Electromagnetic relay

Abstract

An electromagnetic relay includes: an excitation coil (100) that forms a magnetic field when energized; a shaft (60) passing through the central bore; a one-end-side movable part (23); one-end-side fixed parts (21, 22) facing the one-end-side movable parts; a plurality of other end side movable parts (43, 53); a plurality of other-end-side fixed sections (41, 42, 51, 52) facing the plurality of other-end-side movable sections move in a first direction as the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one-end-side movable sections are electrically connected to the one-end-side fixed sections, and the one-end-side movable sections are electrically connected to the one-end-side fixed sections as the shaft moves in a second direction from the one end side toward the other end side. The plurality of other-end-side movable parts move in the second direction, and the plurality of other-end-side movable parts are electrically connected to the plurality of other-end-side fixed parts.

Description

Citation of related applications

[0001] This application is based on patent application No. 2022-199675 filed in Japan on December 14, 2022, and the contents of the basic application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The disclosure described in this specification relates to an electromagnetic relay. Background Art

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an electromagnetic relay comprising two contact devices and an electromagnet device. Each contact device comprises a fixed terminal having a pair of fixed contacts and a movable portion having a pair of movable contacts. The two contact devices are arranged vertically apart. The electromagnet device is disposed between one contact device and the other contact device. The electromagnet device comprises: a first movable core portion, the first movable core portion being disposed above and fixed to a first axis extending in the vertical direction; a second movable core portion being disposed below and fixed to a second axis extending in the vertical direction; and an excitation coil.

[0004] The electromagnet device simultaneously moves upward along a first axis and downward along a second axis due to a magnetic field generated by the excitation coil when power is applied to the excitation coil. The first movable contact moves between a closed position in contact with the first fixed contact and an open position away from the first fixed contact in accordance with the movement of the first movable core. The second movable contact moves between a closed position in contact with the second fixed contact and an open position away from the second fixed contact in accordance with the movement of the second movable core. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-140207 Summary of the Invention

[0006] In an electromagnetic relay including a plurality of contact devices, it is necessary to prepare shafts according to the number of movable contacts.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electromagnetic relay that does not require shafts corresponding to the number of movable parts.

[0008] An electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an excitation coil, wherein the excitation coil forms a magnetic field when energized; a shaft extending in the axial direction and passing through the central hole with one axial end and the other axial end exposed from the central hole of the excitation coil; a one-end side movable portion, the one-end side movable portion being provided at one end and being movable in the axial direction; a first end side fixed portion, the first end side fixed portion being provided at a position farther from the excitation coil in the axial direction than the first end side movable portion and facing the first end side movable portion; a plurality of other-end-side movable portions, the plurality of other-end-side movable portions being provided at the other end and being movable in the axial direction; and a plurality of other end side fixing portions, the plurality of other end side fixing portions being arranged at positions farther away from the excitation coil in the axial direction than the plurality of other end side movable portions and facing the plurality of other end side movable portions; As the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one end side movable portion moves in the first direction, and the one end side movable portion is electrically connected to the one end side fixed portion. As the shaft moves in the second direction from the one end side toward the other end side, the plurality of other end side movable parts move in the second direction, and the plurality of other end side movable parts are electrically connected to the plurality of other end side fixed parts.

[0009] An electromagnetic relay having a common shaft for a one-end movable portion and a plurality of other-end movable portions can be provided. Since there is no need to prepare shafts corresponding to the number of movable portions, an increase in the number of components can be suppressed.

[0010] In addition, another aspect of the present disclosure includes an electromagnetic relay comprising: an excitation coil, wherein the excitation coil forms a magnetic field when energized; a shaft extending in the axial direction and passing through the central hole with one axial end and the other axial end exposed from the central hole of the excitation coil; a one-end side movable portion, the one-end side movable portion being provided at one end and being movable in the axial direction; a first end side fixed portion, the first end side fixed portion being provided at a position farther from the excitation coil in the axial direction than the first end side movable portion and facing the first end side movable portion; a second end side movable portion provided at the second end and movable in the axial direction; and The other end side fixing portion is provided at a position farther from the excitation coil in the axial direction than the other end side movable portion and is opposite to the other end side movable portion. As the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one end side movable portion moves in the first direction, and the one end side movable portion is electrically connected to the one end side fixed portion. As the shaft moves in the second direction from the one end side toward the other end side, the other end side movable portion moves in the second direction, and the other end side movable portion is electrically connected to the other end side fixed portion.

[0011] An electromagnetic relay having a common shaft for both the one-end movable portion and the other-end movable portion can be provided. Since there is no need to prepare shafts corresponding to the number of movable portions, an increase in the number of components can be suppressed.

[0012] In addition, the reference numerals in parentheses in the appended claims merely indicate the correspondence with the configurations described in the embodiments described later, and do not limit the technical scope in any way. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 This is a circuit diagram of a power conversion device using an electromagnetic relay. Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the non-energized state according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay when energized in the first embodiment. Figure 4 This is a top view of the one-end side fixing portion. Figure 5 It is a plan view showing the contact state between the one-end-side fixed portion and the one-end-side movable portion. Figure 6 It is a top view of the other end side fixing part. Figure 7 It is a plan view showing the contact state between the other end side fixed portion and the other end side movable portion. Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the non-energized state according to the second embodiment. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the second embodiment, in which one end side exciting coil is energized. Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the second embodiment, in which the other end side exciting coil is energized. Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the initial state according to the third embodiment. Figure 12 is a top view of the permanent magnet. Figure 13 is a top view of the permanent magnet. Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic relay in a series connection according to a third embodiment. Figure 15 It is a cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic relay in a series connection according to a third embodiment. Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the parallel connection according to the third embodiment. Figure 17It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the parallel connection according to the third embodiment. Figure 18 This is a circuit diagram of a power conversion device in a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments for implementing the present disclosure will be described. In each embodiment, portions corresponding to those described in a previous embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions may be omitted. When only a portion of a structure is described in each embodiment, the previously described other embodiments may be applied to the remaining portions of the structure.

[0015] Furthermore, not only the combinations of parts that can be combined are explicitly described in each embodiment, but also embodiments, embodiments and modifications, and modifications may be partially combined even without explicit description, as long as there is no hindrance to the combination.

[0016] (First embodiment) Electromagnetic relay 10 is a device that connects and disconnects the power supply to a specific device. Electromagnetic relay 10 is sometimes referred to as a relay. Electromagnetic relay 10 is suitable for use in, for example, inverter 4, which converts DC-AC power from batteries 2A and 2B and supplies it to a driving motor 5 installed in a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle. Figure 1 1 is a circuit diagram of a power conversion device 1 using an electromagnetic relay 10 . The electromagnetic relay 10 is disposed between the batteries 2A and 2B and the inverter 4 .

[0017] The electromagnetic relay 10 includes a series circuit contact device 20 and a parallel circuit contact device 30. The parallel circuit contact device 30 includes a first parallel circuit contact device 40 and a second parallel circuit contact device 50. Batteries 2A and 2B include a first battery 2A and a second battery 2B. The series circuit contact device 20 is provided between the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The negative electrode of the first battery 2A is connected to the first fixed portion 21 of the series circuit contact device 20 via a first connecting wiring 6. The positive electrode of the second battery 2B is connected to the second fixed portion 22 of the series circuit contact device 20 via a second connecting wiring 7. When the series circuit contact device 20 is in the on state, the first movable portion 23 of the series circuit contact device 20 contacts the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. Consequently, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0018] The positive electrode of the first battery 2A is connected to the inverter 4 via the positive bus bar 8. The negative electrode of the second battery 2B is connected to the inverter 4 via the negative bus bar 9. A smoothing capacitor 3 may be connected between the positive bus bar 8 and the negative bus bar 9.

[0019] Furthermore, a first parallel circuit contact device 40 is provided between the first connecting wiring 6 and the negative bus bar 9. The first connecting wiring 6 is connected to the third fixed portion 41 of the first parallel circuit contact device 40 via the third connecting wiring 11. The fourth fixed portion 42 of the first parallel circuit contact device 40 is connected to the negative bus bar 9 via the fourth connecting wiring 12. When the first parallel circuit contact device 40 is in the on state, the second movable portion 43 of the first parallel circuit contact device 40 contacts the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. This electrically connects the first connecting wiring 6 and the negative bus bar 9.

[0020] Similarly, a second parallel circuit contact device 50 is provided between the second connecting wiring 7 and the positive bus bar 8. The second connecting wiring 7 is connected to the fifth fixed portion 51 of the second parallel circuit contact device 50 via the fifth connecting wiring 13. The fifth fixed portion 51 of the second parallel circuit contact device 50 is connected to the positive bus bar 8 via the sixth connecting wiring 14. When the second parallel circuit contact device 50 is in the on state, the third movable portion 53 of the second parallel circuit contact device 50 contacts the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. This electrically connects the second connecting wiring 7 and the positive bus bar 8.

[0021] The power conversion device 1 also includes a control device 1A that detects the driving mode and charging mode and controls the connection and disconnection of the series circuit contact device 20 and the parallel circuit contact device 30 according to the mode. For example, when the control device 1A detects that the vehicle is in driving mode or high-voltage rapid charging mode, it controls the series circuit contact device 20 to be closed and the parallel circuit contact device 30 to be opened. In other words, when the control device 1A detects that the vehicle is in driving mode or high-voltage rapid charging mode, it controls the series circuit contact device 20 to be closed and the parallel circuit contact device 30 to be opened. That is, when the vehicle is in driving mode or high-voltage rapid charging mode, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0022] As another example, when the control device 1A detects that the vehicle is in the low-voltage rapid charging mode, it controls the series circuit contact device 20 to the open state and the parallel circuit contact device 30 to the closed state. In other words, when the control device 1A detects that the vehicle is in the low-voltage rapid charging mode, it controls the series circuit contact device 20 to the open state and the parallel circuit contact device 30 to the closed state. That is, when the vehicle is in the low-voltage rapid charging mode, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in parallel.

