EP2057652B1 - Electric switch - Google Patents

Electric switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2057652B1
EP2057652B1 EP07817453.9A EP07817453A EP2057652B1 EP 2057652 B1 EP2057652 B1 EP 2057652B1 EP 07817453 A EP07817453 A EP 07817453A EP 2057652 B1 EP2057652 B1 EP 2057652B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
contact
switch
leaf spring
electrical
base
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP07817453.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2057652A1 (en
Inventor
Thorsten Ziegler
Constantin-Romeo Morariu
Hans Hengstler
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Marquardt GmbH
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Marquardt GmbH
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Publication of EP2057652A1 publication Critical patent/EP2057652A1/en
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    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01HELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02Details
    • H01H13/26Snap-action arrangements depending upon deformation of elastic members
    • H01H13/36Snap-action arrangements depending upon deformation of elastic members using flexing of blade springs
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01HELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H1/00Contacts
    • H01H1/12Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage
    • H01H1/36Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by sliding

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an electrical switch according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
  • Such designed in the manner of a micro and / or snap switch switch find a variety of uses and can be suitable both for switching power and signal currents.
  • these switches can be used for various applications in motor vehicle locks.
  • the switch has a housing in which a contact system consisting of a movable switching contact and at least one fixed contact is located.
  • a movable actuator protrudes out of the housing for switching the contact system.
  • the contact system can have two fixed contacts. As a result, the switching contact to the one fixed contact according to a first switching position and to the other fixed contact according to a second switching position when switching the contact system is movable.
  • the contact system is elaborately designed and consists of a variety of items, which in turn results in a complex assembly and a high cost.
  • the switch for switching signal currents appears slightly oversized.
  • a key switch with a contact system consisting of fixed contacts and a movable switch contact and with a movable actuator for switching the contact system known.
  • the switch has a printed circuit board on which the fixed contacts as contact surfaces and conductor tracks are located as electrical connections for the contact surfaces.
  • the actuator acts in an approximately V- or M-shaped folded leaf spring together, which serves as an elastic element for returning the actuator and as grinding on the circuit board switching contact. By pressure on the actuator, the leaf spring spreads due to the folds, so that the sliding on the circuit board part of the leaf spring bridges the contact surfaces of the fixed contacts.
  • the switching contact as a slider and the fixed contact configured as a contact surface, so that the slider interacts with the contact surface when switching.
  • the contact system is switched by the grinder is moved to the contact surface and / or moved away from the contact surface.
  • the elastic member is configured as a leaf spring coupled with the wiper for cooperation by integrating the wiper into the leaf spring.
  • the invention is based on the DE 23 59 971 A1 the task of further designing the contact system of the switch.
  • a switch is to be provided with a contact system in which the number of individual parts is reduced, and the switch should be suitable for applications in the signal voltage range.
  • the leaf spring is configured in approximately L-shaped.
  • the leaf spring is for attachment and making an electrical connection at one end, namely on the shorter leg of the L's, by means of contact pads on a contact bearing, which is located on the further electrical connection.
  • the switching contact is arranged on the longer leg of the L's.
  • the switch has approximately the switching behavior of a snap-action switch, although the contact system is greatly simplified compared to a conventional snap-action switch.
  • a particular aspect of the invention is also that the designed as a wiper switch contact is integrated into the leaf spring. It results from a novel microschleifer switch with a grinder leaf spring as a central component of the contact system, wherein the slider and / or the leaf spring is integrated into the component.
  • the switch has a housing which can be produced in a conventional manner from plastic by injection molding, and consists of a housing upper part and designed as a base housing lower part. Inside the housing, the contact system is arranged. The electrical connections for the contact system protrude from the base of the housing. The trained in the manner of a pusher actuator projects at an opening in the upper housing part movable out. To seal the inside of the housing on the upper housing part, the actuating member is provided with a bellows-shaped seal covering the opening.
  • the bellows-shaped seal may be made of silicone.
  • the contact surface for the fixed contact can be formed integrally with the one electrical connection.
  • the switching contact in turn is in electrical connection with the further electrical connection.
  • the connections and the contact surfaces are made in the manner of a stamped grid. This allows the electrical connections as punched grid in be easily injected into the socket during its manufacture.
  • a good seal in the housing interior is achieved at the base.
  • the fixed contact made of a sheet metal strip as a stamped grid may have an approximately rectangular cross section with a wide side and a narrow side. In order to achieve a good contact, the contact surface is to interact with the grinder on the wide side. If the switch is designed in the manner of a change-over switch in that the contact system has two fixed contacts, the switching contact between the two fixed contacts can be moved to switch over the contact system.
  • a spacer made of insulating material between the fixed contacts so that the contact surfaces of the fixed contacts and the spacer form a flat path for the grinder.
  • the contact surfaces of the fixed contacts are electrically isolated from each other and optionally mechanically fixed, on the one hand so that an improved and reliable switching behavior of the contact system is achieved and on the other hand, an improved stability of the fixed contacts.
  • the material for the spacer is expediently plastic, in particular the plastic from which the base also consists. Then, in a simple manufacturing manner, the spacer can be produced simultaneously during injection of the connections in the base and / or during injection molding of the base.
  • the leaf spring has two resiliently formed contact pads, so that the leaf spring is mounted in the manner of a spring clip on the contact bearing.
  • the leaf spring is mounted in the manner of a spring clip on the contact bearing.
  • the leaf spring is provided at the other end, on the longer leg of the L's, with an actuating surface for cooperation with the actuator.
  • the longer leg of the L's is pivotable about the connection of the two legs of the L's upon movement of the actuating member.
  • the switching contact is on the longer leg of the L's between the connection of the two legs of the L's and the actuating surface, namely expediently arranged in the vicinity of the actuating surface. Consequently, the switching contact is indeed decoupled from the actuator and yet correspondingly movable by means of the actuator for switching.
  • the leaf spring can be made of metal. For this steel, stainless spring steel, copper beryllium o. The like. Suited. For cost manufacturability, the leaf spring is designed as a stamped and bent part, which has a broad and a narrow side. The leaf spring is then arranged after mounting in the contact system such that the broad side of the leaf spring is aligned approximately perpendicular to the wide and narrow side of the contact surface of the fixed contact. A grinder is punched free as a switching contact on the leaf spring and bent at about 90 ° relative to the broad side of the leaf spring, so that the grinder rests against the broad side of the contact surface with a contact pressure.
  • the wiper can be provided with an impressed contact lug.
  • the leaf spring may have a latching hook, so as to fix the leaf spring in addition to the base, and preferably at the base of the base.
  • a fixation of the leaf spring on the base is particularly advantageous during the assembly process for the switch.
  • the latching hook can be punched free at the shorter leg of the L's.
  • To increase the life of the leaf spring can be embossed on the broad side of the longer leg of L's at least one bead for stiffening. The bead is located opposite the actuating surface and near the grinder where higher stresses can occur in the leaf spring.
  • the upper housing part has a socket facing the protruding edge for receiving the sealing compound.
  • the potting compound may consist of a one-component, light-curing plastic material. If necessary to increase the adhesion, the surfaces facing the potting at the base and on the protruding edge can be activated by introducing plasma gas plasma before introducing the potting compound.
  • Such a molded switch is suitable for use under harsh conditions, for example in motor vehicles.
  • the electrical switch without costly soldering on a circuit board, a carrier o. The like. Be placed.
  • the electrical connection of this switch has a receptacle, such that a corresponding to the recording, a electrical voltage for the contact system feeding plug element to the electrical connection in the manner of a solder and / or weld-free electrical connection is plugged.
  • the switch according to the invention is also suitable for the equipment with a contact system, which has three switch positions in the manner of a center-zero wiper switch.
  • a switch can be used particularly well for door locks in motor vehicles.
  • the slider is movable to the contact surface of a fixed contact according to a first switching position and to the contact surface of the other fixed contact according to a second switching position when switching the contact system.
  • the switching contact in a further third located between the two fixed contacts switching position is movable. In this third switching position, the grinder abuts against the electrically insulating spacer.
  • a switch is a compact, durable and cost-effective switch despite its enhanced functionality.
  • the switch has fewer parts compared to conventional micro-switches and consequently a high functional integration. It is a simple switching system with few moving parts. As a result, the switch, due to the simplification of the assembly process due to the reduced number of process steps, also significantly cheaper than comparable previous switch produced.
  • the inventively designed switch allows the production by means of a simplified manufacturing concept that allows higher mounting clock rates than before. In addition, the manufacturing concept leads to a shorter set-up time of the assembly machine and thus allows a small batch size per order and convincedslos.
  • the switch according to the invention has a comparable to a snap and / or microswitch switching behavior, however, allows a noiseless operation, because the grinder system eliminates the otherwise typical click of a snap-action system operating with a spring. It is also advantageous that the contact force is constant over the entire path of the grinder.
  • the large total path of the grinder results in a long overtravel on the closer, which in turn allows large installation tolerances.
  • the contact system also allows smaller dimensions for the switch than conventional microswitches. Due to the reduction results in a material and thus cost savings.
  • the switch provides a high level of protection against harmful environmental influences, by an improved tightness between the base and housing or socket and punched grid is realized. Thus, the switching system is protected against contamination and its reliability increased.
  • the leaf spring used in the contact system simultaneously fulfills several functions. Firstly, the leaf spring ensures a uniform contact force over the entire stroke of the grinder. On the other hand, the leaf spring also exerts the reset function for the example designed as a pusher actuator. Finally, the leaf spring also provides for the contact to the terminals, wherein the switching system can be equipped with double connections corresponding to two fixed contacts.
  • a formed in the manner of a micro and / or snap switch electrical switch 1 is in Fig. 1 to see closer.
  • the switch 1 has a housing 2 in the interior of which a contact system 3 is arranged, as further described in FIG Fig. 2 is shown.
  • the contact system 3 consists of a in Fig. 3 visible, movable switching contact 4 and at least one fixed contact 5.
  • a movable actuator 7 is used to switch the contact system 3.
  • An elastic element 8 cooperates with the switching contact 4 and / or the actuator 7 to the provision.
  • the switching contact 4 are configured as a slider and the fixed contact 5 as a contact surface, so that the slider 4 cooperates with the contact surface 5 when switching.
  • the grinder 4 is moved by means of the actuating member 7 on the contact surface 5 and / or moved away from the contact surface 5.
  • the elastic element 8 is configured as a leaf spring coupled to the wiper 4 and thus cooperating.
  • the housing 2 is made of plastic, for example a thermoplastic material, and is produced by injection molding.
  • the housing 2 according to Fig. 2 from an upper housing part 9 and a lower housing part 10 designed as a base. Electrical connections 11, 12 for the contact system 3 protrude from the housing 2 at the base 10.
  • the actuator 7 protrudes in the manner of a pusher at an opening 14 in the upper housing part 9 sealed movable out and is described in the Execution in turn actuated by means of a shift lever 17.
  • the shift lever 17 may have the application for the switch 1 according to an angled or other configuration.
  • the actuator 7 is provided with a bellows-shaped seal 15, which consists for example of silicone.
  • the seal 15 is fixed to the upper housing part 9 by means of a kind of caulking, for example by means of a knife plastic chips are pressed at the edge around the opening 14 in the upper housing part 9 inwardly to the seal 15 during assembly of the seal 15.
  • a kind of caulking for example by means of a knife plastic chips are pressed at the edge around the opening 14 in the upper housing part 9 inwardly to the seal 15 during assembly of the seal 15.
  • sealing tips 34 may be provided with sealing tips 34.
  • In the region of the seal 15 are located on the upper housing part 9 four dome 16 as a stop for the external actuation of the actuator. 7
  • the contact system 3 accordingly Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 two fixed contacts 5, 6, so that the switching contact 4 between the two fixed contacts 5, 6 for switching the contact system 3 is movable.
  • the contact surface for the fixed contact 5, 6 is integrally formed with one electrical connection 11, 13.
  • the switching contact 4 is in electrical connection with the further electrical connection 12.
  • the terminals 11, 12, 13 and the contact surfaces 5, 6 are made in the manner of a stamped grid.
  • the electrical connections 11, 12, 13 are injected as a stamped grid in the base 10 during its manufacture, which also on the base 10 a substantial tightness is achieved in the interior of the housing 2.
  • a casting 18 is additionally attached to the base 10 in the region of the terminals 11, 12, 13, as the Fig. 2 can be seen.
  • a base 10 facing the protruding edge 19 is located on the upper housing part 9 for receiving the potting compound.
  • the potting compound may consist of a one-component, light-curing plastic material. If necessary, the surfaces facing the potting 18 can be activated on the base 10 and on the protruding edge 19 prior to introduction of the potting compound by means of plasma radiation.
  • the fixed contact 5, 6 has an approximately rectangular cross-section with a wide side and with a narrow side.
  • the Contact surface 5, 6 is according to Fig. 3 for cooperation with the grinder 4 on the wide side.
  • a spacer 20 made of insulating material, of plastic, is located between the fixed contacts 5, 6, so that the contact surfaces 5, 6 of the fixed contacts and the spacer 20 form a flat path for the grinder 4 and the fixed contacts 5, 6 electrically from each other isolated and mechanically fixed.
  • the spacer 20 is made at the same time when injecting the terminals 11, 12, 13 in the base 10 and / or during injection molding of the base 10.
  • the spacer 20 has a width of about 2/10 to 3/10 mm in order to achieve a substantially instantaneous switching between the two fixed contacts 5, 6 as in a conventional snap-action switch. However, if necessary, the width for the spacer 20 can be increased.
  • the designed as a wiper switch contact 4 is integrated into the leaf spring 8.
  • the leaf spring 8 is configured approximately L-shaped, as in Fig. 5 you can see.
  • the leaf spring 8 is located at one end, namely on the shorter leg 21 of the L's, by means of a contact pad 23 at a in Fig. 4 visible, located at the other electrical connection 12 contact bearing 25 at.
  • the leaf spring 8 has two resiliently formed contact pads 23, 24 in the manner of a spring clip, so that the leaf spring 8 is both attached to the contact bearing 25 and has a redundant electrical connection to the contact bearing 25.
  • the leaf spring 8 is provided at the other end, namely on the longer leg 22 of the L's, with an actuating surface 26 for cooperation with the decoupled from the switching contact 4 actuator 7.
  • the longer leg 22 of the arm is pivotable on movement of the actuating member 7 about the connection 27 of the two legs 21, 22 of the L's.
  • a projection 28 on the base 10 As the Fig. 4 can be seen.
  • the switching contact 4 is on the longer leg 22 of the L's between the connection 27 of the two legs 21, 22 of the L's and the actuating surface 26, in the vicinity of the actuating surface 26, respectively.
  • the leaf spring 8 is made of metal, such as steel, stainless spring steel, copper beryllium o. The like., And is as a broad and a narrow side exhibiting stamped and bent part designed.
  • the broad side of the leaf spring 8 is arranged approximately perpendicular to the wide and narrow side of the contact surface of the fixed contact 5, 6.
  • the grinder as a switching contact 4 is punched free on the leaf spring and bent at approximately 90 ° with respect to the broad side of the leaf spring 8.
  • the grinder 4 is applied by means of an impressed contact lug 29 on the broad side of the contact surface 5, 6 with a pressing force, as shown in FIG Fig. 3 can be seen.
  • the grinder 4 is designed as a double grinder 4, 4 ', so that according to Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 a grinder 4 at the front and the other grinder 4 'at the back of the contact surface 5, 6 is present.
  • the leaf spring 8 has a latching hook 30.
  • the latching hook 30 is punched free at the shorter leg 21 of the L's.
  • the leaf spring 8 during the assembly process on the base 10, namely at the base 28 of the base 10, can be fixed.
  • On the broad side of the longer leg 22 of the L's at least one bead 31 is embossed for stiffening, as in Fig. 5 you can see.
  • the bead 31 is disposed opposite the actuating surface 26 and is located in the vicinity of the grinder 4.
  • the like For the purpose of improved contact properties with precious metal coated.
  • a coating are silver, gold o. The like., Or a noble metal alloy, such as gold-cobalt.
  • the contact system 3 has three switch positions.
  • the wiper 4 or 4 ' is movable to the contact surface of a fixed contact 5 according to a first switching position and to the contact surface of the other fixed contact 6 according to a second switching position when switching the contact system 3.
  • the switching contact 4 in a further third, located between the two fixed contacts 5, 6 switch position movable.
  • the grinder 4 or 4 ' is in the third switching position on the electrically insulating spacer 20 at.
  • the spacer 20 has a sufficient width, for example about 9/10 mm. Due to the spring characteristics of the leaf spring 8, the switch contact 4 is in the starting position in contact with the fixed contact 6 according to the second switching position.
  • the switching contact 4 In the third switching position, the switching contact 4 is in contact with the spacer 20 and is to be held in this switch position by appropriate, but not further shown embodiment of the articulation of the actuating mechanism on the actuator 7. The same applies to the first switching position in which the switching contact 4 is in contact with the fixed contact 5. It is in accordance with this switching sequence to an opener with subsequent zero position and another closer, so a switch in the manner of a "center-zero switch".
  • the in Fig. 6 is visible, the electrical connection 11, 12, 13, a receptacle 32 which is cut approximately in a cross shape.
  • a corresponding to the receptacle 32, an electrical voltage for the contact system 3 feeding plug 33 is according to Fig. 7 to the respective electrical connection 11, 12, 13 attachable, wherein the elements formed in the receptacle 32 due to the cross-shaped section deform accordingly for electrical contacting by the plug-in element 33. It is thus a solder and / or weld-free mountable electrical connection.

