Switch

Abstract

The present invention comprises: a base; a stationary contact member having a plurality of stationary contacts supported by the base; a drive member that moves downward in response to a pressing operation; and a movable contact member that moves together with the drive member and has a plurality of movable contacts of which contact surfaces slide on the stationary contacts. The stationary contact member has an auxiliary stationary contact that comes into contact when the movable contact member moves by a first movement amount, and a main stationary contact that comes into contact when the movable contact member moves by a second movement amount larger than the first movement amount. The main stationary contact is coated with first grease, and the auxiliary stationary contact is coated with second grease having higher resistance to arc discharge than the first grease.

Description

Switch

[0001] The present invention relates to a switch.

[0002] Patent Document 1 below discloses a switch that switches a conduction state by causing a clip-shaped movable contact to slide between an insulating portion and a fixed contact portion in accordance with a pressing operation on an operation member, wherein a technique is disclosed in which an arc discharge contact and a signal switching contact are separately provided on the front and back surfaces of a fixed contact terminal.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-107025

[0004] However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, the arc discharge contact is easily worn by arc discharge, so it is impossible to achieve both a long service life of the arc discharge contact and stable signal switching by the signal switching contact.

[0005] A switch according to one embodiment comprises: a base; a fixed contact member having a plurality of fixed contacts supported by the base; a driving member that moves in response to a pressing operation; and a movable contact member that moves together with the driving member and has a plurality of movable contacts whose contact surfaces slide on the fixed contacts. The fixed contact member has an auxiliary fixed contact that the movable contact comes into contact with when the movable contact reaches a first movement amount, and a main fixed contact that the movable contact comes into contact with when the movable contact reaches a second movement amount larger than the first movement amount. A first grease is applied to the main fixed contact, and a second grease having higher arc discharge resistance than the first grease is applied to the auxiliary fixed contact.

[0006] According to the switch of one embodiment, it is possible to achieve both arc discharge resistance in the auxiliary fixed contact for arc discharge and conduction stability in the main fixed contact for signal switching.

[0007] A perspective view of the switch according to one embodiment. A perspective view of the switch according to one embodiment (with the case removed). An exploded perspective view of the switch according to one embodiment. An exploded perspective view of the contact switching section of the switch according to one embodiment. A perspective view of the contact switching section of the switch according to one embodiment (when not pressed). A perspective view of the contact switching section of the switch according to one embodiment (when pressed). A perspective view of the contact switching section of the switch according to one embodiment (when in full stroke). A figure illustrating the arc discharge prevention structure of the contact switching section of the switch according to one embodiment. A figure illustrating the grease application area of ​​each fixed contact of the switch according to one embodiment. A figure showing a modified example of each fixed contact member of the switch according to one embodiment.

[0008] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. For convenience, in the following description, the Z-axis direction in the drawings will be considered as the vertical direction, the Y-axis direction as the left-right direction, and the X-axis direction as the front-back direction. However, the positive Z-axis direction will be considered upward, the positive Y-axis direction as the rightward direction, and the positive X-axis direction as the forward direction.

[0009] (Overview of Switch 100) Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a switch 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the switch 100 is provided with a cylindrical shaft portion 121 of an operating member 120 and a cylindrical cover 180 that covers the lower part of the shaft portion 121 protruding upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from a through hole 110A formed on the upper surface of the case 110.

[0010] Furthermore, the switch 100 is provided so that the lower part of the first fixed contact member 130 having an external connection terminal 139 and the lower part of the second fixed contact member 140 having an external connection terminal 149 are aligned in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) and protrude downward (negative Z-axis direction) from the bottom surface of the case 110.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, when the operator does not press the operating member 120 of the switch 100, the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are not electrically connected to each other, and the switch 100 is in an off state.

[0012] When the operator presses the operating member 120, the switch 100 switches from the off state to the on state as the operating member 120 moves downward (in the negative Z-axis direction), causing the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 to become electrically connected to each other inside the case 110.

[0013] (Configuration of switch 100) Figure 2 is an external perspective view of switch 100 (with the case 110 removed) according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of switch 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, switch 100 comprises a case 110, an operating member 120, a first fixed contact member 130, a second fixed contact member 140, a base 150, a movable contact member 160, a coil spring 170, and a cover 180.

[0014] The case 110 is a box-shaped component made of resin with a hollow structure. In this embodiment, the case 110 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. A circular through-hole 110A is formed in the center of the upper surface (the surface on the positive Z-axis side) of the case 110, penetrating the upper surface in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). A rectangular lower opening 110B is formed on the lower surface (the surface on the negative Z-axis side) of the case 110.

[0015] The operating member 120 is an example of a "driving member" and is a resin member that is pressed by an operator or the object being detected. The operating member 120 is provided so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) relative to the case 110. The operating member 120 has a shaft portion 121 and a holding portion 122.

[0016] The shaft portion 121 is a cylindrical part that extends vertically (in the X-axis direction) and is provided so as to protrude upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the through hole 110A formed in the upper surface of the case 110. The shaft portion 121 moves vertically (in the Z-axis direction) inside the through hole 110A of the case 110 when a pressing force is applied to the hemispherical upper end and the shaft portion 121 is pressed.

[0017] The holding portion 122 is connected to the lower end of the shaft portion 121 and is the part that holds the movable contact member 160 inside the case 110. When a pressing operation is performed on the shaft portion 121, the holding portion 122 moves together with the shaft portion 121 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), thereby allowing the movable contact member 160 to move in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0018] Furthermore, the drive member (operating member 120) may be operated by an operator to manually select and switch between modes, or it may be operated by the movement of the mechanical component to be detected to detect the movement or state of the target.

