Mechanism for an electrical switch, electrical assembly and electrical switch thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a mechanism (100) for an electrical switch, comprising: - a base (110), - a driver (126) mounted so as to tilt in the base (110; 210) between two positions for bringing a movable contact element (124A) into contact or out of contact with a fixed contact element (132), - a compressible element (150) which is movable between two configurations, including an inactive configuration wherein it is inactive relative to the driver (126), for leaving the driver (126) free to assume either of the two positions, and an active configuration wherein it is received between a bearing surface of the base (110) and the driver and forced against the driver (126), for returning the driver (126) to a stable position among the two positions, - a retaining element (160) for maintaining the compressible element (150) in the inactive configuration, the compressible element (150) being, in the active configuration, free from any cooperation with the retaining element (160) and movable along a movement axis (T1) between the bearing surface and the driver, and cooperating, in the inactive configuration, with the retaining element (160) so as to block said movement. According to the invention, the retaining element (160) is attached to the base (110).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of electrical switches.

[0002] It relates more particularly to a mechanism for an electrical switch as described in the preamble of claim 1.

[0003] Such a mechanism for an electrical switch is known, in particular from document FR3060197 belonging to the applicants. However, in this mechanism, the retaining element consists of an additional dedicated part that is movable relative to the rest of the base. The presence of this additional part increases the complexity of the electrical switch, particularly in terms of manufacture and use, and also increases its size.

[0004] Document EP3333870 further relates to an apparatus mechanism in which a compressible element is used in cooperation with a movable retaining element on the base.

[0005] The aim of the present invention is therefore to propose a new mechanism for an electrical switch of simplified structure and operation and having a reduced size.

[0006] More particularly, the invention proposes a mechanism as described in the introduction, in which said retaining element is fixed to the base.

[0007] Thus, advantageously according to the invention, the retaining element consists of a fixed, non-movable part. It is integrated into the base so as not to cause any increase in the overall size of the base.

[0008] Other non-limiting and advantageous characteristics of the mechanism according to the invention, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations, are set out in claims 2 to 13.

[0009] The invention also relates to an electrical switching assembly for an electrical switch, comprising a mechanism as described above and a control key associated with the driver of this mechanism.

[0010] The invention also relates to an electrical switch comprising such an electrical switching assembly and a housing or a flush-mounting frame at least partially housing said mechanism.

[0011] The invention finally relates to a sealed electrical switch, in which a trim is provided which seals the housing or the embedding frame housing the mechanism as described above, each control button belonging to said trim.

[0012] The description which follows with reference to the appended drawings, given as non-limiting examples, will make it clear what the invention consists of and how it can be implemented.

[0013] On the attached drawings: there figure 1 is a schematic front perspective view of a first embodiment of a double mechanism for an electrical switch according to the invention, the figure 2 is an exploded schematic front perspective view of the double mechanism for electrical switch of the figure 1 , in which the coaches are omitted, the figure 3 is a schematic front view of the double mechanism of the figure 1 , there figure 4 is a schematic side view of the double mechanism of the figure 1 in a first step of implementing a mechanism to switch from rocker operation to push button operation, the figure 5 is a schematic view similar to that of the figure 4 , during a second step of implementing a mechanism to switch from rocker operation to push button operation, the figure 6 is a schematic view similar to that of the figure 4 , in a third step of implementing a mechanism to switch from rocker operation to push button operation, the figure 7 is a schematic view similar to that of the figure 4 , in a fourth step of implementing a mechanism for switching from rocker operation to push button operation, the figure 8 is a schematic profile view of the figure 1 with a mechanism arranged to operate as a rocker and a mechanism arranged to operate as a push button, the figure 9 is a schematic sectional view along plane AA of the figure 8 , there figure 10 is a schematic sectional view along plane BB of the figure 8 , there figure 11 is a schematic front perspective view of the double mechanism of the figure 1 mounted in a housing intended to be arranged protruding from a mounting wall, the figure 12 is a schematic front perspective view of a second embodiment of the double mechanism for an electrical switch according to the invention, the figure 13 is an exploded schematic front perspective view of the double mechanism of the figure 12 , in which the coaches are omitted, the figure 14 is a schematic side view of the double mechanism of the figure 12 with a mechanism arranged to operate as a rocker and a mechanism arranged to operate as a push button, the figure 15 is a schematic sectional view along plane CC of the figure 14 , there figure 16 is a schematic sectional view along plane DD of the figure 14 .

[0014] As a preliminary point, it will be noted that, from one figure to another, the identical or similar elements of the different embodiments of the invention will be referenced by the same reference signs and will not be described each time.

[0015] In the description, the terms "front" and "rear" will be used in relation to the direction of the user's gaze towards the wall on which the electrical switch comprising the mechanism according to the invention is attached. Thus, when the electrical switch is installed in a room, the front will designate the side facing the inside of the room and the rear will designate the side facing the opposite way, towards the outside of the room, that is to say towards the inside of the wall. The front side is also the one facing the user.

[0016] It has been represented on the figures 1 à 16 two possible embodiments of a double mechanism 100; 200 for an electrical switch according to the invention.

