CA2751585C

CA2751585C - Electromagnetic relay assembly

Info

Publication number: CA2751585C
Application number: CA2751585A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Philipp Gruner
Original assignee: Clodi LLC
Current assignee: Hongfa Holdings Us Inc
Priority date: 2009-02-04
Filing date: 2009-02-04
Publication date: 2014-10-07
Anticipated expiration: 2029-02-04
Also published as: CA2751585A1; ZA201105691B; EP2394285A2; WO2010090619A2; EP2394285B1; KR101313676B1; JP2012517093A; AU2009339410A1; EP2394285B8; JP5351982B2; WO2010090619A4; PT2394285E; KR20110111533A; ES2564637T3; EP2394285A4; WO2010090619A3; BRPI0920362A2; AU2009339410A2; MX2011008110A; AU2009339410B2

Abstract

An electromagnetic relay enables current to pass through switch termini and comprises a coil assembly, a rotor or bridge assembly, and at least one switch assembly.
The coil assembly comprises a coil and a C-shaped core. The coil is wound round a coil axis extending through the core. The core comprises core termini parallel to the coil axis.
The bridge assembly comprises a bridge and an actuator. The bridge comprises medial, lateral, and transverse field pathways. The actuator extends laterally from the lateral field pathway. The core termini are coplanar with the axis of rotation and received intermediate the medial and lateral field pathways. The actuator is cooperable with each switch assembly. The coil creates a magnetic field directable through the bridge assembly via the core termini for imparting bridge rotation about the axis of rotation.
The bridge rotation displaces the actuator for opening and closing each switch assembly.

Description

ELECTROMAGNETIC RELAY ASSEMBLY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The disclosed invention generally relates to an electromagnetic relay assembly incorporating a uniquely configured armature assembly. More particularly, the disclosed invention relates to an electromagnetic relay assembly having a magnetically actuable rotor assembly for linearly displacing at least one switch actuator.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Generally, the function of an electromagnetic relay is to use a small amount of power in the electromagnet to move an armature that is able to switch a much larger amount of power. By way of example, the relay designer may want the electromagnet to energize using 5 volts and 50 milliamps (250 milliwatts), while the armature can support 120 volts at 2 amps (240 watts). Relays are quite common in home appliances where there is an electronic control turning on (or off) some application device such as a motor or a light. While the present teachings essentially support a single pole, 120-amp passing electromagnetic relay assembly, it is contemplated that the essence of the invention may be applied in multi-pole relay assemblies (e.g. double pole relay assemblies), having unique construction and functionality as enabled by the basic teachings as applied to a single pole embodiment as exemplified or set forth in this disclosure. Several other electromagnetic relay assemblies reflective of the state of the art and disclosed in United States patents are briefly described hereinafter.
United States Patent No. 6,046,660 (`660 Patent), which issued to Gruner, discloses a Latching magnetic relay assembly with a linear motor. The '660 Patent teaches a latching magnetic relay capable of transferring currents of greater than 100 amps for use in regulating the transfer of electricity or in other applications requiring the switching of currents of greater than 100 amps. A relay motor assembly has an elongated coil bobbin with an axially extending cavity therein. An excitation coil is wound around the bobbin. A generally U shaped ferromagnetic frame has a core section disposed in and extending through the axially extending cavity in the elongated coil bobbin.
Two contact sections extend generally perpendicularly to the core section and rises above the motor assembly. An actuator assembly is magnetically coupled to the relay motor assembly.
The actuator assembly is comprised of an actuator frame operatively coupled to a first and a second generally U-shaped ferromagnetic pole pieces, and a permanent magnet. A
contact bridge made of a sheet of conductive material copper is operatively coupled to the actuator assembly.
United States Patent No. 6,246,306 ('306 Patent), which issued to Gruner, discloses an Electromagnetic Relay with Pressure Spring. The '306 Patent teaches an electromagnetic relay having a motor assembly with a bobbin secured to a housing. A
core is adjacently connected below the bobbin except for a core end, which extends from the bobbin. An armature end magnetically engages the core end when the coil is energized. An actuator engages the armature and a plurality of center contact spring assemblies. The center contact spring assembly is comprised of a center contact spring which is not pre bent and is ultrasonically welded onto a center contact terminal. A
normally open spring is positioned relatively parallel to a center contact spring. The normally open spring is ultrasonically welded onto a normally open terminal to form a normally open outer contact spring assembly. A normally closed outer contact spring is

2 vertically positioned with respect to the center contact spring so that the normally closed outer contact spring assembly is in contact with the center contact spring assembly, when the center contact spring is not being acted upon by the actuator. The normally closed spring is ultrasonically welded onto a normally closed terminal to form a normally closed assembly. A pressure spring pressures the center contact spring above the actuator when the actuator is not in use.
United States Patent No. 6,252,478 (`478 Patent), which issued to Gruner, discloses an Electromagnetic Relay. The '478 Patent teaches an electromagnetic relay having a motor assembly with a bobbin secured to a frame. A core is disposed within the bobbin except for a core end which extends from the bobbin. An armature end magnetically engages the core end when the coil is energized. An actuator engages the armature and a plurality of movable blade assemblies. The movable blade assembly is comprised of a movable blade ultrasonically welded onto a center contact terminal. A
normally open blade is positioned relatively parallel to a movable blade. The normally open blade is ultrasonically welded onto a normally open terminal to form a normally open contact assembly. A normally closed contact assembly comprised of a third contact rivet and a normally closed terminal. A normally closed contact assembly is vertically positioned with respect to the movable blade so that the normally closed contact assembly is in contact with the movable blade assembly when the movable blade is not being acted upon by the actuator.
United States Patent No. 6,320,485 ('485 Patent), which issued to Gruner, discloses an Electromagnetic Relay Assembly with a Linear Motor. The '485 Patent teaches an electromagnetic relay capable of transferring currents of greater than 100 amps

