How many of you know that Microswitch’s original name is miniature snap switch? This microswitch requires very little force to operate. These microswitches are especially preferred when instantaneous changes are required. Sensitive devices are used in elevators, microwave ovens, fire suppression systems, machinery, industrial equipment controls, and many more. Microswitches are also used in electrical control systems. These are mainly used to turn the devices on or off as per the requirement.
Origin of the microswitch
It is a well known fact that microswitches were invented a long time ago and their use has been around for centuries. The first model of microswitch was invented in 1932 in Illinois. Since then, many technological advances and necessary changes have been made to microswitches. These microswitches are designed as per requirement. These microswitches are of variable sizes like a small microswitch, mini microswitches, etc. They are widely used in electronic and electrical appliances. Microswitches are also used for industrial applications. They are also used in door locks to turn on or off and in vehicles as automatic start switches.
How these microswitches work
The microswitches work on the inflection point mechanism. They consist of an open and closed circuit system to perform quick actions. It requires minimal force or pressure to change its states from off to on or from on to off. This completely depends on the way it is built and installed.
A spring system is installed on the microswitch for actuator movement. A push button or lever can also be used instead of a spring. With the pressure of this spring, a force is applied to the actuator, generating an instantaneous action within the switch.
This fast-acting sound can be heard as a click. The external force required depends on the design of the component.
Microswitch Uses
These are mainly used in industrial areas. They are also used in our common household appliances, automobiles, electronic and electrical appliances, etc.
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They are used in printers to detect paper jams.
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It is used in vending machines for two purposes. As a jam detector and sensor to detect coins when they are entered.
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Used in elevators as a safety device.
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It is used as a door interlock in microwave ovens.
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It is used to detect the open-closed position of valves.
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It is used in lamps, solenoids, small motors, etc. as control circuits.
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Used as limit switches
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They are used as control switches and also to create timing mechanisms with combinations of various other devices.
Microswitch Advantages
Compared to other switches, microswitches are more reliable. They work very precisely. Microswitches can be used repeatedly as they have the lowest probability of failure. They provide multiple switch positions better than many other switches available on the market. This feature makes microswitches used in safety related products. These are durable and inexpensive. Microswitches are cost effective, so they are cheap and better. Many microswitches are of high quality. Microswitches are widely available on the market.