Slider device for switch mechanism

Abstract

A slider device for a switch mechanism having a plurality of fixed contacts, an apparatus and a switch including the slider device, and a method of operating a switch are described herein. The slider device includes a body portion extending along a first axis between a first end and a second end. The slider device also includes a first fixed arm extending away from the body portion in a first direction. The slider device also includes a second fixed arm extending away from the body portion in a second direction. The first direction is different from the second direction. The first direction and the second direction each extend at an angle to the first axis. The first arm is configured to carry a first conductor and the second arm is configured to carry a second conductor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a slider device for a switch mechanism. Specifically, the slider device can be used to provide a switch structure in which two conductors carried by the slider device can be physically separated. Also described herein is a device combining the slider device and a first conductor and a second conductor, a switch having a switch mechanism incorporating the device, and a method of operating the switch. Background Art

[0002] The current conduction path can be defined along the external current line and by the switch (or switch mechanism). The switch or switch mechanism can be electrically connected to one or more external current lines, for example, by electrical terminals or electrical contacts, so that one or more current conduction paths are formed by the switch. These switches can use the switch mechanism to open and close one or more current conduction paths through the switch. One method is to use a switch mechanism including a slider device, wherein the slider device is configured to carry a movable conductor. The slider device can be moved between a position where the movable conductor is electrically connected to one or more external current lines (to close one or current conduction paths through the switch) and a position where the movable conductor and one or more external current lines are electrically separated (to disconnect one or more current conduction paths through the switch).

[0003] It is desirable to provide a safe and robust slider arrangement for a switch mechanism which is also cost effective and easy to manufacture.An improved slider arrangement is desirable for switch applications including, for example, power transmission, industrial machinery, and control panels. Summary of the invention

[0004] In a first aspect, there is provided a slider arrangement as defined in the attached independent device claim, the slider arrangement having optional features as defined in the attached dependent claims. In a second aspect, there is provided a device comprising a slider arrangement as defined in the attached second independent device claim, wherein the optional features are defined in the attached dependent claims. In a third aspect, there is provided a switch comprising the device as defined in the attached third independent device claim, wherein the optional features are defined in the attached dependent claims. In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of operating the switch of the third aspect as defined in the attached independent method claim. Any feature described with respect to a particular aspect may be implemented as part of another aspect.

[0005] In a first aspect of the specification described herein is a slider device for use in a switch mechanism having a plurality of fixed contacts. The slider device includes a body portion extending between a first end and a second end along a first axis. The slider device includes a first fixed arm extending away from the body portion in a first direction. The slider device includes a second fixed arm extending away from the body portion in a second direction. The first direction is different from the second direction. The first direction and the second direction each extend at an angle to (or at an angle from) the first axis. The first arm is configured to carry a first conductor. The second arm is configured to carry a second conductor.

[0006] The slider device described herein can be used as a part of a switch or a switch mechanism to provide improved safety, and the slider device can provide improved electrical isolation between current conduction paths passing through the switch. For example, a first external current line can be connected to a first pair of fixed electrical contacts of the switch, and a second external current line can be connected to a second pair of fixed electrical contacts of the switch. The slider device is configured to carry a first conductor and a second conductor. The two conductors can be positioned on the slider device so that, depending on the position of the slider device, the first conductor can provide an electrical connection between the first pair of fixed contacts to define a first current conduction path, and / or the second conductor can provide an electrical connection between the second pair of fixed contacts to define a second current conduction path.

[0007] In this case, by using a slider arrangement in which a first conductor is carried by a first arm (which extends away from the central body portion) and a second conductor is carried by a second arm (which extends away from the central body portion in a different direction), the slider arrangement can provide physical separation (and thereby electrical isolation) between the first and second conductors, and thereby provide physical separation between the first and second current conduction paths. For a given outer housing size of the switch, this arrangement can provide a maximum physical distance between the current conduction paths, thereby facilitating the realization of a switch with improved or optimal creepage and / or clearance distances between the current conduction paths.

[0008] A common switch or switch mechanism with a conventional component arrangement may use conductors extending directly from a central slider device. This arrangement provides reduced electrical isolation between different conductors compared to the slider device described in this article. This arrangement also necessitates the use of longer conductors extending from the slider device, which are more susceptible to bending when subjected to external forces. For example, these longer conductors may bend when forced into electrical contact with a fixed contact, and the contact pressure between the conductor and the fixed contact will therefore be reduced. The slider device described in this article uses rigid fixed arms extending from a body portion to carry a first conductor and a second conductor. These fixed arms may be insulated and may be integrally formed with the body portion, and may allow a strong contact pressure to be provided between the conductor and the fixed contact. Therefore, a robust, reliable switch mechanism may be provided by using the slider device described in this article.

[0009] Optionally, the first direction and the second direction are both perpendicular to the first axis. This arrangement can provide maximum physical separation (and optimal electrical isolation) between the first conductor and the second conductor in a direction perpendicular to the first axis. Optionally, the angle between the first direction and the second direction around the first axis is 180 degrees. This arrangement can provide maximum physical separation (and optimal electrical isolation) between the first conductor and the second conductor around the first axis. Optionally, wherein the first arm and the second arm are offset along the first axis. This arrangement can provide maximum physical separation (and optimal electrical isolation) between the first conductor and the second conductor along the first axis.

[0010] Optionally, the first end of the first arm is attached to the body portion, the second end of the first arm includes a first mounting portion configured to hold a first conductor, the first end of the second arm is attached to the body portion, and the second end of the second arm includes a second mounting portion configured to hold a second conductor. The use of mounting portions can allow the conductors to be securely attached to the arms of the slider device.

[0011] Optionally, the first mounting portion is arranged to face (along the first axis) in a direction toward the first end of the body portion (in some instances, facing a plane defined by the first end of the body portion), and the second mounting portion is arranged to face (along the first axis) in a direction toward the second end of the body portion (in some instances, facing a plane defined by the second end of the body portion). Optionally, the first mounting portion is arranged to face in a direction opposite to the direction the second mounting portion is configured to face. These arrangements can allow the slider device to be used as part of a switch mechanism that can simultaneously implement normally open and normally closed switch functions. For example, such an arrangement can allow the conductors to be mounted to the arms of the slider device so that the first conductor can contact a first pair of fixed contacts facing in one direction, and the second conductor can contact a second pair of fixed contacts facing in an opposite direction.

[0012] Optionally, the first conductor is arranged to contact a first pair of fixed contacts in a first plane (optionally perpendicular to the first axis) of the plurality of fixed contacts, and the second conductor is arranged to contact a second pair of fixed contacts in a second plane (optionally perpendicular to the first axis) of the plurality of fixed contacts. The first plane and the second plane may be different. Having the two conductors contact a pair of fixed contacts in such an offset manner may help achieve simultaneous normally open and normally closed switch functions within a more compact switch mechanism.

[0013] Optionally, the first mounting portion includes a first through hole configured to interact with the protruding portion of the first conductor so that the movement of the first conductor is limited by the first mounting portion to movement along an axis parallel to the first axis, and the second mounting portion includes a second through hole configured to interact with the protruding portion of the second conductor so that the movement of the second conductor is limited by the second mounting portion to movement along an axis parallel to the first axis. Optionally, the first mounting portion includes a first through hole configured to interact with the protruding portion of the first conductor so that the first conductor can move along an axis parallel to the first axis and the first conductor is limited to movement along an axis perpendicular to the first axis. Optionally, the second mounting portion includes a second through hole configured to interact with the protruding portion of the second conductor so that the second conductor can move along an axis parallel to the first axis and the second conductor is limited to movement along an axis perpendicular to the first axis. By including through holes to limit the movement of each conductor, the mounting portion can hold the conductors without any additional intermediate components. Such through holes can allow the protruding portion of the conductor to be slotted in place and held without any further fastening or attachment means. This may allow for a modular manufacturing process with quick, easy assembly.The through-hole may be a slot, a recess, a window or a hole, as the case may be.

