Switching device and lever device comprising same

Abstract

The invention discloses a switching device (100). The device (100) comprises a housing (1) defining a cavity (2). A plunger (3) is movably received in the cavity (2), and the plunger (3) comprises an elongate section (4). The device further comprises a base (6) coupled to the first end (7) of the housing (1). The base is configured to support a pair of contact strips (8). The device further comprises a first resilient member (9) configured to bias the plunger in a first direction (10) away from the base. In addition, a carrier (11) is slidably mounted on the elongated section of the plunger. The carrier is configured to be in contact with the pair of contact strips in an actuation position (43) of the plunger. The device (100) further comprises a second resilient member (12) configured to bias the plunger (3) in an opposite direction with respect to the first direction (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of instrument engineering. In particular but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to switching devices. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to switching devices for use in a vehicle to detect lever actuation. Background Art

[0002] Most vehicles include levers (also referred to as lever arms and handle levers) configured to facilitate actuation of mechanisms included in the vehicle. The vehicle includes various mechanisms such as, but not limited to, a clutch actuation mechanism, a brake actuation mechanism, a handbrake / parking brake actuation mechanism, and a door lock mechanism, which are configured to be operated by the lever. The levers used to actuate these mechanisms are typically customized to facilitate easy operation of the corresponding mechanisms and meet ergonomic requirements. Further, the operation of these lever-operated mechanisms depends on the degree of actuation (manipulation) and / or release of the lever by the user. Thus, by detecting the actuation / release of the lever and measuring the degree of actuation / release of the lever, the operation of the corresponding mechanism can be determined. Accordingly, most vehicles include switches and / or sensors configured to detect the operation of the lever, thereby enabling detection of the operation of the corresponding mechanism.

[003] For example, in a clutch actuation mechanism, the clutch is actuated by a clutch lever. The clutch lever arm may be coupled to the handlebar of the vehicle such that the clutch lever arm is configured to be operated by the user's hand. Alternatively, the clutch lever arm may be positioned on the floorboard of the vehicle and may be configured to be operated by the user's leg. In both of the above cases, the user naturally tends to rest their hand / fingers and leg on the clutch lever arm. Resting the fingers / hands on the lever arm during vehicle operation may cause accidental actuation (although to a lesser extent) of the lever arm, resulting in the switch generating a false signal. Further, long-term use of the lever arm causes the clutch cable to loosen (slacken) and increases the free play of the lever arm. This increase in the free play of the lever arm may also cause the switch to generate a false signal. Also, due to the associated space and operational limitations, it may not be feasible to increase the size / length of the switch to accommodate this increase in the free play of the lever arm.

[0004] Further, the signal generated by the switch corresponding to the actuation / release of the lever arm is transmitted to at least one of an electronic control unit (ECU), an engine management system (EMS), and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) system of the vehicle. Thus, a false signal generated by the switch (e.g., as described in the previous paragraph) results in incorrect detection / diagnosis and may further cause at least one of the ECU, EMS, and OBD to take inappropriate measures / actions.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to overcome one or more of the above limitations or any other limitations associated with the conventional configuration of the above switches. Further, the present disclosure aims to overcome one or more limitations of the conventional configuration of switches that engage with levers adapted to facilitate actuation of mechanisms included in a vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure overcomes one or more disadvantages of the prior art by the claimed switch device and the lever device including the switch device, and provides additional advantages by the claimed switch device and the lever device in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized by the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure are specifically described herein and are considered to be part of the claimed disclosure.

[0007] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a switch device is disclosed. The switch device (hereinafter referred to as the "device") includes a housing defining a cavity. A plunger is movably received in the cavity, and the plunger includes an elongated section. The device further includes a base coupled to a first end of the housing. The base is configured to support a pair of contact strips. The device further includes a first elastic member configured to bias the plunger in a first direction away from the base. In addition, a carrier is slidably mounted on the elongated section of the plunger. The carrier is configured to contact the pair of contact strips at an actuated position of the plunger. The device further includes a second elastic member configured to bias the plunger in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0008] In one embodiment, the plunger includes an engagement section. The first elastic member is configured to engage with the engagement section of the plunger.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second elastic member is disposed in the cavity between the housing and the carrier. The second elastic member is coaxially positioned with the plunger. The second elastic member is configured to bias the plunger in a second direction opposite to the first direction and toward the base.

[0010] In one embodiment, at a release position and an intermediate position of the plunger, the carrier is away from the pair of contact strips.

[0011] In one embodiment, the base defines at least one slot. At least a portion of the engagement section of the plunger is configured to reciprocate in the at least one slot when a lever in contact with the switch device is actuated. Further, the base defines an annular groove to receive at least a portion of the first elastic member. The first elastic member is coaxially disposed with the plunger and the housing.

[0012] In one embodiment, the device includes a collar coupled to the carrier. The collar is configured to contact the pair of contact strips at an actuated position of the plunger.

