ELECTRIC SWITCH

Abstract

 Electric switch (1) including: a main body (11) housing a commutation mechanism (2), a movable contact (3) and a fixed contact (67), the commutation mechanism (2) being configured to move the movable contact (3) between an opening position, wherein the movable contact (3) is spaced apart from the fixed contact (67), and a closure position, wherein the movable contact (3) is in contact with the fixed contact (67); a rocking button (5) connected to the main body (11) so as to be able to be rotated about a first rotation axis (A1), said rocking button (5) being configured to actuate said commutation mechanism (2) in such a manner that the movable contact (3) is placed in the closure position; an axial button (6) configured to actuate said commutation mechanism (2) in such a manner that the movable contact (3) is placed in the opening position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric switch of the type comprising a commutation mechanism housed within a main body capable of controlling the opening and closing of an electric contact.

[0002] In the technical field of civil and industrial electric installations, electro-mechanical type switches are commonly used through which electric contacts are closed or switched, e.g. for commutation lighting points on and off or for opening and closing roller shutters.

[0003] In one of their most common configurations, switches comprise a commutation mechanism, actuated by a manual pressure action, which moves a movable contact between an opening position, where the movable contact is spaced apart from a fixed contact, and a closure position, where the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact. The interface with which a user interacts with the commutation mechanism generally comprises a button.

[0004] Commutation mechanisms can be particularly complex and have many drawbacks. It can happen that some commutation mechanisms require a certain amount of force to operate the button, giving an unwelcome feeling to users.

[0005] It can also happen that the actuation of the commutation mechanism via the button is unreliable and jams, not switching the electric contact despite one of the two buttons being operated.

[0006] Switches that comprise a rocking button may require a rather high angle of inclination of the button, and it is possible that such a rocking button will "sink" on one side and "stick out" on the other. This sinking and projecting are accentuated by the length of the button, causing an operation that is not ergonomic for the user and aesthetically unappreciated. In the case of a switch designed to open or close a roller shutter, it may also be necessary for a user to hold down the rocking button for the duration of the movement of said roller shutter.

[0007] The electric switch can advantageously be configured as an electric module that can be connected to the wall-mounted support frame. Said support frame preferably comprises a plurality of insertion slots to which respective electric modules can be connected. The support frame is usually connected to a box inserted into a wall cavity. This box must also accommodate electric elements, e.g. electric wires connected to electric modules. It can happen that these wires are connected in a chaotic manner because the available space is limited.

[0008] The technical problem underlying the present invention is therefore to provide an electric switch structurally and functionally designed to obviate, at least in part, one or more of the drawbacks complained of with reference to the aforementioned prior art.

[0009] In the context of this problem, one purpose of the present invention is to provide an electric switch that is particularly reliable and does not jam.

[0010] Another purpose is to provide an electric switch with particularly small dimensions. A further purpose is to provide an electric switch that can be connected to a support frame connected to a box, which allows for a particularly orderly arrangement of electric elements in said box.

[0011] Another purpose is to provide a particularly stable and durable electric switch.

[0012] A further purpose is to provide an ergonomic electric switch that can be easily operated by the user.

[0013] This problem is solved and these purposes are at least partly achieved by the invention by means of an electric switch including a commutation mechanism, a movable contact, a fixed contact, a rocking button and an axial button, the rocking button being configured to actuate the commutation mechanism in such a manner that the movable contact is placed in a closure position, and the axial button being configured to actuate the commutation mechanism in such a manner that the movable contact is placed in an opening position. The opening position is the one in which the movable contact is distanced from the fixed contact and the closure position is the one in which the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact. The present invention therefore relates to an electric switch of the type comprising a rocking button and an axial button. The commutation mechanism of this type of switch can be operated using either the rocking or the axial button.

[0014] The axial button can move along a sliding direction between a rest position and an operating position. The axial button is advantageously translatable by applying pressure to it. This pressure is preferably directed along the sliding direction. Advantageously, when the axial button is translated from the rest position to the operating position, the commutation mechanism is actuated in such a manner that the movable contact goes to the opening position.

[0015] The rocking button can rotate between a rest position and an operating position. Preferably, when the rocking button is rotated from the rest position to the operating position, the commutation mechanism is actuated in such a manner that the movable contact goes to the closure position. The rocking button is advantageously able to be rotated by applying pressure to it. This pressure is preferably directed along the sliding direction.

[0016] Thanks to the combination of an electric switch of the rocking type with one of the axial type, a reduction in space requirements can be achieved. Advantageously, these dimensions are halved as it is possible to combine two switches into one. This type of switch allows the functions of a rocking switch and those of an axial switch to be combined into a single switch.

[0017] This switch allows the movable contact to be maintained in the closure position by a single press on the rocking button and the movable contact to be maintained in the opening position by a single press on the axial button. The movable contact will remain in the closure position as long as the axial button is not pressed. The movable contact will remain in the opening position as long as the rocking button is not pressed. This makes the switch particularly versatile and easy to activate. This also makes it possible to automate the activation of a device connected to the switch. For example, if such a switch is connected to a roller shutter drive mechanism, the user can initiate the ascent or descent of the roller shutter by a single press on the rocking button and interrupt said ascent or descent by a single press on the axial button. Thus, the opening or closing of the roller shutter can be advantageously automated via the rocking button and can be interrupted via the axial button.

[0018] Preferably, the rocking button comprises a rocking body and a rocking button cover. Advantageously, the axial button comprises an axial body and an axial button cover. Preferably, the rocking button moves between the rest and operating positions to define an angle of inclination.

[0019] The electric switch can advantageously be configured like an electric module that can be connected to a wall-fixable support frame. This support frame may preferably comprise a plurality of insertion slots to which respective electric modules can be connected. The support frame can advantageously be connected to a box that can be inserted into a wall cavity. Preferably, such a box can accommodate electric elements, e.g. electric wires connected to respective electric modules.

