EP0022516B1 - Signalling element without lamp - Google Patents

Signalling element without lamp Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0022516B1
EP0022516B1 EP80103744A EP80103744A EP0022516B1 EP 0022516 B1 EP0022516 B1 EP 0022516B1 EP 80103744 A EP80103744 A EP 80103744A EP 80103744 A EP80103744 A EP 80103744A EP 0022516 B1 EP0022516 B1 EP 0022516B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
light
fluorescent
element according
signalling element
output
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
Application number
EP80103744A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0022516A1 (en
Inventor
Ferdinand Dr. Quella
Heinz Dipl.-Phys. Pape
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Siemens AG
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Siemens AG
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Priority to AT80103744T priority Critical patent/ATE10551T1/en
Publication of EP0022516A1 publication Critical patent/EP0022516A1/en
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Publication of EP0022516B1 publication Critical patent/EP0022516B1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/16—Indicators for switching condition, e.g. "on" or "off"
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B5/00—Visible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied
    • G08B5/22—Visible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied using electric transmission; using electromagnetic transmission
    • G08B5/32—Visible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied using electric transmission; using electromagnetic transmission with indicator element moving rectilinearly
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2219/00—Legends
    • H01H2219/036—Light emitting elements
    • H01H2219/052—Phosphorescence

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a lampless signal element (e.g. signal button, toggle switch, rotary knob, slide switch), possibly in conjunction with a label, which assumes different positions with respect to a fixed housing part in different switching states.
  • a lampless signal element e.g. signal button, toggle switch, rotary knob, slide switch
  • a lampless signal button is already known, the switching state of which can be easily recognized by one or more light symbols (areas or inscriptions) and which does not require a lamp (DE-AS 20 32 839).
  • a switch position mirrors redirect the ambient light falling laterally in a component of the switch button. In the other position, no light penetrates this component.
  • the solution according to the invention it is possible to illuminate not only a signal button, but also other switching devices, such as toggle switches, rotary switches and slide switches or the like.
  • the possibility of collecting light, in particular also diffuse light, and concentrating it on defined decoupling areas makes the signal element proposed according to the invention far superior to a system with mirrors in terms of its range of application and moves it close to active signal displays in terms of its recognizability.
  • the display is easy to read both at dusk and in very bright ambient light, which is not the case for LEDs or glow lamps for this wide range.
  • the integration of the fluorescent body in the actuating part has the advantage, since the actuating part is the movable part, that the lighting conditions can be changed in a simple manner.
  • the integration of the fluorescent body in the housing makes it possible to achieve much larger collecting areas than can be carried out, for example, in the movable part of conventional switches.
  • the fluorescent light is guided or coupled out via light guides. This enables lossless light guidance over areas that do not contribute to light collection.
  • FIG. 1 denotes a translucent button housing, in which a disk-shaped fluorescent body 2 with decoupling points 3 is introduced. Embossed notches or printed pigments in the form of symbols (letters or numbers) can be provided as decoupling points. White, colored, fluorescent or phosphorescent particles can in turn be applied as pigments.
  • the narrow sides of the fluorescent body 2 can be mirrored, which is indicated by the reference number 4.
  • the rear wall of the signal button is mirrored or provided with a diffusely reflecting coating. At an opaque mask 6 is attached to the front of the fluorescent body, leaving only the decoupling points 3 free.
  • the signal button is installed in a housing 7.
  • the signal (lettering, for example "ON” / "OFF", symbols or the like) lights up.
  • ambient light in FIG. 1 a strikes the plate-shaped fluorescent body 2 directly or via the mirror 5.
  • This is a body with smooth, parallel surfaces, which is made of a transparent material with a refractive index n > 1 exists (eg PMMA) and contains a fluorescent dye.
  • n refractive index 1 exists (eg PMMA) and contains a fluorescent dye.
  • FIG. 2 denotes the transparent front (light guide) of a lampless signal button which is somewhat modified compared to FIG. 1.
  • the light collecting device 2 is tubular, whose. rear side surfaces are provided with reflectors 4.
  • the fluorescent light is reflected via the reflectors 9 in the light guide 8, which forms the front.
  • the collected light is emitted to the front. So that no ambient light reaches the fluorescent body (through the transparent front plate 8) when the signal button is pressed in, a cover 6 adapted to this embodiment against ambient light is provided, as in FIG.
  • the translucent housing 1, which can also be made like milk glass, primarily serves to protect the fluorescent body against scratching. In principle, the housing can be dispensed with.
  • FIG. 3 shows a toggle switch with the axis of rotation 10, in which the fluorescent body is located in the actuating part.
  • the light collected by the fluorescent body 2 is guided through the light guide 8 and leaves it at 3.
  • the fluorescent body is folded into the housing 7 and the covers 6 prevent light from entering the transparent housing 1 :. Accordingly, no light emerges at 3 in this switch position.
  • Changes in the geometric shape and construction are possible when only care is taken that in each case one light entry opening is open only in a switching state, the or is covered in the other switching state esch g lossen.
  • Figure 4a shows a rotary switch in plan view and Figure 4b in section.
  • the reflectors 9 guide the fluorescent light into the light guide 8, so that it exits at 3.
  • the housing parts designated 7 are opaque.
  • the knob 11 is turned, for example by 90 °, the fluorescent bodies 2 disappear behind the opaque housing parts 7, so that they are not reached by the ambient light. Instead, the preferably differently colored fluorescent bodies 2 'are now illuminated by the ambient light. Instead of a division into 90 ° sections, any division is possible.
  • a plurality of fluorescent bodies can also be connected in series in front of a light entry opening 1.
  • FIG. 1 A plate-shaped fluorescent body 2 is applied to a slide 12. On one side, the collected fluorescent light is fed to the viewer via the light guide 8 and the decoupling point 3. The other sides are provided with reflectors 4. This figure shows the state in which the signal element is illuminated. If the slide is sunk to the right behind the opaque housing wall 7, the decoupling point 3 remains dark.
  • FIG. 6 shows a push button in which several switch positions can be displayed.
  • the Flu p reszenz Chemistry 2 is a part of the housing.
  • the push button consists of opaque material 13 in which light guides 8a and 8b are provided. Reflectors 9 serve to guide the light. In the position shown, light emerges via the light guide 8a and the coupling-out point 3a, for example in a punctiform manner. In a middle position, in which the push button is pressed in so deeply that the light guide 8b is struck by the fluorescent light, light, for example in a ring, emerges via the decoupling point 3b. If the push button is pressed in further until the light guides are sunk into the housing, the decoupling point remains dark.
  • FIG. 7a shows a toggle switch in section in a side view and in FIG. 7b in a top view.
  • the fluorescent body 2 represents the cover plate.
  • Light is thus coupled in in each switch position and light is coupled out once at the top and once at the bottom, depending on the switch position. Accordingly, the upper name lights up, e.g. "ON”, and once the lower name, e.g. "From to.
  • Figure 8a shows a rotary switch in section and Figure 8b in plan view.
  • the light collected by the fluorescent body p r 2 is deflected via the reflectors 9, passes the actuating part through the transparent window 81 and is coupled out via 3.
  • the reflect gates 9 and the arrangement of transparent windows 81 let light through at different points.
  • the slide switch shown again in two views in FIG. 9 has, for example, four switch positions A to D.
  • the sectional view 9a is rotated by 90 ° with respect to the top view 9b.
  • the generally translucent housing 1 of the actuating part carries a bar made of light guides 8 and opaque areas 13.
  • a light guide 8 is located above the reflector 9 and is thereby illuminated from below with fluorescent light.
  • the invention can be adapted to any shape.

