Contact arrangement and electromagnetic relay

Abstract

A contact device has a first fixed terminal, a movable contact configured to be in contact with or separated from the first fixed terminal, a spring provided below the movable contact and formed of metal, a holder having a bottom portion configured with the bottom portion positioned below the spring, and a resin member covering a part of the bottom portion of the holder, the holder having a higher thermal conductivity than the resin member, an upper surface of the bottom portion of the holder having an exposed portion exposed from the resin member, and the spring being in contact with the exposed portion of the bottom portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure broadly relates to contact devices and electromagnetic relays, and more specifically to contact devices having fixed terminals and electromagnetic relays having the aforementioned contact devices. Background Technology

[0002] The contact device described in Patent Document 1 includes a fixed contact, a movable contact, a spring support, and a contact pressure spring disposed between the movable contact and the spring support. The movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact and then separates from it. In the contact device of Patent Document 1, when the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact, the movable contact is electrically connected to the fixed contact.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-117809 Summary of the Invention

[0006] When current flows between the movable contact and the fixed contact, both the movable and fixed contacts heat up.

[0007] One aspect of the contact device disclosed herein includes: a first fixed terminal; a movable contact configured to contact or separate from the first fixed terminal; a spring disposed below the movable contact and formed of metal; a retainer having a bottom disposed such that the bottom is located below the spring; and a resin member covering a portion of the bottom of the retainer, the retainer having a higher thermal conductivity than the resin member, the upper surface of the bottom of the retainer having an exposed portion exposed from the resin member, and the spring contacting the exposed portion of the bottom.

[0008] One embodiment of the electromagnetic relay disclosed herein includes: the contact device described above; and an electromagnet device that causes the movable contact to contact the first fixed terminal or to separate the movable contact from the first fixed terminal. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of an electromagnetic relay according to one implementation method.

[0010] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A sectional view of line A-A.

[0011] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of an electromagnetic relay according to one implementation method.

[0012] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the main parts of a contact device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the retainer of a contact device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the main part of a contact device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a bottom view of the magnetic yoke of a contact device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a top view of the main parts of a contact device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along line B-B. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, elements common to each other in the embodiments described below will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of common elements will be omitted. The following embodiments are merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications can be made to the embodiments, depending on the design, etc., as long as the purpose of the present disclosure is achieved. The figures described in this disclosure are schematic, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure are not necessarily intended to reflect actual size ratios. Additionally, the arrows indicating directions are examples and are not intended to limit the direction of use of the electromagnetic relay 1. Furthermore, the arrows indicating directions in the drawings are merely illustrative and do not represent actual objects.

[0019] (1) Summary

[0020] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 This section provides an overview of the electromagnetic relay 1 in this embodiment. Figure 1 The electromagnetic relay 1 shown is, for example, equipped in an electric vehicle. The electromagnetic relay 1 switches, for example, the presence or absence of current supplied from the power source of the electric vehicle to the motor.

[0021] like Figure 2As shown, the electromagnetic relay 1 has a contact device 10 and an electromagnet device 7. The contact device 10 has a fixed terminal portion 2, a movable contact 3, a retainer 60, a resin member 64, and a spring 65. The fixed terminal portion 2 has a first fixed terminal 21 and a second fixed terminal 22, the first fixed terminal 21 having a first fixed contact 211, and the second fixed terminal 22 having a second fixed contact 221. Furthermore, the movable contact 3 has a first movable contact 31 and a second movable contact 32. The movable contact 3 is movable between a closed position where the first movable contact 31 is in contact with the first fixed contact 211 and the second movable contact 32 is in contact with the second fixed contact 221, and an open position where the first movable contact 31 is separated from the first fixed contact 211 and the second movable contact 32 is separated from the second fixed contact 221.

[0022] like Figure 4 As shown, the retainer 60 has a bottom 62. The bottom 62 has an exposed portion 621, which is exposed from the resin member 64. Detailed structure will be described later. The exposed portion 621 is located on the upper surface of the bottom 62, between the first protrusion 641 and the second protrusion 642. A spring 65 is disposed vertically between the retainer 60 and the movable contact 3, contacting the exposed portion 621 of the retainer 60 and the movable contact 3.

[0023] In this embodiment, the retainer 60 is formed of a metal such as SUS304. Therefore, the thermal conductivity of the retainer 60 is higher than that of the resin member 64. Since the lower end of the spring 65 contacts the exposed portion 621 of the retainer 60, the heat dissipation performance of the contact device 10 can be improved, for example, compared to the case where the lower end of the spring 65 only contacts the resin member. Furthermore, since the exposed portion 621 of this embodiment is metal, the heat resistance and durability of the contact device 10 can be improved compared to the case where the lower end of the spring 65 only contacts the resin member.

[0024] (2) Detailed Structure

[0025] The following is for reference Figures 2-9 The detailed structure of the electromagnetic relay 1 in this embodiment is explained.

[0026] Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to both the left-right and up-down directions is defined as the front-back direction. However, in this disclosure, "left-right direction" refers only to the orientation of the first fixed terminal 21 and the second fixed terminal 22. "Up-down direction" refers only to the direction of movement of the movable contact 3. "Front-back direction" refers only to the direction orthogonal to both the orientation of the first fixed terminal 21 and the second fixed terminal 22 and the direction of movement of the movable contact 3. The description of "left-right direction," "up-down direction," and "front-back direction" in this disclosure is not intended to limit the usage orientation of the contact device 10 and the electromagnetic relay 1.

[0027] Furthermore, the direction from the first fixed contact 211 toward the first movable contact 31 is defined as "downward", and the direction from the first movable contact 31 toward the first fixed contact 211 is defined as "upward". The direction from the first fixed terminal 21 toward the second fixed terminal 22 is defined as "right", and the direction from the second fixed terminal 22 toward the first fixed terminal 21 is defined as "left".

[0028] The arrows in the attached diagrams indicating left and right, up and down, and front and back are merely for illustrative purposes and do not represent actual objects.

