Multi-step pushbutton switch for electronic devices
US5907138A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 5, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 25, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 5, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H13/64
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A pushbutton switch is disclosed which may be used, for example, in a camera. The switch has multiple positions which can be easily sensed by the operator as a point of resistance which is felt at each position. The switch may have an axially moveable spring biased switching rod at a defined electrical potential with an insulated region. A plurality of spring biased electrical contacts bear radially against the switching rod. A plurality of spring biased stops extending radially toward the path of axial movement of the switching rod correspond to the respective electrical contacts. Axial movement of the switching rod brings the contacts into successive contact with the conducting portion of the switching rod. The spring biased stops bear against the end of the switching rod at approximately the points of axial movement at which their corresponding contacts make contact with the conducting portion of the swiching rod, thereby generating a counterpressure which may be sensed by an operator of the switch. The stops may be deflected from the path of axial movement of the switching rod through axial movement of the switching rod, allowing the successive switch positions to be attained.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.