JP2012517093A - Electromagnetic relay assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

An electromagnetic relay for enabling energization of a switch assembly includes a coil assembly, a rotor or bridge assembly, and a switch assembly. The coil assembly includes a coil and a C-shaped core. The coil is wound around a coil axis that penetrates the core. The core includes a core terminal parallel to the core axis. The bridge assembly includes a bridge and an actuator. The bridge has a central magnetic path, a lateral magnetic path and a transverse magnetic path. The actuator extends laterally from the lateral magnetic path. The core terminal is coplanar with the rotation axis and is disposed between the central magnetic path and the side magnetic path. The actuator is configured to cooperate with the switch assembly. The magnetic field generated by the coil passes through the bridge assembly via the core terminal, thereby causing bridge rotation around the rotation axis. This bridge rotation displaces the actuator to open and close the switch assembly.

Description

  The present invention relates to an electromagnetic relay assembly including an armature assembly having a unique configuration. Specifically, the present invention relates to an electromagnetic relay assembly having a rotor assembly that is magnetically operable to linearly displace a switch actuator.

  In general, the function of an electromagnetic relay is to move an armature that allows switching to a higher power by applying a small power to an electromagnet. For example, when designing a relay, it may be desirable to excite the electromagnet at 5V and 50mA (250mW) while supporting the armature at 120V, 2A (240W). Relays are very common in home appliances that are switched on and off by electronically controlled actuation means, such as motors and lighting fixtures. The present invention is basically intended for use as a single-pole electromagnetic relay assembly through which a current of 120 A flows. However, the present invention is also applicable to multipole relay assemblies having a unique structure and function based on the teachings of the single pole embodiments described herein. An outline of several other types of electromagnetic relay assemblies disclosed in US patents as representative examples of the prior art is as follows.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,604,660 (the '660 patent) to Gruner discloses a latching electromagnetic relay assembly having a linear motor. The latch-type magnetic relay disclosed in the '660 patent makes it possible to adjust the electric transmission characteristics by allowing a current of 100A or more to flow, or for other applications that require switching of a current of 100A or more. It can be used. In this case, the relay motor assembly has an elongated coil bobbin provided with a cavity extending in the axial direction. The excitation coil is wound around the bobbin. The generally U-shaped ferromagnetic frame has a core portion disposed through an axially extending cavity in an elongated coil bobbin. Two contact portions extend substantially perpendicular to the core portion and rise above the motor assembly. The actuator assembly is magnetically coupled to the relay motor assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator frame operatively coupled to the first and second generally U-shaped ferromagnetic pole pieces and a permanent magnet. A contact bridge composed of a thin copper sheet of conductive material is operatively coupled to the actuator assembly.

  US Pat. No. 6,246,306 to Gruner (the '306 patent) discloses an electromagnetic relay having a pressure spring. The electromagnetic relay disclosed in the '306 patent has a motor assembly with a bobbin attached to a housing. In this case, the core is connected adjacently below the bobbin in the region excluding the core end, and the core end extends from the bobbin. The armature end is magnetically engaged with the core end when the coil is excited. The actuator is engaged with the armature and the plurality of central contact spring assemblies. The center contact spring assembly comprises a center contact spring that is not pre-bent but is ultrasonically welded onto the center contact terminal. A normally open spring is positioned relatively parallel to the central contact spring. The normally open spring is ultrasonically welded to the normally open terminal to form a normally open external contact spring assembly. The normally closed external contact spring is positioned vertically with respect to the central contact spring, and the normally closed external spring assembly is in contact with the central contact spring assembly when the central contact spring is not actuated by the actuator. A normally closed spring is ultrasonically welded to the normally closed terminal to form a normally closed assembly. When the actuator is not in use, the pressure spring exerts pressure on the central contact spring on the actuator.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,252,478 to Gruner (the '478 patent) discloses an electromagnetic relay. The electromagnetic relay disclosed in the '478 patent has a motor assembly with a bobbin attached to a frame. The core is disposed in the bobbin except for the core end extending from the bobbin. The armature end is magnetically engaged with the coil end when the coil is excited. An actuator is engaged with the armature and the plurality of movable blade assemblies. The movable blade assembly includes a movable blade ultrasonically welded to a central contact terminal portion. A normally open blade is positioned relatively parallel to the movable blade. The normally open blade is ultrasonically welded onto a normally open terminal that forms a normally open contact assembly. The normally closed contact assembly includes a third contact rivet and a normally closed terminal portion. The normally closed contact assembly is positioned vertically with respect to the movable blade, and the normally closed contact assembly contacts the movable blade assembly when the movable blade is not actuated by the actuator.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,320,855 (the '485 patent) issued to Gruner discloses an electromagnetic relay assembly having a linear motor. The latch-type electromagnetic relay disclosed in the '485 patent can be used for other applications that can adjust the electrical transmission by enabling the transmission of currents of 100A or higher, or that requires switching of currents of 100A or higher. It is what. In this case, the relay motor assembly has an elongated coil bobbin provided with a cavity extending in the axial direction. The excitation coil is wound around the bobbin. The generally U-shaped ferromagnetic frame has a core portion disposed through an axially extending cavity in an elongated coil bobbin. Two contact portions extend substantially perpendicular to the core portion and stand above the motor assembly. The actuator assembly is magnetically coupled to the relay motor assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator frame operatively coupled to the first and second generally U-shaped ferromagnetic pole pieces and a permanent magnet. A contact bridge composed of a thin copper sheet of conductive material is operatively coupled to the actuator assembly.

  US Pat. No. 6,563,409 (the '409 patent) to Gruner discloses a latching electromagnetic relay. The latch-type electromagnetic relay assembly disclosed in the '409 patent includes a relay motor, an actuator assembly, and one or two groups of contact bridge assemblies. In this case, the relay motor has a first coil bobbin around which the first excitation coil is wound and a second coil bobbin around which the second excitation coil is wound, and both the first and second excitation coils have the same configuration. The first excitation coil is electrically insulated from the second excitation coil. The actuator assembly has a first end and a second end and is magnetically coupled to both relay motors. Each of the first or second group of contact bridge assemblies includes a contact bridge and a spring.

US Pat. No. 6046660 US Pat. No. 6,246,306 U.S. Patent No. 6252478 US 6320485 specification US Pat. No. 6563409

  It is an object of the present invention to provide an electromagnetic relay assembly comprising means for dampening contact vibration between contacts of a switch assembly. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an armature assembly having a rotation axis and rotating under the influence of a magnetic field generated or transmitted from an electromagnetic coil assembly. In this armature assembly, a switch actuator is linearly displaced to open and close a relay switch assembly. To achieve these and other easily understandable purposes, the electromagnetic relay assembly according to the present invention includes a coil assembly, an armature bridge assembly, and a switch assembly, which will be described in detail below.

  The coil assembly substantially comprises a coil, a C-shaped yoke assembly and a coil axis. The coil is wound around the coil axis, and the yoke assembly includes first and second yoke arms. Each yoke arm includes an axial yoke portion that is coaxially aligned with the coil axis to form a rear portion of the C-shaped yoke assembly. Each yoke arm further includes a yoke terminal portion, and these yoke terminal portions are coplanar with each other and are arranged substantially parallel to the coil axis.

  The armature bridge assembly is rotatable about a rotation axis that is spaced orthogonally from the coil axis and is coplanar with the yoke terminal. The armature bridge assembly includes a bridge rotation axis, a bridge and an actuator arm. The bridge consists of a proximal central magnetic path close to the coil axis, a distal lateral magnetic path close to the coil axis, and a longitudinal or axially spaced center to side or side And a magnetic path (or a transverse magnetic path) extending from the center to the center. The actuator arm can cooperate with the lateral magnetic path via the first end and extends laterally away from the lateral magnetic path.

