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EP1008159B1 - Switch with lifting ramp - Google Patents

Switch with lifting ramp Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1008159B1
EP1008159B1 EP97900589A EP97900589A EP1008159B1 EP 1008159 B1 EP1008159 B1 EP 1008159B1 EP 97900589 A EP97900589 A EP 97900589A EP 97900589 A EP97900589 A EP 97900589A EP 1008159 B1 EP1008159 B1 EP 1008159B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
contact
switch according
bridge
sections
paths
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Revoked
Application number
EP97900589A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1008159A1 (en
Inventor
Karl Simonis
Walter Hecht
Rudolf Klein
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH
Original Assignee
Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
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Application filed by Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH filed Critical Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbH
Publication of EP1008159A1 publication Critical patent/EP1008159A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1008159B1 publication Critical patent/EP1008159B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H19/00—Switches operated by an operating part which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof and which is acted upon directly by a solid body external to the switch, e.g. by a hand
    • H01H19/54—Switches operated by an operating part which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof and which is acted upon directly by a solid body external to the switch, e.g. by a hand the operating part having at least five or an unspecified number of operative positions
    • H01H19/56—Angularly-movable actuating part carrying contacts, e.g. drum switch
    • H01H19/563—Angularly-movable actuating part carrying contacts, e.g. drum switch with an initial separation movement perpendicular to the switching movement

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a switch, in particular for Motor vehicles, especially steering column switches, me Features of the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such switches are intended on the one hand Switching significant load currents be suitable so that they can be used Switching through supply currents for lamps and motors are suitable. On the other hand, such switches always serve more on the indirect actuation of electricity consumers, which can then be controlled directly via electronic circuits. It is therefore advantageous if such steering column switches too are suitable for switching through weak control currents.
  • Switches have already been proposed for which pushing movement of contact bridges within the contact plane contiguous contact sections arranged fixed to the housing electrically connected or disconnected become.
  • a disadvantage of such switches is that two contact sections are separated by insulating material, which when crossing over the contact bridge with this in comes into close contact. As a result, remains of insulating material or the plastic housing into which the contact sections are embedded through which different Contact bridge added.
  • the contact bridge opens the insulating material is then applied to another contact section partly on the contact path of this contact section transferred or to the contact areas through the possibly arcing is burned in. Resulting from this contamination on the contact surface.
  • the object of the invention is a switch with small To create dimensions, the contact surfaces of impurities be kept largely free so that he can suitable for switching larger and smaller currents.
  • the invention therefore consists in the contact bridge in a suitable place before you take one Leaves contact section to then put them in a suitable place of a new contact section.
  • the switchover important points the sliding movement with a lifting movement combined.
  • the resulting advantage is that Possibility that the actual contact surface with the Insulation material surrounding contact sections not in connection comes.
  • the lifting movement ensures that the contact changes suddenly instead of by one dragging movement through the transition from a contact section to change linearly over the next.
  • one Contact part does not form an arc when lifting because the other contact part is still in close electrical contact with the contact section is located.
  • a ramp is provided, via which a Contact part of the moving along a contact section Contact bridge raised perpendicular to the plane of the contacts and is lowered again over the next contact section.
  • the moving contact part follows the inclined inclined Ramp surfaces.
  • the combination of features Claim 6 reach almost point contact surface of the contacts. Should with several parallel to each other on contact sections moving bridges, different currents are switched, so it may be advisable to head for some of the bridges to provide the contact sections with grooves which the Enclose contact tracks on the side and thus optionally one able to produce larger contact areas. But only Control currents are switched, it is sufficient to bridge the to be equipped without a groove and accordingly the contact surface to reduce the contact bridge on the contact track.
  • Claim 7 The spring contact of the contact bridge the contact tracks also have a safe contact pressure Unevenness of the contact path guaranteed. An increased Spring pressure can continue to keep each other clean Contact areas are used.
  • the present invention is appropriate Slide switch to apply where the contact bridge makes a straight-ahead movement.
  • the invention is also advantageous for contact sections or contact tracks, which are in one plane in the Angles to each other are laid one behind the other, whereby also the contact tracks themselves can be curved. It is particularly recommended if the contact tracks curved in the same direction on the contact sections and with the same radius of curvature lie one behind the other.
  • Such Construction is especially for steering column switches suitable where the operating lever pivots around a pivot point, which is in a Sector-shaped movement of the contact bridge results.
  • the contact areas can also be made from a single contact plate punched out and formed by subsequent shaping. It is advantageous to go through the two contact areas electrically connect a bridge.
  • This mechanically stiff web is also suitable according to claim 15 for to form a centering protrusion in it, which one Point of attack for the biasing spring forms. Since the Contact areas both a mechanical control function opposite the associated ramp as well as making contact with the contact section fixed to the housing is recommended in Further development of the invention, the combination of features Claim 16. This ensures that the Contact bridge can not get caught on the ramp.
  • the Ramp slopes should also be comparatively flat and in usually do not exceed 2/10 mm, resulting in especially avoid switching noises and the Life of the switch is extended.
  • Fig. 1 shows the bottom surface 1 of a switch according to the invention, in which the contact sections 2, 3 are cast.
  • the two contact sections are electrically separated from one another at the level of the ramp 3.
  • the ramp can also be molded on when the floor surface 1 is sprayed, so that it is formed in one piece with the floor surface from the same material.
  • Contact tracks 4 are formed from the contact sections 3 by stamping, a contact bridge 6 with its two contact areas 7 and 8 being seated on the contact track 4 of the contact section 2.
  • Each of the two contact areas 7, 8 has contact areas 9, 10 or 11, the contact areas 9, 10 on the Run up ramp 5 while the contact district 11 only the contact with the assigned Contact path 4 of the contact section 2 is used.
  • the two Contact areas 7, 8 are formed by a web Bridge member 12 connected to each other.
  • the web has a centering projection 13, which is the point of application of a Spring 14 sets.
  • the spring is supported with its in Fig. 1st free end on an operating lever, not shown a steering column switch on which two at the same time Attack approaches 15, 16 that guide the contact bridge 6 serve in the operating lever.
  • the contact tracks 4 have a curvature 18, while the Contact areas 7,8 each with a curved surface 19.20 are provided.
  • the districts 9.10 run at one Movement of the contact bridge 6 in the direction of extension Contact tracks 4 on the two ramps 21, 22 of the double ramp 5 and thus raise the contact district 11 from the associated contact path 4. If the contact bridge 6 moves further in the same direction, so the Contact areas 9,10 lowered again and then sits Contact district 11 on the contact track 4 of the Contact section 3. As indicated in Fig. 1, the Contact path 4 of the contact sections 2,3 by stamping out be formed from the lead frame.
  • Fig. 2 shows a side view of the contact bridge 6, the the contact track 4 of the contact section 2 is seated. The Cut is made slightly to the side of the contact path, so that only one connecting the two partial ramps 21, 22 together Rampesteg 23 can be seen.
  • Fig. 2 continues to indicate a dashed line of grooves 24, which the upper edge region of the contact track 4 laterally and not just one centered guidance of the contact bridge 6 on the contact track 4 allow, but also an enlarged contact area, if there is a need for this.
  • 1 and 2 is still closed recognize that the associated contact sections 2,3 in their Align with each other in the longitudinal direction, but they can also to be arranged offset to one another if the contact bridge 6 is designed accordingly.
  • FIG. 3 also shows the possibility of curved contact tracks 4 to provide, with the associated contact sections at the same time plug connections are formed, which in the drawing were not shown. Clear to see is that the contact sections together from one Stamped contact plate and then connecting webs through Punching through holes were cut. In order to there is a considerable amount for the contact sections more complicated shape than shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