[0013] In one embodiment, the housing is a hollow circular member defining a first opening at a first end and a second opening at a second end opposite the first end. The plunger is coaxially positioned relative to a central axis of the housing.

[0014] In one embodiment, the elongated section of the plunger reciprocates through a second opening defined at the second end of the housing. The base is coupled to a first opening defined at the first end of the housing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first elastic member and the second elastic member are helical springs positioned at the first end and the second end of the housing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the plunger is configured to reciprocate along the central axis of the housing through the second opening relative to the actuation and release of a lever that interfaces with the plunger.

[0017] In one embodiment, relative to the actuation and release of the lever, the plunger moves away from the base and towards the base respectively.

[0018] In one embodiment, before actuating the lever, at the release position of the switching device, the plunger is positioned closer to the base. Further, when the lever is actuated, the plunger is configured to move to an intermediate position. At the intermediate position, the plunger is positioned midway between the first end and the second end of the housing. Additionally, when the lever is further actuated relative to the intermediate position, the plunger is configured to move to an actuated position closer to the second end of the housing. When the lever is further actuated, the carrier is configured to contact a pair of contact strips.

[0019] In one embodiment, the pair of contact strips extends bidirectionally relative to the base. The first end of the pair of contact strips extends into a cavity towards the first end of the housing. Further, the second end of the pair of contact strips opposite the first end is configured to be coupled to a circuit.

[0020] In a non - limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a lever device for a vehicle is disclosed. The lever device includes a lever pivotally coupled to a vehicle handlebar and operable between an actuated position and a release position. The lever is operably connected to at least one of a brake and a clutch mechanism of the vehicle. Further, a switching device interfaces with the lever. The switching device (hereinafter referred to as "the device") includes a housing defining a cavity. A plunger is movably received in the cavity, and the plunger includes an elongated section. The device also includes a base coupled to the first end of the housing. The base is configured to support a pair of contact strips. The device also includes a first elastic member configured to bias the plunger in a first direction away from the base. Further, a carrier is slidably mounted on the elongated section of the plunger. The carrier is configured to contact the pair of contact strips at the actuated position of the plunger. The device also includes a second elastic member disposed in the cavity between the housing and the carrier. The second elastic member is coaxially positioned with the plunger and configured to bias the plunger in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0021] In one embodiment, the base defines at least one slot. The engaging section of the plunger is configured to reciprocate in the at least one slot.

[0022] In one embodiment, the engaging section of the plunger defines a cavity. At least a portion of the base reciprocates within the cavity.

[0023] In one embodiment, the plunger is configured to reciprocate along the central axis of the housing through the second opening relative to the actuation and release of the lever.

[0024] In one embodiment, when the lever is actuated and released, the plunger reciprocates in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0025] In one embodiment, the switching device is configured to generate a signal when the plunger reciprocates in the first direction and the second direction.

[0026] The above summary of the invention is merely illustrative and is not intended to be limiting in any way. In addition to the above-described illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The novel features and characteristics of the present disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. However, the present disclosure itself, as well as the preferred mode of use, additional objects, and advantages thereof, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are now described by way of example only with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0028] Figure 1a 、 1b and 1c show a perspective view of a switching device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 2a shows an exploded view of the device shown in FIG. 1; Figure 2b shows different views of the plunger component of the switching device shown in FIG. 1; Figure 3 shows different views of the base component of the switching device shown in FIG. 1; Figure 4 shows different views of the carrier component of the switching device shown in FIG. 1; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the switching device in the "OFF" state;

[0034] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the switching device in its intermediate position (critical / boundary state of the intermediate position);

[0035] Figure 7A cross-sectional view of the switch device in its actuated position [also referred to as the "closed (ON)" position];

[036] Figure 8 A lever in contact with the switch device of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] The drawings depict embodiments of the present disclosure for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the devices described herein can be used without departing from the principles of the present disclosure described herein. Detailed Description

[0038] Although embodiments of the present disclosure may have various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described hereinafter. However, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific forms disclosed, and on the contrary, the present disclosure will cover all variations, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] Before describing the detailed embodiments, it should be noted that the novelty and creativity of the present disclosure lie in a switch device and a lever device including the switch device. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can be inspired by the present disclosure and modify various configurations of the switch device and the lever device. However, such modifications should be understood to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the drawings only show the specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to confuse those skilled in the art with details that are obvious at a glance after reading the description herein.

[0040] In the present disclosure, the term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "as an example, instance, or illustration". Any embodiment or implementation of the subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be considered preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0041] The terms "comprising", "including", or any other variants thereof used in the present disclosure are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a device, apparatus, component, mechanism, system, and method including a series of components not only includes those components, but may also include other components not explicitly listed or inherent to such device, system, component, or apparatus. In other words, without further constraints, one or more elements in a system starting with "comprising... one" do not exclude the presence of other elements or additional elements in the system, device, or method.

