EP1607267B1 - Switching lever for an electrical switch in a vehicle - Google Patents

Switching lever for an electrical switch in a vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1607267B1
EP1607267B1 EP05103986A EP05103986A EP1607267B1 EP 1607267 B1 EP1607267 B1 EP 1607267B1 EP 05103986 A EP05103986 A EP 05103986A EP 05103986 A EP05103986 A EP 05103986A EP 1607267 B1 EP1607267 B1 EP 1607267B1
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EP
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Prior art keywords
indexing
rings
hand lever
lever according
control
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1607267A1 (en
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Michel Hallet
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SC2N SAS
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SC2N SAS
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H19/00—Switches operated by an operating part which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof and which is acted upon directly by a solid body external to the switch, e.g. by a hand
    • H01H19/02—Details
    • H01H19/10—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
    • H01H19/11—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon with indexing means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of electrical switches.
  • the present invention relates to the control levers equipping the electrical switches intended to be installed at the top of the steering column on motor vehicles.
  • Such switches are generally used to control sound or light indicators, lighting means, or wiping means and window cleaning.
  • control levers equipping such electrical switches comprise at least one ring mounted to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the handle and usually two concentric control rings rotatably mounted about this longitudinal axis.
  • controllers can be found in the documents FR-A-2,659,488 , FR-A-2,636,148 , FR-A-2,688,622 , FR-A-2,681,468 and FR-A-2,745,944 .
  • Such rings are associated with indexing means designed to define precisely a plurality of stable positions for each of the two control levers 10, 20, where appropriate separated by controlled unstable positions.
  • these indexing means are carried by a plate 30. They comprise two indexing rings 15, 25 biased in the direction respectively of the control rings 10, 20 by elastic members 18, 28 interposed between the aforementioned indexing rings 15 25 and the plate 30.
  • the indexing rings 15, 25 generally comprise on their profile directed towards the control rings 10, 20 indexing ramps of profiles that are evolutive relative to relative to the plane of displacement between the plate 30 and the control rings 10, 20, in this case with respect to a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation OO.
  • control rings 10, 20 carry for their part at least one indexing finger bearing against the aforementioned profile of the indexing rings 15, 25.
  • the reverse arrangement can be retained, that is to say that the indexing ramps with progressive profiles can be provided on the control rings 10, 20 whereas the complementary fingers are carried by the indexing rings 15, 25.
  • the known devices of the type illustrated on the figure 1 are bulky and lead to a complex assembly.
  • the object of the present invention is to propose a new control lever structure for an electric switch for motor vehicles making it possible to improve the situation.
  • a handle comprising two concentric control rings rotatable with respect to a common support, characterized in that it comprises a single spring biasing respective indexing means by direction of each of the two control rings.
  • the two indexing means associated respectively with the two control rings are formed of identical rings arranged in opposite position.
  • the two indexing rings are provided with clipping means allowing their self-maintenance on a common support despite the bias exerted by the indexing spring.
  • the control handle according to the present invention illustrated on the Figures 2 to 4 appended includes essentially two control rings 100, 200, a common support plate 300, two indexing rings 150, 250 and a biasing spring 400.
  • the control lever according to the present invention furthermore comprises connecting means between the control rings 100, 200 and contacting means integrated into the body of an electrical switch. These means being well known to those skilled in the art will not be described in detail later.
  • control rings 100, 200 may be the subject of many embodiments.
  • these control rings 100, 200, concentric and mounted to rotate about an axis OO each comprise a generally cylindrical skirt 102, 202 centered on the axis OO and having on their internal surfaces at least one indexing peg or index 104, 204 which extends in a generally longitudinal direction, that is to say parallel to the axis OO.
  • the index 104 carried by the ring 100 is directed towards the control ring 200 and conversely the control index 204 carried by the ring 200 is directed towards the control ring 100.
  • the opposite ends of the two indexes 104, 204 are globally rounded.
  • the common support plate 300 may be the subject of many embodiments.
  • the plate 300 comprises a cylinder 302 centered on the axis OO which carries an outer ring 304 connected to the cylinder 302 by a plurality of radial spacers 306.
