Switch with increased magnetic sensitivity
US8581679B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 2010 |
| Grant date | Nov 12, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 16, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49105
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Switches that are actuated through exposure to a magnetic field are described. A mobile element of a switch includes one or more anchoring members that are in electrical contact with one of the conductive portions. The mobile element also has a beam that is attached to the one or more anchoring members. The beam can be attached to the one or more anchoring members by flexures. The beam has an end portion that is configured to move toward the other conductive portion when exposed to an external force, such as a magnetic field. Various configurations of anchoring members may significantly decrease initial upward beam deformation upon manufacture of the mobile element, resulting in an increased sensitivity upon exposure to a magnetic field. Methods for manufacturing switches that exhibit increased sensitivity to magnetic fields are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.