The Cam-type and Rocker-type are the most popular mechanisms of limit switches. Unique to the industry, Namco enhances these mechanisms with SNAP-LOCK® technology. The SNAP-LOCK® action ensures a quick make and quick break of contacts together with mechanical locking in either open or closed positions.

Here, you can learn more about how cam-type and rocker-type limit switches operate and which suits your application best.

In a cam-type limit switch, rotation of the lever shaft and cam assembly drives the cam follower/shuttle assembly. The assembly then pushes the operating pin, allowing one set of latches to release the initial position of the shuttle and the other set of latches to hold the shuttle in the moved position. Movement of the shuttle also transfers contact position in a SNAP-LOCK® action. Removal of the operating force allows the return spring to move the cam follower/shuttle assembly and contacts to the initial position in a SNAP-LOCK® action. Latches are then reset to the initial position at this point.

In a rocker-type limit switch, rotation of the external lever shaft and lever shaft assembly causes the rocker to pivot, shifting and locking the latches. The movement of the rocker also transfers contact position in a SNAP-LOCK® action. Removal of operating force allows the return spring to pivot the lever shaft assembly which returns the rocker and contacts to the initial position in a SNAP-LOCK® action. Latches are reset at this point.

The cam-type and rocker-type limit switch each have a difference in operation to account for a difference in application. The cam-type limit switch offers low trip torque, longer total actuator lever travel and it can deliver three normally open and three normally closed contact arrangements. This limit switch performs best in applications such as bi-directional movement, overtravel protection, door open and closure and mobile equipment. The rocker-type limit switch offers higher trip torque, shorter total actuator lever travel and can have a reverse shaft. Unlike cam, rocker-type limit switches operate in one direction with short travel for applications like valve position indication and presence detection.