STALNIONIS, Mindaugas (Purienu 25, Kaunas, LT-50141, LT)
CLAIMS
1. An electrical switch (1 , 1 ', 1", 1 '") comprising at least one pressing member (2, 32) that has an edge or an edge portion and an extension comprising at least a first contact area (6) and a second contact area (7) and also comprising an equilibrium point (5, 37), said contact areas (6, 7) being placed on opposite sides of the equilibrium point (5, 37), between the equilibrium point (5, 37) and the edge portion, where the switch (1 , 1 ', 1 ", 1 '") further comprises at least a first sub-switch (8) and a second sub-switch (9), where the first contact area (6) is arranged for interacting with the first sub-switch (8) and the second contact area (7) is arranged for interacting with the second sub-switch (9), the switch further comprising an activating member (16) arranged for affecting the pressing member (2, 32) in such a way that the contact areas (6, 7) interact with the sub-switches (8, 9), c h a r a c t e r i z e d i n that the activating member (16) is arranged to affect the pressing member (2, 32) between the equilibrium point (5, 37) and the contact areas (6, 7).
2. An electrical switch (1 , 1 ') according to claim 1 , where said pressing member (2) has a first end (3) and a second end (4) being comprised in said edge, between which ends (3, 4) the plate (2) has a longitudinal extension and where the equilibrium point (5) divides the pressing member (2) into two essentially equal parts.
3. An electrical switch (1 ') according to claim 2, where the activating member is in the form of a pivoting member (20), where the pivoting member (20) has a circumference that is provided with a first planar side (21 ), a second planar side (22) and a third planar side (23), the planar sides (21 , 22, 23) being adjacent, where furthermore the pivoting member (20) pivots around a pivoting axis (24) which is centred essentially longitudinally with respect to the equilibrium point (5) of the pressing member (2).
4. An electrical switch (1 ') according to claim 3 where, in an unbiased state, the first planar side (21) faces the pressing member (2), being essentially parallel with the pressing member (2) and being essentially centred longitudinally with respect to the equilibrium point (5), where furthermore the second planar side (22) is inclined with respect to the first planar side (21 ), a first corner (25) facing the first end (3) of the pressing member (2), the first corner (25) being formed between the first planar side (21 ) and the second planar side (22) and where the third planar (23) side is inclined with respect to the first planar side (21 ), a second corner (26) facing the second end (4) of the pressing member (2), the second corner (26) being formed between the first planar side (21 ) and the third planar side (23).
5. An electrical switch (1 ') according to claim 4 where, when the pivoting member (20) is pivoted in a first direction with a certain force, the first corner (25) is arranged to affect the pressing member (2) in such a way that the switch state of the first sub-switch (8) is altered, and when the force is increased, in such a way that the switch state of the second sub-switch (9) also is altered, and where, when the pivoting member (20) is pivoted in a second direction with a certain force, the second corner (26) is arranged to affect the pressing member (2) in such a way that the switch state of the second sub-switch (9) is altered, and when the force is increased, in such a way that the switch state of the first sub-switch (8) also is altered.
6. An electrical switch (1 ") according to claim 1 , where said pressing member (32) constitutes a surface, said surface having at least four contact areas (42, 43, 44, 45) being arranged for interacting with corresponding sub-switches (46, 47, 48, 49).
7. An electrical switch (1 ") according to claim 6, where the activating member is in the form of a pivoting member (55) having a first planar surface (56), and at least four inclined planar surfaces (57, 58, 59, 60), the planar surfaces (56, 57, 58, 59, 60) being adjacent and inclined with respect to the first planar surface (56), where edges (61 , 62, 63, 64) are formed between the first planar surface (56) and the inclined planar surfaces (57, 58, 59, 60), the edges (61 , 62, 63, 64) being formed pair-wise on opposite sides of the first planar surface (56).
8. An electrical switch (1 ") according to claim 7, where, in an unbiased state, the first planar surface (56) faces the pressing member (32), being essentially parallel with the pressing member (32) and being essentially centred with respect to the equilibrium point (37).
