Arc path forming portion and DC relay including the same

Abstract

The present invention discloses an arc path forming portion and a DC relay including the same. The arc path forming portion of an embodiment of the present invention includes a single magnet portion arranged on one side of a magnet frame and a plurality of magnet portions arranged on another side opposite to the one side. The plurality of magnet portions are arranged in sequence along the length direction. The side of the magnet portion located between at least two of the plurality of magnet portions facing the single magnet portion is magnetized to the same polarity as the side of the single magnet portion facing the magnet portion. As a result, a magnetic field in a direction of repelling each other is formed in the central portion of the DC relay. As a result, the arc does not move to the central portion, thereby preventing damage to the components arranged in the central portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an arc path forming part and a DC relay including the same, and more particularly to an arc path forming part having a structure that can form an arc discharge path by utilizing electromagnetic force and prevent the DC relay from being damaged and a DC relay including the same. Background Art

[0002] A direct current relay is a device that uses the principle of an electromagnet to transmit mechanical drive or current signals. A direct current relay is also called an electromagnetic switch and is generally classified as a circuit switching device.

[0003] A DC relay includes a fixed contact and a movable contact. The fixed contact is connected to an external power source and a load in a manner that allows electricity to flow. The fixed contact and the movable contact can contact or separate from each other.

[0004] The contact and separation between the fixed contact and the movable contact allow or block the energization via the DC relay. The movement is achieved by a drive unit that applies a driving force to the movable contact.

[0005] When the fixed contact and the movable contact are separated, an arc will be generated between the fixed contact and the movable contact. An arc is the flow of high-voltage and high-temperature current. Therefore, the generated arc needs to be quickly discharged from the DC relay via a pre-set path.

[0006] The arc discharge path is formed by a magnet provided in the DC relay. The magnet forms a magnetic field inside the space where the fixed contact and the movable contact are in contact. The arc discharge path can be formed by the electromagnetic force generated by the formed magnetic field and the flow of current.

[0007] Reference Figure 1 , shows a space provided in the prior art DC relay 1000 where the fixed contact 1100 and the movable contact 1200 are in contact. As described above, the permanent magnet 1300 is provided in the space.

[0008] The permanent magnet 1300 includes a first permanent magnet 1310 located at the upper side and a second magnet 1320 located at the lower side. The lower side of the first permanent magnet 1310 is magnetized to an N pole, and the upper side of the second permanent magnet 1320 is magnetized to an S pole. Thus, a magnetic field is formed in a direction from the upper side to the lower side.

[0009] exist Figure 1In (a), a state in which current flows in through the fixed contact 1100 on the left and flows out through the fixed contact 1100 on the right is shown. According to Fleming's left-hand rule, as shown by the shaded arrow, the direction of the electromagnetic force is toward the outside. Therefore, the generated arc can be discharged to the outside along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0010] On the contrary, Figure 1 In (b), a state in which current flows in through the fixed contact 1100 on the right side and flows out through the fixed contact 1100 on the left side is shown. According to Fleming's left-hand rule, as shown by the shaded arrow, the direction of the electromagnetic force is inward. Therefore, the generated arc moves inward along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0011] A plurality of members for driving the movable contact 1200 in the vertical direction are provided in the central portion of the DC relay 1000, that is, in the space between the fixed contacts 1100. For example, a shaft and a spring member inserted through the shaft are provided at the position.

[0012] Therefore, if Figure 1 As shown in (b), when the generated arc moves toward the central portion, there is a risk that a plurality of components provided at the position will be damaged by the energy of the arc.

[0013] And, if Figure 1 As shown, the direction of the electromagnetic force formed inside the DC relay 1000 of the prior art depends on the direction of the current flowing in the fixed contact 1200. Therefore, it is preferred that the current flows only in the fixed contact 1100 in a predetermined direction, that is, only in the direction Figure 1 Flows in the direction shown in (a).

[0014] That is, the user needs to consider the direction of the current every time he uses the DC relay. This may cause inconvenience in the use of the DC relay. Moreover, regardless of the user's intention, it cannot be ruled out that the direction of the current applied to the DC relay may change due to unskilled operation.

[0015] In this case, components provided in the center of the DC relay may be damaged by the generated arc, which not only reduces the durability of the DC relay but also poses a risk of safety accidents.

[0016] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1696952 discloses a DC relay, and more specifically, discloses a DC relay having a structure that can prevent a movable contact from moving by using a plurality of permanent magnets.

[0017] However, although the DC relay having the above structure can prevent the movable contact from moving by using a plurality of permanent magnets, there is a limitation in that the technical solution for controlling the direction of the arc discharge path is not considered.

[0018] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1216824 discloses a DC relay, and more particularly, discloses a DC relay having a structure that prevents an arbitrary separation between a movable contact and a fixed contact by using a damping magnet.

[0019] However, the DC relay having the above structure only discloses a technical solution for maintaining the contact state between the movable contact and the fixed contact, that is, there is a limitation that no technical solution is proposed for forming a discharge path for the arc generated when the movable contact and the fixed contact are separated.

[0020] Korean Patent No. 10-1696952 (2017.01.16)

[0021] Korean Patent No. 10-1216824 (December 28, 2012) Summary of the invention

[0022] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0023] An object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure capable of solving the above-mentioned problems and a DC relay including the same.

[0024] First, an object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure in which a generated arc does not extend toward a central portion, and a DC relay including the same.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure capable of directing an arc discharge path to the outside regardless of the direction of a current applied to a fixed contact, and a DC relay including the same.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure capable of minimizing damage to components located in a central portion due to an arc generated, and a DC relay including the same.

[0027] Another object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure that allows a generated arc to move and fully extinguish the arc, and a DC relay including the same.

[0028] Another object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure capable of enhancing the strength of a magnetic field for forming an arc discharge path, and a DC relay including the same.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide an arc path forming portion having a structure capable of changing an arc discharge path without significantly changing the structure, and a DC relay including the same.

[0030] Technical solutions to problems

[0031] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present invention provides an arc path forming part, which includes: a magnet frame, a space is formed inside the magnet frame, and the magnet frame includes a plurality of surfaces surrounding the space; and a magnet part, which is configured to be combined with the plurality of surfaces to form a magnetic field in the space, and the plurality of surfaces include: a first surface, which is extended along one direction; and a second surface, which is configured to face the first surface and extend along the one direction, and the magnet part includes: a first magnet part, which is configured on any one of the first surface and the second surface; a second magnet part, which is configured on the other of the first surface and the second surface; a third magnet part, which is configured on the other surface to be separated from the second magnet part by a specified distance; and a fourth magnet part, which is configured on the other surface between the second magnet part and the third magnet part, and the first relative surface of the first magnet part facing the other surface is configured to have the same polarity as the fourth relative surface of the fourth magnet part facing the any one surface, and has a different polarity from the second relative surface of the second magnet part facing the any one surface and the third relative surface of the third magnet part facing the any one surface.

[0032] In addition, the first magnet portion, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion of the arc path forming portion are respectively extended along the one direction, and the first magnet portion can be extended longer than the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion.

[0033] In addition, the center of the space of the arc path forming portion may be located on a virtual straight line connecting the center of the first magnet portion in the extending direction and the center of the fourth magnet portion in the extending direction.

[0034] In addition, the first magnet portion of the arc path forming portion is arranged on the first surface, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion are arranged on the second surface, the first relative surface of the first magnet portion and the fourth relative surface of the fourth magnet portion can have an N pole, and the second relative surface of the second magnet portion and the third relative surface of the third magnet portion can have an S pole.

[0035] In addition, the distance between the second magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion of the arc path forming portion may be equal to the distance between the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion.

[0036] In addition, the fourth magnet portion of the arc path forming portion may be formed to extend longer than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

[0037] In addition, the fourth magnet portion of the arc path forming portion may be formed to extend shorter than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

[0038] In addition, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion of the arc path forming portion may be formed to extend to the same length.

[0039] In addition, the present invention provides a DC relay, which includes: a fixed contact, which is formed by extending in one direction; a movable contact, which is configured to contact or separate from the fixed contact; and an arc path forming portion, in which a space for accommodating the fixed contact and the movable contact is formed, and is configured to form a magnetic field in the space to form a discharge path for the arc generated by the separation of the fixed contact and the movable contact, and the arc path forming portion includes: a magnet frame, in which a space is formed, including a plurality of surfaces surrounding the space; and a magnet portion, which is configured to be combined with a plurality of the surfaces to form a magnetic field in the space, and the plurality of the surfaces include: a first surface, which is formed by extending in one direction; and a second surface, facing the first surface, and extending along the first surface. The magnet part is formed by extending in the direction, and includes: a first magnet part, which is arranged on any one of the first surface and the second surface; a second magnet part, which is arranged on the other of the first surface and the second surface; a third magnet part, which is arranged on the other surface at a specified distance from the second magnet part; and a fourth magnet part, which is arranged between the second magnet part and the third magnet part on the other surface, and the first relative surface of the first magnet part facing the other surface has the same polarity as the fourth relative surface of the fourth magnet part facing the either surface, and is constructed to have a polarity different from the second relative surface of the second magnet part facing the either surface and the third relative surface of the third magnet part facing the either surface.

[0040] In addition, the first magnet portion, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion are respectively extended along the one direction, the first magnet portion is extended longer than the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion, and the center of the space can be located on a virtual straight line connecting the center of the extension direction of the first magnet portion and the center of the extension direction of the fourth magnet portion.

[0041] In addition, the first magnet portion of the DC relay is arranged on the first surface, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion are arranged on the second surface, the first relative surface of the first magnet portion and the fourth relative surface of the fourth magnet portion can have an N pole, and the second relative surface of the second magnet portion and the third relative surface of the third magnet portion can have an S pole.

[0042] In addition, the first magnet portion of the DC relay is arranged on the first surface, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion are arranged on the second surface, the first relative surface of the first magnet portion and the fourth relative surface of the fourth magnet portion can have an S pole, and the second relative surface of the second magnet portion and the third relative surface of the third magnet portion can have an N pole.

[0043] In addition, the fourth magnet portion of the DC relay may be formed to extend longer than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

[0044] In addition, the fourth magnet portion of the DC relay may be formed to extend shorter than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

[0045] In addition, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion of the DC relay may be formed to extend to the same length.

[0046] Effects of the Invention

[0047] According to the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.

[0048] First, the arc path forming part forms a magnetic field inside the arc chamber. The magnetic field forms an electromagnetic force together with the current flowing through the fixed contact and the movable contact. The electromagnetic force is formed in a direction away from the center of the arc chamber.

[0049] As a result, the generated arc moves in the direction away from the center of the arc chamber in the same direction as the electromagnetic force. Therefore, the generated arc does not move toward the center of the arc chamber.

[0050] Furthermore, the magnet portions facing each other are configured so that the facing sides have polarities different from each other.

[0051] That is, regardless of the direction of the current, the electromagnetic force formed near each fixed contact is formed in a direction away from the center portion.

[0052] Therefore, the user does not need to consider the direction in which the arc moves when connecting the power supply to the DC relay. This can improve the convenience of the user.

[0053] In addition, a single magnet part is provided on one side of the magnet frame. The single magnet part is formed to be longer than the other magnet parts. A plurality of magnet parts are provided on the other side of the magnet frame. The plurality of magnet parts are formed to have a shorter length than the single magnet part.

[0054] The plurality of magnet parts are separated from each other by a predetermined distance. The plurality of magnet parts can be provided with three. The magnet part located between the other two magnet parts has the same polarity as the side facing the single magnet part. The side of the remaining two magnet parts facing the single magnet part has a different polarity from the side of the single magnet part.

[0055] Thus, the path of the arc formed by the magnetic field is formed so that the generated arc moves in a direction away from the center of the arc chamber. Therefore, the components located in the center are not damaged by the generated arc.

[0056] Furthermore, the generated arc extends toward a wider space, that is, the outside of the fixed contacts, and does not extend toward the center of the magnet frame which is a narrow space, that is, does not extend toward between the fixed contacts.

[0057] Therefore, the arc moves along a longer path and can be fully extinguished.

[0058] In addition, the arc path forming part includes a plurality of magnet parts. Each magnet part forms a main magnetic field between each other. Each magnet part itself forms a secondary magnetic field. The secondary magnetic field is configured to strengthen the strength of the main magnetic field.

[0059] Therefore, the strength of the electromagnetic force formed by the main magnetic field can be enhanced, thereby effectively forming an arc discharge path.

