Electric tool actuator switch

Abstract

An actuator switch (25) for an electrical power tool (10), having a housing (16) and an electric motor supported by the housing (16) for operatively driving a work implement, is provided. The actuator switch (25) includes a trigger (22) which cooperates with the housing (16) and is shiftably operable by the user between "on" and "off" positions. A power switch assembly (26) is oriented within the tool housing (16) adjacent the trigger (22) for actuation thereby. The power switch assembly includes a body (28) defining an internal cavity (30) with an aperture (32) extending therethrough. An electrical switch (34) is located within the switch assembly (26) and is electrically connected to the electric motor. A plunger (42) extends through the body aperture (32) to enable the trigger (22) to activate the electrical switch (34). An elastomeric pad (44) is operatively positioned between the plunger (42) and the trigger (22). The pad (44) is of sufficient size and thickness to sealingly engage the switch body (28) and to cover the aperture (32) when the trigger (22) is shifted to the "on" position to maintain the power tool energized during normal operation, in spite of tool vibration, and to prevent dirt and debris from entering the cavity (30) of the actuator switch body (28).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.