WO2014202306A1

WO2014202306A1 - Switch, method for producing a switch, and electronic module system

Info

Publication number: WO2014202306A1
Application number: PCT/EP2014/060213
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ludek BERKA
Original assignee: Zf Friedrichshafen Ag
Priority date: 2013-06-21
Filing date: 2014-05-19
Publication date: 2014-12-24
Also published as: DE102013211827A1; CN105308707B; CN105308707A

Abstract

The invention relates to a switch (100) having at least one membrane key (130). The at least one membrane key (130) is arranged on a first main surface of a flexible carrier film (140). in the region of the at least one membrane key (130), a key carrier element is mounted on a second main surface of the flexible carrier film (140), facing away from the first main surface. At least one actuating element (120) for actuating the at least one membrane key (130) is also provided. The at least one actuating element (120) is movable between a rest position, in which the at least one actuating element (120) is a distance away from the at least one membrane key (130), and an actuation position, in which the at least one actuating element (120) is in contact with the at least one membrane key (130).

Description

Switch, method of manufacturing a switch and electronic module system

The present invention relates to a switch with at least one membrane switch, to a method for producing a switch with at least one membrane switch and to an electronic module system, in particular for a vehicle, with such a switch.

Electronic component carriers or electronic module carriers or electronic module systems can be installed, for example, in door locks of vehicles. Usually, electrical component carriers are provided with switches, e.g. Slip contact switches or the like fitted. Furthermore, membrane switches are available on the market. DE 102 05 581 A1 discloses a membrane switch with a single switch.

Against this background, the present invention provides an improved switch with at least one membrane switch, an improved electronic module system and an improved method for producing a switch with at least one membrane switch according to the main claims. Advantageous embodiments will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description below.

The present invention relates to a switch with at least one membrane switch, characterized in that the at least one membrane switch is attached to a first main surface of a flexible carrier film, wherein a Tastenträ- gerelement on a remote from the first main surface, the second main surface of the flexible carrier film in the region at least one membrane switch is attached, wherein at least one actuating element for actuating the at least one membrane switch is provided, wherein the at least one actuating element between a rest position in which the at least one actuating element is spaced from the at least one membrane switch, and an actuating position is movable in the the at least one actuating element is in contact with the at least one membrane switch.

The flexible carrier film can be designed as a multilayer film. The flexible carrier foil may have a plurality of layers. At least one Layer may comprise an electrically insulating material, for example a plastic material, at least in one section. Optionally, at least one layer may have an electrically conductive material at least in one section. The flexible carrier film can be arranged in the region of the at least one membrane key between the at least one membrane key and the key support element. The at least one membrane key can be attached by means of a material connection to the flexible carrier film. The key support member may be formed of a plastic material. In this case, the key support element may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the key support member may also have a plurality of parts. It can also be provided at least one further probe support member. The key support member may be secured by means of a cohesive and / or positive connection to the flexible carrier film. The at least one actuating element can be designed to effect a mechanical actuation of the at least one membrane key in the actuation position. The at least one actuating element can be formed from a metallic material. If the at least one actuating element is arranged in the rest position, a first switching state of the switch may be present. If the at least one actuating element is arranged in the actuating position or is moved from the rest position into the actuating position and back again into the rest position, a second switching state of the switch can be present.

An electronic module system, in particular for a vehicle, has the following features:

at least one embodiment of the aforementioned switch;

a carrier housing having at least one receiving portion for supporting the at least one switch and a terminal portion for externally contacting the electronic module system; and

Connecting means for establishing an electrical connection between the at least one receiving portion and the connecting portion.

The vehicle can be a motor vehicle, for example a road-bound motor vehicle, such as a passenger car or a truck. The electronic module system may be an electrical act planet carrier or electronic module carrier or the like. The electronic module system can be used in conjunction with a door lock of the vehicle. An embodiment of the aforementioned switch can be advantageously used or used in conjunction with the electronic module system to detect switching states, such as a locked state of a vehicle door, and / or to perform switching operations. The connecting means may be formed of a metallic material. The carrier housing can identify a plastic material. The connecting means may represent a stamped grid or the like, on which the carrier housing is sprayed.

A method for producing a switch with at least one membrane switch comprises the following steps:

Providing a flexible carrier foil, on the first main surface of which the at least one membrane key is attached;

Fastening a key-carrier element on a second main surface of the flexible carrier foil facing away from the first main surface in the region of the at least one membrane key;

Arranging the at least one membrane switch, the key support member and at least a portion of the carrier film in a housing; and

Attaching at least one actuating element for actuating the at least one membrane switch on the housing in a movable manner, wherein the at least one actuating element between a rest position, in which the at least one actuating element is spaced from the at least one membrane switch, and an actuating position is movable, in which at least an actuator is in contact with the at least one membrane switch.

