Electromagnetic relay

Abstract

An electromagnetic relay comprises an excitation coil (100) that forms a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft (60) inserted to pass through a central opening, a movable portion on one end (23), a plurality of fixed portions on the one end (21, 22) facing the movable portion on the one end, a plurality of movable portions on the other end (43, 53), and a plurality of fixed portions on the other end (41, 42, 51, 52) facing the plurality of movable portions on the other end. When the shaft moves in a first direction from the other end to the one end, the movable portion on the one end moves in a first direction, thereby electrically connecting the movable portion on the one end to the fixed portion on the one end.When the shaft moves in a second direction from one end side to the other end side, the plurality of movable sections on the other end side move in a second direction, thereby electrically connecting the plurality of movable sections on the other end side to the plurality of fixed sections on the one end side.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-199675 filed on December 14, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an electromagnetic relay. BACKGROUND

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an electromagnetic relay comprising two contact devices and one electromagnet device. Each contact device includes a fixed terminal with a pair of fixed contacts and a movable portion with a pair of movable contacts. The two contact devices are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction. The electromagnetic device is arranged between one of the contact devices and the other of the contact devices. The electromagnet device includes a first movable core fixed to a first shaft provided on an upper side and extending in a vertical direction, a second movable core fixed to a second shaft provided on a lower side and extending in the vertical direction, and an excitation coil.

[0004] The electromagnetic device simultaneously moves the first shaft in an upward direction and the second shaft in a downward direction by a magnetic field created in the excitation coil when current is passed through the excitation coil. The first movable contact moves between a closed position, where it contacts the first fixed contact, and an open position, where it is separated from the first fixed contact, in response to movement of the first movable core. The second movable contact moves between a closed position, where it contacts the second fixed contact, and an open position, where it is separated from the second fixed contact, in response to movement of the second movable core. LITERATURE ACCORDING TO THE STATE OF THE ART PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent literature 1: JP 2019 - 140 207 A SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In the electromagnetic relay which has a plurality of contact devices, it is necessary to prepare a shaft according to the number of movable contacts.

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

[0008] An electromagnetic relay according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: an excitation coil forming a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft extending in an axial direction and inserted in such a way that it passes through a central opening of the excitation coil in such a way that one end in the axial direction and another end in the axial direction are exposed from the central opening, a movable portion on one end side provided at one end and movable in the axial direction, a fixed portion on the one end side facing the movable portion on the one end side and provided at a position further away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the one end side in the axial direction, a plurality of other-end-side movable portions provided at the other end and movable in the axial direction, and a plurality of other-end-side fixed portions facing the other-end-side movable portion and provided at positions spaced farther away from the excitation coil than the other-end-side movable portion in the axial direction, wherein the movable portion on the one end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side by moving the movable portion on the one end side in a first direction when the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side to the one end side, and wherein the plurality of movable portions on the other end side are electrically connected to the plurality of fixed portions on the other end side by moving the movable portion on the other end side in a second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction from one end side to the other end side.

[0009] It is possible to provide an electromagnetic relay in which a common shaft is used for a movable section on one end and a plurality of movable sections on the other end. Since it is not necessary to prepare shafts for the multiple movable sections, an increase in the number of parts is suppressed.

[0010] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, an electromagnetic relay comprises: an excitation coil forming a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft extending in an axial direction and inserted in such a way that it passes through a central opening of the excitation coil in such a way that one end in the axial direction and another end in the axial direction are exposed from the central opening, a movable portion on one end side provided at one end and movable in the axial direction, a fixed portion on the one end side facing the movable portion on the one end side and provided at a position further away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the one end side in the axial direction, a movable portion on the other end side provided at the other end and movable in the axial direction, and a fixed portion on the other end side facing the movable portion on the other end side and provided at a position spaced farther away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the other end side in the axial direction, wherein the movable portion on the one end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side by moving the movable portion on the one end side in a first direction when the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side to the one end side, and wherein the movable portion on the other end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the other end side by moving the movable portion on the other end side in a second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction from one end side to the other end side.

[0011] It is possible to provide an electromagnetic relay that uses a common shaft for the movable section on one end and the movable section on the other end. Since it is not necessary to prepare shafts for multiple movable sections, an increase in the number of parts is suppressed.

[0012] The reference numerals in parentheses in the appended claims merely indicate a correspondence relationship of the configurations described in the embodiments described later and do not limit the technical scope in any way. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows an electrical diagram of a power control device using an electromagnetic relay. Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to a first embodiment in a switched-off state. Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the first embodiment in an energized state. Fig. Figure 4 shows a plan view of a fixed section on one end side. Fig. 5 is a plan view illustrating a contact state between the fixed portion on one end side and a movable portion on one end side. Fig. 6 shows a plan view of the fixed section on another end side. Fig. 7 is a plan view illustrating a contact state between the fixed portion on the other end side and the movable portion on the other end side. Fig. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic relay according to a second embodiment in a non-energized state. Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the second embodiment in which an excitation coil on one end side is in an energized state. Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the second embodiment in which the excitation coil on the other side is in the energized state. Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic relay according to a third embodiment in an initial state. Fig. 12 shows a top view of a permanent magnet. Fig. 13 shows a top view of a permanent magnet. Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the third embodiment in a series connection state. Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the third embodiment in the series connection state. Fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the third embodiment in a third parallel connection state. Fig. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the third embodiment in a parallel connection state. Fig. 18 shows an electrical circuit diagram of a power control device according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Embodiments for implementing the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each embodiment, parts corresponding to elements described in previous embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted. While only a part of the configuration is described in each embodiment, the previously described other embodiments may be applied to other parts of the configuration.

[0014] It is possible to combine not only parts of the combination explicitly described in one embodiment, but also parts of respective embodiments whose combination is not explicitly described, if no obstacle specifically occurs in combining the parts of the respective embodiments. (First embodiment)

[0015] The electromagnetic relay 10 is a device that switches a power supply for a specific device on and off. The electromagnetic relay 10 may be referred to as a relay. The electromagnetic relay 10 is applied to an inverter 4 that converts power from batteries 2A and 2B from direct current to alternating current and supplies it to a drive motor 5 mounted, for example, in a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle. Fig. Figure 1 shows an electrical circuit diagram of a power control device 1 using the electromagnetic relay 10. The electromagnetic relay 10 is arranged between the batteries 2A and 2B and the inverter 4.

[0016] The electromagnetic relay 10 includes a series contact device 20 and a parallel contact device 30. The parallel contact device 30 includes a first parallel contact device 40 and a second parallel contact device 50. The batteries 2A and 2B include a first battery 2A and a second battery 2B. The series contact device 20 is provided between the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The negative electrode of the first battery 2A is connected to the first fixed portion 21 of the series contact device 20 via a first connecting wire 6. The positive electrode of the second battery 2B is connected to the second fixed portion 22 of the series contact device 20 via a second connecting wire 7.In the case that the series connection contact device 20 is placed in an ON state, the first movable portion 23 of the series connection contact device 20 comes into contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. Accordingly, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0017] Additionally, the positive electrode of the first battery 2A is connected to the inverter 4 via a positive electrode busbar 8. The negative electrode of the second battery 2B is connected to the inverter 4 via a negative electrode busbar 9. A smoothing capacitor 3 may be connected between the positive busbar 8 and the negative busbar 9.

[0018] Furthermore, the first parallel connection contact device 40 is connected between the first connecting wire 6 and the negative bus bar 9. The first connecting wire 6 and a third fixed portion 41 of the first parallel connection contact device 40 are connected via a third connecting wire 11. A fourth fixed portion 42 of the first parallel connection contact device 40 and the negative bus bar 9 are connected via a fourth connecting wire 12. When the first parallel connection contact device 40 is placed in an ON state, a second movable portion 43 of the first parallel connection contact device 40 comes into contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. Accordingly, the first connecting wire 6 and the negative electrode bus bar 9 are electrically connected to each other.

[0019] Likewise, the second parallel connection contact device 50 is provided between the second connecting wire 7 and the positive bus bar 8. The second connecting wire 7 and a fifth fixed portion 51 of the second parallel connection contact device 50 are connected via a fifth connecting wire 13. The fixed portion 51 of the second parallel connection contact device 50 and the positive bus bar 8 are connected via a sixth connecting wire 14. When the second parallel connection contact device 50 is placed in an ON state, a third movable portion 53 of the second parallel connection contact device 50 comes into contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and a sixth fixed portion 52. Accordingly, the second connecting wire 7 and the positive electrode bus bar 8 are electrically connected to each other.

[0020] The power control device 1 also includes a control device 1A capable of detecting a driving mode and a charging mode, and controlling an ON state and an OFF state of the series contact device 20 and the parallel contact device 30 according to the mode. As an example, the control device 1A controls the series contact device 20 to the ON state and controls the parallel contact device 30 to the OFF state when it detects that the vehicle is in the driving mode or a high-voltage fast-charging mode. In other words, the control device 1A controls the series contact device 20 to the ON state and controls the parallel contact device 30 to the OFF state when it detects that the vehicle is in the driving mode or a high-voltage fast-charging mode.That is, when the vehicle is in drive mode or high voltage fast charge mode, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0021] As another example, when the control device 1A detects that the vehicle is in a low-voltage fast-charging mode, the series-connected contact device 20 is turned off and the parallel-connected contact device 30 is turned on. In other words, when the control device 1A detects that the vehicle is in the low-voltage fast-charging mode, the series-connected contact device 20 is turned off and the parallel-connected contact device 30 is turned on. That is, when the vehicle is in the low-voltage fast-charging mode, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in parallel.

