EP0100875B1 - Contact arrangement - Google Patents

Contact arrangement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0100875B1
EP0100875B1 EP19830106650 EP83106650A EP0100875B1 EP 0100875 B1 EP0100875 B1 EP 0100875B1 EP 19830106650 EP19830106650 EP 19830106650 EP 83106650 A EP83106650 A EP 83106650A EP 0100875 B1 EP0100875 B1 EP 0100875B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
contact
foil
arrangement according
contact arrangement
carrier
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
Application number
EP19830106650
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0100875A3 (en
EP0100875A2 (en
Inventor
Jürgen Dipl.-Ing. Oelsch
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Preh GmbH
Original Assignee
Preh GmbH
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Preh GmbH filed Critical Preh GmbH
Publication of EP0100875A2 publication Critical patent/EP0100875A2/en
Publication of EP0100875A3 publication Critical patent/EP0100875A3/en
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Publication of EP0100875B1 publication Critical patent/EP0100875B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01HELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/70Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/7006Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard comprising a separate movable contact element for each switch site, all other elements being integrated in layers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a contact arrangement with a planar support made of electrically insulating material, which carries electrical conductors, and with at least one electrically conductive, snap-like resilient contact element, which is supported on a contact surface of the one electrical conductor and which can be contacted by an actuating force with a further contact surface which is connected to the other electrical conductor, both contact surfaces being arranged on the same surface of the carrier, and the electrical conductor connected to the other contact surface being arranged on the other surface of the carrier.
  • US-A-4 033 030 describes the method of manufacturing a contact arrangement for keyboards. Building on a rigid substrate, the conductors and switching contacts are finally fixed in a pressing device using a thermoformable plastic film.
  • the contact arrangement of US-A-4 046 981 shows both contact surfaces on one side of the metal carrier, which is usually covered with an insulating layer. One of the two contact surfaces is electrically connected to the conductor track on the other side of the carrier via a via.
  • the contact arrangement arches a contact element, the actuation of which connects both contact surfaces.
  • a corresponding stroke of the contact element is set up, the stroke being achieved either by raising the contact element using distance measures or by lowering the central contact surface using local curvature or bulging of the carrier.
  • the object of the invention is to propose a contact arrangement of the type mentioned, which is constructed so that it can be easily manufactured.
  • the above object is achieved in a contact arrangement of the type mentioned at the outset by the characterizing features of claim 1.
  • This structure ensures that the contact arrangement can be produced from a roll of the carrier film.
  • the individual manufacturing steps can be carried out between roller stations. Continuous production is therefore possible. This allows the contact arrangement to be produced economically, especially in large series.
  • the snap behavior creates a dome-shaped, spring-elastic metal disc when pressure is applied.
  • the metal disc as the contact element spans the two contact surfaces.
  • a support film is also stored under the carrier film, the support film being provided with an opening which is approximately the same or larger than the projection surface of the contact element.
  • the support film stiffens the film layer on the one hand. On the other hand, its recess allows the carrier film to slightly escape below the pole area of the contact element.
  • the electrical conductors and the contact surfaces are formed from metal coverings which completely cover the surfaces of the carrier film.
  • a high-quality contact pairing for example gold over nickel, can be achieved by using the subtractive or semi-additive technique.
  • the electrically conductive connection from the other contact surface to the electrical conductor of the other surface is preferably formed by plastically deformable metal parts, such as rivets, for example.
  • a plated-through hole or plated-through hole is also possible using one of the known methods.
  • the electrical conductor of one surface and the contact surfaces are galvanically formed from a metal covering on one surface and the other electrical conductor and the connection are printed on the other surface as conductive paste, then the contact surfaces are wear-resistant on the one hand and the other surface is on the other associated greater effort saved. This results in a favorable compromise for the construction of the electrically conductive parts of the carrier film.
  • a receiving film in order to position the contact element in the plane of the carrier film, a receiving film is provided with a recess which engages around the circumference of the contact element. On the one hand, this ensures the necessary mobility of the contact element and, on the other hand, it is fixed over the contact surfaces.
  • a depression can be formed in the carrier film for this purpose, which receives the contact element.
  • a flexible insulating film is provided for positioning the contact element in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the carrier film, which overlaps the contact element.
  • the contact element is thus held captively in the recess or recess mentioned.
  • the layering consisting of carrier film, receiving film and insulating film is preferably glued. This ensures a permanent, easy to manufacture seat of the contact element.
  • the insulating film forms the actuating front of the contact arrangement, then it is preferably on its side facing the one surface with the necessary markings or signs for the function of the contact element is printed and made transparent.
  • a pressure piece is arranged above the contact element and is guided in a recess in a frame.
  • a cover film is preferably provided for positioning the pressure piece in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the frame. This can be made transparent for the identification of the pressure piece in question and can be printed on the side facing the frame.
  • the carrier film has an extension forming a connecting line, on which the electrical conductors run, and a connector strip is fastened to the free end of the connecting line.
  • the carrier film thus also forms the flexible connecting line of the contact arrangement.
  • the contact arrangement generally has a large number of contact elements. For example, it is provided with 3 x 4 contact elements. It is suitable for example for pocket calculators, remote control desks or similar.
  • a carrier film 1 is provided on its one surface 2 with an annular contact surface 3 and an electrical conductor 4 connected to it.