  The switch assembly essentially comprises a switch terminal and a spring assembly positioned between the switch terminals. The spring assembly is attached to the second end of the actuator arm. The yoke terminal portion is received between the central magnetic path and the outer magnetic path. In accordance with technical standards established among those skilled in the art, the coil receives a current to generate or transmit a magnetic field that is directed through the bridge assembly through the yoke terminals, thereby providing a bridge rotation axis. It is possible to generate a bridge rotation around the actuator arm and to linearly displace the actuator arm. The displaceable actuator arm functions to operate the spring assembly between the open contact position and the closed contact position, which allows the switch assembly to be energized via the switch terminal. .

  The electromagnetic relay assembly according to the present invention includes, as an additional feature, a means for increasing the overtravel of the spring, and has a function of increasing the contact pressure between the switch terminal portions when the spring assembly is in the closed position. . This overtravel enhancing means further functions as means for performing contact wiping or contact cleaning by enhancing contact or increasing contact pressure. That is, the enhanced conduction path through the contact interface can function to effectively burn out residues and / or debris that could otherwise remain on the contact surface. The overtravel enhancing means can also function as means for effectively attenuating contact bouncing or vibration between the first and second contacts when the switch is switched from the open position to the closed position.

  Other objects, features, configurations and advantages of the present invention will be explained or obvious from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

It is a top view which shows the electromagnetic relay assembly which concerns on this invention in the state which has a switch assembly in an open position. It is a top view which shows the electromagnetic relay assembly which concerns on this invention in the state which has a switch assembly in a closed position. 1 is an exploded perspective view from above of an electromagnetic relay assembly according to the present invention having an optional housing cover. FIG. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the 1st terminal part assembly of the switch assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the 2nd terminal assembly of the switch assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a disassembled perspective view of the coil assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a fragmentary exploded perspective view showing a rotor assembly of an armature assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the triple spring assembly and contact button of a switch assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. FIG. 3 is a fragmentary side view showing a triple spring assembly, a contact button and an armature arm, illustrating a state in which the contact button is in a closed position and the armature arm is in a substantially coplanar position. FIG. 5 is a fragmentary side view showing the triple spring assembly, contact button and armature arm, with the contact button in the closed position and the triple spring assembly in the overtravel position to increase the contact pressure between the contact buttons. Is described. FIG. 11 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of a joint portion of a triple spring and an upper contact button, illustrating a state in which the spring triple spring assembly is in an overtravel position to increase the contact pressure between the contact buttons as in FIG. 10. To do. FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of magnetic flux flow through a C-shaped core assembly and rotor assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly, illustrating the magnetic flux flow redirected and divided through the rotor assembly. FIG. 4 is a side view of a triple spring assembly and a switch terminal assembly operatively connected to a contact button, wherein the triple spring assembly includes first and second springs having a C-shaped bend in the center; It shows that a third spring having a bend at the end is provided. FIG. 14 is a fragmentary enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part in FIG. 13 and shows details of a terminal bend of the third spring. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a threshold current path passing through a relay terminal arranged adjacent to a rotatable armature assembly, and is generated at a terminal portion to rotate the armature assembly toward a circuit open position. This is to explain that the magnetic field is stronger than the magnetic field generated in the armature.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail based on the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings.

  Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1 to 3 show a preferred embodiment of the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention is capable of selectively energizing a current via a switch terminal portion 11. In order to achieve such a function and other functions that can be easily assumed, the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention preferably includes the electromagnetic coil assembly 12 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. A rotary armature assembly 13 shown in FIG. 3 and a switch assembly 14 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 are provided.

  The coil assembly 12 of the present invention preferably includes the conductive coil 15 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 6, the C-shaped core or yoke assembly 16 shown in FIGS. A coil axis 100 shown in FIGS. 2, 6 and 12 is provided. As is clear from the above figures, the conductive coil 15 is wound around the coil axis 100 and includes the first and second electromagnetic drive terminal portions 17 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 6. The yoke assembly or C-shaped core assembly 16 in the present invention is received in the coil 15 in the axial direction and preferably includes first and second yoke arms 18. Only one of these yoke arms is shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and both are shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, each yoke arm 18 includes an axial yoke portion 18 and a substantially flat yoke terminal portion 20, which is preferably parallel to the coil axis 100 as shown in FIG. It is.

  The rotatable armature assembly 13 in the present invention preferably includes a rotor assembly 21 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 7, an actuator or an actuator arm 22 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, 9 and 10, 1, 2, 12, and 15, and FIGS. 3 and 7 include an armature rotation axis 101 represented as a straight line. The rotor assembly 21 preferably has first and second rotor magnets 23 that are uniformly oriented or polarized as shown in FIGS. 7 and 12, and FIGS. The rotor plate 25 shown in FIG. 1, the rotor bracket 26 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the rotor housing 27 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 7, the return spring 28 shown in FIGS. 3 and a rotor mount 30 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3.

  As is apparent from the above figures, the rotor bracket 26 is attached to or cooperatively associated with the first end of the actuator 22, and the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 (or part thereof) are preferably Are oriented parallel to each other by the rotor housing 27. In this connection, the first and second rotor magnets 23 are formed to have the same dimensions and extend in the middle of the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 so that the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 are equally spaced apart at the same time. And a guideway or path for effectively directing a so-called Lorentz current or magnetic flux across the rotor or bridge assembly 21 as shown diagrammatically in FIG.

  In connection with the latter, the armature assembly 13 can be considered as an armature bridge assembly comprising a bridge rotation axis (similar to the armature rotation axis 101) and a bridge cooperatively associated with the armature arm 22. In this case, the bridge preferably has a central magnetic path (similar to the rotor plate 25), a lateral magnetic path (similar to the rotor bracket 26), and spaced apart in the longitudinal or axial direction from the center to the side. Alternatively, it can be considered to have a magnetic path or a transverse magnetic path (similar to the first and second rotor magnets 23) extending from the side to the center. The armature arm 22 can then be considered to extend laterally away from the side magnetic path or rotor bracket 26 to engage the switch assembly 14.

  The rotor housing 27 functions to form a bridge-like structure in the armature 13 by receiving, receiving and positioning the first and second rotor magnets 23, the rotor plate 25, and the rotor bracket 26. The rotor magnets 23 are uniformly oriented so that the same magnetic poles face the same rotor structure. For example, an arrangement in which the north pole of the rotor magnet 23 is opposed to the rotor bracket 26 (the south pole faces the rotor plate 25), or an arrangement in which the south pole of the rotor magnet 23 is opposed to the rotor bracket 26 (the north pole is the rotor). Opposite the bracket 26).

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the rotor housing 27 includes a pin receiving aperture or receiving hole for receiving the rotor pin 29. The pin receiving aperture or receiving hole in the rotor housing 27 allows the bridge or armature assembly 13 to rotate about the armature rotation axis 101. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the rotor pin 29 penetrates the pin receiving hole and can be locked in the axial direction by the relay housing 48 at the lower end thereof. Relay housing 48 is sized and shaped to receive, house and position coil assembly 12, armature assembly 13 and switch assembly 14 as shown in FIG. The relay housing 48 may optionally include a relay cover 49 as shown in FIG.