[0060] In addition, electromagnetic forces can be generated in various directions by simply changing the arrangement and polarity of each magnet portion. Here, the structure and shape of the magnet frame used to set each magnet portion do not need to be changed.

[0061] Therefore, even if the overall structure of the arc path forming portion is not changed much, the arc discharge direction can be easily changed, thereby improving user convenience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] Figure 1 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a process of forming a moving path of an arc in a conventional DC relay.

[0063] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of a DC relay according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of a DC relay in FIG.

[0065] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A partially opened perspective view of a DC relay.

[0066] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 Partially opened perspective view of the DC relay.

[0067] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram of an arc path forming portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A conceptual diagram of an arc path forming portion of a modified example of the embodiment in FIG.

[0069] Figure 8 This is a conceptual diagram of an arc path forming portion according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A conceptual diagram of an arc path forming portion of a modified example of the embodiment in FIG.

[0071] Fig.10 This is a conceptual diagram of an arc path forming portion according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A conceptual diagram of an arc path forming portion of a modified example of the embodiment in FIG.

[0073] Fig.12 and Fig.13 It is shown by Figure 6 A conceptual diagram of a state in which an arc path forming portion of an embodiment forms an arc path.

[0074] Fig.14 and Fig.15 It is shown by Figure 7 A conceptual diagram of a state in which an arc path forming portion of an embodiment forms an arc path.

[0075] Fig.16 and Fig.17 It is shown by Figure 8 A conceptual diagram of a state in which an arc path forming portion of an embodiment forms an arc path.

[0076] Fig.18 and Fig.19 It is shown by Fig. 9 A conceptual diagram of a state in which an arc path forming portion of an embodiment forms an arc path.

[0077] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 It is shown by Fig.10A conceptual diagram of a state in which an arc path forming portion of an embodiment forms an arc path.

[0078] Fig. 22 and Fig.23 It is shown by Fig.11 A conceptual diagram of a state in which an arc path forming portion of an embodiment forms an arc path. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] Hereinafter, arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , 700 and a DC relay 10 including the same according to embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0080] In the following description, description of some components may be omitted in order to clarify the features of the present invention.

[0081] Hereinafter, arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , 700 and a DC relay 10 including the same according to embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0082] In the following description, description of some components may be omitted in order to clarify the features of the present invention.

[0083] 1. Definition of terms

[0084] When a certain component is mentioned as being “connected” or “linked” to other components, it may be directly connected or linked to the other components, but it should be understood that there may be other components between them.

[0085] On the contrary, when it is mentioned that a certain component is “directly connected” or “directly linked” to other components, it should be understood that there are no other components between them.

[0086] An expression in the singular used in this specification includes an expression in the plural unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning.

[0087] The term "magnetize" used in the following description refers to a phenomenon in which a certain object has magnetism in a magnetic field.

[0088] The term "polarity" used in the following description refers to the different properties of an anode and a cathode of an electrode. In one embodiment, the polarity can be classified as an N pole or an S pole.

[0089] The term "electric current" used in the following description refers to a state in which two or more components are electrically connected.

[0090] The term "arc path" used in the following description refers to a path along which a generated arc moves or a path along which an arc is extinguished and moves.

[0091] The terms “left side”, “right side”, “upper side”, “lower side”, “front side” and “rear side” used in the following description can refer to Figure 2 The coordinate system shown in Figure 1 is understood.

[0092] 2. Description of the structure of the DC relay 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention

[0093] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The DC relay 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a frame portion 100 , a switch portion 200 , a core portion 300 , and a movable contact portion 400 .

[0094] And, refer to Figures 4 to 11 The DC relay 10 of the embodiment of the present invention includes arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700. The arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700 can form a discharge path for the generated arc.

[0095] Hereinafter, the components of the DC relay 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, and the arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , and 700 will be described separately.

[0096] (1) Description of the frame portion 100

[0097] The frame portion 100 forms the outer side of the DC relay 10. A predetermined space is formed inside the frame portion 100. The space may accommodate various devices for the DC relay 10 to perform the function of applying or blocking the current transmitted from the outside.

[0098] That is, the frame portion 100 functions as a kind of housing.

[0099] The frame 100 may be formed of an insulating material such as synthetic resin to prevent the inside and outside of the frame 100 from being arbitrarily electrified.

[0100] The frame part 100 includes an upper frame 110 , a lower frame 120 , an insulating plate 130 , and a support plate 140 .

[0101] The upper frame 110 forms the upper side of the frame portion 100. A predetermined space is formed inside the upper frame 110.

[0102] The switch unit 200 and the movable contact unit 400 may be accommodated in the internal space of the upper frame 110. In addition, the arc path forming units 500, 600, and 700 may be accommodated in the internal space of the upper frame 110.

[0103] The upper frame 110 may be combined with the lower frame 120. An insulating plate 130 and a support plate 140 may be provided in a space between the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120.

[0104] The fixed contact 220 of the switch 200 is located on one side of the upper frame 110, that is, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. A portion of the fixed contact 220 is exposed on the upper side of the upper frame 110, thereby being electrically connected to an external power source or load.

[0105] To this end, a through hole for the fixed contact 220 to penetrate and be coupled may be formed on the upper side of the upper frame 110 .

[0106] The lower frame 120 forms the lower side of the frame portion 100. A predetermined space is formed inside the lower frame 120. The core portion 300 may be accommodated in the internal space of the lower frame 120.

[0107] The lower frame 120 may be combined with the upper frame 110. An insulating plate 130 and a support plate 140 may be disposed in a space between the lower frame 120 and the upper frame 110.

[0108] The insulating plate 130 and the support plate 140 are configured to electrically and physically isolate the inner space of the upper frame 110 from the inner space of the lower frame 120 .

[0109] The insulating plate 130 is located between the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120. The insulating plate 130 is configured to electrically isolate the upper frame 110 from the lower frame 120. To this end, the insulating plate 130 may be formed of an insulating material such as a synthetic resin.

[0110] The insulating plate 130 can prevent any conduction between the switch unit 200 , the movable contact unit 400 , and the arc path forming units 500 , 600 , and 700 accommodated in the upper frame 110 and the core unit 300 accommodated in the lower frame 120 .

[0111] A through hole (not shown) is formed in the center of the insulating plate 130. The shaft 440 of the movable contact part 400 may be inserted and coupled to the through hole (not shown) so as to be movable in the up-down direction.

[0112] The support plate 140 is located at a lower side of the insulation plate 130. The insulation plate 130 may be supported by the support plate 140.

[0113] The support plate 140 is located between the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120 .

[0114] The support plate 140 is configured to physically separate the upper frame 110 from the lower frame 120 . In addition, the support plate 140 supports the insulating plate 130 .

[0115] The support plate 140 may be formed of a magnetic body, so that the support plate 140 may form a magnetic circuit together with the yoke 330 of the core part 300 . The magnetic circuit may generate a driving force for moving the movable core 320 of the core part 300 toward the fixed core 310 .

[0116] A through hole (not shown) is formed at the center of the support plate 140. The shaft 440 may be coupled to the through hole (not shown) so as to be movable in the up-down direction.

[0117] Therefore, when the movable iron core 320 moves in a direction toward the fixed iron core 310 or in a direction away from the fixed iron core 310 , the shaft 440 and the movable contact 430 connected to the shaft 440 can also move together in the same direction.

[0118] (2) Description of the Opening and Closing Unit 200

[0119] The switch unit 200 is configured to allow or block the flow of current according to the operation of the core unit 300. Specifically, the switch unit 200 can allow or block the flow of current by making the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 contact or separate.

[0120] The opening and closing part 200 is accommodated in the inner space of the upper frame 110. The opening and closing part 200 may be electrically and physically isolated from the core part 300 by the insulating plate 130 and the support plate 140.

[0121] The switch unit 200 includes an arc chamber 210 , a fixed contact 220 , and a sealing member 230 .

[0122] Furthermore, arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700 may be provided outside the arc chamber 210. The arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700 may form a magnetic field for forming a path AP of the arc generated inside the arc chamber 210. This will be described in detail below.

[0123] The arc chamber 210 is configured to extinguish, in an internal space, an arc generated by the separation of the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430. Therefore, the arc chamber 210 may also be referred to as an "arc extinguishing unit".

[0124] The arc chamber 210 is configured to hermetically house the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430. That is, the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are housed inside the arc chamber 210. Therefore, the arc generated by the separation between the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 does not flow out to the outside at will.

[0125] The arc chamber 210 may be filled with arc extinguishing gas. The arc extinguishing gas may extinguish the generated arc and discharge it to the outside of the DC relay 10 through a predetermined path. For this purpose, a connecting hole (not shown) may be formed through the wall surrounding the inner space of the arc chamber 210.

[0126] The arc chamber 210 is formed of an insulating material. Also, the arc chamber 210 may be formed of a material having high pressure resistance and high heat resistance. This is because the generated arc is a flow of high temperature and high pressure electrons. In one embodiment, the arc chamber 210 may be formed of a ceramic material.

[0127] A plurality of through holes may be formed on the upper side of the arc chamber 210. The fixed contacts 220 are respectively connected to and penetrate the through holes.

[0128] In the illustrated embodiment, two fixed contacts 220 are provided, namely, a first fixed contact 220a and a second fixed contact 220b. Therefore, two through holes formed on the upper side of the arc chamber 210 may also be formed.

[0129] If the fixed contact 220 passes through and is coupled to the through hole, the through hole will be sealed. That is, the fixed contact 220 is tightly coupled to the through hole. Thus, the generated arc will not be discharged to the outside through the through hole.

[0130] The lower side of the arc chamber 210 may be open. The insulating plate 130 and the sealing member 230 are in contact with the lower side of the arc chamber 210. That is, the lower side of the arc chamber 210 is sealed by the insulating plate 130 and the sealing member 230.

[0131] Thus, the arc chamber 210 may be electrically and physically isolated from the outer space of the upper frame 110 .

[0132] The extinguished arc in the arc chamber 210 is discharged to the outside of the DC relay 10 through a predetermined path. In one embodiment, the extinguished arc can be discharged to the outside of the arc chamber 210 through the communication hole (not shown).

[0133] The fixed contact 220 is configured to be in contact with or separated from the movable contact 430 , thereby enabling or blocking energization between the inside and the outside of the DC relay 10 .

[0134] Specifically, when the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are in contact, electricity can flow between the inside and outside of the DC relay 10. On the contrary, when the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are separated, electricity flow between the inside and outside of the DC relay 10 will be blocked.

[0135] As the name implies, the fixed contact 220 does not move. That is, the fixed contact 220 is fixedly coupled to the upper frame 110 and the arc chamber 210. Therefore, the contact and separation between the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are achieved by the movement of the movable contact 430.

[0136] One end portion of the fixed contact 220, that is, the upper end portion in the illustrated embodiment, may be exposed outside the upper frame 110. A power source or a load is electrically connected to the one end portion.

[0137] A plurality of fixed contacts 220 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, two fixed contacts 220 are provided, namely, a first fixed contact 220 a on the left and a second fixed contact 220 b on the right.

[0138] The first fixed contact 220a is located at a position deviated to one side from the center in the longitudinal direction of the movable contact 430, that is, deviated to the left side in the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the second fixed contact 220b is located at a position deviated to the other side from the center in the longitudinal direction of the movable contact 430, that is, deviated to the right side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0139] A power source capable of conducting electricity may be connected to one of the first fixed contact 220a and the second fixed contact 220b, and a load capable of conducting electricity may be connected to the other of the first fixed contact 220a and the second fixed contact 220b.

[0140] The DC relay 10 of the embodiment of the present invention can form an arc path AP regardless of the direction of the power source or load connected to the fixed contact 220. This is achieved by the arc path forming parts 500, 600, and 700, which will be described in detail later.

[0141] The other end of the fixed contact 220 , ie, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, extends toward the movable contact 430 .

[0142] When the movable contact 430 moves toward the fixed contact 220, that is, upward in the illustrated embodiment, the lower end portion contacts the movable contact 430. Thus, the DC relay 10 can be energized both outside and inside.

[0143] The lower end of the fixed contact 220 is located inside the arc chamber 210 .

[0144] When the control power is cut off, the movable contact 430 is separated from the fixed contact 220 by the elastic force of the return spring 360 .

[0145] At this time, as the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are separated, an arc is generated between the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430. The generated arc is extinguished by the arc extinguishing gas inside the arc chamber 210 and discharged to the outside along the path formed by the arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700.

