EP0604273A1 - Electric switch - Google Patents

Electric switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0604273A1
EP0604273A1 EP93403045A EP93403045A EP0604273A1 EP 0604273 A1 EP0604273 A1 EP 0604273A1 EP 93403045 A EP93403045 A EP 93403045A EP 93403045 A EP93403045 A EP 93403045A EP 0604273 A1 EP0604273 A1 EP 0604273A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
branch
spring
switch
springs
contact
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP93403045A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Pierre Periou
Enrico Fin
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.)
Inteva Products France SAS
Original Assignee
Rockwell Body and Chassis Systems France
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 Rockwell Body and Chassis Systems France filed Critical Rockwell Body and Chassis Systems France
Publication of EP0604273A1 publication Critical patent/EP0604273A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H1/00—Contacts
    • H01H1/12—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage
    • H01H1/14—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting
    • H01H1/24—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting with resilient mounting
    • H01H1/26—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting with resilient mounting with spring blade support

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an electric switch.
  • the object of the invention is to produce a switch consisting of a single piece, and which therefore has a reduced manufacturing cost at the same time as an easy and rapid assembly.
  • the electric switch comprises at least one flat spring, profiled and prestressed so as to be able to perform both a contact function and a spring function.
  • This flat spring once anchored on a suitable support, can operate as an inverter (with two rest / work contacts) or only as a contactor, with a single contact.
  • the shape of the spring can be very variable, but in all cases the fact that it is flat reduces its size compared to that of the usual switches.
  • the switch comprises a first branch which can be deformed by pressing on a fixed pivot of a support and a second branch, movable at the same time as the first branch, and the end of which can take one or the other of two positions while the end of the first branch remains fixed.
  • Figure 1 is a top plan view on an enlarged scale of a first embodiment of the switch according to the invention, mounted on a support plate.
  • Figures 2 and 3 are partial plan views showing the two positions that can take the end of the second branch of the spring of Fig.1.
  • Figure 4 is a view similar to Fig.l of a second embodiment of the switch according to the invention.
  • Figures 5 to 7 are plan views on an enlarged scale, of a third embodiment of the switch according to the invention and of its three possible positions.
  • the electrical switch 1 shown in Fig.l consists of a flat spring, profiled and prestressed to be able to provide both a contact function and a spring function.
  • the switch 1 comprises a first branch 2 which can be deformed by pressing on a fixed pivot 3 of a support plate 4, and a second branch 5, movable at the same time as the first branch 2.
  • the end 6 of the branch 5 can take either of two positions: one shown in solid line, and the other in phantom 6a.
  • the branch 2 ends with a buttonhole 7 adapted to be threaded on the pivot 3 and fixed thereto.
  • the branch 2 can have a variable geometry, with for example a fold 8 of substantially U or V shape, while the branch 5 is, in this example, substantially straight by extending in a general direction approximately parallel to the general direction of the branch 2.
  • the latter comprises, from the pivot 3 and its terminal buttonhole 7, a pin-shaped part 21, followed by the U-shaped fold 8, extended by a bent terminal part 24.
  • the branch 5 comprises a boss 9 extending longitudinally from its point 5a, up to the level of a support stop 11, fixed on the support plate 4.
  • the thickness of the boss 9 can be constant, or variable as shown.
  • the boss 9 has an end ramp 9a which is connected with the thinned base of the branch 5.
  • the branch 5 has a rectilinear portion which is extended by a bent part 26 facing the bent part 24.
  • lug 13 can take lateral support an actuation member not shown of the switch, such as a cam exerting a thrust directed along the arrow F.
  • the switch 1 At rest, the switch 1 is in the situation shown in solid lines in FIG. 1.
  • the fulcrum 14 is positioned relative to the pivot 3 and to the branch 5 so that the latter exerts on point 14 a determined elastic force.
  • the actuating member exerts on the tab 13 the thrust F
  • the spring gradually deforms around its fixed support 3.
  • the branch 5 moves away from the contact 14 until it comes to take the position 6a shown in phantom, in which the tip 5a comes into contact with a second pad 15 of an electrical circuit not shown.
  • the stop 11 slides progressively on the inclined ramp 9a, corresponding to a lesser thickness of the boss (Fig. 2 and 3). This sliding decreases the resistance encountered by the boss 9, and therefore facilitates the coming of the end 5a in contact with the stud 15.
  • the spring 1 When the force F on the lug 13 disappears, the spring 1 automatically returns to its initial position by elastic relaxation, by exerting by its end 6, on the contact 14, a defined and constant pressure, established from the electrical contact and linked to the spring preload.
