EP1595270B9 - Push-switch provided with self-cleaning contacts - Google Patents

Push-switch provided with self-cleaning contacts Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1595270B9
EP1595270B9 EP04706127A EP04706127A EP1595270B9 EP 1595270 B9 EP1595270 B9 EP 1595270B9 EP 04706127 A EP04706127 A EP 04706127A EP 04706127 A EP04706127 A EP 04706127A EP 1595270 B9 EP1595270 B9 EP 1595270B9
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
contact
switch according
switch
activation
carrier element
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 - Fee Related
Application number
EP04706127A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1595270B1 (en
EP1595270A1 (en
Inventor
Helmut Bonn
Uwe Esskuchen
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.)
Takata Petri AG
Original Assignee
Takata Petri AG
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 Takata Petri AG filed Critical Takata Petri AG
Publication of EP1595270A1 publication Critical patent/EP1595270A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1595270B1 publication Critical patent/EP1595270B1/en
Publication of EP1595270B9 publication Critical patent/EP1595270B9/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • 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
    • H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/78—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites
    • H01H13/80—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the manner of cooperation of the contacts, e.g. with both contacts movable or with bounceless contacts
    • 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
    • H01H1/18—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting with subsequent sliding
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2201/00—Contacts
    • H01H2201/008—Both contacts movable

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a pressure switch with self-cleaning contacts according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • a steering wheel for motor vehicles with a device for actuating an electrical function group of a motor vehicle in which a contact is mounted on an assembly of the steering wheel skeleton and the other opposing contact on a relative to the steering wheel skeleton movable assembly.
  • the arranged on the movable assembly contact is resiliently mounted and therefore can slide on depression along the other contact. As a result of the resulting friction, the contacts are cleaned of contamination or freed from an oxide layer.
  • a disadvantage of this arrangement is that the maximum path of self-cleaning of the movable contact relative to the mating contact corresponds to the displacement of the actuating element in the direction of the mating contact after touching both contacts, provided that the resilient contact carrier at an angle of 45 ° with respect to the direction of movement of the actuating element is arranged. So if after moving the two contacts, the actuator is moved by one millimeter, the contacts slide against each other also by one millimeter. Although the sliding path of the movable contact can be increased within certain limits by changing the above-mentioned angle, it still remains low. In an increase of the displacement of the actuating element, the further disadvantage would be that upon actuation of the switch by depressing the Airbagabdeckkappe the gaps between this and the steering wheel would have to be increased.
  • an electrical contact device in which the contact pressure is to be limited.
  • the contact device has a fixed contact with a flat contact surface and an associated movable contact with a convex contact surface.
  • the contact is secured to a support member which extends obliquely with respect to the actuating direction.
  • the invention is therefore based on the object to improve the ratio between the displacement of the actuating element for the switch and the way of self-cleaning of the contacts, that is, to achieve an increase in the path of self-cleaning at the same displacement over a known switching device.
  • a pressure switch with self-cleaning contacts in particular for the operation of horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles, with at least two strictlytiegenden contacts, of which a movable contact by means of an actuating element with a mating contact can be brought into contact
  • the contacts slide for self-cleaning during contacting against each other in that the contact associated with the actuating element is fastened to a carrier element which is elastically deformable and fixed at one end while the opposite end is freely movable
  • the carrier element extends obliquely with respect to the actuating direction from its fastening side in the direction of the actuating element then at its free end obliquely with respect to the actuating direction away from the actuating element, wherein the angle between each oblique portion of the support element and the direction of movement of the actuating element in its depression on the carrier element increase .
  • the carrier element has two oblique sections, which extend at least in sections as two sides of a triangle whose intersection lies in the region of the actuating element. It is expedient that the oblique sections extend at the same angle with respect to the actuating direction.
  • the actuator for. B. by depressing the Airbagabdeckkappe, is pressed on the cantilevered elastic support member whose contact with the mating contact is electrically shorted.
  • the left and right of the actuator located bevels of the support element increase after the contact closure with further depression of the actuator their angle to each other.
  • the contact of the carrier element is displaced on the mating contact with a predetermined contact force and the surface of the contacts is cleaned of dirt.
  • the fact that the one side of the support element is fixed, preferably fixedly connected to one side of a switch housing, and only the other side can dodge, move in a path of the support element in the direction of movement of the actuating element of z.
  • the carrier element is housed in a switch housing, which is preferably closed with a lid to prevent the ingress of larger dirt particles between contact and mating contact.
  • the support member is formed toward the actuator dome-like and protrudes from the switch housing, wherein the oblique Extend portions of the support member between the dome-like portion and the contact side on the one hand and the attachment side of the support member on the other.
  • the actuator is formed in this first embodiment so that it rests after the depression of the dome-like portion to its flush termination with the housing wall at this. This ensures that the pressure on the carrier element and thus on the contacts is limited to a predeterminable value.
  • the projection of the dome-like portion of the support member relative to the housing is designed so large that the contacts cleaned, but the elastic support member is not overloaded.
  • the actuating pin is pressed by the spring force of the carrier element against the housing inner wall.
  • the mating contact is likewise arranged on a carrier element in the switch housing.
  • the support elements are preferably formed as electrically conductive contact plates, on which connector lugs are attached, which are connectable to electrical lines or sheets.
  • the carrier elements are fastened in particular by injection or latching in the switch housing made of insulating material and preferably attached to one side of the switch housing.
  • the carrier element which is associated with the actuating element, can be assigned to achieve a defined rest position, a stop in the switch housing.
  • the support member is biased against this stop, whereby the distance between the contact and the mating contact can be better met.
  • the stop is expediently arranged in the contact area.
  • the contact and the mating contact are preferably arranged at the free end of the associated carrier element.
  • the support element for the mating contact is fixedly connected to the switch housing over its entire length.
  • the support member for the mating contact is made of resilient material and freely movable in the region of the mating contact. As a result, the contact force between the contact and the mating contact can be better tuned.
  • a contact has a curved surface shape and the opposite contact a flat, grooved surface shape.
  • the mating contact on the curved surface shape is preferably, the mating contact on the curved surface shape.
  • the actuator should be designed so that the contact force between the two support elements does not exceed the value of 2 + 1 N.
  • the carrier element which is assigned to the actuating element, preferably has a round or angular cross-section.
  • the switch can be arranged in a motor vehicle in the steering wheel or in the airbag module.
  • a scissor device installed in the steering wheel or in the airbag cap, a scissor element carrying the switch and the other scissor element having an actuating element for the switch.
  • the scissor device ensures that the required actuation force is always the same, regardless of whether, for example, the airbag cap is depressed when the switch is actuated in its middle or at the edge.
  • the switch according to the invention can be used in particular for triggering the horn in the motor vehicle.
  • an elastic, electrically conductive carrier element 2 in the form of a contact plate with a contact 3 is arranged in a switch housing 1 made of insulating material.
  • the carrier element 2 has a dome-like section 4, which projects out of the switch housing 1 through a slot-shaped opening 5. Between the dome-like section 4 and the contact side On the one hand and the attachment side 7 of the carrier element 2 on the other hand, the carrier element extends obliquely with respect to the actuation direction B.
  • the oblique sections 2a, b extend at the same angle w with respect to the actuation direction.
  • the carrier element 2 is provided with a plug lug 8 for connection to an electrical line.
  • the carrier element 2 is in the region of the contact 3 under prestress against a stop 9, so that in the rest position, a constant contact distance to an opposite mating contact 10 is ensured.
  • This is fastened to an electrically conductive carrier element 11, which has a plug lug 12.
  • the support member 11 is in this embodiment on the bottom of the switch housing 1, so that it can not deform by the depression of the contact 3.
  • the illustrated switch can, as shown in FIG. 4, be installed in a steering wheel 13 and actuated by an actuating element 14.
  • the actuating element 14 is designed so that it can not penetrate into the opening 5 of the switch housing 1 during depression.
  • the dome-like portion 4 of the support member 2 can only be depressed until its upper end 4a is aligned with the outer surface 1a of the switch housing 1.
  • the support member 2 Upon depression, the support member 2 deforms, as shown in phantom in FIG. In this case, the angle w increases between the slope and the actuation direction after contact closure to the angle w 'and with free mobility, the ends of the slope would move on both sides by the amount d horizontally. However, since the support member 2 is clamped on the left side and only the right side with the contact 3 attached thereto can escape, and also the dome-like section 4 shifts in the opening 5, this is moved to the right by twice the amount 2d. Since both contacts lie on top of each other, the surfaces of both contacts are cleaned of dirt during this movement. The cleaning is supported by the fact that the contact 3 has a flat corrugated surface, while the mating contact 10 has a convexly curved surface.
  • an electrically conductive, elastic carrier element 15 has a curvature towards the actuating element 14 which runs inside a switch housing 16.
  • an actuating bolt 17 is arranged in the switch housing 16, which has a stop 19 abutting against the housing inner wall 16a when at rest.
  • the opening in the switch housing 16 for the actuating pin 17 is only slightly larger than the diameter, so that a good guide but also ease is guaranteed.
  • the carrier element 15 is located in the region of the contact 3 against a stop 20 under prestress.
  • the end of the electrically conductive, elastic support member 21 with the mating contact 10 is in this embodiment freely in the switch housing, so that it can deform elastically upon contact pressure of the contact 3.
  • this carrier element 15 has bevels on both sides of the actuating pin 17 because of the curvature and is clamped on one side in the switch housing 16, the same effect occurs when operating the switch as in the first embodiment.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show a possibility, deviating from FIG. 1, of the installation of a switch according to the invention into an airbag module.
  • the switch housing 1 is attached to one end of a scissor element 23 of a scissor device 22, while an actuating element 25 is arranged at one end of an associated scissor element 24.
  • the respective other ends of the scissor elements are connected by a compression spring 26.
  • the scissors device 22 is arranged in an airbag module, as shown in FIG. 8.
  • the scissors device has the advantage that the operating force for the switch is always the same, regardless of whether the switch is actuated by pressure on the airbag cover in the middle or at the edge.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen Druckschalter mit selbstreinigenden Kontakten gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a pressure switch with self-cleaning contacts according to the preamble of claim 1.