[0017] The double mechanism comprises two mechanisms 100; 200 according to the invention.

[0018] Each mechanism according to the invention can be of any type, operated externally by a control button (not shown). It can be a switch or a two-way switch.

[0019] The electrical switch shown here comprises a housing 20 ( figure 11 ) which houses the mechanism 100; 200. This housing 20 is intended to be attached to a wall, according to a surface mounting. Alternatively, the electrical switch may also comprise a flush-mounting frame intended to be attached to an electrical box embedded in the wall. It also comprises a control button (not shown) adapted to actuate a driver 126; 226 ( figures 1 , 2 And 14-16 ) of the mechanism 100; 200.

[0020] The mechanism 100; 200 for an electrical switch is connected to the electrical network for its power supply.

[0021] Furthermore, advantageously, the electrical switch shown in the figures is a sealed switch in which a trim (not shown) is provided to which each control button belongs and which seals the housing 20 or the embedding frame accommodating each mechanism 100; 200.

[0022] Remarkably, here it is fitted with a single base 110; 210 ( figures 1 , 9 , 10 , 12 , 15 et 16 ) for two mechanisms 100; 200. This base 110; 210 houses all the electrical connection terminals 130; 230 and receives the two drivers 126; 226 ( figures 2 , 9 , 13 , 15 ) of the two mechanisms 100; 200.

[0023] Of course, according to a variant not shown, the base can be designed to receive a single driver belonging to a mechanism.

[0024] The base 110; 210 forms an insulating envelope, made for example from molded plastic.

[0025] This base 110; 210 has a generally parallelepiped shape with a front wall 111A; 211A and a rear wall 111B; 211B opposite each other. The front and rear walls are connected by side walls 111C, 111D; 211C, 211D ( figures 2 And 13 ). The base 110; 210 is here formed by the assembly of two parts: a front part 110A; 210A and a rear part 110B; 210B ( figures 2 And 13 ).

[0026] The rear part 110B; 210B of the base 110; 210 comprises several internal walls 112; 212 ( figures 2 And 13 ) which rise from the rear wall 111B; 211B towards the front wall 111A; 211A and delimit housings isolated from each other and adapted to receive the electrical connection terminals 130; 230 ( figures 1 And 12 ).

[0027] Advantageously, the base 110; 210 here comprises six housings, insulated from each other, to accommodate three or six electrical connection terminals depending on whether it is a single mechanism or a double mechanism. The base 110; 210 is therefore advantageously the same whether the electrical switch comprises one control button or two control buttons.

[0028] Here, the mechanism 100; 200 is equipped with six electrical connection terminals 130; 230, three electrical connection terminals forming a first electrical circuit of a mechanism and three other electrical connection terminals forming a second electrical circuit of another mechanism, independent of the first electrical circuit ( figures 2 And 13 ).

[0029] The front part 110A; 210A of the base 110; 210 closes the rear part 110B; 210B at the front so as to retain the conductive electrical parts housed in the base 110; 210, in particular the electrical connection terminals 130; 230 to be connected to the local electrical network.

[0030] The front part 110A; 210A of the base 110; 210 further comprises at least one access conduit 114; 214 ( figure 1 , 2 , 3 And 13 ) which allows access to one of said electrical connection terminals 130; 230 housed in the base 110; 210. The front part 110A; 210A of the base preferably comprises one or two access conduits giving access to each connection terminal 130; 230 housed in the base 110; 210.

[0031] Each access conduit 114; 214 is delimited by an internal face which opens onto an orifice in the front face of the front wall 111A; 211A of the base 110; 210. Each access conduit 114; 214 is adapted for the passage of a stripped end of an electric wire for its electrical connection with the corresponding electrical connection terminal 130; 230.

[0032] The base 110; 210 also has mounting elements at its four corners ( figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 12 And 13 ) for its mounting in the projecting housing 20 (attached to the wall). Preferably, these mounting elements allow the mounting of the base 110, 210 in the housing 20 in at least two mutually perpendicular orientations.

[0033] When mounted in the housing 20, the base 110; 210 is intended to rest on a support plane PS ( figure 1 ) located at the rear of said base.

[0034] These mounting elements are here in the form of mounting tabs 113; 213 extending laterally, at the four corners of the base 110; 210 ( figure 3 ). They extend more precisely in a plane parallel to said support plane PS ( figures 1 And 12 ). This support plane PS is generally parallel to the front walls 111A; 211A and rear walls 111B; 211B of the base 110; 210.

[0035] Here, the four mounting tabs 113; 213 have a central symmetry with respect to a center of the base 110; 210. They extend in a diagonal direction of the base 110; 210 and are equidistant from each other. Each mounting tab 113; 213 comprises a hole for the passage of a fixing screw ( figures 1 And 12 ).

[0036] Each mounting tab 113; 213 is adapted to be placed against the front end of a receiving barrel 21 rising from a bottom wall of the housing 20 so as to make the hole in each mounting tab 113; 213 coincide with a central hole in the corresponding receiving barrel 21 ( figure 11 ). Each mounting bracket 113; 213 is then fixed to the corresponding receiving barrel 21 by screwing in each fixing screw.