[0042] Terms such as "at least one" and "one or more" may be used interchangeably or in combination throughout the specification.

[0043] Reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure as shown in the drawings. Wherever possible, the same numbers are used to refer to the same or similar parts. The following refers to FIGS. 1 to Figure 8Describe embodiments of the present disclosure. In FIGS. 1 to Figure 8 Among them, the same elements or elements with the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0044] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a switching device. The switching device (hereinafter referred to as the "device") includes a housing that defines a cavity. A plunger is movably received in the cavity, and the plunger includes an elongated section. The device further includes a base coupled to a first end of the housing. The base is configured to support a pair of contact bars. The device further includes a first elastic member configured to bias the plunger in a first direction away from the base. In addition, a carrier is slidably mounted on the elongated section of the plunger. The carrier is configured to contact the pair of contact bars at an actuated position of the plunger. The device further includes a second elastic member configured to bias the carrier, thereby biasing the plunger in a direction opposite to the first direction. In one embodiment, both the first elastic member and the second elastic member are helical springs. In this embodiment, the spring constant (also referred to as the mounting force) of the first elastic member is higher than the spring constant of the second elastic member.

[0045] In one embodiment, the term "switching device" as used hereinafter refers to a device configured to open and disconnect an electrical connection. The switching device may include elements such as, but not limited to, terminals for electrical connection.

[046] Although the switching device of the present disclosure is described in the context of a clutch lever of a two-wheeler, this description is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific form disclosed. On the contrary, the present disclosure covers all variations, equivalents, and alternatives within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, those skilled in the art should understand that the switching device of the present disclosure can be used in any other application, such as, but not limited to, a brake lever pedal or any other actuator of a two-wheeler, three-wheeler, and four-wheeler having similar operating and configuration requirements and requiring similar switching characteristics.

[0047] The following paragraphs refer to FIGS. 1 to Figure 8 Describe the present disclosure. In the figures, the same elements or elements with the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals. It should be noted that, for simplicity, the overall arrangement of the switching device and the lever device including the switching device is not shown in the figures, and these arrangements include various features required for the efficient operation of the switching device, such as, but not limited to, circuits, connections, control systems, protection, and cooling arrangements. Those skilled in the art should understand that the switching device disclosed in the present disclosure can be used in multiple quantities in a system / vehicle.

[0048] Figure 1a 、 Figure 1b and Figure 1c show different views of a switching device (100) (hereinafter referred to as the "device") according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 1a 、 Figure 1b andFigure 1c As depicted, the device (100) includes a housing (1) that defines a cavity (2). The cavity (2) can be defined as the space within the housing (1) for accommodating the components of the device (100). The housing (1) is configured to accommodate the components of the device (100). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the components can be accommodated within the cavity (2) defined within the housing (1). In one embodiment, the entire component can be accommodated within the housing (1). In another embodiment, the component can be coupled to the housing (1) and can extend out of the cavity (2).

[0049] Further, as depicted in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1 (also as Figures 5 to 7 shown), the housing (1) can be a hollow cylindrical member. The cylindrical member can have a circular profile. The housing (1) can be a hollow cylindrical member configured to define a cavity (2) for accommodating the components of the device (100). However, in one embodiment, alternative geometric and structural configurations of the housing (1) can be employed to accommodate the operating and configuration requirements of the device (100). As Figure 2a shown, one end of the housing (1) can be an open end without any covering (lid or cap), while the other end opposite to this end can be provided with a covering, where the covering can be defined with a hole. Further, as Figures 1a to 1c depicted, the housing (1) can be defined with one or more fins (24) for providing structural rigidity to the housing (1). The housing (1) can also be defined with one or more cavities (25) and perforations (26) for structural / functional requirements and facilitating the connection of the device (100) to external elements / systems. As Figure 1b shown, the housing (1) can define a pair of cavities (25) on its opposite sides, where these cavities (25) facilitate the connection of the base (6) to the housing (1). The housing (1) can also be defined with protrusions (27) for enabling the device (100) to be connected to external elements / systems.

[0050] Figure 2a An exploded view of the device (100) is shown. Figure 2a A horizontal perspective view of the exploded view of the device (100) is provided. As Figure 2a shown, the housing (1) includes a first end (7) and a second end (19) opposite to the first end (7). The housing (1) defines a first opening (17) at the first end (7). The second end (19) can be provided with a cap / covering [which is integral with the housing (1)] such that a second opening (18) in the form of a hole or aperture is defined at the second end (19) of the housing (1). The second opening (18) can be defined at the central portion of the second end (19) of the housing (1). The second opening (18) can be configured to movably receive a plunger (3) (as Figure 2aas shown, wherein the plunger (3) is coaxially positioned relative to the central axis X-X (20) of the housing (1) (as Figure 1b shown).