Aus der WO 01/66383 A1 ist ein Lenkrad für Kraftfahrzeuge mit einer Vorrichtung zum Betätigen einer elektrischen Funktionsgruppe eines Kraftfahrzeugs bekannt, bei dem ein Kontakt an einer Baugruppe des Lenkradskeletts und der andere gegenüberliegende Kontakt an einer bezüglich des Lenkradskeletts beweglichen Baugruppe gelagert ist. Der an der beweglichen Baugruppe angeordnete Kontakt ist federnd gelagert und kann deshalb beim Niederdrücken entlang des anderen Kontaktes gleiten. Infolge der dadurch auftretenden Reibung werden die Kontakte von Verschmutzung gereinigt bzw. von einer Oxidschicht befreit.From WO 01/66383 A1 a steering wheel for motor vehicles with a device for actuating an electrical function group of a motor vehicle is known in which a contact is mounted on an assembly of the steering wheel skeleton and the other opposing contact on a relative to the steering wheel skeleton movable assembly. The arranged on the movable assembly contact is resiliently mounted and therefore can slide on depression along the other contact. As a result of the resulting friction, the contacts are cleaned of contamination or freed from an oxide layer.

Ein Nachteil dieser Anordnung besteht darin, dass der maximale Weg der Selbstreinigung des beweglichen Kontaktes gegenüber dem Gegenkontakt dem Verschiebeweg des Betätigungselementes in Richtung des Gegenkontaktes nach der Berührung beider Kontakte entspricht, unter der Vorraussetzung dass der federnde Kontaktträger unter einem Winkel von 45° bezüglich der Bewegungsrichtung des Betätigungselementes angeordnet ist. Wenn also nach der Berührung der beiden Kontakte die Betätigungsvorrichtung um einen Millimeter weiterbewegt wird, gleiten die Kontakte gegeneinander ebenfalls um einen Millimeter. Durch eine Veränderung des oben genannten Winkels kann zwar der Gleitweg des beweglichen Kontaktes in gewissen Grenzen erhöht werden, bleibt aber immer noch gering. Bei einer Erhöhung des Verschiebeweges des Betätigungselementes würde der weitere Nachteil bestehen, dass bei einer Betätigung des Schalters durch Niederdrücken der Airbagabdeckkappe die Spaltmaße zwischen dieser und dem Lenkrad vergrößert werden müssten.A disadvantage of this arrangement is that the maximum path of self-cleaning of the movable contact relative to the mating contact corresponds to the displacement of the actuating element in the direction of the mating contact after touching both contacts, provided that the resilient contact carrier at an angle of 45 ° with respect to the direction of movement of the actuating element is arranged. So if after moving the two contacts, the actuator is moved by one millimeter, the contacts slide against each other also by one millimeter. Although the sliding path of the movable contact can be increased within certain limits by changing the above-mentioned angle, it still remains low. In an increase of the displacement of the actuating element, the further disadvantage would be that upon actuation of the switch by depressing the Airbagabdeckkappe the gaps between this and the steering wheel would have to be increased.

