Relay

Abstract

In the relay of the present invention, the movable part (4) includes a drive shaft (25) and a movable iron core (26). The drive shaft (25) is fixed to the movable contact piece (13) in the contact housing (3) and extends from the inside of the contact housing (3) to the outside of the contact housing (3). The movable iron core (26) is connected to the drive shaft (25) outside the contact housing (3). The reset spring (35) applies force to the movable part (4) in the direction (Z2) in which the movable contact moves away from the fixed contact. The contact spring (36) applies force to the drive shaft (25) in the direction (Z1) in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact. The contact spring (36) is arranged outside the contact housing (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to relays. Background Art

[0002] Among relays, there are relays whose internal space is divided by a contact housing. For example, in Patent Document 1, a fixed contact, a movable contact, and a movable contact piece are arranged inside the contact housing. In addition, a coil and a movable iron core are arranged outside the contact housing.

[0003] The movable contact piece is connected to the drive shaft via a bracket and a contact spring in the contact housing. When the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact, the contact spring applies force to the movable contact piece in the direction in which the movable contact is pressed against the fixed contact. The drive shaft extends from the inside of the contact housing to the outside of the contact housing. The movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft. The coil moves the movable iron core through magnetic force, thereby moving the drive shaft. As a result, the movable contact piece moves in the direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact and in the direction in which it leaves.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5727862 Summary of the invention

[0005] In the above relay, due to the movement of the drive shaft, movable parts such as the movable contact piece, the drive shaft, the bracket and the contact spring slide against each other. These movable parts are arranged in the contact housing together with the movable contact and the fixed contact. Therefore, if wear powder is generated due to the sliding of the above movable parts, the wear powder is easy to adhere to the movable contact or the fixed contact. If the wear powder adheres to the movable contact or the fixed contact, the contact resistance at the contact increases, so it is difficult to increase the current carrying capacity.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to suppress an increase in contact resistance due to wear powder of a movable member in a relay.

[0007] A relay according to one embodiment includes a fixed contact, a movable contact piece, a contact housing, a movable part, a coil, a reset spring, and a contact spring. The movable contact piece includes a movable contact arranged opposite to the fixed contact. The contact housing accommodates the fixed contact and the movable contact piece. The movable part is configured to be movable in a direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact and in a direction in which the movable contact leaves the fixed contact. The movable part includes a drive shaft and a movable iron core. The drive shaft is fixed to the movable contact piece in the contact housing and extends from the inside of the contact housing to the outside of the contact housing. The movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft outside the contact housing. The coil generates a magnetic force that moves the movable iron core in the moving direction of the movable part. The reset spring applies force to the movable part in the direction in which the movable contact leaves the fixed contact. The contact spring applies force to the drive shaft in the direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact. The contact spring is arranged outside the contact housing.

[0008] In the relay of this mode, the contact spring is arranged outside the contact housing. Therefore, even if wear powder is generated due to the sliding between the contact spring and the movable parts around it, the wear powder can be prevented from adhering to the movable contact or the fixed contact. Thus, the increase of contact resistance caused by the wear powder can be suppressed.

[0009] The drive shaft may also be fixed so as not to move relative to the movable contact piece along the axial direction of the drive shaft. In this case, wear powder is not easily generated between the drive shaft and the movable contact piece. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of wear powder to the movable contact or the fixed contact. Thus, it is possible to suppress the increase in contact resistance caused by the wear powder.

[0010] The relay may also include a winding frame. The coil may also be wound on the winding frame. The winding frame may also be arranged outside the contact housing. The winding frame may also include a hole extending in the moving direction of the movable part. The contact spring may also be arranged in the hole of the winding frame. In this case, the contact spring and the winding frame can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0011] The relay may also include a fixed core disposed opposite to the movable core. The fixed core may also include an internal space extending in the moving direction of the movable part. The contact spring may also be disposed in the internal space of the fixed core. In this case, the contact spring and the fixed core may be compactly disposed outside the contact housing.

[0012] The contact spring and the return spring may also be arranged in the internal space of the fixed iron core. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring and the fixed iron core can be arranged compactly outside the contact housing.

[0013] The contact spring may also be arranged in the internal space of the fixed iron core. The return spring may also be arranged on the outer periphery of the fixed iron core. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring and the fixed iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0014] The movable iron core may also include an internal space extending in the moving direction of the movable part. A portion of the drive shaft may also be arranged in the internal space of the movable iron core. The contact spring may also be arranged in the internal space of the movable iron core. In this case, the contact spring and the movable iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0015] The contact spring and the return spring may also be arranged in the internal space of the movable iron core. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring and the movable iron core can be arranged compactly outside the contact housing.

