Swiclick × BYD
BYD used the Swiclick MS15A-B micro switch in an automotive control application where compact installation space, repeatable actuation and stable signal switching were important design considerations.
The project focused on integrating a miniature snap-action switch into vehicle control modules while maintaining a defined operating force, short travel and compact mounting profile.
Application Requirement
Automotive control modules often have limited installation space while still requiring reliable mechanical input from moving components such as locks, seats, windows or interior mechanisms.
For this type of application, the switch has to fit the mechanical envelope and actuate at the correct position while maintaining predictable electrical behavior over repeated operation.
Selected Switch Configuration
The BYD application used the Swiclick MS15A-B miniature micro switch. The published configuration combines a compact housing with a snap-action contact mechanism for short-stroke control and sensing functions.
Why the MS15A-B Fit the Application
| Design Requirement | MS15A-B Characteristic | Qualification Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Compact installation space | Miniature switch housing | Helps integrate mechanical sensing or control functions into space-constrained vehicle modules. |
| Fast switching response | Snap-action mechanism | Transfers the contact state once the actuator reaches its operating point instead of relying on slow contact movement. |
| Momentary control input | SPST-NO circuit | Supports simple normally-open detection or control functions. |
| Defined actuation | Approximately 300 gf operating force | Provides a known mechanical target when matching the moving part to the switch actuator. |
| Short mechanical movement | Approximately 0.4 mm travel | Allows switching within a compact actuator stroke. |
| Repeated operation | Published life above 100,000 operations | Provides a starting point for lifecycle qualification, subject to the exact test conditions and application load. |
Automotive Qualification Considerations
Using a switch in an automotive assembly requires more than checking that the part physically fits. The exact mechanical, electrical and environmental requirements have to be reviewed for the application.
- mounting dimensions and actuator position
- operating point and available overtravel
- operating force through the actual mechanical linkage
- contact form and electrical load
- temperature range required by the module location
- vibration and mechanical retention
- expected operating cycles
- soldering or terminal connection method
- lot-to-lot dimensional and force consistency
- required automotive documentation and qualification plan
The switch should be validated in the complete mechanical assembly rather than qualified from catalog specifications alone.
Why Mechanical Fit Matters
A micro switch can have the correct electrical rating and still be unsuitable if the actuator does not reach the required operating position or if the mechanism applies excessive travel after the contact snaps.
For replacement and second-source projects, Swiclick therefore compares actuator geometry, operating force, operating position and travel together with the electrical specification.
See Micro Switch Actuator, Operating Force and Travel for more detail on mechanical qualification.
What This Case Demonstrates
The BYD application illustrates why compact automotive switch selection should begin with the physical control mechanism rather than only with current and voltage ratings.
The switch has to actuate at the correct position, fit the available space and maintain the required electrical function under the real operating conditions of the module.
Application Boundary
This case describes the use of the MS15A-B micro switch in a BYD automotive application and the engineering considerations relevant to selecting a compact snap-action switch.
Detailed vehicle program data, qualification reports, production quantities and measured customer performance results are not published here. Engineers evaluating the same or a similar switch should qualify the exact model against their own mechanical, electrical and environmental requirements.
Related Engineering Resources
For current micro switch options, see Swiclick Micro Switches .
For an existing supplier part number, use the Switch Model Finder or review Switch Second Source Solutions .
Return to Switch Application Case Studies for additional OEM application examples.
Need to Qualify a Micro Switch for an Automotive Project?
Send the existing part number, drawing, actuator requirements, electrical load and application conditions. Swiclick can compare the mechanical and electrical requirements before sample qualification.
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