Aus der US 3 201 555 ist eine elektrische Kontakteinrichtung bekannt, bei der der Kontaktdruck begrenzt werden soll. Die Kontakteinrichtung weist einen feststehenden Kontakt mit einer ebenen Kontaktfläche und einen zugeordneten beweglichen Kontakt mit einer konvexen Kontaktfläche auf. der Kontakt ist an einem Trägerelement befestigt, das schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung verläuft. Durch diese Anordnung soll ein Gleiten des beweglichen Kontaktes auf dem feststehenden Kontakt beim Niederdrücken erreicht werden, wodurch eine Selbstreinigung erzielt werden soll. Auch bei dieser Kontakteinrichtung besteht der Nachteil, dass nur ein geringer Gleitweg erzielt wird.From US 3 201 555 an electrical contact device is known in which the contact pressure is to be limited. The contact device has a fixed contact with a flat contact surface and an associated movable contact with a convex contact surface. the contact is secured to a support member which extends obliquely with respect to the actuating direction. By this arrangement, a sliding of the movable contact on the fixed contact during depression is to be achieved, whereby a self-cleaning is to be achieved. Even with this contact device, there is the disadvantage that only a small Gleitweg is achieved.

Der Erfindung liegt deshalb die Aufgabe zugrunde, das Verhältnis zwischen dem Verschiebeweg des Betätigungselementes für den Schalter und dem Weg der Selbstreinigung der Kontakte zu verbessern, d.h., bei gleichem Verschiebeweg gegenüber einer bekannten Schalteinrichtung eine Vergrößerung des Weges der Selbstreinigung zu erzielen.The invention is therefore based on the object to improve the ratio between the displacement of the actuating element for the switch and the way of self-cleaning of the contacts, that is, to achieve an increase in the path of self-cleaning at the same displacement over a known switching device.

Erfindungsgemäß wird das gemäß den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 erreicht.According to the invention that is achieved according to the features of claim 1.

Bei einem Druckschalter mit selbstreinigenden Kontakten, insbesondere zur Betätigung von Hupen an Lenkrädern von Kraftfahrzeugen, mit mindestens zwei gegenübertiegenden Kontakten, von denen ein beweglicher Kontakt mittels eines Betätigungselementes mit einem Gegenkontakt in Berührung bringbar ist, wobei die Kontakte zu ihrer Selbstreinigung während des Kontaktierens gegeneinander gleiten, indem der dem Betätigungselement zugeordnete Kontakt an einem Trägerelement befestigt ist, das elastisch verformbar ist und an einem Ende fixiert ist, während das gegenüberliegende Ende frei beweglich ist, verläuft erfindungsgemäß das Trägerelement von seiner Befestigungsseite aus in Richtung des Betätigungselementes schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung und verläuft anschließend zu seinem freien Ende hin schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung vom Betätigungselement weg, wobei sich die Winkel zwischen jedem schrägen Abschnitt des Trägerelementes und der Bewegungsrichtung des Betätigungselementes bei dessen Niederdrücken auf das Trägerelement vergrößern..In a pressure switch with self-cleaning contacts, in particular for the operation of horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles, with at least two gegenübertiegenden contacts, of which a movable contact by means of an actuating element with a mating contact can be brought into contact, the contacts slide for self-cleaning during contacting against each other in that the contact associated with the actuating element is fastened to a carrier element which is elastically deformable and fixed at one end while the opposite end is freely movable, according to the invention the carrier element extends obliquely with respect to the actuating direction from its fastening side in the direction of the actuating element then at its free end obliquely with respect to the actuating direction away from the actuating element, wherein the angle between each oblique portion of the support element and the direction of movement of the actuating element in its depression on the carrier element increase ..

Das Trägerelement weist also zwei schräge Abschnitte auf, die zumindest abschnittsweise wie zwei Seiten eines Dreiecks verlaufen, deren Schnittpunkt im Bereich des Betätigungselementes liegt. Es ist zweckmäßig, dass die schrägen Abschnitte bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung unter gleichem Winkel verlaufen.Thus, the carrier element has two oblique sections, which extend at least in sections as two sides of a triangle whose intersection lies in the region of the actuating element. It is expedient that the oblique sections extend at the same angle with respect to the actuating direction.

