Electromagnetic relay and manufacturing method of electromagnetic relay

Abstract

The press-in fixing portion fixes the driving portion and the relay portion by press-fitting between the claw portion and the recess portion. A sealing member is provided outside the relay portion and the driving portion. The inner side cover forms a sealed space that seals the arc extinguishing gas together with the sealing member. The electromagnetic relay is configured to be able to adjust the press-in amount of the claw portion and the recess portion and to be able to adjust the gap between the insulator at the end portion of the shaft and the movable member, in the same state as when energizing the magnet coil.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-48078 filed on March 18, 2020, and the disclosed contents of the basic application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosure of this specification relates to a sealed electromagnetic relay and a method for manufacturing the electromagnetic relay. Background Art

[0004] A sealed electromagnetic relay is known in which a relay unit including a movable element and fixed terminals and a driving unit for driving the movable element of the relay unit are housed in a sealed space sealed with arc extinguishing gas such as hydrogen.

[0005] The sealed electromagnetic relay described in Patent Document 1 has the following structure: when the excitation coil of the driving part is energized, a gap is formed between the movable part of the relay part and the end of the shaft. When the excitation coil of the driving part is cut off, this gap causes the end of the shaft to contact the movable part after the kinetic energy of the shaft is increased. As a result, the speed at which the movable contact of the movable part leaves the fixed contact of the fixed terminal (hereinafter referred to as "leaving speed") is increased, and the current disconnection performance is improved. Moreover, the electromagnetic relay described in Patent Document 1 is configured to adjust the size of its gap by a screw mechanism provided on the movable core and the shaft of the driving part. In addition, the electromagnetic relay is configured to form a sealed space for sealing the arc extinguishing gas by joining a sealed container that accommodates the fixed terminal and the movable part, a bottomed cylinder that accommodates the fixed core and the movable core, and a plurality of joint members arranged between the sealed container and the bottomed cylinder.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-259728 Summary of the Invention

[0009] However, the electromagnetic relay described in Patent Document 1 requires a manufacturing process that involves, after adjusting the gap between the shaft end and the movable element using a screw mechanism, joining the multiple components that form the sealed space, such as by welding. Therefore, if heat from this welding process is transferred to the drive unit or relay unit, there is a risk of causing variations in the gap between individual products.

[0010] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present specification is disclosed with the aim of providing an electromagnetic relay and a method for manufacturing the electromagnetic relay, wherein the electromagnetic relay has a structure in which a drive unit and a relay unit are housed in a closed space sealed with arc-extinguishing gas, and the electromagnetic relay can reduce the deviation of the gap between the end of the shaft and the movable part formed when power is supplied to the excitation coil.

[0011] The electromagnetic relay disclosed in this specification has the following structure. The drive unit includes: an excitation coil that generates a magnetic field when energized; a fixed core disposed on the inner diameter side of the excitation coil; a yoke that accommodates the excitation coil and the fixed core; a movable core that is movable relative to the fixed core; a shaft fixed to the movable core and capable of axial reciprocation; and a return spring that biases the movable core away from the fixed core. The relay unit includes: a frame formed of an insulating material; a fixed terminal fixed to the frame; a movable member disposed on the opposite side of the movable core from the fixed terminal and capable of relative movement relative to the fixed terminal; and a pressure spring that biases the movable member toward the fixed terminal. The press-fit fixing unit secures the drive unit to the relay unit by press-fitting a claw provided on one side of the yoke or frame with a recess provided on the other side of the yoke or frame. A plate-shaped sealing member is provided on the outside of the relay unit and the drive unit. The external connection terminal is fixed to the sealing member by being inserted through a hole in the sealing member and is engaged with the fixed terminal. The inner cover is joined to the sealing member in a state where the driving unit and the relay unit are housed therein, and together with the sealing member, forms a sealed space inside for sealing the arc extinguishing gas.

[0012] Furthermore, the electromagnetic relay is configured such that, before the sealing member and inner cover are attached, the movable contact of the movable element is brought into contact with the fixed contact of the fixed terminal, and the movable portion is brought into contact with the fixed core, allowing adjustment of the amount of pressure applied between the claw and the recess, and adjustment of the gap between the end of the shaft and the movable element. The term "movable element" refers to any of the shaft, the movable core, and any component that moves integrally with them.

[0013] Thus, in the manufacturing process of the electromagnetic relay, the gap between the end portion of the shaft and the movable member, which is formed when the exciting coil is energized, can be adjusted in a state in which the sealing member and the inner cover are installed to the intermediate member in which the driving portion and the relay portion are combined. Further, after the gap is adjusted, the external connection terminal fixed to the sealing member is joined to the fixed terminal, the sealing member is joined to the inner cover, and the arc extinguishing gas is injected into the sealed space formed by the sealing member and the inner cover. Thus, after the gap between the end portion of the shaft and the movable member is adjusted, the only process in which stress is likely to be applied to the driving portion or the relay portion is the joining of the external connection terminal to the fixed terminal, and thus the variation in the gap can be suppressed. Thus, the electromagnetic relay in the structure in which the driving portion and the relay portion are accommodated in the sealed space in which the arc extinguishing gas is sealed can reduce the variation in the gap of each product.

[0014] Further, the end portion of the shaft refers to the end portion of the insulating member such as an insulator, in the case in which the insulating member is fixed to the end portion of the shaft on the movable member side.

[0015] The manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay disclosed in the present specification includes the following processes. First, a driving portion is prepared, which is assembled with an exciting coil that forms a magnetic field by energization, a fixed core that is disposed on the inner diameter side of the exciting coil, a yoke that accommodates the exciting coil and the fixed core, a movable core that is relatively movable with respect to the fixed core, a shaft that is fixed to the movable core and is reciprocally movable in the axial direction, and a return spring that applies a force to the movable core in a direction away from the fixed core. A relay portion is prepared, which is assembled with a frame formed of an insulating material, a fixed terminal that is fixed to the frame, a movable member that is disposed on the side opposite to the movable core with respect to the fixed terminal and is relatively movable with respect to the fixed terminal, and a pressing spring that applies a force to the movable member toward the fixed terminal side. In a state in which a movable contact possessed by the movable member is brought into abutment with a fixed contact possessed by the fixed terminal and the movable portion is brought into abutment with the fixed core, the press-in amount of a claw portion provided in one of the yoke or the frame and a recess portion provided in the other of the yoke or the frame is adjusted so that the gap between the end portion of the shaft and the movable member is a predetermined size, and the driving portion and the relay portion are fixed. In a state in which an external connection terminal is inserted and penetrates a hole possessed by a plate-shaped sealing member, the sealing member and the external connection terminal are fixed. The sealing member in which the external connection terminal is fixed is disposed on the outer side of the relay portion and the driving portion, and the external connection terminal is joined to the fixed terminal. An inner cover that accommodates the driving portion and the relay portion on the inner side is joined to the sealing member, and a sealed space is formed on the inner side of the inner cover and the sealing member. The arc extinguishing gas is sealed in the sealed space formed on the inner side of the inner cover and the sealing member.

