EP2339602A1 - Switching device and fibre optic cable - Google Patents

Switching device and fibre optic cable Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2339602A1
EP2339602A1 EP09175227A EP09175227A EP2339602A1 EP 2339602 A1 EP2339602 A1 EP 2339602A1 EP 09175227 A EP09175227 A EP 09175227A EP 09175227 A EP09175227 A EP 09175227A EP 2339602 A1 EP2339602 A1 EP 2339602A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
optical waveguide
switching device
housing cover
air gap
button
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP09175227A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2339602B1 (en
Inventor
Ralf Siegler
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Rafi GmbH and Co KG
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Rafi GmbH and Co KG
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Priority to EP09175227.9A priority Critical patent/EP2339602B1/en
Publication of EP2339602A1 publication Critical patent/EP2339602A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2339602B1 publication Critical patent/EP2339602B1/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
    • H01H13/023—Light-emitting indicators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/054—Optical elements
    • H01H2219/06—Reflector
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/054—Optical elements
    • H01H2219/062—Light conductor
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/054—Optical elements
    • H01H2219/062—Light conductor
    • H01H2219/0622—Light conductor only an illuminated ring around keys

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a switching device according to the preamble of claim 1 and to an optical waveguide for use in such a switching device.
  • the switch panel consists of at least one such switching device whose inserted into the opening of the housing cover button is axially movable deliverable to a switch contact.
  • an annular sleeve whose inner contour rests against the outer contour of the probe and consequently supports it laterally.
  • the sleeve is made of a material through which no light waves penetrate.
  • an annular air gap between the outside of the sleeve and the housing cover is provided.
  • the light waves emitted by the LED should be bundled and directed in the direction of the housing cover. This is accomplished by providing an outer ferrule such that the respective LED is disposed between the outer and inner ferrules. Accordingly, the annular air gap, in which the light waves extend in the direction of the housing cover, arises between the two sleeves.
  • the outside of the housing cover is covered by a film through which the two sleeves and the air gap between them and the button are closed.
  • a disadvantage of this embodiment has been found that the light waves emitted by the LEDs illuminate the air gap in an inhomogeneous manner, since the light waves emit punctiform in the direction of the housing cover. Even through the film, a homogeneous illumination of the existing air-annular gap can not be achieved, since the refraction of the light waves through the thin-walled film is not sufficient to break the punctual illumination of the respective LED evenly.
  • a plurality of light sources in particular LEDs, to be mounted on the circuit board.
  • this increases energy consumption;
  • the respective bulbs generate heat through which the individual components can be damaged, as they warp, for example due to increased and longer heat retention periods.
  • a simple and inexpensive to produce switching device should be provided.
  • the light waveguide used in the air gap at the same time as a guide member for the probe in its axial feed movements as well as Light mixer for the light waves emitted by the bulbs are assigned to the optical waveguide two functions, so that on the one hand components that are necessary in the cited prior art to form the air gap, can be saved and on the other reduced by reducing the components of the Required space, so that several such switching devices can be installed side by side on the same surface of a housing cover.
  • the optical waveguide is shielded to the outside by a reflection aperture or a color coating, so that the light waves emitted by the light sources are reflected in the direction of the housing cover. Due to the structural design of the optical waveguide, in particular when refractive particles are used in this light waves, the punctual light waves in the region of the respective bulbs are further broken, so that a homogeneous light field is formed around the probe and from the outside is no longer recognizable, of which used Bulb the respective light wave was emitted. Through these measures, the number of bulbs can be reduced to a minimum. This reduces the necessary energy consumption. Furthermore, the heat radiation of the lamps is reduced, whereby the life of the entire switching device is increased.
  • a switching device 1 for generating one or more switching signals refer.
  • these switching devices 1 are installed in a housing cover 2 and together form a switching field through which an electrically operated device, such as a coffee machine or a medical examination device, can be operated. It is necessary for the individual switching devices 1 to be illuminated in order to be able to recognize, for example, their operating state by corresponding coloring. Also, the respective switching device 1 can be illuminated by an intelligent control device in order to inform the user that the respectively illuminated switching device 1 is now to be actuated in the corresponding sequence.
  • the switching device 1 consists essentially of a T-shaped button 4, which is held axially movably guided in the manner of a plunger in the housing cover 2.
  • the button 4 is flush with the housing cover 2 from.
  • the outside of the housing cover 2 is covered by a thin-walled elastically deformable film 10.
  • the button 4 is attached to the inside of the film 10, so that upon actuation of the button 4, the film 10 tracks the movement of the button 4.
  • a printed circuit board 5 is mounted on the one hand, one or more lamps 6, preferably an LED light and the other an electrically operated switching contact 8 is arranged.
  • the switching contact 8 can be constructed such that a restoring force acts on the button 4 by a metallic snap disc to move it back to the starting position when the manually applied actuating force no longer acts on the button 4.
  • annular air gap 7 is provided between the outer periphery of the button 4 and the opening 3 of the housing cover 2.
  • the mounted on the circuit board 5 bulbs 6 emit the emitted light waves in the annular air gap 7.
  • the air gap 7 thus extends from the Leuchtmittein 6 to the outside of the housing cover 2.
  • the air gap 7 is therefore aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis 9 of the probe 4.
  • an optical waveguide 11 which is supported on the housing cover 2 and can be fixed or detachably mounted on this and flush with the housing cover 2 to the outside.
  • a reflection aperture 13 is mounted on the outside of the optical waveguide 11. This can be for example a color coating or a shielding sleeve 14, as in particular the FIG. 2 can be seen.
  • the surface of the printed circuit board 5 is also provided with a reflection aperture 13, so that the light waves emitted by the light sources 6 are reflected by the reflection apertures 13 and extend exclusively through the channel formed by the optical waveguide 11 in the direction of the housing cover 2.
  • each of the light sources 6 generates punctiform light circles which are visible on the outside of the optical waveguide 11 in the region of the housing cover 2 are on the shielding sleeve 14, as in particular Figures 2 and 4a to 4c can be removed, a reflector 21 attached.
  • the reflector 21 may be configured rectangular or roof-shaped and mounted in alignment with the horizontal or from this inclined to the shielding sleeve 14.
  • the reflector 21 serves to distribute the light waves emitted by the illuminant 6, so that they do not impinge directly on the optical waveguide 11.
  • a recess 22 are incorporated in the free end face 18 of the optical waveguide 11 in the region of the lamp 6.
  • the air gap 17 is provided to ensure that the light waves pass through several different media to break the light waves upon passage of the media. This is in the right half of the FIG. 2 shown. By this measure it is ensured that the optical waveguide 11 receives light waves in its entire peripheral surface and forwards them in the direction of the housing cover 2.
  • the light waves emitted by the light means 6 are thus homogenized refraction and reflection.
  • a multiplicity of particles 12 are integrated in the optical waveguide 11, through which the light waves are broken. Consequently, the outside of the optical waveguide 11 is uniformly illuminated in the region of the housing cover 2.
  • the upper end face 19 of the optical waveguide 11 is equipped with different planes 20 ', 20 ", whereby the plane 20" facing the pushbutton 4 runs at the same height level as the outside of the housing cover 2 and thus closes flush with it.
  • the plane 20 ' is arranged below the housing cover 2.
  • These different height levels of the upper end face 19 of the optical waveguide 11 cause that in this area the emerging from the optical waveguide 11 light waves are refracted again to improve the homogeneous radiation between the key 4 and the housing cover 2.
  • a groove or slit may be incorporated, so that the optical waveguide 11 is designed in part U-shaped in cross-section and therefore an air gap for refraction of the light waves is formed.
  • the slot extends from the lower end face 18 to slightly below the housing cover 2 and the plane 20 'and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis thirteenth
  • the film 10 is arranged in alignment with the optical waveguide 11 and formed in this region 23 transparent or at least semitransparent, so that the light waves penetrate through this region 23. Laterally next to the optical waveguide 11, the film 10 is coated in a region indicated by the reference numeral 24, so that no light waves penetrate this region 24 of the film 10.
  • FIG. 2 can be seen that the lower end face 18 of the optical waveguide 11 is formed trough-shaped and formed by this encapsulation of the bulb 6.
  • the trough 22 can be replaced by the reflector 21, as shown in the FIGS. 4a to 4c is shown.
  • FIG. 1 It is shown that between the surface of the bulb 6 and the lower end face 18 of the optical waveguide 11, an air gap 17 is provided to increase the number of medium transitions that have to undergo the light waves. This causes a refraction of the light waves and this results in a homogeneous illumination of the optical waveguide 11.