  • the shapes of the boss 9 opposite the stop 11 and the stud 15 can be adapted, for example by rounded 9b and 9c (FIG. 2), to avoid excessive pressure on the contact 15, liable to damage the spring, and authorize overtime without undue hardship.
  • the second embodiment of the switch 16, shown in Fig.4, is no longer an inverter but a contactor, the pad 15 having been removed. It differs from the previous one in that the second straight branch 17 has no longitudinal boss, while the first branch 18 has a more open configuration than that of the branch 2 of the spring 1.
  • the branch 18 comprises a part 22 in the form of a pin then a fold 23 in a wide open V and a rounded end 25 connected to the tab 13. Finally the latter is connected to the branch 17 by a bent portion 26. The tilting of the spring 16 around the axis 3 separates the branch 17 from the contact 14, and therefore opens the corresponding electrical circuit.
  • the switch comprises two identical superimposed springs 27 and 28, prestressed and deformable, one end of which 29, 31 is fixed to a pivot 32 and whose opposite ends 33, 34 form movable end legs.
  • the stack formed by the two springs 27, 28 is symmetrical with respect to a plane P perpendicular to the general plane of the stack and passing through the pivot 32.
  • each spring 27, 28 is more particularly visible in FIGS. 6 and 7: each comprises from its end 29, 31 fixed to the pivot 32, a first curved part 35, 36, a recess 37, 38 and a branch 38, 39 approximately rectilinear, which ends with the tab 33, 34.
  • the conformation of the springs is such that their different parts are symmetrical with respect to the median plane P when they are both in the prestressed position with their end heads 33 , 34 superimposed (Fig. 5).
  • the curved parts 35 and 36 delimit a bearing surface for a thrust member 42 on one or the other of said curved parts 35, 36, in opposite directions, symbolized by the arrows F1 and F2 ( Fig. 5).
  • the stack of springs 27, 28 is arranged on a support (not shown) provided with three studs 43, 44, 45.
  • the studs 43, 44 are arranged on either side of the legs 33, 34, at an appropriate distance , and constitute contacts of an electrical circuit not shown.
  • the stud 45 is placed between the branches 39 and 41 to which it can serve as a support.
  • Each terminal lug 33, 34 is connected to a section forming a ramp (33a, 34a) for sliding the lug on the central stud 45 during the movements of the other lug from the central position (FIG. 5) to the lateral contact ( Figures 6 and 7) or vice versa.
  • the springs 27, 28 being partially superimposed as shown in Fig.5, with their branches 39, 41 resting on the central stud 45, a lateral thrust exerted on one of the curved parts 35 and 36 by the thrust member 42, for example along the arrow F2 on the part 35, deforms the latter as well as the prestressed spring 28.
  • the branch 41 of the latter is released and switches in the direction opposite to the thrust F2, until its end tab 34 comes into contact with the stud 43 ( Fig.6) while the branch 39 slides by its ramp 39a on the central stud 45.
  • the switch shown in Figs 5 to 7 can operate as an inverter with the two contact pads 43, 44, or possibly as a simple contactor by removing one of them. Its advantage lies in the fact that the force exerted on the contact 43 or 44 by the lug 34 or 33 is independent of the force F1, F2 with which the member 42 is actuated, this being due to the preload and to the particular conformation flat springs 27 and 28.
  • the deformation undergone by the switch takes place in the plane of the spring.
  • the latter is flat and profiled to maintain a given contact force, for example of the order of 100 g, to have great flexibility in order to obtain rapid movements, and to maintain low mechanical stresses all along the profile of the spring, it is to say compatible with a long service life (The stress values depend on the material used).
  • This profile is determined on the basis of specific computer software.
  • the electrical switch according to the invention is capable of very numerous applications. It can advantageously be made of a copper-beryllium alloy, which has good mechanical characteristics, comparable to those of steel, a lower modulus of elasticity than that of steel, corresponding to good flexibility, and finally is a good electrical conductor.
  • this alloy is given only by way of example, any other alloy of equivalent characteristics that can be used.
  • the flat spring according to the invention brings together in one piece, compact, the two functions of the usual switches. It is possible to form stacks of several superimposed flat springs, in order to obtain switch assemblies according to the invention.

Landscapes

  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)
  • Rotary Switch, Piano Key Switch, And Lever Switch (AREA)
  • Contacts (AREA)

Abstract

This electric switch (1) consists of a flat spring, shaped in profile in order to carry out both a contact function and a spring function; the flat spring (1) includes a first branch (2) capable of being deformed by bearing on a fixed pivot (3) of a support (4), and a second branch (5) which can be moved at the same time as the first branch is deformed, and the end (5a) of which can take up one or the other of two positions of contact with the studs (14, 15) of an electrical circuit. The switch according to the invention is less bulky than the usual switches by virtue of its flat shape, is less expensive to manufacture as it consists only of a single part, and is easy to install on its support. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention a pour objet un interrupteur électrique.The present invention relates to an electric switch.

