Patent ID: 6318497
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: G01V,H01H

Abstract:
A pressure-sensitive switch comprising:a base member having a mounting surface formed of electrically-insulating material;first and second electrodes mounted on said base member, each of said electrodes having an exposed, electrically-conductive contact surface disposed adjacent said mounting surface of said base member; anda flexible diaphragm having a peripheral portion fixedly secured in a substantially fluid-tight manner to said mounting surface and a central portion overlying said contact surfaces of said first and second electrodes, at least said central portion of said diaphragm being formed of electrically-conductive material, being exposed to the pressure surrounding said switch, and being formed with plural corrugations,such that when said switch is exposed to atmospheric pressure, said central portion of said diaphragm is spaced from said contact surfaces of said electrodes, but when said switch is exposed to a pressure substantially in excess of atmospheric pressure, said central portion of said diaphragm is forced into contact at a predetermined pressure with both said contact surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said first and second electrodes to each other.