9. An electrical switch (1 ") according to claim 8, where the pivoting member (55) is arranged to be pivoted in one direction for each corresponding edge (61 , 62, 63, 64), around a corresponding pivoting axis, each edge (61 , 62, 63, 64) then being arranged to affect the pressing member (32) with a certain force, such that the switch state of at least one sub-switch (46, 47) is altered, and with an increased force, such that the switch state of at least one other sub-switch (48, 49), positioned on the other side of the present pivoting axis with respect to said at least one sub-switch (46, 47), also is altered.
10. An electrical switch (1 ") according to any one of the preceding claims 6-9, where the sub-switches (46, 47, 48, 49) are arranged pair-wise on opposite sides of the equilibrium point (37).
11. An electrical switch (1 , 1', 1 ", 1 '") according to any one of the preceding claims, where each sub-switch is constituted by at least two cooperating sub-switches (69, 71 , 72).
12. An electrical switch (1 , 1 ', 1 ", 1 '") according to claim 11 , where the co-operating sub-switches comprise a first upper co-operating sub-switch (69), resting on a sub-pressing member (70), a second lower co-operating sub-switch (71 ) and a third lower co-operating sub-switch (72), where the sub-plate (70) has an equilibrium point (73) and the first co-operating sub- switch (69) rests on the sub-pressing member (70) between its equilibrium point (73) and the second co-operating sub-switch (71 ) and where furthermore the second co-operating sub-switch (71 ) and third co-operating sub-switch (72) are situated on the other side of the sub-pressing member (70) in such a way that the second co-operating sub-switch (71 ) and third cooperating sub-switch (72) are arranged to be affected by the sub-pressing member (70).
13. An electrical switch (1 '") according to any one of the preceding claims, where the switch (1 '") comprises at least two pressing members (2, 2a) which are positioned one above the other such that the contact areas (7, 8) of one pressing member (2) are placed above the contact areas (7a, 8a) of the other pressing member (2a), where, beneath each pressing member (2, 2a), a configuration of sub-switches is arranged, all configurations of sub- switches being substantially mutually identical.
14. An electrical switch (1') according to any one of the preceding claims, where, when the activating member (16, 20, 55) is pressed against the pressing member (2, 32) from the unbiased state, all sub-switches are closed essentially at the same time.
15. An electrical switch (1 , 1 ', 1 ", 1 '") according to any one of the preceding claims, where the activating member (16, 20, 55) is arranged to be returned to its unbiased position when released.
16. An electrical switch (1 , 1 ', 1 ", 1 '") according to any one of the preceding claims, where all sub-switches are resilient, striving to the return the associated pressing member to such a position that each switch state is altered to the one of the unbiased position. |
TITLE
A multi-position switch
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to an electrical switch comprising at least one pressing member that has an edge or an edge portion and an extension comprising at least a first contact area and a second contact area and also comprising an equilibrium point, said contact areas being placed on opposite sides of the equilibrium point, between the equilibrium point and the edge portion, where the switch further comprises at least a first sub-switch and a second sub-switch, where the first contact area is arranged for interacting with the first sub-switch and the second contact area is arranged for interacting with the second sub-switch, the switch further comprising an activating member arranged for affecting the pressing member in such a way that the contact areas interact with the sub-switches.
BACKGROUND
In many areas, electrical switches are used for engaging or disengaging an electrical connection. In for example vehicles, it is desired to use electrical switches that admit a number of positions, for example windscreen wiper switches that may be set to a number of wiping speeds or functions. Many other areas of use for such a multi-position switch are of course easily conceivable.
In this context, it is also desirable to provide a multi-position switch of a simple and inexpensive construction. One such switch is described in US 2812160, where a button affects a flat plate at an offset position with regard to two electrical sub-switches which are affected by the plate when the button is depressed. Due to the offset position, one electrical sub-switch is engaged
before the other, resulting in a three-position switch, including the idle state. A similar device is disclosed in US 5376764.
In many applications it is, however, desirable to have a switch of a simple and inexpensive construction that is arranged for more positions than said three positions.
SUMMARY
The object of the present invention is to provide an electrical switch device arrangement of a simple and inexpensive construction that is arranged for providing at least five positions.
Said object is achieved by means of an electrical switch device as mentioned initially. Furthermore, the activating member mentioned is arranged to affect the pressing member between the equilibrium point and the contact areas.
Further preferred embodiments are apparent from the dependent claims.
A number of advantages are obtained from the present invention. For example:
- A plurality of switch states is available using a relatively simple and inexpensive switch.
