Multi-pole switch assembly providing display cover and virtual pivot action
US5822690A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 12, 1996 |
| Grant date | Oct 13, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 12, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2231/004
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A multi-pole switch assembly (100, 400) includes a housing (102, 402) having an opening (122) and includes a supporting substrate (116) positioned opposite the opening (122). A first switch (112), a second switch (112), and an elastomeric support (104) are positioned on the supporting substrate (116). An actuator (108) is supported by the elastomeric support (104) and includes a first latching element (126) and a second latching element (126) which secure the actuator (108) to the supporting substrate (116) within the opening (122). The first latching element (126) and the second latching element (126) enable motion of the actuator (108) in a direction substantially normal to the supporting substrate (116) for actuating the first switch (112) and the second switch (112), respectively. The latching element opposite the switch being actuated engages the supporting substrate (116), while the portion of the elastomeric support (104) proximate the latching element provides a virtual pivot which enables actuation of the switch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.