[0037] The ends of the receiving barrels 21 of the housing 20 here materialize the support plane PS defined previously ( figure 11 ).

[0038] Alternatively, the mounting elements may comprise an equipment support in the form of a frame surrounding the base. This equipment support may be integral with the base or be a separate part of the base to which the base is attached. In this case, the equipment support and the base comprise reciprocal assembly means.

[0039] Alternatively, the base comprises, for example, elastic snap-on tabs intended to cooperate by snap-on engagement with complementary parts of the housing or the mounting frame.

[0040] The electrical connection terminals 130; 230 are, for example, automatic connection terminals.

[0041] As the more particularly shown figures 2 And 13, each electrical connection terminal 130; 230 is produced by cutting and forming a metal strip. Each electrical connection terminal 130; 230 comprises a cage 130A; 230A, against which a spring blade 130B; 230B extends.

[0042] Each conductive cage 130A; 230A here has two flat areas connected to each other by a bridge. An opening made in this bridge allows the passage of the stripped end of an electric wire. A free end of the spring blade 130B; 230B points to a contact area formed by the inner face of a part of the cage 130A; 230A while the other end of the spring blade 130B; 230B is pressed against the cage 130A; 230A by lateral folds 130C; 230C of this cage ( figures 2 And 13 ).

[0043] For its electrical connection to one of the electrical connection terminals 130; 230, the stripped end of an electric wire (not shown) coming from the power supply network is introduced, via the access conduit 114; 214 provided in the front part 110A; 210A of the base 110; 210 of the mechanism 100; 200, into the cage 130A; 230A of said terminal, so that the stripped conductive core of said electric wire is wedged between the inner face of said cage 130A; 230A and the free end of said spring blade 130B; 230B.

[0044] The leaf spring 130B; 230B is prestressed so that under the action of the electric wire introduced into said cage, it moves away from said contact zone and it exerts sufficient pressure on the stripped metal core of said electric wire in order to establish good electrical contact between the electrical connection terminal and the metal core of the electric wire while preventing the electric wire from being manually pulled out of the cage unintentionally (the wedging force exerted by the leaf spring must withstand a standardized tensile force exerted on the electric wire).

[0045] To extract the electrical wires from the electrical connection terminals 130; 230, there are provided, in a manner known per se, pushers (not shown) which can be maneuvered through openings 131; 231 ( figures 1 , 2 , 3 And 13) made in the front part 110A; 210A of the base 110; 210 of the mechanism 100; 200 to push on an operating part of said leaf springs 130B; 230B of said electrical connection terminals 130; 230 in order to separate said leaf springs 130B; 230B from the electrical wires. These electrical wires free from the grip of the leaf springs 130B; 230B can be easily pulled out of the mechanism 100; 200.

[0046] In a conventional manner to define an electrical circuit, each control key is associated, via each driver 126; 226, with three electrical connection terminals 130; 230. Among the three electrical connection terminals, in the examples shown here, two electrical connection terminals 130; 230 comprise a fixed contact element.

[0047] More precisely, here, the cage 130A; 230A of two electrical connection terminals 130; 230 is extended by an end portion provided with a fixed contact grain 132; 232 ( figures 2 And 13 ).

[0048] The third electrical connection terminal 130; 230 is connected, by a conductive plate, to a fixed yoke 123; 223 on which is pivotally mounted a movable part, called a brush 124; 224, received in this yoke 123; 223 ( figures 2 , 9 , 10 And 13 , 15, 16 ).

[0049] This screed 123; 223 is in the form of a profile whose section has a V shape. This profile extends substantially parallel to the support plane PS ( figures 1 , 9 , 10 , 13 , 15, 16 ) located at the rear of said base 110; 210. Its longitudinal axis defines a pivot axis A1; B1 for the brush 124; 224 ( figures 1 , 9 , 10 ,13 , 15, 16 ).

[0050] Each brush 124; 224 is in the form of an L-shaped plate, one branch of which is received by its edge in the yoke 123; 223 so as to establish electrical contact and the other branch carries at its free end a movable contact grain 124A; 224A ( figures 2 And 13 ).

[0051] By virtue of the movement of each driver 126; 226, each brush 124; 224 is adapted to pivot about said pivot axis A1; B1 between two extreme positions, to bring into contact or out of contact a movable contact element, here in the form of the movable contact grain 124A; 224A carried by the brush 124; 224, with at least one fixed contact grain 132; 232 carried by one of said fixed contact elements of said electrical connection terminals 130; 230 ( figures 9, 10 , 15, 16 ).

[0052] Each trainer 126; 226 is associated with a single control and therefore a single electrical circuit.

[0053] Each driver 126; 226 is here mounted to pivot about a tilting axis on the base 110; 210 in order to move the corresponding brush 124; 224 between its two extreme positions.

