shank por~ion 36a of lead or terminal means 30a, conductor means 174, electrical load means 172 and back to ground as at 176. As should be apparent, in the Figure 6 depicted condition, the circuit as between spring 92a and fixed contact 68a is open and the space between inner periphery 150 of annular con-tact portion 148 and the outer periphery 146 of annular contact portion 144 precludes energization of load 168.
Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a contemplated further embodiment of the fixed contact member 68 and/or 68a. All elements in Figures 9 and 10 which are like or similar to those of Figures 1, 5 and/or Figure 6 are identified with reference numbers corresponding to those of Figures 1 and/or 5.
Referring in greater detail to Figures 9 and 10, the fixed contact 68 is illustrated as comprising a portion 178 struck or cut out of the flange portion 70 (as to leave sides 180 and 182 in flange 70) and formed as to have a relati~ely upwardly inclined configuration as depicted, for example, in Figure 10. In the forming of fixed contact 68 and tang-like' portion 178, such portion 178 is preferably formed s'omewhat-effectiveIy longer as to thereby have its free end 184'extend-ing beyond the circumferential limit of flange 70. According~ly, when assembling the fixed contact 68 to housing section 16~' it is pressed into the interior of housing section 16 and in so doing the tang or tab 184 is somewhat resiliently de-flected. However, upon the fixed contact 68 being seated against diaphragm 66 or 66a, such tab or tang continues to inherently urge itself into electrical contact with surface 48 (or 48a) of the lower housing section 16 (or 16a) thereby assur-ing a continued electrical connection therebetween.
Also, it is contemplated that the motion transmitting means 78 or 78a (as shown at Figures 1 or 6) may take different forms. For example, Figure 11 illustrates a modified embodiment of such motion transmitting or actuator means; in Figure 11, elements which are like or similar to those of the embodiments 78 or 78à are identified with like reference numerals provided with a suffix "b". An inspection of the structure of Figure 11 will disclose that, in the main, actuator means 78b is much like actuator means 78 and/or 78a with the exception that, pre-ferably, the effective width or diameter of head portion 80b is substantially greater than that of either 80 or 80a and that the lower disposed end surface 186 of actuator means 78b is relatively flat over its effective area, instead of rounded as at 82 or 82a of Figures 1 or 6, thereby enabling a greater portion of the cooperating diaphragm 66 or 66a to more quickly and effectively engage the total end surface 186 in moving the actuator 78b upwardly during conditions as hereinbefore des-cribed.
Figure 12, in somewhat greater detail illustrates the switch assembly lOa within an environment of, for example, an internal combustion engine wherein portion 58a (Figure 6) may form a part of the engine and wherein 54a (Figure 6) may be the engine oil or lubricating system so that the pressure of such oil is continually monitored by and reacted to by the switch assembly lOa, In comparing Figures 6 and 12, it can be seen that the load 172 of Figure 6 is identified in Figure 12 as being the vehicle engine induction system choke control means.
For example, some engine induction system choke means operate 9~
on the basis of causing the choke means to be opened or actuated to a preselected position immediately upon the engine becoming started. Usually, for all practical purposes, the engine oil pressure can be assumed to reach its normal relatively high operating pressure simultaneously with the engine becoming started.
Accordingly, still referring to both Figures 6 and 12, it can be seen that, with the related engine being cold and shut-down, upon closing of the ignition switch means 190 (thereby energizing the ignition system 192 and related engine cranking means~ the monitored oil pressure will be relatively low thereby ha~ing switch contact means 188 in its lower-most position and completing the electrical circuit from terminal means 28a through ground 126a resulting in oil pressure indi-cator lamp 168 being energized signaling a low oil pressure, At this time the circuit between terminal contacts 34a and 38a is opened. When the engine is started, the monitored oil pressure increases to a sufficiently high magnitude resulting in diaphragm 66a moving contact means 188 to the position depicted in Figure 6 thereby opening the previously established electrical circuit between terminal means 28a and ground 126a and, instead, closing the electrical circuit between contact portions 34a and 38a of terminal means 26a and 30a as to cause de-energization of the low-pressure indicator lamp 168 and-~the energization of the vehicle engine induction system choke con-trol means 172.
