Switch

Abstract

To provide a switch in which oil leakage failure is suppressed.SOLUTION: A switch 2 according to an embodiment includes a main body having a cavity located inside, a recess 34 located on a surface, a pair of inner holes 32 each having an opening 50 in the recess 34 and extending to the cavity, and a pair of outer holes 38 each having an opening 52 in the recess 34 and extending to the outside, a pair of terminals 18 respectively penetrating the pair of inner holes 32, a switching mechanism that switches between conduction and interruption between the pair of terminals 18, and a seal 42 that fills a gap between the inner hole 32 and the terminal 18 and is formed by curing a flowable sealant. And a filling body 20 filled in the recess 34 so as to cover a part exposed to the recess 34 side of the terminal 18 and an opening 52 of the outer hole 38, and an obstacle body 44 for preventing the fluid sealing agent from flowing toward the outer hole 38 is provided in the recess 34.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification discloses a switch. [Background technology]

[0002] A push switch is used in a vehicle's transmission to detect modes such as neutral and reverse. The push switch is attached to the transmission case by screwing it into a threaded hole that penetrates from the outside to the inside of the transmission case, with part of it exposed inside the transmission case.

[0003] A typical push switch has a main body, a push button movable relative to the main body, and a pair of terminals. A portion of the push button is exposed inside the transmission case. One end of each terminal is located inside the main body, and the other end is exposed from the main body to the outside of the transmission case. When the driver operates the vehicle to shift into neutral, reverse, or other mode, the push button is pressed inside the transmission case. This causes a switch mechanism provided inside the main body to establish electrical continuity between the pair of terminals inside the main body, turning the switch on. When the force pressing the push button is released, the continuity between the pair of terminals is lost, turning the switch off. A study on a switch for a vehicle stop lamp is disclosed in Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 59-77726. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 59-77726 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When assembling a push switch, first the main body including the button and switch mechanism is assembled. A recess is provided on the top surface of the main body, and a pair of holes with openings are provided in this recess. A pair of terminals are attached to the main body by inserting each into the corresponding hole. A harness is attached to the terminals, and then a fluid filler is filled into the recess so as to cover the exposed parts of the terminals. The fluid filler is hardened by heat treatment and becomes a filler. This completes the push switch.

[0006] During the heating process of the fluid filler, the air inside the body is also heated. This heating causes the air inside the body to expand and enter the filler through the gap between the hole and the terminal. This causes voids in the filler. When a push switch is used in a vehicle transmission, transmission oil can enter the body through the gap between the body and the push button. This oil can leak into the recess through the gap between the hole and the terminal, and then through the void and leak out of the harness. To prevent transmission oil from leaking out, a sealant can be applied to the terminal to fill the gap between the hole and the terminal, but due to variations in application, it is difficult to completely fill this gap. Furthermore, if the sealant reaches the outer hole through which the harness passes, oil can flow along the interface between the filler and the seal and leak out of the harness.

[0007] The inventor's intention is to provide a switch that suppresses oil leakage defects even when used in an environment where oil is present around the main body, such as a switch attached to a transmission, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A switch in one embodiment comprises a body having a cavity located inside, a recess located on the surface, a pair of inner holes that open into the recess and extend to the cavity, and a pair of outer holes that open into the recess and extend to the outside; a pair of terminals that pass through each of the pair of inner holes; a switching mechanism that switches between conduction and cut-off between the pair of terminals; a seal made of hardened fluid sealant that fills the gap between the inner holes and the terminals; and a filler filled into the recess so as to cover the exposed portion of the terminal on the recess side and the opening of the outer hole, and an obstacle is provided in the recess to prevent the fluid sealant from flowing toward the outer hole. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] In this switch, an obstacle is provided in the recess to prevent the flowable sealant from flowing toward the outer hole. The obstacle makes it easier for the sealant to remain near the terminal, so the gap between the terminal and the inner hole is effectively filled with the seal. This contributes to suppressing the occurrence of voids. Furthermore, because the obstacle prevents the sealant from flowing to the outer hole, even if oil leaks into the recess from the gap between the terminal and the inner hole, this oil is prevented from reaching the outer hole along the interface between the filler and the seal. This switch suppresses oil leakage defects. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a switch according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the switch of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] 4(a) is a plan view of the terminal holder of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line IVb-IVb of FIG. 4(a). [Figure 5] FIG. 5(a) is a perspective, half-sectional view of the terminal holder shown together with the terminals, seal, and harness, and FIG. 5(b) is a plan view of the terminal holder of FIG. 5(a). [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the terminal of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective, one-sided cross-sectional view showing a terminal holder of a switch according to another embodiment together with a terminal. [Figure 9] 9(a) and 9(b) are perspective, one-sided cross-sectional views showing a terminal holder of a switch according to still another embodiment together with a terminal. [Figure 10] 10(a) and 10(b) are perspective, one-side cross-sectional views of a terminal holder of a switch according to still another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a switch 2 according to one embodiment. The switch 2 is a push switch 2 that can be used in a vehicle transmission. In FIG. 1, arrow X indicates the front of the switch 2, and the opposite is the rear. Arrow Y indicates the leftward direction of the switch 2, and the opposite is the rightward direction. Arrow Z indicates the upward direction of the switch 2, and the opposite is the downward direction. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the switch 2 in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the switch 2 includes a body 4, a terminal holder 14, a pressing bar 6, and a filler 20. The body 4 and the terminal holder 14 form the main body of the switch 2. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the switch 2 further includes a pair of terminals 18, a conductor 8, a spring base 10, a spring 12, and a seal 42. FIGS. 1-3 also show a harness 22 connected to the switch 2. Note that the seal 42 and the filler 20 are omitted from FIG. 2.

