RELAY

Abstract

relay (1) comprising: a first contact (8); a terminal (3) to which the first contact (8) is attached; a second contact (9) which is arranged in a position facing the first contact (8); a contact piece (5) to which the second contact (9) is attached; a pressure element (6) which is configured to move into an off position in which the first contact (8) and the second contact (9) enter a non-contact state, and into an on position in which the first contact (8) and the second contact (9) enter a contact state, by pressure of the pressure element (6) against the contact piece (5); and an actuator (7) which is configured to move the pressure element (6) from the off position to the on position via an override position which is arranged beyond the on position, wherein the contact piece (5) comprises a body (71) and a low-rigidity section (72) which has a lower stiffness than the body (71), and wherein the pressure element (6) presses the low-rigidity section (72).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a relay. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A relay moves one of several contacts to another contact to open or close the contacts. For example, a relay disclosed in patent document 1 drives a pressure element by using a magnetic force from a coil, which is generated when a voltage is applied to the coil. The pressure element thus presses a contact piece and moves a movable contact attached to the contact piece to bring the movable contact into contact with a fixed contact. STATE-OF-THE-ART DOCUMENT PATENT DOCUMENT

[0003] Patent document 1: JP 2000 - 43 952 A

[0004] Further state of the art is formed by DE 10 2013 214 209 A1, JP 2002 - 343 215 A and DE 10 2010 063 229 A1. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION TASKS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0005] The pressure element moves the movable contact by pressing and bending the contact piece. If the contact piece has high stiffness, the force required to actuate the pressure element must increase accordingly. This can cause a problem by increasing the energy consumption required by the coil. Specifically, in the case of such an actuator that moves the pressure element from an off position to an on position via an override position beyond the on position, additional force is required to move the pressure element into the override position if the contact piece has high stiffness. In this case, the energy consumption of the coil increases even further.

[0006] Furthermore, if the connection to which the fixed contact is attached has a high stiffness, comparable to the contact piece, a high degree of bending of the connection is difficult to achieve. In this case, the load acting on the contact piece increases when the pressure element moves into the over-extension position. This resulting heavy load can impair the stability of the contact piece's operation.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to provide a relay which reduces an increase in the energy consumption of the actuator and which achieves stable operation of a contact piece even when the actuator is such that it moves a pressure element beyond an overshoot position. MEANS OF SOLVING THE TASK

[0008] A relay according to one aspect of the invention comprises a first contact; a terminal to which the first contact is attached; a second contact arranged at a position facing the first contact; a contact piece to which the second contact is attached; a pressure element configured to move into an off position, in which the first contact and the second contact are in a non-contact state, and into an on position, in which the first contact and the second contact are in contact, by pressure of the pressure element against the contact piece; and an actuator configured to move the pressure element from the off position to the on position via an override position arranged beyond the on position. The contact piece comprises a body and a low-rigidity section having a lower stiffness than the body.The pressure element presses against the low-rigidity section.

[0009] In this relay, the low-rigidity section is flexible with minimal force when the pressure element is pressed against it. This reduces the actuator's energy consumption. Even if the connection has high rigidity, the force exerted on the contact by the pressure element moving into the over-position can be reduced by bending the low-rigidity section. This ensures stable contact operation.

[0010] The low-stiffness section can have a thickness less than the thickness of the body. In this case, reducing the thickness of the low-stiffness section can decrease its stiffness.

[0011] The contact section can comprise multiple leaf springs stacked on top of each other. The low-rigidity section can consist of fewer leaf springs than those enclosed by the body. In this case, reducing the number of leaf springs in the low-rigidity section can decrease its stiffness.

[0012] The low-rigidity section can be arranged on a guide end face of the contact piece with respect to the second contact. In this case, a large deflection of the low-rigidity section can be achieved with small forces.

[0013] The low-rigidity section can have a width that is less than the width of the body. In this case, reducing the width of the low-rigidity section can decrease its stiffness.

[0014] The contact piece may include a slot formed between the low-rigidity section and the body. In this case, the presence of the slot may reduce the stiffness of the low-rigidity section.

[0015] The low-rigidity section can comprise a first low-rigidity section and a second low-rigidity section. The first and second low-rigidity sections can extend longitudinally along the contact area of ​​the body and be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the contact area. In this case, a load acting on the contact area can be reduced by bending of the first and second low-rigidity sections.

