| 摘要 |
A tilt switch is provided which incorporates first and second conductive end caps that are disposed apart by a predetermined amount to define a gap between the inwardly directed end faces of the end caps. A nonconducting member is used to provide the appropriate spacing of the first and second end caps and a conductive sphere is disposed between end caps in the region of the predefined gap. The sphere is supported by first and second support edges which are the result of the interface between cylindrical surfaces of the generally tubular end caps and the end faces of the end caps which are arranged to face each other. When the switch is generally horizontal, the sphere bridges the gap between the support edges and provides electrical continuity between the first and second end caps. When the switch is tilted, the sphere moves out of contact with one of the support edges and breaks the electrical communication between the end caps. The movement of the sphere from a first position to a second position is accomplished by the sphere pivoting about one of the support edges while remaining in continual contact with the support edge that is used as a pivot. During normal operation the sphere does not roll within the switch and therefore is not susceptible to many of the problems associated with tilt switches which utilize rolling spheres.
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