Arc chamber and DC relay including the same

Abstract

An arc chamber and a DC relay including the same are disclosed. The arc chamber according to one aspect of the present invention includes a chamber space that accommodates a fixed contact and a movable contact that are electrically connected to an external power source or load; and a plurality of walls that surround the chamber space from the outside, the plurality of walls including a first wall that surrounds one side of the chamber space and extends in one direction; a second wall that surrounds the other side of the chamber space and extends in the other direction from an end of the first wall while forming a predetermined angle with the first wall; a third wall that surrounds the other side of the chamber space and extends in the one direction from an end of the second wall while forming a predetermined angle with the second wall; and a fourth wall that surrounds yet another side of the chamber space and extends in the other direction from an end of the third wall to an end of the first wall while forming a predetermined angle with the third wall.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an arc chamber and a DC relay including the same, and more particularly, to an arc chamber having a structure capable of effectively extinguishing an arc while ensuring a sufficient insulation distance, and a DC relay including the same.

Background Art

[0002] A direct current relay is a device that utilizes the principle of an electromagnet to transmit a mechanical drive or a current signal. A DC relay is also called a magnetic switch and is generally classified as an electrical circuit opening and closing device.

[0003] A DC relay includes a fixed contact and a movable contact. The fixed contact is electrically connected to an external power source and a load. The fixed contact and the movable contact can contact or separate from each other.

[0004] The contact and separation of the fixed contact and the movable contact allow or block the energization through the DC relay. The movement is achieved by a drive unit that applies a driving force to the movable contact.

[0005] When the fixed contact and the movable contact separate, an arc is generated between the fixed contact and the movable contact. An arc is a flow of current with high voltage and high temperature. Therefore, the generated arc must be quickly discharged from the DC relay through a preset path.

[0006] The arc discharge path is formed by a magnet provided in the DC relay. The magnet forms a magnetic field inside the space where the fixed contact and the movable contact contact. The arc discharge path can be formed by the generated electromagnetic force due to the formed magnetic field and the flow of current.

[0007] The fixed contact and the movable contact are provided in a semi-closed space called an arc chamber. Therefore, the arc generated when the fixed contact and the movable contact come into contact and separate is also formed inside the arc chamber. The generated arc extends in the internal space of the arc chamber and is extinguished.

[0008] On the other hand, a DC relay includes a coil that forms a magnetic force for moving the movable contact. The coil can be energized and magnetized by an external control power source through an auxiliary contact.

[0009] By the way, such an auxiliary contact is also accommodated in the internal space of the arc chamber. That is, the fixed contact, the movable contact, and the auxiliary contact are arranged in the same space. Therefore, there is a possibility of electrical interference between the current energized to the fixed contact and the movable contact and the control current energized to the auxiliary contact.

[0010] In addition, the generated arc cannot be effectively extinguished unless it travels over a sufficient space. However, the internal space of the arc chamber can be partially occupied by a magnet provided to guide the arc outward. In this case, the flowing space of the arc may be reduced by the magnet, and as a result, the problem that the arc extinguishing effect is reduced may occur.

[0011] Korean Registered Utility Model Document No. 20-0168172 discloses a contactless relay that does not require an auxiliary power source. Specifically, the prior document discloses a contactless relay in which the role of the auxiliary power source can be performed by a power source that switches without a separate auxiliary power source.

[0012] However, the contactless relay disclosed in the prior document assumes that the supplied power source is an AC power source. That is, the prior document cannot present a solution for a relay using a DC power source to operate without an auxiliary power source.

[0013] Korean Registered Patent Document No. 10-2207339 discloses a latching relay including an auxiliary contact device. Specifically, it discloses a latching relay including an actuator driven by a change in the polarity of a yoke and an auxiliary contact actuated by the operation of the actuator. The actuator is configured to actuate the auxiliary contact through a separate lever.

[0014] However, the prior document only discloses a solution for actuating the auxiliary contact and cannot present a solution for preventing a situation where the fixed contact, the movable contact, and the auxiliary contact electrically interfere with each other.

[0015] Korean Registered Patent Document No. 10-1661396 discloses an electromagnetic relay. Specifically, it discloses an electromagnetic relay for inducing an arc generated by using a permanent magnet arranged to surround a fixed contact and a movable contact.

[0016] However, the permanent magnet of the electromagnetic relay disclosed in the prior document is arranged on the inner surface of an extension portion forming a part of the arc chamber. That is, the electromagnetic relay according to the prior document cannot present a solution for solving the problem that the flow space of the arc decreases due to the space occupied by the permanent magnet.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0017]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0018] The present invention is for solving the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an arc chamber having a structure capable of eliminating electrical interference between a component through which current is passed and a component through which a control current is passed, and a DC relay including the same.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide an arc chamber having a structure in which a component through which a control current is passed can be stably accommodated inside the arc chamber, and a DC relay including the same.

[0020] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an arc chamber having a structure in which sufficient space can be secured for the generated arc to extend while being extinguished, and a DC relay including the same.

[0021] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an arc chamber having a structure capable of preventing damage to other components caused by the generated arc, and a DC relay including the same.

[0022] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an arc chamber having a structure capable of achieving the above object without excessive structural changes to other components, and a DC relay including the same.

[0023] The problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and still other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from the following description.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an arc chamber including: a chamber space that houses a fixed contact and a movable contact that are energized with an external power source or load; and a plurality of walls that surround the chamber space on the outside, wherein the plurality of walls include: a first wall that surrounds one side of the chamber space and extends in one direction; a second wall that surrounds the other side of the chamber space and extends in the other direction at a predetermined angle with respect to the first wall from an end of the first wall; a third wall that surrounds the other other side of the chamber space and extends in the one direction at a predetermined angle with respect to the second wall from an end of the second wall; and a fourth wall that surrounds the still other other side of the chamber space and extends in the other direction at a predetermined angle with respect to the third wall from an end of the third wall to an end of the first wall.

[0025] At this time, an arc chamber may be provided in which the first wall and the third wall extend parallel to each other, and the second wall and the fourth wall extend parallel to each other.

[0026] Further, an arc chamber may be provided in which the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall all extend by the same length.

[0027] At this time, an arc chamber may be provided in which the predetermined angle between the first wall and the second wall, the predetermined angle between the second wall and the third wall, the predetermined angle between the third wall and the fourth wall, and the predetermined angle between the fourth wall and the first wall are all the same.

[0028] Further, an arc chamber may be provided in which a horizontal cross-section of the arc chamber has a diamond shape.

[0029] At this time, a plurality of the fixed contacts are provided, and the plurality of the fixed contacts are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in a direction toward a corner where adjacent walls among the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall are continuous and another corner that faces the corner with the chamber space therebetween. An arc chamber may be provided.

[0030] In addition, a plurality of sub-connectors energized by an external control power source are accommodated in the chamber space, and the plurality of sub-connectors are arranged in a direction away from each other toward still other corners, where adjacent walls among the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall are continuous, and still other corners facing the other corners across the chamber space, and an arc chamber may be provided.

[0031] At this time, a virtual straight line extending between the plurality of fixed contacts forms a pair of diagonal lines of a cross-section of the arc chamber, a virtual straight line extending between the plurality of sub-connectors forms the other diagonal line of the cross-section of the arc chamber, and the pair of diagonal lines and the other diagonal line intersect at a predetermined angle, and an arc chamber may be provided.

[0032] In addition, the length of the other diagonal line is formed to be equal to or greater than the length of the pair of diagonal lines, and the pair of diagonal lines and the other diagonal line are orthogonal to each other, and an arc chamber may be provided.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a DC relay including: a fixed contact energized with an external power source or load; a movable contact provided to be movable up and down and contacting or separating from the fixed contact; a sub-contact portion energized with a core portion and an external control power source and configured to control the core portion; an arc chamber having a chamber space formed therein for accommodating the fixed contact, the movable contact, and the sub-contact portion; and an arc induction portion coupled to the arc chamber outside the arc chamber and configured to form a magnetic field for inducing an arc into the chamber space, wherein the arc chamber is arranged to face the chamber space along one direction and includes a pair of walls partially surrounding the chamber space; and the other pair of walls continuous with the pair of walls respectively and arranged to face the chamber space along the other direction and partially surrounding the chamber space.

[0034] At this time, a DC relay can be provided in which the pair of walls and the other pair of walls extend by the same length as each other and are configured to surround the chamber space by the same area.

[0035] Further, the arc induction unit includes a plurality of support walls configured to cover the pair of walls and the other pair of walls respectively; a plurality of magnets respectively coupled to the plurality of support walls and configured to form a magnetic field in the chamber space; and a magnet cover member coupled while surrounding the plurality of support walls and the plurality of magnets on the outside, and a DC relay can be provided.

[0036] At this time, the plurality of magnets include a magnet outer surface opposite to the chamber space and a magnet inner surface facing the magnet outer surface and facing the chamber space, and the magnet outer surfaces of the plurality of magnets are magnetized to the same polarity as each other, and a DC relay can be provided.

[0037] Further, a plurality of corners are formed at a portion where the pair of walls and the other pair of walls are continuous, and a plurality of the fixed contacts are provided and are arranged to be separated from each other in another direction between one corner and another corner opposite to the one corner among the plurality of corners, and a DC relay can be provided.

[0038] At this time, the sub-contact portion includes a plurality of sub-connectors energized with an external control power source, and the plurality of sub-connectors are arranged to be separated from each other in still another direction between still another corner and yet another corner opposite to the still another corner among the plurality of corners, and a DC relay can be provided.

[0039] Further, a virtual straight line connecting the plurality of fixed contacts and a virtual other straight line connecting the plurality of sub-connectors respectively form a diagonal line of a cross-section of the arc chamber and extend intersecting each other, and a DC relay can be provided.

Advantages of the Invention

[0040] With the above configuration, the arc chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention and the DC relay including the same can eliminate electrical interference between a component through which current is applied and a component through which control current is applied.

[0041] First, the fixed contact and the movable contact through which current is applied are located inside the arc chamber. Also, the sub-contact part for operating the core part for moving the movable contact is also located inside the arc chamber.

[0042] A plurality of fixed contacts are provided and arranged at intervals along one direction inside the arc chamber. The sub-contact part includes a plurality of sub-connectors that are energized with the outside, and the plurality of sub-connectors are arranged at intervals with the fixed contact therebetween. At this time, the plurality of sub-connectors are arranged at intervals along the other direction.

[0043] In an embodiment in which the arc chamber is formed to have a polygonal cross-section, the plurality of sub-connectors are positioned adjacent to one corner (i.e., vertex) of the polygon and the other corner opposite to the one corner.

[0044] In an embodiment in which the arc chamber is formed to have a rectangular cross-section, the plurality of sub-connectors may be arranged at intervals along one diagonal direction of the cross-section of the arc chamber. At this time, the plurality of fixed contacts may be arranged at intervals along the other diagonal direction of the cross-section of the arc chamber.

[0045] Therefore, the fixed contact and the plurality of sub-connectors can be sufficiently separated. As a result, a sufficient insulation distance can be secured between the current applied through the fixed contact and the control current applied through the sub-connector, and mutual electrical interference can be eliminated.

[0046] Also, with the above configuration, in the arc chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention and the DC relay including the same, components through which control current is applied can be stably accommodated inside the arc chamber.

[0047] First, the sub-contact part forms a body part that forms its body. The body part includes a first leg extending in the vertical direction, a second leg, and a bridge extending between the first leg and the second leg. The lower end of the first leg and the lower end of the second leg extend to the lower side of the arc chamber, that is, the open-formed space.

[0048] An insulating plate is provided on the lower side of the arc chamber. The lower end of the first leg and the lower end of the second leg are supported by the insulating plate. An extended holder support part that at least partially surrounds the lower end of the first leg and the lower end of the second leg is formed on the insulating plate.

[0049] In one embodiment, the holder support part includes at least one bent part and can support the lower end of the first leg and the lower end of the second leg in two or more directions.

[0050] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the outer surface of the first leg and the outer surface of the second leg can be arranged to contact the corners surrounding the chamber space of the arc chamber respectively. In the said embodiment, the first leg and the second leg are supported at a plurality of points by the holder support part and each corner of the arc chamber.

[0051] Accordingly, each component of the sub-contact part through which the control current is energized can be stably maintained in the internal space of the arc chamber.

[0052] Also, with the said configuration, sufficient space can be ensured for the arc generated in the arc chamber and the DC relay including the same to extend while the generated arc is extinguished.

[0053] First, a plurality of sub-connectors are positioned adjacent to each corner of the arc chamber. Specifically, the plurality of sub-connectors are biased towards the boundary side of the internal space of the arc chamber. The arc generated at the fixed contact can be smoothly extended while being extinguished towards the space communicating with the outside of the arc chamber without being obstructed by the sub-connector.

[0054] In addition, an arc induction unit for forming a magnetic field for inducing an arc is provided outside the arc chamber. That is, the magnet of the arc induction unit is disposed outside the arc chamber, and a space equivalent to the volume of the magnet can be additionally secured inside the arc chamber.

[0055] Accordingly, while electrical interference between the fixed contact and the sub-connector is eliminated, sufficient space can be secured for the generated arc to extend while being extinguished.

[0056] In addition, with the above configuration, damage to other components caused by the generated arc can be prevented in the arc chamber and the DC relay including the same according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] First, a sub-PCB, a sub-connector, and a sub-switch that are energized with an external control power source are accommodated in a space formed inside the first leg and the second leg. The connector accommodation part and the switch accommodation part in which the sub-connector and the sub-switch are accommodated are physically separated, but their upper parts are partially communicated.

[0058] The sub-PCB that is coupled to and energized with the sub-connector and the sub-switch is accommodated in the upper part where the connector accommodation part and the switch accommodation part communicate.

[0059] In one embodiment, the first leg and the second leg can be extended until their upper ends contact the upper surface of the arc chamber. That is, the sub-PCB, the sub-connector, and the sub-switch accommodated inside the first leg and the second leg are covered by the upper surface of the arc chamber and are not arbitrarily exposed to the chamber space.

[0060] Accordingly, even if an arc is generated in the chamber space, the amount of arc reaching the sub-PCB, the sub-connector, and the sub-switch can be minimized. As a result, each component of the sub-contact part energized with the external control power source can be prevented from being damaged by the arc.

[0061] Also, with the above configuration, the arc chamber according to the embodiment of the present invention and the DC relay including the same can achieve the above object without excessive structural changes to other components.

[0062] First, the arc chamber is housed in the internal space of the upper frame. The upper frame is formed in a cylindrical shape having a circular cross-section and extending in the vertical direction. Accordingly, a cylindrical space is formed inside the upper frame.

[0063] The arc chamber has a square cross-section and is formed in a square tube shape extending in the vertical direction. In one embodiment, the cross-section of the arc chamber may be formed in a rhombus or a square. In the above embodiment, the maximum length of the diagonal of the cross-section of the arc chamber may be formed smaller than the diameter of the cross-section of the upper frame.