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

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen elektrischen Schalter nach dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to an electrical switch according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

Solche in der Art eines Mikro- und/oder Schnappschalters ausgestaltete Schalter finden vielfältige Einsatzmöglichkeiten und können sowohl zum Schalten von Leistungs- als auch von Signalströmen geeignet sein. Beispielsweise können diese Schalter für verschiedene Anwendungen in Kraftfahrzeugschlössern eingesetzt werden.Such designed in the manner of a micro and / or snap switch switch find a variety of uses and can be suitable both for switching power and signal currents. For example, these switches can be used for various applications in motor vehicle locks.

Aus der DE 195 12 277 A1 ist ein als Schnappschalter ausgebildeter elektrischer Schalter bekannt. Der Schalter besitzt ein Gehäuse, in dem ein aus einem bewegbaren Schaltkontakt und wenigstens einem Festkontakt bestehendes Kontaktsystem befindlich ist. Ein bewegliches Betätigungsorgan ragt zum Schalten des Kontaktsystems aus dem Gehäuse heraus. Zur Rückstellung wirkt mit dem Schaltkontakt und/oder dem Betätigungsorgan ein elastisches Element zusammen. Weiterhin kann das Kontaktsystem zwei Festkontakte aufweisen. Dadurch ist der Schaltkontakt an den einen Festkontakt entsprechend einer ersten Schaltstellung sowie an den anderen Festkontakt entsprechend einer zweiten Schaltstellung beim Schalten des Kontaktsystems bewegbar.From the DE 195 12 277 A1 is known as a snap-switch electrical switch known. The switch has a housing in which a contact system consisting of a movable switching contact and at least one fixed contact is located. A movable actuator protrudes out of the housing for switching the contact system. To reset cooperates with the switching contact and / or the actuator an elastic element. Furthermore, the contact system can have two fixed contacts. As a result, the switching contact to the one fixed contact according to a first switching position and to the other fixed contact according to a second switching position when switching the contact system is movable.

Bei dem der Rückstellung dienenden elastischen Element dieses Schalters handelt es sich um eine Zugfeder. Es hat sich nun herausgestellt, daß die Zugfeder schwierig zu montieren ist, insbesondere wenn die Montage des Schalters automatisch durchgeführt werden soll.In the recovery serving elastic element of this switch is a tension spring. It has now been found that the tension spring is difficult to assemble, especially when the assembly of the switch is to be performed automatically.