[0020] Advantageously, such electric wires can be connected to terminal blocks by the electric switch.

[0021] Preferably, the electric switch comprises a main body in which the commutation mechanism, the movable contact and the fixed contact are housed. Advantageously, the rocking button is connected to the main body so as to be able to be rotated about a first rotation axis. Advantageously, the main body is formed as a box body. Preferably, the main body can be connected to the support frame. Preferably, the main body comprises a button support and a lower body. Advantageously, the rocking button is connected to the button support. Preferably, the main body defines a main housing into which the commutation mechanism, movable contact and fixed contact are inserted. Advantageously, the fixed contact is fixed onto a terminal board also inserted into the main housing.

[0022] In a Cartesian reference system associated with the main body, it is advantageously possible to define a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction and the sliding direction. These directions are perpendicular to each other. The first rotation axis is parallel with the transverse direction.

[0023] Preferably, the commutation mechanism comprises a pivoting device being able to be rotated about a third rotation axis, parallel with the first rotation axis, so as to move the movable contact. Advantageously, this pivoting device can be positioned in a first position, where the movable contact is in the opening position, and in a second position, where the movable contact is in the closure position.

[0024] It will be appreciated that this configuration allows the commutation mechanism to operate in such a way that the rotation of the pivoting device produces the rotation of the movable contact when a dead centre is exceeded. Exceeding the dead centre causes the movable contact to snap from the closure to the opening position.

[0025] The use of the pivoting device allows the electric switch to be particularly reliable in its actuation and prevents the commutation mechanism from jamming.

[0026] Preferably, the pivoting device can be positioned in the first position when the rocking button is in the operating position and in the second position when the axial button is in the operating position.

[0027] Preferably, the pivoting device comprises a fulcrum element that is supported on a support portion of the main body so that it can rotate about the third rotation axis. This makes it possible to achieve a particularly stable oscillation of the pivoting device. Advantageously, the support portion is shaped to be complementary to the fulcrum element.

[0028] Preferably, the movable contact is interposed between the pivoting device and a lower abutment element. Advantageously, this lower abutment element is configured as a fulcrum around which the movable contact can be rotated so that when the pivoting device is rotated in one direction the movable contact is rotated in the opposite direction. If, for example, the pivoting device rotates anti-clockwise, the movable contact rotates clockwise, and vice versa.

[0029] With this configuration, it is possible to limit the size of the electric switch along the sliding direction. This makes it possible, if the electric switch is connected to the support frame connected to the box which can be inserted into the wall cavity, to have more space available in said box in which electric elements can be arranged in a particularly orderly manner. In addition, this prevents the switch from protruding excessively outwards from the frame.

[0030] Advantageously, the lower abutment element defines a fifth rotation axis about which the movable contact can be rotated. Preferably, this fifth rotation axis is parallel with the first.

[0031] Preferably, the first, third and fifth rotation axes are contained in a plane parallel with the one defined by the transverse and sliding directions. This results in a particularly stable activation of the commutation mechanism because the transmitted forces are particularly balanced.

[0032] Preferably, when the movable contact is in the opening position, it is arranged along a plane parallel with the one defined by the transverse and sliding directions. Exceeding the dead centre, which causes the movable contact to snap from the closure to the opening position, preferably occurs when the movable contact is inclined with respect to this plane. Preferably, when the movable contact is in the closure position, it is inclined with respect to this plane.

[0033] Preferably, the electric switch comprises a lever connected to the main body and which can be rotated about a second rotation axis. Advantageously, said second rotation axis is parallel with the first one. Preferably, the lever can be rotated by means of the rocking button that abuts the lever in such a way that the rotation of said lever rotates the pivoting device and positions it in the second position. Preferably, the lever is placed in the main housing.

[0034] The lever allows the angle of inclination of the rocking button to be limited, limiting the size of the electric switch particularly along the sliding direction. If the electric switch is connected to the support frame connected to the box that can be inserted into the wall cavity, the reduction in the size of the switch allows more space to be available in said box. This space can, for example, be used to accommodate electric elements, e.g. wires, in an orderly manner.

[0035] Limiting the angle of inclination of the rocking button facilitates its operation, making the electric switch more ergonomic.

[0036] Advantageously, the rotation of the rocking button from the rest position to the operating position causes the lever to rotate. Preferably, this lever abuts the pivoting device and rotates it around the third rotation axis so that it is arranged in the second position.

[0037] Preferably, the lever comprises a thrust portion and a fulcrum portion. Advantageously, the thrust portion is designed to abut a receiving portion of the pivoting device so as to bring it into rotation with respect to the third rotation axis. Preferably, the thrust portion is placed on a first end of the lever. Advantageously, the fulcrum portion is connected to the main body. Preferably, the fulcrum portion is placed on a second end of the lever, opposite the first, this second end being the one furthest from the pivoting device. Advantageously, the fulcrum portion is placed laterally in the main housing.

[0038] The term furthest means advantageously further along the longitudinal direction. This type of lever allows for a particularly balanced distribution of space in the main housing. This makes it possible to limit the size of the main body. In particular, it is possible to limit the size laterally in the main housing.

[0039] The pivoting device preferably comprises a pair of opposing receiving portions along the longitudinal direction.

[0040] Preferably, the rocking button abuts the lever through direct contact. This embodiment is advantageous because it is particularly simple to produce and keeps production costs down.

[0041] Preferably, the receiving portion is formed as a protrusion and comprises a first groove able to receive the thrust portion of the lever.

[0042] Advantageously, this first groove is delimited by side walls able to limit possible movement of the thrust portion along the transverse direction. Preferably, this first groove is delimited by a front wall able to limit possible movement of the thrust portion along the longitudinal direction. This increases the stability of the abutment between the lever and the pivoting device.

[0043] Preferably, the rocking button comprises a projecting portion that juts out from the rocking button and is able to abut the lever in order to rotate it.

