EP0167429A1 - Multidirection switch commanded by a ball - Google Patents

Multidirection switch commanded by a ball Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0167429A1
EP0167429A1 EP85401075A EP85401075A EP0167429A1 EP 0167429 A1 EP0167429 A1 EP 0167429A1 EP 85401075 A EP85401075 A EP 85401075A EP 85401075 A EP85401075 A EP 85401075A EP 0167429 A1 EP0167429 A1 EP 0167429A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tilting
housing
ball
switch according
switch
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP85401075A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0167429B1 (en
Inventor
Pierre Schwob
Marcel Dimey
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.)
SEB SA
Original Assignee
SEB SA
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by SEB SA filed Critical SEB SA
Publication of EP0167429A1 publication Critical patent/EP0167429A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0167429B1 publication Critical patent/EP0167429B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H35/00—Switches operated by change of a physical condition
    • H01H35/02—Switches operated by change of position, inclination or orientation of the switch itself in relation to gravitational field
    • H01H35/027—Switches operated by change of position, inclination or orientation of the switch itself in relation to gravitational field the inertia mass activating the switch mechanically, e.g. through a lever
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S200/00—Electricity: circuit makers and breakers
    • Y10S200/29—Ball

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a multi-directional switch which can be used in particular as a safety switch in a heating device such as an electric heater.
  • Safety switches known to date generally include a pendulum associated with electrical contacts arranged in the supply circuit to ensure a connection between these contacts when the device is in the normal position of use and to interrupt the circuit. power supply when the device receives a shock beyond a predetermined threshold or is tilted beyond a predetermined angle depending on the characteristics of the device.
  • safety switches comprising a sensitive element in the form of a ball normally disposed above a switch of the push button type to close the electrical supply circuit during a normal position of the 'apparatus.
  • This type of safety switch is of a lower cost price than safety switches comprising a pendulum because the ball is of a cost price generally significantly lower than the cost price of a pendulum.
  • these switches have the drawback of not being resettable. In fact, when the pusher is out and the device returned to the normal position, the ball abuts on the side of the pusher and cannot therefore act on it to close the switch. The switch must therefore be reset manually, which poses problems for users who are not familiar with the technique.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a multi-directional switch with a low cost price and which is nevertheless automatically resettable when the device on which the switch is mounted is in normal operating conditions.
  • a multi-directional switch comprising a box in which at least two facing electrical contacts are arranged and a ball controlling the closing of an electrical circuit between the contacts, characterized in that it comprises a tilting member bearing in the housing by a tilting part and comprising a control part extending in the vicinity of at least one of the electrical contacts, and in that the ball is carried by a surface of the tilting member opposite to the tilting part and having a bowl profile.
  • the tilting member when the switch, or the device on which the switch is mounted, is in the rest position, the tilting member is in a first position and the control member acts correspondingly on the electrical circuit.
  • the switch, or the device on which the switch is mounted is subjected to an impact or is tilted, the ball deviates from its rest position in the bowl and causes the rocking member to tilt with the corresponding movement of the control part. Due to the trough profile of the surface on which the ball rests, it returns automatically in the rest position when normal conditions of use are restored.
  • the tilting part is a shoulder having at least one sharp edge recessed relative to the edge of the surface of the tilting member carrying the ball.
  • the sharp edge of the shoulder acts like the knife of a balance and a sudden tilting of the tilting member is obtained, from which a frank closing or opening of the electrical circuit results.
  • the shoulder cooperates with an abutment surface carried by the housing, and more particularly, the tilting member rests in the bottom of the housing and comprises a rigid skirt, one edge of which forms the tilting part. , the rigid skirt being held on one side by the side wall of the housing and on the other side by a rib provided in the bottom of the housing. This prevents sliding of the rocking member on the bottom of the housing during the rocking of the rocking member.
  • the cup-shaped surface is frustoconical and the tilting part is a circular edge coaxial with the frustoconical surface.
  • the tilting threshold of the tilting member is the same regardless of the direction in which the switch, or the device supporting it, is tilted.
  • the switch has a cover, the internal surface of which has a profile for pressing without jamming the control ball when the switch is tilted.
  • the ball cannot escape from the housing during an inclination of the switch and always performs its automatic return function when the switch is returned to the normal position.
  • the multi-directional switch has a generally cylindrical housing 1, in which are arranged two electrical contacts 2 and 3 facing each other and a control ball 4 used for closing an electrical circuit between the electrical contacts 2 , 3.
  • the switch comprises a tilting member 5 bearing in the housing 1 by a tilting part 6, and comprising a control part 7 extending in the vicinity of the support plate 8 of the electrical contact 3, the ball 4 being carried by a surface 9 of the rocking member 5 opposite the rocking part 6 and having a bowl profile.
  • the tilting part is a shoulder having a sharp edge 6 recessed relative to the edge of the surface 9 of the tilting member 5 carrying the ball 4.
  • the sharp edge 6 is produced by the lower edge of a rigid skirt 10, extending downward from the face bottom of the tilting member 5.
  • the housing 1 At its lower part, the housing 1 comprises a narrowed part 11 forming an abutment surface for the tilting part 6. More particularly, the rigid skirt 10, one edge 6 of which forms the tilting part rests in the bottom of the housing 1 and is held on one side by the lower part 11 of the side wall of the housing 1 and on the other side by a circular rib 12 provided in the bottom of the housing 1.
  • the case 1 comprises a tail 13 pierced with an opening 14 used to fix the multidirectional switch in the device for which it must ensure safety.
  • the housing 1 also includes upper edges 15 which are widely indented and allow easy access to the interior of the housing.
  • the contact 3 is carried by a rectangular support blade 8, comprising a central tongue 16 (FIG. 4) which carries the contact 3.
  • the end of the blade 8 to which the tongue 16 is connected is movable while the end of the blade 8 opposite to that to which the tongue 16 is connected is held in the housing. This makes it possible to obtain a large elastic displacement distance for the contact 3 while keeping reduced dimensions for the support blade 8.
  • the bowl-shaped surface 9 is preferably frustoconical and the tilting part 6 extends around the axis of the bowl, so that the tilting member 5 can tilt in any direction.
  • the tilting part formed by the edge 6 of this skirt is a circular edge coaxial with the frustoconical surface 9.
  • the cup-shaped surface 9 has a central part 18 having a first inclination and a peripheral part 19 having a greater inclination than the central part 18, so that when the ball 4 reaches the peripheral part 19, the tilting torque exerted on the tilting member 5 is increased.
  • the control part 7 is preferably a finger coaxial with the bowl-shaped surface 9 and the tilting part 6 and extending through the bottom of the housing 1.
  • a rib 20 surrounding the opening in which the finger extends 7.
  • a cover 21 in the form of a bar is provided, the internal surface of which has a profile for pressing without jamming the ball 4, when the switch is tilted.
  • the bar is formed by two side walls 22 (see FIGS. 2 and 5) joined together by intermediate walls 23 supporting a crosspiece 24 whose central part extends downward to form a point 25 (FIG. 3) .
  • the walls 22 also have at their end portions 26 projecting downward relative to the median edges 27.
  • the face of the bar facing the ball 4 has a profile in the form of a zig zag (see FIG. 3).
  • the cover 21 is preferably held in openings in the side wall of the housing 1 and has shoulders 28 which cooperate with flexible hook-shaped tongues 29 (FIG. 2) produced in one piece with the side wall of the housing 1.
  • the tilting member 5 When the switch is in the normal operating position, the tilting member 5 rests on the bottom of the housing 1 and the finger 7 extends through the bottom to press on the support blade 8 and maintain the contact 3 pressed on the contact 2. The electrical circuit is then closed.
  • the switch When the switch is shocked or tilted, the ball 4 rolls along the surface 9 supporting it and, when the torque created by the ball 4 around the tilting part 6 added to the torque resulting from the elastic force of the support blade 8 compensates for the torque resulting from the weight of the rocking member 5, applied to its center of gravity, the rocking member 5 swings suddenly and the contact 3 separates from the contact 2 thus opening the electrical circuit.
  • the invention is not limited to the embodiment described above and it is possible to make variant embodiments.
  • the lower end of the control part 7 can be conductive and the contacts 2 and 3 can be arranged opposite one another, on either side of the end of the finger 7 so that the two contacts are joined by the conductive part of the control part, when the latter is in the rest position.
  • the tilting member may be of small dimensions and be placed in the center of a housing comprising a inclined wall extending the bowl shape of the tilting member.
  • the tilting member can be of a shape other than a circular shape, for example, with a rectangular surface held on the sides and able to tilt only in one or more given directions.
  • control member 7 may be disposed on the side of the tilting member, for example by extending from one of its edges .
  • the surface 9 of the tilting member can be offset from the tilting edge 6 to create a preferred tilting orientation.