Außerdem ist das Kontaktsystem aufwendig ausgestaltet und besteht aus einer Vielzahl von Einzelteilen, woraus wiederum eine aufwendige Montage sowie ein hoher Kostenaufwand resultieren. Desweiteren erscheint der Schalter zum Schalten von Signalströmen etwas überdimensioniert.In addition, the contact system is elaborately designed and consists of a variety of items, which in turn results in a complex assembly and a high cost. Furthermore, the switch for switching signal currents appears slightly oversized.

Weiter ist aus der DE 23 59 971 A1 ein Tastenschalter mit einem aus Festkontakten sowie einem bewegbaren Schaltkontakt bestehenden Kontaktsystem und mit einem beweglichen Betätigungsorgan zum Schalten des Kontaktsystems bekannt. Der Schalter weist eine Leiterplatte auf, auf der die Festkontakte als Kontaktflächen sowie Leiterbahnen als elektrische Anschlüsse für die Kontaktflächen befindlich sind. Mit dem Betätigungsorgan wirkt eine in etwa V- oder M-förmig gefaltete Blattfeder zusammen, die als elastisches Element zur Rückstellung des Betätigungsorgans sowie als auf der Leiterplatte schleifender Schaltkontakt dient. Durch Druck auf das Betätigungsorgan spreizt sich die Blattfeder aufgrund der Faltungen, so daß der auf der Leiterplatte schleifende Teil der Blattfeder die Kontaktflächen der Festkontakte überbrückt. Somit sind bei diesem Schalter der Schaltkontakt als ein Schleifer und der Festkontakt als eine Kontaktfläche ausgestaltet, derart daß der Schleifer beim Schalten mit der Kontaktfläche zusammenwirkt. Dabei wird das Kontaktsystem geschaltet, indem der Schleifer auf die Kontaktfläche bewegt und/oder von der Kontaktfläche wegbewegt wird. Weiter ist das elastische Element als eine mit dem Schleifer zur Zusammenwirkung gekoppelte Blattfeder ausgestaltet, indem der Schleifer in die Blattfeder integriert ist.Next is from the DE 23 59 971 A1 a key switch with a contact system consisting of fixed contacts and a movable switch contact and with a movable actuator for switching the contact system known. The switch has a printed circuit board on which the fixed contacts as contact surfaces and conductor tracks are located as electrical connections for the contact surfaces. With the actuator acts in an approximately V- or M-shaped folded leaf spring together, which serves as an elastic element for returning the actuator and as grinding on the circuit board switching contact. By pressure on the actuator, the leaf spring spreads due to the folds, so that the sliding on the circuit board part of the leaf spring bridges the contact surfaces of the fixed contacts. Thus, in this switch, the switching contact as a slider and the fixed contact configured as a contact surface, so that the slider interacts with the contact surface when switching. In this case, the contact system is switched by the grinder is moved to the contact surface and / or moved away from the contact surface. Further, the elastic member is configured as a leaf spring coupled with the wiper for cooperation by integrating the wiper into the leaf spring.

Desweiteren ist in der DE 44 26 350 A1 eine Schalteranordnung gezeigt, bei der ein Schleifer zur Überbrückung von Kontaktflächen an einer als Betätigungsorgan dienenden Taste angeordnet ist. Schließlich ist in der US 4 816 662 A ein elektrischer Schalter mit aus Kugeln oder Walzen bestehenden Schaltkontakten zur Überbrückung von leiterbahnförmigen Festkontakten gezeigt.Furthermore, in the DE 44 26 350 A1 a switch assembly shown in which a slider is arranged for bridging contact surfaces on a serving as an actuator key. Finally, in the US 4,816,662 A. an electrical switch with existing balls or rollers switching contacts for bridging conductor-shaped fixed contacts shown.

Der Erfindung liegt ausgehend von der DE 23 59 971 A1 die Aufgabe zugrunde, das Kontaktsystem des Schalter weiter zu gestalten. Insbesondere soll ein Schalter mit einem Kontaktsystem geschaffen werden, bei dem die Anzahl von Einzelteilen verringert ist, und der Schalter soll für Anwendungen im Signalspannungsbereich geeignet sein.The invention is based on the DE 23 59 971 A1 the task of further designing the contact system of the switch. In particular, a switch is to be provided with a contact system in which the number of individual parts is reduced, and the switch should be suitable for applications in the signal voltage range.

Diese Aufgabe wird bei einem gattungsgemäßen elektrischen Schalter durch die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.This object is achieved in a generic electrical switch by the characterizing features of claim 1.

Beim erfindungsgemäßen Schalter ist die Blattfeder in etwa L-förmig ausgestaltet. Die Blattfeder liegt zur Befestigung sowie unter Herstellung einer elektrischen Verbindung an dem einen Ende, und zwar am kürzeren Schenkel des L's, mittels Kontaktanschlußflächen an einem Kontaktlager an, das sich an dem weiteren elektrischen Anschluß befindet. Der Schaltkontakt ist am längeren Schenkel des L's angeordnet. Vorteilhafterweise besitzt der Schalter in etwa das Schaltverhalten eines Schnappschalters, wobei allerdings das Kontaktsystem gegenüber einem herkömmlichen Schnappschalter stark vereinfacht ist. Ein besonderer Gesichtspunkt der Erfindung besteht auch darin, daß der als Schleifer ausgestaltete Schaltkontakt in die Blattfeder integriert ist. Es resultiert daraus ein neuartiger Mikroschleiferschalter mit einer Schleifer-Blattfeder als zentrales Bauteil des Kontaktsystems, wobei der Schleifer und/oder die Blattfeder in das Bauteil integriert ist. Weitere Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind Gegenstand der UnteransprücheWhen switch according to the invention, the leaf spring is configured in approximately L-shaped. The leaf spring is for attachment and making an electrical connection at one end, namely on the shorter leg of the L's, by means of contact pads on a contact bearing, which is located on the further electrical connection. The switching contact is arranged on the longer leg of the L's. Advantageously, the switch has approximately the switching behavior of a snap-action switch, although the contact system is greatly simplified compared to a conventional snap-action switch. A particular aspect of the invention is also that the designed as a wiper switch contact is integrated into the leaf spring. It results from a novel microschleifer switch with a grinder leaf spring as a central component of the contact system, wherein the slider and / or the leaf spring is integrated into the component. Further embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims

Der Schalter weist ein Gehäuse auf, das in herkömmlicher Weise aus Kunststoff im Spritzgießverfahren hergestellt werden kann, und aus einem Gehäuseoberteil und einem als Sockel ausgestalteten Gehäuseunterteil besteht. Im Gehäuseinneren ist das Kontaktsystem angeordnet. Die elektrischen Anschlüsse für das Kontaktsystem ragen am Sockel aus dem Gehäuse heraus. Das in der Art eines Drückers ausgebildete Betätigungsorgan ragt an einer Öffnung im Gehäuseoberteil bewegbar heraus. Zur Abdichtung des Gehäuseinneren am Gehäuseoberteil ist das Betätigungsorgan mit einer die Öffnung überdeckenden, balgförmigen Dichtung versehen. Beispielsweise kann die balgförmige Dichtung aus Silikon hergestellt sein.The switch has a housing which can be produced in a conventional manner from plastic by injection molding, and consists of a housing upper part and designed as a base housing lower part. Inside the housing, the contact system is arranged. The electrical connections for the contact system protrude from the base of the housing. The trained in the manner of a pusher actuator projects at an opening in the upper housing part movable out. To seal the inside of the housing on the upper housing part, the actuating member is provided with a bellows-shaped seal covering the opening. For example, the bellows-shaped seal may be made of silicone.

In kompakter Anordnung läßt sich die Kontaktfläche für den Festkontakt einstückig mit dem einen elektrischen Anschluß ausbilden. Der Schaltkontakt steht seinerseits mit dem weiteren elektrischen Anschluß in elektrischer Verbindung. In fertigungs- sowie montagetechnisch einfacher Art und Weise sind die Anschlüsse sowie die Kontaktflächen in der Art eines Stanzgitters hergestellt. Dadurch können die elektrischen Anschlüsse als Stanzgitter in einfacher Weise in den Sockel bei dessen Herstellung eingespritzt werden. Vorteilhafterweise wird somit auch eine gute Abdichtung in das Gehäuseinnere am Sockel erzielt.In a compact arrangement, the contact surface for the fixed contact can be formed integrally with the one electrical connection. The switching contact in turn is in electrical connection with the further electrical connection. In manufacturing and assembly technology simple way the connections and the contact surfaces are made in the manner of a stamped grid. This allows the electrical connections as punched grid in be easily injected into the socket during its manufacture. Advantageously, thus a good seal in the housing interior is achieved at the base.