The method can be advantageously carried out to produce an embodiment of the aforementioned switch.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a switch, in particular a switch for an electronic component carrier of a vehicle, can be constructed from at least one membrane key. In this case, the at least one membrane key on a flexible multilayer film and between an actuating element and a mechanical stop arranged. Thus, an advantageous switch can be realized which can be advantageously installed in an electronic assembly, for example in an electrical component carrier of a vehicle or the like.

Advantageously, embodiments of the present invention, an optimized switch can be provided, which is suitable for a low in terms of manufacturing and assembly processes installation in an electronic assembly, in particular in an electrical component carrier of a vehicle or such cost-effective installation. Thus, cost optimization may be achieved through improved manufacturing or assembly processes associated with the switch according to embodiments of the present invention. Thus, the switch, especially compared to a standard microswitch, has the advantages that in a flexible film and membrane switch design, high dust tightness, water tightness and chemical resistance can be achieved. The switch can also be made inexpensively, since no separate push buttons are needed. Also advantageous is a greater flexibility compared with a punch path design or a more diverse possible film layout due to the flexible carrier film. Furthermore, the switch has, in particular, an uncomplicated plastic contour with over-molded film. The switch may also be formed so that compatibility with a given geometry of a receiving portion for the switch or a standard switch receptacle can be realized. In addition, a combination with punched webs, z. As for a motor contact in vehicles, allows and welding and / or solder joints and a potting process can be avoided.

According to one embodiment of the switch, the probe support member may be formed to act as an abutment for the at least one membrane switch when befindlichem in the operating position actuator. Here, the at least one membrane key can be pressed by means of the actuating element in abutment against the key support member when the actuator is in the operating position. Such an embodiment has the advantage that a mechanical stop for the actuation of the membrane switch, and thus also the Switch is realized in a simple, effective and reliable manner by means of the Tastenträ- gerelement.

The flexible carrier foil may also have at least one passage opening and the probe carrier element may have at least one projection which, in a state of the probe carrier element secured to the carrier foil, may be arranged to extend through the at least one passage opening. In this case, a number of passage openings in the carrier foil can correspond to a number of projections of the key support element. Each projection can be pushed through a passage opening. In this case, the key-carrier element can be fastened to the flexible carrier film by deforming the at least one projection inserted through the through-opening, for example by caulking. Such an embodiment has the advantage that the button-carrier element can be attached easily and securely to the flexible carrier film.

Furthermore, the at least one actuating element can be mounted on one side and biased into the rest position. In this case, the at least one actuating element can be arranged as a cantilever beam or the like. Thus, the at least one actuating element is designed to be moved by means of an external actuating force from the rest position to the actuating position to actuate the membrane key and thus the switch. In the absence of the external actuating force, the at least one actuating element can return from the actuating position to the rest position. Between a bearing end, on which the at least one actuating element is mounted on one side, and a free end, the at least one actuating element having an actuating projection for introducing the external actuating force and at least one switching projection, wherein the at least one switching projection in the operating position of the at least one actuating element in contact can be arranged with a membrane key of the switch. Such an embodiment has the advantage that the at least one membrane key, and thus the switch, can be operated in a reliable, accurately repeatable and simple manner. In particular, the switch may have a first membrane key, a second membrane key, a first actuating element and a second actuating element. In this case, the first actuating element can be designed to actuate the first membrane key. In this case, the second actuating element may be designed to actuate the first membrane key and the second membrane key. Thus, the second actuator may be formed as a double actuator, for example as a double lever or the like. Such an embodiment has the advantage that flexible or versatile customizable operation options, eg by cams, etc., can be realized. Such alternatives make it possible, for example, for at least two states to be reproduced or recorded by means of the switch.

In addition, a housing may be provided, in which the at least one membrane key, at least a partial section of the carrier foil and the key support element can be arranged. In this case, the at least one actuating element can be movably attached to the housing. In particular, the at least one actuating element can be mounted on one side of the housing. The housing may include a housing material made of plastic or the like. In particular, the at least one membrane key, at least one subsection of the carrier foil and the key support element can be encapsulated with the housing material. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a protective housing is provided for the switch elements, to which also the at least one actuating element can be attached.

In this case, the housing may have at least one actuating opening for the at least one actuating element for actuating the at least one membrane switch, at least one connection opening for electrically contacting the at least one membrane switch, at least one mounting section for the at least one actuating element and at least one stop element for the at least one actuating element. Further, the housing may include at least one tool receiving aperture for receiving a tool for manipulating the switch. The at least one actuating element may be attached to the at least one mounting portion. When the at least one actuating element is in the actuated position, a partial section of the actuating element can extension member through the actuating opening of the housing to extend to the membrane switch. The at least one stop element can be designed to block a movement of the at least one actuating element beyond the actuating position. It can be provided for each membrane switch or a single operating opening for each membrane switch a common operating opening. Such an embodiment provides the advantage that the housing is designed to assist and enhance operation and function of the switch.