[0016] The fixed iron core may also include a first internal space extending in the moving direction of the movable part. The movable iron core may also include a second internal space extending in the moving direction of the movable part and opposite to the first internal space. The contact spring may also be arranged in the first internal space. The return spring may also be arranged throughout the first internal space and the second internal space. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring, the fixed iron core and the movable iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0017] The movable iron core may also include a hole that passes through the movable iron core in the moving direction of the movable part. The drive shaft can be inserted into the hole of the movable iron core and is configured to be movable relative to the movable iron core in the moving direction of the movable part. In this case, the drive shaft moves and slides relative to the inner surface of the hole of the movable iron core. However, since the movable iron core is arranged outside the contact housing, even if wear powder is generated by the drive shaft and the movable iron core, it is possible to suppress the wear powder from adhering to the movable contact or the fixed contact. Thus, the increase in contact resistance caused by the wear powder can be suppressed.

[0018] The relay may also be provided with a stopper. When the movable portion moves in the direction in which the movable contact leaves the fixed contact, the stopper may limit the movement of the movable iron core relative to the drive shaft. The stopper may also be arranged outside the contact housing. In this case, the stopper limits the movement of the drive shaft relative to the movable iron core, so that the drive shaft moves together with the movable iron core. In addition, even if wear powder is generated due to the sliding of the stopper and the movable iron core or the drive shaft, the wear powder can be prevented from adhering to the movable contact or the fixed contact. Thus, the increase of the contact resistance caused by the wear powder can be suppressed.

[0019] The drive shaft and the hole of the movable iron core may also have a polygonal shape. In this case, the drive shaft can be stopped relative to the movable iron core. In addition, even if wear powder is generated due to relative sliding between the drive shaft and the hole of the movable iron core, the wear powder can be prevented from adhering to the movable contact or the fixed contact. Thus, the increase in contact resistance caused by the wear powder can be suppressed.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention, in the relay, it is possible to suppress an increase in contact resistance due to wear powder of the movable member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the relay according to the first embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the relay according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 4 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a second embodiment.

[0026] Figure 5 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a third embodiment.

[0027] Figure 6 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a third embodiment.

[0028] Figure 7 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a fourth embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a fourth embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 9 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a fifth embodiment.

[0031] Fig.10 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a fifth embodiment.

[0032] Fig.11 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a sixth embodiment.

[0033] Fig.12 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a relay according to a sixth embodiment.

[0034] Fig.13 It is a perspective view showing a drive shaft, a movable iron core, and a fixed iron core according to a modified example.

[0035] Explanation of symbols

[0036] 3: Contact housing

[0037] 4: Movable parts

[0038] 13: Movable contact piece

[0039] 14: First fixed contact

[0040] 16: First movable contact

[0041] 25: Drive shaft

[0042] 26: Movable iron core

[0043] 28: Stopper

[0044] 31: Coil

[0045] 32: Winding rack

[0046] 33: Fixed core

[0047] 35: Return spring

[0048] 36: Contact spring

[0049] 261: Hole of movable iron core

[0050] S1: Internal space of the fixed core (first internal space)

[0051] S2: The inner space of the movable iron core (the second inner space) DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Hereinafter, a relay according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the relay 1a of the first embodiment. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the relay 1a includes a contact device 2, a contact housing 3, a movable portion 4, and a coil assembly 5. In the following description, the directions of up, down, left, and right refer to Figure 1 Specifically, the direction from the coil assembly 5 toward the contact housing 3 is defined as the upper direction. In addition, the direction from the contact housing 3 toward the coil assembly 5 is defined as the lower direction. However, these directions are defined for convenience of explanation and do not limit the configuration direction of the relay 1a.

[0053] The contact device 2 includes a first fixed terminal 11, a second fixed terminal 12 and a movable contact piece 13. The first fixed terminal 11, the second fixed terminal 12 and the movable contact piece 13 are formed of a conductive material such as copper. The first fixed terminal 11 includes a first fixed contact 14. The second fixed terminal 12 includes a second fixed contact 15. The first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 are arranged separately in the left-right direction.

[0054] The movable contact piece 13 extends in the left-right direction. In the present embodiment, the length direction of the movable contact piece 13 is consistent with the left-right direction. The movable contact piece 13 is arranged above the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15. The movable contact piece 13 includes a first movable contact 16 and a second movable contact 17. The first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are arranged separately in the left-right direction. The first movable contact 16 is arranged opposite to the first fixed contact 14. The second movable contact 17 is arranged opposite to the second fixed contact 15.

[0055] The movable contact piece 13 is configured to be movable in the up-down direction. Specifically, the movable contact piece 13 is configured to be movable in the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2. In the present embodiment, the contact direction Z1 is the direction in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 contact the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 ( Figure 1The separation direction Z2 is the direction in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are separated from the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 ( Figure 1 ).