[0022] In addition, each operating mode occurs at a different time. This means that not all operating modes occur simultaneously. The series contact device 20 and the parallel contact device 30 are not in the ON state at the same time. The series contact device 20 and the parallel contact device 30 are not in the OFF state at the same time.

[0023] The control device 1A is an electronic control unit. The control device 1A provides a control system for the power control device 1. The control system includes at least one arithmetic processing unit (CPU) and at least one memory device (MMR) as a storage medium for storing programs and data. The control system is provided by a microcomputer having a computer-readable storage medium.

[0024] The storage medium is a non-volatile tangible storage medium that non-volatilely stores a computer-readable program. The storage medium may be a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, or the like. The control system may be provided by a computer or a group of computer resources linked via a data communication device. The program is executed by the control system to cause the control system to function as a device described in the present description and to cause the control system to function to perform the methods described in the present description.

[0025] The devices and / or functions provided by the control system may be provided by software recorded on a non-volatile memory device and a computer that can execute software, software only, hardware only, or any combination thereof. For example, the control system may be provided by an if-then-else type logic or a neural network trained by machine learning. Alternatively, if the control system is provided by an electronic circuit that is hardware, the control system may be provided by a digital circuit or an analog circuit that includes a large number of logic circuits. <Mechanische Konfiguration des elektromagnetischen Relais>

[0026] The electromagnetic relay 10 includes the series contact device 20, the parallel contact device 30, and the electromagnet device 190. The electromagnet device 190 includes a shaft 60, a fixed yoke 70, a movable yoke 80, a magnetic circuit element 90, an excitation coil 100, a one-end compression spring 130, a other-end compression spring 140, a return spring 150, a holding member 160, a base 170, and a power supply unit 180.

[0027] Hereinafter, the axial direction of the shaft 60 may be referred to as an X direction. Further, one end side in the axial direction may be referred to as X-. The other end side in the axial direction may be referred to as X+. A direction from the other end side X+ to the one end side X- may be referred to as a first direction. A direction from the one end side X- to the other end side X+ may be referred to as a second direction. The two mutually orthogonal directions perpendicular to the axial direction X may be referred to as a Y direction and a Z direction. The Y direction is sometimes referred to as a depth direction. The Z direction is sometimes referred to as a height direction.

[0028] The Y direction corresponds to an arrangement direction in which the second movable section 43 and the third movable section 53 are arranged side by side. Furthermore, one side of the second movable section 43 may be referred to as a Y- direction. One side of the third movable section 53 may be referred to as a Y+ direction. The Z direction corresponds to a direction in which the first fixed section 21 and the second fixed section 22, the third fixed section 41 and the fourth fixed section 42, and the fifth fixed section 51 and the sixth fixed section 52 are arranged side by side. Furthermore, one side of the first fixed section 21, the third fixed section 41, and the fifth fixed section 51 may be referred to as a Z+ direction. One side of the second fixed section 22, the fourth fixed section 42, and the sixth fixed section 52 may be referred to as a Z- direction.

[0029] Since the series-connected contact device 20 is provided on one end side X- with respect to the axial direction X of a shaft 60 described later, the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 may be referred to as one-end-side fixed portions. The first movable portion 23 may be referred to as a one-end-side movable portion. Since the parallel-connected contact device 30 is provided on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X, the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52 may be referred to as other-end-side fixed portions. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 may be referred to as other-end-side movable portions.

[0030] Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic relay 10 according to the first embodiment in a non-energized state. Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the first embodiment in the energized state. Fig. Figure 4 shows a plan view of the fixed sections on one end side 21 and 22. Fig. 5 is a plan view illustrating a contact state between the fixed portions on one end side 21 and 22 and a movable portion on the other end side 23. Fig. 6 shows a plan view of the fixed sections on the other end side 41, 42, 51, and 52. Fig. 7 is a plan view illustrating a contact state between the other end side fixed portions 41, 42, 51 and 52 and the other end side movable portions 43 and 53.

[0031] The base 170 has a cylindrical shape, for example, open at both ends in the axial direction X. The series connection contact device 20 is provided in an internal space on one end side X- of the base 170. The parallel connection contact device 30 is provided in the internal space on the other end side X+ of the base 170. The first parallel connection contact device 40 and the second parallel connection contact device 50 are arranged in a juxtaposed manner in the Y direction in the internal space on the other end side X+ of the base 170. A power supply unit 180, which switches between the energized state and the non-energized state of the excitation coil 100, is provided on one side surface of the base 170.The shaft 60, the fixed yoke 70, the movable yoke 80, the magnetic circuit element 90, the excitation coil 100, the one-end compression spring 130, the other-end compression spring 140, the return spring 150, and the holding element 160 are provided in the inner space between one end side X- and the other end side X+ of the base 170.

[0032] The series-connected contact device 20 includes the first fixed portion 21, the second fixed portion 22, the third movable portion 23, and the first housing 24. The first housing 24 is mainly made of a ceramic material. The first housing 40 is in the shape of a box having a bottom and an interior space. The first housing 24 is provided on one end side X- of the base 170 such that the interior space of the first housing 24 and the interior space at the center of the base 170 communicate with each other. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are provided on the bottom of the first housing 24.

[0033] The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are made of a conductive metallic material. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are provided on the floor and spaced apart in the height direction HD to an extent that electrical insulation can be maintained. The first fixed portion 21 is provided on the upper side Z+ in the height direction HD. The second fixed portion 22 is provided on a lower side Z- in the height direction HD.

[0034] The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are metal terminals into which a fastener such as a bolt can be inserted from the outside. A portion of the first fixed portion 21 and a portion of the second fixed portion 22 are exposed from the bottom. A remaining portion of the first fixed portion 21 and a remaining portion of the second fixed portion 22 are provided in an interior space of the first housing 24.

[0035] The movable portion 23 is made of a conductive metal material. The first movable portion 23 extends in the height direction HD and has a plate shape that is thin in the axial direction. The first movable portion 23 is provided on the other end side X+ than the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 in the axial direction X. In other words, the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are provided farther away from the excitation coil 100 in the axial direction X than the first movable portion 23. In the axial direction X, the first movable portion 23 faces the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22.

[0036] Furthermore, the first movable portion 23 is provided with a through hole 23A at a center in the height direction Z through which the shaft 60 passes. A diameter of the through hole 23A is set to be larger than a diameter of the shaft 60. Therefore, the first movable portion 23 is capable of sliding along the shaft 60 in the axial direction X. In other words, the first movable portion 23 is movable in the axial direction X along the shaft 60.

[0037] The parallel circuit contact device 30 includes the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, the sixth fixed portion 52, the second movable portion 43, the third movable portion 53, a second housing 31, and an insulating member 32. In other words, the parallel circuit contact device 30 includes the first parallel circuit contact device 40, the second parallel circuit contact device 50, the second housing 31, and the insulating member 32.

[0038] The second housing 31 is mainly made of a ceramic material. The second housing 31 is in the shape of a box having a bottom and an interior space. The second housing 31 is provided on the other end side X+ of the base 170 such that the interior space of the second housing 31 and the interior space at the center of the base 170 communicate with each other. The third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the fifth fixed portion 51 are provided on the bottom of the second housing 31. As an example, the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are provided on a front side Y- in the depth direction Y. The fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are provided on the back side X+ in the depth direction Y. The third fixed portion 51 and the fifth fixed portion 51 are provided on the top side Z+ in the height direction Z.The fourth fixed section 42 and the sixth fixed section 52 are provided on the lower side Z- in the height direction Z.

[0039] The third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52 are made of a conductive metal member. The third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are provided on the ground and spaced from each other in the height direction HD to an extent that electrical insulation can be maintained. The fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are provided on the ground and spaced from each other in the height direction HD to an extent that electrical insulation can be maintained. The third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are provided on the ground and spaced from the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 in the depth direction to an extent that electrical insulation can be maintained.

[0040] The third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52 are metal terminals into which a fastener such as a bolt can be inserted from the outside. A portion of the third fixed portion 41, a portion of the fourth fixed portion 42, a portion of the fifth fixed portion 51, and a portion of the sixth fixed portion 52 are exposed from the floor. A remaining portion of the third fixed portion 41, a remaining portion of the fourth fixed portion 42, a remaining portion of the fifth fixed portion 51, and a remaining portion of the sixth fixed portion 52 are provided in the interior of the second housing 31.

[0041] The second movable portion 43 is made of a conductive metal material. The second movable portion 43 extends in the height direction HD and has a plate shape that is thin in the axial direction. The second movable portion 43 is provided on the one end side X- with respect to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 in the axial direction X. In other words, the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are provided farther away from the excitation coil 100 in the axial direction than the second movable portion 43. The second movable portion 43 faces the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 in the axial direction X.

[0042] The third movable portion 53 is made of a conductive metal material. The third movable portion 53 extends in the height direction HD and has a plate shape that is thin in the axial direction X. The third movable portion 53 is provided on the one end side X- with respect to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 in the axial direction X. In other words, the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are provided farther away from the excitation coil 100 in the axial direction X than the third movable portion 53. The third movable portion 53 faces the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 in the axial direction X.

