Micro Wiper Switch with Insulating Spacer for Three-Position Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical switches lack extended functionality, particularly in achieving three switching positions in a simple manner, which is necessary for certain applications like motor vehicle locks, and often require complex assembly and higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A micro wiper switch with a spacer made of insulating material between fixed contacts, integrated with a leaf spring that acts as both a switching contact and a resetting element, allowing for three defined switching positions and improved stability and reliability, while being compact, durable, and inexpensive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional snap switch design is used, then the switch has simple structure, but it cannot achieve three switching positions
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper serves multiple functions: it acts as the switching contact, forms a sealing element through its circumferential surface, and interacts with both fixed contacts and the insulating spacer to enable three switching positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components while achieving the desired versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact system is segmented into distinct functional zones: two fixed contacts for make/break switching, an insulating spacer for the third position, and a wiper that sequentially interacts with each element. This segmentation allows clear definition of three switching positions without requiring a complex multi-contact system.
2Reliability
If the contact surfaces of fixed contacts are left exposed, then the structure is simple, but electrical insulation between contacts is poor
Solution Approach 1:
An insulating spacer made of electrically insulating material is introduced as an intermediary element between the two fixed contacts. The wiper interacts with this spacer during switching operations, and the spacer provides reliable electrical insulation without requiring complex insulation structures or additional insulating components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wiper switch with three positions is implemented, then extended functionality is achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper is designed as an integrated component that combines the switching contact function with a sealing element (circumferential surface). This merging of functions reduces the number of separate parts that need to be assembled, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining the three-position switching capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The switch offers enhanced switching behavior, stability, and cost-effectiveness by simplifying assembly, reducing parts, and providing noiseless actuation with constant contact force, improved sealing, and longer service life, making it suitable for harsh environments like motor vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
An elastic element, which is designed as a leaf spring coupled with the wiper for cooperation, acts together with the switching contact and/or the actuating member for resetting
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical switch (1), in particular in the form of a microswitch and/or a snap-action switch, with a contact system (3) comprising a movable switching contact and at least one fixed contact (5). The switch (1) furthermore has a movable actuating member (7) for switching the contact system (3). The contact system (3) has two fixed contacts (5, 6) such that the switching contact can be moved against one fixed contact (5) corresponding to a first switching position and against the other fixed contact (6) corresponding to a second switching position when the contact system (3) is switched. In addition, the switching contact is capable of moving into a further, third switching position, which is located between the two fixed contacts (5, 6).