Abstract: A switch assembly for a geared limit switch for valve actuators is formed from aligned switch modules. The switch modules includes a pair of switch units, each switch unit having a plunger and a movable contact plate mounted between two springs. As the plunger is driven inward, a camming element on the plunger contacts an edge of an aperture in the movable contact plate, forcing the plate to move in a direction perpendicular to the line of plunger travel. The inward motion of the plunger and the camming action continue after the contacts have closed, wiping the contacts mounted on the movable plate across the surfaces of the stationary contacts. When the plunger is released, an outer edge of the movable plate engages a beveled inner wall of the switch unit housing, returning the movable contact plate to its original position.

Abstract: A unitized packaging arrangement for an energy dissipating device comprises a thermoplastic housing, base, and cap which are joined together to form the package for the device. The thermoplastic housing is formed to mountably receive the energy dissipating device and is provided with a metallized conductor pattern on portions of its outer surface. The conductor pattern is connected to a plurality of bonding pads on the device. In a preferred embodiment, the conductor pattern includes the metallized surface of at least one opening formed in the thermoplastic housing. In an especially preferred embodiment, a conductive element (such as a conductive pin) is located in the opening and is joined to the metallized surface by soldering. The thermoplastic base is formed to mountably receive the thermoplastic housing following mounting of the device, and provides access to the conductor pattern from outside the packaging arrangement.

Abstract: An electrical switch assembly has a pair of conducting resilient domes which snap inwardly to produce corresponding switching functions when downward pressure is applied at their respective centers and snap outwardly to produce opposite switching functions when the applied pressure is removed. The pair of domes are supported one within the other in spaced relation with their respective centers substantially in alignment. Pressure applying means, such as a push button, is mounted for movement in line with the aligned centers of the outer and inner domes to a first predetermined position to snap the outer dome inwardly and to a second predetermined position to snap the inner dome inwardly. The successive snapping actions of the two domes to produce corresponding switching functions provide respective stages of tactile feedback through the push button to the operator.