Ratchet cam alternate action mechanism
US5746309A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 19, 1996 |
| Grant date | May 5, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 19, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H13/08
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An alternate action mechanism includes a ratchet cam moving a resilient contact between first and second positions. A push button, including an interface member, rotates the ratchet cam by applying force to ratchet teeth. The alternate action mechanism includes a frame supporting the ratchet cam and aligning the ratchet portion with the interface member. In one embodiment, the ratchet portion is between two cam portions. When the ratchet cam is rotated, the cam portions moves the resilient member to one of two alternating positions. In another embodiment, the cam portion is positioned between two ratchet portions. The frame includes cam support arms receiving the ratchet cam. The frame also includes detents which prevent improper movement of the ratchet cam and provide audible indication of actuation of the mechanism. The interface member can comprise a finger to contact a ratchet tooth and rotate the ratchet cam. The finger can be U-shaped, with the edges on the open side contacting the ratchet teeth. The alternate action mechanism generally contains no spring, and can be used as an electric switch for flashlights or any other electrical devices.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.