Electromagnetic relay

Abstract

The utility model provides an electromagnetic relay. The weight of the electromagnetic relay is reduced. An electromagnetic relay is provided with a fixed terminal (5), a common terminal (6), a coil terminal (7), and a main body. The fixed terminal has a first connection portion (51) connected to the outside. The common terminal has a second connection part (61) that is connected to the outside. The coil terminal has a third connection part (71) that is connected to the outside. At least one connecting part (8) among the first connecting part, the second connecting part and the third connecting part extends from the main body along a first direction (D1). At least one of the connecting portions has a plate-shaped first plate portion and a plate-shaped second plate portion in contact with the first plate portion. The first plate portion has a first protruding portion protruding in a thickness direction of the first plate portion on a surface opposite to a surface in contact with the second plate portion. The second plate portion has a second protruding portion protruding in the thickness direction of the second plate portion on a surface opposite to a surface in contact with the first plate portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an electromagnetic relay. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an electromagnetic relay having terminals extending from a body. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an electromagnetic relay. The electromagnetic relay of Patent Document 1 includes a relay body, a housing, and connecting terminals. The relay body has fixed contacts, movable contacts, and an electromagnet device that causes the movable contacts to engage and disengage with respect to the fixed contacts. The housing has a storage space for accommodating the relay body. The connecting terminals are provided on the relay body. The connecting terminals protrude from the housing. The connecting terminals are metal terminals. The connecting terminals are connected to a blade support member, which serves as an external electrical connection component.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-155240 Utility Model Content

[0006] Problems to be solved by utility models

[0007] In the electromagnetic relay of Patent Document 1, a metal plate having a uniform thickness substantially equal to the width of the insertion hole of the blade support member is used as the connection terminal. Therefore, in the electromagnetic relay of Patent Document 1, the weight of the connection terminal increases.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the weight of an electromagnetic relay.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] An electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a coil, a coil frame, an iron core, a yoke, an armature, a movable spring, a fixed terminal, a common terminal, a coil terminal, and a main body. The coil frame includes a barrel, an upper flange, and a lower flange, and the coil is wound around the coil frame. The iron core is inserted into the barrel of the coil frame, and the upper end of the iron core protrudes from the coil frame. The yoke includes a fixed portion and a leg portion, the fixed portion being fixed to the upper end of the iron core, and the leg portion extending downward from the fixed portion. The armature is opposite to the lower surface of the iron core and moves closer to or further away from the iron core according to the excitation of the coil. The movable spring is located below the armature and is fixed to the armature. The movable spring has a movable contact at one end thereof. The fixed terminal includes a fixed contact and a first connecting portion, the fixed contact being opposite to the movable contact, and the first connecting portion being connected to the outside. The common terminal has a second connecting portion connected to the outside and is fixed to the yoke. The coil terminal has a third connection portion connected to the outside and is connected to the coil. The main body holds the fixed terminal, the common terminal and the coil terminal. At least one connection portion among the first connection portion, the second connection portion and the third connection portion extends from the main body along the first direction. The at least one connection portion includes: a plate-shaped first plate portion; and a plate-shaped second plate portion, which is in contact with the first plate portion. The first plate portion has a first protrusion protruding in the thickness direction of the first plate portion on the surface opposite to the surface in contact with the second plate portion. The second plate portion has a second protrusion protruding in the thickness direction of the second plate portion on the surface opposite to the surface in contact with the first plate portion.

[0011] Preferably, the first plate portion and the second plate portion are formed of a single plate-shaped member, and the second plate portion is formed by bending from one end of the first plate portion so as to overlap with the first plate portion.

[0012] Preferably, the one end is an end portion of the first plate portion in the first direction.

[0013] Preferably, the second plate portion extends from an end portion of the first plate portion in the first direction toward the main body.

[0014] Preferably, the one end is an end portion of the first plate portion in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0015] Preferably, the second plate portion is formed of a member different from that of the first plate portion, and is fixed to the first plate portion.

[0016] Preferably, the first direction is a direction along an extending direction of the core.

[0017] Preferably, the yoke and the common terminal are integrated.

[0018] Effect of utility model

[0019] According to the present disclosure, there is an advantage that the weight of the electromagnetic relay can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the appearance of an electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment, showing a state in which the cover case is removed, as seen from the right front.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment, showing a state in which the cover case is removed, as seen from the left front.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment, showing a state in which the cover case is removed.

[0024] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of a fixed terminal included in an electromagnetic relay according to an embodiment, as viewed from the front left.

[0025] Figure 5B This is a front view of a fixed terminal included in an electromagnetic relay according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 5C This is a perspective view of a fixed terminal included in the electromagnetic relay according to one embodiment, as seen from the right rear.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic relay according to an embodiment in which a movable contact is in contact with a fixed contact and a case is removed.

[0028] Figure 7A This is a perspective view of a fixed terminal included in the electromagnetic relay according to Modification 1, as viewed from the left front.