Abstract

A signal element without a lamp for use with signal buttons, toggle switches, control knobs, slide switches and the like which has a moveable member received in the housing member for movement between at least two positions to cause actuation of the part of the element characterized by a fluorescent member consisting of a body of material having an index of refraction >1 and containing fluorescent particles for fluorescently collecting and scattering incident light to create fluorescent light and means for uncoupling concentrated fluorescent light from the fluorescent member to a point of the element in response to a selected position of the moveable member in the housing member. The moveable member may be a push button, a pivotable rocking member or a slide and the fluorescent member may be carried by the moveable member or may be part of the housing, which receives the moveable member.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein lampenloses Signalelement (z.B. Signalknopf, Kippschalter, Drehknopf, Schiebeschalter), eventuell in Verbindung mit einer Beschriftung, das bei unterschiedlichen Schaltzuständen verschiedene Stellungen gegenüber einem feststehenden Gehäuseteil einnimmt.The invention relates to a lampless signal element (e.g. signal button, toggle switch, rotary knob, slide switch), possibly in conjunction with a label, which assumes different positions with respect to a fixed housing part in different switching states.

Es ist bereits ein lampenloser Signalknopf bekannt, dessen Schaltzustand an einem oder mehreren Leuchtsymbolen (Flächen oder Aufschriften) leicht erkannt werden kann und der ohne eine Lampe auskommt (DE-AS 20 32 839). Dabei lenken in einer Schalterstellung Spiegel das seitlich in einem Bauteil des Schaltknopfes fallende Umgebungslicht nach vorn um. In der anderen Stellung dringt kein Licht in dieses Bauteil ein.A lampless signal button is already known, the switching state of which can be easily recognized by one or more light symbols (areas or inscriptions) and which does not require a lamp (DE-AS 20 32 839). In a switch position, mirrors redirect the ambient light falling laterally in a component of the switch button. In the other position, no light penetrates this component.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Schaltelement zu realisieren, dessen Stellung an einem oder mehreren Leuchtsymbolen (Flächen oder Aufschriften) leicht erkannt werden kann und das ohne eine Lampe auskommt. Die Erkennbarkeit des Signals soll über einen möglichst weiten Bereich der Umgebungshelligkeit gewährleistet sein. Darüber hinaus soll der Aufbau einfach und das Funktionsprinzip vielfältig anwendbar sein. Die Lösung dieser Aufgabe ist gekennzeichnet durch die Verwendung einer Lichtsammelvorrichtung im Gehäuseteil oder im Betätitgungsteil, welche aus einem Körper (Fluoreszenzkörper) besteht, der