- A comparable tactile response of the multi-position switch is acquired when used in sets with similar pushbutton switches.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The present invention will now be described more in detail with reference to the appended drawings, where
Figure 1a schematically shows a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a first position;
Figure 1 b schematically shows a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a second position;
Figure 1c schematically shows a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a third position;
Figure 1d schematically shows a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a fourth position;
Figure 1e schematically shows a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a fifth position;
Figure 1f schematically shows a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a sixth position;
Figure 2a schematically shows a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a first position;
Figure 2b schematically shows a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a second position;
Figure 2c schematically shows a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a third position;
Figure 2d schematically shows a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a fourth position;
Figure 2e schematically shows a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a fifth position;
Figure 2f schematically shows a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a sixth position;
Figure 3a schematically shows a top view of a third embodiment of the switch according to the present invention;
Figure 3b schematically shows a side view of an activating member according to a third embodiment of the switch according to the present invention;
Figure 3c schematically shows a bottom view of an activating member according to a third embodiment of the switch according to the present invention;
Figure 4a schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a first position;
Figure 4b schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a second position;
Figure 4c schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a third position;
Figure 4d schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a fourth position;
Figure 4e schematically shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention in a fifth position; and
Figure 5 schematically shows a sub-switch that is constituted by a number of co-operating switches.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As shown is Figure 1a, a first embodiment of the present invention comprises an electrical switch device 1. The electrical switch device 1 in turn comprises a plate 2 that has a first end 3 and a second end 4, between which ends 3, 4 the plate 2 has a longitudinal extension. The plate 2 also has a central point 5 which divides the plate into two equal parts.
At a certain distance from the first end 3, the plate 2 has a first contact area 6, and at the same distance from the second end 4, the plate has a second contact area 7. The first contact area 6 is placed between the first end 3 and the central point 5, closer to the first end 3 than the central point 5, and the second contact area 7 is placed between the second end 4 and the central point 5, closer to the second end 4 than the central point 5.
The plate 2 is resting on a first sub-switch 8 and a second sub-switch 9, where the plate's first contact area 6 rests on the first sub-switch 8 and the plate's second contact area 7 rests on the second sub-switch 9. Each sub- switch 8, 9 is connected to a control unit 10 via appropriate connections 11 , 12 indicated schematically in Figure 1a. The control unit 10 determines which state each sub-switch 8, 9 is in. Each sub-switch 8, 9 may be in an open and a closed state, where a depressed sub-switch is in the closed state. Normally, when no action is taken by means of the plate 2, and the plate 2 is just resting on the sub-switches 8, 9, they are in an open state, not being depressed.
In Figure 1a -1f, each sub-switch 8, 9 is shown as having a contact part 13a, 13b and a resilient part 14a, 14b, for example a rubber dome. In the following examples, when the contact part 13a, 13b contacts an underlying part 15, the sub-switch 8, 9 is closed, otherwise open.
The plate 2 is arranged to be depressed at a leverage area along its longitudinal extension. The depression is carried out by means of an activating member 16, being separate from the plate 2, which by means of a user action is pushed against the plate 2, depressing it.
According to the present invention, the activating member 16 is arranged to contact the plate 2 at more than one leverage area in the plate's longitudinal extension.
In a first embodiment example, still with reference to Figure 1a, the activating member is a push-rod 16 that is depressible perpendicular to the plate's longitudinal extension and movable in the plate's longitudinal extension. When unbiased, the push-rod 16 is positioned essentially at the plate's central point 5, being held at this position by means of a first helical spring 17 and a second helical spring 18, and does not make contact with the plate 2, being biased by a third helical spring 19. These helical springs 17, 18, 19 are only shown schematically, indicating their functions. The helical springs 17, 18, 19 are furthermore not shown in Figures 1b-1f for reasons of simplicity, how these helical springs 17, 18, 19 function is easily conceivable. A user may thus move the push-rod 16 from the central point 5, against the first end 3 or against the second end 4, and may also push the push-rod against the plate, against the third helical spring's 19 spring force.
The state shown in Figure 1a, the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub- switch 9 both being open, constitutes a first switch state.
