DE102014218678B4 - Arrangement and method for noise reduction of an electrical switching element - Google Patents

Abstract

Arrangement (1) for an electrical switching element (3) such as a relay or a contactor, comprising an actuator (5) which is reciprocable between a first position (A) and a second position (B), and an attenuator (31), wherein the actuator (5) in a movement from the first position (A) to the second position (B) is force-transmitting coupled to the attenuator (31) and in a movement from the second position (B) to the first position (A) at least in sections by the damping member (31) is freely movable, and wherein the damping member (31) by a flywheel (35) is formed, characterized in that between the actuator (5) and the damping member (31) by a Connecting rod (67) formed coupling element (13) is arranged, which is connected to a drive end (68) of the connecting rod (67) formed first end (16) captive with the actuator (5) and at one as the output end (70) of the connecting rod (67) formed second end (16) has a thrust element (21) for transmitting power to or from a counter-thrust element (29).

Description

The invention relates to an arrangement for an electrical switching element such as a relay or a contactor, with an actuator which is movable between a first position and a second position and with an attenuator, wherein the actuator in a movement from the first position force-transmitting coupled to the attenuator in the second position and at least in sections from the attenuator is independently movable in a movement from the second position to the first position, and wherein the attenuator is formed by a flywheel. The invention also relates to a method for operating an electrical switching element such as a relay or a contactor with an actuator movable by an actuating force into a switching position and by a restoring force in an initial position, wherein the attenuator is formed by a flywheel.

Electrical switching elements such as relays or contactors are known in the art. These usually have an actuator, which is movable between a first and a second position back and forth. Known actuators are for example hinged armature of relays or tie rods of contactors. These actuators are usually moved by a magnetic force in one direction and a spring force in the opposite direction to trigger a switching operation such as opening and closing of contacts. When the actuator is moving, loud noises are often generated, such as when an armature strikes a magnetic core or other element. In many areas it is desirable to eliminate these noises or to minimize them to a tolerable level.

In known switching elements noise reduction is often achieved in that attenuators are installed in the switching element. For example, elastomers can be placed between an anchor and a core to dampen the impact of the anchor. However, this solution has the disadvantage that such a spacer between the armature and core is inserted, whereby the range of motion for the anchor is limited and the magnetic force of a coil can not exert the full effect on the anchor.

Other known methods for noise reduction are to hinder the actuator in its movement. This can be done for example by spring elements, friction surfaces or an increased mass of the actuator itself. However, all these methods have the disadvantage that the actuator is obstructed in its movement both when opening and when closing contacts. This may be disadvantageous, for example, when the actuator is moved in one direction by a magnetic coil and in the opposite direction by a spring. Then both drive elements for the actuator must be strong enough to still move the actuator can. It may also be desirable for the actuator to be able to move faster in one direction than in the other direction. This can be of importance especially for safety-relevant applications.

For example, is from the GB 762 913 A a switching element for repeated switching on and off of a direction indicator known, which has a flywheel, which in turn can be directly offset by an actuator in rotation. From the pamphlets DE 197 26 495 A1 and DE 199 51 116 A1 Relays are known for motor vehicle starters, which set a shift rod in linear motion, which then either actuates a switch in the direction of their linear movement or acts by means of a reversing lever on a Ritzeleinrückvorrichtung. Disadvantages of the known devices, however, are that they are complex in design and in the production and / or space consuming. Another disadvantage is that the known devices generally have an unsatisfactory high noise during operation.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an arrangement and a method with which a quiet electrical switching element can be realized, which allow a sufficiently fast and safe switching and also allow a compact design.

The object of the invention is achieved for the arrangement of an electrical switching element, characterized in that between the actuator and the attenuator a coupling element formed by a connecting rod is arranged, which is captively connected to an end formed as a drive end of the connecting rod first end with the actuator and at one as Output end of the connecting rod formed second end has a thrust element for transmitting power to or from a counter-thrust element. For the inventive method, the object is achieved in that between the actuator and the attenuator a coupling element formed by a connecting rod is arranged, which is captively connected to a drive end of the connecting rod designed first end to the actuator and formed on a as output end of the connecting rod second end of a thrust element for transmitting power to or from a counter-thrust member, and the actuator at least at an acceleration by the actuating force a portion of the actuating force to an attenuator transmits and is at least partially moved by the restoring force at least partially by the attenuator unhindered in the starting position.