Abstract

The device has a fiber optic cable (11) firmly or detachably connected with a housing cover (2). An inner contour of the fiber optic cable is adapted to an outer contour of a push-button (4) such that the push-button is completely or sectionally held at the inner contour of the fiber optic cable during axial motion in a guided manner. A trough (22) is processed at a front side (18) of the fiber optic cable. An inner contour of the trough is adapted to an outer contour of a light unit (6) i.e. LED. The LED is inserted into the trough and is completely or sectionally enclosed by the trough.

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Schaltvorrichtung gemäß des Oberbegriffes von Patentanspruch 1 sowie auf einen Lichtwellenleiter zur Anwendung in einer solchen Schaltvorrichtung.The invention relates to a switching device according to the preamble of claim 1 and to an optical waveguide for use in such a switching device.

In der EP 1 685 579 B1 ist ein Schalterfeld mit wenigstens einem Schalter beschrieben. Das Schalterfeld besteht aus mindestens einer solchen Schaltvorrichtung, deren in die Öffnung der Gehäuseabdeckung eingesetzter Taster axial bewegbar zu einem Schaltkontakt zustellbar ist. Um den Taster während der axialen Zustellbewegung seitlich geführt zu halten, ist es erforderlich, in die Öffnung der Gehäuseabdeckung eine ringförmige Hülse einzusetzen, deren Innenkontur an die Außenkontur des Tasters anliegt und diesen folglich seitlich abstützt.In the EP 1 685 579 B1 a switch panel with at least one switch is described. The switch panel consists of at least one such switching device whose inserted into the opening of the housing cover button is axially movable deliverable to a switch contact. In order to keep the button laterally guided during the axial feed movement, it is necessary to insert into the opening of the housing cover an annular sleeve whose inner contour rests against the outer contour of the probe and consequently supports it laterally.

Die Hülse ist dabei aus einem Material gefertigt, durch das keine Lichtwellen hindurchdringen. Um nunmehr die Lichtwellen, die von einer LED emittiert sind, aus dem Inneren des Gehäuses in Richtung des Tasters und der Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung zu leiten, ist ein ringförmiger Luftspalt zwischen der Außenseite der Hülse und der Gehäuseabdeckung vorgesehen. Darüber hinaus sind die von der LED ausgesandten Lichtwellen zu bündeln und in Richtung der Gehäuseabdeckung zu leiten. Dies wird dadurch bewerkstelligt, dass eine äußere Ringhülse vorgesehen ist, so dass die jeweilige LED zwischen der äußeren und der inneren Hülsen angeordnet ist. Zwischen den beiden Hülsen entsteht demnach der ringförmige Luftspalt, in dem die Lichtwellen in Richtung der Gehäuseabdeckung verlaufen.The sleeve is made of a material through which no light waves penetrate. In order now to guide the light waves emitted by an LED from the interior of the housing in the direction of the button and the outside of the housing cover, an annular air gap between the outside of the sleeve and the housing cover is provided. In addition, the light waves emitted by the LED should be bundled and directed in the direction of the housing cover. This is accomplished by providing an outer ferrule such that the respective LED is disposed between the outer and inner ferrules. Accordingly, the annular air gap, in which the light waves extend in the direction of the housing cover, arises between the two sleeves.