[0013] The body 4 is generally cylindrical. The body 4 has an internal cavity. In this embodiment, the body 4 has an upper portion 4a and a lower portion 4b. As can be seen from FIG. 2, in a plan view, the upper portion 4a is generally hexagonal, and the lower portion 4b is generally circular. A screw thread is formed on the side of the lower portion 4b, which is used when attaching the switch 2 to the transmission. The top surface of the body 4 is open. The body 4 has an opening 16 on the upper side. As shown in FIG. 3, the body 4 also has an opening on the lower side. The body 4 is typically made of metal. A preferred material for the body 4 is carbon steel. The material for the body 4 may be stainless steel. The material for the body 4 may be a resin composition.

[0014] The pressure bar 6 is located inside the lower portion 4b of the body 4. As shown in FIG. 3, the pressure bar 6 penetrates the lower portion 4b. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the tip of the pressure bar 6 is exposed from an opening on the lower side of the body 4. The pressure bar 6 is not fixed to the body 4. The pressure bar 6 is movable relative to the body 4. The pressure bar 6 is typically made of a resin composition or a metal. Preferred materials for the pressure bar 6 include oil-resistant resins such as nylon 66 if the resin composition is used, and carbon steel if the metal is used. If the pressure bar 6 is made of a metal, an insulator for insulating the pressure bar 6 from the conductor 8 is provided between the pressure bar 6 and the conductor 8.

[0015] The conductor 8 is located at the upper end of the pressure bar 6. As shown in FIG. 2, the conductor 8 comprises a base 8a and a pair of wings 8b. The base 8a is ring-shaped. Each wing 8b extends upward from the base 8a. The base 8a and the wings 8b are integrally formed. The conductor 8 has a leaf spring structure in which the wings 8b are bent relative to the base 8a. The conductor 8 is electrically conductive. A preferred material for the conductor 8 is phosphor bronze. The material for the conductor 8 may also be stainless steel or an aluminum alloy. In this specification, a substance is said to be "conductive" when the electrical conductivity of the substance is 10 6This means that the resistance is greater than or equal to S / m. Here, "S" stands for the reciprocal of resistance "Ω (ohm)" (Siemens), and "m" stands for distance (meters).

[0016] The spring base 10 is located on the base 8a of the conductor 8. The spring base 10 is located between a pair of wing portions 8b. The spring base 10 is cylindrical. The spring base 10 is typically made of a resin composition. A preferred material for the spring base 10 is an oil-resistant resin such as nylon 66.

[0017] The pressure bar 6, the conductor 8, and the spring base 10 are fixed to one another. For example, when the pressure bar 6 is pushed from the outside and moves relative to the body 4, the conductor 8 and the spring base 10 also move. Here, the pressure bar 6, the conductor 8, and the spring base 10 are collectively referred to as a "pressure unit 24." The pressure unit 24 is shown in FIG. 2.

[0018] As shown in Fig. 3, the spring base 10 is fitted into the lower end portion of the spring 12. A spring receiver 30 of the terminal holder 14 (described later) is fitted into the upper end portion of the spring 12. The spring 12 maintains a predetermined distance between the spring base 10 and the terminal holder 14. As a result, as shown in Fig. 3, the conductor 8 and the pair of terminals 18 are spaced apart. The conductor 8 and the pair of terminals 18 are not in contact with each other.

