TEMPERATURE-CONTROLLING SWITCH

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a temperature-dependent switch.

[0002] Temperature-dependent switches are already known in many forms. An example of a temperature-dependent switch is disclosed in DE 196 09 310 A1.

[0003] Such temperature-dependent switches serve, in a manner known per se, to monitor the temperature of a device. For this purpose, the switch is brought into thermal contact with the device to be protected, for example, via one of its outer surfaces, so that the temperature of the device to be protected influences the temperature of the switching mechanism located inside the switch.

[0004] The switch is typically connected electrically in series with the supply circuit of the device to be protected via connecting leads, so that below the switch's response temperature, the supply current of the device to be protected flows through the switch.

[0005] The switch known from DE 196 09 310 A1 has a switch housing in which a switching mechanism is hermetically sealed. The switch housing is constructed in two parts: a lower part made of insulating material and a cover made of electrically conductive material. The cover is inserted into the lower part and held in place by an upper edge of the lower part. The switching mechanism is clamped between the cover and the lower part. During the manufacturing process, the switching mechanism is first loosely inserted into the lower part. The cover is then placed on top and firmly connected to the lower part.

[0006] The temperature-dependent switching mechanism housed within the switch casing comprises a spring-loaded snap disc to which a movable contact element is attached, and a bimetallic snap disc fitted over the movable contact element. The spring-loaded snap disc presses the movable contact element against a stationary mating contact located on the inside of the switch casing, on the cover. The outer edge of the spring-loaded snap disc rests against a second stationary mating contact, which is embedded in the electrically insulating base. The electric current thus flows from the first stationary mating contact, through the movable contact element and the spring-loaded snap disc, to the second stationary mating contact. The two stationary mating contacts are connected to the respective electrical terminals of the switch.

[0007] The temperature-dependent switching behavior of the switch is primarily due to the temperature-dependent bimetallic snap disc. This is usually designed as a multi-layered, active, sheet-metal component consisting of two, three, or four interconnected components with different coefficients of thermal expansion. The connection between the individual layers of metals or metal alloys in such bimetallic snap discs is usually material-bonded or form-fitted and is achieved, for example, by rolling.

[0008] Such a bimetallic snap disc exhibits a first stable geometric configuration (low-temperature configuration) at low temperatures, below the response temperature of the bimetallic snap disc, and a second stable geometric configuration (high-temperature configuration) at high temperatures, above the response temperature of the bimetallic snap disc. The bimetallic snap disc switches from its low-temperature configuration to its high-temperature configuration depending on the temperature, following a hysteresis-like process. This process is often referred to as "snapping," which also explains the name "snap disc."

[0009] Unless a reset lock is provided, the bimetallic snap disc snaps back into its low-temperature configuration, so that the switch closes again as soon as the temperature of the bimetallic snap disc drops below the so-called return temperature of the bimetallic snap disc as a result of the cooling of the device to be protected.

[0010] In many temperature-dependent switches, the bimetallic snap disc is preferably inserted into the switch housing as a loose component during the switch manufacturing process. The bimetallic snap disc, for example, is fitted over the contact part attached to the spring-loaded snap disc, using a central through-hole provided in the disc. Only when the switch housing is closed is the bimetallic snap disc then fixed in its position and its position relative to the other components of the switching mechanism determined. This is also the method used in the switch mentioned above, which is known from DE 196 09 310 A1.

[0011] However, the production of such a switch, in which the bimetallic snap disc is inserted individually, has proven to be relatively cumbersome, as several steps are necessary to insert the switching mechanism into the switch housing.

[0012] In a switch known from DE 10 2011 119 632 B3, the bimetallic snap disc is pre-connected (outside the switch housing) to the contact part attached to the spring-loaded snap disc. For this purpose, the bimetallic snap disc is placed over the contact part, and then an upper collar of the contact part is folded over. As a result, not only is the spring-loaded snap disc attached to the contact part, but the bimetallic snap disc is also held captive to it.

[0013] The switching mechanism, consisting of the bimetallic snap disc, the spring-loaded snap disc, and the movable contact element, can thus be pre-manufactured as a semi-finished product, forming a captive unit that can be stored separately in bulk. During switch manufacturing, the switching mechanism can then be inserted into the switch housing as a captive unit. This simplifies the production of the switch considerably.

[0014] In the switch known from DE 10 2011 119 632 B3, the spring-loaded snap disc is welded or soldered to the contact part to ensure the best possible electrical contact between these two components. However, it has been observed that, particularly during bulk storage of the semi-finished switch mechanism, the welded or soldered connection between the contact part and the spring-loaded snap disc can break. Such defective switches are then, of course, unusable. The problem is that defects in the switch mechanism are often only detectable after the entire switch has been assembled, as a functional test of the switch mechanism is only possible when the switch is fully assembled.