[0146] The sealing member 230 is configured to block any communication between the arc chamber 210 and the space inside the upper frame 110. The sealing member 230 seals the lower side of the arc chamber 210 together with the insulating plate 130 and the support plate 140.

[0147] Specifically, the upper side of the sealing member 230 is coupled to the lower side of the arc chamber 210 . In addition, the radial inner side of the sealing member 230 is coupled to the outer periphery of the insulating plate 130 , and the lower side of the sealing member 230 is coupled to the support plate 140 .

[0148] Thus, the arc generated in the arc chamber 210 and the arc extinguished by the arc extinguishing gas do not flow out to the internal space of the upper frame 110 at will.

[0149] Furthermore, the sealing member 230 may be configured to block any communication between the internal space of the cylinder 370 and the internal space of the frame portion 100 .

[0150] (3) Description of the Core 300

[0151] The core part 300 is configured to move the movable contact part 400 upward as the control power is applied, and to move the movable contact part 400 downward again when the control power is released.

[0152] The core portion 300 is connected to an external control power source (not shown) so as to be energizable, thereby being able to receive the control power source.

[0153] The core part 300 is located at the lower side of the opening and closing part 200. And, the core part 300 is accommodated inside the lower frame 120. The core part 300 and the opening and closing part 200 may be electrically and physically isolated by the insulating plate 130 and the support plate 140.

[0154] The movable contact part 400 is located between the core part 300 and the switch part 200. The movable contact part 400 can be moved by the driving force applied by the core part 300. Thus, the DC relay 10 can be energized by the movable contact 430 and the fixed contact 220 being in contact with each other.

[0155] The core portion 300 includes a fixed core 310 , a movable core 320 , a yoke 330 , a bobbin 340 , a coil 350 , a return spring 360 , and a cylinder 370 .

[0156] The fixed iron core 310 is magnetized by the magnetic field generated by the coil 350, thereby generating an electromagnetic attraction. By the electromagnetic attraction, the movable iron core 320 moves toward the fixed iron core 310 ( Figure 3 in the upper direction).

[0157] The fixed iron core 310 does not move. That is, the fixed iron core 310 is fixedly coupled to the support plate 140 and the cylinder 370 .

[0158] The fixed core 310 can be configured in any form that is magnetized by a magnetic field to generate an electromagnetic force. In one embodiment, the fixed core 310 can be configured by a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

[0159] A portion of the fixed core 310 is accommodated in the upper space inside the cylinder 370. In addition, the outer periphery of the fixed core 310 is configured to be in contact with the inner periphery of the cylinder 370.

[0160] The fixed iron core 310 is located between the support plate 140 and the movable iron core 320 .

[0161] A through hole (not shown) is formed in the center of the fixed core 310. The shaft 440 penetrates and is coupled to the through hole (not shown) so as to be movable up and down.

[0162] The fixed iron core 310 is provided at a predetermined distance from the movable iron core 320. Therefore, the distance that the movable iron core 320 can move toward the fixed iron core 310 can be limited to the predetermined distance. Thus, the predetermined distance can be defined as the "movement distance of the movable iron core 320".

[0163] The lower side of the fixed core 310 contacts one end of the return spring 360, that is, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment. If the fixed core 310 is magnetized and the movable core 320 moves upward, the return spring 360 is compressed and stores a restoring force.

[0164] Thus, when the application of the control power is released and the magnetization of the fixed iron core 310 is terminated, the movable iron core 320 can be reset to the lower side by the restoring force.

[0165] When the control power is applied, the movable iron core 320 moves toward the fixed iron core 310 by the electromagnetic attraction force generated by the fixed iron core 310 .

[0166] As the movable core 320 moves, the shaft 440 coupled to the movable core 320 moves toward the fixed core 310, that is, moves upward in the illustrated embodiment. Also, as the shaft 440 moves, the movable contact part 400 coupled to the shaft 440 moves upward.

[0167] As a result, the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 come into contact with each other, and the DC relay 10 can be energized by an external power source or load.

[0168] The movable iron core 320 may be configured in any form that can receive the attractive force generated by the electromagnetic force. In one embodiment, the movable iron core 320 may be formed of a magnetic material, or may be composed of a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

[0169] The movable iron core 320 is accommodated in the cylinder 370. In addition, the movable iron core 320 can move along the length direction of the cylinder 370 inside the cylinder 370, that is, along the up-down direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0170] Specifically, the movable iron core 320 can move in a direction toward the fixed iron core 310 and a direction away from the fixed iron core 310 .

[0171] The movable iron core 320 is combined with the shaft 440. The movable iron core 320 can move integrally with the shaft 440. When the movable iron core 320 moves upward or downward, the shaft 440 also moves upward or downward. As a result, the movable contact 430 also moves upward or downward.

[0172] The movable iron core 320 is located below the fixed iron core 310. The movable iron core 320 is separated from the fixed iron core 310 by a predetermined distance. As described above, the predetermined distance is a distance that the movable iron core 320 can move in the up-down direction.

[0173] The movable iron core 320 is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction. A hollow portion extending in the longitudinal direction is formed inside the movable iron core 320, and the hollow portion is formed to be recessed at a predetermined distance. The return spring 360 and the lower side of the shaft 440 that penetrates and is coupled to the return spring 360 are partially accommodated in the hollow portion.

[0174] A through hole is formed at the lower side of the hollow portion and penetrates along the length direction. The hollow portion is connected to the through hole. The lower end of the shaft 440 inserted into the hollow portion can move toward the through hole.

[0175] A space portion recessed by a predetermined distance is formed at the lower end of the movable iron core 320. The space portion is communicated with the through hole. The lower head of the shaft 440 is located in the space portion.

[0176] When the control power is applied, the yoke 330 forms a magnetic circuit. The magnetic circuit formed by the yoke 330 may be configured to adjust the direction of the magnetic field formed by the coil 350.

[0177] Thus, when the control power is applied, the coil 350 can generate a magnetic field in a direction to move the movable iron core 320 toward the fixed iron core 310. The yoke 330 can be formed of a conductive material that can pass electricity.

[0178] The yoke 330 is accommodated inside the lower frame 120. The yoke 330 surrounds the coil 350. The coil 350 may be accommodated inside the yoke 330 and spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the yoke 330 by a predetermined distance.

[0179] The bobbin 340 is accommodated inside the yoke 330. That is, the yoke 330, the coil 350, and the bobbin 340 around which the coil 350 is wound are sequentially arranged in a direction from the outer periphery of the lower frame 120 toward the radial inner side.

[0180] The upper side of the yoke 330 is in contact with the support plate 140. Also, the outer periphery of the yoke 330 may be in contact with the inner periphery of the lower frame 120, or may be disposed at a prescribed distance from the inner periphery of the lower frame 120.

[0181] The coil 350 is wound around the bobbin 340 . The bobbin 340 is accommodated inside the yoke 330 .

[0182] The bobbin 340 may include: a flat plate-shaped upper portion and a lower portion; and a cylindrical column portion extending in a length direction and connecting the upper portion and the lower portion. That is, the bobbin 340 is in a bobbin shape.

[0183] The upper portion of the bobbin 340 contacts the lower side of the support plate 140. The coil 350 is wound around the column portion of the bobbin 340. The winding thickness of the coil 350 may be configured to be the same as or smaller than the diameter of the upper and lower portions of the bobbin 340.

[0184] A hollow portion extending in the longitudinal direction is formed through the column portion of the bobbin 340. The cylinder 370 can be accommodated in the hollow portion. The column portion of the bobbin 340 can be configured to have the same axis as the fixed iron core 310, the movable iron core 320, and the shaft 440.

[0185] The coil 350 generates a magnetic field by applying a control power source. The fixed iron core 310 is magnetized by the magnetic field generated by the coil 350 , thereby applying an electromagnetic attraction force to the movable iron core 320 .

[0186] The coil 350 is wound around the bobbin 340 . Specifically, the coil 350 is wound around the column portion of the bobbin 340 and is stacked along the radially outer side of the column portion. The coil 350 is accommodated inside the yoke 330 .

[0187] When the control power is applied, the coil 350 generates a magnetic field. At this time, the strength and direction of the magnetic field generated by the coil 350 can be controlled by the yoke 330. The magnetic field generated by the coil 350 will magnetize the fixed core 310.

[0188] If the fixed core 310 is magnetized, the movable core 320 receives an electromagnetic force, that is, an attractive force, in the direction of the fixed core 310. Thus, the movable core 320 moves in the direction of the fixed core 310, that is, moves to the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0189] The return spring 360 provides a restoring force for returning the movable iron core 320 to its original position when the control power is released after the movable iron core 320 moves toward the fixed iron core 310 .

[0190] As the movable iron core 320 moves toward the fixed iron core 310, the return spring 360 is compressed and stores a restoring force. At this time, preferably, the stored restoring force is smaller than the electromagnetic attraction acting on the movable iron core 320 due to the magnetization of the fixed iron core 310. This is to prevent the movable iron core 320 from being arbitrarily returned to the original position by the return spring 360 during the application of the control power.

[0191] When the control power supply is released, the movable iron core 320 receives the restoring force generated by the return spring 360. Of course, the gravity generated by the empty weight of the movable iron core 320 also acts on the movable iron core 320. Thus, the movable iron core 320 can move away from the fixed iron core 310 and return to the original position.

[0192] The return spring 360 may be configured to store the restoring force by changing its shape, and to return to its original shape and to any form capable of transmitting the restoring force to the outside. In one embodiment, the return spring 360 may be formed by a coil spring.

[0193] The shaft 440 is connected to the return spring 360. The shaft 440 can move in the up-down direction regardless of the shape change of the return spring 360 when connected to the return spring 360.

[0194] The return spring 360 is accommodated in the hollow portion formed by the depression on the upper side of the movable iron core 320. In addition, the end of the return spring 360 facing the fixed iron core 310, that is, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment, will be accommodated in the hollow portion formed by the depression on the lower side of the fixed iron core 310.

[0195] The cylinder 370 is used to accommodate the fixed iron core 310, the movable iron core 320, the return spring 360 and the shaft 440. The movable iron core 320 and the shaft 440 can move in the cylinder 370 in the upward direction and the downward direction.

[0196] The cylinder 370 is located in a hollow portion formed in the column portion of the bobbin 340 . The upper end portion of the cylinder 370 contacts the lower side surface of the support plate 140 .

[0197] The side surface of the cylinder 370 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the column portion of the bobbin 340. The upper opening of the cylinder 370 may be sealed by the fixed core 310. The lower side surface of the cylinder 370 may contact the inner side surface of the lower frame 120.

[0198] (4) Description of movable contact part 400

[0199] The movable contact part 400 includes a movable contact 430 and components for moving the movable contact 430. The DC relay 10 can be energized with an external power source or load via the movable contact part 400.

[0200] The movable contact part 400 is accommodated in the internal space of the upper frame 110. Also, the movable contact part 400 may be accommodated in the arc chamber 210 in a manner capable of moving up and down.

[0201] The fixed contact 220 is located above the movable contact part 400. The movable contact part 400 is accommodated inside the arc chamber 210 so as to be movable in a direction toward the fixed contact 220 and a direction away from the fixed contact 220.

[0202] The core part 300 is located at the lower side of the movable contact part 400. The movement of the movable contact part 400 can be achieved by the movement of the movable core 320.

[0203] The movable contact part 400 includes a cover 410 , a cap 420 , a movable contact 430 , a shaft 440 , and an elastic part 450 .

[0204] The cover 410 is used to accommodate the movable contact 430 and the elastic portion 450 that elastically supports the movable contact 430 .

[0205] In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the cover body 410 and the other side opposite thereto are open (see Figure 5). The movable contact 430 may be inserted through the open portion.

[0206] The unopened side surface of the cover 410 may surround the accommodated movable contact 430 .

[0207] A cover 420 is provided on the upper side of the housing 410 . The cover 420 is configured to cover the upper side surface of the movable contact 430 accommodated in the housing 410 .

[0208] The housing 410 and the cover 420 are preferably formed of insulating materials to prevent accidental power-on. In one embodiment, the housing 410 and the cover 420 can be formed of synthetic resin or the like.

[0209] The lower side of the cover 410 is connected to the shaft 440. When the movable iron core 320 connected to the shaft 440 moves upward or downward, the cover 410 and the movable contact 430 accommodated in the cover 410 may also move upward or downward.