  In this connection, it should be recalled that the armature assembly 13 according to the invention can be locked or attached by the rotor mount 30. The rotor mount 30 can cooperate with the relay housing 48 to lock the rotor pin 29 in the axial direction, that is, can be locked to the relay housing 48. The fixed rotor mount 30 receives and locks the upper end of the rotor pin 29, so that the user of the relay can effectively operate the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 according to the present invention without the relay cover 49. The means for attaching the rotor mount 30, the bridge mount, or the rotor assembly or bridge assembly can be considered to constitute a means for opening the electromagnetic relay assembly 10. In certain cases, an uncovered relay assembly provides certain benefits. For example, the relay assembly according to the present invention can be more easily observed during the test procedure. In any case, the rotor mount 30 in the present invention allows the coverless operation of the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 by attaching the armature assembly 13 to the relay housing 48.

  The switch assembly 14 in the relay assembly 10 according to the present invention preferably includes a first switch terminal assembly 31 shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 and a second switch shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, 5, 13 and 14. A terminal assembly 32 and a triple spring assembly 33 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, 5, 8 to 11, 13 and 14 are provided. As is apparent from the above drawings, the first switch terminal assembly 31 preferably includes a first contact button 34 and a first switch terminal 11. Further, the second switch terminal assembly 32 preferably includes a second switch terminal 11.

  The triple spring assembly 33 is preferably a second contact button 37 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 9 to 11, 13 and 14, and shown in FIGS. 5, 8 to 10 and 13. A first spring 38, a second spring 39, and a third spring 40 are provided. The first spring 38 preferably comprises a first contact receiving aperture 41, a first C-shaped aperture 42 shown in FIG. 8, and a distal offset or bend 70 shown in FIGS. . In particular, the first C-shaped aperture 42 is preferably arranged concentrically with respect to the first contact receiving aperture 41. The second spring 39 preferably includes a second contact receiving aperture 43 and a C-shaped bent portion 44 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the first C-shaped bent portion 44 has a predetermined first curvature radius. The third spring 40 preferably includes a third contact receiving aperture 45, a second C-shaped aperture 46, and a second C-shaped bent portion 47.

  Preferably, the second C-shaped aperture 46 is concentrically arranged with respect to the third contact receiving aperture 45, and the second C-shaped bent portion 47 has a predetermined second radius of curvature, The two curvature radii are larger than the first curvature radius of the first C-shaped bent portion 44. The second spring 39 is sandwiched between the first spring 38 and the third spring 40 via the second contact button 37, and is received or extended through the contact receiving apertures 41, 43, 45. The first C-shaped bent portion 44 is disposed concentrically with respect to the second C-shaped bent portion 47. The first contact button 34 and the second contact button 37 (or contact) are spatially oriented or juxtaposed adjacent to each other, as shown in FIGS. In the preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the triple spring assembly 33 is positioned on the side of the armature arm 22 so as to be biased toward the open contact position between the first and second switch terminal portions 11. Attached to the end.

  The first C-shaped aperture 42, the second C-shaped aperture 46 and the end offset or bend 70 enhance overtravel to increase the contact pressure between the first contact button 34 and the second contact button 37. Means for this. In this regard, further reference is made to FIGS. As is apparent from the comparison considerations in the above drawings, the terminal-side end 53 of the spring assembly 33 can be operated beyond the flat portion of the spring assembly immediately adjacent to the base 53 of the contact button 37. The flat portion of the spring assembly is directly (and radially) adjacent to the base 51 of the contact button 37 and forms a button stack spring portion 52 as shown in FIGS. As apparent from FIGS. 8 and 11, the button stacking portion 52 is stacked on the contact button 37, and the terminal side end portion 53 is elastically deformed as shown by reference numeral 50 to enable the overtravel.

  In other words, the spring element material (preferably copper) having a C-shaped aperture can be more easily elastically deformed at the terminal portion 50 of the C-shaped aperture, as shown in FIG. In particular, the elastic deformation of the material adjacent to the terminal portion 50 does not cause significant embrittlement of the base material lattice (that is, undesired significant lattice dislocation). The C-shaped aperture structure or feature in the triple spring assembly constitutes a means for further increasing the contact pressure between the contact buttons 34 and 37 by enhancing overtravel and thus improving electrical contact. . The offset or bend 70 at the end constitutes an overtravel enhancement means to increase contact pressure and reduce contact bouncing between the contact buttons 34 and 37.

  Thus, the conduction between the contact buttons 34, 37 is improved by overtravel enabled and / or enhanced by a C-shaped aperture, as shown in FIG. Improved contact and the resulting good conduction are achieved by means of enhanced overtravel, which also constitute contact wiping or cleaning means. In this respect, the relay assembly 10 of the present invention exhibits a self-cleaning action by the C-shaped apertures 42 and 46. Further, the C-shaped apertures 42, 46 (and the offset or bend 70) are contact buttons 34 when switching from the open contact state or open switch position shown in FIG. 1 to the closed contact state or closed switch position shown in FIG. And means for attenuating contact bouncing or contact vibration between 37 and 37.

  As is apparent from FIG. 12, the core or yoke terminal 20 is loosely received between the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26, the armature rotation axis 101 is coplanar with the yoke terminal 20, and the rotation axis 101 is the rotor pin 29 (see FIG. 12). (Not shown at 20). When a current flows through the energizing coil 15, a magnetic field is generated, which is shown as a vector 102 in FIG. As is apparent from the figure, the magnetic field 102 is directed to pass through the yoke terminal through the rotor assembly including the rotor bracket 26, the rotor magnet 23 and the rotor plate 25, thereby allowing the armature or bridge to pass through magnetic induction torque. Is rotated around the armature rotation axis 101.

  That is, the rotor bracket 26 functions to linearly displace the actuator arm 22, and the displaced actuator arm 22 moves the triple spring assembly 33 from the preferably spring-biased open position shown in FIG. It is operated to the closed position after the spring operation shown. The substantial structure and the closed position of the relay assembly 10 enable a current of 120 A to be supplied to the switch assembly 14 via the first contact button 34, the second contact button 37 and the switch terminal portion 11. When the coil assembly 12 is at rest and the magnetic field is substantially removed, the return spring 28 is preferably in the triple spring assembly 33 to its spring-biased open position, as shown in FIG. Assist the return movement. Assuming that a current fault condition occurs, the electromagnetic relay 10 preferably further comprises a closed contact default means by which the first contact button 34 and the second contact button 37 are closed during a current fault or short circuit condition. It can be set as the structure made to do. In this regard, the path through which the Lorentz current or magnetic field passes is the path shown as vector arrow 102 in FIG.

  The electromagnetic relay according to the present invention comprises means for defaulting to the open contact position while the inter-terminal current is in the threshold state. In this regard, based on classical electromagnetic theory, streaming charge carriers generate a magnetic field in the radial direction adjacent to the carrier stream direction. FIG. 15 diagrammatically shows a threshold current path 71 oriented to pass through relay terminals 31 and 32 via contact buttons 34 and 37. The magnetic force vector 103 is shown as occurring at the terminal via the charge carrier current flowing through the path 71. After the current reaches a certain threshold, the magnetic field generated at the relay terminals 31 and 32 interacts with the permanent magnet or rotor magnet 23 in the rotatable armature assembly 13. The rotor magnet 23 has an outward natural magnetic field represented by the vector arrow 104, and its magnetic force is smaller than the magnetic force represented by the vector arrow 103. Based on the magnetic force difference between the vector arrows 104 and 103 described above, the rotatable armature assembly 13 rotates toward the open contact position as shown diagrammatically in FIG. This feature can be calibrated based on the size and strength of the magnet 23 and the distance between the armature and the fixed contact.