[0015] EP 0 795 885 A2, which forms the basis for the preamble of claim 1, discloses a switch with a housing accommodating a temperature-dependent switching mechanism. The housing comprises an electrically conductive lower part and an electrically insulating cover part that closes and is attached to the lower part. On the inside of the cover part, a first, externally plated-through mating contact for the switching mechanism is provided. The lower part serves as the second mating contact of the switching mechanism, which establishes an electrically conductive connection between the two mating contacts depending on its temperature. A first captive terminal electrode is permanently arranged on the cover part and is electrically connected to the first mating contact. A second captive terminal electrode is also permanently arranged on the cover part and is electrically connected to the lower part as a result of the cover part being attached to the lower part.

[0016] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a temperature-dependent switch whose switching mechanism can be pre-produced as a semi-finished product without being susceptible to damage, and with which a functional test of the switching mechanism is possible even before its final installation in the switch. Furthermore, the switch should be relatively easy to mount, have a low profile, and be pressure-resistant.

[0017] This problem is solved according to the invention by a temperature-dependent switch which comprises the following components: A temperature-dependent switching mechanism comprising a switching unit having a movable contact part coupled to a bimetallic snap disc, and a switching unit housing in which the switching unit is arranged, wherein the switching unit housing has a first base body made of electrically conductive material; a switch housing with a second base body made of electrically insulating material in which the switching unit housing is arranged and captive therein, wherein the switch housing has a stationary contact part that acts as a mating contact to the movable contact part; a first connecting contact part that is electrically connected to the first base body of the switching unit housing; and a second connecting contact part that is electrically connected to the stationary contact part; wherein the switching mechanism is configured tobelow a response temperature of the bimetallic snap disc, to hold the switch in a low-temperature position in which the switching mechanism establishes an electrical connection between the first terminal contact part and the second terminal contact part via the movable contact part, and upon exceeding the response temperature, to move the switch to a high-temperature position in which the switching mechanism interrupts the electrical connection, wherein the bimetallic snap disc is configured to snap from a geometrically stable low-temperature configuration to a geometrically stable high-temperature configuration upon exceeding the response temperature, wherein the first base body of the switching mechanism housing separates the switching mechanism unit from a first housing side,The second housing body surrounds the first housing body and the circumferential housing body extending between and transversely to the first and second housing bodies, and has an opening on the first housing body through which the movable contact part interacts with the stationary contact part, wherein the second base body of the switch housing surrounds the first housing body and the circumferential housing body of the switchgear housing, and the switchgear unit is captive within the switchgear housing, and the bimetallic snap disc, in its high-temperature configuration, is supported on a support surface arranged on the first housing body of the switchgear housing, which is formed on the first base body of the switchgear housing, thereby keeping the movable contact part at a distance from the stationary contact part.

[0018] The switch according to the invention thus comprises a switching mechanism which has an additional switching mechanism housing in which the switching mechanism unit, comprising the bimetallic snap disc and the movable contact element, is captive. The switching mechanism housing surrounds the switching mechanism unit, namely from a first housing side, from a second housing side opposite the first housing side, and from a housing circumferential side extending between and transversely to the first and second housing sides. The switching mechanism housing thus surrounds the switching mechanism unit at least partially from all six spatial directions, so that the switching mechanism cannot fall out of the switching mechanism housing.

[0019] The switching mechanism, including the switching unit and the housing surrounding it, can thus be pre-produced as a semi-finished product before being installed in the switch housing. This pre-produced switching mechanism can be stored in bulk. During this bulk storage, the fragile components of the switching unit, particularly the bimetallic snap disc and the moving contact element, are protected by the switching unit housing. Damage to these fragile components during bulk storage is largely prevented, as the components are securely encapsulated within the housing.

[0020] The switching mechanism housing not only offers the advantage of securely containing the switching unit, but also enables a significantly simpler manufacturing process for the temperature-dependent switch. Unlike a conventional switch housing, the newly provided switching mechanism housing is not a completely closed enclosure in which the switching mechanism is hermetically sealed, but rather a partially open housing with an opening on the front side through which the moving contact element is accessible from outside the housing. The switching mechanism, including the switching mechanism housing, can thus be inserted as a single unit into a simplified outer switch housing, which forms the final switch housing.

[0021] While the switchgear housing has a first base body made of electrically conductive material, the switch housing has a second base body made of electrically insulating material. An electrically conductive, stationary contact element is arranged on this electrically insulating second base body. This stationary contact element acts as a mating contact to the movable contact element and interacts with the movable contact element of the switchgear through the opening in the switchgear housing.