[0029] In other words, in this disclosure, terms such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," and "back" are used to indicate direction, but these terms only indicate relative positional relationships and do not limit this disclosure. For example, if the electromagnetic relay 1 of this disclosure is installed at an angle, there may be a situation where the direction of the electromagnetic relay 1 in actual use is different from the direction of the electromagnetic relay 1 described in this disclosure.

[0030] (2.1) Components of an electromagnetic relay

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment includes a contact device 10 and an electromagnet device 7. The electromagnet device 7 separates the movable contact 3 from the fixed terminal portion 2. More specifically, the electromagnet device 7 performs at least one of the following actions: switching the position of the movable contact 3 to a closed position and switching the position of the movable contact 3 to an open position. The electromagnet device 7 of this embodiment includes a coil 71. For example, when the coil 71 is energized, the position of the movable contact 3 is switched from the open position to the closed position under the electromagnetic action of the coil 71. Furthermore, the electromagnet device 7 includes a return spring 75. When the coil 71 is not energized, the position of the movable contact 3 is switched from the closed position to the open position under the spring force of the return spring 75.

[0032] The electromagnetic relay 1 also has a housing 8. The housing 8 houses the contact device 10 and the electromagnet device 7.

[0033] The outer casing 8 has a first base 81 and a second base 82. The first base 81 is formed into a box shape with an opening on its lower surface. The second base 82 is formed into a box shape with an opening on its upper surface. The first base 81 and the second base 82 are joined at the periphery of their respective openings.

[0034] (2.2) Components of a contact device

[0035] like Figure 2As shown, the contact device 10 has a fixed terminal part 2, a movable contact 3, a magnetic shield 4, a housing 51, a connector 52, two permanent magnets 53, two bridging parts 54, a shielding member 55, a retaining member 60, a magnetic yoke 61, a resin member 64, and a spring 65.

[0036] (2.3) Fixed terminal section

[0037] As described above, the fixing terminal portion 2 has a first fixing terminal 21 and a second fixing terminal 22. The first fixing terminal 21 and the second fixing terminal 22 are arranged in a left-right direction, with the second fixing terminal 22 located to the right of the first fixing terminal 21. The first fixing terminal 21 and the second fixing terminal 22 are formed of a conductive material such as copper. The first fixing terminal 21 and the second fixing terminal 22 are disposed through the first base 81 and the housing 51. The first fixing terminal 21 and the second fixing terminal 22 are joined to the housing 51 by brazing, with their upper ends protruding from the upper surface of the housing 51 and the upper surface of the first base 81.

[0038] The first fixed terminal 21 is cylindrical with a lower surface. A first fixed contact 211 is formed at the lower end of the first fixed terminal 21. Alternatively, the first fixed contact 211 may also be mounted at the lower end of the first fixed terminal 21. The second fixed terminal 22 is cylindrical with a lower surface. A second fixed contact 221 is formed at the lower end of the second fixed terminal 22. Alternatively, the second fixed contact 221 may also be mounted at the lower end of the second fixed terminal 22.

[0039] (2.4) Movable contact

[0040] The movable contact 3 is formed, for example, of a conductive material such as copper. Alternatively, the movable contact 3 can be formed of a non-magnetic material. Figure 4 As shown, the movable contact 3 has a movable contact body 30, a first movable contact 31, a second movable contact 32, and a central portion 33. The movable contact body 30 is formed in a flat plate shape. The thickness direction of the movable contact body 30 is vertical. The length direction of the movable contact body 30 is horizontal.

[0041] The first movable contact 31 is formed at the left end of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30. That is, in this embodiment, the first movable contact 31 is a portion of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30. Alternatively, the first movable contact 31 may also be mounted at the left end of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30. The first movable contact 31 is opposite to the first fixed contact 211 in the vertical direction. More specifically, the first movable contact 31 is located at the first fixed contact 211 (see reference 211). Figure 2 Below ).

[0042] The second movable contact 32 is formed at the right end of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30. That is, in this embodiment, the second movable contact 32 is a portion of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30. Alternatively, the second movable contact 32 may also be mounted at the right end of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30. The second movable contact 32 is opposite to the second fixed contact 221 in the vertical direction. More specifically, the second movable contact 32 is located at the second fixed contact 221 (see reference 221). Figure 2 Below ).

[0043] The central portion 33 is the center and surrounding area of ​​the upper surface of the movable contact body 30 in the front-back, left-right, and other directions. The central portion 33 is, for example, a portion of the upper surface of the movable contact body 30 formed by... Figure 4 The area enclosed by the single-dot dashed line shown.

[0044] When the movable contact 3 is in the open position, the first fixed terminal 21 and the second fixed terminal 22 are not conductive. When the movable contact 3 is in the closed position (refer to...), Figure 2 The first fixed terminal 21 and the second fixed terminal 22 are in a conductive state by means of the movable contact 3.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the movable contact 3 also has a first protrusion 34 and a second protrusion 35 protruding from the lower surface of the movable contact body 30. The first protrusion 34 and the second protrusion 35 are arranged in a left-right direction, with the second protrusion 35 located to the right of the first protrusion 34.

[0046] (2.5) Magnetic shielding

[0047] The magnetic shield 4 is formed of magnetic materials such as electromagnetic soft iron or SPCC (Steel Plate Cold Commercial). The magnetic permeability of the magnetic shield 4 is higher than that of the movable contact 3.

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, the magnetic shielding member 4 has a first shielding portion 41, a second shielding portion 42, and two connecting portions 43. The first shielding portion 41 and the second shielding portion 42 are arranged in a left-right direction, with the second shielding portion 42 located to the right of the first shielding portion 41. The first shielding portion 41 is a rectangular plate. The left end of the first shielding portion 41 is bent downwards. The second shielding portion 42 is a rectangular plate. The right end of the second shielding portion 42 is bent downwards.