  Although the above description includes specificity, this specificity should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but merely to illustrate the invention. For example, the present invention teaches or discloses an electromagnetic relay assembly that essentially comprises a coil assembly, a bridge assembly, and a switch assembly that allows current to flow through the switch terminals. The coil assembly includes a coil, a coil axis, and a C-shaped core. The coil is wound around the coil axis line 100, and the coil axis line 100 penetrates the core 60 as shown in FIG. The core 60 includes a core terminal 20, and the core terminal 20 is substantially parallel to the coil axis 100.

  The bridge assembly includes the rotation axis 101 and the bridge 61 shown in FIGS. 12 and 15, and the switch actuator 22. The bridge 61 includes a central magnetic path 63 (proximal magnetic path close to the core 60), a side magnetic path 64 (distal magnetic path close to the core 60), the central magnetic path 63 and the side magnetic paths. A transverse magnetic path 65 spaced axially is provided for inducing a magnetic field 102 between the paths 64. Actuator arm 22 can cooperate with lateral magnetic path 64 (not specifically shown in FIG. 12) and extends away therefrom. The core terminal 20 is preferably coplanar with the rotational axis 101 and is received between the central magnetic path 63 and the side magnetic paths 64.

  The transverse magnetic path 65 constitutes magnetic field turning means for turning the magnetic field 102 laterally with respect to the coil axis 100 and the magnetic induction torque, and this magnetic induction torque functions to operate the switch actuator 22. The magnetic field turning means further includes magnetic field dividing means (there are two magnetic paths 66 facing in the axial direction as shown in FIG. 12) for forming a magnetic connection in the magnetic induction torque. Can think.

  The switch assembly 14 can further cooperate with the actuator arm 22, and the actuator arm 22 substantially couples between the bridge assembly 61 and the switch assembly 14. The coil functions to generate or exert a magnetic field 102 shown in vector. The magnetic field 102 can be directed to pass through the bridge assembly 61 via the core terminal 20, thereby causing bridge rotation around the rotation axis 101 via magnetic induction torque. The actuator arm 22 is moved by this bridge rotation, and the switch assembly 14 is physically opened and closed by the movement. When the switch assembly 14 is closed, the switch assembly allows energization.

  The switch assembly 14 includes spring means for enhancing overtravel, which enhances the closed switch position by increasing the contact pressure between the contact buttons 34 and 37. Spring means for enhancing overtravel constitutes contact wiping means and vibration damping means. The contact wiping means is intended to effectively perform self-cleaning of the switch assembly 14, and the vibration damping means is intended to attenuate contact vibration when switching from the switch open position to the switch closed position, respectively. The spring means for enhancing overtravel enhances the closing switch position by increasing the contact pressure between the contacts, maintaining a contact surface free of residue, and attenuating contact vibration when the contacts are closed.

  Although the present invention has been described above on the basis of many embodiments, the device according to the present invention, i.e., a novel relay, is not limited thereto, and many modifications can be made without departing from the technical scope and spirit of the present invention. It goes without saying that corrections are possible. For example, the specifications described above are intended for use as a single-pole electromagnetic relay assembly with a current of 120A. However, the present invention is also applicable to multipole relay assemblies having a unique structure and function based on the teachings of the single pole embodiments described herein.

The present invention relates to an electromagnetic relay assembly including an armature assembly having a unique configuration. In particular, the present invention relates to an electromagnetic relay assembly having a rotor assembly that is magnetically operable to linearly displace at least one switch actuator.

In general, the function of an electromagnetic relay is to move an armature that allows switching to a higher power by applying a small power to an electromagnet. For example, when designing a relay, it may be desirable to excite the electromagnet at 5V and 50mA (250mW) while supporting the armature at 120V, 2A (240W). Relays are very common in home appliances that are switched on and off by electronically controlled actuation means, such as motors and lighting fixtures. Although the present invention essentially supports a single pole electromagnetic relay assembly through which a current of 120 A flows , the present invention is applied to the single pole embodiment illustrated or described herein. The present invention can also be applied to a multipole relay assembly (for example, a two-pole relay assembly) having a unique structure and function based on the technical teaching. An outline of several other types of electromagnetic relay assemblies disclosed in US patents as representative examples of the prior art is as follows.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,604,660 (the '660 patent) to Gruner discloses a latching electromagnetic relay assembly having a linear motor. The latch-type magnetic relay disclosed in the '660 patent makes it possible to adjust the electric transmission characteristics by allowing a current of 100A or more to flow, or for other applications that require switching of a current of 100A or more. It can be used. In this case, the relay motor assembly has an elongated coil bobbin provided with a cavity extending in the axial direction. The excitation coil is wound around the bobbin. The generally U-shaped ferromagnetic frame has a core portion disposed through an axially extending cavity in an elongated coil bobbin. Two contact portions extend substantially perpendicular to the core portion and rise above the motor assembly. The actuator assembly is magnetically coupled to the relay motor assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator frame operatively coupled to the first and second generally U-shaped ferromagnetic pole pieces and a permanent magnet. A contact bridge composed of a thin copper sheet of conductive material is operatively coupled to the actuator assembly.

  US Pat. No. 6,246,306 to Gruner (the '306 patent) discloses an electromagnetic relay having a pressure spring. The electromagnetic relay disclosed in the '306 patent has a motor assembly with a bobbin attached to a housing. In this case, the core is connected adjacently below the bobbin in the region excluding the core end, and the core end extends from the bobbin. The armature end is magnetically engaged with the core end when the coil is excited. The actuator is engaged with the armature and the plurality of central contact spring assemblies. The center contact spring assembly comprises a center contact spring that is not pre-bent but is ultrasonically welded onto the center contact terminal. A normally open spring is positioned relatively parallel to the central contact spring. The normally open spring is ultrasonically welded to the normally open terminal to form a normally open external contact spring assembly. The normally closed external contact spring is positioned vertically with respect to the central contact spring, and the normally closed external spring assembly is in contact with the central contact spring assembly when the central contact spring is not actuated by the actuator. A normally closed spring is ultrasonically welded to the normally closed terminal to form a normally closed assembly. When the actuator is not in use, the pressure spring exerts pressure on the central contact spring on the actuator.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,252,478 to Gruner (the '478 patent) discloses an electromagnetic relay. The electromagnetic relay disclosed in the '478 patent has a motor assembly with a bobbin attached to a frame. The core is disposed in the bobbin except for the core end extending from the bobbin. The armature end is magnetically engaged with the coil end when the coil is excited. An actuator is engaged with the armature and the plurality of movable blade assemblies. The movable blade assembly includes a movable blade ultrasonically welded to a central contact terminal portion. A normally open blade is positioned relatively parallel to the movable blade. The normally open blade is ultrasonically welded onto a normally open terminal that forms a normally open contact assembly. The normally closed contact assembly includes a third contact rivet and a normally closed terminal portion. The normally closed contact assembly is positioned vertically with respect to the movable blade, and the normally closed contact assembly contacts the movable blade assembly when the movable blade is not actuated by the actuator.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,320,855 (the '485 patent) issued to Gruner discloses an electromagnetic relay assembly having a linear motor. The latch-type electromagnetic relay disclosed in the '485 patent can be used for other applications that can adjust the electrical transmission by enabling the transmission of currents of 100A or higher, or that requires switching of currents of 100A or higher. It is what. In this case, the relay motor assembly has an elongated coil bobbin provided with a cavity extending in the axial direction. The excitation coil is wound around the bobbin. The generally U-shaped ferromagnetic frame has a core portion disposed through an axially extending cavity in an elongated coil bobbin. Two contact portions extend substantially perpendicular to the core portion and stand above the motor assembly. The actuator assembly is magnetically coupled to the relay motor assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator frame operatively coupled to the first and second generally U-shaped ferromagnetic pole pieces and a permanent magnet. A contact bridge composed of a thin copper sheet of conductive material is operatively coupled to the actuator assembly.