The solution according to the invention has the advantage that the actuator, which is preferably an armature, emits a part of its pulse or the force with which the actuator is driven to the attenuator when moving from the first position to the second position. During the movement from the first position to the second position, the actuator is thus braked, whereby a quiet movement is possible. However, in the movement from the second position to the first position, the actuator may at least partially move without being slowed down by the attenuator. This can increase security if, for example, a quick opening or closing of contacts is required.

Another advantage of the solution according to the invention is that the actuator is damped only during a movement or acceleration. It can therefore be a part of the actuating force, which acts dynamically on the actuator, are transmitted to the attenuator. A static holding force of the actuator, such as the holding force holding an armature to a core is not affected by the invention. For example, if the actuator were to be acted upon directly by an additional mass, this would also damp the movement of the actuator, but an additional mass applied directly to the actuator would have serious disadvantages. During movements of the switching elements, such as vibrations, the additional mass could be accelerated so much that the actuator moves and an undesired switching operation is triggered. The solution of the invention does not have these disadvantages by coupling in one direction only.

Between the actuator and the attenuator, a coupling element is arranged, which is connected at a first end captive with the actuator or with the attenuator. In this way, a particularly good power transmission between the actuator and the attenuator can be achieved. Likewise, the coupling element is advantageous to allow a compact design and / or to comply with specifications regarding the design, since the actuator and the attenuator must not be in direct contact with each other.

The coupling element has at a second end a thrust element for transmitting power to or from a counter thrust element. When the pusher member abuts against the backlash member, forces can be transmitted between these members. For example, if the coupling element with its first end is captively connected to the actuator and has at its second end the thrust element, so the counter-thrust element can for example be attached to the attenuator or be part of it. Upon movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position, the pusher member may strike the pusher member and transmit at least a portion of the force with which the actuator is moved to the attenuator. Alternatively, it is possible that the coupling element is captively connected to the attenuator. Then the reaction element is firmly connected to the actuator or a part of it. Upon movement of the actuator from the first to the second position then the reaction element can push the push element on the coupling element and direct a force in the attenuator.

The coupling element is formed by a connecting rod which is captively connected to the actuator at a drive end and has the thrust element at an output end. In this embodiment, the drive end of the connecting rod with the first end of the coupling element and the output end with the second end of the coupling element is identical.

In order to obtain a particularly compact design, the attenuator is formed by a flywheel. The flywheel can thus absorb kinetic energy of the actuator during a movement of the actuator from the first to the second position, whereby it is set in rotation. In an embodiment as a flywheel, the damper member is moved out of its initial position upon rotation of the actuator from the first to the second position by rotation. The design as a flywheel also has the advantage that the shock and vibration resistance of the actuator is further improved. In contrast to a linearly deflectable mass, a flywheel can not be deflected in its entirety by a force from the outside. An unintentionally triggered switching process can be avoided.

The solution according to the invention can be further improved by various configurations which are advantageous in each case and can be combined with one another as desired. These embodiments and the advantages associated with them will be discussed below.

The reaction element can be formed as a pin and the thrust element can be formed as a two-pronged fork, in which the pin is at least partially receivable, or vice versa. The combination of pin and fork allows one particularly safe operation, since the pin may be at least partially guided between the tines of the fork. As a result, lateral slipping perpendicular to the direction of movement of the pusher element or of the counterpushing element can be avoided. The design as a fork also allows a power transmission between the pin and fork takes place only when the pin is received in the fork and these two elements abut each other and one is moved to the other. If the two elements move away from one another, the pin can leave the fork unhindered or move freely between its teeth. Preferably, the pin is received in the fork when the actuator is moved from the first position to the second position. Then the two elements are coupled with each other in a force-transmitting manner. Upon movement of the actuator from the second to the first position, the pin may move out of the fork or move the fork away from the pin, whereby the actuator is not force-transmitting coupled to the attenuator.

