AU2020201165B2

AU2020201165B2 - Force switch

Info

Publication number: AU2020201165B2
Application number: AU2020201165A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Kevin Smith
Original assignee: Ethicon Endo Surgery Inc
Current assignee: Ethicon Endo Surgery Inc
Priority date: 2006-05-19
Filing date: 2020-02-18
Publication date: 2021-11-04
Anticipated expiration: 2027-05-21
Also published as: AU2018201774B2; AU2016238854B2; AU2018201774A1; AU2020201165A1; AU2016238854A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a switch of a device having a longitudinal device axis. The switch comprises a switching element, a hollow body defining an interior cavity in which the 5 switching element is movably disposed along the longitudinal device axis. The switching element defines a first position along the longitudinal device axis and a second position along the longitudinal axis, the second position being different from the first position. The switch further comprises a biasing element imparting an adjustable biasing force to the switching element to place the switching element in one of the first position and the second position .0 until an external force imparted to the switching element along the longitudinal device axis exceeds the biasing force thereby causing the switching element to move to the other one of the first position and the second position. The switch also comprises an electrically conductive contact coupled to the switching element and defining a first switching state when the switching element is in the first position and a second switching state when the switching .5 element is in the second position. 1/17 F1 FIG. 1

Description

1/17

F1

FIG. 1

FORCE SWITCH

The present application is a divisional of Australian Patent Application No. 2014277865 in the name of Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention lies in the field of switches, in particular, a force switch. The device can be used along with any tool in which a particular longitudinal force needs to be overcome prior to reaching a given detected force.

In various applications, a compressible material is compressed between two surfaces for modification of the material in some way after being compressed. The material can be compressed too little, too much, or in an acceptable range of compression. It would be beneficial to provide an electrical switch that can indicate when the acceptable minimum compression force has been exceeded. It would further benefit if the switch actuates over a small gap and is longitudinally in-line with the device in which the switch is incorporated. It would also be beneficial if the minimum force setting of the switch could be pre-set to given force values.

Summary

The invention overcomes one or more of the above-noted and other deficiencies of the prior art arrangements by providing an electronic switch that actuates over a small gap (on the order of 25 to 200 micrometers), is longitudinally in-line with the device in which the switch is incorporated, and switches dependent upon a longitudinally expanding external force that can be pre-set over a given floor force value.

A characteristic of the force switch described herein is that the longitudinal forces that the force switch can withstand are significantly higher than that existed in the past. With a force switch having approximately a 6 mm diameter, for example, an approximately 5 to 8 pound longitudinally pulling force changes the switch state while, at the same time, being able to withstand almost 300 pounds of longitudinal pulling or compressive force. This is an almost twenty-fold difference.

There are many uses for the force switch in various different technology areas. In

a first exemplary area of technology, the force switch can be used to measure compressive

forces imparted upon tissue by medical devices. In many medical procedures, tissue is compressed between two surfaces before a medical device is caused to make a change in

the compressed tissue. If the tissue is compressed too little, then the change sought to be

effected might not be sufficient. If the tissue is, on the other hand, compressed too much, the change sought to be effected might actually destroy the area of interest. When

compressing such tissue, there are measurable force ranges that fall between these two

extremes. Knowing the "safe" force range can allow the user to select a pre-tensioning of the force switch to change its state (i.e., indicate to the user the pre-tensioned force has

been exceeded) within the "safe" range of that tissue.

The force switch described herein can be constructed in a customized way to

have the state-changing pre-tension match the "safe" range of the tissue to be operated

upon.

One type of medical device that is used to change a state of tissue is a medical

stapling device. Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. (a Johnson & Johnson company) manufactures and sells such stapling devices. Circular stapling devices manufactured by

Ethicon are referred to under the trade names PROXIMATE @ PPH, CDH, and ILS.

Linear staplers manufactured by Ethicon under the trade names CONTOUR and PROXIMATE also can use the force switch. In each of these exemplary staplers, tissue is

compressed between a staple cartridge and an anvil and, when the staples are ejected, the

compressed tissue is also cut. In this specific example, the tissue can be compressed too little (where blood color is still present in the tissue, too much (where tissue is crushed),

or just right (where the tissue is blanched). Staples delivered have a given length and the

cartridge and anvil need to be at a given distance so that the staples close upon firing. Therefore, these staplers have devices indicating the relative distance between the two

planes and whether or not this distance is within the staple length firing range. However,

these staplers do not have any kind of active compression indicator that would also

optimize the force acting upon the tissue that is to be stapled. The force switch described herein provides such a feature. Some exemplary procedures in which these staplers could use the force switch include colon dissection and gastric bypass surgeries. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a switch of a device having a longitudinal device axis, the switch comprising: a switching element; a hollow body defining an interior cavity in which the switching element is movably disposed along the longitudinal device axis to define: a first position along the longitudinal device axis; and a second position along the longitudinal axis, the second position being different from the first position; a biasing element imparting an adjustable biasing force to the switching element to place the switching element in one of the first position and the second position until an external force imparted to the switching element along the longitudinal device axis exceeds the biasing force thereby causing the switching element to move to the other one of the first position and the second position; and an electrically-conductive contact coupled to the switching element and defining: a first switching state when the switching element is in the first position; and a second switching state when the switching element is in the second position.

Preferably, the switching element has a longitudinal switching axis disposed parallel to the longitudinal device axis; the switching element is movably disposed within the interior cavity of the hollow body and along the switching axis; and the biasing element imparts a variable longitudinal biasing force to the switching element.

Preferably, the first position is a switch-making position; the second position is a switch-breaking position; the first switching state is a switch-making state; and the second switching state is a switch-breaking state.

Preferably, the switching element is a piston.

Preferably, the electrically-conductive contact is physically coupled to the switching element and is movable along the longitudinal device axis between the first position and the second position.

Preferably, the switch further comprises a stop element defining a second interior cavity in which the switching element is movably disposed, the stop element being at least partly disposed in the interior cavity of the hollow body.

Preferably, the switching element further comprises a bias contact; and the biasing element is disposed about at least a portion of the switching element between the stop element and the bias contact.

Preferably, a magnitude of the biasing force is dependent upon a longitudinal position of the stop element within the interior cavity of the hollow body.

Preferably, the switching axis is disposed coincident with the device axis.