[0014] Optionally, the first mounting portion includes a first guide hole along an axis parallel to the first axis, the first guide hole and the first conductor are configured to hold a first elastic member therebetween (the first elastic member is held in the first guide hole by the first conductor), and the second mounting portion includes a second guide hole along an axis parallel to the first axis, the second guide hole and the second conductor are configured to hold a second elastic member therebetween (the second elastic member is held in the second guide hole by the second conductor). The first elastic member and the second elastic member can be elastically (e.g., elastically) deformed when a force is applied to them. The elastically deformable component can provide a substantially consistent response to external forces and pressures during the working life of the switch or switch mechanism. The use of the first elastic member and the second elastic member can provide a strong contact pressure between the conductor and the fixed contact portion when the conductor contacts the fixed contact portion, thereby providing a better electrical connection between the conductor and the fixed contact portion.

[0015] Optionally, the first end of the body portion includes a third guide hole along the first axis, and the third guide hole and the outer housing are configured to retain a third resilient member therebetween (the third resilient member is retained in the third guide hole by the outer housing). When released from compression, the third resilient member can allow a strong biasing force to be provided, which can quickly accelerate the slider device along the first axis to move the slider device between different positions. This can provide a fast switching mechanism.

[0016] Optionally, the first elastic member and / or the second elastic member is a spring, optionally a compression spring. Optionally, the third elastic member is a spring, optionally a compression spring. The spring may be cheap to purchase and / or manufacture.

[0017] Optionally, the second end of the body portion includes an engagement portion configured to receive an external force for operating the switch mechanism. The engagement portion may be shaped so that the external force may be applied to a surface area greater than the second end of the body portion, thereby reducing the possibility of damaging the slider device. The engagement portion may also be shaped so that it may interact with an external component configured to provide an external force, such as a cam, a motor, a piston, etc.

[0018] Optionally, the slider device is integrally formed. By manufacturing the movable slider device as a single component, manufacturing time and cost can be reduced. This can also allow a more rigid slider device to be formed, with greater resistance to bending when external forces are applied. Optionally, the body portion, the first fixed arm, and the second fixed arm are manufactured as separate components and attached or coupled together to form the slider device. This can allow the component parts of the slider device to be replaced or repaired if they are worn or damaged during use of the slider device.

[0019] Optionally, the slider device is formed of an insulating material. Optionally, the insulating material is plastic. By using a slider device made of an insulating material, the current conduction paths through the device can be physically separated and electrically isolated from each other, thereby improving safety.

[0020] In a second aspect of the specification, there is provided a device for use in a switch mechanism having a plurality of fixed conductors. The device comprises a slider device as described in the first aspect above. The device comprises a first conductor carried by a first arm and a second conductor carried by a second arm. The device optionally comprises a first elastic member held by a first guide hole and the first conductor and / or a second elastic member held by a second guide hole and the second conductor. The device can be assembled using a modular manufacturing process for rapid and low-cost assembly.

[0021] Optionally, the first conductor and the second conductor each include: a first contact plate, a second contact plate, and a U-shaped conductive track arranged between the first contact plate and the second contact plate. Using the U-shaped conductive track to connect the first contact plate and the second contact plate increases the volume of the conductor, which contributes to the thermal performance of the device because the temperature increase caused by the current flowing through the first conductor and the second conductor under normal operating conditions of the device is reduced.

[0022] Optionally, the first conductor is formed integrally of a conductive material. Optionally, the second conductor is formed integrally of a conductive material. Optionally, the conductive material is a metal sheet. By manufacturing the conductor as a single component, manufacturing time and cost can be reduced. Manufacturing the conductor from a metal sheet can reduce the amount of material required to manufacture the conductor, thereby increasing efficiency and further reducing costs.

[0023] Optionally, the first conductor and the second conductor have the same shape. This may allow the conductor component to be interchangeably used and installed as part of a device as the first or second conductor. Manufacturing and assembly costs may therefore be reduced.

[0024] In a third aspect of the present specification, a switch is provided, the switch being configured to be connected to one or more external current lines. The switch comprises an external housing. The switch comprises a switch mechanism at least partially arranged in the external housing. The switch mechanism comprises the device of the second aspect as above. The switch mechanism optionally comprises a third elastic member held in a third guide hole by the external housing. The switch mechanism comprises a plurality of fixed contacts, the plurality of fixed contacts comprising a first pair of fixed contacts configured to be connected to one or more first external current lines of the one or more external current lines, and a second pair of fixed contacts configured to be connected to one or more second external current lines of the one or more external current lines.

[0025] In response to applying an external force to the engagement portion along the first axis and toward the first end of the body portion, the slider device is configured to move from the first position to the second position along the first axis, thereby elastically deforming the third elastic member. The deformation of the third elastic member causes the slider device to move from the first position to the second position along the first axis. In response to the removal of the external force, the third elastic member is arranged to push the slider device to move from the second position to the first position along the first axis.

[0026] Optionally, in one of the first position and the second position, the first elastic member provides a first force on the first conductor, the first force forms an electrical connection between the first conductor and the first pair of fixed contacts, so that current can flow through one or more first external current lines, and the second conductor is electrically separated from the second pair of fixed contacts, and in the other of the first position and the second position, the first conductor is electrically separated from the first pair of fixed contacts, and the second elastic member provides a second force on the second conductor, the second force forms an electrical connection between the second conductor and the second pair of fixed contacts, so that current can flow through one or more second external current lines. This arrangement allows the switch to simultaneously disconnect one current conduction path and close another current conduction path when the slider device moves from one position to another, and vice versa when the slider device moves back to the original position. In this way, the switch provides a switch mechanism that can simultaneously realize the normally open and normally closed switch functions. For example, this arrangement can provide an emergency switch that simultaneously disconnects one or more current conduction paths (e.g., de-energizes industrial machinery) and closes one or more other current conduction paths (e.g., powering a backup lighting system) when "switched on".

[0027] Optionally, the first conductor is arranged so that in one of the first position and the second position, the first contact plate and the second contact plate of the first conductor are in electrical connection with the first pair of fixed contacts so that current can flow through one or more first external current lines, and the second conductor is arranged so that in the other of the first position and the second position, the first contact plate and the second contact plate of the second conductor are in electrical connection with the second pair of fixed contacts so that current can flow through one or more second external current lines. Using contact plates on conductors aligned with fixed contacts can provide a safe and reliable electrical connection.

[0028] In a fourth aspect of the present specification, a method for operating a switch is provided, the switch being configured to be connected to one or more external current lines, and the switch being the switch according to the third aspect. The method comprises: applying an external force to an engagement portion; in response to the applied external force, by deformation of a third elastic member, moving a slider device along a first axis from a first position to a second position, and thereby elastically deforming the third elastic member along the first axis; removing the external force; and in response to the removal of the external force, pushing the slider device from the second position to the first position by the third elastic member.

[0029] It will be appreciated that any of the features described above with reference to the apparatus of the first, second and third aspects may be provided in any suitable combination. In addition, any such feature may be combined with any feature of the method of the fourth aspect, or vice versa, as appropriate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The following description refers to the following drawings.

[0031] Figure 1: Figure 1A shows a schematic cross section of a slider device according to an example of the first aspect, Figure 1B shows a schematic cross section of a slider device according to another example of the first aspect, and Figure 1C A schematic cross section of a slider device according to a further example of the first aspect is shown.

[0032] Figure 2: Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of an exemplary slider device having a cascaded or stepped arm arrangement is shown.