  • a further contact surface 5 is arranged in the center of the contact surface 3.
  • An electrical conductor 7 is applied to the other surface 6 of the carrier film 1.
  • An electrically conductive connection 9 extends through this and the contact surface 5 through a hole 8 in the flexible carrier film 1. This connection does not have to be in the center but only within the annular contact surface 3.
  • the contact surfaces 3 and 5, the electrical conductors 4 and 7 and the connection 9 can be easily applied to the flexible carrier film 1 in various ways.
  • the insulating film which is continuously drawn off a roll can be provided with the holes 8 and then printed with the contact surface and conductor structure (cf. FIG. 2) with a conductive paste.
  • the electrical connection 9 results from the fact that the conductive paste penetrates the holes 8.
  • the surface 2 of the film 1 can also first be provided with a 6 continuous metal coating, from which the contact surface and conductor structure is then galvanically formed. It is also possible to form the conductor 7 from a metal covering of the surface 6.
  • the connection 9 is then made by plastically deformable metal parts, such as rivets, or by one of the known through-plating or through-plating processes.
  • an extension 1 'of the flexible carrier film 1 is shown.
  • the conductors 4 and 7 run parallel to one another thereon.
  • a plug-in strip 10 is fastened to the free end of the extension 1 '.
  • the necessary, flexible connecting line is thus formed by the carrier film 1 itself.
  • the carrier film 1 only needs to be punched out accordingly.
  • a contact element 11 with its peripheral region 11 ′ is placed on the contact surface 3. With its pole area 11 ", it arches the contact surface 5.
  • the contact element 11 consists of a spherically shaped, spring-elastic metal disk with snap behavior when pressure is applied in the pole area 11".
  • the contact element 11 is held in a recess 12 in a receiving film 13.
  • the receiving film 13 is glued to the carrier film 1.
  • the thickness of the receiving film corresponds approximately to the height of the contact element 11. Its recess 12 makes it easier to place the contact element 11 on the contact surface 3 and secures the space into which the peripheral region 11 'escapes when the pole region 11 "is pressed down onto the surface
  • An insulating film 14 is provided in the receiving film 13. This holds the contact element 11 in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the carrier film 1, so that it does not fall out of the cutout 14.
  • the insulating film 14 is also glued onto the receiving film 13.
  • the insulating film 14 can also do this Fix the contact element 11 in an adhesive manner.
  • the receiving film 13 can then be omitted and the insulating film 14 can be glued directly onto the carrier film 1.
  • the thickness of the carrier film 1 is preferably greater than 0.05 mm and less than 0.250 mm; in the exemplary embodiment it is approximately 0.125 mm.
  • the support film 15 has an opening 16 below the contact element 11. This allows the film 1 to escape in the area of the contact area 5 when the contact element 11 is pressed with its pole area 11 ′′ onto the contact area 5.
  • the contact element 11 is designed in such a way that it engages in a snapping contact movement -Characteristic with a force acting in the pole region 11 "so that it can be approximately described by a 3rd degree polynomial. In connection with the possible deflection of the film 1 in the area of the contact surface 5, it is achieved that an abrupt contact or separation of the pole area 11 "with or from the Contact area 5 takes place. As a result, the contact bounce is low both when opening and when closing.
  • a protective film 20 is glued to the bottom of the supporting film 15. If this is double-sided adhesive, the contact arrangement can be glued directly onto a carrier of the device for which it is intended.
  • the protective film 17 closes the electrical conductors 7 tightly from the environment. It can be advantageous if the connection 9 does not completely fill the hole 8, since it then allows a certain air balance.
  • the insulating film 14, the supporting film 15 and the protective film 17 can be glued over a large area to the carrier film 1 pulled off the roll after the contact elements 11 have been put on. They can then be punched out together with this. It is also possible to simply punch out the insulating film 14 together with the carrier film 1.
  • the insulating film 14 then also covers the electrical conductors 4 and 7 running on the extension 1 '. In order for the conductors 7 to be on the same side of the extension 1' as the conductors 4, the electrical connections 9 have the same connections 9 'for the conductors 7 the contact surfaces 5 provided (see FIG. 2). Similarly, the conductors 4 and 7 can lie on the surface 6 of the carrier film 1 or on the extension 1 ', the connection being made by means of corresponding plated-through holes for the conductors 4.
  • a rigid pressure piece 18 is provided above the contact element 11 and is guided in a recess 19 of a fixed frame 20.
  • the pressure piece 18 can preferably have a spherical cap shape on one or both sides.
  • the frame 20 can be placed directly on the carrier film 1 or the receiving film 13.
  • a likewise flexible, transparent cover film 21 is glued on top of the frame 20 and is provided with markings or inscriptions on its surface facing the carrier film 1.
  • the cover film 21 is provided with a profiling (not shown in more detail) which receives the pressure piece 18.
  • the contact element 11 is provided in the pole region 11 ′′ with an indentation which is adapted to the contact surface 5.
  • the transparent, flexible insulating film 14 is adhered to the receiving film 13. This is on its side 14 ′ facing the carrier film 1. printed in one or more colors with the markings, numbers, letters or symbols characterizing the respective contact function.
  • the insulating film 14 above the pole area 11" is provided with a profile 14 "running around the pole area 11", which means that Marksmanship for operation improved.
  • no receiving film is provided.
  • These receiving chambers 22 can be produced, for example, by deep drawing or hot stamping.
  • the electrical conductors 4 and 7 and the contact surfaces 3 and 5 are applied to the carrier film 1 before the receiving chambers 22 are formed.
  • the insulating film 14 is glued directly onto the carrier film 1 and spans the contact elements 11. As in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, it can be transparent and labeled.
  • the insulating film 14 has an opening 23 encompassing the pole region 11 ".
  • the contact element 11 is thus held in the recess 12 without the insulating film 14 having to be deformed when the pressure element 18 is actuated.
  • the pressure element 18 is on an axis 24 is mounted in the frame 20, about which it can be tilted, the pressure piece 18 protrudes through an opening 25 in the cover film 21. This prevents the pressure piece 18 from falling out.
  • the pressure piece 18 can also be provided with symbols or characters 21 ". In the case of multiple occupancy, both the cover film 21 and the pressure piece 18 can carry characters or symbols.