[0051] Figure 2b Shown is a plunger (3) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The plunger (3) is movably received in a cavity (2). The plunger (3) includes an elongate section (4) and an engagement section (5). In an illustrative embodiment, the engagement section (5) is fully received within the housing (1). The elongate section (4) is partially received within the housing (1), and at least a portion of the elongate section (4) extends out of the housing (1). The plunger (3) is configured to reciprocate along the central axis X-X (20) of the housing (1). As Figure 8 shown, relative to the actuation and release of a lever (44) that engages the plunger (3) (as Figure 8 shown), the plunger (3) reciprocates through a second opening (18). The elongate section (4) of the plunger (3) reciprocates through the second opening (18) defined in the second end (19) of the housing (1). As Figure 8 depicted, the lever (44) may be configured to abut an end portion (28) of the plunger (3) (as Figure 1c shown) such that the plunger (3) reciprocates relative to the actuation of the lever (44).

[0052] Referring again to Figure 2b , the engagement section (5) includes a pair of arms (32a and 32b) defined on opposite sides of the engagement section (5). As Figure 2b depicted, the pair of arms (32a, 32b) may be L-shaped. In one embodiment, the pair of arms (32a, 32b) may be I-shaped, depending on the configuration requirements of the plunger (3).

[0053] In one embodiment, the elongate section (4) of the plunger (3) is configured to extend out of the cavity (2) when the user actuates / operates the lever (44). The elongate section (4) of the plunger (3) is configured to retract into the cavity (2) when the user releases the lever (44). When the lever (44) is actuated and released, the plunger (3) moves away from and towards the base (6), respectively. When the user actuates the lever (44), the plunger (3) is configured to move away from the base (6) while the elongate section (4) extends out of the cavity (2). When the user releases the lever (44), the plunger (3) is configured to move towards the base (6) while the elongate section (4) retracts into the cavity (2).

[0054] Figure 3 Shown is a base (6) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3Shows different views of the base (6). The base (6) includes an upper portion (30) and a lower portion (31). The upper portion (30) of the base is received within the cavity (2) of the housing (1). The base (6) is coupled to the housing (1) such that the lower portion (31) projects outside the cavity (2) of the housing (1) (as depicted in FIG. 1). The base (6) is coupled to a first opening (17) defined at the first end (7) of the housing (1). As Figure 3 shown, the diameter of the upper portion (30) of the base (6) is smaller compared to the diameter of the lower portion (31) of the base (6). In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the lower portion (31) is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the housing (1) to achieve a flush engagement therebetween. The upper portion (30) of the base (6) defines protrusions (29) on opposite faces. The protrusions (29) enable the base (6) to be removably coupled to the housing (1). The protrusions (29) engage with recesses (25) of the housing (1) to facilitate the detachable coupling of the base (6) to the housing (1).

[0055] Referring again to Figure 3 , the upper portion (30) of the base (6) may define one or more grooves / slots for movably receiving at least a portion of the plunger (3) and the first elastic member (9) (as Figure 2a shown). The top surface (33) of the upper portion (30) defines one or more grooves / slots. The base (6) defines a slot (15). At least a portion of the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3) is configured to reciprocate within the slot (15). The top surface (33) defines the slot (15). The slot (15) is defined at the central portion of the top surface (33). In one embodiment, the shape and profile of the slot (15) are substantially rectangular, which defines a semi-circular portion at the center. However, the slot (15) may be configured to have different shapes and profiles suitable for the operating requirements of the device (100). The shape and profile of the slot (15) are configured to match the outer shape and profile of the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3) to movably receive the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3). In other words, in this embodiment, while the substantially rectangular portion accommodates the pair of L-shaped arms (32a, 32b), the substantially circular portion at the central region accommodates the circular portion of the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3).

[0056] Further, the base (6) defines an annular groove (23) to receive at least a portion of the first elastic member (9). In the illustrative embodiment, the first elastic member (9) is a helical spring positioned at the first end (7) of the housing (1) and is disposed within the annular groove (23). The top surface (33) defines a substantially circular annular groove (23). In the illustrative embodiment, the annular groove (23) is defined in the base (6). The annular groove (23) may be defined in the top surface (33) (asFigure 3 as shown, some portions of the annular groove (23) intersect the slot (15). The shape and profile of the annular groove (23) are configured to receive at least a portion of the first elastic member (9). The shape and profile of the annular groove (23) are configured to match the outer shape and profile of the first elastic member (9) to receive at least a portion of the first elastic member (9). The slot (15) and the annular groove (23) are configured such that the first elastic member (9) can be positioned around the plunger (3) in a surrounding manner relative to the central axis X-X of the housing (1) / base (6) [the base (6) is coaxial with the housing (1)]. The first elastic member (9) is coaxially arranged with the plunger (3) and the housing (1). In other words, in the assembled state of the device (100), the first elastic member (9) is configured to engage (contact) the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3). The first elastic member (9) is configured to bias the carrier and thus bias the plunger (3) in a first direction (10) away from the base (6) (as Figure 5 shown).