[0043] The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are arranged to be spaced apart by a distance sufficient to maintain electrical insulation in the depth direction Y. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are held by the insulating member 32 in a state where they are spaced apart from each other in the depth direction Y. The insulating member 32 has a plate shape with a small thickness in the axial direction X. The second movable portion 43 is provided on a front side Y- in the depth direction Y of the insulating member 32. The third movable portion 53 is provided on the back side Y+ in the depth direction Y of the insulating member 32. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are held by the insulating member 32 on a front side Y- and a back side Y+ in the depth direction Y.

[0044] Furthermore, the insulating member 32 is provided with a through hole 32A through which the shaft 60 passes. A diameter of the through hole 32A is set to be larger than the diameter of the shaft 60. Therefore, the insulating member 32 is capable of axially sliding along the shaft 60. As described above, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are held by the insulating member 32. Therefore, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are movable in the axial direction X along the shaft 60.

[0045] The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are arranged symmetrically in the depth direction Y with respect to the through-hole 32A. A distance between a center 43A in the height direction of the second movable portion 43 and the through-hole 32A and a distance between a center 53A in the height direction of the third movable portion 53 and the through-hole 32A are equal. A center 43A in the height direction Z of the second movable portion 43, the through-hole 32A, and a center 53A in the height direction Z of the third movable portion 53 are arranged along a straight line in the depth direction Y.

[0046] The shaft 60 has a columnar shape extending in the axial direction X. One end 61 of the shaft 60 in the axial direction X is inserted so as to pass through the first movable portion 23. The other end 62 of the shaft 60 in the axial direction X is inserted so as to pass through the insulating member 32. The one end 61 is a portion on the one end side having a length in the axial direction X. The other end 62 is a portion on the other end side having a length in the axial direction X. A flange is provided on the one end 61 to prevent the first movable portion 23 from coming off. A flange is provided on the other end 62 to prevent the insulating member 32 from coming off.The shaft 60 is inserted to pass through the central opening 100A of the excitation coil 100 such that one end 61 and the other end 62 of the shaft 60 are exposed from the central opening 100A.

[0047] In addition, the movable yoke 80 and the support member 160 are fixed to the shaft 60. The movable yoke 80 is fixed to the shaft 60 at a position on the one end side X- with respect to the support member 160. In other words, the support member 160 is placed on the shaft 60 at a position on the other end side X+ with respect to the movable yoke 80. Furthermore, the shaft 60 is inserted so that it passes through the fixed yoke 70, the excitation coil 100, the one-end compression spring 130, the other-end compression spring 140, and the return spring 150.

[0048] A portion of the shaft 60 between the flange 61A on one end side X- and the movable yoke 80 is inserted so as to pass through the first movable portion 23 and the compression spring on one end side 130. A portion of the shaft 60 between the movable yoke 80 and the support member 160 is inserted so as to pass through the return spring 150 and the fixed yoke 70. A portion of the shaft 60 between the support member 160 and the flange 62A on the other end side X+ is inserted so as to pass through the compression spring on the other end side 140 and the insulating member 32.

[0049] The first movable portion 23, the one-end compression spring 130, the movable yoke 80, the return spring 150, the fixed yoke 70, the holding member 160, the other-end compression spring 140, and the insulating member 32 are arranged in this order in a juxtaposed manner from the flange 61A on the one-end side X- to the flange 62A on the other-end side X+. Furthermore, the magnetic circuit member 90 and the excitation coil 100 are provided so as to overlap portions of the movable yoke 80, the return spring 150, and the fixed yoke 70 in the radial direction of the shaft 60.

[0050] First, the excitation coil 100 will be described. The excitation coil 100 is a coil that generates a magnetic field by current flowing through it. The excitation coil 100 has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction X. An inner diameter of the excitation coil 100 defines a central opening 100A penetrating in the axial direction. The movable yoke 80, the return spring 150, and a part of the fixed yoke 70 are arranged in the central opening 100A.

[0051] The excitation coil 100 includes a coil body 111 and a lead wire 112. The coil body 111 is a resin-made member. The coil body 111 includes a cylindrical portion extending in the axial direction X and flange portions integrally formed at both ends of the cylindrical portion in the axial direction X. The central opening 100A is formed by the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion. The excitation coil 100 is formed by winding the lead wire 112 around the outer periphery of the coil body 111. The lead wire 112 is wound along a circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion of the coil body 111.

[0052] The magnetic circuit element 90 is formed by bending a strip of magnetic metal material. The magnetic circuit element 90 is a strip of magnetic metal material bent substantially in a U-shape toward one end X-side and extends in the circumferential direction such that it covers the central opening 100A of the excitation coil 100. The magnetic circuit element 90 forms a magnetic circuit together with the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0053] The fixed yoke 70 is a cylindrical member disposed within the central opening 100A of the excitation coil 100, has a flange 71 on the other end side X+, and extends in the axial direction X. The fixed yoke 70 may be referred to as a fixed core. As an example, the flange 71 of the fixed yoke 70 is fixed to the base 170. For this reason, the position of the fixed yoke 70 is restricted in the axial direction X. The fixed yoke 70 may be configured such that its movement in the axial direction X is restricted. The fixed yoke 70 need not be limited to a configuration in which it is fixed to the base 170.

[0054] The fixed yoke 70 is made of a magnetic metal material. The fixed yoke 70 is an element that forms a magnetic circuit together with a magnetic circuit element 90. The shaft 60 is inserted such that it passes through the opening of the fixed yoke 70A, which is formed by the inner diameter of the fixed yoke 70. The shaft 60 is movable in the axial direction X through the opening of the fixed yoke 70A.

[0055] On one end side X- of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X, a recessed portion 72 is formed as a columnar-shaped recessed space to guide the return spring 150 therethrough. A projection 73 in a protrusion shape continuous in a ring shape is formed around the recessed portion 72 to restrict radial movement of the return spring 150.

[0056] The movable yoke 80 is a cylindrical member extending in the axial direction X and disposed within the central opening 100A of the excitation coil 100. The movable yoke 80 can be referred to as a movable core. The movable yoke 80 is made of a magnetic metal material. The movable yoke 80 is a member that forms a magnetic circuit together with the fixed yoke 70 and the magnetic circuit member 90. The shaft 60 is inserted so as to pass through the movable yoke opening 80A formed by the inner diameter of the movable yoke 80. The movable yoke 80 is fixed to the shaft 60. The movable yoke 80 is movable in the axial direction X together with the shaft 60.

[0057] The movable yoke 80 is arranged to face the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X via the return spring 150. The movable yoke 80 is a member magnetically connected to the fixed yoke 70 and the magnetic circuit member 90, and is attracted to the fixed yoke 70 along the axial direction X when the excitation coil 100 is in the energized state. The movable yoke 80 is movable relative to the fixed yoke 70 together with the shaft 60 when the excitation coil 100 is energized. In other words, the movable yoke 80 can move to the other end side X+ together with the shaft 60 when the excitation coil 100 is in the energized state.

[0058] The one-end compression spring 130 is provided between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80, and is a spring element that can be compressed along the axial direction X. The one-end compression spring 130 is formed in a spiral shape around the shaft 60, and the shaft 60 is inserted so as to pass through a center thereof. The other-end contact compression spring 140 is a spring element provided in the recessed portion 72 and is provided between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80, and is compressible along the axial direction X. The other-end compression spring 140 is formed in a spiral shape around the shaft 60, and the shaft 60 is inserted so as to pass through a center thereof.The return spring 150 is arranged between the holder member 160 and the insulating member 62 and is a spring member that can be compressed along the axial direction X. The return spring 150 is formed in a spiral shape around the shaft 60, and the shaft 60 is inserted so as to pass through a center thereof.

[0059] The holding member 160 is fixed to the shaft 60 and holds the return spring 150 from one end side X-. The holding member 160 has an inner cone shape with a bottom on one end side X-. The return spring 150 is held in an interior space of the holding member 160. The holding member 160 regulates a position of the return spring 150 in the axial direction X and the radial direction. <Elektromagnetisches Relais im nicht gespeisten Zustand>

[0060] When the power supply from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100 is in a non-energized state, the first movable portion 23 is in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. In other words, when the power supply from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100 is in the non-energized state, the series connection contactor 20 is in the ON state. When the power supply from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100 is in the non-energized state, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0061] When in the non-energized state, the contact pressure spring on the other side 140, for example, maintains a natural length between the holding member 160 and the insulating member 32. The compression spring on the one end side 130 is maintained in a compressed state between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80. The return spring 150 is maintained in a compressed state between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0062] As described above, a position of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X is restricted. The return spring 150 is disposed in the recessed portion 72 of the fixed yoke 70. The return spring 150 is disposed in a compressed state in the recessed portion such that the movable yoke 80 is biased from the other end side X+ to the other end side X-, that is, in the first direction. The movable yoke 80 receives the first biasing force of the return spring 150 and is pressed against the one end side compression spring 130. Accordingly, an air gap 81 is created between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0063] The first movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the movable yoke 80 via the one-end-side compression spring 130 and is pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The one-end-side compression spring 130 is provided between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80 such that the first movable portion 23 is biased in the first direction. The first movable portion 23 receives a second biasing force, which biases in the first direction, from the one-end-side compression spring 130 and is in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. In this way, the series-connected contact device is maintained in the ON state in the non-energized state. <Elektromagnetisches Relais in dem gespeisten Zustand>

[0064] When power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100, a magnetic circuit is formed via the fixed yoke 70, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit member 90. As described above, the conductor 112 is wound around the coil bobbin 111. One end of the conductor 112 is connected to the power supply section 180. When current is supplied through the conductor 112 in a clockwise direction when viewed from the one end side X-, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the upper side Z+, and a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z- in a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y. Accordingly, an electromagnetic force is generated in a direction from the one end side X- to the other end side X+, that is, in the second direction.

