EP3622550B1 - Starter switch comprising a sealing device and starter comprising such a switch - Google Patents

Starter switch comprising a sealing device and starter comprising such a switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3622550B1
EP3622550B1 EP18720304.7A EP18720304A EP3622550B1 EP 3622550 B1 EP3622550 B1 EP 3622550B1 EP 18720304 A EP18720304 A EP 18720304A EP 3622550 B1 EP3622550 B1 EP 3622550B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sealing
sealing device
starter
cavity
contactor
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP18720304.7A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3622550A1 (en
Inventor
Romain GUIGNOT
Nicolas Renard
Jean Sébastien Metral
Cyril BOUILLARD
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Valeo Electrification
Original Assignee
Valeo Equipements Electriques Moteur SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Valeo Equipements Electriques Moteur SAS filed Critical Valeo Equipements Electriques Moteur SAS
Publication of EP3622550A1 publication Critical patent/EP3622550A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3622550B1 publication Critical patent/EP3622550B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H50/00—Details of electromagnetic relays
    • H01H50/02—Bases; Casings; Covers
    • H01H50/023—Details concerning sealing, e.g. sealing casing with resin
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H51/00—Electromagnetic relays
    • H01H51/02—Non-polarised relays
    • H01H51/04—Non-polarised relays with single armature; with single set of ganged armatures
    • H01H51/06—Armature is movable between two limit positions of rest and is moved in one direction due to energisation of an electromagnet and after the electromagnet is de-energised is returned by energy stored during the movement in the first direction, e.g. by using a spring, by using a permanent magnet, by gravity
    • H01H51/065—Relays having a pair of normally open contacts rigidly fixed to a magnetic core movable along the axis of a solenoid, e.g. relays for starting automobiles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H50/00—Details of electromagnetic relays
    • H01H50/16—Magnetic circuit arrangements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H51/00—Electromagnetic relays
    • H01H51/02—Non-polarised relays
    • H01H51/04—Non-polarised relays with single armature; with single set of ganged armatures
    • H01H51/06—Armature is movable between two limit positions of rest and is moved in one direction due to energisation of an electromagnet and after the electromagnet is de-energised is returned by energy stored during the movement in the first direction, e.g. by using a spring, by using a permanent magnet, by gravity
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
    • F02N—STARTING OF COMBUSTION ENGINES; STARTING AIDS FOR SUCH ENGINES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F02N11/00—Starting of engines by means of electric motors
    • F02N11/08—Circuits or control means specially adapted for starting of engines
    • F02N11/087—Details of the switching means in starting circuits, e.g. relays or electronic switches
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
    • F02N—STARTING OF COMBUSTION ENGINES; STARTING AIDS FOR SUCH ENGINES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F02N11/00—Starting of engines by means of electric motors
    • F02N11/08—Circuits or control means specially adapted for starting of engines
    • F02N11/087—Details of the switching means in starting circuits, e.g. relays or electronic switches
    • F02N2011/0874—Details of the switching means in starting circuits, e.g. relays or electronic switches characterised by said switch being an electronic switch
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H50/00—Details of electromagnetic relays
    • H01H50/14—Terminal arrangements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H50/00—Details of electromagnetic relays
    • H01H50/16—Magnetic circuit arrangements
    • H01H50/18—Movable parts of magnetic circuits, e.g. armature
    • H01H50/20—Movable parts of magnetic circuits, e.g. armature movable inside coil and substantially lengthwise with respect to axis thereof; movable coaxially with respect to coil