[0023] Furthermore, each mode occurs at a different time. Each mode does not occur at the same time. The series circuit contact device 20 and the parallel circuit contact device 30 will not be in the on state at the same time. The series circuit contact device 20 and the parallel circuit contact device 30 will not be in the off state at the same time.

[0024] The control device 1A described above is an electronic control unit (ECU). It provides a control system for the power conversion device 1. The control system includes at least one processing unit (CPU) and at least one storage device serving as a recording medium for storing programs and data. The control system is provided by a microcomputer equipped with a computer-readable recording medium.

[0025] A recording medium is a non-transitory, physical recording medium that non-temporarily stores a computer-readable program. The recording medium can be provided by, for example, a semiconductor memory or a magnetic disk. The control system can be provided by a single computer or a group of computer resources linked via a data communication device. The program, when executed by the control system, causes the control system to function as the apparatus described in this specification and to perform the method described in this specification.

[0026] The devices and / or functions provided by the control system can be provided solely by software recorded in an actual recording device and a computer executing the software, solely by software, solely by hardware, or a combination thereof. For example, the control system can be provided by logic of a so-called if-then-else form or by a neural network tuned through machine learning. Alternatively, for example, if the control system is provided by electronic circuits as hardware, it can be provided by digital circuits or analog circuits containing multiple logic circuits.

[0027] <Mechanical Structure of Electromagnetic Relay> Electromagnetic relay 10 includes a series circuit contact device 20, a parallel circuit contact device 30, and an electromagnet device 190. Electromagnet device 190 includes a shaft 60, a fixed yoke 70, a movable yoke 80, a magnetic circuit member 90, an excitation coil 100, a one-end contact pressure spring 130, a second-end contact pressure spring 140, a return spring 150, a retaining member 160, a base 170, and a power supply unit 180.

[0028] Hereinafter, the axial direction of the shaft 60 will sometimes be referred to as the X-direction. Furthermore, one axial end will sometimes be referred to as X-. The other axial end will sometimes be referred to as X+. The direction from the other axial end X+ toward the one axial end X- will sometimes be referred to as the first direction. The direction from the one axial end X- toward the other axial end X+ will sometimes be referred to as the second direction. Two mutually orthogonal directions perpendicular to the axial direction X will sometimes be referred to as the Y-direction and the Z-direction. The Y-direction will sometimes be referred to as the depth direction. The Z-direction will sometimes be referred to as the height direction.

[0029] The Y direction corresponds to the direction in which the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are arranged. The second movable portion 43 side is sometimes referred to as the Y-direction. The third movable portion 53 side is sometimes referred to as the Y+direction. The Z direction corresponds to the direction in which the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22, the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42, and the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are arranged. The first fixed portion 21, the third fixed portion 41, and the fifth fixed portion 51 side is sometimes referred to as the Z+direction. The second fixed portion 22, the fourth fixed portion 42, and the sixth fixed portion 52 side is sometimes referred to as the Z-direction.

[0030] Since the series circuit contact device 20 is located on one end side X- in the axial direction X of the shaft 60 (described later), the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are sometimes referred to as the one-end-side fixed portion. The first movable portion 23 is sometimes referred to as the one-end-side movable portion. Since the parallel circuit contact device 30 is located on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X, the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52 are sometimes referred to as the other-end-side fixed portion. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are sometimes referred to as the other-end-side movable portion.

[0031] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 in the non-energized state according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 when energized according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 It is a plan view of the one-end side fixing parts 21 and 22. Figure 5 It is a plan view showing the contact state between the one-end-side fixed portions 21 and 22 and the one-end-side movable portion 23 . Figure 6 It is a plan view of the other end side fixing parts 41 , 42 , 51 , and 52 . Figure 7 It is a plan view showing the contact state between the other end side fixed portions 41 , 42 , 51 , 52 and the other end side movable portions 43 , 53 .

[0032] As an example, the base 170 is formed into a cylindrical shape with both ends open in the axial direction X. A series circuit contact device 20 is disposed in the internal space at one end X- of the base 170. A parallel circuit contact device 30 is disposed in the internal space at the other end X+ of the base 170. A first parallel circuit contact device 40 and a second parallel circuit contact device 50 are arranged in the internal space at the other end X+ of the base 170 along the Y direction. A power supply 180 is disposed on the side of the base 170 to switch between energization and de-energization of the excitation coil 100. Disposed in the internal space between the one end X- and the other end X+ of the base 170 are a shaft 60, a fixed yoke 70, a movable yoke 80, a magnetic circuit member 90, the excitation coil 100, a first end contact pressure spring 130, a second end contact pressure spring 140, a return spring 150, and a retaining member 160.

[0033] The series circuit contact device 20 includes a first fixed portion 21, a second fixed portion 22, a first movable portion 23, and a first housing 24. The first housing 24 is primarily composed of a ceramic component. It is shaped like a bottomed box with an interior space. The first housing 24 is positioned on one end X- of the base 170, connecting the interior space of the first housing 24 with the central interior space of the base 170. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are located at the bottom of the first housing 24.

[0034] The first and second fixing portions 21, 22 are made of conductive metal members. They are positioned at the bottom, separated in the height direction HD to maintain electrical insulation. The first fixing portion 21 is positioned at the upper position Z+ in the height direction HD. The second fixing portion 22 is positioned at the lower position Z− in the height direction HD.

[0035] The first and second fixing portions 21, 22 are metal terminals into which fastening members such as bolts can be inserted from the outside. A portion of the first and second fixing portions 21, 22 are exposed from the bottom. The remaining portions of the first and second fixing portions 21, 22 are located within the interior space of the first housing 24.

[0036] The first movable portion 23 is formed of a conductive metal member. The first movable portion 23 is formed into a plate shape that extends in the height direction HD and is thin in the axial direction. The first movable portion 23 is positioned closer to the other end side X+ than the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 in the axial direction X. In other words, the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are positioned farther from the excitation coil 100 than the first movable portion 23 in the axial direction X. The first movable portion 23 is opposed to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 in the axial direction X.

[0037] Furthermore, a through-hole 23A is provided at the center of the first movable portion 23 in the height direction Z, through which the shaft 60 can pass. The diameter of the through-hole 23A is set larger than the diameter of the shaft 60. Therefore, the first movable portion 23 can slide along the shaft 60 in the axial direction X. In other words, the first movable portion 23 can move along the shaft 60 in the axial direction X.

[0038] The parallel circuit contact device 30 includes a third fixed portion 41, a fourth fixed portion 42, a fifth fixed portion 51, a sixth fixed portion 52, a second movable portion 43, a third movable portion 53, a second housing 31, and an insulating member 32. In other words, the parallel circuit contact device 30 includes a first parallel circuit contact device 40, a second parallel circuit contact device 50, a second housing 31, and an insulating member 32.

[0039] The second shell 31 is mainly composed of ceramic components. The second shell 31 is formed into a bottomed box-like shape with an internal space. The second shell 31 is arranged on the other end side X+ of the base 170 in a manner that connects the internal space of the second shell 31 with the internal space in the center of the base 170. The third fixing part 41, the fourth fixing part 42, the fifth fixing part 51 and the fifth fixing part 51 are arranged at the bottom of the second shell 31. As an example, the third fixing part 41 and the fourth fixing part 42 are arranged on the near front side Y- in the depth direction Y. The fifth fixing part 51 and the sixth fixing part 52 are arranged on the depth side Y+ in the depth direction Y. The third fixing part 41 and the fifth fixing part 51 are arranged on the upper side Z+ in the height direction Z. The fourth fixing part 42 and the sixth fixing part 52 are arranged on the lower side Z- in the height direction Z.

[0040] The third fixing portion 41, the fourth fixing portion 42, the fifth fixing portion 51, and the sixth fixing portion 52 are formed of conductive metal members. The third fixing portion 41 and the fourth fixing portion 42 are disposed at the bottom, separated in the height direction HD, to the extent that electrical insulation is maintained. The fifth fixing portion 51 and the sixth fixing portion 52 are disposed at the bottom, separated in the height direction HD, to the extent that electrical insulation is maintained. The third fixing portion 41 and the fourth fixing portion 42 are disposed at the bottom, separated in the depth direction, to the extent that electrical insulation is maintained from the fifth fixing portion 51 and the sixth fixing portion 52.

[0041] The third fixing portion 41, the fourth fixing portion 42, the fifth fixing portion 51, and the sixth fixing portion 52 are metal terminals into which fastening members such as bolts can be inserted from the outside. A portion of the third fixing portion 41, a portion of the fourth fixing portion 42, a portion of the fifth fixing portion 51, and a portion of the sixth fixing portion 52 are exposed from the bottom. The remaining portions of the third fixing portion 41, the fourth fixing portion 42, the fifth fixing portion 51, and the sixth fixing portion 52 are disposed within the interior space of the second housing 31.

