Device with compliant switching mechanism: Switching device having compliant switching mechanism

A device 100 configured for connection to an external current line 100. The device comprises a switching mechanism arranged within a housing 120 and configured to open and close a current conduction path. The switching mechanism comprises a compliant component which carries a moveable conductor 130 along a first axis 160. The compliant component comprises a rigid portion 142 extending along the first axis between a first end and a second end, and a flexure portion 148 arranged between the second end and the housing, with part of the flexure portion being fixedly retained by the housing. In response to the application of an external force 170 to the rigid portion, the flexure portion is caused to resiliently deform, causing the moveable conductor to move from a first position to a second position. Upon removal of the external force, the flexure portion acts as a biasing member and urges the moveable conductor from the second position to the first position. In the one of the first and second positions, the moveable conductor is electrically connected to the external current line to close the current conduction path. The compliant component comprises an opening which retains the moveable conductor.