EP0673049B1 - Electric push-button switch - Google Patents

Electric push-button switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0673049B1
EP0673049B1 EP95103148A EP95103148A EP0673049B1 EP 0673049 B1 EP0673049 B1 EP 0673049B1 EP 95103148 A EP95103148 A EP 95103148A EP 95103148 A EP95103148 A EP 95103148A EP 0673049 B1 EP0673049 B1 EP 0673049B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
switch
switch according
pushbutton
pushbutton element
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP95103148A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0673049A1 (en
Inventor
Günter Schulte-Lippern
Michael Knorr
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ABB Patent GmbH
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ABB Patent GmbH
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Publication date
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Publication of EP0673049A1 publication Critical patent/EP0673049A1/en
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Publication of EP0673049B1 publication Critical patent/EP0673049B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02—Details
    • H01H13/023—Light-emitting indicators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02—Details
    • H01H13/12—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
    • H01H13/14—Operating parts, e.g. push-button

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an electrical pushbutton switch, for example off, series, changeover, series changeover switch or cross switch or pushbutton, with a pushbutton element acted upon by at least one return spring in its starting position with a large-area push-button cap that can be fitted on the front for actuating at least one contact point, each is formed by at least one movable contact piece attached to a contact rocker in a fixed contact piece, which contact point is arranged in a base and is connected to associated screwless connecting terminals which are used in chamber-like spaces in the base and can be actuated by release buttons located on an upper part which can be locked with the base , Which upper part can additionally be connected to the base by means of a flared bushing and has a guide directed perpendicular to the mounting surface for the pushbutton element which is slidably locked to the upper part, and a recess for receiving e of a lamp.
  • an electrical pushbutton switch for example off, series, changeover, series changeover switch or cross switch or pushb
  • Such a switching device is known from DE 30 43 133 A1, the actuating element of which is covered on the outside by a flat cap and can be actuated vertically in the direction of the mounting surface.
  • a disadvantage of this configuration is the fact that when the actuating cap is eccentrically loaded, the actuating element jams as a result of tilting, which leads to malfunctions in the function of the switching device. This is despite the fact that the actuating cap has a comparatively small actuating area in relation to the overall size of the switching device, which runs counter to today's design requirements. Although a larger cap adapted to these requirements could be put on, the risk of malfunctions then increases as a result of the actuating element tilting.
  • the switching device should offer the possibility of being provided with glare-free lighting, which is effective, for example, as an orientation light to indicate the position of the actuating element.
  • the pushbutton element used to actuate the associated contact point is designed as a cylindrical shell, which projects above the upper part and whose enclosed cross-section approximately covers the surface of the upper part and the base which is locked with it, so that at least the area of the pushbutton element projecting above the upper part is made translucent is and that an opaque key cap is placed on the front of each key element.
  • the switch according to the invention can be designed both as a simple switch or changeover switch and as a series or series changeover switch.
  • the switch according to the invention has two switching systems which can be actuated independently of one another and which accordingly require functionally separate actuating elements.
  • the pushbutton element which is designed as a closed hollow cylindrical shell in the case of the off, changeover and cross switch or pushbutton, is designed as an open shell for use in the series or series changeover switch, that is to say as axially longitudinally divided cylinder shells.
  • these open cylinder shells are designed as half shells or quarter shells, whereby they always complement each other to form a full hollow cylinder and slide and support each other along their parting lines.
  • parting lines with a longitudinal profile and, if necessary, to also form-fit couplings, for example interlocking undercuts which do not allow a relative displacement in the axial direction but do not allow the individual shells to diverge radially.
  • touch element thus includes both the closed shell variant and the composite variant, with existing deviations being dealt with separately if necessary.
  • the cylindrical design of the feeler element ensures that the feeler element does not tilt even when the feeler cap placed on the face is eccentrically applied, since the projection of the feeler cap with respect to the surface line of the feeler element is too small as a result of the tilting moments being introduced into the feeler element due to the inventive design that could cause it to tilt.
  • the cover cap is designed to be opaque and not, as is generally known, to be translucent. If necessary, however, it can be provided with a punctiform window insert.
  • the cylindrical shell of each pushbutton element is designed to be translucent, at least in the front area projecting above the upper part, so that the light originating from the lamp arranged in the interior emerges in a ring-shaped manner and thereby displays the local position of the actuating element in an appealing manner without glare.
  • each actuating element or each key element always returns to its initial position after actuation, thereby leaving an annular space between the electrical switch and the key cap, which ensures the lateral passage of light or light emission, while the attached key cap prevents light emission from the front.
  • each probe element engages in the neck-like cylindrical extension on the upper part and is held therein by means of a snap connection.
  • At least one keystroke is formed on the back of the pushing element, which cooperates with the top part, on the back of the pushing element. It is expedient to arrange the keystrokes on the circumference of the cylindrical probe element.
  • each feeler element is designed to be non-rotatable and is provided with guide elements which are arranged on its circumference, that is to say at least two locations on the circumference of each feeler element, preferably at six circumferential positions, and which engage in slide guides in the upper part.
  • the guide elements can be spherical, namely as balls mounted on the circumference of the sensing element or as spherical cams formed on the circumference of each sensing element.
  • the guide elements can also be designed in the form of rolls or by axially parallel integrations on the circumference of each probe element, for example with a rectangular or semicircular cross section.
  • the translucency of the pushbutton element in the area projecting above the upper part can be achieved by means of recesses, such as slots, which are evenly distributed.
  • the bowl-shaped sensing element is made entirely of translucent material, which supports the desired lighting effect due to its translucent and light-guiding properties.
  • the probe element engages over the cylindrical neck to the upper part.
  • the snap connection or stroke limitation also provided in this case can be implemented by appropriate shaping on the feeler element and on the cylindrical extension or by recesses in the upper part for latching webs engaging therein that extend from the feeler element.
  • a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that a centrally arranged light funnel is arranged in the upper part for the guiding element as a reflector for a lamp inserted therein.
  • This light funnel is held by a hollow cylindrical support which is provided with a recess in the lateral surface which serves for the lateral insertion of a lamp holder.
  • the lamp holder which is used to hold a plug-in lamp that can be inserted from the front, supplies it with current and has feed contacts for this purpose, which can be connected to the connection terminals.
  • the lamp holder has Plug contacts which are connected to the feed contacts and are arranged such that they virtually automatically contact the current-carrying connecting terminals when the lamp holder is inserted into the hollow cylindrical holding support for the light funnel.
  • the lamp holder is made as a plastic part with inserted metal conductors using what is known as insert technology, which simplifies its handling. The correct installation of the lamp holder is ensured by appropriate shaping of the lamp holder on the one hand and the recess provided for this purpose in the housing and in the support.
  • a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that at least one bore for receiving and guiding the pivot axis of a switching rocker is formed in each sensing element, which is used to act upon the contact rocker of the associated contact point.
  • At least two return springs arranged opposite one another on the circumference are provided, which are preferably designed as helical compression springs and each engage in bores provided on the base and on the pushbutton element.
  • the bores on the pushbutton element are arranged in such a way that they cooperate with the bores for the pivot axis of the rocker switch in such a way that the associated return spring acts on the one hand on the pushbutton element in its initial position and at the same time the rocker switch in a central position. This is achieved by appropriate profiling of the swivel axis.
  • each probe element is acted upon by at least one return spring, the arrangement and configuration of which corresponds to the previously explained embodiment.
  • each contact rocker is acted upon by an ⁇ -shaped contact spring, which ensures two stable positions of the contact rocker in which contact with the associated contact pieces is ensured .
  • the contact spring is designed as a leaf spring and stored in cutting edges. Their positioning force is dimensioned in such a way that possible electromagnetic lifting forces on the contacts are surely overcome, so that incorrect contacts are reliably excluded.
  • a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the pivoting angle of the rocker switch is limited by corresponding molded parts on the sensing element.
  • a preferred embodiment of the invention is that the guide elements are arranged on the outer surface of the probe element or on its inner surface. In special cases it can also be provided that the guide elements are arranged on the outer surface and additionally on the inner surface of the feeler element. Corresponding to this, guide tracks are formed on the outer circumference of the support holding the light funnel as well as on the inside of the cylindrical extension or on the outside thereof, in which the respective guide elements engage on the feeler element.
  • the stationary contact pieces and the contact rocker with the at least one movable contact piece are expediently each arranged in chamber-like indentations in the base, which are covered by the upper part.
  • the switch according to the invention is suitable for both surface and flush mounting, whereby for flush mounting the possibility is created to connect it with a support ring.
  • This connection is expediently carried out with the aid of the flare bushings mentioned at the beginning.
  • These flare sleeves are advantageously provided with an internal thread, into each of which an adjusting screw can be screwed, which are used to fasten a support strut.
  • a preferred embodiment of the invention consists in that a self-resetting strut with integrated strut return spring is used on the complete switch for flush mounting with a support ring, which can be acted upon by the adjusting screw.
  • the strut return spring designed as a leaf spring is integrally connected to the relevant strut and is supported with its free end on a strut of the support ring designed as a slideway.
  • a preferred embodiment of the invention for flush mounting provides for arranging access openings to the connection terminals for the conductors to be connected on the rear of the base, in order to achieve easier handling during assembly of the switch which is ready for installation.
  • the switch according to the invention When used as a surface-mounted device, the switch according to the invention has a so-called outer housing.
  • a base with lateral access openings is provided or a spacer which interacts with the surrounding housing and ensures the accessibility of the access openings arranged on the rear.
  • spacers are known per se, so that they will not be discussed further here.
  • the surrounding housing is provided with a recess on the front through which the pushbutton element passes through and picks up the attachable probe cap.
  • a central disk is provided instead of the surrounding housing, which has a cutout for the pushbutton element, which is surmounted by the pushbutton cap.
  • FIG. 1 shows a pushbutton switch 10 according to the invention with its main parts, namely an actuating element 12, an upper part 14, an attachment 16 integrally molded thereon and a base 18, the construction and mode of operation of which will be described in more detail below.
  • the actuating element 12 is in the form of a shell made up of a hollow cylindrical sensing element 20 and a sensing cap 28, which are formed as an injection molded part made of electrically insulating material, preferably plastic.
  • a thermoset is particularly suitable for the touch cap 28, which ensures sufficient surface quality with regard to the required scratch resistance.
  • the feeler element 20, however, is preferably made of a thermoplastic that is translucent or transparent at least in its upper region 21.
  • the feeler element 20 has, on its circumference, evenly distributed axially parallel elongated bulges 22, on which guide elements 23 are arranged, which in the example shown are designed as integrally formed ball cams. Instead, it is also possible to provide balls which are guided in corresponding ball bushings and which support the actuating element 12 which is inserted and mounted in the shoulder 16 of the upper part 14 in slide guides 33 arranged therein. In the axial extension of the axially parallel bulges 22, locking hooks 24 are formed on the feeler element 20, which cooperate with detents provided in the upper part 14 for this purpose, not shown in FIG. 1.2, in the assembled state.
  • a stop 25 is formed in each case at the point of connection of these latching hooks to the cylindrical body of the feeler element 20, which serves as a stroke limitation for the actuating element 12 in the assembled state of the switch 10.
  • a pivot guide for a rocker switch 27, also referred to as a contact slide, is arranged diametrically opposite each other between two bulges 22.
  • the rocker switch 27 engages with a swivel axis in the swivel guide 26 and serves to actuate a contact point located in the base 18 and assigned to the rocker switch 27.
  • At least two return springs 29 are provided, which are engaged in pairs, diametrically opposite on the one hand with the actuating element 12 and on the other hand with the base 18, reaching through the upper part 14.
  • the restoring springs 29 are preferably designed as helical compression springs and ensure a uniformly applied restoring force for restoring the actuating element 12.
  • a neck-shaped extension 16 is integrally formed, in which the actuating element 12 slidably engages and which has in its interior a light funnel 30 with a central recess 31 which is held by a cylindrical support 32.
  • the light funnel 30 serves as a reflector for the light emanating from the lamp penetrating the recess 31.
  • a front light emission is prevented by the opaque touch cap 28, so that only a radial light emission is possible through the touch element 20, at least through its translucent upper, conically widening region 21.
  • Both the approximately cylindrical extension 16 and the cylindrical support 32 are longitudinally profiled and thereby form slideways 33 for the guide elements 23 arranged on the cylindrical pushbutton element 20.
  • the guide elements 23 can, depending on the particular design of the pushbutton switch 10 according to the invention, namely be arranged as a switch or changeover switch or as a series switch, both on the outer circumferential surface and on the inner circumferential surface of the sensing element 20. Accordingly, sliding guides 33 are provided on the cylindrical extension 16 on its inner surface and on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical support 32 sliding guides 33.
  • the upper part 14 shown in FIG. 1.2 has, on its lower region adjoining the base 18 shown in FIG. 1.3, integrally molded on two opposite sides, downwardly angled spring clips 34, which serve to actuate screwless connecting terminals arranged in the base 18.
  • Snap-on eyelets 35 and guide webs 36 are formed on the transverse sides of the upper part 14, which correspond to corresponding snap-in lugs and guide surfaces on the base 18.
  • a projection 37 with a bore 38 is provided in the center between the locking eyelets 35, through which a flared bushing arranged in the base 18 extends through in the assembled state and connects the upper part 14 to the base 18 in a non-detachable manner.
  • the base 18 is subdivided in a manner known per se with a contact chamber which is insulated from one another by partitions and which holds at least one contact point 40, which is clearly shown in FIG. 3, and individual connecting terminals 50, which are shown in more detail in FIGS .
  • the chamber-like spaces provided in the base 18 for the contact points 40 or connecting terminals 50 are initially freely accessible from above before the upper part 14 is placed on the base 18 and closes off the chamber-like spaces.
  • the chambers for the connecting terminals 50 arranged for this purpose on opposite sides of the base 18 are provided with recesses 45 into which the release buttons 43 arranged on the upper part 14 engage.
  • Lugs 46 are integrally formed on the smooth-faced side walls of the base 18, into which the snap eyes 35 provided on the upper part 14 snap.
  • box-shaped projections 47 are also formed in the center on the base 18, each of which is formed to be open at the bottom and has a bore 48 corresponding to the bore 38 in the upper part 14, through which the already existing mentioned flare bushing passes through.
  • FIG. 3 shows the contact point 40 already mentioned, which is formed from a lower contact 42, an upper contact 43 and a movable contact 44. All contacts are connected via corresponding flat conductors to terminals 50, which are each designed as screwless terminals and are each provided with a contact spring 51 shown in FIG. 6.
  • the lower contact 42 is shown in more detail in FIG. 4 and the upper contact 43 can be seen in FIG.
  • FIG. 7 shows the movable contact 44, which is formed by a contact rocker 54 acted upon by an ⁇ -shaped leaf spring 52.
  • the movable contact 44 is also connected to a connecting terminal 50 via a flat conductor.
  • FIG. 8 shows a lamp holder 39 with a T-shaped outline, which has a holder 57, into which a lamp 60 shown above in FIG. 8 can be inserted in the assembled state.
  • the socket 57 is an elongated recess arranged in the web of the T-shaped lamp holder 39, on the opposite longitudinal sides of which an electrical conductor 57 is arranged, which is inside the lamp holder 39 in accordance with the insert technique used here insulated from the other conductor to a contact 58, 59.
  • the contacts 58, 59 are each supported on support webs 60 and, when the lamp holder is inserted into the cylindrical extension 16 of the upper part 14, each fit into the associated connecting terminals 50 located in the base by means of a precisely fitting recess.
  • the plug-in lamp 62 has, on its base 64 provided for engagement in the socket 56, conductors 66 arranged on the broad sides, which contact the conductors 57 arranged in the socket 56.
  • FIG. 9 shows a pushbutton switch 11 according to the invention, the details of which correspond largely to the pushbutton switch 10 shown in FIG. 1.
  • the key switch 11 according to FIG. 9 is provided as a series switch with two actuating elements 12 and with a support ring 17 with spreaders 19 arranged thereon and is thus prepared for flush mounting.
  • the actuating elements 12 are each designed as half cylinders, the axially parallel separating surfaces being able to slide relative to one another and being supported against one another.
  • the support ring 17 is fastened in a known manner by means of screws to flare bushings, not shown here, which reach into the chambers prepared for this purpose in the projections 47 on the base 18 and through the openings 48 and 38 in the upper part.
  • the spreaders 19 are designed as self-resetting spreaders with an integrated return spring, as can be seen in the illustration in FIG. 9.2.
  • the actuating elements 13 known from FIG. 9.1 are shown individually in an oblique view in FIG. 10, the cover caps 28 being removed. It can be seen that the upper region 21, which is also designed to be translucent, is each provided with a reinforcing insert which gives the half-cylinder greater rigidity.
  • the other features shown correspond to the features known from FIG. 2. However, differently from this, additional sliding elements 23 are also arranged on the inner surface of each half cylinder, which are supported on slideways which are supported on the cylindrical support 32 for the light funnel 30 in the cylindrical extension 16 of the upper part 14.