[0029] Figure 7B This is a front view of a fixed terminal included in the electromagnetic relay of Modification 1.

[0030] Figure 7C This is a perspective view of a fixed terminal included in the electromagnetic relay according to Modification 1, as viewed from the right rear.

[0031] Figure 8A This is a perspective view of a fixed terminal included in an electromagnetic relay according to Modification 2, as viewed from the front left.

[0032] Figure 8BThis is a front view of a fixed terminal included in the electromagnetic relay of Modification 2.

[0033] Figure 8C This is a perspective view of a fixed terminal included in an electromagnetic relay according to Modification 2, as viewed from the right rear.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the electromagnetic relay according to Modification 3, with the cover case removed, as viewed from the lower right front.

[0035] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to Modification 3 in a state where the cover case is removed.

[0036] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a fixed terminal included in an electromagnetic relay according to a modified example.

[0037] Description of Reference Numerals

[0038] 1. Electromagnetic relay; 21. Coil; 22. Coil frame; 221. Cylinder; 222. Upper flange; 223. Lower flange; 23. Iron core; 234. Upper end; 235. Lower surface; 24. Yoke; 241. Fixed portion; 242. Leg; 25. Armature; 31. Fixed contact; 32. Movable contact; 33. Movable spring; 4. Main body; 5. Fixed terminal; 51. First connecting portion; 6. Common terminal; 61. Second connecting portion; 7. Coil terminal; 71. Third connecting portion; 8. Connecting portion; 81. First plate; 810. One end; 815. First protrusion; 82. Second plate; 825. Second protrusion; D1. First direction; D2. Second direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The electromagnetic relays of the embodiments and modified examples of the present disclosure are described with reference to the drawings. The drawings described in the following embodiments and modified examples are schematic drawings, and the sizes and thickness ratios of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0040] (1) Implementation Method

[0041] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the electromagnetic relay 1 of the embodiment includes an electromagnetic body block 2, a contact block 3, a main body 4 (housing), a fixed terminal 5, a common terminal 6, and a pair of coil terminals 7. Electromagnetic relay 1 is a hinged electromagnetic relay. Electromagnetic relay 1 is a so-called plug-in relay, and is used in vehicles such as automobiles and two-wheeled vehicles. Furthermore, the use of electromagnetic relay 1 is not limited to vehicles and can also be used in other applications.

[0042] like Figures 2 to 4As shown, the electromagnet block 2 includes a coil 21 , a bobbin 22 , an iron core 23 , a yoke 24 , and an armature 25 .

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, the coil bobbin 22 has a cylindrical portion 221. The cylindrical portion 221 is formed into a hollow cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 221 has a through hole 224 that passes through in the axial direction. Hereinafter, for convenience, the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 221 is also referred to as the up-down direction.

[0044] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the coil bobbin 22 further includes an upper flange portion 222 and a lower flange portion 223. The upper flange portion 222 and the lower flange portion 223 are formed at the upper and lower ends of the cylindrical portion 221 in the axial direction, respectively. The cylindrical portion 221, the upper flange portion 222, and the lower flange portion 223 are integrally formed from an insulating material such as resin.

[0045] The upper flange portion 222 is formed, for example, in a generally rectangular plate shape. A recess 226 is formed on the upper surface of the upper flange portion 222. The lower flange portion 223 is formed, for example, in a generally hollow rectangular box shape. The lower surface of the lower flange portion 223 is open, and a storage space 227 for accommodating the fixed contact 31 and the movable contact 32 is formed on the lower side of the lower flange portion 223.

[0046] The coil 21 is wound around the bobbin 22 . More specifically, the winding of the coil 21 is wound around the cylindrical portion 221 between the upper flange portion 222 and the lower flange portion 223 .

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the core 23 includes a shaft 231 and a flange 232. The shaft 231 is formed in a columnar shape, more specifically, in an elongated cylindrical shape. The flange 232 is provided at the lower end of the shaft 231. The shaft 231 and the flange 232 are integrally formed of a magnetic material.

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, the iron core 23 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 221 of the coil bobbin 22. The shaft portion 231 of the iron core 23 is inserted into the through-hole 224 of the cylindrical portion 221. The shaft portion 231 of the iron core 23 has a main body 233 and an upper end portion 234. The main body 233 is positioned within the through-hole 224. The upper end portion 234 protrudes from the cylindrical portion 221. In other words, the upper end portion 234 of the iron core 23 protrudes from the coil bobbin 22.

[0049] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the yoke 24 includes a fixing portion 241 and a leg portion 242. The yoke 24 is formed into a substantially L-shaped shape in a front view by the fixing portion 241 and the leg portion 242. The fixing portion 241 and the leg portion 242 are integrally formed of a magnetic material.