[0016] Thus, when the driving portion and the relay portion are fixed by press-fitting the claw portion provided in one of the yoke or the frame and the recess portion provided in the other of the yoke or the frame, the gap between the end portion of the shaft and the movable member is adjusted. Thereafter, the external connection terminal fixed to the sealing member is joined to the fixed terminal, and the sealing member is joined to the inner side cover, whereby the electromagnetic relay in which the driving portion and the relay portion are accommodated in the closed space in which the arc extinguishing gas is sealed is formed. Thus, after the gap is adjusted, the only process in which stress is applied to the driving portion or the relay portion is the process of joining the external connection terminal to the fixed terminal, and thus the gap can be inhibited from changing. Thus, the manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay in the structure in which the driving portion and the relay portion are accommodated in the closed space in which the arc extinguishing gas is sealed can reduce the deviation of the gap of each product.

[0017] In addition, the bracketed reference numerals attached to each constituent element or the like indicate one example of the corresponding relationship between the constituent element or the like and the specific constituent element or the like described in the embodiments described later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an off state of the electromagnetic relay according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an on state of the electromagnetic relay according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the III portion of Figure 2

[0021] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the IV-IV line of Figure 2

[0022] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the V-V line of Figure 2

[0023] Figure 6 is a flowchart of the manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 is a schematic view of a case in which the driving portion and the relay portion are fixed by press-fitting.

[0025] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the VIII-VIII line of Figure 7

[0026] Figure 9 is a schematic view of a state after the driving portion and the relay portion are press-fitted and fixed.

[0027] Figure 10 ​​​​is a schematic view of the case where the sealing member, the external connection terminal, the gas filling tube, and the frame member are joined.

[0028] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the state after the sealing member, the external connection terminal, the gas filling tube, and the frame member are joined.

[0029] Figure 12 is a schematic view of the case where the fixing terminal and the external connection terminal are joined.

[0030] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the state after the fixing terminal and the external connection terminal are joined.

[0031] Figure 14 is an explanatory view of the first example of the joining method of the external connection terminal and the fixing terminal.

[0032] Figure 15 is an explanatory view of the first example of the joining method of the external connection terminal and the fixing terminal.

[0033] Figure 16 is an explanatory view of the second example of the joining method of the external connection terminal and the fixing terminal.

[0034] Figure 17 is an explanatory view of the second example of the joining method of the external connection terminal and the fixing terminal.

[0035] Figure 18 is an explanatory view of the third example of the joining method of the external connection terminal and the fixing terminal.

[0036] Figure 19 is an explanatory view of the third example of the joining method of the external connection terminal and the fixing terminal.

[0037] Figure 20 is a schematic view of the case where the sealing member and the inner cover are joined.

[0038] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the state after the outer cover is removed in the XXI-XXI line section of Figure 2 .

[0039] Figure 22 is an explanatory view of the welding method of the frame member and the inner cover in the XXII section of Figure 21 .

[0040] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the XXI-XXI line of Figure 2 .

[0041] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the open state of the electromagnetic relay of the comparative example.

[0042] Figure 25 It is a cross-sectional view showing a closed state of an electromagnetic relay according to a comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] (First embodiment)

[0045] The first embodiment will be described. Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the electromagnetic relay 1 includes a drive unit 10 , a relay unit 20 , a press-fit fixing unit 30 , a sealing member 40 , an external connection terminal 50 , an inner cover 60 , an outer cover 70 , and the like.

[0046] The driving unit 10 included in the electromagnetic relay 1 includes an exciting coil 11 , a fixed core 12 , a yoke 13 , a movable core 14 , a shaft 15 , a return spring 16 , and the like.

[0047] The excitation coil 11 is wound around a bobbin 17 and formed into a substantially cylindrical shape. The excitation coil 11 generates a magnetic field when energized. The fixed core 12 and other components are disposed in a central hole 171 formed on the inner diameter side of the excitation coil 11, i.e., inside the bobbin 17.

[0048] The fixed core 12 is a cylindrical member made of a magnetic body and is formed to a size corresponding to the central hole 171 of the bobbin 17. The fixed core 12 has a through hole 121 along the central axis. A portion of the shaft 15 is slidably disposed in the through hole 121.

[0049] The yoke 13 is a member made of a magnetic body and houses the exciting coil 11 and the fixed core 12. The yoke 13 is arranged to cover the outer peripheral side and axial end portion of the exciting coil 11. The yoke 13 includes a first yoke component 131 and a second yoke component 132.

[0050] The first yoke member 131 is a member known as a stationary. It is formed by bending a magnetic plate into a roughly U-shape and covers the outer periphery and one axial end of the excitation coil 11. An opening 133 is formed in the first yoke member 131 in a portion covering the axial end of the excitation coil 11. A portion of the stationary core 12 is inserted into this opening 133, thereby joining the stationary core 12 to the first yoke member 131.

[0051] The second yoke member 132 is a member called a top plate, which is formed using a plate member made of a magnetic body, is connected to the first yoke member 131, and covers the other end side in the axial direction of the field coil 11. In the second yoke member 132, a yoke hole 134 is formed at a position corresponding to the fixed core 12 and the movable core 14. The shape of the inner periphery of the second yoke member 132 is a shape corresponding to the movable core 14.

[0052] The movable core 14 is a disc-shaped member made of a magnetic body, which is disposed in a position corresponding to the yoke hole 134 of the second yoke member 132 in a manner capable of moving relatively to the fixed core 12. The shape of the outer periphery of the movable core 14 is a shape corresponding to the shape of the inner periphery of the second yoke member 132. A through hole 141 is formed in the movable core 14, and the shaft 15 is fixed to the through hole 141 in a penetrating state.

[0053] The shaft 15 is fixed to the movable core 14 in a state of being inserted into the through hole 141 formed in the movable core 14. In addition, the portion of the shaft 15 on the fixed core 12 side is slidably inserted into the through hole 121 formed in the fixed core 12. Therefore, the shaft 15 is capable of reciprocating in the axial direction integrally with the movable core 14.