Preferably, the biasing element imparts the biasing force to place the switching element in the switch-breaking position to create a normally open switch configuration.

Preferably, the biasing element imparts the biasing force to place the switching element in the switch-making position to create a normally closed switch configuration.

Preferably, a distance between the switch-making position and the switch-breaking position is between approximately 25 tm and approximately 750 [m.

Preferably, a distance between the switch-making position and the switch-breaking position is between approximately 75 m and approximately 200 [m.

Preferably, the electrically-conductive contact is electrically insulated from the hollow body and the switching element.

Preferably, the switch further comprising an electric indication circuit: electrically connected to the switching element and the electrically-conductive contact; and having an indicator operable to transmit state-change information to signal a user that a state change of the switching element has occurred.

Preferably, the biasing element is a compression spring compressed between the bias contact and the stop element around the switching element to bias the switching element in a direction away from the stop element.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a switch, comprising: a hollow body defining an interior cavity; a switching element having a switching axis and movably disposed within the interior cavity of the hollow body along the switching axis to define: a first position along the switching axis; and a second position along the switching axis, the second position being different from the first position; a biasing element imparting an adjustable biasing force to the switching element to place the switching element in one of the first position and the second position until an external force imparted to the switching element along the switching axis exceeds the biasing force thereby causing the switching element to move to the other one of the first position and the second position; and an electrically-conductive contact coupled to the switching element and defining: a first switching state when the switching element is in the first position; and a second switching state when the switching element is in the second position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a switch of a device, comprising: a hollow body defining an interior cavity; a switching element having a longitudinal switching axis and movably disposed within the interior cavity of the hollow body along the switching axis to define: a first position along the switching axis; and a second position along the switching axis, the second position being different from the first position; a biasing element imparting an adjustable longitudinal biasing force to the switching element to place the switching element in one of the first position and the second position until an external force imparted to the switching element along the switching axis exceeds the biasing force thereby causing the switching element to move to the other one of the first position and the second position; and an electrically conductive contact coupled to the switching element and defining: a first switching state when the switching element is in the first position; and a second switching state when the switching element is in the second position.

Preferably, the longitudinal switching axis is disposed parallel to a longitudinal device axis of the device.

Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a force switch, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims.

The construction and method of operation of the invention, however, together with additional objects and advantages thereof, will be best understood from the following description of specific embodiments when read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of Drawings

At least one embodiment of the present invention will be described according to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view from a side of an exemplary embodiment of a force switch according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of the force switch of FIG. 1 through a near half of the switch;

FIG. 3 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of the force switch of FIG. 1 through a near half of the switch; FIG. 4 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of the force switch of FIG. I through a near half of the switch; FIG. 5 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of the force switch of FIG. 1 through a near half of the switch; FIG. 6 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of the force switch of FIG. I through approximately a longitudinal axis of the switch; switch FIG. 7 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of the force of FIG. 1 through a far half of the switch; a side of the FIG. 8 is an enlarged, longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from force switch of FIG. 6 with the switch in an un-actuated position; a side of the FIG. 9 is an enlarged, longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from force switch of FIG. 6 with the switch in an actuated position; of a force FIG. 10 is a perspective view from a side of another exemplary embodiment switch according to the invention. of the force switch FIG. 11 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of FIG. 10 through a near half of the switch; of the force switch FIG. 12 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of FIG. 10 through a near half of the switch; the force switch FIG. 13 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of of FIG. 10 through approximately a longitudinal axis of the switch; the force switch FIG. 14 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of of FIG. 10 through a far half of the switch; of the force switch FIG. 15 is a longitudinally cross-sectional perspective view from a side of FIG. 10 through a far half of the switch; view from a side of the FIG. 16 is an enlarged, longitudinally cross-sectional perspective force switch of FIG. 13 with the switch in an un-actuated position; and view from a side of the FIG. 17 is an enlarged, longitudinally cross-sectional perspective force switch of FIG. 13 with the switch in an actuated position.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention and related drawings Aspects of the invention are disclosed in the following description directed to specific embodiments of the invention. Alternate embodiments may be devised elements without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. Additionally, well-known be omitted so as of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will not to obscure the relevant details of the invention. that the Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood only and is not terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and the appended intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in the specification clearly claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context dictates otherwise. of the invention that While the specification concludes with claims defining the features better understood from a are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be the drawing figures, in which like consideration of the following description in conjunction with are not drawn to scale. reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings first, particularly to FIGS. I to 9 Referring now to the figures of the drawings in detail and force switch 1. FIGS. 10 to 17 illustrate thereof, there is shown a first exemplary embodiment of a in more detail below, a second exemplary embodiment of the force switch 1. As will be described switch configuration and the second the first exemplary embodiment represents a "normally open" configuration. Where features of exemplary embodiment represents a "normally closed" switch understanding, similar reference the switch 1 are similar in the two embodiments, for ease of numerals will be used. force along the longitudinal The force switch I can be incorporated into a device where to be taken when that force exceeds a axis of the device needs to be measured and an action needs for example, in a medical device, but .5 given predetermined value. This force switch 1 can be used, As will be described in further is not limited to the exemplary embodiment of a medical device. surgical stapling device such as is detail below, the force switch I can be used with a circular disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,104,025 to Main 6 provides an example FIGS. 1 to 9 represent different portions of the force switch 1. FIG. I that allows one to see all parts of the view through the longitudinal axis 2 of the force switch other parts of the switch I may switch 1. A contact piston 10 provides a central part around which