Definitions

  • the field of the present invention is that of thermal engine starters for motor vehicles.
  • a starter contactor for a thermal engine in particular a motor vehicle, comprises a cylindrical housing in which is placed an annular coil which generates a magnetic field under the effect of an electric current passing through it.
  • the magnetic field thus created exerts a force on a cylindrical mobile core and at least partly magnetic.
  • the movable core is mounted in an interior space delimited by the cylindrical housing, so as to be able to slide there in an axial translation, driving with it a movable shaft, in order to close or open an electrical circuit connected to a power supply circuit. of the electric starter motor.
  • This opening/closing of the electrical circuit is carried out in a connection zone included in a cavity of the contactor, this cavity being separated from the interior space by a fixed core.
  • a disadvantage of these contactors lies in the vulnerability of their components to attacks from the external environment, and in particular to humidity.
  • water or splashes of water which manage to penetrate the contactor can cause electrical contact between one of the electrical terminals arranged in the cavity comprising the connection zone and the contactor housing.
  • This electrical contact can then create a short circuit of the battery to which this electrical terminal is electrically connected, this short circuit possibly being the cause of a thermal incident.
  • the document CN 106 328 443 describes such a contactor.
  • the present invention fits into this context and aims to propose a device making it possible to ensure a seal between the interior space of the contactor and the cavity of this contactor enclosing the connection zone.
  • the subject of the invention is therefore a starter contactor according to claim 1.
  • first sealing device This sealing device ensuring the seal between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone.
  • This contactor may have at least one second sealing device ensuring a seal between an electrical terminal of the connection zone and the cover closing the box.
  • This second sealing device can for example be arranged around the electrical terminal, at the level of the orifice through which this electrical terminal passes through the cover.
  • the contactor can have two second sealing devices respectively arranged around the periphery of each of the two electrical terminals, at the level of each of the orifices through which these electrical terminals pass through the cover.
  • this contactor can also include a third sealing device ensuring a seal between the contactor housing and the cover.
  • This third sealing device can for example be placed around the perimeter of the cover.
  • this contactor can also include a fourth sealing device ensuring a seal between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone.
  • This fourth sealing device can for example be placed between the fixed core and the housing.
  • the second, third and fourth sealing devices may be O-rings.
  • the second, third and fourth sealing devices can be shaped seals, for example rectangular or oblong.
  • the third and the fourth sealing device are formed from the same sealing device ensuring a seal between the fixed core and the cover.
  • This sealing device then makes it possible to isolate the cavity comprising the connection area of both the interior space and the exterior environment of the contactor.
  • This sealing device can be an O-ring or a shaped seal, for example rectangular or oblong.
  • This device can be housed in an axial recess of the cover and it can be compressed against a flat surface of axial normal of the fixed core. The axial depth of this recess is chosen to hold the device in position when the contactor is not in the mounted state. In particular, the device is inserted into the recess by at least 50% of its axial length in the mounted state.
  • connection zone is then completely sealed against the air which surrounds it, whether this is external to the contactor or present in the housing where the coil of the contactor extends. contactor.
  • the first sealing device is placed in the cavity which encloses the connection zone.
  • the contactor has a housing for integrating the first sealing device, provided on the fixed core.
  • the first sealing device is integral with the integration housing provided in the fixed core, this first sealing device being in sliding contact with the movable shaft.
  • the first sealing device is fixed with respect to the housing when the movable shaft translates.
  • the first sealing device is held in position in an integration housing via a support washer.
  • This support washer can for example have a conical section, seen in a section made along a plane passing through its central axis.
  • the movable shaft of the contactor according to the present invention may have at least a first stop against which the support washer is placed.
  • the first stop can come in one piece with the movable shaft.
  • the fixed core of the contactor according to the present invention can have at least a second stop against which the support washer is placed.
  • the first sealing device is placed in the cavity which encloses the connection zone.
  • the first sealing device may be a lip seal.
  • the first sealing device may be a self-lubricated seal.
  • the first sealing device may be an O-ring.
  • the sealing device ensuring the seal between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone may comprise a seal and a sealing ring.
  • the sealing ring can be placed between the seal and the movable shaft.
  • the seal may be an O-ring.
  • the seal can be in peroxidized EPDM, or in a material chosen from EPDM, NBR, FKM, ACM.
  • the seal ring may be a dynamic seal ring.
  • the ring can be made of PTFE.
  • the ring may include bronze and/or carbon (bronze-filled PTFE or carbon-filled PTFE).
  • the sealing ring prevents wear by rubbing which is observed during a back and forth movement of the shaft movable when a joint is directly in contact with the movable shaft. Scrubbing wear would cause the system to leak over time.
  • the sealing ring may have a cylindrical surface in sliding contact with the movable shaft. Facing the movable shaft, the ring may have a cavity which makes it possible to establish a different pressure force of the seal on the movable shaft depending on its direction of movement.
  • the sealing device comprises the gasket and the sealing ring as well as the support washer
  • the support washer can come into contact only with the sealing ring.
  • the seal is not axially tightened in the fixed core housing.
  • the support washer may have a flat surface facing the sealing device.
  • the second stop against which the support washer comes can be a notch in the fixed core.
  • the second stop can be located radially beyond the sealing device.
  • the sealing ring can be thin or thick.
  • the ring is thin if its radial dimension is at least twice less than that of the O-ring in the compressed state, that is to say in position in the contactor. It is thick if its radial dimension is substantially equal to that of the joint in the compressed state.
  • the sealing ring may include axial flanges for holding the seal in position.
  • the present invention also relates to a thermal engine starter comprising at least one contactor according to the present invention.
  • the axial, radial, exterior and interior designations refer to an axis X passing through its center the starter contactor according to the present invention.
  • the axial direction corresponds to the axis radial directions, the exterior or interior denominations are assessed in relation to the same axis X, the interior denomination corresponding to an element oriented towards the axis designating a radial distance from this X axis.
  • FIG. 1 schematically represents a starter 1 of a motor vehicle thermal engine comprising a contactor 2 according to the present invention.
  • the starter contactor 2 has a housing 3 extending along an axis the X axis.
  • the housing 3 has a first axial end 7 crossed by a first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 held by a movable core 8, and a second axial end 9 crossed by a second section 6b of the movable shaft 6, for its part held by a fixed core 10. As illustrated in the figure 1 , the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 and the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6 are in contact with each other.
  • the first axial end 7 has a hole, not shown here, through which the movable core 8 can slide, carrying with it the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6, while the second axial end 9 is closed by a cover 11.
  • the movable shaft 6 passes through their centers and in this order, the fixed core 10, the movable core 8 and the hole in the first axial end 7 of the housing 3.
  • the fixed core 10 can for example have the general shape of a disc and it bears against an internal face of the housing 3, at the level of a shoulder of this housing 3 and against the cover 11.
  • the second axial end 9 has a cavity 12 delimited radially outwards by the cover 11 and axially on one side by the fixed core 10 and on the other side by the cover 11.
  • This cavity 12 houses a connection zone electrical in which extends at least one connection plate 13 and two electrical terminals 14. These terminals 14 extend on an internal face of the cover 11 and pass through it via two distinct orifices.
  • the starter 1 also comprises an electric motor 15, electrically connected to the contactor 2 via one of the terminals 14 of the contactor 2.
  • This electric motor 15 also has a pinion 16 movable in translation in a direction parallel to the axis pinion being intended to engage on a flywheel of the thermal engine.
  • a first electrical terminal 14 is connected to a battery 30 which delivers an electric current, for example at a voltage of 12V or 24V.
  • a second terminal 14 electric is in turn connected to the electric motor 15 of the starter.
  • the electrical terminals 14 thus participate in a power supply circuit of the starter 1 and when the electrical connection plate 13 is brought into contact with the electrical terminals 14, the power supply circuit of the starter 1 is closed and the current can flow, allowing the starting the thermal engine as described below.
  • Coil 5 generates a magnetic field under the effect of an electric current passing through it. Depending on the polarization of this coil 5, the magnetic field thus created exerts an attractive or repulsive force on the mobile core 8, which can then slide in an axial translation in the housing 3. When this mobile core 8 enters the housing 3, it exerts a translational force on the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 which in turn drives the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 such that the electrical connection plate 13 comes into contact with the electrical terminals 14. Once the electrical connection plate 13 is in contact with the terminals 14, the power supply circuit of the electric motor 15 is closed.
  • the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 controls a fork 17 which makes it possible to position the pinion 16 of the electric motor 15 on a flywheel not shown here.
  • the connection plate 13 When the connection plate 13 is brought into contact by the translation movement of the movable shaft 6, the power supply circuit of the electric motor 15 is closed which allows this electric motor 15 to operate and thus to rotate the pinion 16. This rotation of the pinion 16 in turn allows the flywheel to be started and thus the vehicle's thermal engine to start.
  • the movable shaft 6 is described here with two sections 6a and 6b, but it is understood that this movable shaft can be in one piece from the fork 17 to the connection plate 13.
  • At least a first return spring for example of the helical type, is arranged to push back the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 which in turn and simultaneously pushes the movable core 8 and the first section 6a when the coil 5 n is not powered.
  • the movable shaft 6, and more particularly its first section 6a compresses the first return spring by a movement of translation along the X axis as previously described.
  • this first return spring pushes the mobile core 8 out of the interior space 4 so that it returns to its original position.
  • the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 can return to its original position, just like the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6, also pushed back by a second return spring shown on the figures 2 to 4 .
  • the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 drives the pinion 16 of the electric motor 15 via the fork 17, this pinion 16 thus disengaging from the flywheel.
  • the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 drives the electrical connection plate 13.
  • This electrical connection plate 13 is then no longer in contact with the electrical terminals 14, the power supply circuit of the electric motor 15 is thus open, which prevents the circulation of the electric current and causes this electric motor 15 to stop. .
  • the fixed core 10 forms a translation bearing with respect to the movable shaft 6, in particular its second section 6b.
  • the fixed core 10 is pierced with a hole in its center, a hole which allows the movable shaft 6 to slide. This hole forms a passage between the interior space 4 and the cavity 12.
  • FIG. 2 is a view in an axial section of a part of the contactor 2, at the level of the second axial end 9 of this contactor 2.
  • the cavity 12 presenting the connection zone and the interior space 4 of the contactor 2 starter.
  • the fixed core 10 the movable shaft 6 and more particularly the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6, as well as the housing 3 in which the coil 5 is housed.
  • this housing 2 is closed axially by the cover 11 in which two orifices are provided through which each of the electrical terminals 14 pass respectively.
  • This figure also illustrates the second return spring 18 allowing the movable shaft 6, and in particular the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6, to return to its initial position as described previously.
  • the contactor 2 has several sealing zones 19, 20, 21, 31.
  • a first sealing zone 19 is produced between the interior space 4 and the cavity 12 presenting the electrical connection zone.
  • a second sealing zone 20 and a third sealing zone 21 are produced between an environment external to the contactor 2 and the cavity 12 presenting the electrical connection zone.
  • a fourth sealing zone 31 is produced between the interior space 4 and the cavity 12 presenting the electrical connection zone at a location different from the first sealing zone 19. It is therefore understood that the first sealing zone 19 and the fourth sealing zone 31 are made between spaces internal to the contactor according to the invention, while the second sealing zone 20 and the third sealing zone 21 are made between the environment external to the contactor and an internal space to the contactor, in this case cavity 12.
  • the sealing zones at this cavity 12 make it possible to improve the longevity of the starter contactor.
  • the first sealing zone 19 is thus produced at the junction between the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10, as shown in the Figure 3 .
  • This first sealing zone 19 has a first sealing device 22 disposed between the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10 and makes it possible to ensure a seal between the cavity 12, which encloses the connection zone electrical, and the interior space 4.
  • the first sealing device 22 makes it possible to ensure continuous insulation between the cavity 12 and the interior space 4, that is to say that these two zones are sealed relative to each other whatever the position of the movable shaft 6.
  • the first sealing device 22 is placed in the cavity 12 housing the electrical connection zone. In other words, this first sealing device 22 is disposed between the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10 on the side of the cavity 12 and not on the side of the interior space 4. This position of the first sealing device 22 makes it possible not to impact the force of attraction or repulsion exerted on the mobile core 8 by the coil 5. Indeed, a shape which would be provided in the fixed core 10 on the space side interior 4 to receive a sealing device could disrupt the magnetic field generated by the coil 5 which loops back via fixed core 10.
  • the first sealing device 22 must be chosen in order to ensure a seal between two parts in translation relative to each other, in this case between the movable shaft 6 and the core fixed 10 of the contactor.
  • the first sealing device 22 can thus for example be a lip seal.
  • the second sealing zone 20 is carried out at least between one of the electrical terminals 14 and the cover 11 of the housing 3, advantageously between each of the electrical terminals 14 and the cover 11 of the housing 3.
  • two second sealing zones 20 each comprising a second sealing device 23 disposed between one of the electrical terminals 14 and the cover 11 of the housing 3 of the contactor 2, at the level of each of the orifices of the cover 11 through which pass these electrical terminals 14.
  • These second sealing devices 23 are made for example by O-rings extending over the entire periphery of each of the electrical terminals 14 or, according to an alternative embodiment, by shaped seals, for example rectangular or oblong.
  • the third sealing zone 21 comprises a third sealing device 24 disposed at a junction between the housing 3 and the cover 11 of this housing 3.
  • This third sealing device 24 can also, according to a variant of the invention, be produced by a seal of shape, for example rectangular or oblong, extending over the entire periphery of the cover 11.
  • the fourth sealing zone 31 comprises a fourth sealing device 32 disposed at a junction between the housing 3 and the fixed core 10.
  • This fourth sealing device 32 can be produced by an O-ring or, according to a variant of the invention, by a joint of shape, for example rectangular or oblong, extending over the entire periphery of the fixed core 10.
  • the third sealing device 24 and the fourth sealing device 32 can be combined into the same sealing device 33 disposed between the fixed core 10 and the cover 11.
  • This sealing device 33 then makes it possible to isolate the cavity 12 comprising the connection zone of both the interior space and the exterior environment of the contactor.
  • This sealing device 33 can be produced by an O-ring or, according to a variant of the invention, by a seal of shape, for example rectangular or oblong, extending on an internal face of the cover 11.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a first embodiment of the first sealing zone 19. It can be seen that this first sealing zone 19 comprises the first sealing device 22.
  • an integration housing 25 of the first sealing device 22 is provided on the fixed core 10.
  • This first sealing device 22 is for example produced by a lip seal.
  • this integration housing 25 is produced in an internal wall of the fixed core 10, that is to say a wall of this fixed core 10 facing the movable shaft 6.
  • the lip seal(s ) is secured to this integration housing 25 as illustrated in Figure 3 and the lip(s) is/are in sliding contact against the movable shaft 6, thus ensuring sealing while allowing the axial translation movement of this movable shaft 6 relative to the fixed core 10.
  • this first sealing device can be produced by a self-lubricated seal.
  • the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10 can also respectively have a first and a second stop 26, 27. These two stops 26, 27 are made in opposite directions relative to each other and are configured to interpose a support washer 28 which presses on the first sealing device 22, thus ensuring the maintenance of this first sealing device 22 in the integration housing 25 provided in the fixed core 10.
  • This washer 28 is an attached part which thus authorizes the mounting of the first sealing device 22 in the integration housing 25, this part also blocking the first sealing device 22 so that it does not move during translation of the movable shaft 6.
  • the washer 28 also particularly blocks the lip of the lip seal forming an example of embodiment of the first sealing device 22.
  • the first and second stops 26, 27 have slopes complementary to the shape of the support washer 28.
  • This support washer 28 can, according to the first embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 3 , present a conical section, seen in a section made along a plane passing through its central axis.
  • the first and second stops 26, 27 have conical slopes.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates, schematically, a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • an integration housing 29 of the first sealing device 22 is provided on the movable shaft 6, in particular on its external peripheral wall.
  • the first sealing device 22 is also a lip seal.
  • This lip seal is thus housed in the integration housing 29 provided on the movable shaft 6, and arranged so that its lip rubs on the fixed core 10, thus ensuring sealing despite the translation movement of this movable shaft 6 compared to the fixed core 10.
  • this second embodiment can also provide for the addition of a support washer making it possible to ensure effective maintenance of the first sealing device 22.
  • the movable shaft and the fixed core then respectively present the first and the second stop having shapes complementary to that of the support washer, as described previously.
  • THE figures 6 and 7 illustrate another example of a starter contactor 2 according to the present invention.
  • the example of the Figure 6 differs from the example in figure 2 in particular at the level of the third and fourth sealing devices and in the shape of the sealing device 22.
  • the contactor 2 comprises the same sealing device 33 which forms the third and fourth sealing devices to ensure a seal between the fixed core 10 and the cover 11.
  • the sealing device 33 is housed in an axial recess 40 of the cover 11 and it is compressed against a flat surface of axial normal 41 of the fixed core.
  • the sealing device 33 is here a seal of oblong section but can also be made in shape, for example rectangular or toroidal.
  • the sealing device 22 ensuring sealing between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone comprises a seal 44 and a sealing ring 45.
  • the sealing ring 45 is here a ring dynamic sealing device arranged between the seal 44 and the movable shaft 6.
  • the seal can be an O-ring in the free state.
  • the sealing ring may have a cylindrical surface in sliding contact with the movable shaft 6.
  • the sealing device 22 is integral with the integration housing 29 provided in the fixed core and the sealing device is held in this housing by a support washer 28.
  • the support washer 28 comes here only in contact with the sealing ring 45.
  • the seal 44 is not tightened axially in the housing 29 of the fixed core.
  • the support washer 28 has a flat surface facing the sealing device 22. The contact is plane between the support washer 28 and the sealing ring 45.
  • the support washer 28 is integral with the fixed core 10, the washer is for example crimped onto the fixed core.
  • the support washer does not rub on the movable shaft 6.
  • the sealing ring 45 has a cavity 47 facing the movable shaft 6 which makes it possible to establish a different pressure force of the seal 44 on the movable shaft depending on its direction of movement.
  • the sealing ring 45 is thin. Its radial dimension is at least twice less than that of the O-ring in the compressed state, that is to say in position in the contactor. In the second variant, that of figures 6 and 7 , the sealing ring 45 is thick. Its radial dimension is substantially equal to that of the seal 44 in the compressed state.
  • the sealing ring 45 includes axial flanges 48 for holding the seal 44 in position.
  • the present invention therefore makes it possible, thanks to a sealing device disposed between the movable shaft and the fixed core, to ensure sealing between the interior space of a contactor and the cavity of this contactor presenting the connection zone electric.
  • This electrical connection area is thus protected from dust and water which could enter this cavity.
  • This connection area being protected, the longevity of the starter contactor according to the present invention is improved.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Connection Of Motors, Electrical Generators, Mechanical Devices, And The Like (AREA)
  • Sealing With Elastic Sealing Lips (AREA)
  • Sealing Devices (AREA)
  • Thermally Actuated Switches (AREA)
  • Motor Or Generator Frames (AREA)

