Abstract: A switch plunger is covered at its exposed end with a serrated cap which is ratchetable over the end of the plunger. The plunger is axially slidable within a housing upon which is mounted a selectively operable locking pin. The locking pin may be actuated during installation of the switch so as to fix the relative position of the plunger within the housing during installation. This initial setting of the plunger within the housing also aligns a pair of electrical contacts mounted on the plunger with cooperating circuitry mounted within the housing. The switch is initially installed and calibrated simply by engaging the lock pin with the plunger and inserting the switch within an aperature formed in a cover or housing and abutting the cap with a switch actuator.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a switching mechanism particularly intended for use in connection with a braking system of a vehicle. The switching mechanism includes a switch supported in a housing and having a movable element which cooperates with an actuating system coupled to the brake pedal. The switch is contained in a housing which is arranged to frictionally engage a brake pedal arm pivot yoke. The switch actuator arm is arranged to be coupled to the brake pedal arm on the vehicle. A friction clutch is provided between the switch actuator arm and the switch actuator to permit a driving but slippable connection between the two whereby the switch actuator arm can pivot to a greater angular extent than the switch actuator. Thus, the switch mechanism of the present invention is self-adjusting despite variations resulting from manufacturing and age variations in the brake pedal assembly.