If the user depresses the push-rod 16 against the plate 2 as shown in Figure 1b, the push-rod 16 essentially not being moved from the longitudinal position at the plate's central point 5, the plate 2 is forced against the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub-switch 9 essentially at the same time. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 1b, the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub-switch 9 both being closed at essentially the same time, constitutes a second switch state.
If the user moves the push-rod 16 from the central point 5 against the first end 3 as shown in Figure 1c, and depresses the push-rod 16 against the plate 2, the plate 2 is forced against the first sub-switch 8 only for a certain applied first depressing force F1 , closing the first sub-switch 8 while the second sub-switch 9 remains open. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 1c, the first sub-
switch 8 being closed but the second sub-switch remaining 9 open, constitutes a third switch state.
If the user depresses the pushrod with an increased second force F2, the second sub-switch 9 will also become closed, as shown in Figure 1d. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 1d, the first sub-switch 8 being closed first and the second sub-switch 9 being closed afterwards, constitutes a fourth switch state.
If the user moves the push-rod from the plate's central point 5 against the second end 4 as shown in Figure 1e, and depresses the push-rod 16 against the plate 2, the plate 2 is forced against the second sub-switch 9 only for a certain applied first depressing force FV, closing the second sub-switch 9 while the first sub-switch 8 remains open. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 1e, the second sub-switch 9 being closed but the first sub-switch 8 remaining open, constitutes a fifth switch state.
If the user depresses the pushrod 16 with an increased second force F2', the first sub-switch 8 will also become closed, as shown in Figure 1f. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 1f, the second sub-switch 9 being closed first and the first sub- switch being 8 closed afterwards, constitutes a sixth switch state.
A second embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 2a, where those parts that correspond to the first embodiment have the same reference signs. The plate 2 with its contact surfaces 6, 7 and the sub-switches 8, 9 are arranged in a manner similar to that of the first embodiment, the plate having a first end 3, a second end 4 and a central point 5. Each sub-switch 8, 9 is connected to a control unit 10 via appropriate connections 11 , 12 indicated schematically in Figure 2a.
In the second embodiment, a switch 1' is shown where the activating member is in the form of a pivoting wheel 20, and where the wheel 20 circumference is provided with a first planar side 21 , a second planar side 22 and a third planar side 23, the planar sides 21 , 22, 23 being adjacent. The wheel 20 pivots around a pivoting axis 24 that is positioned in the centre of the wheel 20, being centred longitudinally with respect to the plate's central point 5.
In an unbiased state, the first planar side 21 faces the plate 2, being essentially parallel with the plate 2. The second planar side 22 is inclined with respect to the first planar side 21, a first corner 25 facing the plate's first end
3 being formed between the first planar side 21 and the second planar side
22. The third planar 23 side is inclined with respect to the first planar side 21 , a second corner 26 facing the plate's second end 4 being formed between the first planar side 21 and the third planar side 23.
The wheel 20 is preferably symmetrical with respect to a symmetry line 27 passing through the wheel 20, being perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the plate 2 when unbiased. Then, the symmetry line 27 essentially passes through the plate's central point 5.
Helical springs 28, 29, 30 are used to bias the wheel, these helical springs are not shown in Figures 2b-2f for reasons of simplicity, and how these helical springs 28, 29, 30 function is easily conceivable.
In Figure 2a-2f, each sub-switch 8, 9 is configured in the same manner as for the first embodiment, having a contact part 13a, 13b and a resilient part 14a, 14b, for example a rubber dome. When the contact part 13a, 13b contacts an underlying part 15, the sub-switch 8, 9 is closed, otherwise open.
A user handling rod 31 is attached to the wheel 20 opposite the first side 21. A user manipulates the handling rod 31 in order to acquire the desired switch
state as will be described in the following. When unbiased, the wheel 20 does not affect the plate 1 in such a way that any one of the sub-switches 8, 9 is closed.
The state shown in Figure 2a, the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub- switch 9 both being open, constitutes the first switch state, as for the first embodiment.
If the user depresses the handling rod 31 towards the plate 2 as shown in Figure 2b, the wheel 20 essentially not being rotated around its pivoting axis 24, the plate 2 is forced against the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub- switch 9 essentially at the same time. The pivoting axis 24 is here brought against the plate 1 together with the wheel 20. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 2b, the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub-switch 9 both being closed at essentially the same time, constitutes a second switch state, as for the first embodiment.
