Asymmetric Arc Path Magnet Frame for DC Relay Center Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC relays face challenges in controlling the direction of an arc discharge path, leading to potential damage to internal components and user inconvenience due to the dependence on current flow direction, as well as limitations in forming an arc discharge path outside the relay without excessive structural changes.
Innovation Solution
An arc path forming unit with a magnet frame and strategically arranged main magnets that generate a magnetic field to direct the arc discharge path away from the relay's center, allowing the arc to be extinguished externally, regardless of current direction, and enabling easy adjustment of the arc path without significant structural modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent magnets are provided in the center region to form an arc discharge path, then arc discharge is enabled, but internal components may be damaged by the arc energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the arc discharge path formation function from the center region by providing a separate arc discharge path structure that guides the arc away from internal components. The arc discharge path is formed outside the center region where driving members are located, thus separating the harmful arc energy from the sensitive internal components while maintaining the necessary arc discharge function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an arc discharge path as an intermediary structure that mediates between the contacts and the external environment. This arc discharge path acts as a controlled channel that directs the arc energy in a predetermined direction away from the center region, preventing direct damage to internal components while still enabling effective arc discharge.
2Ease of operation
If magnets are arranged to direct arc outward, then arc discharge path control is improved, but current direction dependence remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric magnet arrangement where magnets are positioned at specific locations (e.g., one side of the contacts) rather than symmetrically. This asymmetric configuration creates a unidirectional magnetic field that consistently directs the arc in a predetermined direction regardless of which contact is positive or negative, thereby achieving current direction independence while maintaining effective arc control.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of trying to control the arc direction by changing magnet polarity based on current direction, the patent inverts the approach by using fixed asymmetric magnet arrangement that naturally directs the arc outward in all cases. The magnetic field configuration is designed so that the Lorentz force always pushes the arc away from the center region regardless of current flow direction.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If arc discharge path is formed outside the relay, then component protection is enhanced, but structural changes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the arc discharge path structure to serve multiple functions: it forms the arc discharge path, directs the arc away from components, and can be integrated with existing relay structures. The same magnetic components that control contact movement can also be used to guide the arc, reducing the need for additional separate structures and minimizing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The arc discharge path structure is nested within or integrated with the existing relay housing and contact structure. The magnets are positioned within the available space of the relay body, and the arc discharge path utilizes the existing structural boundaries, allowing the arc discharge function to be embedded within the overall relay design without requiring separate external components or significant structural overhauls.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively prevents damage to internal components by directing the arc away from critical areas, enhances user convenience by eliminating the need to consider current direction, and allows for flexible arc path adjustment without altering the relay's structure, ensuring efficient arc discharge and extended relay lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The magnets produce magnetic fields in a space where the fixed contact and the movable contact are in contact with each other
Implementation Method 2
The arc discharge path may be formed by the formed magnetic fields and electromagnetic force generated by a flow of current
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed are an arc path forming unit and a direct current relay comprising same. The arc path forming unit, according to one embodiment of the present invention, comprises a plurality of magnet units disposed adjacent to each of fixed contacts. At least one of the plurality of magnet units disposed adjacent to each fixed contact is configured so that the side thereof facing the rest of the magnet units has a different polarity. Accordingly, an arc path is formed from each fixed contact in different directions from each other. Further, the arc path is formed so as to move away from the center part of the arc path forming unit. Accordingly, damage to components disposed in the center part may be prevented.