[0033] Figure 3: Figure 3A shows a perspective view of an apparatus according to an example of the second aspect, and Figure 3B Shows Figure 3A Exploded view of the device in .

[0034] Figure 4: Figure 4A A perspective view of an exemplary conductor is shown, and Figure 4B Shows Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of an exemplary conductor in FIG.

[0035] Figure 5: Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a switch according to an example of the third aspect is shown, wherein the slider arrangement is in a first position, and Figure 5B Shows Figure 5A sectional view of a switch in which the slider arrangement is in a second position.

[0036] Figure 6: Fig. 6A shows a perspective view of a switch according to an example of the third aspect, and Figure 6B Shows Fig. 6A Exploded view of the switch in .

[0037] Figure 7 A method according to a fourth aspect is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Refer to Figure 1 ( Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C ), describes a slider device 100 for a switch mechanism 110 having a plurality of fixed contacts 112, 114, 116, 118. In the following description, the terms "switch" and "switch mechanism" are used, but the features described herein may be implemented in any other device having an electrical switching action, such as a contactor, a circuit breaker, or an electrical isolation device.

[0039] The switch mechanism 110 may include multiple components and / or structures that interact to open and close the current conduction path. The fixed contacts 112, 114, 116, 118 may be a subset of these components. The slider device 100 (i.e., a device configured to move by sliding or in a linear direction) may also be one of these components.

[0040] The fixed contacts 112, 114, 116, 118 can be any suitable electrical contacts that can be fixed in place or fastened in place. For example, they can be electrical terminals that are mechanically or chemically coupled or otherwise connected or bonded to an external housing or surface. The fixed contacts can be formed of any suitable conductive material (optionally copper). The fixed contacts can be configured to connect to one or more external current lines 113, 117. For example, a first fixed contact 112 of the plurality of fixed contacts can be coupled to a first portion of a first external current line 113A, a second fixed contact 114 can be coupled to a second portion of a first external current line 113B, a third fixed contact 116 can be coupled to a first portion of a second external current line 117A, and a fourth fixed contact 118 can be coupled to a second portion of a second external current line 117B.

[0041] In this case, by forming an electrical connection between the first fixed contact 112 and the second fixed contact 114, a first current conduction path may be defined along the first external current line 113. Such an electrical connection may be formed, for example, by arranging the first conductor 140A in electrical contact with both the first fixed contact 112 and the second fixed contact 114. By forming an electrical connection between the third fixed contact 116 and the fourth fixed contact 118, a second current conduction path may be defined along the second external current line 117. Such an electrical connection may be formed, for example, by making the second conductor 140B in electrical contact with both the third fixed contact 116 and the fourth fixed contact 118.

[0042] The slider device 100 is configured to carry such first and second conductors 140A and 140B. These first and second conductors are used to open (i.e., by bringing the conductors into contact with their corresponding fixed contacts) and close (i.e., by moving the conductors out of contact with their corresponding fixed contacts) one or more current conduction paths (e.g., through current lines 113, 117) through the switch mechanism 110 through movement (i.e., sliding) of the slider device.

[0043] It will be appreciated that this is by way of example only, and that the switch mechanism may comprise more or fewer electrical contacts which may be coupled to one or more external current lines in any suitable manner. The first and second conductors of the slider device may be arranged to contact the fixed contacts in any manner suitable for defining one or more current conduction paths through the switch mechanism.

[0044] In one example (not shown), the first fixed contact 112 and the second fixed contact 114 may not be connected to the external current line 113 (or the external current line 113 may not exist), so that the switch mechanism provides a single-pole switch mechanism for switching the external current line 117. In another example, the third fixed contact 116 and the fourth fixed contact 118 may not be connected to the external current line 117 (or the external current line 117 may not exist), so that the switch mechanism provides a single-pole switch mechanism for switching the external current line 113.

[0045] The slider device 100 includes a body portion 120 (i.e., the main body of the slider device) extending between a first end and a second end along a first axis 125 (i.e., a first axis passing through a first end 122 and a second end 124 of the body portion). For example, the first axis 125 can pass exactly or approximately through the center of the first end 122 and the second end 124. The first end and / or the second end of the body portion can be flat (see, e.g., FIG. 1). Alternatively, depending on the configuration of the slider device 100, the first end and / or the second end of the body portion can be rounded or can have any other suitable shape. The first end and the second end of the body portion can be configured to receive a force substantially directed along the first axis 125, which can cause the slider device 100 to move along the first axis 125 within the switch mechanism 110.

[0046] The slider device 100 includes a first fixed arm 130A extending away from the body portion 120 in a first direction 131. The first direction extends at an angle θ1 to the first axis 125. In other words, the first arm 130A protrudes from the body portion 120 of the slider device 100 in the first direction 131. The first arm 130A is attached to the body portion 120 and is fixedly maintained or held by the body portion. The first arm 130A can be attached to the body portion 120 using any suitable means that provides sufficient bending stiffness (i.e., sufficient bending stiffness so that external forces acting on the first fixed arm do not cause significant deformation of the slider device and do not cause significant deflection of the first arm away from the first direction).

[0047] The slider device 100 includes a second fixed arm 130B extending away from the body portion in a second direction 133. The second direction extends at an angle θ2 to the first axis 125. Again, the second arm 130B protrudes from the body portion 120 of the slider device 100 in the second direction 133. The second arm 130B is also attached to the body portion 120 and is fixedly maintained or held by the body portion. The second arm 130B can be attached to the body portion using any suitable means that provides sufficient bending stiffness (i.e., sufficient bending stiffness so that external forces acting on the second fixed arm do not cause significant deformation of the slider device and do not cause significant deflection of the second arm away from the second direction).

[0048] The first direction 131 and the second direction 133 are different. That is, there is a non-zero angle between the first direction and the second direction. The angle θ1 between the first axis 125 and the first direction 131 and the angle θ2 between the first axis 125 and the second direction 133 are both non-zero angles (that is, neither the first direction nor the second direction is along the first axis or parallel to the first axis). For example, the first direction 131 and the second direction 133 can extend at an angle between 30 degrees and 150 degrees, optionally between 60 degrees and 120 degrees relative to the first axis 125. In a specific example, the first direction 131 and the second direction 133 can be perpendicular to the first axis 125 (for example, see Figure 1).

[0049] The first arm 130A is configured to carry the first conductor 140A and the second arm 130B is configured to carry the second conductor 140B. In other words, the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B move in direct response to the movement of the slider device 100. The first arm 130A can be configured to couple to the first conductor 140A or hold the first conductor without requiring any separate coupling components, and the second arm 130B can be configured to couple to the second conductor 140B or hold the second conductor without requiring any separate coupling components. This can reduce the complexity of the device, making assembly and manufacturing faster and cheaper.

[0050] In one example (see e.g. Figure 1A), the fixed contacts 112, 114, 116, 118 of the switch mechanism 110 are arranged so that, when the slider device 100 is in one position (e.g., the first position), the first conductor 140A is electrically in contact with some of the plurality of fixed contacts (e.g., the fixed contacts 112, 114), while the second conductor 140B is electrically separated from the fixed contacts. When the slider device 100 is in another position (e.g., the second position), the first conductor 140A is electrically separated from the fixed contacts, while the second conductor 140B is electrically in contact with other fixed contacts (e.g., the fixed contacts 116, 118) of the plurality of fixed contacts. This arrangement can provide a switch mechanism capable of simultaneously realizing normally open and normally closed switch functions (i.e., in one position of the slider device, the first current conduction path is closed and the second current conduction path is open, while in another position of the slider device, the first current conduction path is open and the second current conduction path is closed).