If the user moves the handling rod 31 from the plate's central point 5 towards the first end 3 as shown in Figure 2c, without depressing it, the wheel 20 is rotated counter-clockwise around its pivoting axis 24, the wheel's first corner 25 depresses the plate 2 against the first sub-switch 8, closing the first sub- switch 8 while the second sub-switch 9 remains open. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 2c, thus constitutes the third switch state, as for the first embodiment.
If the user continues to move the handling rod 31 towards the first end 3 as shown in Figure 2d, without depressing it, the wheel 20 is further rotated counter-clockwise around its pivoting axis 24. The wheel's second side 22 then comes into contact with the plate 2 and depresses the plate 2 against the second sub-switch 9, also closing the second sub-switch 9. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown
in Figure 2d, then constitutes the fourth switch state, as for the first embodiment.
If the user moves the handling rod 31 from the plate's central point 5 towards the second end 4 as shown in Figure 2e, without depressing it, the wheel 20 is rotated clockwise around its pivoting axis 24, the wheel's 20 second corner
26 depresses the plate 2 against the second sub-switch 9, closing the second sub-switch 9 while the first sub-switch remains open 8. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 2e thus constitutes the fifth switch state, as for the first embodiment.
If the user continues to move the handling rod 31 towards the second end 4 as shown in Figure 2f, without depressing it, the wheel 20 is further rotated clockwise around its pivoting axis 24. The wheel's third side 23 then comes into contact with the plate 2 and depresses the plate 2 against the first sub- switch 8, also closing the first sub-switch 8. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. The state shown in Figure 2f, then constitutes the sixth switch state, as for the first embodiment.
For the first and second embodiments, the first switch state precedes the third and fifth switch states.
Furthermore, the control unit 10 will be arranged for determining the difference between the second switch state and any one of the fourth and sixth switch states, since both sub-switches 8, 9 in practice are depressed in an unknown order for the second switch state. For the second switch state, the time difference between the closing of the sub-switches 8, 9 is normally small in relation to the time difference between the closing of the sub- switches 8, 9 for the fourth and sixth switch states, thus enabling the control unit 10 to perform a correct decision regarding which one of the second, fourth and sixth switch state that is chosen.
According to the second embodiment of the present invention, a relatively simple switch arrangement providing six different switch states is provided.
For the second embodiment, the pivoting wheel 20 pivots around a pivoting axis 24 that is positioned in the centre of the wheel 20, being centred longitudinally with respect to the plate's central point 5. In order to increase the number of different switch states, a larger number of degrees of freedom may be provided, as shown for a third embodiment described below.
The third embodiment of a switch 1" according to the present invention is shown in a top view in Figure 3a, where those parts that correspond to the second embodiment have the same reference signs. A square plate 32 has a first side 33, a second side 34, a third side 35 and a fourth side 36. The plate 32 also has a central point 37. The square has a first corner 38, a second corner 39, a third corner 40 and a fourth corner 41.
At a certain distance from the first corner 38, the plate 32 has a first contact area 42. The first contact area 42 is placed between the first corner 38 and the central point 37, closer to the first corner 38 than the central point 37. Corresponding contact areas 43, 44, 45 exist at the other corners 39, 40, 41 as well. The contact areas 42, 43, 44, 45 are placed symmetrically with respect to the central point 37.
The plate 32 is resting on a first sub-switch 46, a second sub-switch 47, a third sub-switch 48, and a fourth sub-switch 49. The plate's first contact area
42 rests on the first sub-switch 46, the plate's second contact area 43 rests on the second sub-switch 47, the plate's third contact area 44 rests on the third sub-switch 48 and the plate's fourth contact area 45 rests on the fourth sub-switch 49. Each sub-switch 46, 47, 48, 49 is connected to a control unit 50 via appropriate connections 51 , 52, 53, 54 indicated schematically in
Figure 3a. The control unit 50 and the sub-switches 46, 47, 48, 49 are of a similar kind as those described in connection with the first and second
embodiment. Normally, when no action is taken by means of the plate 32, and the plate 32 is just resting on the sub-switches 46, 47, 48, 49, they are in an open state, not being depressed.
With reference also to Figure 3b and Figure 3c, an activating member is in the form of a suspended frustum of a sphere 55.