[0019] The cover 180 is a cylindrical, resin-based insulating member that is attached to the through-hole 110A formed on the upper surface of the case 110 so as to protrude upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the through-hole 110A. The cover 180 covers the lower part of the shaft portion 121 of the operating member 120, which is inserted through the cylinder of the cover 180.

[0020] The base 150 is made of an insulator, is a resin-made, horizontal, flat plate-shaped member. When viewed from above in plan, the base 150 has a rectangular shape identical to the lower surface (the negative Z-axis side) of the case 110. The base 150 is attached to the lower surface (the negative Z-axis side) of the case 110, thereby closing the lower opening 110B of the case 110. The base 150 also supports the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140, which are integrally provided on the base 150 by insert molding.

[0021] The first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are conductive, metal, plate-shaped members that extend vertically (Z-axis direction) inside the case 110. The first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) inside the case 110. The first fixed contact member 130 is positioned on the left side (negative Y-axis side). The second fixed contact member 140 is positioned on the right side (negative Y-axis side). The first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are integrally provided on the base 150 by insert molding, penetrating the base 150 from inside the case 110 and protruding below the base 150 (negative Z-axis direction). The lower end of the first fixed contact member 130 is bent at a right angle to the rear (negative X-axis direction), forming an external connection terminal 139 that connects to the outside. The lower end of the second fixed contact member 140 is bent at a right angle to the rear (negative X-axis direction), forming an external connection terminal 149 that connects to the outside. Furthermore, when not in operation, the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are not electrically connected.

[0022] The movable contact member 160 is a springy, conductive metal member provided inside the case 110, straddling the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140, and for switching the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 between a non-conductive state and a conductive state. As described above, the movable contact member 160 is held by the holding portion 122 of the operating member 120, and therefore moves together with the operating member 120 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). When the operating member 120 is pressed, the movable contact member 160 moves downward (negative Z-axis direction) and electrically connects to the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140, thereby switching the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 to a conductive state. The detailed configuration of the contact switching unit for switching the electrical connection between the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 using the movable contact member 160 will be described later with reference to Figure 4.

[0023] The coil spring 170 is an example of a "return spring" that returns the drive member to its original position. The coil spring 170 is a wound member made of metal that can expand and contract in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The upper end of the coil spring 170 is in contact with the lower surface of a horizontal disc-shaped receiving plate portion 169 provided in the center of the movable contact member 160, and the lower end is inserted through and supported by a support column protruding from the center of the upper surface of the base 150. As a result, when the operating member 120 is pressed by the operator or the object being detected, the coil spring 170 is compressed by the receiving plate portion 169 of the movable contact member 160, which moves downward (negative Z-axis direction) together with the operating member 120, and stores energy. Then, when the pressing operation of the operating member 120 is released, the coil spring 170 releases its stored force and biases the operating member 120 upward via the receiving plate portion 169 of the movable contact member 160, thereby returning the operating member 120 to its initial position (the uppermost position).

[0024] The return spring may be a coil spring, a torsion spring, a leaf spring, or rubber, and should return the drive member (operating member 120) to its initial position by storing force through compression and releasing that force when the compression is released.

[0025] (Configuration of the contact switching section) Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the contact switching section of a switch 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the contact switching section of the switch 100 includes a base 150, a first fixed contact member 130, a second fixed contact member 140, a movable contact member 160, and a coil spring 170.

[0026] As shown in Figure 4, the first fixed contact member 130 is made of a conductive metal plate and is provided by insert molding, penetrating the left side (negative Y-axis side) of the base 150 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). On the portion of the first fixed contact member 130 above the base 150 (positive Z-axis side), a sub-fixed contact 131 and a main fixed contact 132 are provided side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). Here, the sub-fixed contact 131 and the main fixed contact 132 are integrally formed with the first fixed contact member 130 and are exposed from the insulating resin of the base 150. Furthermore, the sub-fixed contact 131 and the main fixed contact 132 are partially connected in the portion embedded in the insulating resin of the base 150, and each is electrically connected to the first fixed contact member 130.

[0027] The secondary fixed contact 131 is located on the inside (positive Y-axis side) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), has a constant width in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), a constant thickness in the front-back direction (X-axis direction), and is rod-shaped, extending in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). Both the front and rear surfaces of the secondary fixed contact 131 are sliding surfaces on which the contact surface of the secondary movable contact 161A of the first elastic arm portion 161 of the movable contact member 160 slides. Furthermore, these sliding surfaces are plated with a highly conductive precious metal such as silver.

[0028] The main fixed contact 132 is located on the outer side (negative Y-axis side) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), has a constant width in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), a constant thickness in the front-back direction (X-axis direction), and has a rod-like shape extending in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). Both the front and rear surfaces of the main fixed contact 132 are sliding surfaces on which the contact surface of the main movable contact 162A, which is part of the second elastic arm 162 of the movable contact member 160, slides. These sliding surfaces are plated with a highly conductive precious metal such as silver.

[0029] Furthermore, the base portions of the sub-fixed contact 131 and the main fixed contact 132 of the first fixed contact member 130 are embedded in the build-up portion 151 formed on the upper surface of the base 150, thereby increasing its rigidity.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the second fixed contact member 140 is made of a conductive metal plate and is provided by insert molding, penetrating the right side (positive Y-axis side) of the base 150 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). On the portion of the second fixed contact member 140 above the base 150 (positive Z-axis side), a sub-fixed contact 141 and a main fixed contact 142 are provided side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0031] Here, the sub-fixed contact 141 and the main fixed contact 142 are integrally formed with the second fixed contact member 140 and are exposed from the insulating resin of the base 150. Furthermore, the sub-fixed contact 141 and the main fixed contact 142 are partially connected in the portion embedded in the insulating resin of the base 150, and each is electrically connected to the second fixed contact member 140.