Description

Le domaine de la présente invention est celui des démarreurs de moteur thermique pour véhicule automobile.The field of the present invention is that of thermal engine starters for motor vehicles.

Selon une conception connue, un contacteur de démarreur de moteur thermique, notamment de véhicule automobile, comporte un boîtier cylindrique dans lequel est placé une bobine annulaire qui génère un champ magnétique sous l'effet d'un courant électrique la traversant. Selon la polarisation de la bobine, le champ magnétique ainsi créé exerce une force sur un noyau mobile cylindrique et au moins en partie magnétique. Le noyau mobile est monté dans un espace intérieur délimité par le boîtier cylindrique, de manière à pouvoir y coulisser selon une translation axiale, entrainant avec lui un arbre mobile, afin de fermer ou d'ouvrir un circuit électrique relié à un circuit d'alimentation du moteur électrique du démarreur. Cette ouverture/fermeture du circuit électrique est réalisée dans une zone de connexion comprise dans une cavité du contacteur, cette cavité étant séparée de l'espace intérieur par un noyau fixe.According to a known design, a starter contactor for a thermal engine, in particular a motor vehicle, comprises a cylindrical housing in which is placed an annular coil which generates a magnetic field under the effect of an electric current passing through it. Depending on the polarization of the coil, the magnetic field thus created exerts a force on a cylindrical mobile core and at least partly magnetic. The movable core is mounted in an interior space delimited by the cylindrical housing, so as to be able to slide there in an axial translation, driving with it a movable shaft, in order to close or open an electrical circuit connected to a power supply circuit. of the electric starter motor. This opening/closing of the electrical circuit is carried out in a connection zone included in a cavity of the contactor, this cavity being separated from the interior space by a fixed core.

Un inconvénient de ces contacteurs réside dans la vulnérabilité de leurs composants face aux agressions de l'environnement extérieur, et notamment face à l'humidité. Ainsi l'eau ou des projections d'eau qui parviennent à pénétrer dans le contacteur peuvent entraîner un contact électrique entre l'un des terminaux électriques agencés dans la cavité comprenant la zone de connexion et le boîtier du contacteur. Ce contact électrique peut alors créer un court-circuit de la batterie à laquelle est électriquement connecté ce terminal électrique, ce court-circuit pouvant être à l'origine d'un incident thermique.A disadvantage of these contactors lies in the vulnerability of their components to attacks from the external environment, and in particular to humidity. Thus water or splashes of water which manage to penetrate the contactor can cause electrical contact between one of the electrical terminals arranged in the cavity comprising the connection zone and the contactor housing. This electrical contact can then create a short circuit of the battery to which this electrical terminal is electrically connected, this short circuit possibly being the cause of a thermal incident.

Cet inconvénient est d'autant plus marqué pour les contacteurs de démarreur utilisés sur des zones géographiques humides pouvant avoir des infrastructures routières dégradées ainsi que pour les contacteurs de démarreur de véhicules tous terrains qui peuvent régulièrement être utilisés dans des environnements rudes et notamment humides. Afin d'améliorer le fonctionnement de ces contacteurs, il est déjà connu de mettre en place des dispositifs d'étanchéité entre le contacteur de démarreur et l'environnement extérieur à ce contacteur.This disadvantage is all the more marked for starter contactors used in humid geographical areas which may have degraded road infrastructures as well as for starter contactors for all-terrain vehicles which can regularly be used in harsh and particularly humid environments. In order to improve the operation of these contactors, it is already known to implement places sealing devices between the starter contactor and the environment outside this contactor.

Il est ainsi connu de disposer des dispositifs d'étanchéité entre la zone de connexion et l'environnement extérieur au contacteur afin d'assurer une étanchéité entre cet environnement extérieur et le contacteur de démarreur.It is thus known to have sealing devices between the connection zone and the environment external to the contactor in order to ensure sealing between this external environment and the starter contactor.

Toutefois, les mouvements de translation du noyau mobile génèrent un effet piston lorsque celui-ci ressort du boitier, provoquant une aspiration de l'air de l'environnement extérieur et intérieur du contacteur de démarreur, et donc dans le même temps des poussières et de l'eau présentes dans cet air. Ces poussières et cette eau peuvent donc pénétrer dans l'espace intérieur du contacteur et peuvent, lors d'une activation ultérieure du contacteur, rejoindre la cavité qui renferme la zone de connexion. L'eau peut alors migrer et rejoindre la zone de connexion, et finalement provoquer les mêmes difficultés que celles évoquées ci-dessus. Les dispositifs d'étanchéité actuellement mis en place ne sont donc pas suffisants.However, the translation movements of the mobile core generate a piston effect when it emerges from the housing, causing air to be suctioned from the exterior and interior environment of the starter contactor, and therefore at the same time dust and dirt. water present in this air. This dust and this water can therefore penetrate into the interior space of the contactor and can, upon subsequent activation of the contactor, reach the cavity which encloses the connection zone. The water can then migrate and reach the connection zone, and ultimately cause the same difficulties as those mentioned above. The sealing devices currently in place are therefore not sufficient.

Le document CN 106 328 443 décrit un tel contacteur.The document CN 106 328 443 describes such a contactor.

La présente invention s'inscrit dans ce contexte et vise à proposer un dispositif permettant d'assurer une étanchéité entre l'espace intérieur du contacteur et la cavité de ce contacteur renfermant la zone de connexion.The present invention fits into this context and aims to propose a device making it possible to ensure a seal between the interior space of the contactor and the cavity of this contactor enclosing the connection zone.

L'invention a donc pour objet un contacteur de démarreur selon la revendication 1.The subject of the invention is therefore a starter contactor according to claim 1.

Ce dispositif d'étanchéité assurant l'étanchéité entre l'espace intérieur du contacteur de démarreur et la cavité comprenant la zone de connexion est ci-après appelé « premier dispositif d'étanchéité ».This sealing device ensuring the seal between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone is hereinafter called "first sealing device".

L'ensemble des éléments du contacteur sont ainsi compris dans le boitier, ce boîtier étant fermé par un couvercle présentant au moins deux orifices par lesquels passent au moins deux terminaux électriques.All of the elements of the contactor are thus included in the housing, this housing being closed by a cover having at least two orifices through which at least two electrical terminals pass.

Ce contacteur peut présenter au moins un deuxième dispositif d'étanchéité assurant une étanchéité entre un terminal électrique de la zone de connexion et le couvercle fermant le boitier. Ce deuxième dispositif d'étanchéité peut par exemple être disposé autour du terminal électrique, au niveau de l'orifice par lequel ce terminal électrique traverse le couvercle.This contactor may have at least one second sealing device ensuring a seal between an electrical terminal of the connection zone and the cover closing the box. This second sealing device can for example be arranged around the electrical terminal, at the level of the orifice through which this electrical terminal passes through the cover.

Avantageusement, le contacteur peut présenter deux deuxièmes dispositifs d'étanchéité respectivement disposés sur le pourtour de chacun des deux terminaux électriques, au niveau de chacun des orifices par lesquels ces terminaux électriques traversent le couvercle.Advantageously, the contactor can have two second sealing devices respectively arranged around the periphery of each of the two electrical terminals, at the level of each of the orifices through which these electrical terminals pass through the cover.

