Relay

Abstract

A relay, in which a moving part holds a movable contact piece at a position between a first movable contact and a second movable contact. The moving part can be moved to a closed position and an open position. The bobbin includes a hole extending along the moving direction of the moving part. The movable iron core is arranged in the hole of the bobbin and connected to the moving part. The base supports a first fixed terminal, a second fixed terminal, a contact assembly and a coil assembly. The contact assembly and the coil assembly are assembled to the base in a first supporting direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the moving part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a relay. Background Art

[0002] The plug-in relay has a pair of fixed terminals, a contact assembly, and a coil assembly (for example, refer to Japanese Patent Gazette No. 2002-042626). A fixed contact is connected to the fixed terminal. The contact assembly includes a movable contact piece, a pair of movable contacts, and a movable part. A pair of movable contacts are connected to the movable contact piece. The movable part supports the movable contact piece. The coil assembly includes a coil and a movable iron core. The movable iron core is connected to the movable part. The movable iron core moves by the magnetic force generated from the coil, thereby driving the movable part to move. As a result, the movable contact piece moves, causing the movable contact and the fixed contact to open and close.

[0003] In the above relay, the contact assembly and the coil assembly are housed in a housing. When the relay is assembled, the contact assembly and the coil assembly are assembled to the housing in the moving direction of the moving part. Therefore, the assembly accuracy of the contact assembly and the coil assembly may affect the operation of the relay. For example, the assembly accuracy may cause the distance of the gap between the movable contact and the fixed contact to be different, which may affect the operation of the relay. Summary of the invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to reduce the influence of assembly accuracy on the operation of a relay.

[0005] A relay according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first fixed terminal, a first fixed contact, a second fixed terminal, a second fixed contact, a contact assembly, a coil assembly and a base. The first fixed contact is connected to the first fixed terminal. The second fixed contact is connected to the second fixed terminal. The contact assembly comprises a movable contact piece, a first movable contact, a second movable contact and a movable component. The first movable contact is connected to the movable contact piece. The second movable contact is connected to the movable contact piece. The movable component holds the movable contact piece at a position between the first movable contact and the second movable contact. The movable component is capable of moving to a closed position and an open position. When the movable component is in the closed position, the first movable contact contacts the first fixed contact, and the second movable contact contacts the second fixed contact. When the movable component is in the open position, the first movable contact is separated from the first fixed contact, and the second movable contact is separated from the second fixed contact.

[0006] The coil assembly includes a coil, a bobbin and a movable iron core. The bobbin includes a hole extending along the moving direction of the moving part. The coil is wound on the bobbin. The movable iron core is arranged in the hole of the bobbin and connected to the moving part. The base supports the first fixed terminal, the second fixed terminal, the contact assembly and the coil assembly. The contact assembly and the coil assembly are assembled to the base in a first supporting direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the moving part.

[0007] In the relay of this aspect, the contact assembly and the coil assembly are assembled to the base in the first supporting direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the moving member. Therefore, the influence of assembly accuracy on the operation of the relay can be reduced.

[0008] The first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal may also be assembled to the base in the first supporting direction. In this case, the influence of the assembly accuracy on the operation of the relay can be further reduced.

[0009] The base may also include a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole. The first mounting hole may also penetrate the base in the first supporting direction. The second mounting hole may also penetrate the base in the first supporting direction. The first fixed terminal may also be inserted into the first mounting hole. The second fixed terminal may also be inserted into the second mounting hole. In this case, the first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal can be assembled to the base in the first supporting direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the moving component.

[0010] The coil assembly may also include a protrusion protruding in the first supporting direction. The base may also include a mounting hole extending along the first supporting direction. The protrusion may also be inserted into the mounting hole. In this case, the coil assembly can be assembled to the base in the first supporting direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the moving part.

[0011] The movable component may also include a connecting portion connected to the movable iron core. The connecting portion may also include a hole and a groove. The hole may also be open toward the first supporting direction. The groove may also be connected to the hole and extend toward a second supporting direction opposite to the first supporting direction. The movable iron core may also include a shaft portion and a head portion. The shaft portion may also be arranged in the groove. The head portion may also be arranged in the hole and locked with the connecting portion. In this case, the movable component is moved relative to the movable iron core in the first supporting direction so that the head portion of the movable iron core is arranged in the hole. Therefore, by assembling the movable component toward the first supporting direction, the connecting portion of the movable component can be connected to the movable iron core.

[0012] The relay may also include a return spring. The return spring may also be arranged between the coil assembly and the moving part. The moving part may also include a mounting portion for mounting the return spring. The return spring may also be mounted on the mounting portion in the first supporting direction. In this case, the return spring can be assembled to the moving part in the first supporting direction.