[0049] The first shielding part 41 is disposed below the first movable contact 31. The second shielding part 42 is disposed below the second movable contact 32. The first shielding part 41 has a fitting hole 44. The second shielding part 42 has a fitting hole 45. The first protrusion 34 of the movable contact 3 (see reference) Figure 2Inserted into the fitting hole 44, the second protrusion 35 of the movable contact 3 (refer to) Figure 2 Insert it into the fitting hole 45, so that the magnetic shield 4 is combined with the movable contact 3.

[0050] The magnetic shield 4 contacts the movable contact 3. More specifically, the upper surfaces of the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 contact the lower surface of the movable contact body 30.

[0051] Two connecting portions 43 are opposite each other in the front-to-back direction. Both connecting portions 43 have a length in the left-to-right direction. The left end of each connecting portion 43 is connected to the first shielding portion 41, and the right end of each connecting portion 43 is connected to the second shielding portion 42. One of the two connecting portions 43 protrudes upward from the front end of both the first shielding portion 41 and the front end of the second shielding portion 42. The other of the two connecting portions 43 protrudes upward from the rear end of both the first shielding portion 41 and the rear end of the second shielding portion 42.

[0052] The magnetic shielding component 4 has a through hole 46. The through hole 46 is located between the first shielding part 41 and the second shielding part 42. The spring 65, described later, passes through the through hole 46.

[0053] (2.6) Retaining element

[0054] like Figure 5 As shown, the retainer 60 has a bottom 62 and a pair of side plates 63.

[0055] The bottom 62 is a rectangular plate. The bottom 62 has an exposed portion 621. The exposed portion 621 is formed by the first protrusion 641 and the second protrusion 642 of the resin member 64 on the upper surface of the bottom 62 (see reference). Figure 6 The portion exposed from resin component 64 when covered. The exposed portion 621 is, for example, the portion covered by... Figure 5 The annular portion sandwiched between the double-dotted lines L1 and L2. Furthermore, the bottom 62 has a first hole 622 and multiple (in...) Figure 5 In this example, there are six second holes 623. The first hole 622 is a circular hole formed in the center of the bottom 62 in the front-back, left-right directions. The six second holes 623 are circular holes formed on the circumference centered on the first hole 622. The first hole 622 and the six second holes 623 are holes to be blocked by the resin component 64.

[0056] One of the pair of side plates 63 protrudes upward from the left and right portions of the front end of the bottom 62, and the other of the pair of side plates 63 protrudes upward from the left and right portions of the rear end of the bottom 62. The upper ends of the pair of side plates 63 are located relative to the movable contact 3 (see reference). Figure 2 The upper part of the upper surface of the pair of side plates 63 is located near the top. The upper ends of the pair of side plates 63 are connected to the magnetic yoke 61 (see reference). Figure 2 )welding.

[0057] The retaining member 60 in this embodiment is formed of a non-magnetic metallic material. Examples of non-magnetic metallic materials include austenitic stainless steel such as SUS304 and aluminum. Generally, metallic materials have a higher thermal conductivity than resins, thus improving the heat dissipation performance of the exposed portion 621.

[0058] Furthermore, the retainer 60 is formed from a single component. More specifically, the bottom 62 and the pair of side plates 63 are formed by bending a single sheet of non-magnetic metal. Because the retainer 60 is formed from a single component, heat can be easily released from the bottom 62 to the pair of side plates 63. In other words, by forming the retainer 60 from a single component, the heat dissipation performance of the exposed portion 621 can be improved.

[0059] (2.7) Resin components

[0060] Next, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 6 Description of resin component 64. Resin component 64 is formed, for example, from synthetic resin. Figure 4 As shown, the resin member 64 is integrally formed with the retainer 60 in such a way that it partially covers the upper and lower surfaces of the bottom 62 of the retainer 60. The resin member 64 retains the retainer 60. Figure 6 As shown, the resin component 64 has a base 640, a first protrusion 641 and a second protrusion 642, and a joint 643.

[0061] The base 640 is cylindrical with an upper surface. The connecting portion 643 protrudes downwards from the center of the base 640 in the front-back, left-right, and right directions. The connecting portion 643 is cylindrical and connects with the shaft 78 (see reference). Figure 2 (Combined)

[0062] The first protrusion 641 protrudes upward from the center of the base 640 in the front-back, left-right, and right directions, passing through the first hole 622 of the bottom 62 and protruding upward relative to the upper surface of the bottom 62. When viewed from above, the first protrusion 641 extends in a circular shape, partially covering the upper surface of the bottom 62. Figure 6 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the first protrusion 641 is T-shaped. Furthermore, the first protrusion 641 is surrounded by the spring 65 when viewed from above. In other words, the first protrusion 641 is surrounded by the spring 65 in the front-back and left-right directions. Further, the first protrusion 641 is located in the hollow portion of the spring 65.

[0063] The second protrusion 642 protrudes upward from the base 640 and passes through the six second holes 623 of the bottom 62 (see reference). Figure 5 ) and the area around the bottom 62, protruding upward relative to the upper surface of the bottom 62.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, when viewed from above, the second protrusion 642 is an annular shape with a circular inner circumference. The second protrusion 642 has a recess 641a (see reference). Figure 6 The inner periphery of the recess 641a is concentric with the outer periphery of the first protrusion 641, and the diameter of the inner periphery of the second protrusion 642 is larger than the diameter of the outer periphery of the first protrusion 641. Between the outer periphery of the first protrusion 641 and the inner periphery of the second protrusion 642, the exposed portion 621 of the bottom 62 is exposed, and the exposed portion 621 is annular.

[0065] (2.8) Spring

[0066] Spring 65 is, for example, a compression coil spring made of metal. Spring 65 is located below the movable contact 3 and above the bottom 62 of the retainer 60. Spring 65 passes through the through hole 46 of the magnetic shield 4. Spring 65 is positioned between the exposed portion 621 of the bottom 62 and the movable contact 3 with its extension direction pointing vertically. More specifically, the lower end of spring 65 contacts the exposed portion 621 of the bottom 62, and the upper end of spring 65 contacts the movable contact 3. The movable contact 3 is clamped between spring 65 and the magnetic yoke 61. Spring 65 functions as a contact pressure spring that applies an upward spring force to the movable contact 3.