[0065] The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move in the second direction toward the fixed yoke 70 by the electromagnetic force. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 comes into contact with the fixed yoke 70. When the movable yoke 80 moves until it comes into contact with the fixed yoke 70, the air gap 81 between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 disappears. The holding member 160 for holding the return spring 150 is fixed to the fixed yoke 70 at a portion of the shaft 60 on the other end side X+.

[0066] When the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the holding member 160 presses the return spring 150 and the second movable portion 43 in the second direction. The second movable portion 43 receives a pressing force from the holding member 160 via the return spring 150 and is pressed against the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 receives a biasing force, biasing in the second direction, from the return spring 150 and comes into contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. That is, when the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the second movable portion 43 moves in the second direction, and the second electrical portion 43 is electrically connected to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42.

[0067] At the same time, the third movable portion 53 receives a pressing force from the holding member 160 via the return spring 150 and is pressed against the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The third movable portion 53 receives a biasing force in the second direction from the return spring 150 and comes into contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. That is, when the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the third movable portion 53 moves in the second direction, and the third movable portion 53 is electrically connected to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in parallel.

[0068] According to this embodiment, the second movable portion 43 is in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 continuously while power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100. The third movable portion 53 is in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The parallel connection contactor 30 is continuously in the ON state while power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are continuously connected in parallel while power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100.

[0069] As described above, the distance between the through hole 32A through which the shaft 60 passes and the center 43A in the height direction Z of the second movable part 42 and the distance between the through hole 32A and the center 53A in the height direction Z of the third movable part 53 are equal. Therefore, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 receive equal biasing forces from the return spring 150 guided by the shaft 60.

[0070] Pressure is evenly applied from the second movable section 43 to the third fixed section 41 and the fourth fixed section 42. Pressure is evenly applied from the third movable section 53 to the fifth fixed section 51 and the sixth fixed section 52. The pressure applied from the second movable section 43 to the third fixed section 41 and the fourth fixed section 42 is equal to the pressure applied from the third movable section 53 to the fifth fixed section 51 and the sixth fixed section 42.

[0071] When in the energized state, the contact pressure spring on the other end 140 is maintained in a compressed state between the holding member 160 and the insulating member 32. The compression spring on the one end side 130 is maintained in a compressed state between the first movable portion 23 and the movable yoke 80. The return spring 150 is maintained in a compressed state between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0072] When a power supply from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100 is set to the non-energized state, the electromagnetic force acting in the second direction disappears. Then, biasing forces from the other-end-side compression spring 140, the return spring 150, and the one-end-side compression spring 130 are applied in the first direction toward the objects adjacent to each of the elements. The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move by the biasing force of the other-end-side compression spring 140 in the first direction so as to be spaced apart from the fixed yoke 70. The shaft 60 moves in the first direction to a position where the holding member 160 comes into contact with the fixed yoke 70. When the holding element 160 moves until it comes into contact with the fixed yoke 70, the air gap 81 between the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 disappears.

[0073] The movable yoke 80 receives the biasing force of the return spring 150 and is pressed against the one-end compression spring 130. The movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the movable yoke 80 via the one-end compression spring 130 and is pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. A configuration is provided in which the first movable portion 23 comes into contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. That is, as the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the first movable portion 23 moves in the first direction, and the first movable portion 23 is electrically connected to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0074] Furthermore, in an opening-closing mechanism having a fixed portion and a movable portion for an electromagnetic relay different from that of this embodiment, a method of extinguishing an arc by stretching the arc generated at a contact opening stage by a force of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet disposed close to the fixed portion is conventionally employed. However, in this method, it is necessary to dispose an arc extinguishing device using a permanent magnet separately from the switching mechanism, and therefore many parts are required. Furthermore, to extinguish the arc that changes depending on a current value flowing between the contacts, a complex design is required, and in some cases, the electromagnetic relay needs to be made larger.

[0075] In contrast, the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the batteries 2A and 2B are connected in series in the non-energized state, and the batteries 2A and 2B are connected in parallel in the energized state. The electromagnetic relay 10 according to this embodiment is somewhat specialized for switching between a series circuit and a parallel circuit. In other words, even if the fixed portion and the movable portion are separated, the current flowing through the electromagnetic relay 10 is not interrupted. Therefore, in the electromagnetic relay 10 specialized for switching between a series circuit and a parallel circuit, arc discharge is unlikely to occur, and therefore, it is not necessary to provide a special arc extinguishing function.For this reason, the electromagnetic relay 10 does not include components such as an arc extinguishing magnet. This makes it possible to reduce the number of parts of the electromagnetic relay 10. The electromagnetic relay 10 is not limited to a configuration that does not include components such as an arc extinguishing magnet. The electromagnetic relay 10 may include components such as an arc extinguishing magnet. <Betrieb und Vorteile>

[0076] The electromagnetic relay 10 includes the series contact device 10, the parallel contact device 30, the shaft 60, and the excitation coil 100. The excitation coil 100 forms a magnetic field in the energized state. The shaft 60 extends in the axial direction X. The shaft 60 is inserted to pass through the central opening 100A such that one end 61 and the other end 62 in the axial direction X of the shaft 60 are exposed from the central opening 100A. The series contact device 20 includes the first fixed portion 21, the second fixed portion 22, the first movable portion 23, and the first housing 24.

[0077] The first movable portion 23 is provided on one end side X- of the shaft 60. The first movable portion 23 is movable in the axial direction X. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 are provided farther away from the excitation coil 100 than the first movable portion 23. The first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 face the first movable portion 23. The second movable portion 43 is provided on the other end side X- of the shaft 60. The second movable portion 43 is movable in the axial direction X.

[0078] The third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 are provided farther away from the excitation coil 100 than the second movable portion 43. The third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 face the second movable portion 43. The third movable portion 53 is provided on the other end side X+ of the shaft 60. The third movable portion 52 is movable in the axial direction X. The fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 are provided farther away from the excitation coil 100 than the third movable portion 53. The fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 face the third movable portion 53.

[0079] When the shaft 60 is moved in the first direction, the first movable section 23 moves in the first direction, and the first movable section 23 is electrically connected to the first fixed section 21 and the second fixed section 22. When the shaft 60 is moved in the second direction, the second movable section 43 moves in the second direction, and the second movable section 43 is electrically connected to the third fixed section 41 and the fourth fixed section 42. When the shaft 60 is moved in the second direction, the third movable section 53 moves in the second direction, and the third movable section 53 is electrically connected to the fifth fixed section 51 and the sixth fixed section 52.

[0080] In this way, according to this embodiment, when the shaft 60 moves in the second direction due to the electromagnetic force of the magnetic field generated by energizing the excitation coil 100, the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 move in the second direction. When a current is supplied to the excitation coil 100, the second movable portion 43 is electrically connected to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is electrically connected to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0081] The first movable portion 23 moves in the first direction when the shaft 60 moves in the first direction in response to the power supply to the excitation coil 100 being turned off. The first movable portion 23 is electrically connected to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. Since this operation can be performed, it is possible to provide the electromagnetic relay 10 in which the shaft 60 is common to the first movable portion 23, the second movable portion 43, and the third movable portion 53. Since it is not necessary to provide shafts 60 for the number of movable portions, an increase in the number of parts is suppressed.

[0082] In contrast to this embodiment, in a configuration where the number of shafts 60 is equal to the number of movable sections required, since the excitation coil 100 must be provided around a plurality of shafts 60, an external shape of the excitation coil 100 becomes large. Furthermore, there may be a problem that a used amount of the conductor 112 is increased because a portion where the magnetic efficiency is poor is generated between two pieces of the shaft. In contrast, according to this embodiment, the excitation coil 100 is provided around one shaft 60, so that the external shape of the excited coil 100 is prevented from becoming large. Furthermore, the occurrence of a portion with a poor magnetic efficiency is suppressed. This reduces the number of parts and enables miniaturization. It is expected that this also results in lower costs.

[0083] The electromagnetic relay 10 is provided between the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B, and switches between a series connection and a parallel connection of the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The first movable portion 23 moves in the first direction and is electrically connected to the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22, thereby connecting the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B in series. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are electrically connected to the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 52, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52, thereby connecting the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B in parallel.

[0084] The electromagnetic relay 10 according to this embodiment is specialized for use in a series-parallel circuit. In this application, the series contact device 20, the first parallel contact device 40, and the second parallel contact device 50 are never in the ON state at the same time. By sharing the movable section shaft 60 for the three contact devices, it is possible to provide the electromagnetic relay 10 with a 3-in-1 structure, which is expected to be smaller and more cost-effective due to a reduced number of parts.