[0013] The mounting portion may also include a protrusion. The protrusion may also protrude from the moving part toward the coil part. The protrusion may also include a tapered surface. The tapered surface may also be inclined in a manner that the height of the protrusion decreases as it moves toward a second supporting direction opposite to the first supporting direction. In this case, the tapered surface makes it easy to assemble the return spring to the moving part.

[0014] The movable part may also include a connection portion connected to the movable iron core. The relay may also include a first return spring and a second return spring. The first return spring may also be located in a first lateral direction relative to the connection portion. The first lateral direction is a direction perpendicular to the first supporting direction and the moving direction. The first return spring may also be arranged between the coil assembly and the movable part. The second return spring may also be located in a second lateral direction relative to the connection portion. The second lateral direction is the opposite direction of the first lateral direction. The second return spring may also be arranged between the coil assembly and the movable part.

[0015] The movable member may also include a support portion supporting the movable contact piece. The movable contact piece may also extend from the support portion in the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction. The support portion may also extend from the movable contact piece toward the base in the first support direction. The support portion may also be arranged on the base. In this case, the movable member can be assembled to the base along the first support direction.

[0016] The base may also include a first wall portion. The first wall portion may also extend in a second supporting direction opposite to the first supporting direction. The first wall portion may also be opposite to the supporting portion in the moving direction. In this case, the first wall portion can be used to suppress the tilting of the supporting portion. Thus, the moving component can be stably operated.

[0017] The base may also include a second wall portion. The second wall portion may also be configured to be separated from the first wall portion in the moving direction. The support portion may also be configured between the first wall portion and the second wall portion. In this case, the second wall portion can be used to suppress the support portion from falling over. Thus, the moving component can be operated more stably. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a relay according to the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a relay.

[0020] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of a relay.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the relay.

[0022] Figure 5 Top view of the relay with the moving part in the off position.

[0023] Figure 6 Top view of the relay with the moving part in the closed position.

[0024] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional image of the base.

[0025] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional image of the base.

[0026] Fig. 9 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the moving parts and their surroundings.

[0027] Fig.10 is a longitudinal sectional view of the first mounting portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, a relay according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the relay 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 and Figure 3 It is an exploded perspective view of the relay 1. Figure 4 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the relay 1. Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a top view of the relay 1.

[0029] The relay 1 includes a contact assembly 2, a housing 3, a coil assembly 4, a first fixed terminal 13, and a second fixed terminal 14. The contact assembly 2 and the coil assembly 4 are arranged in the housing 3. The housing 3 includes a base 11 and a case 12. The base 11 and the case 12 are made of resin, for example. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the box body 12 is omitted. The base 11 supports the first fixed terminal 13, the second fixed terminal 14, the contact assembly 2 and the coil assembly 4.

[0030] In this embodiment, the moving directions (Y1, Y2), the supporting directions (Z1, Z2), and the lateral directions (X1, X2) are defined as follows. The moving directions (Y1, Y2) are the directions in which the contact assembly 2 and the coil assembly 4 are arranged relative to each other. The moving directions (Y1, Y2) include a first moving direction (Y1) and a second moving direction (Y2). The first moving direction (Y1) is the direction from the contact assembly 2 toward the coil assembly 4. The second moving direction Y2 is the direction opposite to the first moving direction Y1. The second moving direction (Y2) is the direction from the coil assembly 4 toward the contact assembly 2.

[0031] The supporting directions (Z1, Z2) are directions perpendicular to the moving directions (Y1, Y2). The supporting directions (Z1, Z2) are directions in which the base 11 and the contact assembly 2 are arranged relative to each other. The supporting directions (Z1, Z2) include a first supporting direction (Z1) and a second supporting direction (Z2). The first supporting direction (Z1) is a direction from the contact assembly 2 toward the base 11. The second supporting direction Z2 is a direction opposite to the first supporting direction Z1. The second supporting direction (Z2) is a direction from the base 11 toward the contact assembly 2. Alternatively, the supporting directions (Z1, Z2) may also be directions in which the base 11 and the coil module 4 are arranged relative to each other.

[0032] The lateral direction (X1, X2) is a direction perpendicular to the moving direction (Y1, Y2) and the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The lateral direction (X1, X2) includes a first lateral direction (X1) and a second lateral direction (X2). The second lateral direction (X2) is a direction opposite to the first lateral direction (X1).

[0033] The first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14 are formed of a conductive material such as copper. The first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14 extend in the supporting directions (Z1, Z2) respectively. The first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14 are arranged to be separated from each other in the lateral direction (X1, X2).