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  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)

Abstract

The switch has at least one spring-biased push-button element (12), fitted with a front push-button cap (28) for operating at least one pair of contacts, contained within a respective chamber provided by a base, together with the corresponding terminals. A top part (14) fitted to the base has a release button for the contacts and a vertical guide for the push-button element, together with a lamp recess (31). The push-button element is provided by a cylindrical shell projecting beyond the top part, with a cross-section corresponding to the surface of the top part, at least the projecting part being transparent, as is the front push-button cap.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen elektrischen Tastschalter, zum Beispiel Aus-, Serien-, Wechsel-, Serienwechsel- oder Kreuzschalter beziehungsweise Taster, mit einem von wenigstens einer Rückstellfeder in seine Ausgangsstellung beaufschlagten Tastelement mit einer frontseitig aufsetzbaren großflächigen Tastkappe zur Betätigung wenigstens einer Kontaktstelle, die je von wenigstens einem an einer Kontaktwippe angebrachten beweglichen Kontaktstück in einem ortsfesten Kontaktstück gebildet ist, welche Kontaktstelle in einem Sockel angeordnet und mit zugeordneten schraubenlosen Anschlußklemmen verbunden ist, die in kammerartigen Räumen im Sockel eingesetzt und von an einem mit dem Sockel verrastbaren Oberteil befindlichen Lösetasten betätigbar sind, welches Oberteil zusätzlich mittels Bördelbuchse mit dem Sockel verbindbar ist und eine senkrecht zur Montagefläche gerichtete Führung für das mit dem Oberteil gleitend verrastete Tastelement aufweist sowie eine Ausnehmung zur Aufnahme einer Lampe.The invention relates to an electrical pushbutton switch, for example off, series, changeover, series changeover switch or cross switch or pushbutton, with a pushbutton element acted upon by at least one return spring in its starting position with a large-area push-button cap that can be fitted on the front for actuating at least one contact point, each is formed by at least one movable contact piece attached to a contact rocker in a fixed contact piece, which contact point is arranged in a base and is connected to associated screwless connecting terminals which are used in chamber-like spaces in the base and can be actuated by release buttons located on an upper part which can be locked with the base , Which upper part can additionally be connected to the base by means of a flared bushing and has a guide directed perpendicular to the mounting surface for the pushbutton element which is slidably locked to the upper part, and a recess for receiving e of a lamp.