Landscapes

  • Contacts (AREA)
  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Slide Switches (AREA)
  • Bridges Or Land Bridges (AREA)
  • Rotary Switch, Piano Key Switch, And Lever Switch (AREA)
  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen Schalter, insbesondere für Kraftfahrzeuge, insbesondere Lenkstockschalter, mir den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffs des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a switch, in particular for Motor vehicles, especially steering column switches, me Features of the preamble of claim 1.

Derartige Schalter (US-A-4,897,513) sollen zum einen zum Schalten erheblicher Lastströme geeignet sein, so dass sie zum Durchschalten von Versorgungsströme von Lampen und Motoren geeignet sind. Andererseits dienen derartige Schalter immer mehr zur indirekten Betätigung von Stromverbrauchern, welche dann direkt über elektronische Schaltungen angesteuert werden. Es ist also vorteilhaft, wenn derartige Lenkstockschalter auch zum Durchschalten schwacher Steuerströme geeignet sind.Such switches (US-A-4,897,513) are intended on the one hand Switching significant load currents be suitable so that they can be used Switching through supply currents for lamps and motors are suitable. On the other hand, such switches always serve more on the indirect actuation of electricity consumers, which can then be controlled directly via electronic circuits. It is therefore advantageous if such steering column switches too are suitable for switching through weak control currents.

Um auch derart schwache Ströme sauber schalten zu können, ist es notwendig, dass der Übergangswiderstand der Schalter möglichst gering gehalten wird. Deswegen ist besonders darauf zu achten, dass die ineinander in Verbindung stehenden Kontaktflächen nicht durch Korrosion, Verzundern, Lichtbögen und durch haftende Isoliermaterialreste verschmutzt werden.In order to be able to switch such weak currents cleanly, is it is necessary that the contact resistance of the switch is kept as low as possible. That's why it's special to ensure that the interrelated Contact areas not caused by corrosion, scaling, arcing and become contaminated by adhesive residues of insulating material.

