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EP1595270A1 - Switch provided with self-cleaning contacts - Google Patents

Switch provided with self-cleaning contacts

Info

Publication number
EP1595270A1
EP1595270A1 EP04706127A EP04706127A EP1595270A1 EP 1595270 A1 EP1595270 A1 EP 1595270A1 EP 04706127 A EP04706127 A EP 04706127A EP 04706127 A EP04706127 A EP 04706127A EP 1595270 A1 EP1595270 A1 EP 1595270A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
contact
switch according
switch
actuating
carrier element
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP04706127A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1595270B1 (en
EP1595270B9 (en
Inventor
Helmut Bonn
Uwe Esskuchen
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.)
Takata Petri AG
Original Assignee
Takata Petri AG
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
Application filed by Takata Petri AG filed Critical Takata Petri AG
Publication of EP1595270A1 publication Critical patent/EP1595270A1/en
Publication of EP1595270B1 publication Critical patent/EP1595270B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1595270B9 publication Critical patent/EP1595270B9/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/70—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
    • H01H13/78—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites
    • H01H13/80—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard characterised by the contacts or the contact sites characterised by the manner of cooperation of the contacts, e.g. with both contacts movable or with bounceless contacts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H1/00—Contacts
    • H01H1/12—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage
    • H01H1/14—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting
    • H01H1/18—Contacts characterised by the manner in which co-operating contacts engage by abutting with subsequent sliding
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2201/00—Contacts
    • H01H2201/008—Both contacts movable