[0056] The contact housing 3 accommodates the contact device 2. Specifically, the contact housing 3 accommodates the first fixed contact 14, the second fixed contact 15, and the movable contact piece 13. The contact housing 3 is formed of a material having insulating properties.

[0057] The first fixed terminal 11 includes a first contact support portion 21 and a first external terminal portion 22. The first contact support portion 21 is connected to the first fixed contact 14. The first contact support portion 21 is arranged in the contact housing 3. The first external terminal portion 22 is connected to the first contact support portion 21. The first contact support portion 21 protrudes outward from the contact housing 3. The second fixed terminal 12 includes a second contact support portion 23 and a second external terminal portion 24. The second contact support portion 23 is connected to the second fixed contact 15. The second contact support portion 23 is arranged in the contact housing 3. The second external terminal portion 24 is connected to the second contact support portion 23. The second contact support portion 23 protrudes outward from the contact housing 3.

[0058] In addition, Figure 1 In the embodiment, the first external terminal portion 22 and the second external terminal portion 24 protrude from the contact housing 3 in the left-right direction. However, the first external terminal portion 22 and the second external terminal portion 24 are not limited to the left-right direction, and may protrude from the contact housing 3 in other directions such as the up-down direction.

[0059] The movable part 4 is configured to be movable in the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2. The movable part 4 includes a drive shaft 25 and a movable iron core 26. The drive shaft 25 extends in the vertical direction. The drive shaft 25 extends from the inside of the contact housing 3 to the outside of the contact housing 3. The drive shaft 25 is configured to be movable in the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2. The drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact piece 13 in the contact housing 3.

[0060] In detail, the drive shaft 25 includes a contact piece fixing portion 251. The contact piece fixing portion 251 is fixed to the movable contact piece 13. The contact piece fixing portion 251 is located in the contact housing 3. The drive shaft 25 is fixed to the contact piece fixing portion 251 in a manner that the drive shaft 25 cannot move in the axial direction of the drive shaft 25 relative to the movable contact piece 13. In detail, the drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact piece 13 by a stopper 27 that is separate from the drive shaft 25. However, the stopper 27 may be omitted. For example, the drive shaft 25 may be fixed to the movable contact piece 13 by the contact piece fixing portion 251 being locked to the movable contact piece 13. Alternatively, the contact piece fixing portion 251 may be fixed to the movable contact piece 13 by a fixing method such as welding.

[0061] The movable iron core 26 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. The movable iron core 26 is connected to the drive shaft 25 outside the contact housing 3. The movable iron core 26 is arranged to be movable in the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2. The movable iron core 26 is arranged below the contact housing 3. The movable iron core 26 has a cylindrical shape. The movable iron core 26 includes a hole 261 that passes through the movable iron core 26 in the up-down direction. The drive shaft 25 is inserted into the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26. The drive shaft 25 is arranged to be movable in the up-down direction relative to the movable iron core 26.

[0062] A stopper 28 is mounted on the drive shaft 25. The stopper 28 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the drive shaft 25. The stopper 28 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. The stopper 28 is arranged between the contact housing 3 and the movable iron core 26 in the up-down direction. The stopper 28 is arranged above the movable iron core 26. When the movable part 4 moves upward, that is, in the separation direction Z2, the stopper 28 restricts the movement of the movable iron core 26 relative to the drive shaft 25.

[0063] The coil assembly 5 moves the movable contact piece 13 by electromagnetic force. The coil assembly 5 moves the movable contact piece 13 in the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2. The coil assembly 5 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. The coil assembly 5 is arranged below the contact housing 3. In addition, the relay 1a may also have a shell portion for accommodating the coil assembly 5. Alternatively, the coil assembly 5 and the contact housing 3 may also be accommodated in the shell portion. In this case, the contact housing 3 may also divide the shell portion into a space for accommodating the contact device 2 and a space for accommodating the coil assembly.

[0064] The coil assembly 5 includes a coil 31, a winding frame 32, a fixed iron core 33, a yoke 34, a return spring 35, and a contact spring 36. The coil 31 is wound on the winding frame 32. The coil 31 and the winding frame 32 are coaxially arranged with the drive shaft 25. The coil 31 generates an electromagnetic force that moves the movable iron core 26 in the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2. The winding frame 32 includes a hole 321 that passes through the winding frame 32 in the up and down directions. The movable iron core 26, the fixed iron core 33, the return spring 35, and the contact spring 36 are arranged in the hole 321 of the winding frame 32.

[0065] The yoke 34 is connected to the fixed core 33. The yoke 34 includes a first yoke 37 and a second yoke 38. The first yoke 37 is arranged above the coil 31. The first yoke 37 is arranged between the contact housing 3 and the winding frame 32. The second yoke 38 is connected to the first yoke 37. The second yoke 38 has a U-shape. The second yoke 38 is arranged on both sides of the coil 31 and below the coil 31.

