Apr. 23, 2023
Micro switches, also known as snap-action switches, are small switches that can be activated by very little force, typically between 0.5 and 5 Newtons. They are commonly used in various applications such as in electronics, appliances, and automotive systems. One of the unique features of micro switches is their hysteresis, which makes them ideal for certain applications where precise and consistent switch behavior is required.
Hysteresis refers to a lag or delays in the response of a system to an input, as a result of the system's inherent inertia. In the context of micro switches, hysteresis refers to the difference in the switch's actuation point and release point. The actuation point is the point at which the switch is turned on, while the release point is the point at which the switch is turned off. Hysteresis, therefore, is the difference between the actuation and release points, and it is typically measured in terms of the force or displacement required to activate or release the switch.
In practical terms, hysteresis means that once a micro switch has been activated, it requires a certain amount of force or displacement to release it. This can be useful in applications where a switch needs to remain activated even when the force or displacement applied to it decreases, or where the switch needs to remain off even when the force or displacement applied to it increases.
For example, consider a micro switch used in a washing machine lid. The switch needs to be activated when the lid is closed, and it needs to remain activated until the lid is opened again, even if the lid is jostled or shaken during the washing cycle. Similarly, when the lid is opened, the switch needs to remain off until the lid is closed again, even if the lid is not perfectly aligned with the switch.
Microswitches use a variety of mechanisms to create hysteresis. The most common mechanism is a small metal spring that is compressed or stretched when the switch is activated. The spring provides a certain amount of tension that must be overcome to release the switch. This tension creates a difference in the force required to activate the switch and the force required to release it, which is hysteresis.
Stainless Steel Curving Lever Micro Switch
Another mechanism used in micro switches is a small piece of metal or plastic that is bent or flexed when the switch is activated. The flexing of the material creates a difference in the switch's actuation and release points, which is the hysteresis.
In both cases, the hysteresis is created by the physical properties of the materials used in the switch. These materials are carefully selected to provide the desired hysteresis characteristics, such as the force required to activate or release the switch, the distance over which the switch will actuate or release, and the amount of force required to maintain the switch in its activated or released state.
TMAZTZ is a manufacturer focused on R&D and production of Industrial Control switches, such as limit switches, micro switches, sealed switches, waterproof switches, toggle switches, and foot switches. If you are interested in our products or want to learn more about their specifications, material, and prices, please email us directly at bill@tmaztz.com. We are more than happy to answer your questions.
