Miniature multi-pole double-throw snap-action pushbutton switch with alpha-numeric display

摘要

A reduced size pushbutton (6) switch having a plurality of contact pairs (40, 42, 44, 46) arranged angularly for radial actuation by normally-open cams (34c) or normally-closed cams (34d) on a vertically reciprocated actuator block (34) by a snap-action mechansim (30c, 30d, 36, 38 or 66, 68a). The contact pairs are electrically connected to a control circuitry PC board (52) which provides an output control as well as controlling a multi-character alpha-numeric display mounted within the pushbutton. This display includes a light source (22), a display (24) and movable (14) and stationary (12) contacts connecting the light source to a display drive PC board (10) which may be connected to the control circuitry PC board to afford control of the display by some of the contact pairs. A seal (8) between the front panel and the display PC board hugs the pushbutton to prevent dirt from entering the switch base (54).