Importance

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Abstract

An electrical switch adapted to be mounted on a gas strut assembly employed with a liftgate, for example, on an automotive vehicle. The switch is open or non-conducting when the strut is compressed and the liftgate is in the closed position. The switch is closed or conducting when the strut is extended enough to allow the liftgate to be unlatched and opened a predetermined distance as measured at the bottom of the liftgate. In one embodiment, the switch is affixed to the strut by an already existing fastener at the end of the strut that tightens the switch against a shoulder on the strut. In another embodiment, the switch fits snugly on the strut and is correctly positioned by the strut during initial assembly and actuation. Internally, the switch is provided with a pair of sleeve-like members that move longitudinally with respect to each other. One of the members has a pair of elongated contact fingers, while the other member is encircled by a metallic band. Movement slides the fingers onto and off of the band to make and break the electrical contact. The switch is completely enclosed to protect the contacts from corrosion, tarnishing and pitting due to exposure to the weather. Also, the sliding movement maintains the contacts polished.

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First Claim