Relay

Abstract

Relays, comprehensive: a fixed contact (14); a movable contact piece (13), including a movable contact (16) arranged to face the fixed contact (14); a contact housing (3) which contains the fixed contact (14) and the movable contact piece (13); a movable section configured to move in a direction in which the movable contact (16) touches the fixed contact (14) and in a direction in which the movable contact (16) is separated from the fixed contact (14), wherein the movable section includes a drive shaft (25) and a movable iron core (26), the drive shaft (25) being fixed to the movable contact piece (13) in the contact housing (3), the drive shaft (25) extending from an inside of the contact housing (3) to an outside of the contact housing (3), the movable iron core (26) being connected to the drive shaft (25) outside the contact housing (3); a coil (31) that generates a magnetic force which moves the movable iron core (26) in a direction of movement of the movable section; a return spring (35) which forces the movable section in the direction in which the movable contact (16) is separated from the fixed contact (14), and a contact spring (36) which forces the drive shaft (25) in the direction in which the movable contact (16) touches the fixed contact (14), wherein the contact spring (36) is arranged outside the contact housing (3), wherein the movable iron core (26) encloses a hole (261) which extends through the movable iron core (26) in the direction of movement of the movable section, and the drive shaft (25) is inserted into the hole (261) of the movable iron core (26) and is configured to move in the direction of movement of the movable section relative to the movable iron core (26).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

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

[0002] There is a type of relay that has an interior divided by a contact housing. In JP 5 727 862 B2, for example, a fixed contact, a movable contact, and a movable contact piece are arranged within the contact housing. Furthermore, a coil and a movable iron core are located outside the contact housing.

[0003] The movable contact is connected to a drive shaft within the contact housing by means of a holder and a contact spring. The contact spring forces the movable contact in a direction that presses it against the fixed contact while it is in contact with the fixed contact. The drive shaft extends from the inside to the outside of the contact housing. The movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft. The coil moves the drive shaft through the movement of the movable iron core by magnetic force. Consequently, the movable contact moves in the direction in which it contacts the fixed contact and in the direction in which it is separated from the fixed contact.

[0004] In US 2008 / 0007373A1, a magnetic switch comprises a piston and a switch frame. The piston has a stepped section on its outer circumferential surface. The switch frame has a projection on its end face, which faces the outer circumferential surface of the piston. By engaging the stepped portion of the piston with the projection of the switch frame, the forward movement of the piston can be blocked, thus preventing an impact force from being exerted on a moving contact and an insulator. In this way, deformation of the moving contact and breakage of the insulator can be prevented, and the axial length of the magnetic switch can be reduced, thereby decreasing its size. SUMMARY Technical Task

[0005] In the relay described above, moving parts such as the movable contact, the drive shaft, the holder, and the contact spring are displaced relative to each other when the drive shaft moves. These moving parts are located within the contact housing along with the movable and fixed contacts. Therefore, when abrasive dust is generated due to the movement of these moving parts, it readily adheres to the movable or fixed contact. This abrasive dust increases the contact resistance, making it difficult to increase the excitation power.

[0006] One aim of this invention is to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust from moving parts in a relay. Solution to the task

[0007] The aforementioned problem is solved by the features of the main claim. A relay includes a fixed contact, a movable contact piece, a contact housing, a movable section, a coil, a return spring, and a contact spring. The movable contact piece includes a movable contact that is arranged to face the fixed contact. The contact housing contains the fixed contact and the movable contact piece. The movable section is configured to move in a direction in which the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact and in a direction in which the movable contact is separated from the fixed contact. The movable section includes a drive shaft and a movable iron core. The drive shaft is fixed to the movable contact piece within the contact housing and extends from an inside to an outside of the contact housing.The movable iron core is connected to the drive shaft outside the contact housing. The coil generates a magnetic force that moves the movable iron core in one direction of movement of the moving section. The return spring forces the movable section in the direction in which the movable contact is separated from the fixed contact. The contact spring forces the drive shaft in the direction in which the movable contact touches the fixed contact. The contact spring is located outside the contact housing.

[0008] In this type of relay, the contact spring is located outside the contact housing. Therefore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the moving or fixed contact, even when the contact spring and moving parts around it are moved together, thus preventing the formation of abrasive dust. Consequently, an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust is prevented.

[0009] The drive shaft can be fixed immovably to the movable contact piece in one axial direction. In this case, it is unlikely that abrasive dust will be generated between the drive shaft and the movable contact piece. Therefore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to either the movable or the fixed contact. Consequently, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust.