  • a) aus einem Material mit einem Brechungsindex n> 1 besteht,
  • b) fluoreszierende Partikel enthält,
  • c) auftreffendes Licht durch Fluoreszenzstreuung und nachfolgende Reflexionen an seinen Grenzflächen sammelt und
  • d) Fluoreszenzlicht konzentiert über Auskoppelbereiche abgibt,

in der Weise, daß entweder die Beleuchtungsverhältnisse der Lichtsammelvorrichtung oder die Auskopplung des gesammelten Lichts nach außen von der Stellung des Betätigungsteiles abhängt. Statt einer einzigen Lichtsammelvorrichtung, die im folgenden Fluoreszenzkörper genannt wird, können auch mehrere vorzugsweise verschiedenfarbige Lichtsammelvorrichtungen Verwendung finden. Das gilt auch für die in den abhängigen Ansprüchen aufgeführten Merkmale, in denen der Einfachheit haiber im allgemeinen nur von einer Lichtsammelvorrichtung die Rede ist.The invention is based on the object of realizing a switching element, the position of which can easily be recognized by one or more light symbols (areas or inscriptions) and which does not require a lamp. The detectability of the signal should be guaranteed over the widest possible range of ambient brightness. In addition, the structure should be simple and the functional principle applicable in many ways. The solution to this problem is characterized by the use of a light collecting device in the housing part or in the actuating part, which consists of a body (fluorescent body) which
  • a) consists of a material with a refractive index n> 1,
  • b) contains fluorescent particles,
  • c) collects incident light by fluorescence scattering and subsequent reflections at its interfaces and
  • d) emits fluorescent light in concentrated form over coupling-out areas,

in such a way that either the lighting conditions of the light collecting device or the coupling out of the collected light to the outside depends on the position of the actuating part. Instead of a single light-collecting device, which will be called fluorescent body in the following, it is also possible to use a plurality of light-collecting devices, preferably of different colors. This also applies to the features listed in the dependent claims, in which simplicity is generally only referred to as a light collecting device.

Mit der Lösung nach der Erfindung ist es möglich, nicht nur einen Signalknopf, sondern auch andere Schalteinrichtungen, wie Kippschalter, Drehschalter und Schiebeschalter oder dergleichen, zu beleuchten. Die Möglichkeit, Licht-insbesondere auch diffuses Licht-zu sammeln und auf definierte Auskoppelbereiche zu konzentrieren, macht das erfindungsgemäß vorgeschlagene Signalelement einem System mit Spiegeln in der Anwendungsbreite weit überlegen und rückt es bezüglich seiner Erkennbarkeit in die Nähe aktiver Signalanzeigen. Sowohl in der Dämmerung als auch in sehr hellem Umgebungslicht ist die Anzeige gut lesbar, was beispielsweise bei LED's oder Glimmlampen nicht für diesen Weitenbereich zutrifft.With the solution according to the invention it is possible to illuminate not only a signal button, but also other switching devices, such as toggle switches, rotary switches and slide switches or the like. The possibility of collecting light, in particular also diffuse light, and concentrating it on defined decoupling areas makes the signal element proposed according to the invention far superior to a system with mirrors in terms of its range of application and moves it close to active signal displays in terms of its recognizability. The display is easy to read both at dusk and in very bright ambient light, which is not the case for LEDs or glow lamps for this wide range.

Die Integration des Fluoreszenzkörpers im Betätigungsteil hat, da das Betätigungsteil der bewegliche Teil ist, den Vorteil, daß damit auf einfache Weise die Beleuchtungsverhältnisse geändert werden können.The integration of the fluorescent body in the actuating part has the advantage, since the actuating part is the movable part, that the lighting conditions can be changed in a simple manner.

Durch die Integration des Fluoreszenzkörpers im Gehäuse ist es möglich, wesentlich größere Sammelflächen zu erzielen, als es zum Beispiel in dem beweglichen Teil üblicher Schalter durchführbar ist.The integration of the fluorescent body in the housing makes it possible to achieve much larger collecting areas than can be carried out, for example, in the movable part of conventional switches.

Nach einer Ausbildung der Erfindung wird das Fluoreszenzlicht über Lichtleiter geführt oder ausgekoppelt. Dies ermöglicht eine verlustlose Lichtführung über Bereiche, die nicht zur Lichtsammlung beitragen.According to an embodiment of the invention, the fluorescent light is guided or coupled out via light guides. This enables lossless light guidance over areas that do not contribute to light collection.