[0085] The distance between the through-hole 32A of the insulating member 32 and the center 43A of the second movable portion 43 and the distance between the through-hole 32A and the center 53A of the third movable portion 53 are equal. The second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 receive the biasing force from the return spring 150 evenly. Pressure is evenly applied from the second movable portion 43 to the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. Pressure is evenly applied from the third movable portion 43 to the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0086] The pressure exerted by the second movable portion 43 on the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 is equal to the pressure exerted by the third movable portion 53 on the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. Variations in the pressure exerted on the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52 are suppressed. The occurrence of variations in the electrical connections is suppressed.

[0087] The movable yoke 80 is fixed to the shaft 60. The movable yoke 80 is movable in the axial direction X together with the shaft 60. The fixed yoke 70 is provided on the shaft 60 on the other end side X+ than the movable yoke 80. The position of the fixed yoke 70 in the axial direction X is defined. The fixed yoke 70 restricts the movement of the movable yoke 80 in the second direction. The magnetic circuit element 90 is provided around the excitation coil 100. The magnetic circuit element 90 forms a magnetic circuit together with the fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80.

[0088] When current is supplied to the control coil 100, an electromagnetic force acting in the second direction is generated. The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move by the electromagnetic force from one end side X- to the other end side X+ toward the fixed yoke 70. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 comes into contact with the fixed yoke 70. The second movable portion 43 comes into contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 comes into contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.

[0089] When the excitation coil 100 is not energized, the return spring 150 biases the movable yoke 80 in the first direction. The movable yoke 80 receives the biasing force of the return spring 150 and is pressed against the one-end compression spring 130. The first movable portion 23 receives a compressive force from the movable yoke 80 via the one-end compression spring 130 and is pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The one-end compression spring 130 biases the first movable portion 23 in the first direction. The first movable portion 23 comes into contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22.

[0090] According to this embodiment, by switching between the energized state and the de-energized state of the excitation coil 100, it is possible to switch the ON state and the OFF state of the series contact device 20 and the parallel contact device. A single electromagnet device 190 can switch the ON state and the OFF state of the series contact device 20 and the parallel contact device 30. Compared with a configuration in which an electromagnetic device 190 is required for each of the contact devices, it is possible to reduce the number of parts, and a smaller size and lower cost can be expected.Furthermore, it is a configuration in which the biasing force maintains contact states between the first movable portion 23 and both the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22 in the case that the series connection contact device 20 is in the ON state, whereby it is possible to reduce power consumption. (Second embodiment)

[0091] The electromagnetic relay 10 according to a second embodiment includes two pieces of the fixed yoke 70, two pieces of the excitation coil 100, two pieces of the return spring 150, two pieces of the holding member 160, and two pieces of the power supply section 180. For convenience in the following description, the first yoke 70 on one end side X- may be referred to as a one-end fixed yoke 270. The fixed yoke 70 on the other end side X+ may be referred to as the other-end fixed yoke 470. The excitation coil 100 on the one end side X- may be referred to as a one-end excitation coil 200. The excitation coil 100 on the other end side X+ may be referred to as the other-end excitation coil.

[0092] Fig. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the second embodiment in the non-energized state. Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the second embodiment in which the excitation coil on the one end side is in the energized state. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay according to the second embodiment in which the excitation coil on the other end side is in the energized state.

[0093] According to the second embodiment, the series contact device 20 is also provided in the interior space of one end side X- of the base 170. The parallel contact device 30 is provided in the interior space on the other end side X+ of the base 170. Two power supply units 180 are provided on the side surface of the base 170. One of the power supply units 180 has a function of switching between the energized state and the non-energized state of the excitation coil on the one end side 200. The other of the power supply units 180 has a function of switching between the energized state and the non-energized state of the excitation coil on the other end side 400.

[0094] The configuration different from the first embodiment will be mainly described below. A portion of the shaft 60 further on the one end side X- than a portion where the movable yoke 80 is provided is inserted so as to pass through the return spring 150, the one end side fixed yoke 270, the one end side compression spring 130, and the first movable portion 23 in order from the other end side X+ to the one end side X-. The return spring 150 is arranged in the recessed portion 72 of the one end side fixed yoke 270. The return spring 150 is held in a compressed state between the one end side fixed yoke 270 and the movable yoke 80. The one end side fixed yoke 270 and the movable yoke 80 are separated in the axial direction X by a first air gap 83.

[0095] The holding member 160 for holding the spring is fixed to a portion of the shaft 60 on the one end side X- to the fixed yoke on the one end side 270. The holding member 160 has an inner cone shape with a bottom on the other end side X+. The compression spring on the one end side 130 is held in the interior of the holding member 160. The compression spring on the one end side 130 is held in a compressed state between the holding member 160 and the first movable portion 23.

[0096] Similarly, a portion of the shaft 60 further on the other end side X+ than a portion where the movable yoke 80 is provided is inserted so as to pass through the return spring 150, the other end side fixed yoke 470, the other end side compression spring 140, and the insulating member 32 in an order from one end side X- to the other end side X+. The return spring 150 is arranged in the recessed portion 72 of the other end side fixed yoke 470. The return spring 150 is held in a compressed state between the other end side fixed yoke 470 and the movable yoke 80. The fixed yoke 70 and the movable yoke 80 are axially spaced from each other by a second air gap 84.

[0097] The holding member 160 for holding the other-end compression spring 140 is fixed to a portion of the shaft 60 on the other-end side X+ to the other-end fixed yoke 470. The holding member 160 has an inner cone shape with a bottom on the one-end side X-. The other-end compression spring 140 is held in the interior of the holding member 160. The other-end compression spring 140 is held in a compressed state between the holding member 160 and the insulating member 32.

[0098] The magnetic circuit element 90 and the excitation coil on the one end side 200 are arranged to overlap with a portion of the fixed yoke on the one end side 270, the return spring 150, and a portion of the movable yoke 80 in the radial direction. The magnetic circuit element 90 and the excitation coil on the other end side 400 are arranged to overlap with a portion of the fixed yoke on the other end side 470, the return spring 150, and a portion of the movable yoke 80 in the radial direction.

[0099] Two pieces of the excitation coil 100 are arranged side by side in the axial direction X so as to pass through the shaft 60 so as to overlap the fixed yoke on one end side 270, the movable yoke 80, and the fixed yoke on the other end side 470 in the radial direction. The magnetic circuit member 90 is arranged to cover the inner diameter, the outer diameter, and the other end side X+ of the excitation coil on the one end side 200. The magnetic circuit member 90 is arranged to cover the inner diameter, the outer diameter, and the one end side X- of the excitation coil on the one end side 400. The two pieces of the magnetic circuit member 90 are bent substantially in a U-shaped shape and extend in the circumferential direction so as to cover the excitation coils 200 and 400.

[0100] When neither of the two pieces of the excitation coils 200 and 400 is energized, a first air gap 83 and a second air gap 84 are formed. The first movable portion 23 is not in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The second movable portion 43 is not in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is not in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. <Elektromagnetisches Relais im gespeisten Zustand der Erregungsspule auf der einen Endseite>

[0101] When power is supplied from one of the power supply units 180 to the one-end-side excitation coil 200, a magnetic circuit is formed via the one-end-side fixed yoke 270, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit element 90. When current is supplied through the conductor 112 in a clockwise direction from the one-end side X-, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the upper side Z+ and a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z- in a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y. Accordingly, an electromagnetic force is generated, acting from the other end side X+ to the one-end side X-.

[0102] The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move toward the one-end-side fixed yoke 270 in the first direction by the electromagnetic force. The shaft 60 moves in the first direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 comes into contact with the one-end-side fixed yoke 270. The first air gap 83 is eliminated. The holding member 160 for holding the one-end-side compression spring 130 is fixed to a portion of the shaft 160 on the one-end side X- to the one-end-side fixed yoke 270. When the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the holding member 160 presses the one-end-side compression spring and the first movable portion 23 toward the one-end side X-.

[0103] The first movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the holding member 160 via the one-end-side compression spring 130 and is pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first movable portion 23 receives a biasing force X-biasing in the one-end-side from the one-end-side compression spring 130 and is in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first movable portion 23 is maintained in contact with the first fixed portion 22 and the second fixed portion 22 while maintaining power supply to the one-end-side excitation coil 200.

[0104] That is, when power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the one-end-side excitation coil 200, the series-connected contactor 20 is in the ON state. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are continuously connected in series while power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the one-end-side excitation coil 200.

[0105] When a power supply from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil on the one end side 200 is switched to the non-energized state, the electromagnetic force acting in the first direction disappears. Then, biasing forces are applied by the compression spring on the one end side 130 and the return spring 150 on the other end side X+ 150 to the objects adjacent to each of the elements. This causes the first movable portion 23 to be separated from the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are electrically disconnected. <Elektromagnetisches Relais in dem gespeisten Zustand der Erregungsspule auf der anderen Endseite>

[0106] In the case where power is supplied from the other of the power supply units 180 to the excitation coil on the other end side 400, a magnetic circuit is formed via the fixed yoke on the other end side 470, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit member 90. In the case where current is supplied through the conductor 112 in a clockwise direction as viewed from the other end side X+, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the upper side Z+ and a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z- in a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction. Accordingly, an electromagnetic force is generated that acts in a direction from the one end side X- to the other end side X+.

