What is a push button switch
1.1 Chinese definition:
A push button switch is a special type of button used to control the on/off state of an electrical circuit. It is typically composed of a button with a spring, which, when pressed, toggles the circuit’s state to allow current to flow. Push button switches can be momentary or latching. Momentary switches maintain the circuit connection only while the button is pressed, while latching switches maintain their open or closed state until the button is pressed again. Push button switches are commonly used to control electronic devices and machines, such as TVs, stereos, and computers.
1.2 Google definition:
Push button switches (also referred to as pushbutton switches) are electrical actuators that, when pressed, either close or open the electrical circuits to which they are attached. They are capable of controlling a wide range of electronic gadgets.
1.3 ChatGtp definition:
A pushbutton switch is a type of electrical switch that is activated by pushing a button. It is a simple on/off switch that typically has a spring-loaded button that, when pushed, completes an electrical circuit and allows current to flow through the switch. When the button is released, the spring returns it to its original position and breaks the circuit, turning off the flow of current.
Push button switches are commonly used in a variety of electronic devices and applications, such as control panels, appliances, and industrial machinery. They come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors, and can be designed for different functions, such as momentary or latching operation, illuminated or non-illuminated, and normally open or normally closed contacts.
2.Classification of push button switches
2.1 Metal push button switch
2.2 Plastic push button switch
2.3 Waterproof push button switch
2.4 Illuminated push button switch
2.5 Emergency stop push button switch
2.1.1 Definition of metal push button switch
A metal push button switch is a common type of push button switch that is typically made of metal material for its housing, providing durability and aesthetic appeal. Metal push button switches are often used in applications that require high mechanical strength and environmental tolerance, such as industrial automation and machine control systems.
The function of a metal push button switch is to control the on/off state of an electrical circuit. When the button is pressed, it toggles the circuit’s state to allow current to flow. Metal push button switches typically come in two types: momentary and latching. Momentary switches maintain the circuit connection only while the button is pressed, while latching switches maintain their open or closed state until the button is pressed again. This makes metal push button switches ideal for applications that require manual control of electrical circuits, such as switching lights or controlling machine operation status.
2.1.2 Materials for metal push button switches
2.1.2.1 Stainless steel/Metal
304 stainless steel is the best material for metal push button switches.
Advantages: Can maintain color and corrosion resistance for long-term use in saltwater and seawater.
Disadvantages: Higher cost.
2.1.2.2 Nickel plated brass
Advantages: Relatively low cost and short production cycle.
Disadvantages: Prone to oxidation and verdigris.
2.1.2.3 Zinc alloy aluminum
Advantages: Offers a wide range of color options and can be matched to customer requirements for aesthetics. Lower cost compared to stainless steel, higher than nickel plated brass.
Disadvantages: The color on the button can easily rub off over time, leaving marks. However, FILN uses a new vacuum plating process that prevents fading on zinc alloy products.
What is vacuum plating?
Vacuum plating is a surface treatment technology that is typically used to evenly coat a material surface with a thin layer of metal or other material. This technology uses a vacuum chamber to place the material to be processed and the coating material in a vacuum environment. The coating material is then evaporated or sputtered onto the surface of the material to be processed through heating, electron beams or other methods, forming a thin film.
Vacuum plating has many advantages, including:
Uniformity: Vacuum plating can evenly coat the entire material surface with a thin film, which is typically highly uniform.
Precision: Vacuum plating can make the thickness and composition of the coating highly precise, which is important for applications that require high-precision coatings.
Adhesion: Through vacuum plating, the coating can firmly adhere to the material surface, thereby enhancing the surface hardness and wear resistance.
Environmental protection: Compared to traditional plating processes such as chromium plating, vacuum plating has less pollution, because the coating material is not affected by oxidation or other chemical reactions in the vacuum environment.
Vacuum plating is widely used in many fields, including electronics manufacturing, automotive industry, medical equipment, and decoration.
2.2.1 Definition of plastic push button switch
A plastic push button switch is a common type of push button switch that typically has a plastic housing. Compared to metal push button switches, plastic push button switches usually have a lighter weight and lower cost, and can be designed and manufactured in various colors and shapes.
Plastic push button switches are often used in applications that require manual control of electrical circuits, such as controlling electronic devices like televisions, stereos, and computers. They can be momentary or latching switches, where momentary switches only maintain the circuit connection while the button is pressed, and latching switches maintain their open or closed state until the button is pressed again.
A plastic push button switch typically consists of two parts: the button and the switch body. The button is the part that is pressed, typically a circular or rectangular plastic cover that can be pushed to toggle the circuit’s state. The switch body is the main part of the entire push button switch, typically including the switch mechanism, connectors, and circuit board components.
When designing and using plastic push button switches, their durability and reliability must be considered to ensure they do not malfunction during use.