Wenn das Betätigungselement, z. B. durch Niederdrücken der Airbagabdeckkappe, auf das einseitig eingespannte elastische Trägerelement gedrückt wird, wird dessen Kontakt mit dem Gegenkontakt elektrisch kurzgeschlossen. Die links und rechts vom Betätigungselement befindlichen Schrägen des Trägerelementes vergrößern nach dem Kontaktschluss bei weiterem Niederdrücken des Betätigungselementes ihren Winkel zueinander. Dadurch wird der Kontakt des Trägerelementes auf dem Gegenkontakt mit einer vorbestimmten Auflagekraft verschoben und die Oberfläche der Kontakte wird von Verschmutzungen gereinigt. Dadurch, dass die eine Seite des Trägerelementes fixiert ist, vorzugsweise fest mit einer Seite eines Schaltergehäuses verbunden ist, und nur die andere Seite ausweichen kann, verschieben sich bei einem Weg des Trägerelementes in Bewegungsrichtung des Betätigungselementes von z. B. einem Millimeter die Kontakte gegeneinander um 2 Millimeter. Der Weg der Selbstreinigung hat sich also gegenüber der Anordnung des Standes der Technik verdoppelt, bzw. für eine bestimmten Verschiebung der Kontakte gegeneinander muss das Betätigungselement gegenüber der Anordnung des Standes der Technik nur halb so weit eingedrückt werden. Bei einer Betätigung des Schalters durch die Airbagabdeckkappe können deshalb die Spaltmaße zwischen dieser und dem Lenkrad verringert werden.When the actuator, for. B. by depressing the Airbagabdeckkappe, is pressed on the cantilevered elastic support member whose contact with the mating contact is electrically shorted. The left and right of the actuator located bevels of the support element increase after the contact closure with further depression of the actuator their angle to each other. As a result, the contact of the carrier element is displaced on the mating contact with a predetermined contact force and the surface of the contacts is cleaned of dirt. The fact that the one side of the support element is fixed, preferably fixedly connected to one side of a switch housing, and only the other side can dodge, move in a path of the support element in the direction of movement of the actuating element of z. B. one millimeter, the contacts against each other by 2 millimeters. The way of self-cleaning has thus doubled compared to the arrangement of the prior art, or for a certain displacement of the contacts against each other, the actuator must be pressed against the arrangement of the prior art, only half as far. Upon actuation of the switch by the Airbagabdeckkappe therefore the gaps between the latter and the steering wheel can be reduced.

Es ist zweckmäßig, dass das Trägerelement in einem Schaltergehäuse untergebracht ist, das vorzugsweise mit einem Deckel verschlossen ist, um das Eindringen größerer Schmutzpartikel zwischen Kontakt und Gegenkontakt zu verhindern.It is expedient that the carrier element is housed in a switch housing, which is preferably closed with a lid to prevent the ingress of larger dirt particles between contact and mating contact.

In einer Ausführungsform ist das Trägerelement zum Betätigungselement hin domartig ausgebildet und ragt aus dem Schaltergehäuse, wobei sich die schrägen Abschnitte des Trägerelementes zwischen dem domartigen Abschnitt und der Kontaktseite einerseits und der Befestigungsseite des Trägerelements andererseits erstrecken.In one embodiment, the support member is formed toward the actuator dome-like and protrudes from the switch housing, wherein the oblique Extend portions of the support member between the dome-like portion and the contact side on the one hand and the attachment side of the support member on the other.

Das Betätigungselement ist bei dieser ersten Ausführungsform so ausgebildet, dass es nach dem Niederdrücken des domartigen Abschnitts bis zu dessen bündigem Abschluss mit der Gehäusewand an dieser anliegt. Dadurch wird gewährleistet, dass der Druck auf das Trägerelement und damit auf die Kontakte auf einen vorbestimmbaren Wert begrenzt ist. Der Überstand des domartigen Abschnittes des Trägerelementes gegenüber dem Gehäuse ist so groß ausgelegt, dass die Kontakte gereinigt, das elastische Trägerelement aber nicht überlastet wird.The actuator is formed in this first embodiment so that it rests after the depression of the dome-like portion to its flush termination with the housing wall at this. This ensures that the pressure on the carrier element and thus on the contacts is limited to a predeterminable value. The projection of the dome-like portion of the support member relative to the housing is designed so large that the contacts cleaned, but the elastic support member is not overloaded.

In einer zweiten Ausführungsform weist das Trägerelement zum Betätigungselement hin eine Wölbung auf, die innerhalb des Schaltergehäuses verläuft, und zwischen dem Trägerelement und dem Betätigungselement ist ein Betätigungsbolzen im Schaltergehäuse angeordnet, der einen im Ruhezustand an der Gehäuseinnenwand anliegenden Anschlag aufweist. Dabei wird der Betätigungsbolzen durch die Federkraft des Trägerelementes gegen die Gehäuseinnenwand gedrückt.In a second embodiment, the support member to the actuating element towards a curvature which extends within the switch housing, and between the support member and the actuating element, an actuating bolt is arranged in the switch housing, which has a resting against the housing inner wall stop. In this case, the actuating pin is pressed by the spring force of the carrier element against the housing inner wall.

Es ist zweckmäßig, dass der Gegenkontakt ebenfalls auf einem Trägerelement im Schaltergehäuse angeordnet ist. Die Trägerelemente sind vorzugsweise als elektrisch leitende Kontaktbleche ausgebildet, an denen Steckerfahnen angebracht sind, die mit elektrischen Leitungen oder Blechen verbindbar sind. Die Trägerelemente sind insbesondere durch Einspritzen oder Einrasten im Schaltergehäuse aus Isoliermaterial befestigt und vorzugsweise an einer Seite des Schaltergehäuses befestigt.It is expedient that the mating contact is likewise arranged on a carrier element in the switch housing. The support elements are preferably formed as electrically conductive contact plates, on which connector lugs are attached, which are connectable to electrical lines or sheets. The carrier elements are fastened in particular by injection or latching in the switch housing made of insulating material and preferably attached to one side of the switch housing.

Dem Trägerelement, das dem Betätigungselement zugeordnet ist, kann zur Erzielung einer definierten Ruhelage ein Anschlag im Schaltergehäuse zugeordnet sein. Das Trägerelement ist gegen diesen Anschlag vorgespannt, wodurch der Abstand zwischen dem Kontakt und dem Gegenkontakt besser eingehalten werden kann. Der Anschlag ist zweckmäßig im Kontaktbereich angeordnet.The carrier element, which is associated with the actuating element, can be assigned to achieve a defined rest position, a stop in the switch housing. The support member is biased against this stop, whereby the distance between the contact and the mating contact can be better met. The stop is expediently arranged in the contact area.

Der Kontakt und der Gegenkontakt sind vorzugsweise am freien Ende des zugeordneten Trägerelementes angeordnet.The contact and the mating contact are preferably arranged at the free end of the associated carrier element.