[0050] The fixing portion 241 is a generally rectangular plate-shaped structure when viewed from above. The fixing portion 241 is located above the upper flange portion 222. The fixing portion 241 is disposed in the recess 226 of the upper flange portion 222. The fixing portion 241 has an insertion hole 243. The upper end portion 234 of the core 23 is inserted into the insertion hole 243. The fixing portion 241 is fixed to the upper end portion 234 of the core 23.

[0051] The leg portion 242 extends downward from the fixed portion 241. The leg portion 242 extends axially along the cylindrical portion 221 of the coil bobbin 22. The leg portion 242 extends from one end of the fixed portion 241. Hereinafter, the side on which the leg portion 242 is located relative to the fixed portion 241 will be referred to as the "right," and the side opposite thereto will be referred to as the "left." In other words, the leg portion 242 extends downward from the right end of the fixed portion 241. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the vertical and horizontal directions will be referred to as the front-back direction.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, the leg portion 242 includes a terminal portion 244, a first support portion 245, and a second support portion 246. The terminal portion 244, the first support portion 245, and the second support portion 246 each extend downward from the fixing portion 241. The terminal portion 244 is located between the first support portion 245 and the second support portion 246 in the front-to-back direction. In the front-to-back direction, the first support portion 245 is located in front of the terminal portion 244, and the second support portion 246 is located in back of the terminal portion 244.

[0053] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the armature 25 is formed of a magnetic material into a long flat plate shape. Figure 4 As shown, the armature 25 is arranged to face the lower surface 235 of the core 23. One end (right end) of the armature 25 is aligned with the lower end 247 (refer to Figure 3 ) and the lower end 248 of the second support portion 246 (refer to Figure 4 ) contact. The armature 25 is fixed to the movable part 34 of the movable spring 33 described later, and is displaced integrally with the movable part 34. The armature 25 can rotate with the contact portion with the yoke 24 as a fulcrum. When the coil 21 is energized and excited, the armature 25 is pulled toward the iron core 23 due to the magnetic force. When the power supply to the coil 21 is stopped, the armature 25 is separated from the iron core 23 by the spring force of the movable spring 33. That is, the armature 25 approaches or moves away from the iron core 23 according to the excitation of the coil 21.

[0054] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the contact block 3 includes a fixed contact 31 , a movable contact 32 , and a movable spring 33 .

[0055] like Figure 4As shown, the fixed contact 31 is provided on the fixed terminal 5. The fixed contact 31 is formed integrally with the fixed terminal 5 using the same material as the fixed terminal 5, but is not limited thereto and may be formed separately from the fixed terminal 5 and fixed thereto.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, movable contact 32 is provided on movable spring 33. Movable contact 32 is formed independently of movable spring 33 and fixed to movable spring 33, but is not limited thereto and may be formed integrally with movable spring 33 from the same material as movable spring 33. Movable contact 32 is provided at a position opposite to fixed contact 31.

[0057] The movable spring 33 is formed of a conductive material such as copper. Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the movable spring 33 includes a movable portion 34 and an extending portion 35. The movable spring 33 is formed by the movable portion 34 and the extending portion 35 into a substantially L-shaped shape in a front view.

[0058] The movable portion 34 is plate-shaped (leaf spring-shaped). It is located below the armature 25 and is fixed to the armature 25. The movable portion 34 has a movable contact 32 at its first end (left end). Specifically, the movable spring 33 is located below the armature 25 and is fixed to the armature 25, with the movable contact 32 at one end (left end).

[0059] The extension portion 35 is plate-shaped and extends upward from the second end (right end) of the movable portion 34. The extension portion 35 is fixed to the leg portion 242 of the yoke 24. The extension portion 35 is fixed to the first support portion 245 and the second support portion 246 of the leg portion 242 by, for example, caulking.

[0060] When the coil 21 is energized, the movable portion 34 and the armature 25 are displaced integrally, and the movable contact 32 contacts the fixed contact 31. When the coil 21 is de-energized, the spring force of the movable spring 33 displaces the movable portion 34, and the movable contact 32 separates from the fixed contact 31. That is, in the electromagnetic relay 1, the movable contact 32 is in the closed position (see FIG. 1 ) where it contacts the fixed contact 31. Figure 6 ) is separated from the disconnected position of the fixed contact 31 (refer to Figure 4 ) Move between. A plate-shaped restriction portion 29 that limits the movable range of the movable spring 33 and defines the disconnected position of the movable contact 32 is arranged in the storage space 227 on the lower side of the lower flange portion 223 of the coil bobbin 22.

[0061] The main body 4 includes a substantially rectangular flat plate-shaped base 41 (see Figures 2 to 4 ) and a substantially rectangular box-shaped cover 42 (refer to Figure 1). The base 41 has an insertion hole 411 for inserting the fixed terminal 5, an insertion hole 412 for inserting the common terminal 6, and a pair of insertion holes 413 for inserting the pair of coil terminals 7. One surface (lower surface) of the cover 42 is open, and it is mounted on the base 41 in a manner covering the base 41 from the upper side. The main body 4 houses the electromagnet block 2 (excluding the lower part of the terminal portion 244 of the yoke 24) and the contact block 3. In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment, the extension direction (upper and lower directions) of the coil 21 and the iron core 23 intersects (here, is orthogonal to) the surface of the base 41.