Es sind bereits Schalter vorgeschlagen worden, bei denen durch schiebende Bewegung von Kontaktbrücken innerhalb der Kontaktebene aneinander angrenzende gehäusefest angeordnete Kontaktabschnitte elektrisch miteinander verbunden bzw. getrennt werden. Nachteilig bei derartigen Schaltern ist es, dass die beiden Kontaktabschnitte durch Isoliermaterial getrennt sind, welches beim Überfahren durch die Kontaktbrücke mit dieser in enge Berührung kommt. Hierdurch werden Reste von Isoliermaterial bzw. des Kunststoffgehäuses, in welches die Kontaktabschnitte eingebettet sind, durch die sich verschiedene Kontaktbrücke aufgenommen. Beim Auflaufen der Kontaktbrücke auf einen anderen Kontaktabschnitt wird dann das Isoliermaterial zum Teil auf die Kontaktbahn dieses Kontaktabschnitts übertragen oder auf die Kontaktflächen durch den möglicherweise entstehenden Lichtbogen eingebrannt. Hierdurch ergeben sich Verunreinigungen an der Kontaktfläche. Durch entsprechend großzügige Ausgestaltung der Schalterdimensionen ist es möglich, die Auflagekraft der Kontakte so groß zu machen, dass durch Reibung bei der gegeneinander gerichteten Schiebebewegung die Kontakte wieder freigerieben werden. Eine derartig großzügige Dimensionierung ist aber bei möglichen schwachen Strömen nur schwer zu rechtfertigen.Switches have already been proposed for which pushing movement of contact bridges within the contact plane contiguous contact sections arranged fixed to the housing electrically connected or disconnected become. A disadvantage of such switches is that two contact sections are separated by insulating material, which when crossing over the contact bridge with this in comes into close contact. As a result, remains of insulating material or the plastic housing into which the contact sections are embedded through which different Contact bridge added. When the contact bridge opens the insulating material is then applied to another contact section partly on the contact path of this contact section transferred or to the contact areas through the possibly arcing is burned in. Resulting from this contamination on the contact surface. By accordingly It is the generous design of the switch dimensions possible to make the contact force of the contacts so large that due to friction in the opposing sliding movement the contacts are cleared again. One of those generous dimensioning is possible with weak ones Flowing is difficult to justify.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, einen Schalter mit kleinen Dimensionen zu schaffen, dessen Kontaktflächen von Verunreinigungen weitgehend freigehalten werden, so dass er sich sowohl zum Schalter größerer als auch kleinerer Ströme eignet.The object of the invention is a switch with small To create dimensions, the contact surfaces of impurities be kept largely free so that he can suitable for switching larger and smaller currents.

Diese Aufgabe wird mit einem Schalter gelöst, der die Merkmale des Anspruchs 1 aufweist.This task is solved with a switch that has the features of claim 1.

Die Erfindung besteht im Prinzip also darin, die Kontaktbrücke an geeigneter Stelle anzuheben, bevor sie einen Kontaktabschnitt verlässt, um sie dann an geeigneter Stelle eines neuen Kontaktabschnitts abzusenken.In principle, the invention therefore consists in the contact bridge in a suitable place before you take one Leaves contact section to then put them in a suitable place of a new contact section.

Es wird bei der Erfindung also an den für die Umschaltung wichtigen Stellen die Schiebebewegung mit einer Hubbewegung kombiniert. Der sich hieraus ergebende Vorteil besteht in der Möglichkeit, dass die eigentliche Kontaktfläche mit dem die Kontaktabschnitte umgebenden Isoliermaterial nicht in Verbindung kommt. Außerdem wird durch die Hubbewegung gewährleistet, dass die Kontaktgabe schlagartig sich ändert statt durch eine schleifende Bewegung durch den Übergang von einem Kontaktabschnitt auf den nächsten sich linear zu ändern. Man erhält somit drei definierte Zustände der Kontaktbrücke, für die die Übergangszeiten ineinander recht kurz sind, nämlich die Kontaktgabe der Kontaktbrücke nur auf einem Kontaktabschnitt, die Kontaktgabe der Brücke nur mit einem Brückenteil, während der andere Brückenteil abgehoben ist und schließlich den schnellen Übergang zu dem Zustand, in dem die beiden Kontaktteile jeweils mit einem anderen Kontaktabschnitt verbunden sind. Für die Erfindung wichtig ist auch, dass der eine Kontaktteil beim Abheben noch keinen Lichtbogen bildet, weil der andere Kontaktteil noch in engem elektrischen Kontakt mit dem Kontaktabschnitt sich befindet.So it is in the invention to the switchover important points the sliding movement with a lifting movement combined. The resulting advantage is that Possibility that the actual contact surface with the Insulation material surrounding contact sections not in connection comes. In addition, the lifting movement ensures that the contact changes suddenly instead of by one dragging movement through the transition from a contact section to change linearly over the next. You get thus three defined states of the contact bridge for which the Transition times into each other are quite short, namely the Contacting of the contact bridge only on one contact section, the contact of the bridge with only one bridge part while the other part of the bridge is raised and finally the rapid transition to the state in which the two contact parts each connected to a different contact section are. It is also important for the invention that one Contact part does not form an arc when lifting because the other contact part is still in close electrical contact with the contact section is located.

Erfindungsgemäß ist eine Rampe vorgesehen, über welche ein Kontaktteil der sich längs eines Kontaktabschnitts bewegenden Kontaktbrücke senkrecht zur Ebene der Kontakte angehoben und über dem nächsten Kontaktabschnitt wieder abgesenkt wird. Das sich bewegende Kontaktteil folgt also der schrägen geneigten Rampenflächen.According to the invention, a ramp is provided, via which a Contact part of the moving along a contact section Contact bridge raised perpendicular to the plane of the contacts and is lowered again over the next contact section. The moving contact part follows the inclined inclined Ramp surfaces.

Um nun sicher zu verhindern, dass auf den ortsfesten Kontaktabschnitten schleifende Bereiche der Kontaktbrücke in Berührung mit dem umgebenden Isoliermaterial, insbesondere dem Isoliermaterial der Rampe, kommen, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 2. Danach ist mindestens eine Rampe vorgesehen, die seitlich der Kontaktflächen von Kontaktbrücke und Kontaktabschnitt angeordnet ist, so dass der auf die Rampe auflaufende Bereich der Kontaktbrücke nicht in Berührung mit der Kontaktfläche auf den Kontaktabschnitten kommt.To now safely prevent that from moving Contact sections grinding areas of the contact bridge in Contact with the surrounding insulation material, especially the Insulation material of the ramp, come in, is recommended Further development of the invention, the combination of features Claim 2. Thereafter at least one ramp is provided, which to the side of the contact surfaces of the contact bridge and Contact section is arranged so that the on the ramp area of the contact bridge not in contact with the contact area comes on the contact sections.