[0210] The cover 410 and the lid 420 may be combined by any member. In one embodiment, the cover 410 and the lid 420 may be combined by a fastening member (not shown) such as a bolt or a nut.

[0211] As the control power is applied, the movable contact 430 contacts the fixed contact 220, thereby energizing the DC relay 10 with the external power supply and load. In addition, when the control power is released, the movable contact 430 separates from the fixed contact 220, thereby disconnecting the DC relay 10 from the external power supply and load.

[0212] The movable contact 430 is arranged adjacent to the fixed contact 220 .

[0213] A portion of the upper side of the movable contact 430 is covered by the cover 420. In one embodiment, a portion of the upper side of the movable contact 430 may be in contact with the lower side of the cover 420.

[0214] The lower side of the movable contact 430 is elastically supported by the elastic portion 450. The elastic portion 450 can elastically support the movable contact 430 in a state of being compressed to a predetermined distance, so as to prevent the movable contact 430 from arbitrarily moving downward.

[0215] The movable contact 430 is formed to extend in the length direction, and in the illustrated embodiment, is formed to extend in the left-right direction. That is, the length of the movable contact 430 is greater than the width. Therefore, both side ends of the movable contact 430 in the length direction accommodated in the cover body 410 are exposed outside the cover body 410.

[0216] Contact protrusions that protrude upward by a predetermined distance may be formed at the two side ends, and the fixed contacts 220 are in contact with the contact protrusions.

[0217] The contact protrusions may be formed at positions corresponding to the fixed contacts 220 a and 220 b , thereby reducing the moving distance of the movable contact 430 and improving the contact reliability between the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 .

[0218] The width of the movable contact 430 may be the same as the distance between the side surfaces of the cover 410. That is, if the movable contact 430 is accommodated in the cover 410, the two side surfaces of the movable contact 430 in the width direction may contact the inner side surfaces of the side surfaces of the cover 410.

[0219] Thus, the state where the movable contact 430 is accommodated in the cover 410 can be stably maintained.

[0220] The shaft 440 transmits the driving force generated by the operation of the core part 300 to the movable contact part 400. Specifically, the shaft 440 is connected to the movable core 320 and the movable contact 430. When the movable core 320 moves upward or downward, the movable contact 430 can also move upward or downward through the shaft 440.

[0221] The shaft 440 is formed to extend along the length direction, that is, to extend along the up-down direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0222] The lower end of the shaft 440 is inserted into and coupled to the movable iron core 320. When the movable iron core 320 moves in the up-down direction, the shaft 440 can move in the up-down direction together with the movable iron core 320.

[0223] The main body of the shaft 440 is connected to the fixed core 310 in a manner that allows vertical movement. The return spring 360 is connected to the main body of the shaft 440 .

[0224] The upper end of the shaft 440 is coupled to the cover 410. When the movable iron core 320 moves, the shaft 440 and the cover 410 can move together.

[0225] The diameters of the upper and lower ends of the shaft 440 may be formed to be larger than the diameter of the main body of the shaft 440. Thus, the shaft 440 may be stably coupled to the cover 410 and the movable iron core 320.

[0226] The elastic portion 450 elastically supports the movable contact 430. When the movable contact 430 is in contact with the fixed contact 220, the movable contact 430 tends to separate from the fixed contact 220 due to electromagnetic repulsion.

[0227] At this time, the elastic portion 450 is configured to elastically support the movable contact 430 , thereby preventing the movable contact 430 and the fixed contact 220 from being separated from each other at will.

[0228] The elastic part 450 may be configured to store the restoring force by changing its shape, and to provide any form of the stored restoring force to other components. In one embodiment, the elastic part 450 may be composed of a coil spring.

[0229] One end of the elastic part 450 facing the movable contact 430 contacts the lower side of the movable contact 430 . Also, the other end of the elastic part 450 opposite to the one end contacts the upper side of the cover 410 .

[0230] The elastic part 450 can elastically support the movable contact 430 in a state where the elastic part 450 is compressed to a predetermined distance and stores a restoring force. Therefore, even if an electromagnetic repulsive force is generated between the movable contact 430 and the fixed contact 220 , the movable contact 430 does not move arbitrarily.

[0231] In order to achieve stable connection of the elastic part 450 , a protrusion (not shown) inserted into the elastic part 450 may be formed on the lower side of the movable contact 430 . Similarly, a protrusion (not shown) inserted into the elastic part 450 may be formed on the upper side of the cover 410 .

[0232] 3. Description of the Arc Path Forming Parts 500, 600, and 700 of the Embodiments of the Present Invention

[0233] The DC relay 10 of the embodiment of the present invention includes arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , 700 . The arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , 700 are configured to form a path for discharging an arc generated in the arc chamber 210 when the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are separated.

[0234] Below, refer to Figures 4 to 11 , the arc path forming parts 500, 600, and 700 of each embodiment are described in detail.

[0235] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700 are located outside the arc chamber 210. The arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700 are configured to surround the arc chamber 210. Figures 6 to 9 In the illustrated embodiment, illustration of the arc chamber 210 is omitted.

[0236] The arc path forming parts 500, 600, 700 may form a magnetic circuit inside the arc chamber 210. The arc path AP is formed by the magnetic circuit.

[0237] (1) Description of the Arc Path Forming Section 500 of One Embodiment of the Present Invention

[0238] Below, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The arc path forming portion 500 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0239] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc path forming portion 500 includes a magnet frame 510 and a magnet portion 520 .

[0240] The magnet frame 510 forms a frame of the arc path forming portion 500. The magnet frame 510 is provided with a magnet portion 520. In one embodiment, the magnet portion 520 may be combined with the magnet frame 510.

[0241] The magnet frame 510 has a rectangular cross-section extending in the length direction, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The shape of the magnet frame 510 may be changed according to the shapes of the upper frame 110 and the arc chamber 210 .

[0242] The magnet frame 510 includes a first surface 511 , a second surface 512 , a third surface 513 , a fourth surface 514 , an arc discharge hole 515 , and a space portion 516 .

[0243] The first surface 511 , the second surface 512 , the third surface 513 , and the fourth surface 514 form the outer peripheral surface of the magnet frame 510 . That is, the first surface 511 , the second surface 512 , the third surface 513 , and the fourth surface 514 function as the wall of the magnet frame 510 .

[0244] The outer sides of the first surface 511, the second surface 512, the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514 may contact with the inner side surface of the upper frame 110, or be fixedly coupled to the inner side surface of the upper frame 110. In addition, the magnet part 520 may be located on the inner sides of the first surface 511, the second surface 512, the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514.

[0245] In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface 511 forms a rear side surface, and the second surface 512 forms a front side surface and is opposite to the first surface 511 .

[0246] The third surface 513 forms a left side surface. The fourth surface 514 forms a right side surface and is opposite to the third surface 513 .

[0247] The first surface 511 is continuous with the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514. The first surface 511 may form a specified angle with the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514 and be combined therewith. In one embodiment, the specified angle may be a right angle.

[0248] The second surface 512 is continuous with the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514. The second surface 512 may form a specified angle with the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514 and be combined therewith. In one embodiment, the specified angle may be a right angle.

[0249] Each of the corners for connecting the first to fourth surfaces 511 to 514 to each other may be chamfered (tapered).

[0250] The first magnet portion 521 may be combined on the inner side of the first surface 511, that is, on the side of the first surface 511 facing the second surface 512. Also, the second magnet portion 522, the third magnet portion 523, and the fourth magnet portion 524 may be combined on the inner side of the second surface 512, that is, on the side of the second surface 512 facing the first surface 511.

[0251] In order to connect the respective surfaces 511 , 512 , 513 , and 514 to the magnet portion 520 , a fastening member (not shown) may be provided.

[0252] An arc discharge hole 515 is formed through at least one of the first surface 511 and the second surface 512 .

[0253] The arc discharge hole 515 is a passage for the arc extinguished and discharged in the arc chamber 210 to be discharged to the inner space of the upper frame 110. The arc discharge hole 515 allows the space portion 516 of the magnet frame 510 and the space of the upper frame 110 to communicate with each other.

[0254] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc discharge hole 515 is formed on the first surface 511 and the second surface 512 , respectively. Also, the arc discharge hole 515 may be formed in the middle portion of the first surface 511 and the second surface 512 in the length direction.

[0255] A space surrounded by the first to fourth surfaces 511 to 514 may be defined as a space portion 516 .

[0256] The fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are accommodated in the space portion 516. Figure 4 As shown, the arc chamber 210 is accommodated in the space portion 516 .

[0257] In the space portion 516 , movement can be performed in a direction toward the fixed contact 220 or a direction away from the fixed contact 220 .

[0258] Furthermore, a path AP of the arc generated in the arc chamber 210 is formed in the space portion 516 . This can be achieved by the magnetic field formed by the magnet portion 520 .

[0259] The central portion of the space portion 516 may be defined as a central portion C. The straight-line distances from the respective corners for connecting the first to fourth surfaces 511 to 514 to the central portion C may be formed to be the same.

[0260] The center portion C is located between the first fixed contact 220a and the second fixed contact 220b. In addition, the center portion of the movable contact portion 400 is located vertically below the center portion C. That is, the center portions of the housing 410, the cover 420, the movable contact 430, the shaft 440, and the elastic portion 450 are located vertically below the center portion C.

[0261] Therefore, when the generated arc moves toward the center portion C, a plurality of the components may be damaged. In order to prevent this, the arc path forming portion 500 of the present embodiment includes a magnet portion 520 .

[0262] The magnet part 520 forms a magnetic field inside the space part 516. The magnetic field formed by the magnet part 520 generates electromagnetic force together with the current flowing along the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430. Thus, the arc path AP can be formed along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0263] The magnet parts 520 may form a magnetic field between the magnet parts 520 adjacent to each other, or each magnet part 520 itself may form a magnetic field.

[0264] The magnet part 520 may be configured to have any form: it has magnetism itself, or has a magnetic field by applying current, etc. In one embodiment, the magnet part 520 may be composed of a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, etc.

[0265] The magnet part 520 is combined with the magnet frame 510. In order to achieve the combination between the magnet part 520 and the magnet frame 510, a fastening member (not shown) may be provided.

[0266] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet part 520 extends in the longitudinal direction and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a rectangular quadrilateral cross section. The magnet part 520 can be provided in any shape that can form a magnetic field.

[0267] A plurality of magnet parts 520 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, four magnet parts 520 are provided, but the number may be changed.

[0268] The magnet portion 520 includes a first magnet portion 521 , a second magnet portion 522 , a third magnet portion 523 , and a fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0269] The first magnet portion 521 forms a magnetic field together with the second magnet portion 522, the third magnet portion 523, and the fourth magnet portion 524. In addition, the first magnet portion 521 itself may also form a magnetic field.

[0270] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the first magnet portion 521 is located on the inner side of the first surface 511. In addition, the first magnet portion 521 is located in the middle portion of the first surface 511.

[0271] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the first magnet portion 521 is located on the inner side of the second surface 512. In addition, the first magnet portion 521 is located in the middle portion of the second surface 512.

[0272] The first magnet portion 521 is formed to extend a predetermined length L1 along the longitudinal direction, that is, the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The first magnet portion 521 may be formed such that its extended length L1 is longer than the extended length L2 of the second magnet portion 522, the extended length L3 of the third magnet portion 523, and the extended length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 524.

[0273] The first magnet portion 521 is disposed opposite to the second magnet portion 522, the third magnet portion 523, and the fourth magnet portion 524. Specifically, the first magnet portion 521 is configured to face the second magnet portion 522, the third magnet portion 523, and the fourth magnet portion 524 respectively via the space portion 516 along the diagonal direction.

[0274] A predetermined distance separates the longitudinal center C1 of the first magnet part 521 and the longitudinal center C2 of the second magnet part 522. A predetermined distance separates the longitudinal center C1 of the first magnet part 521 and the longitudinal center C3 of the third magnet part 523.

[0275] The lengthwise center C1 of the first magnet part 521 and the lengthwise center C4 of the fourth magnet part 524 may be arranged on the same line. In one embodiment, a virtual straight line passing through the lengthwise center C1 of the first magnet part 521 and the lengthwise center C4 of the fourth magnet part 524 may be constructed to pass through the center C.

[0276] The distance between the center C1 of the first magnet part 521 and the center C1 of the second magnet part 522 may be equal to the distance between the center C1 of the first magnet part 521 and the center C3 of the third magnet part 523 .