[0044] By means of this projecting portion, it is possible to further limit the angle of inclination of the rocking button. A certain angle of inclination of the rocking button will in fact correspond to a wider angle of inclination of the lever. This makes it advantageously possible to further limit the size of the electric switch along the sliding direction.

[0045] Advantageously, the projecting portion abuts an intermediate portion of the lever, this intermediate portion being interposed between the first and second ends of the lever.

[0046] Preferably, the electric switch comprises an additional lever, which can be rotated about a fourth rotation axis, parallel with the first rotation axis. Preferably, the additional lever is placed in the main housing. Preferably, the additional lever is connected to the main body in such a way that the pivoting device is interposed between the levers. This allows the pivoting device to be positioned centrally in the main housing, further optimising the dimensions.

[0047] Advantageously, the additional lever can be rotated by means of the rocking button that abuts the additional lever in such a manner that the rotation of said additional lever rotates the pivoting device and positions it in a third position. Preferably, in this third position the movable contact is in an additional closure position where it is in contact with an additional fixed contact.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the two levers are connected to the main body in such a way that they are opposed to each other in relation to a plane of symmetry passing centrally through the main body. Advantageously, the two levers are the same as each other.

[0049] Advantageously, the rotation of the rocking button from the rest position to an additional operating position causes the additional lever to rotate. Preferably, this additional lever abuts the pivoting device and rotates it about the third rotation axis so as to place it in the third position. The movable contact will remain in the third closure position until the axial button is pressed.

[0050] Depending on the direction of rotation of the rocking button, either the lever or the additional lever is actuated. Preferably, it is possible to rotate the pivoting device around the third rotation axis clockwise or anticlockwise depending on which lever applies the thrust on said pivoting device.

[0051] Advantageously, the rocking button comprises a first and a second lateral portion. For example, by applying pressure on the first lateral portion the rocking button is rotated clockwise and the lever is rotated anticlockwise, the pivoting device is rotated clockwise and the movable contact rotates anticlockwise; vice versa, by applying pressure on the second lateral portion the rocking button is rotated anticlockwise, the additional lever is rotated clockwise, the pivoting device is rotated anticlockwise and the movable contact rotates clockwise.

[0052] The pivoting device preferably comprises a pair of longitudinally opposed receiving portions. Advantageously, each of these receiving portions is able to receive a thrust from the thrust portion of the corresponding lever, depending on the direction of rotation of the rocking button. If, for example, the rocking button rotates clockwise, the lever abutted by the rocking button is rotated anticlockwise; this lever in turn abuts the pivoting device causing it to rotate clockwise. If, for example, the rocking button rotates anti-clockwise, the lever abutted by the rocking button is rotated clockwise; this lever in turn abuts the pivoting device by making it rotate anticlockwise

[0053] Preferably, the axial button is positioned in a first through-cavity of the rocking button.

[0054] This makes it possible to integrate the axial button into the rocking button, which further optimises the dimensions and reduces the size of the electric switch.

[0055] Preferably, the first through-cavity is placed in a central portion of the rocking button. Advantageously, the central portion is interposed between a first and second lateral portion of the rocking button. This makes it possible to place the axial button centrally, and at the pivoting device when the latter is also placed centrally in the main housing.

[0056] Advantageously, the axial button comprises a transverse protuberance sliding in a respective opening of the main body.

[0057] This results in a particularly smooth and jam-free movement of the axial button. Preferably, the opening is shaped in such a manner that the axial button can translate along the sliding direction. Advantageously, the axial button comprises two pairs of transverse protuberances, said pairs being transversely opposed to each other. Therefore, the axial button preferably comprises four transverse protuberances. Each transverse protuberance advantageously slides in a corresponding opening. This four-protuberance configuration guarantees an excellent balance between axial button stability during translation and containment of production costs.

[0058] Preferably, the axial button comprises second abutment walls that can apply a thrust on both levers, in such a manner that the pivoting device is rotated to the first position.

[0059] The second abutment walls ensure a particularly effective alignment of the pivoting device. By means of these second abutment walls, it may be possible to use the levers to bring the axial button to the rest position, as will be described later.

[0060] When the axial button is moved to the operating position, the second abutment walls advantageously push both levers in such a manner that the latter rotate the pivoting device to the first position. Preferably, each second abutment wall pushes on the respective lever. Advantageously, the second abutment walls push both levers simultaneously.

[0061] The second abutment walls may comprise second grooves. Advantageously, these second grooves are able to receive the thrust portions of the respective levers. This makes it possible to push the thrust portions of the levers in a particularly precise and stable manner. These second grooves also make it possible to limit displacements of the corresponding thrust portions along the transverse direction. Preferably, when the pivoting device is in the second or third position, a receiving portion of the pivoting device remains more raised towards the rocking button than the other receiving portion. Advantageously, the axial button moving from the rest position to the operating position abuts both levers making them rotate with respect to their respective rotation axes. Preferably, said slightly more raised receiving wall is abutted by the corresponding lever and this abutment rotates the pivoting device and positions it in the first position. Advantageously, both levers abut their respective receiving walls until said receiving walls are aligned with each other longitudinally, in such a manner that the pivoting device is positioned in the first position.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the axial button can comprise a first abutment wall which can abut a receiving wall of the pivoting device so as to position the pivoting device in its first position.

[0063] This first abutment wall is also advantageously usable in an embodiment of the invention that does not comprise levers. When the axial button is moved along the sliding direction from the rest position to the operating position, the first abutment wall is conformed in such a way that it abuts the receiving wall of the pivoting device. Using this abutment, the receiving wall can be rotated to be aligned with the first abutment wall by rotating the pivoting device to the first position. Advantageously, the receiving wall has a shape corresponding to that of the first abutment wall. The first abutment wall can be placed on the axial body. Preferably, there are two opposing first abutment walls. The first abutment wall is advantageously planar. The first abutment wall is preferably shaped to be contained in a plane parallel with a plane defined by the longitudinal and transverse directions. The first abutment wall advantageously faces the pivoting device. Preferably, there are two opposing receiving walls, each able to receive the respective first abutment wall. The receiving wall is advantageously planar. The receiving wall preferably faces the axial button. In a further embodiment, the axial button can comprise both the first and second abutment walls. This ensures a further stable and reliable alignment of the pivoting device.