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a switch with self-cleaning contacts according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • a steering wheel for motor vehicles with a device for actuating an electrical functional group of a motor vehicle in which one contact is mounted on an assembly of the steering wheel skeleton and the other opposite contact on an assembly movable with respect to the steering wheel skeleton.
  • the contact arranged on the movable assembly is spring-loaded and can therefore slide along the other contact when the corset is pressed. As a result of the resulting friction, the contacts are cleaned of dirt or an oxide layer is removed.
  • a disadvantage of this arrangement is that the maximum path of self-cleaning of the movable contact with respect to the mating contact corresponds to the displacement path of the actuating element in the direction of the mating contact after touching both contacts, provided that the resilient contact carrier is at an angle of 45 ° with respect to the direction of movement the actuating element is arranged. If, after touching the two contacts, the actuating device is moved further by one millimeter, the contacts also slide against one another by one millimeter. By changing the above-mentioned angle, the sliding path of the movable contact can be increased within certain limits, but it still remains small. If the displacement path of the actuating element were increased, the further disadvantage would be best hen that when the switch is actuated by depressing the airbag cap, the gaps between it and the steering wheel would have to be increased.
  • the invention is therefore based on the object of improving the relationship between the displacement of the actuating element for the switch and the path of self-cleaning of the contacts, i.e. to achieve an increase in the path of self-cleaning with the same displacement compared to a known switching device.
  • a switch with self-cleaning contacts in particular for actuating horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles, with at least two opposing contacts, of which a movable contact can be brought into contact with a mating contact by means of an actuating element, the contacts sliding against one another during their contacting during the contacting , by the contact assigned to the actuating element is fastened to a carrier element which is elastically deformable and is fixed at one end while the opposite end is freely movable, the carrier element according to the invention runs obliquely with respect to the actuating direction and from its fastening side in the direction of the actuating element then runs towards its free end obliquely with respect to the direction of actuation away from the actuating element.
  • the carrier element thus has two inclined sections which run, at least in sections, like two sides of a triangle, the point of intersection of which lies in the region of the actuating element. It is expedient that the oblique sections run at the same angle with respect to the actuation direction. If the actuator, e.g. B. by pressing down the airbag cap, is pressed onto the elastic carrier element clamped on one side, its contact with the mating contact is electrically short-circuited. The bevels of the carrier element located to the left and right of the actuating element increase their angle to one another after the contact closure when the actuating element is further depressed.
  • the contact of the carrier element on the mating contact is shifted with a predetermined contact force and the surface of the contacts is cleaned of dirt.
  • the one side of the carrier element is fixed, preferably fixedly connected to one side of a switch housing, and only the other side can dodge, move with a path of the carrier element in the direction of movement of the actuating element from z. B. one millimeter the contacts against each other by 2 millimeters.
  • the way of self-cleaning has thus doubled compared to the arrangement of the prior art, or for a certain displacement of the contacts against one another, the actuating element has to be pressed in only half as far as the arrangement of the prior art.
  • the carrier element prefferably accommodated in a switch housing, which is preferably closed with a cover, in order to prevent the ingress of larger dirt particles between the contact and counter contact.
  • the carrier element is designed like a dome towards the actuating element and protrudes from the switch housing, the inclined sections of the carrier gerimplantations extend between the dome-like section and the contact side on the one hand and the fastening side of the carrier element on the other.
  • the actuating element is designed such that, after the dome-like section has been pressed down, it bears against the housing wall until it is flush with the housing wall. This ensures that the pressure on the carrier element and thus on the contacts is limited to a predetermined value.
  • the protrusion of the dome-like section of the carrier element relative to the housing is designed so large that the contacts are cleaned, but the elastic carrier element is not overloaded.
  • the support element has a curvature towards the actuating element, which runs inside the switch housing, and an actuating bolt is arranged in the switch housing between the support element and the actuating element, said actuating bolt having a stop abutting the inner wall of the housing in the idle state.
  • the actuating bolt is pressed against the inner wall of the housing by the spring force of the carrier element.
  • the mating contact is also arranged on a carrier element in the switch housing.
  • the carrier elements are preferably designed as electrically conductive contact plates, on which connector lugs are attached, which can be connected to electrical lines or plates.
  • the carrier elements are fastened in particular by injecting or snapping into the switch housing made of insulating material and are preferably fastened to one side of the switch housing.
  • the support element which is assigned to the actuating element, can be assigned a stop in the switch housing in order to achieve a defined rest position.
  • the carrier element is prestressed against this stop, as a result of which the distance between the contact and the mating contact can be better maintained.
  • the stop is expediently arranged in the contact area.
  • the contact and the mating contact are preferably arranged at the free end of the associated carrier element.
  • the support element for the mating contact is permanently connected to the switch housing over its entire length.
  • the carrier element for the mating contact is made of resilient material and is freely movable in the area of the mating contact. As a result, the contact force between the contact and the counter contact can be better coordinated.
  • one contact has a curved surface shape and the opposite contact has a flat, corrugated surface shape.
  • the mating contact preferably has the curved surface shape.
  • the actuating element should be designed such that the contact force between the two carrier elements does not exceed the value of 2 + IN.
  • the carrier element which is assigned to the actuating element, preferably has a round or angular cross section.
  • the switch can be arranged in a motor vehicle in the steering wheel or in the airbag module. It can expediently also be arranged on a scissor device installed in the steering wheel or in the airbag cap, one scissor element carrying the switch and the other scissor element having an actuating element for the switch.
  • the scissor device ensures that the required actuation force is always the same, regardless of whether, for example, the airbag cap is pressed down in the middle or at the edge when the switch is actuated.
  • the switch according to the invention can be used in particular to trigger the horn in the motor vehicle.
  • Fig.l shows a section through a first embodiment of a switch according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the switch according to FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 shows a detail from FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 5 shows a section through a second embodiment of the switch according to the invention.
  • FIG. 6 shows a plan view of the switch according to FIG. 5
  • FIG. 7 shows a switch according to the invention arranged on a scissor device
  • an elastic, electrically conductive carrier element 2 in the form of a contact plate with a contact 3 is arranged in a switch housing 1 made of insulating material.
  • the carrier element 2 has a dome-like section 4 which projects out of the switch housing 1 through a slot-shaped opening 5. Between the dome-like section 4 and the contact side 6 on the one hand and the fastening side 7 of the carrier element 2 on the other hand, the carrier element extends obliquely with respect to the actuation direction B.
  • the oblique portions 2a, b run at the same angle w with respect to the actuation direction.
  • the carrier element 2 is provided with a plug tab 8 for connection to an electrical line.
  • the carrier element 2 bears against a stop 9 in the region of the contact 3 under prestress, so that a constant contact distance to an opposite mating contact 10 is ensured in the rest position.
  • This is fastened to an electrically conductive carrier element 11 which has a connector lug 12.
  • the carrier element 11 lies on the bottom of the switch housing 1, so that it cannot deform as a result of the contact 3 being depressed.
  • the switch shown can, as shown in FIG. 4, be installed in a steering wheel 13 and actuated by an actuating element 14.
  • the actuating element 14 is designed so that it cannot penetrate into the opening 5 of the switch housing 1 when depressed.
  • the dome-like section 4 of the carrier element 2 can thus only be pressed down until its upper end 4a is flush with the outer surface la of the switch housing 1.
  • the carrier element 2 deforms, as shown in broken lines in FIG. 3.
  • the angle w between the slope and the direction of actuation increases after the contact to the angle w 'and with free mobility the ends of the slope would shift horizontally on both sides by the amount d. Since the carrier element 2 is clamped on the left side and only the right side with the contact attached to it
  • both contacts lie on top of each other, the surfaces of both contacts are cleaned of dirt during this movement.
  • the cleaning is supported in that the contact 3 has a flat corrugated surface, while the counter contact 10 has a convex surface.
  • an electrically conductive, elastic carrier element 15 has a curvature toward the actuating element 14, which curvature extends within a switch housing 16.
  • An actuating bolt 17 is arranged in the switch housing 16 between the carrier element 15 and the actuating element 14 (FIG. 4), which is not shown in this figure and which has a stop 19 resting against the inner wall 16a of the housing in the idle state.
  • the opening in the switch housing 16 for the actuating bolt 17 is only insignificantly larger than its diameter, so that good guidance but also ease of movement is ensured.
  • the carrier element 15 lies in the area of the contact 3 against a stop 20 under prestress.
  • the end of the electrically conductive, elastic carrier element 21 with the mating contact 10 lies freely in the switch housing, so that it can deform elastically when the contact 3 is pressed on. Since this support element 15 also has bevels on both sides of the actuating bolt 17 because of the curvature and is clamped on one side in the switch housing 16, the same effect occurs when the switch is actuated as in the first embodiment.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show a possibility of installing a switch according to the invention in an airbag module that differs from FIG. 1.
  • the switch housing 1 is attached to one end of a scissor element 23 of a scissor device 22, while an actuating element 25 is arranged at one end of an associated scissor element 24.
  • the respective other ends of the scissor elements are connected by a compression spring 26.
  • the scissors device 22 is arranged in an airbag module, as shown in FIG. 8.
  • the scissor device has the advantage that the actuating force for the switch is always the same, regardless of whether the switch is actuated by pressure on the airbag cover in the middle or on the edge.

Landscapes

  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)
  • Contacts (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a switch provided with self-cleaning contacts used, in particular for actuating a horn for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle. The inventive switch comprises at least two opposite contacts one of which is movable and touches the opposite contact by means of an actuating element. The self-cleaning of the contacts is carried out by the reciprocal sliding thereof, the contact associated with the actuating element is fixed to a supporting element which is embodied in such a way that it is elastic and fixed to an end, an opposite end being free and moveable. Said invention is characterised in that the supporting element (2) from the fixing side outward has an inclined line with respect to the direction of actuation (B) in the direction of said actuating element (14), and subsequently in the direction of the free end thereof. A line is also inclined in the direction of the free end thereof with respect to the direction of actuation (B) starting from the actuating element (14).

