Alps Alpine modifies SSCW switch for SPDT automotive detector switch
Alps Alpine has modified the SSCW switch to create the SSCZ compact detector switch for open/shut detection in car doors and other automotive parts.
According to Alps Alpine, electronic components required for the electrification of vehicles need to be made smaller and lighter, while safety demands include higher accuracy and the capability for early detection of surrounding circuit breaks or other abnormalities to counter equipment failure and accidental or erroneous operation.
Failure detection functionality, greater locking/unlocking accuracy and mounting improvements are also required for door lock modules that require compact detector switches.
While the existing SSCW switch (single pole, single throw) is used for detecting locked status in vehicle doors, the SSCZ allows detection of two states, locked and unlocked, by employing a single-pole, double-throw (one-pole, two-position) design. Double-sided sliding contacts ensure high contact reliability even when subjected to impacts or vibrations, confirmed Alps Alpine. Changes to the internal structure realise a 300,000-cycle operating life, three times longer than the existing model.
The SSCW supports solderless mounting, with the connector terminal allowing connections simply by inserting the terminal.
Alps Alpine has been manufacturing and supplying detector switches for automotive use for more than 20 years and plans to gradually expand the scope of application beyond their principle use in door open/shut detection. There is growing demand for application in detection of electric vehicle charger connection and smart rear-view mirror on/off detection.
The SSCZ is mount-compatible with the SSCW switch (single pole, single throw). A common mount housing design for single-pole, single-throw and single-pole, double throw switches would allow use of the switches for grade differentiation said Alps Alpine.
In January 2019, Alps Electric and Alpine Electronics integrated their businesses and operate as Alps Alpine. Products draw on the two companies’ advantages in core devices, system design and software development for the automotive market, but also mobile devices and consumer electronics, as well as new sectors such as energy, healthcare and industry.
Alps Alpine Europe was established in 1979. Since 2013 the European head office has been located in Munich and co-ordinates the sales, marketing and product engineering activities of offices in Dusseldorf, Stuttgart, Wolfsburg, Paris, Milton Keynes, Frolunda and Milan, as well as the production activities of a manufacturing site in Dortmund. Alps Electric Europe changed its name on 01 April 2020 to Alps Alpine Europe GmbH.