[0054] In addition, a flange portion 151 in which the outer diameter is enlarged is formed on the shaft 15. The surface of the movable core 14 on the fixed core 12 side abuts against the flange portion 151. Therefore, positional deviation between the shaft 15 and the movable core 14 is prevented.

[0055] Further, the insulator 18 is fixed to the end portion of the shaft 15 on the side opposite to the fixed core 12. The insulator 18 abuts against the movable member 23 when no current is supplied to the field coil 11.

[0056] In addition, a spring holding portion 142 is provided at the portion of the movable core 14 on the field coil 11 side, and the return spring 16 is fitted into the spring holding portion 142. The spring holding portion 142 is composed of a protrusion protruding in a circular ring shape from one face of the movable core 14 on the return spring 16 side, and the return spring 16 is fitted into the outer peripheral face of the protrusion.

[0057] The return spring 16 has one end held by the spring holding portion 142 provided to the movable core 14, and the other end abuts against the stepped portion 172 provided to the bobbin 17. The return spring 16 exerts a force on the movable core 14 in a direction away from the fixed core 12.

[0058] The fixed core 12, the yoke 13, the movable core 14, and the like of the above-described drive unit 10 constitute a magnetic path through which the magnetic flux induced by the field coil 11 flows when current is supplied to the field coil 11.

[0059] As Figure 1As shown, when no current is supplied to the field coil 11, i.e., when no current is supplied, the movable core 14 is located at a position away from the fixed core 12 due to the force of the return spring 16. In contrast, as shown, when current is supplied to the field coil 11, i.e., when current is supplied, the movable core 14 is magnetically attracted to the fixed core 12 side against the force of the return spring 16, and thus the movable portion comes into abutment with the fixed core 12. Note that the movable portion refers to any one of the shaft 15, the movable core 14, and a component that moves integrally with them. The present embodiment is configured such that the flange portion 151 of the shaft 15, which constitutes the movable portion, comes into abutment with the fixed core 12, but is not limited thereto, and may, for example, be configured such that the movable core 14, which constitutes the movable portion, comes into abutment with the fixed core 12. Figure 2 As shown, when current is supplied to the field coil 11, i.e., when current is supplied, the movable core 14 is magnetically attracted to the fixed core 12 side against the force of the return spring 16, and thus the movable portion comes into abutment with the fixed core 12. Note that the movable portion refers to any one of the shaft 15, the movable core 14, and a component that moves integrally with them. The present embodiment is configured such that the flange portion 151 of the shaft 15, which constitutes the movable portion, comes into abutment with the fixed core 12, but is not limited thereto, and may, for example, be configured such that the movable core 14, which constitutes the movable portion, comes into abutment with the fixed core 12.

[0060] Next, as shown, Figures 1 to 4 The relay portion 20 included in the electromagnetic relay 1 has a frame 21, fixed terminals 22, a movable piece 23, a press spring 24, and the like.

[0061] The frame 21 is made of an insulating material such as resin. The frame 21 includes a base frame 25 and an intermediate frame 26. The base frame 25 and the intermediate frame 26 are fixed as one body. The base frame 25 is disposed so as to span the relay portion 20 and the drive portion 10. The intermediate frame 26 is disposed so as to cover a part of the fixed terminals 22, the movable piece 23, and the press spring 24.

[0062] The first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222 made of an electrically conductive metal are fixed to the base frame 25. These first fixed terminal 221 and second fixed terminal 222 are connected to an external circuit, which is not shown, that is the object of on / off control by the electromagnetic relay 1. A first fixed contact 271 is mounted on the first fixed terminal 221, and a second fixed contact 272 is mounted on the second fixed terminal 222. Note that the first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222 have a shape that extends in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface. Figure 1

[0063] The movable piece 23 is a plate-shaped member made of an electrically conductive metal, and is disposed on the side opposite to the movable core 14 with respect to the fixed terminals 22. The movable piece 23 is disposed so as to be movable in the axial direction of the shaft 15 with respect to the fixed terminals 22. The surface of the movable piece 23 on the fixed core 12 side is capable of coming into abutment with the insulator 18 fixed to the end portion of the shaft 15.

[0064] The first movable contact 281 and the second movable contact 282 are fixed to the movable piece 23. When current is supplied to the field coil 11, the first movable contact 281 is capable of coming into abutment with the first fixed contact 271, and the second movable contact 282 is capable of coming into abutment with the second fixed contact 272.

[0065] ​A ring-shaped groove 261 in which one end of the biasing spring 24 is inserted is formed in the center of the intermediate frame 26. With respect to the biasing spring 24, one end thereof is inserted into the ring-shaped groove 261, and the other end thereof abuts against the movable piece 23. The biasing spring 24 exerts a force on the movable piece 23 toward the shaft 15 side and the fixed terminal 22 side. Therefore, when the exciting coil 11 is energized, if the movable core 14 is magnetically attracted toward the fixed core 12 side, the movable piece 23 moves toward the fixed terminal 22 side due to the elastic force of the biasing spring 24. Also, the first movable contact 281 abuts against the first fixed contact 271, and the second movable contact 282 abuts against the second fixed contact 272. In addition, the elastic force of the biasing spring 24 is set to be smaller than the elastic force of the return spring 16.

[0066] As Figure 3 indicated in the structure of the present embodiment, a gap (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as "gap Gs") is formed between the insulator 18 provided at the end portion of the shaft 15 and the surface of the movable piece 23 on the shaft 11 side when the exciting coil 11 is energized. The gap Gs formed when the exciting coil 11 is energized increases the speed at which the movable contacts 281, 282 of the movable piece 23 are separated from the fixed contacts 271, 272 of the fixed terminal 22 when the energization of the exciting coil 11 of the drive portion 10 is cut off, and improves the current cut-off performance. In addition, the speed is determined by the elastic potential energy of the biasing spring 24 and the return spring 16 that abut against the movable piece 23, and the elastic potential energy thereof is determined by the size of the above-described gap Gs and the spring constant. In addition, the elastic potential energy and the kinetic energy have the following Equation 1.

[0067] 1 / 2 · k · x 2 = 1 / 2 · m · v 2 … (Equation 1)

[0068] In the above Equation 1, the left term indicates the elastic potential energy, and the right term indicates the kinetic energy. k is the spring constant. x is the distance of the gap Gs. v is the speed of separation.

[0069] Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described below, a structure is configured in which the occurrence of a deviation in the gap Gs of each product is reduced.