[0042] The second movable portion 43 is formed of a conductive metal member. It is formed into a plate shape that extends in the height direction HD and is thin in the axial direction X. The second movable portion 43 is positioned closer to one end side X- than the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 in the axial direction X. In other words, the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are positioned farther from the excitation coil 100 in the axial direction X than the second movable portion 43. The second movable portion 43 and the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are positioned opposite each other in the axial direction X.

[0043] The third movable portion 53 is formed of a conductive metal member. It is formed into a plate shape that extends in the height direction HD and is thin in the axial direction X. The third movable portion 53 is axially positioned closer to the one end side X- than the fifth and sixth fixed portions 51, 52. In other words, the fifth and sixth fixed portions 51, 52 are positioned farther from the excitation coil 100 in the axial direction X than the third movable portion 53. The third movable portion 53 and the fifth and sixth fixed portions 51, 52 are positioned opposite each other in the axial direction X.

[0044] In addition, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are arranged separately in the depth direction Y to a degree that can maintain electrical insulation. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are held by the insulating member 32 in a state of being separated in the depth direction Y. The insulating member 32 is formed into a plate-like shape with a relatively thin thickness in the axial direction X. The second movable portion 43 is provided on the front side Y- of the insulating member 32 in the depth direction Y. The third movable portion 53 is provided on the depth side Y+ of the insulating member 32 in the depth direction Y. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are held by the insulating member 32 at the front side Y- and the depth side Y+ in the depth direction Y.

[0045] Furthermore, the insulating member 32 is provided with a through-hole 32A through which the shaft 60 can pass. The diameter of the through-hole 32A is set larger than the diameter of the shaft 60. Therefore, the insulating member 32 can slide along the shaft 60 in the axial direction. As described above, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are retained by the insulating member 32. Therefore, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 can slide along the shaft 60 in the axial direction X.

[0046] Furthermore, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the through-hole 32A in the depth direction Y. The distance between the center 43A in the height direction of the second movable portion 43 and the through-hole 32A is equal to the distance between the center 53A in the height direction of the third movable portion 53 and the through-hole 32A. In the depth direction Y, the center 43A in the height direction Z of the second movable portion 43, the through-hole 32A, and the center 53A in the height direction Z of the third movable portion 53 are aligned in a straight line.

[0047] The shaft 60 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction X. The first movable portion 23 passes through one end 61 of the shaft 60 in the axial direction X. The insulating member 32 passes through the other end 62 of the shaft 60 in the axial direction X. In addition, the one end 61 refers to a portion on the one end side having a length in the axial direction X. The other end 62 is a portion on the other end side having a length in the axial direction X. A flange is provided at the one end 61 for preventing the first movable portion 23 from falling off. A flange is provided at the other end 62 for preventing the insulating member 32 from falling off. The shaft 60 passes through the center hole portion 100A of the excitation coil 100 so that the one end 61 and the other end 62 of the shaft 60 are exposed from the center hole portion 100A.

[0048] Furthermore, a movable yoke 80 and a retaining member 160 are fixed to the shaft 60. The movable yoke 80 is fixed to the shaft 60 at a position closer to the one end side (X-) than the retaining member 160. In other words, the retaining member 160 is fixed to the shaft 60 at a position closer to the other end side (X+) than the movable yoke 80. Furthermore, the shaft 60 passes through the fixed yoke 70, the excitation coil 100, the one end side contact pressure spring 130, the other end side contact pressure spring 140, and the return spring 150.

[0049] The first movable portion 23 and the one-end contact pressure spring 130 extend through the area between the flange 61A on the one-end side X- of the shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80. The return spring 150 and the fixed yoke 70 extend through the area between the movable yoke 80 and the retaining member 160 of the shaft 60. The other-end contact pressure spring 140 and the insulating member 32 extend through the area between the retaining member 160 and the flange 62A on the other-end side X+ of the shaft 60.

[0050] Arranged in order from flange 61A on one end side X- toward flange 62A on the other end side X+ are the first movable portion 23, one end side contact pressure spring 130, movable yoke 80, return spring 150, fixed yoke 70, retaining member 160, other end side contact pressure spring 140, and insulating member 32. Furthermore, a magnetic circuit member 90 and an excitation coil 100 are provided in the radial direction of shaft 60 so as to overlap with a portion of movable yoke 80, return spring 150, and fixed yoke 70.

[0051] First, the excitation coil 100 will be described. The excitation coil 100 is a coil that generates a magnetic field when energized. The excitation coil 100 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction X. A center hole 100A extending axially therethrough is formed according to the inner diameter of the excitation coil 100. The movable yoke 80, the return spring 150, and a portion of the fixed yoke 70 are disposed in the center hole 100A.

[0052] The excitation coil 100 includes a bobbin 111 and a conductive wire 112. The bobbin 111 is a resin member. The bobbin 111 includes a cylindrical portion extending in the axial direction X and flange portions integrally formed at both ends of the cylindrical portion in the axial direction X. The center hole portion 100A is formed according to the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion. The excitation coil 100 is formed by winding the conductive wire 112 around the outer shape of the bobbin 111. The conductive wire 112 is wound in a manner along the circumference of the cylindrical portion of the bobbin 111.

[0053] Magnetic circuit member 90 is formed by bending a magnetic metal strip. With the strip bent toward one end (X-) into a roughly U-shape, magnetic circuit member 90 extends circumferentially to cover central hole 100A of excitation coil 100. Magnetic circuit member 90, along with fixed yoke 70 and movable yoke 80, forms a magnetic circuit.

[0054] The fixed yoke 70 is a cylindrical member that is arranged in the central hole portion 100A of the excitation coil 100 and extends in the axial direction X with a flange 71 on the other end side X. In addition, the fixed yoke 70 is sometimes also called a fixed core. As an example, the flange 71 of the fixed yoke 70 is fixed to the base 170. Therefore, the position of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X is restricted. In addition, the fixed yoke 70 only needs to be a structure that is restricted from moving in the axial direction X. The fixed yoke 70 is not limited to a structure that is fixed to the base 170.

[0055] The fixed yoke 70 is formed of a magnetic metal material. The fixed yoke 70 forms a magnetic circuit together with the magnetic circuit member 90. The shaft 60 passes through a fixed yoke hole 70A formed according to the inner diameter of the fixed yoke 70. The shaft 60 can pass through the fixed yoke hole 70A and move in the axial direction X.

[0056] A cylindrical recessed space, or recess 72, is formed at one end X-side of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X. A protruding portion 73 is formed around the recessed portion 72 to restrict radial movement of the return spring 150.

[0057] The movable yoke 80 is a cylindrical member extending in the axial direction X and arranged in the center hole 100A of the excitation coil 100. In addition, the movable yoke 80 is sometimes also called a movable core. The movable yoke 80 is formed of a magnetic metal material. The movable yoke 80 is a member that constitutes a magnetic circuit together with the fixed yoke 70 and the magnetic circuit member 90. The shaft 60 passes through the movable yoke hole 80A formed according to the inner diameter of the movable yoke 80. The movable yoke 80 is fixed to the shaft 60. The movable yoke 80 can move in the axial direction X together with the shaft 60.

[0058] The movable yoke 80 is arranged opposite the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X, with the return spring 150 interposed therebetween. The movable yoke 80 is magnetically connected to the fixed yoke 70 and the magnetic circuit member 90, and is attracted to the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X when power is supplied to the excitation coil 100. When power is supplied to the excitation coil 100, the movable yoke 80 can move toward the fixed yoke 70 together with the shaft 60. In other words, when power is supplied to the excitation coil 100, the movable yoke 80 can move toward the other end side X+ together with the shaft 60.

[0059] The one-end side contact pressure spring 130 is a spring member disposed between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80 and capable of compression in the axial direction X. The one-end side contact pressure spring 130 is formed in a spiral shape around the shaft 60, with the shaft 60 passing through its center. The other-end side contact pressure spring 140 is a spring member disposed in the recess 72 and between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80, capable of compression in the axial direction X. The other-end side contact pressure spring 140 is formed in a spiral shape around the shaft 60, with the shaft 60 passing through its center. The return spring 150 is a spring member disposed between the retaining member 160 and the insulating member 32 and capable of compression in the axial direction X. The return spring 150 is formed in a spiral shape around the shaft 60, with the shaft 60 passing through its center.

[0060] Retaining member 160 is fixed to shaft 60 and holds return spring 150 from one end side X-. Retaining member 160 is shaped like a mortar with a bottom at one end side X-. Return spring 150 is held within the interior of retaining member 160. Retaining member 160 regulates the axial (X) and radial positions of return spring 150.

[0061] <Electromagnetic relay when not powered> When power is not supplied from power supply unit 180 to excitation coil 100, first movable portion 23 contacts first fixed portion 21 and second fixed portion 22. In other words, when power is not supplied from power supply unit 180 to excitation coil 100, series circuit contact device 20 is in the closed state. When power is not supplied from power supply unit 180 to excitation coil 100, first battery 2A and second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0062] When de-energized, for example, the other-end contact pressure spring 140 maintains its natural length between the retaining member 160 and the insulating member 32. The one-end contact pressure spring 130 remains compressed between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80. The return spring 150 remains compressed between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0063] As described above, the position of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X is restricted. A return spring 150 is disposed in the recess 72 of the fixed yoke 70. Return spring 150 is compressed in the recess 72, biasing the movable yoke 80 from the other end side X+ toward the one end side X−, that is, in the first direction. The movable yoke 80 is pressed against the one end side contact pressure spring 130 by the first biasing force of return spring 150. This creates an air gap 81 between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0064] The first movable portion 23 then receives a pressing force from the movable yoke 80 via the one-end contact pressure spring 130, pressing it against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. Furthermore, the one-end contact pressure spring 130 is disposed between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80 to bias the first movable portion 23 in the first direction. The first movable portion 23 receives a second biasing force from the one-end contact pressure spring 130 in the first direction, causing it to contact the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. This ensures that the series circuit contact device 20 is in the closed state when de-energized.