[0016] The body may include a contact attachment section located between the first low-rigidity section and the second low-rigidity section. The second contact may be attached to the contact attachment section. The contact piece may include: a first slot formed between the first low-rigidity section and the contact attachment section, extending longitudinally along the contact piece, and a second slot formed between the second low-rigidity section and the contact attachment section, also extending longitudinally along the contact piece. In this case, the presence of the first and second slots may reduce the respective stiffness of the first and second low-rigidity sections.

[0017] Each of the first and second slots can reach a position on a proximal end face of the contact piece with respect to the second contact. In this case, the respective stiffness of the first low-rigidity section and the second low-rigidity section can decrease further.

[0018] The low-rigidity section can further include a branch designed to connect the first and second low-rigidity sections. This arrangement reduces twisting between the first and second low-rigidity sections, thereby minimizing deviation in pressure position.

[0019] The pressure element can press the branch. Alternatively, the pressure element can press the first low-rigidity section and the second low-rigidity section.

[0020] The pressure position formed in the low-rigidity section, and pressed by the pressure element, can be located on a guide end face of the contact piece with respect to the second contact. In this case, a large degree of bending of the low-rigidity section can be achieved with a small force.

[0021] The actuator can further include a retaining element that latches the pressure element to hold it in the engaged position. In this case, the pressure element can be held stably in the engaged position without being affected by an impact or an external magnetic force, compared to the case where the pressure element is held in the engaged position by a magnetic force. IMPACT OF THE INVENTION

[0022] According to the present invention, a relay can reduce an increase in the energy consumed by an actuator and achieve stable operation of a contact piece even when the actuator is such that it moves a pressure element beyond an overshoot position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a relay according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of the relay in a closed position. Fig. Figure 3 shows a top view of the relay in an open position. Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a contact piece according to a first embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-section of a holding mechanism arrangement. Fig. Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the holding mechanism. Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the holding element. Fig. Figure 8 shows the retaining element viewed in an axial direction. Fig. Figure 9 shows a development view of an inner surface of the retaining element. Fig. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a push button. Fig. Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a printed element. Fig. Figure 12 shows an enlarged view of the printing element and the push button. Fig. Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the operating states of an actuator. Fig. 14(A), Fig. 14(B), and Fig. Figure 14(C) shows development views of operating states of an inner circular circumferential surface of a holding element and detent projections of a detent element. Fig. 15(A), Fig. 15(B), and Fig. Figure 15(C) shows development representations of operating states of the inner circumferential surface of the holding element and the detent projections of the detent element. Fig. Figure 16 shows a contact piece according to a second embodiment. Fig. Figure 17 shows a pressure element according to the second embodiment. Fig. 18(A), Fig. 18(B), and Fig. Figure 18(C) shows operating states of the contact piece according to the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 19 shows a contact piece according to a first modified example. Fig. Figure 20 shows a contact piece according to a second modified example. Fig. Figure 21 shows a contact piece according to a third modified example. EXAMPLE OF EXECUTION

[0023] A relay according to one embodiment is described below with reference to the figures. Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of relay 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows top views of Relay 1. Fig. 2 shows relay 1 in a closed position, while Fig. 3. Relay 1 is shown in an open position. Relay 1 according to the embodiment is a latching relay. As shown in the Fig. As shown in 1 to 3, relay 1 comprises a base 2, a fixed contact terminal 3, a movable contact terminal 4, a contact piece 5, a pressure element 6, and an actuator 7.

[0024] Base 2 contains the fixed contact terminal 3, the movable contact terminal 4, contact piece 5, pressure element 6, and actuator 7. Base 2 has one open side. The opening of base 2 is covered by a cover (not shown).

[0025] The fixed contact terminal 3 is made of a conductive material such as copper. A first contact 8 is attached to one end of the fixed contact terminal 3. The other end of the fixed contact terminal 3 protrudes outwards from base 2. A first bearing groove 11 is formed within base 2. The fixed contact terminal 3 is fitted into the first bearing groove 11 to be supported on base 2.

[0026] The movable contact terminal 4 consists of a conductive material such as copper. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, bearing 12 is provided at one end of the movable contact terminal 4. Contact piece 5 is attached to bearing 12. The other end of the movable contact terminal 4 protrudes outwards from base 2. A second bearing groove 13 is formed within base 2. The movable contact terminal 4 is fitted into the second bearing groove 13 to be supported on base 2.

[0027] Contact piece 5 is made of a conductive material such as copper. Contact piece 5 is located opposite the fixed contact terminal 3. A guide end section 14 of contact piece 5 is pressed by pressure element 6. A proximal end section 15 of contact piece 5 is attached to bearing 12 of the movable contact terminal 4. Contact piece 5 is supported in bearing 12. A second contact 9 is attached to contact piece 5. The second contact 9 is located opposite the first contact 8. The second contact 9 is positioned between the guide end section 14 and bearing 12.