[0051] exist Figure 1B In another example shown, the fixed contacts of the switch mechanism 110 are arranged so that, when the slider device is in a particular position, the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B can be electrically contacted with some of the plurality of fixed contacts at the same time, so that a plurality of current conducting lines through the switch mechanism can be closed at the same time. This arrangement can allow two or more current conducting paths (i.e., two or more separate circuits) to be simultaneously connected or disconnected based on a single input to the switch mechanism 110.

[0052] Again, it will be understood that these are exemplary only and that the switch mechanism may, for example, include more or fewer current conducting paths. In some other examples, the arm may also be offset along the first axis, such as Figure 1C as shown in .

[0053] Regardless of how the fixed contacts are arranged relative to the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B, the slider device 100 can provide physical separation (and therefore electrical isolation) between the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B. This means that the individual external current lines 113, 117 attached to the fixed contacts can be electrically isolated from each other in an effective manner.

[0054] In the design of electronic components and products, "clearance" distance refers to the shortest distance in the air between two specific conductors, and "creepage" distance refers to the shortest distance across the insulating surface between two specific conductors. Electronic components and products operating at high voltages and high currents must generally provide specific clearance distances and creepage distances between conductors to meet, for example, national safety standards, regional safety standards, and / or international safety standards. For a given size of a housing in which the switch mechanism 110 is to be mounted, the slider device 100 described herein can provide an improved or optimal clearance distance and creepage distance between the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B, thereby preventing, for example, short circuits, electrical interference, etc. between different current conduction paths through the switch. In other words, due to the specific arrangement of the slider design, the distance in the air and the distance across the insulating material between the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B can be as large as the size of the housing containing the switch mechanism 110 allows.

[0055] The slider device 100 can be integrally formed. In other words, the body portion 120, the first fixed arm 130A and the second fixed arm 130B can be formed from a piece of material. In this example, the integrally formed slider device can be manufactured using, for example, an injection molding process or a 3D printing process. The integrally formed slider device can make the component more rigid and more stable, and it is not easy to bend under external forces. The integrally formed slider device can also make manufacturing faster and less expensive, and is therefore suitable for mass production. For example, producing the integrally formed components by injection molding requires fewer molds than producing these parts separately, and these parts do not need to be assembled together. The slider 100 can therefore be more robust.

[0056] Alternatively, the body portion 120, the first fixed arm 130A, and the second fixed arm 130B of the slider device 100 may be formed as separate components and attached together during the manufacturing process. For example, the first arm 130A and the second arm 130B may be bonded to the body portion 120, or may be interlocked with the body portion 120 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. This enables modular manufacturing of the switch and facilitates replacement of one or more components of the slider device if they become worn or broken. The life of the slider may thus be increased.

[0057] The slider device 100, whether integrally formed or made of separate components, can be formed of an electrically insulating material (optionally plastic). Using a slider device made of an insulating material can provide greater safety for a switch mechanism using it; the slider device 100 is configured to form a physical separation between the first conductor and the second conductor by inserting an insulating material between the first conductor and the second conductor, thereby forming electrical isolation between any circuits connected to these conductors (i.e., via the fixed contacts of the switch mechanism).

[0058] Specific examples of slider devices, such as apparatus 100 , are described in more detail below.

[0059] Refer to Figure 2 ( Figure 2A and Figure 2B ), an exemplary slider device 200 for use in a switch mechanism having multiple fixed contacts is described in more detail. The exemplary slider device 200 may be a specific example of the slider device 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1 . The slider device is shown as having cascaded or stepped arms. This arrangement may help reduce the weight of the slider device.

[0060] The first arm 230A and the second arm 230B of the slider device 200 shown in FIG. 2 are both perpendicular (i.e., θ1, θ2 are both equal to 90 degrees) to the first axis 225. This arrangement can provide a maximum distance between the first conductor and the second conductor (which can be respectively coupled to the first arm 230A and the second arm 230B) in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, which increases the electrical isolation between the two components (and any external current lines / external circuits coupled thereto). The first and second arms 230 also extend so that the angle between the first direction and the second direction around the first axis is 180 degrees; in other words, the angle between the first direction 231 (in which the first arm of the slider device extends) and the second direction 233 (in which the second arm of the slider device extends) around the first axis 225 is 180 degrees. This arrangement can provide a maximum distance between the first conductor and the second conductor in a direction around the first axis, which increases the electrical isolation between the two components (and any external current lines / external circuits coupled thereto).

[0061] The first end 232A of the first arm 230A is attached to the body portion, and the first end 232B of the second arm 230B is attached to the body portion. The arms may be connected to the body portion 220 using any suitable means, such as (as discussed with reference to FIG. 1 ) integrally forming the body portion 220 and the first arm 230A and the second arm 230B, mechanically or chemically coupling or otherwise engaging or bonding, or utilizing an interlocking mechanism. The second end 234A of the first arm 230A (the end of the first arm in the first direction away from the body portion) includes a first mounting portion 250A configured to hold a first conductor, and the second end 234B of the second arm 230B (the end of the second arm in the second direction away from the body portion) includes a second mounting portion 250B configured to hold a second conductor. The first mounting portion 250A and the second mounting portion 250B may be any component that facilitates attachment of the first conductor and the second conductor to the first arm and the second arm, respectively, so that the slider 100 can carry the first conductor and the second conductor. The mounting portions 250A, 250B may be integrally formed with the arms of the slider device 200, or they may be separate components that are, for example, mechanically or chemically coupled or otherwise engaged or bonded to the arms, or connected via an interlocking mechanism.

[0062] The first mounting portion 250A is arranged so that the first conductor is configured to face a direction toward the first end 222 of the body portion 220. In other words, the first conductor is oriented to have a directional component that is parallel to the first axis and extends toward the first end 222 of the body portion (rather than the second end). In some specific examples, the first conductor is arranged to face a plane defined by the first end 222 of the body portion 220. This can be a plane that includes and extends from the face of the first end of the body portion, or a plane that is tangential to the first end of the body portion. The second mounting portion 250B is arranged so that the second conductor is configured to face a direction toward the second end 224 of the body portion 220. In other words, the second conductor is oriented to have a directional component that is parallel to the first axis and extends toward the second end 224 of the body portion (rather than the first end). In some specific examples, the second conductor is arranged to face a plane defined by the second end 224 of the body portion 220. This can be a plane that includes and extends from the face of the second end of the body portion, or a plane that is tangential to the second end of the body portion. This arrangement can increase the separation of the first conductor and the second conductor along the first axis, thereby further isolating the current lines. This isolation can be further increased when the first arm and the second arm are offset along the first axis, such as Figure 2B shown.

[0063] In combination with the arrangement of the fixed contacts so that some of the fixed contacts are arranged to face the first mounting portion and other fixed contacts are arranged to face the second mounting portion, this arrangement in FIG. 2 can also enable the switch mechanism to have both normally open and normally closed switch functions (as described above with reference to FIG. 1 ). In some instances, the first conductor is arranged to contact a first pair of fixed contacts among a plurality of fixed contacts in a first plane (optionally, a first plane perpendicular to the first axis 225). The second conductor is arranged to contact a second pair of fixed contacts among a plurality of fixed contacts in a second plane (optionally, a second plane perpendicular to the first axis 225). The first plane may be different from the second plane. In this case, this arrangement can enable the switch mechanism to effectively utilize the available space in the external housing.