[0010] The relay can also include a roller. The coil can be wound around the roller. The roller can be located outside the contact housing. The roller can include a hole that extends in the direction of movement of the movable section. The contact spring can be located inside the hole of the roller. In this case, the contact spring and the roller can be arranged compactly outside the contact housing.

[0011] The relay can also enclose a fixed iron core facing the movable iron core. The fixed iron core can enclose an interior space extending in the direction of movement of the movable section. The contact spring can be located inside the fixed iron core. In this case, the contact spring and the fixed iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0012] Both the contact spring and the return spring can be located inside the fixed iron core. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring, and the fixed iron core can be arranged compactly outside the contact housing.

[0013] The contact spring can be located inside the fixed iron core. The return spring can be located radially outside the fixed iron core. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring, and the fixed iron core can be arranged compactly outside the contact housing.

[0014] The movable iron core can enclose an interior space extending in the direction of movement of the movable section. Part of the drive shaft can be located inside the movable iron core. The contact spring can also be located inside the movable iron core. In this case, the contact spring and the movable iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0015] Both the contact spring and the return spring can be located inside the movable iron core. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring, and the movable iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0016] The fixed iron core can enclose a first interior space extending in the direction of movement of the movable section. The movable iron core can enclose a second interior space extending in the direction of movement of the movable section and facing the first interior space. The contact spring can be located within the first interior space. The return spring can be located above both the first and second interior spaces. In this case, the contact spring, the return spring, and the fixed iron core can be compactly arranged outside the contact housing.

[0017] The movable iron core encloses a hole that extends through the core in the direction of movement of the movable section. The drive shaft is inserted into the hole of the movable iron core and configured to move in the direction of movement of the movable section relative to the movable iron core. In this case, the drive shaft displaces relative to an inner surface of the hole in the movable iron core as it moves. Because the movable iron core is located outside the contact housing, it prevents abrasive dust from adhering to either the movable or the fixed contact, even if the dust is generated by the drive shaft and the movable iron core. Consequently, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust.

[0018] The relay can also include a stopper. The stopper can restrict the movement of the movable iron core relative to the drive shaft when the movable section moves in the direction in which the movable contact is separated from the fixed contact. The stopper can be located outside the contact housing. In this case, the stopper restricts the movement of the drive shaft relative to the movable iron core, so that the drive shaft moves together with the movable iron core. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the movable or fixed contact, even if the stopper and the movable iron core or the drive shaft move together to generate abrasive dust. Consequently, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust.

[0019] The drive shaft and the hole of the movable iron core can have a polygonal shape. In this case, the drive shaft is prevented from rotating relative to the movable iron core. Furthermore, the displacement of the drive shaft and the hole of the movable iron core prevents abrasive dust from adhering to the movable or fixed contact, even if abrasive dust is generated. Consequently, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust. Effects of the invention

[0020] According to the invention, an increase in contact resistance in a relay due to abrasive dust from moving parts can be prevented. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view in section with a representation of a relay according to a first embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 shows a side view in section with a representation of a relay according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view in section with a representation of the relay according to a second embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view in section showing the relay according to a second embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view in section showing the relay according to a third embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 shows a side view in section with the representation of the relay according to the third embodiment. Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view in section showing the relay according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 shows a side view in section showing the relay according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 shows a side view in section with a representation of the relay according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 shows a side view in section with the representation of the relay according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 shows a side view in section with a representation of the relay according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. Figure 12 shows a side view in section with the representation of the relay according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. Figure 13 shows a perspective view depicting a drive shaft, a movable iron core and a fixed iron core according to one design variant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following describes a relay according to one embodiment with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view in section, illustrating a relay 1a according to a first embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the illustration in Figure 1 shows a side view in section 1. Fig. 1. The relay 1a includes a contact device 2, a contact housing 3, a movable section 4, and a coil block 5. In the following notation, each direction up / down / left / right is synonymous with each direction up / down / left / right in Fig. 1. In particular, a direction from coil block 5 towards contact housing 3 is defined as upwards. Furthermore, a direction from contact housing 3 towards coil block 5 is defined as downwards. However, these directions are defined to make the explanation clearer and do not restrict the orientation of relay 1a.

[0022] The contact device 2 includes a first fixed terminal 11, a second fixed terminal 12, and a movable contact 13. The first fixed terminal 11, the second fixed terminal 12, and the movable contact 13 are made of a conductive material such as copper. The first fixed terminal 11 includes a first fixed contact 14. The second fixed terminal 12 includes a second fixed contact 15. The first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 are arranged separately in the left-right direction.

