Electromagnetic Relay Contact Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic relays often experience a time lag between when one moving contact comes into contact with a fixed contact and when the other moving contact comes into contact with its corresponding fixed contact, affecting the reliability and performance of the relay.
Innovation Solution
The electromagnetic relay design includes a moving contactor with a displaceable portion and an overlay, where the displaceable portion is connected to the moving contacts and overlaps with the overlay, which exposes a part of the displaceable portion, allowing for precise alignment and synchronization of contact events using a probe to detect the degree of synchronism between the contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional electromagnetic relay structure is used, then the relay can perform basic switching function, but a time lag occurs between when one moving contact comes into contact with one fixed contact and when the other moving contact comes into contact with the other fixed contact
Solution Approach 1:
The relay is divided into separate functional modules: the armature assembly with moving contacts, the fixed contact assembly, and the magnetic circuit. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each module's performance and synchronization characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving contacts are pre-positioned and pre-aligned using precision machining and adjustable mounting structures before actuation. This preliminary alignment ensures that both moving contacts reach their fixed contacts simultaneously when the armature is actuated, eliminating time lag.
2Area of stationary object
If the moving contacts are arranged side by side, then the relay structure is compact, but it becomes difficult to ensure simultaneous contact of both moving contacts with their respective fixed contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The armature and moving contacts are designed as an integrated assembly where the rigid armature structure inherently maintains the relative positions of both moving contacts. This self-maintaining structure ensures consistent alignment without requiring complex external adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates adjustable parameters such as the position of moving contacts on the armature and the spacing between fixed contacts. These parameters can be tuned during manufacturing to achieve optimal synchronization and minimal time lag while maintaining a compact footprint.
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 allows for accurate detection and adjustment of the time lag between contact events, ensuring synchronized contact operations and reducing the risk of uneven load distribution, thereby enhancing the relay's performance and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The armature actuates the moving contactor by being attracted toward the electromagnet with electromagnetic force generated by the electromagnet
Implementation Method 2
The adhering portion is adhered onto the electromagnet with the electromagnetic force generated by the electromagnet
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electromagnetic relay with a configuration for detecting a time lag between a timing when one moving contact comes into (or goes out of) contact with one fixed contact and a timing when the other moving contact comes into (or goes out of) contact with the other fixed contact. A displaceable portion (90) of a moving contactor (9) is connected to, and electrically conductive with, a pair of moving contacts (M1, M2). An armature (3) actuates the moving contactor (9). The armature (3) has an adhering portion (AD1) to be adhered onto an electromagnet (E1). A space inside an opening (842) that exposes a part (exposed part 94) of the displaceable portion (90) crosses a predetermined plane (PI). The predetermined plane (PI) intersects at right angles with an arrangement direction (first direction D1) in which the pair of moving contacts (M1, M2) is arranged side by side. The predetermined plane (PI) passes through a center (C1) between both ends (T1, T2) in the arrangement direction of the adhering portion (AD1).