DC Relay Arc Path Unit With Angled Magnets for Arc Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC relays face challenges in controlling the direction of arc discharge paths, leading to potential damage to internal components and user inconvenience due to the dependence on current flow direction, as well as limitations in extinguishing arcs effectively and changing discharge paths without structural modifications.
Innovation Solution
An arc path formation unit with a magnet frame and strategically arranged magnets that generate a magnetic field to direct arcs away from the center region, allowing for arc discharge path control independent of current direction and enhancing arc extinguishment, while maintaining a compact structure.
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 an arc discharge path can be formed using electromagnetic force, but the arc may move toward the center region and damage various driving members when current flows in certain directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnet arrangement into multiple segments: first and second permanent magnets for generating the magnetic field, and third and fourth permanent magnets for directing the arc. This segmentation allows independent optimization of field generation and arc control functions, preventing arc damage to driving members while maintaining reliable discharge path control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces additional permanent magnets (third and fourth magnets) as intermediary elements that mediate between the current flow and the arc discharge path. These intermediary magnets create electromagnetic force that guides the arc away from the center region, protecting driving members from arc damage without interfering with the primary magnetic field generation.
2Reliability
If the direction of electromagnetic force depends on current flow direction, then arc discharge path can be controlled, but current must flow in preset direction causing user inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal arc control system where the combination of first, second, third, and fourth permanent magnets works together to direct arcs regardless of current flow direction. This multi-functional magnet arrangement allows the relay to handle current in either direction while maintaining consistent arc protection, eliminating the need for users to consider current direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the fourth permanent magnet with polarity opposite to the second magnet, creating symmetric electromagnetic force patterns that work in reverse when current direction reverses. This inversion principle ensures that the arc is always directed away from the center region, regardless of whether current flows in the original or reverse direction.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If magnets are arranged to direct arc away from center region, then arc damage to driving members is prevented, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric magnet arrangements where the third and fourth magnets are positioned at specific angles relative to the first and second magnets. This asymmetric configuration creates directional electromagnetic forces that effectively guide arcs away from the center region while maintaining a compact structure, balancing arc protection with structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the magnet arrangement into multiple spatial dimensions by positioning magnets at different angles and locations around the contact space. This three-dimensional arrangement creates comprehensive arc control in all directions, preventing arc damage to driving members without requiring excessive structural complexity in any single plane.
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 arc discharge paths to be controlled without excessive structural changes, ensuring efficient arc extinguishment and enhanced magnetic field strength.
Implementation Method 1
magnets coupled to a plurality of surfaces surrounding the inner space of the magnet frame to form magnetic fields in the inner space
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic fields and electromagnetic force generated by a flow of current form an arc discharge path
Implementation Method 3
The magnetic fields and electromagnetic force generated by a flow of current form an arc discharge path
Data Source
Figure 1~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed are an arc path formation unit and a direct current relay including same. An arc path formation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of magnet parts. The magnet parts, positioned adjacent to respective stationary contacts, are configured such that surfaces facing each other have different polarities. Also, some of the plurality of magnet parts are disposed at an incline relative to other magnet parts. Thus, magnetic field is formed by the plurality of magnet parts to obliquely pass by each of the stationary contacts. The electromagnetic force generated by the magnetic field is imparted in a direction away from the central region of a direct current relay. Accordingly, the generated arc moves in a direction away from the central region of the direct current relay, and thus damage to the direct current relay can be prevented.