ELECTRICAL SWITCH
First Claim
1. A switch assembly comprising a base portion having at least one integrally formed post extending upwardly therefrom, the post for pivotally supporting an actuation button, the base portion supporting a flexible circuit portion interposed between the base portion and an elastomeric portion, the elastomeric portion having at least one collapsible dome formed therein, wherein the button interacts with the at least one dome upon pivotal movement thereof to collapse the dome and compress and operate the flexible circuit portion.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A low profile switch assembly is provided having a base portion that supports a folded flexible circuit sealed about its edges, an overlying deformable elastomeric portion, and a pair of window knobs. The base portion has a pair of integrally formed, upwardly extending posts that pivotally support the window knobs and encourage alignment of the flexible circuit and the overlying elastomeric pad. A series of domes are formed in the elastomeric pad, pairs of which are operated sequentially by the window knob acting on a lever bridging the pairs of domes. The domes, when collapsed, compress portions of the flexible circuit to bridge opposing traces within the folded circuit to actuate respective switches. The arrangement of the components provides a low profile device that inhibits contamination and uses fewer parts.
45 Citations
22 Claims
- 1. A switch assembly comprising a base portion having at least one integrally formed post extending upwardly therefrom, the post for pivotally supporting an actuation button, the base portion supporting a flexible circuit portion interposed between the base portion and an elastomeric portion, the elastomeric portion having at least one collapsible dome formed therein, wherein the button interacts with the at least one dome upon pivotal movement thereof to collapse the dome and compress and operate the flexible circuit portion.
-
20. A method for assembling a switch comprising:
-
providing a base portion having at least one integrally formed post extending upwardly therefrom, the post for pivotally supporting an actuation button;
arranging a flexible circuit portion over the base portion such that it lies substantially flat thereon;
arranging an elastomeric portion over the flexible circuit portion, the elastomeric portion having at least one collapsible dome formed therein; and
pivotally attaching the actuation button to the post, wherein upon pivotal movement of the actuation button, the actuation button interacts with the at least one dome to collapse the dome and compress and operate the flexible circuit portion. - View Dependent Claims (21, 22)
-
Specification