Relay and relay unit

Abstract

An electromagnetic relay (100) comprises three fixed terminals (60), a first mobile terminal (71), a second mobile terminal (72), and an electromagnetic actuator (20). The three fixed terminals (60) are electrically connected to different current paths. The first mobile terminal (71) contacts and separates from a first fixed terminal (61) and a shared fixed terminal (63) of the three fixed terminals (60). The second mobile terminal (72) contacts and separates from a second fixed terminal (62) and the shared fixed terminal (63) of the three fixed terminals (60). The electromagnetic actuator (20) separately displaces the first mobile terminal (71) and the second mobile terminal (72). As a result, allowance and interruption of conduction between the first fixed terminal (61) and the shared fixed terminal (63) and allowance and interruption of conduction between the second fixed terminal (62) and the shared fixed terminal (63) can be independently switched.

Description

Relays and relay units CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based on Patent Application No. 2023-135036 filed in Japan on August 22, 2023, and the contents of the original application are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates to relays and relay units.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an electromagnetic relay capable of switching between multiple current paths. This electromagnetic relay includes two contact devices and one electromagnet device. Each contact device has a pair of fixed terminals and a movable contactor that short-circuits the fixed terminals. The electromagnet device moves the movable contactor between an open position where it is separated from the fixed terminals and a closed position where it is in contact with the fixed terminals. The electromagnet device displaces the movable contactors provided on the two contact devices together.

[0004] JP 2019-139885 A

[0005] In Patent Document 1, two contact devices share one electromagnet device, simplifying the configuration of the electromagnetic relay. However, the movable contacts of the two contact devices can only be displaced together. Therefore, it is impossible to independently switch the energization state of multiple current paths.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide a relay and a relay unit that can simplify the structure while enabling the conduction states of multiple current paths to be switched independently.

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, one disclosed aspect is a relay comprising three connection and fixed terminals electrically connected to different current paths, a first movable terminal that contacts and separates with a first fixed terminal and a shared fixed terminal among the three connection and fixed terminals, a second movable terminal that contacts and separates with a second fixed terminal and a shared fixed terminal among the three connection and fixed terminals, and a drive unit that individually displaces the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal and independently switches between allowing and cutting off current flow between the first fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal and allowing and cutting off current flow between the second fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal.

[0008] Another disclosed aspect is a relay unit comprising a battery connection line electrically connected to a power storage device, an inverter connection line electrically connected to an inverter, a charging line supplied with power for charging the power storage device, and a relay that switches between multiple current paths including the battery connection line, the inverter connection line, and the charging line, wherein the relay has three connection fixed terminals electrically connected to any one of the three current paths, a first movable terminal that contacts and separates with a first fixed terminal and a shared fixed terminal among the three connection fixed terminals, a second movable terminal that contacts and separates with a second fixed terminal and a shared fixed terminal among the three connection fixed terminals, and a drive unit that individually displaces the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal and independently switches between allowing and cutting off current flow between the first fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal and between allowing and cutting off current flow between the second fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal.

[0009] In these embodiments, the displacement of the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal is individually controlled by the drive unit. Therefore, the current between the first fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal and the current between the second fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal can be switched between allowing and blocking the current independently of each other. Additionally, one of the fixed terminals serves as a shared fixed terminal, contacting both the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal. Sharing the fixed terminal in this way simplifies the structure while enabling the current-carrying states of multiple current paths to be switched independently.

[0010] It should be noted that the reference numbers in parentheses in the claims merely indicate an example of the correspondence with the specific configurations in the embodiments described below, and do not limit the technical scope in any way. Furthermore, claims not explicitly stated in the claims may be combined together if no particular problems arise in the combination.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the electrical configuration of a high-voltage junction box according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a top view of an electromagnetic relay with a 2-in-1 structure. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a sealed case. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a shared fixed terminal. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating details of a current path and arc interruption in a drive mode. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating details of a current path and arc interruption in a regeneration mode. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating details of a current path and arc interruption in a DC charging mode. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the electrical configuration of a high-voltage junction box according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating details of a current path and arc interruption in a drive mode. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating details of a current path and arc interruption in a regeneration mode. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating details of a current path and arc interruption in a DC charging mode. FIG. 13 is a top view of an electromagnetic relay according to a modified example 8.

[0012] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that corresponding components in each embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted. When only a portion of the configuration is described in each embodiment, the configuration of another embodiment described previously can be applied to the remaining portion of the configuration. Furthermore, in addition to the combinations of configurations explicitly stated in the description of each embodiment, configurations of several embodiments can also be partially combined together even if not explicitly stated, as long as there is no particular problem with the combination.

[0013] First Embodiment A high-voltage junction box (hereinafter referred to as high-voltage J / B) 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure shown in Figure 1 is used in an electric vehicle such as a battery electric vehicle (BEV). The high-voltage J / B 10 is mounted on the electric vehicle together with a battery ES, an inverter 7, a charging inlet 9, etc. The high-voltage J / B 10 is electrically connected to the battery ES, the inverter 7, the charging inlet 9, etc.

[0014] The battery ES is an energy storage device that stores power for propelling the electric vehicle. The battery ES includes a rechargeable secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery or a nickel-metal hydride battery. The inverter 7 is electrically connected to a motor-generator 8 for propulsion. The motor-generator 8 is a permanent magnet or wound-field synchronous motor, an induction motor, or the like. The inverter 7 controls the rotational speed and torque of the motor-generator 8. A smoothing capacitor 6 is connected in parallel to the inverter 7. The smoothing capacitor 6 smoothes the current from the battery ES that is supplied to the inverter 7 via the high-voltage J / B 10. A charging cable from a charging station installed outside the vehicle is connected to the charging inlet 9. DC power is applied to the charging inlet 9 for rapid charging the battery ES. The charging inlet 9 supplies the DC power input from the charging station to the high-voltage J / B 10.

[0015] The high-voltage J / B 10 includes a power control circuit 10a and a J / B case 19 (see FIG. 2) that protects the power control circuit 10a. The power control circuit 10a includes multiple current paths. The power control circuit 10a switches between the multiple current paths. The power control circuit 10a also includes battery terminals 11p and 11n, inverter terminals 12p and 12n, charging terminals 13p and 13n, battery connection lines 15p and 15n, inverter connection lines 16p and 16n, and a pair of charging lines 17p and 17n. Additionally, the power control circuit 10a includes a current sensor 3, a damping resistor 4, a battery fuse 5, three system main relays 1p, 1n, and 1d, and two DC charging relays 2p and 2n. Elements marked with a "p" are components on the positive side. Elements marked with an "n" are components on the negative side (ground side).

[0016] Battery terminals 11p and 11n are terminals used for electrically connecting the high-voltage J / B 10 and battery ES. Battery terminal 11p is connected to the positive electrode side of battery ES. Battery terminal 11n is connected to the negative electrode side of battery ES. Inverter terminals 12p and 12n are terminals used for electrically connecting the high-voltage J / B 10 and inverter 7. Inverter terminal 12p is connected to the positive electrode side of inverter 7. Inverter terminal 12n is connected to the negative electrode side of inverter 7. Charging terminals 13p and 13n are terminals used for electrically connecting the high-voltage J / B 10 and charging inlet 9. Charging terminal 13p is connected to the positive electrode side of charging inlet 9. Charging terminal 13n is connected to the negative electrode side of charging inlet 9.