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  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)
  • Manufacture Of Switches (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Kontaktanordnung mit einem flächenhaften Träger aus elektrisch isolierendem Material, das elektrische Leiter trägt, und mit mindestens einem elektrisch leitenden, schnappartig federnden Kontaktelement, das sich an einer Kontaktfläche des einen elektrischen Leiters abstützt und das durch eine Betätigungskraft mit einer weiteren Kontaktfläche kontaktierbar ist, die mit dem anderen elektrischen Leiter verbunden ist, wobei beide Kontaktflächen auf der gleichen Oberfläche des Trägers angeordnet sind, und der mit der anderen Kontaktfläche verbundene elektrische Leiter auf der anderen Oberfläche des Trägers angeordnet ist.The invention relates to a contact arrangement with a planar support made of electrically insulating material, which carries electrical conductors, and with at least one electrically conductive, snap-like resilient contact element, which is supported on a contact surface of the one electrical conductor and which can be contacted by an actuating force with a further contact surface which is connected to the other electrical conductor, both contact surfaces being arranged on the same surface of the carrier, and the electrical conductor connected to the other contact surface being arranged on the other surface of the carrier.

Die US-A-4 033 030 beschreibt die Herstellweise einer Kontaktanordnung für Keyboards. Auf ein starres Substrat aufbauend werden abschließend die Leiter und Schaltkontakte mittels einer warmverformbaren Folie aus Kunststoff in einer Preßeinrichtung festgelegt.US-A-4 033 030 describes the method of manufacturing a contact arrangement for keyboards. Building on a rigid substrate, the conductors and switching contacts are finally fixed in a pressing device using a thermoformable plastic film.

Die Kontaktanordnung der US-A-4 046 981 zeigt beide Kontaktflächen auf einer Seite des in der Regel mit einer Isolierschicht überzogenen Metall-Trägers. Eine der beiden Kontaktflächen ist über eine Durchkontaktierung mit der Leiterbahn auf der anderen Seite des Trägers elektrisch verbunden. Die Kontaktanordnung überwölbt ein Kontaktelement, dessen Betätigung beide Kontaktflächen verbindet. Zur Erzeugung eines « Klick »-Effektes ist ein entsprechender Hub des Kontaktelementes eingerichtet, wobei der Hub entweder durch Höherlegen des Kontaktelementes anhand Abstandsmaßnahmen oder durch Tieferlegen der zentralen Kontaktfläche anhand lokaler Wölbung oder Auswölbung des Trägers erreicht wird.The contact arrangement of US-A-4 046 981 shows both contact surfaces on one side of the metal carrier, which is usually covered with an insulating layer. One of the two contact surfaces is electrically connected to the conductor track on the other side of the carrier via a via. The contact arrangement arches a contact element, the actuation of which connects both contact surfaces. To generate a “click” effect, a corresponding stroke of the contact element is set up, the stroke being achieved either by raising the contact element using distance measures or by lowering the central contact surface using local curvature or bulging of the carrier.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, eine Kontaktanordnung der eingangs genannten Art vorzuschlagen, die so aufgebaut ist, daß sie sich einfach herstellen läßt.The object of the invention is to propose a contact arrangement of the type mentioned, which is constructed so that it can be easily manufactured.

Erfindungsgemäß ist obige Aufgabe bei einer Kontaktanordnung der eingangs genannten Art durch die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 1, gelöst. Durch diesen Aufbau ist erreicht, daß die Kontaktanordnung von einer Rolle der Trägerfolie hergestellt werden kann. Die einzelnen Herstellungsschritte können dabei zwischen Rollenstationen vorgenommen werden. Es ist also eine kontinuierliche Fertigung möglich. Damit läßt sich die Kontaktanordnung insbesondere bei Großserien wirtschaftlich herstellen.According to the invention, the above object is achieved in a contact arrangement of the type mentioned at the outset by the characterizing features of claim 1. This structure ensures that the contact arrangement can be produced from a roll of the carrier film. The individual manufacturing steps can be carried out between roller stations. Continuous production is therefore possible. This allows the contact arrangement to be produced economically, especially in large series.

Das Schnappverhalten erzeugt eine kalottenförmig geformte, federelastische Metallscheibe bei Druckbeaufschlagung. Die Metallscheibe als Kontaktelement überspannt die beiden Kontaktflächen.The snap behavior creates a dome-shaped, spring-elastic metal disc when pressure is applied. The metal disc as the contact element spans the two contact surfaces.

In der Erfindung ist außerdem eine Stützfolie unter der Trägerfolie gelagert, wobei die Stützfolie mit einer Durchbrechung versehen ist, die etwa gleich oder größer ist als die Projektionsfläche des Kontaktelements. Die Stützfolie versteift einerseits die Folienschichtung. Andererseits ermöglicht ihre Aussparung ein geringfügiges Ausweichen der Trägerfolie unterhalb des Polbereichs des Kontaktelements.In the invention, a support film is also stored under the carrier film, the support film being provided with an opening which is approximately the same or larger than the projection surface of the contact element. The support film stiffens the film layer on the one hand. On the other hand, its recess allows the carrier film to slightly escape below the pole area of the contact element.

Um die elektrisch leitenden Teile verschleißfest auszulegen, sind in bevorzugter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung die elektrischen Leiter sowie die Kontaktflächen aus die Oberflächen der Trägerfolie ganz bedeckenden Metallbelägen ausgeformt. Eine hochwertige Kontaktpaarung, beispielsweise Gold über Nickel läßt sich durch die Anwendung der Subtraktiv-, bzw. Semiadditiv-Technik erreichen. Vorzugsweise ist in diesem Fall die elektrisch leitende Verbindung von der anderen Kontaktfläche zu dem elektrischen Leiter der anderen Oberfläche durch plastisch verformbare Metallteile, wie beispielsweise Niete, gebildet. Eine Durchkontaktierung bzw. Durchmetallisierung nach einem der bekannten Verfahren ist ebenfalls möglich.In order to design the electrically conductive parts to be wear-resistant, in a preferred embodiment of the invention the electrical conductors and the contact surfaces are formed from metal coverings which completely cover the surfaces of the carrier film. A high-quality contact pairing, for example gold over nickel, can be achieved by using the subtractive or semi-additive technique. In this case, the electrically conductive connection from the other contact surface to the electrical conductor of the other surface is preferably formed by plastically deformable metal parts, such as rivets, for example. A plated-through hole or plated-through hole is also possible using one of the known methods.

Kostengünstiger und die kontinuierliche Fertigung vereinfachend ist es, die elektrischen Leiter, die Kontaktflächen sowie die Verbindung als elektrisch leitende silber- oder kohlenstoffhaltige Paste auf die Trägerfolie aufzudrucken.It is more cost-effective and simplifies continuous production to print the electrical conductors, the contact surfaces and the connection as an electrically conductive silver or carbon-containing paste on the carrier film.