Third Embodiment Another embodiment of the invention is illustxated in Figure 13. All eIements ;therein as are like or similar to those of Figure 6 or Figure 11 are identified with like ref~
erence numerals provided with a suffix "c", with modification and/or changes being designated by succeeding next higher reference numbers.
In comparing the structures of Figures 6 (modified as in view of Figure 11) and 13, it will be seen that the two are illustrated as being generally identical with the exceptions that contact 68c is provided with an arm-like portion or exten-sion 200 and the axial end 202 of upper body or housing por-tion 14c may be stepped as to generally confine, within such annular step, the flange 70c of contact 68c thereby preventing the completion of an electrical circuit as between contact 68c and lower housing or body section 16c. That is, the embodiment depicted in Figure 13 may be considered as a non-grounding type whereby no electrical ground circuit is completed through the housing section 16c. Obviously, other means may be employed for so preventing the completion of such a ground circuit. For example, the housing section 16c could be made of dielectric material; or if housing section 16c were to be of electrically conductive material, then, of course, contact means 68c could be suitably peripherally insulated therefrom or the housing section 16c could be electrically insulated as from the groun ded or ground structure 58c as by, for example, an electrically insulating material intermediate the housing section 16c and structure 58c.
As depicted in Figure 13, the conductive arm means 200 may be struck and formed from the transverse wall portion 72c and, preferably, provided with a projecting-like contacting portion 204 which electrically contacts terminal means 30c as by electrical engagement with shank portion 36c thereof.
The switch assembly 10c is illustrated as in an overall electrical system which comprises a source of electrical po-tential 162 electrically connected as by conductor means 206 to switch contact means 208 which may comprise the usual vehi-cular engine ignition and engine starter key operated switch.
6~
As generally depicted, the switch 208, when in an "off" posi-tion is as shown in solid line while when moved to an engine cranking condition it assumes a position as partially indica~
ted in phantGm line at 208'. Upon the engine being started, the switch member 208 is permitted to be moved from the phantom line position of 208' to the phantom line position of 208".
Obviously, as schematically depicted, when in the 208' posi-tion both fixed contacts 210 and 212 are in electrical engage-ment therewith and when in the 208" position only fixed contact 212 is electrically connected thereto.
The associated combustion engine, depicted at 214, has a related ignition system 216 which is electrically connected to contact 212 as by conductor means 218. Terminal means 26c is also electrically connected to contact 212 as through con-ductor means 220 and a portion of conductor means 218. An engine cranking or starter motor 222, connected to ground as at 224, is electrically connected to contact 210 as via conduc-tor means 226 and terminal means 28c may be electrically conn-ected to contact 210 by conductor means 228 generally through the starter motor 222 or, as depicted in dash line at 230, directly to contact 210 as through, for example, a portion of conductor means 226. An engine fuel pump 232 is operatively connected to and driven by an electric motor 234 which is grounded as at 236 and electrically connected to terminal means 30c as by conductor means 238.
Opera_ion of Figure 13 Embodiment For purposes of discussion, let it be assumed that the engine 214 is shut down and switch 208 is in its illustrated "off7' position. At this time the magnitude of the monitored engine oil pressure at 54c will be zero (or relatively low) thereby having contact means 188c held against lower fixed contact 68c by the action of spring 92c. Consequently, as through switch lOc at such time, an electrical circuit is esta-blished and completed from terminal means 28c, through spring 92c, conductive portions 144,/and 140 (Figure 8) of contact means 188c, lower fixed contact 68c, arm or extension 200 and contact portion 204 thereof, and, to shank portion 36c of terminal means 30c. Accordingly, it can be seen that at such an engine shut-down condition, when switch contact 208 is moved to its position at 208' the starter or engine cranking motor 222 is energized, via conductor means 226, and the fuel pump motor 234 is also energized (through the described closed circuit of switch means lOc) as by conductor means 228 and conductor means 238. Also, of course, during such engine cranking the gnition system 216 is energized as through conductor means 218 and contact 212.