Landscapes

  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Switches Operated By Changes In Physical Conditions (AREA)

Abstract

L'interrupteur multidirectionnel selon l'invention comporte un boîtier (1) dans lequel sont disposés au moins deux contacts électriques (2, 3) en regard, un organe basculant (5) prenant appui dans le boîtier (1) par une partie de basculement (6) et comprenant une partie de commande (7) s'étendant au voisinage de l'un des contacts électriques, la bille étant portée par une surface (9) de l'organe basculant (5) opposé à la partie de basculement (6) et ayant un profil en cuvette.The multidirectional switch according to the invention comprises a housing (1) in which are arranged at least two electrical contacts (2, 3) facing each other, a tilting member (5) bearing in the housing (1) by a tilting part (6) and comprising a control part (7) extending in the vicinity of one of the electrical contacts, the ball being carried by a surface (9) of the tilting member (5) opposite the tilting part ( 6) and having a bowl profile.

Description

La présente invention concerne un interrupteur multi-directionnel pouvant être utilisé en particulier comme interrupteur de sécurité dans un dispositif de chauffage tel qu'un radiateur électrique.The present invention relates to a multi-directional switch which can be used in particular as a safety switch in a heating device such as an electric heater.

On a constaté à diverses reprises, que certains appareils, notamment des appareils ménagers, doivent comporter un interrupteur de sécurité sensible à un choc sur l'appareil ou à une inclinaison de celui-ci pour couper l'alimentation de l'appareil. En particulier, dans le cas d'un radiateur électrique portatif , il existe un risque important d'incendie si le radiateur électrique est renversé contre des objets inflammables ou est posé sur une surface non plane, de sorte que l'élément chauffant se trouve à proximité d'un objet inflammable.It has been noted on various occasions that certain appliances, in particular household appliances, must include a safety switch sensitive to an impact on the appliance or to an inclination of the latter in order to cut the supply to the appliance. In particular, in the case of a portable electric heater, there is a significant risk of fire if the electric heater is knocked against flammable objects or placed on an uneven surface, so that the heating element is near a flammable object.