[0054] It is for example mounted tilting by means of two pins formed on the driver 126; 226 and respectively engaged in two corresponding orifices 126A; 226A formed in the base 110; 210 so as to define a tilting axis A2; B2 for the driver 126; 226 ( figures 2 And 13 ). This tilting axis A2; B2 is substantially parallel to the pivoting axis A1; B1 of the associated brush 124; 224.

[0055] Here, each driver 126; 226 is adapted to move the corresponding brush 124; 224 between a first extreme position allowing the movable contact grain 124A; 224A to be brought into contact with a fixed contact grain 132; 232 and another extreme position in which the movable contact grain 124A; 224A is brought into contact with another fixed contact grain 132; 232.

[0056] Alternatively, each driver could be adapted to move the corresponding brush between a position enabling the movable contact grain to be brought into contact with a fixed contact grain and another position in which the movable contact grain is brought out of contact with this fixed contact grain.

[0057] Each driver 126; 226 is an insulating part, made for example from plastic by molding.

[0058] Each driver 126; 226 comprises a front wall 128; 228 which extends on either side of its tilting axis A2; B2 at the front of the base 110; 210. It extends towards the rear by a tubular element 127; 227 ( figures 9, 10 , 15 et 16 ).

[0059] The width of the front wall 128; 228 of each driver 126; 226 here has a standard width called “one module”.

[0060] Alternatively, the trainer may have a width equal to twice the standard width, or a so-called "two-module" width.

[0061] The tubular element 127; 227 is integral with the driver 126; 226 (here made in one piece with the driver 126; 226) and extends rearwardly from the driver 126; 226, at the level of the tilting axis, perpendicular to it, and through an opening provided for this purpose in the front part 110A; 210A of the base 110; 210, between the internal walls 112; 212 of the rear part 110B; 210B of the base 110; 210 ( figures 9, 10 , 15 et 16 ).

[0062] Also provided, in a conventional manner, are elastic tilting means 129; 229 ( figures 2 , 9 , 10 And 13 , 15, 16) of each brush 124; 224. These elastic tilting means 129; 229 conventionally comprise a spring mounted in the tubular element 127; 227 associated with the brush 124; 224 and capable, after crossing a hard point, of urging the brush 124; 224 towards one or other of its extreme positions depending on the position of the driver 126; 226.

[0063] For this, the branch of each brush 124; 224 received in the yoke 123; 223 has, on its edge opposite the edge in contact with the yoke 123; 223, a relief 125; 225 on which the spring forming the elastic tilting means 129; 229 is mounted. (figures 2 And 13 ). The movement of each driver 126; 226 causes the movement of the spring, which causes the movement of the corresponding brush 124; 224.

[0064] Thus, by operating a key (not shown) integral with each driver 126; 226, the user controls the tilting of each driver 126; 226 to one of its positions, which causes the tilting of the elastic tilting means 129; 229, and therefore of the associated wiper 124; 224, so as to bring the movable contact element 124A; 224A into contact or out of contact with the fixed contact element 132; 232. The two positions of each driver 126; 226 correspond to the two extreme positions of the wiper 124; 224.

[0065] The movement of each driver 126; 226 thus causes the movement of the spring, which causes the movement of the brush 124; 224 so as to allow rapid and precise switching of the brush between the two extreme positions while avoiding the formation of electric arcs.

[0066] Advantageously here, a single base therefore has mounting means making it possible to accommodate a single driver in the case of a single control or two different drivers in the case of a double control. A single universal base can therefore be manufactured to adapt to a single control or double control configuration of the electrical switch according to the invention.

[0067] The base 110; 210 forms, for each mechanism 100; 200, a well 115; 215 for receiving a compressible element 150; 250 ( figures 2 , 13 ). This well 115; 215 is here delimited at least partially by a cylindrical wall. It forms a housing for receiving said compressible element 150; 250 which is located under the front wall 128; 228 of the driver 126; 226, that is to say at the rear thereof.

[0068] The compressible element 150; 250 here comprises a spring 152; 252 and a cap 154; 254 slidably mounted relative to the well 115; 215 along the compression axis of the spring 152; 252 ( figures 2 And 13 ).

[0069] The cap 154; 254 has a body 154A; 254A, of cylindrical shape and a head 155; 255. The body 154A; 254A of the cap 154; 254 is here mainly formed by a cylindrical side wall. The end of the body 154A; 254A opposite the head 155; 255 is open. The body 154A; 254A is hollow, so as to be able to house the spring 152; 252. The latter is received in compression between a bearing surface of the base 110; 210, here the bottom of the well 115; 215 of the base 110; 210, and the head 155; 255 of the cap 154; 254.

[0070] The compressible element 150; 250 of each mechanism 100; 200 is movable between two configurations, including an inactive configuration in which it is inactive with respect to the driver 126; 226, to leave the driver 126; 226 free to take one or other of said two positions of this driver ( figures 9 And 16 ), and an active configuration in which it is received between the support surface of the base 110; 210 and the driver 126; 226, and forced against the driver 126; 226, to return the driver 126; 226 to a stable position among said two positions of the driver ( figures 10 And 15 ).

[0071] Each mechanism 100; 200 further comprises a retaining element 160; 260 for maintaining the compressible element 150; 250 in said inactive configuration.

