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:
Oct. 06, 1998
Filed:
Jan. 24, 1997
Glenn Alan Wernig, San Jose, CA (US);
Silicon Graphics, Inc., Mountain View, CA (US);
Abstract
A switch and plunger mechanism which allows for simple, inexpensive and reliable actuation of a switch is disclosed. A plunger having two flanges and a plunger pin is disposed in an opening within a computer housing which includes angled surfaces. When the plunger is pushed in, the flanges press against the tapered surfaces so as to deflect each of the flanges inwardly. Continued movement of the plunger into the engaged position moves the plunger pin such that it engages the switch. As the plunger moves into the engaged position, changing contact surfaces between the plunger and the surfaces of the plunger receptacle causes an audible and tactile snap to be emitted. The movement of the plunger into the fully depressed position deflects the flanges so as to store potential energy. When the finger pressure is released from the plunger, the stored energy is released so as to straighten the flanges and push the plunger pin back into the fully extended position.