[0064] Advantageously, the electric switch comprises a first return mechanism configured to bring the rocking button to the rest position.

[0065] Preferably, the first return mechanism comprises a first elastic element to bring the rocking button to the rest position.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, this first elastic element is able to abut the lever in such a manner that the rotation of said lever brings the rocking button to the rest position. Preferably, an elastic force of said first elastic element pushes said lever to rotate it. During such a rotation, the lever can abut the rocking button by rotating it from the operating position to the rest position. This rotation of the lever advantageously has the opposite direction to the rotation of the lever when the rocking button rotates from the rest to the operating position. The rocking button can rotate from the rest to the operating position when the pressure applied on the rocking button is such that it exceeds the elastic force of the first elastic element. Advantageously, the lever comprises a blind cavity in which a first end of the first elastic element abuts. This increases the stability of the first elastic element. This first blind cavity is advantageously placed near the first end of the lever. The first elastic element has a second end preferably abutting the main body, even more preferably the lower body. The main body may comprise a second blind cavity to receive the second end of the first elastic element. The presence of the blind cavities increases the stability of the first return mechanism.

[0067] Preferably, the first elastic element is formed as a coil spring.

[0068] The first return mechanism may comprise an additional first elastic element that acts on the additional lever to bring the rocking button to the rest position. Therefore, the first return mechanism advantageously comprises two first elastic elements that abut respective levers.

[0069] Preferably, the first return mechanism is configured to also bring the axial button to the rest position.

[0070] This allows both the rocking button and the axial button to be brought to the respective rest positions via the first return mechanism. This saves production costs compared to, for example, a solution involving a return mechanism for the rocking button and an additional return mechanism for the axial button.

[0071] Advantageously, the first elastic element abuts the lever in such a way that the rotation of said lever brings the axial button to the rest position. Preferably, the thrust portion of the lever abuts the second wall of the axial button. In this way, the axial button is translated from the operating position to the rest position by the rotation of the lever caused to the first return mechanism. Advantageously, the thrust portion of both levers abuts the respective second wall of the axial button. Preferably, the thrust portion of both levers abuts the second groove of the respective second abutment wall. This makes it possible to bring the axial button from the operating position to the rest position in a particularly precise and stable manner. These second grooves also make it possible to limit displacements of the corresponding thrust portions along the transverse direction.

[0072] In an alternative embodiment, the electric switch can comprise a second return mechanism configured to bring the axial switch to the rest position. In this alternative embodiment, the electric switch can be without levers. In this alternative embodiment, the first elastic element can directly abut the rocking button to bring it to the rest position. Preferably, the second return mechanism comprises a second elastic element able to abut the axial button and bring it to the rest position. Advantageously, the second elastic element comprises a first end abutting on the axial button and a second end abutting on the pivoting device. This enables the available space to be exploited and the dimensions to be optimised. Preferably, the second elastic element is formed as a coil spring. An elastic force of said second elastic element advantageously pushes said axial button to move it along the sliding direction. The axial button can move along the sliding direction from the rest to the operating position when the pressure applied on the axial button is such that it exceeds the elastic force of the second elastic element. Advantageously, the pivoting device comprises a third blind cavity to receive the second end of the second elastic element. This third blind cavity is preferably interposed between the receiving portions and between the receiving walls. The axial body may comprise a second through-cavity through which the second elastic element passes. Preferably, the axial button cover has a fourth blind cavity to receive the first end of the second elastic element. Advantageously, the presence of the blind cavities increases the stability of the second return mechanism.

[0073] Preferably, the axial cover can comprise coupling elements able to engage the rocking button cover. Such coupling elements are advantageously able to limit the range of the axial button cover during movement along the sliding direction, particularly when the axial button cover is pushed from the operating position to the rest position. The coupling elements are preferably engaged on the rocking button cover.

[0074] The characteristics and further advantages of the invention will become clearer from the following detailed description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment example illustrated, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings in which:

figure 1 is a perspective view of the electric switch according to the present invention;

figure 2 is a front view of the switch without the main body;

figure 3 is a perspective view of the switch button support;

figure 4 is a perspective view of the lower body of the switch;

figure 5 is a perspective view of the rocking button in which the rocking button cover is separated from the rocking body;

figure 6 is a perspective view of the axial button in which the axial button cover is separated from the axial body;

figure 7 is an upper perspective view of the lever;

figure 8 is a lower perspective view of the lever;

figure 9 is an upper perspective view of the pivoting device; and

figure 10 is a lower perspective view of the pivoting device.

[0075] With reference to the figures, an electric switch is indicated as a whole with the reference number 1.

[0076] It will be appreciated that in this embodiment, the switch 1 is configured as an electric module that can be connected to a wall-fixable support frame. The support frame can advantageously be connected to a box that can be inserted into a wall cavity. Preferably, such a box can accommodate electric elements, e.g. electric wires connected to respective electric modules.

[0077] The electric switch 1 includes a commutation mechanism 2, a movable contact 3, a fixed contact 67, a rocking button 5 and an axial button 6. The commutation mechanism 2 can be operated either via the rocking button 5 or the axial button 6. The rocking button 5 is configured to actuate the commutation mechanism 2 in such a manner that the movable contact 3 is positioned in the closure position. The axial button 6 is configured to actuate the commutation mechanism 2 in such a manner that the movable contact 3 is positioned in an opening position. The opening position is the one in which the movable contact 3 is distanced from the fixed contact 67 and the closure position is the one in which the movable contact 3 is in contact with the fixed contact 67.

[0078] The rocking button 5 can comprise a rocking body 7 and a rocking button cover 8. The axial button 6 can comprise an axial body 9 and an axial button cover 10.

