The invention generally relates to the field of Electro mechanical engineering. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a switch assembly. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a sliding type switch assembly for use in automobiles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
A variety of slider switches are known in the art and used in automobiles. For example, CN 102386038 discloses a two state slider switch which can be used for switching ON/OFF a particular function. A three state slider switch is disclosed in documents such as US 3,947,391; KR 20120002614, etc. A four state slider switch is disclosed in documents such as US 3,485,966; CN201233828, etc. These slider switches, including the two state slider switch, the three state slider switch, and the four state slider switch do not include any spring mechanism. US 4,324,958A discloses a four state slider switch which includes a spring mechanism. However, the function of the spring mechanism is to provide tactile feeling.
Over a period of time, the customer's demands in relation to the slider switches are changing and are increasing. By way of example, the customer's demand for changes in relation to the nature of actuation which is needed for transitioning between the various states, changes in stroke length, changes in the number of states, changes in the number of circuits controlled by the switch, etc. It would be beneficial in manufacturer's perspective to accommodate for such change / increase in the customer's demands with minimum changes in the slider switch. Thus, there is a need to meet with these demands of the customer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified format that is further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a sliding switch (10) for use in vehicles. The sliding switch (10) comprising: a housing (12); and a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12). The carrier (14) is adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force. The carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation. The sliding switch further comprises a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, ..., 20n) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12) such that the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operate with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, ..., 20n) to define "n" switch states along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). The sliding switch further comprises a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the "nth" switch state to an "(n-l)th" switch state after release of the actuating force.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description of Figures:
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become
better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the
accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the
drawings, wherein:
Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance
with the general teachings of the invention;
Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view of the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance
with a first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3(a) illustrates a detailed view of the open box structure (32) constructed in

Figure 3(b) illustrates a detailed view of the base assembly (34) and the layout of the fixed
contact terminals in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4(a) to 4(d) illustrates a partial transparent view of the sliding switch (10) showing
the switch in the first, the second, the third, and the fourth switch states respectively in
accordance with the first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5(a) to 5(c) illustrates a perspective, front and a sectional view of the carrier (14)
accommodating the first and the second moving contacts (16, 18); the plunger spring
mechanism (28) and the ball spring mechanism (38) in accordance with the first
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 illustrates a magnified view of the detent profile (36) formed in the open box
structure (32) in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7 illustrates a detailed view of the carrier (14) showing particularly the spacing
between the first and the second moving contacts in accordance with the first embodiment of
the invention;
Figure 8 illustrates a detailed view of the base assembly (34) showing particularly the
spacing between the fixed contact terminals in accordance with the first embodiment of the
invention;
Figure 9 illustrates a detailed view of the detent profile (36) showing particularly the
spacing between the first, the second and the third parking detents in accordance with the
first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 10 illustrates an exploded view of the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance
with a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11 illustrates a detailed view of the carrier (14) accommodating the first and the
second moving contacts (16, 18) in accordance with the second embodiment of the
invention;
Figure 12 illustrates a detailed view of base assembly (34), the layout of the fixed contact
terminals and the distance between the fixed contacts in accordance with the second
embodiment of the invention;

Figure 13 illustrates a detailed view of the detent profile (36) showing particularly the
spacing between the first, the second and the third parking detents in accordance with the
second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 14(a) to 14(d) illustrates the relationship between the fixed contacts and the moving
contacts in the first, the second, the third, and the fourth switch states respectively of the
sliding switch constructed in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 15 illustrates an exploded view of the DPDT type sliding switch (10) constructed in
accordance with a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 16 illustrates a detailed view of the carrier (14) accommodating the first and the
second moving contacts (16, 18) in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 17 illustrates a detailed view of base assembly (34), the layout of the fixed contact
terminals and the distance between the fixed contacts in accordance with the third
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 18 illustrates a detailed view of detent profile (36) constructed in accordance with
the third embodiment of the invention; and
Figure 19(a) to 19(c) illustrates the relationship between the fixed contacts and the moving
contacts in the first, the second, and the third DPDT switch states respectively of the sliding
switch constructed in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention.
Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
Detailed Description of the Invention:
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the

scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
Reference throughout this specification to "an aspect", "another aspect" or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated an exploded diagram of a sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the general teachings of the present invention. The sliding switch (10) can be used for example, in vehicles. The sliding switch (10) comprises a housing (12); and a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12). The carrier (14) is adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force. The carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation. The sliding switch further comprises a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, ...., 20n) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12) such that the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operate with the set of fixed contact terminals (201, 2O2, ... 20n) to define "n" switch states along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). The sliding switch further comprises a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the "nth" switch state to an "(n-l)th" switch state after release of the actuating force.
The carrier (14) my operably be connected to a knob member (30). The knob member may be adapted to receive the actuating force. The carrier (14) accommodates a ball spring mechanism (38) which interacts with a detent profile (not visible in Figure 1) formed within the housing (12). The ball spring mechanism (38) which interacts with a detent profile so as to park the carrier (14) at 1st to (n-l)th state. The detent profile however does not allow for the carrier (14) to be parked at the nth state and merely allows the carrier (14) to be present at the nth state till the actuating force is being exerted. After release of the actuating force or upon cessation of the actuating force, the carrier (14) gets restored from the "nth" switch state to an "(n-l)th" switch state because of the plunger-spring mechanism (28) and the shape of the detent profile. Thus, the switch (10) provides for automatic transitioning between the "nth" switch state to an "(n-l)th" switch state, which is generally not available in slider switches of the prior art.

Apart from the above, the slider switch (10) can meet with customer's requirements pertaining to different stroke lengths, changes in the number of circuits being controller, etc. with minimum modification.
Reference in this regard may be drawn to Figures 2 to 9 which pertain to a single pole single throw (SPST) type slider switch (10) constructed in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention.
In particular, referring to Figure 2, which is an exploded view of the single pole single throw (SPST) type slider switch (10) constructed in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention, it can be observed that the switch (10) comprises a housing (12); and a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12). The carrier (14) is adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force. The carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation along a direction of the sliding path. The slider switch (10) further comprises a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206, 2O7, 20s) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). In an embodiment of the invention, the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operate with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206, 2O7, 20s) to define a first, a second, a third and a fourth SPST switch states along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). The slider switch (10) further comprises a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the fourth SPST switch state to the third SPST switch state after release of the actuating force.
In an embodiment of the invention, the housing (12) comprises of an open box structure (32) and a base assembly (34). Now referring particularly to Figure 3 (a), the open box structure (32) comprises a detent profile (36) on an internal wall thereof. Now referring particularly to Figure 3(b), the base assembly (34) includes the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 204, 205, 206, 207, 20g). The set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) include first to eighth fixed contact terminals; the first, the third, the fifth, and the seventh fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O3, 20s, 2O7) being disposed along a first row (Rl);

the second, the fourth, the sixth, and the eighth fixed contact terminals (202, 2O4, 206, 20s) being disposed along a second row (R2).
The fixed contacts are disposed such that an imaginary line joining the first and the second fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2) is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, an imaginary line joining the third and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4) is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, an imaginary line joining the fifth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206) substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path and an imaginary line joining the seventh and the eighth fixed contact terminals (2O7, 20s) is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path.
In an embodiment of the invention, in the first SPST switch state, which is shown in Figure 4(a), the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with a first and a second fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2). On the other hand, in the second SPST switch state, which is shown in Figure 4(b), the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with a fifth and a sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206). When the switch is in the third SPST switch state, which is shown in Figure 4(c), the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with a third and a fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4). Lastly, when the switch is in the fourth SPST switch state, which is shown in Figure 4(d), the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with a seventh and an eighth fixed contact terminals (2O7, 20s).
Now referring particularly to Figure 5(a) which is a perspective view of the carrier (14), Figure 5(b) which is a front view of the carrier (14) and Figure 5(c) which a sectional view of the carrier (14), it can be seen that the carrier (14) accommodates a ball spring mechanism (38). The ball spring mechanism (38) is adapted to co-operate with the detent profile (36) as provided on the internal wall of open box structure (32). In particular, the ball-spring mechanism (38) is accommodated in a first aperture (54) provided in the carrier (14). Also, the carrier (14) comprises a first and a second slots (50, 52) for accommodating the first and the second moving contacts (16, 18). Furthermore, each of the first and the second moving contact (16, 18) interacts with a respective spring member (48) that applies a positive