On sait que les interrupteurs électriques classiques sont généralement constitués de deux lames qui se touchent pour réaliser le contact, et d'un ressort de rappel, ces trois pièces étant montées sur un support approprié.It is known that conventional electrical switches generally consist of two blades which touch to make contact, and a return spring, these three parts being mounted on an appropriate support.

L'invention a pour but de réaliser un interrupteur constitué d'une seule pièce, et qui soit donc d'un coût de fabrication réduit en même temps que d'un montage aisé et rapide.The object of the invention is to produce a switch consisting of a single piece, and which therefore has a reduced manufacturing cost at the same time as an easy and rapid assembly.

Conformément à l'invention, l'interrupteur électrique comporte au moins un ressort plat, profilé et précontraint de manière à pouvoir assurer à la fois une fonction de contact et une fonction ressort.According to the invention, the electric switch comprises at least one flat spring, profiled and prestressed so as to be able to perform both a contact function and a spring function.

Ce ressort plat, une fois ancré sur un support adéquat, peut fonctionner en inverseur (avec deux contacts repos/travail) ou seulement en contacteur, avec un seul contact. La forme du ressort peut être très variable, mais dans tous les cas le fait qu'il soit plat réduit son encombrement par rapport à celui des interrupteurs habituels.This flat spring, once anchored on a suitable support, can operate as an inverter (with two rest / work contacts) or only as a contactor, with a single contact. The shape of the spring can be very variable, but in all cases the fact that it is flat reduces its size compared to that of the usual switches.

Suivant un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'interrupteur comporte une première branche pouvant être déformée par appui sur un pivot fixe d'un support et une seconde branche, déplaçable en même temps que la première branche, et dont l'extrémité peut prendre l'une ou l'autre de deux positions tandis que l'extrémité de la première branche reste fixe.According to one embodiment of the invention, the switch comprises a first branch which can be deformed by pressing on a fixed pivot of a support and a second branch, movable at the same time as the first branch, and the end of which can take one or the other of two positions while the end of the first branch remains fixed.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront au cours de la description qui va suivre, faite en référence au dessin annexé qui en illustre trois formes de réalisation à titre d'exemples non limitatifs.Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear during the description which follows, given with reference to the appended drawing which illustrates three embodiments thereof by way of non-illustrative examples. limiting.

La figure 1 est une vue de dessus en plan à échelle agrandie d'une première forme de réalisation de l'interrupteur selon l'invention, monté sur une plaque support.Figure 1 is a top plan view on an enlarged scale of a first embodiment of the switch according to the invention, mounted on a support plate.

Les figures 2 et 3 sont des vues en plan partielles montrant les deux positions que peut prendre l'extrémité de la seconde branche du ressort de la Fig.1.Figures 2 and 3 are partial plan views showing the two positions that can take the end of the second branch of the spring of Fig.1.

La figure 4 est une vue analogue à la Fig.l d'une seconde forme de réalisation de l'interrupteur selon l'invention.Figure 4 is a view similar to Fig.l of a second embodiment of the switch according to the invention.

Les figures 5 à 7 sont des vues en plan à échelle agrandie, d'une troisième forme de réalisation de l'interrupteur selon l'invention et de ses trois positions possibles.Figures 5 to 7 are plan views on an enlarged scale, of a third embodiment of the switch according to the invention and of its three possible positions.

L'interrupteur électrique 1 représenté à la Fig.l est constitué d'un ressort plat, profilé et précontraint pour pouvoir assurer à la fois une fonction de contact et une fonction ressort. L'interrupteur 1 comporte une première branche 2 pouvant être déformée par appui sur un pivot fixe 3 d'une plaque support 4, et une seconde branche 5, déplaçable en même temps que la première branche 2. L'extrémité 6 de la branche 5 peut prendre l'une ou l'autre de deux positions : l'une représentée en trait continu, et l'autre en trait mixte 6a.The electrical switch 1 shown in Fig.l consists of a flat spring, profiled and prestressed to be able to provide both a contact function and a spring function. The switch 1 comprises a first branch 2 which can be deformed by pressing on a fixed pivot 3 of a support plate 4, and a second branch 5, movable at the same time as the first branch 2. The end 6 of the branch 5 can take either of two positions: one shown in solid line, and the other in phantom 6a.