[0107] The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move toward the other-end-side fixed yoke 470 in the second direction by the electromagnetic force. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 comes into contact with the other-end-side fixed yoke 470. The second air gap 84 is eliminated. The holding member 160 for holding the other-end-side compression spring 140 is fixed to a portion of the shaft 60 on the other-end side X+ of the fixed yoke 470. When the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the holding member 160 presses the other-end-side compression spring 140 and the insulating member 32 toward the other-end side X+.

[0108] The second movable portion 43 receives a pressing force from the holding member 170 via the compression spring on the other end side 140 and is pressed against the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 receives a biasing force, which biases X+ in the other end side, from the compression spring on the other end side 140 and is in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 is maintained in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42 while maintaining power supply to the excitation coil on the other end side 400.

[0109] Likewise, the third movable portion 53 receives a pressing force from the holding member 160 via the other-end-side compression spring 140 and is pressed against the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The third movable portion 53 receives a biasing force X+ biasing the other-end-side compression spring 140 and is in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The third movable portion 53 is maintained in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52 while maintaining power supply to the other-end-side excitation coil 400. That is, when power is supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the other-end-side excitation coil 400, the parallel connection contact device is in the ON state.The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are continuously connected in parallel, while power supply is performed from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil on the other end side 400.

[0110] When a power supply from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 400 on the other end side is switched to the non-energized state, the electromagnetic force acting in the second direction disappears. Then, biasing forces from the compression spring 140 on the other end side and the return spring 150 on the one end side X- are applied to the objects adjacent to each of the elements. This causes the second movable portion 43 to be separated from the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 43 is separated from the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are electrically disconnected.

[0111] Due to this configuration, the second embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the second embodiment, since it is a configuration in which the fixed portion and the movable portion are separated in the non-energized state of the excitation coil 100, it is also configured to simultaneously turn off a power supply and a voltage supply.

[0112] This makes it possible to improve redundancy in the OFF state of power.

[0113] According to the second embodiment, when current is supplied to the excitation coil on the other end side 400, it is necessary to maintain contact between the second movable portion 43 and the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42, as well as contact between the third movable portion 53 and the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. For this reason, the number of turns of the conductor 112 in the excitation coil on the other end side 400 is greater than the number of turns of the conductor 112 in the excitation coil on the one end side 200. The electromagnetic force in the second direction is made stronger than the electromagnetic force in the first direction. Contact pressures between the movable portion and the fixed portion of the respective contact devices are set to be approximately equal.This suppresses the occurrence of variations in the connection state between the movable portion and the fixed portion. (Third embodiment)

[0114] The configuration different from the first embodiment will be mainly described below. The electromagnetic relay 10 according to the third embodiment further includes a permanent magnet 300 in addition to the components described in the second embodiment. The third embodiment includes only one power supply unit 180. One end of the other-end-side excitation coil 400 is connected to the power supply unit 180. The other end of the other-end-side excitation coil 400 is electrically connected to one end of the one-end-side excitation coil 200.

[0115] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the third embodiment in an initial state. Fig. 12 shows a top view of the permanent magnet 300. Fig. 13 shows a top view of the permanent magnet 300. Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the third embodiment in the series connection state. Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the third embodiment in the series connection state. Fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the third embodiment in the parallel connection state. Fig. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the third embodiment in the parallel connection state.

[0116] The permanent magnet 300 is provided between two pieces of the excitation coils 100 arranged side by side in the axial direction X. The permanent magnet 300 has a through-hole 300A in the axial direction X. As an example, the permanent magnet 300 has an annular shape extending annularly around the axial direction. As another example, pieces of the permanent magnet 330 may be arranged in an annular shape with gaps 300B between them to form a substantially annular shape. As an example, each of the pieces of the permanent magnet 330 may have a substantially sector shape when viewed from the axial direction X. The permanent magnet 300 has an S pole 310 and an N pole 320 magnetized in the radial direction. The S pole 310 is provided on the radially inner side, and the N pole 320 is provided on the radially outer side.

[0117] The magnetic circuit element 90 includes an inner magnetic circuit element 91 and an outer magnetic circuit element 92. The inner magnetic circuit element 91 and the outer magnetic circuit element 92 each have a cylindrical shape. The inner magnetic circuit element 91 is arranged inside the two pieces of the excitation coil 100 with respect to the radial direction. The outer magnetic circuit element 92 is arranged outside the two pieces of the excitation coil 100 with respect to the radial direction. The inner magnetic circuit element 91 is arranged between two pieces of the excitation coil 100 and the permanent magnet 300 and the movable yoke 80. The outer magnetic circuit element 92 is arranged radially outward so as to overlap the two pieces of the excitation coil 100 and the permanent magnet 300.

[0118] For example, in the case of an initial state where neither of the two pieces of the excitation coil 100 is in the non-energized state, a first air gap 83 is formed between the one-end fixed yoke 270 and the movable yoke 80. Accordingly, a second air gap 84 is created between the other-end fixed yoke 470 and the movable yoke 80. The first movable portion 23 is not in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The second movable portion 43 is not in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is not in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. <Elektromagnetisches Relais im gespeisten Zustand der Reihenschaltung>

[0119] When the control device 1A allows power to be supplied from the power supply unit 180 to the excitation coil 100, a magnetic circuit is formed via the fixed yoke on the other end side 470, the movable yoke 80, and the magnetic circuit element 90. When current is supplied in a counterclockwise direction from the other end side X+, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the upper side Z+ of the one end side X- and the other end side X+. A clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z- and the one end side X- and the other end side X+. In the drawing, the magnetic circuit formed by the magnetic field generated by the excitation coil 100 is shown by solid lines.

[0120] According to the third embodiment, a magnetic field is generated by exciting the permanent magnet 300. In the drawing, the magnetic field excited by the permanent magnet 300 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Since the permanent magnet 300 is arranged such that a radially inner side corresponds to the N pole 320 and a radially outer side corresponds to the S pole 310, a magnetic field is formed in a clockwise direction from the N pole 320 to the S pole 310 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. A counterclockwise magnetic field is formed from the N pole 320 to the S pole 310 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-.

[0121] A counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. The magnetic fluxes cancel each other on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. It can also be said that the magnetic fluxes are canceled. A clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-. The magnetic fluxes cancel each other on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. It can also be said that the magnetic fluxes are canceled.

[0122] On the other hand, on one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+, a counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300. The magnetic fluxes reinforce each other on one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. It can be said that a magnetic flux is reinforced. A clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-. The magnetic fluxes reinforce each other on one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. It can be said that a magnetic flux is reinforced.

[0123] Accordingly, an electromagnetic force is generated that acts from the other end side X+ to one end side X-.

[0124] The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move in the first direction toward the fixed yoke on one end side 270 by the electromagnetic force. The shaft 60 moves in the first direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 comes into contact with the fixed yoke on one end side 270. The first air gap 83 is eliminated. The second air gap 84 widens.

[0125] While the shaft 60 moves in the first direction, the holding member 160 presses the one-end-side compression spring 130 and the first movable portion 23 toward the one-end side X-. The first movable portion 23 receives a pressing force from the holding member 160 via the one-end-side compression spring 130 and is pressed against the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The first movable portion 23 receives a biasing force, which biases in the first direction, from the one-end-side compression spring 130 and is in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. The series circuit is placed in the ON state.

[0126] As described above, the control device 1A has a function of switching between the energized state and the non-energized state of the excitation coil 100. When the control device 1A detects that the first movable portion 23 has come into contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22, it shuts off the current flow to the excitation coil 100. According to the third embodiment, even when current supply to the excitation coil 100 is shut off, the first movable portion 23 is maintained in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. In other words, the series connection is maintained in the ON state.

[0127] In the event that a power supply to the excitation coil 100 is switched off, only the magnetic field excited by the permanent magnet 300 is generated, as shown in Fig. 15. In the case where the series circuit is in the ON state, the first air gap 83 does not exist, and only the second air gap 84 exists. In the magnetic field on the other end side X+ of the permanent magnet 300, leakage of magnetic flux occurs in the second air gap 84. Therefore, a magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the other end side X+ is lower than a magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the one end side X-. In other words, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the one end side X- is higher than the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the other end side X+.

[0128] The force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on one end side 270 is greater than the force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the other end side 470. The force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the one end side 270 is always greater than the force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the other end side. Accordingly, a state in which the movable yoke is attracted to the fixed yoke on the one end side 270 is maintained. Even if power is turned off to the excitation coil 100, the first movable portion 23 remains in contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. In other words, the series connection is maintained in the ON state. <Elektromagnetisches Relais im gespeisten Zustand der Parallelschaltung>

[0129] In addition, when a current flow in the clockwise direction from one side to the other end X+ is allowed by the control device 1A, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the one end side X- and the other end side X+ on the upper side Z+ in a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the depth direction Y. A clockwise magnetic circuit is formed on the lower side Z- on the one end side X- and the other end side X+. Furthermore, a magnetic field is generated in the counterclockwise direction from the N pole 320 to the S pole 310 of the permanent magnet 300 on the one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. A magnetic field is generated in the clockwise direction from the N pole 320 to the S pole 310 of the permanent magnet 300 on the one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-.

[0130] A clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is generated by the permanent magnet 300 on the one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. The magnetic fluxes cancel each other on the one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. It can also be said that the magnetic fluxes are canceled. A counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is generated by the permanent magnet 300 on the one end side X- in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-. The magnetic fluxes cancel each other on the lower side of the one end side X- in the axial direction X. It can also be said that the magnetic fluxes are canceled.