[0066] The fixed core 33 is in contact with the second yoke 38. The movable core 26 is separate from the fixed core 33. The fixed core 33 is arranged in the hole 321 of the winding frame 32. The fixed core 33 has a cylindrical shape. The fixed core 33 and the movable core 26 are arranged opposite to each other. The fixed core 33 is arranged below the movable core 26. The fixed core 33 includes an internal space S1. The internal space S1 extends in the up-down direction. The internal space S1 opens at the upper surface 331 of the fixed core 33. The internal space S1 extends downward from the upper surface 331 of the fixed core 33.

[0067] The return spring 35 is disposed between the movable iron core 26 and the fixed iron core 33. In the present embodiment, the return spring 35 is a coil spring. The upper end of the return spring 35 contacts the movable iron core 26, and the lower end of the return spring 35 contacts the fixed iron core 33. The return spring 35 applies force to the movable iron core 26 in the separation direction Z2. The return spring 35 is disposed in the internal space of the fixed iron core 33.

[0068] The contact spring 36 is connected to the drive shaft 25 and the movable iron core 26. In the present embodiment, the contact spring 36 is a coil spring. A portion of the drive shaft 25 is disposed in the contact spring 36. In detail, the drive shaft 25 includes a spring support portion 252. The spring support portion 252 has a flange-like shape protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the drive shaft 25 in the outer diameter direction. The contact spring 36 is disposed between the spring support portion 252 and the movable iron core 26 in the up and down direction. The contact spring 36 is disposed above the spring support portion 252 and below the movable iron core 26.

[0069] The spring support portion 252 and the contact spring 36 are arranged in the internal space S1 of the fixed core 33. The outer diameter of the spring support portion 252 and the outer diameter of the contact spring 36 are smaller than the inner diameter of the return spring 35. The spring support portion 252 and the contact spring 36 are arranged in the return spring 35. When the movable contacts 16 and 17 are in contact with the fixed contacts 22 and 23, the contact spring 36 applies force to the drive shaft 25 in the contact direction Z1.

[0070] Next, the operation of the relay 1a is described. When the current does not flow through the coil 31 and the coil 31 is not excited, the drive shaft 25 and the movable iron core 26 are pressed in the separation direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35. Therefore, the movable contact piece 13 is also pressed in the separation direction Z2, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in an OFF state separated from the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 .

[0071] If current flows in the coil 31 and is excited, the movable iron core 26 overcomes the elastic force of the return spring 35 and moves in the contact direction Z1 through the electromagnetic force of the coil 31. As a result, the drive shaft 25 moves in the contact direction Z1 together with the movable contact piece 13. Figure 2A As shown, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 respectively.

[0072] The movable iron core 26 is moved from Figure 2A The position shown in FIG. 1 is further moved toward the contact direction Z1. Figure 2B As shown, the movable iron core 26 is restricted from moving downward by contacting the fixed iron core 33. As a result, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in a closed state in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15.

[0073] In addition, Figure 2A In the state shown, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15, respectively, so the drive shaft 25 is restricted from moving downward. Therefore, if the movable iron core 26 is further moved in the contact direction Z1 by the electromagnetic force of the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves in the contact direction Z1 relative to the drive shaft 25. As a result, the contact spring 36 is compressed between the movable iron core 26 and the spring support portion 252. Therefore, in Figure 2B In the closed state shown, the contact spring 36 urges the drive shaft 25 in the contact direction Z1 , thereby ensuring a sufficient contact force of the contacts.

[0074] If the current to the coil 31 stops and is demagnetized, the movable iron core 26 is pressed in the separation direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35. As a result, the movable iron core 26 moves in the separation direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25. When the movable iron core 26 moves to a position in contact with the stopper 28, the movement of the movable iron core 26 in the separation direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25 is limited by the stopper 28. Therefore, the drive shaft 25 moves in the separation direction Z2 together with the movable iron core 26, and the movable contact piece 13 also moves in the separation direction Z2. As a result, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 return to the disconnected state.

[0075] In the relay 1a of the present embodiment described above, the contact spring 36 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, even if the contact spring 36 and the drive shaft 25 or the contact spring 36 and the movable iron core 26 slide against each other and generate wear powder, the wear powder can be prevented from adhering to the movable contacts 16, 17 or the fixed contacts 14, 15.

[0076] The drive shaft 25 is inserted into the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26, and the drive shaft 25 can move in the vertical direction relative to the movable iron core 26 at a position other than the position in contact with the stopper 28. However, the movable iron core 26 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, even if wear powder is generated between the movable iron core 26 and the drive shaft 25, it is possible to suppress the wear powder from adhering to the movable contacts 16, 17 or the fixed contacts 14, 15.