contact making force on the first and the second moving contacts (16, 18). The spring members (48) are also accommodated in the first and the second slots (50, 52). The carrier (14) further comprises a third slot (56) and the carrier is operably connected to a knob member (30) via the third slot (56). Furthermore, the plunger-spring mechanism (28) is accommodated in a second aperture (58) provided in the carrier (14).
Now referring specifically to Figure 6, the detent profile (36) defines a first parking detent (40), a second parking detent (42), a third parking detent (44) and an inclined surface (46) extending from the third parking detent (44). Although not shown, it may be noted that the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the first parking detent (40) so as to park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) in the first SPST switch state. When the knob is moved from the first SPST switch state to the second SPST switch state, the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the second parking detent (42) so as to park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) in the second SPST switch state. When the knob is moved from the second SPST switch state to the third SPST switch state, the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the third parking detent (44) so as to park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) in the third SPST switch state. When the knob is moved from the third SPST switch state to the fourth SPST switch state, the ball spring mechanism (38) slides on the inclined surface (46) so as to bring the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) to the fourth SPST switch state till the actuating force is being exerted.
Now referring specifically to Figure 7, which a close-up view of the carrier, it can be seen that the first moving contact (16) is separated from the second moving contact (18) by a distance "Z" along the direction of the sliding path.
Now referring to Figure 8, which is a close-up view of the base assembly (34), it can be seen that a distance between the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Likewise, a distance between the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) is

equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, a distance between the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Also, a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Further, a distance between the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the seventh fixed contact terminal (2O7) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Furthermore, a distance between the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) and the eighth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path.
Referring to Figure 9, which is a close-up view of the detent profile (36), the first parking detent (40), the second parking detent (42) and the third parking detent (44) are separated from each other by a distance "X" along the direction of the sliding path. It may be noted that the distance "X" corresponds closely to the stroke length.
It may be noted that in the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the first embodiment, the distance between the first parking detent (40), the second parking detent (42) and the third parking detent (44) which closely corresponds to the stroke length is the minimum (as compared to the distance between the fixed contact terminals "Y" and the distance between the moving contact terminals "Z"). Also, the distances X, Y, and Z are inter-related to each other. In particular, the distance "Y" = {(1.9 to 2.2) X} and the distance "Z" = {(1.4 to 1.7) Y}. More particularly, distance "Y" = {(1.9 to 2.1) X} and the distance "Z" = {(1.5 to 1.6) Y}.
It is possible to change the relationship between the distances X, Y, and Z as present in the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the first embodiment with minor modifications. While the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the first embodiment can be used for controlling 4 circuits, it uses separate input and output terminals for each circuit. However, with minor modifications, it is possible to change the number of input and output terminals and still control 4 circuits.

For instance, reference is drawn to Figures 10 to 14, which also pertain to a single pole single throw (SPST) type slider switch (10), but, constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention.
Referring particularly to Figure 10, which is an exploded view of the single pole single throw (SPST) type sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention, it can be observed that the switch (10) comprises a housing (12); and a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12). The carrier (14) is adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force. The carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation. The slider switch (10) further comprises a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). In an embodiment of the invention, the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operating with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206) to define a first, a second, a third and a fourth SPST switch states along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). The slider switch (10) further comprises a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the fourth SPST switch state to the third SPST switch state after release of the actuating force.
Referring particularly to Figure 11, it can be seen that the carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path.
Referring particularly to Figure 12, it can be seen that in the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206) include first to sixth fixed contact terminals. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the first, the third, and the fifth fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O3, 20s) are disposed along a first row (Rl) while the second, the fourth, and the sixth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 2O4, 206) being disposed along a second row (R2). In an embodiment of the invention, an imaginary line joining the first and the

second fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2) is oblique to the direction of the sliding path. Likewise, an imaginary line joining the third and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4) is oblique to the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, an imaginary line joining the fifth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206) being oblique to the direction of the sliding path.
In an embodiment of the invention, a distance between the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Likewise, a distance between the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, a distance between the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Also, a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path. Furthermore a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path.
Although not separately shown, even in the second embodiment, the housing (12) comprises an open box structure (32) and a base assembly (34). The open box structure (32) comprises a detent profile (36) on an internal wall thereof. Now referring particularly to Figure 13, the detent profile (36) defines a first parking detent (40), a second parking detent (42), a third parking detent (44) and an inclined surface (46) extending from the third parking detent (44). In an embodiment of the invention, the first parking detent (40), the second parking detent (42) and the third parking detent (44) are separated from each other by a distance "X" along the direction of the sliding path. In the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention, the distance "Y" (i.e. the distance between the fixed contact terminal) is substantially equal to the distance "X" (i.e. the distance between the parking detents). Thus, it can be seen that the relationship between the distances "X" and "Y" as present in the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is different from the relationship between distances "X" and "Y" as present in the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the first embodiment. It can be

furthermore seen that the moving contact terminals do not have any distance between each other taken along the direction of the sliding path. Rather, the distance between the moving contact terminals is along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path. This distance between the moving contact terminals is along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path is equal to the distance between the first row (Rl) and the second row (R2).
Now referring to Figure 14 (a), when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the first SPST switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with the first and the third fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O3). Now referring to Figure 14 (b), when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the second SPST switch state, the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the second and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 2O4). On the other hand, referring to Figure 14 (c), when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the third SPST switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with the third and the fifth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O5). Lastly, as shown in Figure 14 (d), when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the fourth SPST switch state, the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with a fourth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (204, 206).
Thus, it can be seen that in the second embodiment, the input and output terminals for each circuit is not separate and there is a sharing of some of the input and output terminals. In one embodiment of the invention, the third contact terminal (2O3) can be taken as a common input while the first and the fifth fixed contact terminals (20i, 20s) can be taken as the respective output terminals. Likewise, the fourth contact terminal (2O4) can be taken as a common input while the second and the sixth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 206) can be taken as the respective output terminals.

While the sliding switches constructed in accordance with the first and the second embodiments were of single pole single throw type, it is also possible to change the type of states to double pole double throw type with minor modifications.
Now referring to Figure 15, which is an exploded view of the double pole double throw (DPDT) type sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention, it can be observed that the switch (10) comprises a housing (12); and a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12). The carrier (14) is adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force. The carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation. The slider switch (10) further comprises a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 2O3, 2O4, 2O5, 206, 2O7, 208) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). In an embodiment of the invention, the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operating with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) to define a first DPDT switch state, a second DPDT switch state, and a third DPDT switch state along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12). The slider switch (10) further comprises a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the third DPDT switch state to the second DPDT switch state after release of the actuating force.
Referring particularly to Figure 16, it can be seen that the carrier (14) accommodates a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path.
Although not separately shown, even in the second embodiment, the housing (12) comprises an open box structure (32) and a base assembly (34). The open box structure (32) comprises a detent profile (36) on an internal wall thereof. Now referring particularly to Figure 17 which is a close-up view of the base assembly (34) constructed in accordance with the third embodiment, it can be observed that the base assembly (34) as per the third embodiment includes the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 20g). The set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) include first to eighth fixed