[0277] That is, if the center C1 of the first magnet portion 521, the center C2 of the second magnet portion 522, and the center C3 of the third magnet portion 523 are connected, an isosceles triangle can be formed.

[0278] The first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 may partially overlap in the front-to-back direction. That is, one side of the first magnet portion 521, i.e., the left end in the illustrated embodiment, may be located on the second magnet portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. Similarly, one side of the second magnet portion 522, i.e., the right end in the illustrated embodiment, may be located on the first magnet portion 521 in the front-to-back direction.

[0279] The first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 may partially overlap in the front-to-back direction. That is, one side of the first magnet portion 521, i.e., the right end in the illustrated embodiment, may be located on the third magnet portion 523 in the front-to-back direction. Similarly, one side of the third magnet portion 523, i.e., the left end in the illustrated embodiment, may be located on the first magnet portion 521 in the front-to-back direction.

[0280] The first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 may overlap in the front-rear direction. That is, both ends of the first magnet portion 521 in the longitudinal direction may be closer to the third surface 513 and the fourth surface 514 than both ends of the fourth magnet portion 524 in the longitudinal direction.

[0281] In one embodiment, a virtual straight line connecting the center of the first magnet portion 521 in the longitudinal direction and the center of the second magnet portion 522 in the longitudinal direction can be symmetrical with a virtual straight line connecting the center of the first magnet portion 521 in the longitudinal direction and the center of the third magnet portion 523 in the longitudinal direction, with the straight line passing through the front-to-back direction of the center portion C of the space portion 516 as a reference.

[0282] The first magnet portion 521 includes a first facing surface 521 a and a first opposite surface 521 b .

[0283] The first opposing surface 521a may be defined as a side surface of the first magnet portion 521 facing the space portion 516. In other words, the first opposing surface 521a may be defined as a side surface of the first magnet portion 521 facing the second magnet portion 522 and the third magnet portion 523.

[0284] The first opposite surface 521b may be defined as the other side surface of the first magnet portion 521 facing the first surface 511. In other words, the first opposite surface 521b may be defined as a side surface of the first magnet portion 521 opposite to the first opposite surface 521a.

[0285] The first facing surface 521a and the first opposite surface 521b are configured to have different polarities. That is, the first facing surface 521a can be magnetized to one of the N pole and the S pole, and the first opposite surface 521b can be magnetized to the other of the N pole and the S pole.

[0286] Thus, a magnetic field that travels from one of the first facing surface 521 a and the first opposite surface 521 b toward the other is formed by the first magnet portion 521 itself.

[0287] In the illustrated embodiment, the polarity of the first opposing surface 521 a may be configured to be different from the polarity of the second opposing surface 522 a of the second magnet portion 522 and the third opposing surface 523 a of the third magnet portion 523 .

[0288] As a result, a magnetic field is formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 or between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 in a direction from one magnet portion toward the other magnet portion.

[0289] In addition, the polarity of the first opposing surface 521 a may be configured to be different from the polarity of the fourth opposing surface 524 a of the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0290] As a result, a magnetic field in a direction that repels each other is formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0291] The second magnet portion 522 forms a magnetic field together with the first magnet portion 521. In addition, the second magnet portion 522 itself may also form a magnetic field.

[0292] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the second magnet portion 522 is located on the inner side of the second surface 512 and biased to the left. That is, the second magnet portion 522 is located on the left side of the arc discharge hole 515.

[0293] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the second magnet portion 522 is located on the inner side of the first surface 511 and is located to the left. That is, the second magnet portion 522 is closer to the third surface 513 than the fourth surface 514 is.

[0294] The second magnet portion 522 is formed to extend along the length direction, that is, the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment, by a predetermined length L2. The second magnet portion 522 may be formed such that its extension length is shorter than the extension length L1 of the first magnet portion 521. In one embodiment, the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 522 may be formed to be equal to the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 523.

[0295] In addition, the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 522 may be formed to be longer than the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0296] The second magnet portion 522 is disposed to face the first magnet portion 521. Specifically, the second magnet portion 522 is configured to face the first magnet portion 521 along a diagonal direction toward the upper right side with the space portion 516 interposed therebetween.

[0297] The second magnet portion 522 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the fourth magnet portion 524. That is, the second magnet portion 522, the fourth magnet portion 524, and the third magnet portion 523 are disposed in this order along the direction from the third surface 513 toward the fourth surface 514.

[0298] The second magnet portion 522 and the third magnet portion 523 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a virtual straight line passing through the center portion C of the space portion 516 in the front-rear direction.

[0299] That is, the distance between the second magnet portion 522 and the arc discharge hole 515 and the distance between the third magnet portion 523 and the arc discharge hole 515 may be equal.

[0300] The second magnet portion 522 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the first magnet portion 521. In one embodiment, the distance between the second magnet portion 522 and the first magnet portion 521 may be equal to the distance between the third magnet portion 523 and the first magnet portion 521.

[0301] The second magnet portion 522 includes a second facing surface 522 a and a second opposite surface 522 b .

[0302] The second opposing surface 522a may be defined as a side surface of the second magnet portion 522 that faces the space portion 516. In other words, the second opposing surface 522a may be defined as a side surface of the second magnet portion 522 that faces the first magnet portion 521.

[0303] The second opposite surface 522b may be defined as the other side surface of the second magnet portion 522 facing the second surface 512. In other words, the second opposite surface 522b may be defined as a side surface of the second magnet portion 522 opposite to the second opposite surface 522a.

[0304] The second facing surface 522a and the second opposite surface 522b are configured to have different polarities from each other. That is, the second facing surface 522a can be magnetized to one of the N pole and the S pole, and the second opposite surface 522b can be magnetized to the other of the N pole and the S pole.

[0305] Thus, the magnetic field that advances from one of the second facing surface 522 a and the second opposite surface 522 b toward the other is formed by the second magnet portion 522 itself.

[0306] In the illustrated embodiment, the polarity of the second opposing surface 522 a may be configured to be different from the polarity of the first opposing surface 521 a of the first magnet portion 521 .

[0307] As a result, a magnetic field is formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 in a direction from one magnet portion toward the other magnet portion.

[0308] The second opposing surface 522a may have the same polarity as the third opposing surface 523a of the third magnet portion 523. The second opposing surface 522a may have a different polarity from the fourth opposing surface 524a of the fourth magnet portion 524.

[0309] The third magnet portion 523 forms a magnetic field together with the first magnet portion 521. In addition, the third magnet portion 523 itself may also form a magnetic field.

[0310] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the third magnet portion 523 is located on the inner side of the second surface 512 and is biased to the right. That is, the third magnet portion 523 is located on the right side of the arc discharge hole 515 .

[0311] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the third magnet portion 523 is located on the inner side of the first surface 511 and is biased to the right side. That is, the third magnet portion 523 is closer to the fourth surface 514 than the third surface 513 .

[0312] The third magnet portion 523 is formed to extend along the length direction, that is, the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment, by a predetermined length L3. The third magnet portion 523 may be formed such that its extension length L3 is shorter than the extension length L1 of the first magnet portion 521. In one embodiment, the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 523 may be formed to be equal to the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 522.

[0313] In addition, the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 523 may be formed to be longer than the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0314] The third magnet portion 523 is disposed so as to face the first magnet portion 521. Specifically, the third magnet portion 523 is configured to face the first magnet portion 521 along a diagonal direction toward the upper left side with the space portion 516 interposed therebetween.

[0315] The third magnet portion 523 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the fourth magnet portion 524. That is, the third magnet portion 523, the fourth magnet portion 524, and the second magnet portion 522 are disposed in this order along the direction from the fourth surface 514 toward the third surface 513.

[0316] The third magnet portion 523 and the second magnet portion 522 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a virtual straight line in the front-rear direction passing through the center portion C of the space portion 516 .

[0317] That is, the distance between the third magnet portion 523 and the arc discharge hole 515 may be equal to the distance between the second magnet portion 522 and the arc discharge hole 515 .

[0318] The third magnet portion 523 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the first magnet portion 521. In one embodiment, the distance between the third magnet portion 523 and the first magnet portion 521 may be equal to the distance between the second magnet portion 522 and the first magnet portion 521.

[0319] The third magnet portion 523 includes a third facing surface 523 a and a third opposite surface 523 b .

[0320] The third opposing surface 523a may be defined as a side surface of the third magnet portion 523 facing the space portion 516. In other words, the third opposing surface 523a may be defined as a side surface of the third magnet portion 523 facing the first magnet portion 521.

[0321] The third opposite surface 523b may be defined as the other side of the third magnet portion 523 facing the second surface 512. In other words, the third opposite surface 523b may be defined as a side surface of the third magnet portion 523 opposite to the third opposite surface 523a.

[0322] The third facing surface 523a and the third opposite surface 523b are configured to have different polarities. That is, the third facing surface 523a can be magnetized to one of the N pole and the S pole, and the third opposite surface 523b can be magnetized to the other of the N pole and the S pole.

[0323] Thus, the magnetic field that advances from one of the third facing surface 523 a and the third opposite surface 523 b toward the other is formed by the third magnet portion 523 itself.

[0324] In the illustrated embodiment, the polarity of the third opposing surface 523 a may be configured to be different from the polarity of the first opposing surface 521 a of the first magnet portion 521 .

[0325] As a result, a magnetic field is formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 in a direction from one magnet portion toward the other magnet portion.

[0326] The third opposing surface 523a may have the same polarity as the second opposing surface 522a of the second magnet portion 522. The third opposing surface 523a may have a different polarity from the fourth opposing surface 524a of the fourth magnet portion 524.

[0327] The fourth magnet portion 524 forms a magnetic field together with the first magnet portion 521. In addition, the fourth magnet portion 524 itself may also form a magnetic field.

[0328] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth magnet portion 524 is located on the inner side of the second surface 512. The fourth magnet portion 524 is located in the middle portion of the second surface 512.

[0329] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth magnet portion 524 is located inside the first surface 511. The fourth magnet portion 524 is located in the middle portion of the first surface 511.

[0330] That is, the fourth magnet portion 524 is located between the second magnet portion 522 and the third magnet portion 523 .

[0331] The fourth magnet portion 524 is formed to extend a predetermined length L4 along the longitudinal direction, that is, the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The fourth magnet portion 524 may be formed such that its extension length L4 is shorter than the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 522 and the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 523 .

[0332] The fourth magnet portion 524 is disposed so as to face the first magnet portion 521. Specifically, the fourth magnet portion 524 is configured to face the first magnet portion 521 along a diagonal direction toward the upper left side with the space portion 516 interposed therebetween.

[0333] The longitudinal center C4 of the fourth magnet portion 524 may be located on a virtual straight line passing through the longitudinal center C1 of the first magnet portion 521 and the center portion C. That is, the fourth magnet portion 524 and the first magnet portion 521 are coaxially disposed along the front-rear direction.

[0334] The fourth magnet portion 524 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the second magnet portion 522 and the third magnet portion 523 .

[0335] The fourth magnet portion 524 includes a fourth facing surface 524 a and a fourth opposite surface 524 b .

[0336] The fourth opposing surface 524a may be defined as a side surface of the fourth magnet portion 524 that faces the space portion 516. In other words, the fourth opposing surface 524a may be defined as a side surface of the fourth magnet portion 524 that faces the first magnet portion 521.

[0337] The fourth opposite surface 524b may be defined as the other side surface of the fourth magnet portion 524 facing the second surface 512. In other words, the fourth opposite surface 524b may be defined as a side surface of the fourth magnet portion 524 opposite to the fourth opposite surface 524a.

[0338] The fourth facing surface 524a and the fourth opposite surface 524b are configured to have different polarities. That is, the fourth facing surface 524a is magnetized to one of the N pole and the S pole, and the fourth opposite surface 524b is magnetized to the other of the N pole and the S pole.

[0339] Thus, the magnetic field that advances from one of the fourth facing surface 524 a and the fourth opposite surface 524 b toward the other is formed by the fourth magnet portion 524 itself.

[0340] In the illustrated embodiment, the polarity of the fourth opposing surface 524 a may be configured to be the same as the polarity of the first opposing surface 521 a of the first magnet portion 521 .

[0341] As a result, a magnetic field in a direction that repels each other is formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0342] In addition, the polarity of the fourth opposing surface 524 a may be different from the polarity of the second opposing surface 522 a of the second magnet portion 522 and the third opposing surface 523 a of the third magnet portion 523 .