Die Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung ist mittels einer Folie abgedeckt, durch die die beiden Hülsen und der dazwischen vorhandene Luftspalt sowie der Taster verschlossen sind.The outside of the housing cover is covered by a film through which the two sleeves and the air gap between them and the button are closed.

Als nachteilig bei dieser Ausgestaltung hat sich herausgestellt, dass die von den LEDs emittierten Lichtwellen unhomogen den Luftspalt ausleuchten, da die Lichtwellen punktförmig in Richtung der Gehäuseabdeckung abstrahlen. Auch durch die Folie kann eine homogene Ausleuchtung des vorhandenen Luft-Ringspaltes nicht erreicht werden, da die Brechung der Lichtwellen durch die dünnwandige Folie nicht ausreicht, um die punktuelle Ausleuchtung der jeweiligen LED gleichmäßig zu brechen.A disadvantage of this embodiment has been found that the light waves emitted by the LEDs illuminate the air gap in an inhomogeneous manner, since the light waves emit punctiform in the direction of the housing cover. Even through the film, a homogeneous illumination of the existing air-annular gap can not be achieved, since the refraction of the light waves through the thin-walled film is not sufficient to break the punctual illumination of the respective LED evenly.

Somit sind eine Vielzahl von Leuchtmitteln, insbesondere LEDs, auf der Leiterplatte zu montieren. Dies erhöht jedoch den Energieverbrauch; des Weiteren erzeugen die jeweiligen Leuchtmittel Wärme, durch die die einzelnen Bauteile beschädigt werden können, da sich diese beispielsweise aufgrund erhöhter und längerer Wärmestandzeiten verziehen.Thus, a plurality of light sources, in particular LEDs, to be mounted on the circuit board. However, this increases energy consumption; Furthermore, the respective bulbs generate heat through which the individual components can be damaged, as they warp, for example due to increased and longer heat retention periods.

Es ist daher Aufgabe der Erfindung, eine Schaltvorrichtung der eingangs genannten Gattung derart weiterzubilden, dass zum Einen eine möglichst homogene Ausleuchtung des ringförmigen Luftspaltes zwischen dem Taster und der Gehäuseabdeckung erreicht ist, und dass zum Anderen eine möglichst geringe Anzahl von Leuchtmittel zur Ausleuchtung dieses Luftspaltes verwendet werden können. Darüber hinaus soll eine möglichst einfache und kostengünstig herzustellende Schaltvorrichtung bereit gestellt sein.It is therefore an object of the invention to develop a switching device of the type mentioned in such a way that on the one hand a homogeneous illumination of the annular air gap between the button and the housing cover is achieved, and that on the other hand, the smallest possible number of lamps used to illuminate this air gap can be. In addition, a simple and inexpensive to produce switching device should be provided.

Diese Aufgaben werden erfindungsgemäß durch die Merkmale der kennzeichnenden Teile der Patentansprüche 1 und 12 gelöst.These objects are achieved by the features of the characterizing parts of claims 1 and 12.

Weitere vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung ergeben sich aus den Unteransprüchen,Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims,

Dadurch, dass der in den Luftspalt eingesetzte Lichtwellenleiter gleichzeitig als Führungsglied für den Taster bei dessen axialen Zustellbewegungen als auch als Lichtmischer für die von den Leuchtmitteln ausgestrahlten Lichtwellen dient, werden dem Lichtwellenleiter zwei Funktionen zugeordnet, so dass zum einen Bauteile, die im zitierten Stand der Technik zur Bildung des Luftspaltes notwendig sind, eingespart werden können und zum anderen durch die Reduzierung der Bauteile verringert sich der Platzbedarf, so dass auf der gleichen Fläche einer Gehäuseabdeckung mehrere solcher Schaltvorrichtungen nebeneinander eingebaut werden können.The fact that the light waveguide used in the air gap at the same time as a guide member for the probe in its axial feed movements as well as Light mixer for the light waves emitted by the bulbs are assigned to the optical waveguide two functions, so that on the one hand components that are necessary in the cited prior art to form the air gap, can be saved and on the other reduced by reducing the components of the Required space, so that several such switching devices can be installed side by side on the same surface of a housing cover.

Es ist besonders vorteilhaft, wenn der Lichtwellenleiter nach außen durch eine Reflektionsblende oder eine Farbbeschichtung abgeschirmt ist, so dass die von den Leuchtmitteln emittierten Lichtwellen in Richtung der Gehäuseabdeckung reflektiert sind. Durch die konstruktive Ausbildung des Lichtwellenleiters, insbesondere wenn in diesem Lichtwellen brechenden Partikel eingesetzt sind, werden die punktuellen Lichtwellen im Bereich des jeweiligen Leuchtmittel weiter aufgebrochen, so dass um den Taster ein homogenes Lichtfeld entsteht und von außen nicht mehr erkennbar ist, von welcher der verwendeten Leuchtmittel die jeweilige Lichtwelle abgestrahlt wurde. Durch diese Maßnahmen kann die Anzahl der Leuchtmittels auf ein Minimum reduziert werden. Dies verringert den notwendigen Energieverbrauch. Zum weiteren wird die Wärmeabstrahlung der Leuchtmittel reduziert, wodurch die Lebensdauer der gesamten Schaltvorrichtung erhöht ist.It is particularly advantageous if the optical waveguide is shielded to the outside by a reflection aperture or a color coating, so that the light waves emitted by the light sources are reflected in the direction of the housing cover. Due to the structural design of the optical waveguide, in particular when refractive particles are used in this light waves, the punctual light waves in the region of the respective bulbs are further broken, so that a homogeneous light field is formed around the probe and from the outside is no longer recognizable, of which used Bulb the respective light wave was emitted. Through these measures, the number of bulbs can be reduced to a minimum. This reduces the necessary energy consumption. Furthermore, the heat radiation of the lamps is reduced, whereby the life of the entire switching device is increased.