[0032] The secondary fixed contact 141 is located on the inner side (negative Y-axis side) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), has a constant width in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), a constant thickness in the front-back direction (X-axis direction), and is a rod-shaped structure that extends linearly in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). Both the front and rear surfaces of the secondary fixed contact 141 are sliding surfaces on which the contact surface of the secondary movable contact 163A of the third elastic arm 163 of the movable contact member 160 slides. Furthermore, these sliding surfaces are plated with a highly conductive precious metal such as silver.

[0033] The main fixed contact 142 is located on the outer side (positive Y-axis side) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), has a constant width in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), a constant thickness in the front-back direction (X-axis direction), and is a rod-shaped member that extends linearly in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). Both the front and rear surfaces of the main fixed contact 142 are sliding surfaces on which the contact surface of the main movable contact 164A, which is part of the fourth elastic arm 164 of the movable contact member 160, slides. These sliding surfaces are plated with a highly conductive precious metal such as silver.

[0034] Furthermore, the base portions of the sub-fixed contact 141 and the main fixed contact 142 of the second fixed contact member 140 are embedded in the build-up portion 152 formed on the upper surface of the base 150, thereby increasing its rigidity.

[0035] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the movable contact member 160 is formed by punching out a springy conductive metal plate and press forming it, and has a pair of first elastic arms 161, a pair of second elastic arms 162, a pair of third elastic arms 163, a pair of fourth elastic arms 164, and a pair of connecting parts 165.

[0036] The pair of first elastic arms 161 are located to the left of the central portion (negative Y-axis side) of the movable contact member 160. Each of the pair of first elastic arms 161 is an arm-shaped portion extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The pair of first elastic arms 161 are arranged facing each other in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and each is inclined such that the distance between them gradually narrows as they move upward (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, each of the pair of first elastic arms 161 is cantilevered by each of the pair of connecting portions 165 by being connected to each of the pair of connecting portions 165 at its lower end. As a result, each of the pair of first elastic arms 161 is elastically deformable in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction). At the upper end of each of the pair of first elastic arms 161, a curved sub-movable contact 161A is provided that protrudes inward. That is, the pair of first elastic arms 161 have a pair of sub-movable contacts 161A that face each other.

[0037] The pair of second elastic arms 162 are provided on the movable contact member 160 to the left (negative Y-axis side) of the pair of first elastic arms 161. Each of the pair of second elastic arms 162 is an arm-shaped portion extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The pair of second elastic arms 162 are arranged facing each other in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and each is inclined such that the distance between them gradually narrows as they move upward (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, each of the pair of second elastic arms 162 is cantilevered by each of the pair of connecting parts 165 by being connected to each of the pair of connecting parts 165 at its lower end. As a result, each of the pair of second elastic arms 162 is elastically deformable in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction). At the upper end of each of the pair of second elastic arms 162, a curved main movable contact 162A is provided, which protrudes inward. In other words, the pair of second elastic arms 162 have a pair of main movable contacts 162A that face each other.

[0038] The pair of third elastic arms 163 are located to the right of the central portion (positive Y-axis side) of the movable contact member 160. Each of the pair of third elastic arms 163 is an arm-shaped portion extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The pair of third elastic arms 163 are arranged facing each other in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and are inclined such that the distance between them gradually narrows as they move upward (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, each of the pair of third elastic arms 163 is cantilevered by each of the pair of connecting portions 165 by being connected to each of the pair of connecting portions 165 at its lower end. As a result, each of the pair of third elastic arms 163 is elastically deformable in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction). At the upper end of each of the pair of third elastic arms 163, a curved sub-movable contact 163A is provided that protrudes inward. That is, the pair of third elastic arms 163 have a pair of sub-movable contacts 163A that face each other.

[0039] The pair of fourth elastic arms 164 are provided on the movable contact member 160 to the right (positive Y-axis side) of the pair of third elastic arms 163. Each of the pair of fourth elastic arms 164 is an arm-shaped portion extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The pair of fourth elastic arms 164 are arranged facing each other in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and each is inclined such that the distance between them gradually narrows as they move upward (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, each of the pair of fourth elastic arms 164 is cantilevered by each of the pair of connecting parts 165 by being connected to each of the pair of connecting parts 165 at its lower end. As a result, each of the pair of fourth elastic arms 164 is elastically deformable in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction). At the upper end of each of the pair of fourth elastic arms 164, a curved main movable contact 164A is provided that protrudes inward. In other words, the pair of fourth elastic arms 164 have a pair of main movable contacts 164A that face each other.

[0040] (Operation of movable contact member 160) Figure 5 is an external perspective view of the contact switching section (when not pressed) of the switch 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is an external perspective view of the contact switching section (when pressed) of the switch 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 7 is an external perspective view of the contact switching section (when fully stroked) of the switch 100 according to one embodiment.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, when the operating member 120 is not pressed, all of the movable contacts of the movable contact member 160 are spaced upward from the fixed contacts they are connected to. Therefore, the movable contact member 160 is not electrically connected to either the first fixed contact member 130 or the second fixed contact member 140. Consequently, the switch 100 is in an off state, with the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 not electrically connected to each other.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5, when the operating member 120 is not pressed, the pair of sub movable contacts 161A are spaced apart upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the tip of the sub fixed contact 131 with a gap therebetween. Similarly, the pair of sub movable contacts 163A are spaced apart upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the tip of the sub fixed contact 141 with a gap therebetween.