The counter-thrust element can be formed as a pin and the thrust element have a slot in which the pin is at least partially receivable, or vice versa. Conversely, in this case means that the reaction element has the slot and the thrust element is formed as a pin. The design as a slot allows, as in a configuration as a fork, the damping member is coupled to transmit force to the actuator when the last is moved from the first position to the second position. The pin then abuts one end of the slot, so that thrust element and counter thrust element are coupled in a force-transmitting manner. When moving in the opposite direction, the pin may initially move freely in the slot, depending on the slot length, so that movement of the actuator can be independent of the attenuator. If the slot length is shorter than a movement distance of the actuator or the coupling element, the pin engages after the slot length is swept over at the opposite end of the slot, so again a power transmission, this time in the movement of the actuator from the second position in the first position can take place. This embodiment is advantageous if both a fast movement of the actuator from the second position to the first position is desired, but the actuator are at least partially damped in this movement. The distance in which the pin can move freely in the slot can be referred to as an acceleration distance.

It is also possible to connect the connecting rod captive with the attenuator. In this case, the connecting rod would be arranged with its output end on the damping element and meadow at its drive end, the thrust element. In this alternative embodiment, the drive end of the connecting rod is identical to the second end of the coupling element and the abrading end to the first end of the coupling element.

In order to obtain a particularly effective damping, the damping member can be moved by a movement of the actuator from its first position to the second position from an initial position. The attenuator can thus be formed by a mass which can absorb impulse from the actuator. Due to the inertia of the attenuator, the movement of the actuator is prevented or delayed. A particularly compact design and a particularly simple structure can be obtained when the attenuator is movable parallel to a direction of movement of the actuator from the actuator. The actuator can in particular act directly or via the coupling element on the attenuator and accelerate this in a movement from the first to the second position.

The reaction element or the thrust element can be arranged on an edge of the flywheel. As a result, a particularly good power transmission and a simple structure can be made possible. The counter-thrust element may be formed, for example, as a protruding from the flank of the flywheel pin which is receivable in a fork or a slot of the thrust element on the coupling element. Alternatively, the reaction element can also be designed as a fork or semicircular structure on the flank of the flywheel. It is also conceivable that a slot is present in the flywheel, which forms the counter-thrust element. The thrust element on the coupling element can then be formed as a pin projecting from the coupling element, which protrudes into the slot or can be accommodated in the fork. The pin can then protrude advantageous perpendicular from a direction of movement of the coupling element of this, so that it can be accommodated in the reaction element.

In order to further improve the damping by the flywheel, the reaction element may be less than half a flywheel radius away from an axis of rotation of the flywheel. As a result, a low torque acts on the flywheel, so that a lot of power can be absorbed by the actuator. In this way, it is also possible to dispense with a transmission for moving the flywheel. Alternatively, however, embodiments are also possible in which the movement of the actuator and / or the coupling element are passed via a gear to the flywheel. It would do that Counter-thrust element may be arranged on the transmission and forward a movement of the actuator via the transmission to the flywheel.

The attenuator can be moved back into the starting position by at least one return element. In this way, the function of the attenuator can be used in repeated switching operations.

A particularly simply constructed restoring element can be obtained in that the restoring element is formed by a spring.

The return element may be formed by a torsion spring. Torsion springs allow a particularly compact design, since they can be designed very flat.

For a compact design using a flywheel, it is also advantageous if the torsion spring is arranged radially on the outside of the flywheel, for example, extends around the flywheel. The torsion spring may be connected, for example, with one end to the flywheel and the other end to a housing part or another fixed part of the electrical switching element. Alternatively, the torsion spring can also be arranged above or below the flywheel and be connected thereto and with a fixed part.

The above-mentioned method can be further improved in that the actuator emits a part of its kinetic energy to the attenuator in a movement by the restoring force after covering an acceleration section in which it moves independently of the attenuator. In this way, at the same time a rapid movement of the actuator and an at least partial damping of the actuator can be achieved.