[0072] Thus, in said active configuration, said compressible element 150; 250 is free from any cooperation with the retaining element 160; 260 and movable along a displacement axis T1; T2 ( figures 2 And 13 ) extending between said bearing surface and the driver 126; 226 ( figure 10 And 15 ), while, in said inactive configuration, it cooperates with said retaining element 160; 260 so as to block this movement ( figure 9 And 16 ). The displacement axis T1; T2 is here merged with the longitudinal axis of the well 115; 215 which houses the compressible element 150; 250 and extends along the longitudinal axis of the cap 154; 254 and of the spring 152; 252.

[0073] During the movement of the compressible element 150; 250, the cap 154; 254 is moved in translation along this axis of movement T1; T2.

[0074] Remarkably, the retaining element 160; 260 is fixed on the base 110; 210. It is not movable on the base 110; 210: no part of the retaining element is adapted to move relative to the rest of the base 110; 210.

[0075] Preferably, the retaining element 160; 260 is formed integrally with said base 110; 210.

[0076] This is, for example, a rigid, non-deformable element of the base 110; 210. It is integrated into the base 110; 210 so as not to cause any increase in the dimensions of the base.

[0077] More specifically, the retaining element 160; 260 comprises a retaining surface 160A; 260A of a wall of the base 110; 210 and the compressible element 150; 250 comprises a complementary gripping surface 150A; 250A adapted to bear on the retaining surface 160A; 260A of the wall of the base 110, 210 to block the compressible element 150; 250 in said inactive configuration ( figures 2-10 ,13 , 15 et 16 ).

[0078] In the first and second embodiments shown in the figures 1 à 11 And 12 à 16 ,the retaining element 160; 260 comprises at least one window provided in the base 110; 210. This is more precisely a window provided in the cylindrical wall delimiting the well 115; 215 for receiving the compressible element 150; 250. This window is partially delimited by said retaining surface 160A; 260A. It is arranged on the side of the bottom of the receiving well 115, that is to say at the rear of the well ( figures 2-10 , 13 , 15 et 16 ).

[0079] In the first embodiment of the figures 1 à 11 , the cap 154 ​​of the compressible element 150 has a complex rotational and translational movement to pass from the active configuration to the inactive configuration and vice versa.

[0080] The complementary attachment surface 150A of the compressible element 150 is located for example on two pins 151 which extend radially from the external face of the cylindrical side wall forming the body 154A of the cap 154. Each pin 151 extends close to the free end of this cylindrical side wall opposite the head 155 ( figures 2-10 , 13 , 15 et 16 ). Each pin 151 is fixed and rigid, non-deformable. Two diametrically opposed pins 151 are provided here. These two pins 151 are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cap 154. A portion of the complementary attachment surface 150A is located on each pin 151.

[0081] The retaining element 160 then also comprises two windows opposite and symmetrical with respect to the axis of movement T1 of the compressible element 150. Each pin 151 cooperates with one of these two windows. Each window comprises a portion of the retaining surface 160A.

[0082] The cylindrical wall delimiting the receiving well 115 further comprises, in correspondence with each pin 151 of the cap 154, a longitudinal slot F which opens onto said window. Each slot F extends parallel to the axis of movement T1 of the compressible element 150. It accommodates the corresponding pin 151 of the cap 154 ​​during its translational movement to pass from the active configuration to the inactive configuration and vice versa.

[0083] Thus, in the inactive configuration, each pin 151 of the compressible element 150 cooperates with an edge of the window comprising the retaining surface 160A to limit the translation of the cap 154 ​​forward. The spring 152 remains compressed between the bottom of the receiving well 115 and the head 155 of the cap 154.

[0084] The complementary gripping surface 150A of the pins 151 and the retaining surface 160A of the retaining element 160 each comprise at least one portion which extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of movement T1. Thus, by the action of the spring 152, the complementary gripping surface 150A of the pins 151 is pressed against the retaining surface 160A of the windows forming the retaining element 160.

[0085] The compressible element 150 is then retained behind the driver 126, in the well 115, by the cooperation of the complementary gripping surface 150A of the pins 151 and the retaining surface 160A ( figure 9 ).

[0086] In this inactive configuration, the body 154A of the cap 154 ​​is housed in the well 115. Only the head 155 of the cap 154 ​​is arranged above the well 115. Each pin 151 is housed in the corresponding window of the retaining element 160. The head 155 of the cap 154 ​​is located at a distance from the rear face of the front wall 128 of the driver 126, regardless of the position of the latter. The compressible element is thus free from any cooperation with the driver 126.

[0087] Here, the cylindrical wall of the well 115 further comprises a rib 167, which extends projecting from the retaining surface 160A, into the window forming the retaining element 160 ( figures 1 , 5 And 8 ).

[0088] Each pin 151 then comprises a complementary groove 157 extending from the complementary attachment surface, adapted to receive the rib 167 ( figure 1 , 5 And 8 ).

[0089] Here the rib 167 is located near the slot F, on the front part of the window contour between the retaining surface and the slot F.