[0131] On the other hand, a clockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a clockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. The magnetic fluxes reinforce each other on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the upper side Z+. It can be said that a magnetic flux is reinforced. A counterclockwise magnetic circuit is formed by the excitation coil 100, and a counterclockwise magnetic field is formed by the permanent magnet 300 on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-. The magnetic fluxes reinforce each other on the other end side X+ in the axial direction X and on the lower side Z-. It can be said that a magnetic flux is reinforced. Accordingly, an electromagnetic force acting in the second direction is generated.

[0132] The shaft 60 and the movable yoke 80 move in the second direction toward the fixed yoke on the other end side 470 by the electromagnetic force. The shaft 60 moves in the second direction to a position where the movable yoke 80 comes into contact with the fixed yoke on the other end side 470. The second air gap 84 is eliminated. The first air gap 83 widens. As the shaft 60 moves in the second direction, the holding member 160 presses the compression spring on the other end side 140 and the insulating member 32 toward the other end side X+.

[0133] The second movable portion 43 receives a pressing force from the holding member 170 via the compression spring on the other end side 140 and is pressed against the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The second movable portion 43 receives a biasing force that biases in the other end side X+ in the axial direction X from the compression spring on the other end side 140 and is in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. Similarly, the third movable portion 53 receives a pressing force from the holding member 170 via the compression spring on the other end side 140 and is pressed against the fifth portion 51 and the sixth portion 52. The third movable portion 53 receives a biasing force that biases in the other end side X+ in the axial direction X from the compression spring on the other end side 140 and is in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.The parallel circuit is put into the ON state.

[0134] When the control device 1A detects that the second movable portion 43 and the third movable portion 53 are in contact with the third fixed portion 41, the fourth fixed portion 42, the fifth fixed portion 51, and the sixth fixed portion 52, it shuts off the current flow to the excitation coil 100. According to the third embodiment, even if current supply to the excitation coil 100 is shut off, the second movable portion 43 is maintained in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. The third movable portion 53 is maintained in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52. In other words, the parallel connection is maintained in the ON state.

[0135] In the case that a power supply to the excitation coil 100 is turned off, only the magnetic field excited by the permanent magnet 300 is generated as shown in Fig. 17. In the case where the parallel circuit is in the ON state, the second air gap 84 does not exist, and only the first air gap 83 exists. In the magnetic circuit on the one end side X- of the permanent magnet 300, leakage of magnetic flux occurs in the first air gap 83. Therefore, a magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the one end side X- is lower than a magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the other end side X+. In other words, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the other end side X+ is higher than the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field on the one end side X-.

[0136] The force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the other end side 470 is greater than the force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the one end side 270. The force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the other end side 470 is always greater than the force that attracts the movable yoke 80 to the fixed yoke on the one end side 270. Accordingly, a state in which the movable yoke 80 is attracted to the fixed yoke on the other end side 470 is maintained. Even if power is turned off to the excitation coil 100, the second movable portion 43 is maintained in contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. Even if a power supply to the excitation coil 100 is turned off, the third movable portion 53 is maintained in contact with the fifth fixed portion 51 and the sixth fixed portion 52.In other words, the parallel circuit is maintained in the ON state.

[0137] Due to this configuration, the third embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment. In addition, the third embodiment allows power consumption to be reduced even further than the first embodiment because the embodiment is configured to maintain contact between the movable contact and the fixed contact even when power is turned off to the excitation coil 100. (Fourth embodiment)

[0138] So far, the electromagnetic relay 10 has been described, which includes the series connection contact device 20 and the parallel connection contact device 30. The parallel connection contact device 30 described above includes the first parallel connection contact device 40 and the second parallel connection contact device 50. However, the parallel connection contact device 30 according to the fourth embodiment does not necessarily need to include both the first parallel connection contact device 40 and the second parallel connection contact device 50. Fig.18 shows an electrical circuit diagram of the power control device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. The parallel connection contact device 30 according to the fourth embodiment may include either the first parallel connection contact device 40 or the second parallel connection contact device 50. As an example, the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the fourth embodiment includes a first contact device 420 corresponding to the series connection contact device 20 and a second contact device 440 corresponding to the first parallel connection contact device 40. In this case, the mechanical structure of the second contact device 440 is similar to the mechanical structure of the first contact device 420. The mechanical structure of the first contact device 420 is similar to that of the series connection contact device 20, and therefore, a description thereof may be omitted.

[0139] According to the fourth embodiment, the batteries 2A and 2B include the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The first contact device 420 is provided between the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The negative electrode of the first battery 2A is connected to the first fixed portion 21 of the first contact device 420 via the first connecting wire 6. The positive electrode of the second battery 2B is connected to the second fixed portion 22 of the first contact device 420 via the second connecting wire 7. When the first contact device 420 is placed in the ON state, the first movable portion 23 of the first contact device 420 comes into contact with the first fixed portion 21 and the second fixed portion 22. Accordingly, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series.

[0140] Furthermore, the second contact device 440 is provided between the first connecting wire and the negative bus bar 9. The first connecting wire 6 and the third fixed portion 41 of the second contact device 440 are connected via the third connecting wire 11. The fourth fixed portion 42 of the second contact device 440 and the negative bus bar 9 are connected via the fourth connecting wire 12. When the second contact device 440 is placed in the ON state, the second movable portion 43 of the second contact device 440 comes into contact with the third fixed portion 41 and the fourth fixed portion 42. Accordingly, the first connecting wire 6 and the negative bus bar 9 are electrically connected to each other.It is possible to switch between a current path passing through both the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B and a current path passing through only the first battery 2A by using the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0141] Although not shown, the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the fourth embodiment may include the first contact device 420 and a third contact device 450 corresponding to the second parallel connection contact device 50. In this case, by using the electromagnetic relay 10 according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to switch between a current path passing through both the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B and a current path flowing through only the second battery 2B. In this way, the electromagnetic relay 10 does not need to switch between a series connection and a parallel connection of the batteries 2A and 2B as in the above-described embodiments. It is sufficient that the electromagnetic relay 10 is capable of switching between at least two current paths.

[0142] Although the present disclosure has been described according to the examples, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such examples or structures. Rather, the present disclosure is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements. In addition, although various combinations and modes have been described in the present disclosure, other combinations and modes including only one element, multiple elements, or fewer elements are also within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. (Revelation of technical ideas)

[0143] The description discloses a variety of technical ideas, listed below in a variety of sections. Some sections may be presented in a multiple-dependent form, in which a subsequent section selectively refers to previous sections. Furthermore, some sections may be described in multiple forms that refer to other multiple-dependent forms. These sections, written in a multiple-dependent form, define a variety of technical ideas. (Technical Idea 1)

[0144] An electromagnetic relay with: an excitation coil (100) forming a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and inserted to pass through a central opening (100A) of the excitation coil such that one end (61) in the axial direction and another end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the central opening, a movable portion on one end side (23) provided at one end and movable in the axial direction, a fixed portion on the one end side (21, 22) facing the movable portion on the one end side and provided at a position further away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the one end side in the axial direction, a plurality of other end-side movable portions (43, 53) provided at the other end and movable in the axial direction, and a plurality of fixed portions on the other end side (41, 42, 51, 52) facing the movable portion on the other end side and provided at positions spaced farther away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the other end side in the axial direction, wherein the movable portion on the one end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side by moving the movable portion on the one end side in a first direction when the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side to the one end side, and wherein the plurality of movable sections on the other end side are electrically connected to the plurality of fixed sections on the other end side by moving the plurality of movable sections on the other end side in a second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction from one end side to the other end side. (Technical Idea 2)

[0145] The electromagnetic relay according to the technical idea 1, where the electromagnetic relay (10) is arranged between a first battery (2A) and a second battery (2B), and switches between a series circuit and a parallel circuit of the first battery and the second battery, and wherein the movable portion on the one end side moves in the first direction to be electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side to connect the first battery and the second battery in series, and to be electrically connected to a plurality of fixed portions on the other end side to connect the first battery and the second battery in parallel. (Technical Idea 3)

[0146] The electromagnetic relay according to technical idea 1 or 2, further comprising: an insulating member (32) in a plate shape having electrical insulating properties, on which a plurality of the movable portions on the other end side are provided at a pitch sufficient to maintain electrical insulation, and formed with a through hole (32A) for passing the shaft at a position having equal pitches from centers (43A, 53A) of each of the movable portions on the other end side, wherein the insulating member moves in the second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction, thereby causing contact between a plurality of the movable portions on the other end side and a plurality of fixed portions on the other end side. (Technical Idea 4)

[0147] The electromagnetic relay according to any one of technical ideas 1 to 3, wherein, in the case that the exciting coil is energized, the plurality of movable portions on one end side are moved by the electromagnetic force to positions where they come into contact with the plurality of fixed portions on the other end side. (Technical Idea 5)