[0017] The battery connection lines 15p, 15n, inverter connection lines 16p, 16n, and charging lines 17p, 17n are formed from copper plate members such as bus bars. The battery connection lines 15p, 15n, inverter connection lines 16p, 16n, and charging lines 17p, 17n are capable of carrying large currents and form multiple current paths in the power control circuit 10a. The battery connection lines 15p, 15n are electrically connected to the battery ES via connections to battery terminals 11p, 11n. The inverter connection lines 16p, 16n are electrically connected to the inverter 7 via connections to inverter terminals 12p, 12n. The charging lines 17p, 17n are electrically connected to the charging inlet 9 via connections to charging terminals 13p, 13n. Power for charging the battery ES is supplied to the charging lines 17p, 17n.

[0018] The current sensor 3 is provided on the battery connection line 15n. The current sensor 3 has a magnetic core and a Hall element. The magnetic core is formed in a ring shape and is arranged to surround the battery connection line 15n to be measured. The Hall element detects magnetic flux generated within the magnetic core by the current flowing through the battery connection line 15n. The current sensor 3 measures the current flowing through the battery connection line 15n by detecting changes in the output voltage of the Hall element.

[0019] The damping resistor 4 is connected in series with the system main relay 1d. The damping resistor 4 and the system main relay 1d form a current path between the battery connection line 15n and the inverter connection line 16n that bypasses the system main relay 1n. The damping resistor 4 reduces the charging current (inrush current) that flows through the smoothing capacitor 6 when the system main relay 1d is switched to a conducting state (ON state).

[0020] The battery fuse 5 is provided in the battery connection line 15p. The battery fuse 5 automatically disconnects the battery connection line 15p if an abnormally large current flows through the battery connection line 15p. The battery fuse 5 cuts off the connection with the battery ES, thereby protecting the other components of the power control circuit 10a, the inverter 7, and the like from overcurrent.

[0021] System main relay 1p is located between battery connection line 15p and inverter connection line 16p. System main relay 1n is located between battery connection line 15n and inverter connection line 16n. System main relay 1d is connected in parallel to system main relay 1n. System main relays 1p, 1n, and 1d switch the state of the current path between battery ES and inverter 7 between a conducting state (ON) and a non-conducting state (OFF).

[0022] The DC charging relay 2p is located between the system main relay 1p and the charging line 17p. The DC charging relay 2p is connected in series to the system main relay 1p. The DC charging relay 2n is located between the system main relay 1n and the charging line 17n. The DC charging relay 2p is connected in series to the system main relay 1n. The DC charging relays 2p, 2n switch the state of the current path between the battery ES and the charging inlet 9 between a conducting state (ON) and a non-conducting state (OFF).

[0023] The operation of each of the system main relays 1p, 1n, 1d and the DC charging relays 2p, 2n is individually controlled by a control device mounted on the vehicle. The control device is an on-board ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The control device is equipped with a processing circuit including a processor, RAM (Random Access Memory), storage, etc. The control device outputs control signals that control on / off switching to each of the system main relays 1p, 1n, 1d and the DC charging relays 2p, 2n.

[0024] The power control circuit 10a described so far is a DCR series circuit in which DC charging relays 2p, 2n are connected in series with system main relays 1p, 1n. The power control circuit 10a uses two electromagnetic relays 100. One electromagnetic relay 100 is configured to integrate the positive-side system main relay 1p and DC charging relay 2p. The other electromagnetic relay 100 is configured to integrate the negative-side system main relay 1n and DC charging relay 2n. The electromagnetic relay 100 switches multiple current paths, including battery connection lines 15p, 15n, inverter connection lines 16p, 16n, and charging lines 17p, 17n, through which large DC currents of tens to hundreds of amperes flow, in accordance with control signals obtained from a control device.

[0025] [Configuration of Electromagnetic Relay] Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of the electromagnetic relay 100 will be described based on FIGS. 2 to 6 and with reference to FIG.

[0026] The electromagnetic relay 100 is composed of an electromagnetic actuator 20, a relay body 40, a magnet set 80, a relay housing 90, etc. In the following description, the Z direction is defined along the reciprocating direction of the electromagnetic actuator 20. An XY plane is defined so as to be perpendicular to the axis along the Z direction. The X direction is defined along the short side direction of the relay body 40, and the Y direction is defined along the long side direction of the relay body 40.

[0027] The electromagnetic actuator 20 is aligned with the relay main unit 40 in the Z direction. For convenience, the side of the relay main unit 40 relative to the electromagnetic actuator 20 is defined as the upward direction (+Z direction), and the side of the electromagnetic actuator 20 relative to the relay main unit 40 is defined as the downward direction (-Z direction). The electromagnetic actuator 20 is mechanically connected to the relay main unit 40. The electromagnetic actuator 20 supplies the driving force for switching operation to the relay main unit 40.

[0028] The electromagnetic actuator 20 has two actuator units 20a and 20b that function as linear actuators. The first actuator unit 20a and the second actuator unit 20b can operate independently of each other. The electromagnetic actuator 20 is composed of a fixed core 21, a movable core 26, a rod 29, an excitation coil 30, a coil housing 32, a return spring 33, a damper sheet 35, a receiving cylinder 36, etc. Of these components, the movable core 26, the rod 29, the excitation coil 30, the coil housing 32, the return spring 33, the damper sheet 35, and the receiving cylinder 36 are provided one for each of the actuator units 20a and 20b.

[0029] The fixed core 21 is made of a magnetic material such as iron. The fixed core 21 has a base portion 22 and two cylinder portions 23. The base portion 22 is formed in a rectangular plate shape with its longitudinal axis in the Y direction. The fixed core 21 is disposed in a position facing the relay main body 40, with the plate surface direction of the base portion 22 aligned along the XY plane. Each cylinder portion 23 protrudes downward from the base portion 22. The cylinder portions 23 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The two cylinder portions 23 are aligned in the Y direction with a gap between them. The cylinder portions 23 are provided with a spring accommodating hole 23a and a first opposing surface 24. The spring accommodating hole 23a is formed by the inner wall surface of the cylinder portion 23. The first opposing surface 24 is formed by the lower end surface of the cylinder portion 23 facing downward.

[0030] The movable core 26 is cylindrically formed from a magnetic material such as iron. The outer diameter of the movable core 26 is substantially the same as or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the cylinder portion 23. The movable core 26 is disposed below the cylinder portion 23 so as to be substantially coaxial with the cylinder portion 23. The movable core 26 is provided with a rod retaining hole 27 and a second opposing surface 28. The rod retaining hole 27 is formed by the inner circumferential wall surface of the movable core 26. The second opposing surface 28 is formed by the upper end surface of the movable core 26 facing upward. A magnetic gap 25 is defined between the second opposing surface 28 and the first opposing surface 24. The fixed core 21 and the movable core 26 face each other via the magnetic gap 25.

[0031] The rod 29 is formed into a long, thin columnar shape from a non-magnetic metal material or the like. The rod 29 is inserted into a through-hole of the fixed core 21, including the spring accommodating hole 23a, with its axial direction aligned along the Z direction. The lower portion of the rod 29 is fitted into the rod holding hole 27. The rod 29 moves back and forth along the Z direction together with the movable core 26. The upper portion of the rod 29 passes through the spring accommodating hole 23a and protrudes upward from the base portion 22. The upper portion of the rod 29 is housed in the relay body 40.

[0032] The excitation coil 30 is formed by winding a thin wire material such as copper around a coil bobbin 31. The coil bobbin 31 is formed from a resin material in a cylindrical or rectangular tube shape. The excitation coil 30 is arranged to surround the outer periphery of the cylinder portion 23 and the movable core 26. Electricity is applied to the excitation coil 30 in accordance with a control signal output from the control device. When energized, the excitation coil 30 is placed in an excited state, generating a magnetic flux along the Z direction on the inner periphery.

[0033] The coil housings 32 are formed in the shape of a bottomed container from a magnetic material such as ferromagnetic stainless steel. The two coil housings 32 are lined up along the Y direction. The coil housings 32 are disposed below the base portion 22. The upper edges of the coil housings 32 are in contact with the outer edge of the base portion 22. The two coil housings 32 may be in direct contact with each other, or a non-magnetic material or the like may be sandwiched between them. The excitation coil 30 is housed inside the coil housings 32.