In the following, a preferred variant of the method is described again. The actuator of a switching element is initially in an initial position. The actuator may be, for example, an armature of a contactor, a relay or other switching element. The actuator may be directly or indirectly connected to contacts of the switching element. To achieve a switching position, whereby, for example, contacts are opened or closed, the actuator is moved by an actuating force in the switching position. The actuating force can be generated for example by a magnetic force. When moving to the switching position, the actuator outputs a portion of the actuation force to an attenuator. The attenuator, for example, as in the above-described arrangement, a flywheel and the power transmission can take place via a previously described coupling element. If the actuating force no longer acts, for example by switching off a solenoid coil, the actuator is moved by a restoring force, such as a spring force, to its original position. It moves at least a little way independent of the attenuator. Depending on the embodiment, the actuator can move completely independent of the attenuator in the movement into the starting position. Once the actuator has returned to the home position, the attenuator may also return to an initial state so that it can again receive a portion of the actuation force from the actuator upon movement to the shift position. If the attenuator designed as a flywheel, so the flywheel can be rotated back to a starting position. This can be done as described with respect to the arrangement, for example by a return element such as a torsion spring. Depending on how strong the restoring element for the attenuator and how strong the restoring force acting on the actuator is, the actuator can precede the damper on movement to the starting position. However, it is also conceivable that the attenuator acts by the return element in addition to the restoring force on the actuator and this drives with in the starting position.

The invention is explained in more detail below by way of example with reference to advantageous embodiments with reference to the drawings. The feature combinations exemplified in the embodiments can be supplemented in accordance with the above statements in accordance with the necessary for a particular application properties of the inventive arrangement by further features. Also, also in accordance with the above statements, individual features omitted in the described embodiments, if it does not depend on the effect of this feature in a specific application.

In the drawings, the same reference numerals are always used for elements of the same function and / or same structure.

• 1 ein Relais mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung;
• 2 eine schematische Darstellung einer ersten Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung;
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung einer zweiten Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung;
• 4 eine erste Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungselements;
• 5 eine zweite Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungselements;
• 6 eine dritte Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungselements;
• 7 eine vierte Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungselements;
• 8 eine Ausführungsform eines als Schwungrad ausgestalteten erfindungsgemäßen Dämpfungsgliedes in einer Aufsicht;
• 9 eine frontale Darstellung einer Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung.

Show it:

• 1 a relay with an inventive arrangement;
• 2 a schematic representation of a first embodiment of an inventive arrangement;
• 3 a schematic representation of a second embodiment of an inventive arrangement;
• 4 a first embodiment of a coupling element according to the invention;
• 5 a second embodiment of a coupling element according to the invention;
• 6 a third embodiment of a coupling element according to the invention;
• 7 A fourth embodiment of a coupling element according to the invention;
• 8th an embodiment of a flywheel designed as inventive attenuator in a plan view;
• 9 a frontal view of an embodiment of an inventive arrangement.

1 shows an arrangement according to the invention 1 on an electrical switching element 3 , in this case a relay. The order 1 has an actuator 5 , which is formed by an anchor in the embodiment shown. Shown is the actuator 5 in a first position A , The actuator 5 is along the actuation direction 7 in a second position B (not shown) movable. Preferably, the electrical switching element 3 to a solenoid with a core (not shown) in its interior, through which the actuator 5 from the first position A , which in the example shown coincides with the starting position A ', into the second position B , which in the example shown is identical to the switching position B ', movable. A restoring force for moving the actuator 5 from the second position B in the first position A can through one with the actuator 5 connected actuator spring 9 be generated. The actuator 5 may be directly or indirectly connected to contacts (not shown) passing through the actuator 5 can be opened or closed.

On the actuator 5 there is a connecting part 11 that is the actuator 5 with the coupling element 13 combines. The connecting part 11 can as part of the actuator 5 be formed or monolithically formed with this or as a separate part on the actuator 5 to be appropriate. The connecting part 11 jumps perpendicular to the direction of actuation 7 from the actuator 5 in front. At his from the actuator 5 wayward end 15 is the connecting part 11 with a first end 16 of the coupling element 13 connected. The coupling element 13 can be pivoted on the connecting part 11 be stored. Preferably, the end pointing away from the anchor protrudes 15 of the connecting part 11 through a complementary designed opening 17 at the first end 16 of the coupling element 13 ,

The coupling element 13 is essentially elongated and has the shape of a connecting rod 67 , A longitudinal direction L of the coupling element 13 runs parallel to the direction of actuation 7 of the actuator 5 , At its second end 19 has the coupling element 13 a push element 21 on. The push element 21 Can be used as a two-pronged fork 23 be formed. The forks 25 essentially in the longitudinal direction L from the coupling element 13 path. In the embodiment shown, the drive end 68 the connecting rod 67 identical to the first end 16 of the coupling element 13 , The output end 70 the connecting rod 67 is identical to the second end 19 of the coupling element 13 ,

In the first position A is the pin 27 in the fork 23 added. The pin represents the reaction element 29 and is fixed to the attenuator 31 connected. In the first position A can the pin 27 on a reason 33 the fork 23 issue. A movement of the actuator 5 in the direction of actuation 7 leads to a movement of the coupling element 13 along the force direction of action K , which parallel to the direction of actuation 7 is. The pin 27 then stays at the bottom 33 the fork 23 abut and gets off the fork 23 along the force direction of action K emotional. The forks 25 prevent the coupling element 13 and the pin 27 transverse to the force direction of action K slip past each other.

