A portable heater manufacturer looked to Carling Technologies, Inc. for a more economical way to have both a light and a power switch on their heater unit. The current product utilized a simple power switch with a separate indicator lamp. The manufacturer wanted to cut down on the cost of the two components and asked Carling to design a combination switch/indicator light, which would fit into their existing panel cutout. Projected volume for the project was 100,000 units per year.

Carling's answer was a modified version of its existing LRA-Series switch. This new LRE-Series switch utilizes the existing switch envelope, and is a drop-in replacement for the LRA. The new switch design was accomplished by modifying the LRA-Series mold and rerouting the switch lamp leads. Approved by UL, the end result is a lighted switch (which is illuminated as long as the unit is plugged in) that also controls the on-off power function of the heating unit, while using one less wire than previously required.

The new illuminated LRE-Series switch allows the customer to control two different functions (power switch and indicator lamp) from one switch. Because the physical characteristics of the original switch were not compromised, the customer was able to incorporate the LRE-Series switch without the need for any costly and time consuming tooling changes to their product. In addition, the elimination of the indicator light provided component and assembly cost savings and reduced the customer's vendor base, while at the same time generating more revenue for Carling Technologies. A true "Win-Win" situation. Any existing Carling RA, LRA,TA, LTA or competitor equivalent switches are targets for this product upgrade, which fits the industry standard size mounting hole.

Potential markets for this product include: Appliance, Medical, Dental, RV's, Computers, Music Equipment, Audio Visual Equipment, and Office Lighting.