Weiterbildungen und weitere Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der Beschreibung und den übrigen abhängigen Ansprüchen.Further developments and further refinements of the invention result from the description and the other dependent claims.

Die Erfindung wird anhand der Figuren erläutert. Es zeigen:

  • Figur 1 einen Signalknopf in zwei Schaltzuständen a und b,
  • Figur 2 eine Abwandlung des Signalknopfes nach Figur 1 im Zustand a,
  • Figur 3 einen Kippschalter mit einer dem Signalknopf von Figur 2 dienlichen Funktionsweise,
  • Figur 4 einen Drehschalter in zwei Ansichten,
  • Figur 5 einen Schiebeschalter,
  • Figur 6 einen Druckknopf, bei dem der Fluoreszenzkörper ein Teil des Gehäuses ist,
  • Figur 7 einen Kippschalter, bei dem der Fluoreszenzkörper ein Teil des Gehäuses ist,
  • Figur 8 einen Drehschalter, bei dem der Fluoreszenzkörper ein Teil des Gehäuses ist und
  • Figur 9 einen Schiebeschalter, bei dem der Fluoreszenzkörper ein Teil des Gehäuses ist.
The invention is explained on the basis of the figures. Show it:
  • 1 shows a signal button in two switching states a and b,
  • FIG. 2 shows a modification of the signal button according to FIG. 1 in state a,
  • FIG. 3 shows a toggle switch with a mode of operation that serves the signal button of FIG. 2,
  • FIG. 4 shows a rotary switch in two views,
  • FIG. 5 shows a slide switch,
  • FIG. 6 shows a push button in which the fluorescent body is part of the housing,
  • FIG. 7 shows a toggle switch in which the fluorescent body is part of the housing,
  • Figure 8 is a rotary switch in which the fluorescent body is part of the housing and
  • Figure 9 shows a slide switch in which the fluorescent body is part of the housing.

In den Figuren sind gleiche Bauteile mit gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen. Bauelemente, z.B. elektrische Anschlüsse bei den Schaltern, die zum Verständnis der Erfindung nicht erforderlich sind, wurden weggelassen.In the figures, the same components are provided with the same reference symbols. Components, e.g. electrical connections to the switches, which are not necessary for understanding the invention, have been omitted.

In der Figur 1 ist mit 1 ein lichtdurchlässiges Knopfgehäuse bezeichnet, in dem ein scheibenförmiger Fluoreszenzkörper 2 mit Auskoppelstellen 3 eingebracht ist. Als Auskoppelstellen können eingeprägte Kerben oder aufgedruckte Pigmente in Form von Symbolen (Schrift oder Zahlen) vcrgesehen sein. Als Pigmente können wiederum weiße, farbige, fluoreszierende oder phosphoreszierende Partikel aufgebracht werden. Die Schmalseiten des Fluoreszenzkörpers 2 können verspiegelt sein, was mit dem Bezugszeichen 4 angedeutet ist. Die Rückwand des Signalknopfes ist verspiegelt oder mit einem diffusreflektierenden Belag versehen. An der Vorderseite des Fluoreszenzkörpers ist eine lichtundurchlässige Maske 6 angebracht, die nur die Auskoppelstellen 3 freiläßt. Der Signalknopf ist in einem Gehäuse 7 eingebaut.In FIG. 1, 1 denotes a translucent button housing, in which a disk-shaped fluorescent body 2 with decoupling points 3 is introduced. Embossed notches or printed pigments in the form of symbols (letters or numbers) can be provided as decoupling points. White, colored, fluorescent or phosphorescent particles can in turn be applied as pigments. The narrow sides of the fluorescent body 2 can be mirrored, which is indicated by the reference number 4. The rear wall of the signal button is mirrored or provided with a diffusely reflecting coating. At an opaque mask 6 is attached to the front of the fluorescent body, leaving only the decoupling points 3 free. The signal button is installed in a housing 7.

Im Zustand der Figur 1 a leuchtet das Signal (Schrift, z.B. "EIN"/"AUS", Symbole oder ähnliches) auf. Durch das transparente Gehäuse 1 trifft Umgebungslicht in der Figur 1 a direkt oder über den Spiegel 5 auf den in diesem Beispiel plattenförmig ausgebildeten Fluoreszenzkörper 2. Bei diesem handelt es sich um einen Körper mit glatten, parallelen Oberflächen, der aus einem transparenten Material mit einem Brechungsindex n>1 besteht (z.B. PMMA) und einen Fluoreszenzfarbstoff enthält. Letzterer wandelt das Umgebungslicht in Fluoreszenzlicht um, das durch Totalreflektion und die Seitenverspiegelung 4 zum größten Teil (bei n=1,5 ca. 75%) in der Platte gehalten wird und diese nur an den Auskoppelstellen (z.B. Keren oder aufgebrachte Pigmente), die in Form des Anzeigesymbols ausgeführt sind, verlassen kann.In the state of FIG. 1 a, the signal (lettering, for example "ON" / "OFF", symbols or the like) lights up. Through the transparent housing 1, ambient light in FIG. 1 a strikes the plate-shaped fluorescent body 2 directly or via the mirror 5. This is a body with smooth, parallel surfaces, which is made of a transparent material with a refractive index n > 1 exists (eg PMMA) and contains a fluorescent dye. The latter converts the ambient light into fluorescent light, which is kept in the plate for the most part (at n = 1.5 approx. 75%) by total reflection and the side mirroring 4 and this only at the decoupling points (e.g. cores or applied pigments) in the form of the display symbol.