[0019] FIG. 4(a) is a plan view showing the terminal holder 14, and FIG. 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line IVb-IVb in FIG. 4(a). The terminal holder 14 is generally cylindrical. The terminal holder 14 is typically made of a resin composition. Preferred materials for the terminal holder 14 include PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) and 66 nylon. The terminal holder 14 may also be made of PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) and PET (polyethylene terephthalate). The terminal holder 14 includes a fitting portion 26, a cover portion 28, a recess 34, a pair of inner holes 32, a pair of outer holes 38, a pair of protrusions 44, and a spring retainer 30.

[0020] The fitting portion 26 is cylindrical. The fitting portion 26 has an internal cavity. The outer diameter of the fitting portion 26 is approximately equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the upper portion 4a of the body 4. As shown in FIG. 3, the fitting portion 26 is fitted into the upper portion 4a of the body 4 from above and is crimped at the upper end of the body 4. This fixes the terminal holder 14 to the body 4.

[0021] The lid portion 28 is located above the fitting portion 26. The lid portion 28 and the fitting portion 26 close the opening on the upper side of the body 4.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4(b), the upper surface of the lid portion 28 is recessed. A recess 34 is provided on the upper surface of the lid portion 28. In this embodiment, the recess 34 has a circular shape in plan view, with the arcuate portion 36 removed. In this embodiment, the recess 34 has a bottom surface 46 and a side surface 48. As shown in FIG. 4(a), the openings 50 of the pair of inner holes 32 are located on the bottom surface 46 of the recess 34. The side surface 48 has an arc-shaped portion 48a and a linear chord portion 48b in plan view. As shown in FIG. 4(b), the openings 52 of the pair of outer holes 38 are located on the chord portion 48b.

[0023] 4(b), each of the pair of inner holes 32 penetrates the lid portion 28. In this embodiment, the inner holes 32 extend from the bottom surface 46 of the recess 34 to the cavity of the fitting portion 26. In this embodiment, the opening 50 of the inner hole 32 is rectangular. A corresponding terminal 18 is inserted into each of the pair of inner holes 32.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 4(a), each of the pair of outer holes 38 penetrates the cover portion 28. The outer holes 38 extend from the recess 34 to the outside. In this embodiment, the outer holes 38 extend from the side surface 48 of the recess 34 to the outside in the arcuate portion 36. In this embodiment, the opening 52 of the outer holes 38 is circular. As will be described later, the outer holes 38 are used to pull in the harness 22 to be connected to the terminal 18 from the outside.

[0025] FIG. 5(a) is a perspective, one-sided cross-sectional view of the terminal holder 14. This figure shows the right half of the terminal holder 14 together with the terminals 18, harness 22, and seal 42. In this figure, only one of each pair of openings 52 of the outer hole 38, opening 50 of the inner hole 32 (hidden by the terminals 18), protrusions 44, and seal 42 is present. In this embodiment, the relationship between the openings 52 of the outer hole 38, opening 50 of the inner hole 32, protrusions 44, and seal 42 is the same on the left half of the terminal holder 14. In the following description, the openings 52 of the outer hole 38, opening 50 of the inner hole 32, protrusions 44, and seal 42 will be described only for those present on the right half. The same applies to the "recessed portion" described below.

[0026] 4 and 5(a), the protrusion 44 is provided in the recess 34. The protrusion 44 is located between the opening 50 of the inner hole 32 and the opening 52 of the outer hole 38. In detail, in the left-right direction, at least a portion of the protrusion 44 is present between the opening 50 of one of the inner holes 32 and the opening 52 of the pair of outer holes 38 that is closer to the opening 50 of this inner hole 32.

[0027] As shown in FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), in this embodiment, the protrusion 44 has a first portion 44a and a second portion 44b. In this embodiment, the first portion 44a is rod-shaped and extends upward from the bottom surface 46 at a chord portion 48b of the side surface 48. The first portion 44a extends above the upper end of the outer hole 38. The second portion 44b extends continuously from the first portion 44a at the bottom surface 46. In this embodiment, the second portion 44b is rod-shaped and bent halfway. The second portion 44b extends from the chord portion 48b of the side surface 48 at the bottom surface 46, bends halfway, and reaches the arc portion 48a of the side surface 48. The second portion 44b, together with the side surface 48, forms an "enclosure" that surrounds the opening 50 of one of the inner holes 32. The second portion 44b may not be bent, or may be bent multiple times. The first portion 44a or the second portion 44b does not have to be rod-shaped. The first portion 44a or the second portion 44b may have a shape other than a rod shape.