[0022] In the manufacture of the temperature-dependent switch, the switching mechanism according to the invention, including its switching mechanism housing, can first be pre-produced as a semi-finished product and then inserted as a whole into the switch housing. This significantly simplifies not only the warehousing of the switching mechanism but also the manufacturing of the temperature-dependent switch.

[0023] The two connecting contact parts, one of which is electrically connected to the first base body of the switch housing and the other to the stationary contact part, are preferably arranged in or directly integrated into the electrically insulating second base body of the switch housing. This has the advantage that when the switch assembly, along with its housing, is inserted, it can be directly connected to the two connecting contact parts. This connection of the switch assembly to the two connecting contact parts occurs automatically when the switch housing is inserted into the switch housing and requires no additional work step.

[0024] As already mentioned, the derailleur housing is a partially open housing. While the second housing side and the outer side of the derailleur housing are preferably closed housing sides, the first housing side, due to the aforementioned opening, is only partially closed or partially open.

[0025] The partially open first side of the switch housing is concealed by the electrically insulating second body of the switch housing. This electrically insulating second body functions as the switch housing or switch base, at least partially surrounding the first side and the outer casing of the switch housing.

[0026] Overall, this results in a switch with a relatively small number of components and a simple design that can be produced in comparatively few steps. The switching mechanism used in the switch can be pre-produced together with the mechanism housing and stored in bulk. The switch housing, consisting of the switch housing and the mechanism housing, is relatively pressure-resistant and can still be designed to be relatively compact and space-saving.

[0027] The above-mentioned task has therefore been completely solved.

[0028] According to one embodiment, part of the first base body, which forms the second housing side of the switchgear housing, forms a freely accessible outer surface of the switch.

[0029] This part of the first basic body of the switch housing is not enclosed by the switch housing when the switch is fully assembled. Therefore, this part of the switch housing can serve as a direct electrical connection surface for the first connection contact.

[0030] The aforementioned part of the first base body of the switch housing, which forms a freely accessible outer surface of the switch, preferably has an outwardly convex, dome- or cup-shaped section. This dome- or cup-shaped section of the switch housing preferably projects at least partially out of the switch housing. "Outwardly convex" in this context means that the dome- or cup-shaped section, from the perspective of the switch housing, bulges outwards, i.e., outwards from the interior of the switch housing. The outer surface of the switch is convex at this point.

[0031] This design of the switch housing makes the switch extremely pressure-resistant. Furthermore, the dome- or cup-shaped section can be very easily used as the external connection surface of the switch.

[0032] As an alternative to using the externally accessible second housing side of the switchgear housing as a connection for the first connection contact part, the first connection contact part can also be electrically connected inside the switchgear housing to the first base body of the switchgear housing and led out through the second base body to the outside of the switchgear housing.

[0033] This has the advantage that the first connection contact part can be integrated into the switch housing in advance, i.e., before the switching mechanism is inserted. The first connection contact part is preferably arranged inside the switch housing in such a way that it automatically comes into contact with the electrically conductive first base body of the switching mechanism housing when the switching mechanism is inserted into the switch housing.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the second connecting contact part is electrically connected to the stationary contact part inside the switch housing and is led out through the second base body to the outside of the switch housing.

[0035] This allows the second connection contact part to be integrated into the switch housing in advance, before the switching mechanism is inserted. The second connection contact part and the stationary mating contact are preferably arranged in the switch housing in such a way that contact with the switching mechanism occurs automatically when the switching mechanism housing is inserted into the switch housing.

[0036] Since the second body of the switch housing is made of electrically insulating material, both connection contact parts can pass through it without causing an electrical short circuit. Preferably, the two connection contact parts are inserted precisely through corresponding openings in the second body of the switch housing. If these openings are not precisely designed, they should be sealed with additional insulating material to ensure a good seal inside the switch and prevent contaminants from entering the switch.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the switch housing has on an inner side facing the switching mechanism housing a first connection contact part receptacle in which the first connection contact part is arranged, and a second connection contact part receptacle in which the second connection contact part is arranged.

[0038] The first terminal contact part receptacle preferably has a first recess into which the first terminal contact part is embedded. The second terminal contact part receptacle preferably has a second recess into which the second terminal contact part is embedded.

[0039] The two terminal contact receptacles are each preferably designed as a kind of "contact nest" in which the two terminal contact parts are protected. The arrangement of the two terminal contact parts is such that they automatically make contact with the switching mechanism when the switching mechanism is inserted into the switch housing during assembly. This makes assembly and electrical contacting of the switch extremely simple.

[0040] According to a further embodiment, the first recess and the second recess lie in a common plane.

[0041] This means that both connection nests are positioned at the same height. This simplifies the connection of the terminal contacts to the switching mechanism.