Sind der elektrische Leiter der einen Oberfläche sowie die Kontaktflächen aus einem Metallbelag der einen Oberfläche galvanisch ausgeformt und sind der andere elektrische Leiter und die Verbindung als Leitpaste auf die andere Oberfläche aufgedruckt, dann sind einerseits die Kontaktflächen verschleißfest und andererseits ist auf der anderen Oberfläche der damit verbundene größere Aufwand eingespart. Dadurch ist ein günstiger Kompromiß für den Aufbau der elektrisch leitenden Teile der Trägerfolie gewonnen..If the electrical conductor of one surface and the contact surfaces are galvanically formed from a metal covering on one surface and the other electrical conductor and the connection are printed on the other surface as conductive paste, then the contact surfaces are wear-resistant on the one hand and the other surface is on the other associated greater effort saved. This results in a favorable compromise for the construction of the electrically conductive parts of the carrier film.

In bevorzugter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist zur Positionierung des Kontaktelements in der Ebene der Trägerfolie eine Aufnahmefolie mit einer Aussparung versehen, die das Kontaktelement an seinem Umfang umgreift. Dadurch ist einerseits die notwendige Beweglichkeit des Kontaktelements gewährleistet und andererseits ist dieses über den Kontaktflächen fixiert. In anderer Ausgegestaltung kann hierfür in der Trägerfolie eine Vertiefung ausgeformt sein, die das Kontaktelement aufnimmt.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, in order to position the contact element in the plane of the carrier film, a receiving film is provided with a recess which engages around the circumference of the contact element. On the one hand, this ensures the necessary mobility of the contact element and, on the other hand, it is fixed over the contact surfaces. In another embodiment, a depression can be formed in the carrier film for this purpose, which receives the contact element.

In Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist zur Positionierung des Kontaktelements in der zur Ebene der Trägerfolie senkrechten Richtung eine flexible Isolierfolie vorgesehen, die das Kontaktelement übergreift. Damit ist das Kontaktelement unverlierbar in der genannten Aussparung bzw. der genannten Vertiefung gehalten.In an embodiment of the invention, a flexible insulating film is provided for positioning the contact element in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the carrier film, which overlaps the contact element. The contact element is thus held captively in the recess or recess mentioned.

Die aus Trägerfolie, Aufnahmefolie und Isolierfolie bestehende Schichtung ist vorzugsweise verklebt. Damit ist ein dauerhafter, einfach herzustellender Sitz des Kontaktelements gewährleistet.The layering consisting of carrier film, receiving film and insulating film is preferably glued. This ensures a permanent, easy to manufacture seat of the contact element.

Bildet die Isolierfolie die Betätigungsfront der Kontaktanordnung, dann ist sie vorzugsweise an ihrer der einen Oberfläche zugewandten Seite mit den notwendigen Markierungen oder Zeichen für die Function des Kontaktelements bedruckt und transparent ausgebildet.If the insulating film forms the actuating front of the contact arrangement, then it is preferably on its side facing the one surface with the necessary markings or signs for the function of the contact element is printed and made transparent.

In Weiterbildung der Erfindung ist oberhalb des Kontaktelements ein Druckstück angeordnet, das in einer Aussparung eines Rahmens geführt ist. Vorzugsweise ist zur Positionierung des Druckstücks in der zur Ebene des Rahmens senkrechten Richtung eine Deckfolie vorgesehen. Diese kann für die Kennzeichnung des betreffenden Druckstücks transparent ausgebildet und auf der dem Rahmen zugewandten Seite bedruckt sein.In a further development of the invention, a pressure piece is arranged above the contact element and is guided in a recess in a frame. A cover film is preferably provided for positioning the pressure piece in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the frame. This can be made transparent for the identification of the pressure piece in question and can be printed on the side facing the frame.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausbildung der Erfindung weist die Trägerfolie eine eine Anschlußleitung bildende Verlängerung auf, auf der die elektrischen Leiter verlaufen, und am freien Ende der Anschlußleitung ist eine Steckleiste befestigt. Damit bildet die Trägerfolie zugleich die flexible Anschlußleitung der Kontaktanordnung.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the carrier film has an extension forming a connecting line, on which the electrical conductors run, and a connector strip is fastened to the free end of the connecting line. The carrier film thus also forms the flexible connecting line of the contact arrangement.

Die Kontaktanordnung weist im Regelfalle eine Vielzahl von Kontaktelementen auf. Beispielsweise ist sie mit 3 x 4 Kontaktelementen versehen. Sie eignet sich beispielsweise für Taschenrechner, Fernsteuer-Bedienpulte o. ä.The contact arrangement generally has a large number of contact elements. For example, it is provided with 3 x 4 contact elements. It is suitable for example for pocket calculators, remote control desks or similar.

Weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der folgenden Beschreibung. In der Zeichnung zeigen :

  • Figur 1 eine Teilansicht der Kontaktanordnung, wobei die Folien auseinandergezogen dargestellt sind,
  • Figur 2 eine Aufsicht auf die Kontaktanordnung längs der Linie 11-11 nach Figur 1, gegenüber Figur 1 verkleinert,
  • Figur 3 eine Teilansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels der Kontaktanordnung, gegenüber Figur 1 vergrößert,
  • Figur 4 ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel entsprechend Figur 3 und
  • Figur 5 eine Kontaktanordnung mit Druckstück in der Darstellung Figur 3 entsprechend.
Further advantageous embodiments of the invention result from the following description. The drawing shows:
  • FIG. 1 shows a partial view of the contact arrangement, the foils being shown pulled apart,
  • FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the contact arrangement along the line 11-11 according to FIG. 1, reduced compared to FIG. 1,
  • FIG. 3 shows a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of the contact arrangement, enlarged compared to FIG. 1,
  • Figure 4 shows another embodiment corresponding to Figure 3 and
  • Figure 5 shows a contact arrangement with a pressure piece in the representation of Figure 3.