[0028] Contact piece 5 comprises an arc section 16. Arc section 16 is arranged between the second contact 9 and bearing 12. The second contact 9 is arranged between guide end section 14 and arc section 16. Arc section 16 has a shape extending in a direction away from the fixed contact terminal 3. Arc section 16 may have a shape extending in a direction towards the fixed contact terminal 3. Contact piece 5 comprises a plurality of leaf springs 5a and 5b. Contact piece 5 consists of its stacking of the plurality of leaf springs 5a and 5b.

[0029] The second contact 9 is designed to be movable relative to the first contact 8. Specifically, contact 5 is pressed by pressure element 6, causing it to deform elastically and bend towards the fixed contact terminal 3. The second contact 9 thus moves towards the first contact 8. When the pressure against contact 5 is released by pressure element 6, contact 5 returns away from the fixed contact terminal 3 due to its elastic force. The second contact 9 thus moves away from the first contact 8. Alternatively, contact 5 can be pulled by pressure element 6 to move the second contact 9 away from the first contact 8.

[0030] Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of contact piece 5 according to a first embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, contact piece 5 comprises a body 71 and a low-rigidity section 72. The second contact 9 is attached to body 71. Body 71 comprises arc section 16 and the proximal end section 15 described above.

[0031] Low-rigidity section 72 projects from body 71 towards the guide end face. Low-rigidity section 72 is located on a guide end face of contact piece 5 with respect to the second contact 9. Low-rigidity section 72 comprises the guide end section 14 described above. Pressure element 6 therefore presses low-rigidity section 72. A pressure position formed in low-rigidity section 72 and pressed by pressure element 6 is located on the guide end face of contact piece 5 with respect to the second contact 9.

[0032] Low-rigidity section 72 comprises fewer leaf springs 5a than leaf springs 5a and 5b that comprise body 71. Accordingly, low-rigidity section 72 has a smaller thickness than body 71. Furthermore, low-rigidity section 72 has a thickness W1 that is smaller than the thickness W2 of body 71. Low-rigidity section 72 therefore has a lower stiffness than body 71. Consequently, when the same compressive force is applied, the amount of deflection of low-rigidity section 72 is greater than the amount of deflection of body 71. In other words, the compressive force required by low-rigidity section 72 is less than the compressive force required by body 71 to produce a comparable amount of deflection.

[0033] According to the embodiment, body 71 comprises the two leaf springs 5a and 5b, whereas low-rigidity section 72 comprises the single leaf spring 5a. However, body 71 may comprise more than the two leaf springs 5a and 5b. Low-rigidity section 72 may comprise more than the single leaf spring 5a.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, pressure element 6 comprises a first pressure element 33 and a second pressure element 38. The first pressure element 33 moves axially to press the second pressure element 38. The second pressure element 38 comprises a pivot point 17 and a contact section 18. The pivot point 17 is rotatably mounted on base 2. The pivot point 17 is located on the side where bearing 12 is located relative to arc section 16. The contact section 18 is located opposite contact piece 5. The second pressure element 38 rotates about pivot point 17 in a direction toward contact piece 5 to bring contact section 18 into contact with contact piece 5. Contact section 18 thus presses guide end section 14 of contact piece 5 to move the second contact 9 close to the first contact 8.

[0035] The second pressure element 38 comprises a first movable section 21 and a second movable section 22. The first movable section 21 and the second movable section 22 are separate sections. The first movable section 21 includes pivot point 17. The second movable section 22 includes contact section 18 and extends from the first movable section 21 to contact piece 5.

[0036] The first movable section 21 comprises a first part 23 and a second part 24. The first movable section 21 has a curved shape at a point between the first part 23 and the second part 24. More precisely, the first part 23 extends at an oblique angle from pivot point 17 towards contact piece 5. The second part 24 is arranged between contact piece 5 and actuator 7.

[0037] The second movable section 22 extends from the guide end of the first movable section 21 to the guide end section 14 of contact piece 5. The second movable section 22 is connected to the guide end of the first movable section 21. More precisely, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the second movable section 22 includes an opening 25. The guide end of the first movable section 21 is arranged inside the opening 25 of the second movable section 22.