According to one embodiment of the method, in the step of arranging the at least one membrane key, the key support element and the at least one subsection of the carrier foil can be encapsulated or encapsulated with a housing material. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that, depending on the geometry requirements for an intended application of the switch, the at least one membrane key, the key support element and the at least one subsection of the carrier foil in a simple, adaptable to the particular application and / or foil geometry way with a matching and protective housing can be provided.

The invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

Figures 1 A to 1 L representations of a switch according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 2A to 2E show representations of a switch according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A to 31 are illustrations of an electronic module system according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

4 is a flowchart of a method of manufacturing a switch according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown for the illustrated in the various figures and similar elements used the same or similar reference numerals, wherein a repeated description of these elements is omitted.

Fig. 1A shows a perspective view of a switch 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Shown in Fig. 1 A of the switch 100, a housing 1 10, an actuating opening 1 12, a plurality of tool receiving openings 1 14, a stop element 1 1 6, a connection opening 1 18, an attachment portion 1 19, an actuator 120, a bearing end 122, a switching projection 124, an actuating projection 126, a free end 128, a membrane switch 130 and a flexible carrier film 140. The switch 100 can thus also be referred to as a film switch. The switch 100 is designed or provided, for example, for equipping an electronic module system or the like, such as, for example, the electronic module system from FIGS. 3A to 3I.

The housing 1 10 has the actuating opening 1 12, for example six tool receiving openings 1 14, the stop element 1 1 6, the connection opening 1 18 and the attachment portion 1 19. The actuating member 120 is connected to the housing 1 10 and has the bearing end 122, the switching projection 124, the actuating projection 126 and the free end 128 on. The membrane key 130 is attached to the flexible carrier sheet 140. The membrane key 130 and a first section of the flexible carrier film 140 are at least partially surrounded by the housing 1 10. In particular, the membrane switch 130 and the first subsection of the flexible carrier film 140 are encapsulated with a housing material of the housing 110. The housing material has, for example, a plastic material.

According to the embodiment of the present invention shown in Fig. 1 A, the housing 1 10 is formed substantially cuboid. On a main surface of the housing 1 10, the actuating opening 1 12, the tool receiving openings 1 14, the stop element 1 1 6 and the attachment portion 1 19 are formed in the housing 1 10 or arranged. At a side surface or side surface of the housing adjacent to the main surface. Ses 1 10, the connection opening 1 18 18 is formed or arranged in the housing.

In this case, the attachment portion 1 19 is disposed adjacent to a narrow side edge of the main surface. The attachment portion 1 19 is designed to allow the attachment of the actuating element 120 to the housing 1 10. Specifically, the attachment portion 1 19 is formed to receive and hold the bearing end 122 of the operation member 120 for attaching the operation member 120 to the housing 1 10. According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1A, the mounting portion 1 19 is formed as a slot into which the bearing end 122 of the actuating element 120 can be introduced and locked.

The actuating opening 1 12 is exemplified as a through-hole circular and centrally located on the main surface of the housing 1 10. Through the actuating opening 1 12 of the membrane switch 130 is free. The actuating opening 1 12 is arranged and formed to allow actuation of the membrane switch 130 by means of the actuating element 120. The tool receiving openings 1 14 are arranged around the actuating opening 1 12 radially outward with respect to the same. In this case, the tool receiving openings 1 14 extend as slots along a circular arc as sections of a common circular line.

The stop element 1 1 6 is designed to act as a mechanical stop for the actuator 120. The actuating opening 1 12 between the mounting portion 1 19 and the stop element 1 1 6 is arranged. The stopper member is formed as a pin-colored projection with respect to the main surface of the housing 1 10. The connection opening 1 18 is designed to allow a lead-out of a portion of the flexible carrier film 140 from the housing 1 10. Thus, a second section of the flexible carrier film 140 extends through the connection opening 1 18 out of the housing 1 10 out. The flexible carrier film 140 thus has the first section, which is disposed within the housing 1 10, and the second section, which extends through the connection opening 1 through 18 out of the housing 1 10 out. The flexible carrier film 140 is formed as a multilayer film. A main material of the flexible carrier film 140 is exemplified by plastic. The membrane switch 130 is attached to the first subsection of the flexible carrier film 140. The membrane switch 130 is electrically contactable by means of the flexible carrier film 140. For this purpose, the flexible carrier film 140 comprises, for example, printed conductors or the like. In this case, the flexible carrier film 140 in the second subsection outside the housing 110 may have a connection region for the electrical connection of the membrane scanner 130 and thus of the switch 100 to an external system.