In einer Ausführungsform ist das Trägerelement für den Gegenkontakt auf seiner ganzen Länge fest mit dem Schaltergehäuse verbunden. In einer zweiten Ausführungsform ist das Trägerelement für den Gegenkontakt aus federndem Material hergestellt und im Bereich des Gegenkontaktes frei beweglich. Dadurch kann die Kontaktkraft zwischen dem Kontakt und dem Gegenkontakt besser abgestimmt werden.In one embodiment, the support element for the mating contact is fixedly connected to the switch housing over its entire length. In a second embodiment, the support member for the mating contact is made of resilient material and freely movable in the region of the mating contact. As a result, the contact force between the contact and the mating contact can be better tuned.

Zur Erzielung eines guten Reinigungseffektes weist ein Kontakt eine gewölbte Oberflächenform und der gegenüberliegende Kontakt eine flache, geriffelte Oberflächenform auf. Vorzugsweise weist der Gegenkontakt die gewölbte Oberflächenform auf.To achieve a good cleaning effect, a contact has a curved surface shape and the opposite contact a flat, grooved surface shape. Preferably, the mating contact on the curved surface shape.

Damit der Abrieb auf den Kontaktoberflächen nicht zu groß wird, sollte das Betätigungselement so ausgebildet sein, dass die Kontaktkraft zwischen den beiden Trägerelementen den Wert von 2 + 1 N nicht übersteigt.Thus, the abrasion on the contact surfaces is not too large, the actuator should be designed so that the contact force between the two support elements does not exceed the value of 2 + 1 N.

Das Trägerelement, das dem Betätigungselement zugeordnet ist, hat vorzugsweise einen runden oder winkelförmigen Querschnitt.The carrier element, which is assigned to the actuating element, preferably has a round or angular cross-section.

Der Schalter kann in einem Kraftfahrzeug im Lenkrad oder im Airbagmodul angeordnet sein.The switch can be arranged in a motor vehicle in the steering wheel or in the airbag module.

Er kann zweckmäßig auch auf einer im Lenkrad oder in der Airbagkappe eingebauten Scherenvorrichtung angeordnet sein, wobei ein Scherenelement den Schalter trägt und das andere Scherenelement ein Betätigungselement für den Schalter aufweist. Die Scherenvorrichtung gewährleistet, dass die benötigte Betätigungskraft stets gleich groß ist, unabhängig davon, ob z.B. die Airbagkappe bei Betätigung des Schalters in seiner Mitte oder am Rand niedergedrückt wird.It may also be expediently arranged on a scissor device installed in the steering wheel or in the airbag cap, a scissor element carrying the switch and the other scissor element having an actuating element for the switch. The scissor device ensures that the required actuation force is always the same, regardless of whether, for example, the airbag cap is depressed when the switch is actuated in its middle or at the edge.

Der erfindungsgemäße Schalter kann insbesondere zur Hornauslösung im Kraftfahrzeug verwendet werden.The switch according to the invention can be used in particular for triggering the horn in the motor vehicle.

Die Erfindung soll in Ausführungsbeispielen anhand von Zeichnungen erläutert werden. Es zeigen:

Fig.1
einen Schnitt durch eine erste Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Schalters;
Fig.2
eine Draufsicht auf den Schalter nach Fig. 1;
Fig.3
ein Detail aus Fig. 1;
Fig.4
den Schalter in Einbaulage in einem Lenkrad;
Fig.5
einen Schnitt durch eine zweite Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Schalters;
Fig.6
eine Draufsicht auf den Schalter nach Fig. 5
Fig.7
ein auf einer Scherenvorrichtung angeordneter erfindungsgemäßer Schalter;
Fig.8
die Scherenvorrichtung nach Fig.7 in eingebauter Lage im Lenkrad;
The invention will be explained in exemplary embodiments with reference to drawings. Show it:
Fig.1
a section through a first embodiment of a switch according to the invention;
Fig.2
a plan view of the switch of FIG. 1;
Figure 3
a detail of Fig. 1;
Figure 4
the switch in installation position in a steering wheel;
Figure 5
a section through a second embodiment of the switch according to the invention;
Figure 6
a plan view of the switch of FIG. 5th
Figure 7
a switch according to the invention arranged on a scissor device;
Figure 8
the scissor device according to Figure 7 in installed position in the steering wheel;

Bei dem in der Fig. 1 dargestellten Schalter ist in einem Schaltergehäuse 1 aus isolierendem Material ein elastisches, elektrisch leitendes Trägerelement 2 in Form eines Kontaktbleches mit einem Kontakt 3 angeordnet. Das Trägerelement 2 weist einen domartigen Abschnitt 4 auf, der durch eine schlitzförmige Öffnung 5 aus dem Schaltergehäuse 1 ragt. Zwischen dem domartigen Abschnitt 4 und der Kontaktseite 6 einerseits und der Befestigungsseite 7 des Trägerelements 2 andererseits verläuft das Trägerelement schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung B. Die schrägen Abschnitte 2a, b verlaufen bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung unter dem gleichen Winkel w. Das Trägerelement 2 ist mit einer Steckerfahne 8 für den Anschluss an eine elektrische Leitung versehen. Weiterhin liegt das Trägerelement 2 im Bereich des Kontakts 3 unter Vorspannung an einem Anschlag 9 an, so dass in der Ruhelage ein konstanter Kontaktabstand zu einem gegenüberliegenden Gegenkontakt 10 gewährleistet ist. Dieser ist an einem elektrisch leitenden Trägerelement 11 befestigt, das eine Steckerfahne 12 aufweist. Das Trägerelement 11 liegt bei dieser Ausführungsform auf dem Boden des Schaltergehäuses 1, so dass es sich durch das Niederdrücken des Kontaktes 3 nicht verformen kann.In the switch shown in FIG. 1, an elastic, electrically conductive carrier element 2 in the form of a contact plate with a contact 3 is arranged in a switch housing 1 made of insulating material. The carrier element 2 has a dome-like section 4, which projects out of the switch housing 1 through a slot-shaped opening 5. Between the dome-like section 4 and the contact side On the one hand and the attachment side 7 of the carrier element 2 on the other hand, the carrier element extends obliquely with respect to the actuation direction B. The oblique sections 2a, b extend at the same angle w with respect to the actuation direction. The carrier element 2 is provided with a plug lug 8 for connection to an electrical line. Furthermore, the carrier element 2 is in the region of the contact 3 under prestress against a stop 9, so that in the rest position, a constant contact distance to an opposite mating contact 10 is ensured. This is fastened to an electrically conductive carrier element 11, which has a plug lug 12. The support member 11 is in this embodiment on the bottom of the switch housing 1, so that it can not deform by the depression of the contact 3.