Les interrupteurs de sécurité connus à ce jour comportent généralement un pendule associé à des contacts électriques disposés dans le circuit d'alimentation pour assurer une liaison entre ces contacts lorsque l'appareil est dans la position normale d'utilisation et pour interrompre le circuit d'alimentation lorsque l'appareil reçoit un choc au-delà d'un seuil prédéterminé ou est incliné au-delà d'un angle prédéterminé en fonction des caractéristiques de l'appareil.Safety switches known to date generally include a pendulum associated with electrical contacts arranged in the supply circuit to ensure a connection between these contacts when the device is in the normal position of use and to interrupt the circuit. power supply when the device receives a shock beyond a predetermined threshold or is tilted beyond a predetermined angle depending on the characteristics of the device.

Il est également connu de réaliser des interrupteurs de sécurité comportant un élément sensible sous forme d'une bille normalement disposée au-dessus d'un interrupteur du type bouton-poussoir pour fermer le circuit électrique d'alimentation lors d'une position normale de l'appareil. Lorsque l'appareil reçoit un choc ou est incliné, la bille s'échappe et libère le bouton-poussoir qui ouvre le circuit électrique d'alimentation. Ce type d'interrupteur de sécurité est d'un prix de revient inférieur aux interrupteurs de sécurité comportant un pendule car la bille est d'un prix de revient généralement sensiblement inférieur au prix de revient d'un pendule. Toutefois, ces interrupteurs présentent l'inconvénient de ne pas être réarmables. En effet, lorsque le poussoir est sorti et l'appareil remis en position normale, la bille vient buter sur le côté du poussoir et ne peut donc agir sur celui-ci pour refermer l'interrupteur. L'interrupteur doit donc être réarmé manuellement, ce qui pose des problèmes pour les utilisateurs qui ne sont pas familiarisés avec la technique.It is also known to produce safety switches comprising a sensitive element in the form of a ball normally disposed above a switch of the push button type to close the electrical supply circuit during a normal position of the 'apparatus. When the device receives a shock or is tilted, the ball escapes and releases the push button which opens the electrical supply circuit. This type of safety switch is of a lower cost price than safety switches comprising a pendulum because the ball is of a cost price generally significantly lower than the cost price of a pendulum. However, these switches have the drawback of not being resettable. In fact, when the pusher is out and the device returned to the normal position, the ball abuts on the side of the pusher and cannot therefore act on it to close the switch. The switch must therefore be reset manually, which poses problems for users who are not familiar with the technique.

Un but de la présente invention est de proposer un interrupteur multi-directionnel d'un prix de revient faible et qui soit néanmoins automatiquement réarmable lorsque l'appareil sur lequel l'interrupteur est monté se trouve dans des conditions normales de fonctionnement.An object of the present invention is to provide a multi-directional switch with a low cost price and which is nevertheless automatically resettable when the device on which the switch is mounted is in normal operating conditions.

En vue d'atteindre ce but, on prévoit selon l'invention un interrupteur multi-directionnel comportant un boitier dans lequel sont disposés au moins deux contacts électriques en regard et une bille de commande de la fermeture d'un circuit électrique entre les contacts, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un organe basculant prenant appui dans le boitier par une partie de basculement et comprenant une partie de commande s'étendant au voisinage de l'un au moins des contacts électriques, et en ce que la bille est portée par une surface de l'organe basculant opposée à la partie de basculement et ayant un profil en cuvette.With a view to achieving this aim, a multi-directional switch is provided according to the invention comprising a box in which at least two facing electrical contacts are arranged and a ball controlling the closing of an electrical circuit between the contacts, characterized in that it comprises a tilting member bearing in the housing by a tilting part and comprising a control part extending in the vicinity of at least one of the electrical contacts, and in that the ball is carried by a surface of the tilting member opposite to the tilting part and having a bowl profile.

Ainsi, lorsque l'interrupteur, ou l'appareil sur lequel est monté l'interrupteur, est en position de repos, l'organe basculant est dans une première position et l'organe de commande agit de façon correspondante sur le circuit électrique. Lorsque l'interrupteur, ou l'appareil sur lequel est monté l'interrupteur, est soumis à un choc ou est incliné, la bille s'écarte de sa position de repos dans la cuvette et provoque un basculement de l'organe basculant avec le déplacement correspondant de la partie de commande. En raison du profil en cuvette de la surface sur laquelle repose la bille, celle-ci revient automatiquement en position de repos lorsque les conditions normales d'utilisation sont rétablies.Thus, when the switch, or the device on which the switch is mounted, is in the rest position, the tilting member is in a first position and the control member acts correspondingly on the electrical circuit. When the switch, or the device on which the switch is mounted, is subjected to an impact or is tilted, the ball deviates from its rest position in the bowl and causes the rocking member to tilt with the corresponding movement of the control part. Due to the trough profile of the surface on which the ball rests, it returns automatically in the rest position when normal conditions of use are restored.

Selon une version avantageuse de l'invention, la partie de basculement est un épaulement présentant au moins une arête vive en retrait par rapport au bord de la surface de l'organe basculant portant la bille.According to an advantageous version of the invention, the tilting part is a shoulder having at least one sharp edge recessed relative to the edge of the surface of the tilting member carrying the ball.

Ainsi, l'arête vive de l'épaulement agit comme le couteau d'une balance et l'on obtient un basculement brutal de l'organe basculant d'où il résulte une fermeture ou une ouverture franche du circuit électrique.Thus, the sharp edge of the shoulder acts like the knife of a balance and a sudden tilting of the tilting member is obtained, from which a frank closing or opening of the electrical circuit results.