  US Pat. No. 6,563,409 (the '409 patent) to Gruner discloses a latching electromagnetic relay. The latch-type electromagnetic relay assembly disclosed in the '409 patent includes a relay motor, an actuator assembly, and one or two groups of contact bridge assemblies. In this case, the relay motor has a first coil bobbin around which the first excitation coil is wound and a second coil bobbin around which the second excitation coil is wound, and both the first and second excitation coils have the same configuration. The first excitation coil is electrically insulated from the second excitation coil. The actuator assembly has a first end and a second end and is magnetically coupled to both relay motors. Each of the first or second group of contact bridge assemblies includes a contact bridge and a spring.

US Pat. No. 6046660 US Pat. No. 6,246,306 U.S. Patent No. 6252478 US 6320485 specification US Pat. No. 6563409

It is an object of the present invention to provide an electromagnetic relay assembly comprising means for dampening contact vibration between contacts of a switch assembly. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an armature assembly having a rotation axis and rotating under the influence of a magnetic field generated or transmitted from an electromagnetic coil assembly. This armature assembly opens and closes each relay switch assembly by linearly displacing the switch actuator. To achieve these and other readily understandable purposes, the electromagnetic relay assembly according to the present invention comprises a coil assembly, an armature bridge assembly and at least one switch assembly, which will be described in detail below.

  The coil assembly substantially comprises a coil, a C-shaped yoke assembly and a coil axis. The coil is wound around the coil axis, and the yoke assembly includes first and second yoke arms. Each yoke arm includes an axial yoke portion that is coaxially aligned with the coil axis to form a rear portion of the C-shaped yoke assembly. Each yoke arm further includes a yoke terminal portion, and these yoke terminal portions are coplanar with each other and are arranged substantially parallel to the coil axis.

The armature bridge assembly is rotatable about a rotation axis that is spaced orthogonally from the coil axis and is coplanar with the yoke terminal. The armature bridge assembly includes a bridge rotation axis, a bridge and at least one actuator arm. The bridge consists of a proximal central magnetic path close to the coil axis, a distal lateral magnetic path close to the coil axis, and a longitudinal or axially spaced center to side or side And a magnetic path (or a transverse magnetic path) extending from the center to the center. Each actuator arm can cooperate with the lateral magnetic path via the first end and extends laterally away from the lateral magnetic path.

Each switch assembly essentially comprises a switch terminal and a spring assembly positioned between the switch terminals. Each spring assembly is attached to a second end of the actuator arm. The yoke terminal portion is received between the central magnetic path and the outer magnetic path. In accordance with technical standards established among those skilled in the art, the coil receives a current to generate or transmit a magnetic field that is directed through the bridge assembly through the yoke terminals, thereby providing a bridge rotation axis. It is possible to cause a bridge rotation around and to linearly displace each actuator arm. Each displaceable actuator arm functions to operate the spring assembly between an open contact position and a closed contact position, and the closed contact position allows each switch assembly to be energized via the switch terminal. It is.

  The electromagnetic relay assembly according to the present invention includes, as an additional feature, a means for increasing the overtravel of the spring, and has a function of increasing the contact pressure between the switch terminal portions when the spring assembly is in the closed position. . This overtravel enhancing means further functions as means for performing contact wiping or contact cleaning by enhancing contact or increasing contact pressure. That is, the enhanced conduction path through the contact interface can function to effectively burn out residues and / or debris that could otherwise remain on the contact surface. The overtravel enhancing means can also function as means for effectively attenuating contact bouncing or vibration between the first and second contacts when the switch is switched from the open position to the closed position.

  Other objects, features, configurations and advantages of the present invention will be explained or obvious from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

It is a 1st top view which shows the electromagnetic relay assembly which concerns on this invention in the state which each switch assembly exists in a closed position. It is a 2nd top view which shows the electromagnetic relay assembly which concerns on this invention in the state which has a switch assembly in a closed position. FIG. 3 is a fragmentary enlarged cross-sectional view showing the rotor assembly and the rotor mount separated from the assembly shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a rotor assembly, actuator arms and switch assemblies in a closed position, shown separately from the relay housing and coil assembly to aid in understanding their structural relationship. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a rotor assembly, actuator arms and switch assemblies in an open position, separated from the relay housing and coil assembly to aid in understanding their structural relationship. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an electromagnetic relay assembly according to the present invention from above, and showing an optional housing cover. FIG. It is a disassembled perspective view of the coil assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a fragmentary exploded perspective view showing a rotor assembly of an armature assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the 1st terminal assembly of the 1st switch assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the 2nd terminal part assembly of the 1st switch assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing a first terminal part assembly of a second switch assembly according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing a second terminal portion assembly of a second switch assembly according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a fragmentary side view showing a triple spring assembly, a contact button and an armature arm, illustrating a state in which the contact button is in a closed position and the armature arm is in a substantially coplanar position. FIG. 5 is a fragmentary side view showing the triple spring assembly, contact button and armature arm, with the contact button in the closed position and the triple spring assembly in the overtravel position to increase the contact pressure between the contact buttons. Is described. FIG. 14 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of a joint portion of a triple spring and an upper contact button, illustrating a state in which the spring triple spring assembly is in an overtravel position to increase the contact pressure between the contact buttons as in FIG. 13. To do. 2 is a pair of fragmentary side views of opposing triple spring assemblies, contact buttons and armature arm assemblies according to the present invention, with the contact buttons in a closed position, with two springs in each triple spring assembly being substantially The state which exists in the linear form and one spring exists in the offset form before overtravel is demonstrated. FIG. 16 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of the joint of the rightmost triple spring assembly and upper contact button shown in FIG. 15, showing the spring in an offset state before overtravel. FIG. 16 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of the joint of the leftmost triple spring assembly and upper contact button shown in FIG. 15, showing the spring in an offset state before overtravel. FIG. 17 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of the joint of the triple spring assembly and upper contact button shown in FIG. 16, showing the spring in an offset state after overtravel. FIG. 18 is a fragmentary enlarged side view of the joint of the triple spring assembly and upper contact button shown in FIG. 17, showing the spring in an offset state after overtravel. FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of magnetic flux flow through a C-shaped core assembly and rotor assembly in an electromagnetic relay assembly, illustrating the magnetic flux flow redirected and divided through the rotor assembly. (1) It is a figure which shows the switch terminal part assembly operatively connected to the triple spring assembly and the contact button, and the first and second springs having a C-shaped bent part in the center of the triple spring assembly A double spring comprising a bend-ended third spring and (2) a fragmentary enlarged sectional view showing details of the end bend of the third spring. It is a side view. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a threshold current path passing through a relay terminal arranged adjacent to a rotatable armature assembly, and is generated at a terminal portion to rotate the armature assembly toward a circuit open position. This is to explain that the magnetic field is stronger than the magnetic field generated in the armature.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail based on the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings.

Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1 , 2 and 5 show a preferred embodiment of the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention. The electromagnetic relay assembly 10 according to the present invention is capable of selectively energizing a current through a switch terminal portion 11 as shown in FIGS . 1 , 2, 3 to 5, and 8 to 11. . And such a function, for achieving the function of other easily conceived, the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 of the present invention is preferably 1, an electromagnetic coil assembly 12 shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, FIG. 1 A rotary armature assembly 13 shown in FIG. 5 and a switch assembly 14 shown in FIGS . 1 , 2, 3, and 4 are provided.