[0065] <Electromagnetic relay when power is on> When power is supplied to the excitation coil 100 from the power supply 180, a magnetic circuit is formed via the fixed yoke 70, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit member 90. As described above, the wire 112 is wound around the bobbin 111. The end of the wire 112 is connected to the power supply 180. When current is supplied to the wire 112 in a clockwise direction as viewed from one end side X-, a magnetic circuit in a counterclockwise direction is formed on the upper side Z+, and a magnetic circuit in a clockwise direction is formed on the lower side Z- in a cross section obtained by cutting the wire 112 in a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y. As a result, an electromagnetic force is generated that acts from one end side X- to the other end side X+, that is, in the second direction.

[0066] The electromagnetic force causes the shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 to move in the second direction toward the fixed yoke 70. The shaft 60 moves along the second direction until the movable yoke 80 contacts the fixed yoke 70. When the movable yoke 80 contacts the fixed yoke 70, the air gap 81 between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 disappears. Furthermore, a retaining member 160 that holds the return spring 150 is fixed to a portion of the shaft 60 that is closer to the other end side X+ than the fixed yoke 70.

[0067] As the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the retaining member 160 presses the return spring 150 and the second movable portion 43 in the second direction. The second movable portion 43 receives a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the return spring 150, and is pressed against the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 is biased in the second direction by the return spring 150, causing it to contact the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. That is, as the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the second movable portion 43 also moves in the second direction, and the second movable portion 43 is electrically connected to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42.

[0068] Simultaneously, the third movable portion 53 receives a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the return spring 150, pressing the third movable portion 53 against the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The third movable portion 53 is biased in the second direction by the return spring 150, causing it to contact the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. Specifically, as the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the third movable portion 53 also moves in the second direction, electrically connecting the third movable portion 53 to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in parallel.

[0069] In this embodiment, while power is being supplied from power supply unit 180 to excitation coil 100, second movable portion 43 remains in contact with third fixed portion 41 and fourth fixed portion 42. Third movable portion 53 remains in contact with fifth fixed portion 51 and sixth fixed portion 52. While power is being supplied from power supply unit 180 to excitation coil 100, parallel circuit contact device 30 remains in the on state. While power is being supplied from power supply unit 180 to excitation coil 100, first battery 2A and second battery 2B remain connected in parallel.

[0070] Furthermore, as described above, the distance between the through-hole 32A through which the shaft 60 passes and the center 43A of the second movable portion 43 in the height direction Z is equal to the distance between the through-hole 32A and the center 53A of the third movable portion 53 in the height direction Z. Therefore, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are equally biased by the return spring 150 passing through the shaft 60.

[0071] The second movable portion 43 applies pressure evenly to the third fixing portion 41 and the fourth fixing portion 42. The third movable portion 53 applies pressure evenly to the fifth fixing portion 51 and the sixth fixing portion 52. The pressure applied from the second movable portion 43 to the third fixing portion 41 and the fourth fixing portion 42 is equal to the pressure applied from the third movable portion 53 to the fifth fixing portion 51 and the sixth fixing portion 52.

[0072] Furthermore, when power is applied, the other-end contact pressure spring 140 remains compressed between the retaining member 160 and the insulating member 32. The one-end contact pressure spring 130 remains compressed between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80. The return spring 150 remains compressed between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0073] When the power supply 180 switches the excitation coil 100 from being energized to being non-energized, the electromagnetic force acting in the second direction disappears. Then, the other end side contact pressure spring 140, the return spring 150 and the one end side contact pressure spring 130 apply a force in the first direction toward their respective adjacent objects. Due to the force of the other end side contact pressure spring 140, the shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move in a manner away from the fixed yoke 70 in the first direction. The shaft 60 moves along the first direction to a position where the retaining member 160 contacts the fixed yoke 70. When the retaining member 160 moves to contact the fixed yoke 70, the air gap 81 between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 disappears.

[0074] The movable yoke 80 is pressed against the one-end contact pressure spring 130 by the force of the return spring 150. The first movable portion 23 is pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 by the pressure from the movable yoke 80 via the one-end contact pressure spring 130. This results in the first movable portion 23 being in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. That is, as the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the first movable portion 23 also moves in the first direction, electrically connecting the first movable portion 23 to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0075] In an electromagnetic relay different from the present embodiment, a method is employed in which a permanent magnet is placed near the fixed portion of the switching mechanism comprising a fixed portion and a movable portion. This method utilizes the magnetic field force of the permanent magnet to stretch and interrupt the arc generated during separation. However, this method requires an arc extinguishing device using a permanent magnet in addition to the switching mechanism, thus requiring a correspondingly large number of components. Furthermore, extinguishing the arc, which varies depending on the current flowing between the contacts, requires a complex design, which, depending on the situation, necessitates the electromagnetic relay to be larger.

[0076] On the other hand, the electromagnetic relay 10 of this embodiment is designed to connect the batteries 2A and 2B in series when not energized, and to connect the batteries 2A and 2B in parallel when energized. The electromagnetic relay 10 of this embodiment can be said to be specifically designed for switching between series circuits and parallel circuits. That is, even when the fixed part and the movable part are disconnected, the current flowing through the electromagnetic relay 10 is not cut off. Therefore, in the electromagnetic relay 10 specifically designed for switching between series circuits and parallel circuits, arc discharge is not easily generated, and there is no need to specifically provide a function to cut off the arc. Therefore, the electromagnetic relay 10 does not have components such as magnets for arc extinguishing. Therefore, the electromagnetic relay 10 can also reduce the number of components. In addition, the electromagnetic relay 10 is not limited to a structure without components such as magnets for arc extinguishing. The electromagnetic relay 10 can also have components such as magnets for arc extinguishing.

[0077] Effects The electromagnetic relay 10 includes a series circuit contact device 20, a parallel circuit contact device 30, a shaft 60, and an excitation coil 100. The excitation coil 100 generates a magnetic field when energized. The shaft 60 extends in the axial direction X. The shaft 60 passes through a center hole 100A, with one end 61 and the other end 62 of the shaft 60 in the axial direction X protruding from the center hole 100A. The series circuit contact device 20 includes a first fixed portion 21, a second fixed portion 22, and a first movable portion 23.

[0078] The first movable portion 23 is provided on one end side X- of the shaft 60. The first movable portion 23 is movable in the axial direction X. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are provided farther from the excitation coil 100 than the first movable portion 23. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are opposite to the first movable portion 23. The second movable portion 43 is provided on the other end side X+ of the shaft 60. The second movable portion 43 is movable in the axial direction X.

[0079] The third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are disposed farther from the excitation coil 100 than the second movable portion 43. The third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are opposed to the second movable portion 43. The third movable portion 53 is disposed on the other end side X+ of the shaft 60. The third movable portion 53 is movable in the axial direction X. The fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are disposed farther from the excitation coil 100 than the third movable portion 53. The fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are opposed to the third movable portion 53.

[0080] As the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the first movable portion 23 moves in the first direction, and the first movable portion 23 is electrically connected to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. As the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the second movable portion 43 moves in the second direction, and the second movable portion 43 is electrically connected to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. As the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the third movable portion 53 moves in the second direction, and the third movable portion 53 is electrically connected to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0081] Thus, in this embodiment, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 move in the second direction as the shaft 60 moves in the second direction due to the electromagnetic force of the magnetic field generated by energizing the excitation coil 100. By energizing the excitation coil 100, the second movable portion 43 is electrically connected to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is electrically connected to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0082] As the shaft 60 moves in the first direction due to the deenergization of the excitation coil 100, the first movable portion 23 moves in the first direction. The first movable portion 23 is electrically connected to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. This operation provides an electromagnetic relay 10 that uses a common shaft 60 for the first movable portion 23, the second movable portion 43, and the third movable portion 53. Since there is no need to prepare shafts 60 corresponding to the number of movable portions, an increase in the number of components can be suppressed.

[0083] Unlike the present embodiment, in a method in which the number of shafts 60 corresponding to the number of movable parts is required, since the excitation coil 100 needs to be provided around the plurality of shafts 60, the outer shape of the excitation coil 100 becomes larger. In addition, there are problems such as an increase in the amount of wire 112 used due to the portion where the magnetic efficiency angle difference occurs between the two shafts. In contrast, in the present embodiment, since the excitation coil 100 is provided around one shaft 60, the outer shape of the excitation coil 100 can be suppressed from becoming larger. In addition, the portion where the magnetic efficiency is poor can be suppressed. Miniaturization can be achieved while reducing the number of components. With this, cost reduction can also be expected.

[0084] Electromagnetic relay 10 is disposed between first battery 2A and second battery 2B and switches between series and parallel connection of the first and second batteries 2A and 2B. The first movable portion 23 moves in a first direction and electrically connects to the first and second fixed portions 21 and 22, connecting the first and second batteries 2A and 2B in series. The second and third movable portions 43 and 53 are electrically connected to the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth fixed portions 41, 42, 51, and 52, connecting the first and second batteries 2A and 2B in parallel.

