Honeywell G.m.b.h.

James S Robinson

Edgar C Kolb

Richard L Frost

A switch actuation mechanism is provided with a support structure that is shaped to hold two switches. Each switch is associated with a pivotable member that is rotatably attached to the support structure. The pivotable member can be moved into either a rest position or an actuating position. When in the rest position, an actuating surface of the pivotable member is placed in contact with a plunger of the associated switch. A resilient member, such as a spring, is used to urge the pivotable members into their rest positions. If an actuator, such as a plunger or latch, is move into contact with a protrusion extending from the pivotable member, the pivotable member is rotated clockwise and the actuating surface is moved out of contact with the plunger. This deactuates the switch. The two switches are arranged to provide a sequential deactuation as two actuators are moved into contact with their respective protrusions extending from the pivotable members.

Switch actuating mechanism for two sequentially activated switches

A tilt switch is made by attaching two electrically conductive members to a nonconducting tube and disposing a conductive sphere within the switch. The first and second electrically conductive members are provided with inner cylindrical surfaces of different diameters in order to create an asymmetry that allows the angular conducting range of the switch to be increased without increasing its differential angle at one limit of travel. The first and second electrically conductive members that are used as the end caps of the switch are provided with inner cylindrical surfaces of different diameters. When the conductive sphere is disposed within the switch, it can assume three different positions in relation to the first and second electrically conductive members. A first position is defined by the sphere being in contact with both electrically conductive members and supported by contact points of both members. The second position is defined by the sphere being in contact with a first contact point but in noncontact relation with a second contact point. The third position is defined by the sphere being in contact with the second contact point but being in noncontact relation with the first contact point.

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Freeport, IL, United States of America

James S Robinson