Eine besonders einfache Konstruktion hierzu ergibt sich durch die Maßnahmen nach Anspruch 3. Danach werden die Rampen symmetrisch im Bereich des Zwischenraums angeordnet, so dass die auf die Kontakte durch die beiden Rampen ausgeübten Kräfte ebenfalls symmetrisch sind und so die Kontaktbrücke gut in der Spur mit den Kontaktabschnitten halten. Um nun sicher die Anteile der Kontaktbrücke, die mit der Rampe oder möglichem Isoliermaterial in Verbindung treten, von den Anteilen zu trennen, welche der Kontaktgabe mit den Kontaktabschnitten dienen, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 4. Danach gibt es an der Kontaktbrücke die weiter oben als Kontaktanteile bezeichnete Kontaktbezirke, die zwar mit den Rampen nicht aber in elektrischen Kontakt mit den Kontaktabschnitten gelangen. Weiterhin gibt es Kontaktbezirke, die ausschließlich in Kontakt mit den Kontaktabschnitten treten, um eine gute elektrische Kontaktgabe zu ermöglichen.A particularly simple construction for this results from the measures according to claim 3. Then the ramps arranged symmetrically in the area of the intermediate space, so that the forces exerted on the contacts by the two ramps are also symmetrical and so the contact bridge is good in the Keep track with the contact sections. To be sure now Shares of the contact bridge, that with the ramp or possible Insulating material contact from the parts to separate which of contacting the contact sections serve, is recommended in continuing education Combination of features according to claim 4 Contact bridge that referred to above as contact parts Contact areas that are not with the ramps but in electrical contact with the contact sections. There are also contact areas that are exclusively in Contact the contact sections to make a good one to enable electrical contacting.

Um die Kontaktgabe zwischen Kontaktbrücke und Kontaktabschnitt zu verbessern, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 5. Ein derartiger Aufbau ist insbesondere zur Durchschaltung schwacher Ströme geeignet, da hier durch die schleifende Bewegung einander kontaktierender Kontaktfläche, die andererseits nie in Berührung mit Kunststoff treten und ohne größere Lichtbogenbildung schnell voneinander getrennt werden, die Kontaktflächen weitgehend saubergehalten werden. Eine besondere Beschichtung mit besonderen Metallen ist hierbei vielfach nicht notwendig.To establish contact between the contact bridge and the contact section to improve, is recommended in further development of the invention the combination of features according to claim 5. Such a structure is particularly suitable for switching through low currents, because here the grinding movement makes contact with each other Contact area which, on the other hand, never comes into contact with Kick plastic and quickly without major arcing are separated from each other, the contact areas largely to be kept clean. A special coating with special metals are often not necessary.

Um die Kontaktfläche noch weiterhin zu verkleinern und damit das Sauberhalten der Kontakte zu verbessern, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 6. Durch einen derartigen Aufbau lässt sich ggf. eine fast punktförmige Auflagefläche der Kontakte erreichen. Sollen bei mehreren zueinander parallel auf Kontaktabschnitten fahrenden Brücken unterschiedliche Ströme geschaltet werden, so kann es sich empfehlen, manche der Brücken in Richtung der Kontaktabschnitte mit Nuten zu versehen, welche die Kontaktbahnen seitlich umfassen und so wahlweise eine größere Kontaktfläche herzustellen vermögen. Sollen aber nur Steuerströme geschaltet werden, so genügt es, die Brücke ohne Nut auszurüsten und dem entsprechend die Auflagefläche der Kontaktbrücke auf der Kontaktbahn zu verringern. To further reduce the contact area and thus Improving keeping contacts clean is recommended in Further development of the invention, the combination of features Claim 6 reach almost point contact surface of the contacts. Should with several parallel to each other on contact sections moving bridges, different currents are switched, so it may be advisable to head for some of the bridges to provide the contact sections with grooves which the Enclose contact tracks on the side and thus optionally one able to produce larger contact areas. But only Control currents are switched, it is sufficient to bridge the to be equipped without a groove and accordingly the contact surface to reduce the contact bridge on the contact track.

Um die Kontaktgabe der Kontaktbrücke zu verbessern, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 7. Durch die federnde Anlage der Kontaktbrücke auf den Kontaktbahnen wird ein sicherer Auflagedruck auch bei Unebenheiten der Kontaktbahn gewährleistet. Ein erhöhter Federdruck kann weiterhin zum gegenseitigen Reinhalten der Kontaktflächen ausgenutzt werden.To improve the contacting of the contact bridge, In further training, the combination of features is recommended Claim 7. The spring contact of the contact bridge the contact tracks also have a safe contact pressure Unevenness of the contact path guaranteed. An increased Spring pressure can continue to keep each other clean Contact areas are used.

Die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 8 sorgt für eine gute Führung der Kontaktbrücke innerhalb des Betätigungshebels, so dass die Kontaktbrücke immer in Richtung der Kontaktbahnen auf den Kontaktabschnitten ausgerichtet bleibt und sich nicht aus der Erstreckungsrichtung der Kontaktbahnen herausdrehen kann.The combination of features according to claim 8 ensures a good one Guidance of the contact bridge within the operating lever, so the contact bridge is always towards the Contact tracks remains aligned on the contact sections and not from the direction of extension of the Can unscrew contact tracks.