The attenuator 31 is through a flywheel 35 educated. The attenuator 31 is in 1 in his starting position 36 shown. The flywheel 35 is rotatable about a flywheel axis 37 stored. The flywheel 37 is preferred on a cover 39 arranged, which an interior space (not shown) of the electrical switching element 3 covers. In the embodiment shown, the actuator is 5 a tilting anchor, which is about a tilt axis 41 is tiltable. Preferably, the flywheel axis runs 37 parallel to the tilt axis 41 , So can a movement of the actuator 5 in the direction of actuation 7 without diverting units via the coupling element 13 on the attenuator 31 Act. In addition, this design allows a compact design. The longitudinal axis is also preferred 43 of the connecting part 11 parallel to the flywheel axis 37 and to the tilt axis 41 arranged. This also contributes to the compact design.

At the attenuator 31 is the reset element 45 appropriate. The reset element 45 is by a torsion spring 47 educated. The torsion spring 47 runs radially outward around the flywheel 35 , The torsion spring 47 is with a fastener 49 on the cover 39 appropriate. The fastener 49 located next to the flywheel 35 , From the fastener 49 starting from the torsion spring extends 47 spiral around the attenuator 31 and is associated with this. Further details of the attenuator are with respect to the 8th and 9 described.

2 shows a schematic representation of the coupling between the actuator 5 and attenuator 31 which essentially relates to the coupling between these members when referring to the 1 corresponds to described embodiment. The actuator 5 is with the first end 16 of the coupling element 13 inextricably linked. At its second end 19 owns the coupling element 13 the push element 21 , A backlash element 29 is fixed to the attenuator 31 connected.

The function of the arrangement is briefly explained below. Is the actuator located 5 in the first position (not shown), so are the pusher 21 and the backlash element 29 preferably to each other. The Elements 21 and 29 However, they can also be at least a little far apart from each other. During a movement of the actuator 5 along the direction of actuation also moves the coupling element 13 along the force direction of action K , The two directions are preferably parallel to each other. By the movement of the coupling element 13 along the force direction of action K becomes the push element 21 on the reaction element 29 pressed. The force with which the actuator 5 is moved, so at least partially in the attenuator 31 initiated. Will now be the actuator 5 against the actuation direction 7 moved back to the first position, so the actuator can 5 unhindered by the attenuator 31 move, because the thrust element 21 from the backlash element 29 contrary to the force direction of action K is withdrawn. This situation corresponds to that in 2 shown illustration. The attenuator 31 can have a reset element 45 (not shown) also against the force action direction K be moved back so that the pusher 21 and the backlash element 29 again abut each other or are arranged close to each other, so that a power transmission from the actuator 5 on the attenuator 31 can be done again as soon as the actuator 5 in force direction of action K is moved.

3 shows a second possible embodiment of the coupling between the actuator 5 and attenuator 31 , At this point, only the differences with respect to the 2 described embodiment received. The coupling member 13 is with its first end 16 firmly with the attenuator 31 connected. At its second end 19 it has the push element 21 on. The backlash element 29 is captive with the actuator 5 connected. During a movement of the actuator 5 in the direction of actuation 7 pushes the reaction element 29 on the push element 21 , leaving a force in the attenuator 31 can be initiated. During a movement of the actuator 5 against the direction of actuation 7 can the actuator 5 independently or unhindered by the attenuator 31 move, because push element 21 and backlash element 29 do not collide anymore.