contact terminals; the first, the third, the fifth, and the seventh fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O3, 2O5, 2O7) being disposed along a first row (Rl); the second, the fourth, the sixth, and the eighth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 2CU, 206, 20s) being disposed along a second row (R2).
The fixed contacts are disposed such that an imaginary line joining the first and the second fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2) is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, an imaginary line joining the third and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4) is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, an imaginary line joining the fifth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206) substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path and an imaginary line joining the seventh and the eighth fixed contact terminals (2O7, 20s) is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path.
Also, it can be seen that a distance between the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path. Likewise, a distance between the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path. Similarly, a distance between the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (2O5) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path. Also, a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path. Further, a distance between the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the seventh fixed contact terminal (2O7) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path. Furthermore, a distance between the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) and the eighth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path.
Now referring to Figure 18, the detent profile (36) defines a first parking detent (40), a second parking detent (42), and an inclined surface (46) extending from the second parking detent (42). In an embodiment of the invention, the first parking detent (40) and the second parking detent (42) are separated from each other by a distance "B" along the direction of

the sliding path. It may be noted that the distance between the two parking detents corresponds closely to the stroke length.
In the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention, the distance between the fixed contact terminal is substantially equal to the distance between the parking detents. It can be furthermore seen that the moving contact terminals do not have any distance between each other taken along the direction of the sliding path. Rather, the distance between the moving contact terminals is along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path. This distance between the moving contact terminals is along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path is equal to the distance between the first row (Rl) and the second row (R2).
Now referring to Figure 19 (a), when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the first DPDT switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3); and the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4). On the other hand, when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the second DPDT switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the sixth fixed contact terminal (206). Lastly, when the sliding switch (10) constructed in accordance with the second embodiment is in the third DPDT switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact with the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the seventh fixed contact terminal (2O7) and the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) and the eighth fixed contact terminal (20s).
It may be noted that even in the DPDT switch constructed in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention, there would be sharing of fixed contact terminals i.e. some of the fixed contact terminals will be shared between two circuits. By way of example, out of

the four the fixed contact terminals located on a particular row, two of the fixed contact terminals will be input contact terminals while two the remaining two fixed contact terminals will be output contact terminals. Also, the input contact terminals and the output contact terminals will be alternatively placed.
Thus, it can be seen that switches constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention provide for a unique way of actuation for transitioning between the various states. In particular, the user can supply a sliding type force when transitioning from the first to the nth state. From the 1st state to the (n-l)th state, the carrier gets parked and hence, the switch remains in the state to which it has been brought. While application of the sliding force brings the sliding switch from the (n-l)th state to the nth state, the switch does not get parked in the nth state. Thus, upon release of the force, the switch automatically reverts to the (n-l)th state. For any transition from the (n-l)th state to the 1st state, user actuation is needed. Thus, the switch (10) provides for automatic transitioning between the "nth" switch state to an "(n-l)th" switch state, while for transitioning among other states, a user actuation is needed. This nature of actuation is generally not available in slider switches of the prior art.
It may be noted that out of the three embodiments described in detail, the first embodiment i.e. the SPST type slider switch as described in the first embodiment with reference to Figures 2 to 9 is preferred as it has better performance characteristics.
Apart from the above, it can be seen that the slider type switch constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention can easily meet a variety of customer's demands. In particular, with minimum changes in the construction, the slider switch can accommodate for such change / increase in the customer's demands, for example, changes in stroke length, changes in the number of states, changes in the number of circuits controlled by the switch, etc.

Apart from the above, the number of components used in the slider switch is low and the switch can be manufactured (or assembled) easily. Because of the reduced number of sub-parts, the slider switch (10) has increased life span.
The drawings the foregoing descriptions give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of process described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. In addition, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as the following claims.

WE CLAIM:

1. A sliding switch (10) for use in vehicles, said sliding switch (10) comprising:
a housing (12);
a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12), the carrier (14) being adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force, the carrier (14) accommodating a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation;
a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, ..., 20n) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12), the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operate with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, ..., 20n) to define "n" switch states along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12); and
a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the "nth" switch state to an "(n-l)th" switch state after release of the actuating force.
2. A sliding switch (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switch is of single pole
single throw (SPST) type and comprises:
a housing (12);
a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12), the carrier (14) being adapted
to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an
actuating force, the carrier (14) accommodating a first and a second moving contact
(16, 18) in a spaced apart relation along a direction of the sliding path;
a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206, 2O7, 20s) disposed along
a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12), the carrier (14), the first
moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operating with the set of
fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) to define a first, a
second, a third and a fourth SPST switch states along the sliding path of the carrier
(14) within the housing (12); and