[0057] In addition, a portion of the walls (36a and 36b, collectively 36) that define and bound the slot (15) and the annular groove (23) is configured to extend slightly above the top surface (33) of the base (6). During operation of the device (100), when the carrier (11) contacts the wall (36) of the base (6), this extended portion of the wall (36) prevents the carrier (11) from moving downward.

[0058] Referring again to Figure 3 , the base (6) is configured to support a pair of contact strips (8a and 8b, collectively 8). The pair of contact strips (8) are made of a metallic material and are integrally formed with the base (6). In one embodiment, the base (6) can be an injection molded part made of a polymeric material. The pair of contact strips (8) can be integrally formed with the base (6) during the injection molding of the base (6). The pair of contact strips (8) extend bidirectionally with respect to the base (6). The first end (21) of the pair of contact strips (8) extends into the cavity (2) towards the first end (7) of the housing (1). The second end (22) of the pair of contact strips (8) opposite the first end (21) is configured to serve as an electrical terminal such that the pair of contact strips (8) can be coupled to a circuit.

[0059] Figure 4 shows a carrier (11) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4Shows different views of a carrier (11) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The carrier (11) is a hollow cylindrical member, including a first part (34) and a second part (35) continuous with the first part (34). The outer diameter (37) of the first part (34) is greater than the outer diameter (38) of the second part (35). Further, the inner diameter (39) of the first part (34) is greater than the inner diameter (40) of the second part (35). The inner diameter (40) can be substantially equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the slender section (4) of the plunger (3), such that the carrier (11) can be mounted onto the slender section (4) of the plunger (3). The carrier (11) is slidably mounted onto the slender section (4) of the plunger (3). The device (100) also includes a collar (16) coupled to the carrier (11) (as Figure 2a shown). The collar (16) is a hollow cylindrical member and is mounted onto the second part (35) of the carrier (11). The inner diameter of the collar (16) is substantially equal to the outer diameter (38) of the second part (35) to detachably couple the collar (16) to the carrier (11).

[0060] The carrier (11) and the collar (16) mounted on the carrier (11) are configured to contact the paired contact strips (8) during the sliding of the carrier (11) on the slender section of the plunger (3). The carrier (11) can be made of a non-conductive material such as a polymeric material. The collar (16) can be made of any conductive material such as a metallic material. Thus, the collar (16) completes the circuit when contacting the paired contact strips (8) [during the sliding movement of the carrier (11) together with the collar (16)].

[0061] The device (100) also includes a second elastic member (12) (as Figure 2a shown). As can be seen in the cross-sectional view depicted as Figure 5 , the second elastic member (12) is disposed around the slender section (4) of the plunger (3). The second elastic member (12) is disposed in the space between the housing (1) and the carrier (11). The second elastic member (12) can be a helical spring positioned at the second end (19) of the housing (1). The second elastic member (12) is coaxially positioned with the plunger (3). The second elastic member (12) is configured to bias the carrier (11), and thereby bias the plunger (3) in a second direction (13) opposite to the first direction (10) and towards the base (6). Further, in the illustrative embodiment, in the expanded state of the second elastic member (12), at least a part of the second elastic member (12) is received within the carrier (11). On the other hand, in one embodiment, in the compressed state of the second elastic member (12), the entire second elastic member (12) can be received within the carrier (11).

[0062] During upward travel of the plunger (3), the second elastic member (12) is compressed. When the plunger (3) moves downward, i.e., towards the base (6), the carrier (11) will also move downward a certain distance. After this certain distance, the engaging section (5) of the plunger (3) disengages from the carrier (11) and further moves downward into the slot (15) defined in the base (6). At this point [i.e., when the plunger (3) disengages from the carrier (11)], in the absence of the second elastic member (12), the carrier (11) will pop up (move upward) together with the collar (16). Therefore, in order to keep the carrier (11) downward, the second elastic member (12) is provided. The second elastic member (12) is configured to apply a downward force to the carrier (11) such that the carrier (11) is kept downward (will not pop up).

[063] Referring to the Figures 5 to 7 description of the operation of the device (100) ( Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 respectively depict cross-sectional views of the device (100) along the B - B, B - B, and A - A sections). For ease of description, we consider the plunger (3) to be engaged with the clutch lever (44) of a two-wheeled vehicle (also referred to as the lever (44) in the description). The lever (44) is pivotally coupled to the handlebar of the vehicle and can operate between an actuated position and a released position (also referred to as an unactuated position or a released position). The lever (44) is operatively connected to at least one of the brake and clutch mechanisms of the vehicle.