[0062] The fixed terminal 5 is formed of a conductive material such as copper. The fixed terminal 5 has a fixed contact 31. The fixed terminal 5 is held by the main body 4. In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment, the fixed terminal 5 is held by the lower flange portion 223 of the coil bobbin 22 and thereby held by the main body 4.

[0063] like Figures 4 to 5C As shown, the fixed terminal 5 includes a base portion 50 and a first connecting portion 51. The base portion 50 and the first connecting portion 51 are formed integrally.

[0064] The base 50 is a portion of the fixed terminal 5 that is held by the main body 4. The base 50 is in the shape of a plate that is roughly L-shaped when viewed from the front. The fixed contact 31 is provided at the first end (left end) of the base 50. The second end (lower end) of the base 50 is connected to the first connecting portion 51. Figures 5A to 5C As shown, a through hole 501 for arranging the movable portion 34 of the movable spring 33 and the armature 25 is formed at the center of the base 50 .

[0065] The first connecting portion 51 is the portion of the fixed terminal 5 that connects to the outside (an external connecting member). The connecting member may be, for example, a socket for a plug-in relay. The first connecting portion 51 is exposed from the main body 4 and projects downward. The first connecting portion 51 is connected to the connecting member by, for example, being inserted into the connecting member from above.

[0066] The common terminal 6 is formed of a conductive material. The common terminal 6 is electrically connected to the movable contact 32. The common terminal 6 is fixed to the yoke 24. In this embodiment, the yoke 24 and the common terminal 6 are formed integrally. At least a portion of the terminal portion 244 of the yoke 24, for example, the entire terminal portion 244, serves as the common terminal 6. The common terminal 6 is formed of a magnetic material. Since the extension portion 35 of the movable spring 33 is fixed to the yoke 24, the common terminal 6 is electrically connected to the movable contact 32 via the yoke 24 and the movable spring 33.

[0067] The common terminal 6 is held by the main body 4 . The common terminal 6 is inserted into the insertion hole 412 of the base 41 and is held by the base 41 .

[0068] like Figure 4As shown, the common terminal 6 includes a base portion 60 and a second connecting portion 61. The base portion 60 and the second connecting portion 61 are formed integrally.

[0069] The base 60 is a portion of the common terminal 6 that is held by the main body 4 . The base 60 is inserted into the insertion hole 412 of the base 41 . The base 60 is connected to the yoke 24 .

[0070] The second connection portion 61 is a portion of the common terminal 6 that connects to the outside (connection member). The second connection portion 61 is connected to the lower end of the base 60. The second connection portion 61 is exposed from the main body 4 and protrudes downward. The second connection portion 61 is connected to the connection member by, for example, being inserted into the connection member from above.

[0071] The coil terminal 7 is formed of a conductive material such as copper. The coil terminal 7 is connected to the coil 21. Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the coil terminal 7 has a winding portion 72. The top end of the coil 21 is wound around the winding portion 72, and the winding portion 72 and the coil 21 are connected using solder or the like. The first coil terminal 701 of the pair of coil terminals 7 is connected to the first end of the coil 21, and the second coil terminal 702 of the pair of coil terminals 7 is connected to the second end of the coil 21. The coil terminal 7 is held by the main body 4. The coil terminal 7 is inserted into the insertion hole 413 of the base 41 and is held by the base 41.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the coil terminal 7 includes a base portion 70 and a third connecting portion 71 in addition to the aforementioned coil portion 72. The base portion 70, the third connecting portion 71, and the coil portion 72 are integrally formed.

[0073] The base 70 is a portion of the coil terminal 7 that is held by the main body 4. The base 70 is inserted into the insertion hole 413 of the base 41. The coil portion 72 is connected to the upper end of the base 70.

[0074] The third connection portion 71 is the portion of the coil terminal 7 that connects to the outside (connection member). The third connection portion 71 is connected to the lower end of the base 70. The third connection portion 71 is exposed from the main body 4 and protrudes downward. The third connection portion 71 is connected to the connection member by, for example, being inserted into the connection member from above.

[0075] At least one of the first connecting portion 51, the second connecting portion 61, and the third connecting portion 71 extends from the main body 4 along the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 51, the second connecting portion 61, and the third connecting portion 71 extend in the same direction, namely, along the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the first direction D1 is a vertical direction. In other words, the first direction D1 is along the direction in which the core 23 extends.

[0076] like Figures 5A to 5CAs shown, at least one connection portion 8 (in this embodiment, the first connection portion 51) among the first connection portion 51, the second connection portion 61, and the third connection portion 71 includes a plate-shaped first plate portion 81 and a plate-shaped second plate portion 82 that contacts the first plate portion 81. In the first connection portion 51 of the fixed terminal 5, the upper end of the first plate portion 81 is connected to the base portion 50 of the fixed terminal 5.