[0023] The movable contact piece 13 extends in a left-right direction. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the movable contact piece 13 coincides with the left-right direction. The movable contact piece 13 is arranged above the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15. The movable contact piece 13 includes a first movable contact 16 and a second movable contact 17. The first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are arranged separately from each other in the left-right direction. The first movable contact 16 is arranged so that it faces the first fixed contact 14. The second movable contact 17 is arranged so that it faces the second fixed contact 15.

[0024] The movable contact piece 13 is arranged such that it is movable in the vertical direction. In particular, the movable contact piece 13 is movably arranged in a contact direction Z1 and an open direction Z2. In this embodiment, the contact direction Z1 is a direction in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 come into contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 (lower side in Fig. 1) The open direction Z2 is a direction in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are separated from the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 (top side in Fig. 1).

[0025] The contact housing 3 contains the contact device 2. In particular, the contact housing 3 contains the first fixed contact 14, the second fixed contact 15 and the movable contact piece 13. The contact housing 3 is made of an insulating material.

[0026] The first fixed terminal 11 includes a first contact carrier section 21 and a first external connection section 22. The first contact carrier section 21 is connected to the first fixed contact 14. The first contact carrier section 21 is located within the contact housing 3. The first external connection section 22 is connected to the first contact carrier section 21. The first contact carrier section 21 projects outwards from the contact housing 3. The second fixed terminal 12 includes a second contact carrier section 23 and a second external connection section 24. The second contact carrier section 23 is connected to the second fixed contact 15. The second contact carrier section 23 is located within the contact housing 3. The second external connection section 24 is connected to the second contact carrier section 23. The second contact carrier section 23 projects outwards from the contact housing 3.

[0027] In Fig. 1. The first external connection section 22 and the second external connection section 24 protrude from the contact housing 3 in a left-right direction. However, the first external connection section 22 and the second external connection section 24 can protrude from the contact housing 3 not only in a left-right direction but also in other directions such as the up-down direction.

[0028] The movable section 4 is movably arranged in the contact direction Z1 and the open direction Z2. The movable section 4 includes a drive shaft 25 and a movable iron core 26. The drive shaft 25 extends vertically from the inside of the contact housing 3 to the outside of the contact housing 3. The drive shaft 25 is movably arranged in the contact direction Z1 and the open direction Z2. The drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact piece 13 in the contact housing 3.

[0029] In particular, the drive shaft 25 includes a contact element fixing section 251. The contact element fixing section 251 is fixed to the movable contact element 13. The contact element fixing section 251 is located in the contact housing 3. The drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact element 13 in the axial direction of the drive shaft 25 at the contact element fixing section 251. In particular, the drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact element 13 by a stop 27, which is separate from the drive shaft 25. However, the stop 27 can be omitted. For example, the drive shaft 25 can be fixed to the movable contact element 13 by clamping the contact element fixing section 251 to the movable contact element 13. Alternatively, the contact element fixing section 251 can be fixed to the movable contact element 13 using fixing means such as welding.

[0030] The movable iron core 26 is located outside the contact housing 3. The movable iron core 26 is connected to the drive shaft 25 outside the contact housing 3. The movable iron core 26 is movably arranged in the contact direction Z1 and the open direction Z2. The movable iron core 26 is located below the contact housing 3. The movable iron core 26 has a cylindrical outer shape. The movable iron core 26 includes a hole 261 that extends vertically through the movable iron core 26. The drive shaft 25 is inserted into the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26. The drive shaft 25 is configured to move vertically relative to the movable iron core 26.

[0031] A stopper 28 is attached to the drive shaft 25. The stopper 28 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the drive shaft 25. The stopper 28 is located outside the contact housing 3. The stopper 28 is positioned vertically between the contact housing 3 and the movable iron core 26. The stopper 28 is located above the movable iron core 26. The stopper 28 controls the movement of the movable iron core 26 relative to the drive shaft 25 when the movable section 4 moves upwards, i.e., in the open direction Z2.

[0032] The coil block 5 actuates the movable contact piece 13 by means of an electromagnetic force. The coil block 5 moves the movable contact piece 13 in the contact direction Z1 and the open direction Z2. The coil block 5 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. The coil block 5 is arranged below the contact housing 3. The relay 1a can include a receptacle for housing the coil block 5. Alternatively, the coil block 5 and the contact housing 3 can be housed in the receptacle. In this case, the contact housing 3 can be divided into an area for housing the contact device 2 and an area for housing the coil block in the receptacle.

[0033] The coil assembly 5 includes a coil 31, a roller 32, a fixed iron core 33, a yoke 34, a return spring 35, and a contact spring 36. The coil 31 is wound around the roller 32. The coil 31 and the roller 32 are arranged coaxially with the drive shaft 25. The coil 31 generates an electromagnetic force that moves the movable iron core 26 in the contact direction Z1 and the open direction Z2. The roller 32 encloses a hole 321 that extends vertically through the roller 32. The movable iron core 26, the fixed iron core 33, the return spring 35, and the contact spring 36 are arranged in the hole 321 of the roller 32.

