Tom Anthony Martin

US Patent:

6639508, Oct 28, 2003

Filed:

Jun 30, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/609136

Inventors:

Tom O. Martin - Lake Worth FL

Assignee:

Aptek Williams, Inc. - Sarasota FL

International Classification:

H01C 1032

US Classification:

338162, 338118, 338125, 296101

Abstract:

An electrical switch device includes a thick film switch element having a low temperature co-fired dielectric substrate, electrical conductor tracks embedded in the substrate and having a surface substantially flush with the substrate surface, and wiper contacts in sliding engagement with the conductor tracks. The switch is useful for position sensors, throttle controls, and digital encoders. A method of manufacturing a thick film switch element includes providing a low temperature co-fired dielectric substrate in a green state, depositing an electrically conductive material onto a face of the substrate, pressing the conductive material into the substrate until the material is substantially flush with the substrate face, and then firing the substrate and conductive material.