Eine Trägerfolie 1 ist auf ihrer einen Oberfläche 2 mit einer kreisringförmigen Kontaktfläche 3 und einem mit dieser verbundenen elektrischen Leiter 4 versehen. Im Zentrum der Kontaktfläche 3 ist eine weitere Kontaktfläche 5 angeordnet. Auf die andere Oberfläche 6 der Trägerfolie 1 ist ein elektrischer Leiter 7 aufgebracht. Zwischen diesem und der Kontaktfläche 5 erstreckt sich durch ein Loch 8 der flexiblen Trägerfolie 1 eine elektrisch leitende Verbindung 9. Diese muß nicht im Zentrum sondern lediglich innerhalb der kreisringförmigen Kontaktfläche 3 liegen.A carrier film 1 is provided on its one surface 2 with an annular contact surface 3 and an electrical conductor 4 connected to it. A further contact surface 5 is arranged in the center of the contact surface 3. An electrical conductor 7 is applied to the other surface 6 of the carrier film 1. An electrically conductive connection 9 extends through this and the contact surface 5 through a hole 8 in the flexible carrier film 1. This connection does not have to be in the center but only within the annular contact surface 3.

Die Kontaktflächen 3 und 5, die elektrischen Leiter 4 und 7 und die Verbindung 9 lassen sich auf verschiedene Weise einfach auf die flexible Trägerfolie 1 aufbringen. In einfachster Weise läßt sich die kontinuierlich von einer Rolle abgezogene Isolierfolie mit den Löchern 8 versehen und anschließend mit der Kontaktflächen- und Leiterstruktur (vgl. Figur 2) mit einer Leitpaste bedrucken. Dabei ergibt sich die elektrische Verbindung 9 dadurch, daß die Leitpaste die Löcher 8 durchdringt.The contact surfaces 3 and 5, the electrical conductors 4 and 7 and the connection 9 can be easily applied to the flexible carrier film 1 in various ways. In the simplest manner, the insulating film which is continuously drawn off a roll can be provided with the holes 8 and then printed with the contact surface and conductor structure (cf. FIG. 2) with a conductive paste. The electrical connection 9 results from the fact that the conductive paste penetrates the holes 8.

Zur verschleißfesten Ausführung der Kontaktflächen 3 und 5 und des Leiters 4 kann die Oberfläche 2 der Folie 1 auch zunächst mit einem 6 durchgehenden Metallbelag versehen werden, aus dem dann die Kontaktflächen- und Leiterstruktur galvanisch ausgeformt wird. Es ist auch möglich, den Leiter 7 aus einem Metallbelag der Oberfläche 6 auszuformen. Die Verbindung 9 wird dann durch plastisch verformbare Metallteile, wie beispielsweise Niete, oder durch eines der bekannten Durchkontaktierungs- bzw. Durchmetallisierungsverfahren hergestellt.For the wear-resistant design of the contact surfaces 3 and 5 and of the conductor 4, the surface 2 of the film 1 can also first be provided with a 6 continuous metal coating, from which the contact surface and conductor structure is then galvanically formed. It is also possible to form the conductor 7 from a metal covering of the surface 6. The connection 9 is then made by plastically deformable metal parts, such as rivets, or by one of the known through-plating or through-plating processes.

In Figur 2 ist eine Verlängerung 1' der flexiblen Trägerfolie 1 gezeigt. Auf dieser verlaufen parallel zueinander die Leiter 4 und 7. An dem freien Ende der Verlängerung 1' ist eine Steckleiste 10 befestigt. Die notwendige, flexible Anschlußleitung ist damit von der Trägerfolie 1 selbst gebildet. Hierfür braucht die Trägerfolie 1 lediglich entsprechend ausgestanzt zu werden.In Figure 2, an extension 1 'of the flexible carrier film 1 is shown. The conductors 4 and 7 run parallel to one another thereon. A plug-in strip 10 is fastened to the free end of the extension 1 '. The necessary, flexible connecting line is thus formed by the carrier film 1 itself. For this purpose, the carrier film 1 only needs to be punched out accordingly.

Auf die Kontaktfläche 3 ist ein Kontaktelement 11 mit seinem Umfangsbereich 11' aufgesetzt. Mit seinem Polbereich 11" überwölbt es die Kontaktfläche 5. Das Kontaktelement 11 besteht aus einer kalottenförmig geformten, federelastischen Metallscheibe mit Schnappverhalten bei Druckbeaufschlagung im Polbereich 11".A contact element 11 with its peripheral region 11 ′ is placed on the contact surface 3. With its pole area 11 ", it arches the contact surface 5. The contact element 11 consists of a spherically shaped, spring-elastic metal disk with snap behavior when pressure is applied in the pole area 11".

In der Ebene der Trägerfolie 1 ist das Kontaktelement 11 in einer Aussparung 12 einer Aufnahmefolie 13 gehalten. Die Aufnahmefolie 13 ist auf die Trägerfolie 1 geklebt. Die Dicke der Aufnahmefolie entspricht etwa der Höhe des Kontaktelements 11. Ihre Aussparung 12 erleichtert das Aufsetzen des Kontaktelements 11 auf die Kontaktfläche 3 und sichert den Raum, in den der Umfangsbereich 11' ausweicht, wenn der Polbereich 11" auf die Oberfläche niedergedrückt wird. Über der Aufnahmefolie 13 ist eine Isolierfolie 14 vorgesehen. Diese hält das Kontaktelement 11 in der zur Ebene der Trägerfolie 1 senkrechten Richtung, so daß es nicht aus der Aussparung fällt. Die Isolierfolie 14 ist auf die Aufnahmefolie 13 ebenfalls aufgeklebt. Die Isolierfolie 14 kann auch das Kontaktelement 11 klebend fixieren. Es kann dann die Aufnahmefolie 13 entfallen und die Isolierfolie 14 direkt auf die Trägerfolie 1 aufgeklebt werden.In the plane of the carrier film 1, the contact element 11 is held in a recess 12 in a receiving film 13. The receiving film 13 is glued to the carrier film 1. The thickness of the receiving film corresponds approximately to the height of the contact element 11. Its recess 12 makes it easier to place the contact element 11 on the contact surface 3 and secures the space into which the peripheral region 11 'escapes when the pole region 11 "is pressed down onto the surface An insulating film 14 is provided in the receiving film 13. This holds the contact element 11 in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the carrier film 1, so that it does not fall out of the cutout 14. The insulating film 14 is also glued onto the receiving film 13. The insulating film 14 can also do this Fix the contact element 11 in an adhesive manner. The receiving film 13 can then be omitted and the insulating film 14 can be glued directly onto the carrier film 1.