  • the ring 304 is positioned between the two control rings 100, 200.
  • the cylinder 302 further comprises at least two housings 310, 320 intended to receive clipping means secured respectively to each indexing ring 150, 250, according to arrangements which will be described in more detail later, to ensure the self holding the indexing rings 150, 250 on the plate 300 despite the bias of the spring 400.
  • These housings 310, 320 may themselves be subject to many embodiments. According to the non-limiting embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, it is two rectangular-shaped housing passing through the thickness of the cylinder 302 and arranged along the same longitudinal generator of the latter.
  • the spring 400 can likewise be the subject of several embodiments. According to the preferred embodiment given in the accompanying figures, it is a metal spiral spring whose diameter is adapted to be disposed on the outer surface of the cylinder 302.
  • the two indexing rings 150, 250 are of identical structure and arranged head to tail, on assembly, that is to say symmetrical with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis OO respectively on either side of the spring 400, opposite the control rings 100, 200.
  • each indexing ring 150, 250 comprises a cylindrical shaft 152, 252 whose internal diameter is greater than and complementary to the cylinder 302, so that the rings of indexing 150, 250 can be mounted to slide longitudinally and rotationally on the plate 300, more precisely the cylinder 302.
  • the cylindrical drums 152, 252 of the indexing rings 150, 250 have an outside diameter smaller than the internal diameter of the rings. 100, 200 so that the indexing rings 150, 250 can be positioned within them.
  • each indexing ring 150, 250 has an evolutive profile defining indexing ramps. More precisely still, preferably, the aforementioned profile defined on one of the slices of each indexing ring 150, 250 is divided into several sectors dedicated for some to the definition of the indexing of the control ring 100 and the others the indexing of the control ring 200. It is clear that the definition of the unstable and stable positions defined above may vary from one control ring 100 to the other. For example, the number of stable positions and the angular difference defined between them can be different between the two control rings 100, 200. The profile of the indexing ramps defined on the edge of the rings 150, 250 must be adapted Consequently.
  • the wafer of each of the two indexing rings 150, 250 is divided into four sectors each covering an angular aperture of the order of 90 °.
  • Two of these opposite sectors 154, 254 are for example dedicated to the indexing of the control ring 100, while the two other sectors 156, 256 diametrically opposed to each other and interposed between the two sectors 154, 254 mentioned above are dedicated to the
  • the two indexing rings 150, 250 being identical, they each have the indexing profiles to cooperate with each of the two control rings 100, 200.
  • the positioning angular of the indexing rings 150, 250 is such that for the indexing ring 150 associated with the control ring 100, the indexing sectors 154 are positioned opposite the indexes 104, while for the indexing ring 250 associated with the control ring 200, are the indexing sectors 256 which are positioned opposite the index 204.
  • each indexing ring 150, 250 has a plurality of longitudinal blades or beams 160, 260. These are first designed to be interposed between the support cylinder 302 and the ring 304, between the radial spacers 306 to allow both freedom of translation and rotation in the sector defined between two radial spacers 306. Furthermore, the beams 260 are adapted to rest at their longitudinal end against the outermost axially outer turn of the spring 400 of so that the two indexing rings 150, 250, when they are positioned on the plate 300 are biased spaced respectively in the direction of the control rings 100, 200.
  • the spacing between the two indexing rings 150, 250 is limited by clipping means defined by teeth 162, 262 secured respectively to the longitudinal end of a blade 260.
  • the clipping teeth mentioned above 162, 262 are adapted to be positioned, during assembly, in one of the housing 310, 320 above.
  • the spring 400 is made of metal, while the control rings 100, 200, the indexing rings 150, 250 and the support plate 300 are made of thermoplastic material.
  • An important characteristic of the present invention thus consists in the use of an identical piece to produce the two indexing rings 150, 250. If necessary, if necessary, the indexing ramps 154, 156, 254, 256, or the blades of 160 or 260 or the clipping means 162, 262 can easily be adapted for one of the two indexing rings 150, 250 by changing at least partially one of the mold cavities dedicated to one of these two rings .
  • the present invention offers many advantages over the state of the art. It allows a perfect rationalization of indexing gamepad. It allows a good standardization of the function, a significant decrease of the volume and it allows an automatic assembly.
  • the present invention is particularly applicable to the production of electric switch lever for motor vehicles intended to be installed at the top of the steering column for the control of light or sound signaling means, lighting, or wiping and washing.

