WO2025127319A1 - Magnetic contactor - Google Patents

Abstract

A magnetic contactor is disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a magnetic contactor comprises: a housing having a housing space formed therein; a current-carrying member electrically connected to an external power source or a load and coupled with the housing so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing; and a temperature-sensing device coupled with the housing so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing, positioned adjacent to but spaced apart from the current-carrying member, and configured to detect heat generated from the current-carrying member, wherein the temperature-sensing device includes: a support member coupled to the housing and accommodated in the housing space; a temperature-sensing member coupled to the support member and configured to detect the heat; and a temperature-sensing terminal coupled to the support member, electrically connected to the temperature-sensing member, and at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing.

Description

Electronic contactor

The present invention relates to an electronic contactor, and more specifically, to an electronic contactor capable of accurately detecting the temperature of a current-carrying portion without affecting the current-carrying state with the outside.

A direct current relay is a device that uses the principle of electromagnetism to transmit mechanical drive or current signals. A direct current relay is also called a magnetic switch, and is generally classified as an electrical circuit switching device.

A DC relay includes fixed contacts and movable contacts. The fixed contacts are electrically connected to an external power source and load. The fixed contacts and movable contacts may be in contact with each other or may be spaced apart.

By the contact and separation of the fixed and moving contacts, current flow through the DC relay is permitted or interrupted. The movement is achieved by a driving member that applies driving force to the moving contacts.

The fixed contact and the movable contact are formed of a material that can conduct electricity. When the fixed contact and the movable contact come into contact and current flows, heat is generated at the fixed contact. At this time, if excessive heat is generated, the contact area of the fixed contact and the movable contact may melt or be damaged, which may reduce the contact reliability of the fixed contact and the movable contact.

Therefore, a method is required to detect the heat generated at the fixed contact, or more precisely, the temperature of the fixed contact, in real time and take appropriate measures, such as cutting off the current when the fixed contact overheats.

Korean Patent Document No. 10-2269380 discloses a temperature measuring device for an electronic contactor and a temperature monitoring system using the same. Specifically, a temperature measuring device for an electronic contactor is disclosed, which measures the temperature of the supply side connection terminal and the load side connection terminal of the electronic contactor using a separate temperature measuring device for the electronic contactor, and determines whether an abnormal temperature occurs using the measured value.

However, the temperature measuring device for an electronic contactor disclosed in the above-mentioned prior document is assumed to be provided separately from the electronic contactor. In other words, the above-mentioned prior document does not provide a method for directly arranging a means for detecting the temperature of a contact point in the electronic contactor.

Japanese Patent Document No. 6005490 discloses a method for evaluating the temperature of an electronic contactor and a contactor implementing the method. Specifically, it discloses a method for predicting the temperature of the coil by using the measured current value, which comprises a means for measuring current applied to an operating coil of the contactor without a separate sensor.

However, the temperature evaluation method of the electronic contactor disclosed in the above-mentioned prior document and the contactor implementing the method do not provide a method for directly measuring the temperature of the contact point. In addition, the temperature evaluation method disclosed in the above-mentioned prior document is a method of predicting the temperature using the current value applied to the coil. Therefore, if the measured current value is disturbed by various factors, there is a concern that the accuracy of the predicted temperature may be reduced.

Furthermore, the above prior documents do not provide a method for accurately detecting the temperature of the contact point without affecting the performance of the electronic contactor.

Korean Patent Document No. 10-2269380 (June 21, 2021)

Japanese Patent Document No. 6005490 (2016.09.16.)

The present invention is intended to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor having a structure capable of accurately measuring the temperature of a contact point.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor having a structure in which a component provided for measuring temperature does not affect a current-carrying state.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor having a structure capable of measuring the temperature of a contact point in various ways.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor having a structure in which a component provided for measuring temperature is not exposed to the outside.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor having a structure in which a component provided for measuring temperature can be easily electrically connected.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor having a structure capable of measuring the temperature of a contact point without excessive structural changes.

The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an electronic contactor is provided, comprising: a housing having a housing space formed therein; a current-carrying member electrically connected to an external power source or load and coupled with the housing so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing; and a temperature-sensing device coupled with the housing so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing, positioned adjacent to but spaced apart from the current-carrying member, and configured to detect heat generated from the current-carrying member, wherein the temperature-sensing device includes: a support member coupled with the housing and accommodated in the housing space; a temperature-sensing member coupled with the support member and configured to detect the heat; and a temperature-sensing terminal coupled with the support member, electrically connected to the temperature-sensing member, and at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing.

At this time, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the housing includes a support step portion that supports the support member on one side in the height direction; a molding space that is surrounded by the support step portion and in which the temperature sensing member is positioned; and a communication opening that is sunken into a portion of the support step portion and extends between the molding space and the conductive portion to form a passage through which the heat is transferred.

