Multi-function stalk switch

摘要

A multi-function stalk switch that incorporates a pushbutton switch, a first rotary switch and a second rotary switch onto the end of a stalk, wherein further switching functions may be executed by moving the entire stalk in either of two orthogonal planes. The stalk switch incorporates many design features that enable it to be assembled at low cost from a small number of parts. One such feature is the use of plastic-on-plastic detents to control positioning of the rotary switches so that they wipe across predetermined portions of a flexible printed circuit board. Another feature is the inclusion of a spring-loaded plunger detent riding in a concave centering mechanism that is operable to automatically return the stalk switch to its central (neutral) position after removal of external biasing forces. A further feature is the inclusion of magnets on the stalk switch and Hall effect sensors fixedly mounted nearby in order to sense movement of the magnets (and therefore the stalk) in two orthogonal planes. Further features of the invention are also disclosed.