Instrument panel switch assembly configured to require low insertion force and provide high retention force
US6143999A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 24, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 7, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 24, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02B1/048
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A switch assembly is adapted for insertion into an aperture formed in an instrument panel. The aperture has opposing edges. The switch assembly includes a body insertable into the aperture and having opposing sides. A base is connected to the body and includes integrally molded first and second retention arms extending therefrom. Each arm has a first end connected to the base and a second end configured to abut against a respective one of the opposing edges to retain the body in the aperture. Each arm has an upstanding rib between the first and second ends facing the respective opposing side of the body. Each rib extends sufficiently from the respective arm to abut the respective opposing side of the body when the second end of the arm abuts the respective opposing edge, thereby increasing the force required to remove the body from the aperture by forming a fulcrum between the first and second ends of the arms. A rotary potentiometer is housed within the body, and a control knob is engaged with the rotary potentiometer. The control knob has first and second integrally molded radial stopper edges. First and second stop portions are integrally molded with the body and engageable with…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.