[0064] By forming the arc chamber to have a square cross-section, a predetermined space is formed between each surface of the arc chamber, that is, the surfaces forming each side of the square, and the outer peripheral surface of the upper frame. An arc guiding portion is disposed in the space. The arc guiding portion surrounds the arc chamber and is coupled to the arc chamber, but is surrounded by the outer surface surrounding the space of the upper frame.

[0065] The arc guiding portion includes a plurality of support walls. The plurality of support walls are positioned adjacent to each wall of the arc chamber. In one embodiment, the plurality of support walls may be respectively in contact with the plurality of walls of the arc chamber. The support walls and the walls are all formed in a plate shape having a flat cross-section.

[0066] Magnet space portions are respectively formed inside the support walls of the arc guiding portion. Magnets that form a magnetic field in the internal space of the arc chamber are respectively housed in the magnet space portions. The magnets are formed in a plate shape similar to the shape of the support walls or the walls.

[0067] Therefore, the above-described various objects can be achieved without changing the structure of the upper frame.

[0068] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and should be understood to include all effects that can be inferred from the configuration of the invention described in the detailed description or claims of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0069]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0070] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement it. The present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts not related to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar components throughout the specification.

[0071] The words and terms used in this specification and the claims are not to be construed in a limited sense in accordance with their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be construed in a meaning and concept that conforms to the technical idea of the present invention in accordance with the principle that the inventor can define the terms and concepts in order to best explain his own invention.

[0072] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to a preferred embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Thus, the corresponding configurations may have various equivalents and modifications that replace them at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0073] In the following description, for the purpose of clarifying the features of the present invention, the description of some components may be omitted.

[0074] The term "energization" used in the following description means that two or more members are connected so as to be able to transmit an electrical signal or current. In one embodiment, energization can be formed in a wired form by a wire member or the like, or in a wireless form by RFID, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or the like.

[0075] The term "communication" used in the following description means that two or more members are connected so as to be able to communicate fluidly with each other. In one embodiment, communication can be formed by a space formed inside the two or more members. As an alternative, communication can be formed by members such as pipes, pipelines, hoses, and the like.

[0076] The terms "upper side", "lower side", "front side", "rear side", "left side" and "right side" used in the following description will be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated in the attached drawings.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 20, a DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0078] The DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can secure sufficient space to extinguish the arc generated when the DC power supply is energized or cut off through the shape of the arc chamber 500.

[0079] In addition, the sub-contact portion 400 and the main contact portion 300 to which the power supply for the operation of the DC relay 10 is applied are sufficiently separated, and a distance for insulation can be secured.

[0080] As a result, the arrangement structure of the magnet and the direction of the magnetic field formed accordingly can be diversified, and the movement path of the arc generated when the DC power supply is energized or cut off can be formed in various ways.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the DC relay 10 includes a frame 100, a core portion 200, a main contact portion 300, a sub-contact portion 400, an arc chamber 500, a terminal portion 600, and an arc guide portion 700.

[0082] The frame 100 forms the outer shape of the DC relay 10. A space is formed inside the frame 100, and various components of the DC relay 10 can be mounted. In the illustrated embodiment, the core portion 200, the main contact portion 300, the sub-contact portion 400, the arc chamber 500, the terminal portion 600, and the arc guide portion 700 are accommodated in the internal space of the frame 100.

[0083] Some of the components may be arranged to be exposed outside the frame 100. Specifically, the fixed contact 310 of the main contact portion 300, the main terminal 610 of the terminal portion 600, etc. are exposed outside the frame 100.

[0084] The internal space of the frame 100 is energized with the outside. The main contact portion 300 energized to the main terminal 610 can be energized to an external power source and a load respectively by a separate wire member (not shown) or the like. Also, the sub-contact portion 400 that applies a current to the coil 250 to move the movable core 220 is energized to an external power source by the wire member W.

[0085] The internal space of the frame 100 communicates with the outside. The arc generated when the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320 come into contact or separate can be discharged to the outside while being extinguished.

[0086] The frame 100 can be formed of an insulating material. This is to prevent current or the like applied during the operation of the DC relay 10 from leaking externally arbitrarily. Also, the frame 100 can be formed of a material with high rigidity. This is to prevent damage caused by the external environment where the DC relay 10 is installed and arcs generated inside. In one embodiment, the frame 100 can be formed of a synthetic resin material such as reinforced plastic.

[0087] The frame 100 forms the outer shape of the DC relay 10 and can be formed in any form capable of mounting various components inside. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper side of the frame 100 has a circular cross-section and is cylindrical extending in the vertical direction. Also, the lower side of the frame 100 is formed such that it has a circular cross-section on the upper side and a square cross-section on the lower side along its height direction.

[0088] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the frame 100 includes an upper frame 110, a lower frame 120, a PCB frame 130, a support plate 140, and a first insulating plate 150.

[0089] The upper frame 110 forms a part in the height direction of the frame 100 and forms the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The upper frame 110 is coupled to the lower frame 120. In one embodiment, the upper frame 110 may be detachably coupled to the lower frame 120. In the above embodiment, the space formed inside the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120 can be easily opened, facilitating maintenance.

[0090] The upper frame 110 is formed to have a predetermined shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper frame 110 is cylindrical with a circular cross-section and has a height in the vertical direction.

[0091] In the DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, while maintaining the shape of the upper frame 110 as cylindrical, the shape of the arc chamber 500 can be deformed to achieve various effects. A detailed description thereof will be given later.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper frame 110 includes an upper space 111, a coupling protrusion 112, a support protrusion 113, an upper opening 114, and an upper separation wall 115.

[0093] The upper space 111 is a space formed inside the upper frame 110. A part of the components of the DC relay 10 can be accommodated in the upper space 111. In the illustrated embodiment, the main contact portion 300, the sub-contact portion 400, the arc chamber 500, the terminal portion 600, and the arc induction portion 700 are accommodated in the upper space 111.

[0094] The upper space 111 communicates with the outside. The arc generated inside the arc chamber 500 can be discharged to the outside while being extinguished.

[0095] The upper space 111 is energized with the outside. The fixed contact 310 of the main contact portion 300 can be energized with the outside by the main terminal 610 that is energized with this. Also, as described above, the sub-contact portion 400 can be energized with the outside by the conductive member W.

[0096] The upper space 111 communicates with the lower space 121 partially. Specifically, the upper space 111 is physically partitioned by the support plate 140 and the first insulating plate 150. At this time, the shaft 360 is accommodated in the hollow formed inside the support plate 140 and inside the first insulating plate 150 so as to be able to move up and down, and it can be said that the upper space 111 communicates with the lower space 121 partially.

[0097] The upper space 111 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the upper frame 110. In the illustrated embodiment, since the upper frame 110 is cylindrical, the upper space 111 formed inside thereof may also be formed as a cylindrical space having a circular cross section and a vertical height.

[0098] The outer peripheral surface of the upper frame 110 surrounding the upper space 111 radially outward is provided with coupling protrusions 112 and support protrusions 113.

[0099] The coupling protrusions 112 and the support protrusions 113 are parts where the upper frame 110 is detachably coupled to the lower frame 120. The coupling protrusions 112 and the support protrusions 113 are located on the outer peripheral surface of the upper frame 110. The coupling protrusions 112 and the support protrusions 113 are provided at corners extending in the direction toward the lower frame 120, downward in the illustrated embodiment.

[0100] The coupling protrusion 112 is detachably coupled to a coupling groove 122 provided in the lower frame 120. As can be understood from the name, the coupling protrusion 112 is formed to protrude and can be fitted or snap-coupled to the coupling groove 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling protrusion 112 protrudes in the radially outward direction and is formed to extend along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110 for a predetermined length.

[0101] A plurality of coupling protrusions 112 may be provided. The plurality of coupling protrusions 112 may be arranged at intervals along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, two coupling protrusions 112 are provided and arranged at intervals along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110.

[0102] The coupling protrusions 112 may be provided in a plurality of pairs. The plurality of pairs of coupling protrusions 112 may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, two pairs of coupling protrusions 112 are provided and arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110.

[0103] In one embodiment, each pair of coupling protrusions 112 may be arranged to form a predetermined angle with respect to the center of the upper frame 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined angle is 180°.

[0104] Support protrusions 113 are located between each pair of coupling protrusions 112 along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110.

[0105] The support protrusion 113 is a portion where the upper frame 110 is coupled to the support plate 140. The support protrusion 113 is removably coupled to a support groove 141 formed in the support plate 140. As can be understood from the name, the support protrusion 113 is formed to have a predetermined shape and can be snap-coupled to the support groove 141.

[0106] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the support protrusion 113 is formed such that the cross-sectional area in the direction toward the lower frame 120 is smaller than the cross-sectional area in the direction opposite to the lower frame 120. The outer peripheral surface of the support protrusion 113 may be extended and formed to incline radially outward along the direction opposite to the lower frame 120.

[0107] A plurality of support protrusions 113 may be provided. The plurality of support protrusions 113 may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, two support protrusions 113 are provided and arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110. At this time, the support protrusions 113 may be arranged to face each other with the upper space 111 therebetween.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the plurality of support protrusions 113 may be arranged to form a predetermined angle with respect to the center of the upper frame 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined angle is 180°.

[0109] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the coupling protrusions 112 and the support protrusions 113 are alternately arranged along the outer periphery of the upper frame 110.

[0110] The upper opening 114 is a portion where the upper space 111 communicates with the outside. The upper opening 114 is formed through one surface of the upper frame 110 that surrounds the upper space 111. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper opening 114 is formed through the upper surface of the upper frame 110.

[0111] A plurality of upper openings 114 may be formed. A plurality of fixed contacts 310 may be respectively penetrated and coupled to the plurality of upper openings 114. In the illustrated embodiment, two upper openings 114 are provided, and the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 are respectively penetrated and coupled thereto.

[0112] The upper opening 114 may have any shape that allows the upper space 111 to communicate with the outside and the fixed contact 310 to be penetrated and coupled. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper opening 114 is a disc-shaped space having a circular cross-section and a vertical thickness.

[0113] An upper partition wall 115 is provided between the plurality of upper openings 114.

[0114] The upper partition wall 115 physically partitions the plurality of upper openings 114 and blocks the energization between the fixed contacts 310 accommodated in each upper opening 114 and the main terminals 610 that are respectively energized to the fixed contacts 310.

[0115] The upper partition wall 115 may be formed to extend in one direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper partition wall 115 is formed to extend in the front-rear direction and is located between the plurality of upper openings 114 that are spaced apart in the left-right direction.

[0116] The upper separation wall 115 can be formed to have a predetermined height, that is, a vertical length in the illustrated embodiment. The height of the upper separation wall 115 can be any height that can electrically separate the first main terminal 611 and the second main terminal 612.

[0117] The lower frame 120 forms the remaining part of the frame 100 in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. The lower frame 120 is coupled to the upper frame 110. In one embodiment, the lower frame 120 can be detachably coupled to the upper frame 110.

[0118] The lower frame 120 is formed to have a predetermined shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower frame 120 has a circular cross-section and a vertical height such that one side, that is, the upper side, facing the upper frame 110 corresponds to the shape of the cross-section of the upper frame 110, and is cylindrical.

[0119] Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the other side of the lower frame 120 opposite to the upper frame 110, that is, the lower side, has a square cross-section and a vertical height, and is square cylindrical. In the above embodiment, the length of one side of the cross-section of the lower side of the lower frame 120 can be the same as the diameter of the cross-section of the upper side of the lower frame 120.

[0120] Therefore, the lower part of the lower frame 120 is formed to have a larger cross-sectional area than the upper part, so that the DC relay 10 can be stably supported.

[0121] In the illustrated embodiment, the lower frame 120 includes a lower space 121, a coupling groove 122, and a PCB accommodating portion 123.

[0122] The lower space 121 is a space formed inside the lower frame 120. A remaining part of the components of the DC relay 10 can be accommodated in the lower space 121. In the illustrated embodiment, a part of the core portion 200 and the main contact portion 300 is accommodated in the lower space 121.

[0123] The lower space 121 is energized with the outside. The coil 250 of the core part 200 can receive a current for forming a magnetic field from the sub-contact part 400.

[0124] The lower space 121 communicates partially with the upper space 111. The shaft 360 of the main contact part 300 is partially accommodated in the lower space 121 and the upper space 111 respectively, and can be provided to be movable up and down.

[0125] The lower space 121 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the lower frame 120. In the illustrated embodiment, since the upper part of the lower frame 120 is cylindrical, the lower space 121 formed inside thereof can also be formed as a cylindrical space having a circular cross section and a vertical height.

[0126] A coupling groove 122 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the lower frame 120 that surrounds the lower space 121 radially outward.

[0127] The coupling groove 122 is a part where the lower frame 120 is detachably coupled to the upper frame 110. The coupling groove 122 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the lower frame 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling groove 122 is located offset to the upper side of the lower frame 120, that is, one side facing the upper frame 110.

[0128] As can be understood from the name, the coupling groove 122 can be formed by depression or penetration so that the coupling protrusion 112 can be detachably accommodated. As described above, the coupling protrusion 112 can be fitted or snap-coupled to the coupling groove 122.

[0129] The coupling groove 122 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the coupling protrusion 112. In the illustrated embodiment, where the coupling protrusion 112 is formed to extend along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110, the coupling groove 122 can also be formed to extend along the outer peripheral direction of the lower frame 120.

[0130] The engaging groove 122 can be formed to correspond to the number of the engaging protrusions 112. In the illustrated embodiment, two engaging protrusions 112 are provided and arranged spaced apart along the outer peripheral direction of the upper frame 110. Correspondingly, two engaging grooves 122 can also be formed and arranged spaced apart along the outer peripheral direction of the lower frame 120.

[0131] The engaging grooves 122 can be provided in a plurality of pairs. The plurality of pairs of engaging grooves 122 can be arranged according to the arrangement manner of the plurality of pairs of engaging protrusions 112. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, two pairs of engaging grooves 122 are provided and arranged spaced apart from each other along the outer peripheral direction of the lower frame 120.

[0132] At this time, each pair of engaging grooves 122 can be arranged to form a predetermined angle with respect to the center of the lower frame 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined angle is 180°.

[0133] On one side of the lower frame 120 opposite to the upper frame 110, a PCB accommodating portion 123 is formed on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0134] The PCB accommodating portion 123 is a space for accommodating a PCB 131 provided for controlling the DC relay 10. The PCB accommodating portion 123 is connected to be energizable from the outside, and a current and an electrical control signal for controlling the PCB 131 can be input. Also, The PCB accommodating portion 123 is physically separated from the lower space 121. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the PCB accommodating portion 123 is physically separated from the lower space 121 by a surface surrounding the lower space 121 on the lower side.

[0135] The PCB accommodating portion 123 can have any shape capable of accommodating the PCB frame 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the PCB accommodating portion 123 is formed to have a rectangular cross-section in which the lengths of a pair of sides extending in one direction are longer than the lengths of a pair of sides extending in the other direction.