3 . .
for use in regulating the transfer of electricity or in other applications requiring the switching of currents of greater than 100 amps. A relay motor assembly has an elongated coil bobbin with an axially extending cavity therein. An excitation coil is wound around the bobbin. A generally U shaped ferromagnetic frame has a core section disposed in and extending through the axially extending cavity in the elongated coil bobbin.
Two contact sections extend generally perpendicularly to the core section and rises above the motor assembly. An actuator assembly is magnetically coupled to the relay motor assembly.
The actuator assembly is comprised of an actuator frame operatively coupled to a first and a second generally U-shaped ferromagnetic pole pieces, and a permanent magnet. A
contact bridge made of a sheet of conductive material copper is operatively coupled to the actuator assembly.
United States Patent No. 6,563,409 ('409 Patent), which issued to Gruner, discloses a Latching Magnetic Relay Assembly. The '409 Patent teaches a latching magnetic relay assembly comprising a relay motor with a first coil bobbin having a first excitation coil wound therearound and a second coil bobbin having a second excitation coil wound therearound, both said first excitation coil and said second excitation coil being identical, said first excitation coil being electrically insulated from said second excitation coil; an actuator assembly magnetically coupled to both said relay motor, said actuator assembly having a first end and a second end; and one or two groups of contact bridge assemblies, each of said group of contact bridge assemblies comprising a contact bridge and a spring.

4 . .
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide an electromagnetic relay assembly having certain means for damping contact vibration intermediate contacts of the switching assembly. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an armature assembly having an axis of rotation and which rotates under the influence of the magnetic field created or imparted from an electromagnetic coil assembly. The armature assembly linearly displaces switch actuators for opening and closing each switch assembly of the relay. To achieve these and other readily apparent objectives, the electromagnetic relay assembly of the present disclosure comprises an electromagnetic coil assembly, an armature bridge assembly, and at least one switch assembly, as described in more detail hereinafter.
The coil assembly essentially comprises a coil, a C-shaped yoke assembly, and a coil axis. The coil is wound around the coil axis, and the yoke assembly comprises first and second yoke arms. Each yoke arm comprises an axial yoke portion that is coaxially alignable with the coil axis and together form the back of the C-shaped yoke assembly.
Each yoke arm further comprises a yoke terminus, which yoke termini are coplanar and substantially parallel to the coil axis.
The armature bridge assembly is rotatable about an axis orthogonally spaced from the coil axis and coplanar with the yoke termini. The armature bridge assembly thus comprises a bridge axis of rotation, a bridge, and at least one actuator arm.
The bridge comprises a medial field pathway relative closer in proximity to the coil axis, a lateral field pathway relatively further in proximity to the coil axis, and longitudinally or axially spaced medial-to-lateral or lateral-to-medial field pathways (or transverse field pathways)

5 . , extending intermediate the medial and lateral pathways. Each actuator arm is cooperable with the lateral field pathway via a first end thereof and extends laterally away from the lateral field pathway.
Each switch assembly essentially comprises switch terminals and a spring assembly between the switch terminals. Each spring assembly is attached a second end of the actuator arm. The yoke termini are received intermediate the medial and lateral pathways. As is standard and well-established in the art, the coil receives current and creates or imparts a magnetic field, which magnetic field is directable through the bridge assembly via the yoke termini for imparting bridge rotation about the bridge axis of rotation and linearly displacing each actuator arm. Each displaceable actuator arm functions to actuate the spring assembly intermediate an open contact position and a closed contact position, which closed contact position enables current to pass through each switch assembly via the switch termini.
Certain peripheral features of the essential electromagnetic relay assembly include certain means for enhancing spring over travel, which means function to increase contact pressure intermediate the switch terminals when the spring assembly is in the closed position. The means for enhancing spring over travel further provide means for contact wiping or contact cleansing via the enhanced contact or increased contact pressure. In other words, the enhanced conduction path through the contact interface may well function to burn off residues and/or debris that may otherwise come to rest at the contact surfaces. The means for enhancing spring over travel may well further function to provide certain means for damping contact bounce or vibration intermediate the first and second contacts when switching from the open position to the closed position.

