Relay assembly

Abstract

A relay assembly is disclosed. A relay assembly according to an aspect of the present invention may include: a first housing having a space formed therein; a second housing for supporting the first housing from one side thereof in the height direction; a control driving part coupled to the second housing and conductively connected to an external control power source; and a control module coupled to the first housing or the second housing and conductively connected to each of the control power source and the control driving part, wherein the control module includes: a control body conductively connected to the control driving part; and a terminal member conductively connected to the control body and the control power source.

Description

relay assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a relay assembly, and more particularly, to a relay assembly having a structure that is compact in size and easy to physically and electrically couple with other devices.

[0002] A relay is a device that is operated by an electrical control signal to control the opening and closing of another electrical circuit. The relay is electrically connected to each of the other electrical circuits and electrically connected to a control power source that transmits the control signal.

[0003] Relays can be incorporated into any device that requires the ability to allow or interrupt current flow between electrical circuits. For example, relays can be incorporated into and utilized in the Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU) of an electric vehicle (EV).

[0004] The BDU is installed between the battery and the inverter. Relays installed in the BDU are electrically connected to the battery and the inverter, respectively. The relays are configured to allow or block current flow between the battery and the inverter.

[0005] Meanwhile, when relays are installed in electric vehicles and other vehicles, the relay and its associated BDU must be as compact as possible due to the limited space available. This increases the difficulty of physically and electrically connecting the relay to the BDU. Furthermore, as relays become smaller, maintaining their mated state or maintaining energization with other components becomes more difficult.

[0006] Accordingly, a method is required to improve operational reliability by miniaturizing the relay while making it easy to combine with other configurations and stably maintaining the combination and current state.

[0007] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0155956 discloses a compact automatic power switching device. Specifically, the device includes a relay connecting a normal terminal and an emergency terminal to an output terminal and a PCB on which the relay is mounted, thereby enabling the opening and closing of the normal terminal, the emergency terminal, and the output terminal without a circuit breaker, a power detection circuit, or a CPU control circuit.

[0008] However, the power automatic switching device disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art document is structured such that the relay is mounted on a separate PCB. That is, the above-mentioned prior art document requires a separate process for mounting the relay on the PCB, and thus does not provide a method for easily combining the relay and the PCB.

[0009] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-113059 discloses a vehicle electrical junction box. Specifically, the electrical junction box comprises a plurality of PCB relay modules and plug-in relays, respectively, thereby suppressing the effects of condensation and freezing even when the vehicle is used in cold environments.

[0010] However, the vehicle electrical connection box disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art document only provides a method for improving the operational reliability of the electrical connection box through multiple relay modules. In other words, the above-mentioned prior art document does not provide a method for easily forming the connection and energization of multiple relay modules and other configurations.

[0011] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0155956 (November 24, 2022)

[0012] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-113059 (August 15, 2023)

[0013] The present invention is intended to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a relay assembly having a structure that can be miniaturized.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a relay assembly having a structure that is easy to combine with other configurations.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a relay assembly having a structure in which a current-carrying state with another configuration can be easily formed.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a relay assembly having a structure in which a state of coupling and current transmission with other components can be stably maintained.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a relay assembly having a structure in which the physical distance for transmitting an electric signal or a control signal can be shortened.

[0018] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, a relay assembly is provided, comprising: a first housing having a space formed therein; a second housing supporting the first housing from one side in the height direction; a control movable part coupled to the second housing and electrically connected to an external control power source; and a control module coupled to the first housing or the second housing and electrically connected to the control power source and the control movable part, respectively, wherein the control module includes: a control body electrically connected to the control movable part; and a terminal member electrically connected to the control body and the control power source, respectively.

[0020] At this time, the control module may be provided with a relay assembly including a connector member that protrudes in a direction opposite to the first housing and the second housing, is coupled to the control body, and surrounds the terminal member from the outside.

[0021] In addition, a relay assembly may be provided in which a space for accommodating the terminal member is formed inside the connector member, and a connector provided to the control power source is accommodated in the space and electrically connected to the terminal member.

[0022] At this time, a relay assembly may be provided in which the second housing is formed to protrude from one side facing the control module and includes a control module support protrusion that supports the control body.

[0023] In addition, a relay assembly may be provided in which a plurality of control module support protrusions are provided, and the plurality of control module support protrusions are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the control body to support each side of the control body in the longitudinal direction.

[0024] At this time, a relay assembly may be provided, which includes a power-conducting movable part that is accommodated in the space of the first housing, is electrically connected to the outside, and is coupled to the control movable part, wherein the control movable part includes a movable core that is provided to be able to rise and fall; and a shaft member that is coupled to the movable core and the power-conducting movable part, respectively.

[0025] In addition, a relay assembly may be provided in which the energizing movable part includes a fixed contact that is at least partially exposed to the outside of the first housing and electrically connected to the outside; and a movable contact that is coupled to the shaft member and is configured to be elevated together with the movable core and the shaft member, and to be energized by contacting the fixed contact or de-energized by being separated from the fixed contact.

[0026] At this time, a relay assembly may be provided in which the control movable part includes a coil that surrounds the movable core and the shaft member radially outside, the current-conducting movable part includes a sensor terminal located outside the first housing and arranged adjacent to the fixed contact to generate detection information on the state of the fixed contact; and an operation terminal located outside the second housing and electrically connected to the coil.

[0027] In addition, a relay assembly may be provided in which a plurality of terminal members are provided, some of the plurality of terminal members are electrically connected to the sensor terminal, and the remaining of the plurality of terminal members are electrically connected to the operating terminal.

[0028] At this time, a relay assembly may be provided in which the control movable part includes a coil surrounding the movable core and the shaft member from a radial outer side; and a fixed core positioned radially inward of the coil and magnetized by a magnetic field formed by the coil to apply a magnetic attractive force to the movable core.

[0029] In addition, a relay assembly may be provided in which the energizing movable part includes a plurality of fixed contacts that are at least partially exposed on the outside of the first housing and electrically connected to the outside; and a movable contact that is coupled to the shaft member and rises together with the movable core and the shaft member to simultaneously contact and energize the plurality of fixed contacts.

[0030] At this time, a relay assembly may be provided in which the first housing includes an insulating plate positioned between the plurality of fixed contacts to physically and electrically separate the plurality of fixed contacts.

[0031] In addition, a relay assembly may be provided in which the energizing movable part includes a plurality of sensor terminals positioned on the outside of the first housing and arranged adjacent to the plurality of fixed contacts to generate detection information on the status of each of the plurality of fixed contacts, and the first housing includes a plurality of fastening members positioned adjacent to the outer ends of the plurality of fixed contacts to limit a movement distance of the plurality of sensor terminals.

[0032] At this time, the terminal member is connected to a main board connector provided on an external main board so as to be electrically conductive, and the main board may be provided with a relay assembly provided in a BMS (Battery Management System).

[0033] According to the above configuration, the relay assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention can be miniaturized.

[0034] In addition, according to the above configuration, the relay assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention is easy to combine with other configurations.

[0035] In addition, according to the above configuration, the relay assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention can easily form a current-carrying state with other configurations.

[0036] In addition, according to the above configuration, the relay assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention can stably maintain a state of coupling and energization with other configurations.

[0037] In addition, according to the above configuration, the relay assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention can shorten the physical distance for transmitting an electric signal or a control signal.