[0136] The PCB accommodating portion 123 can be closed by the PCB frame 130.

[0137] The PCB frame 130 is coupled to the lower frame 120 to stably support the PCB 131. The PCB frame 130 is received in the PCB accommodating portion 123 of the lower frame 120. In one embodiment, the PCB frame 130 may be detachably coupled to the PCB accommodating portion 123.

[0138] The PCB frame 130 may be of any shape that can be coupled to the PCB accommodating portion 123 to support the PCB 131. In the illustrated embodiment, the PCB frame 130 is formed to have a rectangular cross-section formed longer than the lengths of a pair of surfaces whose lengths of the extensions of a pair of opposing surfaces are different. The shape of the PCB frame 130 may be changed according to the shapes of the PCB accommodating portion 123 and the PCB 131.

[0139] A plurality of through-holes may be formed inside the PCB frame 130. Ribs are formed extending between the plurality of through-holes, and the PCB 131 can be stably supported.

[0140] The PCB 131 is received inside the PCB frame 130. One surface of the PCB 131 facing the upper frame 110, the upper surface in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by the surface surrounding the PCB accommodating portion 123 from above. The other surface of the PCB 131 opposite to the upper frame 110, the lower surface in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by the PCB frame 130.

[0141] The PCB 131 is energized with other components. In one embodiment, the PCB 131 may be energized with the main contact portion 300.

[0142] Since the process of controlling other components of the DC relay 10 by the PCB 131 is a well-known technique, a detailed description will be omitted.

[0143] The support plate 140 is coupled to the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120, respectively, to physically separate the upper space 111 and the lower space 121. At this time, a support through-hole 142 is formed penetrating inside the support plate 140 and functions as a passage for the shaft 360 to move up and down.

[0144] The support plate 140 can be of any shape that can be coupled to the upper frame 110 and the lower frame 120 respectively to form the DC relay 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 140 includes a pair of linear corners facing each other and another pair of corners that extend round at each end of the pair of corners.

[0145] As can be seen from the name, the support plate 140 is provided in a plate shape with a predetermined thickness. Accordingly, the size of the space occupied by the support plate 140 inside the DC relay 10 can be reduced.

[0146] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 3, the support plate 140 is accommodated in the lower space 121. On the upper side of the support plate 140, a first insulating plate 150, a main contact portion 300, a sub-contact portion 400, an arc chamber 500, a terminal portion 600, and an arc induction portion 700 are located. On the lower side of the support plate 140, a core portion 200 is located.

[0147] In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 140 includes a support groove 141 and a support through-hole 142.

[0148] The support groove 141 is a space in which the support protrusion 113 of the upper frame 110 is accommodated. The support protrusion 113 can be detachably coupled to the support groove 141. In one embodiment, as described above, the support protrusion 113 can be snap-coupled to the support groove 141.

[0149] The support groove 141 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the support protrusion 113. In the illustrated embodiment, the support groove 141 extends in the front-rear direction and is formed to penetrate in the up-down direction.

[0150] A plurality of support grooves 141 can be formed. The plurality of support grooves 141 can be arranged at different positions of the support plate 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of support grooves 141 are arranged adjacent to the other pair of corners. The arrangement method of the support grooves 141 can be changed according to the arrangement method of the support protrusions 113.

[0151] The support through-hole 142 is hollow and formed inside the support plate 140. The support through-hole 142 is formed to penetrate in the thickness direction of the support plate 140, in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. The shaft 360 of the main contact portion 300 is vertically movably penetrated and coupled to the support through-hole 142.

[0152] The support through-hole 142 can be of any shape in which the shaft 360 can be vertically movably coupled. In the illustrated embodiment, since the shaft 360 has a circular cross-section and is formed in a columnar shape extending in the vertical direction, the support through-hole 142 is also formed to have a circular cross-section. In the above embodiment, the center of the support through-hole 142 can be formed to have the same central axis as the centers of the holder through-hole 152, the core portion 200, the shaft 360, etc.

[0153] A first insulating plate 150 is laminated on the upper side of the support plate 140.

[0154] The first insulating plate 150 physically and electrically separates the upper space 111 and the lower space 121. The components accommodated in the upper space 111 and the components accommodated in the lower space 121 are not electrically affected by each other due to the first insulating plate 150.

[0155] The first insulating plate 150 is laminated on the support plate 140. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 3, the first insulating plate 150 is accommodated in the lower space 121. The main contact portion 300, the sub-contact portion 400, the arc chamber 500, the terminal portion 600, and the arc induction portion 700 are located on the upper side of the first insulating plate 150. The support plate 140 and the core portion 200 are located on the lower side of the first insulating plate 150.

[0156] The first insulating plate 150 can be formed of any material that can physically separate the upper space 111 and the lower space 121. In one embodiment, the first insulating plate 150 can be formed of a rubber or ceramic material.

[0157] In the illustrated embodiment, the first insulating plate 150 includes a holder support portion 151 and a holder through-hole 152.

[0158] The holder support portion 151 supports the contact holder 401 of the sub-contact portion 400. As will be described later, the contact holder 401 is housed inside the arc chamber 500 and extends toward the lower frame 120. The holder support portion 151 supports the body portion 410 of the contact holder 401, specifically, the first leg 411 and the second leg 412, to prevent any swaying of the contact holder 401.

[0159] The holder support portion 151 can include a space for housing the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 and a partition wall surrounding the space. In the illustrated embodiment, the holder support portion 151 includes a space with one side open toward the radial outside and a partition wall surrounding the space on a plurality of other sides toward the radial inside. The partition wall can extend by a height sufficient to stably support the first leg 411 and the second leg 412.

[0160] Therefore, when an impact occurs together with an arc, the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be moved a predetermined distance toward the radial outside to buffer the impact. Also, when no arc occurs, the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be stably supported by the partition wall.

[0161] A plurality of holder support portions 151 can be provided. The plurality of holder support portions 151 are arranged at different positions and can house and support the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, two holder support portions 151 are provided and are located on the front side and the rear side respectively. In the said embodiment, the two holder support portions 151 can be arranged to face each other with the holder through-hole 152 therebetween.

[0162] The holder through-hole 152 is hollow and formed inside the first insulating plate 150. The holder through-hole 152 is formed to penetrate in the thickness direction of the first insulating plate 150, in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. The shaft 360 of the main contact portion 300 is vertically movably penetrated and coupled to the holder through-hole 152.

[0163] The holder through-hole 152 can be of any shape in which the shaft 360 can be movably coupled. In the illustrated embodiment, the holder through-hole 152 is formed to have a circular cross-section like the shaft 360. In the above embodiment, as described above, the center of the holder through-hole 152 can be formed to have a central axis such as the support through-hole 142, the core portion 200, and the shaft 360.

[0164] The core portion 200 is energized with the sub-contact portion 400 and moves up and down inside the DC relay 10. When the core portion 200 moves up and down, the movable contact 320 of the main contact portion 300 also moves up and down together, and the main contact portion 300 can be energized with an external power source and load.

[0165] The core portion 200 is accommodated in the internal space of the frame 100. Specifically, the core portion 200 is vertically movably accommodated in the lower space 121.

[0166] The core portion 200 is energized with the outside. Specifically, the core portion 200 is energized with an external control power source (not shown) through the sub-contact portion 400 and the wire member W. The core portion 200 can operate by the control signal and current applied by the external control power source (not shown).

[0167] The core portion 200 is connected to the main contact portion 300. When the core portion 200 moves up and down, the shaft 360 of the main contact portion 300 and the movable contact 320 coupled thereto move up and down together, and the movable contact 320 and the fixed contact 310 can be energized. Accordingly, the DC relay 10 can be energized with an external power source and load.

[0168] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the core portion 200 includes a fixed core 210, a movable core 220, a yoke 230, a bobbin 240, a coil 250, a core spring 260, a yoke ring 270, and a cylinder 280.

[0169] The fixed core 210 is magnetized by the magnetic field generated in the coil 250 to generate an electromagnetic attraction force. Due to the electromagnetic attraction force, the movable core 220 is moved toward the fixed core 210 (in the upward direction in FIGS. 2 to 3).

[0170] The fixed core 210 does not move. That is, the fixed core 210 is fixedly coupled to the support plate 140 and the cylinder 280.

[0171] The fixed core 210 can be provided in any form that can be magnetized by a magnetic field to generate an electromagnetic force. In one embodiment, the fixed core 210 can be provided with a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, etc.

[0172] The fixed core 210 is partially accommodated in the upper space inside the cylinder 280. Also, the outer periphery of the fixed core 210 contacts the inner periphery of the cylinder 280.

[0173] The fixed core 210 is located between the support plate 140 and the movable core 220.

[0174] A through hole (not shown) is formed in the central portion of the fixed core 210. A shaft 360 is penetratingly coupled to the through hole (not shown) so as to be vertically movable.

[0175] The fixed core 210 is positioned so as to be separated from the movable core 220 by a predetermined distance. Therefore, the distance by which the movable core 220 can be moved toward the fixed core 210 can be limited to the predetermined distance. Therefore, the predetermined distance may be defined as the "moving distance of the movable core 220".

[0176] One end of the core spring 260, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment, contacts the lower side of the fixed core 210. When the fixed core 210 is magnetized and the movable core 220 is moved upward, the core spring 260 is compressed and a restoring force is stored.

[0177] Accordingly, when the application of the control power supply is released and the magnetization of the fixed core 210 ends, the movable core 220 can return downward again by the restoring force.

[0178] When the control power supply is applied, the movable core 220 is moved toward the fixed core 210 by the electromagnetic attractive force generated by the fixed core 210.

[0179] By the movement of the movable core 220, the shaft 360 coupled to the movable core 220 is moved upward in the direction toward the fixed core 210, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. Further, by the movement of the shaft 360, the movable contact 320 coupled to the shaft 360 is moved upward.

[0180] Accordingly, the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320 come into contact with each other, and the DC relay 10 can be energized with an external power supply or load.

[0181] The movable core 220 can be provided in any form that can receive an attractive force by electromagnetic force. In one embodiment, the movable core 220 can be formed of a magnetic material or provided with a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, etc.

[0182] The movable core 220 is accommodated inside the cylinder 280. Further, the movable core 220 can be moved in the length direction of the cylinder 280, the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment, inside the cylinder 280.

[0183] Specifically, the movable core 220 can be moved in the direction toward the fixed core 210 and in the direction away from the fixed core 210.

[0184] The movable core 220 is coupled to the shaft 360. The movable core 220 can be moved integrally with the shaft 360. When the movable core 220 is moved upward or downward, the shaft 360 is also moved upward or downward. Accordingly, the movable contact 320 is also moved upward or downward.

[0185] The movable core 220 is located below the fixed core 210. The movable core 220 is separated from the fixed core 210 by a predetermined distance. As described above, the predetermined distance is the distance by which the movable core 220 can be moved in the vertical direction.

[0186] The movable core 220 is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction. A hollow portion extending in the longitudinal direction is recessed by a predetermined distance inside the movable core 220. The core spring 260 and the lower side of the shaft 360 penetratingly coupled to the core spring 260 are partially accommodated in the hollow portion.

[0187] A through hole is formed to penetrate in the longitudinal direction below the hollow portion. The hollow portion and the through hole communicate with each other. The lower end portion of the shaft 360 inserted into the hollow portion can extend to the through hole.

[0188] A space portion is recessed by a predetermined distance at the lower end portion of the movable core 220. The space portion communicates with the through hole. The lower head portion of the shaft 360 is located in the space portion.

[0189] The yoke 230 forms a magnetic circuit as the control power is applied. The magnetic circuit formed by the yoke 230 can be configured to adjust the direction of the magnetic field formed by the coil 250.

[0190] Accordingly, when the control power is applied through the sub-contact portion 400, the coil 250 can generate a magnetic field in a direction in which the movable core 220 moves toward the fixed core 210. The yoke 230 can be formed of an electrically conductive material that can be energized.

[0191] The yoke 230 is accommodated in the lower space 121. The yoke 230 surrounds the coil 250. The coil 250 can be accommodated inside the yoke 230 so as to be separated from the inner peripheral surface of the yoke 230 by a predetermined distance.

[0192] A bobbin 240 is accommodated inside the yoke 230. That is, the yoke 230, the coil 250, and the bobbin 240 around which the coil 250 is wound are arranged in order in a direction radially inward from the outer periphery of the lower frame 120.

[0193] The upper side of the yoke 230 contacts the support plate 140. Also, the outer periphery of the yoke 230 can contact the inner periphery of the lower frame 120 or be positioned so as to be separated from the inner periphery of the lower frame 120 by a predetermined distance.

[0194] The coil 250 is wound around the bobbin 240. The bobbin 240 is accommodated inside the yoke 230.

[0195] The bobbin 240 can include a flat upper part and a lower part, and a cylindrical column part that is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction and connects the upper part and the lower part. That is, the bobbin 240 is in the shape of a bobbin.

[0196] The upper part of the bobbin 240 contacts the lower side of the support plate 140. The coil 250 is wound around the column part of the bobbin 240. The thickness around which the coil 250 is wound can be the same as or smaller than the diameters of the upper part and the lower part of the bobbin 240.

[0197] A hollow part extending in the longitudinal direction is formed through the column part of the bobbin 240. A cylinder 280 can be accommodated in the hollow part. The column part of the bobbin 240 can be arranged so as to have a central axis such as the fixed core 210, the movable core 220, and the shaft 360.

[0198] The coil 250 generates a magnetic field by the applied control power. The fixed core 210 is magnetized by the magnetic field generated by the coil 250, and an electromagnetic attraction force can be applied to the movable core 220.

[0199] The coil 250 is wound around the bobbin 240. Specifically, the coil 250 is wound around the column portion of the bobbin 240 and laminated on the radially outer side of the column portion. The coil 250 is housed inside the yoke 230.

[0200] When a control power supply is applied, the coil 250 generates a magnetic field. At this time, the intensity or direction of the magnetic field generated by the coil 250 can be controlled by the yoke 230. The fixed core 210 is magnetized by the magnetic field generated by the coil 250.

[0201] When the fixed core 210 is magnetized, the movable core 220 receives an electromagnetic force, that is, an attractive force, in the direction toward the fixed core 210. Along with this, the movable core 220 moves in the direction toward the fixed core 210, upward in the illustrated embodiment.

[0202] A plurality of coils 250 may be provided. The plurality of coils 250 may be configured to form a magnetic field by different control signals applied at the sub-contact portion 400. In the illustrated embodiment, two coils 250 are provided, including a trip coil 251 and a holding coil 252.

[0203] The trip coil 251 and the holding coil 252 may be arranged to be laminated in the radial direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the trip coil 251 is formed to surround the holding coil 252 on the radially outer side of the holding coil 252. For this purpose, a hollow for accommodating the holding coil 252 is formed to penetrate inside the trip coil 251.

[0204] The holding coil 252 is located on the radially inner side of the trip coil 251. The holding coil 252 is formed to surround the cylinder 280, the movable core 220 housed therein, the core spring 260, the yoke ring 270, etc. on the radially outer side. For this purpose, a hollow is also formed to penetrate inside the holding coil 252.

