Help on not using a magnet on reed switch

[osomemac]

I had design a device that involve a mini circuit that use a reed switch. After all is said and done, I am told due to patent law I CANNOT use a magnet as a actuator. I need a THING that is reasonably cheap that can activate a reed switch. The current design call for a 0.5" diameter by 0.125" thick button magnet. Anyone who have an idea that can save me would be sincerely appreciated. I need all the help I can get.

 

[IRstuff]

The patent I've run across uses the reed switch to turn off the transmitter? But, it's in claim 12 and not 7.

TTFN

 

[nbucska]

5 mm external diameter with 3mm wall?
I vote for Hall.


Plesae read FAQ240-1032
My WEB: <

http://geocities.com/nbucska/>

 

[nbucska]

There are a few approaches you can take:
1.) neglect it, go ahead and hope they are bluffing
2.) try to work around it
3.) Try to find prior usage of the argued princple
and suggest them that you can invalidate their patent.

I think #3 is the most promissing...

Plesae read FAQ240-1032
My WEB: <

http://geocities.com/nbucska/>

 

[nbucska]

There are a few approaches you can take:
1.) neglect it, go ahead and hope they are bluffing
2.) try to work around it
3.) Try to find prior usage of the argued princple
and suggest them that you can invalidate their patent.

I think #3 is the most promissing...

By the way can you give us their patent # ?


Plesae read FAQ240-1032
My WEB: <

http://geocities.com/nbucska/>