Bekannte elektrische Schaltgeräte, welche nach heutigen Design-Gesichtspunkten gestaltet sind, weisen üblicherweise großflächige Betätigungselemente auf, welche entsprechend dem technisch realisierten Schaltvorgang in Form einer Wippbewegung als Schalterwippe ausgebildet sind.Known electrical switching devices, which are designed according to today's design criteria, usually have large-area actuating elements, which accordingly the technically implemented switching process in the form of a rocking movement are designed as a rocker switch.

Zwangsläufig ist hierdurch eine von der jeweiligen Schaltstellung abhängige unterschiedliche Lage der Schalterwippe, zum Beispiel eine versenkte Lage oder Neigung der Betätigungsfläche, verursacht, wodurch der ästhetische Eindruck der so gestalteten Geräteanordnung beeinträchtigt wird.This inevitably causes a different position of the switch rocker, depending on the respective switching position, for example a recessed position or inclination of the actuating surface, as a result of which the aesthetic impression of the device arrangement designed in this way is impaired.

Um diesen Nachteil zu vermeiden, sind Schaltgeräte geschaffen worden, bei welchen die Betätigungselemente jeweils nach Betätigung in ihre Ausgangsstellung zurückkehren. Hierdurch wird eine von der jeweiligen Schaltstellung unabhängige einheitliche Lage der Betätigungselemente in bezug auf die gesamte Geräteanordnung eingehalten.In order to avoid this disadvantage, switching devices have been created in which the actuating elements return to their starting position after actuation. As a result, a uniform position of the actuating elements with respect to the entire device arrangement, which is independent of the respective switching position, is maintained.

Ein derartiges Schaltgerät ist aus der DE 30 43 133 A1 bekannt, dessen Betätigungselement nach außen von einer ebenen Kappe abgedeckt ist und senkrecht in Richtung auf die Montagefläche zu betätigbar ist.Such a switching device is known from DE 30 43 133 A1, the actuating element of which is covered on the outside by a flat cap and can be actuated vertically in the direction of the mounting surface.

Von Nachteil bei dieser Ausgestaltung ist der Umstand, daß bei außermittiger Beaufschlagung der Betätigungskappe das Betätigungselement sich infolge Verkantens verklemmt, was zu Störungen der Funktion des Schaltgeräts führt. Und dies, obwohl die Betätigungskappe im Verhältnis zur Gesamtgröße des Schaltgerätes eine vergleichsweise kleine Betätigungsfläche aufweist, was den heutigen Designerfordernissen zuwiderläuft. Zwar könnte eine diesen Erfordernissen angepaßte größere Kappe aufgesetzt werden, doch vergrößert sich dann infolge Verkantens des Betätigungselementes die Gefahr von Fehlfunktionen.A disadvantage of this configuration is the fact that when the actuating cap is eccentrically loaded, the actuating element jams as a result of tilting, which leads to malfunctions in the function of the switching device. This is despite the fact that the actuating cap has a comparatively small actuating area in relation to the overall size of the switching device, which runs counter to today's design requirements. Although a larger cap adapted to these requirements could be put on, the risk of malfunctions then increases as a result of the actuating element tilting.

Ausgehend von diesem Stand der Technik ist es daher Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, ein Schaltgerät der eingangs genannten Art zu schaffen, welches entsprechend den vorstehend erläuterten Designerfordernissen mit einem großflächigen Handbetätigungselement versehen ist, ohne daß hierdurch Funktionsstörungen beziehungsweise Fehlbedienungen auftreten. Darüberhinaus soll das Schaltgerät die Möglichkeit bieten, mit einer blendfreien Beleuchtung versehen werden zu können, die zum Beispiel als Orientierungslicht wirksam ist, um die Lage des Betätigungselements anzuzeigen.Starting from this prior art, it is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a switching device of the type mentioned at the outset which has a large surface area in accordance with the design requirements explained above Manual actuating element is provided without this resulting in malfunctions or incorrect operation. In addition, the switching device should offer the possibility of being provided with glare-free lighting, which is effective, for example, as an orientation light to indicate the position of the actuating element.

Erfindungsgemäß wird diese Aufgabe durch die Merkmale des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst. Danach ist vorgesehen, daß das zur Betätigung der zugeordneten Kontaktstelle dienende Tastelement als zylindrische Schale ausgebildet ist, die das Oberteil überragt und deren umschlossener Querschnitt annähernd die Fläche des Oberteils und des hiermit verrasteten Sockels umfaßt, daß zumindest der das Oberteil überragende Bereich des Tastelements lichtdurchlässig ausgebildet ist und daß auf jedes Tastelement eine lichtundurchlässige Tastkappe frontseitig aufgesetzt ist.According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features of patent claim 1. According to this, it is provided that the pushbutton element used to actuate the associated contact point is designed as a cylindrical shell, which projects above the upper part and whose enclosed cross-section approximately covers the surface of the upper part and the base which is locked with it, so that at least the area of the pushbutton element projecting above the upper part is made translucent is and that an opaque key cap is placed on the front of each key element.

Wie eingangs angegeben, kann der erfindungsgemäße Schalter sowohl als einfacher Ausschalter oder Wechselschalter ausgestaltet sein als auch als Serien- oder Serienwechselschalter. Im letzteren Fall besitzt der erfindungsgemäße Schalter zwei voneinander unabhängig betätigbare Schaltsysteme, welche dementsprechend funktionell getrennte Betätigungselemente erfordern.As stated at the beginning, the switch according to the invention can be designed both as a simple switch or changeover switch and as a series or series changeover switch. In the latter case, the switch according to the invention has two switching systems which can be actuated independently of one another and which accordingly require functionally separate actuating elements.

Demgemäß ist das Tastelement, das beim Aus-, Wechsel- und Kreuzschalter beziehungsweise Taster als geschlossene hohlzylindrische Schale ausgebildet ist, für die Verwendung beim Serien- oder Serienwechselschalter als offene Schale ausgebildet, das heißt als axial längsgeteilte Zylinderschalen. Je nach Anzahl der angestrebten Schaltmodule je Schalter sind diese offenen Zylinderschalen als Halbschalen oder Viertelschalen ausgebildet, wobei sie sich stets zu einem vollen Hohlzylinder ergänzen und entlang ihrer Trennfugen aneinander gleiten und abstützen.Accordingly, the pushbutton element, which is designed as a closed hollow cylindrical shell in the case of the off, changeover and cross switch or pushbutton, is designed as an open shell for use in the series or series changeover switch, that is to say as axially longitudinally divided cylinder shells. Depending on the number of desired switching modules per switch, these open cylinder shells are designed as half shells or quarter shells, whereby they always complement each other to form a full hollow cylinder and slide and support each other along their parting lines.

Um die gegenseitige Abstützung zu verbessern, kann ferner vorgesehen sein, die Trennfugen mit einem Längsprofil zu versehen und gegebenenfalls auch formschlüssige Kupplungen anzuformen, zum Beispiel ineinandergreifende Hinterschneidungen, die eine relative Verschiebung in axialer Richtung zulassen nicht aber ein radiales Auseinandergehen der einzelnen Schalen.In order to improve the mutual support, provision can further be made to provide the parting lines with a longitudinal profile and, if necessary, to also form-fit couplings, for example interlocking undercuts which do not allow a relative displacement in the axial direction but do not allow the individual shells to diverge radially.

Im folgenden beziehen sich die Ausführungen auf jede Art der zuvor beschriebenen Tastelemente. Der Begriff Tastelement schließt also sowohl die geschlossene Schalen-Variante als auch die zusammengesetzte Variante ein, wobei bedarfsweise auf bestehende Abweichungen gesondert eingegangen wird.In the following, the explanations relate to each type of the probe element described above. The term touch element thus includes both the closed shell variant and the composite variant, with existing deviations being dealt with separately if necessary.

Die zylindrische Ausgestaltung des Tastelements stellt sicher, daß auch bei außermittiger Beaufschlagung der stirnseitig aufgesetzten Tastkappe das Tastelement nicht verkantet, da aufgrund der erfindungsgemäßen Ausgestaltung der Überstand der Tastkappe in bezug auf die Mantellinie des Tastelements zu gering ist, als das hierdurch Kippmomente in das Tastelement eingeleitet werden könnten, die zu dessen Verkanten führen.The cylindrical design of the feeler element ensures that the feeler element does not tilt even when the feeler cap placed on the face is eccentrically applied, since the projection of the feeler cap with respect to the surface line of the feeler element is too small as a result of the tilting moments being introduced into the feeler element due to the inventive design that could cause it to tilt.

Ein weiteres bedeutsames Merkmal der Erfindung ist darin zu sehen, daß die Abdeckkappe lichtundurchlässig ausgestaltet ist und nicht, wie allgemein verbreitet, lichtdurchlässig. Bedarfsweise kann sie jedoch mit einem punktförmigen Fenstereinsatz versehen sein. Stattdessen ist die zylindrische Schale jedes Tastelements zumindest in dem frontseitigen, das Oberteil überragenden Bereich lichtdurchlässig ausgebildet, so daß das von der im Inneren angeordneten Lampe herrührende Licht ringförmig austritt und hierdurch auf ansprechende Weise blendfrei die örtliche Lage des Betätigungselementes anzeigt. Diese der Aura der Sonne bei einer Sonnenfinsternis vergleichbare Ausleuchtung ist dadurch gewährleistet, daß jedes Betätigungselement beziehungsweise jedes Tastelement nach Betätigung stets in seine Ausgangsstellung zurückkehrt und hierbei einen Ringraum zwischen dem elektrischen Schalter und der Tastkappe freiläßt, der den seitlichen Lichtdurchtritt beziehungsweise Lichtaustritt gewährleistet, während die aufgesetzte Tastkappe frontseitigen Lichtaustritt verhindert.Another important feature of the invention can be seen in the fact that the cover cap is designed to be opaque and not, as is generally known, to be translucent. If necessary, however, it can be provided with a punctiform window insert. Instead, the cylindrical shell of each pushbutton element is designed to be translucent, at least in the front area projecting above the upper part, so that the light originating from the lamp arranged in the interior emerges in a ring-shaped manner and thereby displays the local position of the actuating element in an appealing manner without glare. This illumination comparable to the aura of the sun in a solar eclipse is ensured by the fact that each actuating element or each key element always returns to its initial position after actuation, thereby leaving an annular space between the electrical switch and the key cap, which ensures the lateral passage of light or light emission, while the attached key cap prevents light emission from the front.

In vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung, das heißt zur Erhöhung seiner Kompaktheit und gleichzeitig zur Verbesserung seiner Funktion, ist vorgesehen, an das Oberteil einen hohlzylindrischen Ansatz anzuformen, welcher als Führung für das Tastelement dient. Dabei ist gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform vorgesehen, daß jedes Tastelement in den stutzenähnlichen zylindrischen Ansatz am Oberteil eingreift und hierin mittels Schnappverbindung gehalten ist.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, that is to increase its compactness and at the same time to improve its function, it is provided to form a hollow cylindrical projection on the upper part, which serves as a guide for the feeler element. It is provided according to a preferred embodiment that each probe element engages in the neck-like cylindrical extension on the upper part and is held therein by means of a snap connection.

In bevorzugter Weiterbildung der Erfindung kann ferner vorgesehen sein, daß an der in das Oberteil eintauchenden Rückseite jedes Tastelements wenigstens ein Tastanschlag, vorteilhafterweise jedoch paarweise zueinander versetzte Tastanschläge, zur Hubbegrenzung angeformt ist, der mit dem Oberteil zusammenarbeitet. Hierbei ist es zweckmäßig, die Tastanschläge am Umfang des zylindrischen Tastelements anzuordnen.In a preferred development of the invention it can further be provided that at least one keystroke, advantageously, however, paired mutually offset keystrokes, is formed on the back of the pushing element, which cooperates with the top part, on the back of the pushing element. It is expedient to arrange the keystrokes on the circumference of the cylindrical probe element.

Eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform der Erfindung sieht vor, daß jedes Tastelement drehfest ausgebildet und mit an seinem Umfang verteilt, das heißt an wenigstens zwei Stellen des Umfangs je Tastelement, vorzugsweise an sechs Umfangspositionen, angeordneten Führungselementen versehen ist, die in Gleitführungen im Oberteil eingreifen. Hierbei können die Führungselemente kugelförmig ausgebildet sein, nämlich als am Umfang des Tastelements gelagerte Kugeln beziehungsweise als am Umfang jedes Tastelements angeformte Kugelnocken. Stattdessen können die Führungselemente auch rollenförmig ausgebildet sein oder durch achsparallele Anformungen am Umfang jedes Tastelements mit zum Beispiel rechteckigem oder halbrundem Querschnitt.A preferred embodiment of the invention provides that each feeler element is designed to be non-rotatable and is provided with guide elements which are arranged on its circumference, that is to say at least two locations on the circumference of each feeler element, preferably at six circumferential positions, and which engage in slide guides in the upper part. Here, the guide elements can be spherical, namely as balls mounted on the circumference of the sensing element or as spherical cams formed on the circumference of each sensing element. Instead, the guide elements can also be designed in the form of rolls or by axially parallel integrations on the circumference of each probe element, for example with a rectangular or semicircular cross section.

In weiterer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann die Lichtdurchlässigkeit des Tastelements in dem das Oberteil überragenden Bereich durch gleichmäßig verteilt angeordnete Ausnehmungen, wie zum Beispiel Schlitze, erreicht werden.In a further embodiment of the invention, the translucency of the pushbutton element in the area projecting above the upper part can be achieved by means of recesses, such as slots, which are evenly distributed.

Gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform jedoch ist das schalenförmige Tastelement insgesamt aus transluzentem Material gefertigt, welches aufgrund seiner lichtdurchlässigen und lichtleitenden Eigenschaften die angestrebte Leuchtwirkung unterstützt.According to a preferred embodiment, however, the bowl-shaped sensing element is made entirely of translucent material, which supports the desired lighting effect due to its translucent and light-guiding properties.

Anstelle des in den zylindrischen Ansatz eingreifenden Tastelements kann auch in weiterer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung vorgesehen sein, daß das Tastelement den zylindrischen Ansatz zum Oberteil übergreift. Die auch in diesem Fall vorgesehene Schnappverbindung beziehungsweise Hubbegrenzung kann durch entsprechende Anformungen am Tastelement und am zylindrischen Ansatz beziehungsweise durch Ausnehmungen im Oberteil für hierin angreifende, vom Tastelement ausgehende Raststege verwirklicht sein.Instead of the probe element engaging in the cylindrical neck, it can also be provided in a further embodiment of the invention that the probe element engages over the cylindrical neck to the upper part. The snap connection or stroke limitation also provided in this case can be implemented by appropriate shaping on the feeler element and on the cylindrical extension or by recesses in the upper part for latching webs engaging therein that extend from the feeler element.

Unabhängig davon, ob das Tastelement in den zylindrischen Ansatz eingreift oder diesen übergreift, ist in weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung vorgesehen, daß in dem Oberteil für das Tastelement vorgesehenen Führung ein zentrisch angeordneter Lichtrichter als Reflektor für eine darin eingesetzte Lampe angeordnet ist. Dieser Lichtrichter ist von einer hohlzylindrischen Stütze gehalten, die mit einer Ausnehmung in der Mantelfläche versehen ist, welche zur seitlichen Einführung eines Lampenhalters dient. Der Lampenhalter, der zur Aufnahme einer frontseitig einsetzbaren Stecklampe dient, versorgt diese mit Strom und weist hierzu Speisekontakte auf, welche mit den Anschlußklemmen verbindbar sind. Hierzu besitzt der Lampenhalter Steckkontakte, die mit den Speisekontakten verbunden sind und derart angeordnet sind, daß sie beim Einführen des Lampenhalters in die hohlzylindrische Haltestütze für den Lichtrichter quasi automatisch die stromführenden Anschlußklemmen kontaktieren. Dabei ist der Lampenhalter als Kunststoffteil mit eingelegten Metalleitern in sogenannter Insert-Technik gefertigt, was seine Handhabung vereinfacht. Durch entsprechende Formgebung des Lampenhalters einerseits und der hierfür vorgesehenen Ausnehmung im Gehäuse und in der Stütze ist der richtige Einbau des Lampenhalters gewährleistet.Regardless of whether the sensing element engages in or engages over the cylindrical projection, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that a centrally arranged light funnel is arranged in the upper part for the guiding element as a reflector for a lamp inserted therein. This light funnel is held by a hollow cylindrical support which is provided with a recess in the lateral surface which serves for the lateral insertion of a lamp holder. The lamp holder, which is used to hold a plug-in lamp that can be inserted from the front, supplies it with current and has feed contacts for this purpose, which can be connected to the connection terminals. For this purpose, the lamp holder has Plug contacts which are connected to the feed contacts and are arranged such that they virtually automatically contact the current-carrying connecting terminals when the lamp holder is inserted into the hollow cylindrical holding support for the light funnel. The lamp holder is made as a plastic part with inserted metal conductors using what is known as insert technology, which simplifies its handling. The correct installation of the lamp holder is ensured by appropriate shaping of the lamp holder on the one hand and the recess provided for this purpose in the housing and in the support.

Eine weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß in jedes Tastelement wenigstens eine Bohrung zur Aufnahme und Führung der Schwenkachse einer Schaltwippe eingeformt ist, welche zur Beaufschlagung der Kontaktwippe der zugeordneten Kontaktstelle dient.A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that at least one bore for receiving and guiding the pivot axis of a switching rocker is formed in each sensing element, which is used to act upon the contact rocker of the associated contact point.

Für die Rückstellung des geschlossenen Tastelements sind wenigstens zwei einander gegenüberliegend am Umfang angeordnete Rückstellfedern vorgesehen, welche vorzugsweise als Schraubendruckfedern ausgebildet sind und jeweils in am Sockel und am Tastelement angebrachte Bohrungen eingreifen.For resetting the closed pushbutton element, at least two return springs arranged opposite one another on the circumference are provided, which are preferably designed as helical compression springs and each engage in bores provided on the base and on the pushbutton element.

In bevorzugter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sind die Bohrungen am Tastelement derart angeordnet, daß sie mit den Bohrungen für die Schwenkachse der Schaltwippe so zusammenwirken, daß die zugehörige Rückstellfeder einerseits das Tastelement in seine Ausgangsstellung beaufschlagt und gleichzeitig die Schaltwippe in eine Mittelstellung. Dies ist durch entsprechende Profilierung der Schwenkachse erreicht.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bores on the pushbutton element are arranged in such a way that they cooperate with the bores for the pivot axis of the rocker switch in such a way that the associated return spring acts on the one hand on the pushbutton element in its initial position and at the same time the rocker switch in a central position. This is achieved by appropriate profiling of the swivel axis.

Bei der Ausführung mit offenen, sich zu einem Hohlzylinder ergänzenden Tastelementen ist jedes Tastelement von wenigstens einer Rückstellfeder beaufschlagt, deren Anordnung und Ausgestaltung der zuvor erläuterten Ausführung entspricht.In the embodiment with open probe elements that complement one another into a hollow cylinder, each probe element is acted upon by at least one return spring, the arrangement and configuration of which corresponds to the previously explained embodiment.