[0064] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the device (100) in its disengaged state (41). Figure 5 depicts a cross-sectional view of the device (100) along A - A. In this disengaged state (41) [also referred to as the zero position of the lever (44)], the clutch lever (44) adjacent to the plunger (3) is in the released position [disengaged state (41)]. As Figure 5 shown, in the disengaged state (41) of the device (100), the entire length of the plunger (3) is received within the housing (1). In the disengaged state (41) of the device (100) (i.e., before actuating the clutch lever (44)), the engaging section (5) of the plunger (3) is positioned closer to the base (6), and the first part (34) of the carrier is configured to contact the pair of contact strips. Additionally, due to the free play of the lever (44) and / or accidental actuation of the lever (44) by the user, the engaging section (5) of the plunger (3) is configured to move to an intermediate position (42). At the intermediate position (42), the contact point between the first part (34) of the carrier (11) and the pair of contact strips (8) can be at Figure 5 and Figure 6Any point between the positions depicted. In the intermediate position (42) [caused by the free play of the lever (44) and / or accidental actuation of the lever (44) by the user], the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3) is located between the first end (7) and the second end (19) of the housing (1) (slightly away from the base), and the first part (34) of the carrier (11) is configured to remain in contact with the pair of contact strips (8). In the intermediate position (42), the contact point between the first part (34) of the carrier (11) and the pair of contact strips (8) can be any point between Figure 5 and Figure 6 the positions shown. Figure 6 depicts the critical / boundary state of the intermediate position (42). Further, upon additional actuation of the lever (44) relative to the intermediate position (42), the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3) is configured to move to an actuated position (43) closer to the second end (19) of the housing (1) (as shown in Figure 7 ), [also referred to as the open state or fully actuated position]. Upon said additional actuation of the clutch lever (44), the collar (16) mounted on the carrier (11) is configured to come into contact with the pair of contact strips (8).

[0065] Further Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the device (100) in the intermediate position (42) [i.e., the critical / boundary state of the intermediate position (42)]. Figure 6 depicts a cross-sectional view of the device (100) along B-B in the intermediate position (42) [i.e., the critical / boundary state of the intermediate position (42)]. Such partial actuation of the device (100) may occur in the following circumstances. Due to the clutch cable being loose (slack), there may be some free play in the lever (44) arm, resulting in the lever (44) being actuated to a minimal extent. Further, the user may have a tendency to place their hand / finger on the clutch lever (44), which may cause accidental actuation of the clutch lever (44) during vehicle operation. However, it is also required that such free play and accidental actuation should not cause the switching device (100) to generate a signal that the clutch lever (44) has been actuated. Therefore, during such partial actuation of the clutch lever (44), the pair of contact strips (8) is configured to contact only the first part (34) of the carrier (11) (i.e., which is non-conductive). The length of the first part (34) of the carrier (11) can be configured such that during the travel of the plunger from the disengaged state (41) to the intermediate position (42), the pair of contact strips (8) contacts / slides along only the first part (34) of the carrier (11). Since the first part (34) of the carrier (11) is made of a non-conductive polymeric material, the circuit is not completed. Therefore, during such partial actuation, the device (100) does not generate a signal (related to the actuation of the lever (44)).

[0066] In Figure 5 the illustrative embodiment depicted, the length of the first portion (34) of the carrier (11) can be configured to fully accommodate the free play and accidental actuation of the lever (44). As Figure 5 and Figure 6 depicted in the illustrative embodiment of, the travel of the plunger from the disengaged state (41) to the intermediate position (42) accommodates the free play and / or accidental actuation of the clutch lever (44). Thus, the first portion (34) of the carrier (11) can be configured to have a length suitable for the above-described operating stroke length (the plunger travels in the upward and downward directions).

[0067] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the device (100) is shown in the fully actuated position, which is the open state (43) of the lever (44). Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the device (100) in the fully actuated position along A-A is depicted. The travel of the plunger (3) beyond the intermediate position (42) [specifically, beyond the critical / boundary state of the intermediate position (42)] will result in contact between the collar (16) and the pair of contact strips (8). Thus, when the collar (16) contacts the pair of contact strips (8) [during the sliding movement of the carrier (11) together with the collar (16)], the circuit is completed. In the illustrative embodiment, the collar (16) can have a suitable length to facilitate the travel of the plunger (3), thereby causing the collar (16) to contact the pair of contact strips (8). Specifically, when the circuit is completed, current flows through the pair of contact strips (8), the metal collar (16), and returns to the power source. With this completion of the circuit facilitated by the contact between the collar (16) and the pair of contact strips (8), the device (100) generates a signal. During the completion of the circuit, the signal generated by the device (100) corresponds to the user's actuation of the lever (44) beyond the free play of the lever (44) and the user's accidental actuation of the lever (44). Thus, the configuration of the device (100) ensures that a signal is generated only when the user intentionally actuates the lever (44), and not within the free play of the lever and the user's accidental actuation of the lever.