The surface of the sphere 55 is provided with a first planar surface 56, a second planar surface 57, a third planar surface 58, a fourth planar surface 59 and a fifth planar surface 60, the planar surfaces 56, 57, 58, 59, 60 being adjacent and having four corners each. The first planar surface 56 is square and the rest of the planar surfaces 57, 58, 59, 60 mainly have the same shape.
In an unbiased state, the first planar surface 56 faces the plate 32, being essentially parallel with the plate 32. The other planar surfaces 57, 58, 59, 60, are inclined with respect to the first planar side 56, circumscribing the first planar surface 56. Between the first planar surface 56 and the other planar surfaces 57, 58, 59, 60, a corresponding first edge 61 , second edge 62, third edge 63 and fourth edge 64 is formed, the edges 61 , 62, 63, 64 being the sides of the first planar surface 56.
A user handling rod 65 is attached to the sphere 55 opposite the first side. A user manipulates the handling rod 65 in order to acquire the desired switch state. When unbiased, the sphere 55 does not affect the plate 32 in such a way that any one of the sub-switches 46, 47, 48, 49 is closed. This constitutes the first switch state.
As shown in Figure 3a, there is a first symmetry line 66 and a second symmetry line 67. The first symmetry line 66 passes via the central point 37 and runs between the first sub-switch 46 and fourth sub-switch 49, and also between the second sub-switch 47 and the third sub-switch 48, perpendicular
to the first edge 33 and the third edge 35. The second symmetry line 67 passes via the central point 37 and is perpendicular to the first symmetry line 66. The second symmetry line 67 thus runs between the first sub-switch 46 and second sub-switch 47, and also between the third sub-switch 48 and the fourth sub-switch 49.
When the handling rod 65 is moved towards the first edge 33 along the first symmetry line 66, the first sub-switch 46 and fourth sub-switch 49 are activated essentially simultaneously, constituting a first set of two sub- switches. When the handling rod 65 is moved towards the third edge 35 along the first symmetry line 66, the second sub-switch 47 and the third sub- switch 48 are activated essentially simultaneously, constituting a second set of two sub-switches.
When the handling rod 65 is moved towards the second edge 34 along the second symmetry line 67, the first sub-switch 46 and second sub-switch 47 are activated essentially simultaneously, constituting a third set of two sub- switches. When the handling rod 65 is moved towards the fourth edge 36 along the second symmetry line 67, the third sub-switch 48 and the fourth sub-switch 49 are activated essentially simultaneously, constituting a fourth set of two sub-switches.
The four sets of sub-switches 46, 49; 47, 48; 46, 47; 48, 49 are here affected by the sphere 55 in the same way as described for the second embodiment.
In other words, along those symmetry lines 66, 67, four sets of sub-switches 46, 49; 47, 48; 46, 47; 48, 49 of the switch 1" according to the third embodiment work as the switch according to the second embodiment. The first surface 56 functions in the same way as the first side 21, and the other surfaces 57, 58, 59, 60 work pair-wise in such a way that they function in the same way as the second side 22 and the third side 23.
Thus, along the first symmetry line 66, the handling rod 65 may be moved in such ways that, apart from the first switch state, four switch states are provided by affecting the first set of sub-switches 46, 49 and the second set of sub-switches 47, 48. Furthermore, along the second symmetry line 67, the handling rod 65 may be moved in such ways that, apart from the first switch state, four more switch states are provided by affecting the third set of sub- switches 46, 47 and the fourth set of sub-switches 48, 49. This makes a total of nine switch states including the first switch state. To this adds the state where the handling rod 65 is pressed downwards, activating all four sub- switches 46, 47, 48, 49 essentially at the same time.
The symmetry lines 66, 67 may not be symmetry lines, but any lines along which the sphere 55 may be moved in order to affect sub-switches by means of a plate. The sphere is suspended in any suitable way, for example by means of helical springs (not shown) or by being fastened in a resilient material.
The plate may have any suitable shape, for example circular.
According to the third embodiment of the present invention, a relatively simple switch arrangement providing ten different switch states is provided. It is easily conceivable that such a sphere 55 may be granted further degrees of freedom in such a way that it may move along more symmetry lines or other suitable lines.
