Magnetic Contactor B-Contact Switch Relocation for Miniaturization

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Solution Overview

Problem

In magnetic contactors, miniaturization is hindered by the limited space for the b-contact switch, making it difficult to maintain normal operation and prevent overcurrents in coils.

Innovation Solution

The b-contact switch is relocated to the lower portion of the product, and a switch manipulation member within the movable core operates the switch, allowing for miniaturization while ensuring normal operation and overcurrent limitation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the b-contact switch is disposed at each of left and right sides of the product, then the normal operation of the magnetic contactor is ensured, but the product size cannot be miniaturized due to insufficient free space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenormal operationVSAvoidproduct size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The b-contact switch is relocated from the traditional left/right side positioning to the lower portion of the product, utilizing the vertical dimension for space optimization. This dimensional repositioning allows the switch to be accommodated in previously underutilized space, enabling product miniaturization while preserving operational functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

A switch manipulation member is introduced as an intermediary component to operate the b-contact switch from the lower portion. This mediator transfers the operational force from the movable core to the switch, enabling reliable operation despite the non-traditional switch positioning, thus resolving the contradiction between compact size and normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Volume of moving object

If the product is miniaturized, then the free space for the b-contact switch becomes sufficient, but it becomes difficult to dispose the switch at the required position for normal operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct sizeVSAvoidswitch operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The switch manipulation member serves as a mechanical intermediary that bridges the gap between the movable core and the b-contact switch positioned in the lower portion. This intermediary component ensures that the switch can be reliably actuated even when disposed at an unconventional location, maintaining ease of operation despite miniaturization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The switch manipulation member is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to flex and transmit force effectively from the movable core to the b-contact switch. This dynamic design ensures reliable switch operation within the constrained space of the miniaturized product.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 configuration secures space for the b-contact switch, enabling product miniaturization and effective overcurrent limitation without enlarging the product size, ensuring reliable operation.

Implementation Method 1

When external power is applied to a coil which is wound around the bobbin, a fixed core is changed to an electromagnet by a magnetic field which is generated around the coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a movable core is absorbed into a fixed core by a magnetic force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2863408B1Magnetic contactor
Publication Date: 2018.05.02 LSIS CO LTD
  • EP2863408B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP2863408B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2863408B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed is a magnetic contactor. The magnetic contactor includes a fram, a holder, a movable core, a bobbin, a fixed core coupled to a side of the bobbin and configured to absorb the movable core with a magnetic force, an elastic member provided between the holder and the bobbin, a b-contact switch configured to sense a closing completion time of the movable contact by using a mechanical mechanism relationship with the movable core, an electronic circuit part configured to receive a sensing signal from the b-contact switch and limit a current applied to the coil, and a switch manipulation member provided at one end of the movable core and configured to operate the b-contact switch.