2.2.2 How to choose the right plastic push button switch
Choosing the right plastic push button switch involves considering several factors:
Functionality: First, determine the required switch type, whether it is a momentary or latching switch, and the required triggering method. Additionally, determine the required electrical parameters, such as rated voltage and current.
Appearance and size: When selecting a button switch, consider the appearance and size to ensure it can fit the required application environment and installation location.
Durability and reliability: Consider the quality and reliability of the button switch to ensure it does not malfunction during use. This includes considering the material, design, and manufacturing process of the button switch, as well as its operating lifespan and waterproof rating.
Cost: Like other products, consider the cost of the required button switch to ensure the selected switch fits the budget.
Application environment: When selecting a button switch, consider the required application environment, such as industrial, medical, automotive, or other fields, as well as any special requirements for waterproofing, corrosion resistance, or other factors.
In summary, choosing the right plastic push button switch involves considering the above factors comprehensively to ensure that the selected switch meets the required functionality, size, quality, cost, and application environment requirements.
2.3.1 Definition of waterproof push button switch
A waterproof push button switch is a switch designed specifically for waterproofing and dustproofing, with both the housing and internal structure providing waterproof and dustproof functions. Waterproof push button switches typically have high-density seals and waterproof structures to ensure the circuit and components inside the switch are not infiltrated by water and other liquid substances. Waterproof push button switches are typically more expensive than regular push button switches and require higher technical requirements in design and manufacturing.
A waterproof cover is a simple waterproof and dustproof device typically made of plastic that can be placed over a regular push button switch. It can effectively protect the button switch from being infiltrated by water and other liquid substances, thereby protecting the circuit and components inside the switch. Compared to waterproof push button switches, waterproof covers are typically cheaper but may not have high-density seals and waterproof structures, which may cause problems in harsher environments.
In summary, waterproof push button switches and waterproof covers are both devices used to protect push button switches from being infiltrated by water and other liquid substances, but their waterproof and dustproof capabilities, usage, and cost vary and should be selected based on actual needs.
2.3.2 Material of Waterproof Cover on Waterproof Button Switch
2.3.2.1 Military-grade (unbreakable) material at a price of 15W/ton
2.3.2.2 PPSU (baby bottle material) at a price of 6W/ton
2.3.2.3 Market goods at a price of 1.8W/ton
FILN uses high-end materials in the production of waterproof switches and is the first manufacturer in China to produce fully waterproof button switches.
2.3.3 Waterproof Rating
Waterproof rating refers to the ability of electronic products or devices to prevent water from entering the enclosure, usually represented by the IP (Ingress Protection) rating. The IP rating usually consists of two digits, representing the device’s dustproof rating and waterproof rating, respectively. Here are some common meanings of IP ratings:
IPX0: No protection level, no protective effect.
IPX1: No damage will be caused to the device even if water droplets enter when the device is placed vertically.
IPX2: No damage will be caused to the device even if water droplets enter when the device is tilted at 15 degrees.
IPX3: No damage will be caused to the device even if sprayed with water from any direction.
IPX4: No damage will be caused to the device even if sprayed with water from any direction.
IPX5: No damage will be caused to the device even if water is sprayed from a nozzle in any direction.
IPX6: No damage will be caused to the device even if subjected to strong water jets from any direction.
IPX7: No damage will be caused to the device even if immersed in water for a short time.
IPX8: No damage will be caused to the device even if immersed in water for a long time (usually more than 30 minutes).
When choosing electronic products or devices, it is necessary to choose the appropriate waterproof rating according to the actual application environment. For example, for outdoor sports equipment or underwater equipment, products with higher waterproof ratings should be selected to ensure that the equipment can work stably and reliably in harsh environments.
2.4.1 Definition of Illuminated Button Switch
An illuminated button switch is a button switch with an LED light or other type of light, which can emit light outward while opening or closing the circuit, providing a visual indication function. Illuminated button switches usually have unique appearance designs and a variety of color options, and can be used in various electronic devices and applications, such as TVs, audio equipment, computers, home appliances, etc.
The light of the illuminated button switch can have different colors and brightness, such as red, green, blue, etc., and can also be customized according to needs. In addition, the illuminated button switch can also have different switch types, such as momentary and latching, and different triggering methods, such as press, flip, rotate, etc.
The illuminated button switch can help users use electronic devices more conveniently, especially in low-light environments. For example, using an illuminated button switch on a TV remote control can help users easily find the desired button, thereby improving the user’s experience. In addition, illuminated button switches can also be used in various warning lights and indicator light applications, such as alarms and indicator lights.
In summary, an illuminated button switch is a button switch with a visual indication function, which can emit light outward while opening or closing the circuit, providing a convenient user experience and visual indication function.
2.4.2 Illuminated push button switch for Google Top Search Words (US Data)
2.4.2.1 Illuminated push button switch
2.4.2.2 LED push button switch
2.4.3 Three types of illuminated push button switches
2.4.3.1 Single-color illuminated push button switch
A single-color illuminated push button switch has an LED light of only one color, usually red, green, blue, or yellow. It is commonly used in applications that only require a simple indication of the ON/OFF state, such as household appliances and electrical devices.