Der dargestellte Schalter kann, wie in der Fig. 4 dargestellt, in einem Lenkrad 13 eingebaut sein und durch ein Betätigungselement 14 betätigt werden. Dabei ist das Betätigungselement 14 so gestaltet, dass es beim Niederdrücken nicht in die Öffnung 5 des Schaltergehäuses 1 eindringen kann. Damit kann der domartige Abschnitt 4 des Trägerelementes 2 nur soweit niedergedrückt werden, bis dessen oberes Ende 4a mit der Außenfläche 1a des Schaltergehäuse 1 fluchtet.The illustrated switch can, as shown in FIG. 4, be installed in a steering wheel 13 and actuated by an actuating element 14. In this case, the actuating element 14 is designed so that it can not penetrate into the opening 5 of the switch housing 1 during depression. Thus, the dome-like portion 4 of the support member 2 can only be depressed until its upper end 4a is aligned with the outer surface 1a of the switch housing 1.

Beim Niederdrücken verformt sich das Trägerelement 2, wie es in der Fig. 3 gestrichelt dargestellt ist. Dabei vergrößert sich der Winkel w zwischen der Schräge und der Betätigungsrichtung nach Kontaktschluss zum Winkel w' und bei freier Beweglichkeit würden sich die Enden der Schräge beidseitig um den Betrag d waagerecht verschieben. Da das Trägerelement 2 auf der linken Seite aber eingespannt ist und nur die rechte Seite mit dem daran befestigten Kontakt 3 ausweichen kann, wobei sich auch der domartige Abschnitt 4 in der Öffnung 5 verschiebt, wird dieser um den doppelten Betrag 2d nach rechts bewegt. Da beide Kontakte dabei aufeinander liegen, werden die Oberflächen beider Kontakte bei dieser Bewegung von Verschmutzungen gereinigt. Unterstützt wird die Reinigung dadurch, dass der Kontakt 3 eine ebene geriffelte Oberfläche aufweist, während der Gegenkontakt 10 eine konvex gewölbte Oberfläche hat.Upon depression, the support member 2 deforms, as shown in phantom in FIG. In this case, the angle w increases between the slope and the actuation direction after contact closure to the angle w 'and with free mobility, the ends of the slope would move on both sides by the amount d horizontally. However, since the support member 2 is clamped on the left side and only the right side with the contact 3 attached thereto can escape, and also the dome-like section 4 shifts in the opening 5, this is moved to the right by twice the amount 2d. Since both contacts lie on top of each other, the surfaces of both contacts are cleaned of dirt during this movement. The cleaning is supported by the fact that the contact 3 has a flat corrugated surface, while the mating contact 10 has a convexly curved surface.

Bei der Ausführungsform der Figuren 5 und 6 weist ein elektrisch leitendes, elastisches Trägerelement 15 zum Betätigungselement 14 hin eine Wölbung auf, die innerhalb eines Schaltergehäuses 16 verläuft. Zwischen dem Trägerelement 15 und dem in dieser Figur nicht dargestellten Betätigungselement 14 (Fig. 4) ist ein Betätigungsbolzen 17 im Schaltergehäuse 16 angeordnet, der einen im Ruhezustand an der Gehäuseinnenwand 16a anliegenden Anschlag 19 aufweist. Die Öffnung im Schaltergehäuse 16 für den Betätigungsbolzen 17 ist nur unwesentlich größer als dessen Durchmesser, so dass eine gute Führung aber auch Leichtgängigkeit gewährleistet ist. Das Trägerelement 15 liegt im Bereich des Kontaktes 3 an einem Anschlag 20 unter Vorspannung an. Das Ende des elektrisch leitenden, elastischen Trägerelementes 21 mit dem Gegenkontakt 10 liegt bei dieser Ausführungsform frei im Schaltergehäuse, so dass es sich bei Andruck des Kontaktes 3 elastisch verformen kann.In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, an electrically conductive, elastic carrier element 15 has a curvature towards the actuating element 14 which runs inside a switch housing 16. Between the carrier element 15 and the actuating element 14 (FIG. 4), which is not shown in this figure, an actuating bolt 17 is arranged in the switch housing 16, which has a stop 19 abutting against the housing inner wall 16a when at rest. The opening in the switch housing 16 for the actuating pin 17 is only slightly larger than the diameter, so that a good guide but also ease is guaranteed. The carrier element 15 is located in the region of the contact 3 against a stop 20 under prestress. The end of the electrically conductive, elastic support member 21 with the mating contact 10 is in this embodiment freely in the switch housing, so that it can deform elastically upon contact pressure of the contact 3.

Da auch dieses Trägerelement 15 wegen der Wölbung beidseitig vom Betätigungsbolzen 17 Schrägen aufweist und einseitig im Schaltergehäuse 16 eingespannt ist, tritt beim Betätigen des Schalters die gleiche Wirkung ein wie bei der ersten Ausführungsform.Since this carrier element 15 has bevels on both sides of the actuating pin 17 because of the curvature and is clamped on one side in the switch housing 16, the same effect occurs when operating the switch as in the first embodiment.

In den Figuren 7 und 8 ist eine von der Fig. 1 abweichende Möglichkeit des Einbaus eines erfindungsgemäßen Schalters in ein Airbagmodul dargestellt. Das Schaltergehäuse 1 ist an einem Ende eines Scherenelementes 23 einer Scherenvorrichtung 22 befestigt, während ein Betätigungselement 25 an einem Ende eines zugeordneten Scherenelementes 24 angeordnet ist. Die jeweiligen anderen Enden der Scherenelemente sind durch eine Druckfeder 26 verbunden.FIGS. 7 and 8 show a possibility, deviating from FIG. 1, of the installation of a switch according to the invention into an airbag module. The switch housing 1 is attached to one end of a scissor element 23 of a scissor device 22, while an actuating element 25 is arranged at one end of an associated scissor element 24. The respective other ends of the scissor elements are connected by a compression spring 26.

