Patent ID: 6747218
Filing Date: 2004-06-08
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A tactile switch assembly for use with a surgical instrument, comprising:a substrate made of a non-conductive material; an inner terminal disposed on the upper surface of the substrate, the inner terminal being made from a conductive material and having a first height from the upper surface; an outer terminal disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and substantially surrounding the inner terminal, the outer terminal being made from a conductive material and having a second height from the upper surface of the substrate, the second height being greater than the height of the inner terminal; and a snap-dome secured to the substrate and having a periphery engaged to and in electrical communication with the outer terminal, the snap-dome being depressible through a range wherein, upon inversion of the snap-dome, an apex of the snap-dome electrically connects the inner and outer terminals.