[0038] 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 detailed description of the present invention or the composition of the invention described in the claims.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a relay assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating the relay assembly of Figure 1.

[0041] Figure 3 is a side view illustrating the relay assembly of Figure 1.

[0042] Figure 4 is a front view illustrating the relay assembly of Figure 1.

[0043] Figure 5 is a bottom view illustrating the relay assembly of Figure 1.

[0044] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the relay assembly of Fig. 1.

[0045] Fig. 7 is a BB cross-sectional view illustrating the relay assembly of Fig. 1.

[0046] Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the relay assembly of Fig. 1.

[0047] Figure 9 is a perspective view illustrating the process of combining the relay assembly of Figure 1 with an external main board.

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. To clearly explain the present invention, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals designate identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0049] The words and terms used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a way that is consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, in accordance with the principles by which the inventor can define terms and concepts in order to best explain his or her invention.

[0050] 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, so there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace the configuration at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0051] In the following description, descriptions of some components may be omitted to clarify the features of the present invention.

[0052]

[0053] The term "fluid communication" as used herein refers to one or more elements being fluidly connected to one another. In one embodiment, the fluid communication may be formed by elements such as conduits, pipes, or piping. In the following description, the fluid communication may be used in the same sense as one or more elements being "fluidly connected" to one another.

[0054] The term "conduction" as used herein refers to the connection of one or more elements to enable the transmission of current or electrical signals. In one embodiment, the conduction may be formed in a wired form, such as by a conductor element, or in a wireless form, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RFID. In one embodiment, the conduction may also include the meaning of "communication."

[0055] The term "fluid" used in the following description refers to any form of material that can flow and change shape or volume, etc., due to an external force. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.

[0056] The terms “upper side,” “lower side,” “left side,” “right side,” “front side,” and “rear side” used in the following description shall be understood with reference to the coordinate system depicted throughout the attached drawings.

[0057]

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, the external appearance of a relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be used in combination with other devices. In one embodiment, the relay assembly (10) may be used in combination with a BDU equipped in an electric vehicle. In the above embodiment, the relay assembly (10) may be electrically coupled with other components of the BDU.

[0059] The relay assembly (10) may be configured to allow or block electrical connection of the other components. To this end, the relay assembly (10) may be operated by control information received from the BDU. That is, the relay assembly (10) may also be electrically coupled to another component that transmits the control information.

[0060] At this time, the relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to process the received control information and generate a control signal. That is, the control information is directly processed in the relay assembly (10), and the relay assembly (10) can be operated according to the processing result.

[0061] Accordingly, the work of energizing the configuration for processing control information to be transmitted to the relay assembly (10) and the other configurations of the relay assembly (10) can be omitted. As a result, the relay assembly (10) and the BDU equipped with the relay assembly (10) can be miniaturized, while the assembly and workability can be improved.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the relay assembly (10) includes a first housing (100), a second housing (200), a control movable part (300), a power-conducting movable part (400), and a control module (500).

[0063] The first housing (100) constitutes a portion of the outer shape of the relay assembly (10). The first housing (100) is coupled to and supports other components of the relay assembly (10).

[0064] Additionally, a space is formed inside the first housing (100) so that a part of the configuration of the relay assembly (10) can be accommodated. The space is communicated with a space formed inside the second housing (200), so that a current state between other configurations to which the relay assembly (10) is electrically connected can be permitted or blocked.

[0065] The first housing (100) is coupled with the second housing (200). The first housing (100) is positioned on one side of the relay assembly (10) in the height direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, and is coupled with the second housing (200) which is positioned on the other side of the relay assembly (10) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0066] The first housing (100) partially accommodates the control movable part (300). That is, as best illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first housing (100) accommodates one longitudinal side, i.e., the upper side, of the shaft member (330). The first housing (100) can accommodate the shaft member (330) in a movable manner.

[0067] The first housing (100) is coupled with a current-conducting movable part (400). The first housing (100) can partially accommodate the current-conducting movable part (400). The current-conducting movable part (400) can be electrically connected to other external components while being accommodated in the first housing (100). An arc or the like generated during the operation of the current-conducting movable part (400) can be prevented from being arbitrarily leaked to the outside by the first housing (100).

[0068] The first housing (100) is coupled with the control module (500). One side of the width direction of the first housing (100), the front side in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled with the control module (500).

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing (100) includes a first housing body (110), an arc chamber (120), a magnet member (130), an insulating plate (140), and a fastening member (150).

[0070] The first housing body (110) constitutes the outer shape of the first housing (100). The first housing body (110) may be coupled with or support other components of the first housing (100). In the illustrated embodiment, an arc chamber (120) and a magnet member (130) are accommodated inside the first housing body (110). An insulating plate (140) and a fastening member (150) are positioned outside the first housing body (110).

[0071] The first housing body (110) may be of any shape that can be combined with or accommodate other components of the first housing (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing body (110) is a three-dimensional shape having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0072] The first housing body (110) may be formed of a lightweight yet high-strength material. Furthermore, the first housing body (110) may be formed of an electrically insulating material. Since the first housing body (110) is a portion exposed to the outside, it is intended to prevent damage due to external impact and to prevent arbitrary electrical current from flowing through it.

[0073] In one embodiment, the first housing body (110) may be formed of a synthetic resin material such as reinforced plastic.

[0074] A space is formed inside the first housing body (110). An arc chamber (120) and a magnet member (130) are accommodated in the space. In addition, a current-conducting movable part (400) and a shaft member (330) accommodated in the arc chamber (120) can be positioned in the space of the first housing body (110).

[0075] The arc chamber (120) accommodates a current-carrying movable part (400). An arc generated by the fixed contact (410) and the movable contact (420) accommodated in the arc chamber (120) being separated from each other may not leak to the outside by the arc chamber (120).

[0076] The arc chamber (120) is coupled with the first housing body (110). The arc chamber (120) is located in a space formed inside the first housing body (110). The arc chamber (120) can be supported by one side in the height direction of the second housing body (210), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0077] The arc chamber (120) is coupled with a magnet member (130). An arc generated in the arc chamber (120) is induced by a magnetic field formed by the magnet member (130) and can be extinguished along an intended direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet member (130) is positioned on each side of the arc chamber (120) in the longitudinal and width directions, i.e., on the outer side of the left, right, front, and rear sides.

[0078] The arc chamber (120) is coupled to the control movable part (300). The arc chamber (120) can support the shaft member (330) of the control movable part (300) so as to be able to rise and fall.

[0079] The arc chamber (120) is coupled to the energized movable part (400). The arc chamber (120) accommodates the energized movable part (400) and can extinguish an arc generated from the energized movable part (400).

[0080] The arc chamber (120) is accommodated inside the first housing body (110) and may have any shape that can be coupled with the magnet member (130), the control moving part (300), and the power-conducting moving part (400). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc chamber (120) has a three-dimensional shape having a length in the left-right direction, a width in the front-back direction, and a height in the up-down direction. The shape of the arc chamber (120) may be changed to correspond to the shape of the first housing body (110).

[0081] The arc chamber (120) may be formed of a high-strength, electrically insulating, and thermally insulating material. This is to prevent leakage and damage caused by the arc generated from the current-carrying movable part (400) housed inside the arc chamber (120). In one embodiment, the arc chamber (120) may be formed of a ceramic material.

