Solid state switch
US4216458A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 3, 1978 |
| Grant date | Aug 5, 1980 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 3, 1998 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K17/97
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A switch assembly with reduced number of mechanical parts in conjunction with an improved Hall Effect generator provides a more reliable, longer life switch. In one embodiment, the rocking motion of a rocker member is translated into linear motion to move a magnet relative to the Hall Effect generator. As the rocker member is rotated by pressure applied to the higher of its actuation surfaces, rotation is set up about a pivot point, causing the rocker member to shift the magnet to the opposite side of the base of the rocker assembly. This shift of the magnet changes the magnetic field to which the Hall Effect generator is exposed from one magnetic polarity to an opposite magnetic polarity which causes a respective change in output voltage of the Hall Effect generator from a first predetermined voltage to a second predetermined voltage. An audible "snap" is generated by the magnet when it contacts the side of the base.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.