The actuator 120 is mounted on one side or clamped on one side of the housing 1 10 mounted. In this case, the bearing end 122 of the actuating element 120 is received in the mounting portion 1 19 of the housing 1 10 and attached to the mounting portion 1 19. According to the embodiment of the present invention shown in Fig. 1A, the actuator 120 is formed as an elongate stamped and bent part of metallic material. A first end portion of the actuator 120 has the bearing end 122 and a second end portion of the actuator 120 has the free end 128. The free end 128 of the actuating element 120 is spaced from the housing 1 10.

Between the bearing end 122 and the free end 128, the actuator 120, the switching projection 124 and the actuating projection 126 on. The switching projection 124 is arranged in a mounted on the housing 1 10 state of the actuating element 120 in a region of the membrane switch 130 and extends to the membrane switch 130 out. The switching projection 124 is configured to actuate the membrane key 130. The operating projection 126 is disposed in the attached to the housing 1 10 state of the actuating element 120 between the switching projection 124 and the free end 128 of the actuating element 120. According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1A, the actuating projection 126 is disposed adjacent to the free end 128. Of the Actuating protrusion 126 is configured to receive an external actuating force, wherein the external actuating force is transferable via the switching projection 124 to the membrane switch 130.

The actuator 120 is movable in the presence and absence of an external actuating force by elastic deformation between a rest position in which the actuator 120 is spaced from the membrane switch 130, and an actuating position in which the actuator 120 is in contact with the membrane switch 130. Here, the actuating element 120 is biased in the rest position. FIG. 1A shows the switch 100 with the actuating element 120 arranged in the rest position.

1 B shows the membrane key 130 and the flexible carrier foil 140 of the switch from FIG. 1A. The first subsection of the flexible carrier foil 140 has a substantially circular outline, wherein the second subsection of the flexible carrier foil 140 acts as an extension of the first subsection is formed with a substantially rectangular plan. The membrane key 130 is arranged, for example, centrally on the first main surface of the flexible carrier foil 140 in the first subsection of the flexible carrier foil 140. The flexible carrier film 140 has, by way of example, three passage openings 142 in the first subsection. The passage openings 142 in the flexible carrier film 140 are arranged radially outside the membrane scanner 130 on a common circular line.

Fig. 1 C shows a key support member 150 according to an embodiment of the present invention for attachment to the flexible carrier film of Fig. 1 B. The key support member 1 50 is formed according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 C disc-shaped with a substantially rounded triangular outline. In particular, the key support member 150 comprises a plastic material. For attachment to the flexible carrier film from FIG. 1 B, the probe carrier element 150 has, for example, three projections 152. In each case one of the projections 152 is arranged in the region of one of the corners of the key support element 150. The projections 152 extend in a common direction with respect to a main extension plane of the key support member 1 50. FIG. 1D shows the membrane key 130 and the flexible carrier foil 140 from FIG. 1B, the key carrier element from FIG. 1C being arranged on the flexible carrier foil 140. In this case, the key-carrier element is arranged on a second main surface of the flexible carrier foil 140 facing away from the first main surface. Since, in the illustration of FIG. 1 D, the first main surface of the flexible carrier film 140 is shown and the second main surface thereof is concealed, the button carrier element is also concealed except for partial sections of the projections 152. In this case, the projections 152 of the key support element extend through the passage openings of the flexible carrier film 140. Thus, the flexible carrier film 140 is arranged in a partial area thereof between the membrane key 130 and the key support element. The key support element is designed to act as a mechanical stop when the membrane key 130 is actuated.

FIG. 1E shows the flexible carrier foil 140 from FIG. 1B or FIG. 1D with the button carrier element 1 50 from FIG. 1C arranged on it. The illustration in FIG. 1E shows-in other words-the flexible carrier foil 140 with the key support element in a with respect to FIG. 1 D rotated view of the second main surface of the flexible support film 140th

FIG. 1F shows the membrane key 130 and the flexible carrier foil 140 from FIG. 1B, the key carrier element from FIG. 1C being attached to the flexible carrier foil 140. In this case, the illustration in FIG. 1F corresponds to the illustration from FIG. 1D, with the exception that for attaching the key-carrier element to the flexible carrier foil 140, the projections 152 of the key-carrier element are deformed. Here, by way of example, the projections 152 in sections which extend through the passage openings in the flexible carrier film 140 on the side of the first main surface of the flexible carrier film 140, caulked or otherwise plastically deformed, a positive connection between the key support member and the flexible carrier film 140th to realize. The flexible carrier film 140 with the membrane key 130 and the attached key support element is part of the switch of FIG. 1 A. Fig. 1 G shows the switch 100 of Fig. 1 A without the actuator and in an optically transparent or transparent representation. Shown are of the switch 100 by illustration, the housing 1 10 with the actuating opening 1 12, the tool receiving openings 1 14, the stop element 1 1 6, the connection opening 1 18 and the attachment portion 1 19, the membrane switch 130 and the flexible support film 140. Herein is the outline of the flexible carrier film 140, as shown in Figures 1 B, 1 D and 1 F, also within the housing 1 10 recognizable. Furthermore, contours of the attachment portion 1 19 can be seen, which is formed as a shaft for receiving the bearing end of the actuating element.

