What is a cam operated rotary switch?

A cam converts circular motion into reciprocating motion. Cams are capable of achieving irregular as well as intermittent motion. Acam switch ia an electrical control device having a set of contacts arranged to make / break in a sequential way according to the position of the rotating handle.

Standers Governing Cam Switches are:
IEC947-3
EN60947-3
IS13947-3
CSA22-2-14
UL508
IEC947-5-1 - applicable to control switches
EN60947-5-1 - applicable to control switches