Coil assembly 12 of the present invention preferably comprises 1, a conductive coil 15 shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, a C-shaped core or yoke assembly 16 shown in FIG. 6, the coils axis . As apparent from the above figures, the conductive coil 15 is wound around the coil axis, and a first and second electromagnetic drive terminal unit 17 shown in FIG. The yoke assembly or C-shaped core assembly 16 in the present invention is received in the coil 15 in the axial direction and preferably includes first and second yoke arms 18 . As shown in FIG. 6, each yoke arm 18, the axial yoke portion 18, and a substantially planar yoke terminal portion 20, the yoke pin 20 is preferably a parallel to the coils axis.

The rotatable armature assembly 13 according to the present invention preferably includes the rotor assembly 21 shown in FIGS . 1 to 5, 7, 15 and 17 , and FIGS . 1 , 2, 3 to 5 and 13. includes an actuator or actuator arm 22 shown in FIG. 2 (a) ~ 4, a two-point 15 and 17, also, the armature rotational axis 101 represented as dashed lines in FIG. The rotor assembly 21 is preferably uniformly oriented as shown in FIGS. 7 and 1 5, or the first and second rotor magnet 23 is polarization, 3-5, 7 and a rotor plate 25 shown in 1 5, 3-5, a rotor bracket 26 shown in FIGS. 7 and 15, a rotor housing 27 shown in FIG. 7, a carriage return spring (not specifically shown) , and a rotor pin 29 shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 1, a rotor mount 30 shown in FIG. 2 (a) and FIG.

As is apparent from the above figures, the rotor bracket 26 is attached to or cooperatively associated with the first end of the actuator arm 22, and the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 (or part thereof) are suitable. Are oriented parallel to each other by the rotor housing 27. In this connection, the first and second rotor magnets 23 are formed to have the same dimensions and extend in the middle of the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 so that the rotor plate 25 and the rotor bracket 26 are equally spaced apart at the same time. and the so-called Lorentz current or flux, is intended to limit the guideway or pathway for effectively directed across the rotor and bridge assembly 21, as shown diagrammatically in Figure 1 5.

  In connection with the latter, the armature assembly 13 can be considered as an armature bridge assembly comprising a bridge rotation axis (similar to the armature rotation axis 101) and a bridge cooperatively associated with the armature arm 22. In this case, the bridge preferably has a central magnetic path (similar to the rotor plate 25), a lateral magnetic path (similar to the rotor bracket 26), and spaced apart in the longitudinal or axial direction from the center to the side. Alternatively, it can be considered to have a magnetic path or a transverse magnetic path (similar to the first and second rotor magnets 23) extending from the side to the center. The armature arm 22 can then be considered to extend laterally away from the side magnetic path or rotor bracket 26 to engage the switch assembly 14.

The rotor housing 27 functions to form a bridge-like structure in the armature 13 by receiving, receiving and positioning the first and second rotor magnets 23, the rotor plate 25, and the rotor bracket 26. The rotor magnets 23 are uniformly oriented so that the same magnetic poles face the same rotor structure. For example, an arrangement in which the north pole of the rotor magnet 23 is opposed to the rotor bracket 26 (the south pole faces the rotor plate 25), or an arrangement in which the south pole of the rotor magnet 23 is opposed to the rotor bracket 26 (the north pole is the rotor). Plate 25 ).

B over motor housing 27 is provided with a pin-receiving aperture or receiving hole for receiving the Rotapi down. The pin receiving aperture or receiving hole in the rotor housing 27 allows the bridge or armature assembly 13 to rotate about the armature rotation axis 101. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the rotor pin 29 penetrates the pin receiving hole and can be locked in the axial direction by the relay housing 48 at the lower end thereof. Relay housing 48, co-yl assembly 12 accepts an armature assembly 13 and the switch assembly 14, the size and shape as accommodated and positioned are determined. Relay housing 48, as an optional configuration, a relay cover 49 as shown in FIG. 5, or relay cover 49 and can be cooperating.

  In this connection, it should be recalled that the armature assembly 13 according to the invention can be locked or attached by the rotor mount 30. The rotor mount 30 can cooperate with the relay housing 48 to lock the rotor pin 29 in the axial direction, that is, can be locked to the relay housing 48. The fixed rotor mount 30 receives and locks the upper end of the rotor pin 29, so that the user of the relay can effectively operate the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 according to the present invention without the relay cover 49. The means for attaching the rotor mount 30, the bridge mount, or the rotor assembly or bridge assembly can be considered to constitute a means for opening the electromagnetic relay assembly 10. In certain cases, an uncovered relay assembly provides certain benefits. For example, the relay assembly according to the present invention can be more easily observed during the test procedure. In any case, the rotor mount 30 in the present invention allows the coverless operation of the electromagnetic relay assembly 10 by attaching the armature assembly 13 to the relay housing 48.

Each switch assembly 14 in the relay assembly 10 according to the present invention preferably includes a first switch terminal assembly 31 shown in FIGS . 1 , 2, 3 to 5, 9, 11 and 17 , 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 16, and 17 , the second switch terminal assembly 32, and FIGS. 1 , 2, 3 to 5, 8, 10, and 12. , And a triple spring assembly 33 shown in FIGS . As is apparent from the drawings, each first switch terminal assembly 31 preferably includes a first contact button 34 and a first switch terminal 11. Further, each second switch terminal assembly 32 preferably includes a second switch terminal 11.

Each triple spring assembly 33 preferably includes a second contact button 37, and each first spring 38, second spring 39 and third spring 40 shown in FIGS . 8, 10, 12-14 and 16. And. Each first spring 38 preferably includes a first contact receiving aperture 41, a first C-shaped aperture 42 as shown in FIGS . 8 and 10 , and an end offset or as shown in FIGS. With bend 70. In particular, the first C-shaped aperture 42 is preferably arranged concentrically with respect to the first contact receiving aperture 41. Each second spring 39 preferably includes a second contact receiving aperture 43 and a C-shaped bent portion 44 shown in FIGS . As shown in FIGS. 8 and 10 , the first C-shaped bent portion 44 has a predetermined first radius of curvature. Each third spring 40 preferably includes a third contact receiving aperture 45 and a second C-shaped bent portion 47.

Preferably , the second C-shaped bent portion 47 has a predetermined second radius of curvature, and this second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature of the first C-shaped bent portion 44. The second spring 39 is sandwiched between the first spring 38 and the third spring 40 via the second contact button 37, and is received or extended through the contact receiving apertures 41, 43, 45. The first C-shaped bent portion 44 is disposed concentrically with respect to the second C-shaped bent portion 47. The first contact button 34 and the second contact button 37 (or contact) are spatially oriented adjacent to each other as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 3, 4, 12-14 and 17. Or juxtaposed. In a preferred embodiment, the triple spring assembly 33 is attached to the side end of the armature arm 22 so as to be biased toward the open contact position between the first and second switch terminal portions 11.

The first C-shaped aperture 42 and the end offset or bend 70 constitute a means for enhancing overtravel so as to increase the contact pressure between the first contact button 34 and the second contact button 37. Refer to FIGS. 12 to 14 and FIGS. 15 to 19 in this regard. As is clear from the comparison considerations in each of the above drawings, the terminal-side end portion 53 of the spring assembly 33 can be operated beyond the plane portion of the spring assembly 33 directly adjacent to the base portion 53 of the contact button 37. Planar portion of the spring assembly is directly (and in the radial direction) adjacent to the base portion 51 of the contact button 37, to form a button stacked spring portion 52 as shown in FIG. 14. The button stack portion 52 is stacked on the contact button 37 , and the terminal side end portion 53 of the spring assembly 33 is elastically deformed as indicated by reference numeral 50 to allow the overtravel.