Fig. 1H shows the actuator 120 of the switch of Fig. 1A. The bearing end 122 is formed as a plug for receiving and latching in the mounting portion of the housing of the switch. The actuator 120 has between the bearing end 122 and the switching projection 124 has an elongated passage opening for improving the movement of the actuating member 120 between its rest position and its operating position. The switching projection 124 and the actuating projection 126 are formed as curved, curved or dome-shaped portions of the actuating element 120.

FIG. 11 shows the switch 100 of FIG. 1A in a transparent representation like that of FIG. 1G and from a perspective like that of FIG. 1A.

Fig. 1 J shows the switch 100 of Fig. 1 1 in a plan view. In this case, the housing 100 with the actuating opening 12, the plurality of tool receiving openings 14 and the attachment section 19, the actuating element 120 with the bearing end 122, the switching projection 124, the actuating projection 126 and the free end 128 are shown here by the switch 100 1J shows a plan view of the main surface of the housing 110 of the switch 100. In other words, FIG. 1J shows the switch of FIG. 1A in a plan view of the first main surface of the housing 1 10 and in a transparent representation. FIG. 1K shows the switch 100 from FIG. 11 in a side view on a long side edge of the main surface of the housing 1 10. The housing 110 with the stop element 1116 and the attachment portion 19 are shown by the switch 100 as a result of the illustration. the actuating member 120 with the bearing end 122, the switching projection 124, the actuating projection 126 and the free end 128, the membrane switch 130, the flexible carrier film 140 and the probe support member 150. Here are profiles of the actuator 120 and the stopper member 1 1 6 and in the Housing 1 10 of the switch 100 arranged flexible carrier film 140 with the membrane switch 130 and the attached key support member 150 recognizable.

Fig. 1 L shows the switch 100 of FIG. 1 1 in a side view on a narrow side edge of the main surface of the housing 1 10. Shown here are the case of the switch 100 due to the housing 1 10 with the attachment portion 1 19, the actuator 120 to the bearing end 122, the flexible carrier film 140 and the key support member 150th

With reference to FIGS. 1A to 1 L, the switch 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown therein will be explained in summary again in other words. The switch 100 or foil switch represented an alternative to a conventional sliding contact switch. The switch 100 comprises at least one actuating element 120 or a mechanical actuator, in particular made of sheet steel, for example of the stainless steel X5CrNi18-10 according to DIN 17441. The actuator 120 is attached to the overmolded housing 110. The actuator 120 is designed to be biased by its shape, that is, in the rest position not to press the membrane switch 130 or foil contact. If an external force is applied to the actuating element 120, then it bends towards the membrane key 130 and activates the membrane key 130 with its shaped dome of the switching projection 124. The key-carrier element 150 or a membrane-key holder located below the membrane key 130 is pre-molded from plastic , serves as a stop for the membrane key 130 and possibly for a tool. When the external force is removed, the actuating element 120 returns to the rest position. or an original starting position. The membrane switch 130 is seated on the flexible carrier film 140, which is caulked onto the pre-molded key support element 1 50 with the projections 152. The flexible carrier film 140 offers the advantage that it can be used by simply deforming over a plane away, whereas rigid circuit boards can serve only one level. According to one exemplary embodiment, the flexible carrier film 140 with the membrane key 130 is used to produce the switch 100 in a plastic housing and provided with a cover and the actuating element 120. Following this, the housing 1 10 is encapsulated. The housing material, with which the flexible carrier foil 140, the key support element 150 and the membrane key 130 are overmolded, can hereby be a plastic material, in particular a polyamide, for example PA 66.

Housing 1 10 can be carried out so that the key support member 150 is mounted directly on the housing. As a result, the mounting of the button carrier element 150 on the flexible carrier foil 140 is dispensed with. The housing 1 10 then acts as a stop for the foil button 130 instead of the button carrier element 150.

Fig. 2A shows a perspective view of a switch 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Shown in FIG. 2A of the switch 200 are a housing 210, two actuation openings 212, a plurality of tool receiving openings 214, a stop element 216, a connection opening 218, two attachment sections 219, two actuators 220 each having a bearing end 222, a switching projection 224 Actuating projection 226 and a free end 228, two membrane switches 230 and a flexible carrier film 240. Here, the illustration and the switch 200 in FIG. 2A correspond to the representation and the switch from FIGS. 1A to 1 L, with the exception that FIG Switch shown in Fig. 2A 200 two membrane switch 230, thus two actuating openings 212, two stop elements 21 6, wherein the illustration, only a stop element 21 6 is shown, and two actuators 220 has. Here, a first one of the actuators 220 is disposed so that the bearing end 222 thereof is mounted in a first mounting portion 219 adjacent to a first narrow side edge of the main surface of the housing 210. The first of the actuators 220 is configured to actuate a first one of the membrane switches 230. A second of the actuators 220 is disposed so that the bearing end 222 thereof is disposed in a second attachment portion 219 adjacent to a second narrow side edge opposite the first narrow side edge of the main surface of the housing 210. The second of the actuators 220 is configured to actuate a second one of the membrane switches 230.

Although it is not recognizable in FIG. 2A as a result of the illustration, the switch 200, similar to the switch from FIGS. 1 A to 1 L, has a button-carrier element. According to one embodiment, the switch 200 is called two Tastenträ- gerelemente, wherein in each case a key support member is provided for a membrane switch 230.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the first of the actuating elements 220 is configured to actuate a first of the membrane keys 230, and the second one of the actuating elements 220 is configured to actuate the first of the membrane keys 230 and a second one of the membrane keys 230, in particular for substantially simultaneous actuation of both membrane keys 230.

Fig. 2B shows the switch 200 of Fig. 2A in a transparent representation. Here, the outline of the flexible carrier film 240 is also recognizable within the housing 210. In this case, the flexible carrier film 240 is stretched with respect to the flexible carrier film of the switch from the Figures 1 A to 1 L in the first section to accommodate the two membrane switches 230.

Fig. 2C shows the switch 200 of Fig. 2B in a plan view. As a result of the switch 200, the housing 210, the actuating openings 212, the plurality of tool receiving openings 214, the attachment sections 219, the actuating elements 220 are connected to the respective bearing end 222, the Switching projection 224 and the actuating projection 226, the membrane switch 230, the flexible carrier film 240 and the projections 252 of the at least one Tastenträger- shown. In the plan view of the main surface of the housing 210 shown in FIG. 2C, it can be seen that the actuation openings 212 and the membrane key 230 are offset relative to a central axis of the main surface of the housing 210.

FIG. 2D shows the switch 200 from FIG. 2B in a side view. Representation of the switch 200 here are the housing 210, one of the stop members 21 6, one of the attachment portions 219, the actuators 220, one of the bearing ends 222, the flexible carrier film 240 and the at least one key support member 250. The switch 200 is here in a side view shown on one of the narrow side edges of the main surface of the housing 210.

FIG. 2E shows the switch 200 from FIG. 2B in a further side view.

In this case, the housing 200, one of the stop elements 216, the attachment sections 219, the actuators 220 with the bearing end 222, the shift projection 224, the actuation projection 226 and the free end 228, the membrane key 230, the flexible carrier foil, are shown here by the switch 200 240 and the button support member 250 with the projections 252. The switch 200 is hereby shown in a side view on one of the long side edges of the main surface of the housing 210.

FIGS. 2A to 2E show an exemplary embodiment of alternative film switches with a plurality of actuators and membrane switches. Such membrane switches make it possible, for example, to detect and / or switch at least two states. According to one embodiment, a double lever is provided as the actuating element 220, which actuates two underlying membrane switch 230 when actuated, and a second, simple lever as another actuator 220, which touches only one of the membrane switch 230 by its operation and thus actuated. FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of an electronic module system 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Illustrated are the electronics module system 300 for reasons of presentation and / or by way of example a carrier housing 310, three receiving sections 312, a plug or a connecting section 314, two switches 320 and potting compound 325. The electronic module system 300 is, for example, an electrical component carrier for use in conjunction with a door lock of a vehicle. Although not explicitly shown in the illustration of FIG. 3A, at least one of the switches 320 is a switch according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention which corresponds to a switch illustrated and described in FIGS. 1A to 2E or is similar.

The carrier housing 310 has the receiving portions 312 and the connecting portion 314. The receiving portions 312 are formed as receiving bays or the like. The receiving portions 312 are formed to support the switches 320. The terminal portion 314 is configured to allow external electrical contacting of the electronics module system. The switches 320 are each received in one of the receiving sections 312. The receiving portions 312 are also filled with potting compound 325 or filled.

FIG. 3B shows the electronics module system 300 of FIG. 3A from a different perspective. An electrical connection between the receiving portions 312 and the connecting portion 314 is realized by means disposed in the interior of the support housing 310 connecting means, which are described below.