In addition, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the above-mentioned opening is formed such that its cross-sectional area decreases in the direction from the above-mentioned conductive member toward the above-mentioned temperature sensing member.

At this time, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the housing is formed sunken into the inner surface of the housing, is positioned on one side in the height direction of the support step, and includes a support member receiving space for receiving the support member.

In addition, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the support step extends to surround the support member receiving space from the outer side in the horizontal direction and supports a portion adjacent to the outer periphery of the support member.

In addition, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the temperature sensing receiving portion includes a supporting projection that is formed protruding from the inner surface of the housing surrounding the supporting member receiving space and supports the supporting member from the outer side in the horizontal direction.

At this time, a plurality of the support protrusions are provided, and the plurality of the support protrusions are spaced apart from each other along the one direction and the other direction orthogonal to the one direction, so that an electronic contactor can be provided that supports the support member at a plurality of positions.

At this time, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the housing includes a molding column positioned in the support member receiving space, extending in a direction opposite to the inner surface of the housing, and formed to be phase-changed by heat or pressure, and the support member includes a support through-hole formed through the interior thereof and through which the molding column penetrates.

Additionally, an electronic contactor may be provided inside the molding column, in which a molding cavity is sunken and into which a tip for applying the heat or the pressure is inserted.

At this time, the temperature sensing device is positioned so as to be biased toward one side of the longitudinal direction of the housing, and the housing includes a terminal receiving groove formed recessed in an inner surface of the one side and accommodating the temperature sensing terminal; and a pair of terminal support portions protruding from the inner surface of the one side, extending in the height direction of the housing, and facing each other with the terminal receiving groove interposed along the width direction of the housing to support the temperature sensing terminal, an electronic contactor can be provided.

In addition, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the support member includes a terminal through-hole formed therein; and a circuit pattern extending between the temperature sensing member and the terminal through-hole, and the temperature sensing terminal is inserted into the terminal through-hole and electrically connected to the circuit pattern.

At this time, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the temperature sensing terminal includes a terminal body coupled with the housing and extending in the height direction of the housing; a terminal head portion that is continuous with one end of the terminal body in the height direction and extends in the length direction of the housing and supports the support member; and a support member engaging portion that is continuous with the terminal head portion and extends in the height direction of the housing and is inserted into the terminal through hole.

In addition, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the temperature sensing terminal includes a terminal tail portion that is continuous with the other end of the terminal body in the height direction, extends in the length direction of the housing, and is at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing.

At this time, an electronic contactor may be provided, wherein the conductive part includes a conductive terminal that is at least partially exposed on one side of the exterior of the housing and is electrically connected to the exterior.

Additionally, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the temperature sensing terminal includes a terminal tail portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing and at least partially exposed to one side of the exterior of the housing.

According to the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention can accurately measure the temperature of the contact point.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention may have a configuration provided for measuring temperature without affecting the current-carrying state.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention can measure the temperature of the contact point in various ways.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention may not have a configuration provided for measuring temperature exposed to the outside.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily electrically connected to a configuration provided for measuring temperature.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention can measure the temperature of the contact without excessive structural changes.

It should be understood that the effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, but include all effects that can be inferred from the composition of the invention described in the detailed description or claims of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an electronic contactor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a side view illustrating the electronic contactor of Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the electronic contactor of Figure 1.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a housing provided in the electronic contactor of Fig. 1.

Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating the housing of Figure 4.

Figure 6 is a side view illustrating the housing of Figure 4.

Figure 7 is a bottom view illustrating the housing of Figure 4.

Figure 8 is an enlarged view of portion A showing the housing of Figure 4.

Fig. 9 is a D-D cross-sectional view illustrating the housing of Fig. 4.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a frame and a conductive part provided in the electronic contactor of Fig. 1.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing an arc induction unit provided in the electronic contactor of Fig. 1.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a temperature sensing device provided in the electronic contactor of Fig. 1.

Fig. 13 is a plan view illustrating the temperature sensing device of Fig. 12.

Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the temperature sensing device of Fig. 12.

FIG. 15 is a side view showing the temperature sensing device of FIG. 12 coupled to the housing of FIG. 4.

Fig. 16 is a C-C cross-sectional view showing the state of Fig. 15.

Fig. 17 is an A-A cross-sectional view showing the state of Fig. 15.

Fig. 18 is a B-B cross-sectional view illustrating the electronic contactor of Fig. 1.

Fig. 19 is an A-A cross-sectional view illustrating the electronic contactor of Fig. 1.

Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those with ordinary skill in the art can easily practice the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly describe the present invention, parts that are not related to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar components throughout the specification.

The words and terms used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their usual or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical idea of the present invention, in accordance with the principles by which the inventor can define terms and concepts in order to best describe his or her invention.

Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention, so that the corresponding configurations may have various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing of the present invention.

In the following description, descriptions of some components may be omitted to clarify the features of the present invention.