[0042] According to a further embodiment, the first connecting contact part at least partially surrounds the second connecting contact part.

[0043] The stationary contact part, to which the second connecting contact part is connected, is preferably arranged centrally in the switch housing. According to this embodiment, the first connecting contact part is designed as a partial annular segment. More precisely, the first connecting contact part has a section located inside the switch housing that has the shape of a sector of an annular segment. This section can extend along part of the inner circumference of the switch housing and surround the second connecting contact part.

[0044] According to a further embodiment, an intermediate layer made of electrically insulating material is arranged between the second connection contact part and the switchgear housing.

[0045] This intermediate layer allows the electrically conductive first base body of the switchgear housing to be positioned directly on the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer insulates the second connection contact from the electrically conductive first base body of the switchgear housing.

[0046] According to a further embodiment, the switchgear housing rests on the intermediate part with a first housing section arranged on the first housing side and with a second housing section arranged on the first housing side either directly on the first connection contact part or with an intermediate connecting part made of electrically conductive material on the first connection contact part.

[0047] When the switching mechanism housing is inserted into the switch housing, an electrical connection is automatically established between the switching mechanism housing and the first terminal contact, while the switching mechanism housing is electrically insulated from the second terminal contact due to the intermediate layer. A surface of the intermediate layer preferably lies in the same plane as a surface of the first terminal contact or a surface of the connecting part (if present). The switching mechanism housing can thus be inserted flush into the switch housing, aligned with this plane.

[0048] Preferably, the first connection contact part is electrically connected to the first base body of the switchgear housing via the connecting part made of electrically conductive material, which is arranged between the first connection contact part and the first base body of the switchgear housing.

[0049] This connecting element establishes the electrical contact between the first terminal contact and the first base body of the switchgear housing. The connecting element is preferably pre-installed in the switchgear housing before the switchgear is inserted.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the connecting part has an L-shaped cross-section and rests against the first housing side and the housing circumference side of the switchgear housing.

[0051] Such an L-shaped cross-section has the advantage of increasing the contact area. This improves the contact between the first terminal contact and the first base body of the switchgear housing.

[0052] According to a further embodiment, an outer circumferential surface of the switchgear housing arranged on the housing perimeter side rests against an inner circumferential surface of the switch housing arranged inside the switch housing.

[0053] Preferably, the outer circumferential surface of the switching mechanism housing fits precisely against the inner circumferential surface of the switch housing. This has the significant advantage that the switching mechanism is correctly aligned with respect to the stationary contact part when the switching mechanism housing is inserted into the switch housing. Alignment of the moving contact part of the switching mechanism relative to the stationary contact part occurs automatically when the switching mechanism housing is inserted into the switch housing.

[0054] According to a further embodiment, the diameter of the opening is smaller than the diameter of the bimetallic snap disc measured parallel to it. The bimetallic snap disc is thus securely held in the switchgear housing and cannot detach from it even under significant vibration.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the switching mechanism is configured to keep the switch in a low-temperature position below a response temperature of the bimetallic snap disc, in which the switching mechanism establishes an electrical connection between the first terminal contact part and the second terminal contact part via the movable contact part, and to move the switch to a high-temperature position when the response temperature is exceeded, in which the switching mechanism interrupts the electrical connection.

[0056] Preferably, the bimetallic snap disc is configured to snap from a geometrically stable low-temperature configuration to a geometrically stable high-temperature configuration when the response temperature is exceeded, wherein in its high-temperature configuration the bimetallic snap disc is supported on a support surface arranged on the first housing side of the switchgear housing, which is formed on the first base body of the switchgear housing, and thereby keeps the movable contact part at a distance from the stationary contact part.

[0057] Since, as already mentioned, the switching mechanism is encapsulated in the switching mechanism housing according to the present invention, and the bimetallic snap disc in its high-temperature configuration is supported on the aforementioned support surface inside the switching mechanism housing, a functional test of the switching mechanism can be carried out even on the switching mechanism as a semi-finished product, i.e., before the switching mechanism is installed in the switch housing and the switch is completely assembled. This is because the bimetallic snap disc can already assume its two temperature-dependent configurations inside the switching mechanism housing at this stage.

[0058] This is not possible with conventional switches, as the bimetallic snap disc, due to the absence of the now extra switch housing, rests against the switch housing in its high-temperature configuration, meaning that a functional check is only possible when the switch is fully assembled.

[0059] According to a further embodiment, the switching unit also has a spring-loaded snap disc coupled to the movable contact part, which, in the low-temperature position of the switch, is supported on an inner surface located on the second side of the housing inside the switching unit housing. This inner surface is preferably an inner surface of the electrically conductive first base body of the switching unit housing.