[0085] The electromagnetic relay 10 of this embodiment is specifically designed for use in series-parallel switching circuits. In this application, the series circuit contact device 20, the first parallel circuit contact device 40, and the second parallel circuit contact device 50 are never simultaneously in the ON state. By sharing the shaft 60 of the movable portion of the three contact devices, it is possible to provide an electromagnetic relay 10 with a 3-in-1 structure, which can be expected to be compact and cost-effective due to the reduction in the number of components.

[0086] The distance between the through-hole 32A of the insulating member 32 and the center 43A of the second movable portion 43 and the distance between the through-hole 32A and the center 53A of the third movable portion 53 are equal. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are equally biased by the return spring 150. The second movable portion 43 exerts pressure equally on the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 exerts pressure equally on the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0087] The pressure applied from the second movable portion 43 to the third fixing portion 41 and the fourth fixing portion 42 is equal to the pressure applied from the third movable portion 53 to the fifth fixing portion 51 and the sixth fixing portion 52. This can suppress variations in the pressure applied to the third fixing portion 41, the fourth fixing portion 42, the fifth fixing portion 51, and the sixth fixing portion 52. This can also suppress variations in electrical connection.

[0088] The movable yoke 80 is fixed to the shaft 60. The movable yoke 80 is movable in the axial direction X together with the shaft 60. The fixed yoke 70 is provided on the shaft 60 at a position closer to the other end side X+ than the movable yoke 80. The position of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X can be limited. The fixed yoke 70 limits the movement of the movable yoke 80 in the second direction. The magnetic circuit component 90 is provided around the excitation coil 100. The magnetic circuit component 90, the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 together constitute a magnetic circuit.

[0089] When current is applied to the excitation coil 100, an electromagnetic force acting in the second direction is generated. This electromagnetic force causes the shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 to move from one end side X− to the other end side X+ toward the fixed yoke 70. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 contacts the fixed yoke 70. The second movable portion 43 contacts the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 contacts the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0090] Furthermore, when the excitation coil 100 is not energized, the return spring 150 applies a force to the movable yoke 80 in the first direction. The movable yoke 80 is pressed against the one-end contact pressure spring 130 by the force of the return spring 150. The first movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the movable yoke 80 via the one-end contact pressure spring 130, pressing the first movable portion 23 against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The one-end contact pressure spring 130 applies a force to the first movable portion 23 in the first direction. The first movable portion 23 contacts the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22.

[0091] In this embodiment, the switching between energizing and de-energizing the excitation coil 100 enables switching between the series circuit contact device 20 and the parallel circuit contact device 30. This switching can be performed using a single electromagnet device 190. Compared to a method requiring separate electromagnet devices 190 for each contact device, this reduces the number of components, leading to miniaturization and cost reduction. Furthermore, when the series circuit contact device 20 is in the on state, the spring-generated force maintains contact between the first movable portion 23 and the first and second fixed portions 21 and 22, thus achieving power savings.

[0092] (Second embodiment) The electromagnetic relay 10 of the second embodiment includes two fixed yokes 70, two excitation coils 100, two magnetic circuit members 90, two return springs 150, two retaining members 160, and two power supply portions 180. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the fixed yoke 70 on one end side X- will sometimes be referred to as the one-end-side fixed yoke 270. The fixed yoke 70 on the other end side X+ will sometimes be referred to as the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. The excitation coil 100 on one end side X- will sometimes be referred to as the one-end-side excitation coil 200. The excitation coil 100 on the other end side X+ will sometimes be referred to as the other-end-side excitation coil 400.

[0093] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of electromagnetic relay 10 in a non-energized state according to the second embodiment. Figure 9 1 is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 in the second embodiment, in which the one-end-side exciting coil 200 is energized. Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay in the second embodiment, in which the other end side exciting coil is energized.

[0094] In the second embodiment, a series circuit contact device 20 is provided in the internal space on one end side X- of the base 170. A parallel circuit contact device 30 is provided in the internal space on the other end side X+ of the base 170. Two power supply units 180 are provided on the side of the base 170. One of the power supply units 180 has the function of switching between energizing and de-energizing the excitation coil 200 on the one end side. The other power supply unit 180 has the function of switching between energizing and de-energizing the excitation coil 400 on the other end side.

[0095] The following primarily describes the structures that differ from the first embodiment. A portion of the shaft 60 closer to the one-end side X- than the portion where the movable yoke 80 is located extends from the other end side X+ toward the one-end side X-, passing through the return spring 150, the one-end side fixed yoke 270, the one-end side contact pressure spring 130, and the first movable portion 23. The return spring 150 is disposed in the recess 72 of the one-end side fixed yoke 270. The return spring 150 is maintained in a compressed state between the one-end side fixed yoke 270 and the movable yoke 80. The one-end side fixed yoke 270 and the movable yoke 80 are separated in the axial direction X by a first air gap 83.

[0096] A retaining member 160, which holds a spring, is fixed to the shaft 60 at a location closer to the one-end side X- than the one-end side fixed yoke 270. The retaining member 160 is formed in the shape of a mortar with a bottom at the other end side X+. The one-end side contact pressure spring 130 is retained within the interior space of the retaining member 160. The one-end side contact pressure spring 130 is held in a compressed state between the retaining member 160 and the first movable portion 23.

[0097] Similarly, a portion of the shaft 60 closer to the other end side X+ than the portion where the movable yoke 80 is located extends from the one end side X− toward the other end side X+, passing through the return spring 150, the other end side fixed yoke 470, the other end side contact pressure spring 140, and the insulating member 32. The return spring 150 is disposed in the recess 72 of the other end side fixed yoke 470. The return spring 150 is held in a compressed state between the other end side fixed yoke 470 and the movable yoke 80. The fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 are separated in the axial direction by a second air gap 84.

[0098] Furthermore, a retaining member 160 is fixed to the shaft 60 at a location closer to the other end side X+ than the other end side fixed yoke 470. This retaining member 160 is shaped like a mortar with a bottom at one end side X−. The other end side contact pressure spring 140 is retained within the interior space of the retaining member 160. The other end side contact pressure spring 140 is held in a compressed state between the retaining member 160 and the insulating member 32.

[0099] The magnetic circuit member 90 and the one-end-side excitation coil 200 are provided so as to radially overlap a portion of the one-end-side fixed yoke 270, the return spring 150, and a portion of the movable yoke 80. The magnetic circuit member 90 and the other-end-side excitation coil 400 are provided so as to radially overlap a portion of the other-end-side fixed yoke 470, the return spring 150, and a portion of the movable yoke 80.

[0100] The two excitation coils 100 are arranged along the axial direction X and pass through the shaft 60 so as to radially overlap with the fixed yoke 270 on one end, the movable yoke 80, and the fixed yoke 470 on the other end. A magnetic circuit member 90 is provided so as to cover the inner and outer diameters of the excitation coil 200 on one end and the other end X+. The magnetic circuit member 90 is provided so as to cover the inner and outer diameters of the excitation coil 400 on the other end and the one end X-. The two magnetic circuit members 90 are bent into a roughly U-shape and extend circumferentially so as to cover the excitation coils 200 and 400.

[0101] When both excitation coils 200 and 400 are de-energized, a first air gap 83 and a second air gap 84 are generated. The first movable portion 23 is in non-contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The second movable portion 43 is in non-contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is in non-contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0102] <Electromagnetic relay with one end of the excitation coil energized> When power is supplied from one power supply 180 to the one-end excitation coil 200, a magnetic circuit is formed via the one-end fixed yoke 270, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit member 90. When current flows clockwise through the conductive wire 112 as viewed from the one-end side X-, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the upper side Z+ and a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z- in a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y. This generates an electromagnetic force acting from the other end side X+ toward the one-end side X-.

[0103] The electromagnetic force causes the shaft 60 and movable yoke 80 to move in the first direction toward the one-end-side fixed yoke 270. The shaft 60 moves in the first direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 contacts the one-end-side fixed yoke 270. This eliminates the first air gap 83. Furthermore, a retaining member 160 that holds the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130 is fixed to the shaft 60 at a location closer to the one-end-side fixed yoke 270 than the one-end-side fixed yoke 270. As the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the retaining member 160 presses the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130 and the first movable portion 23 toward the one-end-side X-.

[0104] The first movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130, thereby being pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first movable portion 23 is biased toward the one-end side X- by the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130, causing it to contact the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first movable portion 23 maintains contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 while the one-end-side excitation coil 200 remains energized.

[0105] Specifically, the series circuit contact device 20 is in the ON state when power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the one-end side excitation coil 200. While power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the one-end side excitation coil 200, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are continuously connected in series.

[0106] Furthermore, when the power supply 180 switches the current flowing to the excitation coil 200 on one end to the current flowing to the non-energized state, the electromagnetic force acting in the first direction disappears. Then, the contact pressure spring 130 and the return spring 150 on the one end apply a force toward the adjacent object on the other end X+. This causes the first movable portion 23 to move away from the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are electrically disconnected.

[0107] <Electromagnetic relay when the excitation coil on the other end is energized> When power is supplied from the other power supply unit 180 to the other end-side excitation coil 400, a magnetic circuit is formed via the other end-side fixed yoke 470, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit member 90. When current flows clockwise through the conductive wire 112 as viewed from the other end side X+, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the upper side Z+ and a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z− in a cross-section taken along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction. This generates an electromagnetic force acting from one end side X− toward the other end side X+.