6 ' , In one embodiment, an electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini is provided. The electromagnetic relay comprises: an electromagnetic coil assembly; an armature bridge assembly; and two switch assemblies. The coil assembly comprises a coil, a C-shaped yoke assembly, and a coil axis. The coil is wound around the coil axis. The yoke assembly comprises first and second yoke arms, the yoke arms each comprise an axial yoke portion and a yoke terminus. The armature bridge assembly comprises a bridge axis of rotation, a bridge, and opposing actuator arms. The bridge comprises a medial field pathway, a zigzagged lateral field pathway, and longitudinally spaced transverse field pathways. The actuator arms extend from terminal portions of the lateral field pathway. The switch assemblies each comprise switch terminals and a spring assembly. The spring assemblies are attached to the actuator arms and extend intermediate the switch terminals. The yoke termini are received intermediate the medial and lateral field pathways. The bridge axis of rotation is coplanar with the yoke termini. The actuator arms and zigzagged lateral field pathway extend non-radially relative to the bridge axis of rotation. The coil receives current to create a magnetic field, the magnetic field being directable through the bridge assembly via the yoke termini to impart bridge rotation about the bridge axis of rotation and displace the actuator arms. The displaceable actuator arms actuate the spring assemblies intermediate an open contact position and a closed contact position. The closed contact position enables current to pass through the switch assemblies via the switch termini.
In another embodiment, an electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini is provided. The electromagnetic relay comprises: a coil assembly; a bridge assembly; and first and second switch assemblies. The coil assembly comprises a coil, a coil axis, and a C-shaped core. The coil is wound around the coil axis. The coil axis extends through the core. The core comprises core termini that are parallel to the coil axis. The bridge assembly comprises an axis of rotation, a bridge, and opposing actuators. The bridge comprises a medial field pathway, a zigzagged lateral field pathway, and spaced transverse field pathways. The actuators extend from terminal portions of the lateral field pathway. The core termini are coplanar with the axis of rotation and received intermediate 6a _ the medial and lateral field pathways. The first and second switch assemblies are cooperable with the actuators.
The coil creates a magnetic field, the magnetic field being directable through the bridge assembly via the core termini to impart bridge rotation about the axis of rotation via magnetically induced torque. The bridge rotation displacing the actuators. The displaceable actuators open and close the switch assemblies, the closed switch assemblies enable current to pass therethrough.
In another embodiment, an electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini is provided. The electromagnetic relay comprises: a coil assembly for selectively creating a coil-emanating magnetic field; a rotatable bridge assembly comprising opposing switch actuators and a bridge based magnetic field; and first and second switch assemblies cooperable with the switch actuators. The coil-emanating magnetic field is directable through the bridge assembly to impart bridge rotation via the bridge based magnetic field. The bridge rotation displaces the switch actuators about a bridge axis of rotation. The displaceable switch actuators opening and closing the switch assemblies. The closed switch assemblies enable current to pass therethrough. The switch assemblies comprise spring-based aperture over travel means to enhance spring over travel and enhance the closed switch position. The switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements. The first of the three spring elements comprises a first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension. The first C-shaped aperture is concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture. The second of the three spring elements comprises a second contact-receiving aperture and terminates in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension.
The third of the three spring elements comprises a third contact-receiving aperture and a second C-shaped aperture. The second C-shaped aperture defines a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension. The second C-shaped aperture is concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture. The first and second C-shaped apertures are symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements. The second spring element is sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, 6b . . .
second and third semi-circular aperture defining extensions are uniformly stacked. The three spring elements are configured to provide the spring-based aperture means for enhancing spring over travel.
In another embodiment, an electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini is provided. The electromagnetic relay comprises: a coil assembly, for selectively creating a coil-emanating magnetic field; a rotatable bridge assembly comprising opposing switch actuators and a bridge-based magnetic field; and first and second switch assemblies cooperable with the switch actuators. The coil-emanating magnetic field is directable through the bridge assembly for imparting bridge rotation via the bridge-based magnetic field, the bridge rotation displaces the switch actuators about a bridge axis of rotation. The displaceable switch actuators open and close the switch assemblies. The closed switch assemblies enable current to pass therethrough. The electromagnetic relay also comprises spring-based aperture damping means for damping switch vibration when switching from open to closed switch positions. The switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, each comprising three spring elements. The first of the three spring elements comprises a first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension. The first C-shaped-aperture is concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture. The second of the three spring elements comprises a second contact-receiving aperture and terminates in a second semi-circular aperture defining extension.
The third of the three spring elements comprises a third contact-receiving aperture and a second C-shaped aperture. The second C-shaped aperture defines a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension and is concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture. The first and second C-shaped apertures are symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring element being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked. The three spring elements are configured to provide the spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration.
In another embodiment, an electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini is provided. The electromagnetic relay comprises: a coil assembly; an armature assembly; and first and second switch assemblies. The coil assembly comprises a 6c . = . =
current-conductive coil and a coil axis. The coil is for creating a magnetic field. The armature assembly comprises switch actuators, a zigzagged rotor bracket having opposing actuator-engaging structures, and field-diversion means. The field-diversion means to transversely divert the magnetic field relative to the coil axis and magnetically induce a torque. The magnetically induced torque actuates the switch actuators via the actuator-engaging structures. The switch actuators are cooperable with the switch assemblies to enable current to pass therethrough. The first and second switch assemblies each comprise spring-based aperture means to damp switch vibration when switching from open to closed switch positions. Each switch assembly comprises a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements. The first of the three spring elements comprise a first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension.
The first C-shaped aperture is concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture. The second of the three spring elements comprises a second contact-receiving aperture and terminates in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension. The third of the three spring elements comprises a third contact-receiving aperture and a second C-shaped aperture.
The second C-shaped aperture defines a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension and is concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture. The first and second C-shaped apertures are symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements. The second spring element is sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact so that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked. The three spring elements are configured to provide the spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration.