[0043] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, when the operating member 120 is not pressed, the pair of main movable contacts 162A sandwich the insulating portion formed by the resin extension 132A extending upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the tip of the main fixed contact 132. Similarly, the pair of main movable contacts 164A sandwich the insulating portion formed by the resin extension 142A extending upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the tip of the main fixed contact 142. The extension 132A and the extension 142A are integrally provided on the base 150 by insert molding. Further, the extension 132A is formed at the same height as the sliding surface of the main fixed contact 132, and the extension 142A is formed at the same height as the sliding surface of the main fixed contact 142.

[0044] Accordingly, the switch 100 according to one embodiment can suppress arc discharge flying objects generated at the sub fixed contacts 131 and 141 from adhering to the main fixed contacts 132 and 142.

[0045] In addition, by sandwiching the extension 132A between the pair of main movable contacts 162A, rotation of the pair of main movable contacts 162A in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) can be suppressed, and the center position can be pre-positioned at an accurate position (that is, the same position as the sliding surface of the main fixed contact 132). Therefore, the on / off switching accuracy by the pair of main movable contacts 162A passing through the boundary between the sliding surfaces of the pair of main fixed contacts 132 and the extension 132A that is an insulating portion can be improved on both sides in the front-rear direction.

[0046] Similarly, by sandwiching the extended portion 142A between the pair of main movable contacts 164A, rotation of the pair of main movable contacts 164A in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) is suppressed, and the center position can be pre-positioned at an accurate position (that is, the same position as the sliding surface of the main fixed contact 142). Therefore, the on-off switching accuracy of the pair of main movable contacts 164A passing through the boundary between the sliding surfaces of the pair of main fixed contacts 132 and the extended portion 132A that is an insulating portion can be improved in both front and rear directions.

[0047] Then, as shown in FIG. 6, when the operating member 120 is pressed, the movable contact member 160 moves downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) together with the operating member 120.

[0048] At this time, the auxiliary fixed contact 131 of the first fixed contact member 130 is inserted between the pair of auxiliary movable contacts 161A of the movable contact member 160, and the main fixed contact 132 of the first fixed contact member 130 is inserted between the pair of main movable contacts 162A of the movable contact member 160, whereby the movable contact member 160 is electrically connected to the first fixed contact member 130.

[0049] Furthermore, the auxiliary fixed contact 141 of the second fixed contact member 140 is inserted between the pair of auxiliary movable contacts 163A of the movable contact member 160, and the main fixed contact 142 of the second fixed contact member 140 is inserted between the pair of main movable contacts 164A of the movable contact member 160, whereby the movable contact member 160 is electrically connected to the second fixed contact member 140.

[0050] Accordingly, the switch 100 enters a switch-on state in which the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are electrically connected to each other via the movable contact member 160.

[0051] Furthermore, at this time, the coil spring 170 is compressed by the receiving plate portion 169 of the movable contact member 160. As a result, when the operator releases the pressing operation of the operating member 120, the coil spring 170 biases the operating member 120 upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) via the receiving plate portion 169 of the movable contact member 160, thereby returning the operating member 120 to its initial position (the uppermost position).

[0052] Furthermore, when the operating member 120 is pushed down further from the state shown in Figure 6, the movable contact member 160 moves further downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) until it reaches the full stroke state as shown in Figure 7. At this time, each of the multiple pairs of movable contacts on the movable contact member 160 slides downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) on the sliding surface (both front and rear) of the fixed contact of the connecting partner, while sandwiching the fixed contact of the connecting partner. As a result, the switch 100 according to one embodiment moves until the operating member 120 reaches the full stroke state where it contacts the stopper of the base 150 after being switched on, but the state in which each of the multiple pairs of movable contacts is in contact with the fixed contact of the connecting partner can be stably maintained.

[0053] (Arc Discharge Prevention Structure) Figures 8 and 9 are diagrams illustrating the arc discharge prevention structure of the contact switching section of a switch 100 according to one embodiment. Figures 8 and 9 show the arc discharge prevention structure at the contact portion between the movable contact member 160 and the first fixed contact member 130.

[0054] Specifically, Figure 8(a) is a cross-sectional view showing the contact state between the pair of sub-movable contacts 161A of the movable contact member 160 and the sub-fixed contact 131 of the first fixed contact member 130 when the movable contact member 160 moves to a first distance from its initial position (when not operated) due to the pressing of the operating member 120.

[0055] Figure 8(b) is a cross-sectional view showing the contact state between the pair of main movable contacts 162A of the movable contact member 160 and the main fixed contact 132 of the first fixed contact member 130 when the movable contact member 160 moves to a first distance from its initial position (when not operated) due to the pressing of the operating member 120.

[0056] Figure 9(a) is a cross-sectional view showing the contact state between the pair of sub-movable contacts 161A of the movable contact member 160 and the sub-fixed contact 131 of the first fixed contact member 130 when the operating member 120 is further pressed and the movable contact member 160 moves by a second amount greater than the first amount of movement.

[0057] Figure 9(b) is a cross-sectional view showing the contact state between the pair of main movable contacts 162A of the movable contact member 160 and the main fixed contact 132 of the first fixed contact member 130 when the operating member 120 is further pressed and the movable contact member 160 moves by a second amount greater than the first amount of movement.

[0058] When the movable contact member 160 moves from its initial position (when not in operation) to the first amount of movement, as shown in Figure 8(a), each of the pair of sub-movable contacts 161A contacts the sub-fixed contact 131, but as shown in Figure 8(b), each of the pair of main movable contacts 162A does not contact the main fixed contact 132. However, the pair of main movable contacts 162A are in a state where they are sandwiching the insulating resin extension portion 132A that extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the tip of the main fixed contact 132.