Description

Schalter mit selbstreinigenden Kontakten Switch with self-cleaning contacts
Die Erfindung betrifft einen Schalter mit selbstreinigenden Kontakten gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a switch with self-cleaning contacts according to the preamble of claim 1.
Aus der WO 01/66383 AI ist ein Lenkrad für Kraftfahrzeuge mit einer Vorrichtung zum Betätigen einer elektrischen Funktionsgruppe eines Kraftfahrzeugs bekannt, bei dem ein Kontakt an einer Baugruppe des Lenkradskeletts und der andere gegenüberliegende Kontakt an einer bezüglich des Lenkradskeletts beweglichen Baugruppe gelagert ist. Der an der beweglichen Baugruppe angeordnete Kontakt ist federnd gelagert und kann deshalb beim Miederdrücken entlang des anderen Kontaktes gleiten. Infolge der dadurch auftretenden Reibung werden die Kontakte von Verschmutzung gereinigt bzw. von einer Oxidschicht befreit.From WO 01/66383 AI a steering wheel for motor vehicles with a device for actuating an electrical functional group of a motor vehicle is known, in which one contact is mounted on an assembly of the steering wheel skeleton and the other opposite contact on an assembly movable with respect to the steering wheel skeleton. The contact arranged on the movable assembly is spring-loaded and can therefore slide along the other contact when the corset is pressed. As a result of the resulting friction, the contacts are cleaned of dirt or an oxide layer is removed.
Ein Nachteil dieser Anordnung besteht darin, daß der maximale Weg der Selbstreinigung des beweglichen Kontaktes gegenüber dem Gegenkontakt dem Verschiebeweg des Betätigungselementes in Richtung des Gegenkontaktes nach der Berührung beider Kontakte entspricht, unter der VorrausSetzung daß der federnde Kontaktträger unter einem Winkel von 45° bezüglich der Bewegungsrichtung des Betätigungselementes angeordnet ist. Wenn also nach der Berührung der beiden Kontakte die Betätigungsvorrichtung um einen Millimeter weiterbewegt wird, gleiten die Kontakte gegeneinander ebenfalls um einen Millimeter. Durch eine Veränderung des oben genannten Winkels kann zwar die Gleitweg des beweglichen Kontaktes in gewissen Grenzen erhöht werden, bleibt aber immer noch gering. Bei einer Erhöhung des Verschiebeweges des Betätigungselementes würde der weitere Nachteil beste- hen, daß bei einer Betätigung des Schalters durch Niederdrücken der Airbagabdeckkappe die Spaltmaße zwischen dieser und dem Lenkrad vergrößert werden müßten.A disadvantage of this arrangement is that the maximum path of self-cleaning of the movable contact with respect to the mating contact corresponds to the displacement path of the actuating element in the direction of the mating contact after touching both contacts, provided that the resilient contact carrier is at an angle of 45 ° with respect to the direction of movement the actuating element is arranged. If, after touching the two contacts, the actuating device is moved further by one millimeter, the contacts also slide against one another by one millimeter. By changing the above-mentioned angle, the sliding path of the movable contact can be increased within certain limits, but it still remains small. If the displacement path of the actuating element were increased, the further disadvantage would be best hen that when the switch is actuated by depressing the airbag cap, the gaps between it and the steering wheel would have to be increased.
Der Erfindung liegt deshalb die Aufgabe zugrunde, das Verhältnis zwischen dem Verschiebeweg des Betätigungselementes für den Schalter und dem Weg der Selbstreingigung der Kontakte zu verbessern, d.h., bei gleichem Verschiebeweg gegenüber einer bekannten Schalteinrichtung eine Vergrößerung des Weges der Selbstreinigung zu erzielen.The invention is therefore based on the object of improving the relationship between the displacement of the actuating element for the switch and the path of self-cleaning of the contacts, i.e. to achieve an increase in the path of self-cleaning with the same displacement compared to a known switching device.
Erfindungsgemäß wird das gemäß den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 erreicht .According to the invention this is achieved in accordance with the features of claim 1.
Bei einem Schalter mit selbstreinigenden Kontakten, insbesondere zur Betätigung von Hupen an Lenkrädern von Kraftfahrzeugen, mit mindestens zwei gegenüberliegenden Kontakten, von denen ein beweglicher Kontakt mittels eines Betätigungselementes mit einem Gegenkontakt in Berührung bringbar ist, wobei die Kontakte zu ihrer Selbstreinigung während des Kontaktierens gegeneinander gleiten, indem der dem Betätigungselement zugeordnete Kontakt an einem Trägerelement befestigt ist, das elastisch verfor bar ist und an einem Ende fixiert ist, während das gegenüberliegende Ende frei beweglich ist, verläuft erfindungsgemäß das Trägerelement von seiner Befestigungsseite aus in Richtung des Betätigungselementes schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung und verläuft anschließend zu seinem freien Ende hin schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung vom Betätigungselement weg.In a switch with self-cleaning contacts, in particular for actuating horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles, with at least two opposing contacts, of which a movable contact can be brought into contact with a mating contact by means of an actuating element, the contacts sliding against one another during their contacting during the contacting , by the contact assigned to the actuating element is fastened to a carrier element which is elastically deformable and is fixed at one end while the opposite end is freely movable, the carrier element according to the invention runs obliquely with respect to the actuating direction and from its fastening side in the direction of the actuating element then runs towards its free end obliquely with respect to the direction of actuation away from the actuating element.