[0034] The return spring 33 is made of a metal wire wound in a spiral shape. The return spring 33 is disposed on the outer periphery of the rod 29. The return spring 33 is accommodated in the spring accommodating hole 23a in a state in which it is compressed in the axial direction between the cylinder portion 23 and the movable core 26. The return spring 33 urges the movable core 26 in a direction away from the cylinder portion 23 (in the −Z direction) by the restoring force of the wire.

[0035] The damper sheet 35 is formed into a thin disk shape from a rubber material, a resin material, or the like. The damper sheet 35 is disposed below the movable core 26. The damper sheet 35 comes into contact with the lower end surface of the movable core 26 facing downward, and restricts movement of the movable core 26 in a direction away from the cylinder portion 23.

[0036] The accommodation cylinder 36 is made of a metal material and has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. The accommodation cylinder 36 accommodates the movable core 26 and the damper sheet 35. The upper edge of the peripheral wall of the accommodation cylinder 36 is airtightly fitted onto the outer peripheral wall surface of the cylinder portion 23. The accommodation cylinder 36 defines a part of the arc chamber 50a, which will be described later. The inner peripheral wall surface of the accommodation cylinder 36 slidably supports the outer peripheral wall surface of the movable core 26. The movable core 26 can reciprocate within the accommodation cylinder 36 along the axial direction.

[0037] The electromagnetic actuator 20 described above is provided with two magnetic circuits 39. Each magnetic circuit 39 efficiently passes the magnetic flux generated by each excitation coil 30. One magnetic circuit 39 is formed by the fixed core 21, the movable core 26, the coil housing 32, and the accommodating cylinder 36 and circulates around the excitation coil 30. When the excitation coil 30 is energized and magnetic flux is generated in the magnetic circuit 39, the movable core 26 is attracted to the fixed core 21 by magnetic force and moves upward to reduce the magnetic resistance of the magnetic gap 25. When the excitation coil 30 is deenergized and the magnetic flux generated in the magnetic circuit 39 disappears, the movable core 26 moves downward due to the biasing force of the return spring 33. By providing the electromagnetic actuator 20 with two magnetically independent magnetic circuits 39 and excitation coils 30, the first actuator unit 20a and the second actuator unit 20b can independently reciprocate.

[0038] The relay main unit 40 has two relay units 40a, 40b that switch between allowing and blocking current flow between terminals. For convenience, the relay unit mechanically connected to the first actuator unit 20a is referred to as the first relay unit 40a. The relay unit mechanically connected to the second actuator unit 20b is referred to as the second relay unit 40b. The first relay unit 40a and the second relay unit 40b can switch between allowing and blocking current flow independently of each other. Specifically, even when the first relay unit 40a allows current flow, the second relay unit 40b can block current flow. Similarly, even when the first relay unit 40a blocks current flow, the second relay unit 40b can allow current flow.

[0039] The relay main body 40 is composed of a pressure spring 45, a pressure plate 46, a spring holder 47, an armature stopper 48, a sealed case 50, a joint member 59, a fixed terminal 60, and a movable terminal 70. Of these components, the pressure spring 45, the pressure plate 46, the spring holder 47, and the armature stopper 48 are provided one for each of the relay units 40a and 40b. The pressure spring 45, the pressure plate 46, the spring holder 47, and the armature stopper 48 are attached to the upper portion of each rod 29 protruding from the electromagnetic actuator 20.

[0040] The pressure spring 45 is formed by spirally winding a metal wire. The spring constant of the pressure spring 45 is greater than the spring constant of the return spring 33. The pressure spring 45 is disposed on the outer periphery of the rod 29. The pressure spring 45 is disposed between a pressure plate 46 and a spring holder 47. When the rod 29 is displaced upward, the pressure spring 45 is compressed between the pressure plate 46 and the spring holder 47. The restoring force of the pressure spring 45 serves as a biasing force that presses the movable terminal 70 against the fixed terminal 60.

[0041] The pressure plate 46 is formed into a plate shape from a metal material or the like. The pressure plate 46 is disposed between the pressure spring 45 and the movable terminal 70. The pressure plate 46 is displaceable in the up and down direction relative to the rod 29. The pressure plate 46 transmits the upward driving force of the actuator units 20 a, 20 b and the upward biasing force of the pressure spring 45 to the movable terminal 70.

[0042] The spring holder 47 is made of a metal material or the like and is formed into a flat, cylindrical shape with a bottom. The spring holder 47 is fitted onto the rod 29 and is held by the rod 29. The spring holder 47 moves back and forth in the Z direction together with the rod 29. The spring holder 47 houses the lower end of the pressure spring 45. When the rod 29 moves upward, the spring holder 47 compresses the pressure spring 45 in the axial direction.

[0043] The mover stopper 48 is made of a metal material or a hard resin material and is formed into a cylindrical shape with a flange. The spring holder 47 is fitted onto the rod 29 above the pressing plate 46 and is held by the rod 29. The flange portion of the mover stopper 48 is located above the movable terminal 70. The mover stopper 48 moves back and forth along the Z direction together with the rod 29. When the rod 29 moves downward (in the return direction), the mover stopper 48 comes into contact with the movable terminal 70 and presses the movable terminal 70 downward.

[0044] The sealed case 50 is made of a ceramic material such as aluminum oxide or zirconia (see also FIG. 4 ). The sealed case 50 has a container shape with a bottom. The sealed case 50 is disposed above the electromagnetic actuator 20 with its opening facing downward. The sealed case 50 has a top wall 51, four side walls 52, a rod stopper 57, and a shielding wall 58.

[0045] The upper wall 51 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate with its longitudinal axis in the Y direction. Three terminal accommodating holes 54 to 56 are formed in the upper wall 51. The terminal accommodating holes 54 to 56 are through holes that penetrate the upper wall 51 in the plate thickness direction. The terminal accommodating holes 54 to 56 are formed at intervals from one another in the Y direction. The terminal accommodating holes 54 and 56 are circular openings. The terminal accommodating hole 55 is an oval opening.

[0046] Each side wall 52 extends downward from each of the four outer edges of the upper wall 51. Each side wall 52 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape that surrounds the two relay units 40a, 40b. Of the four side walls 52, a pair extending along the YZ plane are designated as long side surfaces 52a. The two long side surfaces 52a face each other in the X direction. The other pair of side walls 52 extending along the ZX plane are designated as short side surfaces 52b. The two short side surfaces 52b face each other in the Y direction.

[0047] The rod stopper 57 is formed into a plate shape from a metal material or a hard resin material. The rod stopper 57 is held by the long side surface 52a, the relay housing 90, or the like. The rod stopper 57 is located above the upper end 29a of the rod 29 and faces the upper end 29a in the Z direction. The rod stopper 57 restricts the upward movement of the rod 29 by contacting the upper end 29a.

[0048] The shielding wall 58 is formed in a thick plate shape. The shielding wall 58 is integrated with the long side surface 52a. The shielding wall 58 is positioned along the ZX plane and between the two movable terminals 70. The upper end surface of the shielding wall 58 is in contact with the bottom wall surface of the shared fixed terminal 63 (described later) or faces the bottom wall surface with a very small gap therebetween. The lower end surface of the shielding wall 58 faces the upper edges of the two accommodating cylinders 36 in the Z direction. The lower end surface of the shielding wall 58 is positioned below the movable range of the movable terminals 70. The shielding wall 58 shields the inner movable contact 71b provided on the first movable terminal 71 from the inner movable contact 72b provided on the second movable terminal 72.