Selon une version préférée de l'invention, l'épaulement coopère avec une surface de butée portée par le boitier, et plus particulièrement, l'organe basculant repose dans le fond du boîtier et comprend une jupe rigide dont un bord forme la partie de basculement, la jupe rigide étant maintenue d'un côté par la paroi latérale du boîtier et de l'autre côté par une nervure prévue dans le fond du boitier. Ainsi, on évite un glissement de l'organe basculant sur le fond du boîtier lors du basculement de l'organe basculant.According to a preferred version of the invention, the shoulder cooperates with an abutment surface carried by the housing, and more particularly, the tilting member rests in the bottom of the housing and comprises a rigid skirt, one edge of which forms the tilting part. , the rigid skirt being held on one side by the side wall of the housing and on the other side by a rib provided in the bottom of the housing. This prevents sliding of the rocking member on the bottom of the housing during the rocking of the rocking member.

Selon un autre aspect préférentiel de l'invention, la surface en forme de cuvette est tronconique et la partie de basculement est une arête circulaire coaxiale avec la surface tronconique. Ainsi, le seuil de basculement de l'organe basculant est le même quel que soit la direction dans laquelle l'interrupteur, ou l'appareil le supportant, est basculé.According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the cup-shaped surface is frustoconical and the tilting part is a circular edge coaxial with the frustoconical surface. Thus, the tilting threshold of the tilting member is the same regardless of the direction in which the switch, or the device supporting it, is tilted.

Selon encore un autre aspect de l'invention, l'interrupteur comporte un couvercle dont la surface interne présente un profil pour un appui sans coincement de la bille de commande lorsque l'interrupteur est incliné. Ainsi, la bille ne peut s'échapper du boîtier lors d'une inclinaison de l'interrupteur et assure toujours sa fonction de retour automatique lorsque l'interrupteur est ramené dans la position normale.According to yet another aspect of the invention, the switch has a cover, the internal surface of which has a profile for pressing without jamming the control ball when the switch is tilted. Thus, the ball cannot escape from the housing during an inclination of the switch and always performs its automatic return function when the switch is returned to the normal position.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention résulteront encore de la description ci-après d'un exemple non limitatif en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • - la figure 1 est une vue en coupe selon le plan I-I de la figure 2 dans la position de repos de l'interrupteur,
  • - la figure 2 est une vue de dessus de l'interrupteur en position de repos,
  • - la figure 3 est une vue en coupe selon le plan III-III de la figure 2,
  • - la figure 4 est une vue de dessus d'un support de contact électrique,
  • - la figure 5 est une vue en perspective du couvercle.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will also result from the following description of a nonlimiting example with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a sectional view along plane II of FIG. 2 in the rest position of the switch,
  • FIG. 2 is a top view of the switch in the rest position,
  • FIG. 3 is a sectional view along the plane III-III of FIG. 2,
  • FIG. 4 is a top view of an electrical contact support,
  • - Figure 5 is a perspective view of the cover.

En référence aux figures, l'interrupteur multi- directionnel commporte un boitier 1 généralement cylindrique, dans lequel sont disposés deux contacts électriques 2 et 3 en regard et une bille de commande 4 servant à la fermeture d'un circuit électrique entre les contacts électriques 2, 3.With reference to the figures, the multi-directional switch has a generally cylindrical housing 1, in which are arranged two electrical contacts 2 and 3 facing each other and a control ball 4 used for closing an electrical circuit between the electrical contacts 2 , 3.

Selon l'invention, l'interrupteur comporte un organe basculant 5 prenant appui dans le boîtier 1 par une partie de basculement 6, et comprenant une partie de commande 7 s'étendant au voisinage de la plaque support 8 du contact électrique 3, la bille 4 étant portée par une surface 9 de l'organe basculant 5 opposée à la partie de basculement 6 et ayant un profil en cuvette.According to the invention, the switch comprises a tilting member 5 bearing in the housing 1 by a tilting part 6, and comprising a control part 7 extending in the vicinity of the support plate 8 of the electrical contact 3, the ball 4 being carried by a surface 9 of the rocking member 5 opposite the rocking part 6 and having a bowl profile.

La partie de basculement est un épaulement présentant une arête vive 6 en retrait par rapport au bord de la surface 9 de l'organe basculant 5 portant la bille 4. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, l'arête vive 6 est réalisée par le bord inférieur d'une jupe rigide 10, s'étendant vers le bas à partir de la face inférieure de l'organe basculant 5.The tilting part is a shoulder having a sharp edge 6 recessed relative to the edge of the surface 9 of the tilting member 5 carrying the ball 4. In the embodiment shown, the sharp edge 6 is produced by the lower edge of a rigid skirt 10, extending downward from the face bottom of the tilting member 5.

A sa partie inférieure, le boîtier 1 comporte une partie rétrécie 11 formant une surface de butée pour la partie de basculement 6. D'une façon plus particulière, la jupe rigide 10 dont un bord 6 forme la partie de basculement repose dans le fond du boîtier 1 et est maintenue d'un côté par la partie inférieure 11 de la paroi latérale du boîtier 1 et de l'autre côté par une nervure circulaire 12 prévue dans le fond du boîtier 1.At its lower part, the housing 1 comprises a narrowed part 11 forming an abutment surface for the tilting part 6. More particularly, the rigid skirt 10, one edge 6 of which forms the tilting part rests in the bottom of the housing 1 and is held on one side by the lower part 11 of the side wall of the housing 1 and on the other side by a circular rib 12 provided in the bottom of the housing 1.