Weiterhin ist es vorteilhaft, dass die Kontaktbrücke in Richtung der Kontaktbahn in ihrem Weg begrenzt ist, was Vorteile bei der Montage des Betätigungshebels bringt, in dem die beweglichen Kontaktbrücke sicher und unverlierbar gehalten sind.It is also advantageous that the contact bridge in Direction of the contact path in their path is limited to what Brings advantages in the assembly of the operating lever, in which the movable contact bridge is secure and captive are held.

Die Merkmale nach Anspruch 9 schaffen weiterhin die Möglichkeit, die Kontaktbrücken in dem Betätigungshebel einzurasten, so dass sie dort leicht montiert, gegenüber dem Betätigungshebel beweglich geführt und weiterhin gegenüber diesem Betätigungshebel gegen Verlieren gesichert sind.The features of claim 9 continue to create the Possibility of the contact bridges in the operating lever snap into place so that it is easily assembled there, opposite the Actuator lever guided movably and still opposite this operating lever are secured against loss.

An sich bietet es sich an, die vorliegende Erfindung auf Schiebeschalter anzuwenden, bei denen die Kontaktbrücke eine geradeaus gerichtete Bewegung durchführt. Die Erfindung ist mit Vorteil aber auch für Kontaktabschnitte bzw. Kontaktbahnen geeignet, welche in einer Ebene im Winkel zueinander hintereinander verlegt sind, wobei auch die Kontaktbahnen selber gekrümmt ausgeführt sein können. Dabei empfiehlt es sich besonders, wenn die Kontaktbahnen auf den Kontaktabschnitten gleichsinnig gekrümmt und mit gleichem Krümmungsradius hintereinander liegen. Eine derartige Konstruktion ist insbesondere für Lenkstockschalter geeignet, bei denen der Betätigungshebel eine Schwenkbewegung um einen Drehpunkt ausführt, welcher in einer kreissektorförmigen Bewegung der Kontaktbrücke resultiert.As such, the present invention is appropriate Slide switch to apply where the contact bridge makes a straight-ahead movement. The The invention is also advantageous for contact sections or contact tracks, which are in one plane in the Angles to each other are laid one behind the other, whereby also the contact tracks themselves can be curved. It is particularly recommended if the contact tracks curved in the same direction on the contact sections and with the same radius of curvature lie one behind the other. Such Construction is especially for steering column switches suitable where the operating lever pivots around a pivot point, which is in a Sector-shaped movement of the contact bridge results.

Einen einfachen Aufbau für die Kontaktbahnen ergibt sich durch die Merkmale nach Anspruch 12. Danach lässt sich die Kontaktbahn aus den Kontaktabschnitten durch Prägen herausformen, so dass ein derartiger Kontaktabschnitt auch aus einem einfachen Kontaktblech herausgestanzt werden kann.There is a simple structure for the contact tracks by the features of claim 12. Then the Contact path from the contact sections by stamping shape out so that such a contact section too can be punched out of a simple contact plate can.

Eine weitere Vereinfachung ergibt sich durch die Merkmale nach Anspruch 13, indem an die aus Kontaktblech ausgestanzten Kontaktabschnitte gleichzeitig Steckanschlüsse angeformt sind. Dabei können entsprechend den Merkmalen nach Anspruch 14 vorteilhaft die Kontaktabschnitte aus einem Stanzgitter gebildet sein. Um die einzelnen Kontaktbahnen besser in eine Spritzform einlegen und dort halten zu können, sind sie während des Spritzvorgangs noch mit elektrisch leitenden, mechanischen Verbindungsstegen verbunden, welche nach dem Spritzvorgang durch Stanzen aufgetrennt werden, unabhängig davon, ob diese Trennstege nun mit Kunststoff umspritzt sind oder von einer Umspritzung freigehalten wurden. Um die Auflagefläche der Kontaktbrücken noch zu verkleinern, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 15. Dabei sind die beiden Kontaktbereiche, die sowohl der Führung der Kontaktbrücke durch die Rampen als auch der Kontaktgabe dienen, räumlich in Erstreckungsrichtung der Kontaktbahnen voneinander getrennt und elektrisch miteinander verbunden. Die Kontaktbereiche können dabei ebenfalls aus einem einzigen Kontaktblech ausgestanzt und durch nachträgliches Verformen gebildet sein. Dabei wird man vorteilhaft die beiden Kontaktbereiche durch einen Steg elektrisch miteinander verbinden. Dieser mechanisch steife Steg eignet sich entsprechend Anspruch 15 auch dafür, einen Zentriervorsprung in diesen einzuformen, welcher einen Angriffspunkt für die vorspannende Feder bildet. Da die Kontaktbereiche sowohl eine mechanische Steuerfunktion gegenüber der zugehörigen Rampe als auch eine Kontaktgabe mit dem gehäusefesten Kontaktabschnitt bewirken, empfiehlt sich in Weiterbildung der Erfindung die Merkmalskombination nach Anspruch 16. Auf diese Weise ist sichergestellt, dass sich die Kontaktbrücke nicht gegenüber der Rampe verhaken kann. Die Rampenschräge soll überdies vergleichsweise flach sein und in der Regel nicht 2/10 mm überschreiten, wodurch sich insbesondere Schaltgeräusche vermeiden lassen und die Lebensdauer des Schalters verlängert wird.A further simplification results from the features according to claim 13, by punched out of the contact plate Contact sections molded at the same time plug connections are. According to the characteristics Claim 14 advantageous the contact sections from one Punching grid be formed. To the individual contact tracks better put in an injection mold and hold there they are still with during the spraying process electrically conductive, mechanical connecting bars connected, which by stamping after the injection process be separated, regardless of whether these dividers are now overmolded with plastic or by overmolding were kept free. Around the contact surface of the contact bridges To further reduce the size, it is recommended that the Combination of features according to claim 15. Here are the two Contact areas that both guide the contact bridge serve by the ramps as well as the contact, spatially in Direction of extension of the contact tracks separated from each other and electrically connected to each other. The contact areas can also be made from a single contact plate punched out and formed by subsequent shaping. It is advantageous to go through the two contact areas electrically connect a bridge. This mechanically stiff web is also suitable according to claim 15 for to form a centering protrusion in it, which one Point of attack for the biasing spring forms. Since the Contact areas both a mechanical control function opposite the associated ramp as well as making contact with the contact section fixed to the housing is recommended in Further development of the invention, the combination of features Claim 16. This ensures that the Contact bridge can not get caught on the ramp. The Ramp slopes should also be comparatively flat and in usually do not exceed 2/10 mm, resulting in especially avoid switching noises and the Life of the switch is extended.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnung erläutert.An embodiment of the invention is described below the drawing explained.