The term "communicating" as used in the following description means that one or more members are connected to each other in a fluidic manner. In one embodiment, the communication may be formed by members such as conduits, pipes, or tubing. In the following description, the communication may be used to mean that one or more members are "fluidically connected" to each other.

The term "conduction" used in the following description means that one or more members are connected to each other so that they can transmit current or electrical signals. In one embodiment, the conduction may be formed in a wired form such as by a conductor member, or in a wireless form such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RFID, etc. In one embodiment, the conduction may include the meaning of "communication."

The term "fluid" used in the following description means any form of material that flows due to an external force and can change shape or volume, etc. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.

The terms “upper side,” “lower side,” “left side,” “right side,” “front side,” and “rear side” used in the following description are to be understood with reference to the coordinate system depicted throughout the accompanying drawings.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, an electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown), respectively. The electronic contactor (10) can allow or block electrical connection to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown). To this end, the electronic contactor (10) includes a conductive portion (300) to be described later.

The electronic contactor (10) is electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown). The electronic contactor (10) is operated by a control current applied by an external control unit (not shown), and can allow or block an electrical connection of an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown). To this end, the electronic contactor (10) may include a fixed core (not given a drawing symbol) and a movable core (not shown) provided on a frame (200) to be described later.

The process of forming or blocking a current-carrying state between an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown) by applying a control current to an electronic contactor (10) is a well-known technology, so a detailed description will be omitted.

Meanwhile, the electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) or load (not shown), i.e., can directly measure the temperature of the conductive part (300). That is, the electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to measure the temperature by directly detecting the heat generated in the conductive part (300), rather than predicting the temperature from other parameters such as the applied current value. Accordingly, the temperature of the conductive part (300) can be accurately measured.

At the same time, the electronic contactor (10) according to the embodiment of the present invention may have a component (i.e., a temperature detection device (500) to be described later) positioned adjacent to the current-carrying part (300) for measuring the temperature of the current-carrying part (300). Accordingly, the temperature of the current-carrying part (300) can be detected in real time.

Furthermore, the electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention can accommodate the above-described configuration (i.e., the temperature sensing device (500) to be described later) inside, but the structural change of the configuration accommodating it (i.e., the housing (100) to be described later) can be minimized.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the electronic contactor (10) includes a housing (100), a frame (200), a current-carrying portion (300), an arc induction portion (400), and a temperature detection device (500).

The housing (100) constitutes a portion of the outer shape of the electronic contactor (10). In the illustrated embodiment, the housing (100) constitutes one side, i.e., the upper side, in the height direction of the electronic contactor (10). The housing (100) is a portion where the electronic contactor (10) is exposed to the outside.

A space is formed inside the housing (100). Part of the electronic contactor (10) may be accommodated in the space. As will be described later, a current-carrying portion (300), an arc-inducing portion (400), and a temperature-sensing device (500) are accommodated in the housing (100).

The housing (100) may be formed of an insulating material. This is to prevent a situation in which the configuration accommodated in the space is arbitrarily energized with the outside. In addition, the housing (100) is a part where the electronic contactor (10) is exposed to the outside, and is to prevent safety accidents such as electric shock.

The housing (100) is coupled to the frame (200). In one embodiment, the housing (100) can be removably coupled to the frame (200). The space formed inside the housing (100) is communicated with the space formed inside the frame (200).

The housing (100) accommodates a conductive part (300) and an arc induction part (400). At this time, a part of the conductive part (300) is exposed to the outside of the housing (100) and can be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown), respectively.

The housing (100) accommodates a temperature sensing device (500). Additionally, the housing (100) supports the temperature sensing device (500).

The housing (100) is coupled to the frame (200) and may have any shape capable of accommodating a conductive portion (300), an arc induction portion (400), and a temperature detection device (500).

In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 9, the housing (100) includes a housing body (110), a current receiving portion (120), a temperature sensing portion (130), a housing space (140), and a terminal cover (150).

The housing body (110) constitutes the outer shape of the housing (100). The housing body (110) is a portion of the housing (100) that is exposed to the outside. Other components of the housing (100) are formed or combined in the housing body (110).

Specifically, a current receiving portion (120) and a temperature sensing receiving portion (130) are formed on one side in the height direction of the housing body (110), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. A part of the temperature sensing receiving portion (130) is formed inside the housing body (110). The housing body (110) surrounds a housing space (140). One side in the length direction of the housing body (110), the right side in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled with a terminal cover (150).

The housing body (110) constitutes the outer shape of the housing (100) and may have any shape in which other configurations of the housing (100) can be formed or combined. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing body (110) is a three-dimensional shape in which the length in the left-right direction is longer than the width in the front-back direction and the height in the up-down direction is greater.

The current receiving portion (120) is coupled with the current receiving portion (300). The current receiving portion (120) receives and supports the current receiving portion (300). The current receiving portion (300) can be received in the current receiving portion (120) so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing body (110).