Um im Falle einer Schalthandlung eine einwandfreie Kontaktierung der an der Kontaktwippe befindlichen beweglichen Kontaktstücke mit den zugeordneten festen Kontaktstücken sicher einzuhalten ist jede Kontaktwippe von einer Ω-förmigen Kontaktfeder beaufschlagt, welche zwei stabile Positionen der Kontaktwippe sicherstellt in welcher eine Kontaktierung mit den zugeordneten Kontaktstücken gewährleistet ist. Die Kontaktfeder ist hierbei als Blattfeder ausgebildet und in Schneiden gelagert. Ihre Stellkraft ist so bemessen, daß mögliche elektromagnetische Abhebekräfte an den Kontakten sicher überwunden werden, so daß Fehlkontaktierungen sicher ausgeschlossen sind.In order to ensure that contact between the movable contact pieces on the contact rocker and the associated fixed contact pieces is properly maintained in the event of a switching operation, each contact rocker is acted upon by an Ω-shaped contact spring, which ensures two stable positions of the contact rocker in which contact with the associated contact pieces is ensured . The contact spring is designed as a leaf spring and stored in cutting edges. Their positioning force is dimensioned in such a way that possible electromagnetic lifting forces on the contacts are surely overcome, so that incorrect contacts are reliably excluded.

Eine weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sieht vor, daß der Schwenkwinkel der Schaltwippe durch entsprechende Anformungen am Tastelement begrenzt ist.A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the pivoting angle of the rocker switch is limited by corresponding molded parts on the sensing element.

Eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Erfindung besteht darin, daß die Führungselemente an der Außenfläche des Tastelements oder an seiner Innenfläche angeordnet sind. In besonderen Fällen kann auch vorgesehen sein, daß die Führungselemente an der Außenfläche und zusätzlich an der Innenfläche des Tastelements angeordnet sind. Hiermit korrespondierend sind am Außenumfang der den Lichtrichter haltenden Stütze Führungsbahnen eingeformt ebenso wie auch an der Innenseite des zylindrischen Ansatzes beziehungsweise an dessen Außenseite, in welche die jeweiligen Führungselemente am Tastelement eingreifen.A preferred embodiment of the invention is that the guide elements are arranged on the outer surface of the probe element or on its inner surface. In special cases it can also be provided that the guide elements are arranged on the outer surface and additionally on the inner surface of the feeler element. Corresponding to this, guide tracks are formed on the outer circumference of the support holding the light funnel as well as on the inside of the cylindrical extension or on the outside thereof, in which the respective guide elements engage on the feeler element.

Zweckmäßigerweise sind die ortsfesten Kontaktstücke und die Kontaktwippe mit dem wenigstens einen beweglichen Kontaktstück jeweils in kammerartigen Einformungen im Sockel angeordnet, welche von dem Oberteil überdeckt sind.The stationary contact pieces and the contact rocker with the at least one movable contact piece are expediently each arranged in chamber-like indentations in the base, which are covered by the upper part.

Der erfindungsgemäße Schalter ist sowohl für Aufputz- als auch für Unterputzmontage geeignet, wobei für den Unterputzeinbau die Möglichkeit geschaffen ist, ihn mit einem Tragring zu verbinden. Diese Verbindung erfolgt zweckmäßigerweise mit Hilfe der eingangs erwähnten Bördelbuchsen. Diese Bördelbuchsen sind vorteilhafterweise mit Innengewinde versehen, in welche jeweils eine Stellschraube einschraubbar ist, die zur Befestigung einer Tragspreize dienen.The switch according to the invention is suitable for both surface and flush mounting, whereby for flush mounting the possibility is created to connect it with a support ring. This connection is expediently carried out with the aid of the flare bushings mentioned at the beginning. These flare sleeves are advantageously provided with an internal thread, into each of which an adjusting screw can be screwed, which are used to fasten a support strut.

Eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Erfindung besteht darin, daß an den kompletten für Unterputz-Einbau mit einem Tragring versehenen Schalter eine selbstrückstellende Spreize mit integrierter Spreizenrückstellfeder eingesetzt ist, welche mit der Stellschraube beaufschlagbar ist. Dabei ist die als Blattfeder ausgebildete Spreizenrückstellfeder einstückig mit der betreffenden Spreize verbunden und stützt sich mit ihrem freien Ende an eine als Gleitbahn ausgebildeten Strebe des Tragrings ab.A preferred embodiment of the invention consists in that a self-resetting strut with integrated strut return spring is used on the complete switch for flush mounting with a support ring, which can be acted upon by the adjusting screw. The strut return spring designed as a leaf spring is integrally connected to the relevant strut and is supported with its free end on a strut of the support ring designed as a slideway.

Eine für den Unterputz-Einbau bevorzugte Ausführungsform der Erfindung sieht vor, Zugangsöffnungen zu den Anschlußklemmen für die anzuschließenden Leiter an der Rückseite des Sockels anzuordnen, um so eine einfachere Handhabung bei der Montage des einbaufertigen Schalters zu erreichen.A preferred embodiment of the invention for flush mounting provides for arranging access openings to the connection terminals for the conductors to be connected on the rear of the base, in order to achieve easier handling during assembly of the switch which is ready for installation.

Bei Verwendung als Aufputz-Gerät besitzt der erfindungsgemäße Schalter ein sogenanntes Umgehäuse. Darin ist in erfindungsgemäßer Weiterbildung entweder ein Sockel mit seitlichen Zugangsöffnungen vorgesehen oder ein mit dem Umgehäuse zusammenwirkender Abstandhalter, der die Zugänglichkeit der rückseitig angeordneten Zugangsöffnungen gewährleistet. Derartige Abstandhalter sind an sich bekannt, so daß hier nicht weiter darauf eingegangen wird.When used as a surface-mounted device, the switch according to the invention has a so-called outer housing. In a further development according to the invention, either a base with lateral access openings is provided or a spacer which interacts with the surrounding housing and ensures the accessibility of the access openings arranged on the rear. Such spacers are known per se, so that they will not be discussed further here.

Abhängig davon, ob der erfindungsgemäße Schalter als Aufputzgerät oder als Unterputzgerät zum Einsatz kommen soll, ist im Falle des Aufputzgeräts das Umgehäuse mit einer frontseitigen Ausnehmung versehen, durch welche das Tastelement hindurchtritt und die aufsetzbare Tastkappe aufnimmt. Im Falle des Unterputzgerätes ist anstelle des Umgehäuses eine Zentralscheibe vorgesehen, welche einen Ausschnitt für das Tastelement aufweist, welche von der Tastkappe überragt ist.Depending on whether the switch according to the invention is to be used as a surface-mounted device or as a flush-mounted device, in the case of the surface-mounted device the surrounding housing is provided with a recess on the front through which the pushbutton element passes through and picks up the attachable probe cap. In the case of the flush-mounted device, a central disk is provided instead of the surrounding housing, which has a cutout for the pushbutton element, which is surmounted by the pushbutton cap.

Diese und weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind Gegenstand der Unteransprüche.These and other advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

Anhand eines in der Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsbeispieles sollen die Erfindung, vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen und Verbesserungen sowie besondere Vorteile der Erfindung näher erläutert und beschrieben werden.Using an exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing, the invention, advantageous refinements and improvements and special advantages of the invention are to be explained and described in more detail.

Es zeigen:

Figur 1
die Hauptteile des erfindungsgemäßen Druckschalters, nämlich
Figur 1.1
ein Tastelement mit Tastkappe
Figur 1.2
ein Oberteil
Figur 1.3
einen Sockel
Figur 2
das Tastelement gemäß Figur 1.1 im Längsschnitt
Figur 3
eine Kontaktstelle mit Anschlußklemmen
Figur 4
einen Unterkontakt
Figur 5
einen Oberkontakt
Figur 6
eine Kontaktfeder für schraubenlosen Anschluß
Figur 7
eine Anordnung des beweglichen Kontaktstücks
Figur 8
einen Lampenhalter
Figur 9
eine Anordnung entsprechend Figur 1 jedoch als Serienschalter für den Unterputz-Einbau vorbereitet mit
Figur 9.1
zwei Tastelementen mit Tastkappe
Figur 9.2
ein Oberteil
Figur 9.3
einen Sockel
Figur 10
die Tastelemente gemäß Figur 9.1 ohne Tastkappe
Show it:
Figure 1
the main parts of the pressure switch according to the invention, namely
Figure 1.1
a probe with a cap
Figure 1.2
a top
Figure 1.3
a pedestal
Figure 2
the probe element according to Figure 1.1 in longitudinal section
Figure 3
a contact point with terminals
Figure 4
a subcontact
Figure 5
an upper contact
Figure 6
a contact spring for screwless connection
Figure 7
an arrangement of the movable contact piece
Figure 8
a lamp holder
Figure 9
an arrangement corresponding to Figure 1 but prepared as a series switch for flush mounting
Figure 9.1
two probe elements with probe cap
Figure 9.2
a top
Figure 9.3
a pedestal
Figure 10
the tactile elements according to Figure 9.1 without tactile cap

In der Figur 1 ist ein erfindungsgemäßer Tastschalter 10 mit seinen Hauptteilen, nämlich einem Betätigungselement 12, einem Oberteil 14 einem mit daran einstückig angeformten Ansatz 16 sowie einem Sockel 18 dargestellt, deren Aufbau und Wirkungsweise im folgenden näher beschrieben werden soll.1 shows a pushbutton switch 10 according to the invention with its main parts, namely an actuating element 12, an upper part 14, an attachment 16 integrally molded thereon and a base 18, the construction and mode of operation of which will be described in more detail below.