La branche 2 se termine par une boutonnière 7 adaptée pour être enfilée sur le pivot 3 et fixée à celui-ci. La branche 2 peut avoir une géométrie variable, avec par exemple un repli 8 de forme sensiblement en U ou en V, tandis que la branche 5 est, dans cet exemple, sensiblement rectiligne en s'étendant dans une direction générale à peu près parallèle à la direction générale de la branche 2. Cette dernière comporte, à partir du pivot 3 et de sa boutonnière terminale 7, une partie 21, en forme d'épingle, suivie par le repli 8 en forme de U, prolongé par une partie terminale coudée 24.The branch 2 ends with a buttonhole 7 adapted to be threaded on the pivot 3 and fixed thereto. The branch 2 can have a variable geometry, with for example a fold 8 of substantially U or V shape, while the branch 5 is, in this example, substantially straight by extending in a general direction approximately parallel to the general direction of the branch 2. The latter comprises, from the pivot 3 and its terminal buttonhole 7, a pin-shaped part 21, followed by the U-shaped fold 8, extended by a bent terminal part 24.

La branche 5 comporte un bossage 9 s'étendant longitudinalement à partir de sa pointe 5a, jusqu'au niveau d'une butée 11 d'appui, fixée sur la plaque support 4. L'épaisseur du bossage 9 peut être constante, ou variable comme représenté. En regard de la butée d'appui 11, le bossage 9 présente une rampe terminale 9a qui se raccorde avec la base amincie de la branche 5. Au-delà de la rampe 9a, la branche 5 comporte une portion rectiligne qui se prolonge par une partie coudée 26 en vis-à-vis de la partie coudée 24. Ces deux parties 24, 26 se rejoignent à la base d'une patte 13.The branch 5 comprises a boss 9 extending longitudinally from its point 5a, up to the level of a support stop 11, fixed on the support plate 4. The thickness of the boss 9 can be constant, or variable as shown. Opposite the abutment stop 11, the boss 9 has an end ramp 9a which is connected with the thinned base of the branch 5. Beyond the ramp 9a, the branch 5 has a rectilinear portion which is extended by a bent part 26 facing the bent part 24. These two parts 24, 26 meet at the base of a tab 13.

Sur cette patte 13 peut prendre latéralement appui un organe d'actionnement non représenté de l'interrupteur, telle qu'une came exerçant une poussée dirigée suivant la flèche F.On this lug 13 can take lateral support an actuation member not shown of the switch, such as a cam exerting a thrust directed along the arrow F.

Au repos, l'interrupteur 1 est dans la situation représentée en trait continu à la Fig.1. Le point d'appui 14 est positionné par rapport au pivot 3 et à la branche 5 de telle sorte que celle-ci exerce sur le point 14 une force élastique déterminée. Lorsque l'organe d'actionnement exerce sur la patte 13 la poussée F, le ressort se déforme progressivement autour de son appui fixe 3. La branche 5 s'écarte du contact 14 jusqu'à ce qu'elle vienne prendre la position 6a représentée en trait mixte, dans laquelle la pointe 5a vient au contact d'un second plot 15 d'un circuit électrique non représenté. Au cours de la déformation et du pivotement de l'ensemble du ressort 1 autour du pivot fixe 3, la butée 11 glisse progressivement sur la rampe inclinée 9a, correspondant à une épaisseur moindre du bossage (Fig.2 et 3). Ce glissement diminue la résistance rencontrée par le bossage 9, et facilite donc la venue de l'extrémité 5a au contact du plot 15.At rest, the switch 1 is in the situation shown in solid lines in FIG. 1. The fulcrum 14 is positioned relative to the pivot 3 and to the branch 5 so that the latter exerts on point 14 a determined elastic force. When the actuating member exerts on the tab 13 the thrust F, the spring gradually deforms around its fixed support 3. The branch 5 moves away from the contact 14 until it comes to take the position 6a shown in phantom, in which the tip 5a comes into contact with a second pad 15 of an electrical circuit not shown. During the deformation and pivoting of the whole of the spring 1 around the fixed pivot 3, the stop 11 slides progressively on the inclined ramp 9a, corresponding to a lesser thickness of the boss (Fig. 2 and 3). This sliding decreases the resistance encountered by the boss 9, and therefore facilitates the coming of the end 5a in contact with the stud 15.