[0049] The joining member 59 is formed in a generally annular shape from a metal material such as iron. The upper edge of the joining member 59 is airtightly joined to the end surface of each side wall 52. The lower surface of the joining member 59 is airtightly joined to the outer edge portion of the base portion 22. The joining member 59, the sealed case 50, the fixed core 21, the two containing cylinders 36, and the three fixed terminals 60 define an arc chamber 50a.

[0050] The arc chamber 50a is an airtight space partitioned inside the electromagnetic relay 100. Hydrogen or a gas mainly containing hydrogen (hereinafter referred to as an arc-extinguishing gas) is sealed in the arc chamber 50a. The arc-extinguishing gas is filled in the arc chamber 50a at atmospheric pressure or higher (for example, about 2 atmospheres).

[0051] The fixed terminal 60 is formed of a metal material with excellent conductivity, such as copper. The fixed terminal 60 is electrically connected to one of the current paths formed in the power control circuit 10a. The fixed terminal 60 is provided with a connection hole 65 and a fixed contact 67. The connection hole 65 is formed in a cylindrical hole shape. The connection hole 65 is used to fix a conductive member, such as a bus bar, that forms the current path to the fixed terminal 60. A female thread portion may be formed in the connection hole 65. The fixed contact 67 is formed on the bottom wall surface of the fixed terminal 60 facing downward (-Z direction). The fixed contact 67 faces the movable terminal 70 in the Z direction. The fixed contact 67 comes into contact with the movable terminal 70 displaced upward.

[0052] The fixed terminals 60 include a first fixed terminal 61, a second fixed terminal 62, and a shared fixed terminal 63 (see also FIG. 5). These three fixed terminals 60 are electrically connected to different current paths. The three fixed terminals 60 are accommodated in the terminal accommodating holes 54 to 56, respectively, and are arranged at intervals along the Y direction. The first fixed terminal 61 and the second fixed terminal 62 are located on both sides of the shared fixed terminal 63 in the Y direction. The Y direction is the arrangement direction in which the three fixed terminals 60 are arranged.

[0053] The first fixed terminal 61 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape overall. The first fixed terminal 61 is a fixed terminal 60 included in the first relay unit 40a. The first fixed terminal 61 is accommodated in the terminal accommodating hole 54. The first fixed terminal 61 is held by the upper wall 51 by being fitted into the terminal accommodating hole 54. Bus bars or the like that form at least a portion of the battery connection lines 15p, 15n are fixed to the first fixed terminal 61. The bus bars or the like are held to each fixed terminal 60 by fastening members such as screws that thread into the connection holes 65.

[0054] The second fixed terminal 62 is a fixed terminal 60 having the same shape as the first fixed terminal 61. The second fixed terminal 62 is a fixed terminal 60 included in the second relay unit 40b. The second fixed terminal 62 is accommodated in the terminal accommodating hole 56. The second fixed terminal 62 is fitted into the terminal accommodating hole 56 and is thereby held by the upper wall 51. A bus bar forming at least a part of the charging lines 17p, 17n is fixed to the second fixed terminal 62.

[0055] The shared fixed terminal 63 is formed in a generally elliptical cylindrical shape and has two flat side surfaces and two semi-cylindrical surfaces. The shared fixed terminal 63 is a fixed terminal 60 that is larger than the first fixed terminal 61 and the second fixed terminal 62. The shared fixed terminal 63 is a fixed terminal 60 shared by the first relay unit 40a and the second relay unit 40b. The shared fixed terminal 63 is accommodated in the terminal accommodating hole 55. The shared fixed terminal 63 is held by the upper wall 51 by being fitted into the terminal accommodating hole 55. Bus bars that form at least a portion of the inverter connection lines 16p, 16n are fixed to the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0056] Two fixed contacts 67 are formed on the bottom wall surface of the shared fixed terminal 63. By having two fixed contacts 67, the conductive area of ​​the shared fixed terminal 63 is larger than the conductive areas of the first fixed terminal 61 and the second fixed terminal 62. The conductive area is the area of ​​the portion that contacts the conductive object, and specifically, it is the sum of the areas of the two fixed contacts 67 provided on the shared fixed terminal 63. One of the two fixed contacts 67 that is closest to the first fixed terminal 61 is a first shared contact 67a. The first shared contact 67a is the fixed contact 67 included in the first relay unit 40a. The other of the two fixed contacts 67 that is closest to the second fixed terminal 62 is a second shared contact 67b. The second shared contact 67b is the fixed contact 67 included in the second relay unit 40b. The first shared contact 67a and the second shared contact 67b are located on either side of the upper end surface of the shielding wall 58.

[0057] The movable terminal 70 is formed in a rectangular thick plate shape from a metal material with excellent conductivity, such as copper. The movable terminal 70 has a rod insertion hole 74. The rod insertion hole 74 is a through-hole that passes through the movable terminal 70 in the plate thickness direction. The rod 29 is inserted into the rod insertion hole 74. The movable terminal 70 is attached to the rod 29 in an orientation in which the plate surface direction is aligned with the XY plane. The movable terminal 70 is allowed to move up and down between the pressing plate 46 and the movable terminal stopper 48.

[0058] The movable terminal 70 includes a first movable terminal 71 and a second movable terminal 72. The first movable terminal 71 is the movable terminal 70 included in the first relay unit 40a. The first movable terminal 71 is connected to the rod 29 of the first actuator unit 20a. The first movable terminal 71 is driven by the first actuator unit 20a. The first movable terminal 71 comes into contact with and separates from the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 of the three fixed terminals 60. The first movable terminal 71 is pressed approximately evenly against both the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 by the biasing force of the pressure spring 45. The first movable terminal 71 has an outer movable contact 71a and an inner movable contact 71b.

[0059] The outer movable contact 71a is formed on the upper surface of the upward-facing first movable terminal 71 in an area facing the bottom wall surface of the first fixed terminal 61. When the first movable terminal 71 is displaced upward, the outer movable contact 71a is brought into a closed state with respect to the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61. When the first movable terminal 71 is displaced downward, the outer movable contact 71a is brought into an open state with respect to the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61.

[0060] The inner movable contact 71b is formed on the upper surface of the upward-facing first movable terminal 71 in an area facing the bottom wall surface of the shared fixed terminal 63. When the first movable terminal 71 is displaced upward, the inner movable contact 71b enters a closed state with respect to the first shared contact 67a of the shared fixed terminal 63. When the first movable terminal 71 is displaced downward, the inner movable contact 71b enters an open state with respect to the first shared contact 67a.

[0061] When the outer movable contact 71 a and the inner movable contact 71 b come into contact with the fixed contact 67 and the first shared contact 67 a, the first relay unit 40 a is in a closed state (on state). On the other hand, when the outer movable contact 71 a and the inner movable contact 71 b move away from the fixed contact 67 and the first shared contact 67 a, the first relay unit 40 a is in an open state (off state).

[0062] The second movable terminal 72 is a movable terminal 70 included in the second relay unit 40b. The second movable terminal 72 is connected to the rod 29 of the second actuator unit 20b. The second movable terminal 72 is driven by the second actuator unit 20b. The second movable terminal 72 comes into contact with and separates from the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63 of the three fixed terminals 60. The second movable terminal 72 is pressed approximately evenly against both the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63 by the biasing force of the pressure spring 45. The second movable terminal 72 has an outer movable contact 72a and an inner movable contact 72b.

[0063] The outer movable contact 72a is formed on the upper surface of the second movable terminal 72 facing upward, in an area facing the bottom wall surface of the second fixed terminal 62. When the second movable terminal 72 is displaced upward, the outer movable contact 72a enters a closed state with respect to the fixed contact 67 of the second fixed terminal 62. When the second movable terminal 72 is displaced downward, the outer movable contact 72a enters an open state with respect to the fixed contact 67 of the second fixed terminal 62.

