Matrix relay

Abstract

A matrix relay is formed with a plurality of latching relays arranged in a matrix and mounted on a base of an electrically insulative material. Each of the latching relays comprises an excitation coil, permanent magnet, a pair of first and second fixed contacts, and an armature carrying a pair of first and second movable springs each providing movable contacts. The armature is magnetically coupled to the excitation coil so as to be movable in response to energization of the coil by current of selective polarity between close and open positions of the fixed and movable contacts. A plurality of the armatures of the latching relays arranged in a row of the matrix are assembled into a single armature block to be mounted on the base as a single unit. The armature block comprises a single pair of first and second supporting members made of an electrically conductive material. All of the first movable springs and all of the second movable springs of the latching relays of the armature block are connected respectively to the first and second supporting members mechanically and electrically, so that two row paths for electrical signals common to the latching relays arranged in the row of the matrix are provided. This simplification of the structure and electric circuit of the matrix relay would be useful to small-size the matrix relay without complicated fabrication process.