6d Other objects of the present invention, as well as particular features, elements, and advantages thereof, will be elucidated or become apparent from, the following description and the accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Other features of our invention will become more evident from a consideration of the following brief description of patent drawings:
Figure No. 1 is a first top plan view of the electromagnetic relay assembly of the present invention with each switch assembly in an closed position.
Figure No. 2 is a second top plan view of the electromagnetic relay assembly of the present invention with the switch assembly in a closed position.
Figure No. 2(a) is a fragmentary enlarged sectional view as sectioned from the assembly depicted in Figure No. 2 showing the rotor assembly and rotor mount.
Figure No. 3 is a diagrammatic plan type depiction of the rotor assembly, each actuator arm, and each switch assembly in a closed position as separated from the relay housing and coil assembly for enhancing understanding of the structural relationship therebetween.
Figure No. 4 is a diagrammatic plan type depiction of the rotor assembly, each actuator arm, and each switch assembly in an open position as separated from the relay housing and coil assembly for enhancing understanding of the structural relationship therebetween.
Figure No. 5 is a top perspective exploded type depiction of the electromagnetic relay assembly of the present invention showing an optional housing cover.

7 Figure No. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a coil assembly of the electromagnetic relay assembly of the present invention.
Figure No. 7 is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of a rotor assembly of the armature assembly of the electromagnetic relay assembly.
Figure No. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a first terminal assembly of a first switch assembly of the electromagnetic relay assembly.
Figure No. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a second terminal assembly of the first switch assembly of the electromagnetic relay assembly.
Figure No. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a first switch terminal assembly of a second switch assembly according to the present invention.
Figure No. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a second switch terminal assembly of the second switch assembly according to the present invention.
Figure No. 12 is a fragmentary side view depiction of the triumvirate spring assembly, the contact buttons, and an armature arm of the present invention showing the contact buttons in a closed position with the triumvirate spring assembly in a substantially coplanar position.
Figure No. 13 is a fragmentary side view depiction of the triumvirate spring assembly, the contact buttons, and the armature arm of the present invention showing the contact buttons in a closed position with the triumvirate spring assembly in an over travel position for enhancing contact pressure intermediate the contact buttons.
Figure No. 14 is an enlarged fragmentary side view depiction of the junction at the triumvirate spring assembly and the upper contact button otherwise shown in Figure No. 13

8 . .
depicting the triumvirate spring assembly in the over travel position for enhancing contact pressure intermediate the contact buttons.
Figure No. 15 is a dual fragmentary side view depiction of opposed triumvirate spring assemblies, contact buttons, and armature arm assemblies of the present invention showing contact buttons in a closed position, showing the respective triumvirate spring assemblies such that two springs are in a substantially linear configuration and one spring is in an offset configuration before over travel.
Figure No. 16 is an enlarged fragmentary side view depiction of the junction at the right most triumvirate spring assembly and the upper contact button otherwise shown in Figure No. 15 depicting the spring with offset before over travel.
Figure No. 17 is an enlarged fragmentary side view depiction of the junction at the left most triumvirate spring assembly and the upper contact button otherwise shown in Figure No. 15 depicting the spring with offset before over travel.
Figure No. 18 is an enlarged fragmentary side view depiction of the junction of the triumvirate spring assembly and the upper contact button otherwise shown in Figure No. 16 depicting the spring with offset after over travel.
Figure No. 19 is an enlarged fragmentary side view depiction of the junction of the triumvirate spring assembly and the upper contact button otherwise shown in Figure No. 17 depicting the spring with offset after over travel.
Figure No. 20 is a diagrammatic depiction of the flux flow through the C-shaped core assembly and the rotor assembly of the electromagnetic relay assembly depicting a diverted and divided field flow through the rotor assembly.

9 Figure No. 21 is a dual side view depiction of (1) a switch terminal assembly as operatively connected to a triumvirate spring assembly and a contact button, the triumvirate spring assembly showing first and second springs with centrally located C-shaped folds, and a third spring with an end-located bend, and (2) an enlarged fragmentary sectional view depicting the end-located bend of the third spring in greater detail.
Figure No. 22 is a diagrammatic depiction of a threshold current path directed through the relay terminals as disposed in adjacency to the rotatable armature assembly and depicting a terminal-sourced magnetic field greater in magnitude than an armature-sourced magnetic field for rotating the armature assembly toward a circuit-opening position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring now to the drawings, the preferred embodiment of the present invention concerns an electromagnetic relay assembly 10 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, and 5. The electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention essentially functions to selectively enable current to pass through switch termini 11 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3 ¨ 5, and 8 ¨ 11. To achieve these and other readily apparent functions, the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention preferably comprises an electromagnetic coil assembly 12 as generally illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, and 5; a rotatable armature assembly 13 as generally illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1 ¨ 5; and switch assemblies 14 as generally illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4.

. , The coil assembly 12 of the present invention preferably comprises a current-conductive coil 15 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, and 6; a C-shaped core or yoke assembly 16 as illustrated and referenced in Figure No. 6; and a coil axis. It may be seen or understood from an inspection of the noted figures that the current-conductive coil 15 is wound around the coil axis and comprises electromagnet-driving termini 17 as illustrated and referenced in Figure No. 6. The yoke assembly or C-shaped core assembly 16 of the present invention is axially received within the coil 15 and preferably comprises first and second yoke arms 18. It may be seen from an inspection of Figure No. 6 that yoke arms 18 each comprise an axial yoke portion 19 and a substantially planar yoke terminus 20, which yoke termini 20 are preferably parallel to the coil axis.
It is contemplated that the rotatable armature assembly 13 of the present invention may be described as preferably comprising a rotor assembly 21 as generally illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1 ¨ 5, 7, 15, and 17; actuator or actuator arm(s) 22 as generally illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3 ¨ 5, and 13; and an armature axis of rotation 101 as depicted and referenced at a point in Figure Nos. 2(a) ¨ 4, 15, and 17; and as a broken line in Figure No. 7. The rotor assembly 21 preferably comprises first and second uniformly directed or polarized rotor magnets 23 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 7 and 15; a rotor plate 25 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 3 ¨ 5, 7, and 15; a rotor bracket 26 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 3 -5, 7, and 15; a rotor housing 27 as illustrated and referenced in Figure No. 7; a return spring (not specifically illustrated); a rotor pin 29 as illustrated and referenced in Figure No. 5;
and a rotor mount 30 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2(a), and 5.