[0070] As Figure 4 indicated, the press-fitting fixed portion 30 includes a plurality of claw portions 31 provided to the magnetic yoke 13, and a plurality of recessed portions 32 provided to the base frame 25 and the intermediate frame 26, respectively.

[0071] The recess 32 provided to the base frame 25 is referred to as a first recess 321, the recess 32 provided to the intermediate frame 26 on the base frame 25 side is referred to as a second recess 322, and the recess 32 provided to the intermediate frame 26 at a position farther from the base frame 25 than the second recess 322 is referred to as a third recess 323. On the other hand, among the plurality of claw portions 31 provided to the magnetic yoke 13, the claw portion 31 provided to a position corresponding to the first recess 321, the second recess 322, and the third recess 323 is referred to as a first claw portion 311, a second claw portion 312, and a third claw portion 313, respectively. The first claw portion 311 is fixed to the first recess 321 by press-fitting, the second claw portion 312 is fixed to the second recess 322 by press-fitting, and the third claw portion 313 is fixed to the third recess 323 by press-fitting. Thereby, the above-mentioned relay portion 20 and the drive portion 10 are fixed.

[0072] In addition, in a state before the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60 are attached, the gap Gs between the end portion of the shaft 15 (i.e., the insulator 18) and the movable member 23 can be adjusted when the claw portion 31 and the recess 32 are press-fitted. The gap Gs is adjusted in the same state as when the field coil 11 is energized. Specifically, the relay portion 20 and the drive portion 10 are in the same state as when the field coil 11 is energized when the claw portion 31 and the recess 32 are press-fitted. The same state as when the field coil 11 is energized means a state in which the contact of the movable member 23 and the contact of the fixed terminal 22 of the relay portion 20 abut against each other and the movable portion of the drive portion 10 abuts against the fixed core 12. Also, by adjusting the press-fitting amount of the claw portion 31 and the recess 32 in such a way that the gap Gs is a predetermined size, the gap Gs can be set to a predetermined size. In addition, the adjustment of the gap Gs can be performed using, for example, a jig or a gauge that is not shown, or an image captured by a camera.

[0073] The sealing member 40, the external connection terminal 50, the inner cover 60, and the outer cover 70 described later are components that are assembled after the above-mentioned adjustment of the gap Gs.

[0074] The sealing member 40 is formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape from a material having insulating properties and not allowing the arc-extinguishing gas to pass through, such as ceramic. The sealing member 40 is provided outside the relay portion 20 and the drive portion 10. A plurality of holes 43 through which the external connection terminal 50, the coil external connection terminal 51, and the gas filling tube 52 are inserted and pass through are provided to the sealing member 40. The external connection terminal 50, the coil external connection terminal 51, and the gas filling tube 52 are fixed to the sealing member 40 in a state of being inserted and passing through the holes 43 of the sealing member 40 by brazing or the like. Also, the external connection terminal 50 is joined to the fixed terminal 22, and the coil external connection terminal 51 is joined to the terminal 111 of the field coil 11.

[0075] Here, if Figure 5 As shown, the engaging surfaces 22a, 50a of the fixed terminal 22 and the external connection terminal 50 are formed to be parallel to the axis Ax of the shaft 15. The engaging surfaces 22a, 50a extend parallel to the axis Ax. The fixed terminal 22 has a convex portion protruding toward the external connection terminal 50. The convex portion defines the engaging surface 22a. The external connection terminal 50 has a convex portion protruding toward the fixed terminal 22. The convex portion defines the engaging surface 50a. Thus, when the external connection terminal 50 is engaged with the fixed terminal 22, the stress acting on the fixed terminal 22 along the axial direction of the shaft 15 can be reduced. Therefore, when the external connection terminal 50 is engaged with the fixed terminal 22, the displacement of the fixed terminal 22 along the axial direction of the shaft 15 is suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the change of the gap Gs after the gap Gs is set.

[0076] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the inner cover 60 is formed into a box shape from a material, such as metal, that is impermeable to arc-extinguishing gas. The drive unit 10 and the relay unit 20 are housed inside the inner cover 60. The inner cover 60 has an opening on the side where the sealing member 40 is located. The sealing member 40 is located on the side of the opening of the inner cover 60. Furthermore, a flange 61 extending outward from the opening of the inner cover 60 is provided.

[0077] A frame member 41 is provided between the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60. The frame member 41 is made of a material such as metal that does not allow arc-extinguishing gas to pass through. The frame member 41 is formed into a ring shape with a size substantially the same as that of the opening of the inner cover 60. In the present embodiment, the cross section of the frame member 41 is formed into an L-shape. The entire circumference of one outer edge of the frame member 41 (i.e., one top end of the L-shape) is joined to the sealing member 40 by brazing. In addition, the entire circumference of the other outer edge of the frame member 41 (i.e., the other surface of the L-shape) is joined to the flange 61 of the inner cover 60 by resistance welding. Therefore, the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60 are airtightly joined via the frame member 41. Furthermore, a closed space sealed with arc-extinguishing gas is formed by the sealing member 40, the frame member 41 and the inner cover 60. The relay unit 20 and the drive unit 10 are accommodated in this closed space.

[0078] The outer cover 70 is formed into a box shape from an insulating material such as resin and is provided to cover the outer side of the inner cover 60. The outer cover 70 has an opening on the side where the sealing member 40 is located. The sealing member 40 is provided to close the opening of the outer cover 70. The outer edge 42 of the sealing member 40 is fixed to the inner wall of the opening of the outer cover 70 by fitting. Thus, the outer cover 70 and the sealing member 40 form the outer shell of the electromagnetic relay 1.

[0079] The electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment is configured according to the above configuration. Next, the operation of the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment will be described.

[0080] First, if Figure 1 As shown, when the excitation coil 11 is not energized, i.e., when it is de-energized, the movable core 14 is positioned away from the fixed core 12 due to the elastic force of the return spring 16. The insulator 18, fixed to the end of the shaft 15 (fixed to the movable core 14), abuts against the movable element 23, causing the movable element 23 to move away from the fixed terminal 22. Consequently, the first movable contact 281 and the second movable contact 282 are positioned away from the first fixed contact 271 and the second fixed contact 272. Consequently, the first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222 are electrically disconnected, and the electromagnetic relay 1 is in the off state.