[0064] The inner movable contact 72b is formed on the upper surface of the second movable terminal 72 facing upward, in an area facing the bottom wall surface of the shared fixed terminal 63. When the second movable terminal 72 is displaced upward, the inner movable contact 72b enters a closed state with respect to the second shared contact 67b of the shared fixed terminal 63. When the second movable terminal 72 is displaced downward, the inner movable contact 72b enters an open state with respect to the second shared contact 67b.

[0065] When the outer movable contact 72a and the inner movable contact 72b come into contact with the fixed contact 67 and the second shared contact 67b, the second relay unit 40b is in a closed state (ON state). On the other hand, when the outer movable contact 72a and the inner movable contact 72b move away from the fixed contact 67 and the second shared contact 67b, the second relay unit 40b is in an open state (OFF state).

[0066] The first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72 are individually displaced by the driving of the first actuator unit 20 a and the second actuator unit 20 b. This makes it possible to independently switch between allowing and blocking current flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 and between allowing and blocking current flow between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0067] The magnet set 80 generates a magnetic field for arc extinguishing around the fixed terminal 60 and the movable terminal 70. The magnet set 80 has four magnet bodies 80a and a magnet housing 85. The magnet bodies 80a are plate-shaped permanent magnets. At least one magnet body 80a is disposed on each of the four side walls 52 surrounding the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72. The magnet body 80a includes a pair of first magnets 81 and a pair of second magnets 82.

[0068] The first magnets 81 are two of the four magnet bodies 80a that face each other in the X direction. The first magnets 81 are arranged outside the two long side surfaces 52a that are aligned with the arrangement direction of the three fixed terminals 60, with the plate surface direction aligned with the YZ plane. The first magnets 81 are arranged in the center of the long side surfaces 52a in the Y direction. Each first magnet 81 is positioned equidistant from each second magnet 82. The length of the first magnets 81 in the Y direction is greater than the length (width) of the shared fixed terminal 63 in the Y direction. The area of ​​the first magnets 81 is greater than the area of ​​the second magnets 82. The pair of first magnets 81 has the same magnetic pole facing inward.

[0069] The second magnets 82 are two of the four magnet bodies 80a that face each other in the Y direction (arrangement direction). The second magnets 82 are arranged outside the two short side surfaces 52b that face each other in the Y direction, with the plate surface direction aligned with the ZX plane. The length of the second magnets 82 in the X direction is greater than the length (width) of the fixed terminal 60 in the X direction. The pair of second magnets 82 has the same magnetic pole facing inward.

[0070] The magnetic pole facing inward of each first magnet 81 is different from the magnetic pole facing inward of each second magnet 82. As an example, the first magnet 81 has its north pole facing inward, while the second magnet 82 has its south pole facing inward. Due to this magnetic pole arrangement, a magnetic flux JS is formed inside the sealed case 50, flowing from each first magnet 81 to each second magnet 82 (see FIGS. 6 to 8).

[0071] The magnet housing 85 is formed of a metal plate. The magnet housing 85 is formed in a box shape to accommodate the magnet bodies 80a. The magnet housing 85 holds each of the magnet bodies 80a against each of the side walls 52.

[0072] The relay housing 90 is a case that houses the electromagnetic actuator 20, the relay main body 40, and the magnet set 80. The relay housing 90 is made of a resin material or the like and has a box-like shape. The relay housing 90 has a connector portion 91, a shielding plate 93, and an attachment portion 94.

[0073] The connector portion 91 is provided on one side of the relay housing 90 along the ZX plane. A harness is connected to the connector portion 91. The connector portion 91 is electrically connected to the control device via the harness. A first signal terminal 92a, a second signal terminal 92b, and a ground terminal 92c are provided inside the connector portion 91.

[0074] A first control signal for controlling the driving of the first actuator unit 20a is input to the first signal terminal 92a. The first control signal is a control signal for controlling the displacement of the first movable terminal 71. The first signal terminal 92a supplies the first control signal to the excitation coil 30 of the first actuator unit 20a. Based on the first control signal, the excitation coil 30 of the first actuator unit 20a is energized.

[0075] A second control signal for controlling the driving of the second actuator unit 20b is input to the second signal terminal 92b. The second control signal is a control signal for controlling the displacement of the second movable terminal 72. The second signal terminal 92b supplies the second control signal to the excitation coil 30 of the second actuator unit 20b. Based on the second control signal, the excitation coil 30 of the second actuator unit 20b is energized.

[0076] A ground potential is applied to the ground terminal 92c, which supplies the ground potential to the excitation coil 30 of each of the actuator units 20a and 20b. The ground terminal 92c is shared by the two actuator units 20a and 20b.

[0077] The shielding plates 93 are formed in the shape of thin plates. The shielding plates 93 are oriented with their plate surface direction along the ZX plane, and one is provided between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63, and one is provided between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63. The shielding plates 93 suppress the occurrence of arcs between adjacent fixed terminals 60 or bus bars.

[0078] The mounting portions 94 are provided on each of two side surfaces of the relay housing 90 along the ZX plane. The mounting portions 94 are configured to mount the electromagnetic relay 100 to the J / B case 19. The two mounting portions 94 may be provided at positions offset from each other in the Z direction.

[0079] [Details of Arc Interruption] In the power control circuit 10a described above, the first actuator unit 20a and the first relay unit 40a of the electromagnetic relay 100 are used as system main relays 1p, 1n. The second actuator unit 20b and the second relay unit 40b are used as DC charging relays 2p, 2n. Below, the current paths of the electromagnetic relay 100 in the drive mode, regeneration mode, and DC charging mode, and details of the arc interruption that functions in each mode will be described in order based on Figures 6 to 8 and with reference to Figures 1 and 3.

[0080] <Drive Mode> In the drive mode shown in Fig. 6 , the first actuator unit 20a closes the first relay unit 40a (turns on). This allows current to flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the first relay unit 40a. As a result, a drive current ID flows from the battery connection line 15p and the first fixed terminal 61 to the shared fixed terminal 63 and the inverter connection line 16p (see the upper part of Fig. 6 ). Meanwhile, the second actuator unit 20b opens the second relay unit 40b (turns off). This blocks current from flowing between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the second relay unit 40b.

[0081] When the first actuator unit 20a initiates a current interruption of the first relay unit 40a, an arc is generated between the contacts 71a, 71b of the first movable terminal 71 that are opened and the contacts 67, 67a of the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63. In addition, if an excessive drive current ID flows from the battery connection line 15p to the inverter connection line 16p, a force that repels the contacts is generated between them. As a result, the first relay unit 40a forcibly interrupts current. In this case, an arc is generated between the contacts 71a, 71b of the first movable terminal 71 that are forcibly opened and the contacts 67, 67a of the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0082] In the above drive mode, arcs generated between the contacts during current interruption are subjected to electromagnetic force EF from the magnetic flux JS (magnetic field) generated by the magnet set 80, directed toward the outer side wall 52. Specifically, the arc generated between the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61 and the outer movable contact 71a is subjected to electromagnetic force EF in the +X direction (see the lower part of Figure 6). Furthermore, the arc generated between the inner movable contact 71b and the first shared contact 67a is subjected to oblique electromagnetic force EF directed toward the -Y direction as it moves toward the -X direction. As a result, the arc generated between the contacts in drive mode is interrupted in a very short time (e.g., about 1 millisecond) due to the outward stretching effect of electromagnetic force EF and the cooling effect of the arc-extinguishing gas.