It may be seen from an inspection of the noted figures that the rotor bracket 26 is attached or otherwise cooperatively associated with first end(s) of the actuator arm(s) 22, and that the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 (or portions thereof) are preferably oriented parallel to one another by way of the rotor housing 27. In this regard, it may be further seen that the first and second rotor magnets 23 are equally dimensioned and extend intermediate the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 for simultaneously and equally spacing the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 and for further providing a guide way or pathway for so-called Lorenz current or magnetic flux to be effectively transversely directed across the rotor or bridge assembly 21 as diagrammatically depicted in Figure No. 15.
In this last regard, it is contemplated that the armature assembly 13 may be thought of as an armature bridge assembly, which bridge assembly comprises a bridge axis of rotation (akin to the armature axis of rotation 101) and a bridge in cooperative association with the armature arm(s) 22. In this context, the bridge may be thought of or described as preferably comprising a medial pathway (akin to the rotor plate 25), a lateral pathway (akin to the rotor bracket 26), and longitudinally or axially spaced medial-to-lateral or transverse pathways (akin to the first and second rotor magnets 23). The armature arm(s) 22 may thus be described as extending laterally away from the lateral pathway or rotor bracket 26 for engaging the switch assemblies 14.
The rotor housing 27 essentially functions to receive, house, and position the first and second rotor magnets 23, the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 to form the bridge like structure of the armature assembly 13. The rotor magnets 23 are uniformly directed such that like poles face the same rotor structure. For example, it is contemplated that the north poles of rotor magnets 23 may face the rotor bracket 26 (the south poles thereby facing the rotor plate 25) or that the south poles of rotor magnets 23 may face the rotor bracket 26 (the north poles thereby facing the rotor plate 25).
The rotor housing 27 may well further comprise a pin-receiving aperture or bore for receiving the rotor pin. The pin-receiving aperture or bore of the rotor housing 27 enables rotation of the bridge or armature assembly 13 about the armature axis of rotation 101. The rotor pin 29, extending through the pin-receiving bore, may be axially anchored at a lower end thereof by way of a relay housing 48 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1 ¨ 3, and which relay housing 48 is sized and shaped to receive, house, and position the coil assembly 12, the armature assembly 13, and the switch assemblies 14. It may be further readily understood from an inspection of Figure No. 5 that the relay housing 48 may, but not necessarily, comprise or be cooperable with a relay cover 49.
In this last regard, it will be recalled that the armature assembly 13 of present invention may be anchored or mounted by way of the rotor mount 30. Rotor mount may be cooperatively associated with the relay housing 48 (i.e. anchored to the relay housing 48) for axially fixing the rotor pin 29, the fixed rotor mount 30 receiving and anchoring an upper end of the rotor pin 29 so as to enable users of the relay to effectively operate the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention without the relay cover 49. The rotor mount 30 or bridge mount or means for mounting the rotor assembly or bridge assembly may thus be described as providing certain means for enabling open face operation of the electromagnetic relay assembly 10. It is contemplated, for example, that in certain scenarios a coverless relay assembly provides a certain benefit. For example, the subject relay assembly may be more readily observed during testing procedures. In any event, it is contemplated that the rotor mount 30 of the present invention enables cover-free operation of the electromagnetic relay assembly