When the engine 214 is started and becomes self-sus-taining, the engine oil monitored pressure almost i~mediately becomes of a sufficiently high magnitude causing diaphragm'66c to move actuator 78c and contact means 188c upwardly to the respective positions depicted in Figure 13. Also, as the engine 214 is thusly started, the operator positionable switch 208 is moved from its position at 208' to its positi.on . at 208". As a consequence thereof the electrical cirCuit.
between conductive portion 140 (Figure 8) of contact means l88c and lower fixed contact 68c is opened. However ? u.pon cont'àct means 188c being moved to the position shown in Figure'13,' the generally annular conductive portion 148 (Figure 8~? of contact means 188c serves as an electrical bridging contact.
completing a circuit as between contact portions 34c and 3:~.c of terminal means 26c and 36c, respectively, . Therefore ? .the switch means lOc continues to provide energization to fuel pump motor 234 (as by the circuit comprised:of contact 212 ?
~5S38~
a portion of conductor 218, conductor means 220, terminal shank 32c, terminal contact 34c, conductive portion 148 (Figure 8), terminal contact 38c, terminal shank 36c, and con-ductor means 238) while the engine ignition system 216 con-tinues to be energized through conductor means 218.
Although only a preferred embodiment and select number of modifications of the invention have been disclosed and described, it is apparent that other embodiments and modifica-tions of the invention are possible within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (22)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An electrical switch assembly, comprising first and second electrical contact means spaced from each other, third electrical contact means spaced from both said first and second electrical contact means, and fourth electrical contact means movable to and from at least two operating positions, said fourth electrical contact means when in one of said two operating positions being electri-cally operatively engaged with said first and second electrical contact means, said fourth electrical contact means when in the other of said two operating positions being electrically operatively engaged with said third electrical contact means, said fourth electrical contact means comprising at least first and second separate electrically conductive paths, said fourth electrical contact means when in said one of said operating positions causing said first separate electrically conductive path to complete an elec-trical circuit as between said first and second contact means, said fourth electrical contact means when in said other of said operating positions causing said second separate electrically conductive path to complete an elec-trical circuit with said third electrical contact means.
2. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 and further comprising electrical conductor means in contact with said second separate electrically conductive path, said conductor means comprising a portion of said electrical circuit with said third electrical contact means when said fourth electrical contact means is in said other operating position.
3. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 2 wherein said electrically conductive means comprises a coiled compression spring.
4. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 wherein said fourth electrical contact means com-prises a contact body portion having first and second oppositely disposed faces, wherein said first face carries said second separate electrically conductive path and a portion of said first separate electrically conductive path spaced from said second separate electrically conductive path, and wherein said second face carries the remainder of said first separate electrically conductive path.
5. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 4 wherein said first and second separate electrically con-ductive paths are formed on said contact body portion as printed circuit portions.
6. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 and further comprising movable pressure responsive means effective to be operatively exposed to a monitored fluid pressure, said pressure responsive means when experiencing a preselected magnitude of pressure from said monitored fluid pressure being effective to move said fourth electrical contact means toward said one of said at least two operating positions.
7. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 and further comprising movable pressure responsive means effective to be operatively exposed to a monitored fluid pressure, said pressure responsive means when experiencing a first preselected magnitude of pressure from said monitored fluid pressure being effective to move said fourth electrical contact means toward said one of said at least two operating positions, said pressure responsive means when experiencing a second preselected magnitude of pressure from said monitored fluid pressure being effective to permit said fourth electrical contact means to move toward said other of said at least two operating positions.
8. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 and further comprising passage means formed through said third electrical contact means, movable actuator means extending through said passage means as to have portions thereof disposed at opposite sides of said third electrical contact means, movable pressure responsive means effective to be operatively exposed to a monitored fluid pressure, said pressure responsive means when experiencing a first preselected magnitude of pressure from said monitored fluid pressure being effective to move said fourth electrical contact means through said actuator means to said one of said at least two operating positions, said pressure responsive means when experiencing a second preselected magnitude of pressure from said monitored fluid pressure permitting said fourth electrical contact means along with said actuator means to move toward said other of said at least two operating positions.
9. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 8 wherein said passage means comprises a generally circular aperture.
10. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 8 wherein said actuator means comprises a plunger-like member, wherein said fourth electrical contact means comprises a movable contact member carried by said plunger-like member as to be extending generally laterally thereof, an aperture formed through said movable contact member, a locating extension carried by said plunger-like member, and wherein said aperture receives said locating extension as to thereby position said movable contact member with respect to said plunger-like member.
11. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 8 wherein said pressure responsive means comprises pressure responsive movable diaphragm means.
12. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 11 wherein said actuator means comprises a plunger-like member, wherein said fourth electrical contact means comprises a movable contact member carried by said plunger-like member as to be extending generally laterally thereof, an aperture formed through said movable contact member, a locating extension carried by said plunger-like member, and wherein said aperture receives said locating extension as to thereby position said movable contact member with respect to said plunger-like member.
13. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 2 wherein said electrically conductive means comprises spring means.
14. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 wherein said third electrical contact means comprises an electrically conductive fixed member which is of a gene-rally cup-shaped configuration.
15. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 and further comprising conductor means continually electrically interconnecting said third electrical contact means and said second electrical contact means.
16. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 15 wherein said third electrical contact means comprises an electrically conductive fixed member, wherein said electrically conductive fixed member comprises an extending electrically conductive arm portion having a free end, wherein said conductive arm portion comprises said conductor means, and wherein said free end is in operative electrical contact with said second electrical contact means.
17. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 1 wherein said first electrical contact means com-prises a first electrically conductive fixed member, wherein said second electrical contact means comprises a second electrically conductive fixed member, and wherein said third electrical contact means comprises a third electrically conductive fixed member.
18. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 17 wherein said first fixed member comprises first electrical terminal means, wherein said second fixed member comprises second electrical terminal means, and wherein said first and second electrical terminal means are effective for electrical connection to associated electrical circuit means.
19. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 18 and further comprising third electrical terminal means, said third electrical terminal means also being effective for electrical connection to associated electrical circuit means, and movable electrical conductor means electrically connected to and between said third electrical terminal means and one of said separate electrically conductive paths of said fourth electrical contact means for completing an electrical circuit therebetween.
20. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 17 and further comprising conductor means continually electrically interconnecting said second electrically con-ductive fixed member and said third electrically conductive fixed member.
21. An electrical switch assembly according to clalm 20 wherein said third electrically conductive fixed member comprises an extending electrically conductive arm portion having a free end, wherein said conductor means comprises said conductive arm portion, and wherein said free end is electrically operatively engaged with said second electri-cally conductive fixed member.
22. An electrical switch assembly according to claim 21 wherein said third electrically conductive fixed member and said arm portion are comprised of material dis-playing at least perceptible resilient deflection, and wherein said arm portion through resilient deflection is maintained in operative engagement with said second elec-trically conductive fixed member.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000364469A CA1159868A (en) | 1980-11-12 | 1980-11-12 | Fluid pressure actuated electrical switch |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000364469A CA1159868A (en) | 1980-11-12 | 1980-11-12 | Fluid pressure actuated electrical switch |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1159868A true CA1159868A (en) | 1984-01-03 |
Family
ID=4118422
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000364469A Expired CA1159868A (en) | 1980-11-12 | 1980-11-12 | Fluid pressure actuated electrical switch |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1159868A (en) |
-
1980
- 1980-11-12 CA CA000364469A patent/CA1159868A/en not_active Expired
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