A sa partie supérieure, le boitier 1 comporte une queue 13 percée d'une ouverture 14 servant à fixer l'interrupteur multidirectionnel dans l'appareil dont il doit assurer la sécurité. Le boîtier 1 comporte également -des bords supérieurs 15 largement échancrés et permettant un accès facile à l'intérieur du boitier.At its upper part, the case 1 comprises a tail 13 pierced with an opening 14 used to fix the multidirectional switch in the device for which it must ensure safety. The housing 1 also includes upper edges 15 which are widely indented and allow easy access to the interior of the housing.

Le contact 3 est porté par une lame support rectangulaire 8, comportant une languette centrale 16 (figure 4) qui porte le contact 3. L'extrémité de la lame 8 à laquelle est raccordée la languette 16 est mobile tandis que l'extrémité de la lame 8 opposée à celle à laquelle est raccordée la languette 16 est maintenue dans le boitier. Ceci permet d'obtenir une distance de déplacement élastique importante pour le contact 3 tout en gardant des dimensions réduites pour la lame support 8.The contact 3 is carried by a rectangular support blade 8, comprising a central tongue 16 (FIG. 4) which carries the contact 3. The end of the blade 8 to which the tongue 16 is connected is movable while the end of the blade 8 opposite to that to which the tongue 16 is connected is held in the housing. This makes it possible to obtain a large elastic displacement distance for the contact 3 while keeping reduced dimensions for the support blade 8.

La surface 9 en forme de cuvette est de préférence tronconique et la partie de basculement 6 s'étend autour de l'axe de la cuvette, de sorte que l'organe basculant 5 peut basculer dans une direction quelconque. En particulier, dans le cas d'une jupe rigide 10 circulaire, la partie de basculement constituée par le bord 6 de cette jupe est une arête circulaire coaxiale avec la surface tronconique 9.The bowl-shaped surface 9 is preferably frustoconical and the tilting part 6 extends around the axis of the bowl, so that the tilting member 5 can tilt in any direction. In particular, in the case of a rigid circular skirt 10, the tilting part formed by the edge 6 of this skirt is a circular edge coaxial with the frustoconical surface 9.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, la surface 9 en forme de cuvette comporte une partie centrale 18 ayant une première inclinaison et une partie périphérique 19 ayant une inclinaison plus forte que la partie centrale 18, de sorte que lorsque la bille 4 atteint la partie périphérique 19, le couple de basculement exercé sur l'organe basculant 5 est accru.In the illustrated embodiment, the cup-shaped surface 9 has a central part 18 having a first inclination and a peripheral part 19 having a greater inclination than the central part 18, so that when the ball 4 reaches the peripheral part 19, the tilting torque exerted on the tilting member 5 is increased.

La partie de commande 7 est de préférence un doigt coaxial à la surface 9 en forme de cuvette et à la partie de basculement 6 et s'étendant à travers le fond du boîtier 1. Pour éviter que le doigt 7 ne s'échappe de l'ouverture dans laquelle il est inséré lors du basculement de l'organe basculant 5, on prévoit avantageusement une nervure 20 entourant l'ouverture dans laquelle s'étend le doigt 7. Bien que pour des raisons de fabrication les nervures 12 et 20 aient été représentées séparées, on comprendra que ces deux nervures peuvent être réunies en une seule et même bande annulaire entourant l'ouverture centrale dans le fond du boîtier.The control part 7 is preferably a finger coaxial with the bowl-shaped surface 9 and the tilting part 6 and extending through the bottom of the housing 1. To prevent the finger 7 from escaping from the opening in which it is inserted during the tilting of the tilting member 5, there is advantageously provided a rib 20 surrounding the opening in which the finger extends 7. Although for manufacturing reasons the ribs 12 and 20 have been shown separately, it will be understood that these two ribs can be joined in a single annular band surrounding the central opening in the bottom of the housing.

Pour éviter que la bille 4 ne s'échappe lorsque l'interrupteur est retourné, on prévoit un couvercle 21 en forme de barrette dont la surface interne présente un profil pour un appui sans coincement de la bille 4, lorsque l'interrupteur est incliné. En particulier, la barrette est formée de deux parois latérales 22 (voir figures 2 et 5) réunies entre elles par des parois intermédiaires 23 supportant un croisillon 24 dont la partie centrale s'étend vers le bas pour former une pointe 25 (figure 3). Les parois 22 comportent également à leur extrémité des parties 26 faisant saillie vers le bas par rapport aux bords médians 27. Ainsi, la face de la barrette tournée vers la bille 4 présente un profil en forme de zig zag (voir figure 3).To prevent the ball 4 from escaping when the switch is turned over, a cover 21 in the form of a bar is provided, the internal surface of which has a profile for pressing without jamming the ball 4, when the switch is tilted. In particular, the bar is formed by two side walls 22 (see FIGS. 2 and 5) joined together by intermediate walls 23 supporting a crosspiece 24 whose central part extends downward to form a point 25 (FIG. 3) . The walls 22 also have at their end portions 26 projecting downward relative to the median edges 27. Thus, the face of the bar facing the ball 4 has a profile in the form of a zig zag (see FIG. 3).

Le couvercle 21 est de préférence maintenu dans des ouvertures de la paroi latérale du boîtier 1 et comporte des épaulements 28 qui coopèrent avec des languettes flexibles en forme de crochets 29 (figure 2) réalisées en une seule pièce avec la paroi latérale du boitier 1.The cover 21 is preferably held in openings in the side wall of the housing 1 and has shoulders 28 which cooperate with flexible hook-shaped tongues 29 (FIG. 2) produced in one piece with the side wall of the housing 1.