10 by otherwise fixing the armature assembly 13 to the relay housing 48.
The switch assemblies 14 of the present relay assembly 10 each preferably comprises a first switch terminal assembly 31 as generally illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3 ¨ 5, 9, 11, and 17; a second switch terminal assembly 32 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3 ¨ 5, 8, 10, 16, and 17; and a triumvirate spring assembly 33 as illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3 ¨ 5, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16.
From an inspection of the noted figures, it may be seen that each first switch terminal assembly 31 preferably comprises a first contact button 34 and a first switch terminus as at 11. Further, each second switch terminal assembly 32 preferably comprises a second switch terminus as at 11.
Each triumvirate spring assembly 33 preferably comprises second contact button(s) 37; and a first spring 38, second spring 39, and third spring 40 as further illustrated and referenced in Figure Nos. 8, 10, 12 ¨ 14, and 16. It may be further seen that the first spring(s) 38 each preferably comprises a first contact-receiving aperture as at 41 and a first C-shaped aperture as at 42 in Figure Nos. 8 and 10, as well as an end-located offset or bend as at 70 in Figure Nos. 16, 17, and 21. Notably, the first C-shaped aperture 42 is preferably concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture 41. The second spring(s) 39 each preferably comprises a second contact-receiving aperture as at 43 and a first C-shaped fold as at 44 in Figure Nos. 8 and 10. It may be seen from an inspection of Figure Nos. 8 and 10 that the first C-shaped fold 44 has a certain first radius of curvature. The third spring(s) 40 each preferably comprises a third contact-receiving aperture as at 45 and a second C-shaped fold as at 47.
It may be further seen that the second C-shaped fold 47 has a certain second radius of curvature, which second radius of curvature is greater in greater in magnitude than the first radius of curvature (of the first C-shaped fold 44). The second spring(s) 39 are [[is]] sandwiched intermediate the first and third springs 38 and 40 via the second contact button(s) 37 as received or extended through the contact-receiving apertures 41, 43, and 45. The first C-shaped fold(s) 44 are concentric (about a fold axis) within the second C-shaped fold(s) 47. The first and second contact buttons 34 and 37 or contacts are spatially oriented or juxtaposed adjacent one another as generally depicted in Figure Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 12 ¨ 14, and 17. In the preferred embodiment, the triumvirate spring assemblies 33 are biased in an open contact position intermediate the first and second switch termini 11 and attached to (the lateral end of) the armature arm(s) 22.
It is contemplated that the first and second C-shaped apertures 42, and the end-located offset or bend 70 may well function to provide certain means for enhanced over travel for increasing contact pressure intermediate the first and second contact buttons 34 and 37. In this regard, the reader is further directed to Figure Nos. 12 ¨ 14 and 15 ¨ 19.
From a comparative consideration of the noted figures, it may be seen that the terminal side ends 53 of the spring assembly 33 may be actuated past the planar portions of the spring assembly 33 immediately adjacent the stem 51 of contact button 37. The planar portions of the spring assembly 33 immediately (and radially) adjacent the stem 51 of contact button 37 thus form button-stackable spring portions as at 52 in Figure No. 14. It may be seen that the button-stackable portions 52 stack upon the contact button 37 and that terminal side ends 53 of the spring assembly 33 elastically deform as at 50 for enabling said over travel.
In other words, the material (preferably copper) of the spring elements having the C-shaped apertures is more readily and elastically deformable at the termini of the C-shaped apertures as at 50. Notably, the elastic deformation of the material adjacent termini 50 does not result in appreciable embrittlement of the underlying material lattice (i.e. does not appreciably impart undesirable lattice dislocations) and thus the C-shaped aperture structure or feature of the triumvirate spring assembly provides a robust means for enhanced over travel for further providing a certain added pressure intermediate the contact buttons 34 and 37 for improving conductive contact(s) therebetween.
The end-located offset or bend 70 further provides a means for enhanced over travel for increasing contact pressure and reducing contact bounce of the contacts 34 and 37.
Conduction through the contact buttons 34 and 37 is thus improved by way of the C-shaped aperture-enabled and/or enhanced over travel. It is contemplated that the enhanced contact and resulting conduction provides certain means for improved contact wiping, the means for contact wiping or contact cleansing thus being further enabled by way of the enhanced over travel. In this regard, it is contemplated that the relay assembly 10 of the present invention inherently has a self-cleansing feature as enabled by the C-shaped apertures 42. Further, it is contemplated that the C-shaped apertures 42 (and offset or bend 70) may well provide certain means for reducing contact bounce or for otherwise damping contact vibration intermediate the contact buttons 34 and 37 when switching from an open contact state or open switch position (as generally depicted in Figure No. 4) to a closed contact state or closed switch position (as generally depicted in Figure Nos. 1, 2, and 3).
From an inspection of Figure No. 15, it may be readily understood that the core or yoke termini 20 are loosely received intermediate the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26, and that the armature axis of rotation 101 is coplanar with the yoke termini 20, which axis of rotation 101 extends through the rotor pin 29 (not specifically depicted in Figure No. 15). As should be readily understood, the current-conductive coil 15 functions to receive current and thereby creates a magnetic field as further depicted and referenced at vectors 102 in Figure No. 15. As may be seen from an inspection of the noted figure, the magnetic field 102 is directed through the yoke termini 20 via the rotor assembly (essentially defined by the rotor bracket 26, the rotor magnets 23, and the rotor plate 25) for imparting armature or bridge rotation about the armature axis of rotation 101 via a magnetically induced torque.
The rotor bracket 26 thus functions to linearly displace the actuator arm(s) 22, which displaced actuator arm(s) 22 actuate the triumvirate spring assemblies 33 from a preferred spring-biased open position (as generally depicted in Figure No. 4) to a spring-actuated closed position (as generally depicted in Figure No. 2). The material construction of the relay assembly 10 (believed to be within the purview of those skilled in the art) and the closed position essentially function to enable 120-amp current to pass through the switch assemblies 14 via the contact buttons 34 and 37 and the switch termini

11.
When the coil assembly 12 is currently dormant and the magnetic field is effectively removed, the return spring may well function to enhance return of the triumvirate spring assembly 33 to the preferred spring-biased open position. Should a fault current condition arise, it is contemplated that the electromagnetic relay 10 may preferably further comprise certain closed contact default means, the closed contact default means for forcing the contact buttons 34 and 37 closed during said fault current or short circuit condition(s).
It is further contemplated that the electromagnetic relay according to the present invention may comprise certain means for defaulting to an open contact position during threshold terminal-based current conditions. In this regard, it is noted from classical electromagnetic theory that streaming charge carriers develop a magnetic field in radial adjacency to the direction of the carrier stream. The reader is thus directed to Figure No.
22 which is a diagrammatic depiction of a threshold current path as at 71 being directed through the relay terminals 31 and 32 via the contact buttons 34 and 37. A
magnetic force vector as at 103 is depicted as terminal-sourced via the charge carrier current flowing through the path 71. After reaching certain threshold amperage, the magnetic field generated through the terminals 31 and 32 will interact with the permanent magnets or rotor magnets 23 of the rotatable armature assembly 13. The magnets 23 have an inherent magnetic field directed outward as referenced at vector arrow 104, the force of which is lesser in magnitude than the force at vector arrow 103. The difference in force between 104 and 103 as directed causes the rotatable armature assembly 13 to rotate toward an open contact position as diagrammatically shown in Figure No. 22.
This feature can be calibrated by the size and strength of the magnets 23 and the distance between the armature and stationary contacts.