[0081] Then, if Figure 2 As shown, to turn on electromagnetic relay 1, current is applied to excitation coil 11. This induced magnetic flux flows through the magnetic circuit formed by movable core 14, fixed core 12, and yoke 13. Moving core 14 is magnetically attracted toward fixed core 12, overcoming the force of return spring 16. Furthermore, as movable core 14 moves, shaft 15 and insulator 18 fixed to its end also move toward fixed core 12. Consequently, due to the force of compression spring 24, movable element 23 moves toward fixed terminal 22, causing first movable contact 281 to abut first fixed contact 271, and second movable contact 282 to abut second fixed contact 272. Consequently, electrical continuity is established between first fixed terminal 221 and second fixed terminal 222 via movable element 23, placing electromagnetic relay 1 in the on state. This electrically connects an external circuit (not shown) whose on / off control is performed by electromagnetic relay 1. In this state, a gap Gs of a predetermined size is formed between insulator 18 and movable element 23 at the end of shaft 15.

[0082] Next, to switch electromagnetic relay 1 from the on state to the off state, the power to excitation coil 11 is cut off. This dissipates the magnetic flux generated by the power to excitation coil 11, and the movable core 14 moves away from the fixed core 12 (i.e., toward the movable core 14) due to the elastic force of return spring 16. During this time, the movable core 14, shaft 15, and insulator 18 gain kinetic energy while moving by the distance of gap Gs, causing them to collide with movable element 23. Thus, when the electrical connection between first fixed terminal 221 and second fixed terminal 222 is severed, electromagnetic relay 1 enters the off state.

[0083] Next, refer to Figure 6 Flowchart and Figures 7 to 23 A method for manufacturing the electromagnetic relay 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the explanatory diagram of FIG.

[0084] First, in Figure 6In step S1, the driving portion 10 is prepared, in which the above-described exciting coil 11, the fixed core 12, the magnetic yoke 13, the movable core 14, the shaft 15, the return spring 16, and the like are assembled.

[0085] Next, in step S2, the relay portion 20 is prepared, in which the frame 21, the fixed terminal 22, the movable piece 23, the pressing spring 24, and the like are assembled.

[0086] Next, in step S3, the relay portion 20 and the driving portion 10 are fixed, and the gap Gs between the insulator 18 at the end portion of the shaft 15 and the movable piece 23 is set. Specifically, as shown in Figure 7 the first claw portion 311, the second claw portion 312, and the third claw portion 313 provided to the magnetic yoke 13 of the driving portion 10 are pressed and fixed to the first recess portion 321, the second recess portion 322, and the third recess portion 323 provided to the frame 21 of the relay portion 20, respectively. At this time, as shown in Figure 8 the relay portion 20 and the driving portion 10 are in the same state as at the time of energization. Specifically, the relay portion 20 is set to a state in which the contact of the movable piece 23 and the contact of the fixed terminal 22 abut against each other. Also, the driving portion 10 is set to a state in which the movable portion and the fixed core 12 abut against each other. The arrow PD indicates the insertion direction in the pressing-in process. In this state, as shown in Figure 9 the pressing-in amount of the claw portion 31 and the recess portion 32 is adjusted so that the gap Gs is a predetermined size. Thereby, the relay portion 20 and the driving portion 10 are fixed in a state in which the gap Gs is set to a predetermined size. That is, the pressing-in amount of the claw portion 31 and the recess portion 32 is adjusted to directly adjust the gap Gs to a target value, whereby it is possible to absorb the dimensional deviation of each component constituting the relay portion 20 and the driving portion 10 and the assembly deviation.

[0087] Next, in step S4 of Figure 6 the external connection terminal 50 and the like are fixed to the sealing member 40. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10 and Figure 11 the external connection terminal 50, the coil external connection terminal 51, and the gas filling tube 52 are inserted and passed through the plurality of holes 43 provided to the sealing member 40, and are fixed without a gap by brazing or the like. Also, the entire circumference of one outer edge (one top end portion of the L-shaped one) of the frame member 41 is joined to the sealing member 40 without a gap by brazing or the like. Thereby, as shown in Figure 11 the external connection terminal 50, the coil external connection terminal 51, the gas filling tube 52, and the frame member 41 are fixed to the sealing member 40.

[0088] Next, in step S5 of Figure 6In step S5, the external connection terminal 50 is joined with the fixed terminal 22. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13 the sealing member 40 is arranged outside the relay portion 20 and the drive portion 10, and the external connection terminal 50 is joined with the fixed terminal 22. In addition, the coil external connection terminal 51 is joined with the terminal 111 of the field coil 11.

[0089] Here, regarding the joining method of the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22, examples of various joining methods are described.

[0090] Figure 14 and Figure 15 A first example of the joining method of the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22 is shown. In addition, in Figure 14 , the arrow Ax indicates the axial direction of the shaft 15.

[0091] In this first example, the joining surface 50a provided at the end portion of the external connection terminal 50 is brought into abutment with the joining surface 22a provided at the end portion of the fixed terminal 22, these joining surfaces are pressed against each other, and joining is performed by ultrasonic welding. The arrow PD indicates the pressing direction in the pressing process. The arrow VD indicates the excitation direction in the ultrasonic application process. At this time, the joining surface 50a of the external connection terminal 50 and the joining surface 22a of the fixed terminal 22 are each formed to be parallel to the axis Ax of the shaft 15. Therefore, when the external connection terminal 50 is joined with the fixed terminal 22, the stress acting on the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is reduced, and displacement of the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is suppressed. Thus, it is possible to suppress changes in the gap Gs.

[0092] Figure 16 and Figure 17 A second example of the joining method of the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22 is shown.

[0093] In this second example, a hole 50b is provided at the end portion of the external connection terminal 50, and a protruding portion 22b is provided at the end portion of the fixed terminal 22. Then, after the end portion of the external connection terminal 50 is heated to expand the hole 50b, the protruding portion 22b of the fixed terminal 22 is inserted into the hole 50b. Figure 16 The arrow HT in indicates the heating process for expanding the hole 50b. Then, the end portion of the external connection terminal 50 is cooled, and the external connection terminal 50 is joined with the fixed terminal 22 using the compressive stress thereof. Therefore, in the joining method of this second example, the thermal stress or mechanical stress acting on the fixed terminal 22 is smaller than the thermal stress or mechanical stress acting on the external connection terminal 50. Thus, when the external connection terminal 50 is joined with the fixed terminal 22, the stress acting on the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is reduced, and displacement of the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is suppressed. Figure 17 The arrow TD in FIG. 22 indicates a compression direction in which the protrusion 22b is fastened. Thus, the gap Gs can be inhibited from changing.