Optionnellement, ce contacteur peut également comprendre un troisième dispositif d'étanchéité assurant une étanchéité entre le boîtier du contacteur et le couvercle. Ce troisième dispositif d'étanchéité peut par exemple être disposé sur le pourtour du couvercle.Optionally, this contactor can also include a third sealing device ensuring a seal between the contactor housing and the cover. This third sealing device can for example be placed around the perimeter of the cover.

Optionnellement, ce contacteur peut également comprendre un quatrième dispositif d'étanchéité assurant une étanchéité entre l'espace intérieur du contacteur de démarreur et la cavité comprenant la zone de connexion. Ce quatrième dispositif d'étanchéité peut par exemple être disposé entre le noyau fixe et le boitier.Optionally, this contactor can also include a fourth sealing device ensuring a seal between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone. This fourth sealing device can for example be placed between the fixed core and the housing.

Selon une variante de réalisation de la présente invention, les deuxième, troisième et quatrième dispositifs d'étanchéité peuvent être des joints toriques.According to a variant embodiment of the present invention, the second, third and fourth sealing devices may be O-rings.

Selon une autre variante de réalisation de la présente invention, les deuxième, troisième et quatrième dispositifs d'étanchéité peuvent être des joints de forme, par exemple rectangulaires ou oblongues.According to another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the second, third and fourth sealing devices can be shaped seals, for example rectangular or oblong.

Dans une variante de réalisation, le troisième et le quatrième dispositif d'étanchéité sont formés d'un même dispositif d'étanchéité assurant une étanchéité entre le noyau fixe et le couvercle. Ce dispositif d'étanchéité permet alors d'isoler la cavité comprenant la zone de connexion à la fois de l'espace intérieur et de l'environnement extérieur du contacteur. Ce dispositif d'étanchéité peut être un joint torique ou un joint de forme, par exemple rectangulaire ou oblongue. Ce dispositif peut être logé dans un renfoncement axial du couvercle et il peut être comprimé contre une surface plane de normale axiale du noyau fixe. La profondeur axiale de ce renfoncement est choisie pour maintenir en position le dispositif lorsque le contacteur n'est pas à l'état monté. En particulier, le dispositif est enfoncé dans le renfoncement d'au moins 50% de sa longueur axiale à l'état monté.In a variant embodiment, the third and the fourth sealing device are formed from the same sealing device ensuring a seal between the fixed core and the cover. This sealing device then makes it possible to isolate the cavity comprising the connection area of both the interior space and the exterior environment of the contactor. This sealing device can be an O-ring or a shaped seal, for example rectangular or oblong. This device can be housed in an axial recess of the cover and it can be compressed against a flat surface of axial normal of the fixed core. The axial depth of this recess is chosen to hold the device in position when the contactor is not in the mounted state. In particular, the device is inserted into the recess by at least 50% of its axial length in the mounted state.

On comprend ici que la cavité qui renferme la zone de connexion est alors intégralement étanche vis-à-vis de l'air qui l'entoure, que celui-ci soit extérieur au contacteur ou présent dans le boîtier où s'étend la bobine du contacteur.We understand here that the cavity which encloses the connection zone is then completely sealed against the air which surrounds it, whether this is external to the contactor or present in the housing where the coil of the contactor extends. contactor.

Le premier dispositif d'étanchéité est disposé dans la cavité qui renferme la zone de connexion.The first sealing device is placed in the cavity which encloses the connection zone.

Le contacteur présente un logement d'intégration du premier dispositif d'étanchéité, ménagé sur le noyau fixe.The contactor has a housing for integrating the first sealing device, provided on the fixed core.

Le premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité est solidaire du logement d'intégration ménagé dans le noyau fixe, ce premier dispositif d'étanchéité étant en contact glissant avec l'arbre mobile. Dans ce cas, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité est fixe vis-à-vis du boîtier quand l'arbre mobile translate.The first embodiment of the present invention, the first sealing device is integral with the integration housing provided in the fixed core, this first sealing device being in sliding contact with the movable shaft. In this case, the first sealing device is fixed with respect to the housing when the movable shaft translates.

Selon un exemple de réalisation de la présente invention, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité est maintenu en position dans un logement d'intégration par l'intermédiaire d'une rondelle d'appui. Cette rondelle d'appui peut par exemple présenter une section conique, vue dans une coupe réalisée selon un plan passant par son axe centralAccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sealing device is held in position in an integration housing via a support washer. This support washer can for example have a conical section, seen in a section made along a plane passing through its central axis.

L'arbre mobile du contacteur selon la présente invention peut présenter au moins une première butée contre laquelle est disposée la rondelle d'appui. La première butée peut venir d'un seul tenant avec l'arbre mobile. Le noyau fixe du contacteur selon la présente invention peut quant à lui présenter au moins une deuxième butée contre laquelle est disposée la rondelle d'appui.The movable shaft of the contactor according to the present invention may have at least a first stop against which the support washer is placed. The first stop can come in one piece with the movable shaft. The fixed core of the contactor according to the present invention can have at least a second stop against which the support washer is placed.

Selon une caractéristique de la présente invention, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité est disposé dans la cavité qui renferme la zone de connexion.According to one characteristic of the present invention, the first sealing device is placed in the cavity which encloses the connection zone.

Selon un exemple de réalisation de la présente invention, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité peut être un joint à lèvre.According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sealing device may be a lip seal.

Selon un autre exemple de réalisation de la présente invention, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité peut être un joint auto-lubrifié.According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sealing device may be a self-lubricated seal.

Selon un autre exemple de réalisation de la présente invention, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité peut être un joint torique.According to another embodiment of the present invention, the first sealing device may be an O-ring.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, le dispositif d'étanchéité assurant l'étanchéité entre l'espace intérieur du contacteur de démarreur et la cavité comprenant la zone de connexion peut comprendre un joint et une bague d'étanchéité.According to another aspect of the invention, the sealing device ensuring the seal between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone may comprise a seal and a sealing ring.

La bague d'étanchéité peut être disposée entre le joint et le l'arbre mobile.The sealing ring can be placed between the seal and the movable shaft.

Le joint peut être un joint torique. Le joint peut être en EPDM peroxydé, ou dans une matière choisie parmi l'EPDM, le NBR, le FKM, le ACM.The seal may be an O-ring. The seal can be in peroxidized EPDM, or in a material chosen from EPDM, NBR, FKM, ACM.

La bague d'étanchéité peut être une bague d'étanchéité dynamique. La bague peut être en PTFE. En complément du PTFE, la bague peut comprendre du bronze et/ou du carbone (PTFE chargé bronze ou PTFE chargé carbone). La bague d'étanchéité permet d'éviter l'usure par gommage qui s'observe lors d'un mouvement de va-et-vient de l'arbre mobile lorsque qu'un joint est directement en contact avec l'arbre mobile. L'usure par gommage rendrait le système non étanche au fil du temps.The seal ring may be a dynamic seal ring. The ring can be made of PTFE. In addition to PTFE, the ring may include bronze and/or carbon (bronze-filled PTFE or carbon-filled PTFE). The sealing ring prevents wear by rubbing which is observed during a back and forth movement of the shaft movable when a joint is directly in contact with the movable shaft. Scrubbing wear would cause the system to leak over time.

La bague d'étanchéité peut présenter une surface cylindrique en contact glissant avec l'arbre mobile. En regard de l'arbre mobile, la bague peut présenter une cavité qui permet d'établir une force de pression du joint sur l'arbre mobile différente en fonction de son sens de déplacement.The sealing ring may have a cylindrical surface in sliding contact with the movable shaft. Facing the movable shaft, the ring may have a cavity which makes it possible to establish a different pressure force of the seal on the movable shaft depending on its direction of movement.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, lorsque le dispositif d'étanchéité comprend le joint et la bague d'étanchéité ainsi que la rondelle d'appui, la rondelle d'appui peut venir en contact uniquement de la bague d'étanchéité. Le joint n'est pas serré axialement dans le logement du noyau fixe. La rondelle d'appui peut présenter une surface plane en regard du dispositif d'étanchéité.According to another aspect of the invention, when the sealing device comprises the gasket and the sealing ring as well as the support washer, the support washer can come into contact only with the sealing ring. The seal is not axially tightened in the fixed core housing. The support washer may have a flat surface facing the sealing device.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, la deuxième butée contre laquelle vient la rondelle d'appui peut être un cran dans le noyau fixe. La deuxième butée peut être située radialement au-delà du dispositif d'étanchéité.According to another aspect of the invention, the second stop against which the support washer comes can be a notch in the fixed core. The second stop can be located radially beyond the sealing device.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, la bague d'étanchéité peut être fine ou épaisse. Au sens de la demande, la bague est fine si sa dimension radiale est au moins deux fois inférieure à celle du joint torique à l'état comprimé, c'est-à-dire en position dans le contacteur. Elle est épaisse si sa dimension radiale est sensiblement égale à celle du joint à l'état comprimé.According to another aspect of the invention, the sealing ring can be thin or thick. For the purposes of the request, the ring is thin if its radial dimension is at least twice less than that of the O-ring in the compressed state, that is to say in position in the contactor. It is thick if its radial dimension is substantially equal to that of the joint in the compressed state.

La bague d'étanchéité peut comprendre des rebords axiaux pour le maintien du joint en position.The sealing ring may include axial flanges for holding the seal in position.

La présente invention concerne également un démarreur de moteur thermique comprenant au moins un contacteur selon la présente invention.The present invention also relates to a thermal engine starter comprising at least one contactor according to the present invention.