[0034] Figure 7 and Figure 8 71 and 72. The first mounting hole 71 and the second mounting hole 72 penetrate the base 11 in the first supporting direction Z1. The first fixed terminal 13 is inserted into the first mounting hole 71. Thus, the first fixed terminal 13 is fixed to the base 11. The front end of the first fixed terminal 13 protrudes outward from the base 11. The second fixed terminal 14 is inserted into the second mounting hole 72. Thus, the second fixed terminal 14 is fixed to the base 11. The front end of the second fixed terminal 14 protrudes outward from the base 11.

[0035] The first fixed terminal 13 is connected to a first fixed contact 21 and a third fixed contact 23. In the first fixed terminal 13, the first fixed contact 21 and the third fixed contact 23 are arranged to be separated from each other in the support direction (Z1, Z2). The second fixed terminal 14 is connected to a second fixed contact 22 and a fourth fixed contact 24. In the second fixed terminal 14, the second fixed contact 22 and the fourth fixed contact 24 are arranged to be separated from each other in the support direction (Z1, Z2). The first fixed contact 21 to the fourth fixed contact 24 are formed of a conductive material such as silver or copper.

[0036] The contact assembly 2 includes a first movable contact piece 15, a second movable contact piece 16 and a movable member 17. The first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 extend in the lateral direction (X1, X2). The first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 are separated from each other. The first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 are arranged separately from each other in the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The first movable contact piece 15 is arranged between the second movable contact piece 16 and the base 11 in the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 are formed of a conductive material such as copper.

[0037] The first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 are connected to the first movable contact piece 15. The first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 are arranged to be separated from each other in the lateral direction (X1, X2). The first movable contact 31 is arranged opposite to the first fixed contact 21. The second movable contact 32 is arranged opposite to the second fixed contact 22.

[0038] The third movable contact 33 and the fourth movable contact 34 are connected to the second movable contact piece 16. The third movable contact 33 and the fourth movable contact 34 are arranged to be separated from each other in the lateral direction (X1, X2). The third movable contact 33 is arranged opposite to the third fixed contact 23. The fourth movable contact 34 is arranged opposite to the fourth fixed contact 24. The first movable contact 31 to the fourth movable contact 34 are formed of a conductive material such as silver or copper.

[0039] The moving part 17 is connected to the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16. The moving part 17 is made of an insulating material such as resin. The moving part 17 can be moved to a closed position and an open position. Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 In the embodiment, the movable part 17 is in the disconnected position. When the movable part 17 is in the disconnected position, the movable contacts 31-34 are separated from the fixed contacts 21-24 respectively. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the moving part 17 is located in the closed position. When the moving part 17 is in the closed position, the movable contacts 31-34 are in contact with the fixed contacts 21-24 respectively.

[0040] The coil assembly 4 moves the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 by electromagnetic force. The coil assembly 4 moves the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 in a first moving direction (Y1) and a second moving direction (Y2). The first moving direction (Y1) is the direction in which the movable contacts 31-34 contact the fixed contacts 21-24 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The second moving direction (Y2) is the direction in which the movable contacts 31-34 move away from the fixed contacts 21-24 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The coil assembly 4 includes a coil 61, a bobbin 62, a movable iron core 63, a fixed iron core 64 and a yoke 65.

[0041] The coil 61 is wound around the bobbin 62. The axis of the coil 61 extends in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The coil 61 is connected to the coil terminals 66, 67. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the coil terminals 66, 67 protrude from the coil assembly 4 in the first supporting direction (Z1). Figure 8As shown, the base 11 includes mounting holes 68, 69. The mounting holes 68, 69 penetrate the base 11 in the first supporting direction Z1. The coil terminals 66, 67 are inserted into the mounting holes 68, 69, respectively.

[0042] like Figure 4 As shown, the bobbin 62 includes a hole 621 extending along the moving direction (Y1, Y2). At least a portion of the movable iron core 63 is disposed in the hole 621 of the bobbin 62. The movable iron core 63 is configured to be movable in the first moving direction (Y1) and the second moving direction (Y2). The fixed iron core 64 is disposed in the hole 621 of the bobbin 62. The fixed iron core 64 is disposed opposite to the movable iron core 63 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The coil 61 generates an electromagnetic force that moves the movable iron core 63 in the first moving direction (Y1) by energizing.

[0043] The movable iron core 63 is connected to the movable member 17. The first movable contact piece 15 and the movable iron core 63 are electrically insulated by the movable member 17. The second movable contact piece 16 and the movable iron core 63 are electrically insulated by the movable member 17. The movable iron core 63 moves integrally with the movable member 17 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The movable iron core 63 moves in the first moving direction (Y1) based on the magnetic force generated from the coil 61. As the movable iron core 63 moves, the movable member 17 moves to the closed position. As the movable member 17 moves, the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 move in the first moving direction (Y1) or the second moving direction (Y2).

