Tactile switches are momentary switches for controlling minute currents and turn ON only when they are pushed. One of their features is to provide feedback of the push operation of switches through tactile sensations (providing a positive click feel).
They are used for control signal input switches for various electronic devices.
The name Light Touch Switch is Panasonic's unique product name, which is generally called a tactile switch or push momentary switch.
This article explains the structure and operating principles of these tactile switches (Light Touch Switches).
Structure of a tactile switch
The tactile switch is constructed of a combination of mainly five components, achieving a different operational feel by changing the shape and material of each component.
Operating principles of tactile switches
【ON】
A finger is used to push the button (ex: volume control button of a smartphone) of the switch installed on a device. This causes the button to apply pressure to the push plate, which then pushes and flips the movable contact, which is brought into contact with the fixed contact to allow current to flow.
【OFF】
Releasing one's finger from the push plate flips the movable contact, which is then disengaged from the fixed contact and returns to its original state.
As described above, tactile switches are momentary switches for controlling minute currents, and turn on only when their push plate is pressed (to bring the movable contact into contact with the fixed contact).
How were the explanations above? We would be happy if this article deepens your understanding of tactile switches, even a little.