Auf die Oberfläche 6 der Trägerfolie 1 ist eine Stützfolie 15 geklebt, die dicker und wesentlich steifer als die Trägerfolie 1 ist. Die Dicke der Trägerfolie 1 ist vorzugsweise größer 0,05 mm und kleiner als 0,250 mm ; sie beträgt im Ausführungsbeispiel ca. 0,125 mm. Die Stützfolie 15 weist unterhalb des Kontaktelements 11 eine Durchbrechung 16 auf. Diese gestattet ein Ausweichen der Folie 1 im Bereich der Kontaktfläche 5, wenn das Kontaktelement 11 mit seinem Polbereich 11" auf die Kontaktfläche 5 gedrückt wird. Das Kontaktelement 11 ist dabei so gestaltet, daß es eine schnappende Kontaktierungsbewegung ausübt. Hierfür ist seine Kraft-Weg-Charakteristik bei einer im Polbereich 11" wirkenden Kraft so ausgelegt, daß sie näherungsweise durch ein Polynom 3. Grades beschreibbar ist. In Verbindung mit der möglichen Durchbiegung der Folie 1 im Bereich der Kontaktfläche 5 ist damit erreicht, daß eine abrupte Berührung bzw. Trennung des Polbereichs 11" mit bzw. von der Kontaktfläche 5 erfolgt. Dadurch ist das Kontaktprellen sowohl beim Öffnen als auch beim Schließen gering.A support film 15, which is thicker and much stiffer than the carrier film 1, is glued to the surface 6 of the carrier film 1. The thickness of the carrier film 1 is preferably greater than 0.05 mm and less than 0.250 mm; in the exemplary embodiment it is approximately 0.125 mm. The support film 15 has an opening 16 below the contact element 11. This allows the film 1 to escape in the area of the contact area 5 when the contact element 11 is pressed with its pole area 11 ″ onto the contact area 5. The contact element 11 is designed in such a way that it engages in a snapping contact movement -Characteristic with a force acting in the pole region 11 "so that it can be approximately described by a 3rd degree polynomial. In connection with the possible deflection of the film 1 in the area of the contact surface 5, it is achieved that an abrupt contact or separation of the pole area 11 "with or from the Contact area 5 takes place. As a result, the contact bounce is low both when opening and when closing.

Unten auf die Stützfolie 15 ist eine Schutzfolie 20 geklebt. Ist diese doppelseitig klebend, kann damit die Kontaktanordnung direkt auf einen Träger der Einrichtung geklebt werden, für die sie vorgesehen ist. Die Schutzfolie 17 schließt die elektrischen Leiter 7 dicht gegen die Umgebung ab. Es kann günstig sein, wenn die Verbindung 9 das Loch 8 nicht vollständig ausfüllt, da es dann einen gewissen Luftausgleich gestattet.A protective film 20 is glued to the bottom of the supporting film 15. If this is double-sided adhesive, the contact arrangement can be glued directly onto a carrier of the device for which it is intended. The protective film 17 closes the electrical conductors 7 tightly from the environment. It can be advantageous if the connection 9 does not completely fill the hole 8, since it then allows a certain air balance.

Die Isolierfolie 14, die Stützfolie 15 und die Schutzfolie 17 können nach dem Aufsetzen der Kontaktelemente 11 großflächig auf die von der Rolle abgezogene Trägerfolie 1 aufgeklebt werden. Sie können dann gemeinsam mit dieser ausgestanzt werden. Es ist auch möglich, lediglich die Isolierfolie 14 zusammen mit derTrägerfolie 1 auszustanzen. Die Isolierfolie 14 bedeckt dann auch die auf der Verlängerung 1' verlaufenden elektrischen Leiter4 und 7. Damit die Leiter 7 auf der gleichen Seite der Verlängerung 1' liegen wie die Leiter 4, sind den elektrischen Verbindungen 9 gleiche Verbindungen 9' für die Leiter 7 vor den Kontaktflächen 5 vorgesehen (vgl. Figur 2). Ähnlich können die Leiter4 und 7 auf der Oberfläche 6 der Trägerfolie 1 bzw. auf der Verlängerung 1' liegen, wobei die Verbindung mittels entsprechender Durchkontaktierungen für die Leiter 4 erfolgt.The insulating film 14, the supporting film 15 and the protective film 17 can be glued over a large area to the carrier film 1 pulled off the roll after the contact elements 11 have been put on. They can then be punched out together with this. It is also possible to simply punch out the insulating film 14 together with the carrier film 1. The insulating film 14 then also covers the electrical conductors 4 and 7 running on the extension 1 '. In order for the conductors 7 to be on the same side of the extension 1' as the conductors 4, the electrical connections 9 have the same connections 9 'for the conductors 7 the contact surfaces 5 provided (see FIG. 2). Similarly, the conductors 4 and 7 can lie on the surface 6 of the carrier film 1 or on the extension 1 ', the connection being made by means of corresponding plated-through holes for the conductors 4.

Oberhalb des Kontaktelements 11 ist ein starres Druckstück 18 vorgesehen, das in einer Ausnehmung 19 eines festen Rahmens 20 geführt ist. Das Druckstück 18 kann bevorzugt ein- oder beidseitig kugelkalottenförmig ausgebildet sein. An sich kann der Rahmen 20 direkt auf die Trägerfolie 1 oder die Aufnahmefolie 13 aufgesetzt werden. Es ist jedoch günstiger, diesen auf die flexible Isolierfolie 14 aufzusetzen, da dann die Schichtung bestehend aus Trägerfolie 1, Aufnahmefolie 13 und Isolierfolie 14 eine vorgefertigte Baugruppe bilden, in der die Kontaktelemente 11 unverlierbar gehalten sind. Oben auf den Rahmen 20 ist eine ebenfalls flexible, transparente Deckfolie 21 aufgeklebt, welche an ihrer der Trägerfolie 1 zugewandten Oberfläche mit Markierungen oder Beschriftungen versehen ist.A rigid pressure piece 18 is provided above the contact element 11 and is guided in a recess 19 of a fixed frame 20. The pressure piece 18 can preferably have a spherical cap shape on one or both sides. As such, the frame 20 can be placed directly on the carrier film 1 or the receiving film 13. However, it is cheaper to place it on the flexible insulating film 14, since the stratification consisting of carrier film 1, receiving film 13 and insulating film 14 then forms a prefabricated assembly in which the contact elements 11 are held captively. A likewise flexible, transparent cover film 21 is glued on top of the frame 20 and is provided with markings or inscriptions on its surface facing the carrier film 1.