[0079] The electric switch 1 comprises a main body 11 in which the commutation mechanism 2, the movable contact 3 and the fixed contact 67 are housed.

[0080] Advantageously, the rocking button 5 is connected to the main body 11 so as to be able to be rotated about a first rotation axis A1.

[0081] The main body 11 defines a main housing into which the commutation mechanism 2, the movable contact 3 and the fixed contact 67 are inserted. The fixed contact 67 is fixed onto a terminal block 12 also inserted into the main housing. Advantageously, the main body 11 is conformed as a box body. The main body 11 may comprise a button support 14 and a lower body 15. Preferably, the rocking body 7 is connected to the button support 14. The main body 11 can be connected to the support frame. Advantageously, the main body 11 comprises fastening portions 13 provided for the connection of the electric switch 1 to the support frame. The fastening portions 13 can be present on the button support 14. Preferably, the lower body 15 comprises first connection portions 58 that can be inserted into respective second connection portions 59 of the button support 14.

[0082] In a Cartesian reference system XYZ associated with the main body 11, it is advantageously possible to define a longitudinal direction X, a transverse direction Y and a sliding direction Z. These directions are perpendicular to each other. The first rotation axis A1 is parallel with the transverse direction Y.

[0083] The rocking button 5 can rotate about the first rotation axis A1 between a rest position and an operating position. When the rocking button 5 is in the rest position, its upper surface 77 can be advantageously aligned to a plane parallel with that defined by the longitudinal X and transverse Y directions. The rocking button 5 rotates between the rest and operating position to define an angle of inclination B. The angle of inclination B of the rocking button 5 is shown in figure 2. The rocking button 5 may comprise two lateral portions 16. Preferably, the rocking button 5 can be rotated by applying pressure to one of its lateral portions 16. Depending on which lateral portion 16 is pressed, the rocking button 5 can rotate in one direction or in the opposite direction. The axial button 6 can translate along the sliding direction Z between a rest position and an operating position. An upper surface 78 of the axial button 6 can advantageously be aligned to a plane parallel with that defined by the longitudinal X and transverse Y directions.

[0084] The commutation mechanism 2 may comprise a pivoting device 17 which can be rotated about a third rotation axis A3, parallel with the first rotation axis A1, so as to move the movable contact 3. Advantageously, the pivoting device 17 can be positioned in a first position, in which the movable contact 3 is in the opening position, and in a second position, in which the movable contact 3 is in the closure position. Depending on which lateral portion 16 of the rocking button 5 is pressed, the pivoting device 17 can be rotated in one direction or the opposite direction. The rocking button 5 is advantageously connected to the main body 11 via a pair of transverse pins 61 that can be inserted into respective housings 62 of the main body 11. Preferably, such transverse pins 61 are on the rocking body 7 and such seats 62 are on the button support 14.

[0085] The pivoting device 17 may comprise a fulcrum element 18 supported on a support portion 19 of the main body 11 in such a manner that an interface between said fulcrum element 18 and the support portion 19 is placed on the third rotation axis A3. Preferably, the support portion 19 has a shape complementary to that of the fulcrum element 18. The fulcrum element 18 is advantageously V-shaped. Preferably, the support portion 19 is on the button support 15. In the embodiment illustrated in figures 9 and 10, the pivoting device 17 comprises a pair of fulcrum elements 18 aligned along the third rotation axis A3 and receivable in respective support portions 19 of the main body 11.

[0086] The movable contact 3 can be interposed between the pivoting device 17 and a lower abutment element 20. Preferably, the lower abutment element 20 is configured as a fulcrum about which the movable contact 3 can be rotated, in such a manner that when the pivoting device 17 is rotated in one direction, the movable contact 3 is rotated in the opposite direction. The lower abutment element 20 advantageously defines a fifth rotation axis A5 about which the movable contact 3 can be rotated. Preferably, this fifth rotation axis A5 is parallel with the first rotation axis A1. The lower abutment element 20 can be on the terminal block 12.

[0087] The movable contact 3 may comprise a contact carrier element 21 and a contact portion 22. Preferably, the contact portion 22 is the part of the movable contact 3 that is able to abut the fixed contact 67 when the movable contact 3 is in the closure position. The movable contact 3 may comprise an additional contact portion 22. The contact portions 22 are advantageously placed on opposing lateral surfaces of the contact carrier element 21. Preferably, there are two fixed contacts 67 able to receive respective contact portions 22 depending on the direction of rotation of the pivoting device 17.

[0088] The contact carrier element 21 can be formed as a foil. The contact carrier element 21 is advantageously straight. Preferably, the contact carrier element 21 is interposed between the pivoting device 17 and the lower abutment element 20. The contact carrier element 21 may comprise a lower end that abuts the lower abutment element 20 and an upper end that abuts the pivoting device 17. The lower end may be wider than the upper end. The contact portion 22 is advantageously placed on the upper end of the contact carrier element 21.

[0089] The lower abutment element 20 is advantageously V-shaped in such a manner that an interface between the lower abutment element 20 and the lower end of the contact carrier element 21 is located along the fifth rotation axis A5. The V shape of the lower abutment element 20 can guarantee a certain angle of inclination of the movable contact 3 when rotated into the closure position.

[0090] The pivoting device 17 may comprise a transverse element 33 extending along the transverse direction Y. Preferably, the fulcrum element 18 extends transversally from the transverse element 33. The pivoting device 17 may comprise a hollow body 29 extending from the transverse element 33 towards the sliding direction Z. Advantageously, this hollow body 29 defines a housing 28 able to accommodate a third elastic element (not shown). This third elastic element is able to push the movable contact 3 towards the lower abutment element 20. This third elastic element advantageously abuts the upper end of the contact carrier element 22. The third elastic element is preferably formed as a coil spring.

