Electromagnetic Relay Arc Venting for Re-Ignition Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electromagnetic relays, the design of arc-extinguishing spaces and gas passages often leads to hot gas returning to the contact area, increasing the likelihood of arc re-ignition as load capacity increases.
Innovation Solution
The electromagnetic relay incorporates a gas flow path between the side wall and movable contact piece, with an inlet communicating with one space and an outlet communicating with a separate space, positioned away from the contact, along with a partition member to direct hot gas away from the initial arc location, reducing the chance of re-ignition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the load capacity is increased to handle higher currents, then the relay capability is improved, but the amount of hot gas generated increases which may cause the arc to reignite
Solution Approach 1:
The accommodation space is segmented into distinct first and second spaces separated by a partition member. This segmentation contains the hot gas in the second space away from the contact in the first space, preventing re-ignition even when high load capacity generates large amounts of hot gas.
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 effectively reduces the likelihood of arc re-ignition by ensuring hot gas escapes and does not return to the contact area, enhancing the reliability of the relay under increased load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first magnet configured to extend a first arc generated between the first fixed contact and the first movable contact in the first direction
Implementation Method 2
the gas flow path between the side wall and the movable contact piece allows the hot gas due to the first arc to escape from the first space to the second space
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic relay includes a case, a first fixed terminal including a first fixed contact, a second fixed terminal including a second fixed contact, a movable contact piece including first and second movable contacts, a first magnet, a gas flow path, and a partition member. The case includes an accommodation space and a side wall covering the accommodation space in a first direction. The accommodation space includes a first space where the first fixed contact is disposed and a second space where the second fixed contact is disposed. The first magnet configured to extend a first arc generated between the first fixed contact and the first movable contact in the first direction. The gas flow path is disposed between the side wall and the movable contact piece. The gas flow path includes an inlet communicating with the first space and an outlet communicating with the second space.