Die Scherenvorrichtung 22 ist in einem Airbagmodul angeordnet, wie es in der Fig. 8 dargestellt ist. Die Scherenvorrichtung weist den Vorteil auf, dass die Betätigungskraft für den Schalter stets gleich groß ist, unabhängig davon, ob der Schalter durch Druck auf die Airbagabdeckung in der Mitte oder am Rand betätigt wird.The scissors device 22 is arranged in an airbag module, as shown in FIG. 8. The scissors device has the advantage that the operating force for the switch is always the same, regardless of whether the switch is actuated by pressure on the airbag cover in the middle or at the edge.

Claims (21)

  1. Pressure switch with self-cleaning contacts, in particular for activating horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles, having at least two contacts (3, 10) located one opposite the other, a movable contact (3) of which can be placed in contact with a corresponding contact (10) by means of an activation element (14), wherein the contacts (3, 10) slide against one another during the contact-making process for the purpose of self-cleaning by the contact (3) which is assigned to the activation element (14) being attached to a carrier element (2, 15) which can be elastically deformed and is secured at one end while the end located opposite is freely movable, characterized in that
    the carrier element (2, 15) extends obliquely with respect to the direction (B) of activation from its attachment side in the direction of the activation element (14), and subsequently extends obliquely with respect to the direction (B) of activation towards its free end away from the activation element (14), the angles (w) between each oblique section of the carrier element (2, 15) and the direction of movement of the activation element becoming larger when said activation element is pressed down onto the carrier element (2, 15).
  2. Switch according to Claim 1, characterized in that the oblique sections (2a, b) extend at the same angle (w) with respect to the direction (B) of activation.
  3. Switch according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the carrier element (2, 15) is arranged in a switch housing (1, 16).
  4. Switch according to at least one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the carrier element (2) is constructed in the manner of a dome in the direction of the activation element (14) and projects out of the switch housing (1), and in that the oblique sections (2a, b) of the carrier element (2) extend between the dome-like section (4) and the contact side (6) on the one hand, and the attachment side (7) of the carrier element (2) on the other.
  5. Switch according to Claim 4, characterized in that the activation element (14) is embodied in such a way that after the dome-like section (4) has been pressed down until it terminates flush with the outer face (1a) of the housing wall it bears against said housing wall.
  6. Switch according to at least one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the carrier element (15) has a curvature in the direction of the activation element (14), which curvature extends inside the switch housing (16), and in that an activation bolt (17) is arranged in the switch housing (16) between the carrier element (15) and the activation element (14), which activation bolt (17) has a stop (19) which bears against the inner wall of the housing in the state of rest.
  7. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the corresponding contact (10) is arranged on a second carrier element (11, 21).
  8. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) are embodied as electrically conductive contact plates on which plug vanes (8, 12), which can be connected to electrical lines or plates, are mounted.
  9. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) are attached to one side of the switch housing (1, 16) which is composed of insulating material.
  10. Switch according to at least one of Claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) are attached by integration by injection moulding or latching in the switch housing (1, 16).
  11. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a stop (9, 20) in the switch housing (1, 16) is assigned to the carrier element (2, 15) which is assigned to the activation element (14), in order to bring about a defined position of rest.
  12. Switch according to Claim 11, characterized in that the stop (9, 20) is provided in the contact region.
  13. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact (3) and the corresponding contact (10) are arranged at the free end of the assigned carrier element (2, 15) or (11, 21), respectively.
  14. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (11) for the corresponding contact (10) is permanently connected to the switch housing (1) over the entire length of said carrier element (11).
  15. Switch according to at least one of the preceding Claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the carrier element (21) for the corresponding contact (10) is manufactured from sprung material and is freely movable in the region of the corresponding contact (10).
  16. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the contacts (3, 10) has a curved surface shape and the contact (3, 10) located opposite has a flat, ribbed surface shape.
  17. Switch according to Claim 16, characterized in that the corresponding contact (10) has the curved surface shape.
  18. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the activation element (14) is embodied in such a way that the contact force between the two carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) does not exceed the value of 2 + 1N.
  19. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (2, 15) which is assigned to the activation element (14) has a round or angular cross section.
  20. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is arranged in the steering wheel (13) or in the air bag module (27).
  21. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is arranged on a scissor arrangement (22), wherein one scissor element (23) bears the switch (1) and the other scissor element (24) has an activation element (25) for the switch (1).
EP04706127A 2003-02-20 2004-01-29 Push-switch provided with self-cleaning contacts Expired - Fee Related EP1595270B9 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE20303116U 2003-02-20
DE20303116U DE20303116U1 (en) 2003-02-20 2003-02-20 Switch with self-cleaning contacts
PCT/DE2004/000170 WO2004075223A1 (en) 2003-02-20 2004-01-29 Switch provided with self-cleaning contacts

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1595270A1 EP1595270A1 (en) 2005-11-16
EP1595270B1 EP1595270B1 (en) 2006-06-21
EP1595270B9 true EP1595270B9 (en) 2006-12-06

Family

ID=27618956

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP04706127A Expired - Fee Related EP1595270B9 (en) 2003-02-20 2004-01-29 Push-switch provided with self-cleaning contacts

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US7307229B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1595270B9 (en)
JP (1) JP4294051B2 (en)
CN (1) CN100437853C (en)
BR (1) BRPI0407609A (en)
DE (2) DE20303116U1 (en)
ES (1) ES2267038T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2004075223A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2006092921A (en) * 2004-09-24 2006-04-06 Takata Corp Horn switch device, air-bag device and steering device
US7626321B1 (en) 2008-06-03 2009-12-01 Tech Patent Licensing, Llc Spring coil shunt for light string socket
US7633024B1 (en) 2008-06-03 2009-12-15 Tech Patent Licensing, Llc Push rod shunt for light string sockets
US7629544B1 (en) * 2008-06-03 2009-12-08 Tech Patent Licensing, Llc Asymmetric spring coil shunt for light string socket
US8573985B2 (en) * 2011-03-07 2013-11-05 Satyajit Patwardhan Contactors for electric vehicle charging system
WO2014069907A1 (en) * 2012-11-05 2014-05-08 주식회사 대동 High load switch for vehicle
DE102014005433A1 (en) * 2014-02-15 2015-08-20 Johnson Electric Germany GmbH & Co. KG Microswitch with a formed from switch base and switch cover housing