[0091] The pivoting device 17 may comprise a lower edge 24 defining a lower opening 23. The lower edge 24 may include a first lower recess 25 to receive the upper end of the contact carrier element 21. Advantageously, there is a pair of first lower recesses 25 opposing each other. The first lower recess 25 is preferably V-shaped and is defined by oblique walls 26 shaped in such a manner that an interface between the first lower recess 25 and the upper end of the contact carrier element 21 is parallel with the transverse direction Y. The V shape of the first lower recess 25 can guarantee a certain angle of inclination of the movable contact 3 when rotated into the closure position. Preferably, the contact carrier element 21 abuts against one of said oblique walls 26 when the movable contact is in the closure position. The first lower recess 25 provides a particularly stable and balanced commutation mechanism both when the movable contact is in the closure position and when it is in the opening position. The lower edge 24 may comprise a second lower recess 27 shaped to receive the contact portion 22 when the movable contact 3 is in the closure position. This second lower recess 27 preferably has a complementary shape to that of the contact portion 22. Advantageously, there is a pair of second lower recesses 27 opposing each other. In this way, the second lower recesses 27 can receive the respective contact portion 22 depending on the direction of rotation of the movable contact 3. The third A3 and the fifth rotation axis A5 can be arranged in a plane parallel with that defined by the transverse direction Y and the sliding direction Z. Therefore, the contact carrier element 21 is also advantageously arranged along this plane when the movable contact 3 is in the opening position. Preferably, the first rotation axis A1 is also contained in such a plane. This configuration allows the device to be particularly stable and balanced.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in figures 9 and 10, the pivoting device 17 comprises a pair of hollow bodies 29 that extend along the height direction Z and are aligned with each other along the transverse direction Y. Each hollow body 29 preferably comprises a lower edge 24 that includes respective lower recesses 25, 27. In this embodiment there may be a pair of bottom abutment elements 20, aligned along the fifth rotation axis A5; there may also be a pair of contacts 3 movable between respective lower abutment elements 20 and respective lower recesses 25.

[0093] The electric switch 1 may comprise a lever 4 connected to the main body 11 and which can be rotated about a second rotation axis A2, parallel with the first rotation axis A1. The lever 4 can preferably be rotated by means of the rocking button 5 which abuts the lever 4 in such a manner that the rotation of said lever 4 rotates the pivoting device 17 and positions it in the second position.

[0094] The lever 4 may comprise a thrust portion 30 and a fulcrum portion 31. The thrust portion 30 is advantageously able to abut a receiving portion 32 of the pivoting device 17 so as to bring it into rotation with respect to the third rotation axis A3. The thrust portion 30 is preferably placed on a first end 38 of the lever 4 and the fulcrum portion 31 is connected to the main body 11 and is placed on a second end 39 of the lever 4. Advantageously, this second end 39 is opposed to the first 38 and is the one furthest away from the pivoting device 17.

[0095] The fulcrum portion 31 may comprise a pair of pins 63 receivable in a pair of housings 64 of the lower body 15. This pair of housings 64 is advantageously placed laterally in the lower body 15. In this way, the fulcrum portions 31 can be placed laterally in the main housing.

[0096] The receiving portion 32 may be formed as a protrusion extending along the longitudinal direction X from the transverse element 33 of the pivoting device 17. The receiving portion 32 preferably comprises a first groove 34 able to receive the thrust portion 30 of the lever 4. Advantageously, this first groove 34 is delimited by side walls 35 that limit possible movement of the thrust portion 30 along the transverse direction Y. Preferably, this first groove 34 is delimited by a front wall 36 able to limit possible movements of the thrust portion 30 along the longitudinal direction X. In this way, it is possible to increase the stability of the lever 4 which abuts the pivoting device 17.

[0097] The switch 1 may comprise an additional lever 4, which can be rotated about a fourth rotation axis A4, parallel with the first rotation axis A1 and connected to the main body 11 in such a manner that the pivoting device 17 is interposed between the levers 4. The additional lever 4 can advantageously be rotated by means of the rocking button 7, which abuts the additional lever 4 in such a way that the rotation of said additional lever 4 rotates the pivoting device 17 and positions it in a third position in which the movable contact 3 is in an additional closure position in which it is in contact with an additional fixed contact 67.

[0098] The pivoting device 17 can be placed centrally in the main housing in such a manner that it is sandwiched between the two levers 4. The two levers 4 are advantageously placed laterally in the main housing and are opposed to each other. Preferably, the two levers 4 are the same as each other and mounted in such a manner that they are symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry. This plane of symmetry is advantageously defined by the transverse direction Y and the sliding direction Z and passes through the first rotation axis A1. Depending on the direction in which the rocking button 5 is rotated, either the lever 4 or the additional lever 4 can be rotated. Each lever 4 can abut the pivoting device 17. The pivoting device 17 preferably comprises a pair of opposing receiving portions 32 along the longitudinal direction X. The additional lever 4 advantageously comprises an additional thrust portion 30 able to abut an additional receiving portion 32 of the pivoting device 17 so as to bring the pivoting device 17 into rotation and position it in the third position.

[0099] The pivoting device 17 preferably comprises a pair of longitudinally opposed receiving portions 32. Each of these receiving portions 32 is able to abut the thrust portion 30 of a respective lever 4, depending on the direction of rotation of the rocking button 5.

[0100] On the first end 38 of each lever 4 there may be a recess 37 adjacent to the thrust portion 30. This prevents the rotation of the lever 4 not pushed by the rocking button 5. In the absence of such a recess 37 it could in fact happen that, due to the rotation of the pivoting device 17, the receiving portion 32 pushes on the lever 4 not rotated by the rocking button 5. Thanks to the recess 37, it is possible to prevent such a thrust and a consequent excessive pressure being applied to the rocking button 5.

[0101] The thrust portion 30 and the receiving portion 32 may have a respective rounded edge. In this way it is possible to limit rubbing that could lead to damage to said portions 30, 32.

