Patent ID: 7858892
Filing Date: 2010-12-28
Classification: F16B,F16C

Abstract:
1. A latching and electrical switch mechanism comprising: an insulated housing having a cavity therein with an opening thereto; an electrically conductive ball having a stem of smaller diameter than the ball and extending therefrom, the ball being sized for rotational and translational movement within the housing cavity and producing an audible sound upon insertion of the ball into the cavity: at least one groove in the housing cavity; a coil spring, disposed in the groove, for making electrical contact with the ball and retaining the ball for rotation within cavity with said stem at selected conical angles with respect to a housing centerline; and at least one electrical contact disposed in said cavity at a spaced apart relationship with said coil spring, for providing electrical connection with the ball upon translational movement of the ball within said cavity.