Überragt das Druckstück 18 den Rahmen 20, dann ist die Deckfolie 21 mit einer nicht näher dargestellten Profilierung versehen, welche das Druckstuck 18 aufnimmt.If the pressure piece 18 projects beyond the frame 20, then the cover film 21 is provided with a profiling (not shown in more detail) which receives the pressure piece 18.

Beim speziellen Ausführungsbeispiel nach Figur 3 ist das Kontaktelement 11 im Polbereich 11" mit einer Eindrückung versehen, die der Kontaktfläche 5 angepaßt ist. Auf die Aufnahmefolie 13 ist die durchsichtige, flexible Isolierfolie 14 geklebt. Diese ist an ihrer der Trägerfolie 1 zugewandten Seite 14' ein- oder mehrfarbig mit die jeweilige Kontaktfunktion kennzeichnenden Markierungen, Ziffern, Buchstaben oder Symbolen bedruckt. An der dem Benutzer zugewandten Oberfläche 14" ist die Isolierfolie 14 über dem Polbereich 11" mit einer um den Polbereich 11" umlaufenden Profilierung 14" versehen, was die Treffsicherheit für die Betätigung verbessert.In the special exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, the contact element 11 is provided in the pole region 11 ″ with an indentation which is adapted to the contact surface 5. The transparent, flexible insulating film 14 is adhered to the receiving film 13. This is on its side 14 ′ facing the carrier film 1. printed in one or more colors with the markings, numbers, letters or symbols characterizing the respective contact function. On the surface 14 "facing the user, the insulating film 14 above the pole area 11" is provided with a profile 14 "running around the pole area 11", which means that Marksmanship for operation improved.

Beim Ausführungsbeispiel nach Figur 4 ist keine Aufnahmefolie vorgesehen. Es sind an der Trägerfolie 1 selbst Aufnahmekammern 22 für die Kontaktelemente 11 ausgebildet. Diese Aufnahmekammern 22 lassen sich beispielsweise durch Tiefziehen oder Warmformprägen herstellen. Die elektrischen Leiter 4 und 7 sowie die Kontaktflächen 3 und 5 sind vor der Ausbildung der Aufnahmekammern 22 auf die Trägerfolie 1 aufgebracht. Die Isolierfolie 14 ist direkt auf die Trägerfolie 1 aufgeklebt und überspannt die Kontaktelemente 11. Sie kann wie beim Ausführungsbeispiel nach Figur 3 transparent und beschriftet sein.In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, no receiving film is provided. There are also receiving chambers 22 for the contact elements 11 formed on the carrier film 1. These receiving chambers 22 can be produced, for example, by deep drawing or hot stamping. The electrical conductors 4 and 7 and the contact surfaces 3 and 5 are applied to the carrier film 1 before the receiving chambers 22 are formed. The insulating film 14 is glued directly onto the carrier film 1 and spans the contact elements 11. As in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, it can be transparent and labeled.

Beim Ausführungsbeispiel nach Figur 5 weist die Isolierfolie 14 eine den Polbereich 11" umgreifende Öffnung 23 auf. Damit ist das Kontaktelement 11 in der Aussparung 12 gehalten, ohne daß bei einer Betätigung des Druckstücks 18 die Isolierfolie 14 mitverformt werden muß. Das Druckstück 18 ist an einer Achse 24 im Rahmen 20 gelagert, um die es kippbar ist. Das Druckstück 18 ragt durch eine Öffnung 25 der Deckfolie 21. Diese sichert das Druckstück 18 gegen ein Herausfallen. Die Deckfolie 21 ist transparent und an ihrer Rückseite 21' mit Zeichen bedruckt.5, the insulating film 14 has an opening 23 encompassing the pole region 11 ". The contact element 11 is thus held in the recess 12 without the insulating film 14 having to be deformed when the pressure element 18 is actuated. The pressure element 18 is on an axis 24 is mounted in the frame 20, about which it can be tilted, the pressure piece 18 protrudes through an opening 25 in the cover film 21. This prevents the pressure piece 18 from falling out.

Selbstverständlich kann auch das Druckstück 18 mit Symbolen oder Zeichen 21" versehen sein. Im Falle einer Mehrfachbelegung können sowohl die Deckfolie 21 als auch das Druckstück 18 Schriftzeichen oder Symbole tragen.Of course, the pressure piece 18 can also be provided with symbols or characters 21 ". In the case of multiple occupancy, both the cover film 21 and the pressure piece 18 can carry characters or symbols.

Claims (26)