The current receiving portion (120) is formed in the housing body (110). The current receiving portion (120) is formed on one side of the housing body (110) in the height direction, in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper side.

A plurality of current receiving portions (120) can be formed. A plurality of current receiving portions (120) can be respectively combined with a plurality of current receiving portions (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the current receiving portions (120) are provided as a pair, including a first current receiving portion (120a) located on one side in the longitudinal direction, that is, on the left side, and a second current receiving portion (120b) located on the other side in the longitudinal direction, that is, on the right side.

At this time, the current receiving portion (120) may be formed to protrude at least partially from the upper side of the housing body (110). In the illustrated embodiment, the current receiving portion (120) is formed to protrude in the shape of a boss. Accordingly, the portion where the current receiving portion (120) is exposed to the outside protrudes compared to other portions of the housing body (110), so that the position of the current receiving portion (300) coupled thereto can be easily identified.

In the illustrated embodiment, the current receiving portion (120) includes a current through hole (121) and an insulating barrier (122).

The current-conducting through hole (121) is a part where the current-conducting receiving part (120) is connected to the current-conducting part (300). The current-conducting through hole (121) is formed through one side in the height direction of the housing body (110), in the illustrated embodiment, the upper side. The current-conducting through hole (121) connects the housing space (140) and the outside.

A current-carrying part (300) is connected through a current-carrying through hole (121). At this time, the current-carrying part (300) may be connected through a current-carrying through hole (121) so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing body (110).

The current-conducting through hole (121) may have any shape through which the current-conducting part (300) can be penetrated and connected. In the illustrated embodiment, the current-conducting through hole (121) is formed as a space in the shape of a disc having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction. Each end of the current-conducting through hole (121) in the thickness direction, the upper end and the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, are each formed as open.

A plurality of current-conducting through holes (121) may be provided. The plurality of current-conducting through holes (121) may be spaced apart from each other and may be respectively connected to a plurality of current-conducting parts (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the current-conducting through holes (121) are provided in a pair, including a first current-conducting through hole (121a) and a second current-conducting through hole (121b). The first current-conducting through hole (121a) and the second current-conducting through hole (121b) are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing body (110), that is, in the left-right direction.

The first current-carrying through hole (121a) and the second current-carrying through hole (121b) are arranged to face each other with an insulating barrier (122) therebetween. Accordingly, the first current-carrying part (300a) coupled to the first current-carrying through hole (121a) and the second current-carrying part (300b) coupled to the second current-carrying through hole (121b) can be electrically separated from each other.

The insulating partition (122) electrically separates the first and second conductive parts (300a, 300b). The insulating partition (122) is positioned between the first and second conductive through-holes (121a, 121b) along the longitudinal direction of the housing body (110), or in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

The insulating partition (122) is coupled to the housing body (110). The insulating partition (122) is located on one side of the housing body (110) in the height direction, in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper side.

The insulating partition (122) is positioned between the first and second conductive parts (300a, 300b) and may have any shape that can electrically separate them. In the illustrated embodiment, the insulating partition (122) is formed in a plate shape having a length in the front-back direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the left-right direction.

The temperature sensing receiving portion (130) receives a temperature sensing device (500). In addition, the temperature sensing receiving portion (130) supports the temperature sensing device (500). The temperature sensing receiving portion (130) is partially formed on the outside and inside of the housing body (110), respectively.

The temperature sensing receiver (130) is positioned adjacent to one of the plurality of current-conducting through holes (121a, 121b). In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing receiver (130) is positioned adjacent to the second current-conducting through hole (121b) located on the right side and the second current-conducting portion (300b) coupled thereto.

The temperature sensing receiver (130) is located in the housing space (140). The temperature sensing device (500) accommodated in the temperature sensing receiver (130) is not exposed to the outside of the housing body (110), except for a portion of the temperature sensing terminal (530) that is electrically connected to the outside (i.e., the terminal tail portion (533) to be described later).

In the illustrated embodiment, a single temperature sensing receiver (130) is provided. Alternatively, a pair of temperature sensing receivers (130) may be provided corresponding to the number of conductive parts (300) and may be arranged adjacent to the first and second conductive through holes (121a, 121b), respectively.

In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing receiving portion (130) includes a temperature sensing boss portion (131), a support step portion (132), a support member receiving space (133), a molding space (134), a communication opening (135), a molding column (136), a support protrusion (137), a terminal support portion (138), and a terminal receiving groove (139).

The temperature sensing boss (131) is formed on the outside of the housing body (110). The temperature sensing boss (131) is located on one side of the housing body (110) in the height direction, that is, on the upper surface in the illustrated embodiment. The temperature sensing boss (131) is formed to be raised in the shape of a boss, similar to the current receiving portion (120). The temperature sensing boss (131) is continuous with the second current receiving portion (120b).

Accordingly, the part where the temperature sensing device (500) is positioned protrudes compared to other parts of the housing body (110), so that the position of the temperature sensing device (500) coupled thereto can be easily identified.