Darin zeigen:

Fig. 1
in schematisierter, räumlicher Darstellung einen Ausschnitt aus einem Schaltergehäuse mit eingespritzten Kontaktbahnen und aufsitzender Kontaktbrücke;
Fig. 2
einen Schnitt durch die Anordnung nach Fig. 1 seitlich der Kontaktbahn und
Fig. 3
eine verkleinerte Draufsicht auf einen Zwischenboden eines Schaltergehäuses, in den mehrere parallele Kontaktabschnitte eingespritzt sind.
In it show:
Fig. 1
in a schematic, spatial representation, a section of a switch housing with injected contact tracks and contact bridge;
Fig. 2
a section through the arrangement of FIG. 1 to the side of the contact track and
Fig. 3
a reduced plan view of an intermediate floor of a switch housing, in which a plurality of parallel contact sections are injected.

Fig. 1 zeigt die Bodenfläche 1 eines erfindungsgemäßen Schalters, in den die Kontaktabschnitte 2,3 eingegossen sind. Die beiden Kontaktabschnitte sind in Höhe der Rampe 3 elektrisch voneinander getrennt. Dabei kann die Rampe beim Spritzen der Bodenfläche 1 mit angespritzt werden, so daß sie einstückig mit der Bodenfläche aus dem gleichen Material gebildet ist.
Aus den Kontaktabschnitten 3 sind durch Einprägen Kontaktbahnen 4 herausgeformt, wobei auf der Kontaktbahn 4 des Kontaktabschnitts 2 eine Kontaktbrücke 6 mit ihren beiden Kontaktbereichen 7 und 8 aufsitzt.Fig. 1 shows the bottom surface 1 of a switch according to the invention, in which the contact sections 2, 3 are cast. The two contact sections are electrically separated from one another at the level of the ramp 3. The ramp can also be molded on when the floor surface 1 is sprayed, so that it is formed in one piece with the floor surface from the same material.
Contact tracks 4 are formed from the contact sections 3 by stamping, a contact bridge 6 with its two contact areas 7 and 8 being seated on the contact track 4 of the contact section 2.

Jeder der beiden Kontaktbereiche 7,8 weist Kontaktbezirke 9,10 bzw. 11 auf, wobei die Kontaktbezirke 9,10 auf die Rampe 5 auflaufen, während der Kontaktbezirk 11 ausschließlich der Kontaktgabe mit der zugeordneten Kontaktbahn 4 des Kontaktabschnitts 2 dient. Die beiden Kontaktbereiche 7,8 sind durch ein als Steg ausgestaltetes Brückenglied 12 miteinander verbunden. Der Steg besitzt einen Zentriervorsprung 13, der den Angriffspunkt einer Feder 14 festlegt. Die Feder stützt sich mit ihrem in Fig. 1 freien Ende an einem nicht dargestellten Betätigungshebel eines Lenkstockschalters ab, an dem auch gleichzeitig zwei Ansätze 15,16 angreifen, die zur Führung der Kontaktbrücke 6 im Betätigungshebel dienen.Each of the two contact areas 7, 8 has contact areas 9, 10 or 11, the contact areas 9, 10 on the Run up ramp 5 while the contact district 11 only the contact with the assigned Contact path 4 of the contact section 2 is used. The two Contact areas 7, 8 are formed by a web Bridge member 12 connected to each other. The web has a centering projection 13, which is the point of application of a Spring 14 sets. The spring is supported with its in Fig. 1st free end on an operating lever, not shown a steering column switch on which two at the same time Attack approaches 15, 16 that guide the contact bridge 6 serve in the operating lever.