[0028] The spring bearing 30 protrudes downward from the cover portion 28. The spring bearing 30 is cylindrical. As shown in FIG. 3, the spring bearing 30 is fitted onto the upper end of the spring 12. In this embodiment, the spring bearing 30 is integrally formed with the cover portion 28.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a pair of terminals 18. In this embodiment, one terminal 18 is the other terminal 18 rotated 180° around the Z axis, and the two terminals have substantially the same shape. The terminal 18 includes a contact portion 18a extending vertically and a grip portion 18b extending horizontally from the upper end of the contact portion 18a. In this embodiment, the contact portion 18a has a long, thin, flat plate shape. As shown in FIG. 3, the contact portion 18a penetrates the inner hole 32. The lower end of the contact portion 18a extends to the cavity in the body 4. The grip portion 18b is exposed on the recess 34 side of the lid portion 28. The grip portion 18b has a slit 40 extending downward from its upper end. In this embodiment, the contact portion 18a and the grip portion 18b are integrally formed. The terminal 18 is conductive. Preferred materials for the terminal 18 include copper and brass.

[0030] 5(a) and 5(b), each of the pair of harnesses 22 is inserted into the corresponding outer hole 38. The harnesses 22 pass through the outer hole 38 and extend into the recess 34. The harnesses 22 are passed through the slits 40. The harnesses 22 are held by the slits 40. In this embodiment, the harnesses 22 are soldered to the holding portion 18b. This electrically connects the harnesses 22 and the terminals 18.

[0031] Fig. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of the terminal 18 in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 7, 5(a) and 5(b), the seal 42 is filled around the opening 50 of the inner hole 32 into which the terminal 18 is inserted. In this embodiment, the seal 42 is filled inside the enclosure formed by the protrusion 44 and the side surface 48. Although not shown, the seal 42 also fills the gap between the terminal 18 and the inner hole 32. The seal 42 is formed by hardening a fluid sealant. A preferred example of the seal 42 is a silicone adhesive.

[0032] The filler 20 is filled in the recess 34. As shown in FIG. 3, the filler 20 covers the gripping portion 18b of the terminal 18. The filler 20 also covers the opening 52 of the outer hole 38 and the portion of the harness 22 that has passed through the outer hole 38 and reached the recess 34. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1, the terminal 18, the opening 52 of the outer hole 38, and the portion of the harness 22 that has reached the recess 34 are not exposed to the outside. The filler 20 is formed by hardening a fluid filler. In this embodiment, the filler 20 is made of a thermosetting resin. A resin that hardens at room temperature may also be used as the filler 20. An example of a preferred filler 20 is epoxy resin.

[0033] The switch 2 is switched on / off as follows. In the state shown in FIG. 3, the switch 2 is off. When an upward force is applied to the tip of the pressing bar 6, an upward force is applied to the spring 12 via the spring rest 10. The spring 12 is compressed, and the pressing unit 24 moves upward. As the conductors 8 move upward from the state shown in FIG. 3, each wing 8b comes into contact with the corresponding terminal 18. Both of the pair of terminals 18 come into contact with the conductors 8. This brings the pair of terminals 18 into electrical conduction, and the switch 2 enters the on state. When the force applied to the tip of the pressing bar 6 is released, the pressing unit 24 is pushed downward by the spring 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the wing 8b and the terminal 18 separate. The electrical conduction between the pair of terminals 18 is interrupted, and the switch 2 returns to the off state. The pressing bar 6 functions as a "push button" for switching between conduction and interruption between the pair of terminals 18. The pressing unit 24 and the spring 12 constitute a switching mechanism for switching between conduction and interruption between the pair of terminals 18.