The support step (132) supports the support member (510) provided in the temperature sensing device (500). The support step (132) can support the support member (510) in the height direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the support step (132) can support the support member (510) in the direction toward the temperature sensing boss (131), i.e., from the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

The support step (132) is formed on the inner surface of the housing body (110). The support step (132) is positioned so as to face the temperature sensing boss (131) on one side of the housing body (110) in the height direction, i.e., the upper surface in the illustrated embodiment. The support step (132) is formed to protrude from the upper inner surface of the housing body (110).

The space located below the support step (132) is defined as a support member receiving space (133). The support member (510) is received in the support member receiving space (133), and one side in the height direction, in the illustrated embodiment, can be supported by the support step (132).

The support step (132) may extend to surround the molding space (134). At this time, the support step (132) may extend to partially surround the molding space (134). As best illustrated in FIG. 8, the support step (132) surrounds the molding space (134) in the width direction of the housing body (110), i.e., on the front side and the rear side.

One side of the longitudinal direction of the support step (132), the left side in the illustrated embodiment, partially surrounds the molding space (134). The left side of the support step (132) has a recessed opening (135) formed therein. Accordingly, the left side of the support step (132) can be divided into one part located on the front side and the other part located on the rear side. The one part and the other part are spaced apart in the front-back direction, and the communication opening (135) is located therebetween.

The other end in the longitudinal direction of the support step (132), in the illustrated embodiment, the right-hand end, is positioned adjacent to the terminal support (138). In one embodiment, the other end in the longitudinal direction of the support step (132) may be continuous with the terminal support (138).

Accordingly, the molding space (134) can be communicated with the second electrically conductive through hole (121b) through the communication opening (135).

The support step (132) can be formed to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the support member (510). In the illustrated embodiment, the support step (132) has an outer periphery shape of a rectangle with the right side open, and a communication opening (135) is formed on the left side.

In the illustrated embodiment, a support protrusion (132a) is provided adjacent to the support step (132).

The support protrusion (132a) supports the support member (510) provided on the support step (132). The support protrusion (132a) can support the support member (510) in the width direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the support protrusion (132a) can support the support member (510) on the front side and the rear side.

The support protrusion (132a) is positioned adjacent to the support step (132). Specifically, the support protrusion (132a) surrounds the support member receiving space (133) in the width direction, i.e., on the front side and the rear side, and is formed to protrude on a surface that is continuous with the support step (132) in the width direction. At this time, the protruding length of the support protrusion (132a) can be formed to be shorter than the length of the support step (132) in the width direction, i.e., the length in the front-back direction.

A plurality of support protrusions (132a) may be provided. A plurality of support protrusions (132a) may be spaced apart from each other along the width direction or length direction of the housing (100) to support the support member (510) at different positions.

In the illustrated embodiment, a total of two pairs of support protrusions (132a) are provided. One pair of support protrusions (132a) is positioned on one side of the width direction of the housing (100) and spaced apart in the width direction of the housing (100), that is, in the left-right direction. The other pair of support protrusions (132a) is positioned on the other side of the width direction of the housing (100) and spaced apart in the width direction of the housing (100), that is, in the left-right direction.

The above pair of support protrusions (132a) and the other pair of support protrusions (132b) are arranged facing each other with a molding space (134) between them along the width direction of the housing (100), that is, the front-back direction.

Accordingly, the support member (510) is guided by the support projection (132a) and can be accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133) and secured to the support step (132). Accordingly, the support member (510) can be accurately placed at a preset position.

In addition, after the support member (510) is secured to the support step (132), the height direction of the support member (510) can be supported by the support step (132), and each side in the width direction of the support member (510) can be supported by the support protrusion (132a). Accordingly, arbitrary shaking of the support member (510) is prevented, and the combined state of the support member (510) and the temperature sensing receiving portion (130) can be stably maintained.

The space formed on the lower side of the support step (132) is defined as a support member receiving space (133).

The support member receiving space (133) receives the support member (510). The support member receiving space (133) can be defined by being surrounded by the support step (132). In the illustrated embodiment, one side in the height direction of the support member receiving space (133), i.e., the upper side, is surrounded by the support step (132). The other side in the height direction of the support member receiving space (133), i.e., the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is open and communicates with the housing space (140).

The support member receiving space (133) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the support member (510). In the illustrated embodiment, the support member receiving space (133) is formed as a three-dimensional space having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

The support member receiving space (133) is connected to the molding space (134). At this time, the support member (510) received in the support member receiving space (133) seals the molding space (134) on one side in the height direction, that is, on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. Accordingly, the molding material formed by melting the molding column (136) is received in the molding space (134) to combine the support member (510) with the housing body (110), but is prevented from flowing out of the molding space (134).

At this time, the support member receiving space (133) can be formed to have a height corresponding to the height of the support member (510). Accordingly, the support member (510) received in the support member receiving space (133) does not protrude into the housing space (140).