Lorsque l'effort F sur la patte 13 disparaît, le ressort 1 revient automatiquement à sa position initiale par détente élastique, en exerçant par son extrémité 6, sur le contact 14, une pression définie et constante, établie dès le contact électrique et liée à la précontrainte du ressort. Les formes du bossage 9 en regard de la butée 11 et du plot 15 peuvent être adaptées, par exemple par des arrondis 9b et 9c (Fig.2), pour éviter une pression excessive sur le contact 15, susceptible de détériorer le ressort, et autoriser une surcourse sans contrainte excessive.When the force F on the lug 13 disappears, the spring 1 automatically returns to its initial position by elastic relaxation, by exerting by its end 6, on the contact 14, a defined and constant pressure, established from the electrical contact and linked to the spring preload. The shapes of the boss 9 opposite the stop 11 and the stud 15 can be adapted, for example by rounded 9b and 9c (FIG. 2), to avoid excessive pressure on the contact 15, liable to damage the spring, and authorize overtime without undue hardship.

La seconde forme de réalisation de l'interrupteur 16, représentée à la Fig.4, constitue, non plus un inverseur mais un contacteur, le plot 15 ayant été supprimé. Elle diffère de la précédente par le fait que la seconde branche 17, rectiligne, ne comporte pas de bossage longitudinal, tandis que la première branche 18 a une configuration plus ouverte que celle de la branche 2 du ressort 1.The second embodiment of the switch 16, shown in Fig.4, is no longer an inverter but a contactor, the pad 15 having been removed. It differs from the previous one in that the second straight branch 17 has no longitudinal boss, while the first branch 18 has a more open configuration than that of the branch 2 of the spring 1.

Ainsi, à partir de la boutonnière 19 recevant le pivot 3, la branche 18 comporte une partie 22 en forme d'épingle puis un repli 23 en V largement ouvert et une extrémité arrondie 25 raccordée à la patte 13. Enfin cette dernière est reliée à la branche 17 par une partie coudée 26. Le basculement du ressort 16 autour de l'axe 3 écarte la branche 17 du contact 14, et ouvre donc le circuit électrique correspondant.Thus, starting from the buttonhole 19 receiving the pivot 3, the branch 18 comprises a part 22 in the form of a pin then a fold 23 in a wide open V and a rounded end 25 connected to the tab 13. Finally the latter is connected to the branch 17 by a bent portion 26. The tilting of the spring 16 around the axis 3 separates the branch 17 from the contact 14, and therefore opens the corresponding electrical circuit.

Dans la troisième forme de réalisation de l'invention, illustrée aux Fig.5 à 7, l'interrupteur comprend deux ressorts superposés 27 et 28 identiques, précontraints et déformables, dont une extrémité 29, 31 est fixée à un pivot 32 et dont les extrémités opposées 33, 34 forment des pattes terminales déplaçables. L'empilement formé par les deux ressorts 27, 28 est symétrique par rapport à un plan P perpendiculaire au plan général de l'empilement et passant par le pivot 32.In the third embodiment of the invention, illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7, the switch comprises two identical superimposed springs 27 and 28, prestressed and deformable, one end of which 29, 31 is fixed to a pivot 32 and whose opposite ends 33, 34 form movable end legs. The stack formed by the two springs 27, 28 is symmetrical with respect to a plane P perpendicular to the general plane of the stack and passing through the pivot 32.

La configuration de chaque ressort 27, 28 est plus particulièrement visible aux Fig.6 et 7 : chacun comporte à partir de son extrémité 29, 31 fixée au pivot 32, une première partie incurvée 35, 36, un repli 37, 38 et une branche 38, 39 à peu près rectiligne, qui se termine par la patte 33, 34. La conformation des ressorts est telle que leurs différentes parties sont symétriques par rapport au plan médian P lorsqu'ils sont tous deux en position précontrainte avec leurs têtes terminales 33, 34 superposées (Fig.5). Dans cette position, les parties incurvées 35 et 36 délimitent une portée d'appui pour un organe 42 de poussée sur l'une ou l'autre desdites parties incurvées 35, 36, dans des directions opposées, symbolisées par les flèches F1 et F2 (Fig.5). L'empilement des ressorts 27, 28 est disposé sur un support (non représenté) pourvu de trois plots 43, 44, 45. Les plots 43, 44 sont disposés de part et d'autre des pattes 33, 34, à une distance appropriée, et constituent des contacts d'un circuit électrique non représenté. Le plot 45 est placé entre les branches 39 et 41 auxquelles il peut servir d'appui.The configuration of each spring 27, 28 is more particularly visible in FIGS. 6 and 7: each comprises from its end 29, 31 fixed to the pivot 32, a first curved part 35, 36, a recess 37, 38 and a branch 38, 39 approximately rectilinear, which ends with the tab 33, 34. The conformation of the springs is such that their different parts are symmetrical with respect to the median plane P when they are both in the prestressed position with their end heads 33 , 34 superimposed (Fig. 5). In this position, the curved parts 35 and 36 delimit a bearing surface for a thrust member 42 on one or the other of said curved parts 35, 36, in opposite directions, symbolized by the arrows F1 and F2 ( Fig. 5). The stack of springs 27, 28 is arranged on a support (not shown) provided with three studs 43, 44, 45. The studs 43, 44 are arranged on either side of the legs 33, 34, at an appropriate distance , and constitute contacts of an electrical circuit not shown. The stud 45 is placed between the branches 39 and 41 to which it can serve as a support.