Landscapes

  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Control Of Electric Motors In General (AREA)
  • Control Of Direct Current Motors (AREA)
  • Keying Circuit Devices (AREA)
  • Rotary Switch, Piano Key Switch, And Lever Switch (AREA)
  • Mechanical Control Devices (AREA)
  • Arrangement Or Mounting Of Control Devices For Change-Speed Gearing (AREA)

Abstract

The lever has two concentric control rings rotating with respect to a common support plate (300). A spring (400) stresses indexing rings (150, 250) in direction of corresponding control rings, where the indexing rings are associated to respective control rings. Each indexing ring has an engaging tooth permitting to maintain the indexing ring on the plate, where the teeth are positioned in respective housings. An independent claim is also included for an electrical switch for motor vehicle has a control lever.

Description

La présente invention concerne le domaine des commutateurs électriques.The present invention relates to the field of electrical switches.

Plus précisément encore la présente invention concerne les manettes de commande équipant les commutateur électriques destinés à être installés en haut de colonne de direction sur véhicules automobiles.More specifically still the present invention relates to the control levers equipping the electrical switches intended to be installed at the top of the steering column on motor vehicles.

De tels commutateurs sont généralement utilisés pour commander les indicateurs sonores ou lumineux, moyens d'éclairage, ou encore les moyens d'essuyage et de lavage de vitres.Such switches are generally used to control sound or light indicators, lighting means, or wiping means and window cleaning.

De nos jours, la plupart des manettes de commande équipant de tels commutateurs électriques comprennent au moins une bague montée à rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal de la manette et le plus souvent deux bagues de commande concentrique montées à rotation autour de cet axe longitudinal.Nowadays, most of the control levers equipping such electrical switches comprise at least one ring mounted to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the handle and usually two concentric control rings rotatably mounted about this longitudinal axis.

On trouvera des exemples de manettes connues dans les documents FR-A-2 659 488 , FR-A-2 636 148 , FR-A-2 688 622 , FR-A-2 681 468 et FR-A-2 745 944 .Examples of known controllers can be found in the documents FR-A-2,659,488 , FR-A-2,636,148 , FR-A-2,688,622 , FR-A-2,681,468 and FR-A-2,745,944 .

On a illustré sur la figure 1 annexée, un exemple de réalisation de telles manettes de commande connues.We illustrated on the figure 1 attached, an embodiment of such known control knobs.

Sur cette figure 1, on distingue sous les références 10, 20 deux bagues de commande concentriques montées à rotation autour d'un axe O-O.On this figure 1 10, two concentric control rings rotatably mounted around an axis O0 are distinguished under the references 10.

De telles bagues sont associées à des moyens d'indexage conçus pour définir avec précision une pluralité de positions stables pour chacune des deux manettes de commande 10, 20, le cas échéant séparées par des positions instables contrôlées. Selon le mode de réalisation classique représenté sur la figure 1, ces moyens d'indexage sont portés par une platine 30. Ils comprennent deux bagues d'indexage 15, 25 sollicitées en direction respectivement des bagues de commande 10, 20 par des organes élastiques 18, 28 intercalés entre les bagues d'indexage précitées 15, 25 et la platine 30. Les bagues d'indexage 15, 25 comprennent généralement sur leur profil dirigé vers les bagues de commande 10, 20 des rampes d'indexage de profils évolutifs par rapport au plan de déplacement relatif entre la platine 30 et les bagues de commande 10, 20, soit en l'espèce par rapport à un plan orthogonal à l'axe de rotation O-O. Les bagues de commande 10, 20 portent quant à elles au moins un doigt d'indexage en appui contre le profil précité des bagues d'indexage 15, 25. En variante, la disposition inverse peut être retenue, c'est-à-dire que les rampes d'indexage à profils évolutifs peuvent être prévues sur les bagues de commande 10, 20 tandis que les doigts complémentaires sont portés par les bagues d'indexage 15, 25.Such rings are associated with indexing means designed to define precisely a plurality of stable positions for each of the two control levers 10, 20, where appropriate separated by controlled unstable positions. According to the conventional embodiment shown on the figure 1 these indexing means are carried by a plate 30. They comprise two indexing rings 15, 25 biased in the direction respectively of the control rings 10, 20 by elastic members 18, 28 interposed between the aforementioned indexing rings 15 25 and the plate 30. The indexing rings 15, 25 generally comprise on their profile directed towards the control rings 10, 20 indexing ramps of profiles that are evolutive relative to relative to the plane of displacement between the plate 30 and the control rings 10, 20, in this case with respect to a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation OO. The control rings 10, 20 carry for their part at least one indexing finger bearing against the aforementioned profile of the indexing rings 15, 25. Alternatively, the reverse arrangement can be retained, that is to say that the indexing ramps with progressive profiles can be provided on the control rings 10, 20 whereas the complementary fingers are carried by the indexing rings 15, 25.