[0082] An arc chamber space (121) is formed inside the arc chamber (120). The arc chamber space (121) can be defined as a space formed inside the arc chamber (120). The arc chamber space (121) can accommodate a portion of the control movable part (300), i.e., a shaft member (330), in a manner that allows it to be lifted.

[0083] In addition, the arc chamber space (121) accommodates a movable part (400). At this time, a part of the movable part (400), i.e., a fixed contact (410), may be fixed to the arc chamber space (121). In addition, another part of the movable part (400), i.e., a movable contact (420), may be positioned in the arc chamber space (121) so as to be able to rise and fall together with the shaft member (330).

[0084] The arc chamber space (121) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the arc chamber (120). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc chamber space (121) is formed as a three-dimensional space having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0085] The magnet member (130) is coupled with the arc chamber (120) to form a magnetic field in the arc chamber space (121). By the magnetic field formed by the magnet member (130), an arc generated in the arc chamber space (121) can be guided in an intended direction and extinguished.

[0086] The magnet member (130) is coupled to the arc chamber (120). The magnet member (130) is positioned outside the arc chamber (120), opposite to the arc chamber space (121).

[0087] A plurality of magnet members (130) may be provided. The plurality of magnet members (130) may be coupled to the arc chamber (120) at different locations to form a magnetic field in the arc chamber space (121). In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of magnet members (130) are positioned on each side of the arc chamber (120) in the longitudinal and width directions, i.e., on the left, right, front, and rear sides, respectively.

[0088] The magnet member (130) may be provided in any shape capable of forming a magnetic field in the arc chamber space (121). For example, the magnet member (130) may be provided in the shape of a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

[0089] The insulating plate (140) physically and electrically separates a plurality of fixed contacts (410) exposed to the outside of the first housing body (110).

[0090] An insulating plate (140) is coupled to the first housing body (110). The insulating plate (140) is coupled to one side of the first housing body (110) in the height direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The insulating plate (140) is exposed to the outside of the first housing body (110).

[0091] An insulating plate (140) is positioned between a plurality of fixed contacts (410). In the illustrated embodiment, the insulating plate (140) is positioned between a pair of fixed contacts (411, 412) that are spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. The insulating plate (140) physically and electrically separates the pair of fixed contacts (411, 412) so that random current flow between them can be prevented.

[0092] The insulating plate (140) may be provided in any shape that can physically and electrically separate a plurality of fixed contacts (410). In the illustrated embodiment, the insulating plate (140) is provided as a plate-shaped member having a length in the front-back direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a width in the left-right direction.

[0093] The insulating plate (140) may be formed of a high-strength, electrically insulating material. In one embodiment, the insulating plate (140) may be formed of a synthetic resin material such as reinforced plastic, similar to the first housing body (110).

[0094] The fastening member (150) maintains the coupled state of the fixed contact (410) and the sensor terminal (430). The fastening member (150) is configured to prevent arbitrary movement of the sensor terminal (430).

[0095] The fastening member (150) is coupled to the portion of the fixed contact (410) that is exposed to the outside of the first housing (100), i.e., the upper portion in the illustrated embodiment. The fastening member (150) can be penetratedly coupled to the upper portion of the fixed contact (410). Accordingly, the upper portion of the fixed contact (410) is exposed to the outside and can be electrically connected to other components.

[0096] The fastening member (150) may be positioned to be spaced apart from the sensor terminal (430). That is, as best illustrated in FIG. 3, the fastening member (150) may be positioned to form a space between it and the sensor terminal (430). Accordingly, the sensor terminal (430) is raised or lowered by a predetermined distance, but is prevented from being raised or lowered by a distance exceeding the predetermined distance by the fastening member (150).

[0097] The fastening member (150) is coupled to the fixed contact (410) and may be provided in any shape capable of limiting the movement of the sensor terminal (430). In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening member (150) is provided in the form of a screw member. In the above embodiment, the fastening member (150) may be screw-coupled to the fixed contact (410).

[0098] A plurality of fastening members (150) may be provided. The plurality of fastening members (150) are coupled to the plurality of fixed contacts (410) and can restrict the movement of each of the plurality of sensor terminals (430).

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening member (150) includes a first fastening member (151) and a second fastening member (152).

[0100] The first fastening member (151) is located on one longitudinal side of the first housing (100), on the left side in the illustrated embodiment. The first fastening member (151) is coupled with the first fixed contact (411) and limits the rise of the first sensor terminal (431).

[0101] The second fastening member (152) is located on the other longitudinal side of the first housing (100), on the right side in the illustrated embodiment. The second fastening member (152) is coupled with the second fixed contact (412) and limits the rise of the second sensor terminal (432).

[0102] The second housing (200) constitutes another portion of the exterior of the relay assembly (10). The second housing (200) is coupled to and supports other components of the relay assembly (10).

[0103] Additionally, a space is formed inside the second housing (200) to accommodate a portion of the configuration of the relay assembly (10). The space is connected to a space formed inside the first housing body (110) to accommodate a shaft member (330) so as to be able to be lifted.

[0104] The second housing (200) is coupled with the first housing (100). The second housing (200) is positioned on the other side in the height direction of the relay assembly (10), i.e., on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, and supports the first housing (100) positioned on the upper side.

[0105] The second housing (200) is coupled with the control movable part (300). The second housing (200) accommodates the control movable part (300). The second housing (200) can accommodate some components of the control movable part (300) in a movable manner.

[0106] Although not shown, a coil (not shown) may be wound around the second housing (200). The coil (not shown) may be electrically connected to a control module (500) to be described later, and may form a magnetic field according to a control signal applied by the control module (500). Accordingly, the fixed core (310) provided in the control movable part (300) may be magnetized, and the movable core (320) and the shaft member (330) coupled thereto may be raised.

[0107] The second housing (200) is coupled to the control module (500). The second housing (200) can support a portion of the control module (500). The second housing (200) is electrically connected to the control module (500). The coil (not shown) wound around the second housing (200) can be magnetized by a control power applied by the control module (500).

[0108] In the above embodiment, the relay assembly (10) may be provided in the form of an electronic relay.

[0109] Alternatively, the relay assembly (10) may be provided without the coil (not shown). In the above embodiment, the relay assembly (10) may be provided in the form of a semiconductor relay (SSR, Solid State Relay).

[0110] In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing (200) includes a second housing body (210), a yoke receiving space (220), a support plate (230), a bobbin (240), a cylinder member (250), and a control module support protrusion (260).

[0111] The second housing body (210) constitutes the outer shape of the second housing (200). The second housing body (210) can be combined with or support other components of the second housing (200). In the illustrated embodiment, a yoke receiving space (220) is formed inside the second housing body (210). A support plate (230) is positioned on one side in the height direction of the second housing body (210), that is, on the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. A bobbin (240) and a cylinder member (250) are formed inside the second housing body (210), and a control module support protrusion (260) is positioned on one side of the exterior of the second housing body (210), that is, on the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0112] The second housing body (210) may be of any shape that can be combined with or accommodate other components of the second housing (200). In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing body (210) is a three-dimensional shape having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0113] The second housing body (210) may be formed of a high-strength material. This is to stably accommodate or support the relatively heavy control movable part (300) and coil (not shown), and to stably support the first housing (100) and the power-conducting movable part (400) and control module (500) coupled to the first housing (100). In one embodiment, the second housing body (210) may be formed of a metal material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing body (210) includes a first surface (211), a second surface (212), and a third surface (213).