Das Betätigungselement 12 ist schalenförmig aus einem hohlzylindrischen Tastelement 20 und einer Tastkappe 28 zusammengesetzt, welche als Spritzgießformteil aus elektrisch isolierendem Material, vorzugsweise Kunststoff gebildet sind. Für die Tastkappe 28 kommt hierbei insbesondere ein Duroplast in Frage, der im Hinblick auf die geforderte Kratzfestigkeit eine ausreichende Oberflächengüte gewährleistet. Das Tastelement 20 hingegen ist vorzugsweise aus einem Thermoplast gefertigt, der zumindest in seinem oberen Bereich 21 transluzent oder transparent ist.The actuating element 12 is in the form of a shell made up of a hollow cylindrical sensing element 20 and a sensing cap 28, which are formed as an injection molded part made of electrically insulating material, preferably plastic. A thermoset is particularly suitable for the touch cap 28, which ensures sufficient surface quality with regard to the required scratch resistance. The feeler element 20, however, is preferably made of a thermoplastic that is translucent or transparent at least in its upper region 21.

Das Tastelement 20 besitzt an seinem Umfang gleichmäßig verteilte achsparallele gestreckte Auswölbungen 22, an welchen Führungselemente 23 angeordnet sind, die im gezeigten Beispiel als einstückig angeformte Kugelnocken ausgebildet sind. Stattdessen können auch in entsprechenden Kugelbüchsen geführte Kugeln vorgesehen sein, welche das im Ansatz 16 des Oberteils 14 eingesetzte und fertig montierte Betätigungselement 12 in darin angeordneten Gleitführungen 33 abstützen. In axialer Verlängerung der achsparallelen Auswölbungen 22 sind Rasthaken 24 am Tastelement 20 angeformt, welche mit im Oberteil 14 hierfür vorgesehenen, in Figur 1.2 nicht näher dargestellten Rasten im montierten Zustand zusammenwirken. Ferner ist darauf hinzuweisen, daß in erfindungsgemäßer Ausgestaltung jeweils im Anschlußpunkt dieser Rasthaken an den zylindrischen Körper des Tastelements 20 ein Anschlag 25 gebildet ist, der im montierten Zustand des Schalters 10 als Hubbegrenzung für das Betätigungselement 12 dient.The feeler element 20 has, on its circumference, evenly distributed axially parallel elongated bulges 22, on which guide elements 23 are arranged, which in the example shown are designed as integrally formed ball cams. Instead, it is also possible to provide balls which are guided in corresponding ball bushings and which support the actuating element 12 which is inserted and mounted in the shoulder 16 of the upper part 14 in slide guides 33 arranged therein. In the axial extension of the axially parallel bulges 22, locking hooks 24 are formed on the feeler element 20, which cooperate with detents provided in the upper part 14 for this purpose, not shown in FIG. 1.2, in the assembled state. It should also be pointed out that in the embodiment according to the invention, a stop 25 is formed in each case at the point of connection of these latching hooks to the cylindrical body of the feeler element 20, which serves as a stroke limitation for the actuating element 12 in the assembled state of the switch 10.

Ferner ist zwischen zwei Auswölbungen 22 jeweils diametral gegenüberliegend eine Schwenkführung für eine auch als Kontaktschieber bezeichnete Schaltwippe 27 angeordnet. Die Schaltwippe 27 greift mit einer Steckachse in die Schwenkführung 26 ein und dient zur Betätigung einer im Sockel 18 befindlichen, der Schaltwippe 27 zugeordneten Kontaktstelle.Furthermore, a pivot guide for a rocker switch 27, also referred to as a contact slide, is arranged diametrically opposite each other between two bulges 22. The rocker switch 27 engages with a swivel axis in the swivel guide 26 and serves to actuate a contact point located in the base 18 and assigned to the rocker switch 27.

Außerdem sind wenigstens zwei Rückstellfedern 29 vorgesehen, welche paarweise, diametral gegenüberliegend einerseits mit dem Betätigungselement 12 und andererseits mit dem Sockel 18 im Eingriff sind, wobei sie das Oberteil 14 durchgreifen. Die Rückstellfedern 29 sind vorzugsweise als Schraubendruckfedern ausgebildet und sorgen für eine gleichförmig aufgebrachte Rückstellkraft zur Rückstellung des Betätigungselements 12.In addition, at least two return springs 29 are provided, which are engaged in pairs, diametrically opposite on the one hand with the actuating element 12 and on the other hand with the base 18, reaching through the upper part 14. The restoring springs 29 are preferably designed as helical compression springs and ensure a uniformly applied restoring force for restoring the actuating element 12.

An das Oberteil 14 ist ein stutzenförmiger Ansatz 16 einstückig angeformt, in welchen das Betätigungselement 12 gleitend eingreift und welches in seinem Inneren einen Lichtrichter 30 mit einer zentralen Ausnehmung 31 besitzt, welcher von einer zylindrischen Stütze 32 gehalten ist. Der Lichtrichter 30 dient hierbei als Reflektor für das von der die Ausnehmung 31 durchgreifenden Lampe ausgehende Licht. Entsprechend der bereits oben angegebenen Werkstoffwahl ist ein frontseitiger Lichtaustritt durch die lichtundurchlässige Tastkappe 28 verhindert, so daß lediglich ein radialer Lichtaustritt durch das Tastelement 20 möglich ist, zumindest durch dessen lichtdurchlässigen oberen, sich konisch erweiternden Bereich 21.On the upper part 14, a neck-shaped extension 16 is integrally formed, in which the actuating element 12 slidably engages and which has in its interior a light funnel 30 with a central recess 31 which is held by a cylindrical support 32. The light funnel 30 serves as a reflector for the light emanating from the lamp penetrating the recess 31. Corresponding to the choice of material already mentioned, a front light emission is prevented by the opaque touch cap 28, so that only a radial light emission is possible through the touch element 20, at least through its translucent upper, conically widening region 21.

Sowohl der annähernd zylindrische Ansatz 16 als auch die zylindrische Stütze 32 sind längsprofiliert und bilden hierdurch Gleitbahnen 33 für die am zylindrischen Tastelement 20 angeordneten Führungselemente 23. Die Führungselemente 23 können dabei, abhängig von der jeweiligen Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Tastschalters 10, nämlich als Aus- oder Wechselschalter bzw. als Serienschalter, sowohl auf der äußeren Umfangsfläche als auch auf der inneren Umfangsfläche des Tastelements 20 angeordnet sein. Dementsprechend sind am zylindrischen Ansatz 16 an dessen inneren Oberfläche achsparallele Gleitführungen 33 als auch an der äußeren Umfangsfläche der zylindrischen Stütze 32 Gleitführungen 33 vorgesehen.Both the approximately cylindrical extension 16 and the cylindrical support 32 are longitudinally profiled and thereby form slideways 33 for the guide elements 23 arranged on the cylindrical pushbutton element 20. The guide elements 23 can, depending on the particular design of the pushbutton switch 10 according to the invention, namely be arranged as a switch or changeover switch or as a series switch, both on the outer circumferential surface and on the inner circumferential surface of the sensing element 20. Accordingly, sliding guides 33 are provided on the cylindrical extension 16 on its inner surface and on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical support 32 sliding guides 33.

Das in Figur 1.2 gezeigte Oberteil 14 besitzt an seinem unteren, an den in Figur 1.3 dargestellten Sockel 18 anschließenden Bereich an zwei gegenüberliegenden Seiten einstückig angeformte, nach unten abgewinkelte Federbügel 34, welche zur Betätigung von im Sockel 18 angeordneten schraubenlosen Anschlußklemmen dienen.The upper part 14 shown in FIG. 1.2 has, on its lower region adjoining the base 18 shown in FIG. 1.3, integrally molded on two opposite sides, downwardly angled spring clips 34, which serve to actuate screwless connecting terminals arranged in the base 18.

An den hierzu quer verlaufenden Seiten des Oberteils 14 sind jeweils Rastösen 35 sowie Führungsstege 36 angeformt, welche mit entsprechenden Rastnasen und Führungsflächen am Sockel 18 korrespondieren. Mittig zwischen den Rastösen 35 ist an jeder Seite ein Vorsprung 37 mit einer Bohrung 38 vorgesehen, durch welche im montierten Zustand eine im Sockel 18 angeordnete Bördelbuchse hindurchgreift und das Oberteil 14 mit dem Sockel 18 unlösbar verbindet.Snap-on eyelets 35 and guide webs 36 are formed on the transverse sides of the upper part 14, which correspond to corresponding snap-in lugs and guide surfaces on the base 18. A projection 37 with a bore 38 is provided in the center between the locking eyelets 35, through which a flared bushing arranged in the base 18 extends through in the assembled state and connects the upper part 14 to the base 18 in a non-detachable manner.

Der Sockel 18 ist in an sich bekannter Weise mit einer durch Trennwände gegeneinander isolierte Kontaktkammern unterteilt, welche zur Aufnahme von wenigstens einer Kontaktstelle 40, welche in Figur 3 deutlich gezeigt ist, sowie von einzelnen Anschlußklemmen 50 welche in den Figuren 4 bis 7 näher dargestellt sind.The base 18 is subdivided in a manner known per se with a contact chamber which is insulated from one another by partitions and which holds at least one contact point 40, which is clearly shown in FIG. 3, and individual connecting terminals 50, which are shown in more detail in FIGS .