[0060] The additional provision of such a spring-loaded snap disc has the particular advantage of relieving the bimetallic snap disc of stress. In the low-temperature configuration of the switch, i.e., when the circuit is closed via the switch, the spring-loaded snap disc, according to this design, serves as a current-carrying component. The bimetallic snap disc, on the other hand, is then not a current-carrying component.

[0061] Furthermore, in the low-temperature position of the switch, the spring-loaded snap disc generates the closing pressure that presses the moving contact part against the stationary contact part. In contrast, the bimetallic snap disc can be mounted with virtually no force in the low-temperature position of the switch. This has a positive effect on the service life of the bimetallic snap disc and ensures that the switching point, i.e., the response temperature of the bimetallic snap disc, does not change even after many switching cycles.

[0062] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0063] An embodiment of the invention is shown in the drawings and is explained in more detail in the following description. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic sectional view of the temperature-dependent switch according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the switch is shown in its low-temperature position; Fig. 2 a schematic sectional view of the in Fig. 1 of the switch shown, wherein the switch is shown in its high-temperature position; Fig. 3 a schematic sectional view showing a machining step during the manufacture of the temperature-dependent switch according to the one shown in Fig. 1 The embodiment shown is illustrated; and Fig. 4 is a schematic top view of the switch housing of the temperature-dependent switch according to the one shown in Fig. 1 shown embodiment.

[0064] Fig. 1-2 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the switch according to the invention in a schematic sectional view. The switch as a whole is marked with the reference numeral 100.

[0065] Fig. 1 indicates the low temperature setting of switch 100. Fig. 2 indicates the high-temperature position of switch 100.

[0066] The switch 100 has a temperature-dependent switching mechanism 10, which is arranged in a switch housing 12. The switch housing 12 has a base body 14 (referred to here as the "second base body") made of insulating material, e.g., plastic. This base body 14 forms the lower part of the switch 100.

[0067] The switching mechanism 10 comprises a functional switching unit 16 and a switching unit housing 18 surrounding this switching unit 16. The switching unit housing 18 surrounds the switching unit 16 at least partially from all six spatial directions. As explained in detail below, however, the switching unit housing 18 is designed as a partially open housing, so that the switching unit 16 is accessible from outside the switching unit housing 18 from at least one spatial direction, preferably from only one spatial direction.

[0068] Because the switching mechanism housing 18 at least partially surrounds the switching mechanism unit 16 in all six spatial directions, the switching mechanism unit 16 is held securely in the switching mechanism housing 18. The switching mechanism unit 16 therefore cannot detach from the switching mechanism housing 18.

[0069] As long as the switching mechanism 10 is not installed in the switch 100 or its switch housing 12, there is preferably a certain amount of play between the switching mechanism unit 16 and the switching mechanism housing 18. In the Fig. 1 In the installation state of switch 100 shown, the switching unit 16 is firmly clamped. In the Fig. 1 In the low-temperature position of switch 100 shown, the switching unit 16 is clamped between the switch housing 12 and the switching unit housing 18.

[0070] The switching unit 16, according to the present embodiment, is composed of three parts. The switching unit 16 comprises a temperature-dependent bimetallic snap disc 20, a temperature-independent spring-loaded snap disc 22, and a movable contact element 24. The bimetallic snap disc 20 and the spring-loaded snap disc 22 are captive and held in place on the contact element 24. The switching unit 16 can therefore be prefabricated as a semi-finished product and then inserted as a complete unit into the switching unit housing 18.

[0071] The switching mechanism 10, together with the switching unit 16 and the switching unit housing 18, also constitutes a semi-finished product for the temperature-dependent switch 100 that will later be produced from it. Since both the three components 20, 22, 24 of the switching unit 16 are captive connected to each other and the switching unit 16 is also captive held in the switching unit housing 18, the switching mechanism 10 can be stored in bulk until it is installed in the temperature-dependent switch 100.

[0072] The switchgear housing 18 has a base body 26 (referred to here as the "first base body") made of electrically conductive material. This first base body 26 of the switchgear housing 18 surrounds the switchgear unit 16 with a first housing side 28, a second housing side 30 opposite the first housing side 28, and a housing circumferential side 32 extending between and transversely to the first and second housing sides 28, 30 (see Figure 1). Fig. 3 ).

[0073] Preferably, the derailleur housing 18 completely surrounds the derailleur unit 16 on both the second housing side 30 and the housing circumferential side 32. The second housing side 30 and the housing circumferential side 32 thus preferably form closed housing sides of the derailleur housing 18. Only the first housing side 28 is a partially open housing side of the derailleur housing 18.