Der aus einem Blechstreifen als Stanzgitter hergestellte Festkontakt kann einen in etwa rechteckförmigen Querschnitt mit einer breiten Seite sowie mit einer schmalen Seite besitzen. Um eine gute Kontaktierung zu erzielen, ist die Kontaktfläche zur Zusammenwirkung mit dem Schleifer an der breiten Seite befindlich. Ist der Schalter in der Art eines Umschalters ausgebildet, indem das Kontaktsystem zwei Festkontakte aufweist, so ist der Schaltkontakt zwischen den beiden Festkontakten zum Umschalten des Kontaktsystems bewegbar. Vorteilhafterweise befindet sich dann ein Abstandhalter aus isolierendem Material zwischen den Festkontakten, so daß die Kontaktflächen der Festkontakte sowie der Abstandhalter eine ebene Bahn für den Schleifer bilden. Mittels des Abstandhalters werden die Kontaktflächen der Festkontakte elektrisch voneinander isoliert sowie gegebenenfalls auch mechanisch fixiert, Zum einen wird damit ein verbessertes sowie funktionssicheres Schaltverhalten des Kontaktsystems erzielt und zum anderen auch eine verbesserte Stabilität der Festkontakte. Zweckmäßigerweise handelt es sich bei dem Material für den Abstandhalter um Kunststoff, und zwar insbesondere um denjenigen Kunststoff, aus dem auch der Sockel besteht. Dann kann in fertigungstechnisch einfacher Weise der Abstandhalter gleichzeitig beim Einspritzen der Anschlüsse in den Sockel und/oder beim Spritzgießen des Sockels hergestellt werden.The fixed contact made of a sheet metal strip as a stamped grid may have an approximately rectangular cross section with a wide side and a narrow side. In order to achieve a good contact, the contact surface is to interact with the grinder on the wide side. If the switch is designed in the manner of a change-over switch in that the contact system has two fixed contacts, the switching contact between the two fixed contacts can be moved to switch over the contact system. Advantageously, then there is a spacer made of insulating material between the fixed contacts, so that the contact surfaces of the fixed contacts and the spacer form a flat path for the grinder. By means of the spacer, the contact surfaces of the fixed contacts are electrically isolated from each other and optionally mechanically fixed, on the one hand so that an improved and reliable switching behavior of the contact system is achieved and on the other hand, an improved stability of the fixed contacts. The material for the spacer is expediently plastic, in particular the plastic from which the base also consists. Then, in a simple manufacturing manner, the spacer can be produced simultaneously during injection of the connections in the base and / or during injection molding of the base.

Bevorzugterweise besitzt die Blattfeder zwei federnd ausgebildete Kontaktanschlußflächen, so daß die Blattfeder in der Art einer Federklammer am Kontaktlager befestigt ist. Zusätzlich ergibt sich dabei der Vorteil, daß aufgrund der beiden Kontaktanschlußflächen eine Redundanz bei der elektrischen Verbindung erzielt wird.Preferably, the leaf spring has two resiliently formed contact pads, so that the leaf spring is mounted in the manner of a spring clip on the contact bearing. In addition, there is the advantage that due to the two contact pads redundancy in the electrical connection is achieved.

Die Blattfeder ist an dem anderen Ende, und zwar am längeren Schenkel des L's, mit einer Betätigungsfläche zur Zusammenwirkung mit dem Betätigungsorgan versehen. Dadurch ist der längere Schenkel des L's bei Bewegung des Betätigungsorgans um die Verbindung der beiden Schenkel des L's verschwenkbar. Der Schaltkontakt ist am längeren Schenkel des L's zwischen der Verbindung der beiden Schenkel des L's und der Betätigungsfläche, und zwar zweckmäßigerweise in der Nähe der Betätigungsfläche, angeordnet. Folglich ist der Schaltkontakt zwar vom Betätigungsorgan entkoppelt und dennoch mittels des Betätigungsorgans zum Schalten entsprechend bewegbar.The leaf spring is provided at the other end, on the longer leg of the L's, with an actuating surface for cooperation with the actuator. As a result, the longer leg of the L's is pivotable about the connection of the two legs of the L's upon movement of the actuating member. The switching contact is on the longer leg of the L's between the connection of the two legs of the L's and the actuating surface, namely expediently arranged in the vicinity of the actuating surface. Consequently, the switching contact is indeed decoupled from the actuator and yet correspondingly movable by means of the actuator for switching.

Zweckmäßigerweise befindet sich ein Ansatz am Sockel zur Abstützung der Verbindung der beiden Schenkel des L's in der Art eines Schwenklagers, wodurch die Lebensdauer der Blattfeder gesteigert wird. Der Ansatz läßt sich bei der Herstellung des Sockels gleichzeitig mitanspritzen.Conveniently, there is an approach to the base to support the connection of the two legs of the L's in the manner of a pivot bearing, whereby the life of the leaf spring is increased. The approach can be mitspritzitzen simultaneously in the production of the base.

Die Blattfeder kann aus Metall bestehen. Hierzu ist Stahl, nichtrostender Federstahl, Kupfer-Beryllium o. dgl. geeignet. Der kostengünstigen Herstellbarkeit halber ist die Blattfeder als ein Stanz-Biegeteil ausgestaltet, welches eine Breit- sowie eine Schmalseite aufweist. Die Blattfeder ist dann nach Montage im Kontaktsystem derart angeordnet, daß die Breitseite der Blattfeder in etwa senkrecht zu der breiten sowie schmalen Seite der Kontaktfläche des Festkontakts ausgerichtet ist. Ein Schleifer ist als Schaltkontakt an der Blattfeder freigestanzt sowie in etwa um 90° bezüglich der Breitseite der Blattfeder umgebogen, derart daß der Schleifer an der breiten Seite der Kontaktfläche mit einer Anpreßkraft anliegt. Auch hier bietet es sich aufgrund der Verbesserung der Funktionssicherheit durch Redundanz an, den Schleifer als Doppelschleifer auszubilden, wobei der eine Schleifer an der Vorderseite sowie der andere Schleifer an der Rückseite der Kontaktfläche anliegt. Zur weiteren Verbesserung des Schaltverhaltens kann der Schleifer mit einer angeprägten Kontaktwarze versehen sein.The leaf spring can be made of metal. For this steel, stainless spring steel, copper beryllium o. The like. Suited. For cost manufacturability, the leaf spring is designed as a stamped and bent part, which has a broad and a narrow side. The leaf spring is then arranged after mounting in the contact system such that the broad side of the leaf spring is aligned approximately perpendicular to the wide and narrow side of the contact surface of the fixed contact. A grinder is punched free as a switching contact on the leaf spring and bent at about 90 ° relative to the broad side of the leaf spring, so that the grinder rests against the broad side of the contact surface with a contact pressure. Again, it is due to the improvement in reliability through redundancy to form the grinder as a double grinder, wherein the one grinder rests on the front and the other grinder on the back of the contact surface. To further To improve the switching behavior, the wiper can be provided with an impressed contact lug.

Die Blattfeder kann einen Rasthaken aufweisen, um so die Blattfeder zusätzlich am Sockel, und zwar bevorzugterweise am Ansatz des Sockels, zu fixieren. Eine solche Fixierung der Blattfeder am Sockel ist besonders vorteilhaft während des Montageprozesses für den Schalter. In einfacher Weise kann der Rasthaken am kürzeren Schenkel des L's freigestanzt sein. Zur Steigerung der Lebensdauer der Blattfeder kann an der Breitseite des längeren Schenkels des L's wenigstens eine Sicke zur Versteifung eingeprägt sein. Die Sicke befindet sich der Betätigungsfläche gegenüberliegend sowie in der Nähe des Schleifers, wo höhere Spannungen in der Blattfeder auftreten können.The leaf spring may have a latching hook, so as to fix the leaf spring in addition to the base, and preferably at the base of the base. Such a fixation of the leaf spring on the base is particularly advantageous during the assembly process for the switch. In a simple manner, the latching hook can be punched free at the shorter leg of the L's. To increase the life of the leaf spring can be embossed on the broad side of the longer leg of L's at least one bead for stiffening. The bead is located opposite the actuating surface and near the grinder where higher stresses can occur in the leaf spring.

Zur Erhöhung der Kontaktsicherheit vor allem im Signalspannungsbereich bietet es sich an, die Kontaktanschlußfläche und/oder die Kontaktwarze an der Blattfeder, die Kontaktfläche des Festkontakts o. dgl. mit Edelmetall zu beschichten. Geeignet ist hierfür Silber, Gold o. dgl., oder auch eine Edelmetall-Legierung, beispielsweise Gold-Kobalt. Selbstverständlich reicht es dabei aus anstelle der gesamten Blattfeder lediglich die entsprechenden Kontaktstellen zu beschichten.To increase the contact reliability, especially in the signal voltage range, it makes sense to coat the contact pad and / or the bump on the leaf spring, the contact surface of the fixed contact o. The like. With precious metal. Suitable for this purpose is silver, gold o. The like., Or a precious metal alloy, such as gold-cobalt. Of course, it is sufficient to coat only the corresponding contact points instead of the entire leaf spring.

Um den Schutz des Schalters gegen das Eindringen von Schadstoffen in das Gehäuseinnere weiter zu verbessern, bietet sich das Anbringen eines Vergusses am Sockel zur Abdichtung des Gehäuses im Bereich der Anschlüsse an. Hierfür besitzt das Gehäuseoberteil einen dem Sockel zugewandten überstehenden Rand zur Aufnahme der Vergußmasse. Die Vergußmasse kann aus einem einkomponentigen, lichthärtenden Kunststoffmaterial bestehen. Falls zur Erhöhung der Haftung notwendig, können die dem Verguß zugewandten Oberflächen am Sockel sowie am überstehenden Rand vor Einbringen der Vergußmasse mittels Plasmastrahlung aktiviert werden. Ein derartig vergossener Schalter eignet sich zum Einsatz unter rauhen Bedingungen, beispielsweise in Kraftfahrzeugen.In order to further improve the protection of the switch against the ingress of pollutants into the housing interior, attaching a potting to the base for sealing the housing in the region of the connections is advisable. For this purpose, the upper housing part has a socket facing the protruding edge for receiving the sealing compound. The potting compound may consist of a one-component, light-curing plastic material. If necessary to increase the adhesion, the surfaces facing the potting at the base and on the protruding edge can be activated by introducing plasma gas plasma before introducing the potting compound. Such a molded switch is suitable for use under harsh conditions, for example in motor vehicles.

In einer weiteren Ausgestaltung kann der elektrische Schalter ohne aufwendige Verlötung auf einer Leiterplatte, einem Träger o. dgl. plaziert werden. Der elektrische Anschluß diese Schalters weist eine Aufnahme auf, derart daß ein zur Aufnahme korrespondierendes, eine elektrische Spannung für das Kontaktsystem zuführendes Steckelement an den elektrischen Anschluß in der Art einer löt- und/oder schweißfreien elektrischen Verbindung ansteckbar ist.In a further embodiment, the electrical switch without costly soldering on a circuit board, a carrier o. The like. Be placed. The electrical connection of this switch has a receptacle, such that a corresponding to the recording, a electrical voltage for the contact system feeding plug element to the electrical connection in the manner of a solder and / or weld-free electrical connection is plugged.

Der erfindungsgemäße Schalter eignet sich auch für die Ausstattung mit einem Kontaktsystem, das drei Schaltstellungen in der Art eines Mitte-Null-Schleiferschalters besitzt. Ein solcher Schalter läßt sich besonders gut für Türschlösser in Kraftfahrzeugen einsetzen. Hierfür ist der Schleifer an die Kontaktfläche des einen Festkontakts entsprechend einer ersten Schaltstellung sowie an die Kontaktfläche des anderen Festkontakts entsprechend einer zweiten Schaltstellung beim Schalten des Kontaktsystems bewegbar. Zusätzlich ist der Schaltkontakt in eine weitere dritte, zwischen den beiden Festkontakten befindliche Schaltstellung bewegbar. In dieser dritten Schaltstellung liegt der Schleifer am elektrisch isolierenden Abstandhalter an. Vorteilhafterweise handelt es sich bei einem solchen Schalter trotz der erweiterten Funktionalität um einen kompakten, langlebigen und kostengünstigen Schalter.The switch according to the invention is also suitable for the equipment with a contact system, which has three switch positions in the manner of a center-zero wiper switch. Such a switch can be used particularly well for door locks in motor vehicles. For this purpose, the slider is movable to the contact surface of a fixed contact according to a first switching position and to the contact surface of the other fixed contact according to a second switching position when switching the contact system. In addition, the switching contact in a further third, located between the two fixed contacts switching position is movable. In this third switching position, the grinder abuts against the electrically insulating spacer. Advantageously, such a switch is a compact, durable and cost-effective switch despite its enhanced functionality.

Die mit der Erfindung erzielten Vorteile bestehen insbesondere darin, daß der Schalter weniger Einzelteile im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Mikroschaltern und folglich eine hohe Funktionsintegration besitzt. Es handelt sich um ein einfaches Schaltsystem mit wenigen bewegten Teilen. Dadurch ist der Schalter, bedingt durch die Vereinfachung des Montageprozesses aufgrund der verringerten Anzahl von Prozeßschritten, auch deutlich günstiger als vergleichbare bisherige Schalter herstellbar. Der erfindungsgemäß ausgestaltete Schalter gestattet die Herstellung mittels eines vereinfachten Fertigungskonzepts, das höhere Montage-Taktraten als bisher erlaubt. Außerdem führt das Fertigungskonzept zu einer geringeren Rüstzeit der Montagemaschine und gestattet somit eine geringe Losgrößenzahl je Auftrag und Fertigungslos.The advantages achieved by the invention are in particular that the switch has fewer parts compared to conventional micro-switches and consequently a high functional integration. It is a simple switching system with few moving parts. As a result, the switch, due to the simplification of the assembly process due to the reduced number of process steps, also significantly cheaper than comparable previous switch produced. The inventively designed switch allows the production by means of a simplified manufacturing concept that allows higher mounting clock rates than before. In addition, the manufacturing concept leads to a shorter set-up time of the assembly machine and thus allows a small batch size per order and Fertigungslos.

Der erfindungsgemäße Schalter besitzt ein zu einem Schnapp- und/oder Mikroschalter vergleichbares Schaltverhalten, das allerdings eine geräuschlose Betätigung gestattet, denn beim Schleifersystem entfällt das ansonsten typische Klicken eines mit einer Feder arbeitenden Schnappschaltsystems. Vorteilhaft ist weiter, daß die Kontaktkraft konstant über den Gesamtweg des Schleifers ist. Die hohe Kontaktsicherheit, die der Schalter besitzt, unterstützt das Schalten von Signalen. Der große Gesamtweg des Schleifers ergibt einen langen Nachlaufweg auf der Schließerseite, was wiederum große Einbautoleranzen erlaubt.The switch according to the invention has a comparable to a snap and / or microswitch switching behavior, however, allows a noiseless operation, because the grinder system eliminates the otherwise typical click of a snap-action system operating with a spring. It is also advantageous that the contact force is constant over the entire path of the grinder. The high contact safety that the switch possesses, supports the switching of signals. The large total path of the grinder results in a long overtravel on the closer, which in turn allows large installation tolerances.

Weiter gestattet das Kontaktsystem auch kleinere Abmessungen für den Schalter als bei herkömmlichen Mikroschaltern. Aufgrund der Verkleinerung ergibt sich eine Material- und somit Kosteneinsparung. Der Schalter bietet einen hohen Schutz gegen schädliche Umwelteinflüsse, indem eine verbesserte Dichtigkeit zwischen Sockel und Gehäuse beziehungsweise Sockel und Stanzgitter realisiert ist. Somit ist das Schaltsystem geschützt gegen Verschmutzung und dessen Funktionssicherheit erhöht.Further, the contact system also allows smaller dimensions for the switch than conventional microswitches. Due to the reduction results in a material and thus cost savings. The switch provides a high level of protection against harmful environmental influences, by an improved tightness between the base and housing or socket and punched grid is realized. Thus, the switching system is protected against contamination and its reliability increased.

Ein weiterer Fortschritt ergibt sich aus der größeren Lebensdauer sowie den geringeren Herstellkosten gegenüber bisherigen vergleichbaren Schaltern. Bei der Applikation als Mitte-Null-Schleiferschalter werden die bisher notwendigen zwei Schnappschalter durch einen einzigen Schalter ersetzt, was die Kosten für die Schaltelemente halbiert.Further progress results from the longer service life and the lower manufacturing costs compared to previous comparable switches. When used as a center-zero slider switch the previously required two snap-action switches are replaced by a single switch, which halves the cost of the switching elements.

Schließlich erfüllt die im Kontaktsystem verwendete Blattfeder gleichzeitig mehrere Funktionen. Zum einen gewährleistet die Blattfeder eine gleichmäßige Kontaktkraft über den gesamten Hub des Schleifers. Zum anderen übt die Blattfeder auch die Rückstellfunktion für das beispielsweise als Drücker ausgestaltete Betätigungsorgan aus. Schließlich sorgt die Blattfeder auch für die Kontaktgabe zu den Anschlüssen, wobei das Schaltsystem mit doppelten Anschlüssen entsprechend von zwei Festkontakten ausgestattet sein kann.Finally, the leaf spring used in the contact system simultaneously fulfills several functions. Firstly, the leaf spring ensures a uniform contact force over the entire stroke of the grinder. On the other hand, the leaf spring also exerts the reset function for the example designed as a pusher actuator. Finally, the leaf spring also provides for the contact to the terminals, wherein the switching system can be equipped with double connections corresponding to two fixed contacts.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung mit verschiedenen Weiterbildungen und Ausgestaltungen ist in den Zeichnungen dargestellt und wird im folgenden näher beschrieben. Es zeigen

  • Fig. 1 einen elektrischen Schalter in perspektivischer Ansicht,
  • Fig. 2 den Schalter aus Fig. 1 mit aufgeschnittenem Gehäuse,
  • Fig. 3 den Sockel mit Kontaktsystem des Schalters,
  • Fig. 4 einen Längsschnitt durch den Sockel mit Kontaktsystem aus Fig. 3,
  • Fig. 5 die Blattfeder als Einzelteil in perspektivischer Ansicht,
  • Fig. 6 den Sockel des elektrischen Schalters mit einem lötfreien Anschluß,
  • Fig. 7 das Anbringen einer Steckverbindung für den lötfreien Anschluß und
  • Fig. 8 den Sockel mit Kontaktsystem entsprechend einer weiteren Ausgestaltung.
An embodiment of the invention with various developments and refinements is shown in the drawings and will be described in more detail below. Show it
  • Fig. 1 an electric switch in perspective view,
  • Fig. 2 the switch off Fig. 1 with cut case,
  • Fig. 3 the socket with contact system of the switch,
  • Fig. 4 a longitudinal section through the socket with contact system Fig. 3 .
  • Fig. 5 the leaf spring as an individual part in perspective view,
  • Fig. 6 the socket of the electrical switch with a solderless connection,
  • Fig. 7 the attachment of a connector for the solderless connection and
  • Fig. 8 the socket with contact system according to another embodiment.

Ein in der Art eines Mikro- und/oder Schnappschalters ausgebildeter elektrischer Schalter 1 ist in Fig. 1 näher zu sehen. Der Schalter 1 besitzt ein Gehäuse 2, in dessen Innerem ein Kontaktsystem 3 angeordnet ist, wie weiter in Fig. 2 gezeigt ist. Das Kontaktsystem 3 besteht aus einem in Fig. 3 sichtbaren, bewegbaren Schaltkontakt 4 und wenigstens einem Festkontakt 5. Ein bewegliches Betätigungsorgan 7 dient zum Schalten des Kontaktsystems 3. Ein elastisches Element 8 wirkt mit dem Schaltkontakt 4 und/oder dem Betätigungsorgan 7 zur Rückstellung zusammen.A formed in the manner of a micro and / or snap switch electrical switch 1 is in Fig. 1 to see closer. The switch 1 has a housing 2 in the interior of which a contact system 3 is arranged, as further described in FIG Fig. 2 is shown. The contact system 3 consists of a in Fig. 3 visible, movable switching contact 4 and at least one fixed contact 5. A movable actuator 7 is used to switch the contact system 3. An elastic element 8 cooperates with the switching contact 4 and / or the actuator 7 to the provision.

Wie man besonders gut der Fig. 3 entnehmen kann, sind der Schaltkontakt 4 als ein Schleifer und der Festkontakt 5 als eine Kontaktfläche ausgestaltet, derart daß der Schleifer 4 beim Schalten mit der Kontaktfläche 5 zusammenwirkt. Hierzu wird der Schleifer 4 mittels des Betätigungsorgans 7 auf die Kontaktfläche 5 bewegt und/oder von der Kontaktfläche 5 wegbewegt. Das elastische Element 8 ist als eine mit dem Schleifer 4 gekoppelte und dadurch zusammenwirkende Blattfeder ausgestaltet.How to do that very well Fig. 3 can be seen, the switching contact 4 are configured as a slider and the fixed contact 5 as a contact surface, so that the slider 4 cooperates with the contact surface 5 when switching. For this purpose, the grinder 4 is moved by means of the actuating member 7 on the contact surface 5 and / or moved away from the contact surface 5. The elastic element 8 is configured as a leaf spring coupled to the wiper 4 and thus cooperating.

Das Gehäuse 2 besteht aus Kunststoff, beispielsweise einem thermoplastischen Kunststoff, und ist im Spritzgießverfahren hergestellt. Im Einzelnen besteht das Gehäuse 2 gemäß Fig. 2 aus einem Gehäuseoberteil 9 und einem als Sockel ausgestalteten Gehäuseunterteil 10. Elektrische Anschlüsse 11, 12 für das Kontaktsystem 3 ragen am Sockel 10 aus dem Gehäuse 2 heraus. Das Betätigungsorgan 7 ragt in der Art eines Drückers an einer Öffnung 14 im Gehäuseoberteil 9 abgedichtet bewegbar heraus und wird in der beschriebenen Ausführung seinerseits mittels eines Schalthebels 17 betätigt. Der Schalthebel 17 kann der Applikation für den Schalter 1 entsprechend auch eine abgewinkelte oder sonstige Ausgestaltung aufweisen. Zur Abdichtung der Öffnung 14 ist das Betätigungsorgan 7 mit einer balgförmigen Dichtung 15, die beispielsweise aus Silikon besteht, versehen. Die Dichtung 15 ist am Gehäuseoberteil 9 mittels einer Art von Verstemmung befestigt, beispielsweise indem bei der Montage der Dichtung 15 mittels eines Messers Kunststoffspäne am Rand um die Öffnung 14 im Gehäuseoberteil 9 nach innen zur Dichtung 15 gedrückt werden. Zur weiteren Verbesserung der Dichtwirkung kann der Fuß der balgförmigen Dichtung 15 mit Dichtungsspitzen 34 versehen sein. Im Bereich der Dichtung 15 befinden sich am Gehäuseoberteil 9 vier Dome 16 als Anschlag für die externe Betätigung des Betätigungsorgans 7.The housing 2 is made of plastic, for example a thermoplastic material, and is produced by injection molding. In detail, the housing 2 according to Fig. 2 from an upper housing part 9 and a lower housing part 10 designed as a base. Electrical connections 11, 12 for the contact system 3 protrude from the housing 2 at the base 10. The actuator 7 protrudes in the manner of a pusher at an opening 14 in the upper housing part 9 sealed movable out and is described in the Execution in turn actuated by means of a shift lever 17. The shift lever 17 may have the application for the switch 1 according to an angled or other configuration. To seal the opening 14, the actuator 7 is provided with a bellows-shaped seal 15, which consists for example of silicone. The seal 15 is fixed to the upper housing part 9 by means of a kind of caulking, for example by means of a knife plastic chips are pressed at the edge around the opening 14 in the upper housing part 9 inwardly to the seal 15 during assembly of the seal 15. To further improve the sealing effect of the foot of the bellows-shaped seal 15 may be provided with sealing tips 34. In the region of the seal 15 are located on the upper housing part 9 four dome 16 as a stop for the external actuation of the actuator. 7

Vorliegend weist das Kontaktsystem 3 entsprechend Fig. 3 und Fig. 4 zwei Festkontakte 5, 6 auf, derart daß der Schaltkontakt 4 zwischen den beiden Festkontakten 5, 6 zum Umschalten des Kontaktsystems 3 bewegbar ist. Die Kontaktfläche für den Festkontakt 5, 6 ist einstückig mit jeweils einem elektrischen Anschluß 11, 13 ausgebildet. Der Schaltkontakt 4 steht mit dem weiteren elektrischen Anschluß 12 in elektrischer Verbindung. Die Anschlüsse 11, 12, 13 sowie die Kontaktflächen 5, 6 sind in der Art eines Stanzgitters hergestellt. Die elektrischen Anschlüsse 11, 12, 13 werden als Stanzgitter in den Sockel 10 bei dessen Herstellung eingespritzt, womit auch am Sockel 10 eine weitgehende Dichtigkeit in das Innere des Gehäuses 2 erzielt wird.In the present case, the contact system 3 accordingly Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 two fixed contacts 5, 6, so that the switching contact 4 between the two fixed contacts 5, 6 for switching the contact system 3 is movable. The contact surface for the fixed contact 5, 6 is integrally formed with one electrical connection 11, 13. The switching contact 4 is in electrical connection with the further electrical connection 12. The terminals 11, 12, 13 and the contact surfaces 5, 6 are made in the manner of a stamped grid. The electrical connections 11, 12, 13 are injected as a stamped grid in the base 10 during its manufacture, which also on the base 10 a substantial tightness is achieved in the interior of the housing 2.

Zur weiteren Verbesserung der Abdichtung des Gehäuses 2 ist zusätzlich ein Verguß 18 am Sockel 10 im Bereich der Anschlüsse 11, 12, 13 angebracht, wie der Fig. 2 zu entnehmen ist. Hierzu ist ein dem Sockel 10 zugewandter überstehender Rand 19 am Gehäuseoberteil 9 zur Aufnahme der Vergußmasse befindlich. Die Vergußmasse kann aus einem einkomponentigen, lichthärtenden Kunststoffmaterial bestehen. Falls notwendig können die dem Verguß 18 zugewandten Oberflächen am Sockel 10 sowie am überstehenden Rand 19 vor Einbringen der Vergußmasse mittels Plasmastrahlung aktiviert werden.To further improve the sealing of the housing 2, a casting 18 is additionally attached to the base 10 in the region of the terminals 11, 12, 13, as the Fig. 2 can be seen. For this purpose, a base 10 facing the protruding edge 19 is located on the upper housing part 9 for receiving the potting compound. The potting compound may consist of a one-component, light-curing plastic material. If necessary, the surfaces facing the potting 18 can be activated on the base 10 and on the protruding edge 19 prior to introduction of the potting compound by means of plasma radiation.

Wie weiter aus Fig. 4 ersichtlich ist, besitzt der Festkontakt 5, 6 einen in etwa rechteckförmigen Querschnitt mit einer breiten Seite sowie mit einer schmalen Seite. Die Kontaktfläche 5, 6 ist gemäß Fig. 3 zur Zusammenwirkung mit dem Schleifer 4 an der breiten Seite befindlich. Ein Abstandhalter 20 aus isolierendem Material, und zwar aus Kunststoff, ist zwischen den Festkontakten 5, 6 befindlich, derart daß die Kontaktflächen 5, 6 der Festkontakte sowie der Abstandhalter 20 eine ebene Bahn für den Schleifer 4 bilden und die Festkontakte 5, 6 elektrisch voneinander isoliert sowie mechanisch fixiert sind. Der Abstandhalter 20 ist gleichzeitig beim Einspritzen der Anschlüsse 11, 12, 13 in den Sockel 10 und/oder beim Spritzgießen des Sockels 10 hergestellt. Der Abstandhalter 20 besitzt eine Breite von in etwa ca. 2/10 bis 3/10 mm, um ein im wesentlichen unverzögertes Umschalten zwischen den beiden Festkontakten 5, 6 wie bei einem herkömmlichen Schnappschalter zu erreichen. Falls erforderlich kann die Breite für den Abstandhalter 20 jedoch auch vergrößert werden.How farther Fig. 4 can be seen, the fixed contact 5, 6 has an approximately rectangular cross-section with a wide side and with a narrow side. The Contact surface 5, 6 is according to Fig. 3 for cooperation with the grinder 4 on the wide side. A spacer 20 made of insulating material, of plastic, is located between the fixed contacts 5, 6, so that the contact surfaces 5, 6 of the fixed contacts and the spacer 20 form a flat path for the grinder 4 and the fixed contacts 5, 6 electrically from each other isolated and mechanically fixed. The spacer 20 is made at the same time when injecting the terminals 11, 12, 13 in the base 10 and / or during injection molding of the base 10. The spacer 20 has a width of about 2/10 to 3/10 mm in order to achieve a substantially instantaneous switching between the two fixed contacts 5, 6 as in a conventional snap-action switch. However, if necessary, the width for the spacer 20 can be increased.

Der als Schleifer ausgestaltete Schaltkontakt 4 ist in die Blattfeder 8 integriert. Die Blattfeder 8 ist in etwa L-förmig ausgestaltet, wie in Fig. 5 zu sehen ist. Die Blattfeder 8 liegt an dem einen Ende, und zwar am kürzeren Schenkel 21 des L's, mittels einer Kontaktanschlußfläche 23 an einem in Fig. 4 sichtbaren, an dem weiteren elektrischen Anschluß 12 befindlichen Kontaktlager 25 an. Bevorzugterweise besitzt die Blattfeder 8 zwei federnd ausgebildeten Kontaktanschlußflächen 23, 24 in der Art einer Federklammer, so daß die Blattfeder 8 am Kontaktlager 25 sowohl befestigt ist als auch eine redundante elektrische Verbindung zum Kontaktlager 25 besitzt. Die Blattfeder 8 ist an dem anderen Ende, und zwar am längeren Schenkel 22 des L's, mit einer Betätigungsfläche 26 zur Zusammenwirkung mit dem vom Schaltkontakt 4 entkoppelten Betätigungsorgan 7 versehen. Dadurch ist der längere Schenkel 22 des L's bei Bewegung des Betätigungsorgans 7 um die Verbindung 27 der beiden Schenkel 21, 22 des L's verschwenkbar. Zur Abstützung der Verbindung 27 der beiden Schenkel 21, 22 des L's in der Art eines Schwenklagers befindet sich ein Ansatz 28 am Sockel 10, wie der Fig. 4 zu entnehmen ist. Der Schaltkontakt 4 ist am längeren Schenkel 22 des L's zwischen der Verbindung 27 der beiden Schenkel 21, 22 des L's und der Betätigungsfläche 26, und zwar in der Nähe der Betätigungsfläche 26, angeordnet.The designed as a wiper switch contact 4 is integrated into the leaf spring 8. The leaf spring 8 is configured approximately L-shaped, as in Fig. 5 you can see. The leaf spring 8 is located at one end, namely on the shorter leg 21 of the L's, by means of a contact pad 23 at a in Fig. 4 visible, located at the other electrical connection 12 contact bearing 25 at. Preferably, the leaf spring 8 has two resiliently formed contact pads 23, 24 in the manner of a spring clip, so that the leaf spring 8 is both attached to the contact bearing 25 and has a redundant electrical connection to the contact bearing 25. The leaf spring 8 is provided at the other end, namely on the longer leg 22 of the L's, with an actuating surface 26 for cooperation with the decoupled from the switching contact 4 actuator 7. As a result, the longer leg 22 of the arm is pivotable on movement of the actuating member 7 about the connection 27 of the two legs 21, 22 of the L's. To support the connection 27 of the two legs 21, 22 of the L's in the manner of a pivot bearing, there is a projection 28 on the base 10, as the Fig. 4 can be seen. The switching contact 4 is on the longer leg 22 of the L's between the connection 27 of the two legs 21, 22 of the L's and the actuating surface 26, in the vicinity of the actuating surface 26, respectively.

Die Blattfeder 8 besteht aus Metall, wie Stahl, nichtrostendem Federstahl, Kupfer-Beryllium o. dgl., und ist als ein eine Breit- sowie eine Schmalseite aufweisendes Stanz-Biegeteil ausgestaltet. Die Breitseite der Blattfeder 8 ist in etwa senkrecht zu der breiten sowie schmalen Seite der Kontaktfläche des Festkontakts 5, 6 angeordnet. Der Schleifer als Schaltkontakt 4 ist an der Blattfeder freigestanzt sowie in etwa um 90° bezüglich der Breitseite der Blattfeder 8 umgebogen. Dadurch liegt der Schleifer 4 mittels einer angeprägten Kontaktwarze 29 an der breiten Seite der Kontaktfläche 5, 6 mit einer Anpreßkraft an, wie anhand der Fig. 3 zu erkennen ist. Aus Gründen der Redundanz ist der Schleifer als Doppelschleifer 4, 4' ausgebildet, derart daß gemäß Fig. 3 und Fig. 5 der eine Schleifer 4 an der Vorderseite sowie der andere Schleifer 4' an der Rückseite der Kontaktfläche 5, 6 anliegt.The leaf spring 8 is made of metal, such as steel, stainless spring steel, copper beryllium o. The like., And is as a broad and a narrow side exhibiting stamped and bent part designed. The broad side of the leaf spring 8 is arranged approximately perpendicular to the wide and narrow side of the contact surface of the fixed contact 5, 6. The grinder as a switching contact 4 is punched free on the leaf spring and bent at approximately 90 ° with respect to the broad side of the leaf spring 8. As a result, the grinder 4 is applied by means of an impressed contact lug 29 on the broad side of the contact surface 5, 6 with a pressing force, as shown in FIG Fig. 3 can be seen. For reasons of redundancy of the grinder is designed as a double grinder 4, 4 ', so that according to Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 a grinder 4 at the front and the other grinder 4 'at the back of the contact surface 5, 6 is present.

Wie man anhand von Fig. 4 sieht, weist die Blattfeder 8 einen Rasthaken 30 auf. Der Rasthaken 30 ist am kürzeren Schenkel 21 des L's freigestanzt. Mit Hilfe des Rasthakens 30 ist die Blattfeder 8 während des Montageprozesses am Sockel 10, und zwar am Ansatz 28 des Sockels 10, fixierbar. An der Breitseite des längeren Schenkels 22 des L's ist wenigstens eine Sicke 31 zur Versteifung eingeprägt, wie in Fig. 5 zu sehen ist. Die Sicke 31 ist der Betätigungsfläche 26 gegenüberliegend angeordnet und befindet sich in der Nähe des Schleifers 4. Die Kontaktanschlußfläche 23, 24 sowie die Kontaktwarze 29 an der Blattfeder 8, die Kontaktfläche 5, 6 des Festkontakts o. dgl. sind zwecks verbesserter Kontakteigenschaften mit Edelmetall beschichtet. Als Beschichtung eignen sich Silber, Gold o. dgl., oder eine Edelmetall-Legierung, beispielsweise Gold-Kobalt.How to get by Fig. 4 sees, the leaf spring 8 has a latching hook 30. The latching hook 30 is punched free at the shorter leg 21 of the L's. With the help of the latching hook 30, the leaf spring 8 during the assembly process on the base 10, namely at the base 28 of the base 10, can be fixed. On the broad side of the longer leg 22 of the L's at least one bead 31 is embossed for stiffening, as in Fig. 5 you can see. The bead 31 is disposed opposite the actuating surface 26 and is located in the vicinity of the grinder 4. The contact pad 23, 24 and the contact 29 on the leaf spring 8, the contact surface 5, 6 of the fixed contact o. The like. For the purpose of improved contact properties with precious metal coated. As a coating are silver, gold o. The like., Or a noble metal alloy, such as gold-cobalt.

In einer weiteren Ausgestaltung, die in Fig. 8 zu sehen ist, besitzt das Kontaktsystem 3 drei Schaltstellungen. Der Schleifer 4 bzw. 4' ist an die Kontaktfläche des einen Festkontakts 5 entsprechend einer ersten Schaltstellung sowie an die Kontaktfläche des anderen Festkontakts 6 entsprechend einer zweiten Schaltstellung beim Schalten des Kontaktsystems 3 bewegbar. Desweiteren ist der Schaltkontakt 4 in eine weitere dritte, zwischen den beiden Festkontakten 5, 6 befindliche Schaltstellung bewegbar. Der Schleifer 4 bzw. 4' liegt in der dritten Schaltstellung am elektrisch isolierenden Abstandhalter 20 an. Zu diesem Zweck besitzt der Abstandhalter 20 eine genügende Breite, beispielsweise ca. 9/10 mm. Aufgrund der Federeigenschaften der Blattfeder 8 befindet sich der Schaltkontakt 4 in der Ausgangsstellung in Anlage am Festkontakt 6 entsprechend der zweiten Schaltstellung. In der dritten Schaltstellung befindet sich der Schaltkontakt 4 in Anlage am Abstandhalter 20 und ist in dieser Schaltstellung durch entsprechende, jedoch nicht weiter gezeigte Ausbildung der Anlenkung der Betätigungsmechanik am Betätigungsorgan 7 festzuhalten. Dasselbe gilt für die erste Schaltstellung, in der der Schaltkontakt 4 in Anlage am Festkontakt 5 ist. Es handelt sich entsprechend dieser Schaltreihenfolge um einen Öffner mit anschließender Nullstellung und einem weiteren Schließer, also um einen Schalter in der Art eines "Mitte-Null-Schalters".In a further embodiment, in Fig. 8 can be seen, the contact system 3 has three switch positions. The wiper 4 or 4 'is movable to the contact surface of a fixed contact 5 according to a first switching position and to the contact surface of the other fixed contact 6 according to a second switching position when switching the contact system 3. Furthermore, the switching contact 4 in a further third, located between the two fixed contacts 5, 6 switch position movable. The grinder 4 or 4 'is in the third switching position on the electrically insulating spacer 20 at. For this purpose, the spacer 20 has a sufficient width, for example about 9/10 mm. Due to the spring characteristics of the leaf spring 8, the switch contact 4 is in the starting position in contact with the fixed contact 6 according to the second switching position. In the third switching position, the switching contact 4 is in contact with the spacer 20 and is to be held in this switch position by appropriate, but not further shown embodiment of the articulation of the actuating mechanism on the actuator 7. The same applies to the first switching position in which the switching contact 4 is in contact with the fixed contact 5. It is in accordance with this switching sequence to an opener with subsequent zero position and another closer, so a switch in the manner of a "center-zero switch".

In einer besonderen Ausgestaltung, die in Fig. 6 sichtbar ist, weist der elektrische Anschluß 11, 12, 13 eine Aufnahme 32 auf, die in etwa kreuzförmig eingeschnitten ist. Ein zur Aufnahme 32 korrespondierendes, eine elektrische Spannung für das Kontaktsystem 3 zuführendes Steckelement 33 ist gemäß Fig. 7 an den jeweiligen elektrischen Anschluß 11, 12, 13 ansteckbar, wobei die aufgrund des kreuzförmigen Schnitts gebildeten Elemente in der Aufnahme 32 sich dementsprechend zur elektrischen Kontaktierung durch das Steckelement 33 verformen. Es handelt sich damit um eine löt- und/oder schweißfrei montierbare elektrische Verbindung.In a particular embodiment, the in Fig. 6 is visible, the electrical connection 11, 12, 13, a receptacle 32 which is cut approximately in a cross shape. A corresponding to the receptacle 32, an electrical voltage for the contact system 3 feeding plug 33 is according to Fig. 7 to the respective electrical connection 11, 12, 13 attachable, wherein the elements formed in the receptacle 32 due to the cross-shaped section deform accordingly for electrical contacting by the plug-in element 33. It is thus a solder and / or weld-free mountable electrical connection.

Die Erfindung ist nicht auf das beschriebene und dargestellte Ausführungsbeispiel beschränkt. Sie umfaßt vielmehr auch alle fachmännischen Weiterbildungen im Rahmen der durch die Patentansprüche definierten Erfindung. So kann das beschriebene Kontaktsystem nicht nur bei Schnapp- und/oder Mikroschaltern sondern auch bei sonstigen elektrischen Schaltern, beispielsweise bei Geräteschaltern, Verwendung finden.The invention is not limited to the described and illustrated embodiment. Rather, it also encompasses all expert developments within the scope of the invention defined by the claims. Thus, the contact system described can be found not only in snap-action and / or micro-switches but also in other electrical switches, such as device switches, use.

Bezugszeichen-Liste:Reference numeral list:

1:1:
(elektrischer) Schalter(electrical) switch
2:2:
Gehäusecasing
3:3:
KontaktsystemContact system
4, 4':4, 4 ':
Schaltkontakt / SchleiferSwitch contact / grinder
5,6:5,6:
Festkontakt / KontaktflächeFixed contact / contact surface
7:7:
Betätigungsorganactuator
8:8th:
elastisches Element / Blattfederelastic element / leaf spring
9:9:
GehäuseoberteilHousing top
10:10:
Gehäuseunterteil / SockelHousing base / base
11,12,13:11,12,13:
(elektrischer) Anschluß(electrical) connection
14:14:
Öffnung (im Gehäuseoberteil)Opening (in the upper part of the housing)
15:15:
Dichtungpoetry
16:16:
Domcathedral
17:17:
Schalthebelgear lever
18:18:
Vergußcasting
19:19:
(überstehender) Rand (am Gehäuseoberteil)(protruding) edge (on the upper part of the housing)
20:20:
Abstandhalterspacer
21:21:
(kürzerer) Schenkel (der Blattfeder)(shorter) leg (the leaf spring)
22:22:
(längerer) Schenkel (der Blattfeder)(longer) thigh (the leaf spring)
23,24:23.24:
KontaktanschlußflächeContact pad
25:25:
KontaktlagerContact camp
26:26:
Betätigungsflächeactuating surface
27:27:
Verbindung (der beiden Schenkel)Connection (of the two legs)
28:28:
Ansatz (am Sockel)Approach (at the base)
29:29:
Kontaktwarzebump
30:30:
Rasthakenlatch hook
31:31:
SickeBeading
32:32:
Aufnahme (am Anschluß)Recording (at the connection)
33:33:
Steckelementplug-in element
34:34:
Dichtungsspitzesealing tip

Claims (10)

  1. An electrical switch, particularly of the type of a micro and/or snap-action switch, having a contact system comprising a displaceable switch contact (4) and at least one fixed contact (5), having a displaceable actuating element (7) for switching the contact system (3), having electrical connections (11, 12, 13) for the contact system (3), and having an elastic element (8) cooperating with the switch contact (4) and/or the actuating element (7) for the reset, wherein the switch contact (4) is configured as a sliding contact, and the fixed contact (5) is configured as a contact surface such that the sliding contact (4) cooperates with the contact surface (5) during switching, in that the sliding contact (4) is displaced onto the contact surface (5), and/or away from the contact surface (5), and wherein the elastic element (8) is configured as a leaf spring (8) coupled to the sliding contact (4), in that the sliding contact (4) is integrated into the leaf spring (8), characterized in that the leaf spring (8) is configured in an approximately L-shaped manner with a shorter leg (21) as well as a longer leg (22), that the leaf spring (8) abuts on the one end, which is located on the shorter leg (21) of the L, by means of a contact connection surface (23, 24) on a contact bearing (25) located at the electrical connection (12), such that the leaf spring (8) is both mounted on the contact bearing (25) as well as has an electrical connection to the contact bearing (25), and that the switch contact (4) is arranged on the longer leg (22) of the L.
  2. An electrical switch according to claim 1, characterized in that the contact system (3) is arranged in a housing (2), which is produced in particular from plastic, that preferably the housing (2) consists of a housing top (9) and a housing bottom (10) configured as a base, that further preferably the electrical connections (11, 12, 13) for the contact system (3) on the base (10) protrude from the housing (2), and that still further preferably the actuating element (7) in the form of a push button provided on an opening (14) in the housing top (9), in particular, protrudes displaceably sealed by means of a bellows-shaped, seal (15) consisting, for example, of silicon.
  3. An electrical switch according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the contact surface for the fixed contact (5, 6) is integral with the one electrical connection (11, 13), that preferably the connection (11, 12, 13) as well as the contact surface (5, 6) are produced in the form of a punched grid, and that further preferably the electrical connections (11, 12, 13), in particular as punched grids, are injected into the base (10) during their production.
  4. An electrical switch according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the fixed contact (5, 6) has an approximately rectangular cross section with a wide side as well as with a narrow side, that preferably the contact surface (5, 6) is located for interaction with the sliding contact (4, 4') on the wide side, that further preferably the contact system (3) has two fixed contacts (5, 6), such that the switch contact (4, 4') is displaceable between the two fixed contacts (5, 6) for the switching of the contact system (3), that still further preferably a spacer (20) made of insulating material, in particular, made of plastic, is located between the fixed contacts (5, 6), such that the contact surfaces (5, 6) of the fixed contacts as well as the spacer (20) form a level path for the sliding contact (4, 4'), wherein, in particular, the spacer (20) insulates the contact surfaces (5, 6) of the fixed contacts electrically from each other as well as, if necessary, fixes them, and that once more further preferably the spacer (20) is produced during the injection of the connections (11, 12, 13) into the base (10) and/or during the injection molding of the base (10).
  5. An electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the contact connection surface (23, 24) has two elastically configured contact connection surfaces (23, 24) in the form of a spring clamp, that preferably the leaf spring (8) on the other end, particularly on the longer leg (22) of the L, is provided with an actuating surface (26) for interaction with the actuating element (7) decoupled from the switch contact (4, 4'), such that the longer leg (22) of the L during the movement of the actuating element (7) can be pivoted about the connection (27) of the two legs (21, 22) of the L, wherein in particular a nose (28) is located on the base (10) for supporting the connection (27) of the two legs (21, 22) of the L in the form of a swivel bearing, and that further preferably the switch contact (4, 4') is arranged between the connection (27) of the two legs (21, 22) of the L and the actuating surface (26), in particular, in the vicinity of the actuating surface (26).
  6. An electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the leaf spring (8) consists of metal, such as steel, stainless spring steel, copper- beryllium or the like, that preferably the leaf spring (8) is configured as a punched bent part having a wide as well as narrow side, wherein in particular the wide side of the leaf spring (8) is arranged approximately perpendicular to the wide as well as the narrow side of the contact surface (5, 6) of the fixed contact, that further preferably a sliding contact (4, 4') is freely punched as a switch contact on the leaf spring (8) as well as bent over approximately by 90° relative to the wide side of the leaf spring (8), such that the sliding contact (4, 4'), in particular by means of a contact lug (29), abuts on the wide side of the contact surface (5, 6) with a contact pressure, and that still further preferably the sliding contact (4, 4') is configured as a double sliding contact, such that the one sliding contact (4) abuts on the front side as well as the other sliding contact (4') abuts on the back side of the contact surface (5, 6).
  7. An electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the leaf spring (8) has an engagement hook (30), which in particular is freely punched on the shorter leg (21) of the L, such that the leaf spring (8) can be fixed on the base (10), specifically preferably on the nose (28) of the base (10), that preferably at least one ribbing (31) for stiffening is impressed on the wide side of the longer leg (22) of the L, wherein preferably the ribbing (31) is located opposite the actuating surface (26) as well in the vicinity of the sliding contact (4, 4'), and that still further preferably the contact connection surface (23, 24) and/or the contact lug (29) on the leaf spring (8), the contact surface (5, 6) of the fixed contact or the like, is coated with a precious metal, like silver, gold, or the like, or with a precious metal alloy, for example, gold-cobalt.
  8. An electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a casting (18) is applied to the base (10) for sealing the housing (2) in the area of the connections (11, 12, 13), that preferably a protruding edge (19) facing the base (10) is located on the housing top (9) for receiving the casting compound, that further preferably the casting compound consists of a single-component, light-curing plastic material, and that still further preferably the surfaces facing the casting (18) on the base (10) as well as on the protruding edge (19) are activated before introducing the casting compound by means of plasma radiation.
  9. An electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the contact system (3) has three switch positions, that preferably the sliding contact (4, 4') of the switch contact on the contact surface of a fixed contact (5) corresponding to a first switch position as well as on the contact surface of the other fixed contact (6) corresponding to a second switch position is displaceable during the switching of the contact system (3), that further preferably the sliding contact (4, 4') of the switch contact is displaceable into a further third switch position located between the two fixed contacts (5, 6), and that still further preferably the sliding contact (4, 4') in the third switch position abuts on the, in particular, electrically insulating, spacer (20).
  10. An electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the electrical connection (11, 12, 13) has a receptacle (32), such that a plug element (33) corresponding to the receptacle (32), feeding an electrical voltage for the contact system (3) is pluggable into an electrical connection (11, 12, 13) in the form of a solderless and/or weld-free electrical connection.
EP07817453.9A 2006-08-31 2007-08-28 Electric switch Active EP2057652B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102006040806 2006-08-31
PCT/DE2007/001528 WO2008025341A1 (en) 2006-08-31 2007-08-28 Electric switch

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2057652A1 EP2057652A1 (en) 2009-05-13
EP2057652B1 true EP2057652B1 (en) 2015-07-29

Family

ID=38704942

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP07817453.9A Active EP2057652B1 (en) 2006-08-31 2007-08-28 Electric switch

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EP (1) EP2057652B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2008025341A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4816662A (en) * 1986-08-07 1989-03-28 Ichikoh Industries Limited Remote control switch for posture adjustment of automotive mirrors
ES2149897T3 (en) * 1994-04-19 2000-11-16 Marquardt Gmbh ELECTRIC SWITCH AND MANUFACTURING PROCEDURE FOR A SWITCH OF THIS KIND.
DE4426350C2 (en) * 1994-07-25 2001-08-02 Teves Gmbh Alfred Switch system with a system housing

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2057652A1 (en) 2009-05-13
WO2008025341A1 (en) 2008-03-06

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