12 of the contact piston 10. The be explained. A nose piece or tip 20 is fastened to the distal end straight lines in FIGS. 4 to 9, distal end 12 and an internal bore 22 of the tip 20 are illustrated with can be provided with external male however, in a first exemplary embodiment, the distal end 12 threads. Alternatively, the tip 20 can threads and the bore 22 can be provided with internal female In to the distal end 12 of the contact piston 10. be press-fit, glued, welded, or otherwise connected 24 of the internal bore 22 has a non the configuration shown in FIGS. 4 to 9, a proximal portion the piston 10 such that, when threaded flat portion for receiving therein the distal-most end of portion 24 acts as a stop for further threading completely threaded into the bore 22, the proximal of the distal end 12 therein. 14 is provided on the outside surface of At the proximal end of the piston 10, a widening formed in the interior thereof. the piston 10 and an internal bore 16 is a portion of the contact piston 10. One A hollow body tube 30 is disposed around at least proximal bore the tube 30 includes a relatively narrower exemplary embodiment of the interior of The the opposite configuration is also possible). 32 and a relatively wider distal bore 34 (although thereof the piston 10 that includes a central shaft 18 bores 32, 34 surround a proximal portion of the proximal the widening 14 and the interior shape of and the widening 14. The exterior shape of of in a circular configuration, the interior diameter bore 32 are substantially equal. Accordingly, 14. As used bore 32 is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the widening the proximal two parts to is only a sufficient clearance between the herein, substantially equal means that there first material requires a particular first spacing D allow one to slide within the other. Thus, if a given to permit the and the inner surface of the body tube 30 between the outer surface of the piston 10 30, whereas, if a spacing exists between the two parts 10, piston 10 to move therein, then that first surface of the piston (or larger) spacing between the outer given second material requires a smaller that that the inner surface of the body tube 30 to permit the piston 10 to move therein, then 10 and second spacing exists between the two parts 10, 30. tube 30, an adjustable end cap 40 There are two parts between the piston 10 and the body of the distal bore a bias device 50. The exterior shape of the end cap 40 and the interior shape and diameter of the in a circular configuration, the interior 34 are substantially equal. Accordingly, when the end bore 34 is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the end cap 40. Thus, distal space defined inserted into-the distal bore 34, the cap 40 substantially closes an interior 30 cap 40 is of the central of the distal and proximal bores 34, 32, the exterior surface by the interior surfaces and the proximal end surface of the cap shaft 18, the distal transverse surface of the widening 14, The bias device 50 and the cap 40 40. The bias device 50 is disposed inside this interior space. 10 in a given direction, in this case, in the act together with the widening 14 to bias the piston cap 40. 50 can be dependent upon the position of the proximal direction. Force of the bias device the bias device5Ocan exert a first biasing For example, if the cap 40 is closer to the widening 14, 14, the bias device 50 can exert a second force and if the cap 40 is further from the widening 50 used, the first force can be greater than the biasing force. Depending upon the bias device various required, if the cap 40 is adjustable between second, or vice-versa. It is beneficial, but not adjusted to a a configuration, the bias device 50 can be locations along the body tube 30. In such user-desired pre-bias. 50 is shown in FIGS. 2 to 9. The following One embodiment of the cap 40 and bias device distal bore however, will be directed to the view of FIG. 8. In this embodiment, the description, 42 that a larger diameter than the proximal bore 32. The end cap 40 has exterior threads 34 has the of the distal bore 34. In such a configuration, mate with non-illustrated internal female threads the distal bore 34. can be rotated into the distal bore 34 along any longitudinal point within cap 40 endpoint 36 diameter than the distal bore 34, the distal With the proximal bore 32 having a smaller is formed with an interior bore 32 forms a stop for insertion of the cap 40. The cap 40 of proximal of the piston to the outer shape of the central shaft 18 bore 44 having a shape substantially equal forces will into the distal bore 34 such that longitudinal 10. Thus, while the cap 40 can be screwed 10 can move bore 34, the central shaft 18 of the piston not press the cap 40 out from the distal with respect to the cap 40. longitudinally freely within the bore 44 and as a compression spring 50. As such, The bias device 50 is embodied, in this example, distal transverse central shaft 18 ofthe piston 10 up to the when the spring 50 is placed around the central shaft of the widening 14, and when the threaded cap 40 is also placed around the surface compressed the distal bore 34, the spring 50 can be 18 and screwed at least partially within the cap 40 can traverse longitudinal connection distance that between two extremes defined by the to the stop distal bore 34 and fully inserted therein up between being securely but barely inside the 36. a contact of an electrical switch for signaling Because the piston 10 moves, it can form one insulated from the needs to be provided that is electrically state of the piston 10. Another contact that the 10 needs to be associated with a switch sub-assembly so piston 10. Thus, the piston afirst longitudinal position and in a electrical switch is in a first state when the piston 10 is in position (the first and second states second state when the piston 10 is in a second longitudinal and or on/off). This switch sub-assembly is formed at a proximal end of the piston 10 being off/on in two exemplary embodiments. The first the body tube 30 and, in the following text, is shown mentioned as being related to FIGS. I to 9. embodiment, the "normally open" switch has been 17 and is a "normally closed" switch. The second embodiment relates to FIGS. 10 to regard to FIGS. 8 to 9. A switch The normally open switch sub-assembly is explainedwith into the proximal end of the body tube bushing 60 has a distally projecting stub 62 that is inserted 30 in any number of ways (e.g., by bonding, 30. This stub 62 can be connected to the body tube is The proximal end of the switch bushing 60 welding, adhesive, press-fit, screw threads). each of the piston 10, the tip 20, the body attached to a mounting body 70. In one embodiment, the mounting body 70 are electrically conductive tube 30, the cap 40, the switch bushing 60, and 20 and cap 40 need the force switch 1. However, the tip and provide a first electrical contact of contact that, when put into electrical connection not be conductive. To form a second electrical as shown in circuit (or interrupts an electrical circuit with the first contact, completes an electrical and the first to be disposed between the second contact FIGS. 10 to 17), an insulating body needs (or out of) contact with the second contact. contact needs to be operatively moved into conductive herein include parts that are electrically Various switch embodiments disclosed The switch according to the present invention, and actually form part of the electronic circuit. alternative parts of the switch form the circuit. An however, is not limited to embodiments where of the invention the mechanical switch-breaking aspects configuration can take advantage only of electrical switch adjacent the switch, e.g., to have the movement of the piston actuate a separate to in the art as a tact can be embodied as what is referred the piston. Such an external switch is such a switch is very small. Various microswitches can be used as well if there switch because sufficient room for such larger switches. the second electrical contact is formed by a Inthe exemplary embodiment of FIGS. I to 9, part that connects ring 80 and the insulating body is formed by an insulating stub 90. The contact 100. Each of 80 and the insulating stub 90 to the piston 10 is a T-shaped connecting bar the ring an easy nested in their shape so that they can fit in the ring 80, the stub 90, and the bar 100 are separates the contact into the switch bushing and the body tube 30. The insulating stub assembly conductive contact with the piston 10 ring 80 from the connecting bar 100, which is in electrically and the switch bushing 60. 