Patent ID: 6054662
Filing Date: 2000-04-25
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
An apparatus for providing a return force for a push button, the apparatus comprising:a bar having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion defining a surface for receiving a corresponding collar surface fixably coupled to a housing to allow the first portion to rotate with respect to the housing during the movement of a push button between an actuating position and a non actuating position, the second portion connected an attachment mechanism to couple the second portion of the bar to the housing and to at least partially restrict the rotational movement of the second portion with respect to the housing;an arm extending from the first portion of the bar, the arm having a first portion for receiving a user generated force on a push button to move the push button from a non actuating position to an actuating position and for providing a second force for moving the push button from an actuating position to a non actuating position;wherein the user generated force on the arm torsionally rotates the first portion of the bar with respect to the second portion of the bar to store torsion energy in the bar, wherein a release of the stored torsion energy in the bar generates at least a portion of the second force.