Dc vacuum relay device with angular impact break mechanism

Abstract

A relay device utilizing an angular 'impact break' method to achieve contact break. A rotatable armature is pivotally mounted to one end of the relay while its other end remains separated from the relay pole center by a spring. A separate rotatable actuator, carrying a moving contact, is movably positioned atop the armature and pivoted at the same point where the armature is pivotally mounted. The armature responds to the electromagnetic effects caused by the excitation of the coil, and rotates downward towards the pole center. The actuator rotates along with the armature, due to a spring receptacle on the armature and an overtravel spring between the receptacle and actuator, until the moving contact connected to the actuator contacts the stationary contacts of the relay. After contact, the armature, continues its rotation while the actuator maintains the contact between the moving and stationary contacts. Upon de-energization, the armature rotates upward and away from the pole center and, before making contact with the actuator, acquires kinetic energy which is imparted upon the actuator upon impact with same. Impact force is sufficient to break the previously closed contacts and any welding which occurs between the contacts. The relay device further provides a number of features serving to reduce arcing, puddling and welding.