Lorsque l'interrupteur est en position normale de fonctionnement, l'organe basculant 5 repose sur le fond du boîtier 1 et le doigt 7 s'étend à travers le fond pour appuyer sur la lame support 8 et maintenir le contact 3 appuyé sur le contact 2. Le circuit électrique est alors fermé. Lorsque l'interrupteur subit un choc ou est incliné, la bille 4 roule le long de la surface 9 la supportant et, au moment où le couple créé par la bille 4 autour de la partie de basculement 6 ajouté au couple résultant de la force élastique de la lame support 8 compense le couple résultant du poids de l'organe basculant 5, appliqué à son centre de gravité, l'organe basculant 5 bascule brusquement et le contact 3 se sépare du contact 2 ouvrant ainsi le circuit électrique.When the switch is in the normal operating position, the tilting member 5 rests on the bottom of the housing 1 and the finger 7 extends through the bottom to press on the support blade 8 and maintain the contact 3 pressed on the contact 2. The electrical circuit is then closed. When the switch is shocked or tilted, the ball 4 rolls along the surface 9 supporting it and, when the torque created by the ball 4 around the tilting part 6 added to the torque resulting from the elastic force of the support blade 8 compensates for the torque resulting from the weight of the rocking member 5, applied to its center of gravity, the rocking member 5 swings suddenly and the contact 3 separates from the contact 2 thus opening the electrical circuit.

Dès que la cause du mouvement de la bille 4 vers le bord de la surface 9 a disparu, et en raison de la forme en cuvette de cette surface, la bille revient vers sa position de repos et le circuit électrique se retrouve automatiquement fermé.As soon as the cause of the movement of the ball 4 towards the edge of the surface 9 has disappeared, and due to the bowl shape of this surface, the ball returns to its rest position and the electrical circuit is automatically closed.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est pas limitée au mode de réalisation décrit ci-dessus et on peut y apporter des variantes de réalisation. En particulier, l'extrémité inférieure de la partie de commande 7 peut être conductrice et les contacts 2 et 3 peuvent être disposés en regard l'un de l'autre, de part et d'autre de l'extrémité du doigt 7 de sorte que les deux contacts sont réunis par la partie conductrice de la partie de commande, lorsque celui-ci est en position de repos.Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described above and it is possible to make variant embodiments. In particular, the lower end of the control part 7 can be conductive and the contacts 2 and 3 can be arranged opposite one another, on either side of the end of the finger 7 so that the two contacts are joined by the conductive part of the control part, when the latter is in the rest position.

L'organe basculant peut être de petites dimensions et être disposé au centre d'un boîtier comportant une paroi inclinée prolongeant la forme de cuvette de l'organe basculant.The tilting member may be of small dimensions and be placed in the center of a housing comprising a inclined wall extending the bowl shape of the tilting member.

L'organe basculant peut être de forme autre qu'une forme circulaire, par exemple, avec une surface rectangulaire maintenue sur les côtés et ne pouvant basculer que selon une ou plusieurs directions données.The tilting member can be of a shape other than a circular shape, for example, with a rectangular surface held on the sides and able to tilt only in one or more given directions.

Au lieu d'être disposé à la partie inférieure de l'organe basculant 5, l'organe de commande 7 peut être disposé sur le côté de l'organe basculant, par exemple en s'étendant à partir de l'un de ses bords.Instead of being disposed at the bottom of the tilting member 5, the control member 7 may be disposed on the side of the tilting member, for example by extending from one of its edges .

La surface 9 de l'organe basculant peut être désaxée par rapport à l'arête de basculement 6 pour créer une orientation de basculement privilégiée.The surface 9 of the tilting member can be offset from the tilting edge 6 to create a preferred tilting orientation.

Claims (10)