[0064] The first mounting portion 250A includes a first through hole 252A (e.g., a recess, an aperture, a window, a slot, or a hole) configured to interact with a protruding portion of the first conductor. The interference fit between the first through hole 252A and the protruding portion of the first conductor constrains (i.e., limits) the first conductor to move along an axis (e.g., a vertical axis) parallel to the first axis 225. That is, the first through hole 252A is shaped so that the protruding portion of the first conductor is allowed to move therein in a direction parallel to the first axis 225, but is prevented from moving in other directions. In other words, the first conductor can move along an axis parallel to the first axis, and is restricted from moving along an axis perpendicular to the first axis. The second mounting portion 250B includes a second through hole 252B configured to interact with a protruding portion of the second conductor. The second through hole 252B can be similar to the first through hole 252A, the protrusion of the second conductor can be similar to the protrusion of the first conductor, and the second through hole 252B and the protrusion of the second conductor can be engaged in a manner similar to the first through hole and the protrusion of the first conductor, so that the second conductor can move along an axis parallel to the first axis and is restricted from moving along an axis perpendicular to the first axis. The first and second mounting portions can respectively hold the first and second conductors in place without requiring any additional components.

[0065] The first mounting portion 250A also includes a first guide hole 254A (e.g., a recess, an orifice, a slot, or a hole) along an axis parallel to the first axis 225. The first guide hole 254A in combination with the first conductor can hold the first elastic member. In other words, the first elastic member is held in the first guide hole by the first conductor. The first elastic member is made of an elastic (e.g., resilient) deformable material. The first elastic member can be a spring, or can be an elastic component made of, for example, plastic or rubber. For example, one end of the first elastic member can be at least partially arranged in the first guide hole 254A, and the first conductor can include a groove or notch configured to hold the other end of the first elastic member. The second mounting portion 250B includes a second guide hole 254B along an axis parallel to the first axis 225, which can be similar to the first guide hole 254A. The second guide hole 254B and the second conductor are configured to hold the second elastic member. In other words, the first elastic member is held in the first guide hole by the first conductor. The second elastic member can be similar to the first elastic member and can be held in a manner similar to the first elastic member. The first elastic member and the second elastic member can be arranged to provide a compressive reaction force on the first conductor and the second conductor when compressed, which can force the first conductor and the second conductor to, for example, more firmly contact some of the plurality of fixed contacts. The elastic member can also facilitate the movement of the first conductor and the second conductor to protect the first conductor, the second conductor and the fixed conductor from excessive movement of the slider 100, 200.

[0066] The first end 222 of the body portion 220 includes a third guide hole 223 (e.g., a recess, an aperture, a slot, or a hole) along the first axis. The third guide hole 223, in combination with the external housing, can hold a third elastic member (which can be similar to the first elastic member and the second elastic member). In other words, the third elastic member can be held in the third guide hole by the external housing. For example, one end of the third elastic member can be at least partially disposed in the third guide hole 223, and the external housing can include a groove or notch configured to hold the other end of the third elastic member. The third elastic member can be arranged to act as a biasing member to push the slider device 200 along the first axis 225 in a user-independent operating mode, thereby providing a faster switching mechanism.

[0067] The slider device 200 in FIG. 2 shows an engagement portion 226 coupled to the second end 224 of the body portion 220. The first axis 225 can extend through the engagement portion 226, or the engagement portion can be offset from the first axis. The engagement portion 226 can be integrally formed with the body portion 220 of the slider device 200, or it can be, for example, a separate component, that is, mechanically or chemically coupled or otherwise engaged or bonded to the body portion or connected via an interlocking mechanism. The engagement portion 226 can be configured to receive an external force, such as an external force intended to move the slider device 200 along the first axis 225 (as part of the operation of the switch mechanism). The engagement portion 226 can be shaped to increase the surface area for applying the external force (compared to, for example, the second end of the body portion), or can be shaped to interact with a component (such as a cam, motor, or piston) that applies the external force.

[0068] The slider device shown in FIG2 is integrally formed of plastic. As described with reference to FIG1 , an integrally formed slider device can result in a more rigid and stable component that is less susceptible to bending under external forces. In contrast, a modular slider device (while allowing for repair or replacement of the component parts) may introduce minor misalignments or weak points between the body portion and the arm; this may increase bending when external forces are applied to the slider device and mean that the contact pressure achievable between the conductor and the fixed contact portion is reduced. An integrally formed slider device can also be manufactured more quickly and at a lower cost than a modular device.

[0069] Refer to Figure 3 ( Figure 3A and Figure 3B ), an exemplary device is described in more detail. The device includes the slider device shown in FIG. 2 (i.e., the slider device 300 may be the example slider device 200 described above with reference to FIG. 2). The device also includes a first conductor 340A carried by a first fixed arm 330A of the slider device 300 and a second conductor 340B carried by a second fixed arm 330B of the slider device 300. The device also includes a first elastic member 360A held in a first guide hole 354A (not shown in FIG. 3, see, for example, 254A in FIG. 2) by the first conductor 340A and a second elastic member 360B held in a second guide hole 354B (not shown in FIG. 3, see, for example, 254B in FIG. 2) by the second conductor 340B. In the example of FIG. 3, both the first elastic member 360A and the second elastic member 360B are compression springs, but any other suitable elastically deformable component may be used.

[0070] The slider device 300, the first conductor 340A and the second conductor 340B, and the first elastic member 360A and the second elastic member 360B (in Figure 3B can be quickly and easily assembled into the device (shown in exploded form in Figure 3A 3). In the example of FIG. 3, one end of the first resilient member 360A is partially disposed within the first guide hole 354A of the first mounting portion 350A, and the other end of the first resilient member 360A is retained by a groove or depression (see 445 in FIG. 4 for further details) in the first conductor 340A. Similarly, one end of the second resilient member 360B is partially disposed within the second guide hole 354B of the second mounting portion 350B, and the other end of the second resilient member 360B is retained by a groove or depression in the second conductor 340B.

[0071] Also in this example, the first mounting portion 350A has a first through hole 352A (in the form of a window) that interacts with a protruding portion of the first conductor 340A (see 444 in FIG. 4 for further details). The interference fit between the first through hole 352A and the protruding portion of the first conductor 340A means that the first conductor can be snapped (or locked) in place, and the movement of the first conductor is limited to movement along an axis parallel to the first axis 325 (guided by, for example, the first guide hole 354A and the first elastic member 360A). Similarly, the second mounting portion 350B has a second through hole 352B (in the form of a window) that interacts with a protruding portion of the second conductor 340B. The interference fit between the second through hole 352B and the protruding portion of the second conductor 340B means that the second conductor can be snapped (or locked) in place, and the movement of the second conductor is limited to movement along an axis parallel to the first axis 325 (guided by, for example, the second guide hole 354B and the second elastic member 360B).

[0072] Refer to Figure 4 ( Figure 4A and Figure 4B ), an exemplary conductor (eg, a first conductor or a second conductor as described above with reference to FIG. 1 , FIG. 2 , and / or FIG. 3 ) will be described in more detail.

[0073] The conductor 440 includes a first contact plate 441, a second contact plate 442, and a U-shaped conductive track 443 arranged between the first contact plate 441 and the second contact plate 442. The first contact plate and the second contact plate can be any shape or design that can form a strong electrical connection with, for example, the fixed contacts 112, 114, 116, 118. For example, they can be substantially flat, or can include ridges or grooves. The U-shaped conductive track 443 electrically connects the first contact plate 441 to the second contact plate 442, and can be shaped to accommodate the size / shape of the mounting portion and / or to accommodate the length of a resilient member protruding from a guide hole. Therefore, the use of a U-shaped (or, for example, curved / barrel-shaped) track can reduce the space required for the switch mechanism.

[0074] The conductor 440 comprises a protruding portion 444 at the upper edge of the U-shaped track 443. The protruding portion 444 is in the form of two edges that protrude in two directions perpendicular to the direction of the U-shaped track 443 between the two contact plates 441, 442. The conductor also comprises a groove 445 to interact with a suitable elastic member and (in combination with a corresponding guide hole) to hold or maintain the elastic member in a suitable position within the mounting portion.