[0074] In other words, the housing circumference 32 surrounds the switching unit 16 along its entire circumference, i.e., in a total of four mutually orthogonal spatial directions. Furthermore, the switching unit housing 18 completely surrounds the switching unit 16 from another spatial direction, namely from a spatial direction orthogonal to the second housing side 30. Only from the sixth spatial direction, which is orthogonal to the first housing side 28, does the switching unit housing 18 only partially surround the switching unit 16.

[0075] On the first housing side 28, the switchgear housing 18 has an opening 34 (see Fig. 3 ), through which the movable contact part 24 is accessible from outside the switchgear housing 18. Through this opening 34 in the switchgear housing 18, the movable contact part 24 of the switchgear 10 interacts with a stationary contact part 36, which is arranged on an inner surface 38 of the switchgear housing 12 (see Fig. 1 The diameter of the opening 34 in the first base body 26 of the switchgear housing 18 is smaller than the diameter of the bimetallic snap disc 20 and / or the spring snap disc 22 measured parallel to it. Thus, although the movable contact part 24 is accessible from outside the switchgear housing 18 through the opening 34, the bimetallic snap disc 20 and the spring snap disc 22 cannot detach from or emerge from the switchgear housing 18.

[0076] The first base body 26 of the switchgear housing 18 is made of electrically conductive material, e.g., metal. In the embodiment shown here, the second housing side 30 of this electrically conductive base body 26 forms a freely accessible outer surface of the switch 100 (see figure). Fig. 1 ). The first housing side 28 and the housing circumference side 32 of the switchgear housing 18 are arranged completely inside the switch housing 12 and are therefore not accessible from outside the switch 100.

[0077] The opening 34 located on the first housing side 28 in the switch housing 18 is completely covered by the second base body 14 of the switch housing 12 when the switch 100 is assembled. The switch housing 18 is located in the switch housing 12 and is captive to it. For this purpose, during the manufacture of the switch 100, an upper, circumferential rim 40 is pressed radially inwards onto the switch housing 18. This process, which is shown schematically by the arrows 42 in Fig. 3 As indicated, this is preferably achieved by a hot stamping process. The interfaces between the upper edge 40 of the base body 14 of the switch housing 12 and the base body 26 of the switching mechanism housing 18 can be additionally sealed by means of further sealing agents, e.g., with the aid of a sealing lacquer. Thus, the switching mechanism unit 16 inside the switch 100 is hermetically sealed to the outside. Liquids or other contaminants therefore cannot enter the interior of the switch.

[0078] Before the switch housing 12 is connected and sealed to the switchgear housing 18, the switchgear housing as a whole, including the switchgear unit 16 contained therein, is assembled as shown in Fig. 3 shown, inserted into the switch housing 12. The corresponding contacts for the electrical connection of the switching mechanism are already pre-assembled in the switch housing 12, so that the switching mechanism 10 does not need to be connected separately, but its electrical connection is made automatically when the switching mechanism housing 18 is inserted into the switch housing 12.

[0079] The switch housing 12 has two connection contact parts 44, 46. Each connection contact part 44, 46 comprises a cable lug 48, 50 and a connecting conductor 52, 54 connected to the cable lug 48, 50. The connecting conductor 52 of the first connection contact part 44 is electrically connected inside the switch 100 to the electrically conductive first base body 26 of the switchgear housing 18. The connecting conductor 54 of the second connection contact part 46 is electrically connected inside the switch 100 to the stationary contact part 36. Fig. 4 Figure 1 shows the switch housing 12, equipped with the two connecting contact parts 44, 46, in a top view from above before the switching mechanism 10 is inserted into the switch housing 12.

[0080] The two connecting conductors 52, 54 of the connecting contact parts 44, 46 are each led from the outside through the housing wall 56 of the second base body 14 into the interior of the switch. The connecting conductor 52 of the first connecting contact part 44 is arranged in a first connecting contact part receptacle 58, which is formed as a first recess 60 on the inside 38 of the switch housing 12. The recess 60, which forms the first connecting contact part receptacle 58, is preferably designed such that the connecting conductor 52 of the first connecting contact part 44 is received precisely in it.

[0081] The connecting conductor 54 of the second connecting contact part 46 is arranged in a second connecting contact part receptacle 62. This second connecting contact part receptacle 62 is designed as a second recess 64, which is provided in the inner surface 38 of the electrically insulating base body 14 of the switch housing 12.

[0082] The recesses / recesses 60, 64, which form the two connection contact part receptacles 58, 62, preferably lie in a common plane. The first recess 58 at least partially surrounds the second recess 64 (see Fig. 4 ).

[0083] The first recess 60 and the first connecting conductor 52, viewed from above, have the shape of a circular ring sector (see Fig. 4 The second recess 64 and the second connecting conductor 54 arranged therein, however, can be straight or, as in Fig. 4 shown, be designed at an angle.