[0090] The assembly of the rib 167 and the complementary groove 157 forms means for lateral locking of the compressible element 150. In fact, the cooperation of the rib 167 and the complementary groove 157 prevents any rotational movement of the cap 154 ​​in the well 115 when the compressible element 150 is in its inactive configuration ( figure 4 )

[0091] Alternatively, it is obviously possible to envisage that the rib is carried by the pin and that the groove is carried by the cylindrical wall of the well.

[0092] The dimension of the window along the axis of movement T1 is large enough for the pin 151 to be moved back into the window, towards the rear, so as to disengage the cooperation of the rib 167 and the groove 157. Furthermore, the width of the slot F allows the passage of the pin 151 ( figure 5 ).

[0093] A rotational movement of the cap 154 ​​makes it possible to bring each pin 151 into the axis of the corresponding slot F ( figure 6 ). The pin 151 is then free to slide in the slot F. The spring 152 relaxes and presses the head 155 of the cap 154 ​​against the rear face of the front wall 128 of the driver 126 ( figure 7 ).

[0094] The slots F guide the translational movement of the cap 154 ​​of the compressible element 150 along the displacement axis T1. The compressible element 150 is then in its active configuration ( figure 10 ).

[0095] Preferably, the front wall 128 of the driver 126 located at the front of the compressible element 150, i.e. above the compressible element 150 when the latter is placed on a horizontal support, comprises a through opening 170 giving access to said compressible element 150 from a front side of said mechanism 100 for switch ( figure 3 ).

[0096] As shown in the figure 3 , the head 155 of the cap 154 ​​is provided with a slot 155A for receiving one end of a tool, such as a screwdriver, to control this rotation. The through opening 170 of the front wall 128 of the driver 126 has a shape adapted to limit a rotational movement of the end of the tool to a predetermined angle.

[0097] Preferably, the shape of the through opening 170 ( figure 3 ) is adapted to guide the rotation of the screwdriver through 45°. The passage of the compressible element 150 from one configuration to the other is then achieved by a quarter turn.

[0098] An embodiment has been described here in which two diametrically opposed pins are provided. These two pins ensure satisfactory robustness of the cap 154 ​​and prevent the cap 154 ​​from being clamped in the well 115 when the spring 152 is in compression.

[0099] Alternatively, it is possible to envisage a similar embodiment in which the cap has only one pin.

[0100] In the second embodiment of the figures 12 à 16 , the complementary attachment surface 250A of the compressible element 250 belongs to an attachment tooth 251 which extends from a clipping tab 256 cut out in said cylindrical side wall forming the body 250A of said cap 254, towards the outside thereof ( figure 13 ).

[0101] This hooking tooth 251 is located at the rear of the cap 254. The corresponding window of the cylindrical wall delimiting the well 215 is located near the bottom of the well 215 ( figure 12 ).

[0102] Thus, in the inactive configuration, a front face of the hooking tooth 251 of the cap 254 of the compressible element 250, which forms said complementary hooking surface 250A, cooperates with the edge of this window to limit the translation of the cap 254 towards the front. The spring 252 is compressed between the bottom of the receiving well 215 and the head 255 of the cap 254.

[0103] The complementary hooking surface 250A of the hooking tooth 251 and the retaining surface 260A extend in a plane perpendicular to the axis of movement T1. Thus, the complementary hooking surface 250A of the hooking tooth 251 is pressed against the retaining surface 260A of the window forming the retaining element 260 by the action of the spring 252.

[0104] The compressible element 250 is retained behind the driver 226, in the receiving well 215 by the cooperation of the complementary gripping surface 250A of the gripping tooth 251 and the retaining surface 260A ( figure 16 ). It is clipped onto the window forming the retaining element 260.

[0105] The head 255 of the cap 254 is then free from any cooperation with the driver 226 ( figure 16 ).

[0106] Using the tip of a tool, such as a screwdriver, it is possible to press the clipping tab 256 through the window in the cylindrical wall of the well 215 forming the retaining element 260. In doing so, the clipping tab 256 flexes towards the inside of the cap 254 so as to release the hooking tooth 251 from its cooperation with the window formed in the cylindrical wall of the well 215.

[0107] The spring 252 then relaxes and pushes the cap 254 towards the driver 226. The head 255 of the cap 254 is pressed against the rear face of the front wall 228 of the driver 226 and returns the driver to a single position among the two possible positions for the driver 226. The compressible element 250 is then in its active configuration ( figure 15 ).

[0108] Alternatively, the retaining element may comprise a recess in this cylindrical wall partially delimited by said retaining surface.

[0109] In practice, when using the mechanism 100; 200 according to the invention, the user can switch the compressible element from its active configuration to its inactive configuration and vice versa, simply and quickly, which allows a switch from a rocking back-and-forth operation to a push-button operation and vice versa.

[0110] When the compressible element 150; 250 is in its inactive position, it is compressed so that the body 154A; 254A of its cap 154; 254 is housed in the well 115; 215. The head 155; 255 of the cap 154; 254 remains at a distance from the driver 126; 226. The driver 126; 226 is then free to take one or the other of its two positions. The switch provided with the mechanism 100; 200 then operates in a rocking back and forth manner. In the inactive configuration of the compressible element, the two positions of the driver 126; 226 are stable positions.