[0034] In assembling this switch 2, the pressing bar 6, conductor 8, and spring base 10 are combined to prepare the pressing unit 24. Furthermore, the body 4, spring 12, terminal holder 14, terminal 18, and harness 22 are also prepared. As shown in FIG. 2 , the pressing unit 24 is inserted into the body 4 through the opening 16 of the body 4 (S1), and then the spring 12 is attached to the spring base 10 (S2). The terminal holder 14 is fitted to the body 4 (S3), and each of the pair of terminals 18 is inserted into the corresponding inner bore 32 (S4). The pair of harnesses 22 are passed through the corresponding outer bores 38 and then through the slits 40 in the gripping portions 18b of the corresponding terminals 18 (S5). Although not shown, a sealant is poured around the opening 50 of the inner bore 32, filling the inside of the enclosure formed by the protrusions 44 with the sealant (S6). The sealant hardens to form the seal 42. A fluid filler is poured into the recess 34 of the lid portion 28, filling the recess 34 (S7). In this embodiment, the fluid filler is hardened by heating, forming the filler 20. This completes the assembly of the switch 2. Note that a sealant may be filled before the harness 22 is passed through the outer hole 38.

[0035] The effects of this embodiment will be described below.

[0036] In this switch 2, the recess 34 is provided with a protrusion 44 located between the opening 50 of the inner hole 32 and the opening 52 of the outer hole 38. This protrusion 44 forms an obstacle that prevents the flowable sealant from flowing toward the outer hole 38. Because the protrusion 44 makes it easier for the sealant to remain near the terminal 18, the gap between the terminal 18 and the inner hole 32 is effectively filled with the seal 42. This contributes to suppressing the occurrence of voids. Furthermore, because the protrusion 44 prevents the sealant from flowing to the outer hole 38, even if oil leaks from the gap between the terminal 18 and the inner hole 32 toward the filler 20, this oil is prevented from reaching the outer hole 38 along the interface between the filler 20 and the seal 42. In this switch 2, oil leakage defects are suppressed.

[0037] In this switch 2, the protrusion 44, together with the side surface 48 of the recess 34, forms an enclosure surrounding the inner hole 32. The seal 42 is filled within this enclosure. This allows the sealant to remain more effectively near the terminal 18, which contributes to suppressing the occurrence of voids. Furthermore, this enclosure more effectively prevents the sealant from flowing to the outer hole 38. In this switch 2, oil is prevented from reaching the outer hole 38 along the interface between the filler 20 and the seal 42. In this switch 2, oil leakage defects are suppressed.

[0038] In this switch 2, the protrusion 44 has a first portion 44a that extends upward from the bottom surface 46 on the side surface 48. The first portion 44a effectively prevents the sealant from flowing up to the outer hole 38, which has an opening 52 on the side surface 48. In this switch 2, oil is prevented from reaching the outer hole 38 along the interface between the filler 20 and the seal 42. In this switch 2, oil leakage defects are suppressed. From this perspective, it is preferable that the first portion 44a extend upward beyond the upper end of the opening 52 of the outer hole 38.

[0039] 8 is a perspective, one-sided cross-sectional view of a terminal holder 62 of a switch 60 according to another embodiment. In this figure, a terminal 64 is inserted into an inner hole of the terminal holder 62. This switch 60 differs from the switch 2 shown in FIG. 1-7 in the shape of the protrusion 66. This switch 60 is the same as the switch 2 shown in FIG. 1-7 except for the protrusion 66.

[0040] In this switch 60, the protrusion 66 includes a plate-shaped portion 66a and a rod-shaped portion 66b. The plate-shaped portion 66a extends from the side surface 68 along the bottom surface 70. In this embodiment, the height of the plate-shaped portion 66a is greatest at the end closest to the side surface 68 and decreases with increasing distance from the side surface 68. The height of the plate-shaped portion 66a at the end closest to the side surface 68 is higher than the upper end of the opening 72 of the outer hole 74. The rod-shaped portion 66b has a rod shape that is bent partway. The rod-shaped portion 66b extends continuously from the plate-shaped portion 66a at the bottom surface 70, then bends partway and reaches the arc portion of the side surface 68. The plate-shaped portion 66a and the rod-shaped portion 66b, together with the side surface 68, form an "enclosure" that surrounds the opening 76 of the inner hole.

[0041] In this switch 60, the protrusion 66 has a plate-like portion 66a extending from the side surface 68 along the bottom surface 70. The plate-like portion 66a effectively prevents the sealant from flowing to an outer hole 74 having an opening 72 in the side surface 68. In this switch 60, oil is prevented from reaching the outer hole 74 along the interface between the filler and the seal. In this switch 60, oil leakage defects are suppressed.