[0077] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment, the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 are formed by a single plate-shaped member. The second plate portion 82 is formed by bending from one end 810 of the first plate portion 81 so as to overlap with the first plate portion 81. More specifically, the second plate portion 82 is formed by bending upward from the lower end 811 of the first plate portion 81 so as to overlap with the first plate portion 81. That is, the aforementioned one end 810 (the end of the first plate portion 81 from which the second plate portion 82 is bent) is the end (lower end 811) of the first plate portion 81 in the first direction D1. The lower end 811 of the first plate portion 81 and the lower end 821 of the second plate portion 82 are connected. In addition, the second plate portion 82 extends from the end (lower end 811) of the first plate portion 81 in the first direction D1 toward the main body 4.

[0078] The first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 are arranged to overlap with each other so that their thickness directions coincide. In this embodiment, the second plate portion 82 is located on the right side of the first plate portion 81. The right surface of the first plate portion 81 and the left surface of the second plate portion 82 face each other.

[0079] like Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B As shown, the first plate portion 81 has a first protrusion 815 on the surface (left surface) opposite to the surface (right surface) in contact with the second plate portion 82, which protrudes in the thickness direction of the first plate portion 81. The first protrusion 815 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed in the thickness direction of the first plate portion 81 (when viewed from the left). In the first plate portion 81, the first protrusion 815 protrudes further in the thickness direction of the first plate portion 81 than the remaining portion 819 of the first plate portion 81. The first protrusion 815 has a flat surface 816 at the top end in the protruding direction. In addition, the first protrusion 815 has an inclined surface 817 around the periphery of the flat surface 816.

[0080] The first plate portion 81 is formed of a plate having a uniform thickness. Figure 4 As shown, the first protrusion 815 is formed by partially pushing up the plate material constituting the first plate portion 81 in the plate material thickness direction so as to protrude further than the remaining portion 819. A first recess 818 is formed on the inner side of the first protrusion 815 in the thickness direction of the first plate portion 81.

[0081] The first protrusion 815 is provided at the center in the width direction of the first plate portion 81. The first protrusion 815 is provided up to the lower end 811 which is the top end of the first plate portion 81 when inserted into the connection member.

[0082] In addition, if Figure 5B 、 Figure 5C As shown, the second plate portion 82 has a second protrusion 825 on the surface (right surface) opposite to the surface (left surface) in contact with the first plate portion 81, which protrudes along the thickness direction of the second plate portion 82. The second protrusion 825 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed along the thickness direction of the second plate portion 82 (when viewed from the right). In the second plate portion 82, the second protrusion 825 protrudes further in the thickness direction of the second plate portion 82 than the remaining portion 829 of the second plate portion 82. The second protrusion 825 has a flat surface 826 at the top end in the protruding direction. Furthermore, the second protrusion 825 has an inclined surface 827 around the periphery of the flat surface 826.

[0083] The second plate portion 82 is formed of a plate having a uniform thickness. Figure 4 As shown, the second protrusion 825 is formed by partially pushing up the plate material constituting the second plate portion 82 in the plate material thickness direction so as to protrude further than the remaining portion 829. A second recess 828 is formed on the inner side of the second protrusion 825 in the thickness direction of the second plate portion 82.

[0084] The second protrusion 825 is provided at the center in the width direction of the second plate portion 82. The second protrusion 825 is provided up to the lower end 821 which is the top end of the second plate portion 82 when inserted into the connection member.

[0085] The first protrusion 815 and the second protrusion 825 protrude in opposite directions. The first protrusion 815 and the second protrusion 825 are symmetrical with each other with respect to the boundary where the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 contact each other.

[0086] Each of the first connecting portion 51, the second connecting portion 61, and the third connecting portion 71 has an inclined surface formed at the tip portion thereof so that the dimension in the thickness direction gradually decreases toward the tip (lower end). Furthermore, each of the first connecting portion 51, the second connecting portion 61, and the third connecting portion 71 has an inclined surface formed at the tip portion thereof so that the dimension in the width direction gradually decreases toward the tip (lower end).

[0087] Next, refer to Figure 4 、 Figure 6 The operation of electromagnetic relay 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0088] Before energizing the coil 21, Figure 4As shown, the armature 25 is separated from the iron core 23 by the spring force of the movable spring 33 , and the movable contact 32 is separated from the fixed contact 31 (the movable contact 32 is in the open position).

[0089] When the coil 21 is energized, the core 23 is magnetized, and the armature 25 is pulled toward the flange 232 of the core 23. As a result, the top end (first end) of the movable portion 34 to which the armature 25 is fixed moves upward, and the movable contact 32 comes into contact with the fixed contact 31 (see FIG. Figure 6 : closed position of movable contact 32). As a result, conduction is established between movable contact 32 and fixed contact 31.