[0067] (2.9) Magnetic yoke

[0068] The magnetic yoke 61 is formed of a magnetic material. Examples of magnetic materials include electromagnetic soft iron or SPCC (Steel Plate Cold Commercial). The magnetic yoke 61 is rectangular in shape. The magnetic yoke 61 has a protrusion 611 (see reference). Figure 7 The magnetic yoke 61 has a recess 612. The recess 612 is formed in the center of the upper surface of the magnetic yoke in the front-back and left-right directions, and is recessed downwards. When viewed from above, the recess 612 is circular in shape.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, the protrusion 611 is formed by protruding downward from the center of the lower surface of the magnetic yoke 61 in the front-back and left-right directions. When viewed from below, the protrusion 611 is circular in shape. In the vertical direction, at least a portion of the protrusion 611 overlaps with the recess 612. Furthermore, in the vertical direction, at least a portion of the protrusion 611 aligns with the shaft 78 (see reference). Figure 2 Furthermore, the protrusion 611 overlaps with the central portion 33 of the movable contact 3 (see reference 3) in the vertical direction. Figure 4 In contrast, the lower surface of the protrusion 611 in this embodiment is parallel to the upper surface (central part 33) of the movable contact 3.

[0070] In this embodiment, the protrusion 611, when the magnetic yoke 61 and the movable contact 3 move downwards, interacts with the central portion 33 of the movable contact 3 (see reference). Figure 4 In conventional contact devices, when the yoke and movable contact move downwards, the left or right end of the lower surface of the yoke may contact the movable contact, causing the movable contact to swing. Here, "swinging" includes the case where the first movable contact moves to a position higher than the second movable contact and the case where the first movable contact moves to a position lower than the second movable contact. In the contact device 10 of this embodiment, when the movable contact 3 moves downwards, the protrusion 611 of the yoke 61 (see reference 1)... Figure 7 It contacts the central part 33 of the movable contact 3, thereby reducing the swing of the movable contact 3.

[0071] As described above, the magnetic yoke 61 is welded to the upper ends of a pair of side plates 63 of the retainer 60. The magnetic yoke 61 is located above the upper surface of the movable contact 3. Figure 8 As shown, there are two welding tracks A1 and A2 between the magnetic yoke 61 and a pair of side plates 63. Welding track A1, located at the rear end of the magnetic yoke 61, runs along the upper edge of the magnetic yoke 61 in the left-right direction. In addition, welding track A2, located at the front end of the magnetic yoke 61, runs along the lower edge of the magnetic yoke 61 in the left-right direction.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, the magnetic yoke 61 is located above the upper surface of the movable contact 3. If the movable contact 3 is positioned above the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221 (refer to...) Figure 2 When they come into contact, current flows through them, and due to this current, an electromagnetic repulsive force is exerted between the movable contact 3 and the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221.

[0073] The two connecting parts 43 of the magnetic yoke 61 and the magnetic shield 4 (see reference) Figure 4 In contrast, the magnetic yoke 61 and the magnetic shield 4 form a magnetic circuit surrounding the movable contact 3. If current flows when the first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 are in contact with the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221, an attraction force generated by the magnetic force is generated between the magnetic yoke 61 and the magnetic shield 4. As a result, the movement of the movable contact 3 away from the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221 is restricted. Therefore, the possibility of arcing between the movable contact 3 and the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221 can be reduced.

[0074] (2.10) Shell

[0075] Next, refer to Figure 2The housing 51 is described below. The housing 51 is made of a heat-resistant material such as ceramic. The housing 51 is box-shaped with an open lower surface. The interior space of the housing 51 is a housing chamber 510 that houses the first fixed contact 211, the second fixed contact 221, and the movable contact 3. That is, the contact device 10 has a housing chamber 510. An arc-quenching gas such as hydrogen is sealed inside the housing chamber 510. Alternatively, the housing chamber 510 may not be sealed and may be open to the external environment.

[0076] (2.11) Connector

[0077] The connecting body 52 is rectangular in shape. The connecting body 52 is joined to the housing 51 by brazing. Furthermore, the connecting body 52 is joined to the yoke 74 of the electromagnet device 7 by welding. Thus, the connecting body 52 connects the housing 51 and the yoke 74.

[0078] (2.12) Two permanent magnets

[0079] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, two permanent magnets 53 are disposed and fixed between the outer surface of the housing 51 and the inner surface of the outer casing 8. The two permanent magnets 53 are arranged in a left-right direction. One of the two permanent magnets 53 (the first magnet) is disposed to the left front of the first movable contact 31. In addition, the other of the two permanent magnets 53 (the second magnet) is disposed to the right front of the second movable contact 32. The two permanent magnets 53 at least partially overlap with the magnetic shielding member 4 in the left-right direction.

[0080] The opposite poles of the two permanent magnets 53 are opposite to each other. For example, the N pole of the left permanent magnet 53 (the first magnet) faces right, and the S pole of the right permanent magnet 53 (the second magnet) faces left. The two permanent magnets 53 apply a magnetic field along the left-right direction to the space sandwiched between them. In addition, the aforementioned magnetic field is also distributed around the movable contact 3 (e.g., in front of the movable contact 3).

[0081] (2.13) Two bridging sections

[0082] Next, refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 The two bridging portions 54 are described. Both bridging portions 54 are formed of a magnetic material. When viewed from above, each bridging portion 54 is U-shaped. One of the two bridging portions 54 is positioned in front of the movable contact 3, and the other is positioned behind the movable contact 3. Furthermore, one of the two bridging portions 54 is positioned opposite each of the two permanent magnets 53 in the left-right direction. The two bridging portions 54 are arranged between the two permanent magnets 53. Moreover, one of the two bridging portions 54 holds the two permanent magnets 53. Together, the two bridging portions 54 and the two permanent magnets 53 form a ring-shaped magnetic circuit.

