IN2TEC Flexible Rocker Switch

flexible rocker flexible rocker patent

For more than 10 years, IN2TEC has been designing molded elastomeric keymats as the actuator layer for many different types of circuits. Often this technology is expected to mimic the characteristics of electromechanical switches. This can be very challenging since most electromechanical switches are assembled from separate parts like springs, bushings and actuators. Rocker switches have often been the most difficult type of switch to design into a rubber keymat without giving up the familiar rocker feel of a electromechanical switch. Now IN2TEC's broad experience and innovative flair have combined to produce a rocker switch geometry which can be easily designed into most rubber keymats and provides a rocker feel unlike previous rubber switches.

IN2TEC's Flex-Rocker is a low profile momentary action low current rocker switch design. The market demand for a simple low cost rocker switch with optional backlighting is met with a design which can be installed simply and allows for the design flexibility to be easily customized to suit the application.

COST
Based on the simplicity of the design, the reduced parts count and the variety of simple mounting options, the Flex-Rocker can represent a significant cost reduction when compared to typical mechanical rocker switches.
ENVIRONMENTAL
The benefits of both silicone rubber and other thermo plastic elastomers allow this product to be sealed very effectively to the panel on which it is mounted. Hard coated options are available where abrasion may be concern.
INTERCONNECTION
The adhesive technologies used provide a lead free product and a range of interconnection options.
FLEXIBILITY
This design can be customised and incorporated into a front panel solution. Alternatively it may be mounted as a stand alone single unit. It can easily be designed as an additional element in an IN2TEC Rubber Keymat or Front Panel Assembly.
OPTIONS

Several switching configurations including SPST, SPDT, DPDT.
Illumination options include LED, fiberoptic or EL backlighting.
Material colors, opacity and screened color options are almost limitless.
Legends can be laser-etched (for backlighting) or screened in a variety of colors and graphics for non-backlit applications.
Switch status indicator LEDs can be designed into the circuit for use with the Flex-Rocker.


Used in applications where: Panel sealing is important; Design of an integrated panel requires replacement of a mechanical rocker switch; Electrical Power Resistance Silver printed track per track Max 0.5 Watts .2 Ohm/cm   Typical non arcing Resistance per joint .3 Ohm/cm Typical Circuit Voltage 100 Volts Dependent on design Typical rating per switch 1 to 10mA Standard Maximum 100mA Switch Capacitance 10pF Typical Dielectric Volume Material Strength Resistivity Polyester 125kV/mm 10 GOhm.cm Polycarbonate 67kV/mm 100 MOhm.cm IP rating 54 to 67 Dependent on design Environment Operating temperature -30 to 120°C Subject to design Illumination Methods LED Indicator or full back-light Mechanical Typically .3 to .5mm + component height Stroke Typically 0.5 -1mm Note: The above data is approximate and for information only

Click here to view Flex-Rocker documents available for download.