[0059] Then, when the movable contact member 160 moves beyond the first amount from its initial position (when not in operation) to the second amount, as shown in Figure 9(a), each of the pair of sub-movable contacts 161A comes into contact with the sub-fixed contact 131, and as shown in Figure 9(b), each of the pair of main movable contacts 162A comes into contact with the main fixed contact 132.

[0060] Thus, in the contact switching section of the switch 100 according to one embodiment, when the movable contact member 160 moves to a first amount from its initial position (when not in operation), the contact portion between the movable contact member 160 and the first fixed contact member 130 can be configured to intentionally generate an arc discharge between the sub-movable contact 161A and the sub-fixed contact 131 by bringing only the sub-movable contact 161A into contact with the sub-fixed contact 131.

[0061] Although not shown in the figures, the contact switching section of the switch 100 according to one embodiment has a symmetrical structure, and therefore the contact portion between the movable contact member 160 and the second fixed contact member 140 also has an arc discharge prevention structure similar to the arc discharge prevention structure shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0062] In other words, the contact switching section of the switch 100 according to one embodiment can intentionally generate an arc discharge between the sub-movable contact 163A and the sub-fixed contact 141 at the contact point between the movable contact member 160 and the second fixed contact member 140, by bringing only the sub-movable contact 163A into contact with the sub-fixed contact 141 when the movable contact member 160 reaches a first amount of movement.

[0063] (Grease application area and type) Figure 10 shows the grease application area at each fixed contact of the switch 100 according to one embodiment.

[0064] As shown in Figure 10, in the sub-fixed contact 131 of the first fixed contact member 130, the entire sliding surface on both the front and rear sides where the sub-movable contact 161A slides is designated as the coating area A1, and grease is applied to this coating area A1.

[0065] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, at the main fixed contact 132 of the first fixed contact member 130, the entire sliding surface on both the front and rear sides where the main movable contact 162A slides is designated as the coating area A2, and grease is applied to this coating area A2.

[0066] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, in the sub-fixed contact 141 of the second fixed contact member 140, the entire sliding surface on both the front and rear sides where the sub-movable contact 163A slides is designated as the coating area A3, and grease is applied to this coating area A3.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, at the main fixed contact 142 of the second fixed contact member 140, the entire sliding surface on both the front and rear sides where the main movable contact 164A slides is designated as the coating area A4, and grease is applied to this coating area A4.

[0068] Here, the sub-fixed contacts 131 and 141 are contacts where arc discharge occurs. Therefore, in this embodiment, an olefin grease (an example of the "second grease") which has high resistance to arc discharge is applied to the coating area A1 of the sub-fixed contact 131 and the coating area A3 of the sub-fixed contact 141.

[0069] On the other hand, the main fixed contacts 132 and 142 are contacts that do not generate arc discharge. Therefore, in this embodiment, a silicone grease (an example of the "first grease") that has high conductivity stability even in low-temperature environments is applied to the coating area A2 of the main fixed contact 132 and the coating area A4 of the main fixed contact 142.

[0070] As a result, according to the switch 100 of one embodiment, it is possible to achieve both resistance to arc discharge in the sub-fixed contacts 131 and 141 and conductivity stability in the main fixed contacts 132 and 142.

[0071] (Grease contamination prevention section 153) Here, as shown in Figure 10, a grease contamination prevention section 153 is provided between the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131, extending integrally from the base 150 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and separating the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131. The grease contamination prevention section 153 protrudes forward (in the positive X-axis direction) of the sliding surface on the front side (positive X-axis side) of the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131, and protrudes backward (in the negative X-axis direction) of the sliding surface on the rear side (negative X-axis side) of the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131.

[0072] As a result, in one embodiment of the switch 100, the grease contamination prevention unit 153 can prevent the silicone grease applied to both the front and rear sliding surfaces (coating area A2) of the main fixed contact 132 and the olefin grease applied to both the front and rear sliding surfaces (coating area A1) of the sub-fixed contact 131, which are of different types, from mixing with each other.

[0073] Here, a resin support portion can be provided integrally with the base 150 between the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131, and a grease contamination prevention portion 153 can be integrally formed on this support portion. This allows the space created by forming the support portion to maintain the contact distance between the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131 and to form a partition for preventing grease contamination in a space-saving manner, thereby suppressing an increase in size.

[0074] Alternatively, the connection portion of the metal plate connecting the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131 may be embedded in a manner that overlaps the grease contamination prevention portion 153 (in the Y-axis direction). This allows the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131 to be connected even in the portion that is raised away from the base 150, so that their sliding surfaces can be formed with high precision.

[0075] Furthermore, the connecting portion of the metal plate may be partially provided along the entire length of the grease contamination prevention portion 153. In this case, in the portion where the connecting portion of the metal plate is not provided, the resin forming the grease contamination prevention portion 153 can penetrate in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction), which is the thickness direction of the metal plate, thereby increasing its thickness and improving its strength.

[0076] Alternatively, the grease contamination prevention section 153 may be formed by providing a resin support section on the base 150 between the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131, and providing a groove in this support section that extends to the base along the direction of movement of the movable contact member 160.

[0077] In particular, as shown in Figure 10, the grease contamination prevention portion 153 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) above the upper end of the main fixed contact 132 and the upper end of the sub-fixed contact 131. That is, the grease contamination prevention portion 153 protrudes from the base 150 above the ends of the main fixed contact 132 and the sub-fixed contact 131 along with the movement of the movable contact member 160. As a result, the switch 100 according to one embodiment can further suppress the contamination of different types of grease on both the front and rear sliding surfaces of the main fixed contact 132 and both the front and rear sliding surfaces of the sub-fixed contact 131, and the grease contamination prevention portion 153 can prevent flying arc discharge material generated at the sub-fixed contact 131 from adhering to the main fixed contact 132.