[0090] When the power to the coil 21 is cut off, the iron core 23 is demagnetized, and the spring force of the movable spring 33 causes the armature 25 to separate from the flange portion 232 of the iron core 23. As a result, the top end (first end) of the movable portion 34 of the movable spring 33 is displaced downward, and the movable contact 32 separates from the fixed contact 31 (see FIG. Figure 4 As a result, the movable contact 32 and the fixed contact 31 can be electrically disconnected.

[0091] According to the electromagnetic relay 1 of this embodiment, the thickness of the first connecting portion 51 is the sum of the thicknesses of the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82. This allows the entire fixed terminal 5, including the base portion 50, to be formed from a thin metal plate, which is inexpensive in material cost. Furthermore, the thickness of the first connecting portion 51, which connects to the external connecting member, can be increased. As a result, the weight of the fixed terminal 5 and the electromagnetic relay 1 can be reduced, and costs can also be lowered. In particular, because the first plate portion 81 includes the first protrusion 815 and the second plate portion 82 includes the second protrusion 825, the thickness of the first connecting portion 51 is the sum of the thickness of the remaining portion 819 of the first plate portion 81 plus the protrusion of the first protrusion 815, and the thickness of the remaining portion 829 of the second plate portion 82 plus the protrusion of the second protrusion 825. This allows the metal plate constituting the fixed terminal 5 to be further thinned, and the weight of the fixed terminal 5 and the electromagnetic relay 1 to be further reduced.

[0092] Furthermore, by bending a single plate-like member to form the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82, the number of components can be reduced compared to, for example, forming the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 from separate members and fixing them to each other. Furthermore, since steps such as bonding or welding for fixing are unnecessary, the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0093] The second plate portion 82 is formed by bending the lower end 811 (the top end in the extension direction from the main body 4) of the first plate portion 81. The second plate portion 82 extends from the end (the lower end 811) of the first plate portion 81 in the first direction D1 toward the main body 4. Thus, for example, the second plate portion 82 extends from the front end 812 (refer to Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B ) or backend 813 (refer to Figure 5C ) is bent and formed, at the lower end of the connecting portion 8, the second plate portion 82 is not easy to leave from the first plate portion 81. As a result, the connecting operation when the connecting portion 8 is inserted into the external connecting member becomes easy.

[0094] (2) Modification

[0095] The above embodiment is merely one of the various embodiments disclosed herein. Various modifications may be made to the above embodiment, depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of the present disclosure are achieved. Examples of modifications to the embodiment are listed below. The above embodiment and the modifications described below may be appropriately combined for application.

[0096] (2.1) Modification 1

[0097] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modification, as Figures 7A to 7C As shown, in the first connection portion 51 of the fixed terminal 5 extending in the first direction D1, the second plate portion 82 is formed by being bent from the rear end 813 of the first plate portion 81 so as to overlap with the first plate portion 81 .

[0098] That is, in this modified example, the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 are composed of a plate-like member, and the second plate portion 82 is formed by bending from one end 810 of the first plate portion 81 in a manner overlapping with the first plate portion 81. Furthermore, the above-mentioned one end 810 (the end of the first plate portion 81 from which the second plate portion 82 is bent) is the end (rear end 813) of the first plate portion 81 in the second direction D2 that is orthogonal to the first direction D1 (the extension direction of the first connecting portion 51). The second direction D2 is orthogonal to the first direction D1 and the thickness direction of the first plate portion 81. As Figure 7C As shown, the rear end 813 of the first plate portion 81 and the rear end 823 of the second plate portion 82 are connected.

[0099] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modification as well, the first connection portion 51 includes the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 . This reduces the weight of the fixed terminal 5 and the electromagnetic relay 1 , thereby reducing costs.

[0100] Furthermore, according to the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modified example, the second plate portion 82 is formed by bending from the rear end 813 of the first plate portion 81. Thus, for example, the boundary where the first and second plate portions 81, 82 are bent lies along the long side of the first plate portion 81. This improves the accuracy of the bending process of the second plate portion 82 (the accuracy of the overlap between the first and second plate portions 81, 82) compared to a case where the second plate portion 82 is formed by bending along a short side (e.g., the lower end 811) of the first plate portion 81.

[0101] (2.2) Modification 2

[0102] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modification, as Figures 8A to 8C As shown, the second plate portion 82 is formed of a member different from the first plate portion 81 and is fixed to the first plate portion 81. The second plate portion 82 is fixed to the first plate portion 81 by, for example, bonding or welding.

[0103] According to the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modified example, by forming the second plate portion 82 from a member different from the first plate portion 81, the alignment accuracy of the second plate portion 82 relative to the first plate portion 81 can be improved compared to a case where the second plate portion 82 is formed by bending, for example.