2.4.3.2 Bi-color illuminated push button switch
A bi-color illuminated push button switch has an LED light of two colors, usually red and green. It is commonly used in applications that require differentiation of different states, such as red for OFF, green for ON, or for indicating different modes or functions.
2.4.3.3 Tri-color illuminated push button switch
A tri-color illuminated push button switch has an LED light of three colors, usually red, green, and blue. It is commonly used in applications that require more detailed indication of different states, such as red for OFF, green for ON, blue for intermediate states, or for indicating different modes or functions.
2.5 Definition of Emergency Stop Button Switch
An Emergency Stop Button Switch is an emergency braking switch that is commonly used in safety control systems for mechanical or electrical equipment. It can quickly cut off the power of the equipment in case of an emergency to protect the safety of personnel and equipment. An Emergency Stop Button Switch usually has a conspicuous red button to make it easier to find and operate in case of an emergency.
Emergency Stop Button Switches are usually designed as a “breakaway” switch, which means that pressing it will not automatically release it, but it needs to be manually rotated or pulled to restore, to ensure that the equipment will not automatically restart after an emergency stop. Emergency Stop Button Switches usually have anti-misoperation functions to prevent emergency stops due to accidental touches, such as requiring pressing an unlocking switch or rotating a knob before operating the Emergency Stop Button Switch.
Emergency Stop Button Switches are commonly used in mechanical equipment, automation equipment, industrial robots, elevators, traffic signal systems, and other applications that require emergency braking. In these applications, Emergency Stop Button Switches can quickly cut off the power in case of danger to protect the safety of personnel and equipment, making them a very important safety measure.
2.5.1 Classification of Emergency Stop Button Switches
Emergency Stop Button Switches can be classified according to different classification standards. Following are some common classification methods:
Operation mode classification: Emergency Stop Button Switches can be classified into rotary, pull-wire, and push-button types according to the operation mode.
Installation mode classification: Emergency Stop Button Switches can be classified into handheld and fixed types according to the installation mode.
Electrical performance classification: Emergency Stop Button Switches can be classified into those with power-off protection and those without power-off protection according to the electrical performance.
Protection level classification: Emergency Stop Button Switches can be classified into IP65, IP67, and other types according to the protection level.
Dimensions classification: Emergency Stop Button Switches can be classified into different types according to the size, such as 22mm in diameter and 30mm in diameter.
There are many ways to classify Emergency Stop Button Switches, and different types of Emergency Stop Button Switches are suitable for different applications and requirements. Choosing the appropriate Emergency Stop Button Switch can improve the safety of equipment and personnel. Therefore, when selecting an Emergency Stop Button Switch, various classification standards should be comprehensively considered according to actual needs to select the appropriate Emergency Stop Button Switch.
2.5.2 Google Top Search Words for Emergency Stop Button Switches (US Data)
2.5.2.1 Momentary push button switch (reset button switch)
On-off push button switch
2.5.2.2 Latching push button switch (locking push button switch)
2.5.3 Voltage control of illuminated push button switches
Voltage control of illuminated push button switches refers to controlling the brightness of the LED light by changing the power supply voltage. Usually, the brightness of the LED light is proportional to the current, which is related to the voltage and resistance. Therefore, by changing the power supply voltage, the brightness of the LED light can be controlled.
Illuminated push buttons usually use DC power supply, so the brightness of the LED light can be controlled by changing the power supply voltage. If adjustable brightness is required, a potentiometer or variable resistor can be used to adjust the resistance in the circuit, thereby changing the current and voltage to control the brightness of the LED light.
In addition, PWM (pulse width modulation) technology can also be used to control the brightness of the LED light. PWM technology is a technology that controls the output of the circuit by changing the duty cycle of the signal, and can realize efficient control of the brightness of the LED lightwhile maintaining a stable DC voltage. PWM technology is commonly used in LED lighting control systems, including illuminated push button switches. By adjusting the duty cycle of the PWM signal, the brightness of the LED light can be adjusted without changing the power supply voltage or resistance in the circuit.
Overall, voltage control of illuminated push button switches can provide flexibility in controlling the brightness of the LED light, and can be achieved through various methods such as adjusting the power supply voltage, using a potentiometer or variable resistor, or utilizing PWM technology.
3.FILN’s counterparts in the button switch industry:
3.1 APEM from France
3.2 EAO from Germany
3.3 Izumi from Japan (producing different types of buttons)
4.FILN’s advantages in button production:
4.1 Innovation: By constantly innovating, FILN has produced many customized and unique styles, which have caught the attention of many major customers.
4.2 Many of FILN’s self-produced products are protected by patents, and have never been surpassed despite being imitated.