As described for the third embodiment, two switches are activated essentially at the same time, which provides a stable arrangement. It is of course possible that the switches are affected one at the time instead, which would be the case if the symmetry lines passed through the switches instead of between them. This is, however more unstable than the pair-wise affection described. However, a combination of these would provide even more switch states.
Also, more than the four sub-switches shown may be used, being distributed around the central point 37, and the more sub-switches that are used, the more switch states are acquired, even if it would be more difficult for a user to tell the states from each other. The plate's shape may vary with the number of sub-switches.
Furthermore, the control unit 50 will be arranged for determining the different switch states in essentially the same way as described for the previous embodiments.
According to a fourth embodiment, with reference to Figure 4a, a multi-layer switch V" may provide even further switch states. This embodiment example starts from the second embodiment with reference to Figure 2a, where the parts that correspond have the same reference signs.
The plate 2 with its contact areas 6, 7, the first and second sub-switches 8, 9 and the pivoting wheel 20 are arranged in a manner similar to that of the second embodiment. Furthermore, an additional plate 2a, having corresponding contact areas 6a, 7a, is placed between the plate 2 and the underlying part 15. Between the additional plate's contact areas 6a, 7a and the underlying part 15, a third sub-switch 8a and a fourth sub-switch 9a is placed. The third sub-switch 8a is placed essentially beneath the first sub- switch 8 with the additional plate 2a placed between and the fourth sub- switch 9a is placed essentially beneath the second sub-switch 9 with the additional plate 2a placed between. The additional plate 2a functions as the underlying part 15 for the first sub-switch 8 and the second sub-switches 9, and the underlying part functions as described for the second embodiment for the third sub-switch 8a and the fourth sub-switch 9a.
The configuration in Figure 4a, all sub-switches 8, 9, 8a, 9a being open, constitutes a first switch configuration.
If the user moves the handling rod 31 as shown in Figure 4b, without depressing it, the wheel 20 is rotated clockwise around its pivoting axis 24. Then the wheel's first corner 26 depresses the plate 2 against the second sub-switch 9, closing the second sub-switch 9 while the other sub-switches 8, 8a, 9a remain open. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. This state constitutes a second switch configuration.
If the user continues to move the handling rod 31, as shown in Figure 4c, the fourth sub-switch 9a is also closed, while the other sub-switches 8, 8a remain open. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. This state constitutes a third switch configuration.
If the user continues to move the handling rod 31, as shown in Figure 4d, the first sub-switch 8 is also closed, while the third sub-switch 8a remains open. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. This state constitutes a fourth switch configuration.
If the user continues to move the handling rod 31, as shown in Figure 4e, the third and last sub-switch 8a is also closed. The control unit 10 then senses this, and starts a corresponding action. This state constitutes a fifth switch configuration.
Correspondingly, four more switch configurations are achieved if the user moves the handling rod 31 counter-clockwise from the first switch position shown Figure 4a. It is also conceivable that the user may push the handling rod 31 downwards from the first switch position shown Figure 4a. Then, two sub-switches on one layer may be set to be closed before the other two, conferring two more switch states.
According to the fourth embodiment, eleven switch states may be obtained.
Generally, regarding such a multi-layer switch, the number of the sub-
switches in every layer should be the same. Theoretically there could be a plurality of the layers, but practically it would be limited to a few ones.
The invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed above, but may vary freely within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the sub- switches 8, 9; 46, 47, 48, 49 may be of any suitable kind. The contact parts 13a, 13b may for example contact special opposing contact parts (not shown), and the resilient part may a part of any resilient nature, for example a helical spring.
When the push-rod 16 or handling rod 31 , 65 is released, the switch preferably returns to the first switch state, irrespective of its previous state. The helical springs 17, 18, 19; 28, 29, 30 disclosed for the first and second embodiment may be any suitable resilient means being arranged to return the push-rod 16 or handling rod/wheel 31/20 to a position corresponding to the first switch state when unbiased. The push-rod 16 or handling rod 31, 65 my also be arranged to be self-debouncing.
The plate is suspended in an appropriate manner, for example by means of springs or a resilient material (not shown). It is also conceivable that the plate is resiliently supported by the sub-switches only. In the first switch state, the push-rod 16, wheel 20 or sphere 55 rod may, or may not, be in contact with the plate 2, 32, the main idea regarding the first switch state is that the plate 2, 32 should not close any one of the sub-switches 8, 9; 46, 47, 48, 49.