The molding space (134) accommodates a molding material formed by melting a molding column (136). The molding material accommodated in the molding space (134) connects the support member (510) to the housing body (110).

The molding space (134) is defined by being surrounded by the support step (132). In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear sides of the molding space (134) are surrounded by the support step (132). One longitudinal side of the molding space (134), the left side in the illustrated embodiment, communicates with a communication opening (135) formed in the support step (132). The other longitudinal side of the molding space (134), the right side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by the right inner surface of the housing body (110) and the terminal support (138).

The molding space (134) can be covered by a support member (510). The support member (510) covers the molding space (134) from the lower side and can be accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133). The molding material accommodated in the molding space (134) is respectively combined with the upper inner surface of the housing body (110), the support step (132), and the support member (510).

A temperature sensing member (520) is accommodated in the molding space (134). As will be described later, the temperature sensing member (520) is positioned on one side of each side of the molding space (134) adjacent to the communication opening (135), in the illustrated embodiment, on the left side. The temperature sensing member (520) can sense heat transmitted through the communication opening (135).

The molding space (134) may have any shape capable of accommodating a molding material and a temperature sensing member (520) for joining the support member (510) and the housing body (110). In the illustrated embodiment, the molding space (134) is formed as a three-dimensional space having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

The communication opening (135) communicates the housing space (140) and the molding space (134). Heat generated in the conductive member (300) accommodated in the housing space (140) can be transferred to the molding space (134) through the communication opening (135). The communication opening (135) forms a passage through which heat generated in the conductive member (300) is transferred to the temperature sensing member (520). At this time, the heat generated in the conductive member (300) can be transferred along the communication opening (135) in the form of convection or radiation.

The communication opening (135) extends between the electrical through hole (121) and the molding space (134). In the illustrated embodiment, the communication opening (135) extends between the second electrical through hole (121b) located on the right side and the molding space (134). The communication opening (135) communicates with the electrical through hole (121) and the molding space (134), respectively. The communication opening (135) is recessed into the upper inner surface of the housing body (110) and the support step (132), respectively.

The flue opening (135) may have any shape that can form a passage through which heat generated in the conductive member (300) is transferred to the temperature sensing member (520) accommodated in the molding space (134). In the illustrated embodiment, the flue opening (135) is formed such that its width (i.e., length in the front-back direction) is constant along its extension direction (i.e., left-right direction).

Alternatively, the flue opening (135) may be formed so that the cross-sectional area on one side facing the electrically conductive through hole (121) is larger than the cross-sectional area on the other side facing the molding space (134). In the above embodiment, the flue opening (135) may be formed so that its cross-sectional area decreases in the direction from the second electrically conductive through hole (121b) toward the molding space (134). In the above embodiment, the heat generated in the electrically conductive portion (300) may be concentrated toward the temperature sensing member (520) accommodated in the molding space (134).

The molding column (136) is formed as a molding material that combines the support member (510) and the housing body (110). The molding column (136) may be heated or pressurized by an external tip or the like to change phase into a fluid form and flow into the molding space (134). The molding material formed by the phase change of the molding column (136) fills the molding space (134) and then changes phase into a solid form again to combine the support member (510) and the housing body (110).

The molding column (136) may be formed of any material that can be phase-changed by heat and then phase-changed again upon cooling. In one embodiment, the molding column (136) may be formed of a resin material.

The molding column (136) is positioned in the molding space (134). The molding column (136) is surrounded by the support step (132), but may be positioned apart from the support step (132). The molding column (136) extends downward from a surface surrounding the molding space (134) from the upper side, that is, from the upper inner surface of the housing body (110).

The molding column (136) is continuous with the support projection (137). In the illustrated embodiment, the front side, rear side and left side of the outer periphery of the molding column (136) are continuous with the support projection (137).

Meanwhile, before the molding column (136) undergoes a phase change, the molding column (136) can be coupled to the support member (510). The molding column (136) can be penetrated through the support through hole (511), and after the support member (510) is maintained at a preset position, it can be heated or pressurized by an external tip or the like.

The molding column (136) may be any shape that is coupled with the support member (510) and can be phase-changed by heating or pressurizing by an external tip or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the molding column (136) has an annular cross-section with a molding cavity (136a) formed therein and is formed to have a height in the vertical direction. The external tip may be inserted into the molding cavity (136a) to apply heat or pressure to the molding column (136).

The molding cavity (136a) may have any shape capable of accommodating an external tip. In the illustrated embodiment, the molding cavity (136a) is formed as a cylindrical space having a circular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction.

It will be understood that the above-described molding column (136) disappears when the combination of the temperature sensing device (500) and the housing (100) is completed. That is, the molding column (136) changes into a molded material that accommodates the molding space (134).