D'autres caractéristiques, détails et avantages de la présente invention ressortiront plus clairement à la lecture de la description détaillée donnée ci-après à titre indicatif, en relation avec les différents exemples de réalisation de l'invention illustrés sur les figures suivantes:

  • la figure 1 est une représentation schématique selon une coupe axiale d'un démarreur comprenant un contacteur selon la présente invention et un moteur électrique,
  • la figure 2 est un vue selon une coupe axiale d'une partie d'un contacteur de démarreur selon la présente invention,
  • la figure 3 est un agrandissement d'une première zone d'étanchéité du contacteur selon la présente invention illustrée à la figure 2,
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique selon une coupe axiale de la première zone d'étanchéité du contacteur selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente invention,
  • la figure 5 est une vue schématique selon une coupe axiale de la quatrième zone d'étanchéité du contacteur selon la présente invention illustré à la figure 2.
  • la figure 6 est une vue selon une coupe axiale d'une partie d'un autre exemple contacteur de démarreur selon la présente invention,
  • la figure 7 est un agrandissement d'une première zone d'étanchéité du contacteur selon la présente invention illustrée à la figure 6, et
  • la figure 8 représente différentes variantes de dispositif d'étanchéité du contacteur des figures 6 et 7.
Other characteristics, details and advantages of the present invention will emerge more clearly on reading the detailed description given below for information purposes, in relation to the different examples of embodiment of the invention illustrated in the following figures:
  • there figure 1 is a schematic representation in an axial section of a starter comprising a contactor according to the present invention and an electric motor,
  • there figure 2 is a view in an axial section of a part of a starter contactor according to the present invention,
  • there Figure 3 is an enlargement of a first sealing zone of the contactor according to the present invention illustrated in figure 2 ,
  • there figure 4 is a schematic view in an axial section of the first sealing zone of the contactor according to a second embodiment of the present invention,
  • there figure 5 is a schematic view in an axial section of the fourth sealing zone of the contactor according to the present invention illustrated in figure 2 .
  • there Figure 6 is a view in an axial section of a part of another example of a starter contactor according to the present invention,
  • there Figure 7 is an enlargement of a first sealing zone of the contactor according to the present invention illustrated in Figure 6 , And
  • there figure 8 represents different variants of sealing device of the contactor of the figures 6 and 7 .

Dans la suite de la description, les dénominations axiales, radiales, extérieures et intérieures se réfèrent à un axe X traversant en son centre le contacteur de démarreur conforme à la présente invention. La direction axiale correspond à l'axe X traversant en leur centre le noyau mobile, le noyau fixe, l'arbre mobile, le boitier et la bobine, alors que les orientations radiales correspondent à des plans perpendiculaires à l'axe X. Pour les directions radiales, les dénominations extérieure ou intérieure s'apprécient par rapport au même axe X, la dénomination intérieure correspondant à un élément orienté vers l'axe X, ou plus proche de l'axe X par rapport à un second élément, la dénomination extérieure désignant un éloignement radial de cet axe X.In the remainder of the description, the axial, radial, exterior and interior designations refer to an axis X passing through its center the starter contactor according to the present invention. The axial direction corresponds to the axis radial directions, the exterior or interior denominations are assessed in relation to the same axis X, the interior denomination corresponding to an element oriented towards the axis designating a radial distance from this X axis.

La figure 1 représente de manière schématique un démarreur 1 de moteur thermique de véhicule automobile comprenant un contacteur 2 selon la présente invention.There figure 1 schematically represents a starter 1 of a motor vehicle thermal engine comprising a contactor 2 according to the present invention.

Le contacteur 2 de démarreur présente un boîtier 3 s'étendant le long d'un axe X et délimitant un espace intérieur 4, par exemple de forme cylindrique, dans lequel est logée une bobine 5 annulaire ainsi qu'un arbre mobile 6 en translation selon l'axe X.The starter contactor 2 has a housing 3 extending along an axis the X axis.

Le boitier 3 présente une première extrémité axiale 7 traversée par un premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6 maintenu par un noyau mobile 8, et une deuxième extrémité axiale 9 traversée par un deuxième tronçon 6b de l'arbre mobile 6, quant à lui maintenu par un noyau fixe 10. Tel qu'illustré sur la figure 1, le premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6 et le deuxième tronçon 6b de cet arbre mobile 6 sont en contact l'un avec l'autre.The housing 3 has a first axial end 7 crossed by a first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 held by a movable core 8, and a second axial end 9 crossed by a second section 6b of the movable shaft 6, for its part held by a fixed core 10. As illustrated in the figure 1 , the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 and the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6 are in contact with each other.

La première extrémité axiale 7 présente un trou, non représenté ici, par lequel le noyau mobile 8 peut coulisser, entrainant avec lui le premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6, tandis que la deuxième extrémité axiale 9 est fermée par un couvercle 11. Ainsi, l'arbre mobile 6 traverse en leurs centres et dans cet ordre, le noyau fixe 10, le noyau mobile 8 et le trou de la première extrémité axiale 7 du boitier 3.The first axial end 7 has a hole, not shown here, through which the movable core 8 can slide, carrying with it the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6, while the second axial end 9 is closed by a cover 11. Thus, the movable shaft 6 passes through their centers and in this order, the fixed core 10, the movable core 8 and the hole in the first axial end 7 of the housing 3.

Le noyau fixe 10 peut par exemple présenter une forme générale de disque et il est en appui contre une face interne du boitier 3, au niveau d'un épaulement de ce boitier 3 et contre le couvercle 11.The fixed core 10 can for example have the general shape of a disc and it bears against an internal face of the housing 3, at the level of a shoulder of this housing 3 and against the cover 11.

Tel qu'illustré sur la figure 1, la deuxième extrémité axiale 9 présente une cavité 12 délimitée radialement vers l'extérieur par le couvercle 11 et axialement d'un côté par le noyau fixe 10 et d'un autre côté par le couvercle 11. Cette cavité 12 loge une zone de connexion électrique dans laquelle s'étend au moins une plaque 13 de connexion et deux terminaux 14 électriques. Ces terminaux 14 s'étendent sur une face interne du couvercle 11 et traversent celui-ci via deux orifices distincts.As illustrated on the figure 1 , the second axial end 9 has a cavity 12 delimited radially outwards by the cover 11 and axially on one side by the fixed core 10 and on the other side by the cover 11. This cavity 12 houses a connection zone electrical in which extends at least one connection plate 13 and two electrical terminals 14. These terminals 14 extend on an internal face of the cover 11 and pass through it via two distinct orifices.

Le démarreur 1 comprend également un moteur électrique 15, électriquement connecté au contacteur 2 via l'un des terminaux 14 du contacteur 2. Ce moteur électrique 15 présente aussi un pignon 16 mobile en translation selon une direction parallèle à l'axe X, un tel pignon étant destiné à s'engager sur un volant moteur du moteur thermique.The starter 1 also comprises an electric motor 15, electrically connected to the contactor 2 via one of the terminals 14 of the contactor 2. This electric motor 15 also has a pinion 16 movable in translation in a direction parallel to the axis pinion being intended to engage on a flywheel of the thermal engine.

Un premier terminal 14 électrique est relié à une batterie 30 qui délivre un courant électrique, par exemple sous une tension de 12V ou 24V. Un deuxième terminal 14 électrique est quant à lui relié au moteur électrique 15 du démarreur. Les terminaux 14 électriques participent ainsi à un circuit d'alimentation du démarreur 1 et lorsque la plaque 13 de connexion électrique est amenée au contact des terminaux 14 électriques, le circuit d'alimentation du démarreur 1 est fermé et le courant peut circuler, permettant le démarrage du moteur thermique tel que décrit ci-après.A first electrical terminal 14 is connected to a battery 30 which delivers an electric current, for example at a voltage of 12V or 24V. A second terminal 14 electric is in turn connected to the electric motor 15 of the starter. The electrical terminals 14 thus participate in a power supply circuit of the starter 1 and when the electrical connection plate 13 is brought into contact with the electrical terminals 14, the power supply circuit of the starter 1 is closed and the current can flow, allowing the starting the thermal engine as described below.

La bobine 5 génère un champ magnétique sous l'effet d'un courant électrique la traversant. Selon la polarisation de cette bobine 5, le champ magnétique ainsi créé exerce une force attractive ou répulsive sur le noyau mobile 8, qui peut alors coulisser selon une translation axiale dans le boitier 3. Lorsque ce noyau mobile 8 pénètre dans le boitier 3, il exerce un effort en translation sur le premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6 qui à son tour entraine le deuxième tronçon 6b de l'arbre mobile 6 de telle sorte que la plaque 13 de connexion électrique vienne au contact des terminaux 14 électriques. Une fois la plaque 13 de connexion électrique en contact avec les terminaux 14, le circuit d'alimentation du moteur électrique 15 est fermé.Coil 5 generates a magnetic field under the effect of an electric current passing through it. Depending on the polarization of this coil 5, the magnetic field thus created exerts an attractive or repulsive force on the mobile core 8, which can then slide in an axial translation in the housing 3. When this mobile core 8 enters the housing 3, it exerts a translational force on the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 which in turn drives the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 such that the electrical connection plate 13 comes into contact with the electrical terminals 14. Once the electrical connection plate 13 is in contact with the terminals 14, the power supply circuit of the electric motor 15 is closed.

Le premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6 commande une fourchette 17 qui permet de mettre en position le pignon 16 du moteur électrique 15 sur un volant moteur non représenté ici. Lorsque la plaque 13 de connexion est mise en contact par le mouvement de translation de l'arbre mobile 6, le circuit d'alimentation du moteur électrique 15 est fermé ce qui permet à ce moteur électrique 15 de fonctionner et ainsi d'entrainer en rotation le pignon 16. Cette rotation du pignon 16 permet à son tour de lancer le volant moteur et ainsi de démarrer le moteur thermique du véhicule.The first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 controls a fork 17 which makes it possible to position the pinion 16 of the electric motor 15 on a flywheel not shown here. When the connection plate 13 is brought into contact by the translation movement of the movable shaft 6, the power supply circuit of the electric motor 15 is closed which allows this electric motor 15 to operate and thus to rotate the pinion 16. This rotation of the pinion 16 in turn allows the flywheel to be started and thus the vehicle's thermal engine to start.

L'arbre mobile 6 est ici décrit avec deux tronçons 6a et 6b, mais il est entendu que cet arbre mobile peut être monobloc depuis la fourchette 17 jusqu'à la plaque 13 de connexion.The movable shaft 6 is described here with two sections 6a and 6b, but it is understood that this movable shaft can be in one piece from the fork 17 to the connection plate 13.