[0115] The first surface (211) forms one surface of the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface (211) constitutes the other side in the height direction, i.e., the lower surface, of the second housing body (210). The first surface (211) surrounds the yoke receiving space (220) from the other side in the height direction, i.e., the lower surface.

[0116] The first surface (211) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the horizontal cross-section of the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface (211) is formed in a polygonal plate shape having a length in the left-right direction, a width in the front-back direction, and a thickness in the up-down direction.

[0117] The first surface (211) is coupled with a bobbin (240) and a cylinder member (250) accommodated in the yoke accommodation space (220). As best illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the bobbin (240) is supported at its lower side by the first surface (211), and the cylinder member (250) can be penetratedly coupled to the first surface (211).

[0118] The second surface (212) forms the other surface of the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the second surface (212) constitutes one longitudinal side of the second housing body (210), i.e., the left side. The second surface (212) surrounds the yoke receiving space (220) on the longitudinal side, i.e., the left side.

[0119] The second surface (212) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the vertical cross-section of the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the second surface (212) is formed in a polygonal plate shape having a length in the vertical direction, a width in the front-back direction, and a thickness in the left-right direction.

[0120] The second surface (212) is continuous with the first surface (211) at a predetermined angle. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle. In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the second surface (212) in the height direction, i.e., the lower side, is continuous with the left end of the first surface (211). The second surface (212) is arranged to face the third surface (213) with the yoke receiving space (220) therebetween.

[0121] The third surface (213) forms another surface of the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the third surface (213) constitutes the other longitudinal side, i.e., the right side, of the second housing body (210). The third surface (213) surrounds the yoke receiving space (220) from the other longitudinal side, i.e., the right side.

[0122] The third surface (213) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the vertical cross-section of the second housing body (210) or the shape of the second surface (212). In the illustrated embodiment, the third surface (213) is formed in a polygonal plate shape having a length in the vertical direction, a width in the front-back direction, and a thickness in the left-right direction.

[0123] The third surface (213) is continuous with the first surface (211) at a predetermined angle. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle. In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the third surface (213) in the height direction, i.e., the lower side, is continuous with the right end of the first surface (211). The third surface (213) is arranged to face the second surface (212) with the yoke receiving space (220) interposed therebetween.

[0124] The yoke receiving space (220) is a space formed inside the second housing body (210). The yoke receiving space (220) is surrounded on each side in the height direction and each side in the length direction by the second housing body (210) and the support plate (230). In the illustrated embodiment, the upper side, lower side, left side, and right side of the yoke receiving space (220) are surrounded by the second housing body (210) and the support plate (230).

[0125] Each side of the width direction of the yoke receiving space (220), the front side and the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, are formed as open. Therefore, a separate configuration for surrounding the yoke receiving space (220) is not required, enabling miniaturization and weight reduction of the relay assembly (10).

[0126] The yoke receiving space (220) receives a bobbin (240) and a cylinder member (250). In addition, the yoke receiving space (220) receives a coil (not shown) wound on the bobbin (240) and a control moving part (300) received in the cylinder member (250).

[0127] The yoke receiving space (220) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the yoke receiving space (220) is formed as a polygonal prism-shaped space having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the horizontal length or width of the yoke receiving space (220) may be formed to be greater than the thickness of the coil (not shown) wound on the bobbin (240). Accordingly, the coil (not shown) wound on the bobbin (240) may not be exposed to the outside of the yoke receiving space (220).

[0129] The yoke receiving space (220) can be communicated with the arc chamber space (121) through a support through hole (231) formed inside the support plate (230). Accordingly, the shaft member (330) can be elevated in the yoke receiving space (220) and the arc chamber space (121).

[0130] The support plate (230) covers the yoke receiving space (220) from one side in the height direction, i.e., the upper side. In addition, the support plate (230) supports the first housing (100) from the lower side. The support plate (230) is located between the first housing (100) and the second housing body (210).

[0131] The support plate (230) may have a shape corresponding to the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the first housing body (110) or the second housing body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate (230) is provided in the shape of a polygonal plate having a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

[0132] In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate (230) includes a support through hole (231).

[0133] A support through hole (231) is formed penetrating the interior of the support plate (230). The support through hole (231) connects the arc chamber space (121) and the interior space of the cylinder member (250). The shaft member (330) accommodated in the cylinder member (250) can be elevated by penetrating the support through hole (231).

[0134] The support through hole (231) may have any shape that can communicate the arc chamber space (121) and the internal space of the cylinder member (250). In one embodiment, the support through hole (231) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the cross-section of the shaft member (330). In the illustrated embodiment, the support through hole (231) is formed as a space in the shape of a disk having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

[0135] Each side in the thickness direction of the support through hole (231), the upper side and the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, are formed open. The radial direction of the support through hole (231) can be surrounded by the inner periphery of the support plate (230). The outer periphery of the shaft member (330) penetrated through the support through hole (231) can be supported by the inner periphery of the support plate (230).

[0136] The bobbin (240) is the portion on which the coil (not shown) is wound. The bobbin (240) supports the wound coil (not shown) radially inward. The coil (not shown) can be electrically connected to the operating terminal (440) and the control module (500) while wound on the bobbin (240).

[0137] The bobbin (240) is coupled to the second housing body (210). Specifically, as best illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the bobbin (240) is accommodated in the yoke accommodation space (220) and supported by the first face (211). The bobbin (240) is surrounded on each longitudinal side of the second housing body (210), in the illustrated embodiment, on the left and right sides, by the second face (212) and the third face (213).

[0138] The bobbin (240) is coupled to the support plate (230). One side of the bobbin (240) in the height direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, supports the support plate (230) from the lower side.

[0139] The bobbin (240) is coupled to a cylinder member (250). A hollow is formed through the inside of the bobbin (240). The cylinder member (250) can be accommodated in the hollow. The cylinder member (250) can be supported in a radial direction by the bobbin (240).

[0140] The bobbin (240) may have any shape on which the coil (not shown) is wound and which can be coupled with the cylinder member (250). In the illustrated embodiment, the bobbin (240) has a circular cross-section and a vertical height, but is a three-dimensional shape with its upper and lower sides extending in a radial direction.

[0141] The cylinder member (250) accommodates the control movable part (300). Some components of the control movable part (300) may be fixedly accommodated in the cylinder member (250). Other components of the control movable part (300) may be movably accommodated in the cylinder member (250).

[0142] The cylinder member (250) is connected to the arc chamber space (121). Specifically, the inner space of the cylinder member (250) is connected to the arc chamber space (121) through a support through hole (231) formed through the inner surface of the support plate (230).

[0143] The cylinder member (250) is coupled with the second housing body (210). Specifically, as best illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the cylinder member (250) is accommodated in the yoke accommodation space (220) and is penetrably coupled to the first surface (211). One side of the cylinder member (250) in the height direction, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, may be positioned outside the first surface (211).

[0144] The cylinder member (250) is coupled to the support plate (230). The cylinder member (250) is positioned on the lower side of the support plate (230) and can support the support plate (230).

[0145] The cylinder member (250) is coupled to the bobbin (240). The cylinder member (250) can be accommodated in a hollow space formed inside the bobbin (240). That is, the cylinder member (250) is surrounded on its radially outer side by the bobbin (240) and may not be exposed to the outside. The cylinder member (250) is supported in the radial direction by the bobbin (240).