[0077] The stopper 28 for limiting the movement of the drive shaft 25 relative to the movable iron core 26 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, even if wear powder is generated due to the sliding of the stopper 28 and the movable iron core 26, the wear powder can be prevented from adhering to the movable contacts 16, 17 or the fixed contacts 14, 15.

[0078] The drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact piece 13 so as not to be movable in the up-down direction. Therefore, wear powder is less likely to be generated between the drive shaft 25 and the movable contact piece 13. Therefore, the wear powder can be prevented from adhering to the movable contacts 16 and 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15.

[0079] As described above, in the relay 1a of the present embodiment, the contact spring 36 and other components that slide with the movement of the movable part 4 are not arranged in the contact housing 3, but are arranged on the coil assembly 5 side outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, even if wear powder is generated between the movable iron core 26 and the drive shaft 25, it is possible to suppress the wear powder from adhering to the movable contacts 16, 17 or the fixed contacts 14, 15. Thus, it is possible to suppress the increase in contact resistance caused by the wear powder.

[0080] In the relay 1a of the present embodiment, the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 are both arranged in the internal space S1 of the fixed core 33. Therefore, the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing 3.

[0081] Next, a relay 1 b according to a second embodiment will be described. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 It is a side cross-sectional view of a relay 1 b according to the second embodiment. Figure 3 Relay 1b indicating the off state. Figure 4 Indicates the closed state of relay 1b. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in the relay 1b of the second embodiment, the contact spring 36 is arranged in the internal space S1 of the fixed core 33. The inner diameter of the return spring 35 is larger than the outer diameter of the fixed core 33. The return spring 35 is arranged on the outer periphery of the fixed core 33.

[0082] In detail, the fixed iron core 33 includes a first cylinder portion 41 and a second cylinder portion 42. The second cylinder portion 42 is arranged below the first cylinder portion 41. The outer diameter of the first cylinder portion 41 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second cylinder portion 42. The inner diameter of the return spring 35 is larger than the outer diameter of the first cylinder portion 41. The return spring 35 is arranged on the outer periphery of the first cylinder portion 41. A step portion 43 is provided between the first cylinder portion 41 and the second cylinder portion 42. The upper end of the return spring 35 contacts the movable iron core 26. The lower end of the return spring 35 contacts the fixed iron core 33 at the step portion 43. The other structures of the relay 1b of the second embodiment are the same as those of the relay 1a of the first embodiment. In the relay 1b of the second embodiment, the same effect as the relay 1a of the first embodiment can also be obtained.

[0083] Next, a relay 1c according to a third embodiment will be described. Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 It is a side cross-sectional view of a relay 1c according to a third embodiment. Figure 5 Relay 1c indicating the disconnected state. Figure 6 Indicates the closed state of relay 1c. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in the relay 1c of the third embodiment, the movable iron core 26 includes an internal space S2 extending in the moving direction of the movable part 4. A portion of the drive shaft 25 is arranged in the internal space S2 of the movable iron core 26. The contact spring 36 is arranged in the internal space S2 of the movable iron core 26. The return spring 35 is arranged in the internal space S1 of the fixed iron core 33.

[0084] In detail, the movable iron core 26 includes an upper wall 44 and a lower wall 45. The upper wall 44 is arranged above the internal space S2. The upper wall 44 includes a hole 431 into which the drive shaft 25 is inserted. The spring support portion 252 of the drive shaft 25 is arranged in the internal space S2 of the movable iron core 26 together with the contact spring 36. The contact spring 36 is arranged between the upper wall 44 of the movable iron core 26 and the spring support portion 252 in the up-down direction.

[0085] The lower wall 45 is arranged below the internal space. The lower wall 45 is arranged opposite to the fixed iron core 33. The upper end of the return spring 35 contacts the lower wall 45 of the movable iron core 26. In addition, the lower wall 45 can be omitted, and the internal space S1 is opened on the lower surface of the movable iron core 26. The other structures of the relay 1c of the third embodiment are the same as those of the relay 1a of the first embodiment. In the relay 1c of the third embodiment, the same effect as the relay 1a of the first embodiment can also be obtained.