1. Interrupteur multidirectionnel comportant un boîtier (1) dans lequel sont disposés au moins deux contacts électriques (2, 3) en regard et une bille de commande (4) de la fermeture d'un circuit électrique entre les contacts électriques (2,3), librement mobile à l'intérieur du boîtier, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un organe basculant (5) prenant appui dans le boîtier (1) par une partie de basculement (6) et comprenant une partie de commande (7) s'étendant au voisinage de l'un au moins des contacts électriques et en ce que la bille (4) est portée par une surface (9) de l'organe basculant (5) opposée à la partie de basculement (6) et ayant un profil en cuvette.1. Multidirectional switch comprising a housing (1) in which are arranged at least two electrical contacts (2, 3) facing each other and a control ball (4) for closing an electrical circuit between the electrical contacts (2,3 ), freely movable inside the housing, characterized in that it comprises a tilting member (5) bearing in the housing (1) by a tilting part (6) and comprising a control part (7) s 'extending in the vicinity of at least one of the electrical contacts and in that the ball (4) is carried by a surface (9) of the tilting member (5) opposite to the tilting part (6) and having a profile in bowl. 2. Interrupteur conforme à la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la partie de basculement est un épaulement présentant au moins une arête vive (6) en retrait par rapport au bord de la surface (9) de l'organe basculant (5) portant la bille (4).2. Switch according to claim 1, characterized in that the tilting part is a shoulder having at least one sharp edge (6) recessed relative to the edge of the surface (9) of the tilting member (5) bearing the ball (4). 3. Interrupteur conforme à la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que la partie de basculement (6) coopère avec une surface de butée (11) portée par le boîtier (1).3. Switch according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the tilting part (6) cooperates with an abutment surface (11) carried by the housing (1). 4. Interrupteur conforme à la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que l'organe basculant (5) repose dans le fond du boitier (1) et comprend une jupe rigide (10) dont un bord (6) forme la partie de basculement et en ce que la jupe rigide (10) est maintenue d'un côté par la paroi latérale (11) du boîtier (1) et de l'autre côté par une nervure (12) prévue dans le fond du boitier (1).4. Switch according to claim 3, characterized in that the tilting member (5) rests in the bottom of the housing (1) and comprises a rigid skirt (10), one edge (6) of which forms the tilting part and that the rigid skirt (10) is held on one side by the side wall (11) of the housing (1) and on the other side by a rib (12) provided in the bottom of the housing (1). 5.Interrupteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que la surface (9) en forme de cuvette est tronconique et en ce que la partie de basculement (6) s'étend autour de l'axe de la cuvette.5.Switch according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the cup-shaped surface (9) is frustoconical and in that the tilting part (6) extends around the axis of the bowl. 6. Interrupteur conforme à la revendication 5, caractérisé en ce que la partie de basculement est une arête circulaire (6) coaxiale avec la surface tronconique (9).6. Switch according to claim 5, characterized in that the tilting part is a circular edge (6) coaxial with the frustoconical surface (9). 7. Interrupteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que la surface (9) en forme de cuvette comporte une partie centrale (18) ayant une première inclinaison et une partie périphérique (19) ayant une inclinaison plus forte que celle de la partie centrale (18).7. Switch according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the bowl-shaped surface (9) comprises a central part (18) having a first inclination and a peripheral part (19) having a greater inclination than that of the central part (18). 8. Interrupteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce que la partie de commande (7) est un doigt coaxial à la surface (9) en forme de cuvette et à la partie de basculement (6) et s'étendant à travers le fond du boîtier (1).8. Switch according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control part (7) is a finger coaxial with the surface (9) in the form of a bowl and with the tilting part (6) and s extending across the bottom of the housing (1). 9. Interrupteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un couvercle (21) dont la surface interne présente un profil pour un appui sans coincement de la bille (4) de commande lorsque l'interrupteur est incliné.9. Switch according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a cover (21) whose internal surface has a profile for pressing without jamming of the ball (4) control when the switch is tilted. 10. Interrupteur conforme à la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que le couvercle (21) est une barette dont la face tournée vers la bille (4) présente un profil en forme de zig zag.10. Switch according to claim 9, characterized in that the cover (21) is a bar whose face facing the ball (4) has a profile in the form of a zig zag.
EP85401075A 1984-06-05 1985-05-31 Multidirection switch commanded by a ball Expired EP0167429B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8408775A FR2565404B1 (en) 1984-06-05 1984-06-05 MULTIDIRECTIONAL SWITCH CONTROLLED BY A BALL
FR8408775 1984-06-05

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0167429A1 true EP0167429A1 (en) 1986-01-08
EP0167429B1 EP0167429B1 (en) 1988-06-01

Family

ID=9304711

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP85401075A Expired EP0167429B1 (en) 1984-06-05 1985-05-31 Multidirection switch commanded by a ball

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US4618746A (en)
EP (1) EP0167429B1 (en)
DE (2) DE8515854U1 (en)
FR (1) FR2565404B1 (en)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2657997A1 (en) * 1990-02-05 1991-08-09 Goupil Helene Safety device for electrical apparatus
EP0463291A2 (en) * 1990-06-29 1992-01-02 Robert Bosch Gmbh Tilt switch
US6852935B2 (en) 2002-10-30 2005-02-08 Itron, Inc. Tilt switch

Families Citing this family (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4942274A (en) * 1988-06-21 1990-07-17 Expert Corporation Ball controlled float control unit
US5002000A (en) * 1990-01-09 1991-03-26 Rutter Henry A Automatic leveler for boat lifts
US5012050A (en) * 1990-02-23 1991-04-30 Siemens Automotive Limited Dual pole switch assembly for an inertia actuated switch
DE4017839A1 (en) * 1990-06-02 1991-12-05 Zumtobel Ag Tilt switch for standard lamps - has light in lamp disconnected from current circuit when lamp tilts or falls over
US5087801A (en) * 1990-06-19 1992-02-11 S.J. Electro Systems, Inc. Sphere-actuated float switch
DE4031956A1 (en) * 1990-10-09 1992-04-16 Bosch Gmbh Robert INCLINATION SWITCH
US5136126A (en) * 1991-06-24 1992-08-04 Honeywell Inc. Tilt switch
US5136127A (en) * 1991-09-16 1992-08-04 Honeywell Inc. Tilt actuated switch
DE4328542C1 (en) * 1993-08-25 1995-02-02 Thermostat & Schaltgeraetebau Tilt protection device
DE4339799C2 (en) * 1993-11-23 1997-01-23 Thermostat & Schaltgeraetebau Tilting element for emitting a signal and / or for interrupting the safety of a circuit on / in an electrical device
DE19500722A1 (en) * 1995-01-12 1996-07-18 Trw Repa Gmbh Sensor for a seat belt retractor
US5639999A (en) * 1995-10-23 1997-06-17 Hsu; Yu-Liang Universally tilted inclination switch
US5768735A (en) * 1996-06-25 1998-06-23 Whtie Consolidated Industries, Inc. Switch mechanism with mechanical lock out
JPH10123164A (en) * 1996-08-29 1998-05-15 Aisin Seiki Co Ltd Shock detector
US5955713A (en) * 1997-10-03 1999-09-21 Circle Seal Corporation Tilt switch array for electronic orientation detection
JPH11160342A (en) * 1997-11-25 1999-06-18 Aisin Seiki Co Ltd Impact detector
US6559396B1 (en) * 2002-06-13 2003-05-06 Tien-Ming Chou Tilt switch
US7115824B2 (en) * 2004-08-03 2006-10-03 Kam Chun Lo Tilt switch and system
CN103779139B (en) * 2012-10-22 2016-01-06 大日科技股份有限公司 Multilayer angle tilt switch
US10317208B2 (en) * 2017-03-03 2019-06-11 Philip Schafer Tilt sensor
CN110648880B (en) * 2019-10-31 2024-10-08 中国工程物理研究院总体工程研究所 Universal inertial switch
CN114088977A (en) * 2021-11-18 2022-02-25 广州正虹环境科技有限公司 Oil smoke probe moving sensing device and detection method