[0044] The yoke 65 is arranged in a manner to surround the coil 61. The yoke 65 is arranged on the magnetic circuit formed by the coil 61. The yoke 65 includes a first yoke 73, a second yoke 74, a third yoke 75 and a fourth yoke 76. The first yoke 73 and the second yoke 74 extend in the lateral direction (X1, X2) and the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The first yoke 73 and the second yoke 74 are opposite to the coil 61 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The coil 61 is located between the first yoke 73 and the second yoke 74 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The first yoke 73 is opposite to the moving part 17 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The second yoke 74 is connected to the fixed core 64.

[0045] The third yoke 75 and the fourth yoke 76 extend in the moving direction (Y1, Y2) and the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The third yoke 75 and the fourth yoke 76 are opposite to the coil 61 in the transverse direction (X1, X2). The coil 61 is located between the third yoke 75 and the fourth yoke 76 in the transverse direction (X1, X2).

[0046] like Figure 3As shown, the coil assembly 4 includes a plurality of protrusions 81-84. The plurality of protrusions 81-84 protrude from the coil assembly 4 toward the first supporting direction Z1. In detail, the yoke 65 includes a plurality of protrusions 81-84. The plurality of protrusions 81-84 include first to fourth protrusions 81-84. The first protrusion 81 protrudes from the first yoke 73 toward the first supporting direction (Z1). The second protrusion 82 protrudes from the second yoke 74 toward the first supporting direction (Z1). The third protrusion 83 protrudes from the third yoke 75 toward the first supporting direction (Z1). The fourth protrusion 84 protrudes from the fourth yoke 76 toward the first supporting direction (Z1).

[0047] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the base 11 includes a plurality of mounting holes 85-88. The plurality of mounting holes 85-88 penetrate the base 11 in the first supporting direction Z1. The plurality of mounting holes 85-88 are arranged at positions corresponding to the plurality of protrusions 81-84. The plurality of protrusions 81-84 are respectively inserted into the plurality of mounting holes 85-88. In detail, the plurality of mounting holes 85-88 include first to fourth mounting holes 85-88. The first protrusion 81 is inserted into the first mounting hole 85. The second protrusion 82 is inserted into the second mounting hole 86. The third protrusion 83 is inserted into the third mounting hole 87. The fourth protrusion 84 is inserted into the fourth mounting hole 88. Thus, the coil assembly 4 is fixed to the base 11.

[0048] Fig. 9 1 is a perspective view of the movable member 17 and its surroundings. The movable member 17 includes a support portion 25, a connection portion 26, and a connecting portion 27. The support portion 25 supports the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16. The connecting portion 26 is connected to the movable iron core 63. The connecting portion 27 is located between the support portion 25 and the connection portion 26. The connecting portion 27 connects the support portion 25 and the connection portion 26. The connecting portion 27 extends in the moving direction (Y1, Y2).

[0049] The support portion 25 extends in the support direction (Z1, Z2). The support portion 25 extends from the first movable contact piece 15 toward the base 11 in the first support direction (Z1). Figure 4 As shown, the support portion 25 extends from the second movable contact piece 16 toward the top surface 121 of the box body 12 in the second support direction (Z2). The support portion 25 includes a first support hole 28, a second support hole 29, and a partition wall 30. The first movable contact piece 15 is disposed in the first support hole 28. The first movable contact piece 15 is supported by the support portion 25 between the first movable contact point 31 and the second movable contact point 32. The first movable contact piece 15 extends from the support portion 25 in the first lateral direction (X1) and the second lateral direction (X2).

[0050] The second movable contact piece 16 is arranged in the second support hole 29. The second movable contact piece 16 is supported by the support portion 25 between the third movable contact point 33 and the fourth movable contact point 34. The second movable contact piece 16 extends from the support portion 25 in the first lateral direction (X1) and the second lateral direction (X2). The partition wall 30 divides the first support hole 28 and the second support hole 29. The partition wall 30 is arranged between the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16.

[0051] The moving member 17 includes a first member 17a and a second member 17b. The first member 17a and the second member 17b are separate from each other. The first member 17a includes a connecting portion 27, a part of the supporting portion 25, and a connecting portion 26. The second member 17b includes a part of the supporting portion 25. A first supporting hole 28 and a second supporting hole 29 are provided between the first member 17a and the second member 17b.

[0052] The support portion 25 includes a first end portion 35 and a second end portion 36. The first end portion 35 is an end portion of the support portion 25 in the first support direction (Z1). The second end portion 36 is an end portion of the support portion 25 in the second support direction (Z2). The first end portion 35 is disposed on the base 11. The second end portion 36 is disposed close to the top surface 121 of the box body 12. The support portion 25 is supported on the base 11 in the support directions Z1 and Z2.

