Abstract: An electrical switch device includes a thick film switch element having a low temperature co-fired dielectric substrate, electrical conductor tracks embedded in the substrate and having a surface substantially flush with the substrate surface, and wiper contacts in sliding engagement with the conductor tracks. The switch is useful for position sensors, throttle controls, and digital encoders. A method of manufacturing a thick film switch element includes providing a low temperature co-fired dielectric substrate in a green state, depositing an electrically conductive material onto a face of the substrate, pressing the conductive material into the substrate until the material is substantially flush with the substrate face, and then firing the substrate and conductive material.

Abstract: A manual control apparatus, such as a control pedal, is configured for drive-by-wire control systems, and similar applications. In one aspect, the manual control apparatus comprises a hysteresis mechanism that provides more precise and ma controllable hysteresis than previous mechanisms. In a further aspect, the manual control apparatus comprises an angular position sensor, and the angular position sensor housing may comprise abutments that reduce variation in the sensor. In a still further aspect, the manual control apparatus comprises a stop pin that regulates the position of a rotatable member relative to the position sensor with less variation. The stop pin may also be used as a single fastener that holds the manual control apparatus together.

Abstract: The invention relates to a manual control apparatus, such as a control pedal for a drive-by-wire control systems, and similar applications. According to an aspect of the invention, the manual control apparatus comprises a hysteresis mechanism that provides more precise and controllable hysteresis than previous mechanism. According to a further aspect of the invention, the manual control apparatus comprises an angular position sensor, and the angular position sensor may comprise abutments that reduce variation in the sensor. According to a still further aspect of the invention, the manual control apparatus comprises a stop pin that regulates the position of a rotatable member relative to the position sensor with less variation. The stop pin may also be used as a single fastener the holds the manual control apparatus together.