Chaque patte terminale 33,34 est raccordée à une section formant rampe (33a, 34a) de glissement de la patte sur le plot central 45 durant les déplacements de l'autre patte de la position centrale (Figure 5) jusqu'au contact latéral (Figures 6 et 7) ou vice-versa.Each terminal lug 33, 34 is connected to a section forming a ramp (33a, 34a) for sliding the lug on the central stud 45 during the movements of the other lug from the central position (FIG. 5) to the lateral contact ( Figures 6 and 7) or vice versa.

Le fonctionnement de l'interrupteur qui vient d'être décrit est le suivant.The operation of the switch which has just been described is as follows.

Les ressorts 27, 28 étant partiellement superposés comme représenté à la Fig.5, avec leurs branches 39, 41 en appui sur le plot central 45, une poussée latérale exercée sur l'une des parties incurvées 35 et 36 par l'organe de poussée 42, par exemple suivant la flèche F2 sur la partie 35, déforme cette dernière ainsi que le ressort précontraint 28. La branche 41 de ce dernier est libérée et bascule dans la direction opposée à la poussée F2, jusqu'à ce que sa patte terminale 34 vienne au contact du plot 43 (Fig.6) tandis que la branche 39 glisse par sa rampe 39a sur le plot central 45.The springs 27, 28 being partially superimposed as shown in Fig.5, with their branches 39, 41 resting on the central stud 45, a lateral thrust exerted on one of the curved parts 35 and 36 by the thrust member 42, for example along the arrow F2 on the part 35, deforms the latter as well as the prestressed spring 28. The branch 41 of the latter is released and switches in the direction opposite to the thrust F2, until its end tab 34 comes into contact with the stud 43 ( Fig.6) while the branch 39 slides by its ramp 39a on the central stud 45.

Une nouvelle poussée exercée en sens opposé à la première ramène évidemment les ressorts 27 et 28 dans leur position de la Fig.5. Si à partir de celle-ci une poussée suivant la flèche F1 est exercée par l'organe 42, les ressorts 27 et 28 se déforment de manière symétrique de la précédente et viennent prendre la position représentée à la Fig.7. Dans celle-ci le ressort 27 qui était précontraint, se détend de telle sorte que sa branche 39 libérée vient au contact du plot 44 par sa patte 33, tandis que la branche 41 du ressort 28 glisse par sa rampe 41a sur le plot 45 sur lequel elle reste en appui.A new thrust exerted in the opposite direction to the first obviously brings the springs 27 and 28 back to their position in Fig. 5. If from this a thrust along arrow F1 is exerted by the member 42, the springs 27 and 28 are deformed symmetrically from the previous one and come to take the position shown in Fig.7. In it the spring 27 which was prestressed, relaxes so that its released branch 39 comes into contact with the pad 44 by its tab 33, while the branch 41 of the spring 28 slides by its ramp 41a on the pad 45 on which it remains in support.

Ainsi l'interrupteur représenté aux Fig.5 à 7 peut fonctionner comme inverseur avec les deux plots de contact 43, 44, ou éventuellement en simple contacteur par suppression de l'un de ceux-ci. Son avantage réside dans le fait que la force exercée sur le contact 43 ou 44 par la patte 34 ou 33 est indépendante de la force F1, F2 avec laquelle l'organe 42 est actionné, ceci étant du à la précontrainte et à la conformation particulière des ressorts plats 27 et 28.Thus the switch shown in Figs 5 to 7 can operate as an inverter with the two contact pads 43, 44, or possibly as a simple contactor by removing one of them. Its advantage lies in the fact that the force exerted on the contact 43 or 44 by the lug 34 or 33 is independent of the force F1, F2 with which the member 42 is actuated, this being due to the preload and to the particular conformation flat springs 27 and 28.