Das Trägerelement weist also zwei schräge Abschnitte auf, die zumindest abschnittsweise wie zwei Seiten eines Dreiecks verlaufen, deren Schnittpunkt im Bereich des Betätigungselementes liegt. Es ist zweckmäßig, daß die schrägen Abschnitte bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung unter gleichem Winkel verlaufen. Wenn das Betätigungselement, z. B. durch Niederdrücken der Airbagabdeckkappe, auf das einseitig eingespannte elastische Trägerelement gedrückt wird, wird dessen Kontakt mit dem Gegenkontakt elektrisch kurzgeschlossen. Die links und rechts vom Betätigungselement befindlichen Schrägen des Trägerelementes vergrößern nach dem Kontaktschluß bei weiterem Niederdrücken des Betätigungselementes ihren Winkel zueinander. Dadurch wird der Kontakt des Trägerelementes auf dem Gegenkontakt mit einer vorbestimmten Auflage- kraft verschoben und die Oberfläche der Kontakte wird von Verschmutzungen gereinigt. Dadurch, daß die eine Seite des Trägerelementes fixiert ist, vorzugsweise fest mit einer Seite eines Schaltergehäuses verbunden ist, und nur die andere Seite ausweichen kann, verschieben sich bei einem Weg des Trägerelementes in Bewegungsrichtung des Betätigungselementes von z. B. einem Millimeter die Kontakte gegeneinander um 2 Millimeter. Der Weg der Selbsreinigung hat sich also gegenüber der Anordnung des Standes der Technik verdoppelt, bzw. für eine bestimmten Verschiebung der Kontakte gegeneinander muß das Betätigungselement gegenüber der Anordnung des Standes der Technik nur halb so weit eingedrückt werden. Bei einer Betätigung des Schalters durch die Airbagabdeckkappe können deshalb die Spaltmaße zwischen dieser und dem Lenkrad verringert werden.The carrier element thus has two inclined sections which run, at least in sections, like two sides of a triangle, the point of intersection of which lies in the region of the actuating element. It is expedient that the oblique sections run at the same angle with respect to the actuation direction. If the actuator, e.g. B. by pressing down the airbag cap, is pressed onto the elastic carrier element clamped on one side, its contact with the mating contact is electrically short-circuited. The bevels of the carrier element located to the left and right of the actuating element increase their angle to one another after the contact closure when the actuating element is further depressed. As a result, the contact of the carrier element on the mating contact is shifted with a predetermined contact force and the surface of the contacts is cleaned of dirt. Characterized in that the one side of the carrier element is fixed, preferably fixedly connected to one side of a switch housing, and only the other side can dodge, move with a path of the carrier element in the direction of movement of the actuating element from z. B. one millimeter the contacts against each other by 2 millimeters. The way of self-cleaning has thus doubled compared to the arrangement of the prior art, or for a certain displacement of the contacts against one another, the actuating element has to be pressed in only half as far as the arrangement of the prior art. When the switch is actuated by the airbag cover cap, the gap dimensions between the latter and the steering wheel can therefore be reduced.
Es ist zweckmäßig, daß das Trägerelement in einem Schaltergehäuse untergebracht ist, das vorzugsweise mit einem Deckel verschlossen ist, um das Eindringen größerer Schmutzpartikel zwischen Kontakt und Gegenkontakt zu verhindern.It is expedient for the carrier element to be accommodated in a switch housing, which is preferably closed with a cover, in order to prevent the ingress of larger dirt particles between the contact and counter contact.
In einer Ausführungsform ist das Trägerelement zum Betätigungselement hin domartig ausgebildet und ragt aus dem Schaltergehäuse, wobei sich die schrägen Abschnitte des Trä- gerelementes zwischen dem domartigen Abschnitt und der Kontaktseite einerseits und der Befestigungsseite des Trägerelements andererseits erstrecken.In one embodiment, the carrier element is designed like a dome towards the actuating element and protrudes from the switch housing, the inclined sections of the carrier gerelementes extend between the dome-like section and the contact side on the one hand and the fastening side of the carrier element on the other.
Das Betätigungselement ist bei dieser ersten Ausführungsform so ausgebildet, daß es nach dem Niederdrücken des domartigen Abschnitts bis zu dessen bündigem Abschluß mit der Gehäusewand an dieser anliegt. Dadurch wird gewährleistet, daß der Druck auf das Trägerelement und damit auf die Kontakte auf einen vorbestimmbaren Wert begrenzt ist . Der Überstand des domartigen Abschnittes des Trägerelementes gegenüber dem Gehäuse ist so groß ausgelegt, daß die Kontakte gereinigt, das elastische Trägerelement aber nicht überlastet wird.In this first embodiment, the actuating element is designed such that, after the dome-like section has been pressed down, it bears against the housing wall until it is flush with the housing wall. This ensures that the pressure on the carrier element and thus on the contacts is limited to a predetermined value. The protrusion of the dome-like section of the carrier element relative to the housing is designed so large that the contacts are cleaned, but the elastic carrier element is not overloaded.
In einer zweiten Ausführungsform weist das Trägerelement zum Betätigungselement hin eine Wölbung auf, die innerhalb des Schaltergehäuses verläuft, und zwischen dem Trägerelement und dem Betätigungselement ist ein Betätigungsbolzen im Schaltergehäuse angeordnet, der einen im Ruhezustand an der Gehäuseinnenwand anliegenden Anschlag aufweist. Dabei wird der Betätigungsbolzen durch die Federkraft des Trägerelementes gegen die Gehäuseinnenwand gedrückt .In a second embodiment, the support element has a curvature towards the actuating element, which runs inside the switch housing, and an actuating bolt is arranged in the switch housing between the support element and the actuating element, said actuating bolt having a stop abutting the inner wall of the housing in the idle state. The actuating bolt is pressed against the inner wall of the housing by the spring force of the carrier element.
Es ist zweckmäßig, daß der Gegenkontakt ebenfalls auf einem Trägerelement im Schaltergehäuse angeordnet ist. Die Trägerelemente sind vorzugsweise als elektrisch leitende Kontaktbleche ausgebildet, an denen Steckerfahnen angebracht sind, die mit elektrischen Leitungen oder Blechen verbindbar sind. Die Trägerelemente sind insbesondere durch Einspritzen oder Einrasten im Schaltergehäuse aus Isoliermaterial befestigt und vorzugsweise an einer Seite des Schaltergehäuses befestigt . Dem Trägerelement, das dem Betätigungselement zugeordnet ist, kann zur Erzielung einer definierten Ruhelage ein Anschlag im Schaltergehäuse zugeordnet sein. Das Trägerelement ist gegen diesen Anschlag vorgespannt, wodurch der Abstand zwischen dem Kontakt und dem Gegenkontakt besser eingehalten werden kann. Der Anschlag ist zweckmäßig im Kontaktbereich angeordnet.It is expedient that the mating contact is also arranged on a carrier element in the switch housing. The carrier elements are preferably designed as electrically conductive contact plates, on which connector lugs are attached, which can be connected to electrical lines or plates. The carrier elements are fastened in particular by injecting or snapping into the switch housing made of insulating material and are preferably fastened to one side of the switch housing. The support element, which is assigned to the actuating element, can be assigned a stop in the switch housing in order to achieve a defined rest position. The carrier element is prestressed against this stop, as a result of which the distance between the contact and the mating contact can be better maintained. The stop is expediently arranged in the contact area.