[0111] When the compressible element 150; 250 is released from its cooperation with the retaining element 160; 260, the spring 152; 252 can then extend until the head 155; 255 of the cap 154; 254 comes into contact with the rear face of the front wall 128; 228 of the driver 126; 226.

[0112] In this active configuration, it permanently returns the driver 126; 226 to one of its two positions. The driver 126; 226 can then only take the other position transiently, when the user exerts sufficient force on the control key to compress the spring 152; 252 and tilt the driver 126; 226. The switch equipped with the mechanism 100; 200 then operates as a push button.

[0113] In the active configuration of the compressible element 150; 250, only the position to which the driver 126; 226 is returned is a stable position.

[0114] The stiffness characteristics of the compressible element 150; 250, that is to say here precisely those of the spring 152; 252, are such that the compressible element 150; 250 (here the head 155; 255) then exerts, via the cap 154; 254, a sufficient force on the driver 126; 226 to keep it in only one of its two positions, except when a user exerts on the driver 126; 226 a force opposite to that generated by the compressible element 150; 250.

[0115] The spring 152; 252 is for example here a helical spring with an internal diameter of 2.1 millimeters (mm), an external diameter of 3 mm and a height of 13 mm. It is obtained for example with a wire of 0.45 mm in diameter, with a total number of turns equal to 13.

[0116] In the case of the first embodiment, with reference to the figures 4 à 7 , to change the switch with the mechanism 100 from a rocker two-way operation to a push button operation, the user performs the following steps. These are visible on the left part of the mechanism of the figures 4 à 7 The right part of the mechanism of these figures remains here in use in a rocking back and forth.

[0117] As shown in the figure 4 , the compressible element 150 is here initially in the inactive configuration. Here, the two mechanisms 100 shown are in this inactive configuration.

[0118] When the key of the corresponding switch is actuated, this key communicates a rocking movement to the driver 126. This rocking movement causes, as described previously, the movement of the brush 124 of the corresponding mechanism 100 between a first contact position in which the movable contact grain is in contact with the fixed contact grain of one of the fixed electrical connection terminals and a second contact position in which the movable contact grain is in contact with the fixed contact grain of the other fixed electrical connection terminal.

[0119] To switch to push-button type use, the user inserts the tip of a screwdriver 1 into the through opening 170 provided in the front wall 128 of the driver, and inserts this tip into the slot 155A of the head 155 of the cap 154. Using this screwdriver tip, the user pushes the compressible element towards the bottom of the well 115. The cap of the compressible element 150 performs a translational movement from front to rear, until the free edge of the cap 154 ​​reaches the bottom of the well 115 ( figure 5 ).

[0120] Then, the user rotates the cap 154 ​​by performing a screwing or unscrewing movement using the screwdriver ( figure 6 ) through the through opening 170.

[0121] When the user releases the pressure exerted on the screwdriver to keep the spring 152 of the compressible element 150 compressed, each pin 151 of the compressible element 150 slides into the corresponding slot F. The cap 154 ​​is pushed back towards the driver 126. The head 155 comes into contact with the driver 126. The action of the compressible element 150 on the driver 126 permanently pushes the driver 126 into one of its two positions as long as the compressible element is in the active configuration.

[0122] Consequently, when the control key is actuated, the driver 126 only switches to the other position for the duration of the user's action on the control key. The movable contact element is also switched against the fixed contact element corresponding to this other position of the driver for the duration of the user's action on the control key. The spring 152 of the compressible element 150 then pushes the driver back to the return position ( figure 7 ).

[0123] To return to operation in reciprocating mode, the user inserts the tip of the screwdriver 1 through the through opening 170 provided in the front wall 128 of the driver, into the slot 155A of the head 155 of the cap 154. Using this screwdriver tip, the user pushes the compressible element towards the bottom of the well 115. The cap of the compressible element 150 performs a translational movement from front to rear, until the free edge of the cap 154 ​​reaches the bottom of the well 115 ( figure 5 ). Pin 151 slides into slot F.

[0124] Then, the user rotates the cap 154 ​​by performing an unscrewing or screwing movement using the screwdriver ( figure 6 ) through the through opening 170.

[0125] When the user releases the pressure exerted on the screwdriver to keep the spring 152 of the compressible element 150 compressed, each pin 151 of the compressible element 150 slides into the corresponding window and the complementary gripping surface of the pins comes to bear against the retaining surface 160 of the base. The compressible element 150 is kept compressed in its inactive position.

[0126] In the case of the second embodiment, to change the switch from a rocker two-way operation to a push button operation, the user performs the following steps.

[0127] The user presses the clipping tab 256 of the cap 254 using the tip of a tool, for example a screwdriver, through the window forming the retaining element 260 of the cylindrical wall delimiting the well 215 of the base 210.

[0128] This clipping tab 256 flexes and releases the compressible element from its cooperation with the base retaining element.