Im Zustand der Figur 1 b erreicht kein Umgebungslicht den Fluoreszenzkörper und deshalb leuchtet die Anzeige nicht.In the state of FIG. 1 b, no ambient light reaches the fluorescent body and therefore the display does not light up.

In der Figur 2 ist mit 8 die transparente Vorderfront (Lichtleiter) eines lampenlosen, gegenüber Figur 1 etwas modifizierten Signalknopfes bezeichnet, In dieser Ausführungsform ist die Lichtsammelvorrichtung 2 rohrförmig, deren. rückwärtige Seitenflächen mit Reflektoren 4 versehen sind. Das Fluoreszenzlicht wird über die Reflektoren 9 in den Lichtleiter 8 reflektiert, der die Vorderfront bildet. Durch die Auskoppelstellen 3 wird das gesammelte Licht nach vorn abgestrahlt. Damit im eingedrückten Zustand des Signalknopfes kein Umgebungslicht den Fluoreszenzkörper erreicht (durch die transparente Frontplatte 8), ist ebenso wie in Figur 1 eine dieser Ausführungsform angepaßte Abdeckung 6 gegen Umgebungslicht vorgesehen. Das lichtdurchlässige Gehäuse 1, das auch milchglasähnlich ausgeführt sein kann, dient in erster Linie dem Schutz des Fluoreszenzkörpers gegen Verkratzen. Im Prinzip kann auf das Gehäuse verzichtet werden.In FIG. 2, 8 denotes the transparent front (light guide) of a lampless signal button which is somewhat modified compared to FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the light collecting device 2 is tubular, whose. rear side surfaces are provided with reflectors 4. The fluorescent light is reflected via the reflectors 9 in the light guide 8, which forms the front. Through the decoupling points 3, the collected light is emitted to the front. So that no ambient light reaches the fluorescent body (through the transparent front plate 8) when the signal button is pressed in, a cover 6 adapted to this embodiment against ambient light is provided, as in FIG. The translucent housing 1, which can also be made like milk glass, primarily serves to protect the fluorescent body against scratching. In principle, the housing can be dispensed with.

Die Figur 3 zeigt einen Kippschalter mit der Drehachse 10, bei dem sich der Fluoreszenzkörper im Betätigungsteil befindet. Das vom Fluoreszenzkörper 2 gesammelte Licht wird über den Lichtleiter 8 geführt und verläßt ihn bei 3. In der anderen Schalterstellung,ist der Fluoreszenzkörper in das Gehäuse 7 eingeklappt und die Abdeckungen 6 verhindern den Lichteintritt in das transparente Gehäuse 1:. Demnach tritt bei dieser Schalterstellung bei 3 kein Licht aus. Änderungen in der geometrischen Form und im Aufbau sind möglich, wenn nur dafür Sorge getragen ist, daß jeweils nur in einem Schaltzustand eine Lichteintrittsöffnung offen ist, die im anderen Schaltzustand gesch- lossen oder abgedeckt ist.FIG. 3 shows a toggle switch with the axis of rotation 10, in which the fluorescent body is located in the actuating part. The light collected by the fluorescent body 2 is guided through the light guide 8 and leaves it at 3. In the other switch position, the fluorescent body is folded into the housing 7 and the covers 6 prevent light from entering the transparent housing 1 :. Accordingly, no light emerges at 3 in this switch position. Changes in the geometric shape and construction are possible when only care is taken that in each case one light entry opening is open only in a switching state, the or is covered in the other switching state esch g lossen.

