Dual-Coil Relay Actuation for Fast Transfer and Low Bounce

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing relays in power distribution systems, such as those used in data centers and data centers, are limited by slow transfer times, which exceed the tolerance of modern EDP equipment, leading to potential power outages and equipment failure.

Innovation Solution

The use of a bi-directional electromagnetic drive system to accelerate and decelerate the moveable electrode structure of relays, optimizing the motion of the armature to reduce transfer time and minimize bounce, using dual coils to control the electromagnetic force for precise motion control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If traditional relay mechanisms are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but relay transfer time is too slow for modern EDP equipment requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelay transfer timeVSAvoidrelay mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by implementing a bi-directional electromagnetic drive system that dynamically controls the armature's motion throughout its travel path. The system transitions the relay from static, uniform motion to dynamic, variable motion with controlled acceleration and deceleration phases, enabling precise timing and reduced transfer time while managing mechanical stress

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the electromagnetic drive function into two independent coils: a first coil for accelerating the armature and a second coil for decelerating it. This segmentation allows each coil to be optimized for its specific function, achieving faster transfer times while maintaining control over the armature's motion profile and reducing mechanical impact

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Speed

If relay transfer speed is increased, then power distribution responsiveness is improved, but mechanical stress and contact bounce increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelay transfer speedVSAvoidmechanical stress and contact bounce
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by using the first electromagnetic coil to accelerate the armature to an optimized velocity before contact, and then using the second coil to pre-decelerate the armature before it reaches the contacts. This preliminary control of motion parameters minimizes impact velocity and mechanical stress at the moment of contact, reducing bounce and extending contact life

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potentially harmful high-velocity impact into a benefit by using controlled deceleration. The second electromagnetic coil transforms the kinetic energy that would cause damaging bounce into a controlled stopping process, where the deceleration force is applied optimally to bring the armature to rest precisely at the contact point, eliminating harmful vibrations while maintaining fast transfer speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Loss of time

If relay transfer time is reduced below 20 milliseconds, then equipment tolerance requirements are met, but electromagnetic control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower interruption timeVSAvoidelectromagnetic control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action through a structured two-phase electromagnetic control sequence: an acceleration phase using the first coil, followed by a deceleration phase using the second coil. This periodic, phased approach to electromagnetic actuation provides predictable, repeatable transfer timing that consistently achieves sub-20-millisecond performance while keeping control logic manageable through clear phase separation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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

This approach significantly reduces relay transfer time to less than 20 milliseconds, enhances contact durability, and minimizes mechanical stress and arcing, ensuring reliable power transfer even in critical environments.

Implementation Method 1

a bi-directional electromagnetic drive system to accelerate and decelerate the moveable electrode structure of relays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

using dual coils to control the electromagnetic force for precise motion control

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12567548B2Accelerated motion relay
Publication Date: 2026.03.03 ZONIT STRUCTURED SOLUTIONS LLC
  • US12567548B2 patent drawing
  • US12567548B2 patent drawing
  • US12567548B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical relay (2) includes an electromagnetic drive system for providing bi-directional drive. The electrical relay (2) includes a first a coil (212) and a second coil (213). A current is supplied to the coils (212) and (213) in opposite directions. The two coils (212) and (213) can be used to accelerate the armature in either direction in relation to the two contacts. This can be used to drive the armature to either one of the contacts and to accelerate and decelerate the armature during a single transit. In the latter regard, the armature can be accelerated and decelerated to shorten the transit time, reduce bounce, reduce wear on the contacts, and allow for different contact material options.