[0042] In this switch 60, the height of the plate-shaped portion 66a is greatest at the end on the side surface 68 side. The plate-shaped portion 66a, which is taller at the end on the side surface 68 side, effectively prevents the sealant from flowing up to the outer hole 74, which has an opening 72 in the side surface 68. From this perspective, it is preferable that the height of the plate portion at the end on the side surface 68 side is higher than the upper end of the opening 72 of the outer hole 74. In this switch 60, the height of the plate-shaped portion 66a decreases with increasing distance from the side surface 68. This plate-shaped portion 66a does not get in the way when inserting the terminal 64 into the inner hole. This switch 60 maintains ease of assembly.

[0043] FIG. 9(a) is a perspective, one-sided cross-sectional view of a terminal holder 82 of a switch 80 according to yet another embodiment. In this figure, a terminal 84 is inserted into the inner hole of the terminal holder 82. This switch 80 differs from the switch 2 shown in FIGS. 1-7 in that a protrusion is not provided in the recess 92, but a recess 86 is provided in the recess 92. The recess 86 includes an opening 90 of the inner hole therein. Although not shown, a seal is filled inside the recess 86. Except for these points, this switch 80 is the same as the switch 2 shown in FIGS. 1-7.

[0044] In this switch 80, a recess 86 including the opening 90 of the inner bore is provided in the recess 92. This recess 86 forms an obstacle that prevents the flowable sealant from flowing toward the outer bore 88. Because the recess 86 makes it easier for the sealant to remain near the terminal 84, the gap between the terminal 84 and the inner bore is effectively filled with the seal. This contributes to suppressing the occurrence of voids. Furthermore, because the recess 86 prevents the sealant from flowing to the outer bore 88, even if oil leaks into the recess from the gap between the terminal 84 and the inner bore, this oil is prevented from reaching the outer bore 88 along the interface between the filler and the seal. In this switch 80, oil leakage defects are suppressed.

[0045] FIG. 9(b) is a perspective, one-sided cross-sectional view of a terminal holder 102 of a switch 100 according to yet another embodiment. In this figure, a terminal 104 is inserted into the inner hole of the terminal holder 102. Like the switch 80 of FIG. 9(a), this switch 100 has a recess 108 in the depression 106 that includes an opening 110 to the inner hole. This switch 100 further includes a protrusion 114 located on a side surface 112. Other than including the protrusion 114, this switch 100 is the same as the switch 100 of FIG. 9(a). In this switch 100, the recess 108 and the protrusion 114 form an obstacle that prevents the flowable sealant from flowing toward the outer hole 116.

[0046] The protrusion 114 is located between the opening 110 of the inner hole and the opening 117 of the outer hole 116 in the left-right direction. The protrusion 114 is rod-shaped. The protrusion 114 extends upward from a position on the bottom surface 118 where the recess 108 is not provided. The protrusion 114 extends above the upper end of the outer hole 116. In this embodiment, the protrusion 114 extends to the upper end of the chord portion of the side surface 112.

[0047] In this switch 100, the recess 106 is provided with a recess 108 including an opening 110 of the inner hole, and a protrusion 114 extending upward from a bottom surface 118 on a side surface 112. The recess 108 makes it easier for the sealant to remain near the terminal 104, so the gap between the terminal 104 and the inner hole is effectively filled by the seal. This contributes to suppressing the occurrence of voids. The recess 108 and the protrusion 114 effectively prevent the sealant from flowing to an outer hole 116 having an opening 117 on the side surface 112. In this switch 100, oil is prevented from reaching the outer hole 116 along the interface between the filler and the seal. In this switch 100, oil leakage defects are suppressed. From this perspective, it is preferable that the protrusion 114 extend above the upper end of the opening 117 of the outer hole 116.

[0048] Fig. 10(a) is a perspective one-side cross-sectional view of a terminal holder 122 of a switch 120 according to yet another embodiment. Similar to the switch 100 of Fig. 9(b), this switch 120 includes a recess 128 including an opening 126 of an inner hole, and a protrusion 132 located between the opening 126 of an inner hole 138 and an opening 131 of an outer hole 130. In this switch 120, the shapes of the recess 136 and the recess 128 differ from those of the switch 100 of Fig. 9(b). Other than the shapes of the recess 136 and the recess 128, this switch 120 is the same as the switch 100 of Fig. 9(b).

[0049] 10(a), in the recess 136 of this switch 120, a portion of the bottom surface 134 closer to the inner hole 138 than the protrusion 132 in the left-right direction has a protruding portion 140 that protrudes outward. In this embodiment, the contour of the protruding portion 140 is arc-shaped in a plan view. The recess 128 extends as far as the protruding portion 140.