In der Zeichnung sind zwei Ausführungsbeispiele einer erfindungsgemäßen Schaltvorrichtung dargestellt, die nachfolgend näher erläutert sind. Im Einzelnen zeigt:

Figur 1
ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Schaltvorrichtung bestehend aus einer Gehäuseabdeckung, einem in eine Öffnung der Gehäuseabdeckung eingesetzten Taster, der in Richtung eines im Inneren der Gehäuseabdeckung angeordneten Schaltkontaktes axial zustellbar ist und aus einem zwischen der Gehäuseabdeckung und der Außenseite des Tasters angeordneten Lichtwellenleiters, im unbetätigten Zustand und im Schnitt,
Figur 2
ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer Schaltvorrichtung bestehend aus einer Gehäuseabdeckung, einem in eine Öffnung der Gehäuseabdeckung eingesetzten Taster, der in Richtung eines im Inneren der Gehäuseabdeckung angeordneten Schaltkontaktes axial zustellbar ist und aus einem zwischen der Gehäuseabdeckung und der Außenseite des Tasters angeordneten Lichtwellenleiters, im betätigten Zustand und im Schnitt,
Figur 3
den Schalter gemäß Figur 2 im Bereich III in vergrößerter Darstellung und
Figuren 4a bis 4c
den Schalter gemäß Figur 2 im Bereich IV in vergrößerter Darstellung mit andersartig ausgestalteten Reflektoren.
In the drawing, two embodiments of a switching device according to the invention are shown, which are explained in more detail below. In detail shows:
FIG. 1
a first embodiment of a switching device consisting of a housing cover, a switch inserted into an opening of the housing cover, which is axially deliverable in the direction of a arranged inside the housing cover switching contact and from an arranged between the housing cover and the outside of the probe optical waveguide, in the unactuated state and on average,
FIG. 2
a second embodiment of a switching device consisting of a housing cover, one in an opening of the housing cover used pushbutton, which is axially deliverable in the direction of a switch contact arranged in the interior of the housing cover and from an optical waveguide arranged between the housing cover and the outside of the pushbutton, in the actuated state and in section,
FIG. 3
the switch according to FIG. 2 in area III in an enlarged view and
FIGS. 4a to 4c
the switch according to FIG. 2 in the area IV in an enlarged view with differently designed reflectors.

In den Figuren 1 und 2 ist eine Schaltvorrichtung 1 zur Erzeugung eines oder mehrerer Schaltsignale zu entnehmen. Mehrere dieser Schaltvorrichtungen 1 sind dabei in eine Gehäuseabdeckung 2 eingebaut und bilden gemeinsam ein Schaltfeld, durch das ein elektrisch betriebenes Gerät, beispielsweise eine Kaffeemaschine oder eine medizinische Untersuchungseinrichtung, bedient werden können. Es ist dazu erforderlich, dass die einzelnen Schaltvorrichtungen 1 ausgeleuchtet sind, um beispielsweise deren Betriebszustand durch entsprechende Farbgebung erkennen zu können. Auch sind durch eine intelligente Steuereinrichtung die jeweilige Schaltvorrichtung 1 beleuchtbar, um den Benutzer darauf hinzuweisen, dass die jeweils beleuchtete Schaltvorrichtung 1 in der entsprechenden Reihenfolge nunmehr zu betätigen ist.In the Figures 1 and 2 is a switching device 1 for generating one or more switching signals refer. Several of these switching devices 1 are installed in a housing cover 2 and together form a switching field through which an electrically operated device, such as a coffee machine or a medical examination device, can be operated. It is necessary for the individual switching devices 1 to be illuminated in order to be able to recognize, for example, their operating state by corresponding coloring. Also, the respective switching device 1 can be illuminated by an intelligent control device in order to inform the user that the respectively illuminated switching device 1 is now to be actuated in the corresponding sequence.

Um die Schaltvorrichtung 1 in die Gehäuseabdeckung 2 einbauen zu können, ist für jede der Schaltvorrichtungen 1 eine Öffnung 3 in die Gehäuseabdeckung 2 einzuarbeiten. Die Schaltvorrichtung 1 besteht im Wesentlichen aus einem T-förmigen Taster 4, der nach Art eines Stößels in der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 axial beweglich geführt gehalten ist. Der Taster 4 schließt bündig mit der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 ab. Um das Eindringen von Schmutz und sonstigen Verunreinigungen zu verhindern, ist die Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 mittels einer dünnwandigen elastisch verformbaren Folie 10 abgedeckt. Der Taster 4 ist an der Innenseite der Folie 10 befestigt, so dass beim Betätigen des Tasters 4 die Folie 10 die Bewegung des Tasters 4 nachvollzieht.In order to install the switching device 1 in the housing cover 2, an opening 3 is incorporated in the housing cover 2 for each of the switching devices 1. The switching device 1 consists essentially of a T-shaped button 4, which is held axially movably guided in the manner of a plunger in the housing cover 2. The button 4 is flush with the housing cover 2 from. To prevent the ingress of dirt and other contaminants, the outside of the housing cover 2 is covered by a thin-walled elastically deformable film 10. The button 4 is attached to the inside of the film 10, so that upon actuation of the button 4, the film 10 tracks the movement of the button 4.