[0083] (2.14) Shielding components

[0084] The shielding member 55 is electrically insulating. The material of the shielding member 55 is, for example, ceramic or synthetic resin. The shielding member 55 is housed in the storage chamber 510 of the housing 51.

[0085] In the contact device 10, when the movable contact 3 moves from the closed position to the open position, an electric arc may occur between the first movable contact 31 and the first fixed contact 211, and between the second movable contact 32 and the second fixed contact 221. The arc extension range is limited by configuring the shielding member 55.

[0086] (2.15) Electromagnetic device

[0087] like Figure 2 As shown, the electromagnet device 7 includes a coil 71, a coil frame 72, a movable iron core 73, a yoke 74, a return spring 75, a cylindrical member 76, and a bushing 77. Furthermore, the electromagnet device 7 has a pair of coil terminals T1 connected to both ends of the coil 71 (see reference). Figure 3 The material of each coil terminal T1 is a conductive material such as copper.

[0088] The coil frame 72 is formed, for example, from synthetic resin. The coil frame 72 has a first flange 721, a second flange 722, and a cylindrical portion 723. A coil 71 is wound around the cylindrical portion 723. The first flange 721 extends radially outward from the upper end of the cylindrical portion 723. The second flange 722 extends radially outward from the lower end of the cylindrical portion 723.

[0089] The cylindrical component 76 is cylindrical with a lower surface. The cylindrical component 76 is housed in the cylindrical portion 723 of the coil holder 72.

[0090] The movable iron core 73 is formed of a magnetic material. The movable iron core 73 is cylindrical in shape. The movable iron core 73 is housed in a cylindrical member 76. A shaft 78 passes through the inside of the movable iron core 73, and the movable iron core 73 and the shaft 78 are connected together. A recess 731 is formed in the movable iron core 73, which is recessed downward from its upper surface.

[0091] The yoke 74 forms at least a portion of the magnetic circuit through which the magnetic flux generated by the coil 71 passes when the coil 71 is energized. The yoke 74 has a first yoke 741, a second yoke 742, and two third yokes 743. The first yoke 741, the second yoke 742, and the two third yokes 743 are formed in a plate shape.

[0092] The first yoke 741 is positioned vertically between the movable contact 3 and the coil 71. The first yoke 741 contacts the upper surface of the first flange 721 of the coil holder 72. The first yoke 741 is rectangular in shape. A through hole 744 is formed in the center of the first yoke 741. The shaft 78 passes through the through hole 744.

[0093] The second yoke 742 contacts the lower surface of the second flange 722 of the coil frame 72. One of the two third yokes 743 extends from the left end of the second yoke 742 toward the first yoke 741. The other of the two third yokes 743 extends from the right end of the second yoke 742 toward the first yoke 741.

[0094] The return spring 75 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The first end of the return spring 75 in the extension / retraction direction (vertical direction) contacts the first yoke 741, and the second end contacts the bottom surface of the recess 731 of the movable core 73. The return spring 75 applies a spring force to the movable core 73, causing the movable core 73 to move downwards.

[0095] The shaft 78 is rod-shaped. The axial direction of the shaft 78 is vertical. The upper end of the shaft 78 connects to the resin component 64 at a joint 643 (see reference). Figure 6 The lower end of shaft 78 is engaged with movable iron core 73. When movable iron core 73 moves in the vertical direction, shaft 78, resin component 64, retainer 60, movable contact 3 held in retainer 60, and magnetic yoke 61 move together in the vertical direction. That is, shaft 78 causes movable contact 3 to contact and separate from first fixed contact 211 and second fixed contact 221.

[0096] The bushing 77 is made of magnetic material. The bushing 77 is cylindrical in shape. The bushing 77 is disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the coil frame 72 and the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 76. The bushing 77, together with the movable iron core 73 and the yoke 74, forms the magnetic circuit through which the magnetic flux generated when the coil 71 is energized passes.

[0097] When coil 71 is energized, the magnetic flux generated by coil 71 passes through the aforementioned magnetic circuit, thus causing the movable iron core 73 to move in a manner that reduces the magnetic resistance of the aforementioned magnetic circuit. Specifically, when coil 71 is energized, the movable iron core 73 moves upward to fill the gap between the first yoke 741 and the movable iron core 73. More specifically, the electromagnetic force required to move the movable iron core 73 upward is greater than the force (spring force) that the return spring 75 uses to press the movable iron core 73 downward, thus causing the movable iron core 73 to move upward. Consequently, shaft 78, retainer 60, and movable contact 3 move upward. Therefore, movable contact 3 moves to the closed position. The spring force of spring 65 ensures the contact pressure between movable contact 3 and the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221.

[0098] When coil 71 changes from an energized state to an unenergized state, the electromagnetic force that caused the movable core 73 to move upward disappears, and therefore the movable core 73 moves downward due to the spring force of the return spring 75. Subsequently, shaft 78, retainer 60, and movable contact 3 move downward. Therefore, movable contact 3 moves to the open position.

[0099] (2.16) Behavior of electric arc

[0100] When the movable contact 3 moves from the closed position to the open position, an electric arc may occur between the first movable contact 31 and the first fixed contact 211 and between the second movable contact 32 and the second fixed contact 221.