Vorsprünge 17 an den Ansätzen 15,16 rasten in Führungsnuten oder Führungsschlitze innerhalb des Betätigungshebels ein und sorgen so dafür, daß die Kontaktbrücke 6 gegenüber dem Betätigungshebel beweglich aber unverlierbar gehalten ist, indem der Bewegungsweg der Ansätze durch Anschläge begrenzt ist, an den die Vorsprünge 17 anschlagen. Wesentliche Elemente aus der Konstruktion der Kontaktbrücke 6 sind aus der DE-OS 42 26 508 bekannt und brauchen daher hier an dieser Stelle nicht neu beschrieben zu werden.Projections 17 on the lugs 15, 16 snap into guide grooves or guide slots within the operating lever and thus ensure that the contact bridge 6 relative to the Actuating lever is movable but captive, by limiting the path of movement of the approaches through stops is where the projections 17 strike. basics Elements from the construction of the contact bridge 6 are made the DE-OS 42 26 508 known and therefore need here not to be described again here.

Die Kontaktbahnen 4 weisen eine Krümmung 18 auf, während die Kontaktbereiche 7,8 jeweils mit einer gekrümmten Oberfläche 19,20 versehen sind. Die Bezirke 9,10 laufen bei einer Bewegung der Kontaktbrücke 6 in Erstreckungsrichtung der Kontaktbahnen 4 auf die beiden Rampen 21,22 der Doppelrampe 5 auf und erheben damit den Kontaktbezirk 11 von der zugehörigen Kontaktbahn 4 ab. Wird die Kontaktbrücke 6 weiter in der gleichen Richtung bewegt, so werden die Kontaktbezirke 9,10 wieder abgesenkt und es sitzt dann der Kontaktbezirk 11 auf der Kontaktbahn 4 des Kontaktabschnittes 3 auf. Wie in Fig. 1 angedeutet, kann die Kontaktbahn 4 der Kontaktabschnitte 2,3 durch Herausprägen aus dem Stanzgitter gebildet sein.The contact tracks 4 have a curvature 18, while the Contact areas 7,8 each with a curved surface 19.20 are provided. The districts 9.10 run at one Movement of the contact bridge 6 in the direction of extension Contact tracks 4 on the two ramps 21, 22 of the double ramp 5 and thus raise the contact district 11 from the associated contact path 4. If the contact bridge 6 moves further in the same direction, so the Contact areas 9,10 lowered again and then sits Contact district 11 on the contact track 4 of the Contact section 3. As indicated in Fig. 1, the Contact path 4 of the contact sections 2,3 by stamping out be formed from the lead frame.

Fig. 2 zeigt in Seitenansicht die Kontaktbrücke 6, die auf der Kontaktbahn 4 des Kontaktabschnitts 2 aufsitzt. Der Schnitt ist etwas seitlich der Kontaktbahn geführt, so daß nur ein die beiden Teilrampen 21,22 miteinander verbindender Rampensteg 23 zu erkennen ist. Fig. 2 deutet weiterhin durch eine Strichlinie Nuten 24 an, welche den oberen Randbereich der Kontaktbahn 4 seitlich umfassen und so nicht nur eine zentrierte Führung der Kontaktbrücke 6 auf der Kontaktbahn 4 erlauben, sondern auch eine vergrößerte Kontaktfläche, falls hieran ein Bedarf besteht. Aus Fig. 1 und 2 ist weiterhin zu erkennen, daß die zugehörigen Kontaktabschnitte 2,3 in deren Längsrichtung miteinander fluchten, sie können aber auch zueinander versetzt angeordnet sein, falls die Kontaktbrücke 6 dementsprechend ausgestaltet wird.Fig. 2 shows a side view of the contact bridge 6, the the contact track 4 of the contact section 2 is seated. The Cut is made slightly to the side of the contact path, so that only one connecting the two partial ramps 21, 22 together Rampesteg 23 can be seen. Fig. 2 continues to indicate a dashed line of grooves 24, which the upper edge region of the contact track 4 laterally and not just one centered guidance of the contact bridge 6 on the contact track 4 allow, but also an enlarged contact area, if there is a need for this. 1 and 2 is still closed recognize that the associated contact sections 2,3 in their Align with each other in the longitudinal direction, but they can also to be arranged offset to one another if the contact bridge 6 is designed accordingly.

Fig. 3 zeigt noch die Möglichkeit, gekrümmte Kontaktbahnen 4 vorzusehen, wobei an die zugehörigen Kontaktabschnitte gleichzeitig noch Steckanschlüsse angeformt sind, welche in der Zeichnung nicht dargestellt wurden. Deutlich zu sehen ist aber, daß die Kontaktabschnitte zusammen aus einem Kontaktblech gestanzt und danach Verbindungsstege durch Einstanzen von Durchgangslöchern aufgetrennt wurden. Damit ergibt sich für die Kontaktabschnitte eine erheblich kompliziertere Form als in Fig. 1 und 2 dargestellt.3 also shows the possibility of curved contact tracks 4 to provide, with the associated contact sections at the same time plug connections are formed, which in the drawing were not shown. Clear to see is that the contact sections together from one Stamped contact plate and then connecting webs through Punching through holes were cut. In order to there is a considerable amount for the contact sections more complicated shape than shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

Claims (18)

