Abstract: An electrical snap on switch includes a pair of associated contact elements, the contact elements include a fixed contact element and a movable contact element arranged facing the fixed contact element and that may come into contact with the fixed contact element for establishing a first conductive path. The snap on switch may also include a snap-action switching device that includes a tilting driving member pivotally mounted around a horizontal axis between an upper position and a lower position. The movable contact element is a movable portion of an elastically deformable conductive blade. The driving member includes a cam, which cooperates with a cam follower portion of the blade to deform or relax the blade, to cause the movable contact to come into contact, or out of contact, with the fixed contact element, therefore to realize switching.

Abstract: Devices and methods for separating sample constituents are provided. The subject devices are characterized by having a fluid flow path with at least one electrophoretic separation element positioned at a region thereof. The separation element includes an element for applying an electric field across the fluid flow path and a trapping element for trapping sample constituents that migrate out of the flow path when an electric field is applied across the fluid flow path. In using the subject devices, sample is moved past the separation element and an electric field is applied across the flow path such that constituents of the sample migrate into the trapping element. The subject devices and methods find use in a variety of applications, including protein separation applications.

Abstract: A pressure switch includes an external force transmission mechanism for separating a cover from a housing. The cover and the external force transmission mechanism defines a first pressure chamber, and the housing and the external force transmission mechanism defines a second pressure chamber. In the second pressure chamber, a movable piece having first and second movable members arranged opposite to each other and one or more fixed contacts are disposed. The first and second movable members are connected to each other via a flat spring. A contact is disposed on the second movable member and functions as a movable contact. The external force transmission mechanism applies an external force to the first movable member to displace the first movable member, and the second movable member is reversed at the operating point of the first movable member, so that the movable contact is brought into contact with the fixed contact.

Abstract: An electrical switch incorporating a snap-acting M-blade is actuated by a lever requiring a low actuation force and is actuated by a bridge engaging a critical region of the M-blade's double-loop end to provide an extremely low differential. Together, the means for actuating cover a broad range of applications. Additional features include a snap-acting M-blade actuated by a second snap-acting device, and the lever comprising an integral tab that serves as a pivot point.

Abstract: An ultra high production snap acting switch includes a blanked sheet metal tab for providing extremely consistent and repeatable operation. The switch simply includes a sheet metal M-blade automatically spot welded (or riveted) to a sheet metal spring arm. The spring arm has an integral tab pressed between two flexible legs of the M-blade. The stress imparted by the tab accurately distorts the M-blade so that it assumes a very predictable bistable operation.