Les dispositifs ainsi connus ont déjà rendu de grands services. Cependant, ils ne donnent pas toujours totalement satisfaction.The devices thus known have already rendered great services. However, they do not always give complete satisfaction.

En particulier, les dispositifs connus de type illustré sur la figure 1 sont volumineux et conduisent à un assemblage complexe.In particular, the known devices of the type illustrated on the figure 1 are bulky and lead to a complex assembly.

La présente invention a pour but de proposer une nouvelle structure de manette de commande pour commutateur électrique de véhicules automobiles permettant d'améliorer la situation.The object of the present invention is to propose a new control lever structure for an electric switch for motor vehicles making it possible to improve the situation.

Ce but est atteint dans le cadre de la présente invention grâce à une manette comprenant deux bagues de commande concentriques susceptibles de rotation par rapport à un support commun, caractérisée par le fait qu'elle comprend un ressort unique sollicitant des moyens d'indexage respectifs en direction de chacune des deux bagues de commande.This object is achieved in the context of the present invention by means of a handle comprising two concentric control rings rotatable with respect to a common support, characterized in that it comprises a single spring biasing respective indexing means by direction of each of the two control rings.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de la présente invention les deux moyens d'indexage associés respectivement aux deux bagues de commande sont formés de bagues identiques disposées en position opposée . Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de la présente invention les deux bagues d'indexage sont munies de moyens de clipsage permettant leur auto maintien sur un support commun malgré la sollicitation exercée par le ressort d'indexage.According to another advantageous characteristic of the present invention the two indexing means associated respectively with the two control rings are formed of identical rings arranged in opposite position. According to another advantageous characteristic of the present invention the two indexing rings are provided with clipping means allowing their self-maintenance on a common support despite the bias exerted by the indexing spring.

D'autres caractéristiques, buts et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, et en regard des dessins annexés, donnés à titre d'exemple non limitatif et sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente une vue schématique en coupe axiale longitudinale d'une manette de commande de commutateur électrique conforme à l'état de la technique,
  • la figure 2 représente une vue schématique en perspective éclatée des moyens principaux composant une manette de commande conforme à la présente invention,
  • la figure 3 représente une vue des moyens d'indexage conformes à la présente invention, et
  • la figure 4 représente une vue schématique en perspective d'une manette de commande, en position assemblée, conforme à la présente invention.
Other characteristics, objects and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, and with reference to the appended drawings, given by way of non-limiting example and in which:
  • the figure 1 is a diagrammatic view in longitudinal axial section of a control lever of electrical switch according to the state of the art,
  • the figure 2 represents a diagrammatic perspective exploded view of the main means constituting a control lever according to the present invention,
  • the figure 3 represents a view of the indexing means according to the present invention, and
  • the figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of a joystick, in the assembled position, according to the present invention.

La manette de commande conforme à la présente invention illustrée sur les figures 2 à 4 annexées comprend pour l'essentiel deux bagues de commande 100, 200, une platine support commune 300, deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 et un ressort de sollicitation 400.The control handle according to the present invention illustrated on the Figures 2 to 4 appended includes essentially two control rings 100, 200, a common support plate 300, two indexing rings 150, 250 and a biasing spring 400.

La manette de commande conforme à la présente invention comporte par ailleurs, des moyens de liaison entre les bagues 100, 200 de commande et des moyens de contactage intégrés dans le corps d'un commutateur électrique. Ces moyens étant bien connus de l'homme de l'art ne seront pas décrits dans le détail par la suite.The control lever according to the present invention furthermore comprises connecting means between the control rings 100, 200 and contacting means integrated into the body of an electrical switch. These means being well known to those skilled in the art will not be described in detail later.