FIG. 3C shows the electronic module system from FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B without the carrier housing and without potting compound. Shown are thus the two switches 320, connection means 330 for establishing an electrical connection between the receiving sections and the connection section, two plug pins 332, a plurality of contact pins 334 and a further switch 340. The connection means 330 are exemplified by three punch paths an electrically conductive material, in particular of metal. The connection means 330 have the plug pins 332 which are used in the complete electronic module system. tem in the terminal portion are arranged, and the contact pins 334, of which two are arranged in each receiving portion. The switches 320 are each electrically connected to two of the contact pins 334. The further switch 340 is also electrically connected to two of the contact pins 334.

FIG. 3D shows the connection means 330 of FIG. 3C without the switches and the further switch. The connecting means 330 are punched from sheet metal and bent at suitable locations.

FIG. 3E shows the connection means 330 of FIG. 3D in the carrier housing of FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B in a transparent representation thereof. In this case, the carrier housing 310, the receiving sections 312, the connecting section 314, the connecting means 330 and the plug pins 332 are shown by way of illustration. In other words, FIG. 3E shows, in a transparent representation, the electronic module system from FIGS. 3A and 3B without the switches and without potting compound. The carrier housing 310 with the receiving portions 312 and the terminal portion 314 is manufactured by injection molding or the like. The connecting means are placed in an injection mold and molded with plastic.

FIG. 3F shows the electronic module system of FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B without the switches and without potting compound. In this case, the representation in FIG. 3F corresponds to the illustration from FIG. 3E with the exception that a different perspective is present and an opaque representation is selected.

Fig. 3G shows the electronic module system 300 of Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B without potting compound and with arranged for receiving in the receiving portions 312 switches 320 and 340. In other words, Fig. 3G shows the electronic module system shown in Fig. 3F for receiving in the Receiving sections 312 arranged switches 320 and 340.

FIG. 3H shows the electronic module system 300 of FIG. 3G having switches 320 and 340 received in the receiving sections 312. ter 320 and the other switch 340 inserted as electrical components or electronic components in the carrier housing 310 or the carrier housing 310 is equipped with the electrical components. Furthermore, the switches 320 and the further switch 340 are electrically conductively connected to the connection means of the electronic module system 300, for example, soldered, welded or pressed.

FIG. 31 shows the electronic module system 300 from FIG. 3H with receiving sections 312 filled in by potting compound 325. In other words, FIG. 31 shows the electronic module system 300 from FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B in an altered perspective. In this case, contacting regions of the switches 320 and of the further switch with the contact pins of the connecting means in the receiving sections 312 are sealed with potting compound 321. Thus, open contacts are sealed with potting compound 324 and isolated from room humidity.

The electronic module system 300 according to FIGS. 3A to 31 is used for example in a vehicle door lock. For this purpose, the electronic module system 300 is installed in a door lock of a vehicle. A lever disposed in the door lock actuates at least one of the switches 420. Switch connects or disconnects its terminals electrically. Switch terminals are connected to the connection means 330, portions of which are formed as the plug pins 332. The electronic module system 300 can be connected to a control unit via the connection section 314 and through a wiring harness of the vehicle. Thus, the electronics module system 300 is configured to provide the controller with an electrical signal representative of a lock condition of the vehicle's door lock.

4 shows a flow chart of a method 400 for producing a switch with at least one membrane switch according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. By executing the method 400, a switch, such as one of the switches shown in FIGS. 1A to 2E, can be produced. The method 400 comprises a step 410 of providing a flexible carrier foil, on the first main surface of which the at least one membrane key is attached.

Also, method 400 includes a step 420 of attaching a keystroke member to a second main surface of the flexible carrier film facing away from the first main surface in the region of the at least one membrane switch.

Furthermore, method 400 comprises a step 430 of arranging the at least one membrane key, the key-carrier element and at least one subsection of the carrier foil in a housing.

Finally, method 400 comprises a step 440 of attaching at least one actuating element for actuating the at least one membrane switch in a movable manner on the housing. In this case, the at least one actuating element between a rest position, in which the at least one actuating element is spaced from the at least one membrane key, and an actuating position in which the at least one actuating element is in contact with the at least one membrane key.

According to an exemplary embodiment, in step 430 of arranging the at least one membrane key, the key support element and the at least one subsection of the carrier foil with a housing material! overmolded or surrounded.

The embodiments described and shown in the figures are chosen only by way of example. Different embodiments may be combined together or in relation to individual features. Also, an embodiment can be supplemented by features of another embodiment. Furthermore, method steps according to the invention can be repeated as well as carried out in a sequence other than that described.

If an exemplary embodiment comprises a "and / or" link between a first feature and a second feature, this can be read as follows: the embodiment according to one embodiment comprises both the first feature and the second feature and according to another embodiment either only the first feature or only the second feature.