[0205] The core spring 260 provides a restoring force for the movable core 220 to return to its original position after the application of the control power supply is released when the movable core 220 is moved toward the fixed core 210.

[0206] The core spring 260 is compressed as the movable core 220 moves toward the fixed core 210 to store the restoring force. At this time, the stored restoring force is preferably smaller than the electromagnetic attraction exerted on the movable core 220 when the fixed core 210 is magnetized. This is to prevent the movable core 220 from arbitrarily returning to its original position by the core spring 260 while the control power supply is applied.

[0207] When the application of the control power supply is released, the movable core 220 will receive the restoring force from the core spring 260. Of course, the gravity due to the empty weight of the movable core 220 can also act on the movable core 220. Accordingly, the movable core 220 can be moved in a direction away from the fixed core 210 and return to its original position.

[0208] The core spring 260 can be provided in any form that can store the restoring force by deforming its shape and transmit the restoring force to the outside while returning to its original shape. In one embodiment, the core spring 260 can be provided as a coil spring.

[0209] A shaft 360 is penetrated and coupled to the core spring 260. The shaft 360 can be moved in the vertical direction regardless of the shape deformation of the core spring 260 in a state where the core spring 260 is coupled.

[0210] The core spring 260 is accommodated in a hollow portion recessed on the upper side of the movable core 220. Also, one end portion of the core spring 260 toward the fixed core 210, the upper end portion in the illustrated embodiment is accommodated in a hollow portion recessed on the lower side of the fixed core 210.

[0211] The yoke ring 270 is coupled to the bobbin 240 and the cylinder 280 respectively to maintain the position of the cylinder 280.

[0212] The yoke ring 270 is accommodated in the hollow formed inside the bobbin 240. A hollow is formed inside the yoke ring 270, and the cylinder 280 and other components accommodated in the cylinder 280 can penetrate through it.

[0213] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the yoke ring 270 is positioned radially between the bobbin 240 and the cylinder 280.

[0214] The cylinder 280 accommodates the fixed core 210, the movable core 220, the core spring 260, and the shaft 360. The movable core 220 and the shaft 360 can be moved in the upper and lower directions inside the cylinder 280.

[0215] The cylinder 280 is positioned in the hollow formed in the column portion of the bobbin 240. The upper end portion of the cylinder 280 contacts the lower surface of the support plate 140.

[0216] The side surface of the cylinder 280 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the column portion of the bobbin 240. The upper opening of the cylinder 280 can be sealed by the fixed core 210. The lower surface of the cylinder 280 can be contacted with the inner surface of the lower frame 120.

[0217] The main contact portion 300 allows or cuts off the energization of current by the operation of the core portion 200. Specifically, the movable contact 320 of the main contact portion 300 can be moved to contact or separate from the fixed contact 310 to allow or cut off the energization of current.

[0218] The main contact portion 300 is accommodated in the upper space 111. The main contact portion 300 can be electrically and physically separated from the core portion 200 by the first insulating plate 150 and the support plate 140.

[0219] The main contact portion 300 is accommodated inside the arc chamber 500. The arc generated during the operation of the main contact portion 300 can be discharged to the outside while being extinguished by the arc chamber 500.

[0220] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the main contact portion 300 includes a fixed contact 310, a movable contact 320, a housing 330, a cover 340, a contact spring 350, and a shaft 360.

[0221] The fixed contact 310 contacts and separates from the movable contact 320 to apply and cut off the energization between the inside and outside of the DC relay 10.

[0222] Specifically, when the fixed contact 310 contacts the movable contact 320, the inside and outside of the DC relay 10 can be energized. On the contrary, when the fixed contact 310 separates from the movable contact 320, the energization between the inside and outside of the DC relay 10 is cut off.

[0223] As can be seen from the name, the fixed contact 310 does not move. That is, the fixed contact 310 is fixedly coupled to the upper frame 110 and the arc chamber 500. Therefore, the contact and separation between the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320 are achieved by the movement of the movable contact 320.

[0224] One end of the fixed contact 310, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment, is exposed outside the upper frame 110. The main terminal 610 of the terminal portion 600 is connectably coupled to the one end.

[0225] A plurality of fixed contacts 310 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed contact 310 includes a first fixed contact 311 on the left side and a second fixed contact 312 on the right side, and two are provided.

[0226] The first fixed contact 311 is positioned to be biased to one side, the left side in the illustrated embodiment, from the center in the length direction of the movable contact 320. Also, the second fixed contact 312 is positioned to be biased to the other side, the right side in the illustrated embodiment, from the center in the length direction of the movable contact 320.

[0227] Either one of the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 can be connected to a power supply so that power can be supplied. Also, the other one of the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 can be connected to a load so that power can be supplied.

[0228] The other end of the fixed contact 310, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, extends toward the movable contact 320.

[0229] The movable contact 320 contacts the fixed contact 310 by applying a control power supply so that the DC relay 10 is energized with an external power supply and a load. Also, when the application of the control power supply is released, the movable contact 320 is separated from the fixed contact 310 so that the DC relay 10 is not energized with an external power supply and a load.

[0230] The movable contact 320 is positioned adjacent to the fixed contact 310.

[0231] The upper side of the movable contact 320 is partially covered by the cover 340. In one embodiment, a part of the upper surface of the movable contact 320 can be in contact with the lower surface of the cover 340.

[0232] The lower side of the movable contact 320 is elastically supported by the contact spring 350. The contact spring 350 can elastically support the movable contact 320 in a state where it is compressed by a predetermined distance so that the movable contact 320 is not arbitrarily moved downward.

[0233] The movable contact 320 is formed to extend in the length direction, the left - right direction in the illustrated embodiment. That is, the length of the movable contact 320 is formed longer than the width. Therefore, both ends in the length direction of the movable contact 320 housed in the housing 330 are exposed outside the housing 330. The fixed contact 310 contacts both ends.

[0234] The width of the movable contact 320 may be the same as the distance between the side surfaces of the housing 330 that are separated from each other. That is, when the movable contact 320 is accommodated in the housing 330, both side surfaces in the width direction of the movable contact 320 may be in contact with the inner surfaces of the side surfaces of the housing 330.

[0235] Accordingly, the state in which the movable contact 320 is accommodated in the housing 330 can be stably maintained.

[0236] The housing 330 accommodates the movable contact 320 and the contact spring 350 that elastically supports the movable contact 320.

[0237] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 330 is open on one side and the other side opposite thereto. The movable contact 320 may be inserted therethrough into the open portion.

[0238] The non-open side surfaces of the housing 330 may be configured to surround the accommodated movable contact 320.

[0239] A cover 340 is provided on the upper side of the housing 330. The cover 340 covers the upper side surface of the movable contact 320 accommodated in the housing 330.

[0240] The housing 330 and the cover 340 are preferably formed of an insulating material so as to prevent unintentional energization. In one embodiment, the housing 330 and the cover 340 may be formed of a synthetic resin or the like.

[0241] The lower side of the housing 330 is connected to the shaft 360. When the movable core 220 connected to the shaft 360 is moved upward or downward, the housing 330 and the movable contact 320 accommodated therein may also be moved upward or downward.

[0242] The housing 330 and the cover 340 may be coupled by any member. In one embodiment, the housing 330 and the cover 340 may be coupled by fastening members (not shown) such as bolts and nuts.

[0243] The contact spring 350 elastically supports the movable contact 320. When the movable contact 320 contacts the fixed contact 310, the movable contact 320 tends to separate from the fixed contact 310 due to the electromagnetic repulsive force.

[0244] At this time, the contact spring 350 elastically supports the movable contact 320 to prevent the movable contact 320 from separating arbitrarily from the fixed contact 310.

[0245] The contact spring 350 stores the restoring force by deforming its shape and can be provided in any form that can provide the stored restoring force to other members. In one embodiment, the contact spring 350 can be provided as a coil spring.

[0246] One end portion of the contact spring 350 facing the movable contact 320 contacts the lower side of the movable contact 320. Also, the other end portion of the contact spring 350 opposite to the one end portion contacts the upper side of the housing 330.

[0247] The contact spring 350 can elastically support the movable contact 320 in a state where it is compressed by a predetermined distance to store the restoring force. Accordingly, even if an electromagnetic repulsive force is generated between the movable contact 320 and the fixed contact 310, the movable contact 320 will not move arbitrarily.

[0248] For the stable connection of the contact spring 350, a protruding portion (not shown) that is inserted into the hollow of the contact spring 350 may protrude from the lower side of the movable contact 320. Similarly, a protruding portion (not shown) that is inserted into the hollow of the contact spring 350 may also protrude from the upper side of the housing 330.

[0249] The shaft 360 transmits the driving force generated by the operation of the core portion 200 to the main contact portion 300. Specifically, the shaft 360 is connected to the movable core 220 and the movable contact 320. When the movable core 220 is moved upward or downward, the movable contact 320 can also be moved upward or downward by the shaft 360.

[0250] The shaft 360 is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction, vertically in the illustrated embodiment. The lower end of the shaft 360 is inserted and coupled to the movable core 220. When the movable core 220 is moved vertically, the shaft 360 can be moved vertically together with the movable core 220.

[0251] The body portion of the shaft 360 is penetrated and coupled to the fixed core 210 so as to be vertically movable. A core spring 260 is penetrated and coupled to the body portion of the shaft 360.

[0252] The upper end of the shaft 360 is coupled to the housing 330. When the movable core 220 is moved, the shaft 360 and the housing 330 can be moved together.

[0253] The upper and lower ends of the shaft 360 may be formed to have a larger diameter than the body portion of the shaft. Accordingly, the shaft 360 can stably maintain a coupled state with the housing 330 and the movable core 220.

[0254] The sub-contact portion 400 is energized with an external control power supply (not shown) and receives an applied control signal and current applied to the core portion 200. The sub-contact portion 400 is energized with the core portion 200, and the applied control signal and current can be transmitted to the core portion 200. Accordingly, the core portion 200 can form a magnetic field and the main contact portion 300 can operate.

[0255] The sub-contact portion 400 is accommodated in the upper space 111. In particular, the sub-contact portion 400 according to the embodiment of the present invention may be accommodated inside the arc chamber 500. Accordingly, since the upper space 111 may be formed to have a size capable of accommodating the arc chamber 500, the overall size of the upper frame 110 and the DC relay 10 can be reduced.

[0256] In the above embodiment, the sub-contact portion 400 is formed such that the components included therein are not damaged by the arc generated inside the arc chamber 500. A detailed description thereof will be given later.

[0257] The sub-contact part 400 is coupled to the first insulating plate 150. Specifically, each end of the sub-contact part 400 facing the first insulating plate 150, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower end is inserted into and supported by the holder support part 151.

[0258] In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-contact part 400 is configured to include a contact holder 401. The contact holder 401 can mount various components that make up the sub-contact part 400. The various components of the sub-contact part 400 can be physically separated from the space inside the arc chamber 500 by the contact holder 401. Therefore, it can be said that the contact holder 401 functions as a kind of housing.

[0259] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 13, the sub-contact part 400 includes a body part 410, a switch housing part 420, a terminal housing part 430, a terminal partitioning member 440, a sub-PCB 450, a sub-connector 460, and a sub-switch 470.

[0260] The body part 410 forms the outer shape of the sub-contact part 400. The body part 410 is the part where the sub-contact part 400 is exposed inside the arc chamber 500. Therefore, it will be understood that the body part 410 can be named the contact holder 401.

[0261] The body part 410 can be formed of a material with high heat resistance and high pressure resistance. This is to prevent damage caused by heat or pressure generated together with the arc inside the arc chamber 500.

[0262] Also, the body part 410 can be formed of an insulating material. This is to prevent any energization between each component of the sub-contact part 400 or between the sub-contact part 400 and other components. In one embodiment, the body part 410 can be formed of materials such as ceramic and synthetic resin.

[0263] A space is formed inside the body part 410. Various components of the sub-contact part 400 can be accommodated in the space. In the illustrated embodiment, a sub-PCB 450, a sub-connector 460, and a sub-switch 470 are accommodated in the space formed inside the body part 410.

[0264] The body part 410 is supported by the first insulating plate 150 and can be of any shape that can be located inside the arc chamber 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the body part 410 includes a first leg 411, a second leg 412, and a bridge 413.

[0265] The first leg 411 and the second leg 412 are formed to extend in the height direction of the DC relay 10, in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. The first leg 411 and the second leg 412 are configured to support the DC relay 10 in the vertical direction.

[0266] In the illustrated embodiment, the body part 410 is configured to include the first leg 411 and the second leg 412, but the number of legs can be changed. The lower ends of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 are respectively coupled to a plurality of holder support portions 151 (see FIG. 13).

[0267] Referring to FIG. 10, on the radially outer sides of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412, that is, the front side of the first leg 411 and the rear side of the second leg 412, a plurality of planes are formed continuously with each other. The remaining portions of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 are composed of a single plane.

[0268] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sections of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 are formed to have at least five surfaces. The shapes of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be changed according to the shape of the holder support portion 151.

[0269] The upper ends of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 are continuous with the bridge 413.

[0270] The bridge 413 extends between the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 to reinforce the rigidity of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412. In the illustrated embodiment, the bridge 413 is formed to extend in the front-rear direction, and each end is coupled to the first leg 411 and the second leg 412.

[0271] On one surface of the bridge 413, in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper surface, an indicator for an operator to recognize the state of the sub-contact portion 400 may be formed. In the illustrated embodiment, "NC", that is, Normal Close, is displayed on the front side of the bridge 413, and "NO", that is, Normal Open, is displayed on the rear side of the bridge 413.

[0272] Inside the first leg 411 and the second leg 412, a switch accommodation portion 420, a terminal accommodation portion 430, and a terminal partitioning member 440 are arranged.

[0273] The switch accommodation portion 420 accommodates the sub-switch 470. The switch accommodation portion 420 is defined as a part of the space formed inside the first leg 411 and the second leg 412. One end of the switch accommodation portion 420, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper side is open so that the sub-switch 470 can be inserted and pulled out.

[0274] The switch accommodation portion 420 may be formed to have a predetermined cross-sectional area and depth. As illustrated in FIG. 12, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area and depth of the switch accommodation portion 420 are determined by the shape of the sub-switch 470.

[0275] A plurality of switch accommodation portions 420 may be formed. The plurality of switch accommodation portions 420 may be respectively formed inside the first leg 411 and the second leg 412. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the switch accommodation portion 420 includes a first switch accommodation portion 421 and a second switch accommodation portion 422 and two are formed.

[0276] The first switch accommodating portion 421 is located on the rear side of the first leg 411, and the second switch accommodating portion 422 is located on the front side of the second leg 412. In other words, the switch accommodating portion 420 can be expressed as a space formed radially inward of the internal spaces of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412.

[0277] The terminal accommodating portion 430 is located adjacent to the switch accommodating portion 420. The switch accommodating portion 420 is partitioned from the terminal accommodating portion 430 by a partition wall (not labeled in the drawing).