[0038] The second movable section 22 includes a recess 26. Guide end section 14 of contact piece 5 is located inside recess 26. The contact section 18 described above forms part of an edge of recess 26. Guide end section 14 of contact piece 5 has a shape that is curved towards contact section 18. When the first movable section 21 rotates about pivot point 17 in a direction towards contact piece 5, the second movable section 22 is pushed through the guide end of the first movable section 21. Accordingly, the second movable section 22 moves linearly in such a direction that contact section 18 approaches contact piece 5.

[0039] Actuator 7 moves the first pressure element 33 in the axial direction. Actuator 7 comprises a coil 31 and a holding mechanism 32. Coil 31 comprises a coil former 34, a winding 35, a coil housing 36, and an iron core 37. Winding 35 is wound around coil former 34. Winding 35 is connected to a coil terminal (not shown). When a voltage is applied to coil 31 via the coil terminal, coil 31 generates a magnetic force that moves the iron core 37 located in coil 31 in an axial direction of actuator 7.

[0040] The holding mechanism 32 and the first pressure element 33 are arranged inside the housing 39. The holding mechanism 32 transmits an action from the iron core 37 to the first pressure element 33 to move the first pressure element 33 into a position as shown in Fig. 2 shown, or in an off position, as in Fig. Figure 3 shows the holding mechanism 32. It also mechanically holds the first pressure element 33 in the on position or in the off position in a state where no voltage is applied to coil 31. Holding mechanism 32 is described in detail below.

[0041] The first pressure element 33 moves in the axial direction to press the second pressure element 38. A pressure position P1, in which the first pressure element 33 presses the second pressure element 38, is arranged between pivot point 17 and contact section 18. Pressure position P1 is arranged on the same side as the second contact 9 with respect to arc section 16.

[0042] In the Fig. In the off position of the first pressure element 33 shown in Figure 3, the first contact 8 and the second contact 9 are separated from each other. Relay 1 therefore assumes an open position. When the first pressure element 33 moves into the position shown in Figure 3, the first contact 8 and the second contact 9 are separated from each other. Relay 1 therefore assumes an open position. Fig. When the second pressure element 38 is moved to the position shown, contact section 18 presses contact piece 5. Contact piece 5 therefore bends towards the movable contact terminal 4. As a result, the first contact 8 and the second contact 9 come into contact with each other, and relay 1 is in the position shown. Fig. 2 shown closed position. When the first pressure element 33 moves from the open position into the closed position. Fig. When the relay returns to the off position shown in step 3, the first contact 8 and the second contact 9 are separated. Relay 1 therefore returns to the open position.

[0043] Next, the assembly of holding mechanism 32 will be described in detail. Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-section of the structure of holding mechanism 32. Fig. Figure 6 shows an exploded view of part of the assembly of holding mechanism 32. As in Fig. Figure 5 shows a holding mechanism 32 comprising a cover 41, a holding element 42, and a push button 43.

[0044] Cover 41 is attached to the guide end of retaining element 42. A through-hole 44 is formed inside cover 41 and retaining element 42. The first pressure element 33, push button 43, and iron core 37 described above are arranged to be movable in the axial direction within the through-hole 44.

[0045] Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective view of retaining element 42. Fig. Figure 7 shows retaining element 42 viewed from an axial direction. As shown in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the retaining element 42 comprises a plurality of retaining projections 45. The retaining projections 45 protrude from an inner circumferential surface of the retaining element 42. The plurality of retaining projections 45 are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction of the retaining element 42. An axially extending release groove 46 is formed at each of these distances between the plurality of retaining projections 45.

[0046] Fig. Figure 9 shows an inner circumcircular surface of retaining element 42 in a plane. As shown in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, each of the retaining projections 45 has a detent inclination surface 47 and a release inclination surface 48. A step is formed by detent inclination surface 47 and release inclination surface 48. Each of the retaining projections 45 includes a guide groove 49 extending in the axial direction.

[0047] Fig. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of push button 43. As in Fig. Figure 10 shows a plurality of guide projections 51 formed on an outer circumferential surface of the push button 43. The guide projections 51 are spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction of the push button 43. Each of the guide projections 51 is arranged in the guide groove 49 and release groove 46 of the retaining element 42. When the push button 43 moves in the axial direction, the guide projections 51 move along the guide grooves 49 and the release grooves 46. A bore 52 and a plurality of inclined surfaces 53 are provided at one end of the push button 43. The plurality of inclined surfaces 53 are arranged around the bore 52. One end of the push button 43 can be pressed through the iron core 37.

[0048] Fig. Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the first printed element 33. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the first pressure element 33 comprises a pressure section 55, a detent section 56, and a bearing shaft 57. The pressure section 55 has a wave shape. One guide end of the pressure section 55 has a curved shape. The guide end of the pressure section 55 comes into contact with the second pressure element 38 when the first pressure element 33 presses the second pressure element 38.