[0101] like Figure 9 As shown, in the front-rear direction, the width of the two permanent magnets 53 is less than half the width of the outer shape of the housing 51. Furthermore, the rear ends of the two permanent magnets 53 are located forward of the center of the housing 51 (movable contact 3) in the front-rear direction. The two permanent magnets 53 apply a magnetic field along the left-right direction to the space in front of the movable contact 3 and its periphery. The electric arc generated between the first movable contact 31 and the first fixed contact 211 is stretched, for example, in the direction of arrow A3 (left rear) under the action of Lorentz force. Furthermore, the electric arc generated between the second movable contact 32 and the second fixed contact 221 is stretched, for example, in the direction of arrow A4 (right front) under the action of Lorentz force. By positioning the first magnet 531 to the left front of the first movable contact 31 and the second magnet 532 to the right front of the second movable contact 32, thus achieving the desired effect... Figure 9 As shown, the arc can be stretched along an inclined direction in the front-back or left-right direction. That is, by placing the first magnet 531 to the left front of the first movable contact 31 and the second magnet 532 to the right front of the second movable contact 32, the arc can be stretched longer compared to stretching the arc along the front-back or left-right direction, thereby improving the arc extinguishing performance.

[0102] In other words, the positional relationship between the first magnet 531 and the second magnet 532 and the side plate 63 of the retainer 60 is as follows: The two side plates 63 of the retainer 60 are opposite to each other, with the front side plate 63 located between the first magnet 531 and the second magnet 532, and the first magnet 531 and the second magnet 532 located at a position closer to the front side plate 63 than to the rear side plate 63.

[0103] (3) Effects

[0104] As described above, the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment includes a contact device 10 and an electromagnet device 7. The contact device 10 includes a fixed terminal portion 2 (first fixed terminal 21; second fixed terminal 22), a movable contact 3, a spring 65, a resin member 64, and a retaining member 60. The upper end of the spring 65 contacts the movable contact 3, and the lower end of the spring 65 contacts the exposed portion 621 of the retaining member 60. The thermal conductivity of the retaining member 60 is higher than that of the resin member 64. Furthermore, the electromagnet device 7 separates the movable contact 3 from the fixed terminal portion 2. For example, compared to the case where only the lower end of the spring 65 contacts the resin member 64, the heat dissipation performance of the contact device 10 can be improved.

[0105] Furthermore, the retainer 60 is made of metal. Generally speaking, metal has a higher thermal conductivity than resin or the like, thus further improving the heat dissipation performance of the contact device 10. In addition, for example, compared to the case where the retainer 60 is made of resin, the heat resistance and durability of the retainer 60 can be improved.

[0106] Furthermore, spring 65 is a helical spring, and the exposed portion 621 is annular in shape. By making the shapes of spring 65 and exposed portion 621 consistent, the contact area between spring 65 and exposed portion 621 is increased, making it easier to release heat from spring 65 to exposed portion 621.

[0107] Furthermore, the resin component 64 has a base 640 and a first protrusion 641. The first protrusion 641 protrudes upward from the base 640. The first protrusion 641 is located in the hollow portion of the spring 65. Since the first protrusion 641 is located in the hollow portion of the spring 65, the occurrence of misalignment of the spring 65 can be reduced.

[0108] Furthermore, the contact device 10 has a magnetic yoke 61. The magnetic yoke 61 is positioned above the movable contact 3. Two welding paths A1 and A2 between the magnetic yoke 61 and the retainer 60 run along the edge of the magnetic yoke 61 in the left-right direction. Since the magnetic yoke 61 and the retainer 60 are welded along the edge of the magnetic yoke 61, the bonding strength between the magnetic yoke 61 and the retainer 60 can be improved, for example, compared to the case where the magnetic yoke 61 and the retainer 60 are partially welded.

[0109] Furthermore, the retainer 60 is formed from a single component. Compared to the case where the bottom 62 is formed, for example, by two base plates, the contact area between the spring 65 and the bottom 62 is larger, making it easier to release heat from the spring 65 to the bottom 62.

[0110] Furthermore, the yoke 61 is configured to move vertically together with the movable contact 3. The yoke 61 has a protrusion 611. The protrusion 611 protrudes toward the movable contact 3. For example, when the yoke 61 moves downward, the protrusion 611 contacts the movable contact 3 first, thus reducing the oscillation of the movable contact 3 caused by the angle of the yoke 61 contacting the movable contact 3.

[0111] Furthermore, the movable contact 3 moves upward to contact the fixed terminal portion 2, and moves downward to separate from the fixed terminal portion 2. When the movable contact 3 moves downward, the protrusion 611 of the magnetic yoke 61 contacts the movable contact 3. When the magnetic yoke 61 moves downward, the protrusion 611 contacts the movable contact 3 first, thus reducing the oscillation of the movable contact 3 caused by the angle of the magnetic yoke 61 contacting the movable contact 3.

[0112] Furthermore, the contact device 10 has a shaft 78 (movable shaft). Shaft 78 causes the movable contact 3 to contact and separate from the fixed terminal portion 2. At least a portion of the protrusion 611 of the magnetic yoke 61 overlaps with the movable shaft in the vertical direction. The center of gravity of the movable contact 3 is generally located at the portion where the shaft 78 overlaps with the movable contact 3 in the vertical direction. For example, when the magnetic yoke 61 and the movable contact 3 move downward, the protrusion 611 of the magnetic yoke 61 first contacts the vicinity of the center of gravity of the movable contact 3, thus further reducing the oscillation of the movable contact 3.

[0113] Furthermore, the contact device 10 has two permanent magnets 53 (a first magnet 531 and a second magnet 532). Additionally, the fixed terminal portion 2 has a first fixed terminal 21 and a second fixed terminal 22. The first fixed terminal 21 has a first fixed contact 211. The second fixed terminal 22 is located to the right of the first fixed terminal 21 and has a second fixed contact 221. Furthermore, the movable contact 3 has a first movable contact 31 and a second movable contact 32. The first movable contact 31 is located below the first fixed contact 211. The second movable contact 32 is located below the second fixed contact 221. The first magnet 531 is located to the left front of the first movable contact 31. The second magnet 532 is located to the right front of the second movable contact 32. By stretching the arc generated when the first movable contact 31 and the second movable contact 32 sometimes separate from the first fixed contact 211 and the second fixed contact 221 respectively along the inclined direction in the front-back and left-right directions, the arc extinguishing performance can be improved.