Au moins un premier ressort de rappel, par exemple de type hélicoïdal, est agencé pour repousser le deuxième tronçon 6b de l'arbre mobile 6 qui pousse à son tour et simultanément, le noyau mobile 8 et le premier tronçon 6a lorsque la bobine 5 n'est pas alimentée.At least a first return spring, for example of the helical type, is arranged to push back the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 which in turn and simultaneously pushes the movable core 8 and the first section 6a when the coil 5 n is not powered.

Lorsque la bobine 5 est alimentée, l'arbre mobile 6, et plus particulièrement son premier tronçon 6a, comprime le premier ressort de rappel par un mouvement de translation selon l'axe X tel que précédemment décrit. Lorsque la bobine 5 n'est plus alimentée, ce premier ressort de rappel repousse le noyau mobile 8 hors de l'espace intérieur 4 pour que celui-ci retrouve sa position d'origine. Ainsi, le premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6 peut reprendre sa position d'origine, tout comme le deuxième tronçon 6b de cet arbre mobile 6, lui aussi repoussé par un deuxième ressort de rappel représenté sur les figures 2 à 4.When the coil 5 is powered, the movable shaft 6, and more particularly its first section 6a, compresses the first return spring by a movement of translation along the X axis as previously described. When the coil 5 is no longer powered, this first return spring pushes the mobile core 8 out of the interior space 4 so that it returns to its original position. Thus, the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 can return to its original position, just like the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6, also pushed back by a second return spring shown on the figures 2 to 4 .

En reprenant sa position, le premier tronçon 6a de l'arbre mobile 6 entraine le pignon 16 du moteur électrique 15 via la fourchette 17, ce pignon 16 se désengageant ainsi du volant moteur.By returning to its position, the first section 6a of the movable shaft 6 drives the pinion 16 of the electric motor 15 via the fork 17, this pinion 16 thus disengaging from the flywheel.

De plus, en reprenant sa position initiale, le deuxième tronçon 6b de l'arbre mobile 6 entraine la plaque 13 de connexion électrique. Cette plaque 13 de connexion électrique n'est alors plus en contact avec les terminaux 14 électriques, le circuit d'alimentation du moteur électrique 15 est ainsi ouvert, ce qui empêche la circulation du courant électrique et entraine l'arrêt de ce moteur électrique 15.Furthermore, by returning to its initial position, the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 drives the electrical connection plate 13. This electrical connection plate 13 is then no longer in contact with the electrical terminals 14, the power supply circuit of the electric motor 15 is thus open, which prevents the circulation of the electric current and causes this electric motor 15 to stop. .

On notera que le noyau fixe 10 forme un palier de translation à l'égard de l'arbre mobile 6, notamment son deuxième tronçon 6b. En effet, le noyau fixe 10 est percé d'un trou en son centre, trou qui permet à l'arbre mobile 6 de coulisser. Ce trou forme un passage entre l'espace intérieur 4 et la cavité 12.Note that the fixed core 10 forms a translation bearing with respect to the movable shaft 6, in particular its second section 6b. In fact, the fixed core 10 is pierced with a hole in its center, a hole which allows the movable shaft 6 to slide. This hole forms a passage between the interior space 4 and the cavity 12.

La figure 2 est une vue selon une coupe axiale d'une partie du contacteur 2, au niveau de la deuxième extrémité axiale 9 de ce contacteur 2. Sur cette figure sont notamment représentées la cavité 12 présentant la zone de connexion et l'espace intérieur 4 du contacteur 2 de démarreur. Sont également représentés sur cette figure 2 le noyau fixe 10, l'arbre mobile 6 et plus particulièrement le deuxième tronçon 6b de cet arbre mobile 6, ainsi que le boitier 3 dans lequel est logée la bobine 5. Comme précédemment décrit, ce boîtier 2 est fermé axialement par le couvercle 11 dans lequel sont ménagé deux orifices par lesquels passent respectivement chacun des terminaux 14 électriques. Sur cette figure est également illustré le deuxième ressort de rappel 18 permettant à l'arbre mobile 6, et notamment au deuxième tronçon 6b de cet arbre mobile 6, de reprendre sa position initiale tel que décrit précédemment.There figure 2 is a view in an axial section of a part of the contactor 2, at the level of the second axial end 9 of this contactor 2. In this figure are notably represented the cavity 12 presenting the connection zone and the interior space 4 of the contactor 2 starter. Also represented on this figure 2 the fixed core 10, the movable shaft 6 and more particularly the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6, as well as the housing 3 in which the coil 5 is housed. As previously described, this housing 2 is closed axially by the cover 11 in which two orifices are provided through which each of the electrical terminals 14 pass respectively. This figure also illustrates the second return spring 18 allowing the movable shaft 6, and in particular the second section 6b of this movable shaft 6, to return to its initial position as described previously.

Le contacteur 2 présente plusieurs zones d'étanchéité 19, 20, 21, 31. Une première zone d'étanchéité 19 est réalisée entre l'espace intérieur 4 et la cavité 12 présentant la zone de connexion électrique. Une deuxième zone d'étanchéité 20 et une troisième zones d'étanchéité 21 sont quant à elles réalisées entre un environnement extérieur au contacteur 2 et la cavité 12 présentant la zone de connexion électrique. Une quatrième zone d'étanchéité 31 est réalisée entre l'espace intérieur 4 et la cavité 12 présentant la zone de connexion électrique à un endroit différent de la première zone d'étanchéité 19. On comprend donc que la première zone d'étanchéité 19 et la quatrième zone d'étanchéité 31 sont réalisées entre des espaces internes au contacteur selon l'invention, tandis que la deuxième zone d'étanchéité 20 et la troisième zone d'étanchéité 21 sont réalisées entre l'environnement extérieur au contacteur et un espace interne au contacteur, en l'occurrence la cavité 12.The contactor 2 has several sealing zones 19, 20, 21, 31. A first sealing zone 19 is produced between the interior space 4 and the cavity 12 presenting the electrical connection zone. A second sealing zone 20 and a third sealing zone 21 are produced between an environment external to the contactor 2 and the cavity 12 presenting the electrical connection zone. A fourth sealing zone 31 is produced between the interior space 4 and the cavity 12 presenting the electrical connection zone at a location different from the first sealing zone 19. It is therefore understood that the first sealing zone 19 and the fourth sealing zone 31 are made between spaces internal to the contactor according to the invention, while the second sealing zone 20 and the third sealing zone 21 are made between the environment external to the contactor and an internal space to the contactor, in this case cavity 12.

Ainsi, les zones d'étanchéité au niveau de cette cavité 12 permettent d'améliorer la longévité du contacteur de démarreur.Thus, the sealing zones at this cavity 12 make it possible to improve the longevity of the starter contactor.

La première zone d'étanchéité 19 est ainsi réalisée à la jonction entre l'arbre mobile 6 et le noyau fixe 10, telle que représentée sur la figure 3.The first sealing zone 19 is thus produced at the junction between the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10, as shown in the Figure 3 .

Cette première zone d'étanchéité 19 présente un premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 disposé entre le deuxième tronçon 6b de l'arbre mobile 6 et le noyau fixe 10 et permet d'assurer une étanchéité entre la cavité 12, qui renferme la zone de connexion électrique, et l'espace intérieur 4. En outre, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 permet d'assurer une isolation en continue entre la cavité 12 et l'espace intérieur 4, c'est-à-dire que ces deux zones sont étanches l'une par rapport à l'autre quel que soit la position de l'arbre mobile 6.This first sealing zone 19 has a first sealing device 22 disposed between the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10 and makes it possible to ensure a seal between the cavity 12, which encloses the connection zone electrical, and the interior space 4. In addition, the first sealing device 22 makes it possible to ensure continuous insulation between the cavity 12 and the interior space 4, that is to say that these two zones are sealed relative to each other whatever the position of the movable shaft 6.

Le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est disposé dans la cavité 12 logeant la zone de connexion électrique. En d'autres termes, ce premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est disposé entre le deuxième tronçon 6b de l'arbre mobile 6 et le noyau fixe 10 du côté de la cavité 12 et non du côté de l'espace intérieur 4. Cette position du premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 permet de ne pas impacter la force d'attraction ou de répulsion exercée sur le noyau mobile 8 par la bobine 5. En effet, une forme qui serait ménagée dans le noyau fixe 10 du côté de l'espace intérieur 4 pour recevoir un dispositif d'étanchéité pourrait perturber le champ magnétique généré par la bobine 5 qui reboucle via le noyau fixe 10.The first sealing device 22 is placed in the cavity 12 housing the electrical connection zone. In other words, this first sealing device 22 is disposed between the second section 6b of the movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10 on the side of the cavity 12 and not on the side of the interior space 4. This position of the first sealing device 22 makes it possible not to impact the force of attraction or repulsion exerted on the mobile core 8 by the coil 5. Indeed, a shape which would be provided in the fixed core 10 on the space side interior 4 to receive a sealing device could disrupt the magnetic field generated by the coil 5 which loops back via fixed core 10.

Le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 selon l'invention doit être choisi afin de permettre d'assurer une étanchéité entre deux pièces en translation l'une par rapport à l'autre, en l'espèce entre l'arbre mobile 6 et le noyau fixe 10 du contacteur. Selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention représenté ici, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 peut ainsi par exemple être un joint à lèvre.The first sealing device 22 according to the invention must be chosen in order to ensure a seal between two parts in translation relative to each other, in this case between the movable shaft 6 and the core fixed 10 of the contactor. According to one embodiment of the present invention shown here, the first sealing device 22 can thus for example be a lip seal.

La deuxième zone d'étanchéité 20 est effectuée au moins entre l'un des terminaux 14 électriques et le couvercle 11 du boitier 3, avantageusement entre chacun des terminaux 14 électriques et le couvercle 11 du boitier 3.The second sealing zone 20 is carried out at least between one of the electrical terminals 14 and the cover 11 of the housing 3, advantageously between each of the electrical terminals 14 and the cover 11 of the housing 3.