[0086] In the relays 1a-1c of the first to third embodiments described above, there is a structure (hereinafter referred to as a "pulling type structure"), that is, the drive shaft 25 is pulled downward, that is, toward the coil assembly 5 side, by the coil assembly 5, so that the movable contact piece 13 moves in the contact direction Z1. However, the direction of movement of the drive shaft 25 for opening and closing the contacts may be opposite to that in the above-mentioned embodiment. That is, there may also be a structure (hereinafter referred to as a "pushing type structure"), in which the drive shaft 25 is pushed upward, that is, toward the contact device 2 side, by the coil assembly 5, so that the movable contact piece 13 moves in the contact direction Z1. That is, the contact direction Z1 and the separation direction Z2 may also be opposite to those in the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0087] For example, Figure 7 And FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a relay 1d according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 7 FIG. 8 shows the relay 1d in the open state. FIG. 9 shows the relay 1d in the closed state. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 8 , in the relay 1 d of the fourth embodiment, the movable contact piece 13 is arranged below the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15. Figure 7 8 , the first external terminal portion 22 and the second external terminal portion 24 protrude upward from the contact housing 3. However, the first external terminal portion 22 and the second external terminal portion 24 may protrude from the contact housing 3 in other directions.

[0088] The fixed core 33 includes a hole 333 penetrating the fixed core in the up-down direction. The drive shaft 25 is inserted into the hole 333. The fixed core 33 includes a first internal space S1. The first internal space S1 opens at the lower surface 332 of the fixed core 33. The first internal space S1 extends upward from the lower surface 332 of the fixed core 33.

[0089] The movable iron core 26 is arranged below the fixed iron core 33. The movable iron core 26 includes a second internal space S2. The second internal space S2 opens at the upper surface 262 of the movable iron core 26. The second internal space S2 extends downward from the upper surface 262 of the movable iron core 26. The second internal space S2 is arranged opposite to the first internal space S1. The stopper 28 is arranged below the movable iron core 26.

[0090] The contact spring 36 is disposed in the second internal space S2. The spring support portion 252 of the drive shaft 25 is disposed above the contact spring 36. The upper end of the contact spring 36 contacts the spring support portion 252. The lower end of the contact spring 36 contacts the movable iron core 26 in the second internal space S2.

[0091] The return spring 35 is arranged over the first internal space S1 and the second internal space S2. The return spring 35 contacts the fixed iron core 33 in the first internal space S1. The return spring 35 contacts the movable iron core 26 in the second internal space S2. The contact spring 36 is arranged in the return spring 35.

[0092] Next, the operation of the relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment will be described. In the relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment, the contact direction Z1 is Figure 7 And above in FIG8, the separation direction Z2 is Figure 7 When the current does not flow through the coil 31 and the coil 31 is not excited, the drive shaft 25 and the movable iron core 26 are pressed in the separation direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35. Therefore, the movable contact piece 13 is also pressed in the separation direction Z2, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in an OFF state separated from the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 .

[0093] If the current flows in the coil 31 and is excited, the movable iron core 26 overcomes the elastic force of the return spring 35 and moves in the contact direction Z1 by the electromagnetic force of the coil 31. As a result, the drive shaft 25 and the movable contact piece 13 both move in the contact direction Z1. Fig. 8A As shown, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15, respectively.

[0094] By using the electromagnetic force of the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves from Fig. 8A The position shown in FIG. 1 is further moved toward the contact direction Z1. Figure 8B As shown, the movable iron core 26 contacts the fixed iron core 33, and its upward movement is restricted. As a result, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 in a closed state.

[0095] In addition, Fig. 8A In the state shown, since the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 respectively, the upward movement of the drive shaft 25 is restricted. Therefore, if the movable iron core 26 is further moved in the contact direction Z1 by the electromagnetic force of the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves in the contact direction Z1 relative to the drive shaft 25. As a result, the contact spring 36 is compressed between the movable iron core 26 and the spring support portion 252. Therefore, in Figure 8B In the closed state shown, the contact spring 36 urges the drive shaft 25 in the contact direction Z1. This ensures sufficient contact force of the contacts.

[0096] If the current to the coil 31 stops and is demagnetized, the movable iron core 26 is pressed in the separation direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35. As a result, the movable iron core 26 moves in the separation direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25. If the movable iron core 26 moves to a position in contact with the stopper 28, the movement of the movable iron core 26 in the separation direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25 is restricted by the stopper 28. Therefore, the drive shaft 25 moves in the separation direction Z2 together with the movable iron core 26, and the movable contact piece 13 also moves in the separation direction Z2. As a result, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 return to the disconnected state.

[0097] The other structures of the relay 1d of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the relay 1a of the first embodiment. The relay 1d of the fourth embodiment can also obtain the same effects as those of the relay 1a of the first embodiment.

[0098] Fig. 9 as well as Fig.10 It is a side cross-sectional view of a relay 1 e according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 9 Relay 1e indicating the off state. Fig.10 Indicates the relay 1e in the closed state. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the relay 1e of the fifth embodiment has the same push-out structure as the relay 1d of the fourth embodiment. In addition, in the relay 1e of the fifth embodiment, the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 are both arranged in the internal space S1 of the fixed iron core 33. In this case, the internal space S2 of the movable iron core 26 can also be omitted.