[0050] In this switch 120, the portion of the bottom surface 134 closer to the inner hole 138 than the protrusion 132 has an arc-shaped protrusion 140, and the recess 128 reaches this protrusion 140. This allows the area of ​​the recess 128 to be increased. A large recess 128 can store a large amount of fluid sealant, effectively preventing the fluid sealant from flowing toward the outer hole 130. Furthermore, in the large recess 128, the sealant tends to remain near the terminal 124, so the gap between the terminal 124 and the inner hole 138 is effectively filled by the seal. This contributes to the suppression of voids. In this switch 120, oil leakage defects are suppressed.

[0051] 10(b) is a perspective one-side cross-sectional view of a terminal holder 152 of a switch 150 according to yet another embodiment. Similar to the switch 120 of FIG. 10(a), this switch 150 has a protruding portion 160 that protrudes outward from a portion of the bottom surface 154 that is closer to the inner hole 158 than the protrusion 156 in the left-right direction. In this switch 150, the shape of the protruding portion 160 and the shape of the recessed portion 162 differ from those of the switch 120 of FIG. 10(a). Other than the shape of the protruding portion 160 and the shape of the recessed portion 162, this switch 150 is the same as the switch 120 of FIG. 10(a).

[0052] 10(b), in the switch 150, the contour of the protruding portion 160 is tapered outward in a plan view. The recess 162 reaches the protruding portion 160.

[0053] In this switch 150, the portion of the bottom surface 154 closer to the inner hole 158 than the protrusion 156 has a tapered protruding portion 160, and the recess 162 reaches this protruding portion 160. This allows the area of ​​the recess 162 to be increased. A large recess 162 can store a large amount of fluid sealant, effectively preventing the fluid sealant from flowing toward the outer hole 164. Furthermore, in the large recess 162, the sealant tends to remain near the terminal, so the gap between the terminal and the inner hole 158 is effectively filled with the seal. This contributes to the suppression of voids. In this switch 150, oil leakage defects are suppressed.

[0054] In the above, several embodiments of the obstacle that prevents the flow of the flowable sealant toward the outer hole have been described. An obstacle that appropriately combines these may also be provided. For example, an obstacle that combines the protrusion described in FIG. 5 or 8 with the recess described in FIG. 9(a), 10(a), or 10(c) may also be provided.

[0055] In the above, several embodiments of the protrusions and recesses have been described as obstacles that prevent the flow of the fluid sealant toward the outer hole. The protrusions and recesses are not limited to those described in the above embodiments. The protrusions and recesses may have other shapes. It is sufficient for the protrusions and recesses to be able to prevent the flow of the fluid sealant toward the outer hole.

[0056] The above description is based on the assumption that the same obstacle is provided on the left and right halves of the switch. However, different obstacles may be provided on the left and right halves of the switch.

[0057] In the above embodiment, a push switch for a vehicle transmission is disclosed as an example. The application scope of the technology disclosed herein is not limited to push switches for vehicle transmissions. The technology disclosed herein can be applied to any switch that has an inner hole in a main body and a terminal that penetrates this inner hole and that needs to prevent a fluid such as oil from passing through this inner hole and leaking to the outside.

[0058] [Disclosure items] The following items are disclosures of preferred embodiments.

[0059] [Item 1] a main body having a cavity located inside, a depression located on a surface, a pair of inner holes that open to the depression and extend to the cavity, and a pair of outer holes that open to the depression and extend to the outside; a pair of terminals passing through the pair of inner holes, respectively; a switching mechanism that switches between conduction and interruption between the pair of terminals; a seal formed by hardening a fluid sealant that fills a gap between the inner hole and the terminal; a filler filled in the recess so as to cover the exposed portion of the terminal on the recess side and the opening of the outer hole; Equipped with The recess is provided with an obstacle that prevents the flowable sealant from flowing toward the outer hole.

[0060] [Item 2] Item 2. The switch according to item 1, wherein the obstruction comprises a protrusion located between the opening of one of the pair of inner holes and the opening of the outer hole of the pair of outer holes that is closer to the opening of the one of the inner holes.

[0061] [Item 3] 3. The switch according to item 2, wherein the protrusion forms an enclosure surrounding the opening of the one of the inner holes.

[0062] [Item 4] the depression has a bottom surface on which the openings of the pair of inner holes are provided and a side surface on which the openings of the pair of outer holes are provided, 4. The switch according to item 2 or 3, wherein the protrusion has a first portion that extends from the side surface to the bottom surface, and a second portion that extends continuously from the first portion on the bottom surface.