[0083] <Regeneration Mode> In the regeneration mode shown in Figure 7, the first actuator unit 20a closes (turns on) the first relay unit 40a, as in the drive mode described above. This allows current to flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the first relay unit 40a. As a result, a regenerative current IR flows from the inverter connection line 16p and the second fixed terminal 62 to the first fixed terminal 61 and the battery connection line 15p (see the upper part of Figure 7). Meanwhile, in the second relay unit 40b, the second movable terminal 72 is opened, cutting off current flow between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0084] When the first actuator unit 20a initiates a current interruption of the first relay unit 40a, an arc is generated between the open contacts 71a, 71b of the first movable terminal 71 and the contacts 67, 67a of the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63, even in the regenerative mode. In addition, if an excessively large regenerative current IR flows from the inverter connection line 16p to the battery connection line 15p, a repulsive force is generated between the contacts. As a result, the first relay unit 40a forcibly interrupts current flow. In this case, an arc is generated between the forcibly opened contacts 71a, 71b of the first movable terminal 71 and the contacts 67, 67a of the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0085] During current interruption in the regeneration mode described above, the arc generated between the first shared contact 67a and the inner movable contact 71b is subjected to an oblique electromagnetic force EF that moves in the -Y direction as it moves in the -X direction (see the bottom row of Figure 7). Also, the arc generated between the outer movable contact 71a and the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61 is subjected to an electromagnetic force EF in the -X direction. As a result, the arc generated between the contacts in the regeneration mode is interrupted in a very short time due to the outward stretching effect of the electromagnetic force EF and the cooling effect of the arc-extinguishing gas.

[0086] <DC Charging Mode> In the DC charging mode shown in Figure 8, the first actuator unit 20a closes (ON) the first relay unit 40a. In addition, the second actuator unit 20b closes (ON) the second relay unit 40b. As a result, current is allowed to flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63, and between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63. As a result, a charging current IC flows from the charging line 17p and the second fixed terminal 62 to the first fixed terminal 61 and the battery connection line 15p via the shared fixed terminal 63 (see the upper part of Figure 8).

[0087] When each actuator unit 20a, 20b initiates a current cutoff of each relay unit 40a, 40b, an arc occurs between the contacts as described above. In addition, if an excessive charging current IC flows from the charging line 17p to the battery connection line 15p, each relay unit 40a, 40b forcibly cuts off current. In this case, an arc also occurs between the contacts of each relay unit 40a, 40b.

[0088] During current interruption in the DC charging mode described above, the arc generated between the fixed contact 67 of the second fixed terminal 62 and the outer movable contact 72a is subjected to an electromagnetic force EF in the −X direction (see the lower part of FIG. 8 ). Furthermore, the arc generated between the inner movable contact 72b and the second shared contact 67b is subjected to an oblique electromagnetic force EF that moves in the +Y direction as it moves in the +X direction. Similarly, the arc generated between the first shared contact 67a and the inner movable contact 71b is subjected to an oblique electromagnetic force EF that moves in the +Y direction as it moves in the +X direction. Furthermore, the arc generated between the outer movable contact 71a and the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61 is subjected to an electromagnetic force EF in the −X direction. As described above, the arc generated between the contacts in the charging mode is interrupted in a very short time due to the outward extension effect of the electromagnetic force EF and the cooling effect of the arc-extinguishing gas.

[0089] (Summary of First Embodiment) In the first embodiment described so far, the displacement of each of the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72 is individually controlled by the electromagnetic actuator 20. Therefore, it is possible to switch between allowing and blocking current flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63, and between allowing and blocking current flow between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63, independently of each other. In addition, one of the fixed terminals 60 serves as the shared fixed terminal 63 and is in contact with both the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72. Sharing the fixed terminal 60 in this way simplifies the structure while making it possible to independently switch the current flow states of multiple current paths.

[0090] Additionally, in a configuration in which two electromagnetic relays, each including one actuator unit and one relay unit, are provided and used as a main relay and a DC charging relay, a certain gap is inevitably created between the two electromagnetic relays. As a result, miniaturization of the high-voltage J / B is hindered. In contrast, in the first embodiment, the power control circuit 10a employs an electromagnetic relay 100 having a 2-in-1 structure including two actuator units 20a, 20b and two relay units 40a, 40b. As a result, miniaturization of the system main relays 1p, 1n and DC charging relays 2p, 2n, and therefore miniaturization of the high-voltage J / B 10, can be achieved.

[0091] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the conductive area of ​​the shared fixed terminal 63 is larger than the conductive area of ​​each of the first fixed terminal 61 and the second fixed terminal 62. Therefore, even in a configuration in which the shared fixed terminal 63 is in contact with both the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72, it is possible to reliably pass a large current through the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0092] Furthermore, in the magnet set 80 of the first embodiment, at least one magnet body 80a is disposed on each of the four side walls 52 surrounding the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72. The four magnet bodies 80a form a magnetic flux JS for arc extinguishing. The magnetic field generated by the magnet set 80 applies an electromagnetic force EF to the arc generated between the contacts of the fixed terminal 60 and the movable terminal 70. As a result, arc extinguishing can be reliably achieved by extending the arc.

[0093] Additionally, the magnet set 80 of the first embodiment includes a first magnet 81 and a second magnet 82 as magnet bodies 80a. The first magnets 81 are arranged on two long side surfaces 52a along the arrangement direction (Y direction) of the fixed terminal 60. The second magnets 82 are arranged on two short side surfaces 52b facing opposite each other in the arrangement direction. The magnetic poles facing inward of each first magnet 81 are different from the magnetic poles facing inward of each second magnet 82. With the above configuration, a magnetic flux JS directed from one of the first magnets 81 and the second magnet 82 to the other is formed around each contact point (see FIG. 6, etc.). Therefore, an outward electromagnetic force EF acts on the arc generated between each contact point. As a result, the arc-extinguishing effect of extending the arc and quickly extinguishing it can be more reliably achieved.

[0094] In the first embodiment, the shielding wall 58 is located between the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72. The shielding wall 58 shields the inner movable contact 71b of the first movable terminal 71 from the inner movable contact 72b of the second movable terminal 72. As described above, even in a configuration in which two movable terminals 70 contact one shared fixed terminal 63, a creepage distance between the two inner movable contacts 71b, 72b can be ensured. As a result, generation of an arc between the first movable terminal 71 and the second movable terminal 72 can be suppressed.

[0095] Furthermore, the connector portion 91 of the first embodiment includes a first signal terminal 92a, a second signal terminal 92b, and a ground terminal 92c. Therefore, even if the electromagnetic actuator 20 is provided with two actuator portions 20a, 20b, a control signal and a ground potential can be supplied to each of the actuator portions 20a, 20b through a single connector portion 91. As described above, by sharing the connector portion 91 in addition to the fixed terminal 60, the structure of the electromagnetic relay 100 can be further simplified.

[0096] Additionally, in the first embodiment, the three fixed terminals 60 of the electromagnetic relay 100 are electrically connected to any one of the battery connection lines 15p, 15n, the inverter connection lines 16p, 16n, and the charging lines 17p, 17n. This connection allows the electromagnetic relay 100 to appropriately switch the current path in each of the drive, regeneration, and DC charging modes of the power control circuit 10a.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the battery ES corresponds to the "power storage device," the high-voltage J / B 10 corresponds to the "relay unit," the electromagnetic actuator 20 corresponds to the "drive portion," the long side surface 52a and the short side surface 52b correspond to the "side surface," and the shielding wall 58 corresponds to the "shielding portion." Also, the fixed terminal 60 corresponds to the "fixed connection terminal," the inner movable contact 71b corresponds to the "first movable contact," the inner movable contact 72b corresponds to the "second movable contact," the magnet set 80 corresponds to the "magnetic flux generating portion," and the electromagnetic relay 100 corresponds to the "relay."