[0053] The contact assembly 2 includes a first contact spring 51 and a second contact spring 52. The first contact spring 51 is arranged between the first movable contact piece 15 and the support portion 25. The first contact spring 51 is arranged in the first support hole 28. In a state where the first movable contact 31 is in contact with the first fixed contact 21 and the second movable contact 32 is in contact with the second fixed contact 22, the first contact spring 51 presses the first movable contact piece 15 toward the first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14. The first contact spring 51 is a coil spring and is in a state of natural length when the movable member 17 is in the disconnected position. The first movable contact piece 15 is connected to the movable member 17 via the first contact spring 51.

[0054] The second contact spring 52 is arranged between the second movable contact piece 16 and the second support portion 25. The second contact spring 52 is arranged in the second support hole 29. In a state where the third movable contact 33 is in contact with the third fixed contact 23 and the fourth movable contact 34 is in contact with the fourth fixed contact 24, the second contact spring 52 presses the second movable contact piece 16 toward the first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14. The second contact spring 52 is a coil spring and is in a state of natural length when the movable member 17 is in the disconnected position. The second movable contact piece 16 is connected to the movable member 17 via the second contact spring 52.

[0055] The connecting portion 26 extends in the lateral direction (X1, X2). Fig. 9 As shown, the connection portion 26 includes a core connection portion 37, a first mounting portion 38, and a second mounting portion 39. The core connection portion 37 is located between the first mounting portion 38 and the second mounting portion 39. The core connection portion 37 is connected to the connecting portion 27. Figure 4 and Fig. 9 As shown, the core connection portion 37 includes a hole 43 and a slot 44. The hole 43 opens toward the first supporting direction (Z1). The slot 44 is connected to the hole 43 and extends toward the second supporting direction (Z2). The width of the slot 44 is narrower than the width of the hole 43. The movable iron core 63 includes a shaft portion 77 and a head portion 78. The shaft portion 77 and the head portion 78 protrude from the coil assembly 4 toward the second moving direction (Y2). The width of the head portion 78 is greater than the width of the shaft portion 77. The width of the head portion 78 is greater than the width of the slot 44. The shaft portion 77 is arranged in the slot 44. The head portion 78 is arranged in the hole 43. Thus, the movable component 17 is prevented from falling off relative to the movable iron core 63 in the moving directions (Y1, Y2).

[0056] The first mounting portion 38 extends from the core connection portion 37 in the first lateral direction ( X1 ). The first mounting portion 38 includes a first protrusion 45 . The first protrusion 45 protrudes from the first mounting portion 38 toward the coil assembly 4 . Fig.10 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the first mounting portion 38. The first protrusion 45 includes a first tapered surface 47. The first tapered surface 47 is inclined in a manner that the height of the first protrusion 45 is lowered as it is directed toward the second supporting direction (Z2). The second mounting portion 39 extends from the core connecting portion 37 to the second lateral direction (X2). The second mounting portion 39 includes a second protrusion 46. The second protrusion 46 protrudes from the second mounting portion 39 toward the coil assembly 4. Similar to the first protrusion 45, the second protrusion 46 includes a second tapered surface 48. The second tapered surface 48 is inclined in a manner that the height of the second protrusion 46 is lowered as it is directed toward the second supporting direction (Z2).

[0057] The relay 1 includes a first return spring 53 and a second return spring 54. The first return spring 53 and the second return spring 54 are arranged between the moving part 17 and the coil assembly 4. The first return spring 53 is located in the first lateral direction (X1) relative to the connecting part 26. The second return spring 54 is located in the second lateral direction (X2) relative to the connecting part 26. In other words, the connecting part 26 is located between the first return spring 53 and the second return spring 54 in the lateral direction (X1, X2). The first return spring 53 and the second return spring 54 apply force to the moving part 17 in the second moving direction (Y2).

[0058] The first return spring 53 is mounted on the first protrusion 45. The second return spring 54 is mounted on the second protrusion 46. As described above, the first tapered surface 47 is provided on the first protrusion 45. The second tapered surface 48 is provided on the second protrusion 46. Therefore, the first return spring 53 can be easily mounted on the first protrusion 45 in the first supporting direction (Z1). In addition, the second return spring 54 can be easily mounted on the second protrusion 46 in the first supporting direction (Z1).

[0059] like Figure 4 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the base 11 includes a bottom surface 55, a first wall portion 56, a second wall portion 57, a third wall portion 58, and a fourth wall portion 59. The bottom surface 55 supports the contact assembly 2 and the coil assembly 4 in the supporting directions Z1 and Z2. The bottom surface 55 is located in the first supporting direction (Z1) relative to the contact assembly 2 and the coil assembly 4. The first wall portion 56, the second wall portion 57, the third wall portion 58, and the fourth wall portion 59 extend from the bottom surface 55 to the second supporting direction (Z2).