The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments herein, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. For example, the invention may be said to essentially teach or disclose an electromagnetic relay assembly for enabling current to pass through switch termini, which electromagnetic relay assembly comprises a coil assembly, a bridge assembly, and at least one switch assembly. The coil assembly comprises a coil, a coil axis, and a C-shaped core. The coil is wound around its coil axis, and the coil axis extends through the core as at 60 in Figure No. 15. The core 60 comprises core termini 20, which core termini 20 are substantially parallel to the coil axis.
The bridge assembly comprises an axis of rotation as at 101 and a bridge as at in Figure No. 15; and switch actuator(s) as at 22. The bridge 61 comprises a medial field pathway 63 (i.e. a pathway relatively closer in proximity to the core 60), a lateral field pathway 64 (i.e. a pathway relatively further in proximity to the core 60), and axially spaced transverse pathways 65 for guiding the field as at 102 intermediate the medial and lateral field pathways 63 and 64. The actuator arm(s) 22 are cooperable with, and extend away from, the lateral pathway 64 (not specifically depicted in Figure No.
15). The core termini 20 are preferably coplanar with the axis of rotation 101 and received intermediate the medial and lateral pathways 63 and 64.
It is contemplated that the transverse pathways 65 provide certain field-diversion means for transversely diverting the magnetic field 102 relative to the coil axis 100 and magnetically inducing a torque, which magnetically induced torque functions to actuate the switch actuator(s) 22. Said field diversion means may be further described as . .
comprising certain field division means (there being two axis-opposing paths as at 66 in Figure No. 15) for creating a magnetic couple about the magnetically induced torque.
The switch assemblies as at 14 are further cooperable with the actuator arm(s) 22, which actuator arm(s) 22 are essentially a coupling intermediate the bridge assembly 61 Each switch assembly 14 comprises certain spring means for enhancing spring over travel, said means for enhancing the closed switch position by way of increasing the contact pressure intermediate contact buttons 34 and 37. The spring means function to Although the invention has been described by reference to a number of preferred embodiments, the scope of the claims should not be limited thereby, but should be given , .
the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. For example, the foregoing specifications support an electromagnetic relay assembly primarily intended for use as a multi-pole relay assembly, having unique construction and functionality in its own right, and which is enabled by the teachings of the embodiment(s) set forth in this disclosure.

Claims

We claim:

1. An electromagnetic relay, the electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini, the electromagnetic relay comprising:
an electromagnetic coil assembly, the coil assembly comprising a coil, a C-shaped yoke assembly, and a coil axis, the coil being wound around the coil axis, the yoke assembly comprising first and second yoke arms, the yoke arms each comprising an axial yoke portion and a yoke terminus;
an armature bridge assembly, the armature bridge assembly comprising a bridge axis of rotation, a bridge, and opposing actuator arms, the bridge comprising a medial field pathway, a zigzagged lateral field pathway, and longitudinally spaced transverse field pathways, the actuator arms extending from terminal portions of the lateral field pathway; and two switch assemblies, the switch assemblies each comprising switch terminals and a spring assembly, the spring assemblies being attached to the actuator arms and extending intermediate the switch terminals, the yoke termini being received intermediate the medial and lateral field pathways, the bridge axis of rotation being coplanar with the yoke termini, the actuator arms and zigzagged lateral field pathway extending non-radially relative to the bridge axis of rotation, the coil for receiving current and creating a magnetic field, the magnetic field being directable through the bridge assembly via the yoke termini for imparting bridge rotation about the bridge axis of rotation and displacing the actuator arms, the displaceable actuator arms for actuating the spring assemblies intermediate an open contact position and a closed contact position, the closed contact position for enabling current to pass through the switch assemblies via the switch termini.

2. The electromagnetic relay of claim 1 comprising spring-based aperture means for enhancing spring over travel, said means for increasing contact pressure intermediate the switch terminals when the spring assemblies are in the closed contact position.

3. The electromagnetic relay of claim 2 wherein the spring-based aperture means for enhancing spring over travel provide means for contact wiping, said contact wiping means for cleansing the switch terminals.

4. The electromagnetic relay of claim 1 comprising spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration intermediate the first and second contacts when switching from the open contact position to the closed contact position.

5. The electromagnetic relay of claim 1 comprising bridge-mounting means, the bridge-mounting means for enabling open face operation of the electromagnetic relay.

6. The electromagnetic relay of claim 1 comprising means for defaulting to a closed contact position during fault current conditions.

7. The electromagnetic relay of claim 1 comprising means for defaulting to an open contact position during threshold terminal-based current conditions.