Im Hinblick auf eine automatische Montage des erfindungsgemäßen Tastschalters 10 sind die im Sockel 18 vorgesehenen kammerartigen Räume für die Kontaktstellen 40 bzw. Anschlußklemmen 50 zunächst von oben frei zugänglich, bevor das Oberteil 14 auf den Sockel 18 aufgesetzt wird und die kammerartigen Räume nach oben abschließt. Zur Betätigung der Anschlußklemmen sind die hierfür an gegenüberliegenden Seiten des Sockels 18 angeordneten Kammern für die Anschlußklemmen 50 mit Ausnehmungen 45 versehen, in welche die am Oberteil 14 angeordneten Lösetasten 43 eingreifen. An den hierzu querlaufenden glattflächigen Seitenwänden des Sockels 18 sind Rastnasen 46 angeformt, in welche die am Oberteil 14 hierfür vorgesehenen Rastösen 35 verrasten. Entsprechend den am Oberteil 14 angeformten, mit einer Bohrung 38 versehenen Vorsprüngen 37 sind auch am Sockel 18 mittig angeordnet kastenförmige Vorsprünge 47 angeformt, welche jeweils nach unten offene ausgebildet, welche eine der Bohrung 38 im Oberteil 14 entsprechende Bohrung 48 aufweisen, durch welche die bereits erwähnte Bördelbuchse hindurchgreift.With regard to an automatic assembly of the push-button switch 10 according to the invention, the chamber-like spaces provided in the base 18 for the contact points 40 or connecting terminals 50 are initially freely accessible from above before the upper part 14 is placed on the base 18 and closes off the chamber-like spaces. For actuation of the connecting terminals, the chambers for the connecting terminals 50 arranged for this purpose on opposite sides of the base 18 are provided with recesses 45 into which the release buttons 43 arranged on the upper part 14 engage. Lugs 46 are integrally formed on the smooth-faced side walls of the base 18, into which the snap eyes 35 provided on the upper part 14 snap. Corresponding to the projections 37 formed on the upper part 14 and provided with a bore 38, box-shaped projections 47 are also formed in the center on the base 18, each of which is formed to be open at the bottom and has a bore 48 corresponding to the bore 38 in the upper part 14, through which the already existing mentioned flare bushing passes through.

In Figur 3 ist die bereits erwähnte Kontaktstelle 40 dargestellt, die aus einem Unterkontakt 42, einem Oberkontakt 43 sowie einem beweglichen Kontakt 44 gebildet ist. Sämtliche Kontakte sind über entsprechende Flachleiter mit Anschlußklemmen 50 verbunden, welche jeweils als schraubenlose Anschlußklemmen ausgebildet sind und mit je einer in Figur 6 gezeigten Kontaktfeder 51 versehen sind. Der Unterkontakt 42 ist in Figur 4 näher dargestellt und der Oberkontakt 43 ist aus Figur 5 ersichtlich. In Figur 7 ist der bewegliche Kontakt 44 gezeigt, der von einer mit einer Ω-förmigen Blattfeder 52 beaufschlagten Kontaktwippe 54 gebildet ist. Der bewegliche Kontakt 44 ist ebenfalls über einen Flachleiter mit einer Anschlußklemme 50 verbunden.FIG. 3 shows the contact point 40 already mentioned, which is formed from a lower contact 42, an upper contact 43 and a movable contact 44. All contacts are connected via corresponding flat conductors to terminals 50, which are each designed as screwless terminals and are each provided with a contact spring 51 shown in FIG. 6. The lower contact 42 is shown in more detail in FIG. 4 and the upper contact 43 can be seen in FIG. FIG. 7 shows the movable contact 44, which is formed by a contact rocker 54 acted upon by an Ω-shaped leaf spring 52. The movable contact 44 is also connected to a connecting terminal 50 via a flat conductor.

In Figur 8 ist ein Lampenhalter 39 mit T-förmigem Grundriß dargestellt, der eine Fassung 57 aufweist, in welche im montierten Zustand eine in Figur 8 darüber gezeigte Lampe 60 einsteckbar ist. Die Fassung 57 ist eine im Steg des T-förmigen Lampenhalters 39 angeordnete längliche Ausnehmung an deren gegenüberliegenden Längsseiten jeweils ein elektrischer Leiter 57 angeordnet ist, der im Inneren des Lampenhalters 39 entsprechend der hier angewandten Insert-Technik gegen den anderen Leiter isoliert jeweils zu einem Kontakt 58, 59 geführt ist. Die Kontakte 58, 59 sind jeweils an Stützstegen 60 abgestützt und legen sich beim Einführen des Lampenhalters in den zylindrischen Ansatz 16 des Oberteils 14 durch eine paßgenaue Ausnehmung jeweils an die zugeordneten, im Sockel befindlichen Anschlußklemmen 50 an. Auf diese Weise ist quasi selbsttätig mit Einführen des Lampenhalters 39 in den erfindungsgemäßen Tastschalter die Kontaktierung zur Stromversorgung der in die Fassung 56 einzuführenden Stecklampe 62 sichergestellt. Die Stecklampe 62 besitzt an ihren zum Eingriff in die Fassung 56 vorgesehenen Sockel 64 jeweils an den Breitseiten angeordnete Leiter 66, welche die in der Fassung 56 angeordneten Leiter 57 kontaktieren.FIG. 8 shows a lamp holder 39 with a T-shaped outline, which has a holder 57, into which a lamp 60 shown above in FIG. 8 can be inserted in the assembled state. The socket 57 is an elongated recess arranged in the web of the T-shaped lamp holder 39, on the opposite longitudinal sides of which an electrical conductor 57 is arranged, which is inside the lamp holder 39 in accordance with the insert technique used here insulated from the other conductor to a contact 58, 59. The contacts 58, 59 are each supported on support webs 60 and, when the lamp holder is inserted into the cylindrical extension 16 of the upper part 14, each fit into the associated connecting terminals 50 located in the base by means of a precisely fitting recess. In this way, contact with the power supply for the plug-in lamp 62 to be inserted into the socket 56 is ensured virtually automatically when the lamp holder 39 is inserted into the push-button switch according to the invention. The plug-in lamp 62 has, on its base 64 provided for engagement in the socket 56, conductors 66 arranged on the broad sides, which contact the conductors 57 arranged in the socket 56.

In Figur 9 ist ein erfindungsgemäßer Tastschalter 11 gezeigt, der hinsichtlich seiner Einzelheiten weitestgehend dem in Figur 1 gezeigten Tastschalter 10 entspricht. Unterschiede bestehen lediglich darin, daß der Tastschalter 11 gemäß Figur 9 als Serienschalter mit zwei Betätigungselementen 12 sowie mit einem Tragring 17 mit daran angeordneten Spreizen 19 versehen ist und hierdurch für den Unterputzeinbau vorbereitet ist. Die Betätigungselemente 12 sind im Unterschied zu dem in Figur 1 gezeigten Tastschalter 10 jeweils als Halbzylinder ausgebildet, wobei die achsparallelen Trennflächen relativ zueinander gleiten können und sich gegeneinander abstützen.FIG. 9 shows a pushbutton switch 11 according to the invention, the details of which correspond largely to the pushbutton switch 10 shown in FIG. 1. The only differences are that the key switch 11 according to FIG. 9 is provided as a series switch with two actuating elements 12 and with a support ring 17 with spreaders 19 arranged thereon and is thus prepared for flush mounting. In contrast to the push-button switch 10 shown in FIG. 1, the actuating elements 12 are each designed as half cylinders, the axially parallel separating surfaces being able to slide relative to one another and being supported against one another.

Der Tragring 17 wird in bekannter Weise mittels Schrauben an hier nicht näher dargestellten Bördelbuchsen befestigt, welche in die am Sockel 18 hierfür in den Vorsprüngen 47 vorbereiteten Kammern und durch die Öffnungen 48 beziehungsweise 38 im Oberteil hindurchgreifen. Die Spreize 19 sind als selbstrückstellende Spreize mit integrierter Rückstellfeder ausgebildet, wie der Darstellung in Figur 9.2 zu entnehmen ist.The support ring 17 is fastened in a known manner by means of screws to flare bushings, not shown here, which reach into the chambers prepared for this purpose in the projections 47 on the base 18 and through the openings 48 and 38 in the upper part. The spreaders 19 are designed as self-resetting spreaders with an integrated return spring, as can be seen in the illustration in FIG. 9.2.

Alle weiteren Merkmale entsprechen den Merkmalen, die bereits aus dem in Figur 1 gezeigtem Tastschalter 10 bekannt sind.All other features correspond to the features that are already known from the key switch 10 shown in FIG. 1.

In Figur 10 sind die aus Figur 9.1 bekannten Betätigungselemente 13 in Schrägansicht einzeln wiedergegeben, wobei die Abdeckkappen 28 abgenommen sind. Dabei ist erkennbar, daß der obere Bereich 21, der ebenfalls lichtdurchlässig ausgebildet ist jeweils mit einem Verstärkungseinsatz versehen ist, welcher dem Halbzylinder größere Steifigkeit verleiht. Die weiteren gezeigten Merkmale entsprechen den aus Figur 2 bekannten Merkmalen. Jedoch unterschiedlich hierzu sind auch an der Innenoberfläche jedes Halbzylinders zusätzliche Gleitelemente 23 angeordnet, welche sich an Gleitbahnen abstützen, die an der zylindrischen Stütze 32 für den Lichtrichter 30 im zylindrischen Ansatz 16 des Oberteils 14 abstützen.The actuating elements 13 known from FIG. 9.1 are shown individually in an oblique view in FIG. 10, the cover caps 28 being removed. It can be seen that the upper region 21, which is also designed to be translucent, is each provided with a reinforcing insert which gives the half-cylinder greater rigidity. The other features shown correspond to the features known from FIG. 2. However, differently from this, additional sliding elements 23 are also arranged on the inner surface of each half cylinder, which are supported on slideways which are supported on the cylindrical support 32 for the light funnel 30 in the cylindrical extension 16 of the upper part 14.