[0034] The yoke 34 is connected to the iron core 33. The yoke 34 encloses a first yoke 37 and a second yoke 38. The first yoke 37 is arranged above the coil 31. The first yoke 37 is arranged between the contact housing 3 and the roller 32. The second yoke 38 is connected to the first yoke 37. The second yoke 38 has a U-shape. The second yoke 38 is arranged on both sides of the coil 31 and below the coil 31.

[0035] The fixed iron core 33 is in contact with the second yoke 38. The movable iron core 26 is provided separately from the fixed iron core 33. The fixed iron core 33 is arranged in the hole 321 of the roller 32. The fixed iron core 33 has a cylindrical outer shape. The fixed iron core 33 faces the movable iron core 26. The fixed iron core 33 is arranged below the movable iron core 26. The fixed iron core 33 encloses an interior space S1. The interior space S1 extends vertically. The interior space S1 is open at the upper surface 331 of the fixed iron core 33. The interior space S1 extends downwards from the upper surface 331 of the fixed iron core 33.

[0036] The return spring 35 is arranged between the movable iron core 26 and the fixed iron core 33. In this embodiment, the return spring 35 is a coil spring. An upper end of the return spring 35 is in contact with the movable iron core 26, and a lower end of the return spring 35 is in contact with the fixed iron core 33. The return spring 35 forces the movable iron core 26 in the open direction Z2. The return spring 35 is arranged inside the fixed iron core 33.

[0037] The contact spring 36 is connected to the drive shaft 25 and the movable iron core 26. In this embodiment, the contact spring 36 is a coil spring. A portion of the drive shaft 25 is located within the contact spring 36. In particular, the drive shaft 25 includes a spring carrier section 252. The spring carrier section 252 has a flanged shape that projects radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the drive shaft 25. The contact spring 36 is arranged vertically between the spring carrier section 252 and the movable iron core 26. The contact spring 36 is positioned above the spring carrier section 252 and below the movable iron core 26.

[0038] The spring carrier section 252 and the contact spring 36 are arranged in the interior S1 of the fixed iron core 33. The outer diameter of the spring carrier section 252 and the outer diameter of the contact spring 36 are smaller than the inner diameter of the return spring 35. The spring carrier section 252 and the contact spring 36 are arranged within the return spring 35. The contact spring 36 forces the drive shaft 25 in the contact direction Z1 in a state where the movable contacts 16 and 17 are in contact with the fixed contacts 22 and 23.

[0039] The operation of relay 1a is described below. When no current is passed through coil 31, and thus coil 31 is not magnetized, the drive shaft 25 is pressed into the open direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35, together with the movable iron core 26. Therefore, the movable contact piece 13 is also pressed into the open direction Z2, as shown in the illustration. Fig. 1 the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in an open state in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are separated from the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15.

[0040] When a current is passed through the coil 31, magnetizing the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves in the contact direction Z1 against the elastic force of the return spring 35 due to the electromagnetic force of the coil 31. Consequently, the drive shaft 25 and the movable contact piece 13 both move in the contact direction Z1, as shown in the illustration in Fig. 2A the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 each touch the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 respectively.

[0041] Due to the electromagnetic force of the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves further away from the one in Fig. 2A position shown in the contact direction Z1. According to the illustration in Fig. 2B, the movable iron core 26 is then restricted from moving downwards by touching the fixed iron core 33. Consequently, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in a closed state, in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 touch the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15.

[0042] In the Fig. In the state shown in Figure 2A, the drive shaft 25 is restricted from moving downwards because the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15. Therefore, the movable iron core 26 moves in the contact direction Z1 relative to the drive shaft 25 as it continues to move in the contact direction Z1 due to the electromagnetic force of the coil 31. Consequently, the contact spring 36 between the movable iron core 26 and the spring carrier section 252 is compressed. Fig. In the closed state shown in 2B, the contact spring 36 therefore forces the drive shaft 25 in the contact direction Z1. Consequently, sufficient contact force is ensured.

[0043] When the current to coil 31 is interrupted, thus demagnetizing the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 is pressed in the open direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35. Consequently, the iron core 26 moves in the open direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25. When the movable iron core 26 moves to a position where it contacts the stopper 28, its movement in the open direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25 is restricted by the stopper 28. Therefore, the drive shaft 25 moves in the open direction Z2 along with the movable iron core 26, and the movable contact piece 13 also moves in the open direction Z2. Consequently, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 return to their open positions.