Ainsi, sur la figure 2 sont représentées deux deuxièmes zones d'étanchéité 20 comprenant chacune un deuxième dispositif d'étanchéité 23 disposé entre l'un des terminaux 14 électriques et le couvercle 11 du boitier 3 du contacteur 2, au niveau de chacun des orifices du couvercle 11 par lesquels passent ces terminaux 14 électriques.Thus, on the figure 2 are shown two second sealing zones 20 each comprising a second sealing device 23 disposed between one of the electrical terminals 14 and the cover 11 of the housing 3 of the contactor 2, at the level of each of the orifices of the cover 11 through which pass these electrical terminals 14.

Ces deuxièmes dispositifs d'étanchéité 23 sont réalisés par exemple par des joints toriques s'étendant sur tout le pourtour de chacun des terminaux 14 électriques ou, selon une variante de réalisation, par des joints de forme, par exemple rectangulaires ou oblongues.These second sealing devices 23 are made for example by O-rings extending over the entire periphery of each of the electrical terminals 14 or, according to an alternative embodiment, by shaped seals, for example rectangular or oblong.

La troisième zone d'étanchéité 21 comprend quant à elle un troisième dispositif d'étanchéité 24 disposé à une jonction entre le boitier 3 et le couvercle 11 de ce boitier 3. Ce troisième dispositif d'étanchéité 24 peut également, selon une variante de l'invention, être réalisé par un joint de forme, par exemple rectangulaire ou oblongue, s'étendant sur tout le pourtour du couvercle 11.The third sealing zone 21 comprises a third sealing device 24 disposed at a junction between the housing 3 and the cover 11 of this housing 3. This third sealing device 24 can also, according to a variant of the invention, be produced by a seal of shape, for example rectangular or oblong, extending over the entire periphery of the cover 11.

Ces deuxième et troisième dispositifs d'étanchéité 20, 21 permettent ainsi d'assurer une étanchéité entre l'environnement extérieur au contacteur 2 et la cavité 12 du contacteur 2.These second and third sealing devices 20, 21 thus make it possible to ensure a seal between the environment external to the contactor 2 and the cavity 12 of the contactor 2.

La quatrième zone d'étanchéité 31 comprend quant à elle un quatrième dispositif d'étanchéité 32 disposé à une jonction entre le boitier 3 et le noyau fixe 10. Ce quatrième dispositif d'étanchéité 32 peut être réalisé par un joint torique ou, selon une variante de l'invention, par un joint de forme, par exemple rectangulaire ou oblongue, s'étendant sur tout le pourtour du noyau fixe 10.The fourth sealing zone 31 comprises a fourth sealing device 32 disposed at a junction between the housing 3 and the fixed core 10. This fourth sealing device 32 can be produced by an O-ring or, according to a variant of the invention, by a joint of shape, for example rectangular or oblong, extending over the entire periphery of the fixed core 10.

Dans une variante de réalisation représentée sur la figure 5, le troisième dispositif d'étanchéité 24 et le quatrième dispositif d'étanchéité 32 peuvent être réunis en un même dispositif d'étanchéité 33 disposé entre le noyau fixe 10 et le couvercle 11. Ce dispositif d'étanchéité 33 permet alors d'isoler la cavité 12 comprenant la zone de connexion à la fois de l'espace intérieur et de l'environnement extérieur du contacteur. Ce dispositif d'étanchéité 33 peut être réalisé par un joint torique ou, selon une variante de l'invention, par un joint de forme, par exemple rectangulaire ou oblongue, s'étendant sur une face interne du couvercle 11.In a variant embodiment shown on the figure 5 , the third sealing device 24 and the fourth sealing device 32 can be combined into the same sealing device 33 disposed between the fixed core 10 and the cover 11. This sealing device 33 then makes it possible to isolate the cavity 12 comprising the connection zone of both the interior space and the exterior environment of the contactor. This sealing device 33 can be produced by an O-ring or, according to a variant of the invention, by a seal of shape, for example rectangular or oblong, extending on an internal face of the cover 11.

La figure 3 illustre un premier mode de réalisation de la première zone d'étanchéité 19. On peut voir que cette première zone d'étanchéité 19 comprend le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22.There Figure 3 illustrates a first embodiment of the first sealing zone 19. It can be seen that this first sealing zone 19 comprises the first sealing device 22.

Tel qu'illustré à la figure 3, un logement d'intégration 25 du premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est ménagé sur le noyau fixe 10. Ce premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est par exemple réalisé par un joint à lèvre.As illustrated in Figure 3 , an integration housing 25 of the first sealing device 22 is provided on the fixed core 10. This first sealing device 22 is for example produced by a lip seal.

Selon la présente invention, ce logement d'intégration 25 est réalisé dans une paroi interne du noyau fixe 10, c'est-à-dire une paroi de ce noyau fixe 10 tournée vers l'arbre mobile 6. Le joint à lèvre(s) est solidarisé à ce logement d'intégration 25 tel qu'illustré à la figure 3 et la/les lèvres est/sont en contact glissant contre l'arbre mobile 6, assurant ainsi l'étanchéité tout en autorisant le mouvement de translation axiale de cet arbre mobile 6 par rapport au noyau fixe 10.According to the present invention, this integration housing 25 is produced in an internal wall of the fixed core 10, that is to say a wall of this fixed core 10 facing the movable shaft 6. The lip seal(s ) is secured to this integration housing 25 as illustrated in Figure 3 and the lip(s) is/are in sliding contact against the movable shaft 6, thus ensuring sealing while allowing the axial translation movement of this movable shaft 6 relative to the fixed core 10.

Selon un autre exemple de réalisation de la présente invention non représenté ici, ce premier dispositif d'étanchéité peut être réalisé par un joint auto-lubrifié.According to another embodiment of the present invention not shown here, this first sealing device can be produced by a self-lubricated seal.

L'arbre mobile 6 et le noyau fixe 10 peuvent également respectivement présenter une première et une deuxième butée 26, 27. Ces deux butées 26, 27 sont réalisées dans des sens opposés l'une par rapport à l'autre et sont configurées pour interposer une rondelle d'appui 28 qui vient appuyer sur le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22, assurant ainsi le maintien de ce premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 dans le logement d'intégration 25 ménagé dans le noyau fixe 10.The movable shaft 6 and the fixed core 10 can also respectively have a first and a second stop 26, 27. These two stops 26, 27 are made in opposite directions relative to each other and are configured to interpose a support washer 28 which presses on the first sealing device 22, thus ensuring the maintenance of this first sealing device 22 in the integration housing 25 provided in the fixed core 10.

Cette rondelle 28 est une pièce rapportée qui autorise ainsi le montage du premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 dans le logement d'intégration 25, cette pièce bloquant également le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 pour que celui-ci ne bouge pas lors de la translation de l'arbre mobile 6. La rondelle 28 bloque aussi tout particulièrement la lèvre du joint à lèvre formant exemple de réalisation du premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22.This washer 28 is an attached part which thus authorizes the mounting of the first sealing device 22 in the integration housing 25, this part also blocking the first sealing device 22 so that it does not move during translation of the movable shaft 6. The washer 28 also particularly blocks the lip of the lip seal forming an example of embodiment of the first sealing device 22.

Quelle que soit la forme de cette rondelle d'appui 28, les première et deuxième butées 26, 27 présentent des pentes complémentaires de la forme de la rondelle d'appui 28.Whatever the shape of this support washer 28, the first and second stops 26, 27 have slopes complementary to the shape of the support washer 28.

Cette rondelle d'appui 28 peut, selon le premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention illustré à la figure 3, présenter une section conique, vue dans une coupe réalisée selon un plan passant par son axe central. Lorsque la rondelle d'appui 28 présente une forme conique, les première et deuxième butées 26, 27 présentent des pentes coniques.This support washer 28 can, according to the first embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 3 , present a conical section, seen in a section made along a plane passing through its central axis. When the support washer 28 has a conical shape, the first and second stops 26, 27 have conical slopes.

La figure 4 illustre, schématiquement, un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente invention. Selon ce deuxième mode de réalisation, un logement d'intégration 29 du premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est ménagé sur l'arbre mobile 6, notamment sur sa paroi périphérique externe.There Figure 4 illustrates, schematically, a second embodiment of the present invention. According to this second embodiment, an integration housing 29 of the first sealing device 22 is provided on the movable shaft 6, in particular on its external peripheral wall.

Selon ce deuxième mode de réalisation, le premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est également un joint à lèvre. Ce joint à lèvre est ainsi logé dans le logement d'intégration 29 ménagé sur l'arbre mobile 6, et disposé de sorte que sa lèvre frotte sur le noyau fixe 10, assurant ainsi l'étanchéité malgré le mouvement de translation de cet arbre mobile 6 par rapport au noyau fixe 10.According to this second embodiment, the first sealing device 22 is also a lip seal. This lip seal is thus housed in the integration housing 29 provided on the movable shaft 6, and arranged so that its lip rubs on the fixed core 10, thus ensuring sealing despite the translation movement of this movable shaft 6 compared to the fixed core 10.

Bien que non représenté sur cette figure 4, ce deuxième mode de réalisation peut également prévoir l'ajout d'une rondelle d'appui permettant d'assurer un maintien efficace du premier dispositif d'étanchéité 22. Comme pour le premier mode de réalisation, l'arbre mobile et le noyau fixe présentent alors respectivement la première et la deuxième butée présentant des formes complémentaires à celle de la rondelle d'appui, tel que décrit précédemment.Although not shown on this figure 4 , this second embodiment can also provide for the addition of a support washer making it possible to ensure effective maintenance of the first sealing device 22. As for the first embodiment, the movable shaft and the fixed core then respectively present the first and the second stop having shapes complementary to that of the support washer, as described previously.

Les figures 6 et 7 illustrent un autre exemple contacteur 2 de démarreur selon la présente invention.THE figures 6 and 7 illustrate another example of a starter contactor 2 according to the present invention.