  1. A switch, in particular for an automotive vehicle, in which at least one contact bridge is displaceable in a contact plane, said contact bridge is connecting two contact sections being rigidly fixed to the housing and being separated from each other, said contact bridge is connecting or separating the contact sections due to the pushing position, one of the two contact areas of the contact bridge by the changeover from the separating position to the connecting position or from the connecting position to the separating position changes its contacting from the one to the other of the two contact sections, wherein during the changeover the contact area (7, 8) of the contact bridge (6) changing the contact section (2, 3) is lifted for a predetermined upstroke with respect to the contact section plane from the actual contacting contact section (e.g. 2) and is lowered after that onto the contact section (e.g. 3) to be newly contacted, characterized in that between said adjoining contact sections (2, 3) ramps (5, 21, 22) are provided, which control the movement of the area of the contact bridge changing the contact section in a direction being perpendicular to the contact plane.
  2. Switch according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one ramp (21, 22) is provided, and arranged laterally of said interspace between said contact sections (2, 3).
  3. Switch according to claim 2, characterized in that two ramps (21, 22) are arranged on both sides of said interspace.
  4. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first contact bridge area (e.g. 8) changing the contact section (2 or 3) is provided with at least one ramp zone (9 or 10) guided through said ramp (21 or 22) and having at least one contact zone (11) sliding on said contact sections (2, 3), and that said contact zone (11) is separated spatially from said ramp zone (9, 10).
  5. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said contact sections (2, 3) are provided with contact paths (4) elevated in a rail-type manner, on which the contact areas (7, 8) of the contact bridge (6) can slide.
  6. Switch according to claim 5, characterized in that the contact paths (4) facing the contact areas (7, 8) are curved such that a small face of contact is formed between the contact paths (4) and the contact areas (7, 8) of the contact bridge (6).
  7. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said contact bridge (6) being resiliently guided in a direction vertical to said contact plane by an actuating member arranged in particular within an actuating lever of a steering column switch.
  8. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said contact bridge (6) comprises two lugs (16) substantially extending in the preloading direction of the spring preloading the contact bridge (10), with the lugs serving for guidance within the actuating member, and two stops (17) are provided confining the path of the contact bridge towards the contact path.
  9. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stops (17) constitute projections on the lugs (15, 16) engaging associated guiding slots within the actuating member.
  10. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact paths (4) extending in the contact plane are equally curved.
  11. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact paths (4) to be interconnected are in substantial alignment with one another.
  12. Switch according to one of claims 5 to 11, characterized in that the contact paths (4) are punched from the contact sections (2, 3).
  13. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact sections (2, 3) are conductor lines punched from sheet metal, with the conductor lines integrally passing to electrical plug connectors.
  14. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact sections (2, 3) form parts of a sheet metal punch grid embedded in an extruded coating of plastic material, with the conductor lines being severed only after extrusion.
  15. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said contact areas (7, 8) of said contact bridge (6) being arranged in a longitudinal direction of said contact paths (4) in a spaced relationship from one another, and that the bridging member (12) is provided with a centering projection (13) centering the bearing point of the spring (14) acting upon the bridging member.
  16. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact area (7, 8) has a curved surface (19, 20), so curved as to serve as a run-on slope with respect to the ramp (5, 21, 22).
  17. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact area (7, 8) is so curved that, in connection with the curvature of the contact path (4), it forms a reduced, self-cleaning contact face.
  18. Switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact zones (11) of the contact bridge (6) are provided with grooves (24) through the side faces of which the contact zones (11) are laterally guided on the contact paths (4).
EP97900589A 1996-01-20 1997-01-10 Switch with lifting ramp Revoked EP1008159B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19601985A DE19601985A1 (en) 1996-01-20 1996-01-20 Switch with lifting ramp
DE19601985 1996-01-20
PCT/EP1997/000093 WO1997026672A1 (en) 1996-01-20 1997-01-10 Switch with lifting ramp

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1008159A1 EP1008159A1 (en) 2000-06-14
EP1008159B1 true EP1008159B1 (en) 2003-05-21

Family

ID=7783249

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97900589A Revoked EP1008159B1 (en) 1996-01-20 1997-01-10 Switch with lifting ramp

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US6046413A (en)
EP (1) EP1008159B1 (en)
BR (1) BR9707038A (en)
CZ (1) CZ226798A3 (en)
DE (2) DE19601985A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2194176T3 (en)
HU (1) HUP9900970A3 (en)
MX (1) MX9805692A (en)
WO (1) WO1997026672A1 (en)

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JP4546639B2 (en) * 2000-12-06 2010-09-15 ナイルス株式会社 Inhibitor switch
US7713457B2 (en) * 2007-03-22 2010-05-11 Dynasty Footwear, Ltd. Composite sheet materials and processes for manufacturing same
JP4285143B2 (en) * 2003-08-05 2009-06-24 パナソニック株式会社 Vehicle switch
US7206952B2 (en) * 2003-12-30 2007-04-17 Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc. Digital wake-up signal from switch transition of two analog signals
US7030326B2 (en) * 2003-12-30 2006-04-18 Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc. Digital wake-up signal from analog signal transition
DE102007029619B4 (en) 2007-06-27 2019-03-28 Marquardt Gmbh operating element

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE59710146D1 (en) 2003-06-26
CZ226798A3 (en) 1998-12-16
MX9805692A (en) 1998-11-29
DE19601985A1 (en) 1997-07-24
HUP9900970A2 (en) 1999-07-28
BR9707038A (en) 1999-07-20
ES2194176T3 (en) 2003-11-16
WO1997026672A1 (en) 1997-07-24
US6046413A (en) 2000-04-04
HUP9900970A3 (en) 2000-04-28
EP1008159A1 (en) 2000-06-14

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