[0278] The terminal accommodating portion 430 accommodates the sub-connector 460. The terminal accommodating portion 430 is defined as another part of the space formed inside the first leg 411 and the second leg 412. One end portion of the terminal accommodating portion 430, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is open so that the sub-connector 460 can be inserted and pulled out.

[0279] The terminal accommodating portion 430 can be formed to have a predetermined cross-sectional area and depth. As illustrated in FIG. 12, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area and depth of the terminal accommodating portion 430 are determined by the shape of the sub-connector 460.

[0280] The terminal accommodating portion 430 can be partitioned into a plurality of spaces. The sub-connector 460 can be accommodated in each of the plurality of partitioned spaces. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal accommodating portion 430 is partitioned into two spaces by the terminal partitioning member 440.

[0281] A plurality of terminal accommodating portions 430 can be formed. The plurality of terminal accommodating portions 430 can be respectively formed inside the first leg 411 and the second leg 412. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, two terminal accommodating portions 430 are formed, including the first terminal accommodating portion 431 and the second terminal accommodating portion 432.

[0282] The first terminal accommodating portion 431 is located on the front side of the first leg 411, and the second terminal accommodating portion 432 is located on the rear side of the second leg 412. In other words, the terminal accommodating portion 430 can be expressed as a space formed radially outside in the internal spaces of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412.

[0283] The terminal partitioning member 440 is located in the terminal accommodating portion 430 and partitions the terminal accommodating portion 430 into a plurality of spaces. A plurality of sub-connectors 460 are respectively accommodated in the plurality of partitioned spaces and can be physically and electrically separated.

[0284] The terminal partitioning member 440 can be provided in any form that can physically and electrically separate the terminal accommodating portion 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal partitioning member 440 is provided with a partition wall extending in the direction in which the bridge 413 extends, that is, in the front-rear direction.

[0285] A plurality of terminal partitioning members 440 can be provided. The plurality of terminal partitioning members 440 can partition the plurality of terminal accommodating portions 430 into a plurality. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal partitioning members 440 include two, namely, a first terminal partitioning member 441 located in the first terminal accommodating portion 431 and a second terminal partitioning member 442 located in the second terminal accommodating portion 432.

[0286] One side end portion of the switch accommodating portion 420 and the terminal accommodating portion 430, the upper side end portion in the illustrated embodiment, communicates. A sub-PCB 450 can be accommodated in the space formed by the communication.

[0287] The sub-PCB 450 operates by a control signal and current applied through the conductive member W. The sub-PCB 450 applies or releases current to the coil 250 of the core portion 200 to control the operation of the core portion 200. Along with this, the main contact portion 300 also operates so that the DC relay 10 can be energized or disconnected from an external power source and load.

[0288] The sub-PCB 450 is energized with the sub-connector 460 and the sub-switch 470 respectively. The sub-PCB 450 can process the current transmitted through the sub-connector 460, the control signal, and the control signal applied through the sub-switch 470 and transmit it to other components.

[0289] The sub-PCB 450 is housed in the contact holder 401. Specifically, the sub-PCB 450 is housed in a space formed on the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, on the side where the switch housing portion 420 and the terminal housing portion 430 communicate with each other.

[0290] For this purpose, the upper ends of the partition member partitioning the switch housing portion 420 and the terminal housing portion 430 and the terminal partition member 440 may be positioned lower than the upper ends of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412.

[0291] In one embodiment, a part of the sub-PCB 450 may be housed in the switch housing portion 420, and another part may be housed in the terminal housing portion 430. In the above embodiment, the sub-PCB 450 may be supported by a partition wall (not labeled in the drawing) partitioning the switch housing portion 420 and the terminal housing portion 430 and the terminal partition member 440.

[0292] A plurality of sub-PCBs 450 may be provided. The plurality of sub-PCBs 450 may be respectively housed in the first leg 411 and the second leg 412. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-PCB 450 includes a first sub-PCB 451 housed inside the first leg 411 and a second sub-PCB 452 housed inside the second leg 412, and two are provided.

[0293] The first sub-PCB 451 is housed in the first switch housing portion 421 and the first terminal housing portion 431 formed inside the first leg 411. The second sub-PCB 452 is housed in the second switch housing portion 422 and the second terminal housing portion 432 formed inside the second leg 412.

[0294] The sub-connector 460 energizes the conductive member W and the sub-PCB 450. The sub-connector 460 is coupled to the sub-PCB 450 and can be detachably coupled to the conductive member W.

[0295] The sub-connector 460 is coupled to the sub-PCB 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-connector 460 is coupled to the outer corner of the sub-PCB 450. The sub-connector 460 is energized with the sub-PCB 450.

[0296] The sub-connector 460 is received in the terminal housing portion 430. At this time, a plurality of sub-connectors 460 can be coupled to a single sub-PCB 450 and respectively received in the terminal housing portion 430. In the illustrated embodiment, two sub-connectors 460, that is, a pair of sub-connectors 460, are coupled to a single sub-PCB 450.

[0297] The pair of sub-connectors 460 can be physically and electrically separated from each other. The pair of sub-connectors 460 can be respectively received in a plurality of spaces in which the terminal housing portion 430 is partitioned by the terminal partitioning member 440.

[0298] The sub-connector 460 can be provided in a plurality of pairs. The plurality of pairs of sub-connectors 460 can be coupled to and energized with different sub-PCBs 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-connector 460 includes a pair of first sub-connectors 461 coupled to and energized with the first sub-PCB 451 and a pair of second sub-connectors 462 coupled to and energized with the second sub-PCB 452, and is provided in two pairs.

[0299] The sub-connector 460 is energized with the conductive member W. As shown in FIG. 17, the conductive member W is energized with the sub-terminal 620 of the terminal portion 600, and the sub-terminal 620 is energized with the sub-connector 460 so that the sub-connector 460 can be energized with an external control power source.

[0300] The sub-connector 460 is energized with the sub-switch 470 through the sub-PCB 450.

[0301] The sub-switch 470 is energized with the sub-PCB 450 to apply a control signal for operating the sub-PCB 450. The sub-switch 470 can be configured to operate the state of the sub-contact portion 400 as "NO" or "NC".

[0302] The sub-switch 470 can be configured to operate even with a minute pressure. In one embodiment, when an external pressure disappears including an elastic member such as a spring, it can be configured to return to its original position.

[0303] The sub-switch 470 is positioned adjacent to the sub-PCB 450. The sub-switch 470 is housed in a switch housing portion 420 formed inside the body portion 410. As described above, the switch housing portion 420 is partitioned by a terminal housing portion 430, and the sub-switch 470 and the sub-connector 460 are physically separated.

[0304] A plurality of sub-switches 470 can be provided. The plurality of sub-switches 470 can be respectively coupled to and energized with a plurality of sub-PCBs 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-switch 470 includes a first sub-switch 471 coupled to a first sub-PCB 451 positioned on the front side and a second sub-switch 472 coupled to a second sub-PCB 452 positioned on the rear side.

[0305] The first sub-switch 471 is housed in a first switch housing portion 421 formed in the first leg 411. The second sub-switch 472 is housed in a second switch housing portion 422 formed in the second leg 412.

[0306] The arc chamber 500 extinguishes an arc generated when the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320 are separated in an internal space (hereinafter, chamber space 501). Therefore, the arc chamber 500 may be referred to as an "arc extinguishing portion".

[0307] The main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400 are accommodated in the chamber space 501 of the arc chamber 500. An arc induction portion 700 is coupled to the outside of the arc chamber 500. Accordingly, an arc formed by the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320 of the main contact portion 300 coming into contact or separating can be induced by the arc induction portion 700 and extinguished.

[0308] The movable contact 320 is accommodated in the chamber space 501 of the arc chamber 500 so as to be able to move up and down. The movable contact 320 can move up and down in a direction toward the fixed contact 310 and in a direction opposite thereto while being accommodated in the chamber space 501.

[0309] The chamber space 501 can be filled with arc extinguishing gas. The arc extinguishing gas is discharged to the outside of the DC relay 1 through a preset path while the generated arc is extinguished. For this purpose, a communication hole (not shown) can be formed to penetrate the wall body surrounding the chamber space 501.

[0310] The arc chamber 500 can be formed of an insulating material. Further, the arc chamber 500 can be formed of a material having high voltage resistance and high heat resistance. This is due to the fact that the generated arc is a flow of high-temperature and high-pressure electrons. In one embodiment, the arc chamber 500 can be formed of a ceramic material.

[0311] The arc chamber 500 is accommodated inside the frame 100. Specifically, the arc chamber 500 is accommodated in the upper space 111 and its outside is surrounded by the upper frame 110. An arc induction portion 700 is disposed between the arc chamber 500 and the upper frame 110 so that the generated arc can be induced.

[0312] The arc chamber 500 can have any shape that can accommodate the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400 in the chamber space 501 and extinguish the generated arc. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc chamber 500 has a square cross section and is formed in a square tube shape extending in the vertical direction.

[0313] In particular, the arc chamber 500 according to the embodiment of the present invention can ensure a sufficient insulation distance between the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400 by its own structure without deforming the shape of the frame 100. Also, a space large enough for the generated arc to be extinguished can be secured inside the arc chamber 500.

[0314] Furthermore, the arc guiding portion 700 provided on the outside thereof can also be arranged in various forms due to the structure of the arc chamber 500, and the generated arc can be effectively guided. A detailed description thereof will be given later.

[0315] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 18, the arc chamber 500 includes a wall portion 510, an opening portion 520, and a sealing member 530.

[0316] The wall portion 510 forms the outer surface of the arc chamber 500. The wall portion 510 is arranged to surround the chamber space 501 in many directions. The wall portion 510 can be formed of a material with high heat resistance and high insulation. In one embodiment, the wall portion 510 can be formed of a ceramic material.

[0317] A plurality of wall portions 510 can be provided. The plurality of wall portions 510 can be arranged to surround the chamber space 501 at different positions. The wall portions 510 arranged adjacent to each other can be continuous while forming a predetermined angle.

[0318] In the illustrated embodiment, the wall portion 510 includes a first wall 511, a second wall 512, a third wall 513, a fourth wall 514, and a fifth wall 515.

[0319] The first wall 511 forms one surface of the arc chamber 500, the front left surface in the illustrated embodiment. The second wall 512 forms the other surface of the arc chamber 500, the front right surface in the illustrated embodiment. The third wall 513 forms still another surface of the arc chamber 500, the rear left surface in the illustrated embodiment. Also, the fourth wall 514 forms still another surface of the arc chamber 500, the rear right surface in the illustrated embodiment.

[0320] Subsequently, the fifth wall 515 forms yet another side of the arc chamber 500, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0321] At this time, the first wall 511 and the fourth wall 514 are arranged to face each other with the chamber space 501 therebetween. Also, the second wall 512 and the third wall 513 are arranged to face each other with the chamber space 501 therebetween.

[0322] The first wall 511 to the fifth wall 515 can be continuous with adjacent walls at a predetermined angle to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall 511 is continuous with the second wall 512, the third wall 513, and the fifth wall 515. Also, the second wall 512 is continuous with the first wall 511, the fourth wall 514, and the fifth wall 515. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle can be a right angle.

[0323] In one embodiment, the first wall 511 and the fourth wall 514 facing each other can be extended so as to be parallel to each other. Also, the second wall 512 and the third wall 513 facing each other can be extended so as to be parallel to each other. At this time, the first wall 511 and the fourth wall 514 can be extended by the same length as each other. Also, the second wall 512 and the third wall 513 can also be extended by the same length as each other.

[0324] In the above embodiment, the shape of the horizontal cross-section of the arc chamber 500 can be a quadrilateral, particularly a rhombus shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc chamber 500 is formed such that the first wall 511, the second wall 512, the third wall 513, and the fourth wall 514 extend by the same length as each other. Therefore, in the above embodiment, the arc chamber 500 is formed to have a square cross-section in its horizontal direction.

[0325] Accordingly, among the vertices of the cross-section of the arc chamber 500, the distance between at least one pair of the two pairs of vertices arranged to face each other with the chamber space 501 therebetween can be formed to be longer than the distance between the walls facing each other.

[0326] Therefore, when the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 are arranged adjacent to a pair of vertices facing each other, and the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 of the sub-contact portion 400 are arranged adjacent to the other pair of vertices facing each other, a sufficient insulation distance can be ensured between the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0327] The first wall 511, the second wall 512, the third wall 513, and the fourth wall 514 can be surrounded by the magnet portion 740 provided in the arc guide portion 700. Accordingly, the first wall 511, the second wall 512, the third wall 513, and the fourth wall 514 can have the magnetic field that guides the arc diverged or converged by the outer magnet portion 740.

[0328] The first wall 511, the second wall 512, the third wall 513, and the fourth wall 514 are each continuous with the fifth wall 515.

[0329] The fifth wall 515 is configured to further cover the chamber space 501 on the other side, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The fifth wall 515 forms the upper surface of the wall body portion 510.

[0330] An opening 520 is formed in the fifth wall 515. The fixed contact 310 and the terminal portion 600 partially accommodated in the chamber space 501 can enter the chamber space 501 through the opening 520.

[0331] In the illustrated embodiment, the wall body portion 510 is formed to surround the chamber space 501 in five directions. Therefore, although the lower side of the chamber space 501, that is, the direction toward the lower frame 120, is open, it will be understood that it is sealed by the support plate 140 and the first insulating plate 150.

[0332] The opening 520 functions as a passage through which the components partially accommodated in the chamber space 501 pass. The opening 520 is formed through one wall of the wall body portion 510, the fifth wall 515 located on the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0333] A plurality of openings 520 may be formed. The plurality of openings 520 are arranged at intervals from each other, and different components may be respectively penetrated and coupled therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 520 includes a main opening 521, a sub-opening 522, and a pipe opening 523.

[0334] A fixed contact 310 is penetrated and coupled to the main opening 521. A part of the fixed contact 310 in the extending direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, may penetrate through the main opening 521 and be located above the chamber space 501. The remaining part of the fixed contact 310 in the extending direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, may be exposed outside the chamber space 501 and coupled to and energized with the main terminal 610.

[0335] A plurality of main openings 521 may be provided. A plurality of fixed contacts 310 may penetrate through the plurality of main openings 521 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the main opening 521 includes a first main opening 521a located on the left side through which the first fixed contact 311 penetrates and a second main opening 521b located on the right side through which the second fixed contact 312 penetrates.

[0336] The sub-opening 522 is formed at a distance from the main opening 521.

[0337] A sub-terminal 620 of the terminal portion 600 is penetrated and coupled to the sub-opening 522. A part of the sub-terminal 620 in the extending direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, may penetrate through the sub-opening 522 and be located above the chamber space 501. The remaining part of the sub-terminal 620 in the extending direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, may be exposed outside the chamber space 501 and coupled to and energized with the wire member W.