Furthermore, in the first switch state, the plate 2, 32 may, or may not, be in contact with the sub-switches 8, 9; 46, 47, 48, 49, for example depending on how the plate 2, 32 is suspended.
The plate 2, 32 may be fixed to the sub-switches 8, 9; 46, 47, 48, 49, and either the plate 2, 32 or the sub-switches 8, 9; 46, 47, 48, 49 may then be
arranged resiliently, creating a bias directed towards the push-rod 16, wheel 20 or sphere 55.
When the control unit 10, 50 senses a certain sub-switch configuration, corresponding to a certain switch state, and starts a corresponding action, such an action may be any one out of a variety of actions depending on where the switch 1, 1', 1", 1'" is used. If the switch 1, 1', 1", V" is used in a vehicle, such an action may be driving the windscreen wipers with a certain speed, or positioning electrically controlled rear-view mirrors.
The switch 1 , 1', 1", 1'" according to the present invention is preferably enclosed in a case or housing, where the case or housing may be adjusted to fit the application for the switch.
The plate's 2 appearance may have many forms as long as it carries out its functions as a pressing member. Its width has not been discussed previously, but may be constant or varying along the plate's longitudinal extension. The width should be sufficient for providing contact with the push-rod 16, the wheel 20 or any other suitable activating member at the same time as the plate's contact areas 6, 7 for the sub-switches 8, 9 also are sufficient.
Of course, the switch 1, 1', 1", 1'" may be arranged for fewer than the described switch states. For example, the switch may not be arranged for the second switch state, where the push-rod 16, wheel 20 or sphere 55 is moved vertically towards the plate 2, 32, closing the sub-switches 8, 9; 46, 47, 48, 49 at essentially the same time.
The switch 1" according to the third embodiment and the switch 1'" according to the fourth embodiment may be combined, forming a multi-layer switch that is movable in several directions. The number of sub-switches in every layer in the fourth embodiment may be similar to the number of sub-switches in the third embodiment.
Generally, the push-rod 16, wheel 20 or sphere 55 constitute activating members. Furthermore, the centre point 5, 37 is generally constituted by an equilibrium point, for example when a number of sub-switches are unevenly distributed, not being symmetrically distributed around a centre point. Such an uneven or unsymmetrical placement may for example be due to the placing of electronics and other parts in the switch. The resilient parts of the sub-switches may be adapted for such a placement by producing the same tactile response as if the sub-switches were symmetrically placed around a centre point.
The areas where the activating members 16, 20, 55 contact the plate are considered as leverage areas.
Each sub-switch may in turn be constituted by a number of co-operating switches in order to ensure a proper operation. A certain type of co-operating sub-switch is shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5 shows a plate 2 that is affected by an activating member (not shown). A combined sub-switch 68 is constituted by three co-operating sub- switches; a first upper co-operating sub-switch 69, resting on a sub-plate 70, a second lower co-operating sub-switch 71 and a third lower co-operating sub-switch 72. The sub-plate has a centre point 73, or, more generally, an equilibrium point 73. The first co-operating sub-switch 69 rests on the sub- plate 70 between its centre point 73 and the second co-operating sub-switch 71.
The second 71 and third 72 co-operating sub-switches are situated on the other side of the sub-plate 70 in such a way that the second 71 and third 72 co-operating sub-switches may be affected by the sub-plate 70.
When the plate 2 is depressed towards the combined sub-switch 68 with a first force F"1 , the first co-operating sub-switch 69 is closed. When the force is increased to a second force F"2, the second co-operating sub-switch 71 is closed, but not the third co-operating sub-switch 72, due to the fact that the first co-operating sub-switch 69 rests on the sub-plate 70 offset its centre 73.
When the force is increased even more, to a third force F"3, the third cooperating sub-switch 72 is also closed. This type of combined sub-switch 68 is usable for all described embodiments.
The wheel 20, 55 does not have to constitute anything that in particular resembles a wheel, but may merely be constituted by any suitable pivoting member.
Where sub-switches have been described to be closed, they could alternatively have been opened instead. The important issue is that the switch state for the sub-switch in question is altered, from opened to closed or vice versa.