[0104] (2.3) Modification 3

[0105] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modification, as Figure 9 、 Figure 10 As shown, the coil 21 and the core 23 extend in the direction (vertical direction) along the surface of the base 41. Furthermore, the connecting portion 8 (first connecting portion 51), which includes the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82, extends from the main body 4 in a first direction D1 that intersects (here, is perpendicular to) the direction in which the core 23 extends. Furthermore, the yoke 24 includes, in addition to the leg portion 242 extending downward from the fixing portion 241, a terminal portion 244 (common terminal 6) connected to the fixing portion 241 and extending from the main body 4 in the first direction D1.

[0106] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of this modification as well, since the first connecting portion 51 includes the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 , the weight of the fixed terminal 5 and the electromagnetic relay 1 can be reduced, thereby reducing costs.

[0107] (2.4) Other variations

[0108] In a variation, it may also be, for example Figure 11As shown, in the first plate portion 81, the thickness of the first protrusion 815 is made thicker than the thickness of the remaining portion 819, thereby causing the first protrusion 815 to protrude beyond the remaining portion 819. Alternatively, in the second plate portion 82, the thickness of the second protrusion 825 is made thicker than the thickness of the remaining portion 829, thereby causing the second protrusion 825 to protrude beyond the remaining portion 829. The first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 can be in surface contact.

[0109] In a modified example, the direction in which the second plate portion 82 is folded back from the first plate portion 81 may be reversed. For example, the second plate portion 82 may be formed by bending leftward from the lower end 811 or rear end 813 of the first plate portion 81. In this case, it is sufficient that the first protrusion 815 protrudes to the right beyond the remaining portion 819 and the second protrusion 825 protrudes to the left beyond the remaining portion 829.

[0110] In a modified example, the shapes of the first protrusion 815 and the second protrusion 825 are not particularly limited, and may be circular, for example.

[0111] In a modified embodiment, the first protrusion 815 and the second protrusion 825 may not overlap in their entirety, may partially overlap, or may not overlap at all. For example, in the connection portion 8 of the electromagnetic relay 1 of the embodiment, the first protrusion 815 may be provided only in the upper half of the first plate portion 81, and the second protrusion 825 may be provided only in the lower half of the second plate portion 82.

[0112] In a modified example, the first plate portion 81 may include a plurality of first protrusions 815 , and the second plate portion 82 may include a plurality of second protrusions 825 .

[0113] In a modified example, the second connecting portion 61 and / or the third connecting portion 71 may include a first plate portion 81 and a second plate portion 82. In this case, the first connecting portion 51 may not include the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82. In short, it is sufficient that at least one connecting portion 8 among the first connecting portion 51, the second connecting portion 61, and the third connecting portion 71 extends from the main body 4 along the first direction D1 and includes a plate-shaped first plate portion 81 and a plate-shaped second plate portion 82 that contacts the first plate portion 81.

[0114] The common terminal 6 is preferably integral with the yoke 24, but in a modified embodiment, the common terminal 6 may not be integral with the yoke 24. For example, the common terminal 6 may be formed of a component separate from the yoke 24 and fixed to the yoke 24. For example, in a modified embodiment of the yoke 24, the lower end of the terminal portion 244 may be located at the same position as the lower end of the first support portion 245 and the lower end of the second support portion 246. Furthermore, the common terminal 6 may be fixed to the terminal portion 244 as a component separate from the yoke 24.

[0115] In a modified example, at least one of the first connection portion 51 , the second connection portion 61 , and the third connection portion 71 may extend in a direction (eg, the second direction D2 ) different from the extending direction (the first direction D1 ) of the connection portion 8 .

[0116] (3) Method

[0117] As is apparent from the above-described embodiment and modifications, the following aspects are disclosed in this specification.

[0118] The electromagnetic relay 1 of the first embodiment includes a coil 21, a bobbin 22, an iron core 23, a yoke 24, an armature 25, a movable spring 33, a fixed terminal 5, a common terminal 6, a coil terminal 7, and a main body 4. The bobbin 22 has a cylindrical portion 221, an upper flange portion 222, and a lower flange portion 223, and the coil 21 is wound around the bobbin 22. The iron core 23 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 221 of the bobbin 22, and the upper end portion 234 of the iron core 23 protrudes from the bobbin 22. The yoke 24 has a fixed portion 241 fixed to the upper end portion 234 of the iron core 23 and a leg portion 242 extending downward from the fixed portion 241. The armature 25 faces the lower surface 235 of the iron core 23 and moves closer to or farther from the iron core 23 depending on the excitation of the coil 21. The movable spring 33 is located below the armature 25 and is fixed to the armature 25. The movable spring 33 has a movable contact 32 at one end. The fixed terminal 5 has a fixed contact 31 and a first connecting portion 51, which faces the movable contact 32 and is connected to the outside. The common terminal 6 has a second connecting portion 61 connected to the outside and is fixed to the yoke 24. The coil terminal 7 has a third connecting portion 71 connected to the outside and is connected to the coil 21. The main body 4 holds the fixed terminal 5, the common terminal 6, and the coil terminal 7. At least one connecting portion 8 among the first connecting portion 51, the second connecting portion 61, and the third connecting portion 71 extends from the main body 4 along the first direction D1. The at least one connecting portion 8 includes a first plate portion 81 and a second plate portion 82 in contact with the first plate portion 81. The first plate portion 81 has a first protrusion 815 on the surface opposite to the surface in contact with the second plate portion 82, which protrudes along the thickness direction of the first plate portion 81. The second plate portion 82 has a second protrusion 825 that protrudes in the thickness direction of the second plate portion 82 on a surface opposite to the surface in contact with the first plate portion 81 .