[0078] Similarly, as shown in Figure 10, a grease contamination prevention portion 154 is provided between the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141, extending integrally from the base 150 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and separating the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141. The grease contamination prevention portion 154 protrudes forward (in the positive X-axis direction) of the sliding surface on the front side (positive X-axis side) of the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141, and protrudes backward (in the negative X-axis direction) of the sliding surface on the rear side (negative X-axis side) of the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141.

[0079] As a result, in one embodiment of the switch 100, the silicone grease applied to both the front and rear sliding surfaces (coating area A4) of the main fixed contact 142 and the olefin grease applied to both the front and rear sliding surfaces (coating area A3) of the sub-fixed contact 141, which are of different types, can be prevented from mixing with each other by the grease mixing prevention unit 154.

[0080] Here, a resin support portion can be provided integrally with the base 150 between the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141, and a grease contamination prevention portion 154 can be integrally formed on this support portion. This allows the space created by forming the support portion to maintain the contact distance between the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141 and to form a partition for preventing grease contamination in a space-saving manner, thereby suppressing an increase in size.

[0081] Alternatively, the connection portion of the metal plate connecting the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141 may be embedded in a manner that overlaps the grease contamination prevention portion 154 (in the Y-axis direction). This allows the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141 to be connected even in the portion that is raised away from the base 150, so that their sliding surfaces can be formed with high precision.

[0082] Furthermore, the connecting portion of the metal plate may be partially provided along the entire length of the grease contamination prevention portion 154. In this case, in the portion where the connecting portion of the metal plate is not provided, the resin forming the grease contamination prevention portion 154 can penetrate in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction), which is the thickness direction of the metal plate, thereby increasing its thickness and improving its strength.

[0083] Alternatively, the grease contamination prevention section 154 may be formed by providing a resin support section on the base 150 between the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141, and providing a groove section on this support section that extends to the base along the direction of movement of the movable contact member 160.

[0084] Similarly, the grease contamination prevention portion 154 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) above the upper ends of the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141. That is, the grease contamination prevention portion 154 protrudes from the base 150 above the ends of the main fixed contact 142 and the sub-fixed contact 141 as the movable contact member 160 moves. As a result, the switch 100 according to one embodiment can further suppress the contamination of different types of grease on the front and rear sliding surfaces of the main fixed contact 142 and the front and rear sliding surfaces of the sub-fixed contact 141, and the grease contamination prevention portion 154 can prevent flying arc discharge material generated at the sub-fixed contact 141 from adhering to the main fixed contact 142.

[0085] (Arrangement of each fixed contact, grease contamination prevention part, and coil spring) In the configuration shown in Figure 10, the coil spring 170 is located in the center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0086] In the configuration shown in Figure 10, the sub-fixed contact 131 and the main fixed contact 132 of the first fixed contact member 130 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) with a grease contamination prevention part 153 in between, to the left of the coil spring 170 (negative Y-axis side).

[0087] Furthermore, in the configuration shown in Figure 10, to the right of the coil spring 170 (positive Y-axis side), the sub-fixed contact 141 of the second fixed contact member 140 and the main fixed contact 142 of the second fixed contact member 140 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) with the grease contamination prevention part 154 in between.

[0088] As a result, in one embodiment of the switch 100, by arranging the coil spring 170 in the center, the sub-fixed contact 131 of the first fixed contact member 130 and the sub-fixed contact 141 of the second fixed contact member 140 can be arranged with a large distance between them.

[0089] In the configuration shown in Figure 10, on the left side of the coil spring 170 (negative Y-axis side), the auxiliary fixing contact 131 is positioned inside the grease contamination prevention section 153, and the main fixing contact 132 is positioned outside the grease contamination prevention section 153. On the right side of the coil spring 170 (positive Y-axis side), the auxiliary fixing contact 141 is positioned inside the grease contamination prevention section 154, and the main fixing contact 142 is positioned outside the grease contamination prevention section 154.

[0090] However, this is not limited to the above. For example, on the left side of the coil spring 170 (negative Y-axis side), the auxiliary fixing contact 131 may be positioned outside the grease contamination prevention part 153, and the main fixing contact 132 may be positioned inside the grease contamination prevention part 153. Alternatively, on the right side of the coil spring 170 (positive Y-axis side), the auxiliary fixing contact 141 may be positioned outside the grease contamination prevention part 154, and the main fixing contact 142 may be positioned inside the grease contamination prevention part 154.

[0091] In this way, with respect to the main fixed contacts 132 and 142, the grease contamination prevention section prevents arc discharge debris generated at adjacent sub-fixed contacts from adhering to them, and the coil spring 170 provides space between them, thereby further preventing the adhesion of arc discharge debris. This also improves space efficiency and prevents the device from becoming too large.

[0092] (Molding method for each fixed contact and grease contamination prevention part) As shown in Figure 10, the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are embedded in the resin base 150 by insert molding. The sub-fixed contact 131 and the main fixed contact 132 are formed by exposing a part of the first fixed contact member 130 from the base 150. The sub-fixed contact 141 and the main fixed contact 142 are formed by exposing a part of the second fixed contact member 140 from the base 150. The grease contamination prevention parts 153 and 154 are integrally formed in the resin base 150 by insert molding.

[0093] As a result, in one embodiment of the switch 100, the base 150, each of the multiple fixed contacts, and the grease contamination prevention parts 153 and 154 can be formed simultaneously and integrally by insert molding, thus enabling the formation of these multiple components at low cost.