[0044] In relay 1a according to the embodiment described above, the contact spring 36 is arranged outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the movable contacts 16 or 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15, even when the contact spring 36 and the drive shaft 25 or the contact spring 36 and the movable iron core 26 are moved together to generate abrasive dust.

[0045] The drive shaft 25 is inserted into the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26, and the drive shaft 25 can move vertically relative to the movable iron core 26 to a position other than where it contacts the stopper 28. However, the movable iron core 26 is located outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the movable contacts 16 or 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15, even if the abrasive dust is generated between the movable iron core 26 and the drive shaft 25.

[0046] The stopper 28, which restricts the movement of the drive shaft 25 to the movable iron core 26, is located outside the contact housing 3. Therefore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the movable contacts 16 or 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15, even when the stopper 28 and the movable iron core 26 are moved together to generate abrasive dust.

[0047] The drive shaft 25 is fixed to the movable contact piece 13, so it does not move in the vertical direction. Therefore, it is unlikely that abrasive dust will be generated between the drive shaft 25 and the movable contact piece 13. This also prevents abrasive dust from adhering to the movable contacts 16 and 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15.

[0048] According to the description above, components such as the contact spring 36, which is displaced by the movement of the movable section 4, are not located within the contact housing 3 in relay 1a according to this embodiment, but rather outside the contact housing 3 along with the coil block 5. Therefore, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the movable contacts 16 or 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15, even if abrasive dust is generated between the movable iron core 26 and the drive shaft 25. Consequently, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust.

[0049] Furthermore, in relay 1a according to this embodiment, both the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 are arranged inside the interior S1 of the fixed iron core 33. Therefore, the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 can be arranged compactly outside the contact housing 3.

[0050] The following describes a relay 1b according to a second embodiment. Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows side views in section with a representation of relay 1b according to the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 shows relay 1b in the open state. Fig. Figure 4 shows relay 1b in the closed state. According to the illustration in Fig. 3 and Fig. In the second embodiment of relay 1b, the contact spring 36 is arranged in the interior S1 of the fixed iron core 33. The inner diameter of the return spring 35 is larger than the outer diameter of the fixed iron core 33. The return spring 35 is arranged radially outside the fixed iron core 33.

[0051] In particular, the fixed iron core 33 encloses a first cylinder section 41 and a second cylinder section 42. The second cylinder section 42 is arranged below the first cylinder section 41. An outer diameter of the first cylinder section 41 is smaller than an outer diameter of the second cylinder section 42. An inner diameter of the return spring 35 is larger than an outer diameter of the first cylinder section 41. The return spring 35 is arranged radially outside the first cylinder section 41. A stepped section 43 is provided between the first cylinder section 41 and the second cylinder section 42. An upper end of the return spring 35 is in contact with the movable iron core 26. A lower end of the return spring 35 is in contact with the fixed iron core 33 at the stepped section 43. Other configurations of the relay 1b according to the second embodiment are identical to those of the relay 1b according to the first embodiment.The relay 1b according to the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the relay 1a according to the first embodiment.

[0052] The following describes a relay 1c according to a third embodiment. Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows side views in section with a representation of relay 1c according to the third embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 shows relay 1c in the open state. Fig. Figure 6 shows relay 1c in the closed state. According to the illustration in Fig. 5 and Fig. In the third embodiment of relay 1c, the movable iron core 26 encloses an interior space S2 that extends in the direction of movement of the movable section 4. Part of the drive shaft 25 is arranged in the interior space S2 of the movable iron core 26. The contact spring 36 is arranged in the interior space S2 of the movable iron core 26. The return spring 35 is arranged in the interior space S1 of the fixed iron core 33.

[0053] In particular, the movable iron core 26 encloses an upper wall 44 and a lower wall 45. The upper wall 44 is arranged above the interior space S2. The upper wall 44 encloses a hole 431 into which the drive shaft 25 is inserted. The spring carrier section 252 of the drive shaft 25 is arranged in the interior space S2 of the movable iron core 26 together with the contact spring 36. The contact spring 36 is arranged vertically between the upper wall 44 of the movable iron core 26 and the spring carrier section 252.

[0054] The lower wall 45 is located beneath the interior space. The lower wall 45 faces the fixed iron core 33. The upper end of the return spring 35 is in contact with the lower wall 45 of the movable iron core 26. The lower wall 45 can be omitted, and the interior space S1 can be open on the lower surface of the movable iron core 26. Other configurations of relay 1c according to the third embodiment are identical to those of relay 1a according to the first embodiment. Relay 1c according to the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as relay 1a according to the first embodiment.