[0068] Further, in order for the plunger (3) to travel in the opposite direction [i.e., in the second direction (13)], that is, from the closed state (43) of the lever (44) to the fully released position [disengaged state (41)], the travel sequence of the plunger (3) is as Figure 7 shown [fully actuated position (43)], followed by the position as Figure 6 shown [circuit open, starting from the intermediate position (42), and finally to the fully released position as Figure 5 shown [disengaged state (41)] [(the plunger (3) is fully accommodated within the housing (1))].

[0069] In one embodiment, the engaging section (5) of the plunger (3) may be defined with a recess. In such an embodiment, at least a portion of the base (6) may be configured to reciprocate in the recess corresponding to the reciprocating movement of the lever (44) in contact with the plunger (3).

[0070] The configuration of the device (100) as described above results in an increase in the stroke length of the plunger (3) of the device (100) (i.e., an increase in the opening range of the switching device) compared to the conventional configuration of the device (100), without increasing the size of the switching device (100). Specifically, the aspect of slidably mounting the carrier (11) on the plunger (3) and the plunger (3) being configured to reciprocate in the slot (15) defined in the base (6) results in an increase in the stroke length of the plunger (3) without increasing the size of the device (100). With this increase in the stroke length of the plunger (3), it is easier to compensate for / accommodate the increase in the free play of the lever (44) [since the opening range of the device (100) increases correspondingly]. Further, false signals are prevented from being generated in the device (100) when the lever (44) is accidentally actuated (or due to free play). In addition, the device (100) maintains a compact size, solving the associated space limitations. The configuration of the device (100) as described above prevents incorrect / false detection of the actuation of the brake lever or clutch lever (44) of the vehicle in engagement with the device (100), which may be caused by the free play or accidental actuation of the brake lever or clutch lever (44).

[0071] The various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown; rather, these embodiments are intended to fully and completely disclose the subject matter of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the same numbers always refer to the same elements. For clarity, the thickness and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated.

[0072] Herein, unless otherwise specified, the terms "attached", "connected", "interconnected", "contacted", "mounted", "coupled", etc. may represent direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements.

[0073] For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail. As used herein, the expression "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0074] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are likewise intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be understood that when the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes" and / or "including" are used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0075] Although particular features of the disclosure have been emphasized herein, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the disclosure and that many modifications can be made in the preferred embodiments. In light of the disclosure herein, these and other modifications of the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and it should thus be clearly understood that the foregoing illustrative matter is to be construed as illustrative of the disclosure and not as limiting. equivalents

[0076] Regarding the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those skilled in the art can translate from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural in accordance with the context and / or application. For clarity, various singular / plural permutations may be explicitly set forth herein.

[0077] Generally, those skilled in the art understand that the terms used herein, especially the terms in the appended claims (e.g., the subject matter of the appended claims), are generally considered to be "open" terms (e.g., the term "comprising" should be interpreted as "comprising but not limited to", the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least", the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to", etc.). Those skilled in the art also understand that if the intention is to introduce a specific number of claim recitations, that intention will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such a recitation, there is no such intention. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain the use of introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim descriptions. However, the use of these phrases should not be construed as implying that a claim description introduced by the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such an introduced claim description to inventions containing only one such description, even if the same claim includes an introductory phrase "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted as "at least one" or "one or more"); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim descriptions. Additionally, even if a specific number of an introduced claim description is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a description should generally be interpreted as including at least the recited number (e.g., a simple recitation of "two descriptions", without further modification, generally means at least two descriptions, or two or more descriptions). Further, when using a convention such as "at least one of A, B, and C, etc.", the meaning of such an interpretation is generally understood by those skilled in the art (e.g., "the system has at least one of A, B, and C" will include, but not be limited to, the system having only A, only B, having A and B together, having A and C together, having B and C together, having and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). When using a convention such as "at least one of A, B, or C", the meaning of such an interpretation is generally understood by those skilled in the art (e.g., "the system has at least one of A, B, or C" will include, but not be limited to, the system having only A, only B, having A and B together, having A and C together, having B and C together, having and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). Those skilled in the art will also understand that almost any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one of the terms, either of the two terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" should be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0078] In addition, when features or aspects of the present disclosure are described in the form of a Markush group, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure is also thereby described in the form of any single component or subgroup of components of the Markush group.

[0079] Although various aspects and embodiments are disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting, and the true scope and spirit are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A switching device (100), comprising: A housing (1) defining a cavity (2); A plunger (3) movably received in the cavity (2), the plunger (3) including an elongated section (4); A base (6) coupled to a first end (7) of the housing (1), the base (6) configured to support a pair of contact strips (8); A first elastic member (9) configured to bias the plunger (3) in a first direction (10) away from the base (6); A carrier (11) slidably mounted on the elongated section (4) of the plunger (3), the carrier (11) configured to contact the pair of contact strips (8) at an actuated position (43) of the plunger (3); and A second elastic member (12) configured to bias the plunger (3) in a direction opposite to the first direction (10).

2. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plunger (3) includes an engagement section (5), and the first elastic member (9) is configured to engage with the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3).

3. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second elastic member (12) is disposed within the cavity (2) between the housing (1) and the carrier (11), the second elastic member (12) being coaxially positioned with the plunger (3), and the second elastic member (12) is configured to bias the plunger (3) in a second direction (13) opposite to the first direction (10) and toward the base (6).

4. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At a release position (41) and an intermediate position (42) of the plunger (3), the carrier (11) is away from the pair of contact strips (8).

5. The switching device (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The base (6) defines at least one slot (15), wherein at least a portion of the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3) is configured to reciprocate within the at least one slot (15) when a lever (44) in contact with the switching device (100) is actuated; and The base (6) defines an annular groove (23) to receive at least a portion of the first elastic member (9), the first elastic member (9) being coaxially disposed with the plunger (3) and the housing (1).

6. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Including a collar (16) coupled to the carrier (11), the collar (16) configured to contact the pair of contact strips (8) at the actuated position (43) of the plunger (3).

7. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (1) is a hollow circular member defining a first opening (17) at the first end (7) and a second opening (18) at a second end (19) opposite the first end (7), and wherein the plunger (3) is coaxially positioned relative to a central axis (20) of the housing (1).

8. The switching device (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The elongated section (4) of the plunger (3) reciprocates through the second opening (18) defined at the second end (19) of the housing (1), and wherein the base (6) is coupled to the first opening (17) defined at the first end (7) of the housing (1).

9. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic member (9) and the second elastic member (12) are helical springs positioned at the first end (7) and the second end (19) of the housing (1).

10. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plunger (3) is configured to reciprocate along the central axis (20) of the housing (1) through the second opening (18) relative to the actuation and release of a lever (44) in contact with the plunger (3).

11. The switching device (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that, Relative to the actuation and release of the lever (44), the plunger (3) moves away from and towards the base (6) respectively.

12. The switch device (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that: Before actuating the lever (44), at the release position (41) of the switch device (100), the plunger (3) is positioned closer to the base (6); The plunger (3) is configured to move to the intermediate position (42) when the lever (44) is actuated, at which intermediate position (42), the plunger (3) is positioned midway between the first end (7) and the second end (19) of the housing (1); and The plunger (3) is configured to move to the intermediate position (42) and move to the actuation position (43) closer to the second end (19) of the housing (1) when the lever (44) is additionally actuated relative to the intermediate position (42), wherein the carrier (11) is configured to contact the pair of contact strips (8) when the lever (44) is additionally actuated.

13. The switching device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pair of contact strips (8) extends bidirectionally relative to the base (6), wherein a first end (21) of the pair of contact strips (8) extends into the cavity (2) towards the first end (7) of the housing (1), and a second end (22) of the pair of contact strips (8) opposite the first end (21) is configured to be coupled to a circuit.

14. A lever device for a vehicle, the lever device comprising: A lever (44) pivotally coupled to the handlebar of the vehicle and operable between an actuation position (43) and a release position (41), the lever (44) being operatively connected to at least one of the brake and clutch mechanisms of the vehicle; And A switch device (100) in contact with the lever (44), the switch device (100) comprising: A housing (1) defining a cavity (2); A plunger (3) movably received in the cavity (2) and operatively coupled to the lever (44), the plunger (3) defining an elongated section (4) and an engagement section (5); A base (6) coupled to the first end (7) of the housing (1), the base (6) being configured to support a pair of contact strips (8); A first elastic member (9) disposed in the base (6) and configured to engage the engagement section (5) of the plunger (3), the first elastic member (9) being configured to bias the plunger (3) in a first direction (10); A carrier (11) slidably mounted on the elongate section (4) of the plunger (3), the carrier (11) being configured to contact the pair of contact strips (8) in the actuated position (43) of the plunger (3); and A second elastic member (12) disposed within the cavity (2) between the housing (1) and the carrier (11), the second elastic member (12) being coaxially positioned with the plunger (3) and configured to bias the plunger (3) in a second direction (13) opposite to the first direction (10).

15. The lever device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The base (6) defines at least one slot (15), and wherein the engaging section (5) of the plunger (3) is configured to reciprocate within the at least one slot (15).

16. The lever device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The engaging section (5) of the plunger (3) defines a recess, and wherein at least a portion of the base (6) reciprocates within the recess.

17. The lever device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The plunger (3) is configured to reciprocate along the central axis (20) of the housing (1) through the second opening (18) relative to the actuation and release of the lever (44).

18. The lever device according to claim 14, wherein, Upon actuation and release of the lever (44), the plunger (3) reciprocates in the first direction (10) and the second direction (13) opposite to the first direction (10).

19. The lever device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The switching device (100) is configured to generate a signal when the plunger (3) reciprocates in the first direction (10) and the second direction (13).

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