Figur 4a zeigt einen Drehschalter in Draufsicht und Figur 4b im Schnitt. Nach der Schaltstellung in der Figur 4 fällt Licht durch die transparente Gehäusefläche 1 auf die Fluoreszenzkörper 2. Die Reflektoren 9 leiten das Fluoreszenzlicht in den Lichtleiter 8, so daß es bei 3 austritt. Die mit 7 bezeichneten Gehäuseteile sind lichtundurchlässig. Beim Verdrehen des Knopfes 11, zum Beispiel um 90°, verschwinden die Fluoreszenzkörper 2 hinter den lichtundurchlässigen Gehäuseteilen 7, so daß sie nicht vom Umgebungslicht erreicht werden. Statt dessen werden jetzt die vorzugsweise andersfarbigen Fluoreszenzkörper 2' vom Umgebungslicht beleuchtet. Statt einer Unterteilung in 90°-Abschnitte ist jede Unterteilung möglich. Es können auch mehrere Fluoreszenzkörper nacheinander vor eine Lichteintrittsöffnung 1 geschaltet werden.Figure 4a shows a rotary switch in plan view and Figure 4b in section. After the switch position in FIG. 4, light falls through the transparent housing surface 1 onto the fluorescent bodies 2. The reflectors 9 guide the fluorescent light into the light guide 8, so that it exits at 3. The housing parts designated 7 are opaque. When the knob 11 is turned, for example by 90 °, the fluorescent bodies 2 disappear behind the opaque housing parts 7, so that they are not reached by the ambient light. Instead, the preferably differently colored fluorescent bodies 2 'are now illuminated by the ambient light. Instead of a division into 90 ° sections, any division is possible. A plurality of fluorescent bodies can also be connected in series in front of a light entry opening 1.

In der Figur 5 ist die Anwendung der Erfindung auf einen Schiebeschalter schematisch dargestellt. Auf einen Schieber 12 ist ein plattenförmiger Fluoreszenzkörper 2 aufgebracht. An einer Seite wird das gesammelte Fluoreszenzlicht über den Lichtleiter 8 und die Auskoppelstelle 3 dem Betrachter zugeführt. Die übrigen Seiten sind mit Reflektoren 4 versehen. Dargestellt ist in. dieser Figur der Zustand, in dem das Signalelementleuchtet. Wird der Schieber nach rechts hinter die lichtundurchlässige Gehäusewand 7 versenkt, dann bleibt die Auskoppelstelle 3 dunkel.The application of the invention to a slide switch is shown schematically in FIG. A plate-shaped fluorescent body 2 is applied to a slide 12. On one side, the collected fluorescent light is fed to the viewer via the light guide 8 and the decoupling point 3. The other sides are provided with reflectors 4. This figure shows the state in which the signal element is illuminated. If the slide is sunk to the right behind the opaque housing wall 7, the decoupling point 3 remains dark.

Die Figur 6 zeigt einen Druckknopf, bei dem mehrere Schalterstellungen angezeigt werden können. Der Flupreszenzkörper 2 ist ein Teil des Gehäuses. Der Druckknopf besteht aus lichtundurchlässigem Material 13, in dem Lichtleiter 8a und 8b vorgesehen sind. Reflektoren 9 dienen der Lichtführung. In der gezeichneten Lage tritt Licht über den Lichtleiter 8a und die Auskoppelstelle 3a, z.B. punktförmig, aus. In einer mittleren Stellung, in der der Druckknopf so tief eingedrückt wird, daß der Lichtleiter 8b vom Fluoreszenzlicht getroffen wird, tritt über die Auskoppelstelle 3b Licht, z.B. ringförmig, aus. Wenn der Druckknopf noch tiefer eingedrückt wird, bis die Lichtleiter im Gehäuse versenkt sind, dann bleibt die Auskoppelstelle dunkel.FIG. 6 shows a push button in which several switch positions can be displayed. The Flu p reszenzkörper 2 is a part of the housing. The push button consists of opaque material 13 in which light guides 8a and 8b are provided. Reflectors 9 serve to guide the light. In the position shown, light emerges via the light guide 8a and the coupling-out point 3a, for example in a punctiform manner. In a middle position, in which the push button is pressed in so deeply that the light guide 8b is struck by the fluorescent light, light, for example in a ring, emerges via the decoupling point 3b. If the push button is pressed in further until the light guides are sunk into the housing, the decoupling point remains dark.

In der Figur 7a ist ein Kippschalter im Schnitt in der Seitenansicht und in der Figur 7b in der Draufsicht dargestellt. Der Fluoreszenzkörper 2 stellt in diesem Fall die Abdeckplatte dar. Es wird also in jeder Schalterstellung Licht eingekoppelt und je nach der Schalterstellung einmal oben und einmal unten Licht ausgekoppelt. Demnach leuchtet einmal die obere Bezeichnung, z.B. "EIN", und einmal die untere Bezeichnung, z.B. "AUS", auf.FIG. 7a shows a toggle switch in section in a side view and in FIG. 7b in a top view. In this case, the fluorescent body 2 represents the cover plate. Light is thus coupled in in each switch position and light is coupled out once at the top and once at the bottom, depending on the switch position. Accordingly, the upper name lights up, e.g. "ON", and once the lower name, e.g. "From to.

