The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 05, 1998
Filed:
Mar. 19, 1996
James U Neyer, Middleton, WI (US);
Rayovac Corporation, Madison, WI (US);
Abstract
An alternate action mechanism includes a ratchet cam moving a resilient contact between first and second positions. A push button, including an interface member, rotates the ratchet cam by applying force to ratchet teeth. The alternate action mechanism includes a frame supporting the ratchet cam and aligning the ratchet portion with the interface member. In one embodiment, the ratchet portion is between two cam portions. When the ratchet cam is rotated, the cam portions moves the resilient member to one of two alternating positions. In another embodiment, the cam portion is positioned between two ratchet portions. The frame includes cam support arms receiving the ratchet cam. The frame also includes detents which prevent improper movement of the ratchet cam and provide audible indication of actuation of the mechanism. The interface member can comprise a finger to contact a ratchet tooth and rotate the ratchet cam. The finger can be U-shaped, with the edges on the open side contacting the ratchet teeth. The alternate action mechanism generally contains no spring, and can be used as an electric switch for flashlights or any other electrical devices.