[0055] In relays 1a to 1c according to the first to third embodiments described above, the coil block 5 pulls the drive shaft 25 downwards, i.e., towards the coil block 5, so that the movable contact piece 13 moves in the contact direction Z1 (hereinafter referred to as the "pull-type structure"). However, the actuation direction of the drive shaft 25 for opening and closing the contacts can be opposite to that of the embodiment described above. That is, the coil block 5 can have a structure (hereinafter referred to as the "push-type structure") in which the movable contact piece 13 moves in the contact direction Z1 by pushing the drive shaft 25 upwards, i.e., towards the contact device 2. This means that the contact direction Z1 and the open direction Z2 can be reversed compared to the embodiment described above.

[0056] Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows, for example, side views in section of a relay 1d according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. Figure 7 shows relay 1d in the open state. Fig. Figure 8 shows relay 1d in the closed state. According to the illustration in Fig. 7 and Fig. In the fourth embodiment of relay 1d, the movable contact piece 13 is arranged below the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15. Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 The first external connection section 22 and the second external connection section 24 protrude upwards from the contact housing 3. However, the first external connection section 22 and the second external connection section 24 can protrude from the contact housing 3 in other directions.

[0057] The fixed iron core 33 encloses a hole 333 that extends vertically through the fixed iron core. The drive shaft 25 is inserted into the hole 333. The fixed iron core 33 encloses the first interior space S1. The first interior space S1 is open at the lower surface 332 of the fixed iron core 33. The first interior space S1 extends upwards from the lower surface 332 of the fixed iron core 33.

[0058] The movable iron core 26 is arranged below the fixed iron core 33. The movable iron core 26 encloses the second interior space S2. The second interior space S2 is open at the upper surface 262 of the movable iron core 26. The second interior space S2 extends downwards from the upper surface 262 of the movable iron core 26. The second interior space S2 faces the first interior space S1. The stopper 28 is arranged below the movable iron core 26.

[0059] The contact spring 36 is located in the second interior space S2. The spring carrier section 252 of the drive shaft 25 is located above the contact spring 36. The upper end of the contact spring 36 is in contact with the spring carrier section 252. The lower end of the contact spring 36 is in contact with the movable iron core 26 in the second interior space S2.

[0060] The return spring 35 is arranged above the first interior space S1 and the second interior space S2. The return spring 35 is in contact with the fixed iron core 33 in the first interior space S1. The return spring 35 is in contact with the movable iron core 26 in the second interior space S2. The contact spring 36 is arranged within the return spring 35.

[0061] The operation of relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment is described below. In relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment, the contact direction Z1 is in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 upwards and the open direction Z2 is in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 downwards. When no current is passed through the coil 31, so that the coil 31 is not magnetized, the drive shaft 25 is pressed in the open direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35 together with the movable iron core 26. Therefore, the movable contact piece 13 is also pressed in the open direction Z2, and as shown in Fig. 7 the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in the open state, in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are separated from the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15.

[0062] When a current is passed through the coil 31, magnetizing the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves in the contact direction Z1 against the elastic force of the return spring 35 due to the electromagnetic force of the coil 31. Consequently, the drive shaft 25 and the movable contact piece 13 both move in the contact direction Z1, as shown in the illustration in Fig. 8A the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 each touch the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15 respectively.

[0063] Due to the electromagnetic force of the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 moves further away from the one in Fig. 8A position shown in the contact direction Z1. According to the illustration in Fig. 8B, the movable iron core 26 is then restricted from moving upwards by touching the fixed iron core 33. Consequently, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in the closed state, in which the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15.

[0064] In the Fig. In the state shown in Figure 8A, the drive shaft 25 is restricted from moving upwards because the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 are in contact with the first fixed contact 14 and the second fixed contact 15. Therefore, the movable iron core 26 moves in the contact direction Z1 relative to the drive shaft 25 as it continues to move in the contact direction Z1 due to the electromagnetic force of the coil 31. Consequently, the contact spring 36 between the movable iron core 26 and the spring carrier section 252 is compressed. Fig. In the closed state shown in Figure 8B, the contact spring 36 therefore forces the drive shaft 25 in the contact direction Z1. Consequently, sufficient contact force is ensured.

[0065] When the current to coil 31 is interrupted, thus demagnetizing the coil 31, the movable iron core 26 is pressed in the open direction Z2 by the elastic force of the return spring 35. Consequently, the iron core 26 moves in the open direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25. When the movable iron core 26 moves to a position where it contacts the stopper 28, its movement in the open direction Z2 relative to the drive shaft 25 is restricted by the stopper 28. Therefore, the drive shaft 25 moves in the open direction Z2 along with the movable iron core 26, and the movable contact piece 13 also moves in the open direction Z2. Consequently, the first movable contact 16 and the second movable contact 17 return to their open positions.