[0063] [Item 5] the depression has a bottom surface on which the openings of the pair of inner holes are provided and a side surface on which the openings of the pair of outer holes are provided, 4. The switch according to item 2 or 3, wherein the protrusion includes a plate-shaped portion extending from the side surface along the bottom surface.

[0064] [Item 6] Item 2. The switch according to item 1, wherein the obstacle comprises a recess configured to include an opening of one of the pair of bores.

[0065] [Item 7] the recess has a bottom surface on which the recess is provided and a side surface on which the openings of the pair of outer holes are provided, The switch of claim 6, wherein the obstacle is located between the opening of one of the inner holes and the opening of the outer hole of the pair of outer holes that is closer to the opening of the one of the inner holes, and further comprises a protrusion on the side surface that extends to the bottom surface.

[0066] [Item 8] 8. The switch according to item 7, wherein, in a plan view, the portion of the bottom surface closer to the one inner hole than the protrusion has a protruding portion that protrudes outward, and the recess extends to this protruding portion.

[0067] [Item 9] 9. The switch according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the outer hole is for drawing in a harness connected to the terminal from the outside. [Industrial Applicability]

[0068] The switches described above are used in a variety of devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 2, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150... Switch 4. Body 6. Pressing bar 8. Conductor 10. Spring stand 12. Spring 14, 62, 82, 102, 122, 152... Terminal holder 16. Body opening 18, 64, 84, 104, 124 terminals 18a...Contact part 18b...Gripping part 20. Filler 22. Harness 24 Pressing unit 26. Fitting part 28...Lid part 30 Spring holder 32, 138, 158... Inner hole 34, 92, 106, 136... recesses 36...Arcuate part 38, 74, 88, 116, 130, 164...outer hole 40 slits 42... Seal 44, 66, 114, 132, 156... Projection 44a...Part 1 44b...Part 2 66a...Plate part 66b...rod-shaped part 46, 70, 118, 134, 154... Bottom of recess 48, 68... Side of recess 48a...Arc 48b...string section 50, 76, 90, 110, 126... Inner hole opening 52, 72, 117, 131....Opening of outer hole 86, 108, 128, 162... Depression 140, 160....Protruding part

Claims

1. a main body having a cavity located inside, a depression located on a surface, a pair of inner holes that open to the depression and extend to the cavity, and a pair of outer holes that open to the depression and extend to the outside; a pair of terminals passing through the pair of inner holes, respectively; a switching mechanism that switches between conduction and interruption between the pair of terminals; a seal formed by hardening a fluid sealant that fills a gap between the inner hole and the terminal; a filler filled in the recess so as to cover the exposed portion of the terminal on the recess side and the opening of the outer hole; Equipped with The recess is provided with an obstacle that prevents the flowable sealant from flowing toward the outer hole.

2. 2. The switch of claim 1, wherein the obstruction comprises a protrusion located between an opening of one of the pair of inner holes and an opening of the outer hole of the pair of outer holes that is closer to the opening of the one of the inner holes.

3. 3. The switch according to claim 2, wherein the protrusion forms an enclosure surrounding an opening of the one of the inner holes.

4. the depression has a bottom surface on which the openings of the pair of inner holes are provided and a side surface on which the openings of the pair of outer holes are provided, 4. The switch according to claim 2, wherein the protrusion has a first portion that extends from the side surface to the bottom surface, and a second portion that extends continuously from the first portion on the bottom surface.

5. the depression has a bottom surface on which the openings of the pair of inner holes are provided and a side surface on which the openings of the pair of outer holes are provided, The switch according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the protrusion comprises a plate-like portion extending from the side surface along the bottom surface.

6. 2. The switch of claim 1, wherein the obstruction comprises a recess provided to include an opening of one of the pair of bores.

7. the recess has a bottom surface on which the recess is provided and a side surface on which the openings of the pair of outer holes are provided, 7. The switch of claim 6, wherein the obstruction is located between the opening of one of the inner holes and the opening of the outer hole of the pair of outer holes that is closer to the opening of the one of the inner holes, and further comprises a protrusion on the side surface that extends to the bottom surface.

8. 8. The switch according to claim 7, wherein, in a plan view, a portion of the bottom surface closer to the one inner hole than the protrusion has a protruding portion that protrudes outward, and the recess reaches this protruding portion.

9. 4. The switch according to claim 1, wherein the outer hole is for drawing in a harness connected to the terminal from the outside.

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