[0343] In this embodiment, a single first magnet portion 521 is disposed on the first surface 511 or the second surface 512. In addition, on the second surface 512 opposite to the first surface 511 or the first surface 511 opposite to the second surface 512, a plurality of second magnet portions 522, third magnet portions 523, and fourth magnet portions 524 are disposed at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0344] The first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 are disposed coaxially. A virtual straight line connecting the center C1 of the first magnet portion 521 in the longitudinal direction and the center C1 of the fourth magnet portion 524 in the longitudinal direction is formed so as to pass through the center portion C.

[0345] The first facing surface 521a of the first magnet portion 521 has the same polarity as the fourth facing surface 524a of the fourth magnet portion 524. The first facing surface 521a of the first magnet portion 521 has a different polarity from the second facing surface 522a of the second magnet portion 522 and the third facing surface 523a of the third magnet portion 523.

[0346] Therefore, the first magnet part 521 and the fourth magnet part 524 form a magnetic field in a direction of mutual repulsion at the center part C. A magnetic field is formed between the first magnet part 521 and the second magnet part 522 and between the first magnet part 521 and the third magnet part 523 in a direction from one magnet part toward the other.

[0347] As a result, the electromagnetic force generated near each of the fixed contacts 220 a and 220 b by the magnetic field is generated in a direction away from the center portion C. Thus, damage to components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0348] (2) Description of Arc Path Forming Section 600 of Other Embodiments of the Present Invention

[0349] Below, refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , the arc path forming portion 600 of other embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0350] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc path forming portion 600 includes a magnet frame 610 and a magnet portion 620 .

[0351] The structure and function of the magnet frame 610 of this embodiment are the same as those of the magnet frame 510 of the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0352] Therefore, the description about the magnet frame 610 is replaced by the description about the magnet frame 510 described above.

[0353] The magnet portion 620 includes a first magnet portion 621 , a second magnet portion 622 , a third magnet portion 623 , and a fourth magnet portion 624 .

[0354] The first magnet portion 621 is identical to the first magnet portion 521 of the above-mentioned embodiment in structure, function and configuration.

[0355] The second magnet portion 622 is the same as the second magnet portion 522 of the above embodiment in function and configuration, but the second magnet portion 622 is different from the second magnet portion 522 of the above embodiment in structure.

[0356] Specifically, the second magnet portion 622 is formed to extend a predetermined length L2 along the longitudinal direction. The extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 622 may be equal to the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 623. In addition, the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 622 may be formed to be shorter than the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 624.

[0357] The third magnet portion 623 is the same as the third magnet portion 523 of the above embodiment in function and configuration, but the third magnet portion 623 is different from the third magnet portion 523 of the above embodiment in structure.

[0358] Specifically, the third magnet portion 623 is formed to extend a predetermined length L3 along the longitudinal direction. The extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 623 may be equal to the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 622. In addition, the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 623 may be formed to be shorter than the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 624.

[0359] The fourth magnet portion 624 is the same as the fourth magnet portion 624 of the above-mentioned embodiment in function and configuration, but the fourth magnet portion 624 is different from the fourth magnet portion 624 of the above-mentioned embodiment in structure.

[0360] Specifically, the fourth magnet portion 624 is formed to extend by a predetermined length L4 along the longitudinal direction. The extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 624 may be formed to be longer than the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 622 and the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 623 .

[0361] In this embodiment, a single first magnet portion 621 is disposed on the first surface 611. In addition, on the second surface 612 facing the first surface 611, a plurality of second magnet portions 622, third magnet portions 623, and fourth magnet portions 624 are disposed at predetermined intervals from each other.

[0362] The first magnet portion 621 and the fourth magnet portion 624 are disposed coaxially. A virtual straight line connecting the center C1 of the first magnet portion 621 in the longitudinal direction and the center C1 of the fourth magnet portion 624 in the longitudinal direction is formed so as to pass through the center portion C.

[0363] The first facing surface 621a of the first magnet portion 621 has the same polarity as the fourth facing surface 624a of the fourth magnet portion 624. The first facing surface 621a of the first magnet portion 621 has a different polarity from the second facing surface 622a of the second magnet portion 622 and the third facing surface 623a of the third magnet portion 623.

[0364] Therefore, the first magnet part 621 and the fourth magnet part 624 form a magnetic field in a direction of mutual repulsion at the center part C. A magnetic field is formed between the first magnet part 621 and the second magnet part 622 and between the first magnet part 621 and the third magnet part 623 in a direction from one magnet part toward the other.

[0365] At this time, the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 624 is formed to be longer than the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 622 and the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 623. Therefore, the strength of the magnetic field in the mutually repelling direction generated between the first magnet portion 621 and the fourth magnet portion 624 is strengthened.

[0366] As a result, a stronger magnetic field is formed near the center portion C in a direction that repels each other.

[0367] As a result, the electromagnetic force generated by the magnetic field near each of the fixed contacts 220a and 220b is further strengthened in a direction away from the center portion C. Thus, damage to components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0368] (3) Description of the arc path forming portion 700 according to another embodiment of the present invention

[0369] Below, refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 , an arc path forming portion 700 according to another embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.

[0370] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc path forming portion 700 includes a magnet frame 710 and a magnet portion 720 .

[0371] The structure and function of the magnet frame 710 of this embodiment are the same as those of the magnet frames 510 and 610 of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0372] Therefore, the description about the magnet frame 710 is replaced by the description about the magnet frames 510 and 610 described above.

[0373] The magnet portion 720 includes a first magnet portion 721 , a second magnet portion 722 , and a third magnet portion 723 .

[0374] The first magnet portion 721 is identical to the first magnet portions 521 and 621 of the above-mentioned embodiments in structure, function and configuration.

[0375] The second magnet portion 722 has the same function and configuration as the second magnet portions 522 and 622 of the above-mentioned embodiments, but the second magnet portion 722 is different from the second magnet portions 522 and 622 of the above-mentioned embodiments in structure.

[0376] Specifically, the second magnet portion 722 is formed to extend a predetermined length L2 along the longitudinal direction. The extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 722 may be equal to the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 723 and the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 724 .

[0377] The third magnet portion 723 is the same as the third magnet portions 523 and 623 of the above-mentioned embodiments in terms of function and configuration, but is different in structure from the third magnet portions 523 and 623 of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0378] Specifically, the third magnet portion 723 is formed to extend a predetermined length L3 along the longitudinal direction. The extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 723 may be equal to the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 722 and the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 724 .

[0379] The fourth magnet portion 724 is the same as the fourth magnet portions 524 and 624 of the above-mentioned embodiments in terms of function and configuration, but is different in structure from the fourth magnet portions 524 and 624 of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0380] Specifically, the fourth magnet portion 724 is formed to extend a predetermined length L4 along the longitudinal direction. The extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 724 may be formed to be equal to the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 722 and the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 723 .

[0381] In this embodiment, a single first magnet portion 721 is disposed on the first surface 711. In addition, on the second surface 712 facing the first surface 711, a plurality of second magnet portions 722, third magnet portions 723, and fourth magnet portions 724 are disposed at predetermined intervals from each other.

[0382] The first magnet portion 721 and the fourth magnet portion 724 are disposed coaxially. A virtual straight line connecting the center C1 of the first magnet portion 721 in the longitudinal direction and the center C1 of the fourth magnet portion 724 in the longitudinal direction is formed so as to pass through the center portion C.

[0383] The first facing surface 721a of the first magnet portion 721 has the same polarity as the fourth facing surface 724a of the fourth magnet portion 724. The first facing surface 721a of the first magnet portion 721 has a different polarity from the second facing surface 722a of the second magnet portion 722 and the third facing surface 723a of the third magnet portion 723.

[0384] Therefore, the first magnet part 721 and the fourth magnet part 724 form a magnetic field in a direction of mutual repulsion at the center part C. A magnetic field is formed between the first magnet part 721 and the second magnet part 722 and between the first magnet part 721 and the third magnet part 723 in a direction from one magnet part toward the other.

[0385] At this time, the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 722, the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 723, and the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 724 can be formed to be the same as each other. Therefore, when observed with the center portion C as a reference, the magnetic field is formed to be symmetrical with respect to the length direction, that is, the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0386] As a result, the electromagnetic force generated near each of the fixed contacts 220a and 220b by the magnetic field is formed in a direction away from the center portion C. At the same time, since the magnetic field is formed symmetrically with respect to the center portion C, the direction of the electromagnetic force is also formed symmetrically. Thus, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0387] 4. Description of the arc path AP formed by the arc path forming portions 500, 600, and 700 of the embodiments of the present invention

[0388] The DC relay 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , and 700 . The arc path forming parts 500 , 600 , and 700 form a magnetic field inside the arc chamber 210 .

[0389] In a state where the magnetic field is formed, if the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 come into contact and current flows, an electromagnetic force is generated according to Fleming's left hand rule.

[0390] The electromagnetic force may form an arc path AP for moving the arc generated by the separation of the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 .

[0391] Below, refer to Figures 12 to 23 , a process of forming an arc path AP in the DC relay 10 of an embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.

[0392] In the following description, it is assumed that an arc is generated at a portion where the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 have been in contact immediately after the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 are separated.

[0393] In the following description, the magnetic field caused by the interaction between the different magnet parts 520, 620, 720, 820 is referred to as the "main magnetic field (MMF)", and the magnetic field formed by each magnet part 520, 620, 720, 820 itself is referred to as the "sub magnetic field (SMF)".

[0394] (1) Description of the arc path AP formed by the arc path forming portion 500 of one embodiment of the present invention

[0395] Reference Fig.12 To reference Fig.15 , showing a state of a path AP of an arc formed in an arc path forming portion 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0396] Fig.12 (a) Fig.13 (a) Fig.14 (a) and Fig.15 The current conduction direction in (a) is a direction in which the current flows into the second fixed contact 220 b and passes through the movable contact 430 , and then flows out through the first fixed contact 220 a .

[0397] in addition, Fig.12 (b) Fig.13 (b) Fig.14 (b) and Fig.15 The current flow direction in (b) is a direction in which the current flows into the first fixed contact 220 a , passes through the movable contact 430 , and then flows out through the second fixed contact 220 b .

[0398] Reference Fig.12 The first opposing surface 521a and the fourth opposing surface 524a are magnetized to the N pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 522a and the third opposing surface 523a are magnetized to the S pole.

[0399] As is known to all, the magnetic field is formed in a direction diverging from the N pole and converging toward the S pole.

[0400] Therefore, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 is formed in a direction from the first opposing surface 521 a toward the second opposing surface 522 a .

[0401] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first facing surface 521a to the first opposite surface 521b, and the second magnet part 522 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the second opposite surface 522b to the second facing surface 522a.

[0402] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be enhanced.

[0403] Therefore, in Fig.12 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0404] Similarly, in Fig.12 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0405] In addition, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 is formed in a direction from the first opposing surface 521 a toward the third opposing surface 523 a .

[0406] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first facing surface 521a to the first opposite surface 521b, and the third magnet part 523 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the third opposite surface 523b to the third facing surface 523a.

[0407] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be strengthened.

[0408] Therefore, in Fig.12 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0409] Similarly, in Fig.12 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0410] On the other hand, a magnetic field in a direction that repels each other is generated between the first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0411] Therefore, the magnetic field diverging from the first opposing surface 521a travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b without reaching the fourth opposing surface 524a. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0412] Similarly, the magnetic field radiated from the fourth opposing surface 524a also travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b and does not reach the first opposing surface 521a. The magnetic field also strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0413] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0414] Reference Fig.13 The first opposing surface 521a and the fourth opposing surface 524a are magnetized to the S pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 522a and the third opposing surface 523a are magnetized to the N pole.

[0415] Therefore, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 is formed in a direction from the second opposing surface 522 a toward the first opposing surface 521 a .

[0416] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first opposite surface 521b to the first facing surface 521a, and the second magnet part 522 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the second facing surface 522a to the second opposite surface 522b.

[0417] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be enhanced.

[0418] Therefore, in Fig.13 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0419] Similarly, in Fig.13 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0420] In addition, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 is formed in a direction from the third opposing surface 523 a toward the first opposing surface 521 a .

[0421] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first opposite surface 521b to the first facing surface 521a. In addition, the third magnet part 523 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the third facing surface 523a to the third opposite surface 523b.

[0422] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be strengthened.