4 shows a first embodiment of a pair of pusher 21 and backlash element 29 , The push element 21 is as a two-pronged fork 23 designed into the the counter thrust element 29 which as a cone 27 is configured, is receivable. In a power transmission from the thrust element 21 on the reaction element 29 lies the pin 27 at the bottom 33 the fork 23 at. The forks 25 prevent slipping of the two elements from each other. As already with respect to the 2 and 3 described is the reaction element 29 either on the attenuator 31 and the push element 21 over the coupling element 13 on the actuator 5 be attached or vice versa the reaction element 29 on the actuator 5 and the push element 21 over the coupling element 13 at the attenuator 31 ,

Due to the design of the pusher 21 as a two-pronged fork 23 is it possible that the pusher element 21 and the backlash element 29 be moved away from each other without affecting each other. Ie the actuator 5 can from his second position B in the first position A return without any power transmission to the attenuator 31 acts.

5 shows a second embodiment of a pair of pusher 21 and backlash element 29 , which also allows an independent movement of each other, provided the pusher 21 and the backlash element 29 move away from each other. In contrast to with respect to the 4 described embodiment is here the thrust element 21 as a pin 27 and the backlash element 29 as a two-pronged fork 23 educated. Alternatively, the pusher element 21 also be formed as a ball head. The operation of this embodiment corresponds to that with reference to FIGS 4 described embodiment.

The 6 and 7 show two embodiments of a pair of pusher 21 and backlash element 29 through which a movement of the actuator 5 from the second position B in the first position A only partially unhindered can take place.

6 shows an embodiment in which the coupling element 13 at its second end 19 a push element 21 with a slot 51 having. The slot 51 extends substantially along the longitudinal direction L of the coupling element 13 , The backlash element 29 is as a cone 27 trained and in the slot 51 received. The length 53 the slot is larger than the diameter 55 of the pin 27 , The slot width 57 is preferably configured such that it causes a movement of the pin 27 along the longitudinal direction L allowed. The slot width 57 is therefore the same size or larger than the pin diameter 55 ,

Be the coupling element 13 and the backlash element 29 moved towards each other, so does the functioning of with respect to the 4 described embodiment. That as a cone 27 trained backlash element 29 hits the ground 33 of the push element 21 on, so that a power transmission between these elements is possible. In the opposite direction is a movement of the coupling element 13 and the backlash element 29 only as long as possible unhindered until the pin 27 on the second reason 59 of the push element 21 abuts. The second reason 59 is the reason 33 arranged opposite and forms one end of the slot 51 , Has the actuator 5 reaches its second position and is the pin 27 at the bottom 33 arranged, the length of the acceleration section corresponds 60 in which is the actuator 5 can move back from the second to the first position without the attenuator 31 to be prevented from the slot length 53 minus the pin diameter 55 ,

7 shows a second embodiment of a pair of pusher 21 and backlash element 29 with a slot 51 , At this point is only on the differences with respect to the 6 described embodiment received. In this embodiment, the pusher element 21 that at the second end 19 of the coupling element 13 is arranged as a pin 27 educated. The backlash element 29 has the slot 51 on. The backlash element 29 may be formed for example as an oval ring. If the counter-thrust element 29 is arranged, for example, on a flywheel (not shown), then the slot can also be formed directly in the flywheel. The backlash element 29 is then the flywheel itself. The coupling element 13 protrudes transversely to the longitudinal direction L over the backlash element 29 , The pin 27 protrudes from the coupling element 13 starting in the slot 51 into it, so that this as with respect to the 6 described example at the bottom 33 or on the second reason 59 in the slot 51 can rest for power transmission. Alternatively, the coupling element 13 also by the reaction element 29 protrude, provided the pin diameter 55 larger than an opening in the push element 21 through which the coupling element 13 protrudes. Even then, a movement between the coupling element 13 and backlash element 29 be possible and the pin 27 can still force transmitting at the bottom 33 or on the second reason 59 issue.

The referring to the 6 and 7 described embodiments can be used to that the actuator 5 can first be accelerated in a movement from the second position to the first position, but then shortly before reaching the second position of the attenuator 31 can be slowed down to reduce a noise emission when reaching the second position.

8th showed a view of a flywheel 35 formed attenuator 31 , wherein the viewing direction parallel to the flywheel axis 37 runs. In the 8th shown arrangement corresponds substantially to the reference to the 1 shown arrangement. The attenuator 31 is in its starting position 36 , A backlash element 29 which by a pin 27 is formed jumps from a flank 61 the flywheel 35 in front. The distance 63 a pin center 65 is smaller than the flywheel radius R , preferably less than half the flywheel radius R , By this arrangement can be applied to a transmission between the coupling element 13 and flywheel 35 be waived.