[0338] The sub-opening 522 may be formed in a plurality of groups or pairs. A plurality of sub-terminals 620 may penetrate through the plurality of groups of sub-openings 522 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-opening 522 includes a first sub-opening 522a located so as to be biased toward the front side through which the first sub-terminal 621 penetrates and a second sub-opening 522b located so as to be biased toward the rear side through which the second sub-terminal 622 penetrates.

[0339] A plurality of first sub-openings 522a and second sub-openings 522b can be formed respectively. A plurality of first sub-terminals 621 and second sub-terminals 622 can penetrate through the plurality of first sub-openings 522a and second sub-openings 522b respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, there are two first sub-openings 522a and second sub-openings 522b respectively, and two first sub-terminals 621 and second sub-terminals 622 penetrate through respectively.

[0340] The number and arrangement of the first sub-openings 522a and second sub-openings 522b can be changed according to the number and arrangement of the sub-connector 460 and sub-terminals 620.

[0341] The pipe member 630 of the terminal portion 600 is penetrated and coupled to the pipe opening 523. A part of the pipe member 630 in the extending direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, can penetrate through the pipe opening 523 and be located above the chamber space 501. The remaining part of the pipe member 630 in the extending direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, can be exposed outside the chamber space 501 and function as a path for discharging the extinguished arc.

[0342] The pipe opening 523 is located adjacent to the sub-opening 522. In the illustrated embodiment, the pipe opening 523 is located adjacent to the first sub-opening 522a located on the front side. The position of the pipe opening 523 can be changed to any position where the chamber space 501 communicates with the outside for the arc to be discharged while being extinguished.

[0343] The sealing member 530 forms one side of the arc chamber 500 facing the lower frame 120, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment. The sealing member 530 can extend along the corner of the one side end of the arc chamber 500, that is, the lower end.

[0344] The sealing member 530 ensures the airtightness between the arc chamber 500 and the support plate 140. Therefore, the arc chamber 500 and the support plate 140 are hermetically coupled, and arcs and the like do not leak out through there.

[0345] A hollow is formed inside the sealing member 530. Therefore, the lifting and lowering of the shaft 360 and the movable contact 320 coupled thereto do not deteriorate due to the hermetic coupling between the arc chamber 500 and the support plate 140.

[0346] The terminal portion 600 communicates the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400 with an external power source or load. The terminal portion 600 is penetrated and coupled to the arc chamber 500, and a part thereof is located inside the arc chamber 500 (that is, the chamber space 501), and the other part is located outside the arc chamber 500.

[0347] The terminal portion 600 is penetrated and coupled to the opening 520 of the arc chamber 500. The terminal portion 600 may be supported by the fifth wall 515.

[0348] The terminal portion 600 may be formed of any material that can be energized with other coupled members. In one embodiment, the terminal portion 600 may be formed of a copper (Cu) material.

[0349] In the illustrated embodiment, each component of the terminal portion 600 has a circular cross-section and is cylindrical, extending in the vertical direction, but its shape may be changed according to the shapes of the fixed contact 310 and the opening 520 of the arc chamber 500.

[0350] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 18, the terminal portion 600 includes a main terminal 610, a sub-terminal 620, and a pipe member 630.

[0351] The main terminal 610 energizes the fixed contact 310 with an external power source and load. The main terminal 610 is coupled to and energized with the fixed contact 310, an external power source, and a load, respectively.

[0352] A plurality of main terminals 610 may be provided. The plurality of main terminals 610 may be respectively coupled to and energized with a plurality of fixed contacts 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the main terminals 610 include a first main terminal 611 located on the left side and coupled to and energized with a first fixed contact 311, and a second main terminal 612 located on the right side and coupled to and energized with a second fixed contact 312.

[0353] The sub-terminal 620 energizes an external control power source (not shown) with the sub-connector 460 of the sub-contact portion 400. The sub-terminal 620 is respectively coupled to and energized with the sub-connector 460 and the wire member W. It will be understood that the wire member W is coupled to and energized with an external control power source (not shown).

[0354] A plurality of sub-terminals 620 may be provided. The plurality of sub-terminals 620 may be respectively coupled to and energized with a plurality of sub-connectors 460. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-terminals 620 include a pair of first sub-terminals 621 located on the front side and respectively coupled to and energized with a pair of first sub-connectors 461, and a pair of second sub-terminals 622 located on the rear side and respectively coupled to and energized with a pair of second sub-connectors 462.

[0355] The first sub-terminal 621 is penetrated and coupled to the first sub-opening 522a, and the second sub-terminal 622 is penetrated and coupled to the second sub-opening 522b.

[0356] The pipe member 630 forms a path through which an arc generated in the chamber space 501 is discharged to the outside while being extinguished. The pipe member 630 is formed to extend in the direction in which the main terminal 610 or the sub-terminal 620 extends, and in the illustrated embodiment, in the vertical direction. A hollow is formed inside the pipe member 630 and penetrates along its extending direction, and a path through which the arc is discharged may be formed.

[0357] The pipe member 630 is penetrated and coupled to the pipe opening 523. One end of the pipe member 630 may be located above the chamber space 501, and the other end may be located outside the chamber space 501.

[0358] The arc induction unit 700 forms a magnetic field for inducing the arc generated inside the arc chamber 500, that is, in the chamber space 501. As is known, the formed magnetic field forms a magnetic force together with the current energized to the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320. The generated arc can extend along the direction of the formed magnetic force and be extinguished and discharged.

[0359] The arc induction unit 700 is located outside the arc chamber 500. The arc induction unit 700 surrounds the arc chamber 500 and is coupled to the arc chamber 500. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17, the arc induction unit 700 is coupled so as to surround the upper side and each surface in the outer peripheral direction of the arc chamber 500.

[0360] The arc induction unit 700 can be detachably coupled to the arc chamber 500. In the above embodiment, only the component that requires maintenance or replacement among the arc chamber 500 or the arc induction unit 700 can be separated.

[0361] The arc induction unit 700 is accommodated inside the frame 100. Specifically, the arc induction unit 700 is accommodated in the upper space 111 of the upper frame 110. At this time, the arc induction unit 700 is located between the arc chamber 500 and the upper frame 110. That is, along the radially inner direction, the outer peripheral surface of the upper frame 110, the arc induction unit 700, and the arc chamber 500 are arranged in this order.

[0362] The arc induction unit 700 can be coupled to the wire member W. The wire member W extends along the arc induction unit 700, and in a state where a part thereof is coupled to the arc induction unit 700, its end portions can be respectively coupled to and energized with the sub-terminals 620.

[0363] Each component of the arc induction unit 700 described below can be detachably coupled to each other. Therefore, when maintenance of a specific component of the arc induction unit 700 is required, only the corresponding component can be replaced and used, so that economy and productivity can be improved.

[0364] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 20, the arc induction unit 700 includes a magnet housing 710, an arc opening 720, a second insulating plate 730, a magnet unit 740, and a magnet cover member 750.

[0365] The magnet housing 710 forms the outer shape of the arc induction unit 700. The magnet housing 710 can be coupled to other components of the arc induction unit 700.

[0366] The magnet housing 710 is formed to surround the arc chamber 500. The magnet housing 710 is formed to surround one or more of the walls of the arc chamber 500 that surround the chamber space 501. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet housing 710 is formed to surround the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514 that are radially outside the chamber space 501 in the horizontal direction and the fifth wall 515 that is positioned to cover the chamber space 501 on the upper side.

[0367] The magnet unit 740 is accommodated in the magnet housing 710. The magnet unit 740 can form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501 while being accommodated in the magnet housing 710.

[0368] The magnet housing 710 can be formed of an insulating material. This is to prevent the magnet units 740 accommodated in the magnet housing 710 from being energized arbitrarily with each other, or to prevent the magnetic field formed by any one of the magnet units 740 from affecting different magnets. In one embodiment, the magnet housing 710 can be formed of the same ceramic material as the arc chamber 500.

[0369] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet housing 710 includes a first support wall 711, a second support wall 712, a third support wall 713, a fourth support wall 714, and a cover member 715.

[0370] The first support wall 711 forms one surface of the magnet housing 710, the front left surface in the illustrated embodiment. The first support wall 711 is formed to surround the first wall 511 of the arc chamber 500 on the outside.

[0371] Inside the first support wall 711, a space penetrating in the thickness direction, in the illustrated embodiment, in the directions toward the front left side and the rear right side, is formed. The space may be defined as a first magnet space portion 711a. A first magnet 741 may be detachably coupled to the first magnet space portion 711a. The first magnet space portion 711a may be formed to correspond to the shape of the first magnet 741.

[0372] The second support wall 712 forms the other surface of the magnet housing 710, the front right side surface in the illustrated embodiment. The second support wall 712 is formed so as to surround the second wall 512 of the arc chamber 500 from the outside.

[0373] Inside the second support wall 712, a space penetrating in the thickness direction, in the illustrated embodiment, in the directions toward the front right side and the rear left side, is formed. The space may be defined as a second magnet space portion 712a. A second magnet 742 may be detachably coupled to the second magnet space portion 712a. The second magnet space portion 712a may be formed to correspond to the shape of the second magnet 742.

[0374] The third support wall 713 forms the other other surface of the magnet housing 710, the rear left side surface in the illustrated embodiment. The third support wall 713 is formed so as to surround the third wall 513 of the arc chamber 500 from the outside.

[0375] Inside the third support wall 713, a space penetrating in the thickness direction, in the illustrated embodiment, in the directions toward the front right side and the rear left side, is formed. The space may be defined as a third magnet space portion 713a. A third magnet 743 may be detachably coupled to the third magnet space portion 713a. The third magnet space portion 713a may be formed to correspond to the shape of the third magnet 743.

[0376] The fourth support wall 714 forms the still other other surface of the magnet housing 710, the rear right side surface in the illustrated embodiment. The fourth support wall 714 is formed so as to surround the fourth wall 514 of the arc chamber 500 from the outside.

[0377] Inside the fourth support wall 714, a space is formed that penetrates in the thickness direction, in the directions of the front left side and the rear right side in the illustrated embodiment. The said space may be defined as a fourth magnet space portion 714a. A fourth magnet 744 may be detachably coupled to the fourth magnet space portion 714a. The fourth magnet space portion 714a may be formed to correspond to the shape of the fourth magnet 744.

[0378] At this time, the first support wall 711 and the third support wall 713 facing each other may be extended by the same length so as to be parallel to each other. Also, the second support wall 712 and the fourth support wall 714 facing each other may be extended by the same length so as to be parallel to each other.

[0379] In the illustrated embodiment, the joint portions of the walls 511, 512, 513, 514 that are positioned adjacent to each other among the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514 are formed in a round shape so as to bulge outward. On the contrary, while the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 are formed flat, it is not easy to surround the said joint portion.

[0380] Therefore, the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 may be extended by a predetermined length in the horizontal direction. At this time, the length of the horizontal extension of the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 may be formed shorter than the length of the horizontal extension of the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514.

[0381] Therefore, a predetermined space is formed between each of the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 that are positioned adjacent to each other. Through the said predetermined space, the joint portions of the walls 511, 512, 513, 514 that are positioned adjacent to each other among the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514 may be exposed. The said portion may be surrounded by a magnet cover member 750 described later.

[0382] The first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, and 174 are coupled to the cover member 715. The first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, and 714 extend downward in the illustrated embodiment in a direction toward the lower frame 120 while making a predetermined angle with the cover member 715.

[0383] In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be the same as the angle between the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, and 514 and the fifth wall 515 of the arc chamber 500. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle.

[0384] The cover member 715 forms still another other surface of the magnet housing 710, the upper surface in the illustrated embodiment. The cover member 715 is formed so as to externally surround the fifth wall 515 of the arc chamber 500.

[0385] A second insulating plate 730 is provided between the cover member 715 and the fifth wall 515, and any energization between the cover member 715 and the fifth wall 515 - arc chamber 500 can be interrupted.

[0386] A plurality of openings penetrating in the thickness direction, vertically in the illustrated embodiment, are formed inside the cover member 715. A plurality of fixed contacts 310 may be penetratingly coupled to the openings.

[0387] The cover member 715 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the fifth wall 515. Accordingly, the cover member 715 may be formed so as to completely cover the fifth wall 515 from above. Therefore, the lower portion of the magnet housing 710 is formed to be open.

[0388] In the illustrated embodiment, although the cover member 715 includes four corners, each pair of opposing corners extends such that they are parallel, and the portions where the adjacent corners are continuous are chamfered in a round shape. In one embodiment, the cover member 715 may have a rhombic or square cross - sectional shape. It will be understood that the shape is the same as the shape of the horizontal cross - section of the arc chamber 500.

[0389] The space formed and surrounded by the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 and the cover member 715 can be defined as the accommodation space S. The arc chamber 500 is removably accommodated in the accommodation space S. The lower side of the accommodation space S is open, and the arc chamber 500 can be drawn into and out of the accommodation space S through the lower side.

[0390] An opening communicating with the outside can be formed in a radially outer part of the accommodation space S. It will be understood that the opening is a space formed by separating adjacent walls among the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714.

[0391] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover member 715 includes a plurality of corners continuous with the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714, and portions continuous with each other among the plurality of corners are subjected to a rounding (taper) process. The portions can be covered by a magnet cover member 750 described later.

[0392] A fixed contact 310 is penetrated and coupled to the arc opening 720. The fixed contact 310 can penetrate through the arc opening 720, a plurality of openings formed through the second insulating plate 730, and the main opening 521 in sequence and extend between the chamber space 501 and the outside of the upper frame 110.

[0393] The arc opening 720 is formed through the inside of the cover member 715. The arc opening 720 is formed through in the thickness direction of the cover member 715, in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment, and communicates the lower side and the upper side of the cover member 715.

[0394] The arc opening 720 communicates with a plurality of openings formed through the second insulating plate 730. Also, the arc opening 720 communicates with the main opening 521 formed in the arc chamber 500. Accordingly, the arc opening 720 can communicate with the chamber space 501.

[0395] A plurality of arc openings 720 can be formed. A plurality of fixed contacts 310 can be respectively penetrated and coupled to a part of the plurality of arc openings 720. Also, a wire member W can be penetrated or accommodated in another part of the plurality of arc openings 720.

[0396] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc opening 720 includes a first arc opening 721 formed on the left side through which the first fixed contact 311 penetrates and a second arc opening 722 formed on the right side through which the second fixed contact 312 penetrates. The shapes of the first arc opening 721 and the second arc opening 722 can be changed according to the shape of the fixed contact 310.

[0397] Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the arc opening 720 includes a wire accommodating portion 723 that accommodates an end portion of the wire member W and a wire groove 724 that accommodates a part of the remaining portion of the wire member W.

[0398] The wire accommodating portion 723 is a portion where the end portion of the wire member W is coupled to the sub-terminal 620. The wire accommodating portion 723 includes a part that is recessed by a predetermined depth on one surface of the cover member 715, the upper surface in the illustrated embodiment, and another part that is formed to penetrate in the thickness direction of the cover member 715 and is located inside the said part.