[0423] Therefore, in Fig.13 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0424] Similarly, in Fig.13 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0425] Therefore, the magnetic field diverging from the first opposite surface 521b travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b without reaching the fourth opposite surface 524a. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0426] Similarly, the magnetic field radiated from the fourth opposite surface 524b also travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b and does not reach the first opposite surface 521a. The magnetic field also strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0427] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0428] Reference Fig.14The first opposing surface 521a and the fourth opposing surface 524a are magnetized to the N pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 522a and the third opposing surface 523a are magnetized to the S pole.

[0429] Therefore, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 is formed in a direction from the first opposing surface 521 a toward the second opposing surface 522 a .

[0430] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first facing surface 521a to the first opposite surface 521b, and the second magnet part 522 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the second opposite surface 522b to the second facing surface 522a.

[0431] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be enhanced.

[0432] Therefore, in Fig.14 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0433] Similarly, in Fig.14 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0434] In addition, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 is formed in a direction from the first opposing surface 521 a toward the third opposing surface 523 a .

[0435] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first facing surface 521a to the first opposite surface 521b, and the third magnet part 523 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the third opposite surface 523b to the third facing surface 523a.

[0436] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be strengthened.

[0437] Therefore, in Fig.14In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0438] Similarly, in Fig.14 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0439] On the other hand, a magnetic field in a direction that repels each other is generated between the first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 .

[0440] Therefore, the magnetic field diverging from the first opposing surface 521a travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b without reaching the fourth opposing surface 524a. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0441] Similarly, the magnetic field radiated from the fourth opposing surface 524a also travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b and does not reach the first opposing surface 521a. The magnetic field also strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0442] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0443] Reference Fig.15 The first opposing surface 521a and the fourth opposing surface 524a are magnetized to the S pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 522a and the third opposing surface 523a are magnetized to the N pole.

[0444] Therefore, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 is formed in a direction from the second opposing surface 522 a toward the first opposing surface 521 a .

[0445] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first opposite surface 521b to the first facing surface 521a, and the second magnet part 522 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the second facing surface 522a to the second opposite surface 522b.

[0446] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be enhanced.

[0447] Therefore, in Fig.15In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0448] Similarly, in Fig.15 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0449] In addition, the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 is formed in a direction from the third opposing surface 523 a toward the first opposing surface 521 a .

[0450] At this time, the first magnet part 521 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the first opposite surface 521b to the first facing surface 521a. In addition, the third magnet part 523 forms a secondary magnetic field SMF in the direction from the third facing surface 523a to the third opposite surface 523b.

[0451] The secondary magnetic field SMF is formed in the same direction as the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523. Thus, the strength of the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 can be strengthened.

[0452] Therefore, in Fig.15 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0453] Similarly, in Fig.13 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0454] Therefore, the magnetic field diverging from the first opposite surface 521b travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b without reaching the fourth opposite surface 524a. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0455] Similarly, the magnetic field radiated from the fourth opposite surface 524b also travels toward the first fixed contact 220a or the second fixed contact 220b and does not reach the first opposite surface 521a. The magnetic field also strengthens the main magnetic field MMF.

[0456] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0457] In this embodiment, a single first magnet portion 521 is disposed on the first surface 511 or the second surface 512. In addition, on the second surface 512 opposite to the first surface 511 or the first surface 511 opposite to the second surface 512, a plurality of second magnet portions 522, third magnet portions 523, and fourth magnet portions 524 are disposed at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0458] The first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 are disposed coaxially. A virtual straight line connecting the center C1 of the first magnet portion 521 in the longitudinal direction and the center C1 of the fourth magnet portion 524 in the longitudinal direction is formed so as to pass through the center portion C.

[0459] The first facing surface 521a of the first magnet portion 521 has the same polarity as the fourth facing surface 524a of the fourth magnet portion 524. The first facing surface 521a of the first magnet portion 521 has a different polarity from the second facing surface 522a of the second magnet portion 522 and the third facing surface 523a of the third magnet portion 523.

[0460] A magnetic field is formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 and between the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 in a direction from one magnet portion toward the other magnet portion.

[0461] In addition, the first magnet portion 521 and the fourth magnet portion 524 form a magnetic field in a direction of mutual repulsion at the center portion C. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 521 and the second magnet portion 522 and the first magnet portion 521 and the third magnet portion 523 .

[0462] As a result, the electromagnetic force generated near each of the fixed contacts 220 a and 220 b by the magnetic field is generated in a direction away from the center portion C. Thus, damage to components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0463] (2) Description of the arc path AP formed by the arc path forming portion 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention

[0464] Reference Fig.16 To reference Fig.19 , showing a state of a path AP of an arc formed in an arc path forming portion 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0465] Fig.16 (a) Fig.17 (a) Fig.18 (a) and Fig.19The current conduction direction in (a) is a direction in which the current flows into the second fixed contact 220 b and passes through the movable contact 430 , and then flows out through the first fixed contact 220 a .

[0466] in addition, Fig.16 (b) Fig.17 (b) Fig.18 (b) and Fig.19 The current flow direction in (b) is a direction in which the current flows into the first fixed contact 220 a , passes through the movable contact 430 , and then flows out through the second fixed contact 220 b .

[0467] Reference Fig.16 The first opposing surface 621a and the fourth opposing surface 624a are magnetized to the N pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 622a and the third opposing surface 623a are magnetized to the S pole.

[0468] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the second magnet part 622 are the same as those described above. Fig.12 The same as the embodiment.

[0469] Therefore, in Fig.16 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0470] Similarly, in Fig.16 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0471] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the third magnet part 623 are the same as those described above. Fig.12 The same as the embodiment.

[0472] Therefore, in Fig.16 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0473] Similarly, in Fig.16 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0474] The process and direction of the main magnetic field MMF enhanced by the first magnet part 621 and the fourth magnet part 624 are the same as those described above. Fig.12 The same as the embodiment.

[0475] Reference Fig.17 The first opposing surface 621a and the fourth opposing surface 624a are magnetized to the S pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 622a and the third opposing surface 623a are magnetized to the N pole.

[0476] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the second magnet part 622 are the same as those described above. Fig.13 The same as the embodiment.

[0477] Therefore, in Fig.17 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0478] Similarly, in Fig.17 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0479] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the third magnet part 623 are the same as those described above. Fig.13 The same as the embodiment.

[0480] Therefore, in Fig.17 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0481] Similarly, in Fig.17 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0482] The process and direction of the main magnetic field MMF enhanced by the first magnet part 621 and the fourth magnet part 624 are the same as those described above. Fig.13 The same as the embodiment.

[0483] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0484] Reference Fig.18 The first opposing surface 621a and the fourth opposing surface 624a are magnetized to the N pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 622a and the third opposing surface 623a are magnetized to the S pole.

[0485] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the second magnet part 622 are the same as those described above. Fig.14 The same as the embodiment.

[0486] Therefore, in Fig.18 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0487] Similarly, in Fig.18 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0488] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the third magnet part 623 are the same as those described above. Fig.14 The same as the embodiment.

[0489] Therefore, in Fig.18 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0490] Similarly, in Fig.18 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0491] The process and direction of the main magnetic field MMF enhanced by the first magnet part 621 and the fourth magnet part 624 are the same as those described above. Fig.14 The same as the embodiment.

[0492] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0493] Reference Fig.19 The first opposing surface 621a and the fourth opposing surface 624a are magnetized to the S pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 622a and the third opposing surface 623a are magnetized to the N pole.

[0494] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the second magnet part 622 are the same as those described above. Fig.15 The same as the embodiment.

[0495] Therefore, in Fig.19 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0496] Similarly, in Fig.19 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0497] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 621 and the third magnet part 623 are the same as those described above. Fig.15 The same as the embodiment.

[0498] Therefore, in Fig.19 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0499] Similarly, in Fig.19 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0500] The process and direction of the main magnetic field MMF enhanced by the first magnet part 621 and the fourth magnet part 624 are the same as those described above. Fig.15 The same as the embodiment.

[0501] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0502] In this embodiment, a single first magnet portion 621 is disposed on the first surface 611 or the second surface 612. In addition, on the second surface 612 opposite to the first surface 611 or the first surface 611 opposite to the second surface 612, a plurality of second magnet portions 622, third magnet portions 623, and fourth magnet portions 624 are disposed at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0503] The first magnet portion 621 and the fourth magnet portion 624 are disposed coaxially. A virtual straight line connecting the center C1 of the first magnet portion 621 in the longitudinal direction and the center C1 of the fourth magnet portion 624 in the longitudinal direction is formed so as to pass through the center portion C.

[0504] The first facing surface 621a of the first magnet portion 621 has the same polarity as the fourth facing surface 624a of the fourth magnet portion 624. The first facing surface 621a of the first magnet portion 621 has a different polarity from the second facing surface 622a of the second magnet portion 622 and the third facing surface 623a of the third magnet portion 623.

[0505] Therefore, the first magnet part 621 and the fourth magnet part 624 form a magnetic field in a direction of mutual repulsion at the center part C. A magnetic field is formed between the first magnet part 621 and the second magnet part 622 and between the first magnet part 621 and the third magnet part 623 in a direction from one magnet part toward the other.

[0506] At this time, the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 624 is formed to be longer than the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 622 and the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 623. Therefore, the strength of the magnetic field in the mutually repelling direction generated between the first magnet portion 621 and the fourth magnet portion 624 is strengthened.

[0507] As a result, a stronger magnetic field is formed in the mutually repelling direction near the center portion C. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF formed between the first magnet portion 621 and the second magnet portion 622 and between the first magnet portion 621 and the third magnet portion 623 .

[0508] As a result, the electromagnetic force generated by the magnetic field near each of the fixed contacts 220a and 220b is further strengthened in a direction away from the center portion C. Thus, damage to components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0509] (3) Description of the arc path AP formed by the arc path forming portion 700 of another embodiment of the present invention

[0510] Reference Fig. 20 To reference Fig.23 , a diagram showing a state of a path AP where an arc is formed in an arc path forming portion 700 according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0511] Fig. 20 (a) Fig.21 (a) Fig. 22 (a) and Fig.23The current conduction direction in (a) is a direction in which the current flows into the second fixed contact 220 b and passes through the movable contact 430 , and then flows out through the first fixed contact 220 a .

[0512] in addition, Fig. 20 (b) Fig.21 (b) Fig. 22 (b) and Fig.23 The current flow direction in (b) is a direction in which the current flows into the first fixed contact 220 a , passes through the movable contact 430 , and then flows out through the second fixed contact 220 b .

[0513] Reference Fig. 20 The first opposing surface 721a and the fourth opposing surface 724a are magnetized to the N pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 722a and the third opposing surface 723a are magnetized to the S pole.

[0514] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the second magnet part 722 are the same as those described above. Fig.12 The same as the embodiment.

[0515] Therefore, in Fig. 20 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0516] Similarly, in Fig. 20 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0517] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the third magnet part 723 are the same as those described above. Fig.12 The same as the embodiment.

[0518] Therefore, in Fig. 20 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0519] Similarly, in Fig. 20 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0520] The process and direction of strengthening the main magnetic field MMF by the first magnet part 721 and the fourth magnet part 724 are the same as those described above. Fig.12 The same as the embodiment.

[0521] Reference Fig.21 The first opposing surface 721a and the fourth opposing surface 724a are magnetized to the S pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 722a and the third opposing surface 723a are magnetized to the N pole.

[0522] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the second magnet part 722 are the same as those described above. Fig.13 The same as the embodiment.

[0523] Therefore, in Fig.21 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0524] Similarly, in Fig.21 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0525] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the third magnet part 723 are the same as those described above. Fig.13 The same as the embodiment.

[0526] Therefore, in Fig.21 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0527] Similarly, in Fig.21 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0528] The process and direction of strengthening the main magnetic field MMF by the first magnet part 721 and the fourth magnet part 724 are the same as those described above. Fig.13 The same as the embodiment.

[0529] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0530] Reference Fig. 22 The first opposing surface 721a and the fourth opposing surface 724a are magnetized to the N pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 722a and the third opposing surface 723a are magnetized to the S pole.

[0531] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the second magnet part 722 are the same as those described above. Fig.14 The same as the embodiment.

[0532] Therefore, in Fig. 22 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0533] Similarly, in Fig. 22 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0534] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the third magnet part 723 are the same as those described above. Fig.14 The same as the embodiment.

[0535] Therefore, in Fig. 22 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0536] Similarly, in Fig. 22 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0537] The process and direction of strengthening the main magnetic field MMF by the first magnet part 721 and the fourth magnet part 724 are the same as those described above. Fig.14 The same as the embodiment.