[0146] The cylinder member (250) accommodates the control movable part (300) and may have any shape that can be supported by the second housing body (210) and the bobbin (240). In the illustrated embodiment, the cylinder member (250) has a three-dimensional shape with a circular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0147] The control module support protrusion (260) is a portion where the second housing (200) is coupled with the control module (500). The control module support protrusion (260) is configured to support the control module (500) coupled with the power-conducting movable part (400). The control module support protrusion (260) is coupled with the second housing body (210).

[0148] The control module support protrusion (260) can be positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the control module (500). In the illustrated embodiment, the control module support protrusion (260) is positioned on the upper side of the front of the second housing body (210).

[0149] The control module support protrusion (260) may have any shape capable of supporting the control module (500). In the illustrated embodiment, the control module support protrusion (260) protrudes toward one side in the width direction of the second housing body (210), i.e., the front side, and the protruding length on the outer side in the longitudinal direction is formed to be longer than the protruding length on the inner side in the longitudinal direction.

[0150] That is, the control module support protrusion (260) is provided in the form of an angle member including at least one bend when viewed from a horizontal direction.

[0151] A plurality of control module support protrusions (260) may be provided. The plurality of control module support protrusions (260) may be spaced apart from each other to support the control modules (500) at different locations.

[0152] In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of control module support protrusions (260) are provided and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the second housing body (210), i.e., in the left-right direction. The pair of control module support protrusions (260) can support the lower left end and the lower right end of the control body (510), respectively. The pair of control module support protrusions (260) are arranged to face each other along the longitudinal direction of the second housing body (210) with the control module (500) interposed therebetween.

[0153] The control movable part (300) is operated according to a control signal applied by the control module (500). The control movable part (300) is coupled with the energizing movable part (400), so that a part of the energizing movable part (400), i.e., a movable contactor (420) to be described later, can move to contact the fixed contactor (410) and be energized, or be separated and de-energized.

[0154] The control movable part (300) is partially positioned in the first housing (100). Specifically, a part of the control movable part (300), i.e., the shaft member (330), is at least partially accommodated inside the arc chamber (120) and coupled with the movable contact (420).

[0155] The control movable part (300) is coupled to the second housing (200). The control movable part (300) is accommodated in a space formed inside the cylinder member (250) and can be supported by the cylinder member (250).

[0156] Additionally, the control movable part (300) is positioned adjacent to the coil (not shown) wound on the bobbin (240). The control movable part (300) can be magnetized as current flows through the coil (not shown).

[0157] The control movable part (300) is coupled with the power movable part (400). The control movable part (300) is coupled with the movable contact (420) and can move together.

[0158] In the illustrated embodiment, the control movable part (300) includes a fixed core (310), a movable core (320), a shaft member (330), and an elastic member (340). In addition, although not illustrated, the control movable part (300) may further include a coil (not illustrated) wound around a bobbin (240).

[0159] The fixed core (310) is magnetized by a magnetic field formed by current flowing through the coil (not shown). The magnetized fixed core (310) applies a magnetic attractive force to the movable core (320). Accordingly, the movable core (320) and the shaft member (330) coupled thereto can be raised together toward the fixed core (310).

[0160] The fixed core (310) is coupled to the cylinder member (250). Specifically, the fixed core (310) is accommodated in a space formed inside the cylinder member (250), so that its radial direction can be supported by the cylinder member (250).

[0161] As the name suggests, the fixed core (310) does not move. That is, the fixed core (310) is fixedly coupled to the cylinder member (250) at a preset position. Therefore, the magnetic attraction force formed by the fixed core (310) can be utilized solely to move the movable core (320). In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed core (310) is positioned on one side of the cylinder member (250) in the height direction, i.e., on the upper side.

[0162] A hollow space is formed inside the fixed core (310). A shaft member (330) can be connected to the hollow space so as to be able to move up and down.

[0163] The fixed core (310) is positioned adjacent to the movable core (320). At this time, when the fixed core (310) is not magnetized, the fixed core (310) can be spaced apart from the movable core (320) in the height direction, i.e., in the up-down direction.

[0164] That is, as best illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the fixed core (310) is positioned adjacent to the upper end of the cylinder member (250) and is positioned at a predetermined distance from the movable core (320) positioned adjacent to the lower end of the cylinder member (250).

[0165] The fixed core (310) is coupled to the shaft member (330). The fixed core (310) supports the shaft member (330) so that it can be lifted.

[0166] The fixed core (310) is elastically supported by an elastic member (340). One side in the height direction of the fixed core (310), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, can be supported by contacting one side in the height direction of the elastic member (340), i.e., the upper side.

[0167] The fixed core (310) may be of any shape that can be magnetized by the magnetic field formed by the coil (not shown) and apply a magnetic attraction force to the movable core (320). In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed core (310) has a circular cross-section and a vertical height, and is a three-dimensional shape with a hollow space formed therein.

[0168] The movable core (320) is raised by the magnetic attraction formed by the fixed core (310). When the movable core (320) is raised, the movable contact (420) coupled thereto is also raised and can come into contact with the fixed contact (410). Accordingly, the relay assembly (10) can energize external components.

[0169] The movable core (320) is coupled to the cylinder member (250). Specifically, the movable core (320) is movably accommodated in a space formed inside the cylinder member (250). The radially outer side of the movable core (320) can be supported by the cylinder member (250).

[0170] As the name suggests, the movable core (320) is a movable component of the control movable part (300). The movable core (320) can be moved in a direction toward the fixed core (310), i.e., upward, by the magnetic attractive force applied by the fixed core (310). When the magnetization state of the fixed core (310) is released, the movable core (320) can be moved in a direction opposite to the fixed core (310), i.e., downward, by the self-weight and the restoring force applied by the elastic member (340).

[0171] The movable core (320) is coupled to the shaft member (330). The movable core (320) can be raised or lowered together with the shaft member (330).

[0172] The movable core (320) is elastically supported by an elastic member (340). One side of the movable core (320) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, can be supported by contacting the other side of the elastic member (340) in the height direction, i.e., the lower side.

[0173] The movable core (320) may have any shape that can be raised toward the fixed core (310) together with the shaft member (330) by the magnetic attraction force applied by the fixed core (310). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable core (320) has a three-dimensional shape with a circular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0174] The shaft member (330) transmits the movement of the movable core (320) to the energized movable part (400). The shaft member (330) can be coupled with the movable contact (420) of the movable core (320) and the energized movable part (400) and move together.

[0175] The shaft member (330) is movably connected to the first housing (100) and the second housing (200), respectively. Specifically, the shaft member (330) is movably connected to a support through-hole (231) formed through the support plate (230).

[0176] Among the parts of the shaft member (330), the part located above the support through hole (231) is located in the arc chamber space (121) and is coupled with the movable contact (420). Among the parts of the shaft member (330), the part located below the support through hole (231) is located in the space formed inside the cylinder member (250) and is coupled with the movable core (320).

[0177] The shaft member (330) may have any shape that can be combined with the movable core (320) and the movable contact (420) and be raised and lowered together. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft member (330) has a three-dimensional shape with a circular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0178] One side in the height direction of the shaft member (330), the upper end in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled with the movable contact (420). The other side in the height direction of the shaft member (330), the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled with the movable core (320).

[0179] The shaft member (330) is coupled to the elastic member (340). The shaft member (330) is coupled through a hollow space formed inside the elastic member (340).