[0049] Locking section 56 has a plurality of locking projections 58. The plurality of locking projections 58 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of locking section 56. The plurality of locking projections 58 are movable along the release grooves 46 described above.

[0050] A plurality of inclined surfaces 59 is provided at one end of rest section 56. The plurality of inclined surfaces 59 is arranged in the circumferential direction of rest section 56. Fig. Figure 12 shows the first pressure element 33 and push button 43. As in Fig. Figure 12 shows the majority of inclined surfaces 59 of rest section 56 arranged at locations opposite the majority of inclined surfaces 53 of pusher 43. As shown in Fig. Figure 11 shows the bearing shaft 57 protruding from the detent section 56. The bearing shaft 57 is arranged in bore 52 of the actuator 43. Accordingly, the first pressure element 33 is mounted by the actuator 43 in such a way that it is movable in the axial direction and rotatable about the axis.

[0051] As in the Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows a stage 61 formed by pressure section 55 and detent section 56. A flange 62 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of cover 41.

[0052] Next, the operation of actuator 7 will be described. Fig. Figure 13 shows a cross-section of operating states of actuator 7. Fig. 13 are the on position and the off position of the first pressure element 33, each expressed as "Pon" and "Poff". Furthermore, an override position of the first pressure element 33, described below, is expressed as "Pov". Each of the Fig. 14(A) to 14(C) and Fig. Figures 15(A) to 15(C) show a relationship between the inner circumferential surface of retaining element 42 and the locking projections 58 of the first pressure element 33 in a plane.

[0053] In the following description, an "out direction" refers to a direction from the on position Pon to the off position Poff. The "out direction" corresponds to the right direction in Fig. 13, and the downward direction into the Fig. 14(A) to 14(C) and Fig. 15(A) to 15(C). An "on direction" refers to a direction from the off position Poff to the on position Pon. The "on direction" corresponds to the left direction in Fig. 13, and the upward direction into the Fig. 14(A) to 14(C) and the Fig. 15(A) to 15(C).

[0054] In (A) of Fig. 13 The first pressure element 33 is arranged in the off position Poff. In this state, the detent projections 58 of the first pressure element 33 are arranged inside the release grooves 46 of the retaining element 42, as indicated by the two-point chain lines in Fig. 14(A). When a voltage is applied to actuator 7, coil 31 generates an electromagnetic force in iron core 37 in the on direction. As a result, iron core 37 moves in the on direction and pushes pusher 43. Pusher 43 pushes detent section 56 in the on direction. Correspondingly, the detent projections 58 move in the on direction along the release grooves 46 (arrows A1) as shown in Fig. 14(A) shown.

[0055] At this point, inclined surfaces 53 of pusher 43 press the inclined surfaces 59 of rest section 56 as in Fig. Figure 12 shows that a force acts on the locking section 56 to rotate it (arrows A2). Accordingly, when the locking projections 58 reach positions beyond the retaining projections 45, they move into positions opposite the locking inclination surfaces 47 (arrows A3), corresponding to the rotation of locking section 56 as shown in Figure 12. Fig. 14(B) shown.

[0056] In the state in which the locking projections 58 are arranged above the retaining projections 45, the first pressure element 33 reaches the override position Pov after further movement in the on-direction from the on-position Pon as in (B) of Fig. 13 shown.

[0057] When a voltage applied to actuator 7 ceases, the first pressure element 33 moves in the out direction due to the elastic force of contact piece 5. Accordingly, the detent projections 58 move in the out direction and contact the detent inclination surfaces 47 as shown in Fig. Figure 14(C) shows that each end of the locking projections 58 has an inclined surface 64 that is inclined in the same direction as the inclination direction of the locking inclination surfaces 47. The locking section 56 is therefore pressed further into the outward direction such that the respective inclined surfaces 64 of the locking projections 58 slide along the locking inclination surfaces 47 (arrows A4). The locking projections 58 then stop when they are engaged by the locking inclination surfaces 47 and the steps 50.

[0058] In this state, the first pressure element 33 is arranged at the Pon position as shown in (C) of Fig. Figure 13 shows that in the detent state of detent section 56 of retaining element 42, the first pressure element 33 does not move in the off direction, even when pusher 43 and iron core 37 return to the off direction, as shown in (C) of Fig. Figure 13 shows that the first pressure element 33 is held in the Pon position while resisting the elastic force of contact piece 5.