[0094] Figure 18 and Figure 19 A third example of a joining method of the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22 is shown. Also in this third example, the axial direction of the shaft 15 is indicated by the arrow Ax. Figure 18

[0095] In this third example, a groove 50c is provided at the end portion of the external connection terminal 50, and a protrusion 22c is provided at the end portion of the fixed terminal 22. Then, after the protrusion 22c of the fixed terminal 22 is inserted into the groove 50c of the external connection terminal 50, riveting is performed from both sides of the external connection terminal 50, thereby joining the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22. In the joining method of this third example, the groove 50c of the external connection terminal 50 and the protrusion 22c of the fixed terminal 22 are each formed parallel to the axis Ax of the shaft 15. The groove 50c defines the above-mentioned joining surface 50a. The protrusion 22c defines the above-mentioned joining surface 22a. Thus, when the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22 are joined, stress acting on the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is reduced, and displacement of the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is inhibited. Figure 19 The arrow DD in FIG. 22 indicates a direction of plastic deformation in which the protrusion 22c is fastened. Thus, the gap Gs can be inhibited from changing.

[0096] Next, in step S6 of FIG. 6, the seal member 40 is joined to the inner cover 60. In the present embodiment, since the frame member 41 is provided on the seal member 40, the frame member 41 is joined to the inner cover 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, the L-shaped surface of the frame member 41 is joined to the flange 61 of the inner cover 60 by seam welding. Also in this case, the frame member 41 is formed of a metal material. Figure 6 Figure 20 Figure 21 Figure 22 Next, in step S6 of FIG. 6, the seal member 40 is joined to the inner cover 60. In the present embodiment, since the frame member 41 is provided on the seal member 40, the frame member 41 is joined to the inner cover 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, the L-shaped surface of the frame member 41 is joined to the flange 61 of the inner cover 60 by seam welding. Also in this case, the frame member 41 is formed of a metal material. Figure 22

[0097] Next, in step S6 of FIG. 6, the seal member 40 is joined to the inner cover 60. In the present embodiment, since the frame member 41 is provided on the seal member 40, the frame member 41 is joined to the inner cover 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, the L-shaped surface of the frame member 41 is joined to the flange 61 of the inner cover 60 by seam welding. Also in this case, the frame member 41 is formed of a metal material. Figure 6 ​​​​​In step S7, the arc extinguishing gas is sealed into the sealed space. As the arc extinguishing gas, for example, hydrogen is used. However, the arc extinguishing gas is not limited to this, and is a gas for extinguishing an arc. The arc extinguishing gas is filled into the sealed space through the gas filling tube 52 provided to the sealing member 40. After the arc extinguishing gas is filled into the sealed space, the gas filling tube 52 is plugged or the like to be closed. Thus, the arc extinguishing gas can be prevented from leaking from the sealed space.

[0098] Next, in step S8, the sealing member 40 is fixed to the outer cover 70. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the inner wall of the opening portion of the outer cover 70 is fixed to the outer edge portion 42 of the sealing member 40 by fitting. Thus, the electromagnetic relay 1 is completed. Figure 23

[0099] Here, for comparison with the electromagnetic relay 1 of the above-described embodiment, the electromagnetic relay 100 of a comparative example is described with reference to Figure 24 and Figure 25

[0100] In the electromagnetic relay 100 of the comparative example, the movable core 14 of the driving portion 10 is disposed on the side opposite to the relay portion 20 with respect to the fixed core 12. The reset spring 16 is provided between the movable core 14 and the fixed core 12. The movable core 14, the fixed core 12, and the reset spring 16 are accommodated inside the bottomed cylindrical portion 101 provided to the central hole of the exciting coil 11. The lead screw mechanism 102 is provided to the inner wall of the central hole of the movable core 14 and the outer wall of the shaft 15. The shaft 15 and the movable core 14 are fixed by the lead screw mechanism 102.

[0101] The first engaging member 103 in the shape of a plate is provided to the exciting coil 11 on the side of the relay portion 20. The second engaging member 104 in the shape of a cylinder is provided to the surface of the first engaging member 103 on the side opposite to the exciting coil 11. The sealing container 105 in the shape of a bottomed cylinder is provided to the portion of the second engaging member 104 on the side opposite to the first engaging member 103. The above-described bottomed cylindrical portion 101, the first engaging member 103, the second engaging member 104, and the sealing container 105 are hermetically engaged, and the sealed space in which the arc extinguishing gas is sealed is formed inside them.

[0102] ​​The first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222 are respectively inserted into and penetrate the inner side and the outer side of the sealed container 105, and are fixed to the sealed container 105. The movable part 23 is arranged on the side of the excitation coil 11 relative to the first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222. The movable part 23 has an insertion hole 231 in its central portion. The shaft 15 is inserted into and penetrates the insertion hole 231 of the movable part 23. In addition, a spring support portion 153 is provided between the movable part 23 and the fixed core 12 of the shaft 15. As for the pressure spring 24, one end thereof abuts against the movable part 23, and the other end thereof abuts against the spring support portion 153, applying force to the movable part 23 toward the front end side of the shaft 15. In addition, the elastic force of the pressure spring 24 is set to be smaller than the elastic force of the return spring 16.

[0103] like Figure 24 As shown, when the excitation coil 11 is not energized, i.e., when it is de-energized, the movable core 14 is positioned away from the fixed core 12 due to the force of the return spring 16. Consequently, the movable member 23 abuts and is supported by the front end of the shaft 15, moving away from the fixed terminal 22. Consequently, the first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222 are electrically disconnected, and the electromagnetic relay 100 of the comparative example is in the off state. In this state, the distance between the fixed core 12 and the movable core 14 is represented by A, and the distance between the movable contacts 281, 282 and the fixed contacts 271, 272 is represented by B.

[0104] In contrast, Figure 25 As shown, when current is applied to the excitation coil 11 (i.e., when electricity is turned on), the movable core 14 overcomes the force of the return spring 16 and is magnetically attracted to the side of the fixed core 12, thereby abutting against the fixed core 12. Consequently, the shaft 15 moves toward the fixed terminal 22, and the contacts of the movable member 23 abut against the contacts of the fixed terminal 22. Consequently, the first fixed terminal 221 and the second fixed terminal 222 are electrically connected via the movable member 23, and the electromagnetic relay 100 is in the on state. In this state, a gap Gs is formed between the front end of the shaft 15 and the movable member 23. This gap Gs is expressed by the following equation 2.

[0105] Gs = AB (Equation 2)

[0106] The electromagnetic relay 100 of the comparative example described above is configured to adjust the size of the gap Gs by the screw mechanism 102 provided on the inner wall of the center hole of the movable core 14 and the outer wall of the shaft 15. Therefore, the size of the gap Gs cannot be directly adjusted.