102 of the More specifically, the internal bore 16 is shaped to receive a distal boss the internal bore 16 can be connecting bar 100. The connection between the distal boss 102 and 10 and the tip 10. If the boss like any of the embodiments of the connection between the piston bore 16 has a corresponding female 102 has an external male thread, for example, then the internal of the connecting bar 100 and internal thread. Such an exemplary configuration makes attachment costs and time. the piston 10 easy with regard to manufacturing The contact ring 80 has an internal bore 82 having a shape dimensioned to correspond 92 of the insulating stub 90. This substantially to the outer shape of a distal contact portion any polygonal shape, such as circular, external outer shape of the distal contact portion 92 can take of this outer shape, the shape ovular, rectangular, square, star, triangular, for example. Regardless thereto so that the contact ring 80 can be of the internal bore of the contact ring 80 corresponds bonding, welding, or any other inserted thereon and fixed (whether by press-fit, adhesive, between the ring 80 and any other portion of connection process) thereto so that control of contact the first contact can be made with high precision. assembly can After the contact ring 80 is connected to the insulator stub 90, the combined shape of an intermediate portion of the rod be connected to the connecting rod 100. The external a bore 94 extending through the insulator stub 100 is made to correspond to an internal shape of 100 can take any polygonal 90. Again, the outer shape of the intermediate portion of the rod of square, star, triangular, for example. Regardless shape, such as circular, ovular, rectangular, insulator stub 90 corresponds thereto so that this outer shape, the shape of the internal bore of the by press-fit, adhesive, bonding, the insulator stub 90 can be inserted thereon and fixed (whether of contact between the ring 80, welding, or any other connection process) thereto so that control the first contact can be made with high precision. mounted to the stub 90, and any other portion of the piston 10 (and, With such a connection, the connecting rod 100 electrically contacts 60, and the mounting body thereby, the tip 20, the body tube 30, the cap 40, the switch bushing the inner ring 80 is dimensioned to be smaller than 70). The outer shape/diameter of the contact the switch and insertion of the contact ring 80 inside shape/diameter of the switch bushing 60 Thus, the contact ring 80 is electrically bushing 60 creates a transverse gap 110 therebetween. side thereof by the transverse gap I 10 and is isolated from the switch bushing 60 on the outer in electrically isolated (insulated) from the connecting rod 100 on the inner side thereof by being direct contact with the outside surface of the insulator stub 90. To make an electric circuit including the contact ring 80 and any electrically conducting must be made at the part of the first contact (10, 20, 30, 40, 60, 70), an electrical connection in FIGS. 5 to 9. contact ring 80. One exemplary embodiment for such a connection is illustrated longitudinal bore 103 extending Specifically, the connecting bar 100 is formed with the proximal at least a part of the from the proximal transverse exterior surface 104 up to and including position where the intermediate portion the connecting rod 100 that is located at a longitudinal the longitudinal contact ring 80 is disposed. A further transverse bore 106 is formed to connect an insulated wire bore 103 with an interior surface of the contact ring 80. In such a configuration, (e.g., by 206 can be threaded through the longitudinal 103 and transverse 104 bores and fastened a connection, the contact welding) to the interior surface of the contact ring 80. For ease of such of depressions) on the inside surface for ring 80 can be formed with a depression (or a series portion of the wire remains in receiving the electrical portion of the wire while the insulating rod contact with the entirety of the longitudinal 103 and transverse 104 bores of the connecting 100. in FIG. 7, where Such an electrical connection is, for example diagrammatically shown circuitry 200 is disposed between the contact ring 80 and the mounting body 70. This exemplary 204 (i.e., an LED) that lights the circuitry includes a power source 202 and a contact indicator body 70 and the insulated wire 206 LED when the electrical circuit is completed. If the mounting when electrical contact occurs are each connected to the circuitry 200 (as shown in FIG. 7), then, 20, 30, 40, 60, 70), the LED 204 between the contact ring 80 and any part of the first contact (10, will illuminate. of the switch 1 between With the above exemplary configuration set forth, the functioning comparison between FIGS. 8 and 9. the first and second states can be described with regard to a connecting rod 100. Further, the The piston 10 is longitudinally fixed to the tip 20 and to the exterior of the connecting insulator stub 90 and the contact ring 80 are longitudinally fixed to the bore 44 of the cap 40 at the distal end and is rod 100. The piston 10 is slidably disposed inside the tube body 30. Thus, the entire piston sub slidably disposed inside the proximal bore 32 of the a longitudinal gap 112 assembly (10, 20, 80, 90, 100) can move in a longitudinal direction because ring 80 and a proximal end surface 64 of exists between the distal transverse surface of the contact forms the space over which the force the stub 62 of the switch bushing 60. It is this gap 112 that switch 1 can function. the adjustable cap 40and The bias device (e.g., compression spring) 50 disposed between a proximally directed force against the the distal transverse surface of the widening 14 imparts as a the spring 50. This force, referred to herein piston 10 when the cap 40 is adjusted to compress stub 62 of the a distance from the electrically conductive pre-tension, keeps the contact ring 80 at gap 112. Without any external force switch bushing 60 -which is defined as the longitudinal this position will always keep the contact ring 80 at imparted on the force switch 1, the pre-tension contact ring 80 will not occur. A distally and electrical contact between the first contact and the 20 could alter this situation. See FIG. 9. If the directed external force F imparted upon the tip not imparted by the spring 50, then the spring will force F is not as great as the pre-tension force if compressed by the adjustable cap 40. However, compress any further than it has already been by the spring 50, then the spring will the force F is greater than the pre-tension force imparted the of the piston sub-assembly - the piston 10, compress and the tip 20 along with the remainder and the contact ring 80 - will move in a distal connecting rod 100, the insulating stub 90, surface 64 direction is limited by the proximal end longitudinal direction. The distal longitudinal distal contact between the end surface 64 and the of the stub 62 of the switch bushing 60 because further movement of the tip 20. This side of the contact ring 80 completely prevents that has an adjustable longitudinal pre configuration, therefore, provides an electrical switch electrical the switch 1 can actuate and complete the tension force that must be overcome before shows the 80 touches the switch bushing 60. FIG. 9 circuit that is "open" until the contact ring FIG. 8 shows the 100)-in the actuated distal position and piston sub-assembly (10, 20, 80, 90, proximal position piston sub-assembly in the un-actuated 1 of FIGS. I to 9, has the spring One exemplary process for assembly of the force switch into the proximal 50 inserted over the central shaft 16 of the piston 10. The cap 40 is also scrwed interior sub-assembly is, then inserted through the bore 34 of the body tube 30. The piston-spring the piston (e.g., screwed) onto the distal end 12 of bore 44 of the cap 40 and the tip 20 is fastened 10. This forms a piston sub-assembly. portion of the connecting bar 100 by The insulating stub 90 is attached to the intermediate Similarly, and, second, over the intermediate portion. 30 being placed, first, over the distal boss 102 ring 80 is stub 90 by being placed thereover. The the contact ring 80 is attached to the insulating is longitudinally connected to longitudinally connected to the insulating stub 90 and the stub 90 through the the intermediate portion of the connecting bar 100. The insulated wire 206 is passed 106 bores of bore of the mounting body 70 and through both the longitudinal 103 and transverse 80 the connecting rod 100 and electrically connected to the interior surface of the contact ring body 70 or the without electrically connecting the wire 206 to any portion of the mounting is ready to be connected to connecting bar 100. This connection forms a switch sub-assembly that the piston sub-assembly. the stub 62 of the switch Either or both of the distal boss 102 of the connecting bar 100 or 10 and/or the stub 62 to the bushing 60 can have threads for connecting the boss 102 to the piston (both physically and body tube 30. As such, the entire switch sub-assembly can be connected together, only electrically) to the piston sub-assembly. With these two sub-assemblies connected of the switch bushing 60. Such a the mounting body 70 needs to be connected to the proximal end can be a weld or a mated set of screw connection can take any-form, for example, the connection threads. 1 having a FIGS. 10 to 17 illustrate a second exemplary embodiment of the force switch "normally closed" switch configuration. 1. FIG. 14 provides an FIGS. 10 to 17 illustrate different portions of the force switch axis 2 of the force switch 1 that allows example view approximately through the longitudinal 10 provides a central part around visualization of all parts of the switch 1. The contact piston tip 20 is fastened to the distal end 12 of which other parts of the switch I may be explained. The 22 of the tip 20 are illustrated with the contact piston 10. The distal end 12 and the internal bore embodiment, the distal end 12 straight lines in FIGS. 13 to 15 and 17, however, in the exemplary can be provided with internal female can be provided with external male threads and the bore 22 welded, or otherwise connected to the threads. Alternatively, the tip 20 can be press-fit, glued, in FIGS. 13 to 15 and 17, the distal end 12 of the contact piston 10. In the configuration shown therein has the non-threaded flat portion for receiving proximal portion 24 of the internal bore 22 into the bore 22, the the distal-most end of the piston 10 such that, when completely threaded threading of the distal end 12 therein. proximal portion 24 acts as a stop for further 14 is provided to extend radially The piston 10 has a proximal end at which the widening bore 16 is formed in the interior of the piston 10 the outside surface of the piston 10. The internal at the proximal end.

As shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 16, a hollow body tube 120 is disposed around at least a portion of the contact piston 10. As compared to the first embodiment of the body tube 30, the interior of this tube 120 has a constant diameter bore 122. The bore 122 has a shape 18 of substantially equal to an exterior shape of the widening 14 and surrounds the central shaft diameter of the bore 122 is the piston 10. Accordingly, in a circular configuration, the interior substantially equal to the outer diameter of the widening 14. There are two parts of the force switch I disposed between the piston 10 and the body tube spring stop puck 130 120: a spring stop puck 130 and a bias device 50. The exterior shape of the a circular and the interior shape of the bore 122 are substantially equal. Accordingly, in to the outer diameter of configuration, the interior diameter of the bore 122 is substantially equal the spring stop puck 130 so that the spring stop puck 130 slides within the bore 122 substantially 130 differs from the end without play but also without substantial friction. This spring stop puck as the tip 20 cap 40 in that it floats entirely separate within the body tube 120. More specifically, transverse surface pushes against is threaded onto the distal end 12 of the piston 10, the proximal it would, but is not fixed to the distal transverse surface of the puck 130. In such a configuration, at first glance, seem to indicate that the compression spring 50 could only be set to one given longitudinal length. This would be correct compression value because the puck 130 has a fixed longitudinal lengths. Therefore, the except a set of pucks 130 are provided, each having different one of the set of pucks 130. Also, it is not pre-tensioning of the spring 50 is adjusted by selecting as shown in FIG. 13, necessary to thread the tip 20 entirely onto the distal end 12 of the piston 10 for example. Thus, if the tip 20 is not entirely threaded on the piston 10, user-desired pre threading tensioning of the bias device 50 occurs by providing a specifically sized puck 130 and solely the tip 20 onto the piston 10 at a predefined distance. Alternatively, the puck 130 can to the piston 10. One embodiment determine the pre-tension if the ip 20 is entirely threaded onto description, of the stop puck 130 and bias device 50 is shown in FIGS. 10 to 17. The following is formed with an internal bore however, is directed to the view of FIG. 13. The stop puck 130 piston 10 so that the piston 10 can 132 having a shape substantially equal to the outer shape of the traverse through the puck 130 without hindrance. When the spring stop puck 130 is within the bore 122, the stop puck 130 substantially of the bore 122, the exterior surface of the closes an interior space defined by the interior surfaces 14, and the proximal transverse central shaft 18, the distal transverse surface of the widening this interior space. The bias device surface of the puck 130. The bias device 50 is disposed inside piston 10 in a given 50 and the stop puck 130 act together with the widening 14 to bias the the bias device 50 is dependent upon the direction, in this case. in the proximal direction. Force of longitudinal length of the stop puck 130. spring 50. As such, The bias device 50 is embodied, in this example, as a compression 18 of the piston 10 up to the distal transverse when the spring 50 is placed around the central shaft 130 is also around the central shaft 18 and the surface of the widening 14, and when the stop puck 50 is compressed or pre-tensioned therebetween. tip 20 is attached to the piston 10, the spring electrical switch for signaling a Because the piston 10 moves, it can form one contact of an to be provided that is electrically insulated from state of the force switch 1. Another contact needs so that the to be associated with a switch sub-assembly the piston 10. Thus, the piston 10 needs the piston 10 is in a first longitudinal position and electrical force switch 1 is in a first state when longitudinal position (the first and second states in a second state when the piston 10 is in a second 10 and is formed at a proximal end of the piston being off/on or on/off). This switch sub-assembly to the second exemplary "normally closed" the body tube 120 and, in the following text, applies embodiment. stub 62 that is inserted into the proximal The switch bushing 60 has a distally projecting of connected to the body tube 120 in any number end of the body tube 120. This stub 62 can be end of the press-fit, screw threads). The proximal ways (e.g., by bonding, welding, adhesive, 70. In one embodiment, each of the piston 10, switch bushing 60 is attached to a mounting body bushing 60, and the mounting body 70 the tip 20, the body tube 120, the stop puck 130, the switch contact of the force switch 1. However, are electrically conductive and provide a first electrical conductive. To form a second electrical the tip 20 and stop puck 130 need not be electrically with the first contact, interrupts an electrical contact that, when put into electrical connection body needs to be disposed between the second circuit as shown in FIGS. 10 to 17, an insulating moved out of contact with the second contact. contact and the first contact needs to be operatively the second electrical contact is formed by In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 10 to 17, part that formed by an insulating bushing 150. The a contact pin 140 and the insulating body is 140 to the piston 10 is a T-shaped, connects the insulating bushing 150 and the contact pin pin 140 are conductive, contact screw 160. The insulating bushing 150 and the contact electrically 60 and the in their shape so that they can fit in an easy assembly into the switch bushing nested contact mounting body 70. The insulating bushing 150 physically and electrically separates the which is in electrically conductive pin 140 from the mounting body 70 and the switch bushing 60, contact with at least the piston 10 and the switch bushing 60. the contact More specifically, the internal bore 16 is shaped to receive a distal boss 162 of any of screw 160. The connection between the distal boss 162 and the internal bore 16 can be like 10. If the boss 162 has an the embodiments of the connection between the piston 10 and the tip female internal external male thread, for example, then the internal bore 16 has a corresponding the contact screw 160 and the thread. Such an exemplary configuration makes attachment of and time. A transverse end surface 164 of the piston 10 easy with regard to manufacturing costs of the distal. boss 162 contact screw 160 also provides a stop for indicating complete insertion inside the internal bore 16 of the piston 10. shape dimensioned to The insulating bushing 150 has an internal bore 152 having a the contact pin correspond substantially to the outer shape of a proximal contact portion 142 of take any polygonal shape, 140. This external outer shape of the proximal contact portion 142 can for example. Regardless of this outer such as circular, ovular, rectangular, square, star, triangular, that insulating bushing 150 corresponds thereto so shape, the shape of the internal bore 152 of the (whether by press-fit, the insulating bushing 150 can be inserted thereon and fixed thereto so that control of contact between adhesive, bonding, welding, or any other connection process) can be made with high precision. the contact pin 140 and any other portion of the first contact pin 140, the combined After the insulating bushing 150 is connected to the contact body 70. The external shape of a insulating sub-assembly can be connected to the mounting is made to correspond to an internal shape of an proximal portion of the insulating bushing 150 Again, the outer shape of the proximal internal bore 72 extending through the mounting body 70! shape, such as circular, ovular, portion of the insulating bushing 150 can take any polygonal of this outer shape, the shape of the rectangular, square, star, triangular, for example. Regardless so that the insulating bushing 150 can internal bore of the mounting body 70 corresponds thereto bonding, welding, or any be inserted thereon and fixed thereto (whether by press-fit, adhesive, between the contact pin 140 (mounted in the other connection process) so that control of contact and any other portion of the first contact can be insulating bushing 150 and the mounting body 70) made with high precision.

