Push-button type binary switch device

Abstract

A push-button type switch device for use in generating binary coded signals. An insulative board is provided having flat opposite surfaces. An overcenter, snap-acting diaphragm switch element is provided movable between a first inactive position and a second overcenter operative position in response to application of a predetermined operating force thereon, as by depression of a push button. The diaphragm element has a centrally disposed common contact area and a plurality of radially spaced leg members extending outwardly therefrom. The leg members have outer ends which respectively engage first terminal pads on one surface of the board thereby normally supporting the diaphragm element thereon in its first position. A common terminal is provided on the one side of the board and has an external conductor connected thereto, the common terminal being in registry with the common contact area of the diaphragm element and spaced therefrom in the first position. The common contact area engages the common terminal in the second position of the diaphragm element. The leg members have portions thereon inwardly from the outer ends which are respectively in registry with and spaced from other terminal pads on the one surface of the board in the first position of the diaphragm element. At least one preselected terminal pad has an external conductor connected thereto. The diaphragm element is proportioned and arranged so that the leg member portions engage their respective other terminal pads in a third position of the diaphragm element which is intermediate the first and second positions and prior to engagement of the common contact area with the common terminal.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.