Importance

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Abstract

The present invention includes a new dome contact construction having an integral insulative layer that is precisely cut and aligned with the dome contact mechanism during fabrication. Prior to feeding the metal sheets or strips into the equipment for stamping and cutting the dome contact using the conventional method, a die cut layer of film is applied to one side of the sheet or strip. The film is cut into the shape of the desired insulative layer in the finished switch product and has periodic openings that correspond to the areas of the dome contact that are required to be uncovered both to provide electrical conductivity as a part of the proper function of the switch. The sheet of metal, including the laminate film, is cooled to a temperature near freezing to facilitate clean stamping of the laminated feedstock during the stamping process and is then fed into the forming and cutting press where the domes are formed and stamped.

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First Claim