[0119] According to this embodiment, the weight of the electromagnetic relay 1 can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced.

[0120] The electromagnetic relay 1 of the second embodiment is formed by bending the first plate portion 81 and the second plate portion 82 from one end 810 of the first plate portion 81 so as to overlap the first plate portion 81 .

[0121] According to this aspect, the number of components can be reduced, and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

[0122] The electromagnetic relay 1 of the third embodiment is similar to the electromagnetic relay 1 of the second embodiment, wherein the one end 810 is an end portion of the first plate portion 81 in the first direction D1 .

[0123] According to this embodiment, the connection work when inserting the connection portion 8 into the external connection member is facilitated.

[0124] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of the fourth embodiment, in addition to the second embodiment or the third embodiment, the second plate portion 82 extends from the end portion of the first plate portion 81 in the first direction D1 toward the main body 4 .

[0125] According to this embodiment, the connection work when inserting the connection portion 8 into the external connection member is facilitated.

[0126] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of the fifth embodiment, in addition to the second embodiment, the one end 810 is an end portion of the first plate portion 81 in the second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1 .

[0127] According to this aspect, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the bending process of the second plate portion 82 .

[0128] In the electromagnetic relay 1 of the sixth embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, the second plate portion 82 is formed of a member different from the first plate portion 81 and is fixed to the first plate portion 81 .

[0129] According to this aspect, it is possible to improve the accuracy of alignment of the second plate portion 82 with respect to the first plate portion 81 .

[0130] In the electromagnetic relay 1 according to the seventh embodiment, in addition to any one of the first to sixth embodiments, the first direction D1 is a direction along the extending direction of the core 23 .

[0131] According to this embodiment, the weight of the electromagnetic relay 1 can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced.

[0132] The electromagnetic relay 1 of the eighth embodiment is the same as any one of the first to seventh embodiments, in which the yoke 24 and the common terminal 6 are integrated.

[0133] According to this aspect, the number of components can be reduced.

Claims

1. An electromagnetic relay, characterized in that: The electromagnetic relay has: Coil; a coil bobbin having a cylindrical portion, an upper flange portion, and a lower flange portion, and the coil is wound around the coil bobbin; an iron core inserted into the cylindrical portion of the coil bobbin, with an upper end portion of the iron core protruding from the coil bobbin; a yoke having a fixing portion and a leg portion, wherein the fixing portion is fixed to the upper end portion of the iron core and the leg portion extends downward from the fixing portion; an armature, which is opposite to the lower surface of the iron core and moves closer to or farther away from the iron core according to the excitation of the coil; a movable spring located below the armature and fixed to the armature, and having a movable contact at one end thereof; a fixed terminal having a fixed contact and a first connecting portion, wherein the fixed contact is opposite to the movable contact and the first connecting portion is connected to the outside; a common terminal having a second connection portion connected to the outside and fixed to the yoke; a coil terminal having a third connection portion connected to the outside and connected to the coil; and a main body that holds the fixed terminal, the common terminal, and the coil terminal, At least one of the first connection portion, the second connection portion, and the third connection portion extends from the main body along a first direction. The at least one connecting portion has: a plate-shaped first plate portion; and a plate-shaped second plate portion in contact with the first plate portion, The first plate portion has a first protrusion protruding in the thickness direction of the first plate portion on a surface opposite to a surface in contact with the second plate portion. The second plate portion has a second protrusion protruding in the thickness direction of the second plate portion on a surface opposite to a surface in contact with the first plate portion.

2. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1, wherein: The first plate portion and the second plate portion are composed of a single plate-shaped member. The second plate portion is formed by being bent from one end of the first plate portion so as to overlap with the first plate portion.

3. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 2, wherein: The one end is an end portion of the first plate portion in the first direction.

4. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 2, wherein: The second plate portion extends from an end portion of the first plate portion in the first direction toward the main body.

5. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 2, wherein: The one end is an end portion of the first plate portion in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 1, wherein: The second plate portion is formed of a member independent of the first plate portion and is fixed to the first plate portion.

7. The electromagnetic relay according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The first direction is a direction along the extending direction of the core.

8. The electromagnetic relay according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The yoke and the common terminal are integrated.

9. The electromagnetic relay according to claim 7, wherein: The yoke and the common terminal are integrated.

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