[0098] Second Embodiment The second embodiment of the present disclosure shown in FIGS. 9 to 12 is a modified example of the first embodiment. In the high-voltage J / B 10 of the second embodiment, the configuration of the power control circuit 10b is different from that of the first embodiment. The power control circuit 10b is a DCR parallel circuit. In the DCR parallel circuit, DC charging relays 2p, 2n are connected in parallel to the system main relays 1p, 1n. Therefore, in the power control circuit 10b, the connection mode between each electromagnetic relay 100 and each current path is different from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, the DC charging relay 2p is located between the battery connection line 15p and the charging line 17p. The DC charging relay 2n is located between the battery connection line 15n and the charging line 17n.

[0099] As in the first embodiment, the power control circuit 10b uses two electromagnetic relays 100. The positive electromagnetic relay 100 is connected to the inverter connection line 16p, the battery connection line 15p, and the charging line 17n. The negative electromagnetic relay 100 is connected to the inverter connection line 16n, the battery connection line 15n, and the charging line 17n.

[0100] Bus bars forming at least a portion of the inverter connection lines 16p, 16n are fixed to the first fixed terminal 61 of the electromagnetic relay 100. Bus bars forming at least a portion of the battery connection lines 15p, 15n are fixed to the shared fixed terminal 63. Note that, as in the first embodiment, bus bars forming at least a portion of the charging lines 17p, 17n are fixed to the second fixed terminal 62.

[0101] The current paths of the electromagnetic relay 100 in each mode of the second embodiment and details of the arc interruption functioning in each mode will be described below with reference to FIGS. 3 and 9, based on FIGS. 10 to 12.

[0102] <Drive Mode> In the drive mode shown in Fig. 10 , the first actuator unit 20a places the first relay unit 40a in a closed state (on state). This allows current to flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the first relay unit 40a. As a result, a drive current ID flows from the battery connection line 15p and the shared fixed terminal 63 to the first fixed terminal 61 and the inverter connection line 16p (see the upper part of Fig. 10 ). Meanwhile, the second actuator unit 20b places the second relay unit 40b in an open state (off state). This blocks current from flowing between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the second relay unit 40b.

[0103] During current interruption in the drive mode described above, the arc generated between the first shared contact 67a and the inner movable contact 71b is subjected to an oblique electromagnetic force EF that moves in the +Y direction as it moves in the +X direction (see the lower part of Figure 10). Also, the arc generated between the outer movable contact 71a and the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61 is subjected to an electromagnetic force EF in the -X direction. As a result, the arc generated between the contacts in the drive mode is interrupted in a very short time due to the outward stretching effect of the electromagnetic force EF and the cooling effect of the arc-extinguishing gas.

[0104] <Regeneration Mode> In the regeneration mode shown in Figure 11, the first actuator unit 20a closes (turns on) the first relay unit 40a, as in the drive mode described above. This allows current to flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the first relay unit 40a. As a result, a regenerative current IR flows from the inverter connection line 16p and the first fixed terminal 61 to the shared fixed terminal 63 and the battery connection line 15p (see the upper part of Figure 11). Meanwhile, the second relay unit 40b is open (turns off), blocking current flow between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0105] During current interruption in the regeneration mode described above, the arc generated between the fixed contact 67 of the first fixed terminal 61 and the outer movable contact 71a is subjected to an electromagnetic force EF in the +X direction (see the lower part of Figure 11). Furthermore, the arc generated between the inner movable contact 71b and the first shared contact 67a is subjected to an oblique electromagnetic force EF in the -Y direction as it moves in the -X direction. As a result, the arc generated between the contacts in the regeneration mode is interrupted in a very short time due to the outward stretching effect of the electromagnetic force EF and the cooling effect of the arc-extinguishing gas.

[0106] <DC Charging Mode> In the DC charging mode shown in Figure 12, the first actuator unit 20a places the first relay unit 40a in an open state (off state). This blocks current flow between the first fixed terminal 61 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the first relay unit 40a. Meanwhile, the second actuator unit 20b places the second relay unit 40b in a closed state (on state). This allows current flow between the second fixed terminal 62 and the shared fixed terminal 63 in the second relay unit 40b. As a result, a charging current IC flows from the charging line 17p and the second fixed terminal 62 to the shared fixed terminal 63 and the battery connection line 15p (see the upper part of Figure 12).

[0107] During current interruption in the DC charging mode described above, the arc generated between the fixed contact 67 of the second fixed terminal 62 and the outer movable contact 72a is subjected to an electromagnetic force EF in the -X direction (see the lower part of Figure 12). Furthermore, the arc generated between the inner movable contact 72b and the second shared contact 67b is subjected to an oblique electromagnetic force EF in the +Y direction as it moves in the +X direction. As a result, the arc generated between the contacts in the DC charging mode is interrupted in a very short time due to the outward stretching effect of the electromagnetic force EF and the cooling effect of the arc-extinguishing gas.

[0108] (Summary of Second Embodiment) In the electromagnetic relay 100 of the second embodiment described above, the first relay unit 40a and the second relay unit 40b can be switched between open and closed states independently of each other. In addition, one of the fixed terminals 60 is shared by the first relay unit 40a and the second relay unit 40b as a shared fixed terminal 63. As a result, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be achieved, and a simplified structure can be realized while making it possible to switch the energization states of multiple current paths independently.

[0109] (Other Embodiments) Although multiple embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be applied to various embodiments and combinations within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0110] In the first modification of the above embodiment, each first magnet 81 has its south pole facing inward. Also, each second magnet 82 has its north pole facing inward. This arrangement of magnetic poles also creates a magnetic flux JS that flows from each second magnet 82 to each first magnet 81. As a result, even in the first modification, it is possible to extinguish arcs that occur between the contacts.

[0111] In Modification 2 of the above embodiment, two first magnets 81 are arranged in the Y direction on the outside of the long side surface 52a. Furthermore, in Modification 3, each second magnet 82 arranged on the outside of the short side surface 52b is divided into two in the X direction. The arrangement of these magnetic bodies 80a also creates a magnetic field around each contact point. As a result, in Modifications 2 and 3, it is possible to extinguish arcs that occur between each contact point. As described above, the number and arrangement of magnetic bodies 80a arranged around the sealed case 50 may be changed as appropriate.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the shielding wall 58 is configured to be integrated with the sealed case 50. In contrast, in the fourth modification of the above embodiment, the shielding wall 58 is provided as a separate body from the sealed case 50. Even with the shielding wall 58 configured in this way, it is possible to prevent the generation of an arc by being disposed between the two movable terminals 70 and blocking the contacts.

[0113] In the fifth modification of the above embodiment, two connector portions are provided. One connector portion includes a first signal terminal 92a and a ground terminal 92c, and is electrically connected to the first actuator portion 20a. The other connector portion includes a second signal terminal 92b and a ground terminal 92c, and is electrically connected to the second actuator portion 20b. These connector portions 91 are disposed on the upper surface of the relay housing 90 facing in the +X direction. As in the fifth modification described above, the number and arrangement of the connector portions may be changed as appropriate.

[0114] The power control circuits 10a and 10b in the above-described embodiments use two electromagnetic relays 100. In contrast, in Modification 6 of the above-described embodiment, an electromagnetic relay 100 that also serves as a positive-side system main relay 1p and a DC charging relay 2p is connected to a battery connection line 15p, an inverter connection line 16p, and a charging line 17p. On the other hand, a negative-side system main relay 1n and a DC charging relay 2n are configured as separate electromagnetic relays.

[0115] In a seventh modification of the above embodiment, an electromagnetic relay 100 that also serves as the negative-side system main relay 1n and DC charging relay 2n is connected to a battery connection line 15n, an inverter connection line 16n, and a charging line 17n. On the other hand, the positive-side system main relay 1p and DC charging relay 2p are configured as separate electromagnetic relays. As in the sixth and seventh modifications, the relay unit may employ only one electromagnetic relay 100. Furthermore, the relay unit may be configured to be divided into a positive-side electrical circuit and a negative-side electrical circuit.