Der Kontakt und der Gegenkontakt sind vorzugsweise am freien Ende des zugeordneten Trägerelementes angeordnet .The contact and the mating contact are preferably arranged at the free end of the associated carrier element.
In einer Ausführungsform ist das Trägerelement für den Gegenkontakt auf seiner ganzen Länge fest mit dem Schaltergehäuse verbunden. In einer zweiten Ausführungsform ist das Trägerelement für den Gegenkontakt aus federndem Material hergestellt und im Bereich des Gegenkontaktes frei beweglich. Dadurch kann die Kontaktkraft zwischen dem Kontakt und dem Gegenkontakt besser abgestimmt werden.In one embodiment, the support element for the mating contact is permanently connected to the switch housing over its entire length. In a second embodiment, the carrier element for the mating contact is made of resilient material and is freely movable in the area of the mating contact. As a result, the contact force between the contact and the counter contact can be better coordinated.
Zur Erzielung eines guten Reinigungseffektes weist ein Kontakt eine gewölbte Oberflächenform und der gegenüberliegende Kontakt eine flache, geriffelte Oberflächenform auf . Vorzugsweise weist der Gegenkontakt die gewölbte Oberflächenform auf.In order to achieve a good cleaning effect, one contact has a curved surface shape and the opposite contact has a flat, corrugated surface shape. The mating contact preferably has the curved surface shape.
Damit der Abrieb auf den Kontaktoberflächen nicht zu groß wird, sollte das Betätigungselement so ausgebildet sein, daß die Kontaktkraft zwischen den beiden Trägerelementen den Wert von 2 + IN nicht übersteigt .So that the abrasion on the contact surfaces does not become too great, the actuating element should be designed such that the contact force between the two carrier elements does not exceed the value of 2 + IN.
Das Trägerelement, das dem Betätigungselement zugeordnet ist, hat vorzugsweise einen runden oder winkelförmig Querschnitt.The carrier element, which is assigned to the actuating element, preferably has a round or angular cross section.
Der Schalter kann in einem Kraftfahrzeug im Lenkrad oder im Airbagmodul angeordnet sein. Er kann zweckmäßig auch auf einer im Lenkrad oder in der Airbagkappe eingebauten Scherenvorrichtung angeordnet sein, wobei ein Scherenelement den Schalter trägt und das andere Scherenelement ein Betätigungselement für den Schalter aufweist. Die Scherenvorrichtung gewährleistet, daß die benötigte Betätigungskraft stets gleich groß ist, unabhängig davon, ob z.B. die Airbagkappe bei Betätigung des Schalters in seiner Mitte oder am Rand niedergedrückt wird.The switch can be arranged in a motor vehicle in the steering wheel or in the airbag module. It can expediently also be arranged on a scissor device installed in the steering wheel or in the airbag cap, one scissor element carrying the switch and the other scissor element having an actuating element for the switch. The scissor device ensures that the required actuation force is always the same, regardless of whether, for example, the airbag cap is pressed down in the middle or at the edge when the switch is actuated.
Der erfindungsgemäße Schalter kann insbesondere zur Hornaus- lösung im Kraftfahrzeug verwendet werden.The switch according to the invention can be used in particular to trigger the horn in the motor vehicle.
Die Erfindung soll in Ausführungsbeispielen anhand von Zeichnungen erläutert werden. Es zeigen:The invention will be explained in exemplary embodiments with reference to drawings. Show it:
Fig.l einen Schnitt durch eine erste Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Schalters;Fig.l shows a section through a first embodiment of a switch according to the invention;
Fig.2 eine Draufsicht auf den Schalter nach Fig. 1;2 shows a plan view of the switch according to FIG. 1;
Fig.3 ein Detail aus Fig. 1;3 shows a detail from FIG. 1;
Fig.4 den Schalter in Einbaulage in einem Lenkrad;4 shows the switch in the installed position in a steering wheel;
Fig.5 einen Schnitt durch eine zweite Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Schalters;5 shows a section through a second embodiment of the switch according to the invention;
Fig.6 eine Draufsicht auf den Schalter nach Fig. 56 shows a plan view of the switch according to FIG. 5
Fig.7 ein auf einer Scherenvorrichtung angeordneter erfindungsgemäßer Schalter;7 shows a switch according to the invention arranged on a scissor device;
Fig.8 die Scherenvorrichtung nach Fig.7 in eingebauter Lage im Lenkrad; Bei dem in der Fig. 1 dargestellten Schalter ist in einem Schaltergehäuse 1 aus isolierendem Material ein elastisches, elektrisch leitendes Trägerelement 2 in Form eines Kontaktbleches mit einem Kontakt 3 angeordnet. Das Trägerelement 2 weist einen domartigen Abschnitt 4 auf, der durch eine schlitzförmige Öffnung 5 aus dem Schaltergehäuse 1 ragt. Zwischen dem domartigen Abschnitt 4 und der Kontaktseite 6 einerseits und der Befestigungsseite 7 des Trägerelements 2 andererseits verläuft das Trägerelement schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung B. Die schrägen Abschnitte 2a, b verlaufen bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung unter dem gleichen Winkel w. Das Trägerelement 2 ist mit einer Steckerfahne 8 für den Anschluß an eine elektrische Leitung versehen. Weiterhin liegt das Trägerelement 2 im Bereich des Kontakts 3 unter Vorspannung an einem Anschlag 9 an, so daß in der Ruhelage ein konstanter Kontaktabstand zu einem gegenüberliegenden Gegenkontakt 10 gewährleistet ist. Dieser ist an einem elektrisch leitenden Trägerelement 11 befestigt, das eine Steckerfahne 12 aufweist. Das Trägerelement 11 liegt bei dieser Ausführungsform auf dem Boden des Schaltergehäuses 1, so daß es sich durch das Niederdrücken des Kontaktes 3 nicht verformen kann.8 the scissors device according to FIG. 7 in the installed position in the steering wheel; In the switch shown in FIG. 1, an elastic, electrically conductive carrier element 2 in the form of a contact plate with a contact 3 is arranged in a switch housing 1 made of insulating material. The carrier element 2 has a dome-like section 4 which projects out of the switch housing 1 through a slot-shaped opening 5. Between the dome-like section 4 and the contact side 6 on the one hand and the fastening side 7 of the carrier element 2 on the other hand, the carrier element extends obliquely with respect to the actuation direction B. The oblique portions 2a, b run at the same angle w with respect to the actuation direction. The carrier element 2 is provided with a plug tab 8 for connection to an electrical line. Furthermore, the carrier element 2 bears against a stop 9 in the region of the contact 3 under prestress, so that a constant contact distance to an opposite mating contact 10 is ensured in the rest position. This is fastened to an electrically conductive carrier element 11 which has a connector lug 12. In this embodiment, the carrier element 11 lies on the bottom of the switch housing 1, so that it cannot deform as a result of the contact 3 being depressed.