The support protrusion (137) supports the support member (510) accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133). The support protrusion (137) protrudes from a surface surrounding the molding space (134) from the upper side, that is, from the upper inner surface of the housing body (110). The support protrusion (137) is continuous with the outer periphery of the molding column (136).

The support protrusion (137) can support the support member (510) before the molding column (136) undergoes a phase change. That is, the outer part of the support member (510) accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133) is supported by the support step (132), and the inner part of the support member (510) is supported by the support protrusion (137).

Accordingly, the support member (510) combined with the molding column (136) can be accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133) in a horizontal state.

A plurality of support protrusions (137) may be provided. The plurality of support protrusions (137) may be respectively continuous with different parts of the molding column (136). In the illustrated embodiment, three support protrusions (137) are provided, and are continuous with the front side, the rear side, and the left side of the molding column (136).

In one embodiment, the support protrusion (137) is formed of the same material as the molding column (136) and can be phase-changed by heat or pressure applied by an external tip. In the above embodiment, the phase-changed support protrusion (137) can also join the upper inner surface of the housing body (110) and the support member (510).

The terminal support member (138) supports a temperature sensing terminal (530) provided in the temperature sensing device (500). The temperature sensing terminal (530) can be maintained in a state of being coupled with the housing (100) without being moved by the terminal support member (138).

The terminal support (138) is formed on the housing body (110). Specifically, the terminal support (138) is formed on one side of the housing body (110) in the longitudinal direction, i.e., on the right inner surface in the illustrated embodiment. The terminal support (138) is positioned to face the communication opening (135) with the molding space (134) therebetween.

The terminal support (138) is positioned in the molding space (134). The terminal support (138) can surround the molding space (134) together with the support step (132). In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal support (138) partially surrounds the molding space (134) on the right side.

The terminal support (138) may protrude inwardly from the right inner surface of the housing body (110). The terminal support (138) extends in the height direction of the housing body (110), in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. The terminal support (138) may be formed in multiple numbers. The multiple terminal support (138) may be spaced apart from each other and may support multiple temperature sensing terminals (530) at different locations, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, two terminal support (138) are provided and are spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction, respectively. The number and arrangement of the terminal support (138) may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the temperature sensing terminals (530).

Each pair of terminal supports (138) may be composed of a pair of parts, respectively. Each part may be spaced apart in the width direction of the housing body (110), in the front-back direction in the illustrated embodiment. The space formed by the respective parts being spaced apart is defined as a terminal receiving groove (139).

The terminal receiving groove (139) receives a temperature sensing terminal (530). The temperature sensing terminal (530) can be received in the terminal receiving groove (139) and supported by the terminal support member (138) and the housing body (110).

A terminal receiving groove (139) is located between a pair of parts forming a terminal support member (138). The terminal receiving groove (139) is defined by the pair of parts forming the terminal support member (138) being spaced apart from each other. A portion of the terminal receiving groove (139) may be formed by being recessed into the right inner surface of the housing body (110). The terminal receiving groove (139) is communicated with the housing space (140).

The terminal receiving groove (139) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the terminal support (138) or the temperature sensing terminal (530). In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal receiving groove (139) has a rectangular cross-section and is formed to extend in the vertical direction.

The housing space (140) is a space formed inside the housing body (110). The housing space (140) is defined by being surrounded by each side of the housing body (110). One side in the height direction of the housing space (140), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is open and communicates with the space of the frame (200).

The housing space (140) accommodates different configurations of the electronic contactor (10). In the illustrated embodiment, the housing space (140) accommodates a conductive portion (300), an arc induction portion (400), and a temperature sensing device (500).

The housing space (140) is connected to the outside. The conductive part (300) penetrating the conductive through hole (121) can be at least partially exposed to the arc chamber (230) accommodated in the housing space (140).

The housing space (140) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the housing body (110). In the illustrated embodiment, the housing space (140) is formed to have a length in the left-right direction longer than a width in the front-back direction and a height in the up-down direction.

The terminal cover (150) covers the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) that are exposed to the outside of the housing (100). The terminal cover (150) at least partially surrounds the portion of the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) that is exposed to the outside of the housing (100). An external connector (not shown) can be easily connected to the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) by the terminal cover (150).

The terminal cover (150) is coupled with the housing body (110). The terminal cover (150) is continuous with one side of the housing body (110) in the longitudinal direction, the right side in the illustrated embodiment. The terminal cover (150) is arranged to cover the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) from the upper side.

The frame (200) constitutes the outer shape of the electronic contactor (10) together with the housing (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the frame (200) constitutes the other side in the height direction of the electronic contactor (10), i.e., the lower side. The frame (200) is the part where the electronic contactor (10) is exposed to the outside.

A space is formed inside the frame (200). The space can accommodate other configurations of the electronic contactor (10). For example, the frame (200) can accommodate a fixed core, a movable core, a bobbin, a shaft, a coil, etc. that are not assigned drawing symbols.