[0538] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0539] Reference Fig.23 The first opposing surface 721a and the fourth opposing surface 724a are magnetized to the S pole. In addition, the second opposing surface 722a and the third opposing surface 723a are magnetized to the N pole.

[0540] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the second magnet part 722 are the same as those described above. Fig.15 The same as the embodiment.

[0541] Therefore, in Fig.23 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the right side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0542] Similarly, in Fig.23 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the first fixed contact 220a in the direction toward the left side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0543] The process and direction of forming the main magnetic field MMF and the secondary magnetic field SMF by the first magnet part 721 and the third magnet part 723 are the same as those described above. Fig.15 The same as the embodiment.

[0544] Therefore, in Fig.23 In the embodiment shown in (a), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the left side of the rear side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the left side of the rear side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0545] Similarly, in Fig.23 In the embodiment shown in (b), an electromagnetic force is generated near the second fixed contact 220b in the direction toward the right side of the front side. The arc path AP is formed in the direction toward the right side of the front side along the direction of the electromagnetic force.

[0546] The process and direction of strengthening the main magnetic field MMF by the first magnet part 721 and the fourth magnet part 724 are the same as those described above. Fig.15 The same as the embodiment.

[0547] Thus, the path AP of the generated arc does not go toward the center portion C. As a result, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0548] In this embodiment, a single first magnet portion 721 is disposed on the first surface 711 or the second surface 712. In addition, on the second surface 712 opposite to the first surface 711 or the first surface 711 opposite to the second surface 712, a plurality of second magnet portions 722, third magnet portions 723, and fourth magnet portions 724 are disposed at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0549] The first magnet portion 721 and the fourth magnet portion 724 are disposed coaxially. A virtual straight line connecting the center C1 of the first magnet portion 721 in the longitudinal direction and the center C1 of the fourth magnet portion 724 in the longitudinal direction is formed so as to pass through the center portion C.

[0550] The first facing surface 721a of the first magnet portion 721 has the same polarity as the fourth facing surface 724a of the fourth magnet portion 724. The first facing surface 721a of the first magnet portion 721 has a different polarity from the second facing surface 722a of the second magnet portion 722 and the third facing surface 723a of the third magnet portion 723.

[0551] A magnetic field is formed between the first magnet portion 721 and the second magnet portion 722 and between the first magnet portion 721 and the third magnet portion 723 in a direction from one magnet portion toward the other magnet portion.

[0552] The first magnet portion 721 and the fourth magnet portion 724 form a magnetic field in a direction of repelling each other at the center portion C. The magnetic field strengthens the main magnetic field MMF formed by the first magnet portion 721 and the second magnet portion 722 and the first magnet portion 721 and the third magnet portion 723 .

[0553] At this time, the extension length L2 of the second magnet portion 722, the extension length L3 of the third magnet portion 723, and the extension length L4 of the fourth magnet portion 724 are formed to be the same. Therefore, when observed with the center portion C as a reference, the magnetic field is formed to be symmetrical with respect to the length direction, that is, the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0554] As a result, the electromagnetic force generated by the magnetic field near each fixed contact 220a, 220b is formed in a direction away from the center portion C. At the same time, the magnetic field is formed symmetrically with respect to the center portion C, so the direction of the electromagnetic force is also formed symmetrically. Thus, damage to the components arranged in the center portion C can be prevented.

[0555] The arc path forming parts 500, 600, and 700 of the respective embodiments of the present invention described above form a magnetic field. An electromagnetic force is formed in a direction away from the center C by the magnetic field.

[0556] The arc generated by the separation of the fixed contact 220 and the movable contact 430 moves along the arc path AP formed along the electromagnetic force. Therefore, the generated arc moves in a direction away from the center portion C.

[0557] Thus, various components of the DC relay 10 disposed in the center portion C are not damaged by the generated arc.

[0558] The present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made to the present invention without departing from the technical concept and scope of the present invention as described in the following claims.

[0559] 10: DC relay

[0560] 100: Framework

[0561] 110: Upper frame

[0562] 120: Lower frame

[0563] 130: Insulation board

[0564] 140: Support plate

[0565] 200: Opening and closing part

[0566] 210: Arc chamber

[0567] 220: Fixed contact

[0568] 220a: First fixed contact

[0569] 220b: Second fixed contact

[0570] 230: Sealing member

[0571] 300: Core

[0572] 310: Fixed core

[0573] 320: Movable iron core

[0574] 330: Yoke

[0575] 340: Winding spool

[0576] 350: Coil

[0577] 360: Return spring

[0578] 370: Cylinder

[0579] 400: Movable contact

[0580] 410: hood

[0581] 420: Cover

[0582] 430: Movable contact

[0583] 440: Axis

[0584] 450: Elastic part

[0585] 500: Arc path forming portion according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0586] 510: Magnet frame

[0587] 511: Side 1

[0588] 512: Side 2

[0589] 513: The third side

[0590] 514: The fourth side

[0591] 515: Arc discharge hole

[0592] 516: Space Department

[0593] 520: Magnet Department

[0594] 521: First magnet unit

[0595] 521a: First opposite side

[0596] 521b: First opposite side

[0597] 522: Second magnet part

[0598] 522a: Second opposite side

[0599] 522b: Second opposite side

[0600] 523: Third magnet part

[0601] 523a: Third main opposite surface

[0602] 523b: The third main opposite side

[0603] 524: Fourth magnet part

[0604] 524a: Fourth main opposite surface

[0605] 524b: Fourth main opposite side

[0606] 600: Arc path forming portion according to another embodiment of the present invention

[0607] 610: Magnet frame

[0608] 611: Side 1

[0609] 612: Side 2

[0610] 613: The third side

[0611] 614: The fourth side

[0612] 615: Arc discharge hole

[0613] 616: Space Department

[0614] 620: Magnet Department

[0615] 621: First magnet unit

[0616] 621a: First opposite side

[0617] 621b: First opposite side

[0618] 622: Second magnet part

[0619] 622a: Second opposite side

[0620] 622b: Second opposite side

[0621] 623: Third magnet part

[0622] 623a: Third main opposite surface

[0623] 623b: Third main opposite side

[0624] 624: Fourth magnet part

[0625] 624a: Fourth main opposite surface

[0626] 624b: Fourth main opposite

[0627] 700: Arc path forming portion according to another embodiment of the present invention

[0628] 710: Magnet frame

[0629] 711: Side 1

[0630] 712: Side 2

[0631] 713: The third side

[0632] 714: The fourth side

[0633] 715: Arc discharge hole

[0634] 716: Space Department

[0635] 720: Magnet Department

[0636] 721: First Magnet Division

[0637] 721a: First opposite side

[0638] 721b: First opposite side

[0639] 722: Second magnet part

[0640] 722a: Second opposite side

[0641] 722b: Second opposite side

[0642] 723: Third magnet part

[0643] 723a: Third main opposite surface

[0644] 723b: Third main opposite side

[0645] 724: Fourth magnet part

[0646] 724a: Fourth main opposite surface

[0647] 724b: Fourth main opposite

[0648] 1000: DC relays of the prior art

[0649] 1100: Fixed contacts of the prior art

[0650] 1200: Movable contact of prior art

[0651] 1300: Permanent magnets of the prior art

[0652] 1310: The first permanent magnet in the prior art

[0653] 1320: Second permanent magnet of prior art

[0654] C: The center of the space 516, 616, 716, 816

[0655] MMF: Main Magnetic Field

[0656] SMF: Secondary Magnetic Field

[0657] AP: Path of the Arc

[0658] C1: Center of the first magnet in the longitudinal direction

[0659] C2: Center of the second magnet in the longitudinal direction

[0660] C3: The center of the third magnet in the longitudinal direction

[0661] C4: Center of the fourth magnet in the longitudinal direction

[0662] L1: Extension length of the first magnet part

[0663] L2: Extension length of the second magnet part

[0664] L3: Extension length of the third magnet part

[0665] L4: Extension length of the fourth magnet part

Claims

1. An arc path forming portion, wherein: include: a magnet frame having a space formed therein and comprising a plurality of surfaces surrounding the space; as well as The magnet part is configured to be coupled to a plurality of the surfaces to form a magnetic field in the space. The plurality of said surfaces include: A first surface extending in a direction; and The second surface is configured to face the first surface and extend along the one direction. The magnet portion comprises: A first magnet portion, disposed on any one of the first surface and the second surface; A second magnet portion is disposed on the other of the first surface and the second surface; a third magnet portion disposed on the other surface at a predetermined distance from the second magnet portion; and The fourth magnet portion is disposed on the other surface between the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion, The first opposing surface of the first magnet portion facing the other surface is configured to have the same polarity as the fourth opposing surface of the fourth magnet portion facing the either surface, and to have a polarity different from the second opposing surface of the second magnet portion facing the either surface and the third opposing surface of the third magnet portion facing the either surface. The first magnet portion, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are respectively formed by extending along the one direction. The first magnet portion is formed to extend longer than the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion. The first magnet portion overlaps with the fourth magnet portion in the length direction, and the first magnet portion partially overlaps with the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion in the length direction.

2. The arc path forming portion according to claim 1, wherein: The center of the space is located on a virtual straight line connecting a center of the first magnet portion in an extending direction and a center of the fourth magnet portion in an extending direction.

3. The arc path forming portion according to claim 2, wherein: The first magnet portion is disposed on the first surface, The second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are arranged on the second surface. The first opposing surface of the first magnet portion and the fourth opposing surface of the fourth magnet portion have N poles, The second opposing surface of the second magnet portion and the third opposing surface of the third magnet portion have S poles.

4. The arc path forming portion according to claim 2, wherein: The distance between the second magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion is equal to the distance between the third magnet portion and the fourth magnet portion.

5. The arc path forming portion according to claim 4, wherein: The fourth magnet portion is formed to extend longer than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

6. The arc path forming portion according to claim 4, wherein: The fourth magnet portion is formed to extend shorter than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

7. The arc path forming portion according to claim 4, wherein: The second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are formed to extend to the same length.

8. A DC relay, wherein: include: The fixed contact is formed by extending in one direction; A movable contact configured to contact or separate from the fixed contact; as well as The arc path forming portion has a space for accommodating the fixed contact and the movable contact formed therein, and is configured to form a magnetic field in the space to form a discharge path for the arc generated by the separation of the fixed contact and the movable contact. The arc path forming portion comprises: a magnet frame having a space formed therein and including a plurality of surfaces surrounding the space; and The magnet part is configured to be coupled to a plurality of the surfaces to form a magnetic field in the space. The plurality of said surfaces include: A first surface extending in a direction; and The second surface faces the first surface and extends along the one direction. The magnet portion comprises: A first magnet portion, disposed on any one of the first surface and the second surface; A second magnet portion is disposed on the other of the first surface and the second surface; a third magnet portion disposed on the other surface at a predetermined distance from the second magnet portion; and The fourth magnet portion is disposed on the other surface between the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion, The first opposing surface of the first magnet portion facing the other surface is configured to have the same polarity as the fourth opposing surface of the fourth magnet portion facing the either surface, and to have a polarity different from the second opposing surface of the second magnet portion facing the either surface and the third opposing surface of the third magnet portion facing the either surface. The first magnet portion, the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are respectively formed by extending along the one direction. The first magnet portion is formed to extend longer than the second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion. The first magnet portion overlaps with the fourth magnet portion in the length direction, and the first magnet portion partially overlaps with the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion in the length direction.

9. The DC relay according to claim 8, wherein: The center of the space is located on a virtual straight line connecting a center of the first magnet portion in an extending direction and a center of the fourth magnet portion in an extending direction.

10. The DC relay according to claim 9, wherein: The first magnet portion is disposed on the first surface, The second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are arranged on the second surface. The first opposing surface of the first magnet portion and the fourth opposing surface of the fourth magnet portion have N poles, The second opposing surface of the second magnet portion and the third opposing surface of the third magnet portion have S poles.

11. The DC relay according to claim 9, wherein: The first magnet portion is disposed on the first surface, The second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are arranged on the second surface. The first opposing surface of the first magnet portion and the fourth opposing surface of the fourth magnet portion have S poles, The second opposing surface of the second magnet portion and the third opposing surface of the third magnet portion have N poles.

12. The DC relay according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The fourth magnet portion is formed to extend longer than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

13. The DC relay according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The fourth magnet portion is formed to extend shorter than the second magnet portion and the third magnet portion.

14. The DC relay according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The second magnet portion, the third magnet portion, and the fourth magnet portion are formed to extend to the same length.

Images