[0060] The first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 are arranged to be separated from each other in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 are opposite to the support portion 25 of the movable member 17 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The support portion 25 is located between the first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 extend in the lateral direction (X1, X2). When viewed from the moving direction (Y1, Y2), the first wall portion 56 overlaps with the support portion 25. The first wall portion 56 is located relative to the support portion 25 in the second moving direction (Y2). The first wall portion 56 extends in the second supporting direction Z2 at least to the height of the central portion of the support portion 25. The first wall portion 56 extends in the second supporting direction Z2 to a position between the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16. When viewed from the moving direction (Y1, Y2), the first wall portion 56 overlaps with the partition wall 30.

[0061] The first wall portion 56 includes a first guide portion 91 and a second guide portion 92. The first guide portion 91 and the second guide portion 92 extend in the support direction (Z1, Z2). The first guide portion 91 and the second guide portion 92 protrude from the first wall portion 56 in the first moving direction (Y1). The first guide portion 91 and the second guide portion 92 are arranged to be separated from each other in the lateral direction (X1, X2). When the moving member 17 is in the disconnected position, the support portion 25 is located between the first guide portion 91 and the second guide portion 92.

[0062] When viewed from the moving direction (Y1, Y2), the second wall portion 57 overlaps with the support portion 25. The second wall portion 57 is located in the first moving direction (Y1) relative to the support portion 25. The second wall portion 57 is lower than the first wall portion 56 in the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). When viewed from the supporting direction (Z1, Z2), the second wall portion 57 overlaps with the connecting portion 27. The second wall portion 57 includes a third guide portion 93 and a fourth guide portion 94. The third guide portion 93 and the fourth guide portion 94 extend in the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The third guide portion 93 and the fourth guide portion 94 protrude from the second wall portion 57 in the second moving direction (Y2). The third guide portion 93 and the fourth guide portion 94 are arranged to be separated from each other in the lateral direction (X1, X2). When the movable member 17 is in the closed position, the support portion 25 is located between the third guide portion 93 and the fourth guide portion 94.

[0063] The third wall portion 58 and the fourth wall portion 59 are opposite to the support portion 25 in the lateral direction (X1, X2). The support portion 25 is located between the first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 in the lateral direction (X1, X2). The third wall portion 58 and the fourth wall portion 59 extend in the moving direction (Y1, Y2). The third wall portion 58 and the fourth wall portion 59 are lower than the first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 in the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The third wall portion 58 and the fourth wall portion 59 overlap the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 when viewed from the supporting direction (Z1, Z2). The third wall portion 58 overlaps with the support portion 25 when viewed from the lateral direction (X1, X2). The third wall portion 58 is located in the first lateral direction (X1) relative to the support portion 25. The fourth wall portion 59 overlaps with the support portion 25 when viewed from the lateral direction (X1, X2). The fourth wall portion 59 overlaps with the support portion 25 when viewed from the lateral direction (X1, X2). The fourth wall portion 59 is located in the second lateral direction (X2) relative to the support portion 25.

[0064] The base 11 includes a first recess 95 and a second recess 96. The first recess 95 and the second recess 96 have a shape that is recessed in the first supporting direction (Z1). The first recess 95 is located in the first supporting direction (Z1) relative to the first movable contact 31. When viewed from the supporting directions (Z1, Z2), the first recess 95 overlaps with the first movable contact 31 and the third movable contact 33. The second recess 96 is located in the first supporting direction (Z1) relative to the second movable contact 32. When viewed from the supporting directions (Z1, Z2), the second recess 96 overlaps with the second movable contact 32 and the fourth movable contact 34.

[0065] The base 11 includes a third recess 97 and a fourth recess 98. The third recess 97 and the fourth recess 98 have a shape that is recessed in the first supporting direction (Z1). The third recess 97 is located in the first supporting direction (Z1) relative to the first fixed contact 21. When viewed from the supporting directions (Z1, Z2), the third recess 97 overlaps with the first fixed contact 21 and the third fixed contact 23. The fourth recess 98 is located in the first supporting direction (Z1) relative to the second fixed contact 22. When viewed from the supporting directions (Z1, Z2), the fourth recess 98 overlaps with the second fixed contact 22 and the fourth fixed contact 24.