[0084] The connecting conductor 52 of the first connecting contact part 44 is connected to the switch housing 18 via a connecting part 66 when the switch 100 is installed. This connecting part 66 is a component made of electrically conductive material that establishes the electrical contact between the first connecting contact part 44 and the electrically conductive base body 26 of the switch housing 18. In the embodiment shown here, this connecting part 66 has an L-shaped cross-section to provide the largest possible electrical contact area. The connecting part 66 rests directly on the top surface of the first connecting conductor 52.

[0085] In principle, this connecting part 66 is not strictly necessary, since the first connecting conductor 52 of the first connecting contact part 44 can also be directly connected to the base body 26 of the switchgear housing 18. However, the connecting part 66 also has the advantage that it allows for relatively simple height adjustment.

[0086] The aforementioned height adjustment is particularly necessary because an intermediate layer 68 is arranged between the connecting conductor 54 of the second connecting contact part 46 and the base body 26 of the switchgear housing 18. This intermediate layer 68 is made of electrically insulating material. It provides electrical insulation between the switchgear housing 18 and the second connecting contact part 46.

[0087] The top of the connecting part 66 preferably lies in a plane with the top of the intermediate part 68, so that the switchgear housing 18 with its first housing side 28 lies flat on both parts 66, 68.

[0088] An outer circumferential surface 70 arranged on the housing circumference side 32 of the switchgear housing 18 rests against an inner circumferential surface 72 arranged inside the switch housing 12 when the switch 100 is mounted (see figure). Fig. 1 and 3 Preferably, the outer circumferential surface 70 fits precisely against the inner circumferential surface 72. The switching mechanism 10 is thus automatically correctly aligned with respect to the stationary contact part 36 as soon as it is inserted into the switch housing 12. More precisely, this aligns the movable contact part 24 of the switching mechanism 10 with respect to the stationary contact part 36 during the assembly of the switch 100.

[0089] In the Fig. 1 In the low-temperature position of the switch 100 shown, the electric current flows, i.e., from the first terminal contact part 44 via the electrically conductive base body 26 of the switch housing 18, the spring snap disc 22, the movable contact part 24 and the stationary contact part 36 to the second terminal contact part 46.

[0090] In the low-temperature position of switch 100, the temperature-independent spring-loaded snap disc 22 is in its first configuration, and the temperature-dependent bimetallic snap disc 20 is in its low-temperature configuration. The spring-loaded snap disc 22 presses the movable contact part 24 against the stationary contact part 36, which acts as the mating contact. Switch 100 is thus in its closed position, in which an electrically conductive connection is established between the two terminal contact parts 44 and 46.

[0091] The contact pressure between the movable contact part 24 and the stationary contact part 36 is generated by the spring-loaded snap disc 22. In this state, the bimetallic snap disc 20 is mounted in the switchgear housing 18 with virtually no force acting upon it.

[0092] If the temperature of the device to be protected, and thus the temperature of the switch 100 and the bimetallic snap disc 20 located therein, rises to or above the switching temperature of the bimetallic snap disc 20, the bimetallic snap disc 20 snaps from its position in Fig. 1 shown concave low-temperature position in their Fig. 2 The convex high-temperature position shown is reversed. During this reversal, the bimetallic snap disc 20 rests with its outer edge 74 against a support surface 76 arranged on the first housing side 28 of the switchgear housing 18 (see Fig. 2 ). This simultaneously causes the spring-loaded snap disc 22 to bend upwards at its center, so that the spring-loaded snap disc 22 is displaced from its position in Fig. 1 shown, first stable geometric configuration in its in Fig. 2 The second geometrically stable configuration shown flips over.

[0093] Fig. 2 This shows the high-temperature position of switch 100, in which it is open. The circuit is therefore interrupted.

[0094] When the device to be protected, and thus the switch 100 including the bimetallic snap disc 20, cools down again, the bimetallic snap disc 20 snaps back into its low-temperature position upon reaching the reset temperature, which is also referred to as the return temperature, as is the case, for example, in Fig. 1 This is shown. Thus, a reversible switching behavior can be implemented.

[0095] It is also possible, in principle, to equip the switching unit 16 without the spring-loaded snap disc 22. In such a case, the switching unit 16 then "only" has the bimetallic snap disc 20 and the movable contact part 24. The bimetallic snap disc 20 then not only ensures the switching behavior, but also simultaneously generates the contact pressure between the movable contact part 24 and the stationary contact part 36 in the low-temperature position of the switch 100. The bimetallic snap disc 20 is thus used as a current-carrying component of the switching mechanism 10.