[0066] Other configurations of relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment are identical to those of relay 1a according to the first embodiment. Relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as relay 1a according to the first embodiment.

[0067] Fig. 9 and Fig. Figure 10 shows side views in section of a relay 1e according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 shows relay 1e in the open state. Fig. Figure 10 shows relay 1e in the closed state. According to the illustrations in Fig. 9 and Fig. According to the fifth embodiment, relay 1e has a push-type structure similar to relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment. Furthermore, in relay 1e according to the fifth embodiment, both the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 are arranged in the interior S1 of the fixed iron core 33. In this case, the interior S2 of the movable iron core 26 can be omitted.

[0068] Other configurations of relay 1e according to the fifth embodiment are identical to those of relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment. Relay 1e according to the fifth embodiment can achieve the same effects as relay 1a according to the first embodiment.

[0069] Fig. 11 and Fig. Figure 12 shows side views in section of a relay 1f according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 shows relay 1f in the open state. Fig. Figure 12 shows relay 1f in the closed state. According to the illustrations in Fig. 11 and Fig. According to the sixth embodiment, relay 1f has a push-type structure similar to relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment. Furthermore, in relay 1f according to the sixth embodiment, both the contact spring 36 and the return spring 35 are arranged in the interior S2 of the movable iron core 26. In this case, the fixed iron core 33 can be omitted. Alternatively, the fixed iron core 33 can be provided, and the interior S1 of the fixed iron core 33 can be omitted.

[0070] Other configurations of relay 1f according to the sixth embodiment are identical to those of relay 1d according to the fourth embodiment. Relay 1f according to the sixth embodiment can achieve the same effects as relay 1a according to the first embodiment.

[0071] Although the embodiments of this invention have been described above, this invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various variants are possible without deviating from the concept of the invention. For example, the configuration of the coil block 5 can be changed. The shape or arrangement of the coil 31, the roller 32, or the yoke 34 can be changed. The shape or arrangement of the contact housing 3 can be changed.

[0072] The shapes or arrangements of the first fixed terminal 11, the second fixed terminal 12, and the movable contact 13 may be modified. The first fixed terminal 14 may be provided separately from the first fixed terminal 11 or may be integrated with the first fixed terminal 11. The second fixed terminal 15 may be provided separately from the second fixed terminal 12 or may be integrated with it. The first movable terminal 16 may be provided separately from the movable contact 13 or may be integrated with the movable contact 13. The second movable terminal 17 may be provided separately from the movable contact 13 or may be integrated with the movable contact 13.

[0073] The shape or arrangement of the return spring 35 and / or the contact spring 36 can be modified. For example, the return spring 35 is not limited to a coil spring and can be of a different spring type, such as a disc spring. The contact spring 36 is not limited to a coil spring and can be of a different spring type, such as a disc spring. In the embodiment above, the return spring 35 forces the movable section 4 by contacting the movable iron core 26. However, the return spring 35 can force the movable section 4 by contacting the drive shaft 25.

[0074] The shape or arrangement of the fixed iron core 33 and / or the movable iron core 26 can be modified. In the embodiment described above, the drive shaft 25, the movable iron core 26, and the fixed iron core 33 each have a circular cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 25. However, the drive shaft 25, the movable iron core 26, and the fixed iron core 33 can also have a polygonal shape or a circular cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 25.

[0075] For example, it shows Fig. Figure 13 shows a perspective view illustrating a drive shaft 25, a movable iron core 26, and a fixed iron core 33 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 13. Fig. 13. The drive shaft 25, the movable iron core 26, and the fixed iron core 33 can have a rectangular shape in a cross-section that is perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 25. The movable iron core 26 encloses a hole 261 into which the drive shaft 25 is inserted. The hole 261 can have a rectangular shape, corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the drive shaft 25.

[0076] In this case, the drive shaft 25 is clamped to the edge of the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26, thus restricting the rotation of the drive shaft 25 about its axis. This prevents the drive shaft 25 from rotating relative to the movable iron core 26. Consequently, the rotation of the movable contact piece 13 is also prevented. Furthermore, by displacing the drive shaft 25 and the hole 261 of the movable iron core 26, it is possible to prevent abrasive dust from adhering to the movable contacts 16 and 17 or the fixed contacts 14 and 15, even if abrasive dust is generated. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance due to abrasive dust.