That is, the spring element material (preferably copper) having a C -shaped aperture can be more easily elastically deformed at the terminal portion 50 of the C -shaped aperture. In particular, the elastic deformation of the material adjacent to the terminal portion 50 does not cause significant embrittlement of the base material lattice (that is, undesired significant lattice dislocation). The C-shaped aperture structure or feature in the triple spring assembly constitutes a means for further increasing the contact pressure between the contact buttons 34 and 37 by enhancing overtravel and thus improving electrical contact. . The offset or bend 70 at the end constitutes an overtravel enhancement means to increase contact pressure and reduce contact bouncing between the contact buttons 34 and 37.

Thus, conduction between the contact buttons 34, 37 is enhanced by overtravel enabled and / or enhanced by a C -shaped aperture. Improved contact and the resulting good conduction are achieved by means of enhanced overtravel, which also constitute contact wiping or cleaning means. In this regard, the relay assembly 10 of the present invention is the C-shaped aperture 42 thus expressing the self-cleaning action. Further, the C-shaped aperture 42 ( and the offset or bend 70) is switched from the open contact state or open switch position shown in FIG. 4 to the closed contact state or closed switch position shown in FIGS. , Constitutes means for dampening contact bouncing or contact vibration between the contact buttons 34 and 37.

As apparent from FIG. 1 5, the core or the yoke pin 20 is received loosely between rotor plate 25 and rotor bracket 26, the armature rotational axis 101 is coplanar with yoke pin 20, the axis of rotation 101 the rotor pin 29 ( (Not shown in FIG. 15 ). Magnetic field when current flows are generated in the energization coil 15, which is shown as a vector 102 in Fig 5. As is apparent from the figure, the magnetic field 102 is directed to pass through the yoke terminal through the rotor assembly including the rotor bracket 26, the rotor magnet 23 and the rotor plate 25, thereby allowing the armature or bridge to pass through magnetic induction torque. Is rotated around the armature rotation axis 101.

That is, the rotor bracket 26 functions so as to linearly displace the actuator arm 22, the displaced actuator arm 22 triple spring assembly 33, suitably from the open position which is spring-biased as shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 2 Ru is operated to a closed position after spring actuated shown. Substantial structure and a closed position of the relay assembly 10 is to allow conduction of current 120A to the switch assembly 14 through the contact point button 34, 37 and the switch terminal unit 11. A coil assembly 12 is dormant, the magnetic field is substantially eliminated, it if return, assists the return movement of triplicate spring assembly 33 to the open position spring biased in good suitable. On the assumption that the current fault condition occurs, preferably the electromagnetic relay 10 is further provided with a closure contact default means, be configured to close the contact point button 34, 37 in the current fault or a short circuit state by said means Can do.

The electromagnetic relay according to the present invention comprises means for defaulting to the open contact position while the inter-terminal current is in the threshold state. In this regard, based on classical electromagnetic theory, streaming charge carriers generate a magnetic field in the radial direction adjacent to the carrier stream direction. FIG. 22 shows diagrammatically a threshold current path 71 which is directed to pass through relay terminals 31 and 32 via contact buttons 34 and 37. The magnetic force vector 103 is shown as occurring at the terminal via the charge carrier current flowing through the path 71. After the current reaches a certain threshold, the magnetic field generated at the relay terminals 31 and 32 interacts with the permanent magnet or rotor magnet 23 in the rotatable armature assembly 13. The rotor magnet 23 has an outward natural magnetic field represented by the vector arrow 104, and its magnetic force is smaller than the magnetic force represented by the vector arrow 103. Based on the force difference between vector arrows 104 and 103 described above, the rotatable armature assembly 13, as shown diagrammatically in Figure 22, results in a rotation toward the open contacts position. This feature can be calibrated based on the size and strength of the magnet 23 and the distance between the armature and the fixed contact.

Although the above description includes specificity, this specificity should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but merely to illustrate the invention. For example, the present invention teaches or discloses an electromagnetic relay assembly that essentially comprises a coil assembly, a bridge assembly, and at least one switch assembly that allows current to flow through the switch terminals. The coil assembly includes a coil, a coil axis, and a C-shaped core. Coils wound its coil axis Senshu Rinimaki coil axis extends through the core 60 as shown in FIG 5. The core 60 has a core pin 20, the core pin 20 is substantially parallel to the coil axis.

Bridge assembly includes a rotation axis 101 and the bridge 61 shown in FIG. 15, a switch actuator 22. The bridge 61 includes a central magnetic path 63 (proximal magnetic path close to the core 60), a side magnetic path 64 (distal magnetic path close to the core 60), the central magnetic path 63 and the side magnetic paths. A transverse magnetic path 65 spaced axially is provided for inducing a magnetic field 102 between the paths 64. The actuator arm 22 is cooperable with the lateral magnetic path 64 (not specifically shown in FIG. 1 5), extending away from it. The core terminal 20 is preferably coplanar with the rotational axis 101 and is received between the central magnetic path 63 and the side magnetic paths 64.

The transverse magnetic path 65 constitutes magnetic field turning means for turning the magnetic field 102 laterally with respect to the coil axis 100 and the magnetic induction torque, and this magnetic induction torque functions to operate the switch actuator 22. Furthermore the magnetic field deflection means are provided with a magnetic field splitting means for forming a magnetic connection (the two magnetic path 66 that faces in the axial direction as shown in FIG. 1 5 are present.) In the magnetic induction torque Can be considered.

  The switch assembly 14 can further cooperate with the actuator arm 22, and the actuator arm 22 substantially couples between the bridge assembly 61 and the switch assembly 14. The coil functions to generate or exert a magnetic field 102 shown in vector. The magnetic field 102 can be directed to pass through the bridge assembly 61 via the core terminal 20, thereby causing bridge rotation around the rotation axis 101 via magnetic induction torque. The actuator arm 22 is moved by this bridge rotation, and the switch assembly 14 is physically opened and closed by the movement. When the switch assembly 14 is closed, the switch assembly allows energization.

Each switch assembly 14 includes spring means for enhancing overtravel, which enhances the closing switch position by increasing the contact pressure between the contact buttons 34 and 37. Spring means for enhancing overtravel constitutes contact wiping means and vibration damping means. The contact wiping means performs effective self-cleaning of each switch assembly 14, and the vibration damping means is intended to attenuate contact vibration when switching from the switch open position to the switch closed position. The spring means for enhancing overtravel enhances the closing switch position by increasing the contact pressure between the contacts, maintaining a contact surface free of residue, and attenuating contact vibration when the contacts are closed.

Although the present invention has been described above on the basis of many embodiments, the device according to the present invention, i.e., a novel relay, is not limited thereto, and many modifications can be made without departing from the technical scope and spirit of the present invention. It goes without saying that corrections are possible. For example, the specification described above is intended for use as a multipolar type relay assembly having a unique structure and function in accordance with the teachings of the embodiments described herein.