REFERENCE CHARACTERS

100 switches

110 housing

112 actuation opening

114 tool receiving opening

116 stop element

118 connection opening

119 attachment section

120 actuator

122 end of storage

124 switching projection

126 actuating projection

128 free end

130 membrane switch

140 flexible carrier foil

142 passage opening

150 button carrier element

152 advantage

200 switches

210 housing

212 actuation opening

214 tool receiving opening

216 stop element

218 connection opening

219 attachment section

220 actuator

222 end of storage

224 switching projection

226 actuating projection

228 free end

230 membrane switch

240 flexible carrier foil 250 button carrier element

252 lead

300 electronic module system

310 Carrier housing

312 receiving section

314 connection section

320 switches

325 potting compound

330 connecting means

332 connector pins

334 contact pins

340 more switches

400 method of manufacture

410 step of providing

420 step of fixing

430 step of arranging

440 step of attaching

Claims

claims

1 . A switch (100; 200) having at least one membrane switch (130; 230), characterized in that the at least one membrane switch (130; 230) is attached to a first main surface of a flexible carrier film (140; 240), wherein a button carrier element (130; 150; 250) is fastened to a second main surface of the flexible carrier film (140; 240) facing away from the first main surface in the region of the at least one membrane switch (130; 230), wherein at least one actuating element (120; 220) for actuating the at least one The at least one actuating element (120, 220) is provided between a rest position, in which the at least one actuating element (120, 220) is spaced from the at least one membrane key (130, 230), and an actuating position is movable, in which the at least one actuating element (120; 220) is in contact with the at least one membrane switch (130; 230).

2. Switch (100; 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that the key support element (150; 250) is designed to act as a stop for the at least one membrane key (130; 230) when the activation element (120; 220) is in the actuation position. to act.

3. Switch (100; 200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible carrier foil (140; 240) has at least one passage opening (142) and the probe carrier element (150; 250) has at least one projection (152; 252) which is arranged in a state of the key support element (150; 250) attached to the carrier film (140; 240) extending through the at least one passage opening (142).

4. Switch (100; 200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one actuating element (120; 220) is mounted on one side and / or biased into the rest position.

5. Switch (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switch (200) has a first membrane switch (230), a second a first actuating element (200) and a second actuating element (200), wherein the first actuating element (220) is designed for actuating the first membrane key (230), wherein the second actuating element (220) for actuating the first Foil button (230) and the second membrane switch (230) is formed.

6. switch (100, 200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a housing (1 10, 210), in which the at least one membrane switch (130; 230), at least a portion of the carrier film (140; 240) and the keys - Carrier element (150; 250) are arranged, in particular wherein the at least one actuating element (120; 220) on the housing (1 10; 210) is movably mounted.

7. Switch (100; 200) according to claim 6, characterized in that the housing (1 10; 210) has at least one actuating opening (1 12; 212) for the at least one actuating element (120; 220) for actuating the at least one membrane switch (130; 230), at least one connection opening (1 18; 218) for electrically contacting the at least one membrane switch (130; 230), at least one mounting section (1 19; 219) for the at least one actuating element (120; 220) and at least one Stop element (1 1 6, 21 6) for the at least one actuating element (120, 220).

8. Electronic module system (300), in particular for a vehicle, wherein the electronic module system (300) has the following features:

at least one switch (100; 200) according to one of the preceding claims;

a carrier housing (310) having at least one receiving portion (312) for supporting the at least one switch (100; 200) and a terminal portion (314) for externally contacting the electronic module system (300); and

Connecting means (330) for establishing an electrical connection between the at least one receiving portion (312) and the connecting portion (314).

9. Method (400) for producing a switch (100; 200) with at least one membrane key (130; 230), the method (400) comprising the following steps:

Providing (410) a flexible carrier film (140; 240) on whose first main surface the at least one membrane key (130; 230) is mounted;

Attaching (420) a key support element (150; 250) to a second main surface of the flexible carrier film (140; 240) facing away from the first main surface in the region of the at least one membrane key (130; 230);

Arranging (430) the at least one membrane key (130; 230), the key-carrier element (150; 250) and at least a portion of the carrier foil (140; 240) in a housing (1 10; 210); and

Attaching (440) at least one actuating element (120; 220) for actuating the at least one membrane key (130; 230) in a movable manner on the housing (1 10; 210), the at least one actuating element (120; 220) being disposed between a rest position, in which the at least one actuating element (120; 220) is spaced from the at least one membrane key (130; 230) and an actuating position in which the at least one actuating element (120; 220) is in contact with the at least one membrane key ( 130; 230).

10. The method (400) according to claim 9, characterized in that in the step of arranging (430) the at least one membrane switch (130; 230), the button carrier element (150; 250) and the at least one section of the carrier film (140; 240) are encapsulated or encapsulated with a housing material.