Der dargestellte Schalter kann, wie in der Fig. 4 dargestellt, in einem Lenkrad 13 eingebaut sein und durch ein Betätigungselement 14 betätigt werden. Dabei ist das Betätigungselement 14 so gestaltet, daß es beim Niederdrücken nicht in die Öffnung 5 des Schaltergehäuses 1 eindringen kann. Damit kann der domartige Abschnitt 4 des Trägerelementes 2 nur soweit niedergedrückt werden, bis dessen oberes Ende 4a mit der Außenfläche la des Schaltergehäuse 1 fluchtet . Beim Niederdrücken verformt sich das Trägerelement 2, wie es in der Fig. 3 gestrichelt dargestellt ist. Dabei vergrößert sich der Winkel w zwischen der Schräge und der Betätigungsrichtung nach Kontaktschluß zum Winkel w' und bei freier Beweglichkeit würden sich die Enden der Schräge beidseitig um den Betrag d waagerecht verschieben. Da das Trägerelement 2 auf der linken Seite aber eingespannt ist und nur die rechte Seite mit dem daran befestigten KontaktThe switch shown can, as shown in FIG. 4, be installed in a steering wheel 13 and actuated by an actuating element 14. The actuating element 14 is designed so that it cannot penetrate into the opening 5 of the switch housing 1 when depressed. The dome-like section 4 of the carrier element 2 can thus only be pressed down until its upper end 4a is flush with the outer surface la of the switch housing 1. When pressed down, the carrier element 2 deforms, as shown in broken lines in FIG. 3. The angle w between the slope and the direction of actuation increases after the contact to the angle w 'and with free mobility the ends of the slope would shift horizontally on both sides by the amount d. Since the carrier element 2 is clamped on the left side and only the right side with the contact attached to it
3 ausweichen kann, wobei sich auch der domartige Abschnitt3 can dodge, with the dome-like section
4 in der Öffnung 5 verschiebt, wird dieser um den doppelten Betrag 2d nach rechts bewegt. Da beide Kontakte dabei aufeinanderliegen, werden die Oberflächen beider Kontakte bei dieser Bewegung von Verschmutzungen gereinigt. Unterstützt wird die Reinigung dadurch, daß der Kontakt 3 eine ebenen geriffelte Oberfläche aufweist, während der Gegenkontakt 10 eine konvex gewölbte Oberfläche hat.4 moves in the opening 5, this is moved to the right by twice the amount 2d. Since both contacts lie on top of each other, the surfaces of both contacts are cleaned of dirt during this movement. The cleaning is supported in that the contact 3 has a flat corrugated surface, while the counter contact 10 has a convex surface.
Bei der Ausführungsform der Figuren 5 und 6 weist ein elektrisch leitendes, elastisches Trägerelement 15 zum Betätigungselement 14 hin eine Wölbung auf, die innerhalb eines Schaltergehäuses 16 verläuft. Zwischen dem Trägerelement 15 und dem in dieser Figur nicht dargestellten Betätigungselement 14 (Fig. 4) ist ein Betätigungsbolzen 17 im Schaltergehäuse 16 angeordnet, der einen im Ruhezustand an der Gehäuseinnenwand 16a anliegenden Anschlag 19 aufweist. Die Öffnung im Schaltergehäuse 16 für den Betätigungsbolzen 17 ist nur unwesentlich größer als dessen Durchmesser, so daß eine gute Führung aber auch Leichtgängigkeit gewährleistet ist. Das Trägerelement 15 liegt im Bereich des Kontaktes 3 an einem Anschlag 20 unter Vorspannung an. Das Ende des elektrisch leitenden, elastischen Trägerelementes 21 mit dem Gegenkontakt 10 liegt bei dieser Ausführungsform frei im Schaltergehäuse, so daß es sich bei Andruck des Kontaktes 3 elastisch verformen kann. Da auch dieses Trägerelement 15 wegen der Wölbung beidseitig vom Betätigungsbolzen 17 Schrägen aufweist und einseitig im Schalterghäuse 16 eingespannt ist, tritt beim Betätigen des Schalters die gleiche Wirkung ein wie bei der ersten Ausführungsform.In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, an electrically conductive, elastic carrier element 15 has a curvature toward the actuating element 14, which curvature extends within a switch housing 16. An actuating bolt 17 is arranged in the switch housing 16 between the carrier element 15 and the actuating element 14 (FIG. 4), which is not shown in this figure and which has a stop 19 resting against the inner wall 16a of the housing in the idle state. The opening in the switch housing 16 for the actuating bolt 17 is only insignificantly larger than its diameter, so that good guidance but also ease of movement is ensured. The carrier element 15 lies in the area of the contact 3 against a stop 20 under prestress. In this embodiment, the end of the electrically conductive, elastic carrier element 21 with the mating contact 10 lies freely in the switch housing, so that it can deform elastically when the contact 3 is pressed on. Since this support element 15 also has bevels on both sides of the actuating bolt 17 because of the curvature and is clamped on one side in the switch housing 16, the same effect occurs when the switch is actuated as in the first embodiment.
In den Figuren 7 und 8 ist eine von der Fig. 1 abweichende Möglichkeit des Einbaus eines erfindungsgemäßen Schalters in ein Airbagmodul dargestellt . Das Schaltergehäuse 1 ist an einem Ende eines Scherenelementes 23 einer Scherenvorrichtung 22 befestigt, während ein Betätigungselement 25 an einem Ende eines zugeordneten Scherenelementes 24 angeordnet ist. Die jeweiligen anderen Enden der Scherenelemente sind durch eine Druckfeder 26 verbunden.FIGS. 7 and 8 show a possibility of installing a switch according to the invention in an airbag module that differs from FIG. 1. The switch housing 1 is attached to one end of a scissor element 23 of a scissor device 22, while an actuating element 25 is arranged at one end of an associated scissor element 24. The respective other ends of the scissor elements are connected by a compression spring 26.
Die Scherenvorrichtung 22 ist in einem Airbagmodul angeordnet, wie es in der Fig. 8 dargestellt ist. Die Scherenvorrichtung weist den Vorteil auf, daß die Betätigungskraft für den Schalter stets gleich groß ist, unabhängig davon, ob der Schalter durch Druck auf die Airbagabdek- kung in der Mitte oder am Rand betätigt wird.The scissors device 22 is arranged in an airbag module, as shown in FIG. 8. The scissor device has the advantage that the actuating force for the switch is always the same, regardless of whether the switch is actuated by pressure on the airbag cover in the middle or on the edge.
* * * *