[0066] Next, the operation of the relay 1 is described. When the coil 61 is not energized, the coil assembly 4 is not excited. In this case, the movable member 17 and the movable iron core 63 are pressed in the second moving direction (Y2) by the elastic force of the return springs 53 and 54, and the movable member 17 is located at Figure 5 In this state, the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 are also pressed in the second moving direction (Y2) via the movable member 17. Therefore, when the movable member 17 is in the disconnected position, the first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 are separated from the first fixed contact 21 and the second fixed contact 22. Similarly, when the movable member 17 is in the disconnected position, the third movable contact 33 and the fourth movable contact 34 are separated from the third fixed contact 23 and the fourth fixed contact 24.

[0067] If the coil 61 is energized, the coil assembly 4 is excited. In this case, the movable iron core 63 overcomes the elastic force of the return springs 53 and 54 and moves in the first moving direction (Y1) by the electromagnetic force of the coil 61. As a result, the movable member 17, the first movable contact piece 15, and the second movable contact piece 16 move together in the first moving direction (Y1). Figure 6 As shown, the movable member 17 moves to the closed position. As a result, when the movable member 17 is in the closed position, the first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 are in contact with the first fixed contact 21 and the second fixed contact 22, respectively. Similarly, when the movable member 17 is in the closed position, the third movable contact 33 and the fourth movable contact 34 are in contact with the third fixed contact 23 and the fourth fixed contact 24, respectively. Thus, the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 are electrically connected to the first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14.

[0068] When the current to the coil 61 stops and the coil 61 is demagnetized, the movable iron core 63 is pressed in the second moving direction (Y2) by the elastic force of the return springs 53 and 54. As a result, the movable member 17, the first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 move in the second moving direction (Y2) together. Figure 5As shown, the movable member 17 moves to the disconnected position. As a result, when the movable member 17 is in the disconnected position, the first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 are separated from the first fixed contact 21 and the second fixed contact 22. Similarly, when the movable member 17 is in the disconnected position, the third movable contact 33 and the fourth movable contact 34 are separated from the third fixed contact 23 and the fourth fixed contact 24.

[0069] In the relay 1 of the present embodiment described above, the coil assembly 4 is fixed to the base 11 by inserting the protrusions 81-84 of the coil assembly 4 into the mounting holes 85-88 in the first supporting direction (Z1). The connecting portion 26 is mounted on the head 78 of the movable iron core 63 in the first supporting direction (Z1), so that the movable member 17 is connected to the movable iron core 63. In addition, the supporting portion 25 is arranged between the first wall portion 56 and the second wall portion 57 in the first supporting direction (Z1), so that the supporting portion 25 is supported on the base 11. In this way, the contact assembly 2 and the coil assembly 4 are assembled to the base 11 in the first supporting direction (Z1) perpendicular to the moving direction (Y1, Y2) of the moving member 17. As a result, the influence of the assembly accuracy on the operation of the relay 1 can be reduced.

[0070] Although one embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0071] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the movable part 17 is pushed out in the second moving direction (Y2) by the coil assembly 4, and the movable contacts 31-34 leave from the fixed contacts 21-24. In addition, the movable part 17 is pulled in in the first moving direction (Y1) by the coil assembly 4, and the movable contacts 31-34 contact with the fixed contacts 21-24. However, the movement direction of the movable part 17 for connecting and disconnecting the contacts may be opposite to that in the above-mentioned embodiment. That is, the movable part 17 may be pushed out in the second moving direction (Y2) by the coil assembly 4, so that the movable contacts 31-34 contact with the fixed contacts 21-24. The movable part 17 may be pulled in in the first moving direction (Y1) by the coil assembly 4, so that the movable contacts 31-34 leave from the fixed contacts 21-24.

[0072] The shapes or configurations of the first fixed terminal 13, the second fixed terminal 14, the first movable contact piece 15, and the second movable contact piece 16 may also be changed. For example, the first fixed terminal 13 and the second fixed terminal 14 may protrude from the base 11 in a direction different from that in the above-mentioned embodiment. The first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 may also be integrated. That is, the first movable contact 31 to the fourth movable contact 34 may also be connected to the integrated movable contact piece. Alternatively, the second movable contact piece 16, the third and fourth movable contacts 33, 34, and the third and fourth fixed contacts 23, 24 may also be omitted.

[0073] The shape or arrangement of the coil 61, bobbin 62, movable iron core 63, fixed iron core 64, or yoke 65 may be changed. The shape or arrangement of the first to fourth fixed contacts 21 to 24 may be changed. The shape or arrangement of the first to fourth movable contacts 31 to 34 may be changed.

[0074] The first fixed contact 21 and / or the third fixed contact 23 may also be integrated with the first fixed terminal 13. The first fixed contact 21 and / or the third fixed contact 23 may be a part of the first fixed terminal 13, and be in the same plane as other parts of the first fixed terminal 13. The second fixed contact 22 and / or the fourth fixed contact 24 may also be integrated with the second fixed terminal 14. The second fixed contact 22 and / or the fourth fixed contact 24 may also be a part of the second fixed terminal 14, and be in the same plane as other parts of the second fixed terminal 14.