1. Contact arrangement with a laminar carrier (1) which is made of insulating material and. which carries electrical conductors (4, 7), and with at least one electrically conductive contact element (11) which is resilient in the manner of a snap spring and which is supported on a contact surface (3) of one electrical conductor (4) and is contactible by means of an operating force with a further contact surface (5) connected to the other electrical conductor (7), both contact surfaces (3, 5) being arranged on the same surface (2) and the electrical conductor (7) connected to the other contact surface (5) being arranged on the other surface (6) of the carrier (1), characterised in that the carrier part (1) is a flexible carrier foil (1) and in that there is arranged on the other surface (6) of the carrier foil (1) a supporting foil (15) which is provided beneath the contact element (11) with a perforation (16).
2. Contact arrangement according to claim 1, characterised in that one contact surface (3) is annular in design and the other contact surface (5) lies in its centre.
3. Contact arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the elecfrical conductors (4, 7) and the contact surfaces (3, 5) are formed out of metal coatings covering the surfaces (2, 6).
4. Contact arrangement according to claim 3, characterised in that the electrically conductive connection (9) of the second contact surface (5) to the electrical conductor (7) of the other surface (6) is formed by plastically deformable metal parts.
5. Contact arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the electrical conductors (4, 7), the contact surfaces (3, 5) and the connection (9) of the second contact surface (5) to the electrical conductor (7) of the other surface (6) are imprinted on the carrier foil (1) in the form of an electrically conductive paste, a hole (8) being provided in the carrier foil (1) for the connection (9).
6. Contact arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the electrical conductor (4) of one surface (2) and the contact surfaces (3, 5) are formed galvanically out of a metal coating of one surface (2) and in that the electrical conductor (7) of the other surface (6) and its connection (9) to the second contact surface (5) are imprinted on the other surface (6) by means of an electrically conductive paste, a hole (8) being provided in the carrier foil (1) for the connection (9).
7. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the contact element (11) has a peripheral region (11') positioned on one contact surface (3) and a pole region (11") arching over the other contact surface (5).
8. Contact arrangement according to claim 7, characterised in that in the pole region (11") there is provided an indentation corresponding to the other contact surface (5).
9. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in order to position the contact element (11) in the plane of the carrier foil (1) there is provided an accommodating foil (13) with a recess (12) which embraces the contact element (11) at its periphery.
10. Contact arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that in order to position the contact element (11) in the plane of the carrier foil (1) there is an accommodating chamber (22) formed out of said carrier foil.
11. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in order to position the contact element (11) in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the carrier foil (1) there is provided a flexible insulating foil (14) which overlaps the contact element (11).
12. Contact arrangement according to claim 9 and 11, characterised in that the layering consisting of the carrier foil (1), accommodating foil (13) and the insulating foil (14) is glued together.
13. Contact arrangement according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the insulating foil (14) has an opening (23) in the pole region (11") of the contact element (11).
14. Contact arrangement according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the insulating foil (14) is printed with markings on its side facing towards the surface (2), the insulating foil (14) being made transparent.
15. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 11 to 14, characterised in that the insulating foil (14) is profiled on its top side (14").
16. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 13, characterised in that there is arranged above the contact element (11) a pressure piece (18) which is positioned in a recess (19) of a frame (20).
17. Contact arrangement according to claim 16, characterised in that in order to position the pressure piece (18) in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the frame (20) there is provided a cover foil (21).
18. Contact arrangement according to claim 17 and one of claims 11 to 13, characterised in that the layering consisting of the insulating foil (14), frame (20) and the cover foil (21) is glued together.
19. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 16 to 18, characterised in that the pressure piece (18) is tiltable in the frame (20) about an axis (24) parallel to the plane of the frame (20).
20. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 17 to 19, characterised in that the cover foil (21) is made transparent and is printed on the side (21') facing towards the frame (20).
21. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 17 to 20, characterised in that the cover foil (21) is profiled.
22. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that beneath the supporting foil (15) there is arranged a protective foil (17) which covers the perforation (16).
23. Contact arrangement according to claim 22, characterised in that the layering of carrier foil (1), supporting foil (15) and protective foil (17) is glued together.
24. Contact arrangement according to claim 22 or 23, characterised in that the protective foil (17) is coated on both sides with contact adhesive.
25. Contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the carrier foil (1) has an extension (1') forming a connection line, on which run the electrical conductors (4, 7), and in that there is secured to the free end of the connection line a contact strip (10).
26. Contact arrangement according to claim 25, characterised in that in the case of the contact strip (10) all the conductors (4, 7) lie on the same surface of the extension (1') and in that at a through-connection location (9') the conductor (4, 7) of one surface (2, 6) continues on the other surface (6, 2) of the carrier foil (1).
EP19830106650 1982-08-06 1983-07-07 Contact arrangement Expired EP0100875B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE3229348 1982-08-06
DE19823229348 DE3229348A1 (en) 1982-08-06 1982-08-06 CONTACT ARRANGEMENT

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0100875A2 EP0100875A2 (en) 1984-02-22
EP0100875A3 EP0100875A3 (en) 1986-11-05
EP0100875B1 true EP0100875B1 (en) 1988-10-19

Family

ID=6170260

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19830106650 Expired EP0100875B1 (en) 1982-08-06 1983-07-07 Contact arrangement

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EP (1) EP0100875B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS5944726A (en)
DE (1) DE3229348A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (10)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS6383734U (en) * 1986-11-20 1988-06-01
FR2660484B1 (en) * 1990-03-30 1993-08-06 Sextant Avionique MINIATURE TOUCH SWITCH DEVICE.
US5294762A (en) * 1991-09-10 1994-03-15 Fujikura Ltd. Click-action membrane switch unit
BE1006720A6 (en) * 1994-07-18 1994-11-22 Velleman Nv Membrane keyboard
US5598918A (en) * 1995-05-18 1997-02-04 Trw Inc. Switch for vehicle power window
JP2001008874A (en) * 1999-06-30 2001-01-16 Toshiba Tec Corp Vacuum cleaner
DE20208010U1 (en) 2002-05-22 2002-10-10 Woehr Richard Gmbh Foil-covered, magnetic and indirectly illuminated keyboard with tactile feedback and indirect carrier plate
US6765158B1 (en) * 2003-05-08 2004-07-20 Lear Corporation Low profile switch with flat wire harness
EP1648010A1 (en) * 2004-10-18 2006-04-19 IEE INTERNATIONAL ELECTRONICS & ENGINEERING S.A. Foil-type pressure sensor adapted for minimizing critical preload issues
JP2008021593A (en) * 2006-07-14 2008-01-31 Tokai Rika Co Ltd Membrane switch

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JPS5535807B2 (en) * 1972-03-09 1980-09-17
US3749859A (en) * 1972-04-19 1973-07-31 Colorado Instr Inc Keyboard switch assembly with improved hermetically sealed diaphragm contact structure
US4033030A (en) * 1974-09-12 1977-07-05 Mohawk Data Sciences Corporation Method of manufacturing keyswitch assemblies
US4029916A (en) * 1975-04-18 1977-06-14 Northern Electric Company Limited Multi-contact push-button switch and plural embodiment for keyboard switch assembly
US3967084A (en) * 1975-05-12 1976-06-29 Kb-Denver, Inc. Keyboard switch assemblies having two foot support legs on dome-shaped contact member
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US4083100A (en) * 1977-01-24 1978-04-11 Mohawk Data Sciences Corporation Method of manufacturing a keyboard assembly

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0100875A3 (en) 1986-11-05
EP0100875A2 (en) 1984-02-22
JPS5944726A (en) 1984-03-13
DE3229348C2 (en) 1988-02-18
DE3229348A1 (en) 1984-02-09

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