[0102] The rocking button 5 may comprise a projecting portion 40 that juts out from the rocking button 5 and is able to abut the lever 4 in order to rotate it. Advantageously, the projecting portion 40 juts out from the rocking body 7. The projecting portion 40 preferably abuts an intermediate portion 41 of the lever 4. The intermediate portion 41 is advantageously interposed between the two ends 38, 39 of the lever 4. The intermediate portion 41 is preferably planar. The projecting portion 40 is advantageously rounded to avoid possible damage to the lever 4. The rocking button 5 preferably comprises an opening 51 able to receive a respective connection element 52 of the rocking button cover 8. This opening 51 is advantageously placed on the rocking body 7 at the projecting portion 40. With this connection, it is possible to achieve a reduction in the overall dimensions of the switch 1, particularly along the sliding direction Z.

[0103] Through the interaction between the lever 4 and the projecting portion 40, it may be possible to further limit the angle of inclination B of the rocking button 5. The angle of inclination B of the rocking button 5 corresponds to the angle of inclination L of the lever 5. This angle of inclination L of the lever 4 is advantageously larger than said angle of inclination B of the rocking button 5. This occurs because the distance D1 between the first rotation axis A1 and an interface N between the rocking button 5 and the lever 4 is greater than the distance D2 between the second rotation axis A2 and said interface N between the rocking button 5 and the lever 4, as shown in figure 2.

[0104] The projecting portion 40 can project along the sliding direction Z as the rocking button 5 is in the rest position. The rocking button 5 advantageously comprises four projecting portions 40.

[0105] Figure 2 shows, for example schematically, what happens when pressure P is applied to the left-hand lateral portion 16 of the rocking button 5: this pressure P causes the anti-clockwise rotation of the rocking button 5, with the angle of inclination B from the rest position to the operating position; this rotation causes the clockwise rotation of the lever 4, with the angle of inclination L; this rotation of the lever 4 in turn causes the anti-clockwise rotation of the pivoting device 17, with an angle of inclination O, which in turn causes the clockwise rotation of the movable contact 3 from the rest position to the closure position, with an angle of inclination C.

[0106] The axial button 6 can be positioned in a first through-cavity 44 of the rocking button 5. The first through-cavity 44 is advantageously placed at a central portion 44 of the rocking button 5. In this way, the axial button 6 is placed at the pivoting device 17 and the thrust portions 30 of both levers 4. The central portion 44 is preferably interposed between the two lateral portions 16 of the rocking button 5. Advantageously, both the rocking body 7 and the rocking button cover 8 comprise respective lateral portions 16, centre portion 45 and first through-cavity 44.

[0107] The axial body 9 is preferably shaped so as to be able to slide through the first through-cavity 44 of the rocking body 7. The axial button cover 10 is advantageously shaped so as to be able to slide through the first through-cavity 44 of the rocking button cover 8. The axial button cover 10 may include a projecting element 48 able to slide into a third groove 50 of the rocking button cover 8. This third groove 50 preferably extends along the sliding direction Z. This makes it possible to promote the movement of the axial button cover 10 along the sliding direction Z.

[0108] The axial button cover 10 may comprise a lower portion 66 that meets an upper portion 42 of the axial body 9. Preferably, the axial cover 10 comprises a lower projection 81 that can be inserted into a third through-cavity 82 of the axial body 9. This ensures a particularly stable abutment between the axial button cover 10 and the axial body 9. Said lower projection 81 and said third through-cavity 82 are preferably cylindrical and coaxial.

[0109] The axial button 6 can comprise second abutment walls 60 able to apply a thrust on both levers 4, so as to rotate the pivoting device 17 into the first position. The second abutment walls 60 are advantageously planar. The second abutment walls 60 are preferably shaped in such a manner that they are both contained in a plane parallel with a plane defined by the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y. The second abutment walls 60 may comprise second grooves 65. Advantageously, these second grooves 65 are able to receive the thrust portions 30 of the respective levers 4. This makes it possible to push the thrust portions 30 of the levers 4 in a particularly precise and stable manner.

[0110] When the axial button 6 is translated from the rest position to the operating position, the second abutment walls 60 come into contact with the levers 4 in such a manner that these levers 4 rotate the pivoting device 17 to the operating position.

[0111] Preferably, when the pivoting device 17 is in the second or third position, a receiving portion 32 of the pivoting device 17 remains more raised towards the rocking button 5 than the other receiving portion 32. By translating from the rest position to the operating position the axial button 6 can abut both levers 4 making them rotate with respect to their respective rotation axes A2, A4. Preferably, the axial button 6 acts via the second grooves 65 on the respective thrust portions 30 of the levers 4 simultaneously. Said raised receiving wall 32 is advantageously abutted by the thrust portion 30 of the corresponding lever 4 and this abutment rotates the pivoting device 17 and positions it in the first position. The thrust portions 30 of both levers 4 can abut the corresponding receiving walls 32 as long as said receiving walls 32 are aligned with each other longitudinally, in such a manner that the pivoting device 17 is positioned in the first position.

[0112] Preferably, the axial button 6 comprises two pairs of transverse protuberances 46, said pairs being transversely opposed to each other. Each transverse protuberance 46 advantageously corresponds to a respective opening 47. These openings 47 can be made on the button support 14. These openings 47 preferably extend along the sliding direction Z and have longitudinal dimensions substantially corresponding to those of the transverse protuberances 46 so as to allow translation of the axial button 6 along the sliding direction Z and limit its displacement along the longitudinal direction X.

[0113] The electric switch 1 can comprise a first return mechanism configured to bring the rocking button 5 to the rest position.

[0114] Advantageously, the first return mechanism (not shown) includes a first elastic element able to abut the lever 4 in such a manner that the rotation of said lever 4 brings the rocking button 5 to the rest position.