Claims (29)

An electromagnetic relay assembly comprising an electromagnetic coil assembly, an armature assembly, and a switch assembly, which is selectively energized via a switch terminal,
The electromagnetic coil assembly includes an energization coil, a yoke assembly, and a coil axis, the coil is wound around the coil axis, and includes first and second electromagnetic drive terminals, and the yoke assembly is a first And a second yoke arm, each yoke arm having an axial yoke portion and a yoke terminal;
The armature assembly includes a rotor assembly and a rotor rotation shaft. The rotor assembly includes a first rotor magnet, a second rotor magnet, a rotor plate, and a rotor bracket. The rotor bracket includes an actuator. The rotor magnet has a similar orientation and extends between the rotor plate and the rotor bracket at a position opposite the rotor rotation axis;
The switch assembly includes a first switch terminal, a second switch terminal, and a triple spring assembly. The first switch terminal includes a first contact and a first switch terminal portion. A first C-shape comprising a second switch terminal, the spring assembly comprising a second contact and three springs, of which the first spring is concentric with the first contact receiving aperture; A second spring having a second contact receiving aperture, a third spring having a third contact receiving aperture and a second C-shaped aperture concentric with the second contact receiving aperture, The second spring is sandwiched between the first spring and the third spring via the second contact, the first contact and the second contact are juxtaposed adjacent to each other, and the spring assembly is attached to the actuator. And The armature terminal is received between the rotor plate and the rotor bracket, the rotor rotation axis is coplanar with the yoke terminal, and the magnetic field generated by the coil is passed through the yoke terminal through the rotor assembly, so that the armature Is rotated about the rotation axis of the rotor, the actuator is displaced by the rotor bracket, and the actuator is operated between the open position and the closed position by the actuator, and the current is supplied to the first contact, the second contact, and the switch terminal portion by the actuator. Through the switch assembly;
An electromagnetic relay assembly characterized by that.   2. The electromagnetic relay assembly of claim 1, wherein the C-shaped aperture constitutes means for enhancing the overtravel of the spring, the means for enhancing the overtravel when the spring assembly is in the closed position, and the first contact. And an electromagnetic relay assembly, wherein the contact pressure between the second contacts is increased.   3. The electromagnetic relay assembly according to claim 2, wherein said means for enhancing overtravel of the spring constitutes a contact wiping means, and the first contact and the second contact are cleaned by the contact wiping means. .   2. The electromagnetic relay assembly according to claim 1, wherein the C-shaped aperture constitutes means for damping contact vibration between the first contact and the second contact when switching from the open position to the closed position. assembly.   2. The electromagnetic relay assembly according to claim 1, wherein the rotor assembly includes an assembly return spring that assists the return displacement of the spring assembly to the open position when the coil is in a sleep state.   2. The electromagnetic relay assembly according to claim 1, further comprising rotor mount means for allowing the electromagnetic relay to open.   2. The electromagnetic relay assembly according to claim 1, further comprising closed contact default means for closing the first contact and the second contact in a current failure state.   2. The electromagnetic relay assembly according to claim 1, further comprising means for setting the open contact position to a default state while the current generated in the terminal is in the threshold state. An electromagnetic relay comprising an electromagnetic coil assembly, an armature bridge assembly, and a switch assembly, which can be selectively energized via a switch terminal,
The electromagnetic coil assembly includes a coil, a C-shaped yoke assembly, a coil axis, and a coil wound around the coil axis, and the yoke assembly includes first and second yoke arms. Comprises an axial yoke portion and a yoke terminal;
The armature bridge assembly includes a bridge rotation axis, a bridge, and an actuator arm. The bridge includes a central magnetic path, a side magnetic path, and a transverse magnetic path spaced in the longitudinal direction. Extending laterally away from the transverse magnetic path;
The switch assembly includes a switch terminal and a spring assembly, the spring assembly is attached to the actuator arm and extends between the switch terminals, and the yoke terminal portion is disposed between the central magnetic path and the side magnetic path. The bridge rotation axis is coplanar with the yoke terminal, the coil receives a current to generate a magnetic field, and the magnetic field is directed to pass through the bridge assembly via the yoke terminal and is Causing the bridge rotation and displacing the actuator arm, and the displacement of the actuator arm causes the spring assembly to operate between the open contact position and the closed contact position, and the closed contact position causes a current to flow through the switch terminal portion to switch the switch assembly. It is a position that enables energization.
An electromagnetic relay characterized by that.   10. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, further comprising means for increasing overtravel, whereby the contact pressure between the switch terminal portions is increased when the spring assembly is in the closed contact position.   11. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 10, wherein the means for enhancing overtravel constitutes a contact wiping means, and the switch terminal portion is cleaned by the means.   10. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, further comprising means for damping contact vibration between the first and second contacts when switching from the open contact position to the closed contact position.   10. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, further comprising bridge mount means that enables the electromagnetic relay to be opened.   10. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, further comprising means for defaulting to a closed contact position during a current fault condition.   10. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, further comprising means for defaulting to an open contact position while the inter-terminal current is in a threshold state. An electromagnetic relay comprising a coil assembly, a bridge assembly, and a switch assembly and capable of passing current through a switch terminal,
The coil assembly includes a coil, a coil axis, and a C-shaped core, the coil is wound around the coil axis, the coil axis extends through the core, and the core is a core terminal portion parallel to the coil axis. Comprising:
The bridge assembly includes a rotation axis, a bridge, and an actuator, the bridge includes a central magnetic path, a side magnetic path, and a spaced transverse magnetic path, and the actuator extends from the side magnetic path. The core terminal is coplanar with the axis of rotation and is received between the central and side magnetic paths;
The switch assembly is such that an actuator is capable of cooperating with the switch assembly and the magnetic field generated by the coil can be directed to pass through the bridge assembly via the core terminal, and thereby via magnetic induction torque. A bridge rotation about the rotation axis is generated, and the actuator is displaced by the bridge rotation so that the switch assembly can be opened and closed, and the switch assembly is configured to be energized in the closed state.
An electromagnetic relay characterized by that.   17. The electromagnetic relay of claim 16, wherein the switch assembly comprises spring means for enhancing the closed switch position by enhancing overtravel.   18. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 17, wherein the spring means for enhancing overtravel constitutes contact wiping means for cleaning the switch assembly.   17. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 16, further comprising means for attenuating switch vibration when switching from the open switch position to the closed switch position.   17. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 16, further comprising bridge mount means that enables the electromagnetic relay to be opened.   17. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 16, further comprising means for defaulting to a closed contact position during a current fault condition.   17. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 16, further comprising means for defaulting to an open contact position while the inter-terminal current is in a threshold state.   18. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 17, wherein the switch assembly comprises a spring assembly, the spring assembly comprising contact portions arranged concentrically with each other, and a C-shaped aperture, the C-shaped aperture being a spring overload. An electromagnetic relay comprising the spring means for enhancing travel.   20. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 19, wherein the switch assembly includes a spring assembly, the spring assembly includes a contact portion disposed concentrically with the C-shaped aperture, and the C-shaped aperture is configured to switch vibration. An electromagnetic relay comprising an attenuating means. An electromagnetic relay comprising a coil assembly, an armature assembly, and a switch assembly, which can be energized through a switch terminal,
The coil assembly comprises a current conducting coil, a coil axis, and a coil for generating a magnetic field;
The armature assembly includes a switch actuator and magnetic field turning means, and the magnetic field turning means turns a magnetic field laterally with respect to the coil axis so as to generate a magnetic induction torque for operating the switch actuator. Composed of;
The switch assembly is configured to allow current to flow in cooperation with the switch actuator;
An electromagnetic relay characterized by that.   26. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 25, wherein the magnetic field turning means includes magnetic field dividing means for generating a magnetic couple related to electromagnetic induction torque.   26. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 25, further comprising means for attenuating switch vibration when the switch assembly is switched from the open switch position to the closed switch position.   26. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 25, further comprising means for defaulting to an open contact position while the current at the terminal is in a threshold state. 26. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 25, further comprising means for allowing the electromagnetic relay to open.

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