[0075] Conductor 440 can be formed integrally from a conductive material. In this example, the conductive material can be a metal sheet. For example, the shape of the conductor can be stamped from a metal sheet of appropriate thickness, which can then be bent into shape to form the conductor. Both the first and second conductors can be the same shape (i.e., manufactured to the same size and specifications) and can then be used interchangeably as the first or second conductor, as described herein. Any other manufacturing techniques can also be used.

[0076] Refer to Figure 5 ( Figure 5A and Figure 5B ), the exemplary switch 5000 will be described in more detail.

[0077] The switch 5000 includes an external housing 580 and a switch mechanism 510 at least partially arranged in the external housing. The external housing can surround or partially surround the switch mechanism, and can include a cavity in which the switch mechanism fits or can be arranged. The external housing can be arranged to hold the switch mechanism. For example, a portion of the switch mechanism 510 (i.e., one or more fixed contacts 512, 514, 516, 518 and associated housing / connector) and the external housing 580 can be interlocked via a snap-fit ​​mechanism to hold or maintain the fixed contacts of the switch mechanism 510 in place while the slider device 500 moves relative to the fixed contacts along the axis 525. This can allow for rapid and / or modular manufacturing of the switch, and facilitate replacement of one or more components if they are worn or broken. Alternatively or additionally, a portion of the switch mechanism (i.e., one or more fixed contacts 512, 514, 516, 518) can be mechanically or chemically coupled or joined or bonded to or otherwise attached / connected to the external housing.

[0078] The switch mechanism comprises a device corresponding to the device described above with reference to FIG. 3 (ie, the device comprises a Figure 3A5 ). The switch mechanism further includes a third resilient member 570, as described above with respect to FIG. 2 , which in the example of FIG. 5 is a compression spring. Before the switch mechanism 510 is mounted or arranged in the external housing 580, the third resilient member is held in the third guide hole 523 by the external housing 580 by at least partially arranging the third resilient member in the third guide hole. The external housing may include a groove or notch (similar to the first and second conductors) configured to abut against the other end of the third resilient member and hold it in place.

[0079] The switch mechanism also includes a plurality of fixed contacts 512, 514, 516, 518, which may be similar to the fixed contacts described above, for example, with respect to FIG. 1. The plurality of fixed contacts include: a first pair of fixed contacts 512, 514, configured to be coupled to one or more first external current lines 513 (not shown in FIG. 5) of the one or more external current lines; and a second pair of fixed contacts 516, 518, configured to be coupled to one or more second external current lines 517 (not shown in FIG. 5) of the one or more external current lines. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the switch mechanism includes a first fixed contact 512 and a second fixed contact 514 (i.e., a first pair of fixed contacts), which are respectively in electrical contact with a first portion 513A of the first external current line and a second portion 513B of the first external current line. In this example, the switch mechanism also includes a third fixed contact 516 and a fourth fixed contact 518 (i.e., a second pair of fixed contacts), which are respectively in electrical contact with a first portion 517A of the second external current line and a second portion 517B of the second external current line.

[0080] In some examples, the outer housing 580 can hold a plurality of fixed contacts 512, 514, 516, 518. These fixed contacts can be formed of any suitable conductive material (optionally copper). Such fixed contacts can be bolted or screwed to the outer housing, or otherwise mechanically coupled to the outer housing, or the contacts can be bonded, adhered or molded into the outer housing, as appropriate. It will be understood that alternative configurations of the housing are possible, which, for example, do not include the specific fixed contacts shown in Figure 5, but instead use other electrical connection components or terminals.

[0081] As explained above, a current conduction path may be defined along the external current lines 513 , 517 and through the switch 5000 , and the switch includes a switch mechanism 510 configured to open and close the current conduction path by movement of the slider device 500 .

[0082] Figure 5A An example is shown in which the slider device 500 is in a first position. In this first position, the first conductor 540A is electrically separated from the first pair of fixed contacts 512, 514 (first and second fixed contacts), and the second conductor 540B is electrically connected to the second external current line 517 through the second pair of fixed contacts 516, 518 (third and fourth fixed contacts). However, it will be understood that alternative arrangements of current conduction paths are possible that, for example, do not include the specific fixed contacts in FIG. 5, or have a connection arrangement that is different from the connection arrangement of the slider device 500 in the first position. In addition, although Figure 5A The second conductor is shown electrically connected to the second pair of fixed contacts, wherein in the first position the second external current line is closed, but it will be understood that alternatively, in the first position the second conductor may be electrically separated from the second external current line (i.e. the second conductor and / or the second pair of fixed contacts may be positioned in other ways).

[0083] In this particular illustrated example, the current conduction path through the switch includes the first portion 517A of the second external current line, the third fixed contact 516, the second conductor 540B, the fourth fixed contact 518, and the second portion 517B of the second external current line. Thus, a closed current conduction path is provided from the first portion 517A of the second external current line through the second conductor to the second portion 517B of the second external current line, and the current carried by the second external current line is allowed to flow through the switch 5000.

[0084] exist Figure 5A In the example of, before any significant external force acts on the switch mechanism 510, the slider device 500 is in the first position (i.e., there is no other force except the internal weight and reaction force of the components of the switch itself). The switch mechanism can be considered to be in a balanced state. In some examples, the third elastic member 570 can be completely uncompressed or undeformed (or can be only minimally compressed / deformed). In this position, when used, the second elastic member 560B can be at least partially elastically deformed so that the second elastic member 560B exerts a force on the second conductor 540B, which forces the second conductor toward the second pair of fixed contacts 516, 518 (e.g., pushes the second conductor against the second pair of fixed contacts). In other words, in the first position, the second elastic member can be configured to exert a force on the second conductor to force the second conductor to electrically contact the second pair of fixed contacts. For example, this method can provide a more robust electrical connection and can help prevent the current conduction path from being disconnected in response to an external impact force.

[0085] In operation, an external force is applied to the engagement portion 526 of the slider device 500. The external force is applied substantially along the first axis 525 and toward the first end 522 of the body portion 520. The force may be applied to the engagement portion of the slider device in a direction other than along the first axis, but such force may provide a force component along the first axis that may act as an external force. The external force is applied to the engagement portion of the slider device, and the force applied along the first axis in a direction toward the first end of the body portion is used to move the slider along the first axis. The movement of the slider applies a compressive force on the third elastic member. In other words, the force applied by the slider device to the third elastic member (and the reaction force from the housing) provides a compressive force to the third elastic member along the first axis. The compressive force causes the third elastic member to deform elastically (e.g., elastically) along the first axis. The degree of elastic deformation of the third elastic member (for a given stiffness or bending stiffness of the third elastic member) is proportional to the magnitude of the applied external force.

[0086] It will be appreciated that the compression and deformation of the third resilient member facilitates further sliding or movement of the slider device 500. In other words, the deformation of the third resilient member allows the slider device to continue to move along the first axis in the direction of the applied external force. The outer housing 580 of the switch 5000 can be configured such that the movement of the slider device is substantially limited to movement along the first axis. In this way, a force component acting on the slider device in a direction different from (e.g., perpendicular to) the first axis can only cause negligible lateral movement of the slider device.

[0087] In the example shown in FIG. 5 , after the application of an external force and the subsequent elastic (elastic) deformation of the third elastic member 570, the switch mechanism 510 is displaced to the second position. Specifically, when the external force is applied, the deformation of the third elastic member 570 allows the slider device 500 to move further from the first position to the second position along the first axis 525 in a direction pointing to the first end 522 of the body portion 520. As explained above, the slider device is configured to directly carry the first conductor 540A and the second conductor 540B. The distance between the first position and the second position of the slider device (for a given stiffness or bending stiffness of the third elastic member) is proportional to the magnitude of the external force applied to the slider device.