[0108] The electromagnetic force causes the shaft 60 and movable yoke 80 to move in the second direction toward the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 contacts the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. The second air gap 84 disappears. Furthermore, a retaining member 160 that holds the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140 is fixed to a portion of the shaft 60 closer to the other-end-side fixed yoke 470 than the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. As the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the retaining member 160 presses the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140 and the insulating member 32 toward the other-end-side X+.

[0109] The second movable portion 43 is pressed against the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 by the pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the other end side contact pressure spring 140. The second movable portion 43 is biased axially toward the other end side X+ by the other end side contact pressure spring 140, thereby contacting the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 maintains contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 while the other end side excitation coil 400 remains energized.

[0110] Similarly, the third movable portion 53 is pressed against the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 by receiving a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the other end side contact pressure spring 140. The third movable portion 53 is subjected to a force applied axially toward the other end side X+ from the other end side contact pressure spring 140, thereby contacting the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The third movable portion 53 maintains contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 while the other end side excitation coil 400 is energized. That is, when power is supplied from the power supply portion 180 to the other end side excitation coil 400, the parallel circuit contact device 30 is in the on state. While power is supplied from the power supply portion 180 to the other end side excitation coil 400, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are continuously connected in parallel.

[0111] Furthermore, when the power supply 180 switches the current flowing to the other end excitation coil 400, the electromagnetic force acting in the second direction disappears. Then, the other end contact pressure spring 140 and the return spring 150 on the other end X+ apply a force to the one end X- toward the adjacent object. This causes the second movable portion 43 to move away from the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 moves away from the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. This electrically disconnects the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B.

[0112] Due to this structure, the second embodiment also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, when the excitation coil 100 is de-energized, the fixed portion and movable portion are separated, so the power supply is cut off simultaneously with the power supply. This improves redundancy when the power is turned off.

[0113] In the second embodiment, when power is supplied to the other-end excitation coil 400, it is necessary to maintain contact between the second movable portion 43 and the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42, and between the third movable portion 53 and the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. Therefore, the number of turns of the conductive wire 112 in the other-end excitation coil 400 is greater than the number of turns of the conductive wire 112 in the one-end excitation coil 200. This makes the electromagnetic force in the second direction higher than the electromagnetic force in the first direction. The contact pressure between the movable portion and the fixed portion of each contact device is set to be approximately equal. This prevents deviations in the connection state between the movable portion and the fixed portion.

[0114] (Third embodiment) The following mainly describes the structure that differs from the second embodiment. The electromagnetic relay 10 in the third embodiment includes a permanent magnet 300 in addition to the components described in the second embodiment. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, only one power supply unit 180 is provided. The end of the other-end side excitation coil 400 is connected to the power supply unit 180. The other end of the other-end side excitation coil 400 is electrically connected to the end of the one-end side excitation coil 200.

[0115] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view of electromagnetic relay 10 in the initial state according to the third embodiment. Figure 12 is a top view of the permanent magnet 300 . Figure 13 is a top view of the permanent magnet 300 . Figure 14 1 is a cross-sectional view of electromagnetic relay 10 when connected in series according to the third embodiment. Figure 15 1 is a cross-sectional view of electromagnetic relay 10 when connected in series according to the third embodiment. Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view of electromagnetic relay 10 in parallel connection according to the third embodiment. Figure 17 It is a cross-sectional view of electromagnetic relay 10 in parallel connection according to the third embodiment.

[0116] A permanent magnet 300 is provided between two excitation coils 100 arranged along the axial direction X. The permanent magnet 300 has a through hole 300A in the axial direction X. As an example, the permanent magnet 300 is formed into a ring shape extending annularly around the axial direction. As another example, the permanent magnet piece 330 can also be formed into a roughly annular shape by being arranged in a ring shape with a gap 300B therebetween. As an example, the permanent magnet piece 330 can also be formed into a roughly fan-shaped shape when viewed from the axial direction X. The permanent magnet 300 is magnetized to produce an S pole 310 and an N pole 320 in the radial direction. The S pole 310 is arranged on the radial inner side, and the N pole 320 is arranged on the radial outer side.

[0117] The magnetic circuit member 90 includes an inner magnetic circuit member 91 and an outer magnetic circuit member 92. The inner magnetic circuit member 91 and the outer magnetic circuit member 92 are formed into a cylindrical shape. The inner magnetic circuit member 91 is arranged radially inside the two excitation coils 100. The outer magnetic circuit member 92 is arranged radially outside the two excitation coils 100. The inner magnetic circuit member 91 is arranged between the two excitation coils 100 and the permanent magnet 300 and the movable yoke 80. The outer magnetic circuit member 92 is arranged radially outside so as to overlap with the two excitation coils 100 and the permanent magnet 300.

[0118] When both excitation coils 100 are de-energized, for example in an initial state, a first air gap 83 is created between the fixed yoke 270 on one end and the movable yoke 80. A second air gap 84 is created between the fixed yoke 470 on the other end and the movable yoke 80. The first movable portion 23 is in non-contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The second movable portion 43 is in non-contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is in non-contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0119] <Electromagnetic relay when energizing a series circuit> When power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100 via the control device 1A, a magnetic circuit is formed via the fixed yoke 470 on the other end side, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit member 90. When the current is supplied in the counterclockwise direction as viewed from the other end side X+, in the cross section obtained by cutting the cross section by a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y, a magnetic circuit is formed in the counterclockwise direction at one end side X- on the upper side Z+ and the other end side X+. A magnetic circuit is formed in the clockwise direction at one end side X- on the lower side Z- and the other end side X+. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the magnetic circuit generated by the magnetic field generated by the excitation coil 100 is represented by a solid line.

[0120] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, a magnetic field is generated by the permanent magnet 300. In the accompanying drawings, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 300 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Since the radially inner side of the permanent magnet 300 corresponds to the north pole 320, and the radially outer side corresponds to the south pole 310, a magnetic field is generated clockwise from the north pole 320 toward the south pole 310 at the upper side Z+ of the other end side X+ in the axial direction X. A magnetic field is generated counterclockwise from the north pole 320 toward the south pole 310 at the lower side Z− of the other end side X+ in the axial direction X.

[0121] At Z+, above the other end X+ in the axial direction, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At Z+, above the other end X+ in the axial direction, the magnetic fluxes weaken each other. This can be said to cancel each other out. Furthermore, at Z-, below the other end X+ in the axial direction, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At Z-, below the other end X+ in the axial direction, the magnetic fluxes weaken each other. This can be said to cancel each other out.

[0122] On the other hand, at Z+ above one end X- in the axial direction, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At Z+ above one end X- in the axial direction, the magnetic fluxes mutually reinforce each other. This can also be said to be amplified. Furthermore, at Z- below one end X- in the axial direction, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At Z- below one end X- in the axial direction, the magnetic fluxes mutually reinforce each other. This can also be said to be amplified. This generates an electromagnetic force acting from the other end X+ toward the one end X-.

[0123] The electromagnetic force moves the shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 in the first direction toward the one-end fixed yoke 270. The shaft 60 moves in the first direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 contacts the one-end fixed yoke 270. The first air gap 83 disappears, and the second air gap 84 expands.

[0124] As the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the retaining member 160 presses the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130 and the first movable portion 23 toward the one-end side X-. The first movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130, pressing it against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first movable portion 23 is biased in the first direction by the one-end-side contact pressure spring 130, causing it to contact the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The series circuit is now closed.

[0125] As described above, the control device 1A has the function of switching between energizing and de-energizing the excitation coil 100. Upon detecting contact between the first movable portion 23 and the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22, the control device 1A de-energizes the excitation coil 100. In the third embodiment, even when energizing the excitation coil 100 is de-energized, the first movable portion 23 maintains contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. In other words, the series circuit remains connected.

[0126] When the power supply to the excitation coil 100 is cut off, Figure 15 As shown, only the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 300 is generated. When the series circuit is closed, the first air gap 83 is eliminated, and only the second air gap 84 is generated. In the magnetic field closer to the other end X+ than the permanent magnet 300, magnetic flux leaks into the second air gap 84. Therefore, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field at the other end X+ is lower than that of the magnetic field at the one end X−. In other words, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field at the one end X− is higher than that of the magnetic field at the other end X+.

[0127] The force with which the fixed yoke 270 on one end side attracts the movable yoke 80 is greater than the force with which the fixed yoke 470 on the other end side attracts the movable yoke 80. Furthermore, the force with which the fixed yoke 270 on one end side attracts the movable yoke 80 is always greater than the force with which the fixed yoke 470 on the other end side attracts the movable yoke 80. Thus, the movable yoke 80 can be kept attracted by the fixed yoke 270 on one end side. Even when the power to the excitation coil 100 is cut off, the first movable portion 23 is kept in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. In other words, the series circuit is kept connected.

[0128] <Electromagnetic relay when energizing a parallel circuit> Furthermore, when current is passed in a clockwise direction as viewed from the other end side X+ by the control device 1A, a magnetic circuit is formed in a clockwise direction between the one end side X- of the upper Z+ and the other end side X+ in a cross section cut along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y. A magnetic circuit is formed in a counterclockwise direction between the one end side X- of the lower Z- and the other end side X+. Furthermore, at the upper Z+ of the one end side X- in the axial direction X, a magnetic field is formed in a counterclockwise direction from the north pole 320 of the permanent magnet 300 toward the south pole 310. At the lower Z- of the one end side X- in the axial direction X, a magnetic field is formed in a clockwise direction from the north pole 320 of the permanent magnet 300 toward the south pole 310.

