Patents Examined by Rence S. Luebke
  • Patent number: 4613736
    Abstract: An operating switch panel, such as for an audio equipment tuner, utilizes a metal plate which is divided into a plurality of operating parts by simultaneous etching from both sides. Connecting parts remain between individual operating parts. Thin hinges are formed on the operating parts by etching from the back surface of the metal plate, dividing each operating part into two stationary and movable parts. The stationary parts are connected to each other through the connecting parts. Display parts in the form of recesses are formed on the surface of the metal plate respectively at each operating part. Projections are formed on the back surfaces of the movable parts for engaging associated switches. A number of operating parts can be arranged close to each other in a simplified and economical manufacturing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1986
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hajime Shichijo, Masamitsu Tsukatani, Takeshi Kato