With such a connection, the contact screw 160 electrically contacts the piston 10 (and, thereby, the body tube 120, the switch bushing 60, and the mounting body 70, and possibly even the tip 20 and the stop puck 130 if desired). The outer shape/diameter of a distal transverse of widening 144 of the contact pin 140 is dimensioned to be smaller than the inner shape/diameter 60 creates a the switch bushing 60 and insertion of the contact pin 140 inside the switch bushing isolates the distal transverse gap 110 therebetween. Thus, the transverse gap 110 electrically 60, and the proximal widening 144 of the contact pin 140 from the inside of the switch bushing contact portion 142 of the contact pin 140 is electrically isolated (insulated) from the mounting by being in direct contact with the body 70 and the switch bushing 60 on the outer side thereof interior bore 152 of the insulating bushing 150. To make an electric circuit between the contact pin 140 and any electrically conducting 130), an electrical connection must be made at part of the first contact (e.g., 10, 20, 60, 70, 120, connection is illustrated in FIGS. II the contact pin 140. One exemplary embodiment for such a 166 to 17. Specifically, the contact screw 160 is formed with a proximal transverse widening defines a proximal transverse surface extending radially from the intermediate portion thereof and contact screw 160 in a proximal 168. The bias device 50 biases the piston 10 and, thereby, the contact pin direction to electrically conductively contact the distal transverse surface 148 of the 160. Because such contact needs 140 to the proximal transverse surface 168 of the contact screw electrical circuit of the switch sub to only be made between these two surfaces to complete an 166 of the contact screw 160 can be assembly, the outer shape/diameter of the proximal widening switch bearing 60. any size or shape that slides within the interior bore 66 of the the proximal side of the The other electrical contact of the contact pin 140 resides on bore 146 is formed from the contact pin 140. In one exemplary embodiment, a longitudinal wire 140 inward and receives therein an insulated proximal transverse surface of the contact pin by welding) to the interior surface of 206. The conductor of this wire 206 can be fastened (e.g., for example diagrammatically shown the longitudinal bore 146. Such an electrical connection is, source 202 supplies power to the contac in FIG. 7. In such an exemplary configuration, the power circuit is completed, which will indicator 204 (LED) and lights the LED when the electrical of the force switch I- Conversely, when always be the case in this normally closed configuration contact pin 140 is removed, the LED 104 will electrical contact between the first contact and the