Dans les différents modes de réalisation décrits ci-dessus, la déformation subie par l'interrupteur s'effectue dans le plan du ressort. Ce dernier est plat et profilé pour maintenir une force de contact donnée, par exemple de l'ordre de 100g, pour avoir une grande flexibilité afin d'obtenir des mouvements rapides, et pour maintenir de faibles contraintes mécaniques tout le long du profil du ressort, c'est à dire compatibles avec une longue durée de vie (Les valeurs de contraintes dépendant du matériau utilisé).In the various embodiments described above, the deformation undergone by the switch takes place in the plane of the spring. The latter is flat and profiled to maintain a given contact force, for example of the order of 100 g, to have great flexibility in order to obtain rapid movements, and to maintain low mechanical stresses all along the profile of the spring, it is to say compatible with a long service life (The stress values depend on the material used).

Ce profil est déterminé sur la base d'un logiciel informatique spécifique.This profile is determined on the basis of specific computer software.

L'interrupteur électrique selon l'invention est susceptible de très nombreuses applications. Il peut être avantageusement réalisé en un alliage cuivre-béryllium, qui présente de bonnes caractéristiques mécaniques, comparables à celles de l'acier, un module d'élasticité plus bas que celui de l'acier, correspondant à une bonne flexibilité, et enfin est un bon conducteur électrique. Bien entendu cet alliage n'est donné qu'à titre d'exemple, tout autre alliage de caractéristiques équivalentes pouvant être utilisé.The electrical switch according to the invention is capable of very numerous applications. It can advantageously be made of a copper-beryllium alloy, which has good mechanical characteristics, comparable to those of steel, a lower modulus of elasticity than that of steel, corresponding to good flexibility, and finally is a good electrical conductor. Of course, this alloy is given only by way of example, any other alloy of equivalent characteristics that can be used.

Dans ses diverses formes de réalisations possibles, le ressort plat selon l'invention rassemble en une seule pièce, peu encombrante, les deux fonctions des interrupteurs habituels. Il est possible de constituer des empilements de plusieurs ressorts plats superposés, pour obtenir des assemblages d'interrupteurs conformes à l'invention.In its various possible embodiments, the flat spring according to the invention brings together in one piece, compact, the two functions of the usual switches. It is possible to form stacks of several superimposed flat springs, in order to obtain switch assemblies according to the invention.

Claims (5)