a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the fourth SPST switch state to the third SPST switch state after release of the actuating force.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the housing (12) comprises of an open box structure (32) and a base assembly (34).
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the open box structure (32) comprises a detent profile (36) on an internal wall thereof and the carrier (14) accommodates a ball spring mechanism (38) adapted to co-operate with the detent profile (36).
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the detent profile (36) defines a
first parking detent (40), a second parking detent (42), a third parking detent (44) and
an inclined surface (46) extending from the third parking detent (44), such that:
the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the first parking detent (40) so as to
park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact
(18) in the first SPST switch state;
the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the second parking detent (42) so as to
park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact
(18) in the second SPST switch state;
the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the third parking detent (44) so as to
park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact
(18) in the third SPST switch state; and
the ball spring mechanism (38) slides on the inclined surface (46) so as to bring the
carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) to the
fourth SPST switch state till the actuating force is being exerted.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) include first to eighth fixed contact terminals; the first, the third, the fifth, and the seventh fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O3, 20s,

2O7) being disposed along a first row; the second, the fourth, the sixth, and the eighth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 2CU, 206, 20s) being disposed along a second row; an imaginary line joining the first and the second fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2) or an imaginary line joining the third and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4) or an imaginary line joining the fifth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206) or an imaginary line joining the seventh and the eighth fixed contact terminals (2O7, 20s) being substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path.
7. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
in the first SPST switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with a first and a second fixed contact terminals (201, 2O2);
in the second SPST switch state, the second moving contact (18) is in physical
contact with a fifth and a sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206);
in the third SPST switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with a third and a fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4); and
in the fourth SPST switch state, the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact
with a seventh and an eighth fixed contact terminals (2O7, 20s).
8. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of the first and the second moving contact (16, 18) interacts with a respective spring member (48) that applies a positive contact making force on the first and the second moving contacts (16, 18).
9. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the carrier (14) comprises a first and a second slots (50, 52) for accommodating the first and the second moving contacts (16, 18) and their respective spring member (48).
10. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the ball-spring mechanism (38) is accommodated in a first aperture (54) provided in the carrier (14).
11. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the carrier (14) is operably connected to a knob member (30) via a third slot (56).

The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein the plunger-spring mechanism (28) is accommodated in a second aperture (58) provided in the carrier (14).
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
the first moving contact (16) is separated from the second moving contact (18) by a
distance "Z" along the direction of the sliding path;
a distance between the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the third fixed contact
terminal (2O3), a distance between the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the
fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4), a distance between the third fixed contact
terminal (2O3) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s), a distance between the
fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the sixth fixed contact terminal (206), a
distance between the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the seventh fixed contact
terminal (2O7), and a distance between the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) and the
eighth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding
path; and
the first parking detent (40), the second parking detent (42) and the third parking
detent (44) are separated from each other by a distance "X" along the direction of the
sliding path.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 13, wherein "Y" = {(1.8 - 2.2) X} and "Z" = {(1.4-1.7) Y}.
A sliding switch (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switch is of single pole single throw (SPST) type and comprises: a housing (12);
a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12), the carrier (14) being adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force, the carrier (14) accommodating a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding path;

a set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12), the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operating with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2CU, 20s, 206, 2O7, 20s) to define a first, a second, a third and a fourth SPST switch states along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12); and
a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the fourth SPST switch state to the third SPST switch state after release of the actuating force.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 15, wherein the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) include first to sixth fixed contact terminals; the first, the third, and the fifth fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O3, 20s) being disposed along a first row; the second, the fourth, and the sixth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 2O4, 206) being disposed along a second row; an imaginary line joining the first and the second fixed contact terminals (201, 2O2) or an imaginary line joining the third and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 2O4) or an imaginary line joining the fifth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (20s, 206) being oblique to the direction of the sliding path.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 15, wherein:
in the first SPST switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with the first and the third fixed contact terminals (201, 2O3);
in the second SPST switch state, the second moving contact (18) is in physical
contact with the second and the fourth fixed contact terminals (2O2, 2O4);
in the third SPST switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with the third and the fifth fixed contact terminals (2O3, 20s); and
in the fourth SPST switch state, the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact
with a fourth and the sixth fixed contact terminals (2O4, 206).
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 15, wherein:

