Multiple-position momentary electrical push switch with configurable activation zones
OwnerSteven B Hirschinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A momentary electrical push switch that can be configured for 2 or more activation positions. The switch has a top surface, or “key” top, which is pressed down upon in different areas to actuate the switch's different activation positions. The key top can be of various shapes, such as quadrangles, circle, hexagon, etc., or irregular shapes, to suit a particular application. The key top can be divided into multiple segments, or activation zones, each corresponding to a different activation position of the switch. The key allows free-form movement when pressing down upon it, without requiring the user to use specific or narrowly-defined motions to actuate the various activation positions.
Claims5
A multiple-position momentary push switch comprising:
- a key structure surrounded by a faceplate, the key structure includes a top surface having multiple pressing locations and a bottom surface from which a contact section protrudes;
- a snap action component beneath the bottom surface of the key structure to provide a snap action upon pressing any of the multiple pressing locations;
- and
- a detection mechanism comprising a plurality of electrical switches;
- a suspension mechanism, distinct from the detection mechanism and extending from the key structure to a support element, holds the key structure in a neutral position and serves to return the key structure to the neutral position upon removal of pressing forces;
- wherein
- pressing different locations on the top surface of the key structure actuates a corresponding one or combination of the electrical switches.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.