Die Figur 8a zeigt einen Drehschalter im Schnitt und die Figur 8b in der Draufsicht. Das vom Fluoreszenzkörppr 2 gesammelte Licht wird über die Reflektoren 9 umgelenkt, passiert das Betätigungsteil durch das transparente Fenster 81 und wird über 3 ausgekoppelt. Beim Verdrehen des Schalters mit Hilfe des Schaltknopfes 11 wird je nach Verteilung der Reflektoren 9 und der Anordnung von transparenten Fenstern 81 an unterschiedlichen Stellen Licht durchgelassen.Figure 8a shows a rotary switch in section and Figure 8b in plan view. The light collected by the fluorescent body p r 2 is deflected via the reflectors 9, passes the actuating part through the transparent window 81 and is coupled out via 3. When turning the switch using the switch button 11, depending on the distribution, the reflect gates 9 and the arrangement of transparent windows 81 let light through at different points.

Der in der Figur 9 wiederum in zwei Ansichten dargestellte Schiebeschalter hat beispielsweise vier Schaltstellungen A bis D. Die Schnittdarstellung 9a ist gegenüber der Draufsicht 9b um 90° gedreht. Das im allgemeinen lichtdurchlässige Gehäuse 1 des Betätigungsteiles trägt nach Figur 9 in der Mitte eine Leiste aus Lichtleitern 8 und lichtundurchlässigen Bereichen 13. Beim Verschieben des Betätigungsteils befindet sich je nach Schaltzustand ein Lichtleiter 8 über dem Reflektor 9 und wird dadurch von unten mit Fluoreszenzlicht beleuchtet.The slide switch shown again in two views in FIG. 9 has, for example, four switch positions A to D. The sectional view 9a is rotated by 90 ° with respect to the top view 9b. According to FIG. 9, the generally translucent housing 1 of the actuating part carries a bar made of light guides 8 and opaque areas 13. When the actuating part is moved, depending on the switching state, a light guide 8 is located above the reflector 9 and is thereby illuminated from below with fluorescent light.

Die Erfindung kann jeder Formgebung angepaßt werden.The invention can be adapted to any shape.

Claims (32)

1. A signalling element without a lamp (for example a signal button, toggle switch, rotary button, sliding switch), possibly in combination with an inscription, which element, in different switching states, assumes different positions relative to a stationary housing component, characterised by the use of a light collecting device (2) in the housing component (7), or in the actuating component, which device consists of a body (fluorescent body) which
a) consists of a material having a refractive index n>1,
b) contains fluorescent particles,
. c) collects incident light by fluorescent scattering and subsequent reflection at its boundary surfaces, and
d) emits fluorescent light concentrated by output coupling zones (3),