[0094] As shown in Figure 10, a block-shaped build-up portion 151 is provided in the left side (negative Y-axis) region of the base 150, protruding upward (positive Z-axis direction). The build-up portion 151 reinforces the base portions of the secondary fixing contact 131 and the main fixing contact 132 by embedding them in the base portion.

[0095] The build-up portion 151 has a pair of front and rear first inclined surfaces 151A and a pair of front and rear second inclined surfaces 151B integrally formed on its upper surface, each having a mountain shape. A sub-fixed contact 131 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the upper end of the mountain shape formed by the pair of first inclined surfaces 151A, and a main fixed contact 132 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the upper end of the mountain shape formed by the pair of second inclined surfaces 151B.

[0096] As shown in Figure 10, the peak shape formed by the pair of first inclined surfaces 151A is lower in height than the peak shape formed by the pair of second inclined surfaces 151B, and therefore the inclination angle of the first inclined surfaces 151A is gentler than that of the second inclined surfaces 151B. As a result, the sub-fixed contact 131 is exposed for a longer distance below (in the negative Z-axis direction) than the main fixed contact 132.

[0097] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, the grease contamination prevention portion 153 extends upward from the upper surface portion of the build-up portion 151, that is, it is integrally provided with the build-up portion 151. In addition, as shown in Figure 10, the grease contamination prevention portion 153 extends downward from the lower end of the sub-fixed contact 131 and the lower end of the main fixed contact 132, and extends between the first inclined surface 151A and the second inclined surface 151B. As a result, the grease contamination prevention portion 153 enhances the grease contamination prevention effect with respect to the sub-fixed contact 131 and the main fixed contact 132.

[0098] Similarly, as shown in Figure 10, a block-shaped build-up portion 152 is provided in the right-hand region (negative Y-axis side) of the base 150, protruding upward (positive Z-axis direction). The build-up portion 152 reinforces the base portions of the secondary and main fixed contacts 141 and 142 by embedding them in the base portion.

[0099] The build-up portion 152 has a pair of front and rear first inclined surfaces 152A and a pair of front and rear second inclined surfaces 152B integrally formed on its upper surface, each having a mountain shape. A sub-fixed contact 141 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the upper end of the mountain shape formed by the pair of first inclined surfaces 152A, and a main fixed contact 142 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from the upper end of the mountain shape formed by the pair of second inclined surfaces 152B.

[0100] As shown in Figure 10, the peak shape formed by the pair of first inclined surfaces 152A is lower in height than the peak shape formed by the pair of second inclined surfaces 152B, and therefore the inclination angle of the first inclined surfaces 152A is gentler than that of the second inclined surfaces 152B. As a result, the sub-fixed contact 141 is exposed for a longer distance below (in the negative Z-axis direction) than the main fixed contact 142.

[0101] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, the grease contamination prevention portion 154 extends upward from the upper surface portion of the build-up portion 152, that is, it is integrally provided with the build-up portion 152. Moreover, as shown in Figure 10, the grease contamination prevention portion 154 extends downward from the lower end of the sub-fixed contact 141 and the lower end of the main fixed contact 142, and extends between the first inclined surface 152A and the second inclined surface 152B. As a result, the grease contamination prevention portion 154 enhances the grease contamination prevention effect on the sub-fixed contact 141 and the main fixed contact 142.

[0102] (Modified versions of each fixed contact member) Figure 11 shows modified versions of each fixed contact member provided in a switch 100 according to one embodiment.

[0103] In the example shown in Figure 11, the first fixed contact member 130 includes a common fixed contact 133. The second fixed contact member 140 has a main fixed contact 142 and two sub-fixed contacts 141. Correspondingly, the movable contact member 160 (not shown) has a main movable contact, two sub-movable contacts, and a common movable contact.

[0104] In the example shown in Figure 11, the common fixed contact 133 of the first fixed contact member 130 and the main fixed contact 142 of the second fixed contact member 140 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) to the left of the central protrusion 155 where the coil spring 170 is located (negative Y-axis side).

[0105] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 11, the two sub-fixed contacts 141 of the second fixed contact member 140 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) to the right of the central protrusion 155 where the coil spring 170 is located (positive Y-axis side).

[0106] In the configuration shown in Figure 11, the common fixed contact 133 extends upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) compared to the other fixed contacts, so that the common movable contact of the movable contact member 160 is always in contact with the common fixed contact 133.

[0107] When the movable contact member 160 is in its initial position (not in operation), the common movable contact is in contact with the common fixed contact, and the main and sub movable contacts and their corresponding main and sub fixed contacts are not in contact with each other and are not electrically connected. Therefore, the switch 100 is in an off state, with the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 not electrically connected to each other.

[0108] In the configuration shown in Figure 11, when the operating member 120 is pressed, the movable contact member 160 moves downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) by a first amount from its initial position (when not in operation), so that the two sub-movable contacts come into contact with the two sub-fixed contacts 141. Furthermore, when the movable contact member 160 moves beyond the first amount from its initial position (when not in operation) to a second amount, the main movable contact comes into contact with the main fixed contact 142.

[0109] Therefore, the switch 100 maintains the ON state in which the first fixed contact member 130 and the second fixed contact member 140 are electrically connected to each other via the movable contact member 160, by first electrically connecting the common fixed contact 133 with the sub-fixed contact 141 and then with the main fixed contact 142 as the movable contact member 160 moves.

[0110] At this time, arc discharge occurs when the movable contact member 160 moves to a first extent and the sub-movable contact comes into contact with the two sub-fixed contacts 141. When the movable contact member 160 moves to a second extent and the main movable contact comes into contact with the main fixed contact 142, no arc discharge occurs. Furthermore, since the movable contact member 160 is always in contact with the common fixed contact 133, no arc discharge occurs in the common fixed contact 133 either.

