DC Relay Arc Path Magnet Layout for Center-Away Arc Control
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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 effective arc discharge path and preventing arcs from moving towards the center region.
Innovation Solution
An arc path forming unit with a magnet frame and strategically positioned magnets that generate a magnetic field to direct the arc discharge path away from the center region, independent of current flow direction, and enhance the magnetic field strength to ensure effective arc extinguishing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnets are provided in the DC relay to form an arc discharge path, then the arc can be discharged through a preset path, but the arc may move toward the center region and damage internal components when current flows in certain directions
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet system is segmented into multiple magnets (first magnet, second magnet, third magnet, fourth magnet) positioned at different locations around the contactors. Each magnet creates a localized magnetic field that collectively forms a controlled arc discharge path, preventing the arc from moving toward the center region while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different magnets are positioned to create specific magnetic field characteristics in different regions. The magnets are arranged to generate stronger magnetic field strength in directions away from the center, creating local quality variations that guide the arc discharge path away from vulnerable center components.
2Reliability
If the arc discharge path direction depends on current flow direction, then electromagnetic force can guide the arc, but the user must consider current direction which causes inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet arrangement provides universal arc discharge path control that works regardless of current flow direction. The multiple magnets are positioned and polarized to create a magnetic field configuration that guides arcs away from the center region in both forward and reverse current directions, making the relay universally applicable without user consideration of current direction.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on electromagnetic force direction based on current flow, the invention inverts the approach by using permanently magnetized components that create a fixed magnetic field pattern. This inverted strategy ensures arc discharge paths are controlled by the permanent magnetic field structure rather than by current direction, eliminating the need for users to consider current flow direction.
3Reliability
If magnets are positioned to form arc discharge path, then arc can be directed away from center, but the magnetic field strength may be insufficient for effective arc extinguishing
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple magnets are merged into a coordinated magnetic field system where the individual magnetic fields combine to create both the arc discharge path formation and sufficient field strength for arc extinguishing. The magnets are positioned and polarized to work together, merging their effects to achieve both path control and energy requirements simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnets are positioned asymmetrically with different orientations and polarities to optimize both arc discharge path formation and magnetic field strength. The asymmetric arrangement allows certain magnets to contribute more to path direction while others provide stronger field intensity, achieving both objectives without requiring excessive structural changes.
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 directs arcs away from critical components, preventing damage and improving user convenience by allowing arcs to be extinguished along a longer path, while also increasing the strength of the magnetic field for efficient arc discharge without requiring excessive structural changes.
Implementation Method 1
The arc discharge path may be formed by the formed magnetic fields and electromagnetic force generated by a flow of current
Implementation Method 2
The magnets produce magnetic fields in a space where the fixed contact and the movable contact are in contact with each other
Data Source
AI summary
An arc path forming unit and a direct current relay including same are illustrated. The arc path forming unit according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises multiple magnets. Each of the magnets is configured to form a magnetic field at a point where each stationary contact is located. Each of the magnets located adjacent to each stationary contact is configured such that the opposite surfaces thereof have different polarities. A current flowing through a stationary contact and a movable contact and a magnetic field formed by each of the magnets generate an electromagnetic force. The electromagnetic force travels in a direction away from the center of the direct current relay. Therefore, a generated arc travels in the direction of the electromagnetic force and is thus moved in a direction away from the center of the direct current relay. Accordingly, the direct current relay can be prevented from being damaged.