[0059] Each of the detent projections 58, which moves into a position facing the guide groove 49, has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the guide groove 49. Thus, the detent projections 58 do not engage in the guide groove 49, but stop by engaging with the retaining projection 45. The detent action controls the movement of the detent projection 58 in the out direction.

[0060] If a voltage is subsequently applied to actuator 7 in the state in which pressure element 33 is arranged at position Pon, as in (C) of Fig. As shown in Figure 13, coil 31 generates an electromagnetic force in iron core 37 in the on direction. Accordingly, iron core 37 moves in the on direction, and pusher 43 pushes the first pressure element 33 in the on direction from position Pon, while resisting the elastic force of contact piece 5. As a result, the detent projections 58 move in the on direction (arrows A5) as shown in Figure 13. Fig. 15(A) shown.

[0061] When the locking projections 58 reach positions above the steps 50 of retaining element 42, locking section 56 rotates around the axis in the same manner as described above. As a result, the locking projections 58 move into positions facing the release inclination surfaces 48 (arrows A6) as shown in Fig. 15 (B) shown. At this time, the first pressure element 33 is arranged in the override position Pov as shown in (C) of Fig. 13 shown.

[0062] When the voltage applied to actuator 7 ceases, the first pressure element 33 moves in the out direction due to the elastic force of contact piece 5. The inclined surfaces 53 of the detent projections 58 therefore slide along the release inclined surfaces 48 and move into positions facing the release grooves 46, as shown in Fig. Figure 15(C) shows that the detent projections 58 then move in the off direction along the release grooves 46. Correspondingly, the detent section 56 moves in the off direction, with the first pressure element 33 returning to the off position.

[0063] As described above, actuator 7 moves the first pressure element 33 from the off position Poff to the on position Pon via the override position Pov. Actuator 7 also moves the first pressure element 33 from the on position Pon to the off position Poff via the override position Pov. Holding and releasing the first pressure element 33 using the holding element 42 can be switched by the passage of the first pressure element 33 through the override position Pov.

[0064] Relay 1 according to the embodiment has the following characteristics.

[0065] The low-rigidity section 72 can be bent with small force by pressure from the pressure element 6 against the low-rigidity section 72. Accordingly, the increase in energy consumed by the actuator 7 can be reduced. Furthermore, the thickness of body 71 is chosen to be greater than the thickness of the low-rigidity section 72. Thus, the conductivity of contact piece 5 can be increased, which can reduce excessive temperature rise during conduction.

[0066] According to the embodiment, the thickness of the fixed contact connection 3 is greater than the thickness of body 71. Thus, the fixed contact connection 3 has a higher stiffness than body 71. However, even in the state of high stiffness of the fixed contact connection 3, a load applied to contact piece 5 due to the movement of the first pressure element 33 into the overshoot position Pov can be reduced by bending of the low-stiffness section 72. Thus, stable operation of contact piece 5 can be achieved.

[0067] The first pressure element 33 is held in the "On" position (Pon) by the detent of detent section 56 by retaining element 42. In other words, the first pressure element 33 is not held in the "On" position (Pon) by a magnetic force but mechanically. Accordingly, relay 1 can be held in the closed position even when the voltage applied to coil 31 is stopped. Furthermore, if a voltage is applied to coil 31 to release the closed position, push button 43 rotates and holds the first pressure element 33 in the "Off" position (Poff). Accordingly, relay 1 can be held in the open position even when a voltage applied to coil 31 is stopped.

[0068] According to this embodiment, relay 1 switches between the closed and open positions with each pulse signal input to actuator 7. If no signal is input, the state of relay 1 remains unchanged. In this case, the state of relay 1 can be maintained without requiring a continuous voltage to actuator 7. Consequently, the power consumption of relay 1 can be reduced. Furthermore, the control via the pulse signal used here can simplify the design of the control circuit used in actuator 7.

[0069] Because relay 1 is held in the closed position by the detent between retaining element 42 and detent section 56, its impact resistance can be improved compared to the case where relay 1 is held in the closed position by an electromagnetic force generated by coil 31. Furthermore, the closed position can be maintained without being influenced by external magnetism.

[0070] Next, contact piece 5 is described according to a second embodiment. Fig. Figure 16 shows a perspective view of contact piece 5 according to the second embodiment. As in Fig. Figure 16 shows that, according to the second embodiment, contact piece 5 comprises body 71, a first low-rigidity section 72a, and a second low-rigidity section 72b. Body 71 includes a contact mounting section 73. The second contact 9 is attached to contact mounting section 73. Contact mounting section 73 is arranged between the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b.