Im Inneren der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 ist eine Leiterplatte 5 angebracht, auf der zum einen eines oder mehrere Leuchtmittel 6, vorzugsweise eine LED-Leuchte und zum anderen ein elektrisch betriebener Schaltkontakt 8 angeordnet ist. Der Schaltkontakt 8 kann dabei derart aufgebaut sein, dass durch eine metallische Schnappscheibe eine Rückstellkraft auf den Taster 4 einwirkt, um diesen in die Ausgangsposition zurückzubewegen, wenn die manuell aufgebrachte Betätigungskraft auf den Taster 4 nicht mehr einwirkt.In the interior of the housing cover 2, a printed circuit board 5 is mounted on the one hand, one or more lamps 6, preferably an LED light and the other an electrically operated switching contact 8 is arranged. The switching contact 8 can be constructed such that a restoring force acts on the button 4 by a metallic snap disc to move it back to the starting position when the manually applied actuating force no longer acts on the button 4.

Zwischen dem Außenumfang des Tasters 4 und der Öffnung 3 der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 ist ein ringförmiger Luftspalt 7 vorgesehen; die auf der Leiterplatte 5 angebrachten Leuchtmittel 6 strahlen die emittierten Lichtwellen in den ringförmigen Luftspalt 7 ab. Der Luftspalt 7 erstreckt sich demnach von den Leuchtmittein 6 bis zur Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung 2. Der Luftspalt 7 ist demnach parallel zu der Längsachse 9 des Tasters 4 ausgerichtet.Between the outer periphery of the button 4 and the opening 3 of the housing cover 2, an annular air gap 7 is provided; the mounted on the circuit board 5 bulbs 6 emit the emitted light waves in the annular air gap 7. The air gap 7 thus extends from the Leuchtmittein 6 to the outside of the housing cover 2. The air gap 7 is therefore aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis 9 of the probe 4.

Um eine homogene Ausleuchtung des ringförmigen Lichtspaltes 7 zu erreichen, ist in diesem ein Lichtwellenleiter 11 eingesetzt, der an der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 abgestützt ist und an dieser fest oder lösbar montiert sein kann und nach außen bündig mit der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 abschließt.In order to achieve a homogeneous illumination of the annular light gap 7, in this an optical waveguide 11 is used, which is supported on the housing cover 2 and can be fixed or detachably mounted on this and flush with the housing cover 2 to the outside.

Um die von den Leuchtmitteln 6 emittierten Lichtwellen in Richtung des ringförmigen Luftspaltes 7 zwischen dem Taster 4 und der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 zu leiten, ist auf der Außenseite des Lichtwellenleiters 11 eine Reflektionsblende 13 angebracht. Dies kann beispielsweise eine Farbbeschichtung sein oder eine Abschirmhülse 14, wie dies insbesondere der Figur 2 zu entnehmen ist.In order to direct the light waves emitted by the light sources 6 in the direction of the annular air gap 7 between the probe 4 and the housing cover 2, a reflection aperture 13 is mounted on the outside of the optical waveguide 11. This can be for example a color coating or a shielding sleeve 14, as in particular the FIG. 2 can be seen.

Die Oberfläche der Leiterplatte 5 ist ebenfalls mit einer Reflektionsblende 13 versehen, so dass die von den Leuchtmitteln 6 ausgestrahlten Lichtwellen von den Reflektionsblenden 13 zurückgeworfen werden und ausschließlich durch den von dem Lichtwellenleiter 11 gebildeten Kanal in Richtung der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 verlaufen.The surface of the printed circuit board 5 is also provided with a reflection aperture 13, so that the light waves emitted by the light sources 6 are reflected by the reflection apertures 13 and extend exclusively through the channel formed by the optical waveguide 11 in the direction of the housing cover 2.

Dadurch, dass jede der Leuchtmittel 6 punktuelle Lichtkreise erzeugt, die an der Außenseite des Lichtwellenleiters 11 im Bereich der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 sichtbar sind, ist an der Abschirmhülse 14, wie dies insbesondere in Figuren 2 und 4a bis 4c entnommen werden kann, ein Reflektor 21 angebracht. Der Reflektor 21 kann rechteckförmig oder dachförmig ausgestaltet sein und fluchtend zu der Horizontalen oder aus dieser geneigt verlaufend an der Abschirmhülse 14 angebracht werden. Der Reflektor 21 dient dazu, die von dem Leuchtmittel 6 ausgestrahlten Lichtwellen zu verteilen, so dass diese nicht unmittelbar auf den Lichtwellenleiter 11 auftreffen. Darüber hinaus sind in die freie Stirnseite 18 des Lichtwellenleiters 11 im Bereich des Leuchtmittel 6 eine Mulde 22 eingearbeitet. Zwischen der Mulde 22 und dem Leuchtmittel 6 ist der Luftspalt 17 vorgesehen, um zu gewährleisten, dass die Lichtwellen mehrere unterschiedliche Meiden durchlaufen, um die Lichtwellen beim Übertritt der Medien zu brechen. Dies ist in der rechten Hälfte der Figur 2 dargestellt. Durch diese Maßnahme ist gewährleistet, dass der Lichtwellenleiter 11 in seiner gesamten Umfangsfläche Lichtwellen aufnimmt und diese in Richtung der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 weiterleitet, Die von den Lichtmitteln 6 ausgestrahlten Lichtwellen werden demnach Brechung und Reflexion homogenisiert.The fact that each of the light sources 6 generates punctiform light circles which are visible on the outside of the optical waveguide 11 in the region of the housing cover 2 are on the shielding sleeve 14, as in particular Figures 2 and 4a to 4c can be removed, a reflector 21 attached. The reflector 21 may be configured rectangular or roof-shaped and mounted in alignment with the horizontal or from this inclined to the shielding sleeve 14. The reflector 21 serves to distribute the light waves emitted by the illuminant 6, so that they do not impinge directly on the optical waveguide 11. In addition, a recess 22 are incorporated in the free end face 18 of the optical waveguide 11 in the region of the lamp 6. Between the trough 22 and the light source 6, the air gap 17 is provided to ensure that the light waves pass through several different media to break the light waves upon passage of the media. This is in the right half of the FIG. 2 shown. By this measure it is ensured that the optical waveguide 11 receives light waves in its entire peripheral surface and forwards them in the direction of the housing cover 2. The light waves emitted by the light means 6 are thus homogenized refraction and reflection.

