Patent ID: 6225580
Filing Date: 2001-05-01
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A switching apparatus for operation on a surface of an electrical device, said apparatus having:a base,a rotating housing which serves as a knob,an axle and an axle bearing for mounting the housing rotationally on the base,switch contacts mounted on a contact surface,the knob, axle, axle bearing, and switch contacts are all located external to the surface of the electrical device;a spring-loaded ball;said switch contacts and spring loaded ball mounted between the base and the knob such that the base and the knob apply force from the spring through the ball against the switch contacts;detents in the contact surface for receiving the ball and for thereby locating rotary action of the knob at discreet selectable positions; andthe detents comprise:recesses;said recesses have insulated edges at the contact surface;slightly embossed printed circuits protrude from said insulated edges to serve as said switch contacts to make electrical contact with the ball and thereby bridge said switch contacts.