[0077] According to the representation in Fig.In the case of the movable iron core 26, the movable iron core 26 can be a stack of multiple plate-shaped iron cores 26a and 26b. The fixed iron core 33 can be a stack of multiple plate-shaped iron cores 33a to 33c. Furthermore, the hole 321 of the roller 32, in which the movable iron core 26 is arranged, can also have a polygonal shape, although this is not shown. In this case, the movable iron core 26 is prevented from rotating relative to the roller 32. This prevents the rotation of the movable contact piece 13. Industrial application

[0078] According to the invention, it is possible to prevent an increase in contact resistance in a relay due to abrasive dust from moving parts. REFERENCE MARK

[0079] 3: Contact housing, 4: Movement section, 13: Movable contact piece, 14: First fixed contact, 16: First movable contact, 25: Drive shaft, 26: Movable iron core, 28: Stopper, 31: Coil, 32: Roller, 33: Fixed iron core, 35: Return spring, 36: Contact spring, 261: Hole of the movable iron core, S1: Interior of the fixed iron core (first interior), S2: Interior of the movable iron core (second interior)

Claims

[1] Relays, comprising: a fixed contact (14); a movable contact piece (13), including a movable contact (16) arranged to face the fixed contact (14); a contact housing (3) which contains the fixed contact (14) and the movable contact piece (13); a movable section configured to move in a direction in which the movable contact (16) touches the fixed contact (14) and in a direction in which the movable contact (16) is separated from the fixed contact (14), wherein the movable section includes a drive shaft (25) and a movable iron core (26), the drive shaft (25) being fixed to the movable contact piece (13) in the contact housing (3), the drive shaft (25) extending from an inside of the contact housing (3) to an outside of the contact housing (3), the movable iron core (26) being connected to the drive shaft (25) outside the contact housing (3); a coil (31) that generates a magnetic force which moves the movable iron core (26) in a direction of movement of the movable section; a return spring (35) which forces the movable section in the direction in which the movable contact (16) is separated from the fixed contact (14), and a contact spring (36) which forces the drive shaft (25) in the direction in which the movable contact (16) touches the fixed contact (14), wherein the contact spring (36) is arranged outside the contact housing (3), wherein the movable iron core (26) encloses a hole (261) which extends through the movable iron core (26) in the direction of movement of the movable section, and the drive shaft (25) is inserted into the hole (261) of the movable iron core (26) and is configured to move in the direction of movement of the movable section relative to the movable iron core (26). [2] Relay according to claim 1, wherein the drive shaft (25) is fixed immovably on the movable contact piece (13) in the contact housing (3) in an axial direction of the drive shaft (25). [3] Relay according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a roller (32) around which the coil (31) is wound, wherein the roller (32) is arranged outside the contact housing (3), wherein the roller (32) can enclose a hole extending in the direction of movement of the movable section, and the contact spring (36) is arranged in the hole of the roller (32). [4] Relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a fixed iron core (33) facing the movable iron core (26), wherein the fixed iron core (33) encloses an interior space (S1) which extends in the direction of movement of the movable section, and the contact spring (36) is arranged in the interior (S1) of the fixed iron core (33). [5] Relay according to claim 4, wherein both the contact spring and the return spring are arranged inside the fixed iron core (33). [6] Relay according to claim 4, wherein the contact spring (36) is arranged in the interior (S1) of the fixed iron core (33) and the return spring (35) is arranged radially outside the fixed iron core (33). [7] Relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the movable iron core (26) encloses an interior space (S2) which extends in the direction of movement of the movable section; a part of the drive shaft (25) is arranged in the interior (S2) of the movable iron core (26) and the contact spring (36) is arranged in the interior (S2) of the movable iron core (26). [8] Relay according to claim 7, wherein both the contact spring (36) and the return spring (35) are arranged inside the movable iron core (26). [9] Relay according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a fixed iron core (33) facing the movable iron core (26), wherein the fixed iron core (33) encloses a first interior space (S1) which extends in the direction of movement of the movable section; the movable iron core (26) encloses a second interior space (S2) which extends in the direction of movement of the movable section and faces the first interior space (S1); the contact spring (36) is arranged in the first interior space (S1) and the return spring (35) is arranged above the first interior space (S1) and the second interior space (S2). [10] Relay according to claim 1, further comprising: a stopper (28) that restricts the movable iron core (26) from moving relative to the drive shaft (25) when the movable section moves in the direction in which the movable contact (16) is separated from the fixed contact (14), wherein the stopper (28) is arranged outside the contact housing (3). [11] Relay according to claim 1 or 10, wherein the drive shaft (25) and the hole (261) of the movable iron core (26) have a polygonal shape.

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