8. An electromagnetic relay, the electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini, the electromagnetic relay comprising:
a coil assembly, the coil assembly comprising a coil, a coil axis, and a C-shaped core, the coil being wound round the coil axis, the coil axis extending through the core, the core comprising core termini, the core termini being parallel to the coil axis;
a bridge assembly, the bridge assembly comprising an axis of rotation, a bridge, and opposing actuators, the bridge comprising a medial field pathway, a zigzagged lateral field pathway, and spaced transverse field pathways, the actuators extending from terminal portions of the lateral field pathway, the core termini being coplanar with the axis of rotation and received intermediate the medial and lateral field pathways; and first and second switch assemblies cooperable with the actuators, the coil for creating a magnetic field, the magnetic field being directable through the bridge assembly via the core termini for imparting bridge rotation about the axis of rotation via magnetically induced torque, the bridge rotation for displacing the actuators, the displaceable actuators for opening and closing the switch assemblies, the closed switch assemblies for enabling current to pass therethrough.

9. The electromagnetic relay of claim 8 wherein the switch assemblies comprise spring-based aperture over travel means for enhancing spring over travel and for enhancing the closed switch position.

10. The electromagnetic relay of claim 9 wherein the spring-based aperture over travel means provide contact wiping means, said contact wiping means for cleansing the switch assemblies.

11. The electromagnetic relay of claim 8 comprising spring-based aperture damping means for damping switch vibration when switching from open to closed switch positions.

12. The electromagnetic relay of claim 8comprising bridge-mounting means, the bridge-mounting means for enabling open face operation of the electromagnetic relay.

13. The electromagnetic relay of claim 8 comprising means for defaulting to a closed contact position during fault current conditions.

14. The electromagnetic relay of claim 8 comprising means for defaulting to an open contact position during threshold terminal-based current conditions.

15. The electromagnetic relay of claim 9 wherein the switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of the three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for enhancing spring over travel.

16. The electromagnetic relay of claim 11 wherein the switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of the three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration.

17. An electromagnetic relay, the electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini, the electromagnetic relay comprising:
a coil assembly, the coil assembly for selectively creating a coil-emanating magnetic field;
a rotatable bridge assembly, the bridge assembly comprising opposing switch actuators and a bridge-based magnetic field; and first and second switch assemblies cooperable with the switch actuators, the coil-emanating magnetic field being directable through the bridge assembly for imparting bridge rotation via the bridge-based magnetic field, the bridge rotation for displacing the switch actuators about a bridge axis of rotation, the displaceable switch actuators for opening and closing the switch assemblies, the closed switch assemblies for enabling current to pass therethrough;
wherein the switch assemblies comprise spring-based aperture over travel means for enhancing spring over travel and for enhancing the closed switch position; wherein the switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of the three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for enhancing spring over travel.

18. An electromagnetic relay, the electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini, the electromagnetic relay comprising:
a coil assembly, the coil assembly for selectively creating a coil-emanating magnetic field; a rotatable bridge assembly, the bridge assembly comprising opposing switch actuators and a bridge-based magnetic field; and first and second switch assemblies cooperable with the switch actuators, the coil-emanating magnetic field being directable through the bridge assembly for imparting bridge rotation via the bridge-based magnetic field, the bridge rotation for displacing the switch actuators about a bridge axis of rotation, the displaceable switch actuators for opening and closing the switch assemblies, the closed switch assemblies for enabling current to pass therethrough; and spring-based aperture damping means for damping switch vibration when switching from open to closed switch positions;
wherein the switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of the three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration.

19. An electromagnetic relay, the electromagnetic relay for enabling current to pass through switch termini, the electromagnetic relay comprising:
a coil assembly, the coil assembly comprising a current-conductive coil and a coil axis, the coil for creating a magnetic field;
an armature assembly, the armature assembly comprising switch actuators, a zigzagged rotor bracket having opposing actuator-engaging structures, and field-diversion means, the field-diversion means for transversely diverting the magnetic field relative to the coil axis and magnetically inducing a torque, the magnetically induced torque for actuating the switch actuators via the actuator-engaging structures; and first and second switch assemblies, the switch actuators being cooperable with the switch assemblies for enabling current to pass therethrough, wherein the first and second switch assemblies each comprising spring-based aperture, means for damping switch vibration when switching from open to closed switch positions; wherein each switch assembly comprises a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of the three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration.

20. The electromagnetic relay of claim 2 wherein the switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of the three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such tat the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for enhancing spring over travel.

21. The electromagnetic relay of claim 4 wherein the switch assemblies each comprise a spring assembly, the spring assemblies each comprising three spring elements, a first of the three spring elements comprising a first C-shaped aperture, the first C-shaped aperture defining a first semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the first C-shaped aperture being concentric about the first contact-receiving aperture, a second of die three spring elements comprising a second contact-receiving aperture and terminating in a second semi-circular aperture-defining extension, a third of the three spring elements comprising a third contact-receiving aperture, and a second C-shaped aperture, the second C-shaped aperture defining a third semi-circular aperture-defining extension, the second C-shaped aperture being concentric about the second contact-receiving aperture, the first and second C-shaped apertures being symmetrical about the longitudinal axes of the first and third spring elements, the second spring being sandwiched intermediate the first and third spring elements via the second contact such that the first, second and third semi-circular aperture-defining extensions are uniformly stacked, the three spring elements so configured providing the spring-based aperture means for damping contact vibration.

22. The electromagnetic relay of claim 1 wherein the actuator arms simultaneously and respectively pull-close and push-close the switch assemblies for enabling current to pass therethrough.

23. The electromagnetic relay of claim 8 wherein the actuator arms simultaneously and respectively pull-close and push-close the switch assemblies for enabling current to pass therethrough.