104). It can also be audible turn off. Of course, the indicator need not be visual (e.g., the LED or any combination thereof. (e.g., speaker with sound) or tactile (e.g., vibration), and the mounting It is also possible to provide circuitry 300 between the contact pin 140 circuit is opened (i.e., not completed). body 70 that lights the LED 204 only when the electrical LED 204 based upon the two states of the force Any logic circuitry can be used to control the logic 300 including a NOR gate and an AND switch I shown in FIGS. 10 to 17. For example, the as shown in FIG. 13. In such a configuration, gate can be connected to the force switch 1 circuit off and when contact is broken, as when the switch I is in its normally closed state, the LED is shown in FIG. 17, the LED will illuminate. the functioning of the switch 1 between With the above exemplary configuration set forth, regard to a comparison between FIGS. 16 and 17. the first and second states can be described with within the insulating As set forth above, the contact pin 140 is longitudinally secured secured within at least one of the bushing 150 and the insulating bushing 150 is longitudinally body tube 120 is longitudinally secured to the switch bearing 60 and the mounting body 70. The 130 is disposed, freely longitudinally, between distal end of the switch bearing 60. The stop puck fixed to the tip 20 and to the contact the spring 50 and the tip 20. The piston 10 is longitudinally the body 120 biased in the proximal screw 160 and this piston sub-assembly slides within (10, 20,130, 160) can direction by the spring 50. Accordingly, the entire piston sub-assembly the spring 50 inside the body tube 120 and this move in a distal longitudinal direction to compress a 17) over which the force switch 1 functions as compression distance forms a space 134 (see FIG. switch. between the puck 130 and the distal The bias device (e.g., compression spring) 50 disposed 10 a proximally directed force against the piston transverse surface of the widening 14 imparts force, referred to herein as a pre-tension, keeps when the puck 130 compresses the spring 50. This contact conductive distal transverse surface of the the contact screw 160 against the electrically always on the force switch 1, the pre-tension will pin 140. Without any external force imparted first contact and the contact pin 140 at this position and electrical contact between the keep the the tip 20 could directed external force F imparted upon contact pin 140 will remain. A distally by F is not as great as the pre-tension force imparted alter this situation. See FIG. 17. If the force compressed compress any further than it has already been the spring 50, then the spring 50 will not force imparted to the 130. However, if the force F is greater than the pre-tension by the puck compress further and the tip 20, along with the piston 10 by the spring 50, then the spring 50 will in a distal longitudinal direction. remainder of the piston sub-assembly (10, 130, 160) will move distance of the spring 50, The distal longitudinal direction is limited by the greatest compression configuration, therefore, which, in most applications of the force switch 1, will not occur. This longitudinal pre-tension force that must be provides an electrical switch that has an adjustable the electrical circuit that is "closed" until overcome before the switch I can actuate and complete pin 140. The switching distance of the force the contact screw 160 no longer touches the contact gap 112 existing between the proximal switch 1 of FIGS. 10 to 17 is defined by the longitudinal surface of the widening 166. FIGS. 17 transverse surface of the stub 62 and the distal transverse in the actuated distal position and FIG. 16 and 19 show the piston sub-assembly (10, 130, 160) proximal position. shows the piston sub-assembly in the un-actuated switch 1 of FIGS. 10 to 17, the distal end One exemplary process for assembly of the force 62 is fastened longitudinally to the proximal of the switch bushing 60 having the projecting stub body tube 120 and the spring 50 end of the body tube 120. The piston 10 inserted inside the inside the body tube 120. The puck 130 is inserted over the central shaft 16 of the piston 10 onto the 10 and the tip 20 is fully or partially screwed placed over the distal end 12 of the piston 10. At this point, if the tip is fully screwed onto exterior threads of the distal end 12 of the piston of the switch the pre-tension force onto the stub 62 the piston 10, the piston 10 will impart the only partially screwed onto the distal end 12 of bushing. To avoid this force, the tip 20 can be 10 at the contact screw 160 is, then, screwed into the internal bore 16 of the piston piston 10. The 10 and the 62 between the widening 14 of the piston proximal end thereof to capture the stub sub-assembly. widening 166 of the contact screw 160. This forms a piston-spring connected to the contact pin 140 with the The mounting body 70 is longitudinally fixedly of the of the nested shapes of these parts, the order insulating bushing 150 therebetween. Because manufacturing the connections. Alternatively, connection is limited only by the costs and time for 140 can be placed inside the distal end of the the insulating bushing 150 and the contact pin end two parts could move longitudinally if the distal mounting body 70. but, in such a case, these pin sub-assembly. of the force switch I is tilted downward. This forms a contact are connected together by fastening, The piston-spring and contact pin sub-assemblies onto switch bushing 60. If the tip 20 is fully screwed longitudinally, the mounting body 70 to the 50. If, 10, then the fastening will have to overcome the pre-bias force of the spring the piston that no pre-bias exists in the however, the tip 20 is minimally screwed onto the piston 10 such occurred, the tip 20 can be fully screwed onto spring 50, then, after all longitudinal fastening has pre-tensioned state. The conductor the distal end 12 of the piston 10 to place the spring 50 in the 146 of the contact pin 140 to of the insulated wire 206 is attached in the longitudinal bore complete the circuit 300. the longitudinal gap In each case of the normally open and normally closed configurations, approximately 750 pm (0.030"), 112 has a length of between approximately 25 pm (0.001") and and approximately 200 pm (0.008"). or in a shorter range between approximately 75 pm (0.003") steel, copper, nickel-plated The conductive parts of the force switch I can be of stainless wire 206 needs to Where the conductor of the insulated copper, nickel-plated brass, for example. be soldered, each of these materials will be sufficient. for switching between the two states The range of force that the force switch I applicable pounds, or a shorter range of can be between approximately 3 ounces to approximately 20 8 pounds. approximately 5 pounds to approximately 50, the desired pre-tension force is With regard to the mechanics of selecting the spring a given spring 50. In other words, the selected to be within or at the mid-range of the range of close to a maximum of the spectrum of the spring change in state of the force switch will occur not in the middle of the spectrum. 50 pre-tension but, instead, somewhere output - whether or not the force on The circuitry described above only provides a binary I is greater or less than the pre the external object that is transmitted through the force switch gauge, also referred to as a load cell, then tensioning. If the force switch is provided with a strain in which, for example, a row of LEDs a continuous force output can be displayed to the user of force or an LCD or LED numerical field gradually light up dependent upon the amount the amount of force imparted through the force increments numerical values corresponding to switch 1. with respect to use in an intraluminal The force switch 1 above will now be described in U.S. Patent No. 5,104,025 to Main et al. anastomotic circular stapler as depicted, for example, Inc. This reference is hereby incorporated ("Main"), and assigned to Ethicon Endo-Surgery, a trocar clearly in the exploded view of FIG. 7 in Main, herein in its entirety. As can be seen most 28 for aligning the trocar shaft 22 to serrations shaft 22 has a distal indentation 21, some recesses of with the anvils 34. A trocar tip 26 is capable 29 in the anvil and, thereby, align the staples thereto. FIGS. 3 to 6 in Main show how the puncturing through tissue when pressure is applied As the anvil 30 is moved closer circular stapler 10 functions to join two pieces of tissue together. shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. If this to the head 20, tissue is compressed therebetween, as particularly The interposed tissue is overcompressed, this surgical stapling procedure might not succeed. surgery. This range is tissue can be subject to a range of acceptable compressing force during The stapler shown in Main cannot indicate known and is dependent upon the tissue being stapled. tissue prior to stapling. to the user any level of compressive force being imparted upon the substituted for the trocar shaft 22, then the However, if the force switch 1 described herein is the compressive force (acting along the stapler 10 will be capable of showing the user when the pre-tension of the switch 1. This pre longitudinal axis 2 of the force switch 1) has exceeded within the range of acceptable tissue tension can be selected by the user to have a value compressive force. tip 20 having a pointed distal end that can FIGS. I and 10 of the present application show a and sold by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, function.within at least the CDH surgical stapler manufactured in Main requires a male threaded screw for Inc. The proximal end of the trocar shaft 22 is require an opposing tang embodiment that attachment to the head 20. Other circular staplers Thus, the mounting body 70 can be in the shown in FIGS. I and 10 of the present application. 7 in Main. The tip 20 and mounting form illustrated in FIGS. I to 17 or in the form shown in FIG. kind of similar surgical device. body 70 can be customized to fit into any drawings illustrate the principles, preferred The foregoing description and accompanying However, the invention should not be embodiments and modes of operation of the invention. discussed above. Additional variations of construed as being limited to the particular embodiments by those skilled in the art. the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated should be regarded as illustrative rather than Therefore, the above-described embodiments that variations to those embodiments can be restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated the scope of the invention as defined by made by those skilled in the art without departing from the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method of creating a switch to be disposed along a longitudinal axis of a device, comprising:

providing a hollow body defining an interior cavity;

disposing a switching element movably within the interior cavity to define:

a first position along a switching axis of the switching element; and

a second position along the switching axis of the switching element, the second position being different from the first position;

disposing a biasing element about the switching element to impart a longitudinal biasing force to the switching element to place the switching element in one of the first position and the second position until an external force imparted to the switching element exceeds the biasing force to thereby cause the switching element to move to the other one of the first position and the second position;

disposing a biasing force-adjusting element in cooperative engagement with the biasing element such that a magnitude of the biasing force is adjustable using the biasing force-adjusting element; and

coupling an electrically-conductive contact to the switching element to define:

a first switching state when the switching element is in the first position; and

a second switching state when the switching element is in the second position.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein:

the first position is a switch-making position;

the second position is a switch-breaking position; the first-switching state is a switch-making state; and the second switching state is a switch-breaking state.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the switching element is a piston.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the electrically-conductive contact is physically coupled to the switching element and is movable along the switching axis between the first position and the second position.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the biasing force-adjusting element comprises a stop element defining a second interior cavity in which the switching element is movably disposed, the stop element being at least partly disposed in the interior cavity of the hollow body.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein:

the switching element comprises a bias contact; and

the biasing element is disposed about at least a portion of the switching element between the stop element and the bias contact.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the magnitude of the biasing force is dependent upon a longitudinal position of the stop element within the interior cavity of the hollow body.

8. The method according to claim 2, wherein the biasing element imparts the biasing force to place the switching element in the switch-making position to create a normally closed switch configuration.

9. The method according to claim 2, wherein a distance between the switch-making position and the switch-breaking positions is between approximately 25 pm and approximately 750 pm.

10. The method according to claim 2, wherein a distance between the switch-making position and the switch-breaking position is between approximately 75 pm and approximately 200 pm.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the electrically-conductive contact is electrically insulated from the hollow body and the switching element.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising electrically connecting an electric indication circuit to the switching element and the electrically-conductive contact, wherein the electric indication circuit comprises an indicator operable to transmit state-change information to signal to a user that a state change of the switching element has occurred.

13. The method according to claim 6, wherein the biasing element is a compression spring compressed between the bias contact and the stop element around the switching element to bias the switching element in a direction away from the stop element.

14. A method of operating a switch of a device, comprising:

using a biasing element that is disposed about a switching element of the switch, imparting a longitudinal biasing force to the switching element to place the switching element in one of afirst position and a second position, wherein:

the switching element is movably disposed within an interior cavity of a hollow body of the switch to define:

the first position along a switching axis of the switching element; and

the second position along the switching axis of the switching element, the second position being different from the first position;

an electrically-conductive contact is coupled to the switching element to define:

a first switching state when the switching element is in the first position; and a second switching state when the switching element is in the second position; and a magnitude of the biasing force is adjustable using a biasing force-adjusting element that is in cooperative engagement with the biasing element; and imparting an external force to the switching element, wherein a magnitude of the external force exceeds the biasing force to thereby cause the switching element to move to the other one of the first position and the second position.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein:

the first position is a switch-making position;

the second position is a switch-breaking position;

the first switching state is a switch-making state; and

the second switching state is a switch-breaking state.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein the electrically-conductive contact is physically coupled to the switching element and is movable along the switching axis between the first position and the second position.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein the biasing force-adjusting element comprises a stop element defining a second interior cavity in which the switching element is movably disposed, the stop element being at least partly disposed in the interior cavity of the hollow body.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein:

the switching element comprises a bias contact; and

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the magnitude of the biasing force is dependent upon a longitudinal position of the stop element within the interior cavity of the hollow body.

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165

This data, for application number 2016238854, is current as of 2018-03-12 21:00 AEST

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165

2016238854 18 05 Feb Oct 2020

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165

2016238854 18 05 Feb Oct 2020

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165

2016238854 18 05 Feb Oct 2020

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165

2016238854 18 05 Feb Oct 2020

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165

2016238854 18 05 Feb Oct 2020

05 Feb 2016 2016238854 2020201165