[0107] Further, the electromagnetic relay 100 of the comparative example is configured to form a sealed space that seals the arc extinguishing gas by joining the bottomed cylindrical portion 101, the first joining member 103, the second joining member 104, and the sealed container 105. Therefore, in the manufacturing process of the electromagnetic relay 100, after adjustment of the gap Gs is performed, if the plurality of members for forming the sealed space are joined, for example, by welding processing or the like, heat of the welding processing is transferred to the driving portion 10 or the relay portion 20, and it is likely that the gap Gs of each product deviates.

[0108] With respect to the electromagnetic relay 100 of the above comparative example, the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment functions as the following effects.

[0109] (1) The electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment is configured to, in the manufacturing process, set the relay portion 20 and the driving portion 10 to be in the same state as when energization to the field coil 11 is performed, and is able to adjust the press-in amount of the claw portion 31 and the recessed portion 32 and is able to adjust the gap Gs of the insulator 18 at the end portion of the shaft 15 and the movable member 23.

[0110] Thus, the electromagnetic relay 1 is able to perform adjustment of the gap Gs while adjusting the press-in amount of the claw portion 31 and the recessed portion 32 in a state in which the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60 are not yet attached to the intermediate member in which the driving portion 10 and the relay portion 20 are combined in the manufacturing process. Further, after the gap Gs is adjusted, the external connection terminal 50 fixed to the sealing member 40 is joined to the fixed terminal 22, the sealing member 40 is joined to the inner cover 60, and the arc extinguishing gas is injected to the sealed space formed by the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60. Therefore, after the gap Gs of the insulator 18 at the end portion of the shaft 15 and the movable member 23 is adjusted, the only process in which stress is likely to act on the driving portion 10 or the relay portion 20 is joining of the external connection terminal 50 to the fixed terminal 22, and thus the gap Gs is suppressed from changing. Therefore, the electromagnetic relay 1 is able to reduce deviation of the gap Gs in a structure in which the driving portion 10 and the relay portion 20 are housed in the sealed space in which the arc extinguishing gas is sealed.

[0111] Thus, the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment is able to suppress deformation caused by processing after adjustment of the gap Gs, does not need to make the return spring 16 and the field coil 11 large in order to take into account deviation of the gap Gs when satisfying a performance requirement value, and is able to reduce the volume of the electromagnetic relay 1. By making the volume of the electromagnetic relay 1 small, it is possible to suppress material costs, and thus reduce manufacturing costs. Further, since the electromagnetic relay 1 is able to be made lightweight, it is possible to improve fuel consumption of a vehicle in which the electromagnetic relay 1 is mounted.

[0112] (2) In the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment, the joint surfaces 22a, 50a between the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22 are formed parallel to the axis Ax of the shaft 15. Thus, when the external connection terminal 50 is joined to the fixed terminal 22, the stress acting on the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 can be reduced. Therefore, when the external connection terminal 50 is joined to the fixed terminal 22, displacement of the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is suppressed. Thus, displacement of the movable piece 23 abutting against the fixed terminal 22 in the state where the exciting coil 11 is energized can be prevented. Therefore, variation of the set gap Gs after the gap Gs is set can be suppressed.

[0113] (3) The electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment has the ring-shaped frame member 41 between the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60. The entire circumference of one outer edge of the frame member 41 is joined to the sealing member 40 by brazing, and the entire circumference of the other outer edge of the frame member 41 is joined to the flange 61 of the inner cover 60 by resistance welding.

[0114] Thus, in the case where the sealing member 40 is formed of an insulating material such as ceramic and the inner cover 60 is formed of metal, by providing the ring-shaped frame member 41 between the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60, a sealed space for sealing the arc-extinguishing gas can be reliably formed.

[0115] (4) The electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment includes the insulating outer cover 70. The outer cover 70 is joined to the sealing member 40, and the outer cover 70 and the sealing member 40 constitute the outer shape of the electromagnetic relay 1.

[0116] Thus, by joining both the inner cover 60 and the outer cover 70 to the sealing member 40, the number of components can be reduced. Further, by forming both the outer cover 70 and the sealing member 40 of insulating materials, short circuit between the electromagnetic relay 1 and an external electrical component can be prevented.

[0117] (5) In the manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment, the gap Gs is adjusted at the time of fixing the driving portion 10 and the relay portion 20 by press-fitting of the recessed portion 32 provided in the frame 21 and the claw portion 31 provided in the yoke 13. After that, the external connection terminal 50 fixed to the sealing member 40 is joined with the fixed terminal 22, and the sealing member 40 is joined with the inner cover 60, thereby forming the electromagnetic relay 1 in which the driving portion 10 and the relay portion 20 are housed in the sealed space. Therefore, the only process of applying stress to the driving portion 10 or the relay portion 20 after the adjustment of the gap Gs is the process of joining the external connection terminal 50 with the fixed terminal 22, and thus the change in the gap Gs is suppressed. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay 1, in the structure in which the driving portion 10 and the relay portion 20 are housed in the sealed space in which the arc-extinguishing gas is sealed, the variation in the gap Gs of each product can be reduced.

[0118] (6) In the manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment, in the joining method of the external connection terminal 50 and the fixed terminal 22, the thermal stress or the mechanical stress applied to the fixed terminal 22 is smaller than the thermal stress or the mechanical stress applied to the external connection terminal 50.

[0119] Thus, at the time of joining the external connection terminal 50 with the fixed terminal 22, the displacement of the fixed terminal 22 in the axial direction of the shaft 15 is suppressed. Therefore, the change in the gap Gs after the gap Gs is set can be suppressed.

[0120] (7) In the manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment, the joining of the inner cover 60 and the sealing member 40 is performed by the frame member 41. That is, a method in which, after the entire circumference of one outer edge of the frame member 41 is joined with the sealing member 40 by brazing, the entire circumference of the other outer edge of the frame member 41 is joined with the inner cover 60 by seam welding is adopted.

[0121] Thus, in the case where the sealing member 40 is formed of an insulating material such as ceramic, and the inner cover 60 is formed of metal, by providing the frame member 41 between the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60, the sealed space in which the arc-extinguishing gas is sealed can be reliably formed.

[0122] (8) The manufacturing method of the electromagnetic relay 1 of the present embodiment includes a process of joining the insulating outer cover 70 covering the inner cover 60 with the sealing member 40, and constituting the outer shape of the electromagnetic relay 1 with the outer cover 70 and the sealing member 40.