[0099] The other structures of the relay 1e of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the relay 1d of the fourth embodiment. The relay 1e of the fifth embodiment can also obtain the same effects as those of the relay 1a of the first embodiment.

[0100] Fig.11 as well as Fig.12 It is a side cross-sectional view of a relay 1f according to the sixth embodiment. Fig.11 Relay 1f indicating the disconnected state. Fig.12 Indicates the relay 1f in the closed state. Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown, the relay 1f of the sixth embodiment has the same push-out type structure as the relay 1d of the fourth embodiment. In addition, in the relay 1f of the sixth embodiment, the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 are both arranged in the internal space S2 of the movable iron core 26. In this case, the fixed iron core 33 can also be omitted. Alternatively, the fixed iron core 33 can also be provided and the internal space S1 of the fixed iron core 33 can be omitted.

[0101] The other structures of the relay 1f of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the relay 1d of the fourth embodiment. The relay 1f of the sixth embodiment can also obtain the same effects as those of the relay 1a of the first embodiment.

[0102] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes can be made without departing from the main purpose of the invention. For example, the structure of the coil assembly 5 can also be changed. The shape or configuration of the coil 31, the winding frame 32, or the yoke 34 can also be changed. The shape or configuration of the contact housing 3 can also be changed.

[0103] The shapes or configurations of the first fixed terminal 11, the second fixed terminal 12, and the movable contact piece 13 may also be changed. The first fixed contact 14 may be separate from the first fixed terminal 11, or may be integrated. The second fixed contact 15 may be separate from the second fixed terminal 12, or may be integrated. The first movable contact 16 may be separate from the movable contact piece 13, or may be integrated. The second movable contact 17 may be separate from the movable contact piece 13, or may be integrated.

[0104] The shape or configuration of the return spring 35 and / or the contact spring 36 may also be changed. For example, the return spring 35 is not limited to a coil spring, but may be a spring of other types such as a leaf spring. The contact spring 36 is not limited to a coil spring, but may be a spring of other types such as a leaf spring. In the above embodiment, the return spring 35 applies force to the movable part 4 by contacting the movable iron core 26. However, the return spring 35 may also apply force to the movable part 4 by contacting the drive shaft 25.

[0105] The shape or arrangement of the fixed iron core 33 and / or the movable iron core 26 may also be changed. In the above-described embodiment, for example, the drive shaft 25, the movable iron core 26, and the fixed iron core 33 each have a circular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 25. However, the drive shaft 25, the movable iron core 26, and the fixed iron core 33 are not limited to a circular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 25, and may also have a polygonal shape.

[0106] For example, Fig.13 2 is a perspective view showing a drive shaft 25, a movable iron core 26, and a fixed iron core 33 according to a modified example. Fig.13 As shown, the drive shaft 25, the movable iron core 26, and the fixed iron core 33 may also have a quadrilateral shape in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 25. The movable iron core 26 includes a hole 261 into which the drive shaft 25 is inserted. The hole 261 may also have a quadrilateral shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the drive shaft 25.

[0107] In this case, the drive shaft 25 is stuck to the edge of the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26, thereby limiting the rotation of the drive shaft 25 around the axis. Therefore, the drive shaft 25 is stopped relative to the movable iron core 26. Thus, the rotation of the movable contact piece 13 is prevented. In addition, even if wear powder is generated due to the sliding between the drive shaft 25 and the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26, it is possible to suppress the wear powder from adhering to the movable contacts 16, 17 or the fixed contacts 14, 15. Thus, the increase in contact resistance caused by the wear powder can be suppressed.

[0108] In addition, if Fig.13 As shown, the movable iron core 26 may also be an iron core in which a plurality of plate-shaped iron cores 26a and 26b are stacked. The fixed iron core 33 may also be an iron core in which a plurality of plate-shaped iron cores 33a-33c are stacked. In addition, although not shown in the figure, the hole 321 of the winding frame 32 on which the movable iron core 26 is arranged may also have a polygonal shape. In this case, the movable iron core 26 is stopped relative to the winding frame 32. Thus, the rotation of the movable contact piece 13 can be prevented.

[0109] Industrial Applicability

[0110] According to the present invention, in the relay, it is possible to suppress an increase in contact resistance due to wear powder of the movable member.