Interrupteur électrique (1; 16), caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte au moins un ressort plat profilé et précontraint de manière à pouvoir assurer à la fois une fonction de contact et une fonction ressort, en ce que le ressort (1) comprend une première branche (2; 18) pouvant être déformée par appui sur un pivot fixe (3) d'un support et une seconde branche (5; 17) déplaçable en même temps que la première branche, et dont l'extrémité (5a; 17a) peut prendre l'une ou l'autre de deux positions tandis que l'extrémité (7; 19) de la première branche reste fixe, et en ce que la seconde branche (5) comporte un bossage longitudinal (9) dont la largeur peut être variable ou constante d'une extrémité à l'autre, en appui sur une butée fixe (11) d'un support (4) et susceptible de pivoter autour de cette butée lorsque ladite seconde branche passe de l'une à l'autre de ses deux positions, le bossage (9) présentant, en regard de la butée fixe (11), une rampe terminale inclinée (9a) se raccordant à une partie de largeur réduite de la seconde branche (5), et qui peut glisser sur la butée fixe durant le déplacement de la seconde branche (5) de l'une à l'autre de ses deux positions (14, 15).Electric switch (1; 16), characterized in that it comprises at least one profiled and prestressed flat spring so as to be able to provide both a contact function and a spring function, in that the spring (1) comprises a first branch (2; 18) which can be deformed by pressing on a fixed pivot (3) of a support and a second branch (5; 17) movable at the same time as the first branch, and whose end (5a; 17a ) can take either of two positions while the end (7; 19) of the first branch remains fixed, and in that the second branch (5) has a longitudinal boss (9) whose width may be variable or constant from one end to the other, bearing on a fixed stop (11) of a support (4) and capable of pivoting around this stop when said second branch passes from one to the other of its two positions, the boss (9) having, opposite the fixed stop (11), an inclined end ramp e (9a) connecting to a reduced width part of the second branch (5), and which can slide on the fixed stop during the displacement of the second branch (5) from one to the other of its two positions (14, 15). Interrupteur selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le ressort (1; 16) est pourvu d'une patte (13) faisant saillie à la jonction des deux branches (2,5; 18,17), et sur laquelle un organe d'actionnement de l'interrupteur, tel qu'une came, peut exercer une poussée (F).Switch according to claim 1, characterized in that the spring (1; 16) is provided with a lug (13) projecting at the junction of the two branches (2,5; 18,17), and on which a member d actuation of the switch, such as a cam, can exert a thrust (F). Interrupteur selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le bossage (9) présente, à ses extrémités, des arrondis (9b, 9c) adaptés pour autoriser une surcourse sans précontrainte excessive.Switch according to claim 1, characterized in that the boss (9) has, at its ends, rounded (9b, 9c) adapted to allow overtravel without excessive preload. Interrupteur électrique, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend au moins deux ressorts partiellement superposés (27, 28) précontraints, déformables et profilés de manière à pouvoir assurer à la fois une fonction de contact et une fonction ressort, dont une extrémité (29, 31) est fixée à un pivot (32) et dont les extrémités opposées forment des pattes terminales déplaçables (33, 34), l'empilement formé par les deux ressorts étant symétrique par rapport à un plan (P) perpendiculaire au plan général dudit empilement et passant par le pivot fixe, et ces ressorts présentent entre leurs extrémités une partie incurvée (35, 36) pouvant servir d'appui à un organe de poussée (42) et de déformation des ressorts d'un côté ou de l'autre, entraînant la détente de l'un des ressorts et le déplacement de la patte terminale de ce dernier d'une position centrale jusqu'à un contact latéral (43, 44) ou vice-versa, et chaque patte terminale (33, 34) est raccordée à une rampe (33a, 34a) de glissement de la patte sur un plot central (45) durant les déplacements de l'autre patte de la position centrale jusqu'au contact latéral ou vice-versa.Electric switch, characterized in that it comprises at least two partially superimposed springs (27, 28) prestressed, deformable and shaped so as to be able to perform both a contact function and a spring function, one end of which (29, 31 ) is fixed to a pivot (32) and the opposite ends of which form movable end legs (33, 34), the stack formed by the two springs being symmetrical with respect to a plane (P) perpendicular to the general plane of said stack and passing through the fixed pivot, and these springs have between their ends a curved part (35, 36) which can serve as a support for a thrust member (42) and for deformation of the springs on one side or the other, causing the relaxation of one of the springs and the displacement of the end tab of the latter from a central position to a lateral contact (43, 44) or vice versa, and each end tab (33, 34) is connected at a ram pe (33a, 34a) of sliding of the tab on a central stud (45) during the movements of the other tab from the central position to the lateral contact or vice versa. Interrupteur selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que son profil et sa précontrainte sont déterminés pour qu'au repos cet interrupteur exerce sur un contact (14, 43, 44) une pression définie et constante.Switch according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that its profile and its preload are determined so that at rest this switch exerts on a contact (14, 43, 44) a defined and constant pressure.
EP93403045A 1992-12-21 1993-12-15 Electric switch Withdrawn EP0604273A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9215414 1992-12-21
FR9215414A FR2699727B1 (en) 1992-12-21 1992-12-21 Electric switch.

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EP0604273A1 true EP0604273A1 (en) 1994-06-29

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US (1) US5495080A (en)
EP (1) EP0604273A1 (en)
JP (1) JPH06295636A (en)
CN (1) CN1089752A (en)
FR (1) FR2699727B1 (en)
MX (1) MX9307995A (en)

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US6215081B1 (en) 1998-08-31 2001-04-10 Brigham Young University Bistable compliant mechanism
US6757975B1 (en) 2001-01-25 2004-07-06 Brigham Young University Multi-layered compliant mechanisms and method of manufacture
TWI275024B (en) * 2005-08-15 2007-03-01 Asustek Comp Inc A kinetic passing element applied to a button structure
US20150280515A1 (en) 2014-03-28 2015-10-01 Black & Decker Inc. Integrated Electronic Switch and Control Module for a Power Tool
US10541588B2 (en) 2017-05-24 2020-01-21 Black & Decker Inc. Electronic power module for a power tool having an integrated heat sink

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DE2437615B1 (en) * 1974-08-05 1976-01-22 Siemens Ag ELECTRIC SWITCH FOR HIGH CURRENT CAPACITY
US3946185A (en) * 1974-08-21 1976-03-23 Intersil, Inc. Spring wire contact assembly
DE2841675A1 (en) * 1978-09-25 1980-03-27 Siemens Ag Switch with bent sprung wire contact element - which engages one or two adjacent hooked contacts in support
EP0016550A1 (en) * 1979-03-10 1980-10-01 AMP INCORPORATED (a New Jersey corporation) Electrical switch with resilient contact arm
WO1990010943A1 (en) * 1989-03-14 1990-09-20 Microtronic A/S Electric switch
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US5495080A (en) 1996-02-27
MX9307995A (en) 1994-08-31
FR2699727B1 (en) 1995-03-17
FR2699727A1 (en) 1994-06-24
CN1089752A (en) 1994-07-20
JPH06295636A (en) 1994-10-21

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