Family Cites Families (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE32890C (en) 1900-01-01 C. H. SCHNEIDER in Freiburg i. B Process for the extraction of crude salmiac spirit in connection with the extraction of phosphate powder from faeces
DE195501C (en)
DE667850C (en) 1935-11-01 1938-11-21 Aeg Contact arrangement for electrical installation switches, in particular automatic switches
CH365427A (en) * 1959-01-14 1962-11-15 Landis & Gyr Ag Bridge contact arrangement for electrical switches
US3002074A (en) * 1959-06-08 1961-09-26 Daystrom Inc Relay contact system
BE630935A (en) * 1962-04-14
JPH0350593Y2 (en) * 1986-02-14 1991-10-29
DE3715765A1 (en) 1987-05-12 1988-12-01 Schoeller & Co Elektrotech PUSH BUTTON SWITCH
US4839475A (en) * 1988-04-29 1989-06-13 Limitorque Corporation Modular switch assembly having wiping contacts
JPH0456680A (en) * 1990-06-23 1992-02-24 Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd Horn switch
DE4117120A1 (en) 1991-05-25 1992-11-26 Abb Patent Gmbh Contact arrangement for electrical pushbutton switch - incorporates contact holder imparting turning force to spring leaf contact wiping switch contacts together
JP3123166B2 (en) * 1991-12-17 2001-01-09 タカタ株式会社 Module cover for airbag device
US5303952A (en) * 1992-12-23 1994-04-19 United Technologies Automotive, Inc. Electric signalling in a supplemental vehicle restraint system
US5568860A (en) * 1994-06-23 1996-10-29 Methode Electronics, Inc. Pivot point contact with scrubbing action switch
JPH11297147A (en) 1998-04-09 1999-10-29 Yazaki Corp Contact structure for movable contact plate
FR2789797B1 (en) * 1999-02-12 2001-06-01 Valeo Securite Habitacle ELECTRIC VEHICLE ANTITHEFT SWITCH
DE20004953U1 (en) * 2000-03-10 2000-08-10 Petri Ag Steering wheel for motor vehicles with a switching device for actuating an electrical functional group of a motor vehicle
DE20219729U1 (en) * 2002-12-18 2003-03-06 Takata Petri Ag Device for actuating electrical functional groups, in particular horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP4294051B2 (en) 2009-07-08
BRPI0407609A (en) 2006-02-14
EP1595270B1 (en) 2006-06-21
DE502004000832D1 (en) 2006-08-03
CN1745444A (en) 2006-03-08
ES2267038T3 (en) 2007-03-01
US20060207866A1 (en) 2006-09-21
DE20303116U1 (en) 2003-07-17
WO2004075223A1 (en) 2004-09-02
EP1595270A1 (en) 2005-11-16
CN100437853C (en) 2008-11-26
JP2006518537A (en) 2006-08-10
US7307229B2 (en) 2007-12-11

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1181172B1 (en) Steering wheel
EP1197402A2 (en) Vehicle steering wheel
EP1152923A1 (en) Steering wheel with a switching element, especially for honking the horn
EP1764813B1 (en) Electrical switch
EP2819893B1 (en) Dust and waterproof switch
DE2515185B2 (en) Electrical snap switch
EP1595270B9 (en) Push-switch provided with self-cleaning contacts
EP1261507B1 (en) Steering wheel for motor vehicles, said steering wheel comprising a switching device for actuating an electric functional group of a motor vehicle
EP1573763B1 (en) Device for actuating electric functional groups, in particular horns on the steering wheels of motor vehicles
DE2531841C3 (en) Electrical snap switch
EP1008159B1 (en) Switch with lifting ramp
EP0708464A2 (en) Electric switch
EP0975058B1 (en) Contact device
DE3940285C2 (en)
DE10037142B4 (en) Electrical switching element
DE2636988A1 (en) ELECTRIC SWITCH
DE19960207B4 (en) Switching element for electrical switch
EP0780863B1 (en) Device for establishing an electrical connection
EP2504850B1 (en) Electrical switch
DE3138379C1 (en) Electrical switch
DE4431937A1 (en) Rocker switch e.g. for automobile electric window switch
DE3629290C2 (en)
DE10037139C1 (en) Switching element with double function for vehicles, comprises two control elements provided on side of operating lever pointing towards contact elements
EP1198809B1 (en) Fuse combination unit and fuse plug comprising a contact-guide element
DE19513679A1 (en) Electric switch esp. for motor vehicle door contact switch

Legal Events

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

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20050831

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL LT LV MK

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

RTI1 Title (correction)

Free format text: PUSH-SWITCH PROVIDED WITH SELF-CLEANING CONTACTS

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): DE ES FR GB SE

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): DE ES FR GB SE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 502004000832

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20060803

Kind code of ref document: P

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: TRGR

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

Effective date: 20060927

ET Fr: translation filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2267038

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

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

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

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20070322

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

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20080218

Year of fee payment: 5

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

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20080123

Year of fee payment: 5

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20080104

Year of fee payment: 5

EUG Se: european patent has lapsed
GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20090129

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

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20090113

Year of fee payment: 6

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

Ref country code: GB

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

Effective date: 20090129

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20090130

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

Ref country code: ES

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

Effective date: 20090130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20100930

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

Ref country code: FR

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

Effective date: 20100201

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

Ref country code: SE

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

Effective date: 20090130

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

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20110126

Year of fee payment: 8

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 502004000832

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: MAIKOWSKI & NINNEMANN PATENTANWAELTE, DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 502004000832

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: MAIKOWSKI & NINNEMANN PATENTANWAELTE, DE

Effective date: 20120904

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 502004000832

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: TAKATA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT, DE

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: TAKATA-PETRI AG, 63743 ASCHAFFENBURG, DE

Effective date: 20120904

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 502004000832

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: MAIKOWSKI & NINNEMANN PATENTANWAELTE PARTNERSC, DE

Effective date: 20120904

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

Ref country code: DE

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

Effective date: 20120801

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 502004000832

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20120801