Claims

1. Temperature-dependent switch (100), comprising: a temperature-dependent switching mechanism (10) having a switching mechanism unit (16), which comprises a movable contact part (24) coupled to a bimetallic snap-action disc (20), and having a switching mechanism housing (18), in which the switching mechanism unit (16) is arranged, wherein the switching mechanism housing (18) comprises a first base body (26) composed of electrically conductive material; a switch housing (12) having a second base body (14) composed of electrically insulating material, in which the switching mechanism housing (18) is arranged and held captively therein, wherein the switch housing (12) comprises a stationary contact part (36), which acts as a mating contact to the movable contact part (24); a first connection contact part (44), which is electrically connected to the first base body (26) of the switching mechanism housing (18); and a second connection contact part (46), which is electrically connected to the stationary contact part (36); wherein the switching mechanism (10) is configured so as, below a response temperature of the bimetallic snap-action disc (20), to keep the switch (100) in a low-temperature position in which the switching mechanism (10) establishes via the movable contact part (24) an electrical connection between the first connection contact part (44) and the second connection contact part (46), and, upon exceeding the response temperature, to move the switch (100) into a high-temperature position in which the switching mechanism (10) interrupts the electrical connection, wherein the bimetallic snap-action disc (20) is configured to snap over from a geometrically stable low-temperature configuration into a geometrically stable high-temperature configuration upon exceeding the response temperature, wherein the first base body (26) of the switching mechanism housing (18) surrounds the switching mechanism unit (16) from a first housing side (28), a second housing side (30) opposite the first housing side (28), and a housing circumferential side (32) extending between and transversely to the first and the second housing sides (28, 30), and on the first housing side (28) comprises an opening (34) through which the movable contact part (24) interacts with the stationary contact part (36), and wherein the second base body (14) of the switch housing (12) surrounds the first housing side (28) and the circumferential housing side (32) of the switching mechanism housing (18), characterized in that the switching mechanism unit (16) is held captively in the switching mechanism housing (18), and in that the bimetallic snap-action disc (20) is supported in its high-temperature configuration on a supporting surface (76), which is arranged on the first housing side (28) of the switching mechanism housing (18) and is formed on the first base body (26) of the switching mechanism housing (18), and thereby keeps the movable contact part (24) at a distance from the stationary contact part (36).

2. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 1, wherein a part of the first base body (26) that forms the second housing side (30) of the switching mechanism housing (18) forms a freely accessible outside of the switch (100).

3. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first connection contact part (44) is electrically connected in an interior of the switch housing (12) to the first base body (26) of the switching mechanism housing (18) and is guided outwards out of the switch housing (12) through the second base body (14).

4. Temperature-dependent switch according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second connection contact part (46) is electrically connected in an interior of the switch housing (12) to the stationary contact part (36) and is guided outwards out of the switch housing (12) through the second base body (14).

5. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 4, wherein the switch housing (12), on an inner side (38) facing the switching mechanism housing (18), comprises a first connection contact-part receptacle (58), in which the first connection contact part (44) is arranged, and a second connection contact-part receptacle (62), in which the second connection contact part (46) is arranged.

6. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 5, wherein the first connection contact-part receptacle (58) comprises a first recess (60), in which the first connection contact part (44) is embedded, and wherein the second connection contact-part receptacle (62) comprises a second recess (64), in which the second connection contact part (46) is embedded.

7. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 6, wherein the first recess (60) and the second recess (64) lie in a common plane.

8. Temperature-dependent switch according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connection contact part (44) at least partially surrounds the second connection contact part (46).

9. Temperature-dependent switch according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an intermediate layer part (68) composed of electrically insulating material is arranged between the second connection contact part (46) and the switching mechanism housing (18).

10. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 9, wherein the switching mechanism housing (18) rests with a first housing portion, which is arranged on the first housing side (28), on the intermediate layer part (68) and with a second housing portion, which is arranged on the first housing side (28), either directly on the first connection contact part (44) or on the first connection contact part (44) with a connecting part (66) composed of electrically conductive material interposed therebetween.

11. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 10, wherein the first connection contact part (44) is electrically connected via the connecting part (66) composed of electrically conductive material, which is arranged between the first connection contact part (44) and the first base body (26) of the switching mechanism housing (18), to the first base body (26) of the switching mechanism housing (18).

12. Temperature-dependent switch according to claim 11, wherein the connecting part (66) is L-shaped in cross section and abuts the first housing side (28) and the housing circumferential side (32) of the switching mechanism housing (18).

13. Temperature-dependent switch according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer circumferential surface (70) of the switching mechanism housing (18) that is arranged on the housing circumferential side (32) abuts an inner circumferential surface (72) of the switch housing (12) that is arranged in an interior of the switch housing (12).