[0129] At Z+, above one end X- in the axial direction, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At Z+, above one end X- in the axial direction, the magnetic fluxes weaken each other. This can be said to cancel each other out. Furthermore, at Z-, below one end X- in the axial direction, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At X-, below one end X- in the axial direction, the magnetic fluxes weaken each other. This can be said to cancel each other out.

[0130] On the other hand, at the upper side Z+ of the other end side X+ in the axial direction X, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At the upper side Z+ of the other end side X+ in the axial direction X, the magnetic fluxes mutually reinforce each other. In other words, the magnetic flux is amplified. In addition, at the lower side Z- of the other end side X+ in the axial direction X, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. At the lower side Z- of the other end side X+ in the axial direction X, the magnetic fluxes mutually reinforce each other. In other words, the magnetic flux is amplified. This generates an electromagnetic force acting in the second direction.

[0131] The electromagnetic force causes the shaft 60 and movable yoke 80 to move in the second direction toward the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 contacts the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. The second air gap 84 disappears, and the first air gap 83 expands. As the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the retaining member 160 presses the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140 and the insulating member 32 toward the other-end side X+.

[0132] The second movable portion 43 receives a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140, and is pressed against the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 receives a force applied from the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140 in the axial direction X toward the other-end side X+, and contacts the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. Similarly, the third movable portion 53 receives a pressing force from the retaining member 160 via the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140, and is pressed against the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The third movable portion 53 receives a force applied from the other-end-side contact pressure spring 140 in the axial direction X toward the other-end side X+, and contacts the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The parallel circuit is now connected.

[0133] Upon detecting contact between the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 and the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52, the control device 1A de-energizes the excitation coil 100. In the third embodiment, even when de-energization of the excitation coil 100 is interrupted, the second movable portion 43 maintains contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 maintains contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. In other words, the parallel circuit remains connected.

[0134] When the power supply to the excitation coil 100 is cut off, Figure 17As shown, only the magnetic field excited by permanent magnet 300 is generated. When the parallel circuit is closed, second air gap 84 is absent, and only first air gap 83 is generated. In the magnetic path closer to one end X- than permanent magnet 300, magnetic flux leaks through first air gap 83. Therefore, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field at one end X- is lower than that of the magnetic field at the other end X+. In other words, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field at the other end X+ is higher than that of the magnetic field at one end X-.

[0135] The force with which the other-end-side fixed yoke 470 attracts the movable yoke 80 is greater than the force with which the one-end-side fixed yoke 270 attracts the movable yoke 80. In addition, the force with which the other-end-side fixed yoke 470 attracts the movable yoke 80 is always greater than the force with which the one-end-side fixed yoke 270 attracts the movable yoke 80. Thus, the movable yoke 80 can be kept attracted by the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. Even when the power to the excitation coil 100 is cut off, the second movable part 43 is kept in contact with the third fixed part 41 and the fourth fixed part 42. Even when the power to the excitation coil 100 is cut off, the third movable part 53 is kept in contact with the fifth fixed part 51 and the sixth fixed part 52. In other words, the parallel circuit is kept connected.

[0136] Because of this method, the third embodiment also has the same effect as the first embodiment. In addition, in the third embodiment, since the movable contact and the fixed contact are kept in contact even when the power to the excitation coil 100 is cut off, it is possible to further achieve power saving compared to the first embodiment.

[0137] (Fourth embodiment) Thus far, the electromagnetic relay 10 has been described as including the series circuit contact device 20 and the parallel circuit contact device 30. The parallel circuit contact device 30 described so far includes the first parallel circuit contact device 40 and the second parallel circuit contact device 50. However, the parallel circuit contact device 30 in the fourth embodiment may not include both the first parallel circuit contact device 40 and the second parallel circuit contact device 50. Figure 18This is a circuit diagram of a power conversion device 1 in a fourth embodiment. The parallel circuit contact device 30 in the fourth embodiment only needs to include one of the first parallel circuit contact device 40 and the second parallel circuit contact device 50. As an example, the electromagnetic relay 10 in the fourth embodiment includes a first contact device 420 equivalent to the series circuit contact device 20 and a second contact device 440 equivalent to the first parallel circuit contact device 40. In this case, the mechanical structure of the second contact device 440 is the same as that of the first contact device 420. The mechanical structure of the first contact device 420 is the same as that of the series circuit contact device 20, so its description is omitted.

[0138] In the fourth embodiment, batteries 2A and 2B include a first battery 2A and a second battery 2B. A first contact device 420 is provided between the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The negative electrode of the first battery 2A is connected to the first fixed portion 21 of the first contact device 420 via a first connecting wire 6. The positive electrode of the second battery 2B is connected to the second fixed portion 22 of the first contact device 420 via a second connecting wire 7. When the first contact device 420 is in the on state, the first movable portion 23 of the first contact device 420 contacts the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. Consequently, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0139] Furthermore, a second contact device 440 is provided between the first connecting wiring 6 and the negative bus bar 9. The first connecting wiring 6 is connected to the third fixed portion 41 of the second contact device 440 via the third connecting wiring 11. The fourth fixed portion 42 of the second contact device 440 is connected to the negative bus bar 9 via the fourth connecting wiring 12. When the second contact device 440 is in the on state, the second movable portion 43 of the second contact device 440 contacts the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. This electrically connects the first connecting wiring 6 and the negative bus bar 9. By using the electromagnetic relay 10 of the fourth embodiment, it is possible to switch between a current path passing through both the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B and a current path passing only through the first battery 2A.

[0140] Although not shown, the electromagnetic relay 10 in the fourth embodiment may also include a first contact device 420 and a third contact device 450 corresponding to the second parallel circuit contact device 50. In this case, the electromagnetic relay 10 in the fourth embodiment can switch between a power path that passes through both the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B and a power path that passes only through the second battery 2B. In this manner, the electromagnetic relay 10 need not switch between the series and parallel connection of the batteries 2A and 2B as described so far. It suffices to ensure that the electromagnetic relay 10 can switch between at least two power paths.

[0141] Although the present disclosure is described based on the embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and structures. The present disclosure also includes various modifications and variations within the scope of equivalents. In addition, although various combinations and methods are shown in the present disclosure, further combinations and methods that include only a single element, or more or less than these elements, also fall within the scope and scope of the present disclosure.

[0142] (Disclosure of technical ideas) This specification discloses multiple technical concepts described in the following multiple items. Some items are sometimes described by selectively citing a multiple dependent form of a previous item in a subsequent item. Some items are sometimes described by referring to a multiple dependent form of another multiple dependent form. These items described in multiple dependent forms define multiple technical concepts.

[0143] (Technical Thought 1) An electromagnetic relay, comprising: an excitation coil (100) which generates a magnetic field when energized; a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and passing through the center hole (100A) of the excitation coil in a manner such that one end (61) in the axial direction and the other end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the center hole (100A) of the excitation coil; A one-end side movable portion (23), the one-end side movable portion being provided at the one end and being movable along the axial direction; a first end side fixed portion (21, 22), the first end side fixed portion being arranged at a position farther from the excitation coil than the first end side movable portion in the axial direction and facing the first end side movable portion; a plurality of other-end-side movable parts (43, 53), the plurality of other-end-side movable parts being provided at the other end and being movable along the axial direction; and a plurality of other end side fixing portions (41, 42, 51, 52), the plurality of other end side fixing portions being arranged at positions farther away from the excitation coil in the axial direction than the plurality of other end side movable portions, and being opposite to the plurality of other end side movable portions; As the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one end side movable portion moves in the first direction, electrically connecting the one end side movable portion and the one end side fixed portion. As the shaft moves in the second direction from the one end side toward the other end side, the plurality of the other end side movable parts move in the second direction, electrically connecting the plurality of the other end side movable parts and the plurality of the other end side fixed parts.

[0144] (Technical Thought 2) As described in the technical idea 1, the electromagnetic relay, The electromagnetic relay (10) is provided between the first battery (2A) and the second battery (2B) to switch between the series connection and the parallel connection of the first battery and the second battery. The first battery and the second battery are connected in series by the one-end side movable portion moving in the first direction and being electrically connected to the one-end side fixed portion. The first battery and the second battery are connected in parallel by being electrically connected to the plurality of the second end side fixing portions.

[0145] (Technical Thought 3) The electromagnetic relay as described in technical idea 1 or 2, wherein: The invention also includes a plate-shaped insulating member (32), which is provided in a state separated from the plurality of the other end side movable parts to a degree that can maintain electrical insulation, and the through hole (32A) for passing the shaft is formed at a position with an equal distance from the center (43A, 53A) of each of the other end side movable parts and has electrical insulation. As the shaft moves in the second direction, the insulating member moves in the second direction, and the plurality of the other-end-side movable portions come into contact with the plurality of the other-end-side fixed portions.

[0146] (Technical Thought 4) The electromagnetic relay as described in any one of technical ideas 1 to 3, wherein: When the excitation coil is energized, the plurality of the other end side movable portions are moved to positions in contact with the plurality of the other end side fixed portions by electromagnetic force.

[0147] (Technical Thought 5) The electromagnetic relay as described in any one of technical ideas 1 to 4, further comprising: a movable yoke (80) fixed to the shaft and movable along the axial direction together with the shaft; a fixed yoke (70) arranged with the movable yoke in the axial direction to restrict the movable yoke from moving in the second direction and defining the axial position at a position closer to the other end than the movable yoke; a one-end side contact pressure spring (130) provided around the shaft between the one-end side movable portion and the movable yoke; and a return spring (150) disposed around the shaft between the movable yoke and the fixed yoke; The movable yoke compresses the one-end contact pressure spring by the first force in the first direction realized by the return spring. The one-end-side movable portion comes into contact with the one-end-side fixed portion due to the second biasing force of the one-end-side contact pressure spring in the first direction.