De même, les bagues de commande 100, 200 peuvent faire l'objet de nombreux modes de réalisation.Similarly, the control rings 100, 200 may be the subject of many embodiments.

On notera simplement que selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures annexées, ces bagues de commande 100, 200, concentriques et montées à rotation autour d'un axe O-O comprennent chacune une jupe globalement cylindrique 102, 202 centrée sur l'axe O-O et comportant sur leurs surfaces internes au moins un pion d'indexage ou index 104, 204 qui s'étend dans une direction globalement longitudinale, c'est-à-dire parallèle à l'axe O-O. L'index 104 porté par la bague 100 est dirigé vers la bague de commande 200 et inversement l'index de commande 204 porté par la bague 200 est dirigé vers la bague de commande 100. Les extrémités en regard des deux index 104, 204 sont globalement arrondies.Note simply that according to the embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, these control rings 100, 200, concentric and mounted to rotate about an axis OO each comprise a generally cylindrical skirt 102, 202 centered on the axis OO and having on their internal surfaces at least one indexing peg or index 104, 204 which extends in a generally longitudinal direction, that is to say parallel to the axis OO. The index 104 carried by the ring 100 is directed towards the control ring 200 and conversely the control index 204 carried by the ring 200 is directed towards the control ring 100. The opposite ends of the two indexes 104, 204 are globally rounded.

La platine support commun 300 peut faire l'objet de nombreux modes de réalisation.The common support plate 300 may be the subject of many embodiments.

Selon le mode de réalisation préférentiel représenté sur les figures annexées, la platine 300 comprend un cylindre 302 centré sur l'axe O-O qui porte un anneau externe 304 relié au cylindre 302 par une pluralité d'entretoises radiales 306. Comme on le voit sur la figure 4, après assemblage, l'anneau 304 est positionné entre les deux bagues de commande 100, 200.According to the preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, the plate 300 comprises a cylinder 302 centered on the axis OO which carries an outer ring 304 connected to the cylinder 302 by a plurality of radial spacers 306. As can be seen in FIG. figure 4 after assembly, the ring 304 is positioned between the two control rings 100, 200.

Le cylindre 302 comporte par ailleurs au moins deux logements 310, 320 destinés à recevoir des moyens de clipsage solidaires respectivement de chaque bague d'indexage 150, 250, selon des dispositions qui seront décrites plus en détail par la suite, pour assurer l'auto maintien des bagues d'indexage 150, 250 sur la platine 300 malgré la sollicitation du ressort 400. Ces logements 310, 320 peuvent eux-mêmes faire l'objet de nombreux modes de réalisation. Selon le mode de réalisation non limitatif représenté sur les figures annexées, il s'agit de deux logements de contour rectangulaire traversant l'épaisseur du cylindre 302 et disposés suivant une même génératrice longitudinale de ce dernier.The cylinder 302 further comprises at least two housings 310, 320 intended to receive clipping means secured respectively to each indexing ring 150, 250, according to arrangements which will be described in more detail later, to ensure the self holding the indexing rings 150, 250 on the plate 300 despite the bias of the spring 400. These housings 310, 320 may themselves be subject to many embodiments. According to the non-limiting embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, it is two rectangular-shaped housing passing through the thickness of the cylinder 302 and arranged along the same longitudinal generator of the latter.

Le ressort 400 peut de même faire l'objet de plusieurs modes de réalisation. Selon le mode de réalisation préférentiel donné sur les figures annexées, il s'agit d'un ressort spiral métallique dont le diamètre est adapté pour être disposé sur la surface extérieure du cylindre 302.The spring 400 can likewise be the subject of several embodiments. According to the preferred embodiment given in the accompanying figures, it is a metal spiral spring whose diameter is adapted to be disposed on the outer surface of the cylinder 302.

Comme indiqué précédemment, de préférence dans le cadre de la présente invention, les deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 sont de structure identique et disposées tête bêche, à l'assemblage, c'est-à-dire symétriques par rapport à un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe longitudinal O-O respectivement de part et d'autre du ressort 400, en regard des bagues de commande 100, 200.As indicated above, preferably in the context of the present invention, the two indexing rings 150, 250 are of identical structure and arranged head to tail, on assembly, that is to say symmetrical with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis OO respectively on either side of the spring 400, opposite the control rings 100, 200.