The push element 21 is as a two-pronged fork 23 formed in which the pin 27 is receivable. The coupling element 13 forms a connecting rod 67 connecting the actuator 5 and the attenuator 31 can produce. At its first end 16 the coupling element is captive with the connecting part 11 connected. The connecting part 11 is either stuck with the actuator 5 connected or shaped as a part of it. The coupling element 13 may be at least partially pivotable about the longitudinal axis 43 of the connecting part 11 be stored. This allows movements of the pin 27 be balanced when the pin 27 with the fork 23 is coupled and the flywheel 35 rotates.

Below is again briefly the operation of the arrangement according to the invention 1 based on 8th described. The actuator 5 , which is in the first position A can be in its second position B to be moved. The second position B is for the actuator 5 represented by the dashed lines and greatly exaggerated. When moving from the first position A in the second position B the actuator moves 5 along the actuation direction 7 , The movement of the actuator 5 can be generated for example by a magnetic force. The movement of the actuator 5 is via the connecting part 11 to that as a connecting rod 67 trained coupling element 13 transferred so that this in the force direction of action K emotional. When the actuator 5 in the first position A is located, the pin can 27 the flywheel 35 already in the fork 23 of the push element 21 be included. But at the latest by the movement of the actuator 5 along the operating direction 7 and the associated movement of the coupling element 13 in the direction of force action K becomes the pin 27 in the fork 23 recorded and lies at the bottom 33 at. This is the actuator 5 force transmitting with the attenuator 31 at least in the force direction of action K coupled. The pin 27 will now be along the force direction of action K moves, causing a rotation of the flywheel 35 around the flywheel axis 37 leads. In the in 8th As shown, the flywheel rotates 35 doing it counterclockwise. Due to the inertia of the flywheel 35 becomes the movement of the actuator 5 delayed or slowed down. This can cause a noise emission when reaching the second position B of the actuator 5 be reduced as the actuator 5 moved slower than in a design without attenuator 31 , The second position B can be achieved, for example, when an armature designed as an actuator 5 meets the metal core of a magnetic coil or a holding or stopping element of an electrical switching element, which provides the path for the actuator 5 limited. Likewise, the position can be reached when contacts of the electrical switching element meet.

Is the second position B of the actuator 5 reached, no power is from the actuator 5 on the attenuator 31 transfer. The movement of the pin 27 in the direction of force action K then either comes to a standstill or is due to the momentum of the flywheel 35 at least one more piece continued. That as a torsion spring 47 configured reset element 45 now applies a restoring force on the attenuator 31 out, causing the flywheel 35 in a clockwise direction back to its original position. The by the restoring element 45 generated spring force is dimensioned so that a pressure of the pin 27 on the fork 23 against the force direction of action K the actuator 5 not from his second position B can move out. The pin 27 For example, with light pressure against the fork 23 at the bottom 33 this concern.

Will now be the actuator 5 from the second position B back to the first position A moved, for example by acting on an actuator spring 9 , so the coupling element moves 13 against the force direction of action K , Because of the open design of the fork 23 the attenuator 31 none in the force direction of action K acting counterforce on the coupling element 13 can exercise, the coupling element can 13 and thus the actuator 5 from the attenuator 31 unhindered in the first position A move. Is the torsion spring 47 Sufficiently dimensioned, this can be the movement of the actuator 5 from the second position B in the first position A even support, with the pin 27 a pressure on the fork 23 against the force direction of action K exerts when the flywheel 35 to his starting position 36 returns.