[0116] In Modification 8 of the above embodiment, the arrangement of the three fixed terminals 60 differs from that of the above embodiment. In the electromagnetic relay 100 of Modification 8 shown in FIG. 13 , the first fixed terminal 61 and the second fixed terminal 62 are adjacent to each other in the Y direction. The shared fixed terminal 63 is arranged in the +X direction of the first fixed terminal 61 and the second fixed terminal 62, with its major axis aligned in the Y direction. A T-shaped integrated shielding plate 93 is formed between the three fixed terminals 60. As in Modification 8 above, the arrangement of the three fixed terminals 60 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the first fixed terminal 61 may be arranged in the +X direction of the shared fixed terminal 63, and the second fixed terminal 62 may be arranged in the +Y direction of the shared fixed terminal 63.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the electromagnetic relay 100 of the present disclosure is used in the high-voltage J / B 10 that is mounted on an electric vehicle and switches multiple current paths. However, the electromagnetic relay 100 can also be used in power control circuits used for purposes other than electric vehicles. For example, the electromagnetic relay 100 and relay unit of the present disclosure may be mounted on various moving objects such as railcars, trams, drones, and electric aircraft such as eVTOLs.

[0118] Furthermore, the electromagnetic relay 100 may be employed in a power control circuit combined with a fixed power storage device. In addition, the current paths connected to the three fixed terminals 60 are not limited to the battery connection line, inverter connection line, and charging line described above. The current paths connected to each fixed terminal may be changed as appropriate depending on the application of the electromagnetic relay and relay unit.

[0119] (Disclosure of Technical Ideas) This specification discloses multiple technical ideas described in the following multiple clauses. Some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, with the subsequent clause alternatively referring to the preceding clause. Furthermore, some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, with the subsequent clause referring to another multiple dependent clause. These multiple dependent clauses define multiple technical ideas.

[0120] (Technical Idea 1) A relay comprising: three connection and fixed terminals (60) electrically connected to different current paths, a first movable terminal (71) that contacts and separates with a first fixed terminal (61) and a shared fixed terminal (63) of the three connection and fixed terminals, a second movable terminal (72) that contacts and separates with a second fixed terminal (62) and the shared fixed terminal (63) of the three connection and fixed terminals, and a drive unit (20) that individually displaces the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal and independently switches between allowing and cutting off current flow between the first fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal and allowing and cutting off current flow between the second fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal. (Technical Idea 2) A relay according to Technical Idea 1, in which a conductive area of ​​the shared fixed terminal is larger than the conductive area of ​​each of the first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal. (Technical Idea 3) The relay according to Technical Idea 1 or 2, further comprising a magnetic flux generating section (80) that includes at least one magnetic body (80a) arranged on each of four side surfaces (52a, 52b) surrounding the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal, and that generates a magnetic flux (JS) for arc extinguishing between the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal and each of the fixed connection terminals. (Technical Idea 4) The first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal are located on both sides of the shared fixed terminal, and if the direction in which the three fixed connection terminals are lined up is defined as an arrangement direction, the magnetic flux generating section includes, as the magnetic bodies, a pair of first magnets (81) arranged on two of the side surfaces along the arrangement direction and a pair of second magnets (82) arranged on two of the side surfaces facing each other in the arrangement direction, and the magnetic poles facing inward of each of the first magnets are different from the magnetic poles facing inward of the second magnets. (Technical Idea 5) A relay according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 4, further comprising a shielding portion (58) located between the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal, for providing shielding between a first movable contact (71b) of the first movable terminal that contacts the shared fixed terminal and a second movable contact (72b) of the second movable terminal that contacts the shared fixed terminal.(Technical Idea 6) The relay according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 5, further comprising a connector section (91) including a first signal terminal (92a) that supplies a first control signal to the drive section that controls the displacement of the first movable terminal, a second signal terminal (92b) that supplies a second control signal to the drive section that controls the displacement of the second movable terminal, and a ground terminal (92c) that supplies a ground potential to the drive section. (Technical Idea 7) The relay according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 6, wherein the three fixed connection terminals are electrically connected to one of battery connection lines (15p, 15n) electrically connected to an electricity storage device (ES), inverter connection lines (16p, 16n) electrically connected to an inverter (7), and charging lines (17p, 17n) that supply power to charge the electricity storage device.

Claims

1. A relay comprising: three connection fixed terminals (60) electrically connected to different current paths; a first movable terminal (71) that comes into contact with and separates from a first fixed terminal (61) and a shared fixed terminal (63) among the three connection fixed terminals; a second movable terminal (72) that comes into contact with and separates from a second fixed terminal (62) and the shared fixed terminal (63) among the three connection fixed terminals; and a drive unit (20) that individually displaces the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal, and independently switches between allowing and cutting off current flow between the first fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal and allowing and cutting off current flow between the second fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal.

2. The relay according to claim 1, wherein the conductive area of ​​the shared fixed terminal is larger than the conductive area of ​​each of the first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal.

3. A relay as described in claim 1, further comprising a magnetic flux forming portion (80) including at least one magnetic body (80a) arranged on each of four side surfaces (52a, 52b) surrounding the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal, and forming a magnetic flux (JS) for extinguishing arcs between the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal and each of the connection fixed terminals.

4. A relay as described in claim 3, wherein the first fixed terminal and the second fixed terminal are located on either side of the shared fixed terminal, and the direction in which the three connecting fixed terminals are lined up is defined as an arrangement direction, the magnetic flux forming portion includes, as the magnetic body, a pair of first magnets (81) arranged on two of the side surfaces along the arrangement direction and a pair of second magnets (82) arranged on two of the side surfaces opposing each other in the arrangement direction, and the magnetic poles facing inward of each of the first magnets are different from the magnetic poles facing inward of the second magnets.

5. A relay as described in claim 1, further comprising a shielding portion (58) located between the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal, providing shielding between a first movable contact (71b) of the first movable terminal that contacts the shared fixed terminal and a second movable contact (72b) of the second movable terminal that contacts the shared fixed terminal.

6. A relay as described in claim 1, further comprising a connector portion (91) including a first signal terminal (92a) that supplies a first control signal to the drive portion for controlling the displacement of the first movable terminal, a second signal terminal (92b) that supplies a second control signal to the drive portion for controlling the displacement of the second movable terminal, and a ground terminal (92c) that supplies a ground potential to the drive portion.

7. A relay as described in claim 1, wherein the three fixed connection terminals are electrically connected to any one of a battery connection line (15p, 15n) electrically connected to an electric storage device (ES), an inverter connection line (16p, 16n) electrically connected to an inverter (7), and a charging line (17p, 17n) through which power is supplied to charge the electric storage device.

8. A battery connection line (15p, 15n) electrically connected to an electric storage device (ES), an inverter connection line (16p, 16n) electrically connected to an inverter (7), a charging line (17p, 17n) to which power for charging the electric storage device is supplied, and a relay (100) for switching a plurality of current paths including the battery connection line, the inverter connection line, and the charging line, wherein the relay comprises: three connection fixed terminals (60) electrically connected to any one of the three current paths; a first movable terminal (71) that comes into contact with and separates from a first fixed terminal (61) and a shared fixed terminal (63) of the three connection fixed terminals; and a second movable terminal (72) that comes into contact with and separates from a second fixed terminal (62) and the shared fixed terminal of the three connection fixed terminals. a drive unit (20) that individually displaces the first movable terminal and the second movable terminal and independently switches between allowing and blocking current flow between the first fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal, and allowing and blocking current flow between the second fixed terminal and the shared fixed terminal.

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