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Switch Terminology Demonstration2020-02-24T10:24:45+00:00

Snap switches are activated by a spring-operated (or “snap-action“) mechanism. Depressing the actuator triggers the switching operation, with a pre-defined force and travel. The switching speed itself is largely independent of the speed of actuation.

Variable parameters include electrical rating, terminal type, actuator type & length and maximum operating force.
Typical markets & applications include white goods and appliances, automotive, vending, drives, and powertools.

Position Description
Rest Position The position of the actuator when no external force is applied.
Operating Point The point along the actuators travel path at which the spring-operated mechanism is actuated.
Final Position The position of the actuator at the end of its travel.
Reset Point The point along the actuators path, as it travels back towards the rest position, at which the spring-operated mechanism snaps back to it’s original position.
Force Description
Initial Force The force required to move the actuator away from it’s rest position.
Operating Force The force required to move the actuator through the operating point.
Sustaining Force The force required to keep the actuator in it’s final position.
Reset Force The level to which the operating force must be reduced in order to allow the spring-operated mechanism to return to it’s original position.
Travel Distance Description
Pre-Travel The distance travelled between the actuator’s rest position and the switching point.
Overtravel The distance travelled between the switching point and the end position. To make absolutely sure that the switching operation takes place, the actuator should use up at least 50% of the available overtravel.
Reset Travel The distance travelled between the operating force and the release point.
Free Travel The distance travelled between the reset point and the rest position.
Total Travel The difference between the rest position and the final position.
Movement Differential The distance travelled between the operating point and the reset point.

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