Relay Pivot Positioning for Reduced Actuator Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing relays require increased power consumption due to the load generated by the elastic force of contact pieces, leading to higher energy consumption by the coil as the load applied to the movable block increases.
Innovation Solution
A relay design that includes a pivot-supported movable body with a contact portion, where the pivot is positioned relative to a curved contact piece to minimize the force required for rotation, allowing the second contact to be moved with a small pressing force, thereby reducing energy consumption by the actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the movable block presses the contact piece with larger force to ensure reliable contact, then the contact reliability is improved, but the power consumption of the coil increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact piece incorporates a curved portion that transforms the linear pressing motion into rotational motion of the movable body. This curvature allows the system to achieve reliable contact closure while reducing the force required from the coil, as the lever arm geometry provides mechanical advantage during the rotation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from direct linear pressing in one dimension to rotational motion in another dimension. By positioning the pivot offset from the curved portion and using the curved geometry, the system converts axial pressing force into rotational torque, enabling reliable contact with reduced coil power consumption.
2Reliability
If the pressing force from the actuator is increased to move the contact piece reliably, then the contact operation reliability is improved, but the energy consumption by the actuator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The curved portion of the contact piece acts as a mechanical transformer that converts the pressing force from the actuator into rotational motion. This curvature provides a gradual transition and mechanical advantage, allowing reliable contact operation with minimal actuator force and reduced energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable body is divided into distinct functional portions: the curved contact portion that interfaces with the contact piece, the pivot portion that enables rotation, and the pressing surface that receives actuator force. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, achieving reliable operation with minimal energy consumption.
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 design enables contacts to be operated with reduced force, resulting in lower energy consumption by the actuator, while maintaining stable contact and compact configuration.
Implementation Method 1
The movable block rotates when the movable iron piece is attracted by magnetic force generated by the coil
Implementation Method 2
the movable block moves the card while resisting elastic force of the contact piece
Data Source
AI summary
The movable body includes a pivot and a contact portion. The pivot is rotatably supported. The contact portion is disposed at a position contactable with a contact piece. The movable body rotates around the pivot and presses the contact piece via the contact portion to move the second contact close to the first contact. The actuator presses the movable body to rotate the movable body around the pivot. The contact piece has a curved portion located between the second contact and the support. The pivot is located on a side where the support is disposed with respect to the curved portion. The actuator includes a pressing member which presses the movable body. The pressing member moves in an axial direction of the pressing member to press the movable body.