Selon le mode de réalisation préférentiel représenté sur les figures annexées, chaque bague d'indexage 150, 250 comprend un fût cylindrique 152, 252 dont le diamètre interne est supérieur au cylindre 302 et complémentaire de celui-ci, de sorte que les bagues d'indexage 150, 250 peuvent être montées à coulissement longitudinal et à rotation sur la platine 300, plus précisément le cylindre 302. Par ailleurs, les fûts cylindriques 152, 252 des bagues d'indexage 150, 250 ont un diamètre extérieur inférieur à celui interne des bagues de commande 100, 200 de sorte que les bagues d'indexage 150, 250 peuvent être positionnées à l'intérieur de ces dernières.According to the preferred embodiment shown in the appended figures, each indexing ring 150, 250 comprises a cylindrical shaft 152, 252 whose internal diameter is greater than and complementary to the cylinder 302, so that the rings of indexing 150, 250 can be mounted to slide longitudinally and rotationally on the plate 300, more precisely the cylinder 302. Moreover, the cylindrical drums 152, 252 of the indexing rings 150, 250 have an outside diameter smaller than the internal diameter of the rings. 100, 200 so that the indexing rings 150, 250 can be positioned within them.

Sur l'une de leur tranche transversale perpendiculaire à l'axe O-O, chaque bague d'indexage 150, 250 possède un profil évolutif définissant des rampes d'indexage. Plus précisément encore, de préférence, le profil précité défini sur l'une des tranches de chaque bague d'indexage 150, 250 est divisé en plusieurs secteurs dédiés pour certains à la définition de l'indexage de la bague de commande 100 et les autres à l'indexage de la bague de commande 200. L'on comprend en effet que la définition des positions instables et stables définies précédemment peut varier d'une bague de commande 100 à l'autre. Par exemple, le nombre de positions stables et l'écart angulaire défini entre celles-ci peut être différent entre les deux bagues de commande 100, 200. Le profil des rampes d'indexage défini sur la tranche des bagues 150, 250 doit être adapté en conséquence.On one of their transverse section perpendicular to the axis O-O, each indexing ring 150, 250 has an evolutive profile defining indexing ramps. More precisely still, preferably, the aforementioned profile defined on one of the slices of each indexing ring 150, 250 is divided into several sectors dedicated for some to the definition of the indexing of the control ring 100 and the others the indexing of the control ring 200. It is clear that the definition of the unstable and stable positions defined above may vary from one control ring 100 to the other. For example, the number of stable positions and the angular difference defined between them can be different between the two control rings 100, 200. The profile of the indexing ramps defined on the edge of the rings 150, 250 must be adapted Consequently.

Plus précisément encore, selon le mode de réalisation préférentiel représenté sur les figures annexées à cette fin, la tranche de chacune des deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 est divisée en quatre secteurs couvrant chacun une ouverture angulaire de l'ordre de 90°. Deux de ces secteurs opposés 154, 254 sont par exemple dédiés à l'indexage de la bague de commande 100, tandis que les deux autres secteurs 156, 256 diamétralement opposés entre eux et intercalés entre les deux secteurs 154, 254 précités sont dédiés à l'indexage de la bague de commande 200. Bien évidemment, les deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 étant identiques, elles possèdent chacune les profils d'indexage permettant de coopérer avec chacune des deux bagues de commande 100, 200. Cependant, le positionnement angulaire des bagues d'indexage 150, 250 est tel que pour la bague d'indexage 150 associée à la bague de commande 100, les secteurs d'indexage 154 soient positionnés en regard des index 104, tandis que pour la bague d'indexage 250 associée à la bague de commande 200, se sont les secteurs d'indexage 256 qui sont positionnés en regard de l'index 204.More precisely, according to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures appended for this purpose, the wafer of each of the two indexing rings 150, 250 is divided into four sectors each covering an angular aperture of the order of 90 °. Two of these opposite sectors 154, 254 are for example dedicated to the indexing of the control ring 100, while the two other sectors 156, 256 diametrically opposed to each other and interposed between the two sectors 154, 254 mentioned above are dedicated to the Of course, the two indexing rings 150, 250 being identical, they each have the indexing profiles to cooperate with each of the two control rings 100, 200. However, the positioning angular of the indexing rings 150, 250 is such that for the indexing ring 150 associated with the control ring 100, the indexing sectors 154 are positioned opposite the indexes 104, while for the indexing ring 250 associated with the control ring 200, are the indexing sectors 256 which are positioned opposite the index 204.