[0114] (4) Variations

[0115] The above-described embodiments are merely one of the various embodiments of this disclosure. Various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments based on design and other factors, as long as they achieve the objectives of this disclosure.

[0116] The retainer 60 may preferably be formed of a high thermal conductivity resin that has a higher thermal conductivity than the resin component 64.

[0117] Furthermore, the retainer 60 is preferably formed from a single component, but it does not necessarily have to be formed from a single component. For example, the bottom 62 may also be formed of metal and the pair of side plates 63 may be formed of resin.

[0118] Furthermore, the retaining member 60 does not necessarily have to be formed integrally. For example, it can also be a pair of retaining members obtained by dividing the center of the retaining member 60 in the front-rear direction along the left-right direction. Alternatively, it can be a pair of retaining members obtained by dividing the center of the retaining member 60 in the left-right direction along the front-rear direction.

[0119] The two permanent magnets 53 may also be located behind the movable contact 3. That is, one of the two permanent magnets 53 (the first magnet 531) may be located to the left rear of the first movable contact 31. Alternatively, the other of the two permanent magnets 53 (the second magnet 532) may be located to the right rear of the second movable contact 32.

[0120] The number of permanent magnets 53 is not limited to two; it can be one or more.

[0121] (Summarize)

[0122] As described above, the contact device 10 of the first type includes: a first fixed terminal 21; a movable contact 3 configured to contact or separate from the first fixed terminal 21; a spring 65 disposed below the movable contact 3 and formed of metal; a retainer 60 having a bottom 62 disposed below the spring 65; and a resin member 64 covering a portion of the bottom 62 of the retainer. The thermal conductivity of the retainer 60 is higher than that of the resin member 64, and the upper surface of the bottom 62 of the retainer 60 has an exposed portion 621 exposed from the resin member 64, with the spring 65 contacting the exposed portion 621 of the bottom 62.

[0123] According to this method, for example, compared to the case where the lower end of the spring 65 only contacts the resin component 64, the heat dissipation performance of the contact device 10 can be improved.

[0124] In the contact device 10 of the second type, the retainer 60 is made of metal.

[0125] According to this method, metals generally have a higher thermal conductivity than resins, thus further improving the heat dissipation performance of the contact device 10. Furthermore, for example, compared to the case where the retainer 60 is formed of resin, the heat resistance and durability of the retainer 60 can be improved.

[0126] In the contact device 10 of the third type, the spring 65 is a helical spring. The exposed portion 621 is annular in shape.

[0127] According to this method, the contact area between the spring 65 and the exposed portion 621 is increased, which makes it easier to release heat from the spring 65 to the exposed portion 621.

[0128] In the contact device 10 of the fourth type, the spring 65 is a helical spring, and the resin member 64 has: a base 640; and a first protrusion 641 that protrudes upward from the base 640. The first protrusion 641 is disposed inside the spring 65 when viewed from above.

[0129] In this manner, the first protrusion 641 is located inside the spring 65 (coil spring), thus reducing the occurrence of misalignment of the coil spring.

[0130] The contact device 10 of the fifth type also has a magnetic yoke 61 disposed above the movable contact 3, and the retainer 60 also has two side plates 63 connected by a bottom 62. The magnetic yoke 61 is welded to the two side plates 63 respectively. The welding trajectory A1 of the magnetic yoke 61 and one side plate 63 extends along the edge of the magnetic yoke 61 opposite to one side plate 63, and the welding trajectory A2 of the magnetic yoke 61 and the other side plate 63 extends along the edge of the magnetic yoke 61 opposite to the other side plate 63.

[0131] According to this method, the magnetic yoke 61 and the retainer 60 are welded along the edge of the magnetic yoke 61, thereby improving the bonding strength between the magnetic yoke 61 and the retainer 60.

[0132] In the contact device 10 of the sixth embodiment, there is also a magnetic yoke 61 disposed above the movable contact 3. The magnetic yoke 61 is configured to move together with the movable contact 3 in the vertical direction, and the magnetic yoke 61 has a protrusion 611 protruding toward the movable contact 3.

[0133] According to this method, for example, when the yoke 61 moves downward, the protrusion 611 contacts the movable contact 3 first, thus reducing the swaying of the movable contact 3 caused by the contact of the angle of the yoke 61 with the movable contact 3.

[0134] In the contact device 10 of the seventh type, the retainer 60 is formed by bending a single component.

[0135] According to this method, compared with the case where the bottom 62 is formed by, for example, two base plates, the contact area between the spring 65 and the bottom 62 becomes larger, making it easier to release heat from the spring 65 to the bottom 62.

[0136] In the contact device of the eighth method, the first fixed terminal 21 is located above the movable contact 3. When the movable contact 3 moves upward, it contacts the first fixed terminal 21. When the movable contact 3 moves downward, it separates from the first fixed terminal 21. When the movable contact 3 moves downward, the protrusion 611 of the magnetic yoke 61 contacts the movable contact 3.

[0137] According to this method, when the yoke 61 moves downward, the protrusion 611 contacts the movable contact 3 first, thus reducing the swaying of the movable contact 3 caused by the contact of the angle of the yoke 61 with the movable contact 3.

[0138] The contact device 10 of the ninth type also has a shaft 78 that allows the movable contact 3 to contact the first fixed terminal 21 or to separate the movable contact 3 from the first fixed terminal 21. When viewed from above, the shaft 78 is arranged to overlap with the protrusion 611 of the magnetic yoke.

[0139] In this manner, at least a portion of the protrusion 611 overlaps with the movable shaft (shaft 78), thus further reducing the oscillation of the movable contact 3.

[0140] The contact device 10 of the tenth type further includes: a first magnet 531; a second magnet 532 configured such that the opposite poles of the second magnet 532 and the first magnet 531 face each other; and a second fixed terminal 22. The retainer 60 also has two side plates 63, with the bottom 62 connected to the two side plates 63. The two side plates 63 face each other, with one side plate 63 located between the first magnet 531 and the second magnet 532. The first magnet 531 and the second magnet 532 are respectively located at positions closer to one side plate 63 than to the other side plate 63.