[0180] The elastic member (340) provides a restoring force for the movable core (320) to descend. The elastic member (340) is deformed by the rising movable core (320) and stores the restoring force. When the magnetization state of the fixed core (310) is released, the movable core (320) can be lowered by the restoring force provided by the elastic member (340) and its own weight, and can be quickly separated from the fixed core (310).

[0181] The elastic member (340) is positioned in a space formed inside the cylinder member (250). The elastic member (340) can be in contact with the fixed core (310) and the movable core (320) to elastically support them, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic member (340) is positioned between the fixed core (310) and the movable core (320), and is in contact with the lower end of the fixed core (310) and the upper end of the movable core (320), respectively.

[0182] The elastic member (340) is coupled to the shaft member (330). A hollow space is formed inside the elastic member (340), so that the shaft member (330) can be connected through the hollow space so as to be able to move up and down.

[0183] The elastic member (340) may be provided in any shape that can be deformed by the rising movable core (320), store restoring force, and provide the stored restoring force to the movable core (320). In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic member (340) has a circular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction, and is provided in the form of a coil spring with a hollow space formed therein.

[0184] The energizing movable part (400) is a component that allows the relay assembly (10) to be electrically connected to other external components. The energizing movable part (400) operates in accordance with the control movable part (300) to allow or block the energization state of other external components.

[0185] The energizing movable part (400) is coupled to the first housing (100). The energizing movable part (400) is accommodated in an arc chamber space (121) formed inside the arc chamber (120), but at least a portion thereof may be exposed to the outside of the first housing (100). The other external components may be electrically connected to the energizing movable part (400) through the portion thereof.

[0186] The energizing movable part (400) is coupled with the control movable part (300). A part of the energizing movable part (400), namely, the movable contact (420) to be described later, is coupled with the movable core (320) by a shaft member (330) and can be raised and lowered together.

[0187] The energized movable part (400) is coupled to the control module (500). The energized movable part (400) is electrically connected to the control module (500) and can be operated by receiving a control signal. In addition, detection information regarding the status of the energized movable part (400) can be transmitted to the control module (500).

[0188] In the illustrated embodiment, the energizing movable part (400) includes a fixed contact (410), a movable contact (420), a sensor terminal (430), and an operating terminal (440).

[0189] The fixed contact (410) is a configuration in which the current-carrying movable part (400) is electrically connected to external components. The fixed contact (410) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the first housing (100) and is electrically connected to the external components.

[0190] The fixed contact (410) is coupled to the first housing (100). Specifically, the fixed contact (410) is penetratedly coupled to the first housing body (110) and the arc chamber (120), respectively. One longitudinal side of the fixed contact (410), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is exposed to the outside of the first housing body (110). The other longitudinal side of the fixed contact (410), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is positioned in the arc chamber space (121) and is in contact with or spaced apart from the movable contact (420).

[0191] The fixed contact (410) is energized by coming into contact with the movable contact (420) or de-energized by coming away from it. That is, when the movable contact (420) is raised by the rise of the movable core (320) and the shaft member (330) coupled thereto, the fixed contact (410) can come into contact with the movable contact (420) and be energized. In addition, when the movable core (320) and the shaft member (330) coupled thereto are lowered, the fixed contact (410) can be de-energized by coming away from the movable contact (420).

[0192] As the name suggests, the fixed contact (410) is fixedly connected to the first housing (100). That is, the fixed contact (410) does not move. Therefore, it will be understood that the contact and separation between the fixed contact (410) and the movable contact (420) are achieved by the movement of the movable contact (420).

[0193] The fixed contact (410) is coupled to a sensor terminal (430). A sensor terminal (430) for generating temperature detection information of the fixed contact (410) is coupled to a portion of the fixed contact (410) located on the outside of the first housing body (110).

[0194] The fixed contact (410) is coupled with the fastening member (150). The fastening member (150) is coupled to the above-mentioned portion of the fixed contact (410), i.e., the portion exposed to the outside of the first housing body (110). As described above, the fastening member (150) is configured to prevent arbitrary movement of the sensor terminal (430). At this time, a screw thread may be formed on the outer periphery of the fixed contact (410) for coupling with the fastening member (150).

[0195] The fixed contact (410) may be any shape that is coupled to the first housing (100), contacts or is separated from the movable contact (420), and can be coupled to the sensor terminal (430) and the fastening member (150). In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed contact (410) has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0196] A plurality of fixed contacts (410) may be provided. The plurality of fixed contacts (410) may be spaced apart from each other, but may be in contact with or spaced apart from the movable contact (420) at the same time. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed contacts (410) are provided as a pair, including a first fixed contact (411) and a second fixed contact (412).

[0197] The first fixed contact (411) is located on one longitudinal side of the first housing (100), on the left side in the illustrated embodiment. The first fastening member (151) and the first sensor terminal (431) are respectively coupled to the first fixed contact (411). The first fixed contact (411) contacts or is spaced apart from the upper left side of the movable contact (420).

[0198] The second fixed contact (412) is located on the other side of the first housing (100) in the longitudinal direction, on the right side in the illustrated embodiment. The second fastening member (152) and the second sensor terminal (4320) are respectively coupled to the second fixed contact (412). The second fixed contact (412) is in contact with or spaced apart from the upper right side of the movable contact (420).

[0199] An insulating plate (140) is positioned between the first fixed contact (411) and the second fixed contact (412). As described above, the first fixed contact (411) and the second fixed contact (412) can be physically and electrically separated by the insulating plate (140).

[0200] Accordingly, it will be understood that the energizing state of the first fixed contact (411) and the second fixed contact (412) is formed when the first fixed contact (411) and the second fixed contact (412) are simultaneously brought into contact with the movable contact (420).

[0201] The movable contact (420) is coupled to the movable core (320) via the shaft member (330). The movable contact (420) can move in accordance with the movement of the movable core (320) and come into contact with or be separated from the fixed contact (410). Accordingly, the movable contact (420) can be energized or deenergized from the fixed contact (410). Consequently, external components that are electrically connected to the fixed contact (410) can be energized or deenergized.

[0202] The movable contact (420) is coupled to the first housing (100). Specifically, the movable contact (420) is positioned in an arc chamber space (121) formed inside the first housing (100). The movable contact (420) can be positioned in the arc chamber space (121) so as to be able to move up and down.

[0203] At this time, the movable contact (420) may be surrounded by the arc chamber (120) together with the fixed contact (410). Accordingly, as described above, random leakage of the arc generated by the separation of the movable contact (420) and the fixed contact (410) can be prevented.

[0204] The movable contact (420) is coupled to the shaft member (330). The movable contact (420) can move together with the shaft member (330) and be supported by the shaft member (330).

[0205] The movable contact (420) can be raised to contact and energize the fixed contact (410) or lowered to separate from and de-energize the fixed contact (410). At this time, the movable contact (420) can be brought into contact with or separated from multiple fixed contacts (411, 412) simultaneously.

[0206] The movable contact (420) may be of any shape that can be brought into contact with, energized by, or separated from, and de-energized by a plurality of fixed contacts (411, 412) simultaneously. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable contact (420) is a three-dimensional figure having a length in the left-right direction that is longer than the width in the front-back direction and a height in the up-down direction. In this case, the length in the left-right direction of the movable contact (420) may be greater than the distance that separates a pair of fixed contacts (411, 412).