Sur sa seconde tranche, chaque bague d'indexage 150, 250 possède une pluralité de lames ou poutres longitudinales 160, 260. Celles-ci sont tout d'abord conçues pour être intercalées entre le cylindre support 302 et l'anneau 304, entre les entretoises radiales 306 pour permettre à la fois une liberté de translation et de rotation dans le secteur délimité entre deux entretoises radiales 306. Par ailleurs, les poutres 260 sont adaptées pour reposer par leur extrémité longitudinale contre la spire la plus extérieure axialement du ressort 400 de sorte que les deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250, lorsqu'elles sont positionnées sur la platine 300 sont sollicitées en écartement respectivement en direction des bagues de commande 100, 200.On its second edge, each indexing ring 150, 250 has a plurality of longitudinal blades or beams 160, 260. These are first designed to be interposed between the support cylinder 302 and the ring 304, between the radial spacers 306 to allow both freedom of translation and rotation in the sector defined between two radial spacers 306. Furthermore, the beams 260 are adapted to rest at their longitudinal end against the outermost axially outer turn of the spring 400 of so that the two indexing rings 150, 250, when they are positioned on the plate 300 are biased spaced respectively in the direction of the control rings 100, 200.

Néanmoins, l'écartement entre les deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 est limité par des moyens de clipsage définis par des dents 162, 262 solidaires respectivement de l'extrémité longitudinale d'une lame 260. Les dents de clipsage précitées 162, 262 sont adaptées pour être positionnées, lors de l'assemblage, dans l'un des logements 310, 320 précités. Ainsi, une fois les bagues d'indexage 150, 250 positionnées sur la platine 300 de part et d'autre du ressort 400, les dents de clipsage 162, 262 étant positionnées respectivement dans un logement 310, 320, le dispositif d'indexage composé de la platine 300 des deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 et du ressort 400 forme un module autonome susceptible d'être manipulé sans risque de perte intempestive de l'une des pièces qui le compose.Nevertheless, the spacing between the two indexing rings 150, 250 is limited by clipping means defined by teeth 162, 262 secured respectively to the longitudinal end of a blade 260. The clipping teeth mentioned above 162, 262 are adapted to be positioned, during assembly, in one of the housing 310, 320 above. Thus, once the indexing rings 150, 250 positioned on the plate 300 on either side of the spring 400, the clipping teeth 162, 262 being respectively positioned in a housing 310, 320, the indexing device composed of the plate 300 of the two indexing rings 150, 250 and the spring 400 forms an autonomous module that can be handled without risk of inadvertent loss of one of the parts that compose it.

De préférence, le ressort 400 est réalisé en métal, tandis que les bagues de commande 100, 200, les bagues d'indexage 150, 250 et la platine support 300 sont réalisées en matériau thermoplastique.Preferably, the spring 400 is made of metal, while the control rings 100, 200, the indexing rings 150, 250 and the support plate 300 are made of thermoplastic material.

Une caractéristique importante de la présente invention consiste ainsi en l'utilisation d'une pièce identique pour réaliser les deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250. Le cas échéant, si cela s'avère nécessaire, les rampes d'indexage 154, 156, 254, 256, ou encore les lames de sollicitation 160, 260 ou les moyens de clipsage 162, 262 peuvent aisément être adaptés pour l'une des deux bagues d'indexage 150, 250 en changeant au moins partiellement l'une des empreintes de moule dédiée à l'une de ces deux bagues.An important characteristic of the present invention thus consists in the use of an identical piece to produce the two indexing rings 150, 250. If necessary, if necessary, the indexing ramps 154, 156, 254, 256, or the blades of 160 or 260 or the clipping means 162, 262 can easily be adapted for one of the two indexing rings 150, 250 by changing at least partially one of the mold cavities dedicated to one of these two rings .