[0111] Therefore, in the configuration shown in Figure 11, an olefin grease (an example of the "second grease") with high resistance to arc discharge can be applied to a unified coating area A5 that encompasses the sliding surfaces of the two sub-fixed contacts 141 on the right side of the central protrusion 155 (positive Y-axis side). In this case, since the same grease is applied to the two sub-fixed contacts 141, it is not necessary to provide a grease contamination prevention section between the two sub-fixed contacts 141.

[0112] On the other hand, in the configuration shown in Figure 11, a single coating area A6, including the sliding surface of the common fixed contact 133 and the sliding surface of the main fixed contact 142, can be coated with silicone grease (an example of "first grease") that has high conductivity stability even in low-temperature environments, on the left side of the central protrusion 155 (negative Y-axis side). In this case, since the same grease is applied to the common fixed contact 133 and the main fixed contact 142, it is not necessary to provide a grease contamination prevention part between the common fixed contact 133 and the main fixed contact 142. Note that the sub-fixed contact 141 may be a single sub-fixed contact instead of being branched into two.

[0113] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims.

[0114] For example, the drive member (operating member 120) and the movable contact member 160 are not limited to moving in a straight line; the drive member may tilt around the support shaft, causing the movable contact member to tilt along the fixed contact member. Alternatively, the movable contact member may rotate within a predetermined range along the fixed contact member.

[0115] Furthermore, the drive member is not limited to being integrated with the operating member 120. A pre-stroke portion such as a spring may be added so that the drive member does not move during operation up to a certain amount, and moves only when the operation exceeds the pre-stroke range.

[0116] Alternatively, the contact surface of the movable contact member may be provided on only one side, and it may slide against the sliding surface on one side of the fixed contact member.

[0117] Furthermore, the movable contact member may be integrated with the drive member (operating member 120) by insert molding or the like.

[0118] This international application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-047297, filed on 21 March 2025, and the entire contents of said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0119] 100 Switch 110 Case 110A Through hole 110B Lower opening 120 Operating member 121 Shaft portion 122 Holding portion 130 First fixed contact member 131 Sub-fixed contact 132 Main fixed contact 132A Extension portion 133 Common fixed contact 139 External connection terminal 140 Second fixed contact member 141 Sub-fixed contact 142 Main fixed contact 142A Extension portion 149 External connection terminal 150 Base 151, 152 Build-up portion 151A, 152A First inclined surface 151B, 152B Second inclined surface 153, 154 Grease contamination prevention portion 155 Central protrusion 160 Movable contact member 161 First elastic arm portion 161A Sub-movable contact 162 Second elastic arm 162A Main movable contact 163 Third elastic arm 163A Sub-movable contact 164 Fourth elastic arm 164A Main movable contact 169 Receiving plate 170 Coil spring 180 Cover A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6 Coating area

Claims

1. A switch comprising: a base; a fixed contact member having a plurality of fixed contacts supported by the base; a drive member that moves in response to a pressing operation; and a movable contact member that moves together with the drive member and has a plurality of movable contacts whose contact surface slides against the fixed contacts, wherein the fixed contact member has a sub-fixed contact that makes contact when the movable contact reaches a first amount of movement, and a main fixed contact that makes contact when the movable contact reaches a second amount of movement greater than the first amount of movement, the main fixed contact is coated with a first grease, and the sub-fixed contact is coated with a second grease that has higher resistance to arc discharge than the first grease.

2. The switch according to claim 1, characterized in that the first grease is a silicone grease and the second grease is an olefin grease.

3. The switch according to claim 1, further characterized by comprising a grease contamination prevention section that separates the main fixed contact and the sub-fixed contact.

4. The switch according to claim 3, characterized in that the grease contamination prevention portion extends outward from the base beyond the ends of the main fixed contact and the sub-fixed contact in accordance with the movement of the movable contact member.

5. The switch according to claim 3, comprising: a first fixed contact member having a main fixed contact and a sub-fixed contact; a second fixed contact member having a main fixed contact and a sub-fixed contact; and a return spring for returning the drive member, wherein, on one side of the return spring, the sub-fixed contact of the first fixed contact member and the main fixed contact of the first fixed contact member are provided side by side with the grease contamination prevention portion in between; and on the other side of the return spring, the sub-fixed contact of the second fixed contact member and the main fixed contact of the second fixed contact member are provided side by side with the grease contamination prevention portion in between.

6. The switch according to claim 1, comprising: a first fixed contact member having a common fixed contact; a second fixed contact member having a main fixed contact and a sub-fixed contact; and a return spring for returning the drive member, wherein the common fixed contact of the first fixed contact member and the main fixed contact of the second fixed contact member are provided side by side on one side of the return spring; the sub-fixed contact of the second fixed contact member is provided side by side on the other side of the return spring; the first grease is applied to the common fixed contact of the first fixed contact member and the main fixed contact of the second fixed contact member; and the second grease is applied to the sub-fixed contact of the second fixed contact member.

7. The switch according to claim 3, wherein the base has a built-up portion in which the root portions of the main fixed contact and the sub-fixed contact are embedded, the built-up portion has a first inclined surface extending away from the sliding surface of the sub-fixed contact and a second inclined surface extending away from the sliding surface of the main fixed contact, and the grease contamination prevention portion is integrally provided with the built-up portion and extends between the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface.

8. The switch according to claim 3, characterized in that the fixed contact member is embedded in the base, the sub-fixed contact and the main fixed contact are formed by a part of the fixed contact member being exposed from the base, and the grease contamination prevention part is integrally formed with the base.

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