[0088] Figure 5BThe slider device 500 is shown in a second position. In this example of the second position, the first conductor 540A is electrically connected to the first external current line 513 through the first pair of fixed contacts 512, 514 (first fixed contact and second fixed contact), while the second conductor 540B is electrically separated from the second pair of fixed contacts 516, 518 (third fixed contact and fourth fixed contact). In this illustrated example, the current conduction path through the switch includes the first portion 513A of the first external current line, the first fixed contact 512, the first conductor 540A, the second fixed contact 514 and the second portion 513B of the first external current line. Thus, a closed current conduction path from the first portion 513A of the first external current line to the second portion 513B of the first external current line is provided, and the current carried by the first external current line is allowed to flow through the switch. However, it will be understood that other arrangements are possible. For example, although Figure 5B It is shown that in the second position the second conductor is electrically isolated from the second external current line, but it will be appreciated that alternatively in the second position the second conductor may be electrically connected to the second external current line.

[0089] In the second position, the first resilient member 560A can be at least partially elastically deformed so that the first resilient member exerts a force on the first conductor 540A that forces the first conductor toward the first pair of fixed contacts 512, 514 (e.g., pushes the first conductor against the first pair of fixed contacts). In other words, in the second position, the first resilient member can be configured to exert a force on the first conductor to force the first conductor to make electrical contact with the first pair of fixed contacts. This approach can provide a more robust electrical connection and can help prevent the current conduction path from being disconnected, for example, in response to an external impact force.

[0090] With the slider device 500 in the second position, the external force can then be removed. In response to the removal of the external force, the third resilient member 570 is arranged to act on the slider device 500 as a biasing member. The third resilient member is configured to push the slider device 500 along the first axis 525 in a direction toward the second end 524 of the body portion 520; in this way, the third resilient member is configured to push the slider device from the second position toward the first position. In other words, upon removal of the applied external force, the elastically or resiliently deformed third resilient member returns to its initial equilibrium (undeformed or only minimally deformed) state, and this decompression and subsequent expansion of the third resilient member along the first axis provides a biasing force that causes the slider device to move along the first axis in a direction toward the second end of the body portion or causes the slider device to move from the second position to the first position.

[0091] The external force may be provided by linear actuation of a slider device, or by rotational actuation of an external device (e.g., by a cam). For example, a cam may be coupled to a handle to allow a user to rotate the cam, thereby providing a rotational motion (i.e., torque) to operate the switch mechanism. This may require less effort than a linear actuator, and therefore be easier for the user than providing a linear force, thereby improving accessibility. A more compact switch may also be provided.

[0092] As explained above with reference to FIG. 1 , the slider device 500 of the switch 5000 provides a physical separation between the first conductor 140A and the second conductor 140B. The slider device thus provides electrical isolation between the first external current line 513 and the second external current line 517. The design of the slider device 500 maximizes the distance between the components of the two independent circuits, thereby providing an optimal clearance distance and creepage distance between the two conductors for any given size of the external housing 580. Increasing the electrical isolation of the switch 5000 helps reduce the possibility of short circuits, arcing, and electromagnetic or other electrical interference.

[0093] The particular arrangement of conductors and fixed contacts in FIG. 5 provides a switch mechanism 510 that can provide both normally open and normally closed switch functions (i.e., in one position of the slider device, the first current conduction path is closed and the second current conduction path is open, while in another position of the slider device, the first current conduction path is open and the second current conduction path is closed). It is particularly important to ensure that these current conduction paths are electrically isolated from each other. For example, a short circuit between two loads (one of which is by default "powered on" and the other is by default "powered off") may potentially be dangerous or harmful. The design described herein provides this necessary electrical isolation by horizontal (in a direction perpendicular to the first axis) and / or vertical (along the first axis) separation or offset of the first and second conductors.

[0094] The slider device 500 shown in FIG. 5 can be formed of a plastic monolith. As described with reference to FIG. 1 , the slider device formed as a whole can make the component more rigid and more stable, and the component is less prone to bending under external forces. It is important to reduce the bending of the fixed arm as much as possible so as to form a strong electrical contact between the conductor and the fixed contact. In addition, the switch mechanism 510 described in this article utilizes fixed arms to carry these conductors away from the body portion of the slider device. This makes it unnecessary to have a longer conductor extending directly from the central main body portion, which may be easier to bend than a smaller conductor of the same thickness. These fixed arms can be fully sized to form a slider device that is substantially unbendable when subjected to standard switching external forces. This forms a robust and reliable switch mechanism.

[0095] Refer to Figure 6 ( Fig. 6A and Figure 6B ), the exemplary switch 6000 will be described in more detail.

[0096] The switch 6000 may be the exemplary switch 5000 described above with reference to FIG5 . The switch 6000 includes a slider device 600 (which may be the same as the slider device 500 described above with reference to FIG5 ), a third elastic member 670 (which may be the same as the third elastic member 570 described above with reference to FIG5 ), and an outer housing 680 (which may be the same as the outer housing 580 described above with reference to FIG5 ). The switch 6000 may also include some or all of the other components described above with respect to the exemplary switch 5000 shown in FIG5 .

[0097] The switch 6000 includes a first pair of fixed contacts provided in the form of a first fixed contact block 612 / 614 (which includes a first fixed contact portion 612 and a second fixed contact portion 614) (which may be the same as the first pair of fixed contacts 512, 514 described above with reference to FIG. 5). The switch 6000 also includes a second pair of fixed contacts provided in the form of a second fixed contact block 616 / 618 (which includes a third fixed contact portion 616 and a fourth fixed contact portion 618) (which may be the same as the second pair of fixed contacts 516, 518 described above with reference to FIG. 5).

[0098] The outer housing 680 can be interlocked with the first fixed contact block 612 / 614 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. The outer housing 680 can be interlocked with the second fixed contact block 616 / 618 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. This can allow for rapid and / or modular manufacturing of the switch and facilitate replacement of one or more components if they become worn or broken. Alternatively or additionally, or the first fixed contact block and / or the second fixed contact block can be retained within the outer housing in any other suitable manner; for example, the outer housing 680 can be mechanically or chemically coupled or bonded or joined to the first fixed contact block 612 / 614 and / or the second fixed contact block 616 / 618 or otherwise attached / connected to the first fixed contact block and / or the second fixed contact block.

[0099] The switch 6000 also includes a cover 690. The cover 690 can be attached to the outer housing 680 to cover the slider device 600, the contact blocks 612 / 614, 616 / 618, the third elastic member 670, etc. The cover 690 can be coupled to the outer housing 680, or can be interlocked with the outer housing 680 via a snap fit mechanism or an interference fit. The cover 690 can provide electrical insulation protection for the user of the switch to prevent the user from being potentially exposed to electrical components (e.g., the first and second conductors, the first fixed contact block 612 / 614, the second fixed contact block 616 / 618). The cover 690 can also protect the switch mechanism of the switch 6000 from damage (e.g., from external environmental conditions). The interlock between the housing 680 and the cover 690 allows the slider device 600 to move freely in a linear direction between the housing and the cover, and can be used to limit the movement of the slider device 600 in other directions.

[0100] refer to Figure 7 , a method 700 of operating a switch configured for connection to one or more external current lines (eg, the switch described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and / or 6 ) will be described.

[0101] At step 710, the method includes applying an external force to the engagement portion. The external force may be applied gradually or instantaneously. Optionally, the external force is provided by a cam, in which case the switch further comprises a cam. When the cam is in a first rotational position, the cam applies the external force to the engagement portion of the body portion of the slider device. For example, a user may rotate a handle coupled to the cam (e.g., by optionally rotating 90 degrees in a first rotational direction) to apply the external force. In other examples, the external force may be provided by a linear actuator.