La présente invention offre de nombreux avantages par rapport à l'état de l'art. Elle permet une parfaite rationalisation de l'indexage manette. Elle permet une bonne standardisation de la fonction, une diminution sensible du volume et elle autorise un assemblage automatique.The present invention offers many advantages over the state of the art. It allows a perfect rationalization of indexing gamepad. It allows a good standardization of the function, a significant decrease of the volume and it allows an automatic assembly.

La présente invention s'applique tout particulièrement à la réalisation de manette de commutateur électrique pour véhicules automobiles destinée à être installée en haut de colonne de direction pour la commande des moyens de signalisation lumineux ou sonores, d'éclairage, ou encore d'essuyage et de lavage.The present invention is particularly applicable to the production of electric switch lever for motor vehicles intended to be installed at the top of the steering column for the control of light or sound signaling means, lighting, or wiping and washing.

Claims (13)

  1. Hand lever, in particular for an electric switch for motor vehicles, characterized in that it comprises two concentric control rings (100, 200) able to rotate relative to a common support (300), characterized in that it comprises a single spring (400) stressing respective indexing means (150, 250) toward each of the two control rings (100, 200).
  2. Hand lever according to Claim 1, characterized in that the two indexing means (150, 250) respectively associated with the two control rings (100, 200) are formed by identical rings arranged in opposing positions.
  3. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the two indexing rings (150, 250) are provided with snap-fitting means (162, 262) enabling them to secure themselves on a common support (300) despite the stress exerted by the indexing spring.
  4. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the indexing spring is formed by a spiral spring.
  5. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that each indexing ring (150, 250) comprises indexing ramps (154, 156, 254, 256) that can be used for each of the two control rings (100, 200).
  6. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that each indexing ring (150, 250) comprises at least two segments defining indexing ramps (154, 156, 254, 256) that can be dedicated respectively to each control ring (100, 200).
  7. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that each control ring (150, 250) comprises four indexing segments, the two indexing segments respectively diametrically opposite (154, 156, 254, 256) being dedicated to the indexing of one of the two control rings (100, 200).
  8. Hand lever according to one of Claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the indexing ramps (154, 156, 254, 256) are provided on one of the ends, transversal to their rotation axis, of each indexing ring (150, 250).
  9. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that each indexing ring (150, 250) has on its end opposite to that having the indexing ramps longitudinal plates (160, 260) stressed by the spring (400).
  10. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that each indexing ring (150, 250) comprises a toothset (162, 262) attached to an elastic plate (160, 260) able to penetrate into a recess (310, 320) of the common support.
  11. Hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the common support for the two control rings (100, 200) comprises a cylinder (302) which bears an external annulus (304) linked to the cylinder by radial spacers (306).
  12. Hand lever according to Claim 11, characterized in that the cylinder (302) has recesses (310, 320).
  13. Electric switch for motor vehicles, characterized in that it comprises at least one control hand lever according to one of Claims 1 to 12.
EP05103986A 2004-06-16 2005-05-12 Switching lever for an electrical switch in a vehicle Active EP1607267B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0406517A FR2871928B1 (en) 2004-06-16 2004-06-16 SWITCHING KNOB FOR ELECTRICAL SWITCH OF MOTOR VEHICLES
FR0406517 2004-06-16

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1607267A1 EP1607267A1 (en) 2005-12-21
EP1607267B1 true EP1607267B1 (en) 2009-10-21

Family

ID=34939811

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05103986A Active EP1607267B1 (en) 2004-06-16 2005-05-12 Switching lever for an electrical switch in a vehicle

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1607267B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE446219T1 (en)
DE (1) DE602005017224D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2871928B1 (en)

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2745944B1 (en) * 1996-03-11 1998-05-22 Magneti Marelli France ELECTRIC SWITCH FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE CONTROL OF FOG LIGHTS
JP3495259B2 (en) * 1998-07-31 2004-02-09 ナイルス株式会社 Structure of vehicle lever switch

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE602005017224D1 (en) 2009-12-03
ATE446219T1 (en) 2009-11-15
EP1607267A1 (en) 2005-12-21
FR2871928A1 (en) 2005-12-23
FR2871928B1 (en) 2006-08-11

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