[0075] The first movable contact 31 and / or the second movable contact 32 may also be integrated with the first movable contact piece 15. The first movable contact 31 and / or the second movable contact 32 may also be a part of the first movable contact piece 15, and be in the same plane as other parts of the first movable contact piece 15. The third movable contact 33 and / or the fourth movable contact 34 may also be integrated with the second movable contact piece 16. The third movable contact 33 and / or the fourth movable contact 34 may also be a part of the second movable contact piece 16, and be in the same plane as other parts of the second movable contact piece 16.

[0076] The shape or configuration of the movable member 17 may also be changed. For example, the movable member 17 may also include a shaft member that connects the movable contact pieces 15 and 16 to the movable iron core 63. The movable member 17 may also be made of a conductive material. The movable member 17 may also be made of metal. In the above embodiment, the movable member 17 includes a first member 17a and a second member 17b that are separate from each other. However, the movable member 17 may also be formed integrally. The first movable contact piece 15 and the second movable contact piece 16 may also be directly connected to the movable member 17.

Claims

1. A relay, characterized in that: have: a first fixed terminal and a second fixed terminal; a first fixed contact connected to the first fixed terminal; a second fixed contact connected to the second fixed terminal; A contact assembly, the contact assembly comprising a movable contact piece, a first movable contact, a second movable contact, and a moving part, the first movable contact being connected to the movable contact piece, the second movable contact being connected to the movable contact piece, the moving part holding the movable contact piece at a position between the first movable contact and the second movable contact, the moving part being movable to a closed position and an open position, the closed position being a position where the first movable contact is in contact with the first fixed contact and the second movable contact is in contact with the second fixed contact, the open position being a position where the first movable contact is separated from the first fixed contact and the second movable contact is separated from the second fixed contact; A coil assembly, the coil assembly comprising a coil, a bobbin and a movable iron core, the bobbin having a hole extending along the moving direction of the movable component, the coil being wound on the bobbin, the movable iron core being arranged in the hole of the bobbin and connected to the movable component; and A base, the base supporting the first fixed terminal, the second fixed terminal, the contact assembly and the coil assembly, wherein: The contact assembly and the coil assembly are assembled to the base in a first supporting direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the moving component. The moving member includes a supporting portion that supports the movable contact piece. The movable contact piece extends from the support portion in a first lateral direction perpendicular to the first support direction and the moving direction and in a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction. The support portion extends from the movable contact piece toward the base in the first support direction and is arranged on the base.

2. The relay according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal are assembled to the base in the first supporting direction.

3. The relay according to claim 2, characterized in that: The base comprises: A first mounting hole extending through the base in the first supporting direction; and A second mounting hole that passes through the base in the first supporting direction, The first fixed terminal is inserted into the first mounting hole, The second fixing terminal is inserted into the second mounting hole.

4. The relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The coil assembly includes a protrusion protruding toward the first supporting direction, The base includes a mounting hole extending along the first supporting direction, The protrusion is inserted into the mounting hole.

5. The relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The moving component includes a connecting portion connected to the movable iron core, The connecting portion has: a hole opening toward the first supporting direction, and a groove communicating with the hole and extending toward a second supporting direction opposite to the first supporting direction, The movable iron core has: a shaft portion disposed in the groove, and A head portion is disposed in the hole and locked with the connecting portion.

6. The relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes a return spring disposed between the coil assembly and the moving part, The moving component includes a mounting portion for mounting the return spring. The return spring is mounted on the mounting portion in the first supporting direction.

7. The relay according to claim 6, characterized in that: The mounting portion includes a protrusion protruding from the moving member toward the coil assembly, The protrusion includes a tapered surface that is inclined such that the height of the protrusion decreases toward a second supporting direction opposite to the first supporting direction.

8. The relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The moving component includes a connecting portion connected to the movable iron core, Also available: a first return spring, the first return spring is located in a first lateral direction perpendicular to the first supporting direction and the moving direction relative to the connecting portion, and the first return spring is arranged between the coil assembly and the moving component; A second return spring is located at a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction relative to the connecting portion, and the second return spring is configured between the coil assembly and the moving component.

9. The relay according to claim 1, characterized in that: The base includes a first wall portion extending in a second supporting direction opposite to the first supporting direction, The first wall portion is opposed to the support portion in the moving direction.

10. The relay according to claim 9, characterized in that: The base further includes a second wall portion arranged away from the first wall portion in the moving direction, The support portion is arranged between the first wall portion and the second wall portion.

Images