9 shows schematically the arrangement according to the invention 1 in a frontal view looking at the actuator 5 and perpendicular to the flywheel axis 37 , The referring to the 9 The arrangement described essentially corresponds to that with reference to FIGS 1 described arrangement. The actuator 5 is as one around the tilt axis 41 tiltable anchor designed. By way of example only, a dashed line indicates a magnetic drive unit 69 that the anchor at least in the direction of actuation 7 can be shown. From the actuator 5 extends parallel to the tilt axis 41 the connecting part 11 , The longitudinal axis 43 of the connecting part 11 is parallel to the tilt axis 41 arranged. That of the actuator 5 wayward end 15 of the actuator 5 protrudes through the opening 17 at the first end 16 of the coupling element 13 , The end 15 of the connecting part 11 extends over the flank 61 the flywheel 35 out, so that the coupling element 13 one on the flank 61 arranged cones 27 can reach. The flywheel axis 37 is preferably parallel to the tilt axis 41 and to the longitudinal axis 43 of the connecting part 15 arranged.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

arrangement

3

electrical switching element

5

actuator

7

operating direction

9

Actuator spring

11

connecting part

13

coupling member

15

away from the anchor end

16

first end

17

opening

19

second end

21

push element

23

fork

25

forks

27

spigot

29

Against pushing element

31

attenuator

33

reason

35

flywheel

36

Starting position of the attenuator

37

flywheel shaft

39

cover

41

tilt axis

43

Longitudinal axis of the connecting part

45

Return element

47

torsion spring

49

fastener

51

slot

53

slot length

55

Journal diameter

57

slot width

59

second reason

60

acceleration section

61

flank

63

distance

65

stud center

67

connecting rod

68

drive end

69

drive unit

70

output end

A

first position

A '

starting position

B

second position

B '

switch position

K

Force action direction

L

longitudinal direction

R

flywheel radius

Claims (11)

Arrangement (1) for an electrical switching element (3) such as a relay or a contactor, comprising an actuator (5) which is reciprocable between a first position (A) and a second position (B), and an attenuator (31), wherein the actuator (5) in a movement from the first position (A) to the second position (B) is force-transmitting coupled to the attenuator (31) and in a movement from the second position (B) to the first position (A) at least in sections by the damping member (31) is freely movable, and wherein the damping member (31) by a flywheel (35) is formed, characterized in that between the actuator (5) and the damping member (31) by a Connecting rod (67) formed coupling element (13) is arranged, which is connected to a drive end (68) of the connecting rod (67) formed first end (16) captive with the actuator (5) and at one as the output end (70) of the connecting rod (67) formed second end (16) has a thrust element (21) for transmitting power to or from a counter-thrust element (29). Arrangement (1) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the reaction element (29) as a pin (27) and the thrust element (21) as a two-pronged fork (23) is formed, in which the pin (27) is at least partially receivable, or vice versa. Arrangement (1) according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the counter-thrust element (29) is formed as a pin (27) and the thrust element (21) has a slot (51) in which the pin (27) is at least partially receivable, or vice versa. Arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that the damping member (31) by a movement of the actuator (5) from the first position (A) to the second position (B) from an initial position (36) is movable out. Arrangement (1) according to Claim 4 , characterized in that the counter-thrust element (29) on a flank (61) of the flywheel (35) is arranged. Arrangement (1) according to Claim 5 , characterized in that the counter-thrust element (29) is less than half a flywheel radius (R) from a rotation axis (37) of the flywheel (35) is removed. Arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 4 to 6 , characterized in that the damping member (31) by at least one return element (45) in the starting position (36) is movable back. Arrangement (1) according to Claim 7 , characterized in that the restoring element (45) is formed by a torsion spring (47). Arrangement (1) according to Claim 8 , characterized in that the torsion spring (47) is arranged radially outwardly on the flywheel (35) and preferably extends around the flywheel (35). Method for operating an electrical switching element (3) such as a relay or a contactor with an actuator (5) which can be moved by an actuating force into a switching position (B ') and a restoring force into an initial position (A'), wherein the damping member (31) passes through a flywheel (35) is formed, characterized in that between the actuator (5) and the damping member (31) by a connecting rod (67) formed coupling element (13) is arranged on a drive end (68) of the connecting rod (67) formed first end (16) is captively connected to the actuator (5) and at one end of the output (70) of the connecting rod (67) formed second end (16) has a thrust element (21) for transmitting power to or from a counter-thrust member (29), and in that the actuator (5) transmits part of the actuating force to an attenuator (31) at least during acceleration by the actuating force and is at least partially moved by the restoring force unhindered by the attenuator (31) to the starting position (A '). Method according to Claim 10 , characterized in that the actuator (5) on movement by the restoring force after returning an acceleration section (60) in which it moves independently of the attenuator (31) emits a portion of its kinetic energy to the attenuator (31).

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