Claims

1. A relay, characterized in that: have: Fixed contacts; A movable contact piece, comprising a movable contact point arranged opposite to the fixed contact point; a contact housing accommodating the fixed contact and the movable contact piece; A movable part, comprising a drive shaft and a movable iron core, wherein the drive shaft is fixed to the movable contact piece in the contact housing and extends from the contact housing to the outside of the contact housing, the movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft outside the contact housing, and the movable part is configured to be movable in a direction in which the movable contact contacts and moves away from the fixed contact; a coil that generates a magnetic force that moves the movable iron core in a moving direction of the movable portion; a return spring which applies force to the movable part in a direction in which the movable contact moves away from the fixed contact; A contact spring, which is arranged outside the contact housing and applies force to the driving shaft in a direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact; a fixed iron core, which is opposite to the movable iron core, The fixed core includes an internal space extending in the moving direction of the movable part, The contact spring is arranged in the internal space of the fixed iron core.

2. The relay according to claim 1, characterized in that: The contact spring and the return spring are both arranged in the inner space of the fixed iron core.

3. The relay according to claim 1, characterized in that: The contact spring is arranged in the internal space of the fixed iron core. The return spring is arranged on the outer periphery of the fixed iron core.

4. A relay, characterized in that: have: Fixed contacts; A movable contact piece, comprising a movable contact point arranged opposite to the fixed contact point; a contact housing accommodating the fixed contact and the movable contact piece; A movable part, comprising a drive shaft and a movable iron core, wherein the drive shaft is fixed to the movable contact piece in the contact housing and extends from the contact housing to the outside of the contact housing, the movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft outside the contact housing, and the movable part is configured to be movable in a direction in which the movable contact contacts and moves away from the fixed contact; a coil that generates a magnetic force that moves the movable iron core in a moving direction of the movable portion; a return spring which applies force to the movable part in a direction in which the movable contact moves away from the fixed contact; A contact spring is arranged outside the contact housing and applies force to the driving shaft in a direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact. The movable iron core includes an internal space extending in the moving direction of the movable part, A portion of the drive shaft is disposed in the inner space of the movable iron core. The contact spring is arranged in the internal space of the movable iron core.

5. The relay according to claim 4, characterized in that: The contact spring and the return spring are both arranged in the internal space of the movable iron core.

6. A relay, characterized in that: have: Fixed contacts; A movable contact piece, comprising a movable contact point arranged opposite to the fixed contact point; a contact housing accommodating the fixed contact and the movable contact piece; A movable part, comprising a drive shaft and a movable iron core, wherein the drive shaft is fixed to the movable contact piece in the contact housing and extends from the contact housing to the outside of the contact housing, the movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft outside the contact housing, and the movable part is configured to be movable in a direction in which the movable contact contacts and moves away from the fixed contact; a coil that generates a magnetic force that moves the movable iron core in a moving direction of the movable portion; a return spring which applies force to the movable part in a direction in which the movable contact moves away from the fixed contact; A contact spring, which is arranged outside the contact housing and applies force to the driving shaft in a direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact; A fixed iron core, which is opposite to the movable iron core; The fixed core includes a first internal space extending along the moving direction of the movable part. The movable iron core includes a second internal space extending along the moving direction of the movable part and opposite to the first internal space. The contact spring is disposed in the first internal space, The return spring is arranged throughout the first internal space and the second internal space.

7. A relay, characterized in that: have: Fixed contacts; A movable contact piece, comprising a movable contact point arranged opposite to the fixed contact point; a contact housing accommodating the fixed contact and the movable contact piece; A movable part, comprising a drive shaft and a movable iron core, wherein the drive shaft is fixed to the movable contact piece in the contact housing and extends from the contact housing to the outside of the contact housing, the movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft outside the contact housing, and the movable part is configured to be movable in a direction in which the movable contact contacts and moves away from the fixed contact; a coil that generates a magnetic force that moves the movable iron core in a moving direction of the movable portion; a return spring which applies force to the movable part in a direction in which the movable contact moves away from the fixed contact; A contact spring, which is arranged outside the contact housing and applies force to the driving shaft in a direction in which the movable contact contacts the fixed contact; The movable iron core includes a hole penetrating the movable iron core in the moving direction of the movable part, The drive shaft is inserted into the hole of the movable iron core and is provided to be movable relative to the movable iron core in the moving direction of the movable portion.

8. The relay according to claim 7, characterized in that: A stopper is further provided for restricting movement of the movable iron core relative to the drive shaft when the movable portion moves in a direction in which the movable contact moves away from the fixed contact. The stopper is arranged outside the contact housing.

9. The relay according to claim 7, characterized in that: The driving shaft and the holes of the movable iron core have polygonal shapes.

10. The relay according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The drive shaft is fixed in the contact housing so as to be immovable relative to the movable contact piece in the axial direction of the drive shaft.

11. The relay according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: It also includes a winding frame, which is arranged outside the contact housing and is wound with the coil. The bobbin includes a hole extending along the moving direction of the movable part, The contact spring is disposed in the hole of the bobbin.

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