[0071] The first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b extend longitudinally from contact piece 5 of body 71 and are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of contact piece 5. The first low-rigidity section 72a includes a first hole 74. The second low-rigidity section 72b includes a second hole 75. The positions of the first hole 74 and the second hole 75 in the longitudinal direction of contact piece 5 are arranged on a guide end face with respect to the second contact 9.

[0072] The first low-rigidity section 72a has a thickness less than the thickness of body 71. The second low-rigidity section 72b has a thickness less than the thickness of body 71. The first low-rigidity section 72a consists of a smaller number of leaf springs 5a than the number of leaf springs 5a and 5b that form body 71. The second low-rigidity section 72b consists of a smaller number of leaf springs 5a than the number of leaf springs 5a and 5b that form body 71. According to the embodiment, each of the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b consists of a single leaf spring, whereas body 71 consists of the two leaf springs 5a and 5b. However, each of the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b can consist of more than one leaf spring. Body 71 can consist of more than the two leaf springs 5a and 5b.

[0073] Contact piece 5 comprises a first slot 76 and a second slot 77. The first slot 76 is formed between the first low-rigidity section 72a and the contact mounting section 73, and extends in the longitudinal direction of contact piece 5. The second slot 77 is formed between the second low-rigidity section 72b and the contact mounting section 73, and extends in the longitudinal direction of contact piece 5. The first slot 76 and the second slot 77 reach the proximal end face of contact piece 5 with respect to the second contact 9.

[0074] As can be seen from the above, each of the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b of contact piece 5 according to the second embodiment has a reduced thickness and includes slot 76 or 77. Accordingly, each of the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b has a stiffness that is less than the stiffness of body 71.

[0075] Fig. Figure 17 shows a perspective view of part of pressure element 6 (second movable section 22) according to the second embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, pressure element 6 comprises a first projection 22a and a second projection 22b. The first projection 22a and the second projection 22b are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of contact piece 5. A leading end of the first projection 22a is inserted into the first hole 74 of the first low-rigidity section 72a. A leading end of the second projection 22b is inserted into the second hole 75 of the second low-rigidity section 72b. A return 22c is formed between the first projection 22a and the second projection 22b.

[0076] Fig. Figures 18(A) to 18(C) show an operation of contact piece 5 according to the second embodiment. When the first pressure element 33 described above moves from the off position Poff to the on position Pon (see Fig. 13), the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b, each pressed by the first protrusion 22a and the second protrusion 22b, bring the second contact 9 into contact with the first contact 8 as in Fig. 18(A) shown. When the first pressure element 33 passes through the on position Pon and reaches the overshoot position Pov, the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b are bent by further moving pressure element 6 as shown in Fig. 18(B) shown. When the first compression element 33 subsequently returns to the On position Pon, part of the bends of the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b return to their initial state, as shown in Fig. 18(C) is shown. In this state, a contact is maintained between the second contact 9 and the first contact 8.

[0077] In the contact piece 5 described above, according to the second embodiment, the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b are similarly bendable with a small force by pressure from the pressure element 6 against the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b. Accordingly, the increase in energy consumed by the actuator 7 can be reduced. Furthermore, a load acting on contact piece 5 by moving the first pressure element 33 into the overshoot position Pov can be reduced by bending the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b. Accordingly, stable operation of contact piece 5 can be achieved.

[0078] The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment described herein. Various modifications can be made without deviating from the scope of protection of the subject matter of the invention.

[0079] The design of relay 1 can be modified. For example, instead of a single contact, two or more contacts can be provided to implement the first contact 8 and the second contact 9 respectively. The design of contact element 5 can be modified from the configuration described above in the context of the embodiment.

[0080] The shape of pressure element 6 can be modified from the form described above in the embodiments. For example, the first movable section 21 and the second movable section 22 can be integrated as a single piece. Alternatively, the second pressure element 38 can be eliminated. In this case, contact piece 5 can be pressed directly through the first pressure element 33.

[0081] The design of actuator 7 can be modified from the embodiment described above. Similarly, the design of holding mechanism 32 can be modified.

[0082] The shape of contact piece 5 can be modified from the shape described above in the embodiments. Fig. Figure 19 shows a perspective view of contact piece 5 according to a first modified example. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, contact piece 5 can include a branch 72c that connects the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b. The first slot 76 and the second slot 77 can be connected to each other by means of a third slot 78. The third slot 78 is formed between branch 72c and contact fastening section 73, and extends in the width direction of contact piece 5.