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE438342C (en) * 1926-02-14 1926-12-16 Aeg Swimmers used to make a contact
FR1548060A (en) * 1967-12-19 1968-11-29
DE1287675B (en) * 1969-01-23
US4255629A (en) * 1979-04-09 1981-03-10 Technar Incorporated Crash and rollover cutoff switch

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2428029A (en) * 1944-01-26 1947-09-30 Katcher Morris Shock motor stop for vehicles
US2879349A (en) * 1957-10-10 1959-03-24 William H Thompson Safety switch
US3816680A (en) * 1971-08-18 1974-06-11 Tokai Rika Co Ltd Acceleration responsive switch
IT1089683B (en) * 1977-01-05 1985-06-18 Roesch Carol INERTIA ELECTRIC SWITCH
US4185507A (en) * 1977-12-14 1980-01-29 Koso Service Co., Ltd. Acceleration responsive tripping mechanism

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE1287675B (en) * 1969-01-23
DE438342C (en) * 1926-02-14 1926-12-16 Aeg Swimmers used to make a contact
FR1548060A (en) * 1967-12-19 1968-11-29
US4255629A (en) * 1979-04-09 1981-03-10 Technar Incorporated Crash and rollover cutoff switch

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2657997A1 (en) * 1990-02-05 1991-08-09 Goupil Helene Safety device for electrical apparatus
EP0463291A2 (en) * 1990-06-29 1992-01-02 Robert Bosch Gmbh Tilt switch
EP0463291A3 (en) * 1990-06-29 1992-08-19 Robert Bosch Gmbh Tilt switch
US6852935B2 (en) 2002-10-30 2005-02-08 Itron, Inc. Tilt switch

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US4618746A (en) 1986-10-21
DE8515854U1 (en) 1985-07-18
FR2565404A1 (en) 1985-12-06
FR2565404B1 (en) 1988-03-18
EP0167429B1 (en) 1988-06-01
DE3563143D1 (en) 1988-07-07

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0167429A1 (en) Multidirection switch commanded by a ball
EP0617909B1 (en) Electric cooking appliance
WO1999001060A1 (en) Electrical household appliance for processing food comprising a safety device
EP1734850B1 (en) Electrical liquid-heating appliance
EP0510599B1 (en) Chip card reader
FR2930849A3 (en) MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL SAFETY SOCKET.
EP0275785A1 (en) Combined electric baking oven and bread toaster
EP0040130B1 (en) Electric switch with vertical push-button
FR2762202A1 (en) ELECTRIC LIQUID HEATER
US3024342A (en) Utensil
FR2593637A1 (en) Safety device to ensure the automatic cutting of the electrical supply to a mobile heating appliance, in particular an iron
EP1095604A1 (en) Brewing device
EP0419368B1 (en) Electrical boiler with a socket
FR2733626A1 (en) Switch control mechanism for kitchen robot
EP0657133B1 (en) NTC-sensor on resilient support used for a meat grilling plate
EP3697275A1 (en) Electrical cooking appliance comprising a draining support with a storage configuration
EP0974296B1 (en) Electric cooking utensil of the barbecue type
EP0218497B1 (en) Protective circuit breaker with a resilient link
FR2499713A1 (en) ELECTRIC BALANCE
EP0721198A1 (en) Ball-actuated microswitch
FR2881267A1 (en) HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A TRIPLE ACTION SECURITY DEVICE
EP0928589A1 (en) Cooking utensil with water detection
EP4344590A1 (en) Cooking appliance with dual user interface
EP1571518A1 (en) Detachable heating subassembly adapted to be placed on the main body of a cooking device
FR2539291A1 (en) MULTI-FUNCTION HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE EQUIPPED WITH A SECURITY DEVICE FOR PREVENTING INVOLUNTARY ACCESS TO CUTTING BLADES AND SIMILAR TOOLS

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19850605

AK Designated contracting states

Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB IT NL

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19861204

D17Q First examination report despatched (deleted)
ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB IT NL

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3563143

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19880707

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 19900515

Year of fee payment: 6

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 19900517

Year of fee payment: 6

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 19900518

Year of fee payment: 6

ITTA It: last paid annual fee
PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 19900531

Year of fee payment: 6

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Effective date: 19910531

Ref country code: GB

Effective date: 19910531

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: S.A. SEB

Effective date: 19910531

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Effective date: 19911201

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee
GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Effective date: 19920303

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 19990217

Year of fee payment: 15

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20010131

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST