EP2209131B1 - Device with at least one operating element - Google Patents

Device with at least one operating element Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2209131B1
EP2209131B1 EP09014951A EP09014951A EP2209131B1 EP 2209131 B1 EP2209131 B1 EP 2209131B1 EP 09014951 A EP09014951 A EP 09014951A EP 09014951 A EP09014951 A EP 09014951A EP 2209131 B1 EP2209131 B1 EP 2209131B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
appliance
snap
appliance according
designed
housing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP09014951A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2209131A1 (en
Inventor
Georgy Yltchev
Thomas Schulz
Christian Döbele
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Sick AG
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Sick AG
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Publication date
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Publication of EP2209131A1 publication Critical patent/EP2209131A1/en
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Publication of EP2209131B1 publication Critical patent/EP2209131B1/en
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02—Details
    • H01H13/26—Snap-action arrangements depending upon deformation of elastic members
    • H01H13/48—Snap-action arrangements depending upon deformation of elastic members using buckling of disc springs
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02—Details
    • H01H13/04—Cases; Covers
    • H01H13/06—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof or flameproof casings
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2205/00—Movable contacts
    • H01H2205/016—Separate bridge contact
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2215/00—Tactile feedback
    • H01H2215/004—Collapsible dome or bubble
    • H01H2215/014—Avoiding permanent dome inversion
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2223/00—Casings
    • H01H2223/002—Casings sealed
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2227/00—Dimensions; Characteristics
    • H01H2227/028—Key stroke

Definitions

  • control elements formed in particular as a snap-action disk are known, wherein a snap disk is to be understood as meaning an element having a discontinuous transition characteristic, so that upon actuation of the operating element by applying an actuating force from the snap disk a switching stroke is generated and a snap action is carried out.
  • this snap-over is haptically perceptible to the user, so that he can recognize from the fact that he has triggered the switching operation successfully.
  • Control elements in the form of switches and buttons are increasingly subject to new requirements in industrial applications with regard to resistance to external influences, in particular effects of a mechanical, chemical or weather-related nature.
  • the mechanical actions are defined by possible damage by foreign objects which are able to scratch, abrade or penetrate surfaces, which can lead to a mechanical failure of the operating element.
  • equipment in many industrial sectors, for example the food industry, the solar energy industry or the pharmaceutical industry, equipment must meet the requirements of the IP69k class, which in particular requires that the equipment be cleaned by a high-pressure water jet, which has a pressure in the range from 80 bar to 100 bar and a water temperature of 80 ° C, at must withstand a beam distance of 100 to 150 mm undamaged.
  • high demands are placed on the stability and robustness of the operating element and of the device as well as the seal between operating element and device.
  • Weather-related damage to an operating system includes, for example, the lack of or insufficient resistance of the materials used with respect to ultraviolet radiation and ozone. Another problem arises from the required tightness, temperature resistance and thermal shock resistance of the controls.
  • the requirements of a haptic perception of the switching process are in the foreground for operating elements in order to provide a user-friendly operating element. This is defined by pressing a button by a tactile snap action, which is noticeable during the operation.
  • the DE 10 2004 004 136 B4 shows, for example, a small electrical appliance with a snap disc made of plastic.
  • the DE 41 39554 A1 discloses a snap plate made of sheet metal as a contact element for a switch, wherein an additional protective layer of plastic is present.
  • a disadvantage of Metal snap-action discs require that they require a degree of freedom at the outer edge in order to enable the mobility of the center of the snap-action disc.
  • Metal snap discs are therefore only on a wall or in a recess. If such discs are firmly clamped, the snap disc stiffens into an inflexible structure that can be deformed only by deformation.
  • complex structures such as the DE 10 2006 010 811 A1 to be taken additional sealing element of needs.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to provide a simply constructed, robust mechanical operating element for a device.
  • the device according to the invention with at least one operating element, which is arranged in a device housing of the device, wherein the operating element is designed as a snap disk made of metal, characterized in that the snap disc has an edge which is integrally connected to the device housing and a seal forms between the device housing and the control element, wherein an adjacent to the edge region of the snap-action disc is designed as a reversibly deformable decoupling region.
  • the reversibly deformable decoupling region between the actual region of the snap-action disc and the edge of the snap-action disc prevents the disc from stiffening into an inflexible structure, so that the operating comfort is retained as in the conventional snap-action discs.
  • the control element according to the invention is thereby transferred upon exertion of an actuating force from a stable state to a metastable state in which a lying below the snap-action electric switching element can be actuated by the stroke of the control element.
  • the inner portions of the operating element are elastically deformed in this state.
  • the decoupling region is reversibly deformed.
  • the snap-action disc After the removal of the actuation force, the snap-action disc returns to its original state due to the flexibility of the inner contour made possible by the decoupling area.
  • the decoupling region thus provides the necessary degree of freedom which is required for the actual snap action of the inner region of the snap disk.
  • the decoupling region is formed as an inclined surface, which allows a particularly simple manner of manufacturing the decoupling region.
  • the decoupling region is formed concentrically circumferentially to allow a simple construction of the operating element.
  • the snap-action disc is round and the decoupling area designed as a conical surface, resulting in a particularly simple constructed snap-action disc.
  • the snap disks can also be quadrangular, in particular square, or polygonal or oval.
  • the decoupling region may also be cylindrical in a preferred embodiment in an extreme embodiment.
  • the snap disc has a diameter and a switching stroke, wherein according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the ratio of diameter to switching stroke is about 20: 1, whereby low actuation forces can be realized.
  • the snap disc on a convex dome view from the outside of the device housing and a concave paragraph arranged concentrically around the convex dome, which is followed concentrically by the decoupling region.
  • the snap disc is integrally connected to the device housing, so that there are no gaps or joints on the outside of the device and the device is thus easy to clean and meets the high hygiene requirements when using the device in the food industry.
  • the snap-action disc is connected by welding or gluing to the device housing, which allows a tight connection between the snap-action disc and the device housing in a simple manner.
  • the snap disc is embossed in a metal strip, which is connected to the device housing. This results in a simple manner a gap-free surface.
  • a plurality of operating elements for example a keyboard, can be manufactured particularly easily in this way and arranged on the device housing.
  • the device housing is made of metal or plastic, wherein the material used for the device housing preferably meet the requirements of the leakproofness class IP69k and / or are chemically resistant to the usually used in the food industry, the solar energy industry or the pharmaceutical industry aggressive cleaning media.
  • the device is preferably designed as a measuring or control device, in particular as an electrical or electronic sensor, in particular as an optoelectronic sensor, in particular as a light barrier or light grid.
  • the device is designed to be suitable for use in a moist environment.
  • the device is particularly preferably designed for use in the foodstuffs, food, beverage and / or beverage industry, in the solar energy industry or in the pharmaceutical industry, and / or can be cleaned with chemicals, in particular aggressive chemicals.
  • the device particularly satisfies the requirements of the leak tightness class IP69k.
  • the usage a snap-action disc made of metal, which is connected in a materially cohesive manner to the device housing and forms a seal between the device housing and the control element, in particular allows the use of the device in the industries listed above and the fulfillment of the requirements of the leakproofing class IP69k.
  • the user is provided by the use of a snap-a user-friendly control available.
  • FIGS. 1a and 1b show various views of a section of a device housing 6 with a control element according to a first embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1a shows a plan view of a part of the device housing 6, in which an opening 2 is arranged (see FIG. 1b ).
  • the device housing 6 can be made of metal or plastic.
  • the opening 2 is covered by a trained as a snap-action disk 1 control element, the opening 2 on the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6 has a larger diameter to form a peripheral bearing edge for the snap-action disc 1.
  • the peripheral bearing edge lies in a receiving plane 3.
  • the area with a larger diameter of the opening 2 has between the receiving plane 3 and the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6, a height such that the snap disc 1 with its outside flush with the outside of the 6.1 Device housing 6 closes.
  • the snap disc 1 is circumferentially cohesively, for example, by welding or gluing, connected to the device housing 6. In this case, a welding or adhesive seam 4 is formed.
  • the snap-action disc 1 is made of metal.
  • the snap disc 1 is round, but may alternatively be formed oval, square, square or polygonal.
  • the snap disc 1 is in particular with an edge 1.4 on the support edge of the opening 2 and is integrally connected via the edge 1.4 with the device housing, whereby a seal between the device housing and the snap disk 1 is formed.
  • a decoupling region 1.3 follows, which is designed as an inclined surface. In the present case arises due to the round Training the snap disc 1 a conical area.
  • the decoupling region 1.3 rises from the receiving plane 3 to the outside, in particular starting from the receiving plane 3 in the direction of the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6.
  • the inclination of the inclined surface or the conical region is variable, in an extreme case, the decoupling region 1.3 as a cylindrical region can be trained.
  • the decoupling region 1.3 is adjoined by a flexible inner region, which has a convex dome 1.1, which is convex as seen from the outside of the device housing 6.1, and a concave shoulder 1.2 arranged concentrically around the convex dome 1.1.
  • the dome 1.1 and the convex shoulder 1.2 form the actual area of the snap disk 1.
  • the decoupling 1.3 is concentric circumferential, in particular concentric circumferentially around the concave paragraph 1.2, formed.
  • the concave paragraph 1.2 is designed such that in the direction of the actuating force 5 of the lowest point of the concave shoulder 1.2 connects to the decoupling 1.3, to avoid in this way wells in the snap-action disc 1, in which liquid could accumulate on the snap-action disc 1 ,
  • the convex dome 1.1 Upon application of an actuating force 5 on the outside of the snap-action disc 1, the convex dome 1.1 snaps into a flat to slightly concave structure and the concave portion 1.2 into a convex structure.
  • the decoupling region 1.3 is reversibly deformable and thus makes it possible to snap this inner region around despite the peripheral edge 1.4 of the snap disk 1, which is peripherally connected in a form-fitting manner to the device housing 6.
  • a switching stroke x is realized in the snap-action disc 1, through which a switching element, not shown, which in the interior of the device housing 6 is arranged below the snap disk 1, can be operated.
  • the snap disc 1 has a diameter d, wherein the ratio of diameter d to shift stroke x is about 20: 1 in order to realize low actuation forces, in particular actuation forces in the range of 6 to 12 Newtons.
  • a stop geometry can be provided in the device housing 6 within the opening 2, which, for example, merely provides a breakthrough in the region of the dome 1.1 has.
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b an alternative embodiment of the invention is shown.
  • Like reference numerals designate like parts as in the embodiment of FIGS. 1a and 1b
  • the second embodiment according to the FIGS. 2a and 2b not only one, but two snap discs 1 arranged in the device housing 6.
  • several of the snap discs 1 according to the in the FIGS. 1a and 1b Embodiment shown are arranged in a device housing 6 or merely a snap disk according to the embodiment of FIGS. 2a and 2b In a device housing 6.
  • a keyboard can be realized in the arrangement of several domes 1.
  • two control elements for a range setting can be provided for optoelectronic sensors.
  • the essential difference of the second embodiment compared to the first embodiment according to the FIGS. 1a and 1b is that the domes 1 are embossed in a metal strip 7, which is arranged on the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6.
  • the actual geometry of the dome 1.1 and the paragraph 1.2 of the domes 1 and the decoupling 1.3 corresponds to the snap-action disc 1 according to the in the FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrated embodiment.
  • the domes 1 thus need not be individually secured in the device housing 6, but it is only the entire metal strip 7 on the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6 is attached. This ensures a gap-free surface. Furthermore, in this way it is easily possible to arrange a plurality of operating elements, for example a keyboard, on the device housing 6.
  • the metal strip 7 covers the openings 2 of the device housing 6 and in particular forms a seal between the device housing 6 and the domes 1.
  • the seal is in particular with the outside of the decoupling region 1.3 of the domes 1 arranged portion of the metal strip 7 or only with the edge of Metal strip 7, formed.
  • Both the region of the metal strip 7 arranged outside the decoupling region 1.3 of the snap-action disks 1 and the edge of the metal strip 7 represent an edge 1.4 of the snap-action disk 1, which is connected in a materially bonded manner to the device housing 6.
  • the snap discs made of metal are integrally connected to the device housing.
  • the device housing is made of metal.
  • a support edge within the opening of the device housing is therefore not necessary.
  • an extended in the radial direction edge region, the one defined Edition of the snap-disk should allow, can be omitted, since the snap-action disc is integrally connected to the device housing over the edge.
  • a one-piece connection between the snap-action disc 1 and the device housing allows a gap-free and weld-free surface.
  • the actual geometry of the dome and the paragraph of the snap-action disc and the decoupling corresponds to the Schnapplacenl according to the in the FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrated embodiment.
  • the control element can be used in device housings of a wide variety of devices, for example measuring or control devices, in particular electrical or electronic sensors, in particular optoelectronic sensors such as light barriers or light grids.
  • the arrangement of the domes 1 in the device housing 6 according to the two described embodiments allows use of the device with such a control in a humid environment, especially in industries where high demands on tightness, temperature resistance, thermal shock resistance, mechanical abrasion resistance, resistance to pressure against external mechanical effects , Vapor and gas permeability, low moisture absorption and / or hygiene requirements are present, especially in the food industry, the food, beverage and / or beverage industry, the solar energy industry or the pharmaceutical industry, in which in particular the equipment used with chemicals, especially aggressive chemicals be cleaned, since the described embodiments by the use of a snap disc made of metal a robust design of the control element while good A seal between the control element and the device housing.
  • the use allows the control elements according to the invention fulfill the requirements of the leak tightness class IP69k.

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  • Slide Fasteners, Snap Fasteners, And Hook Fasteners (AREA)
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  • Air Bags (AREA)
  • Electrotherapy Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The device has a control element arranged in a device housing and formed as a snapping disk made of metal. The housing is made of plastic or metal. The disk has an edge (1.4) that is connected with the housing in a firmly bonded manner. The edge forms a seal between the housing and the disk. An area of the disk is formed as a reversible and deformable decoupling area (1.3) that is conterminous with the edge. The decoupling area is circular and concentric, and is formed as an inclined surface. The disk has a preset diameter (d) and a switching stroke.

Description

Bekannt sind manuell betätigbare Bedienelemente, über welche an elektrischen oder mechanischen Einrichtungen oder Geräten ein Schaltvorgang ausgelöst werden kann.Are known manually operated controls over which a switching operation can be triggered on electrical or mechanical devices or devices.

Dabei sind insbesondere als Schnappscheibe ausgebildete Bedienelemente bekannt, wobei unter einer Schnappscheibe ein Element mit einer diskontinuierlichen Übergangscharakteristik zu verstehen ist, so dass bei einer Betätigung des Bedienelements durch Aufbringen einer Betätigungskraft von der Schnappscheibe ein Schalthub generiert und eine Schnappbewegung ausgeführt wird. Insbesondere ist dieses Umschnappen für den Benutzer haptisch wahrnehmbar, so dass er daran erkennen kann, dass er den Schaltvorgang erfolgreich ausgelöst hat.In this case, control elements formed in particular as a snap-action disk are known, wherein a snap disk is to be understood as meaning an element having a discontinuous transition characteristic, so that upon actuation of the operating element by applying an actuating force from the snap disk a switching stroke is generated and a snap action is carried out. In particular, this snap-over is haptically perceptible to the user, so that he can recognize from the fact that he has triggered the switching operation successfully.

Bedienelemente in Form von Schaltern und Tastern unterliegen in industriellen Anwendungen zunehmend neuen Anforderungen in Bezug auf Resistenz gegenüber äußeren Einwirkungen, insbesondere Einwirkungen mechanischer, chemischer oder witterungsbedingter Natur.Control elements in the form of switches and buttons are increasingly subject to new requirements in industrial applications with regard to resistance to external influences, in particular effects of a mechanical, chemical or weather-related nature.

Die mechanischen Einwirkungen definieren sich aus möglichen Beschädigungen durch Fremdgegenstände, welche im Stande sind, Oberflächen zu verkratzen, abzutragen oder zu durchdringen, was zu einem mechanischen Ausfall des Bedienelements führen kann. Bei Verwendung von Geräten in vielen Industriebereichen, beispielsweise der Lebensmittelindustrie, der Solarenergieindustrie oder der Pharmaindustrie, müssen Geräte die Anforderungen der Dichtigkeitsklasse IP69k erfüllen, welche insbesondere fordert, dass die Geräte eine Reinigung durch einen Hochdruckwasserstrahl, welcher einen Druck im Bereich von 80 bar bis 100 bar und eine Wassertemperatur von 80° C aufweist, bei einem strahlabstand von 100 bis 150 mm unbeschädigt überstehen müssen. Dies führt dazu, dass hohe Anforderungen an die Stabilität und Robustheit des Bedienelements und des Geräts sowie der Dichtung zwischen Bedienelement und Gerät gestellt werden.The mechanical actions are defined by possible damage by foreign objects which are able to scratch, abrade or penetrate surfaces, which can lead to a mechanical failure of the operating element. When using equipment in many industrial sectors, for example the food industry, the solar energy industry or the pharmaceutical industry, equipment must meet the requirements of the IP69k class, which in particular requires that the equipment be cleaned by a high-pressure water jet, which has a pressure in the range from 80 bar to 100 bar and a water temperature of 80 ° C, at must withstand a beam distance of 100 to 150 mm undamaged. As a result, high demands are placed on the stability and robustness of the operating element and of the device as well as the seal between operating element and device.

Chemische Einwirkungen durch aggressive Medien, welche in industriellen Feld, beispielsweise der Nahrungsmittelindustrie, zur Reinigung von Fertigungslinien und deren Umfeld verwendet werden, stellen ebenfalls hohe Anforderungen an zu verwendete Materialien, da aggressive Reinigungsmedien in der Lage sind, Oberflächen von Geräten anzulösen, Korrosion zu verursachen und somit eine Beschädigung der Geräte herbeizuführen und die Langzeitbeständigkeit der Geräte zu gefährden.Chemical exposure to aggressive media used in the industrial field, such as the food industry, to clean production lines and their environment also places high demands on materials used, as aggressive cleaning media are able to cause surfaces of equipment to cause corrosion and thus cause damage to the equipment and endanger the long-term stability of the equipment.

Zu witterungsbedingten Schädigungen eines Bediensystems zählen beispielsweise die fehlende oder unzureichende Resistenz der verwendeten Materialien hinsichtlich ultravioletter Strahlungen und Ozon. Eine weitere Problematik ergibt sich durch die erforderliche Dichtigkeit, Temperaturbeständigkeit und Temperaturwechselbeständigkeit der Bedienelemente.Weather-related damage to an operating system includes, for example, the lack of or insufficient resistance of the materials used with respect to ultraviolet radiation and ozone. Another problem arises from the required tightness, temperature resistance and thermal shock resistance of the controls.

Zusätzlich zu den materialtechnischen Anforderungen stehen bei Bedienelementen die Anforderungen einer haptischen Wahrnehmung des Schaltvorgangs im Vordergrund, um ein benutzerfreundliches Bedienelement bereitzustellen. Dieses definiert sich bei Betätigung eines Tasters durch eine taktile Schnappbewegung, welche beim Bedienvorgang spürbar ist.In addition to the material-technical requirements, the requirements of a haptic perception of the switching process are in the foreground for operating elements in order to provide a user-friendly operating element. This is defined by pressing a button by a tactile snap action, which is noticeable during the operation.

Die DE 10 2004 004 136 B4 zeigt beispielsweise ein elektrisches Kleingerät mit einer Schnappscheibe aus Kunststoff. Die DE 41 39554 A1 offenbart eine Schnappscheibe aus Blech als Kontaktelement für einen Schalter, wobei eine zusätzliche Schutzschicht aus Kunststoff vorhanden ist. Nachteilig bei Schnappscheiben aus Metall ist jedoch, dass diese am äußeren Rand einen Freiheitsgrad benötigen, um die Beweglichkeit des Zentrums der Schnappscheibe zu ermöglichen. Metallschnappscheiben liegen daher lediglich auf einer Wandung oder in einer Ausnehmung auf. Werden derartige Scheiben fest eingespannt, versteift sich die Schnappscheibe zu einer unflexiblen Struktur, die nur durch Deformation verformt werden kann. Um eine Abdichtung von Metallschnappscheiben gegenüber dem Gehäuse zu ermöglichen, sind aufwändige Konstruktionen wie beispielsweise das der DE 10 2006 010 811 A1 zu entnehmende zusätzliche Dichtelement von Nöten.The DE 10 2004 004 136 B4 shows, for example, a small electrical appliance with a snap disc made of plastic. The DE 41 39554 A1 discloses a snap plate made of sheet metal as a contact element for a switch, wherein an additional protective layer of plastic is present. A disadvantage of Metal snap-action discs, however, require that they require a degree of freedom at the outer edge in order to enable the mobility of the center of the snap-action disc. Metal snap discs are therefore only on a wall or in a recess. If such discs are firmly clamped, the snap disc stiffens into an inflexible structure that can be deformed only by deformation. In order to enable sealing of metal snap discs relative to the housing, are complex structures such as the DE 10 2006 010 811 A1 to be taken additional sealing element of needs.

In Dokument " EP 1 589 552 " wird ein Gerät gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1 offenbart.In document " EP 1 589 552 "A device according to the preamble of claim 1 is disclosed.

Die Aufgabe der Erfindung liegt.daher darin, ein einfach aufgebautes, robustes mechanisches Bedienelement für ein Gerät bereitzustellen.The object of the invention is therefore to provide a simply constructed, robust mechanical operating element for a device.

Die Aufgabe der Erfindung wird gelöst durch ein Gerät mit wenigstens einem Bedienelement mit den Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 1.The object of the invention is achieved by a device having at least one operating element with the features of patent claim 1.

Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen und Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen angegeben.Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

Das erfindungsgemäße Gerät mit wenigstens einem Bedienelement, welches in einem Gerätegehäuse des Geräts angeordnet ist, wobei das Bedienelement als aus Metall gefertigte Schnappscheibe ausgebildet ist, zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Schnappscheibe einen Rand aufweist, welcher stoffschlüssig mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden ist und eine Dichtung zwischen dem Gerätegehäuse und dem Bedienelement bildet, wobei ein an den Rand angrenzender Bereich der Schnappscheibe als reversibel verformbarer Entkopplungsbereich ausgebildet ist. Durch die stoffschlüssige Verbindung des Randes der Schnappscheibe mit dem Gerätegehäuse wird eine Dichtung zwischen dem Gerätegehäuse und dem Bedienelement gebildet, die insbesondere auch den hohen Anforderungen der Dichtigkeitsklasse IP69k genügen kann. Durch den reversibel verformbaren Entkopplungsbereich zwischen dem eigentlichen Bereich der Schnappscheibe und dem Rand der Schnappscheibe wird jedoch vermieden, dass sich die Scheibe zu einer unflexiblen Struktur versteift, so dass der Betätigungskomfort wie bei den konventionellen Schnappscheiben erhalten bleibt. Auch das erfindungsgemäße Bedienelement wird dabei bei Ausüben einer Betätigungskraft aus einem stabilen Zustand in einen metastabilen Zustand überführt, in welchem ein unter der Schnappscheibe liegendes elektrisches Schaltelement durch den Hub des Bedienelements betätigt werden kann. Die inneren Abschnitte des Bedienelements sind in diesem Zustand elastisch verformt. Weiterhin ist auch der Entkopplungsbereich reversibel verformt. Nach dem Entfernen der Betätigungskraft schnappt die Schnappscheibe durch die vom Entkopplungsbereich ermöglichte Flexibilität der Innenkontur wieder in ihren Ursprungszustand zurück. Der Entkopplungsbereich stellt somit den nötigen Freiheitsgrad, welcher zum eigentlichen Schnappvorgang des Innenbereichs der Schnappscheibe erforderlich ist, zur Verfügung.The device according to the invention with at least one operating element, which is arranged in a device housing of the device, wherein the operating element is designed as a snap disk made of metal, characterized in that the snap disc has an edge which is integrally connected to the device housing and a seal forms between the device housing and the control element, wherein an adjacent to the edge region of the snap-action disc is designed as a reversibly deformable decoupling region. By the cohesive connection of the edge of the snap disc with The device housing a seal between the device housing and the control element is formed, which in particular can meet the high requirements of the tightness class IP69k. However, the reversibly deformable decoupling region between the actual region of the snap-action disc and the edge of the snap-action disc prevents the disc from stiffening into an inflexible structure, so that the operating comfort is retained as in the conventional snap-action discs. Also, the control element according to the invention is thereby transferred upon exertion of an actuating force from a stable state to a metastable state in which a lying below the snap-action electric switching element can be actuated by the stroke of the control element. The inner portions of the operating element are elastically deformed in this state. Furthermore, the decoupling region is reversibly deformed. After the removal of the actuation force, the snap-action disc returns to its original state due to the flexibility of the inner contour made possible by the decoupling area. The decoupling region thus provides the necessary degree of freedom which is required for the actual snap action of the inner region of the snap disk.

Vorzugsweise ist der Entkopplungsbereich als schräggestellte Fläche ausgebildet, was eine besonders einfache Herstellungsweise des Entkopplungsbereichs ermöglicht.Preferably, the decoupling region is formed as an inclined surface, which allows a particularly simple manner of manufacturing the decoupling region.

Vorzugsweise ist der Entkopplungsbereich konzentrisch umlaufend ausgebildet, um einen einfachen Aufbau des Bedienelements zu ermöglichen.Preferably, the decoupling region is formed concentrically circumferentially to allow a simple construction of the operating element.

Gemäß einer besonders bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist die Schnappscheibe rund und der Entkopplungsbereich als konische Fläche ausgebildet, wodurch sich eine besonders einfach aufgebaute Schnappscheibe ergibt. Alternativ können die Schnappscheiben jedoch auch viereckig, insbesondere quadratisch, oder mehreckig oder oval ausgebildet sein.According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the snap-action disc is round and the decoupling area designed as a conical surface, resulting in a particularly simple constructed snap-action disc. Alternatively, however, the snap disks can also be quadrangular, in particular square, or polygonal or oval.

Der Entkopplungsbereich kann im Extremfall in einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform auch zylindrisch ausgebildet sein.The decoupling region may also be cylindrical in a preferred embodiment in an extreme embodiment.

Die Schnappscheibe weist einen Durchmesser und einen Schalthub auf, wobei gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung das Verhältnis von Durchmesser zu Schalthub etwa 20:1 beträgt, wodurch niedrige Betätigungskräfte realisiert werden können.The snap disc has a diameter and a switching stroke, wherein according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the ratio of diameter to switching stroke is about 20: 1, whereby low actuation forces can be realized.

Gemäß einer besonders bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung weist die Schnappscheibe eine aus Sicht auf die Gerätegehäuseaußenseite konvexe Kuppel und einen konzentrisch um die konvexe Kuppel angeordneten konkaven Absatz auf, an welche sich konzentrisch der Entkopplungsbereich anschließt. Dadurch wird insbesondere eine Form der Schnappscheibe ohne Mulden ermöglicht, so dass gewährleistet ist, dass sich auf der Oberfläche der Schnappscheibe keine Flüssigkeit ansammeln kann. Aus diesem Grund ist vorzugsweise auf die Neigung des Entkopplungsbereichs derart, dass der Entkopplungsbereich ausgehend vom Rand der Schnappscheibe sich nach außen erhebt.According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the snap disc on a convex dome view from the outside of the device housing and a concave paragraph arranged concentrically around the convex dome, which is followed concentrically by the decoupling region. As a result, in particular, a shape of the snap-action disk without depressions is made possible, so that it is ensured that no liquid can accumulate on the surface of the snap-action disk. For this reason, it is preferable for the inclination of the decoupling region to be such that the decoupling region rises outward from the edge of the snap-action disc.

Gemäß einer besonders bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist die Schnappscheibe einstückig mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden, so dass sich keine Spalten oder Fugen auf der Außenseite des Gerätes befinden und das Gerät somit einfach zu reinigen ist und den hohen Hygieneanforderungen bei Verwendung des Geräts in der Lebensmittelindustrie genügt.According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the snap disc is integrally connected to the device housing, so that there are no gaps or joints on the outside of the device and the device is thus easy to clean and meets the high hygiene requirements when using the device in the food industry.

In einer alternativen bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist die Schnappscheibe durch Schweißen oder Kleben mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden, was eine dichte Verbindung zwischen Schnappscheibe und Gerätegehäuse auf einfache Art und Weise ermöglicht.In an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention, the snap-action disc is connected by welding or gluing to the device housing, which allows a tight connection between the snap-action disc and the device housing in a simple manner.

In einer alternativen bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist die Schnappscheibe in einen Metallstreifen geprägt, welcher mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden ist. Dadurch ergibt sich in einfacher Art und Weise eine spaltfreie Oberfläche. Insbesondere können mehrere Bedienelemente, beispielsweise auch eine Tastatur, auf diese Weise besonders einfach gefertigt und an dem Gerätegehäuse angeordnet werden.In an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention, the snap disc is embossed in a metal strip, which is connected to the device housing. This results in a simple manner a gap-free surface. In particular, a plurality of operating elements, for example a keyboard, can be manufactured particularly easily in this way and arranged on the device housing.

Vorzugsweise ist das Gerätegehäuse aus Metall oder Kunststoff gefertigt, wobei das für das Gerätegehäuse verwendete Material vorzugsweise die Anforderungen der Dichtigkeitsklasse IP69k erfüllen und/oder chemisch beständig gegen die üblicherweise in der Lebensmittelindustrie, der Solarenergieindustrie oder der Pharmaindustrie verwendeten aggressiven Reinigungsmedien sind.Preferably, the device housing is made of metal or plastic, wherein the material used for the device housing preferably meet the requirements of the leakproofness class IP69k and / or are chemically resistant to the usually used in the food industry, the solar energy industry or the pharmaceutical industry aggressive cleaning media.

Vorzugsweise ist das Gerät als Mess- oder Regelgerät, insbesondere als elektrischer oder elektronischer Sensor, insbesondere als optoelektronischer Sensor, insbesondere als Lichtschranke oder Lichtgitter, ausgebildet. Vorzugsweise ist das Gerät zum Einsatz in feuchter Umgebung geeignet ausgebildet. Besonders bevorzugt ist das Gerät zum Einsatz in der Lebensmittel-, Nahrungs-, Genussmittel und/oder Getränkeindustrie, in der Solarenergieindustrie oder der Pharmaindustrie geeignet ausgebildet und/oder mit Chemikalien, insbesondere aggressiven Chemikalien, reinigbar. Besonders bevorzugt genügt das Gerät den Anforderungen der Dichtigkeitsklasse IP69k. Die Verwendung einer Schnappscheibe aus Metall, die rundum stoffschlüssig mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden ist und eine Dichtung zwischen dem Gerätegehäuse und dem Bedienelement bildet, ermöglicht insbesondere den Einsatz des Geräts in den zuvor aufgeführten Industriezweigen und die Erfüllung der Anforderungen der Dichtigkeitsklasse IP69k. Dabei wird dem Benutzer durch die Verwendung einer Schnappscheibe ein benutzerfreundliches Bedienelement zur Verfügung gestellt.The device is preferably designed as a measuring or control device, in particular as an electrical or electronic sensor, in particular as an optoelectronic sensor, in particular as a light barrier or light grid. Preferably, the device is designed to be suitable for use in a moist environment. The device is particularly preferably designed for use in the foodstuffs, food, beverage and / or beverage industry, in the solar energy industry or in the pharmaceutical industry, and / or can be cleaned with chemicals, in particular aggressive chemicals. The device particularly satisfies the requirements of the leak tightness class IP69k. The usage a snap-action disc made of metal, which is connected in a materially cohesive manner to the device housing and forms a seal between the device housing and the control element, in particular allows the use of the device in the industries listed above and the fulfillment of the requirements of the leakproofing class IP69k. The user is provided by the use of a snap-a user-friendly control available.

Die Erfindung wird anhand der nachfolgenden Figuren ausführlich erläutert.The invention will be explained in detail with reference to the following figures.

Es zeigt

Fig. 1a
eine Draufsicht auf einen Ausschnitt eines Gerätege- häuses mit einem Bedienelement gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung,
Fig. 1b
einen Schnitt entlang der Linie A - A aus Figur 1a,
Fig. 2a
eine Draufsicht auf einen Ausschnitt eines Gerätege- häuses mit zwei Bedienelementen gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung und
Fig. 2b
einen Schnitt entlang der Linie A - A aus Figur 2a.
It shows
Fig. 1a
2 a top view of a section of a device housing with a control element according to a first embodiment of the invention,
Fig. 1b
a section along the line A - A from FIG. 1a .
Fig. 2a
a plan view of a section of a device housing with two controls according to a second embodiment of the invention and
Fig. 2b
a section along the line A - A from FIG. 2a ,

Figuren 1a und 1b zeigen verschiedene Ansichten eines Ausschnitts aus einem Gerätegehäuse 6 mit einem Bedienelement gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung. Figur 1a zeigt eine Draufsicht auf einen Teil des Gerätegehäuses 6, in welcher eine Öffnung 2 angeordnet ist (vergleiche Figur 1b). Das Gerätegehäuse 6 kann dabei aus Metall oder aus Kunststoff gefertigt sein. FIGS. 1a and 1b show various views of a section of a device housing 6 with a control element according to a first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1a shows a plan view of a part of the device housing 6, in which an opening 2 is arranged (see FIG. 1b ). The device housing 6 can be made of metal or plastic.

Die Öffnung 2 wird durch ein als Schnappscheibe 1 ausgebildetes Bedienelement abgedeckt, wobei die Öffnung 2 auf der Außenseite 6.1 des Gerätegehäuses 6 einen größeren Durchmesser aufweist, um eine umlaufende Auflagekante für die Schnappscheibe 1 zu bilden. Die umlaufende Auflagekante liegt dabei in einer Aufnahmeebene 3. Der Bereich mit größerem Durchmesser der Öffnung 2 weist dabei zwischen der Aufnahmeebene 3 und der Außenseite 6.1 des Gerätegehäuses 6 ,eine derartige Höhe auf, dass die Schnappscheibe 1 mit ihrer Außenseite bündig mit der Außenseite 6.1 des Gerätegehäuses 6 abschließt. Die Schnappscheibe 1 ist umlaufend stoffschlüssig, beispielsweise durch Schweißen oder Kleben, mit dem Gerätegehäuse 6 verbunden. Dabei wird eine Schweiß- oder Klebenaht 4 gebildet. Die Schnappscheibe 1 ist aus Metall gefertigt.The opening 2 is covered by a trained as a snap-action disk 1 control element, the opening 2 on the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6 has a larger diameter to form a peripheral bearing edge for the snap-action disc 1. The peripheral bearing edge lies in a receiving plane 3. The area with a larger diameter of the opening 2 has between the receiving plane 3 and the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6, a height such that the snap disc 1 with its outside flush with the outside of the 6.1 Device housing 6 closes. The snap disc 1 is circumferentially cohesively, for example, by welding or gluing, connected to the device housing 6. In this case, a welding or adhesive seam 4 is formed. The snap-action disc 1 is made of metal.

Die Schnappscheibe 1 ist rund ausgebildet, kann alternativ jedoch auch oval, viereckig, quadratisch oder mehreckig ausgebildet sein.The snap disc 1 is round, but may alternatively be formed oval, square, square or polygonal.

Die Schnappscheibe 1 liegt insbesondere mit einem Rand 1.4 auf der Auflagekante der Öffnung 2 auf und ist über den Rand 1.4 stoffschlüssig mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden, wodurch eine Dichtung zwischen dem Gerätegehäuse und der Schnappscheibe 1 ausgebildet ist.The snap disc 1 is in particular with an edge 1.4 on the support edge of the opening 2 and is integrally connected via the edge 1.4 with the device housing, whereby a seal between the device housing and the snap disk 1 is formed.

An den Rand 1.4, welcher sich in dem vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel in radialer Richtung über einen Teil des Durchmessers der Schnappscheibe 1 erstreckt, um eine definierte, flächige Auflage für eine reproduzierbare und zuverlässige Anbindung an das Gerätegehäuse 6 zu ermöglichen, schließt sich ein Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 an, der als schräggestellte Fläche ausgebildet ist. Im vorliegenden Fall ergibt sich aufgrund der runden Ausbildung der Schnappscheibe 1 ein konischer Bereich. Der Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 erhebt sich ausgehend von der Aufnahmeebene 3 nach außen, insbesondere ausgehend von der Aufnahmeebene 3 in Richtung der Außenseite 6.1 des Gerätegehäuses 6. Die Neigung der schräggestellten Fläche oder des konischen Bereichs ist variabel, wobei im Extremfall der Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 auch als zylindrischer Bereich ausgebildet sein kann. An den Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 schließt sich ein flexibler Innenbereich an, welcher eine aus Sicht auf die Gerätegehäuseaußenseite 6.1 konvexe Kuppel 1.1 und einen konzentrisch um die konvexe Kuppel 1.1 angeordneten konkaven Absatz 1.2 aufweist. Die Kuppel 1.1 und der konvexe Absatz 1.2 bilden den eigentlichen Bereich der Schnappscheibe 1. Der Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 ist konzentrisch umlaufend, insbesondere konzentrisch umlaufend um den konkaven Absatz 1.2, ausgebildet. Der konkave Absatz 1.2 ist dabei derart ausgebildet, dass in Richtung der Betätigungskraft 5 der tiefste Punkt des konkaven Absatzes 1.2 an den Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 anschließt, um auf diese Weise Mulden in der Schnappscheibe 1 zu vermeiden, in welchen sich Flüssigkeit auf der Schnappscheibe 1 ansammeln könnte.At the edge 1.4, which extends in the present embodiment in the radial direction over a portion of the diameter of the snap-action disc 1 in order to allow a defined, flat support for a reproducible and reliable connection to the device housing 6, a decoupling region 1.3 follows, which is designed as an inclined surface. In the present case arises due to the round Training the snap disc 1 a conical area. The decoupling region 1.3 rises from the receiving plane 3 to the outside, in particular starting from the receiving plane 3 in the direction of the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6. The inclination of the inclined surface or the conical region is variable, in an extreme case, the decoupling region 1.3 as a cylindrical region can be trained. The decoupling region 1.3 is adjoined by a flexible inner region, which has a convex dome 1.1, which is convex as seen from the outside of the device housing 6.1, and a concave shoulder 1.2 arranged concentrically around the convex dome 1.1. The dome 1.1 and the convex shoulder 1.2 form the actual area of the snap disk 1. The decoupling 1.3 is concentric circumferential, in particular concentric circumferentially around the concave paragraph 1.2, formed. The concave paragraph 1.2 is designed such that in the direction of the actuating force 5 of the lowest point of the concave shoulder 1.2 connects to the decoupling 1.3, to avoid in this way wells in the snap-action disc 1, in which liquid could accumulate on the snap-action disc 1 ,

Bei Aufbringen einer Betätigungskraft 5 auf die Außenseite der Schnappscheibe 1 schnappt die konvexe Kuppel 1.1 in eine ebene bis leicht konkave Struktur und der konkave Abschnitt 1.2 in eine konvexe Struktur um. Der Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 ist reversibel verformbar und ermöglicht somit das Umschnappen dieses Innenbereiches trotz des umlaufend formschlüssig mit dem Gerätegehäuse 6 verbundenen Randes 1.4 der Schnappscheibe 1.Upon application of an actuating force 5 on the outside of the snap-action disc 1, the convex dome 1.1 snaps into a flat to slightly concave structure and the concave portion 1.2 into a convex structure. The decoupling region 1.3 is reversibly deformable and thus makes it possible to snap this inner region around despite the peripheral edge 1.4 of the snap disk 1, which is peripherally connected in a form-fitting manner to the device housing 6.

Durch die Betätigungskraft 5 wird insbesondere ein Schalthub x in der Schnappscheibe 1 realisiert, durch welchen ein nicht dargestelltes Schaltelement, welches im Innern des Gerätegehäuses 6 unterhalb der Schnappscheibe 1 angeordnet ist, betätigt werden kann. Die Schnappscheibe 1 weist ein Durchmesser d auf, wobei das Verhältnis von Durchmesser d zu Schalthub x etwa 20:1 beträgt, um geringe Betätigungskräfte, insbesondere Betätigungskräfte im Bereich von 6 bis 12 Newton, realisieren zu können. Nach Wegnahme der Betätigungskraft 5 bewegen sich die Kuppel 1.1, 1.2 und der Entkopplungsbereich 1.3 wieder in den Ausgangszustand zurück.By the actuating force 5, in particular a switching stroke x is realized in the snap-action disc 1, through which a switching element, not shown, which in the interior of the device housing 6 is arranged below the snap disk 1, can be operated. The snap disc 1 has a diameter d, wherein the ratio of diameter d to shift stroke x is about 20: 1 in order to realize low actuation forces, in particular actuation forces in the range of 6 to 12 Newtons. After removal of the actuating force 5, the dome 1.1, 1.2 and the decoupling 1.3 move back to the initial state.

Um einen definierten Schalthub x vorzugeben und die Stabilität des Systems zu verbessern und insbesondere eine plastische Verformung der Schnappscheibe 1 durch übermäßige Betätigungskräfte zu unterbinden, kann in dem Gerätegehäuse 6 innerhalb der Öffnung 2 eine Anschlaggeometrie vorgesehen werden, welche beispielsweise lediglich einen Durchbruch im Bereich der Kuppel 1.1 aufweist.In order to specify a defined switching stroke x and to improve the stability of the system and in particular to prevent plastic deformation of the snap-action disc 1 by excessive actuation forces, a stop geometry can be provided in the device housing 6 within the opening 2, which, for example, merely provides a breakthrough in the region of the dome 1.1 has.

In den Figuren 2a und 2b ist ein alternatives Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung dargestellt. Gleiche Bezugsziffern bezeichnen gleiche Teile wie im Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß der Figuren 1a und 1b. Einerseits sind in dem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß den Figuren 2a und 2b nicht nur eine, sondern zwei Schnappscheiben 1 in dem Gerätegehäuse 6 angeordnet. Selbstverständlich können auch mehrere der Schnappscheiben 1 gemäß dem in den Figuren 1a und 1b dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel in einem Gerätegehäuse 6 angeordnet werden oder lediglich eine Schnappscheibe gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Figuren 2a und 2b in einem Gerätegehäuse 6. Insbesondere kann bei Anordnung mehrerer Schnappscheiben 1 eine Tastatur realisiert werden. Beispielsweise können für optoelektronische Sensoren zwei Bedienelemente für eine Reichweiteneinstellung vorgesehen werden.In the FIGS. 2a and 2b an alternative embodiment of the invention is shown. Like reference numerals designate like parts as in the embodiment of FIG FIGS. 1a and 1b , On the one hand, in the second embodiment according to the FIGS. 2a and 2b not only one, but two snap discs 1 arranged in the device housing 6. Of course, several of the snap discs 1 according to the in the FIGS. 1a and 1b Embodiment shown are arranged in a device housing 6 or merely a snap disk according to the embodiment of FIGS. 2a and 2b In a device housing 6. In particular, a keyboard can be realized in the arrangement of several domes 1. For example, two control elements for a range setting can be provided for optoelectronic sensors.

Der wesentliche Unterschied des zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels gegenüber dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß der Figuren 1a und 1b liegt darin, dass die Schnappscheiben 1 in einen Metallstreifen 7 geprägt sind, welcher auf der Außenseite 6.1 des Gerätegehäuses 6 angeordnet ist. Die eigentliche Geometrie der Kuppel 1.1 sowie des Absatzes 1.2 der Schnappscheiben 1 und des Entkopplungsbereichs 1.3 entspricht der Schnappscheibe 1 gemäß dem in den Figuren 1a und 1b dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel. Die Schnappscheiben 1 müssen somit nicht einzeln im Gerätegehäuse 6 befestigt werden, sondern es wird lediglich der gesamte Metallstreifen 7 auf der Außenseite 6.1 des Gerätegehäuses 6 befestigt. Dadurch wird eine spaltfreie Oberfläche gewährleistet. Weiterhin ist es auf diese Weise einfach möglich, mehrere Bedienelemente, beispielsweise eine Tastatur, an dem Gerätegehäuse 6 anzuordnen. Der Metallstreifen 7 deckt die Öffnungen 2 des Gerätegehäuses 6 ab und bildet insbesondere eine Dichtung zwischen dem Gerätegehäuse 6 und den Schnappscheiben 1. Die Dichtung wird insbesondere mit dem außerhalb des Entkopplungsbereichs 1.3 der Schnappscheiben 1 angeordneten Bereich des Metallstreifens 7 oder auch nur mit dem Rand des Metallstreifens 7, gebildet. Sowohl der außerhalb des Entkopplungsbereichs 1.3 der Schnappscheiben 1 angeordnete Bereich des Metallstreifens 7 als auch der Rand des Metallstreifens 7 stellen dabei einen Rand 1.4 der Schnappscheibe 1 dar, welcher stoffschlüssig mit dem Gerätegehäuse 6 verbunden ist.The essential difference of the second embodiment compared to the first embodiment according to the FIGS. 1a and 1b is that the domes 1 are embossed in a metal strip 7, which is arranged on the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6. The actual geometry of the dome 1.1 and the paragraph 1.2 of the domes 1 and the decoupling 1.3 corresponds to the snap-action disc 1 according to the in the FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrated embodiment. The domes 1 thus need not be individually secured in the device housing 6, but it is only the entire metal strip 7 on the outside 6.1 of the device housing 6 is attached. This ensures a gap-free surface. Furthermore, in this way it is easily possible to arrange a plurality of operating elements, for example a keyboard, on the device housing 6. The metal strip 7 covers the openings 2 of the device housing 6 and in particular forms a seal between the device housing 6 and the domes 1. The seal is in particular with the outside of the decoupling region 1.3 of the domes 1 arranged portion of the metal strip 7 or only with the edge of Metal strip 7, formed. Both the region of the metal strip 7 arranged outside the decoupling region 1.3 of the snap-action disks 1 and the edge of the metal strip 7 represent an edge 1.4 of the snap-action disk 1, which is connected in a materially bonded manner to the device housing 6.

In einem nicht dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel sind die aus Metall gefertigten Schnappscheiben einstückig mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden sind. Das Gerätegehäuse ist dabei aus Metall gefertigt. Eine Auflagekante innerhalb der Öffnung des Gerätegehäuses ist somit nicht von Nöten. Auch ein in radialer Richtung ausgedehnter Randbereich, der eine definierte Auflage der Schnappscheibe ermöglichen soll, kann entfallen, da die Schnappscheibe über den Rand einstückig mit dem Gerätegehäuse verbunden ist. Eine einstückige Verbindung zwischen der Schnappscheibe 1 und dem Gerätegehäuse ermöglicht eine spaltfreie und schweißnahtfreie Oberfläche. Die eigentliche Geometrie der Kuppel sowie des Absatzes der Schnappscheibe und des Entkopplungsbereichs entspricht der Schnappscheibenl gemäß dem in den Figuren 1a und 1b dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel.In one embodiment, not shown, the snap discs made of metal are integrally connected to the device housing. The device housing is made of metal. A support edge within the opening of the device housing is therefore not necessary. Also an extended in the radial direction edge region, the one defined Edition of the snap-disk should allow, can be omitted, since the snap-action disc is integrally connected to the device housing over the edge. A one-piece connection between the snap-action disc 1 and the device housing allows a gap-free and weld-free surface. The actual geometry of the dome and the paragraph of the snap-action disc and the decoupling corresponds to the Schnappscheibenl according to the in the FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrated embodiment.

Das Bedienelement kann in Gerätegehäusen der unterschiedlichsten Geräte, beispielsweise von Mess- oder Regelgeräten, insbesondere von elektrischen oder elektronischen Sensoren, insbesondere von optoelektronischen Sensoren wie beispielsweise Lichtschranken oder Lichtgittern, verwendet werden. Die Anordnung der Schnappscheiben 1 in dem Gerätegehäuse 6 gemäß der beiden beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiele ermöglicht einen Einsatz des Geräts mit einem derartigen Bedienelement in feuchter Umgebung, insbesondere in Industriezweigen, in welchen hohe Anforderungen an Dichtigkeit, Temperaturbeständigkeit, Temperaturwechselbeständigkeit, mechanische Abriebfestigkeit, Durchdruckbeständigkeit gegen äußere mechanische Einwirkungen, Dampf- und Gasdurchlässigkeit, geringe Feuchtigkeitsaufnahme und/oder Hygieneanforderungen vorhanden sind, insbesondere im Bereich der Lebensmittelindustrie, der Nahrungs-, Genussmittel- und/oder Getränkeindustrie, der Solarenergieindustrie oder der Pharmaindustrie, in welchen insbesondere die verwendeten Geräte mit Chemikalien, insbesondere aggressiven Chemikalien gereinigt werden, da die beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiele durch die Verwendung einer Schnappscheibe aus Metall eine robuste Gestaltung des Bedienelements bei gleichzeitiger guter Abdichtung zwischen Bedienelement und Gerätegehäuse ermöglichen. Insbesondere ermöglicht die Verwendung der erfindungsgemäßen Bedienelemente die Erfüllung der Anforderungen der Dichtigkeitsklasse IP69k. Zudem werden dabei sehr benutzerfreundliche Bedienelemente in Form der Schnappscheiben bereitgestellt, welche dem Benutzer ermöglichen zu fühlen, ob der Schaltvorgang erfolgreich ausgelöst wurde.The control element can be used in device housings of a wide variety of devices, for example measuring or control devices, in particular electrical or electronic sensors, in particular optoelectronic sensors such as light barriers or light grids. The arrangement of the domes 1 in the device housing 6 according to the two described embodiments allows use of the device with such a control in a humid environment, especially in industries where high demands on tightness, temperature resistance, thermal shock resistance, mechanical abrasion resistance, resistance to pressure against external mechanical effects , Vapor and gas permeability, low moisture absorption and / or hygiene requirements are present, especially in the food industry, the food, beverage and / or beverage industry, the solar energy industry or the pharmaceutical industry, in which in particular the equipment used with chemicals, especially aggressive chemicals be cleaned, since the described embodiments by the use of a snap disc made of metal a robust design of the control element while good A seal between the control element and the device housing. In particular, the use allows the control elements according to the invention fulfill the requirements of the leak tightness class IP69k. In addition, very user-friendly controls in the form of the snap discs are provided, which allow the user to feel whether the switching operation has been triggered successfully.

BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1.1.
Schnappscheibesnap disk
1.11.1
Kuppeldome
1.21.2
Absatzparagraph
1.31.3
Entkopplungsbereichdecoupling region
1.41.4
Randedge
22
Öffnungopening
33
Aufnahmeebenereceiving plane
44
Schweiß-/KlebenahtWelding / adhesive seam
55
Betätigungskraftoperating force
66
Gerätegehäusedevice housing
6.16.1
Außenseiteoutside
77
Metallstreifenmetal strips
dd
Durchmesserdiameter
xx
Schalthubswitching stroke

Claims (15)

  1. An appliance with at least one operating element, which is arranged in a housing (6) of the appliance, wherein the operating element is designed in the form of a snap disc (1) which is produced from metal, characterized in that the snap disc (1) has an edge (1.4) which is integrally joined to the appliance housing (6) and which forms a seal between the appliance housing (6) and the snap disc (1), wherein a region of the snap disc (1) adjoining the edge (1.4) is designed in the form of a de-coupling region (1.3) deformable in a reversible manner.
  2. An appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that the de-coupling region (1.3) is designed in the form of a face set at an angle.
  3. An appliance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the de-coupling region (1.3) is designed to extend in a concentric manner.
  4. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the snap disc (1) is made round and the de-coupling region (1.3) is designed in the form of a conical face.
  5. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the de-coupling region (1.3) is made cylindrical.
  6. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the snap disc (1) has a diameter (d) and a switching stroke (x), wherein the ratio of the diameter (d) to the switching stroke (x) amounts to approximately 20 : 1.
  7. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the snap disc (1) has a convex dome (1.1) and a concave offset (1.2) which is arranged concentrically around the convex dome (1.1) and to which the de-coupling region (1.3) is attached concentrically.
  8. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the snap disc (1) is joined in one piece to the appliance housing (6).
  9. An appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the snap disc (1) is joined by welding or adhesion to the appliance housing (6).
  10. An appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the snap disc (1) is pressed into a metallic strip which is connected to the appliance housing (6).
  11. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the appliance housing (6) is produced from metal or plastics material.
  12. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the appliance is designed in the form of a measuring or regulating appliance, in particular in the form of an electrical or electronic sensor.
  13. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the appliance is designed in the form of an optoelectronic sensor, in particular in the form of a light barrier or a light grid.
  14. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the appliance is designed so as to be suitable for use in a damp environment.
  15. An appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the appliance is designed so as to be suitable for use in the foodstuffs, nutrition, luxury goods and/or beverage industry, in the solar energy industry or the pharmaceuticals industry and/or the appliance is capable of being cleaned with chemicals, in particular with corrosive chemicals.
EP09014951A 2009-01-14 2009-12-02 Device with at least one operating element Active EP2209131B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102009004975A DE102009004975B3 (en) 2009-01-14 2009-01-14 Switching device e.g. optoelectronic sensor, for e.g. solar energy industry, has snapping disk including edge connected with housing, where area of disk is formed as reversible and deformable decoupling area that is conterminous with edge

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2209131A1 EP2209131A1 (en) 2010-07-21
EP2209131B1 true EP2209131B1 (en) 2011-06-08

Family

ID=41335228

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP09014951A Active EP2209131B1 (en) 2009-01-14 2009-12-02 Device with at least one operating element

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US8604375B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2209131B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE512449T1 (en)
DE (1) DE102009004975B3 (en)
DK (1) DK2209131T3 (en)

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN102339683A (en) * 2010-07-23 2012-02-01 深圳富泰宏精密工业有限公司 Multifunctional press key structure
JP5913873B2 (en) * 2011-09-06 2016-04-27 オムロン株式会社 Trigger switch
JP1487382S (en) * 2013-03-26 2016-12-19
DE102015015114A1 (en) 2015-11-21 2017-05-24 Götz Thomas Suction cup with a snap-action disc or spring steel disc
DE102016105201B4 (en) * 2016-03-21 2022-11-17 Sick Ag Process for manufacturing a sensor housing
DE102016214530A1 (en) * 2016-08-05 2018-02-08 Richard Wolf Gmbh Medical instrument
US11788680B2 (en) * 2020-04-28 2023-10-17 Keith Hippely Device for attaching items to surface

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB221504A (en) * 1923-09-05 1925-05-14 Jean Louis Henri Guidet Improvements in thermal or pressure operated electric switches
DE4139554A1 (en) * 1991-10-14 1993-04-15 Fela Mikrotechnik Ag ELECTRIC KEY SWITCH
JP2002270062A (en) * 2001-03-06 2002-09-20 Citizen Electronics Co Ltd Push switch
DE102004004136B4 (en) * 2004-01-28 2006-04-20 Braun Gmbh Small electrical appliance with a switching device
JP4445837B2 (en) * 2004-04-21 2010-04-07 ホシデン株式会社 Push-on switch
CN1906719A (en) * 2004-06-15 2007-01-31 日本航空电子工业株式会社 Dome contact and multistage operating electric switch containing the same
DE102006010811B4 (en) * 2006-03-07 2018-03-01 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Switching element and actuator so that as well as door handle with this actuator
US7378609B1 (en) * 2006-05-10 2008-05-27 John Fedorjaka Metal dome switch assembly with enhanced snap ratio
US7557320B1 (en) * 2008-07-30 2009-07-07 Apple Inc. Surface-mount dome switch

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US8604375B2 (en) 2013-12-10
US20100175975A1 (en) 2010-07-15
DK2209131T3 (en) 2011-09-05
DE102009004975B3 (en) 2009-12-24
EP2209131A1 (en) 2010-07-21
ATE512449T1 (en) 2011-06-15

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