[0207] The sensor terminal (430) is positioned adjacent to the fixed contact (410) and generates detection information regarding the status of the fixed contact (410). The detection information generated by the sensor terminal (430) can be provided to the outside and utilized to determine the operating status of the relay assembly (10).

[0208] The sensor terminal (430) is coupled to the first housing (100). Specifically, the sensor terminal (430) is located on the outside of the first housing body (110).

[0209] The sensor terminal (430) is coupled to the fixed contact (410). The sensor terminal (430) is coupled to a portion of the fixed contact (410) that is exposed to the outside of the first housing body (110). In one embodiment, a through hole is formed inside the sensor terminal (430), so that the portion of the fixed contact (410) can pass through it. In the embodiment, the sensor terminal (430) can be in contact with the fixed contact (410).

[0210] The sensor terminal (430) may be supported by the fastening member (150). That is, the sensor terminal (430) is positioned adjacent to one side, i.e., the upper side, in the height direction of the first housing body (110) while being coupled with the fixed contact (410). The fastening member (150) may be positioned to be spaced apart from the sensor terminal (430) along the height direction of the fixed contact (410), thereby limiting the movement distance of the sensor terminal (430).

[0211] The sensor terminal (430) can generate any sensing information about the state of the fixed contact (410). In one embodiment, the sensor terminal (430) can generate sensing information about the temperature of the fixed contact (410).

[0212] The sensor terminal (430) is coupled to the control module (500). The sensor terminal (430) is electrically connected to the control module (500) and can transmit the generated detection information to the control module (500).

[0213] A plurality of sensor terminals (430) may be provided. The plurality of sensor terminals (430) may be respectively coupled to a plurality of fixed contactors (410) to generate detection information regarding the status of each fixed contactor (410).

[0214] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor terminal (430) comprises a first sensor terminal (431) and a second sensor terminal (432). The first sensor terminal (431) and the second sensor terminal (432) are spaced apart from each other in the spaced direction of the first and second fixed contacts (411, 412), i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0215] The first sensor terminal (431) is coupled with the first fixed contactor (411) to generate detection information on the status of the first fixed contactor (411). The second sensor terminal (432) is coupled with the second fixed contactor (412) to generate detection information on the status of the second fixed contactor (412).

[0216] The first sensor terminal (431) and the second sensor terminal (432) are each electrically connected to the control module (500).

[0217] The operating terminal (440) receives a control signal from the control module (500). The operating terminal (440) is electrically connected to a coil (not shown) wound on a bobbin (240), and can apply current to the coil (not shown) in response to the transmitted control signal. Accordingly, the fixed core (310) is magnetized, and the movable core (320) and the movable contactor (420) coupled thereto are moved, so that the relay assembly (10) can electrically connect external components.

[0218] The operating terminal (440) is coupled to the second housing (200). Specifically, the operating terminal (440) is located on one side of each side of the second housing body (210) facing the control module (500), in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper front side. The operating terminal (440) is located between a pair of control module support protrusions (260).

[0219] The operating terminal (440) is coupled to the control module (500). Specifically, the operating terminal (440) is coupled to and energized with the control body (510) provided in the control module (500). The operating terminal (440) can receive the control signal from the control body (510).

[0220] The operating terminal (440) is electrically connected to the coil (not shown) wound on the bobbin (240). The operating terminal (440) can apply current to the coil (not shown) in response to the received control signal.

[0221] A plurality of operating terminals (440) may be provided. The plurality of operating terminals (440) may be electrically connected to the control module (500) and the coil (not shown) at different locations.

[0222] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating terminal (440) comprises a first operating terminal (441) and a second operating terminal (442). The first operating terminal (441) and the second operating terminal (442) are spaced apart from each other in the direction in which a pair of control module support protrusions (260) are spaced apart, i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0223] The control module (500) receives and processes control information provided externally to generate a control signal. The control module (500) can apply or block current to the coil (not shown) in response to the generated control signal.

[0224] The relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to include its own control module (500) for generating a control signal. Therefore, the task of combining the component for generating the control signal with the relay assembly (10) can be omitted, and thus the process of combining the relay assembly (10) with other external components can be carried out simply.

[0225] In addition, since the control module (500) is directly provided in the relay assembly (10), the process of generating and transmitting the control signal can be performed quickly compared to when the relay assembly (10) is connected to a configuration for generating the control signal by separate wiring, etc.

[0226] The control module (500) is coupled to the first housing (100) and the second housing (200). Specifically, the control module (500) is coupled to and powered by a sensor terminal (430) coupled to the first housing (100). In addition, the control module (500) is coupled to and powered by an operating terminal (440) coupled to the second housing (200). Furthermore, the control module (500) may be supported by a control module support protrusion (260).

[0227] The control module (500) is electrically connected to the coil (not shown) wound on the bobbin (240). The control module (500) can apply or block current to the coil (not shown) in response to a generated control signal.

[0228] In the illustrated embodiment, the control module (500) includes a control body (510), a connector member (520), and a terminal member (530).

[0229] The control body (510) is a part of the control module (500) that is electrically connected to the outside. The control body (510) receives control information from the outside, processes it, and generates a control signal.

[0230] The control body (510) is electrically connected to other components provided in the relay assembly (10). Specifically, the control body (510) is electrically connected to the sensor terminal (430) and can receive detection information generated by the sensor terminal (430). In addition, the control body (510) is electrically connected to the operation terminal (440) and can apply or block current in response to the generated control signal.

[0231] The control body (510) is coupled with a connector member (520). The control body (510) can be coupled to other external components via the connector member (520). As will be described below, in one embodiment, the control body (510) can be coupled to a main board connector (21) provided on the main board (20) via the connector member (520).

[0232] The control body (510) is coupled to the terminal member (530). The control body (510) is electrically connected to the terminal member (530). Control information provided from the outside can be transmitted to the control body (510) through the terminal member (530).

[0233] The control body (510) can be provided in any form that can input, operate, and output information, and can be electrically connected to the sensor terminal (430), the operating terminal (440), and the terminal member (530), respectively. In one embodiment, the control body (510) can be provided in the form of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board).

[0234] The control body (510) may have any shape that can be coupled to the first housing (100) and the second housing (200) by the sensor terminal (430) and the operating terminal (440), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the control body (510) is provided in the shape of a polygonal plate having a length in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the front-back direction.

[0235] The connector member (520) is a part where the control module (500) is connected to an external structure. The control module (500) can be maintained connected to the external structure by the connector member (520).

[0236] A connector member (520) is coupled to the control body (510). The connector member (520) is positioned on one side of the control body (510) opposite the first housing (100) or the second housing (200), in the illustrated embodiment, the front side. In other words, the connector member (520) is positioned on one side facing outward among the thickness-wise sides of the control body (510).

[0237] The connector member (520) is positioned adjacent to the terminal member (530). A space is formed inside the connector member (520) to accommodate the terminal member (530). The connector member (520) is positioned to surround the terminal member (530) from the outside.

[0238] The connector member (520) may be provided in any shape that can couple the control module (500) to the external configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector member (520) has a three-dimensional shape with a rectangular cross-section and a space formed inside to accommodate the terminal member (530).

[0239] The terminal member (530) is a portion through which the control module (500) is electrically connected to the external component. Control information transmitted from the external component can be transmitted to the control body (510) through the terminal member (530). In addition, detection information generated by the sensor terminal (430) can be transmitted to the external component through the terminal member (530).