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1. Schalter mit selbstreinigenden Kontakten, insbesondere zur Betätigung von Hupen an Lenkrädern von Kraftfahrzeugen, mit mindestens zwei gegenüberliegenden Kontakten, von denen ein beweglicher Kontakt mittels eines Betätigungselementes mit einem Gegenkontakt in Berührung bringbar ist, wobei die Kontakte zu ihrer Selbstreinigung während des Kontaktierens gegeneinander gleiten, indem der dem Betätigungselement zugeordnete Kontakt an einem Trägerelement befestigt ist, das elastisch verformbar ist und an einem Ende fixiert ist, während das gegenüberliegende Ende frei beweglich ist,1. Switches with self-cleaning contacts, in particular for actuating horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles, with at least two opposing contacts, of which a movable contact can be brought into contact with a mating contact by means of an actuating element, the contacts sliding against one another for their self-cleaning during contacting by the contact associated with the actuating element being fastened to a carrier element which is elastically deformable and fixed at one end while the opposite end is freely movable,
dadurch gekβnnseiehnet,thereby,
daß das Trägerelement (2, 15) von seiner Befestigungsseite aus in Richtung des Betätigungselementes (14) schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung (B) verläuft und anschließend zu seinem freien Ende hin schräg bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung (B) vom Betätigungselement (14) weg verläuft.that the carrier element (2, 15) extends obliquely from its fastening side in the direction of the actuating element (14) with respect to the actuating direction (B) and then runs towards its free end obliquely with respect to the actuating direction (B) away from the actuating element (14).
2. Schalter nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die schrägen Abschnitte (2a, b) bezüglich der Betätigungsrichtung (B) unter gleichem Winkel (w) verlaufen.2. Switch according to claim 1, characterized in that the oblique sections (2a, b) with respect to the actuating direction (B) run at the same angle (w).
3. Schalter nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Trägerelement 2, 15) in einem Schaltergehäuse (1, 16) angeordnet ist. 3. Switch according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the carrier element 2, 15) is arranged in a switch housing (1, 16).
Schalter nach mindestens einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Trägerelement (2) zum Betätigungselement (14) hin domartig ausgebildet ist und aus dem Schaltergehäuse (1) ragt und daß sich die schrägen Abschnitte (2a, b) des Trägerelementes (2) zwischen dem domartigen Abschnitt (4) und der KontaktSeite (6) einerseits und der Befestigungsseite (7) des Trägerelements (2) andererseits erstrecken. Switch according to at least one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the carrier element (2) is designed like a dome towards the actuating element (14) and protrudes from the switch housing (1) and that the oblique sections (2a, b) of the carrier element ( 2) extend between the dome-like section (4) and the contact side (6) on the one hand and the fastening side (7) of the carrier element (2) on the other.
Schalter nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Betätigungselement (14) so ausgebildet ist, daß es nach dem Niederdrücken des domartigen Abschnitts (4) bis zu dessen bündigem Abschluß mit der Außenfläche (la) der Gehäusewand an dieser anliegt .Switch according to Claim 4, characterized in that the actuating element (14) is designed such that, after the dome-like section (4) has been pressed down, it lies against the outer wall (la) of the housing wall until it is flush with the latter.
Schalter nach mindestens einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Trägerelement (15) zum Betätigungselement (14) hin eine Wölbung aufweist, die innerhalb des Schaltergehäuses (16) verläuft und daß zwischen dem Trägerelement (15) und dem Betätigungselement (14) ein Betätigungsbolzen (17) im Schaltergehäuse (16) angeordnet ist, der einen im Ruhezustand an der Gehäuseinnenwand anliegenden Anschlag (19) aufweist.Switch according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the carrier element (15) towards the actuating element (14) has a curvature which runs within the switch housing (16) and that between the carrier element (15) and the actuating element (14 ) an actuating pin (17) is arranged in the switch housing (16), which has a stop (19) resting against the inner wall of the housing in the idle state.
7. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Gegenkontakt (10) auf einem Trägerelement (11, 21) angeordnet ist. 7. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the counter contact (10) is arranged on a carrier element (11, 21).
Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Trägerelemente (2, 11; 15, 21) als elektrisch leitende Kontaktbleche ausgebildet sind, an denen Steckerfahnen (8, 12) angebracht sind, die mit elektrischen Leitungen oder Blechen verbindbar sind. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) are designed as electrically conductive contact plates, on which connector lugs (8, 12) are attached, which can be connected to electrical lines or plates.
Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Trägerelemente (2, 11; 15, 21) an einer Seite des aus Isoliermaterial bestehenden Schaltergehäuses (1, 16) befestigt sind.Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) are attached to one side of the switch housing (1, 16) made of insulating material.
10. Schalter nach mindestens einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Trägerelemente (2, 11; 15, 21) durch Einspritzen oder Einrasten im Schaltergehäuse (1, 16) befestigt sind.10. Switch according to at least one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) are fixed by injection or snapping into the switch housing (1, 16).
11. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß dem Trägerelement (2, 15), das dem Betätigungselement (14) zugeordnet ist, zur Erzielung einer definierten Ruhelage ein Anschlag (9, 20) im Schaltergehäuse ((1, 16) zugeordnet ist.11. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (2, 15), which is assigned to the actuating element (14), to achieve a defined rest position, a stop (9, 20) in the switch housing ((1, 16 ) assigned.
12. Schalter nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Anschlag (1, 16) im Kontaktbereich vorgesehen ist. 12. Switch according to claim 11, characterized in that the stop (1, 16) is provided in the contact area.
13. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Kontakt (3) und der Gegenkontakt (10) am freien Ende des zugeordneten Trägereleraentes (2, 15 bzw. (11, 21) angeo dnet sind.13. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact (3) and the mating contact (10) at the free end of the associated carrier element (2, 15 or (11, 21)) are angeo dnet.
14. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Trägerelement (11) für den Gegenkontakt (10) auf seiner ganzen Länge fest mit dem Schaltergehäuse (1) verbunden ist .14. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (11) for the mating contact (10) is firmly connected over its entire length to the switch housing (1).
15. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 1 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Trägerelement (21) für den Gegenkontakt (10) aus federndem Material hergestellt und im Bereich des Gegenkontaktes (10) frei beweglich ist.15. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the carrier element (21) for the mating contact (10) made of resilient material and is freely movable in the area of the mating contact (10).
16. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß ein Kontakt (10) eine gewölbte Oberflächenform und der gegenüberliegende Kontakt (3) eine flache, geriffelte Oberflächenform aufweist .16. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a contact (10) has a curved surface shape and the opposite contact (3) has a flat, corrugated surface shape.
17. Schalter nach Anspruch 16, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Gegenkontakt (10) die gewölbte Oberflächenform aufweist . 17. Switch according to claim 16, characterized in that the counter contact (10) has the curved surface shape.
18. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Betätigungselement (14) so ausgebildet ist, daß die Kontaktkraft zwischen den beiden Trägerelementen (2, 11; 15, 21) den Wert von 2 + IN nicht übersteigt.18. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (14) is designed such that the contact force between the two carrier elements (2, 11; 15, 21) does not exceed the value of 2 + IN.
19. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Trägerelement (2, 15) , das dem Betätigungselement (14) zugeordnet ist, einen runden oder winkelförmigen Querschnitt hat.19. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (2, 15), which is assigned to the actuating element (14), has a round or angular cross section.
20. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß er im Lenkrad (13) oder im Airbagmodul (27) angeordnet ist.20. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is arranged in the steering wheel (13) or in the airbag module (27).
21. Schalter nach mindestens einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß er auf einer Scherenvorrichtung (22) angeordnet ist, wobei ein Scherenelement (23) den Schalter (1) trägt und das andere Scherenelement (24) ein Betätigungsele- ment (25) für den Schalter (1) aufweist.21. Switch according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is arranged on a scissor device (22), one scissor element (23) carrying the switch (1) and the other scissor element (24) an actuating element (25) for the switch (1).
* * * *
EP04706127A 2003-02-20 2004-01-29 Push-switch provided with self-cleaning contacts Expired - Lifetime EP1595270B9 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