Um diese Homogenität zu verbessern, sind in dem Lichtwellenleiter 11 eine Vielzahl von Partikel 12 integriert, durch die die Lichtwellen gebrochen sind. Folglich ist die Außenseite des Lichtwellenleiters 11 im Bereich der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 gleichmäßig ausgeleuchtet. Um diese Ausleuchtung weiter zu verbessern, ist, wie insbesondere der Figur 2 entnommen werden kann, die obere Stirnseite 19 des Lichtwellenleiters 11 mit unterschiedlichen Ebenen 20', 20" ausgestattet. Dabei verläuft die dem Taster 4 zugewandte Ebene 20" auf demselben Höhenniveau wie die Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 und schließt demnach fluchtend zu dieser ab.In order to improve this homogeneity, a multiplicity of particles 12 are integrated in the optical waveguide 11, through which the light waves are broken. Consequently, the outside of the optical waveguide 11 is uniformly illuminated in the region of the housing cover 2. To further improve this illumination is, in particular the FIG. 2 The upper end face 19 of the optical waveguide 11 is equipped with different planes 20 ', 20 ", whereby the plane 20" facing the pushbutton 4 runs at the same height level as the outside of the housing cover 2 and thus closes flush with it.

Unterhalb der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 ist die Ebene 20' angeordnet. Diese unterschiedlichen Höhenniveaus der oberen Stirnseite 19 des Lichtwellenleiters 11 bewirken, dass in diesem Bereich die aus dem Lichtwellenleiter 11 austretenden Lichtwellen erneut gebrochen sind, um die homogene Abstrahlung zwischen der Taste 4 und der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 zu verbessern. Darüber hinaus kann in dem Lichtwellenleiter 11 eine Nut oder Schlitz eingearbeitet sein, so dass der Lichtwellenleiter 11 im Querschnitt teilweise U-förmig gestaltet ist und demnach ein Luftspalt zur Brechung der Lichtwellen entsteht. Der Schlitz erstreckt sich dabei von der unteren Stirnseite 18 bis etwas unterhalb der Gehäuseabdeckung 2 bzw. der Ebene 20' und verläuft parallel zu der Längsachse 13.Below the housing cover 2, the plane 20 'is arranged. These different height levels of the upper end face 19 of the optical waveguide 11 cause that in this area the emerging from the optical waveguide 11 light waves are refracted again to improve the homogeneous radiation between the key 4 and the housing cover 2. In addition, in the optical waveguide 11, a groove or slit may be incorporated, so that the optical waveguide 11 is designed in part U-shaped in cross-section and therefore an air gap for refraction of the light waves is formed. The slot extends from the lower end face 18 to slightly below the housing cover 2 and the plane 20 'and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis thirteenth

Die Folie 10 ist fluchtend zu dem Lichtwellenleiter 11 angeordnet und in diesem Bereich 23 transparent oder zumindest semitransparent ausgebildet, so dass die Lichtwellen durch diesen Bereich 23 hindurchdringen. Seitlich neben dem Lichtwellenleiter 11 ist die Folie 10 in einem mit der Bezugsziffer 24 gekennzeichneten Bereich beschichtet, so dass keine Lichtwellen in diesem Bereich 24 der Folie 10 hindurchdringen.The film 10 is arranged in alignment with the optical waveguide 11 and formed in this region 23 transparent or at least semitransparent, so that the light waves penetrate through this region 23. Laterally next to the optical waveguide 11, the film 10 is coated in a region indicated by the reference numeral 24, so that no light waves penetrate this region 24 of the film 10.

Des Weiteren ist der Figur 2 zu entnehmen, dass die untere Stirnseite 18 des Lichtwellenleiters 11 muldenförmig ausgebildet ist und durch diese eine Kapselung des Leuchtmittels 6 entsteht. Die Mulde 22 kann durch den Reflektor 21 ersetzt werden, wie dies in den Figuren 4a bis 4c gezeigt ist.Furthermore, the FIG. 2 can be seen that the lower end face 18 of the optical waveguide 11 is formed trough-shaped and formed by this encapsulation of the bulb 6. The trough 22 can be replaced by the reflector 21, as shown in the FIGS. 4a to 4c is shown.

In Figur 1 ist dargestellt, dass zwischen der Oberfläche des Leuchtmittels 6 und der unteren Stirnseite 18 des Lichtwellenleiters 11 ein Luftspalt 17 vorgesehen ist, um die Anzahl der Mediumsübergange zu erhöhen, die die Lichtwellen zu durchlaufen haben. Dies bewirkt eine Brechung der Lichtwellen und dadurch entsteht eine homogene Ausleuchtung des Lichtwellenleiters 11.In FIG. 1 It is shown that between the surface of the bulb 6 and the lower end face 18 of the optical waveguide 11, an air gap 17 is provided to increase the number of medium transitions that have to undergo the light waves. This causes a refraction of the light waves and this results in a homogeneous illumination of the optical waveguide 11.