[0148] The electromagnetic relay according to one of the technical ideas 1 to 4, further with: a movable yoke (80) which is fixed to the shaft and is movable in the axial direction together with the shaft, a fixed yoke (70) placed at a position in the axial direction on the other end side with respect to the movable yoke, and arranged with the movable yoke laterally in the axial direction to restrict movement of the movable yoke in the second direction, a one-end side compression spring (130) provided around the shaft between the one-end side movable portion and the movable yoke, and a return spring (150) provided around the shaft between the movable yoke and the fixed yoke, wherein the movable yoke compresses the compression spring on one side by a first biasing force of the return spring in the first direction and wherein the movable portion on one side comes into contact with the fixed portion on the one end side by a second biasing force of the compression spring on the one end side in the first direction. (Technical Idea 6)

[0149] The electromagnetic relay according to technical idea 1 or 2, further comprising: two pieces of the excitation coil, where the two pieces of the excitation coil are arranged around the shaft next to each other in the axial direction so that central openings are offset in communication with each other, and wherein in the case that an exciting coil on the other end side (400) which is one of the two pieces of the exciting coil is energized, a plurality of the movable portions on the one end side move by electromagnetic force directed in the second direction to positions where they come into contact with a plurality of the fixed portions on the one end side. (Technical Idea 7)

[0150] The electromagnetic relay according to the technical idea 6, where in the case that a one-end-side exciting coil (200) which is one of the two pieces of the exciting coils is energized, the one-end-side movable portion moves by the electromagnetic force to a position where it comes into contact with the one-end-side fixed portion acting in the first direction. (Technical Idea 8)

[0151] The electromagnetic relay according to technical idea 7, wherein the excitation coil on the other end side has a number of turns greater than the number of turns of the excitation coil on one end side. (Technical Idea 9)

[0152] The electromagnetic relay according to the technical idea 1 or 2, further with: a movable yoke (80) fixed to the shaft and movable in the axial direction together with the shaft, a one-end-side fixed yoke (270) placed at a position in the axial direction on the one end side with respect to the movable yoke, and arranged with the movable yoke in a juxtaposed manner in the axial direction to restrict movement of the movable yoke in the first direction, a permanent magnet (300) having an S-pole (310) and an N-pole (320) magnetized in a radial direction, and two pieces of the excitation coil, wherein the permanent magnet is arranged between the two pieces of the excitation coil, and wherein the two pieces of the excitation coil are arranged around the shaft in a juxtaposed manner in the axial direction to place central openings in communication with each other, and wherein, when the plurality of movable portions on the other end side and the plurality of fixed portions on the other end side are in contact with each other, the fixed yoke on the one end side and the movable yoke form a gap (83) therebetween. (Technical Idea 10)

[0153] The electromagnetic relay according to technical idea 9, further comprising: a fixed yoke on the other end side (470) placed at a position in the axial direction on the other end side to the movable yoke, and arranged with the movable yoke in a juxtaposed manner in an axial direction to restrict movement of the movable yoke in the second direction, wherein, when the movable portion on one side and the fixed portion on one side are in contact with each other, the fixed yoke on the other end side and the movable yoke form a gap (84) between them. (Technical Idea 11)

[0154] An electromagnetic relay with: an excitation coil (100) forming a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and inserted to pass through a central opening (100A) of the excitation coil such that one end (61) in the axial direction and another end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the central opening, a movable portion on one end side (23) provided at one end and movable in the axial direction, a fixed portion on the one end side (21, 22) facing the movable portion on the one end side and provided at a position further away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the one end side in the axial direction, a movable portion on the other end (43, 53) provided at the other end and movable in the axial direction, and a fixed portion on the other end (41, 42, 51, 52) facing the movable portion on the other end and provided at positions spaced farther away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the other end in the axial direction, wherein the movable portion on the one end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side by moving the movable portion on the one end side in a first direction when the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side to the one end side, and wherein the movable portion on the other end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the other end side by moving the movable portion on the other end side in a second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction from one end side to the other end side. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2022-199675

[0001] JP 2019 - 140 207 A

[0005]

Claims

[1] Electromagnetic relay with: an excitation coil (100) forming a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and inserted to pass through a central opening (100A) of the excitation coil such that one end (61) in the axial direction and another end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the central opening, a movable portion on one end side (23) provided at one end and movable in the axial direction, a fixed portion on the one end side (21, 22) facing the movable portion on the one end side and provided at a position further away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the one end side in the axial direction, a plurality of other end-side movable portions (43, 53) provided at the other end and movable in the axial direction, and a plurality of fixed portions on the other end side (41, 42, 51, 52) facing the movable portion on the other end side and provided at positions spaced farther away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the other end side in the axial direction, wherein the movable portion on the one end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side by moving the movable portion on the one end side in a first direction when the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side to the one end side, and wherein the plurality of movable portions on the other end side are electrically connected to the plurality of fixed portions on the other end side by moving the movable portion on the other end side in a second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction from one end side to the other end side. [2] Electromagnetic relay according to claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic relay 10 is arranged between a first battery (2A) and a second battery (2B), and switches between a series connection and a parallel connection of the first battery and the second battery, and wherein the movable portion on the one end side moves in the first direction to be electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side to connect the first battery and the second battery in series, and to be electrically connected to a plurality of fixed portions on the other end side to connect the first battery and the second battery in parallel. [3] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: an insulating member (32) in a plate shape having electrical insulating properties, provided with a plurality of the movable portions on the other end side at a distance sufficient to maintain electrical insulation, and formed with a through hole (32A) for passing the shaft at a position having equal distances from centers (43A, 53A) of the plurality of the movable portions on the other end side, wherein the insulating member moves in the second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction, thereby causing contact between a plurality of the movable portions on the other end side and a plurality of fixed portions on the other end side. [4] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 3, wherein, in the case that the exciting coil is energized, the plurality of movable portions on one end side move by the electromagnetic force to positions where they come into contact with the plurality of fixed portions on the other end side. [5] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 4, further comprising: a movable yoke (80) which is fixed to the shaft and is movable in the axial direction together with the shaft, a fixed yoke (70) placed at a position in the axial direction on the other end side with respect to the movable yoke, and arranged with the movable yoke in a lateral manner in the axial direction to restrict movement of the movable yoke in the second direction, a one-end compression spring (130) provided around the shaft between the one-end movable portion and the movable yoke, and a return spring (150) provided around the shaft between the movable yoke and the fixed yoke, wherein the movable yoke compresses the compression spring on one side by a first biasing force of the return spring in the first direction, and wherein the movable portion on one side comes into contact with the fixed portion on the one end side by a second biasing force of the compression spring on the one end side in the first direction. [6] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: two pieces of the excitation coil, where the two pieces of the excitation coil are arranged around the shaft next to each other in the axial direction so that central openings are offset in communication with each other, and wherein in the case that an exciting coil on the other end side (400), which is one of the two pieces of the exciting coil, is energized, a plurality of the movable portions on the one end side move by electromagnetic force directed in the second direction to positions where they come into contact with a plurality of the fixed portions on the one end side. [7] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 6, wherein in the case where a one-end-side exciting coil (200) which is one of the two pieces of the exciting coil is energized, the one-end-side movable portion moves by the electromagnetic force to a position where it comes into contact with the one-end-side fixed portion acting in the first direction. [8] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 7, wherein the excitation coil on the other end side has a number of turns greater than the number of turns of the excitation coil on the one end side. [9] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a movable yoke (80) fixed to the shaft and movable in the axial direction together with the shaft, a one-end-side fixed yoke (270) placed at a position in the axial direction on the one end side with respect to the movable yoke, and arranged with the movable yoke in a juxtaposed manner in the axial direction to restrict movement of the movable yoke in the first direction, a permanent magnet (300) having an S pole (310) and an N pole (320) magnetized in a radial direction, and two pieces of the excitation coil, where the permanent magnet is arranged between the two pieces of the excitation coil, and wherein the two pieces of the excitation coil are arranged around the shaft in a juxtaposed manner in the axial direction to place central openings in communication with each other, and wherein, when the plurality of movable portions on the other end side and the plurality of fixed portions on the other end side are in contact with each other, the fixed yoke on the one end side and the movable yoke form a gap (83) therebetween. [10] An electromagnetic relay according to claim 9, further comprising: a fixed yoke on the other end side (470) placed at a position in the axial direction on the other end side to the movable yoke, and arranged with the movable yoke in a side-by-side manner in an axial direction to restrict movement of the movable yoke in the second direction, wherein, when the movable portion on one side and the fixed portion on one side are in contact with each other, the fixed yoke on the other end side and the movable yoke form a gap (84) between them. [11] Electromagnetic relay with: an excitation coil (100) forming a magnetic field in an energized state, a shaft (60) extending in an axial direction (X) and inserted to pass through a central opening (100A) of the excitation coil such that one end (61) in the axial direction and another end (62) in the axial direction are exposed from the central opening, a movable portion on one end side (23) provided at one end and movable in the axial direction, a fixed portion on the one end side (21, 22) facing the movable portion on the one end side and provided at a position further away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the one end side in the axial direction, a movable portion on the other end side (43, 53) provided at the other end and movable in the axial direction, and a fixed portion on the other end side (41, 42, 51, 52) facing the movable portion on the other end side and provided at positions spaced farther away from the excitation coil than the movable portion on the other end side in the axial direction, wherein the movable portion on the one end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the one end side by moving the movable portion on the one end side in a first direction when the shaft moves in the first direction from the other end side to the one end side, and wherein the movable portion on the other end side is electrically connected to the fixed portion on the other end side by moving the movable portion on the other end side in a second direction when the shaft moves in the second direction from one end side to the other end side.

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