in such a way that, either the illumination conditions of the light collecting device, or the output coupling of the collected light to the exterior, is dependent upon the position of the actuating component.
2. A signalling element according to Claim 1, characterised in that the fluorescent light is guided or output-coupled by way of light conductors (8) (Figure 2).
3. A signalling element according to Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that surfaces (4, 9) of the fluorescent body or of the light conductor, as the case may be, which surfaces do not totally reflect the fluorescent light and at which no light output coupling is desired, are provided with dielectric, metallic or diffuse reflectors (4, 9) in optical contact with the surface.
4. A signalling element according to Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that surfaces of the fluorescent body, or of the light conductor, as the case may be, which surfaces do not totally reflect the fluorescent light and at which no light output coupling is desired, are rendered reflective by means of diffuse reflectors (4, 9), where, between the surface and the reflector, there is arranged a layer which has a thickness of up to 100 um and which has a refractive index which is lower than that of the fluorescent body material (for example, air).
5. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the light output coupling is effected by way of non- reflectively coated surfaces (for example 3 in Figure 3) of the fluorescent body, or of the light conductor, as the case may be.
6. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the light output coupling is effected by way of reflectively coated (dielectric, metallic, diffuse) grooves in the fluorescent body, or of the light conductor, as the case may be.
7. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the light output coupling is effected by roughening the surface of the fluorescent body, or of the light conductor, as the case may be.
8. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the fluorescent light is output-coupled by means of coloured, preferably white, pigments applied (for example, by silk screen printing) to the surface of the fluorescent body.
9. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the fluorescent light is output-coupled by means of fluorescent or phosphorescent pigments applied to the surface of the fluorescent body, or of the light conductor, as the case may be.
10. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the fluorescent light is output-coupled by means of coloured, fluorescent or phosphorescent scatterers or reflectors integrated in the fluorescent body, or the light conductor, as the case may be.
11. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the output-coupling of the fluorescent light is effected by means of mechanical scatterers or reflectors (coloured, fluorescent, phosphorescent) pressed against the fluorescent body or light conductor.
12. A signalling element according to one of the Claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the output-coupling locations are in the form of symbols or inscriptions.
13. A signalling element according to Claim 1, characterised in that the housing of the actuating component, in which the fluorescent body (for example a plate) is located, consists partially of light-permeable (also diffuse) material (1) (Figure 1), whilst the material of the stationary guiding component (7) of the switch is at least to the excitation light of the fluorescence.
14. A signalling element according to Claim 1, characterised in that the fluorescent body which is integrated in the actuating component of the signalling element carries on its front, a cover (6) which is impermeable to the excitation light and which leaves exposed only the output-coupling zones.
15. A signalling element according to Claims 13 and 14, characterised in that the actuating component, with the fluorescent body, projects from the housing in at least one switching state (Figure 1 a), so that the fluorescent body can be reached by entering ambient light.
16. A signalling element according to Claim 15, characterised in that a reflective layer (5) is applied to the rear wall of the actuating button, or the material of the rear wall is self-reflective (also diffuse) so that the ambient light which falls on to the rear wall through the side surfaces is reflected towards the fluorescent body.
17. A signalling element according to Claim 15, characterised in that, in at least one switching state, the actuating component is lowered into the housing to such a depth that no ambient light can penetrate into the housing through the transparent side walls (Figure 1 b).
18. A signalling element according to Claim 1, characterised in that the fluorescent body is arranged on the inside of the actuating housing directly behind the transparent (side) walls (1).
19. A signalling element according to Claim 18, characterised in that the fluorescent light is led into the front surface of the actuating component (curvature, reflectors 9), from which it is emitted by way of output-coupling locations (3) (for example, Figure 2).
20. A signalling element according to Claim 19, characterised in that the front surface from which the light is output-coupled consists of fluorescent body material and carries a cover (6) which is impermeable to the output light and which leaves exposed only the output coupling locations.
21. A signalling element according to Claim 19, characterised in that the front plate from which output-coupling takes place consists of clear, light-conducting material, and the inner surfaces of the fluorescent body are screened by a light-impermeable cover (6) from ambient light which penetrates through the front plates (Figure 2).
22. A signalling element according to Claim 1, characterised in that the fluorescent body, possibly in combination with a light conductor, forms the actuating component.
23. A signalling element according to Claim 1, characterised in that the housing material is impermeable to light, and the fluorescent body is incorporated into the housing.
24. A signalling element according to Claim 23, characterised in that the light-output coupling zones are located on the housing component.
25. A signalling element according to Claim 23, characterised in that the light-output coupling zones are located in the actuating component, and the light is led by way of light conductors from the fluorescent body (2) into the actuating component (for example, Figures 6 and 7).
26. A signalling element according to Claim 24, characterised in that the actuating component is impermeable to light, and, depending upon the switching state, covers none, one, or more than one, output-coupling location.
27. A signalling element according to Claim 24, characterised in that the light is led to the output-coupling zones through the actuating component.
28. A signalling element according to Claim 25 or 27, characterised in that the fluorescent light is led to various output-coupling locations in dependence upon the switching state (Figure 6).
29. A signalling element according to Claim 28, characterised in that different output-coupling locations on different fluorescent bodies are supplied with light of different colours.
30. A signalling element according to one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the surroundings of the output-coupling locations are coloured so as to promote a colour contrast, or are covered.
31. A signalling element according to one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that coloured or phosphorescent symbols are provided on the housing or the actuating component, preferably in the vicinity of the fluorescent light output-coupling locations (reference symbols).
EP80103744A 1979-07-16 1980-07-01 Signalling element without lamp Expired EP0022516B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT80103744T ATE10551T1 (en) 1979-07-16 1980-07-01 LAMPLESS SIGNALING ELEMENT.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19792928700 DE2928700A1 (en) 1979-07-16 1979-07-16 LAMPLESS SIGNAL ELEMENT
DE2928700 1979-07-16

Publications (2)

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EP0022516A1 EP0022516A1 (en) 1981-01-21
EP0022516B1 true EP0022516B1 (en) 1984-11-28

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EP80103744A Expired EP0022516B1 (en) 1979-07-16 1980-07-01 Signalling element without lamp

Country Status (5)

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US (1) US4340817A (en)
EP (1) EP0022516B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS5615513A (en)
AT (1) ATE10551T1 (en)
DE (1) DE2928700A1 (en)

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US7778262B2 (en) 2005-09-07 2010-08-17 Vantage Controls, Inc. Radio frequency multiple protocol bridge

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JPH08207194A (en) * 1995-02-01 1996-08-13 Ykk Kk Light accumulator
ES2114827B1 (en) * 1996-07-31 1999-05-16 Schneider Electric Espana Sa ELECTRICAL ELEMENTS SIGNALING SYSTEM.
US20210202188A1 (en) * 2019-12-27 2021-07-01 Eric Benden Luminous Light Switch Assembly

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US7778262B2 (en) 2005-09-07 2010-08-17 Vantage Controls, Inc. Radio frequency multiple protocol bridge

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE10551T1 (en) 1984-12-15
JPS5615513A (en) 1981-02-14
US4340817A (en) 1982-07-20
DE2928700A1 (en) 1981-02-19
EP0022516A1 (en) 1981-01-21

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