[0141] According to this method, the arc extinguishing performance can be improved by stretching the arc generated when the first movable contact 31 separates from the first fixed contact 211 or the arc generated when the second movable contact 32 separates from the second fixed contact 221 along the inclined direction in the front-back and left-right directions.

[0142] Structures other than those in the first method are not necessary for the contact device 10 and can be appropriately omitted.

[0143] The electromagnetic relay 1 of the 11th type includes: a contact device 10 of any one of the 1st to 10th types; and an electromagnet device 7. The electromagnet device 7 causes the movable contact 3 to contact the first fixed terminal 21 or to separate the movable contact 3 from the first fixed terminal 21.

[0144] According to this method, the heat dissipation performance of the contact device 10 can be improved, for example, compared to the case where the lower end of the spring 65 only contacts the resin member 64.

[0145] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0146] 1. Electromagnetic relay; 10. Contact device; 21. First fixed terminal; 211. First fixed contact; 22. Second fixed terminal; 221. Second fixed contact; 3. Movable contact; 30. Movable contact body; 31. First movable contact; 32. Second movable contact; 531. First magnet; 532. Second magnet; 60. Retaining member; 61. Magnetic yoke; 611. Protrusion; 62. Bottom; 621. Exposed part; 622. First hole; 623. Second hole; 63. Side plate; 64. Resin component; 640. Base; 641. First protrusion; 642. Second protrusion; 65. Spring; 75. Return spring; 7. Electromagnet device; 75. Return spring; 78. Shaft; A1, A2. Welding trajectory.

Claims

1. A contact device, wherein, The contact device has: First fixed terminal; A movable contact is configured to contact or separate from the first fixed terminal; A helical spring, located below the movable contact, is made of metal; A retainer having a bottom located below the helical spring; as well as A resin component that covers a portion of the bottom of the retainer. The thermal conductivity of the retaining element is higher than that of the resin component. The upper surface of the bottom of the retainer has an exposed portion that is exposed from the resin component. A groove is formed by the upper surface of the bottom of the retainer and the resin member for the lower end of the helical spring to be disposed. The groove includes: The first side, which is located inside the helical spring, The second side, located outside the helical spring and opposite the first side across the helical spring; and The bottom surface connects the first side surface and the second side surface and contacts the lower end of the helical spring. The bottom surface of the groove includes the exposed portion of the retainer that connects to the lower ends of the first side surface and the second side surface. The helical spring contacts the exposed portion of the retainer.

2. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer is made of metal.

3. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The groove is annular in shape. The entire bottom surface of the groove is the exposed portion of the retainer.

4. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The resin component has: base; and The protrusion extends upward from the base. The protrusion is positioned inside the helical spring when viewed from above.

5. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The contact device also has a magnetic yoke located above the movable contact. The retainer also has a first side plate and a second side plate connected by the bottom. The magnetic yoke is welded to the first side plate and the second side plate. The welding trajectory between the magnetic yoke and the first side plate extends along the first edge of the magnetic yoke opposite to the first side plate. The welding trajectory of the magnetic yoke to the second side plate extends along the second edge of the magnetic yoke opposite to the second side plate.

6. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The contact device also has a magnetic yoke located above the movable contact. The magnetic yoke is configured to move together with the movable contact in the vertical direction. The magnetic yoke has a protrusion that extends toward the movable contact.

7. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer is formed by bending a single component.

8. The contact device according to claim 6, wherein, The first fixed terminal is located above the movable contact. The movable contact contacts the first fixed terminal when it moves upward, and separates from the first fixed terminal when it moves downward. When the movable contact moves downward, the protrusion of the magnetic yoke contacts the movable contact.

9. The contact device according to claim 6, wherein, The contact device also has a movable shaft that allows the movable contact to contact the first fixed terminal or to separate the movable contact from the first fixed terminal. When viewed from above, the movable shaft is configured to overlap with the protrusion of the magnetic yoke.

10. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The contact device also features: First magnet; A second magnet, configured such that the opposite poles of the second magnet and the first magnet are opposite each other; and Second fixed terminal, The retainer also has a first side plate and a second side plate. The bottom is connected to the first side plate and the second side plate. The first side plate and the second side plate are opposite to each other. The first side plate is located between the first magnet and the second magnet. The first magnet is located closer to the first side plate than to the second side plate, and the second magnet is located closer to the first side plate than to the second side plate.

11. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The resin component has a first protrusion disposed inside the helical spring and includes a first top surface located above the exposed portion of the retainer. The first side is the outer side of the first protrusion.

12. The contact device according to claim 11, wherein, The upper surface of the bottom of the retainer includes a portion embedded in the first protrusion at a position inside the helical spring compared to the first side.

13. The contact device according to claim 11, wherein, The resin component also has a base that contacts the lower surface of the bottom of the retainer. A through hole is formed at the bottom of the retainer, which passes through the lower surface of the retainer and the upper surface of the retainer. The first protrusion protrudes upward from the base through the through hole. The first protrusion has a first contact surface that contacts the upper surface of the bottom of the retainer. The first contact surface is connected to the first side surface of the groove.

14. The contact device according to claim 1, wherein, The resin component has a second protrusion disposed on the outside of the helical spring and includes a second top surface located above the exposed portion of the retainer. The second side is the inner side of the second protrusion.

15. The contact device according to claim 14, wherein, The upper surface of the bottom of the retainer includes a portion embedded in the second protrusion at a position outside the coil spring compared to the second side. The second protrusion has a second contact surface that contacts the upper surface of the bottom of the retainer. The second contact surface is connected to the second side surface of the groove.

16. An electromagnetic relay, wherein, This electromagnetic relay has the following characteristics: The contact device according to any one of claims 1 to 15; and An electromagnet device that causes the movable contact to contact the first fixed terminal or to separate the movable contact from the first fixed terminal.

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