[0399] The sub-terminal 620 can be penetrated through the said another part into the cover member 715. Although the end portion of the wire member W is accommodated in the said part, it can be coupled to and energized with the end portion of the sub-terminal 620.

[0400] At this time, the extended portion of the wire member W, that is, the other part that is not the end portion, is inserted and coupled to a wire groove recessed in any one or more of the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714.

[0401] A plurality of wire accommodating portions 723 and wire grooves 724 can be formed. As described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the sub-terminal 620 includes a pair of first sub-terminals 621 and a pair of second sub-terminals 622, and the wire accommodating portions 723 are all formed on the front side and the rear side to accommodate the first sub-terminals 621 and the second sub-terminals 622 respectively.

[0402] The wire groove 724 can also be recessed and formed in any one or more of the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714. In the illustrated embodiment, the wire groove 724 is formed on the front side, the lower side of the first and second support walls 711, 712, and the rear side, the lower side of the third and fourth support walls 713, 714 respectively.

[0403] The second insulating plate 730 prevents arbitrary energization between the cover member 715 and the arc chamber 500. The second insulating plate 730 is located between the cover member 715 and the fifth wall 515.

[0404] The second insulating plate 730 can be formed of an insulating material. In one embodiment, the second insulating plate 730 can be formed of a rubber or ceramic material.

[0405] The second insulating plate 730 can be formed to correspond to the shapes of the fifth wall 515 and the cover member 715. In the illustrated embodiment, the second insulating plate 730 has a rhombic or square shape that extends with the fifth wall 515 or the cover member 715 such that the pairs of opposite corners are parallel to each other.

[0406] A plurality of through holes are formed inside the second insulating plate 730.

[0407] Among the plurality of through holes, in the illustrated embodiment, a pair of through holes that are spaced apart in the left-right direction and have a relatively large cross-section communicate with the arc opening 720 and the main opening 521. Fixed contacts 310 are respectively penetrated and coupled to the pair of through holes.

[0408] Of the plurality of through holes, another part, two pairs of through holes that are spaced apart in the left - right direction and have a relatively small cross - section in the illustrated embodiment communicate with the arc opening 720 and the sub - opening 522. Sub - terminals 620 are respectively penetrated and coupled to the two pairs of through holes.

[0409] Of the remaining part of the plurality of through holes, a single through hole located on the front side in the illustrated embodiment communicates with the wire accommodating portion 723 located on the front side and the pipe opening 523. A pipe member 630 is penetrated and coupled to the single through hole.

[0410] The magnet part 740 forms a magnetic field that generates a magnetic force for guiding the arc generated in the chamber space 501. An arc path A.P can be formed in the chamber space 501 by the magnetic field formed by the magnet part 740.

[0411] The magnet part 740 can be provided in any form that can be magnetized to form a magnetic field. In one embodiment, the magnet part 740 can be provided with a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, etc.

[0412] The magnet part 740 is coupled to the magnet housing 710. Specifically, the magnet part 740 is removably accommodated in the magnet space parts 711a, 712a, 713a, 714a of the magnet housing 710. Therefore, when maintenance or replacement of the magnet part 740 is required, the operator can separate and replace only the magnet part 740.

[0413] As described above, the magnet space parts 711a, 712a, 713a, 714a are formed to penetrate in the thickness direction of the support walls 711, 712, 713, 714. Therefore, the magnet part 740 can be arranged adjacent to the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514 of the arc chamber 500.

[0414] A plurality of magnet portions 740 may be provided. The plurality of magnet portions 740 can be respectively accommodated in different magnet space portions 711a, 712a, 713a, 714a to form a magnetic field. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the magnet portion 740 includes a first magnet 741, a second magnet 742, a third magnet 743, a fourth magnet 744, and a fifth magnet 745, and five are provided.

[0415] In the illustrated embodiment, the first to fifth magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, 745 have a rectangular cross section in which the length in one direction is longer than the length in the other direction, and are provided in the form of a rectangular plate extending in the vertical direction. The shapes of the first to fifth magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, 745 can be any shape that can form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501.

[0416] The first magnet 741 is accommodated in the first magnet space portion 711a to form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501. The first magnet 741 includes a first magnet outer surface 741a which is one side surface opposite to the chamber space 501 and a first magnet inner surface 741b which is the other side surface facing the chamber space 501. The first magnet outer surface 741a and the first magnet inner surface 741b can be magnetized with different polarities.

[0417] The second magnet 742 is accommodated in the second magnet space portion 712a to form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501. The second magnet 742 includes a second magnet outer surface 742a which is one side surface opposite to the chamber space 501 and a second magnet inner surface 742b which is the other side surface facing the chamber space 501. The second magnet outer surface 742a and the second magnet inner surface 742b can be magnetized with different polarities.

[0418] The third magnet 743 is accommodated in the third magnet space portion 713a to form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501. The third magnet 743 includes a third magnet outer surface 743a which is one side surface opposite to the chamber space 501 and a third magnet inner surface 743b which is the other side surface facing the chamber space 501. The third magnet outer surface 743a and the third magnet inner surface 743b can be magnetized with different polarities.

[0419] The fourth magnet 744 is housed in the fourth magnet space portion 714a to form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501. The fourth magnet 744 includes a fourth magnet outer surface 744a which is one side surface opposite to the chamber space 501 and a fourth magnet inner surface 744b which is the other side surface facing the chamber space 501. The fourth magnet outer surface 744a and the fourth magnet inner surface 744b can be magnetized with different polarities from each other.

[0420] The fifth magnet 745 is located between the fifth wall 515 and the cover member 715 to form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501. The fifth magnet 745 is located between the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312. The fifth magnet 745 includes a fifth magnet outer surface 745a which is one side surface facing the first fixed contact 311 and a fifth magnet inner surface 745b which is the other side surface facing the second fixed contact 312. The fifth magnet outer surface 745a and the fifth magnet inner surface 745b can be magnetized with different polarities from each other.

[0421] The first to fifth magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, 745 can form a magnetic field independently or together. A detailed description of the magnetic field formed by the magnet portion 740 and the direction of the magnetic force associated therewith will be described later.

[0422] The magnet cover member 750 couples the first to fourth support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 of the magnet housing 710 to the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514 of the arc chamber 500. The magnet cover member 750 stably maintains the coupling state between the magnet housing 710 and the magnet portion 740 coupled thereto and the arc chamber 500.

[0423] The magnet cover member 750 forms a radially outer portion of the arc induction portion 700. The magnet cover member 750 can cover other components of the arc induction portion 700 on the outside and be coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0424] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet cover member 750 covers two magnets 741, 742, 743, 744 arranged adjacent to each other and two support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 arranged adjacent to each other to which they are coupled, and is coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0425] At the same time, the magnet cover member 750 covers the space formed between the two support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 (that is, the space formed with the two support walls 711, 712, 713, 714 separated from each other), and is coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0426] A plurality of magnet cover members 750 may be provided. The plurality of magnet cover members 750 include a first magnet cover member 750a located on the left side and a second magnet cover member 750b located on the right side.

[0427] The first magnet cover member 750a is coupled to cover a part of the outside of the magnet housing 710 on one side of the magnet housing 710, on the left side in the illustrated embodiment. As described above, where the first magnet 741 and the third magnet 743 are relatively located on the left side, it can be said that the first magnet cover member 750a covers the first magnet 741 and the third magnet 743 located on the left side and is coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0428] The second magnet member 750b is coupled to cover another part of the outside of the magnet housing 710 on the other side of the magnet housing 710, on the right side in the illustrated embodiment. As described above, where the second magnet 742 and the fourth magnet 744 are relatively located on the right side, it can be said that the second magnet cover member 750b covers the second magnet 742 and the fourth magnet 744 located on the right side and is coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0429] The magnet cover member 750 may be formed of an insulating material. In the above embodiment, the magnet portion 740 surrounded by the magnet cover member 750 can form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501 without being affected by an external magnetic body or current.

[0430] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet cover member 750 includes a first extension portion 751, a second extension portion 752, and a third extension portion 753.

[0431] The first extension portion 751 forms a part of the magnet cover member 750. The first extension portion 751 may have a predetermined thickness and be provided in a plate shape extending in one direction. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 20, the first extension portion 751 is formed in a square plate shape.

[0432] The first extension portion 751 may cover one or more of the magnets in the magnet portion 740 and be coupled to the magnet housing 710. In the illustrated embodiment, the first extension portion 751 of the first magnet cover member 750a covers the first magnet 741 and is coupled to the magnet housing 710. Also, the first extension portion 751 of the second magnet cover member 750b covers the second magnet 742 and is coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0433] The first extension portion 751 is continuous with the second extension portion 752 through the third extension portion 753.

[0434] The second extension portion 752 forms another part of the magnet cover member 750. The second extension portion 752 may have a predetermined thickness and be provided in a plate shape extending in one direction. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 20, the second extension portion 752 is formed in a square plate shape.

[0435] In one embodiment, the first extension portion 751 and the second extension portion 752 may be formed to have the same shape.

[0436] The second extension portion 752 may cover one or more of the magnets in the magnet portion 740 and be coupled to the magnet housing 710. In the illustrated embodiment, the second extension portion 752 of the first magnet cover member 750a covers the third magnet 743 and is coupled to the magnet housing 710. Also, the second extension portion 752 of the second magnet cover member 750b covers the fourth magnet 744 and is coupled to the magnet housing 710.

[0437] A third extension portion 753 is provided between the first extension portion 751 and the second extension portion 752.

[0438] The third extension part 753 is coupled to the first extension part 751 and the second extension part 752 respectively. The first extension part 751 and the second extension part 752 can be continuous through the third extension part 753.

[0439] The third extension part 753 can be coupled to each end of the first extension part 751 and the second extension part 752. In the illustrated embodiment, the front end of the third extension part 753 is continuous with the rear end of the first extension part 751, and the rear end thereof is continuous with the front end of the second extension part 752.

[0440] The third extension part 753 can include at least one curved part. In the illustrated embodiment, the third extension part 753 includes one curved part formed in a round shape so as to bulge radially outward. The center of the curved part can be located inside the magnet housing 710. Also, the curvature of the curved part can be the same as the curvature of the corner where the adjacent walls 511, 512, 513, 514 are continuous.

[0441] Therefore, when the magnet cover member 750 is coupled to the magnet housing 710, the first extension part 751 and the second extension part 752 will respectively surround different magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, and the third extension part 753 will surround the space formed therebetween.

[0442] Accordingly, the coupling state of each component of the arc induction part 700 can be stably maintained.

[0443] The DC relay 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention described above can ensure a sufficient insulation distance between the main contact part 300 and the sub-contact part 400 due to the structural features of the arc chamber 500 and the arc induction part 700. Accordingly, even when the operation of the DC relay 10 proceeds, the electrical interference between the main contact part 300 and the sub-contact part 400 can be reduced. Also, the damage to the sub-contact part 400 caused by the arc generated at the main contact part 300 can be minimized.

[0444] In addition, the DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is housed inside the arc chamber 500 while various components of the sub-contact portion 400 are housed in a separate contact holder 401. The portion of the various components of the sub-contact portion 400 exposed to the chamber space 501 can be minimized.

[0445] Therefore, damage to the components of the sub-contact portion 400 due to the generated arc can be minimized. Accordingly, the service life of the DC relay 10 can be increased.

[0446] Furthermore, the arc induction portion 700 for forming a magnetic field in the chamber space 501 is disposed outside the arc chamber 500. Therefore, an additional space occupied by the member for forming a magnetic field in the chamber space 501 can be secured. As a result, the space in which the arc generated in the chamber space 501 can be extended while being extinguished is also increased, and the arc extinguishing performance can be improved.

[0447] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 21 to 25, the effects of the DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0448] Referring to FIG. 21, the insulation distance between the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400 provided in the DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0449] The main contact portion 300 is respectively offset and positioned at a pair of vertices of the arc chamber 500 formed with a rectangular cross section. At this time, the pair of vertices are arranged to face each other with the chamber space 501 interposed therebetween. That is, the main contact portion 300 is disposed between a pair of vertices that are most separated from each other among the vertices of the arc chamber 500.

[0450] In the illustrated embodiment, the first fixed contact 311 is disposed offset to the vertex where the first wall 511 and the third wall 513 are continuous, which is located on the left side. Also, the second fixed contact 312 is disposed offset to the vertex where the second wall 512 and the fourth wall 514 are continuous, which is located on the right side. In other words, the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction.

[0451] In the above embodiment, the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 can be arranged on the central axis A1 extending in the left-right direction of the chamber space 501.

[0452] The sub-contact portion 400 is arranged to extend between the other pair of vertices of the arc chamber 500 formed with a square cross-section. At this time, the other pair of vertices are also arranged to face each other across the chamber space 501. That is, the sub-contact portion 400 is arranged to be adjacent to the other pair of vertices that are most spaced apart among the vertices of the arc chamber 500.

[0453] In the illustrated embodiment, one of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 is arranged to be adjacent to the vertex where the first wall 511 and the second wall 512 are continuous, which is located on the front side. Also, the other one of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 is arranged to be adjacent to the vertex where the third wall 513 and the fourth wall 514 are continuous, which is located on the rear side.

[0454] In the above embodiment, the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be arranged on the central axis A2 extending in the front-rear direction of the chamber space 501.

[0455] In one embodiment, the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be arranged to contact the adjacent walls surrounding a pair of opposite corners among the corners where the first to fourth walls 511, 512, 513, 514 are continuous with each other.

[0456] At this time, the distance between the first fixed contact 311 and any one of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be defined as the first distance d1. Also, the distance between the second fixed contact 312 and the other one of the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 can be defined as the second distance d2.

[0457] In the illustrated embodiment, the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 can be formed longer than when the first fixed contact 311 and the second fixed contact 312 are arranged at other positions inside the chamber space 501. That is, by maximizing the separation between the first leg 411 and the second leg 412 in which a plurality of sub-PCBs 450, sub-connectors 460, and sub-switches 470 are respectively accommodated, the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 can also be maximized.

[0458] Accordingly, a sufficient insulation distance can be ensured between the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0459] Referring to FIGS. 22 to 23, an arc extinguishing region E.A formed inside the arc chamber 500 of the DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The arc extinguishing region E.A can be defined as a space in the chamber space 501 in which an arc can be extended while being extinguished.

[0460] With the above-described configuration, the insulation distance between the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400 is maximized, and at the same time, the arc extinguishing region E.A can be expanded compared to the existing one.

[0461] Also, a magnet portion 740 for forming a magnetic field in the chamber space 501 is provided in an arc induction portion 700 disposed outside the arc chamber 500. The magnet portion 740 is configured to form a magnetic field in the chamber space 501 outside the arc chamber 500. Therefore, the arc extinguishing region E.A can be expanded only by the space occupied by the magnet portion 740 in the chamber space 501.

[0462] Accordingly, the arc extinguishing region E.A is expanded so that the arc can be sufficiently extinguished and extended and discharged outside the chamber space 501.

