Membrane switches configured to sense pressure applied from compliant and rigid objects
US11367581B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jun 21, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 13, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2221/084
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A pressure-activated membrane switch and methods of use are provided. The pressure-activated membrane switch includes a first electrically-conductive membrane, and a second electrically-conductive membrane. Contact between the first electrically-conductive membrane and the second electrically-conductive membrane is configured to cause an electrical circuit, of which the switch is a part, to close. The pressure-activated membrane switch further includes a plurality of spacers dispersed between the first electrically-conductive membrane and the second electrically-conductive membrane, and one or more columns positioned on an outer surface of the second electrically-conductive membrane. The plurality of spacers form one or more gaps between the first electrically-conductive membrane and the second electrically-conductive membrane, and the one or more columns are configured to pass through the one or more gaps when a pressure is applied to the one or more columns, which will cause the second electrically-conductive membrane to deform to contact the first electrically-conductive membrane.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.