[0240] The terminal member (530) is coupled to the control body (510). The terminal member (530) is electrically connected to the control body (510).

[0241] The terminal member (530) is positioned adjacent to the connector member (520). The terminal member (530) may be accommodated in a space formed inside the connector member (520) and may be surrounded by the connector member (520).

[0242] The terminal member (530) may have any shape that can be electrically connected to the external configuration and control body (510), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal member (530) is shaped like a rod having a length in the front-rear direction.

[0243] A plurality of terminal members (530) may be provided. The plurality of terminal members (530) may be electrically connected to the external configuration and control body (510), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal members (530) are provided in two pairs spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

[0244] At this time, a pair of terminal members (530) can receive control information from the external configuration and transmit it to the control body (510). In addition, another pair of terminal members (530) can provide the detection information transmitted to the control body (510) to the external configuration.

[0245] The number and shape of the terminal member (530) may be changed depending on the object to which the control module (500) is to be electrically connected.

[0246]

[0247] Referring to FIG. 9, a process of coupling a relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention to an external configuration is illustrated as an example. In the illustrated embodiment, the relay assembly (10) is coupled to a main board (20), but it will be appreciated that the process can be applied to any device equipped with a relay assembly (10).

[0248] At this time, the main board (20) may be a board provided in a BMS (Battery Management System) that is electrically connected to the BDU. That is, in an embodiment in which a relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided in a BDU, the relay assembly (10) may be directly connected to the BMS.

[0249] Accordingly, it will be understood that the relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be equipped and utilized in a BDU integrated with a BMS.

[0250] The direction of the relay assembly (10) is adjusted so that the control module (500) faces the main board (20), and the main board connector (21) and connector member (520) provided on the main board (20) are arranged to overlap along the separation direction.

[0251] Afterwards, when the relay assembly (10) is moved downward and the connector member (520) and the terminal member (530) are combined with the main board connector (21), the electrical connection between the relay assembly (10) and the main board (20) is completed.

[0252] Therefore, when the relay assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is coupled with the control module (500) and the main board connector (21), no additional connection process is required for electrical connection with the main board (20).

[0253] Accordingly, the process of joining the relay assembly (10) and the main board (20) can be performed easily and reliably.

[0254] As described above, in an embodiment where the main board (20) is a board equipped in the BMS, the control module (500) of the relay assembly (10) is coupled with the main board connector (21), thereby enabling the BDU and the BMS to be electrically connected. That is, an integrated system of the BDU and the BMS can be implemented simply by coupling the control module (500) with the main board connector (21).

[0255]

[0256] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily propose other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components within the scope of the same spirit, but this will also be considered to fall within the spirit of the present invention.

[0257] 10: Relay assembly 20: Main board

[0258] 21: Main board connector 100: First housing

[0259] 110: First housing body 120: Arc chamber

[0260] 121: Arc chamber space 130: Magnet member

[0261] 140: Insulating plate 150: Fastening member

[0262] 151: First fastening member 152: Second fastening member

[0263] 200: Second housing 210: Second housing body

[0264] 211: Page 1 212: Page 2

[0265] 213: Third side 220: York reception area

[0266] 230: Support plate 231: Support through hole

[0267] 240: Bobbin 250: Cylinder member

[0268] 260: Control module support protrusion 300: Control movable part

[0269] 310: Fixed core 320: Movable core

[0270] 330: Shaft member 340: Elastic member

[0271] 400: Current-carrying movable part 410: Fixed contact

[0272] 411: First fixed contact 412: Second fixed contact

[0273] 420: Movable contact 430: Sensor terminal

[0274] 431: First sensor terminal 432: Second sensor terminal

[0275] 440: Operating terminal 441: First operating terminal

[0276] 442: Second operating terminal 500: Control module

[0277] 510: Control body 520: Connector member

[0278] 530: Terminal absence

Claims

1. A first housing having a space formed inside; A second housing supporting the first housing on one side in the height direction; A control movable part coupled to the second housing and electrically connected to an external control power source; and A control module coupled to the first housing or the second housing and electrically connected to the control power source and the control operating unit, respectively, The above control module, A control body electrically connected to the above control movable part; and Including a terminal member that is electrically connected to the control body and the control power source, respectively. Relay assembly.

2. In paragraph 1, The above control module, A connector member protruding in a direction opposite to the first housing and the second housing, coupled with the control body, and surrounding the terminal member from the outside, Relay assembly.

3. In paragraph 2, A space is formed inside the above connector member to accommodate the terminal member, The connector provided in the above control power source is accommodated in the above space and is electrically connected to the terminal member. Relay assembly.

4. In paragraph 1, The above second housing, A control module support protrusion formed on one side facing the control module and supporting the control body, Relay assembly.

5. In paragraph 4, The above control module support protrusions are provided in multiple numbers, A plurality of the control module support protrusions are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the control body to support each side of the longitudinal direction of the control body, Relay assembly.

6. In paragraph 1, A power-conducting movable part is received in the space of the first housing, is electrically connected to the outside, and is coupled to the control movable part. The above control operation unit is, A movable core equipped with a lifting capability; and Including a shaft member each connected to the movable core and the energizing movable part, Relay assembly.

7. In paragraph 6, The above-mentioned movable part is, A fixed contact at least partially exposed on the outside of the first housing and electrically connected to the outside; Including a movable contactor coupled to the shaft member and configured to be elevated together with the movable core and the shaft member, and configured to be energized by contacting the fixed contactor or to be de-energized by being separated from the fixed contactor. Relay assembly.

8. In paragraph 7, The above control operation unit is, It includes a coil that surrounds the movable core and the shaft member radially outside, The above-mentioned movable part is, A sensor terminal positioned on the outside of the first housing and arranged adjacent to the fixed contact to generate detection information on the status of the fixed contact; and A second housing is located on the outside and includes an operating terminal electrically connected to the coil. Relay assembly.

9. In paragraph 8, The terminal member is provided in multiple numbers, some of the terminal members are electrically connected to the sensor terminal, and the remaining terminal members are electrically connected to the operating terminal. Relay assembly.

10. In paragraph 6, The above control operation unit is, A coil surrounding the movable core and the shaft member from the radial outside; and A fixed core positioned radially inward of the coil and magnetized by a magnetic field formed by the coil to apply a magnetic attractive force to the movable core, Relay assembly.

11. In paragraph 10, The above-mentioned movable part is, A plurality of fixed contacts at least partially exposed on the outside of the first housing and electrically connected to the outside; and Including a movable contactor that is connected to the shaft member and rises together with the movable core and the shaft member and is in contact with a plurality of the fixed contactors simultaneously to conduct electricity. Relay assembly.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first housing, An insulating plate positioned between a plurality of the fixed contacts and physically and electrically separating the plurality of the fixed contacts, Relay assembly.

13. In paragraph 11, The above-mentioned movable part is, A plurality of sensor terminals positioned on the outside of the first housing and arranged adjacent to the plurality of fixed contacts to generate detection information on the status of each of the plurality of fixed contacts, The above first housing, A plurality of fastening members positioned adjacent to the outer ends of the plurality of fixed contacts and configured to limit the movement distance of the plurality of sensor terminals, Relay assembly.

14. In paragraph 1, The above terminal member is connected to the main board connector provided on the external main board so that it can be electrically connected, The above main board is equipped with a BMS (Battery Management System). Relay assembly.

Images