[0463] The above effect can be achieved without any deformation of the shape of the upper frame 110. That is, by forming the arc chamber 500 to have a square cross-section, a predetermined space is formed between the upper frame 110 and the arc chamber 500. The arc guiding portion 700 is disposed in the space, that is, the space surrounded by the upper frame 110 and the arc chamber 500.

[0464] Therefore, a sufficient insulation distance is ensured between the main contact portion 300 and the sub-contact portion 400, and while the arc extinction region E.A increases, the design change of other components of the DC relay 10 can be minimized.

[0465] Referring to FIGS. 24 to 25, the magnetic field formed in the chamber space 501 of the DC relay 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention and the path A.P of the arc formed by the magnetic force formed accordingly are illustrated.

[0466] In the illustrated embodiment, the JPEG0007702568000001.jpg54

[0467] sign shown on the fixed contact 310 means that current is passed through the corresponding fixed contact 310 to the movable contact 320. That is, JPEG0007702568000002.jpg54

[0468] current is passed through the fixed contact 310 on which "" is shown in a direction penetrating the ground and entering.

[0469] In the illustrated embodiment, the sign "(x)" shown on the fixed contact 310 means that current is passed through the corresponding fixed contact 310 through the movable contact 320. That is, current is passed through the fixed contact 310 on which "(x)" is shown in a direction penetrating the ground and exiting.

[0470] Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the solid arrows diverging from or converging to each of the magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, 745 indicate the direction of the magnetic field formed by each of the magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, 745.

[0471] Referring to Fig. 24(a), the magnetic field formed inside the arc chamber 500 by the arc induction unit 700 and the accompanying arc path A.P are illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the current passes through the second fixed contact 312 and the movable contact 320 located on the right side in sequence and is energized externally through the first fixed contact 311 located on the left side.

[0472] In the above state, the outer surfaces 741a, 742a, 743a, 744a of the first to fourth magnets are magnetized to the S pole. Also, the inner surfaces 741b, 742b, 743b, 744b of the first to fourth magnets are magnetized to the N pole. Therefore, the direction of the magnetic field formed by the first to fourth magnets 741, 742, 743, 744 is a direction that diverges from the inner surfaces 741b, 742b, 743b, 744b of the first to fourth magnets and converges to the outer surfaces 741a, 742a, 743a, 744a of the first to fourth magnets.

[0473] Accordingly, a magnetic field in the leftward direction is formed near the first fixed contact 311, and a magnetic field in the rightward direction is formed near the second fixed contact 312.

[0474] Applying Fleming's left hand's rule at the first fixed contact 311, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed toward the front left side. Accordingly, the arc path A.P is also formed toward the front left side and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0475] When applying Fleming's left hand rule to the second fixed contact 312, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed towards the front right side. Along with this, the arc path A.P is also formed towards the front right side and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0476] Referring to Fig. 24(b), an embodiment in which the current conduction direction is changed is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the current passes through the first fixed contact 311 located on the left side and the movable contact 320 in sequence, and is externally energized through the second fixed contact 312 located on the right side.

[0477] At this time, the polarities of the magnets 741, 742, 743, 744 and the direction of the magnetic field formed accordingly are the same as those in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 24(a).

[0478] When applying Fleming's left hand's rule to the first fixed contact 311, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed towards the front left side. Along with this, the arc path A.P is also formed towards the front left side and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0479] When applying Fleming's left hand rule to the second fixed contact 312, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed towards the rear right side. Along with this, the arc path A.P is also formed towards the rear right side and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0480] Referring to Fig. 25(a), the magnetic field formed inside the arc chamber 500 by the arc induction unit 700 and the accompanying arc path A.P in an embodiment where the fifth magnet 745 is added are illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the current passes through the second fixed contact 312 located on the right side and the movable contact 320 in sequence, and is externally energized through the first fixed contact 311 located on the left side.

[0481] In this state, the outer surfaces 741a, 742a, 743a, and 744a of the first to fourth magnets are magnetized to the S pole. Also, the inner surfaces 741b, 742b, 743b, and 744b of the first to fourth magnets are magnetized to the N pole. Consequently, the outer surface 745a of the fifth magnet is magnetized to the N pole, and the inner surface 745b of the fifth magnet is magnetized to the S pole.

[0482] Therefore, the direction of the magnetic field formed by the first to fourth magnets 741, 742, 743, and 744 is a direction that diverges from the inner surfaces 741b, 742b, 743b, and 744b of the first to fourth magnets and converges to the outer surfaces 741a, 742a, 743a, and 744a of the first to fourth magnets. Also, the direction of the magnetic field formed by the fifth magnet 745 is a direction that diverges from the outer surface 745a of the fifth magnet and converges to the inner surface 745b of the fifth magnet.

[0483] Consequently, due to the provision of the fifth magnet 745, a magnetic field is also formed among the first to fifth magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, and 745.

[0484] Specifically, a magnetic field is formed in the direction from the outer surface 745a of the fifth magnet toward the outer surfaces 741a and 743a of the first and third magnets. Also, a magnetic field is formed in the direction from the inner surfaces 742b and 744b of the second and fourth magnets toward the inner surface 745b of the fifth magnet.

[0485] Accordingly, a magnetic field is formed in the direction toward the left side in the vicinity of the first fixed contact 311 and throughout the second fixed contact 312.

[0486] When applying Fleming's left hand's rule to the first fixed contact 311, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed toward the left side in the front. Accordingly, the arc path A.P is also formed toward the left side in the front and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact portion 400.

[0487] When applying Fleming's left hand rule to the second fixed contact 312, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed towards the right side at the rear. Along with this, the arc path A.P is also formed towards the right side at the rear and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact part 400.

[0488] Referring to Fig. 25(b), an embodiment in which the current conduction direction is changed is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the current passes through the first fixed contact 311 located on the left side and the movable contact 320 in sequence and is externally energized through the second fixed contact 312 located on the right side.

[0489] At this time, the polarities of the magnets 741, 742, 743, 744, 745 and the direction of the magnetic field formed accordingly are the same as those in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 25(a).

[0490] When applying Fleming's left hand rule (Fleming’s left hand’s rule) to the first fixed contact 311, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed towards the left side at the rear. Along with this, the arc path A.P is also formed towards the left side at the rear and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact part 400.

[0491] When applying Fleming's left hand rule to the second fixed contact 312, the direction of the magnetic force formed by the current and the magnetic field is formed towards the right side at the rear. Along with this, the arc path A.P is also formed towards the right side at the rear and can proceed in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact part 400.

[0492] Therefore, the DC relay 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention can induce the generated arc in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact part 400. Along with this, the damage to the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact part 400 caused by the generated arc can be minimized.

[0493] Moreover, even if the direction of the current applied to the fixed contact 310 and the movable contact 320 is changed, the arc is induced in a direction away from the fixed contact 310 and the sub-contact portion 400. Therefore, an operator or a user can connect an external power source and a load without considering the polarity of the fixed contact 310 and the main terminal 610 coupled thereto and energized, so that workability and convenience can be improved.

[0494] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the idea of the present invention is not limited by the embodiments presented in this specification, and those skilled in the art who understand the idea of the present invention can easily propose other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, adding, etc. of components within the scope of the same idea, and this can also be said to be within the scope of the idea of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0495] 10: DC relay 100: Frame 110: Upper frame 111: Upper space 112: Coupling protrusion 113: Support protrusion 114: Upper opening 115: Upper separation wall 120: Lower frame 121: Lower space 122: Coupling groove 123: PCB accommodation portion 130: PCB frame 131: PCB 140: Support plate 141: Support groove 142: Support through hole 150: First insulating plate 151: Holder support portion 152: Holder through hole 200: Core portion 210: Fixed core 220: Movable core 230: Yoke 240: Bobbin 250: Coil 251: Trip coil 252: Holding coil 260: Core spring 270: Yoke ring 280: Cylinder 300: Main contact part 310: Fixed contact 311: First fixed contact 312: Second fixed contact 320: Movable contact 330: Housing 340: Cover 350: Contact spring 360: Shaft 400: Sub-contact part 401: Contact holder 410: Body part 411: First leg 412: Second leg 413: Bridge 420: Switch housing part 421: First switch housing part 422: Second switch housing part 430: Terminal housing part 431: First terminal housing part 432: Second terminal housing part 440: Terminal partitioning member 441: First terminal partitioning member 442: Second terminal partitioning member 450: Sub-PCB 451: First sub-PCB 451: Second sub-PCB 460: Sub-connector 461: First sub-connector 462: Second sub-connector 470: Sub-switch 471: First sub-switch 472: Second sub-switch 500: Arc chamber 501: Chamber space 510: Wall part 511: First wall 512: Second wall 513: Third wall 514: Fourth wall 515: Fifth wall 520: Opening 521: Main opening 521a: First main opening 521b: Second main opening 522: Sub-opening 522a: First sub-opening 522b: Second sub-opening 523: Pipe opening 530: Sealing member 600: Terminal part 610: Main terminal 611: First main terminal 612: Second main terminal 620: Sub-terminal 621: First sub-terminal 622: Second sub-terminal 630: Pipe member 700: Arc induction part 710: Magnet housing 711: First support wall 711a: First magnet space part 712: Second support wall 712a: Second magnet space part 713: Third support wall 713a: Third magnet space part 714: Fourth support wall 714a: Fourth magnet space part 715: Cover member 720: Arc opening 721: First arc opening 722: Second arc opening 723: Conductor housing part 724: Conductor groove 730: Second insulating plate 740: Magnet part 741: First magnet 741a: First magnet outer surface 741b: First magnet inner surface 742: Second magnet 742a: Second magnet outer surface 742b: Second magnet inner surface 743: Third magnet 743a: Outer surface of the third magnet 743b: Inner surface of the third magnet 744: Fourth magnet 744a: Outer surface of the fourth magnet 744b: Inner surface of the fourth magnet 745: Fifth magnet 745a: Outer surface of the fifth magnet 745b: Inner surface of the fifth magnet 750: Magnet cover member 750a: First magnet cover member 750b: Second magnet cover member 751: First extension part 752: Second extension part 753: Third extension part S: Accommodation space W: Conductive wire member d1: First distance d2: Second distance E.A: Arc extinguishing region A.P: Arc path

Claims

1. A chamber space for accommodating a fixed contact and a movable contact that are energized with an external power source or load; A plurality of walls surrounding the chamber space on the outside; and A magnet housing surrounding the plurality of walls on the outside Including, The plurality of walls include a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall, The first wall extends in a first direction, The second wall extends in a second direction from an end of the first wall at a predetermined angle to the first wall, The fourth wall extends in the first direction from an end of the second wall at a predetermined angle to the second wall, The third wall extends in the second direction from an end of the fourth wall to an end of the first wall at a predetermined angle to the fourth wall, The magnet housing includes a first support wall, a second support wall, a third support wall, and a fourth support wall having a predetermined thickness surrounding the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall respectively, From the first support wall to the fourth support wall, a first magnet space portion to a fourth magnet space portion, which are spaces where magnets can be detachably coupled in the direction of the thickness from the outside, are formed, an arc chamber.

2. The arc chamber according to claim 1, wherein the first wall and the fourth wall extend parallel to each other, and the second wall and the third wall extend parallel to each other.

3. The arc chamber according to claim 1, wherein the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall extend by the same length.

4. The arc chamber according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined angle between the first wall and the second wall, the predetermined angle between the second wall and the fourth wall, the predetermined angle between the third wall and the fourth wall, and the predetermined angle between the third wall and the first wall are all the same.

5. The arc chamber according to claim 1, wherein a horizontal cross-section of the arc chamber has a diamond shape.

6. A plurality of the fixed contacts are provided, and the plurality of fixed contacts are arranged in a direction away from each other toward a corner where adjacent walls among the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall are continuous and another corner facing the corner across the chamber space. The arc chamber according to claim 1.

7. A plurality of sub-connectors energized with an external control power source are accommodated in the chamber space, The plurality of the sub - connectors are arranged in a direction away from still another corner, which is arranged such that the walls adjacent to each other among the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall are continuous at still another corner and opposite to the still another corner across the chamber space, of the arc chamber according to claim 6.

8. A virtual straight line extending between the plurality of the fixed contacts forms a pair of diagonal lines of a cross - section of the arc chamber, A virtual straight line extending between the plurality of the sub - connectors forms the other pair of diagonal lines of the cross - section of the arc chamber, The arc chamber according to claim 7, wherein the pair of diagonal lines and the other pair of diagonal lines intersect at a predetermined angle.

9. The length of the other pair of diagonal lines is formed to be equal to or greater than the length of the pair of diagonal lines, The arc chamber according to claim 8, wherein the pair of diagonal lines and the other pair of diagonal lines are orthogonal to each other.

10. A fixed contact energized with an external power source or load; A movable contact provided so as to be movable up and down and contacting or separating from the fixed contact; A sub - contact portion including a core portion and energized with an external control power source and configured to control the core portion; An arc chamber having a chamber space formed therein for accommodating the fixed contact, the movable contact, and the sub - contact portion; and An arc induction portion coupled to the arc chamber outside the arc chamber and configured to form a magnetic field for guiding an arc into the chamber space, The arc chamber, A pair of walls arranged to face the chamber space along one direction and partially surrounding the chamber space; and Another pair of walls each continuous with the pair of walls and arranged to face the chamber space along the other direction and partially surrounding the chamber space, The arc induction portion, Includes a plurality of support walls having a predetermined thickness surrounding the pair of walls and the other pair of walls respectively, A plurality of magnet space portions, which are spaces where magnets can be detachably coupled in the thickness direction from the outside, are formed in the plurality of the support walls respectively. A DC relay.

11. The DC relay according to claim 10, wherein the pair of walls and the other pair of walls extend by the same length as each other and are configured to surround the chamber space by the same area.

12. The arc induction portion, A plurality of magnets respectively accommodated in the plurality of the magnet space portions and configured to form a magnetic field in the chamber space; and The DC relay according to claim 10, comprising a magnet cover member that is coupled while surrounding the plurality of support walls and the plurality of magnets on the outside.

13. The plurality of magnets include a magnet outer surface opposite to the chamber space and a magnet inner surface facing the magnet outer surface and facing the chamber space, The DC relay according to claim 12, wherein the magnet outer surfaces of the plurality of magnets are magnetized to the same polarity with respect to each other.

14. A plurality of corners are formed at a portion where the pair of walls and the other pair of walls are continuous, The DC relay according to claim 10, wherein a plurality of the fixed contacts are provided and are arranged to be separated from each other in another direction between one of the plurality of corners and the other corner opposite to the one corner.

15. The sub-contact portion includes a plurality of sub-connectors that are energized with an external control power source, The DC relay according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of sub-connectors are arranged to be separated from each other in still another direction between still another one of the plurality of corners and still another corner opposite to the still another one of the plurality of corners.

16. The DC relay according to claim 15, wherein a virtual straight line connecting the plurality of fixed contacts and a virtual other straight line connecting the plurality of sub-connectors respectively form diagonals of a cross-section of the arc chamber and extend intersecting each other.

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