Importance

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Abstract

A compact nonsnap switch has an actuator moveable in arcuate paths from center off to actuated positions on a shaft which pivots about first shaft shoulders on outwardly discrete casing shoulders. The shaft has second pivot shoulders located in the same diametric plane as the casing shoulders for cooperation with an elongated movable contact member which is normally biased in columnar alignment with the shaft by a coil spring. Fixed contact members are aligned below the casing shoulders for contact by the end of the movable contact member. The coil spring also biases the first shaft shoulders against the casing shoulders through the movable contact member and allows double hinge action to take place whereby the movable contact member will normally pivot with the shaft until the lower end contacts a fixed contact causing the movable contact member to separately pivot on both the actuator shaft and the fixed contact to produce a wiping contact engagement and noncolumnar alignment of the shaft and movable contact member. An abutment means on the casing is engagable by the movable contact member in any of the actuated modes whereby accidental pivotal movement of the actuator upon casing overtravel stop surfaces prevents the movable contact member from breaking contact with a fixed contact. A flexible seal between the shaft and casing permits complex movement of the shaft. The geometry permits small travel rapid actuation by the thumb under high 'G' forces and stability to transient high shock conditions.

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First Claim