Relay Arc Path Formation Using a Halbach Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direct current relays face challenges in effectively directing and extinguishing arcs generated during contact separation, leading to potential damage to internal components and safety hazards due to unpredictable arc discharge paths influenced by current direction.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a Halbach array and magnet unit within a magnet frame structure to form a magnetic field that directs arcs away from the relay's central components, enhancing the electromagnetic force to quickly extinguish and discharge arcs without altering the relay's design significantly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent magnets are provided in the space where fixed contacts and movable contact are in contact, then arc discharge path can be formed by magnetic field and electromagnetic force, but arc cannot be immediately discharged to the outside when electromagnetic force is formed toward the inside (central portion of movable contact)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring permanent magnets with different polarities on opposite sides of the contact space. Specifically, one permanent magnet has its N-pole facing the contact space while the other has its S-pole facing the contact space, creating an asymmetric magnetic field distribution that generates electromagnetic force consistently directed toward the outside regardless of current flow direction. This asymmetric polarity arrangement resolves the contradiction by ensuring reliable arc discharge while preventing arc damage to internal components.
2Ease of operation
If electromagnetic force is formed toward the inside (central portion of movable contact), then arc generated at that location cannot be immediately discharged to the outside, but changing the direction of current flow changes the location where electromagnetic force is formed, causing inconvenience to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric polarity configuration of permanent magnets to create a magnetic field that is independent of current flow direction. The opposing polarities (N-pole on one side, S-pole on the other) ensure that electromagnetic force always acts in the same direction (toward the outside) regardless of which way current flows through the contacts. This eliminates the need for users to consider current direction while maintaining reliable arc discharge performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent magnet arrangement provides universal arc discharge functionality that works independently of current direction. The magnetic field configuration is designed to perform the same arc discharge function whether current flows in one direction or the other, making the relay versatile and easy to operate without requiring users to account for current direction effects.
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 ensuring arcs are directed externally, preventing collisions and enhancing the relay's durability and safety by utilizing the Halbach array's magnetic field strength to enhance electromagnetic force for efficient arc discharge.
Implementation Method 1
a Halbach array located in the space part of the magnet frame and configured to form a magnetic field in the space part
Implementation Method 2
The arc discharge path may be formed by the formed magnetic field and an electromagnetic force generated by a flow of current
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An arc path formation unit and a direct current relay including same are disclosed. The arc path formation unit according to various embodiments of the present invention comprises a Halbach array and a magnet unit, which form a magnetic field in a space part in which fixed contacts are accommodated. The formed magnetic field forms an electromagnetic force together with the current applied to the direct current relay. The formed electromagnetic force can induce generated arcs Here, the electromagnetic force formed in proximity to the respective fixed contacts is formed in the direction of moving away from the respective fixed contacts. Therefore, the generated arcs do not meet each other, and thus can be effectively extinguished and discharged.