Claims (38)

  1. Electric pushbutton switch (10), for example on-off switch, multicircuit switch, changeover switch, multicircuit changeover switch or intermediate switch or momentary-contact switch, having at least one pushbutton element (12, 20), which is put into its initial position by at least one restoring spring (29) and has a pushbutton cap (28), which can be placed onto the front end, for actuating at least one contact point (40), which is in each case formed by at least one moveable contact element (44), fitted to a contact rocker (54), and one stationary contact element (42, 43), which contact point (40) is arranged in a base (18) and is connected to assigned screwless terminals (50) which are inserted in chamber-like spaces in the base (18) and can be actuated by release keys (34) situated on an upper part (14) which can be latched to the base (18), which upper part (14) can additionally be connected to the base (18) by means of flanged bushes and has a guide, directed perpendicularly to the mounting surface, for the pushbutton element (12, 20), which is latched to the upper part (14) in a sliding manner, as well as a cutout (31) for accommodating a lamp (62), characterized in that the pushbutton element (12, 20) is designed as a cylindrical shell which projects above the upper part (14) and whose enclosed cross-section encompasses approximately the area of the upper part (14) and of the base (18) latched thereto, in that at least that region of the pushbutton element (12, 20) which projects above the upper part (14) is designed to be transparent, and in that an opaque pushbutton cap (28) is placed onto the pushbutton element (12, 20) at the front end.
  2. Switch according to Claim 1, characterized in that an approximately hollow-cylindrical attachment (16) is integrally formed on the front side of the upper part (14) and serves as a guide for the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  3. Switch according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one pushbutton stop (25), which cooperates with the upper part (14), is integrally formed on the rear end, which descends into the upper part (14), of the pushbutton element (12, 20), for the purpose of travel limitation.
  4. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pushbutton element (12, 20) is designed to be fixed against rotation and is provided with guide elements (23) which are arranged such that they are distributed on its periphery and engage in slideways (33) in the upper part.
  5. Switch according to Claim 4, characterized in that the guide elements (23) are designed in the form of balls.
  6. Switch according to Claim 5, characterized in that balls which are mounted on the periphery of the pushbutton element (12, 20) serve as guide elements (23).
  7. Switch according to Claim 5, characterized in that ball cams which are integrally formed on the periphery of the pushbutton element (12, 20) serve as guide elements (23).
  8. Switch according to Claim 4, characterized in that the guide elements (23) are designed in the form of rolls.
  9. Switch according to Claim 4, characterized in that axially parallel, integrally formed portions on the periphery of the pushbutton element serve as guide elements (23).
  10. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cylindrical pushbutton element (12, 20) has uniformly distributed cutouts for the passage of light in the front-end region projecting above the upper part (14).
  11. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least that region of the cylindrical pushbutton element (12, 20) which projects above the upper part (14) is formed from translucent material.
  12. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a centrally arranged light funnel (30) is provided as a reflector for a lamp (62) inserted therein in the guide (16) which is provided in the upper part (14) for the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  13. Switch according to Claim 12, characterized in that the light funnel (30) is held by a cylindrical support (32), which is provided with a cutout in the curved surface, which cutout serves for the lateral introduction of a lamp holder (39).
  14. Switch according to Claim 13, characterized in that the lamp holder (39) serves to accommodate a plug-in lamp (62) which can be inserted at the front end.
  15. Switch according to Claim 14, characterized in that the lamp holder (39)- serves to supply the plug-in lamp (62) with power and, for this purpose, has supply contacts (57) which can be connected to the terminals (50).
  16. Switch according to Claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the lamp holder (39) has plug contacts (58, 59), which make contact with the terminals (50) when the lamp holder (39) is introduced into the light funnel (31).
  17. Switch according to one of Claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the lamp holder (39) is manufactured as a plastic part with inserted metal conductors using so-called insert technology.
  18. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one hole (26) is indented into the pushbutton element (12, 20) for the purpose of accommodating and guiding the pivot of a switching rocker (27), which serves to act on the assigned contact rocker (34).
  19. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that provision is made of at least two restoring springs (29) which are arranged opposite one another on the periphery.
  20. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the restoring springs (29) which are designed as helical compression springs, each engage in holes made in the base (18) and in the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  21. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holes indented into the pushbutton element (12, 20) for the restoring springs (29) interact with the holes (26) for the switching rocker (27) in such a way that the associated restoring spring (29), in the quiescent position of the pushbutton element (12, 20), in each case acts on the switching rocker (27) in such a way that the latter assumes its centre position.
  22. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pivot angle of the switching rocker (27) is limited by integrally formed portions on the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  23. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sliding elements (23) are arranged on the outer surface of the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  24. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sliding elements (23) are arranged on the inner surface of the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  25. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sliding elements (23) are arranged on the outer surface and additionally on the inner surface of the pushbutton element (12, 20).
  26. Switch according to either of Claims 21 and 22, characterized in that guideways are indented into the outer periphery of the support (32) which holds the light funnel (30).
  27. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stationary contact elements (42, 43) and the contact rocker with the at least one moveable contact element (44) are in each case arranged in chamber-like indentations in the base.
  28. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact rocker (54) is put into two stable positions by a knife-edge-mounted leaf spring (52).
  29. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switch (10) can be connected to a carrying ring (17), for flush mounting.
  30. Switch according to Claim 26, characterized in that the switch (10) is provided with spreaders (19), for flush mounting.
  31. Switch according to Claim 27, characterized in that a self-restoring spreader having an integrated spreading restoring spring is provided as the spreader (19).
  32. Switch according to Claim 28, characterized in that the spreading restoring spring is designed as a leaf spring.
  33. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, for flush mounting, the switch is provided with a central disc having a cutout for the pushbutton element (12, 20), the pushbutton cap (28) projecting above the said disc.
  34. Switch according to one of Claims 1 to 25, characterized in that the switch (10) is provided with a housing, for surface mounting.
  35. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pushbutton cap (28) is opaque and projects above the device covering formed by the central disc or by the housing, with the result that the light originating from the integrated lamp indicates the position of the switch annularly like an aura, without dazzling.
  36. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when the switch is used as an on-off switch, changeover switch or intermediate switch or momentary-contact switch, the pushbutton element (12) is designed as a hollow-cylindrical, one-piece shell, with guide elements (23) arranged in at least four angular divisions of the periphery.
  37. Switch according to Claim 36, characterized in that six guide elements (23) distributed uniformly over the periphery are provided.
  38. Switch according to one of Claims 1 to 35, characterized in that when the switch is used as a multicircuit switch or multicircuit changeover switch or momentary-contact switch, each pushbutton element (20) is designed as an axially divided, for example semi-cylindrical, shell, each shell being supported along its division edges on the division edges of each neighbouring shell, in addition to the guide elements (23).
EP95103148A 1994-03-12 1995-03-06 Electric push-button switch Expired - Lifetime EP0673049B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4408366 1994-03-12
DE4408366A DE4408366A1 (en) 1994-03-12 1994-03-12 Electrical push button

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0673049A1 EP0673049A1 (en) 1995-09-20
EP0673049B1 true EP0673049B1 (en) 1997-09-10

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EP95103148A Expired - Lifetime EP0673049B1 (en) 1994-03-12 1995-03-06 Electric push-button switch

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EP (1) EP0673049B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE158107T1 (en)
DE (2) DE4408366A1 (en)

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US20210370549A1 (en) * 2018-12-12 2021-12-02 Makita Corporation Electric tool

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DE20001024U1 (en) * 2000-01-21 2000-06-08 Trw Automotive Electron & Comp Membrane switch
CN108063061A (en) * 2016-11-08 2018-05-22 进联电子科技(上海)有限公司 modular structure of switch wiring device
TWM549469U (en) 2017-05-16 2017-09-21 Switchlab Inc Wire insertion auxiliary sleeve structure used for wire terminals

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US3274369A (en) * 1964-11-12 1966-09-20 John B Quinn Service signal light
DE1244911B (en) * 1966-02-28 1967-07-20 Herbert Bernstein Switch mushroom for electrical devices
US3789173A (en) * 1972-12-07 1974-01-29 Illinois Tool Works Alternate action switch convertible to momentary by putting latch on different pivot
SU445938A2 (en) * 1973-04-28 1974-10-05 Предприятие П/Я А-3706 Push button switch
DE2817724A1 (en) * 1978-04-22 1979-10-31 Giersiepen Eltech Ind Flush mounted pushbutton switch with light indication - has removable interlock for intended application, mounted on pivoting lever
CH642479A5 (en) * 1979-04-05 1984-04-13 Feller Ag Push-button switch having a small lamp for visual switch marking
CH647093A5 (en) * 1979-12-27 1984-12-28 Feller Ag Electrical push-button switch
SU1094081A1 (en) * 1983-02-11 1984-05-23 Предприятие П/Я А-1301 Push-button switch with lighting
DE9105556U1 (en) * 1991-04-30 1991-08-29 Detewe-Deutsche Telephonwerke Ag & Co, 10997 Berlin Key button
DE9113199U1 (en) * 1991-10-23 1992-11-26 Cherry Mikroschalter Gmbh, 8572 Auerbach Key element with guide contour
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US20210370549A1 (en) * 2018-12-12 2021-12-02 Makita Corporation Electric tool

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Publication number Publication date
EP0673049A1 (en) 1995-09-20
DE4408366A1 (en) 1995-09-14
DE59500621D1 (en) 1997-10-16
ATE158107T1 (en) 1997-09-15

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