Claims (12)

Schaltvorrichtung (1) zur Erzeugung eines oder mehrerer elektrischer Schaltsignale, mit mindestens einem Taster (4), der in eine in einer Gehäuseabdeckung (2) der Schaltvorrichtung (1) eingearbeiteten Öffnung (3) eingesetzt ist und der in dieser in Richtung eines auf einer Leiterplatte (5) montierten Schaltkontaktes (8) nach Art eines Stößels axial beweglich zustellbar ist, mit einem zwischen dem Taster (4) und der Innenwand der Öffnung (3) vorgesehenen ringförmigen Luftspalt (7), der von der Leiterplatte (5) bis zur Gehäuseabdeckung (2) verläuft, und mit mindestens einem Leuchtmittel (6), vorzugsweise eine LED, die auf der Leiterplatte (5) im Bereich des Luftspaltes (7) angeordnet ist,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass in den Luftspalt (7) ein Lichtwellenleiter (11) eingesetzt ist, der mit der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) fest oder lösbar verbunden ist, dass die Innenkontur des Lichtwellenleiters (11) an die Außenkontur des Tasters (4) derart angepasst ist, dass der Taster ganz oder zumindest bereichsweise an der Innenkontur des Lichtwellenleiters (11) während der axialen Bewegung geführt gehalten ist.Switching device (1) for generating one or more electrical switching signals, with at least one pushbutton (4), which is inserted into a in a housing cover (2) of the switching device (1) incorporated in the opening (3) and in this in the direction of one on a Circuit board (5) mounted switch contact (8) in the manner of a plunger axially movably deliverable, with a provided between the button (4) and the inner wall of the opening (3) annular air gap (7) of the circuit board (5) to the Housing cover (2) extends, and with at least one lamp (6), preferably an LED, which is arranged on the circuit board (5) in the region of the air gap (7),
characterized,
in that an optical waveguide (11) is inserted into the air gap (7) and is fixedly or detachably connected to the housing cover (2) in such a way that the inner contour of the optical waveguide (11) is adapted to the outer contour of the pushbutton (4) such that Button is wholly or at least partially held on the inner contour of the optical waveguide (11) guided during the axial movement. Schaltvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass auf der Außenfläche des Lichtwellenleiters und/oder auf der Leiterplatte eine Reflektionsblende oder eine lichtreflektierende Farbschicht vorgesehen ist, die zwischen der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) und der Leiterplatte (5) verläuft.Switching device according to claim 1,
characterized,
in that on the outer surface of the optical waveguide and / or on the printed circuit board a reflection aperture or a light-reflecting color layer is provided which extends between the housing cover (2) and the printed circuit board (5). Schaltvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass zwischen dem Lichtwellenleiter (11) und dem jeweiligen Leuchtmittel (6) ein Luftspalt (17) vorgesehen ist und/oder dass in dem Lichtwellenleiter (11) ein Schlitz (22) eingearbeitet ist, der im Bereich der Leuchtmittel (6) und (2) parallel zu der Längsachse (13) verläuft.Switching device according to claim 1,
characterized,
in that an air gap (17) is provided between the optical waveguide (11) and the respective luminous means (6) and / or that a slot (22) is incorporated in the optical waveguide (11), which in the region of the illuminant (6) and (2 ) runs parallel to the longitudinal axis (13). Schaltvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass in die Stirnseite (18) des Lichtwellenleiters (11) eine Mulde (22) eingearbeitet ist, deren Innenkontur an die Außenkontur des jeweiligen Leuchtmittels (6) angepasst ist, und dass das Leuchtmittel (6) in die Mulde (22) eingesetzt ist und von dieser ganz oder zumindest bereichsweise umschlossen ist.Switching device according to claim 1,
characterized,
that in the end face (18) of the optical waveguide (11) has a recess (22) is incorporated, whose inner contour is adapted to the outer contour of the respective lighting means (6), and that the lighting means (6) in the trough (22) is inserted and is completely or at least partially enclosed by this. Schaltvorrichtung nach Anspruch 3,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass zwischen dem Lichtwellenleiter (11) und dem Leuchtmittel (6) im Bereich des Luftspalts (17) ein Reflektor (21, 21') eingebaut ist und dass der Reflektor (21, 21') parallel zu der Stirnseite (18) des Lichtwellenleiters (11) oder geneigt zu der von der Stirnseite (18) bebildeten Ebene verlaufend angeordnet ist.Switching device according to claim 3,
characterized,
in that a reflector (21, 21 ') is installed between the optical waveguide (11) and the luminous means (6) in the region of the air gap (17), and in that the reflector (21, 21') is parallel to the end face (18) of the optical waveguide ( 11) or inclined to the plane formed by the end face (18) is arranged to extend. Schaltvorrichtung nach Anspruch 5,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Reflektor (21, 21') im Querschnitt rechteck-, dach-, drachenförmig oder rund ausgebildet ist.Switching device according to claim 5,
characterized,
that the reflector (21, 21 ') are rectangular in cross-section, roof, kite-shaped or round. Schaltvorrichtung nach einem der vorgenannten Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass in den Lichtwellenleiter (11) eine Vielzahl von die Lichtwellen brechenden Partikeln (12) eingesetzt sind.Switching device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
that in the optical waveguide (11) a plurality of the light waves refractive particles (12) are used. Schaltvorrichtung nach einem der vorgenannten Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Lichtwellenleiter (11) im Bereich der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) eine oder mehrere Ebenen (20, 20') aufweist, die in unterschiedlichen Höhenniveaus angeordnet sind und dass mindestens eine der Ebenen (20) unterhalb der von der Gehäuseabdeckung gebildeten Ebene verläuft und dass eine oder mehrere der von dem Lichtvueflenleiter (11) gebildeten Ebenen (20'), vorzugsweise die der Innenseite des Lichtwellenleiters (11) zugeordneten Bereiche, auf dem von der Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) gebildeten Ebene verlaufen.Switching device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that the optical waveguide (11) has one or more planes (20, 20 ') in the area of the housing cover (2), which are arranged at different height levels and that at least one of the planes (20) runs below the plane formed by the housing cover and one or more of the planes (20 ') formed by the light guide conductor (11), preferably the areas associated with the inside of the optical waveguide (11), run on the plane formed by the outside of the housing cover (2). Schaltvorrichtung nach einem der vorgenannten Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass auf der Außenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) eine elastisch verformbare Folie (10) angeordnet ist, durch die der Lichtwellenleiter (11) und der Taster (4) abgedeckt sind und dass die Folie (10), zumindest bereichsweise, mit der Außenseite des Tasters (4) fest verbunden ist.Switching device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
that on the outside of the housing cover (2) has an elastically deformable sheet (10) is disposed, are covered by the optical waveguide (11) and the push button (4) and that the film (10), at least partially, with the outer side of the probe (4) is firmly connected. Schaltvorrichtung nach Anspruch 9,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass die Folie (10) im Bereich des Lichtwellenleiters (11) transparent oder semitransparent ausgebildet ist und seitlich neben dem Lichtwellenleiter (11) eine Licht reflektierende Beschichtung aufweist.Switching device according to claim 9,
characterized,
that the film (10) in the region of the optical waveguide (11) is formed transparent or semi-transparent and the side of the optical waveguide (11) having a light reflective coating. Schaltvorrichtung nach einem der vorgenannten Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass zwischen der Innenseite der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) und der Außenseite des Lichtwellenleiters (11) eine Abschirmhülse (14) eingesetzt ist, dass in die Abschirmhülse (14) zwei zueinander gegenüberliegende Kerben (15) eingearbeitet sind und dass auf der Außenseite des Lichtwellenleiters (11) jeweils eine der Kerben (15) zugeordneten Nasen (16) angeformt sind, die im montierten Zustand nach Art einer Hinterschneidung in die Kerben (15) verrastet sind.Switching device according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized,
in that a shielding sleeve (14) is inserted between the inside of the housing cover (2) and the outside of the optical waveguide (11), that two mutually opposite notches (15) are machined into the shielding sleeve (14) and that on the outside of the optical waveguide (11 ) are each one of the notches (15) associated with lugs (16) are formed, which are latched in the assembled state in the manner of an undercut in the notches (15). Lichtwellenleiter zur Anwendung in einer Schaltvorrichtung, vorzugsweise in einer Schaltvorrichtung nach einem der vorstehenden Patentansprüchen 1 bis 11,
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Lichtwellenleiter (11) als Lichtwellenmischer zur Erzeugung einer homogenen Ausleuchtung des von dem Lichtwellenleiter (11) ausgefüllten Luftspaltes (7) im Bereich der Taste (4) und der Öffnung (3) der Gehäuseabdeckung (2) dient und dass der Lichtwellenleiter (11) die Taste (4) bei deren axialen Bewegungen seitlich geführt abstützt.Optical waveguide for use in a switching device, preferably in a switching device according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11,
characterized,
in that the optical waveguide (11) serves as a light wave mixer for producing a homogeneous illumination of the air gap (7) filled by the optical waveguide (11) in the region of the button (4) and the opening (3) of the housing cover (2) and in that the optical waveguide (11 ) the button (4) supported laterally guided in their axial movements.
EP09175227.9A 2009-11-06 2009-11-06 Switching device with reflector Active EP2339602B1 (en)