[0115] An elastic force of said first elastic element advantageously pushes said lever 4 to rotate it. During this rotation the lever 4 abuts the rocking button 5 by rotating it from the operating position to the rest position. This rotation of the lever 4 has the opposite direction to the rotation of the lever 4 when the rocking button 5 rotates from the rest to the operating position. The rocking button 5 can rotate from the rest to the operating position when the pressure applied on the rocking button 5 is such that it exceeds the elastic force of the first elastic element. The first elastic element is preferably formed as a coil spring.

[0116] The lever 4 may comprise a first blind cavity 53 in which a first end of the first elastic element abuts. This first blind cavity 53 is advantageously placed near the first end 38 of the lever 4. The first elastic element has a second end preferably abutting the main body 11, even more preferably the lower body 15. The lower body 15 may comprise a second blind cavity 57 able to receive the second end of the first elastic element. The presence of the blind cavities 53, 57 increases the stability of the first return mechanism.

[0117] The first return mechanism may comprise an additional first elastic element that acts on the additional lever 4 in such a way as to bring the rocking button 5 to the rest position. Therefore, the first return mechanism advantageously comprises two first elastic elements that abut respective levers 4.

[0118] The first return mechanism can be configured to also bring the axial button 6 to the rest position.

[0119] The first elastic element can abut the lever 4 in such a manner that the rotation of said lever 4 brings the axial button 6 to the rest position. Advantageously, the thrust portion 30 of both levers 4 abuts the respective second abutment wall 60 of the axial button 6, thus moving the axial button 6 along the sliding direction Z from the operating position to the rest position. Advantageously, the second grooves 65 are able to receive the thrust portions 30 of the respective levers 4.

[0120] The axial button cover 10 may include coupling elements 49 able to engage the rocking button cover 8. These coupling elements 49 are able to limit the range of the axial button cover 10 during displacement along the sliding direction Z, in particular when the axial button cover 10 is pushed to its rest position by the action of the first return mechanism. The coupling elements 49 are preferably engaged on the rocking button cover 8.

Claims

1. Electric switch (1) including:

a main body (11), in which a commutation mechanism (2) is received, a movable contact (3) and a fixed contact (67),

the commutation mechanism (2) being configured to move the movable contact (3) between an opening position, in which the movable contact (3) is spaced apart from the fixed contact (67), and a closure position, in which the movable contact (3) is in contact with the fixed contact (67);

a rocking button (5) which is connected to the main body (11) so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis (A1),

the rocking button (5) being configured to actuate the commutation mechanism (2) so that the movable contact (3) is positioned in the closure position;

an axial button (6) which is configured to actuate the commutation mechanism (2) so that the movable contact (3) is positioned in the opening position.

2. Electric switch (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the commutation mechanism (2) comprises a pivoting device (17) which can be rotated about a third rotation axis (A3), which is parallel with the first rotation axis (A1) so as to move the movable contact (3), said pivoting device (17) being able to be positioned in a first position, in which the movable contact (3) is in the opening position, and in a second position, in which the movable contact (3) is in the closure position.

3. Electric switch (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the pivoting device (17) comprises a fulcrum element (18) which is supported on a support portion (19) of the main body (11) so as to be able to rotate about the third rotation axis (A3).

4. Electric switch (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the movable contact (3) is interposed between the pivoting device (17) and a lower abutment element (20), said lower abutment element (20) being configured like a fulcrum, about which the movable contact (3) can be rotated in such a manner that, when the pivoting device (17) is rotated in one direction, the movable contact (3) is rotated in the opposite direction.

5. Electric switch (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the axial button (6) comprises a first abutment wall which can abut a receiving wall of the pivoting device (17) so as to position the pivoting device (17) in the first position.

6. Electric switch (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, comprising a lever (4) which is connected to the main body (11) and which can be rotated about a second rotation axis (A2) parallel with the first rotation axis (A1), the lever (4) being able to be rotated by the rocking button (5) which abuts the lever (4) in such a manner that the rotation of the lever (4) rotates the pivoting device (17) and positions it in the second position.

7. Electric switch (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising an additional lever (4) which can be rotated about a fourth rotation axis (A4) which is parallel with the first rotation axis (A1) and which is connected to the main body (11) in such a manner that the pivoting device (17) is interposed between the levers (4),
the additional lever (4) being able to be rotated by means of the rocking button (5) which abuts the additional lever (4) in such a manner that the rotation of the additional lever (4) rotates the pivoting device (17) and positions it in a third position in which the movable contact (3) is in an additional closure position in which it is in contact with an additional fixed contact (67).

8. Electric switch (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the axial button (6) comprises second abutment walls (60) which are able to apply a thrust to both the levers (4) so as to rotate the pivoting device (17) into the first position.

9. Electric switch (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the lever (4) comprises a thrust portion (30) and a fulcrum portion (31), wherein said thrust portion (30) is able to abut a receiving portion (32) of the pivoting device (17) so as to rotate it with respect to the third rotation axis (A3), said thrust portion (30) being positioned at a first end (38) of the lever (4), and wherein said fulcrum portion (31) is connected to the main body (11) and is positioned on a second end (39) of the lever (4), opposite the first end (38), said second end (39) being the end which is furthest away from the pivoting device (17).

10. Electric switch (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the receiving portion (32) is formed as a projection and comprises a first groove (34) which is able to receive the thrust portion (30) of the lever (4).

11. Electric switch (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the rocking button (5) comprises a projecting portion (40) which projects from the rocking button (5) and which is able to abut the lever (4) in order to rotate it.

12. Electric switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a first return mechanism which is configured to move the rocking button (5) into a rest position.

13. Electric switch (1) according to the preceding claim when dependent on any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the first return mechanism is configured to also move the axial button (6) into a rest position.

14. Electric switch (1) according to anyone of claims 1 to 12, comprising a second return mechanism which is configured to move the axial button (6) into a rest position.

15. Electric switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the axial button (6) is positioned in a first through-cavity (44) of the rocking button (5).

16. Electric switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the axial button (6) comprises at least one transverse protuberance (46) which can slide in a respective opening (47) of the main body (11).

Drawing