ABSTRACT
Snap action results when a force applied to a mechanism exceeds a certain predetermined level, causing a sudden motion to occur. Often the snap action is caused by a spring that suddenly forces the mechanism to another position. Electrical switches are one area where these mechanisms are employed. Some of these mechanisms are a delight for a mechanism designer. Moving the push rod from left to right cause the cocking piece with chamfers to slide over the latch pin. When left chamfer reaches latch pin, cocking piece moves to the extreme right position. Gravity is used to provide snap action. When one side of the trough is filled, it tips over and empties while the other side starts to get filled.