[0102] In response to the applied external force, at step 720, the method includes moving the slider device from the first position to the second position along the first axis, thereby elastically deforming the third elastic member along the first axis (step 730). The external force causes the engaging portion of the slider device to move along the first axis and exerts a compressive force on the third elastic member. A reaction force may also be exerted on the third elastic member by the external housing. The reaction force may be provided at a portion of the housing that fixedly holds the third elastic member. The force exerted on the third elastic member by the slider device (and the reaction force from the external housing) causes the third elastic member to elastically deform and compress along the first axis. The movement of the slider device from the first position to the second position is facilitated by the elastic deformation of the third elastic member. As the third elastic member elastically deforms, the slider device causes the first and second conductors to move parallel to the first axis, and the distance of the movement depends on the degree of deformation of the third elastic member.

[0103] At step 740, the method includes removing the external force. The external force can be removed gradually or instantaneously. In the case where the external force is provided by a cam, the external force can be removed from the engagement portion of the body portion of the slider device when the cam is in a second rotational position (different from the first rotational position). For example, a user can rotate a handle coupled to the cam (e.g., by optionally rotating 90 degrees in a direction opposite to the first rotational direction) to remove the external force.

[0104] In response to the removal of the external force, at step 750, the method includes urging the slider device from the second position to the first position by the third elastic member. The operation of step 750 may be independent of the user. Upon removal of the external force, the elastically deformed third elastic member returns to its equilibrium (undeformed or partially, optionally minimally deformed) state, and this movement of the third elastic member provides a biasing force that urges the slider device from the second position to the first position along the first axis.

[0105] It should be noted here that although various examples of the slider device of the first aspect, the device of the second aspect, the switch of the third aspect, and the method of the fourth aspect are described above, these descriptions should not be regarded as limiting. On the contrary, several variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A slider device for a switch mechanism having a plurality of fixed contacts, the slider device comprising: a body portion extending along a first axis between a first end and a second end; a first fixing arm extending away from the body portion in a first direction; as well as a second securing arm extending away from the body portion in a second direction, wherein the first direction is different than the second direction, and wherein the first direction and the second direction each extend at an angle to the first axis; Wherein the first arm is configured to carry a first conductor, and wherein the second arm is configured to carry a second conductor.

2. The slider device according to claim 1, wherein: The first direction and the second direction are both perpendicular to the first axis.

3. The slider device according to claim 2, wherein: An angle between the first direction and the second direction around the first axis is 180 degrees.

4. A slider device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first arm and the second arm are offset along the first axis.

5. A slider device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The slider means is integrally formed; or Therein, the body portion, the first fixing arm and the second fixing arm are manufactured as separate components and are coupled together to form the slider device.

6. The slider device according to claim 5, wherein: The slider device is formed of an insulating material, Optionally, the insulating material is plastic.

7. A slider device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first end of the first arm is attached to the body portion, and wherein the second end of the first arm includes a first mounting portion configured to retain the first conductor; and The first end of the second arm is attached to the body portion, and wherein the second end of the second arm includes a second mounting portion configured to retain the second conductor.

8. The slider device according to claim 7, wherein: the first mounting portion is arranged such that the first conductor is configured to face in a direction toward a first end of the body portion; and The second mounting portion is arranged such that the second conductor is configured to face in a direction toward the second end of the body portion.

9. An apparatus for a switch mechanism having a plurality of fixed conductors, comprising: A slider device according to claim 7 or claim 8; a first conductor held by the first mounting portion; as well as A second conductor is held by the second mounting portion.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein: The first mounting portion includes a first through hole configured to interact with a protruding portion of the first conductor to enable movement of the first conductor along an axis parallel to the first axis and to restrict movement of the first conductor along an axis perpendicular to the first axis; and The second mounting portion includes a second through hole configured to interact with the protruding portion of the second conductor to enable movement of the second conductor along an axis parallel to the first axis and to restrict movement of the second conductor along an axis perpendicular to the first axis.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein: The first mounting portion further includes a first guide hole configured to receive a first elastic member; and The second mounting portion also includes a second guide hole configured to receive a second elastic member.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a first elastic member held in the first guide hole by the first conductor and a second elastic member held in the second guide hole by the second conductor, Optionally, the first elastic member and / or the second elastic member is a spring.

13. Apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein: The first conductor is arranged to contact a first pair of fixed contacts of the plurality of fixed contacts in a first plane, and The second conductor is arranged to contact a second pair of fixed contacts of the plurality of fixed contacts in a second plane, Optionally, the first plane and / or the second plane is perpendicular to the first axis.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein: The first conductor and the second conductor each include: a first contact plate; a second contact plate; A U-shaped conductive track is arranged between the first contact plate and the second contact plate.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein: The first conductor is formed entirely of a conductive material, and / or the second conductor is formed entirely of a conductive material, Optionally, the conductive material is a metal sheet.

16. Apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein: The first conductor and the second conductor have the same shape.

17. A switch configured for connection to one or more external current lines, comprising: External housing; a switch mechanism disposed at least partially within the outer housing and comprising: An apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 16; and A plurality of fixed contacts, the plurality of fixed contacts comprising: a first pair of fixed contacts configured to be coupled to one or more first external current wires of the one or more external current wires; and a second pair of fixed contacts configured to be coupled to one or more second external current wires of the one or more external current wires.

18. The switch of claim 17, wherein: The first end of the body portion includes a third guide hole along the first axis, wherein the third guide hole, the switch further includes a third elastic member, and the third elastic member is retained in the third guide hole by the outer housing.

19. The switch according to claim 18, wherein: The third elastic member is a spring.

20. A switch according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein: The second end of the body portion includes an engagement portion configured to receive an external force for operating the switch mechanism, and wherein, in response to an external force being applied to the engagement portion along the first axis and toward the first end of the body portion, the slider device is configured to move from a first position to a second position along the first axis and thereby elastically deform the third elastic member, and Wherein, in response to removal of the external force, the third resilient member is arranged to urge the slider arrangement to move along the first axis from the second position towards the first position.

21. The switch of claim 20, wherein: In one of the first position and the second position, the first conductor is configured to electrically connect the first pair of fixed contacts so that current can flow through the one or more first external current lines, while the second conductor is electrically disconnected from the second pair of fixed contacts; and In the other of the first position and the second position, the first conductor is electrically separated from the first pair of fixed contacts, and the second conductor is configured to electrically connect the second pair of fixed contacts so that current can flow through the one or more second external current lines.

22. A switch according to claim 21 when dependent on claim 12, wherein: The first resilient member is configured to exert a force on the first conductor to urge the first conductor into electrical contact with the first pair of fixed contacts, and / or wherein the second resilient member is configured to exert a force on the second conductor to urge the second conductor into electrical contact with the second pair of fixed contacts.

23. A switch according to claim 21 or claim 22 when dependent on claim 14, wherein: the first conductor is arranged such that, in one of the first position and the second position, the first contact plate and the second contact plate of the first conductor are in electrical connection with respective ones of the first pair of fixed contacts such that current can flow through the one or more first external current lines; and The second conductor is arranged such that, in the other of the first position and the second position, the first contact plate and the second contact plate of the second conductor are electrically connected to respective ones of the second pair of fixed contacts such that current can flow through the one or more second external current lines.

24. A method of operating a switch, the switch being configured for connection to one or more external current lines, the switch being a switch according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein: The method comprises: applying an external force to the engagement portion; in response to the applied external force, the slider device moves along the first axis from the first position to the second position by deformation of the third elastic member, and thereby elastically deforms the third elastic member along the first axis; removing the external force; and In response to the removal of the external force, the slider device is urged from the second position to the first position by the third elastic member.

Images