[0083] The branch 72c thus provided reduces twisting between the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b. Accordingly, a reduction in deviation from the pressure position can be achieved. Pressure element 6 of contact piece 5 according to the first modified example can press the first low-rigidity section 72a and the second low-rigidity section 72b. Alternatively, pressure element 6 can press branch 72c.

[0084] Fig. Figure 20 shows a perspective view of contact piece 5 according to a second modified example. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, each thickness of the low-rigidity sections 72a and 72b can be equal to the thickness of body 71.

[0085] Fig. Figure 21 shows a perspective view of contact piece 5 according to a third modified example. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, each of the low-rigidity sections 72a and 72b of contact piece 5, formed by a leaf spring 5a, can be made smaller than the thickness of body 71. COMMERCIAL APPLICABILITY

[0086] According to the present invention, a relay can reduce an increase in the energy consumed by an actuator and achieve stable operation of a contact piece even when the actuator is such that it moves a pressure element beyond an overshoot position. REFERENCE MARK LIST 8 first contact 3 fixed contact connections 9 second contact 5 contact pieces 6 pressure element 7 Actuator 71 bodies 72 Low rigidity section 5a, 5b Leaf spring 72a first low-rigidity section 72b second low-rigidity section 73 Contact fastening section 76 first slot 77 second slot 72c Branch 42 Holding element

Claims

[1] Relay (1) comprising: a first contact (8); a terminal (3) to which the first contact (8) is attached; a second contact (9) which is arranged in a position facing the first contact (8); a contact piece (5) to which the second contact (9) is attached; a pressure element (6) which is configured to move into an off position in which the first contact (8) and the second contact (9) enter a non-contact state, and into an on position in which the first contact (8) and the second contact (9) enter a contact state, by pressure of the pressure element (6) against the contact piece (5); and an actuator (7) which is configured to move the pressure element (6) from the off position to the on position via an override position which is arranged beyond the on position, wherein the contact piece (5) comprises a body (71) and a low-rigidity section (72) which has a lower stiffness than the body (71), and wherein the pressure element (6) presses the low-rigidity section (72). [2] Relay (1) according to claim 1, wherein the low-rigidity section (72) has a thickness that is less than the thickness of the body (71). [3] Relay (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the contact piece (5) comprises a plurality of leaf springs (5a, 5b) which are stacked on top of each other, and wherein the low-stiffness section (72) comprises the leaf springs (5a, 5b) which are fewer in number than the leaf springs (5a, 5b) encompassed by the body (71). [4] Relay (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the low rigidity section (72) is arranged on a guide end side of the contact piece (5) with respect to the second contact (9). [5] Relay (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the low-rigidity section (72) has a width which is less than the width of the body (71). [6] Relay (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the contact piece (5) comprises a slot formed between the low-rigidity section (72) and the body (71). [7] Relay (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the low rigidity section (72) comprises a first low rigidity section (72a) and a second low rigidity section (72b), and wherein the first low-rigidity section (72a) and the second low-rigidity section (72b) extend in a longitudinal direction of the contact piece (5) of the body (71) and are spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction of the contact piece (5). [8] Relay (1) according to claim 7, wherein the body (71) comprises a contact fastening section (73) which is arranged between the first low-rigidity section (72a) and the second low-rigidity section (72b), wherein the second contact (9) is attached to the contact fastening section (73), and the contact piece (5) comprises: a first slot (76) formed between the first low-rigidity section (72a) and the contact fastening section (73), and extending in the longitudinal direction of the contact piece (5), and a second slot (77) formed between the second low-rigidity section (72b) and the contact fastening section (73), extending in the longitudinal direction of the contact piece (5). [9] Relay (1) according to claim 8, wherein each of the first slot (76) and the second slot (77) reaches a position on a proximal end face of the contact piece (5) with respect to the second contact (9). [10] Relay (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the low-rigidity section (72) further comprises a branch (72c) which is configured to connect the first low-rigidity section (72a) and the second low-rigidity section (72b) together. [11] Relay (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the pressure element (6) presses the first low-rigidity section (72a) and the second low-rigidity section (72b). [12] Relay (1) according to claim 10, wherein the pressure element (6) presses the branch (72c). [13] Relay (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein a pressure position formed in the low-rigidity section (72) and pressed by the pressure element (6) is arranged on a guide end side of the contact piece (5) with respect to the second contact (9). [14] Relay according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the actuator (7) comprises a retaining element (42) which is configured to latch the pressure element (6) in order to keep the pressure element (6) in the on position.

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