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DE20303116U DE20303116U1 (en) 2003-02-20 2003-02-20 Switch with self-cleaning contacts
DE20303116U 2003-02-20
PCT/DE2004/000170 WO2004075223A1 (en) 2003-02-20 2004-01-29 Switch provided with self-cleaning contacts

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EP1595270A1 true EP1595270A1 (en) 2005-11-16
EP1595270B1 EP1595270B1 (en) 2006-06-21
EP1595270B9 EP1595270B9 (en) 2006-12-06

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EP (1) EP1595270B9 (en)
JP (1) JP4294051B2 (en)
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DE (2) DE20303116U1 (en)
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DE20219729U1 (en) * 2002-12-18 2003-03-06 TAKATA-PETRI AG, 63743 Aschaffenburg Device for actuating electrical functional groups, in particular horns on steering wheels of motor vehicles

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Title
See references of WO2004075223A1 *

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CN100437853C (en) 2008-11-26
EP1595270B1 (en) 2006-06-21
WO2004075223A1 (en) 2004-09-02
DE20303116U1 (en) 2003-07-17
DE502004000832D1 (en) 2006-08-03
JP2006518537A (en) 2006-08-10
EP1595270B9 (en) 2006-12-06
US20060207866A1 (en) 2006-09-21
JP4294051B2 (en) 2009-07-08
ES2267038T3 (en) 2007-03-01
BRPI0407609A (en) 2006-02-14
CN1745444A (en) 2006-03-08
US7307229B2 (en) 2007-12-11

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