[0129] The spring 252 relaxes, and the cap 254 is pushed back toward the driver 226. The head 255 comes into contact with the driver 226. The action of the compressible element 250 on the driver 226 permanently pushes the driver 226 into one of its two positions as long as the compressible element is in the active configuration, as described with reference to the first embodiment.

[0130] To return to reciprocating operation, the user inserts the tip of a screwdriver 1 through the through opening 270 ( figures 15, 16) formed in the front wall 228 of the driver, and presses on the head 255 of the compressible element to push the compressible element 250 towards the bottom of the well 215. The cap 254 of the compressible element 250 performs a translational movement from front to rear, until the free edge of the cap 254 reaches the bottom of the well 215. The clipping tab 256 snaps onto the retaining surface of the window formed for this purpose in the cylindrical wall of the well 255. The complementary gripping surface of the snap-in tooth 251 comes to bear against the retaining surface of the base. The compressible element 250 is kept compressed in its inactive position.

[0131] By means of the invention, a switch is provided which can easily be switched from rocker operation to push-button operation, without the need for an additional part, and without certain parts of the switch being separated from it (which implies a risk of loss) and in a particularly compact manner.

[0132] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown in the various figures.

Claims

1. A mechanism (100; 200) for an electrical switch comprising: - a base (110; 210), - a driver (126; 226) mounted so as to tilt in the base (110; 210) between two positions to bring a movable contact element (124A; 224A) into or out of contact with a fixed contact element (132; 232), - a compressible element (150; 250) movable between two configurations, including an inactive configuration in which it is inactive with respect to the driver (126; 226), to leave the driver (126; 226) free to take one or the other of said two positions, and an active configuration in which it is received between a support surface of the base (110; 210) and the driver (126; 226) and forced against the driver (126; 226), to return the driver (126; 226) to a stable position among said two positions, - a retaining element (160; 260) to maintain the compressible element (150; 250) in said inactive configuration, said compressible element (150; 250) being, in said active configuration, free from any cooperation with the retaining element (160; 260) and movable along an axis of displacement (T1, T2) between said bearing surface and the driver (126; 226), and cooperating, in said inactive configuration, with said retaining element (160; 260) so as to block this mobility, characterised in that said retaining element (160; 260) is fixed and non-movable on the base (110; 210).

2. The mechanism (100; 200) according to claim 1, wherein the retaining element (160; 260) is formed with said base (110; 210).

3. The mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the retaining element (160; 260) is a non-deformable rigid element of the base (110; 210).

4. The mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the retaining element (160; 260) comprises a retaining surface (160A; 260A) of a wall of the base (110; 210) and the compressible element (150; 250) comprises a complementary fastening surface (150A; 250A) adapted to bear on the retaining surface of the wall of the base (110; 210) to block the compressible element (150; 250) in said inactive configuration.

5. The mechanism (100; 200) according to claim 4, wherein said retaining element (160; 260) comprises a recess or window in a wall of the base (110; 210) partially delimited by said retaining surface (160A; 260A).

6. The mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein said compressible element (150; 250) comprises a compression spring (152; 252) and a cap (154; 254) housing said spring (152; 252), said cap (154; 254) comprising said complementary fastening surface (150A; 250A).

7. The mechanism (100) according to claim 6, wherein said complementary fastening surface (150A) belongs to at least one fixed peg (151) that extends from a side wall of the cap (154) towards the outside of the latter.

8. The mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein the cap (154) performs a rotational movement to switch from one of said active and inactive configurations to the other configuration.

9. The mechanism (200) according to claim 6, wherein said complementary fastening surface (250A) belongs to a fastening tooth (251) that extends from a clipping tab (256) cut in a side wall of said cap (254), towards the outside of the latter.

10. The mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the cap (154; 254) performs a translational movement to switch from one of said active and inactive configurations to the other configuration.

11. The mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the compressible element (150; 250) is housed in a housing in the base (110; 210) located beneath said driver (126; 226) and delimited by a side wall that comprises said retaining element (160; 260).

12. The mechanism (100; 200) according to the preceding claim, wherein a front wall (128; 228) of the driver (126; 226) located above the compressible element (150; 250) comprises a through-opening (170; 270) giving access to said compressible element (150; 250) from a front side of said electrical switch mechanism.

13. The mechanism (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the compressible element (150) comprises a compression spring (152) and a cap (154) housing said compression spring (152), and the cap (154) performs a rotational movement to switch from one of said active and inactive configurations to the other, a head (155) of this cap being provided with a slot (155A) for receiving an end of a tool, and the through-opening (170) of the front wall (128) of the driver (126) has a shape adapted to limit a rotational movement of the end of the tool to a predetermined angle.

14. An electrical switch assembly for an electrical switch, including a mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims and a control button associated with the driver of that mechanism.

15. The electrical switch comprising an electrical switch assembly according to the preceding claim and a casing or a installation frame at least partially housing said mechanism (100; 200).

16. The electrical switch according to claim 15, this electrical switch being watertight, wherein is provided, a trim that closes in a sealed manner the casing or the installation frame, housing the mechanism (100; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, each control button belonging to said trim.

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