L'exemple de la figure 6 diffère de l'exemple de la figure 2 notamment au niveau des troisième et quatrième dispositifs d'étanchéité et dans la forme du dispositif d'étanchéité 22.The example of the Figure 6 differs from the example in figure 2 in particular at the level of the third and fourth sealing devices and in the shape of the sealing device 22.

Dans l'exemple considéré, à l'instar de la figure 5, le contacteur 2 comprend un même dispositif d'étanchéité 33 qui forme les troisième et quatrième dispositifs d'étanchéité pour assurer une étanchéité entre le noyau fixe 10 et le couvercle 11.In the example considered, like the figure 5 , the contactor 2 comprises the same sealing device 33 which forms the third and fourth sealing devices to ensure a seal between the fixed core 10 and the cover 11.

Dans l'exemple considéré, le dispositif d'étanchéité 33 est logé dans un renfoncement axial 40 du couvercle 11 et il est comprimé contre une surface plane de normale axiale 41 du noyau fixe. Le dispositif étanchéité 33 est ici un joint de section oblongue mais peut également être réalisé en forme, par exemple rectangulaire ou torique.In the example considered, the sealing device 33 is housed in an axial recess 40 of the cover 11 and it is compressed against a flat surface of axial normal 41 of the fixed core. The sealing device 33 is here a seal of oblong section but can also be made in shape, for example rectangular or toroidal.

Dans l'exemple considéré et en référence à la figure 7, le dispositif d'étanchéité 22 assurant l'étanchéité entre l'espace intérieur du contacteur de démarreur et la cavité comprenant la zone de connexion comprend un joint 44 et une bague d'étanchéité 45. La bague d'étanchéité 45 est ici une bague d'étanchéité dynamique disposée entre le joint 44 et l'arbre mobile 6. Le joint peut être un joint torique à l'état libre.In the example considered and with reference to the Figure 7 , the sealing device 22 ensuring sealing between the interior space of the starter contactor and the cavity comprising the connection zone comprises a seal 44 and a sealing ring 45. The sealing ring 45 is here a ring dynamic sealing device arranged between the seal 44 and the movable shaft 6. The seal can be an O-ring in the free state.

La bague d'étanchéité peut présenter une surface cylindrique en contact glissant avec l'arbre mobile 6.The sealing ring may have a cylindrical surface in sliding contact with the movable shaft 6.

Dans l'exemple considéré, le dispositif d'étanchéité 22 est solidaire du logement d'intégration 29 ménagé dans le noyau fixe et le dispositif d'étanchéité est maintenu dans ce logement par une rondelle d'appui 28. La rondelle d'appui 28 vient ici uniquement en contact de la bague d'étanchéité 45. Le joint 44 n'est pas serré axialement dans le logement 29 du noyau fixe. La rondelle d'appui 28 présente une surface plane en regard du dispositif d'étanchéité 22. Le contact est plan entre la rondelle d'appui 28 et la bague d'étanchéité 45.In the example considered, the sealing device 22 is integral with the integration housing 29 provided in the fixed core and the sealing device is held in this housing by a support washer 28. The support washer 28 comes here only in contact with the sealing ring 45. The seal 44 is not tightened axially in the housing 29 of the fixed core. The support washer 28 has a flat surface facing the sealing device 22. The contact is plane between the support washer 28 and the sealing ring 45.

La rondelle d'appui 28 est solidaire du noyau fixe 10, la rondelle est par exemple sertie sur le noyau fixe. La rondelle d'appui ne frotte pas sur l'arbre mobile 6.The support washer 28 is integral with the fixed core 10, the washer is for example crimped onto the fixed core. The support washer does not rub on the movable shaft 6.

La figure 8 présente enfin deux variantes au dispositif d'étanchéité 22 présenté en référence aux figures 6 et 7 et qui correspond à la figure du milieu. Les dispositifs sont présentés à l'état libre, c'est-à-dire non comprimé.There figure 8 finally presents two variants to the sealing device 22 presented with reference to the figures 6 and 7 and which corresponds to the middle figure. The devices are presented in the free state, that is to say not compressed.

Dans la première variante, la bague d'étanchéité 45 présente une cavité 47 en regard de l'arbre mobile 6 qui permet d'établir une force de pression du joint 44 sur l'arbre mobile différente en fonction de son sens de déplacement.In the first variant, the sealing ring 45 has a cavity 47 facing the movable shaft 6 which makes it possible to establish a different pressure force of the seal 44 on the movable shaft depending on its direction of movement.

Dans la troisième variante, la bague d'étanchéité 45 est fine. Sa dimension radiale est au moins deux fois inférieure à celle du joint torique à l'état comprimé, c'est-à-dire en position dans le contacteur. Dans la deuxième variante, celle des figures 6 et 7, la bague d'étanchéité 45 est épaisse. Sa dimension radiale est sensiblement égale à celle du joint 44 à l'état comprimé.In the third variant, the sealing ring 45 is thin. Its radial dimension is at least twice less than that of the O-ring in the compressed state, that is to say in position in the contactor. In the second variant, that of figures 6 and 7 , the sealing ring 45 is thick. Its radial dimension is substantially equal to that of the seal 44 in the compressed state.

Dans la troisième variante, la bague d'étanchéité 45 comprend des rebords axiaux 48 pour le maintien du joint 44 en position.In the third variant, the sealing ring 45 includes axial flanges 48 for holding the seal 44 in position.

La présente invention permet donc, grâce à un dispositif d'étanchéité disposé entre l'arbre mobile et le noyau fixe, d'assurer l'étanchéité entre l'espace intérieur d'un contacteur et la cavité de ce contacteur présentant la zone de connexion électrique. Cette zone de connexion électrique est ainsi protégée des poussières et de l'eau qui pourraient pénétrer dans cette cavité. Cette zone de connexion étant protégée, la longévité du contacteur de démarreur selon la présente invention est améliorée.The present invention therefore makes it possible, thanks to a sealing device disposed between the movable shaft and the fixed core, to ensure sealing between the interior space of a contactor and the cavity of this contactor presenting the connection zone electric. This electrical connection area is thus protected from dust and water which could enter this cavity. This connection area being protected, the longevity of the starter contactor according to the present invention is improved.

Claims (6)

  1. Starter (1) contact switch (2) comprising a casing (3) extending along an axis (X) and delimiting at least one interior space (4), at least one coil (5) housed in this interior space (4), at least one fixed core (10) through which there passes a shaft (6) capable of translational movement in the direction of the axis (X) and at least one cavity (12) comprising an electrical connection zone, said cavity being separated from the interior space (4) by the fixed core (10), the starter (1) contact switch (2) comprising at least one sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone, wherein:
    - the contact switch comprises an integration housing (25) for the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone is formed on the fixed core (10),
    - the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone is secured to the integration housing (25) formed in the fixed core (10), this sealing device (22) being in sliding contact with the mobile shaft (6),
    - characterized in that the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone is held in position in an integration housing (25, 29) via a thrust washer (28),
    - in that the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone comprises a seal (44) and a sealing ring (45),
    - in that the sealing ring (45) is positioned between the seal (44) and the fixed core (10).
  2. Contact switch (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone is positioned in said cavity (12) which contains the connection zone.
  3. Contact switch (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone is a lip seal.
  4. Contact switch (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing device (22) providing sealing between the interior space (4) of the starter (1) contact switch (2) and the cavity (12) comprising the connection zone is a self-lubricating seal.
  5. Contact switch according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thrust washer (28) comes into contact only with the sealing ring (45).
  6. Starter (1) of a combustion engine comprising at least one contact switch (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP18720304.7A 2017-05-12 2018-05-04 Starter switch comprising a sealing device and starter comprising such a switch Active EP3622550B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1754159A FR3066312B1 (en) 2017-05-12 2017-05-12 STARTER CONTACTOR COMPRISING A SEALING DEVICE, AND STARTER COMPRISING SUCH A CONTACTOR
PCT/EP2018/061619 WO2018206469A1 (en) 2017-05-12 2018-05-04 Starter switch comprising a sealing device and starter comprising such a switch

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3622550A1 EP3622550A1 (en) 2020-03-18
EP3622550B1 true EP3622550B1 (en) 2024-01-10

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18720304.7A Active EP3622550B1 (en) 2017-05-12 2018-05-04 Starter switch comprising a sealing device and starter comprising such a switch

Country Status (8)

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US (1) US11295916B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3622550B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2020519803A (en)
CN (2) CN110770872A (en)
FR (1) FR3066312B1 (en)
MX (1) MX2019013294A (en)
PL (1) PL3622550T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2018206469A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR3098004B1 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-07-22 Valeo Equip Electr Moteur STARTER SWITCH

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CN106328443A (en) * 2015-07-02 2017-01-11 北京佩特来电器有限公司 Electromagnetic switch and vehicle starter applying same

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FR2740604B1 (en) * 1995-10-30 1997-11-28 Valeo Equip Electr Moteur MOTOR VEHICLE STARTER CONTACTOR COMPRISING AN OVER-MOLDED CARCASE, AND STARTER EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A CONTACTOR
FR2744768B1 (en) * 1996-02-09 1998-03-06 Valeo Equip Electr Moteur STARTER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE PROVIDED WITH AN INTERNAL SEAL CARRIED BY A CONTROL ROD
FR2768259B1 (en) * 1997-09-09 1999-10-08 Valeo Equip Electr Moteur STARTER CONTACTOR COMPRISING A SEALING PARTITION
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN110770872A (en) 2020-02-07
FR3066312A1 (en) 2018-11-16
JP2020519803A (en) 2020-07-02
WO2018206469A1 (en) 2018-11-15
CN117542697A (en) 2024-02-09
FR3066312B1 (en) 2019-06-28
US20210134549A1 (en) 2021-05-06
EP3622550A1 (en) 2020-03-18
MX2019013294A (en) 2020-07-27
PL3622550T3 (en) 2024-06-10
US11295916B2 (en) 2022-04-05

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