[0123] Thus, by joining both the inner cover 60 and the outer cover 70 to the sealing member 40, the number of components can be reduced. Further, by forming both the outer cover 70 and the sealing member 40 of an insulating material, the short circuit between the electromagnetic relay 1 and the electrical components outside can be prevented.

[0124] (Other Embodiments)

[0125] The disclosure of the present specification is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately changed within the scope recited in the claims.

[0126] (1) For example, the gap Gs can also be adjusted by adjusting the press-in amount of the insulator 18 with respect to the shaft 15.

[0127] (2) Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, the frame member 41 is provided between the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60, but is not limited thereto, and the frame member 41 can be removed, and the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60 can be directly joined. In this case, the sealed space that seals the arc-extinguishing gas is formed by the sealing member 40 and the inner cover 60.

[0128] (3) In addition, in the above-described embodiments, the structure in which the outer cover 70 having insulating properties is provided on the outer side of the inner cover 60 is provided, but is not limited thereto, and the outer cover 70 can be removed.

[0129] In addition, it is self-evident that, in each of the above-described embodiments, the elements constituting the embodiments are non-essential elements except for cases where it is particularly indicated that they are essential, cases where it is clearly recognized in principle that they are essential, and the like. In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, in cases where the number of elements constituting the embodiments, numerical values, quantities, ranges, and the like are mentioned, they are not limited to specific numerical values except for cases where it is particularly indicated that they are essential, cases where it is clearly limited to specific numerical values in principle, and the like. Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, when the shape, positional relationship, and the like of the elements constituting the embodiments are mentioned, they are not limited to the shape, positional relationship, and the like except for cases where it is explicitly indicated or clearly limited to specific shape, positional relationship, and the like in principle.

Claims

1. An electromagnetic relay, comprising: a drive unit comprising: an excitation coil that generates a magnetic field by supplying electricity, a fixed core disposed on the inner diameter side of the excitation coil, a yoke that accommodates the excitation coil and the fixed core, a movable core that is movable relative to the fixed core, a shaft that is fixed to the movable core and is reciprocable in the axial direction, and a return spring that urges the movable core in a direction away from the fixed core; a relay unit comprising: a frame formed of an insulating material, a fixed terminal fixed to the frame, a movable element provided on a side of the fixed terminal opposite to the movable core and movable relative to the fixed terminal, and a pressing spring for urging the movable element toward the fixed terminal; a press-fit fixing portion that fixes the driving portion and the relay portion by press-fitting a claw portion provided on one of the yoke and the frame with a recess provided on the other of the yoke and the frame; a plate-shaped sealing member disposed outside the relay unit and the driving unit; an external connection terminal fixed to the sealing member while being inserted through the hole of the sealing member and joined to the fixed terminal; and An inner cover is joined to the sealing member in a state where the driving unit and the relay unit are housed therein, and together with the sealing member, forms a sealed space inside for sealing the arc extinguishing gas; wherein, The electromagnetic relay is constructed so that, before the sealing member and the inner cover are installed, the movable contact of the movable part is in contact with the fixed contact of the fixed terminal and the movable part is in contact with the fixed core, and the pressing amount of the claw part and the recessed part can be adjusted, and the gap between the end of the shaft and the movable part can be adjusted.

2. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1, wherein: A joining surface between the external connection terminal and the fixed terminal is formed parallel to the axis of the shaft.

3. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1, further comprising an annular frame member, The frame member is provided between the sealing member and the inner cover. The entire circumference of one outer edge of the frame member is joined to the sealing member by brazing, and the entire circumference of the other outer edge of the frame member is joined to the inner cover by welding.

4. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 3, wherein: The entire circumference of the other outer edge of the frame member is joined to the inner cover by resistance welding.

5. The electromagnetic relay according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an insulating outer cover covering the inner cover. The outer cover and the sealing member are fixed to each other, and the outer shell of the electromagnetic relay is formed by the outer cover and the sealing member.

6. A method for manufacturing an electromagnetic relay, comprising: A drive unit is prepared, the drive unit being assembled with: an excitation coil that generates a magnetic field when energized; a fixed core disposed on the inner diameter side of the excitation coil; a yoke that accommodates the excitation coil and the fixed core; a movable core that is movable relative to the fixed core; a shaft that is fixed to the movable core and is reciprocable in the axial direction; and a return spring that urges the movable core in a direction away from the fixed core. preparing a relay unit, the relay unit being assembled with: a frame formed of an insulating material, a fixed terminal fixed to the frame, a movable element provided on a side of the fixed terminal opposite to the movable core and movable relative to the fixed terminal, and a biasing spring for urging the movable element toward the fixed terminal; The movable contact of the movable member is brought into contact with the fixed contact of the fixed terminal and the movable portion is brought into contact with the fixed core, and the pressing amount of a claw provided on one of the yoke or the frame and a recess provided on the other of the yoke or the frame is adjusted so that the gap between the end of the shaft and the movable member has a predetermined size, thereby fixing the driving portion and the relay portion. Fixing the sealing member and the external connection terminal in a state where the external connection terminal is inserted into and passes through the hole of the plate-shaped sealing member; disposing the sealing member to which the external connection terminal is fixed outside the relay unit and the driving unit, and joining the external connection terminal to the fixed terminal; joining an inner cover accommodating the driving unit and the relay unit therein to the sealing member to form a sealed space inside the inner cover and the sealing member; and Arc extinguishing gas is sealed in the sealed space formed inside the inner cover and the sealing member.

7. The method for manufacturing an electromagnetic relay according to claim 6, wherein: In the method of joining the external connection terminal and the fixed terminal, thermal stress or mechanical stress acting on the fixed terminal is smaller than thermal stress or mechanical stress acting on the external connection terminal.

8. The method for manufacturing an electromagnetic relay according to claim 6, wherein: The inner cover and the sealing member are joined by brazing an entire periphery of one outer edge of an annular frame member disposed between the sealing member and the inner cover to the sealing member, and then joining an entire periphery of the other outer edge of the frame member to the inner cover by welding.

9. The method for manufacturing an electromagnetic relay according to claim 8, wherein: The entire circumference of the other outer edge of the frame member is joined to the inner cover by resistance welding.

10. The method for manufacturing an electromagnetic relay according to any one of claims 6 to 9, further comprising: An insulating outer cover (70) covering the inner cover is joined to the sealing member, and the outer shell of the electromagnetic relay is formed by the outer cover and the sealing member (S8).

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