the housing (12) comprises an open box structure (32) and a base assembly (34); the open box structure (32) comprises a detent profile (36) on an internal wall thereof; the detent profile (36) defines a first parking detent (40), a second parking detent (42), a third parking detent (44) and an inclined surface (46) extending from the third parking detent (44); the first parking detent (40), the second parking detent (42) and the third parking detent (44) are separated from each other by a distance "X" along the direction of the sliding path;
a distance between the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the second fixed contact terminal (2O2), a distance between the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3), a distance between the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4), a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s), and a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (2O5) is equal to "Y" along the direction of the sliding path; and the distance "X" is substantially equal to the distance "Y".
19. A sliding switch (10) as claimed in claim 1, the switch is of double pole double throw (DPDT) type and comprises: a housing (12);
a carrier (14) accommodated within the housing (12), the carrier (14) being adapted to exhibit sliding movement within the housing (12) in response to receiving an actuating force, the carrier (14) accommodating a first and a second moving contact (16, 18) in a spaced apart relation;
set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 2O2, 2O3, 2O4, 20s, 206, 2O7, 20s) disposed along a sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12), the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18) co-operating with the set of fixed contact terminals (20i, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208) to define a first DPDT switch state, a second DPDT switch state, and a third DPDT switch state along the sliding path of the carrier (14) within the housing (12); and

a plunger-spring mechanism (28) adapted to generate restoration force to automatically restore the carrier (14) from the third DPDT switch state to the second DPDT switch state after release of the actuating force.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 19, wherein the housing (12) comprises of an
open box structure (32) and a base assembly (34), the open box structure (32)
comprises a detent profile (36) on an internal wall thereof, the detent profile (36)
defines a first parking detent (40), a second parking detent (42), and an inclined
surface (46) extending from the second parking detent (42), such that:
the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the first parking detent (40) so as to
park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact
(18) in the first DPDT switch state;
the ball spring mechanism (38) gets parked in the second parking detent (42) so as to
park the carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact
(18) in the second DPDT switch state;
the ball spring mechanism (38) slides on the inclined surface (46) so as to bring the
carrier (14), the first moving contact (16) and the second moving contact (18)
temporarily to the third DPDT switch state.
The sliding switch as claimed in claim 19, wherein:
in the first DPDT switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3);
and the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the second fixed
contact terminal (2O2) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4);
in the second DPDT switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s)
and the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the fourth fixed
contact terminal (2O4) and the sixth fixed contact terminal (206);
in the third DPDT switch state, the first moving contact (16) is in physical contact
with the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the seventh fixed contact terminal

(2O7) and the second moving contact (18) is in physical contact with the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) and the eighth fixed contact terminal (20s).
22. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 19, wherein the first moving contact (16) is separated from the second moving contact (18) by a predetermined distance, along a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sliding.
23. The sliding switch as claimed in claim 19, wherein:
a distance between the first fixed contact terminal (20i) and the third fixed contact terminal (2O3), a distance between the second fixed contact terminal (2O2) and the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4), a distance between the third fixed contact terminal (2O3) and the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s), a distance between the fourth fixed contact terminal (2O4) and the sixth fixed contact terminal (206), a distance between the fifth fixed contact terminal (20s) and the seventh fixed contact terminal (2O7), and a distance between the sixth fixed contact terminal (206) and the eighth fixed contact terminal (20s) is equal to "B" along the direction of the sliding path; and
the first parking detent (40), is separated from the second parking detent (42) by a distance "B" along the direction of the sliding path.