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WO2013015450A1 (en) * 2011-07-27 2013-01-31 Yazaki Corporation Lighting structure of switch
WO2013180015A1 (en) * 2012-05-31 2013-12-05 Yazaki Corporation Illumination display switching device
CN106024464A (en) * 2016-07-04 2016-10-12 宁波方太厨具有限公司 Touch switch
CN112635219A (en) * 2020-12-29 2021-04-09 广东虹勤通讯技术有限公司 Key module, electronic equipment and processing method
US11449153B1 (en) * 2022-04-21 2022-09-20 Muted LLC Computer peripheral devices and methods of using the same

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EP0749136A2 (en) * 1995-06-14 1996-12-18 Elektro-Apparatebau Olten AG Switch for opening a door
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EP1685579A1 (en) * 2003-11-20 2006-08-02 Bernecker & Rainer Industrie-Elektronik Gesellschaft m.b.H. Switch panel having at least one switch
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EP0749136A2 (en) * 1995-06-14 1996-12-18 Elektro-Apparatebau Olten AG Switch for opening a door
EP0976972A2 (en) * 1998-07-30 2000-02-02 Preh-Werke GmbH & Co. KG Rotary knob for control apparatus
EP1389788A1 (en) * 2002-08-13 2004-02-18 Vestel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. Function indicator for visually indicating an operating state of equipment
EP1685579A1 (en) * 2003-11-20 2006-08-02 Bernecker & Rainer Industrie-Elektronik Gesellschaft m.b.H. Switch panel having at least one switch
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Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2013015450A1 (en) * 2011-07-27 2013-01-31 Yazaki Corporation Lighting structure of switch
WO2013180015A1 (en) * 2012-05-31 2013-12-05 Yazaki Corporation Illumination display switching device
US9484165B2 (en) 2012-05-31 2016-11-01 Yazaki Corporation Illumination display switching device
CN106024464A (en) * 2016-07-04 2016-10-12 宁波方太厨具有限公司 Touch switch
CN112635219A (en) * 2020-12-29 2021-04-09 广东虹勤通讯技术有限公司 Key module, electronic equipment and processing method
US11449153B1 (en) * 2022-04-21 2022-09-20 Muted LLC Computer peripheral devices and methods of using the same
US11880512B1 (en) * 2022-04-21 2024-01-23 Muted LLC Computer peripheral devices and methods of using the same

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