[0148] (Technical Thought 6) The electromagnetic relay as described in technical idea 1 or 2, wherein: comprising the two aforementioned excitation coils, The two excitation coils are arranged along the axial direction so that their center holes are connected to each other and are disposed around the shaft. When power is supplied to one of the two excitation coils, namely the other end side excitation coil (400), the plurality of the other end side movable parts move to positions contacting the plurality of the other end side fixed parts due to the electromagnetic force in the second direction.

[0149] (Technical Thought 7) As described in Technical Idea 6, the electromagnetic relay, When power is supplied to one of the two excitation coils, namely the one-end side excitation coil (200), the one-end side movable portion moves to a position in contact with the one-end side fixed portion due to the electromagnetic force in the first direction.

[0150] (Technical Thought 8) As described in Technical Idea 7, the electromagnetic relay, The number of turns of the other end side excitation coil is greater than the number of turns of the one end side excitation coil.

[0151] (Technical Thought 9) The electromagnetic relay as described in technical idea 1 or 2, further comprising: a movable yoke (80) fixed to the shaft and movable along the axial direction together with the shaft; a fixed yoke (270) on one end side, the fixed yoke on the one end side being arranged with the movable yoke in the axial direction to restrict the movable yoke from moving in the first direction, and defining the axial position at a position closer to the one end side than the movable yoke; and A permanent magnet (300), wherein the permanent magnet (300) is magnetized to form an S pole (310) and an N pole (320) in a radial direction, comprising the two aforementioned excitation coils, The permanent magnet is arranged between the two excitation coils. The two excitation coils are arranged along the axial direction so that their center holes are connected to each other and are disposed around the shaft. When the plurality of the other end side movable parts come into contact with the plurality of the other end side fixed parts, a gap (83) is provided between the one end side fixed yoke part and the movable yoke part.

[0152] (Technical Thought 10) As described in Technical Idea 9, the electromagnetic relay It also includes a fixed yoke (470) on the other end side, the fixed yoke on the other end side being arranged with the movable yoke in the axial direction to restrict the movable yoke from moving in the second direction, and defining the axial position at a position closer to the other end side than the movable yoke; When the one-end side movable portion contacts the one-end side fixed portion, a gap (84) is provided between the other-end side fixed yoke portion and the movable yoke portion.

[0153] (Technical Thought 11) An electromagnetic relay, comprising: an excitation coil (100) which generates a magnetic field when energized; a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and passing through the center hole (100A) of the excitation coil in a manner such that one end (61) in the axial direction and the other end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the center hole (100A) of the excitation coil; A one-end side movable portion (23), the one-end side movable portion being provided at the one end and being movable along the axial direction; a first end side fixed portion (21, 22), the first end side fixed portion being arranged at a position farther from the excitation coil than the first end side movable portion in the axial direction and facing the first end side movable portion; The other end side movable portion (43, 53) is provided at the other end and is movable along the axial direction; and The other end side fixed portion (41, 42, 51, 52) is provided at a position farther from the excitation coil than the other end side movable portion in the axial direction and is opposite to the other end side movable portion. As the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one end side movable portion moves in the first direction, and the one end side movable portion is electrically connected to the one end side fixed portion. As the shaft moves in the second direction from the one end side toward the other end side, the other end side movable portion moves in the second direction, and the other end side movable portion is electrically connected to the other end side fixed portion.

Claims

1. An electromagnetic relay comprising: an excitation coil (100), wherein the excitation coil forms a magnetic field when energized; a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and passing through the central hole (100A) of the excitation coil in a manner such that one end (61) in the axial direction and the other end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the central hole (100A) of the excitation coil; a one-end side movable portion (23), which is provided at the one end and is movable along the axial direction; a first end side fixed portion (21, 22), the first end side fixed portion being arranged at a position farther from the excitation coil than the first end side movable portion in the axial direction and facing the first end side movable portion; a plurality of other-end-side movable parts (43, 53), the plurality of other-end-side movable parts being provided at the other end and being movable along the axial direction; as well as a plurality of other end side fixing portions (41, 42, 51, 52), the plurality of other end side fixing portions being arranged at positions farther away from the excitation coil in the axial direction than the plurality of other end side movable portions and being opposite to the plurality of other end side movable portions; As the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one end side movable portion moves in the first direction, and the one end side movable portion is electrically connected to the one end side fixed portion. As the shaft moves in the second direction from the one end side toward the other end side, the plurality of the other end side movable parts move along the second direction, and the plurality of the other end side movable parts are electrically connected to the plurality of the other end side fixed parts.

2. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1, wherein: The electromagnetic relay (10) is provided between the first battery (2A) and the second battery (2B) to switch between the series connection and the parallel connection of the first battery and the second battery. The first battery and the second battery are connected in series by the one-end side movable portion moving in the first direction and being electrically connected to the one-end side fixed portion. The first battery and the second battery are connected in parallel by being electrically connected to the plurality of the second end side fixing portions.

3. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The invention also includes a plate-shaped insulating member (32), which is provided in a state separated from the plurality of the other end side movable parts to a degree that can maintain electrical insulation, and a through hole (32A) for passing the shaft is formed at a position with an equal distance from the center (43A, 53A) of each of the other end side movable parts and has electrical insulation. As the shaft moves in the second direction, the insulating member moves in the second direction, and the plurality of the other-end-side movable portions come into contact with the plurality of the other-end-side fixed portions.

4. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 3, wherein: When the exciting coil is energized, the plurality of the other end side movable portions are moved to positions in contact with the plurality of the other end side fixed portions by electromagnetic force.

5. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 4, wherein: Also includes: a movable yoke (80) fixed to the shaft and movable along the axial direction together with the shaft; a fixed yoke (70) arranged with the movable yoke in the axial direction to restrict the movable yoke from moving in the second direction, and defining the axial position at a position closer to the other end than the movable yoke; a one-end side contact pressure spring (130), the one-end side contact pressure spring being arranged around the shaft between the one-end side movable portion and the movable yoke; a return spring (150) disposed around the shaft between the movable yoke and the fixed yoke, The movable yoke compresses the one-end contact pressure spring by the first force in the first direction caused by the return spring. The one-end-side movable portion comes into contact with the one-end-side fixed portion due to the second biasing force of the one-end-side contact pressure spring in the first direction.

6. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: comprising two excitation coils, The two excitation coils are arranged along the axial direction in such a manner that the center holes of the two coils are connected to each other and are disposed around the shaft. When power is supplied to one of the two excitation coils, namely the other end side excitation coil (400), the plurality of the other end side movable parts move to positions contacting the plurality of the other end side fixed parts due to the electromagnetic force in the second direction.

7. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 6, wherein: When power is supplied to one of the two excitation coils, namely the one-end side excitation coil (200), the one-end side movable portion moves to a position in contact with the one-end side fixed portion due to the electromagnetic force in the first direction.

8. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 7, wherein: The number of turns of the other-end-side excitation coil is greater than the number of turns of the one-end-side excitation coil.

9. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: a movable yoke (80) fixed to the shaft and movable along the axial direction together with the shaft; a fixed yoke (270) on one end side, the fixed yoke on the one end side being arranged with the movable yoke in the axial direction to restrict the movable yoke from moving in the first direction, and defining the axial position at a position closer to the one end side than the movable yoke; as well as A permanent magnet (300), wherein the permanent magnet (300) is magnetized to form an S pole (310) and an N pole (320) in a radial direction, comprising two excitation coils, The permanent magnet is arranged between the two excitation coils. The two excitation coils are arranged along the axial direction in such a manner that the center holes of the two coils are connected to each other and are disposed around the shaft. When the plurality of the other end side movable parts come into contact with the plurality of the other end side fixed parts, a gap (83) is provided between the one end side fixed yoke part and the movable yoke part.

10. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, wherein: The other end side fixed yoke (470) is also included. The other end side fixed yoke is arranged with the movable yoke in the axial direction to restrict the movable yoke from moving in the second direction. The axial position is defined at a position closer to the other end side than the movable yoke. When the one-end side movable portion contacts the one-end side fixed portion, a gap (84) is provided between the other-end side fixed yoke portion and the movable yoke portion.

11. An electromagnetic relay comprising: an excitation coil (100), wherein the excitation coil forms a magnetic field when energized; a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and passing through the central hole (100A) of the excitation coil in a manner such that one end (61) in the axial direction and the other end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the central hole (100A) of the excitation coil; a one-end side movable portion (23), which is provided at the one end and is movable along the axial direction; a first end side fixed portion (21, 22), the first end side fixed portion being arranged at a position farther from the excitation coil than the first end side movable portion in the axial direction and facing the first end side movable portion; a second end side movable portion (43, 53), which is provided at the second end and is movable along the axial direction; as well as The other end side fixed portion (41, 42, 51, 52) is provided at a position farther from the excitation coil than the other end side movable portion in the axial direction and is opposite to the other end side movable portion. As the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side toward the one end side, the one end side movable portion moves in the first direction, and the one end side movable portion is electrically connected to the one end side fixed portion. As the shaft moves in the second direction from the one end side toward the other end side, the other end side movable portion moves in the second direction, and the other end side movable portion is electrically connected to the other end side fixed portion.

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