The frame (200) may be formed of an insulating material. This is to prevent a situation in which the configuration accommodated in the space and the outside are arbitrarily energized. In addition, the frame (200) is a part where the electronic contactor (10) is exposed to the outside, and is to prevent safety accidents such as electric shock.

The frame (200) is coupled with the housing (100). In one embodiment, the frame (200) can be removably coupled with the housing (100). A space formed inside the frame (200) is communicated with a space formed inside the housing (100).

The frame (200) is coupled to the housing (100) and may have any shape capable of accommodating different configurations of the electronic contactor (10).

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the frame (200) includes a frame body (210), a terminal protection member (220), and an arc chamber (230). At this time, it will be understood that the arc chamber (230) is accommodated in the housing space (140), and thus can be viewed as a component of the housing (100).

The frame body (210) constitutes the outer shape of the frame (200). The frame body (210) is a portion of the frame (200) that is exposed to the outside. Other components of the frame (200) are formed or combined in the frame body (210).

Specifically, a terminal protection member (220) is formed on one side of the length direction of the frame body (210), that is, on the right side in the illustrated embodiment. A fixed core, a movable core, a bobbin, a shaft, a coil, etc. can be accommodated in the space formed inside the frame body (210).

The frame body (210) constitutes the outer shape of the frame (200) and may have any shape in which other configurations of the frame (200) can be formed or combined. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame body (210) is a three-dimensional shape in which the length in the left-right direction is longer than the width in the front-back direction and the height in the up-down direction is greater.

The terminal protection member (220) covers the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530). The terminal protection member (220) at least partially surrounds a portion of the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) that is exposed to the outside of the housing (100). An external connector (not shown) can be easily connected to the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) by the terminal protection member (220).

The terminal protection member (220) is positioned facing the terminal cover (150) with the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) interposed therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal protection member (220) surrounds the lower side of the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) and faces the terminal cover (150) that surrounds the upper side of the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530).

The terminal protection member (220) is coupled with the frame body (210). The terminal protection member (220) is continuous with one side of the length of the frame body (210), the right side in the illustrated embodiment. The terminal protection member (220) surrounds the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) from the lower side.

The position and shape of the terminal cover (150) and terminal protection member (220) described above may be changed depending on the position and shape of the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530).

The arc chamber (230) accommodates a portion of the current-carrying portion (300) and a movable contact (not shown in the drawing). The arc chamber (230) prevents an arc generated when the current-carrying portion (300) and the movable contact (not shown in the drawing) are separated from each other from randomly leaking out. The generated arc can leak out of the arc chamber (230) after being sufficiently extinguished.

The arc chamber (230) is located in the housing space (140). A space is formed inside the arc chamber (230) to accommodate one side of the longitudinal direction of the current-carrying part (300), i.e., the lower part, and a movable contact (not given a drawing symbol). The movable contact (not given a drawing symbol) can be positioned inside the arc chamber (230) so as to be able to rise and fall.

The arc chamber (230) is surrounded by an arc induction unit (400). An arc generated inside the arc chamber (230) can be guided in a preset direction by the arc induction unit (400).

The arc chamber (230) may have any shape capable of at least partially accommodating the current-carrying portion (300) and the movable contact (not given a drawing symbol) and extinguishing and then discharging the generated arc. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc chamber (230) has a three-dimensional shape in which the length in the left-right direction is longer than the width in the front-back direction and the height in the up-down direction is greater.

The conductive part (300) is configured such that the electronic contactor (10) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown). A plurality of conductive parts (300) may be provided. Any one of the plurality of conductive parts (300) may be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown). Another one of the plurality of conductive parts (300) may be electrically connected to an external load (not shown).

In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, the conductive part (300) is provided as a pair including a first conductive part (300a) and a second conductive part (300b).

The conductive part (300) is connected to the housing (100). The conductive part (300) is connected through the conductive through hole (121), and a part of the conductive part is exposed to the outside of the housing (100). Another part of the conductive part (300) is located inside the arc chamber (230) located in the housing space (140), and is in contact with or separated from the movable contact (drawing symbol not given).

At this time, the conductive part (300) can be fixedly connected to the housing (100). Therefore, it will be understood that the conductive part (300) can be defined as a fixed contact point.

In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, the conductive part (300) includes a conductive body (310), a conductive outer periphery (320), a conductive hollow portion (330), and a conductive terminal (340).

The conductive body (310) constitutes the outer shape of the conductive portion (300). The conductive body (310) is penetrated and connected to the conductive through hole (121), and a part of the conductive body (310) is exposed to the outside of the housing (100). Another part of the conductive body (310) is at least partially exposed to the inner space of the arc chamber (230), and can come into contact with or be separated from a movable contact (drawing symbol not given).

The conductive body (310) may have a shape corresponding to the conductive through hole (121). In the illustrated embodiment, the conductive body (310) is formed in a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction.

The conductive outer circumference (320) is defined as the outer surface of the conductive body (310). In an embodiment in which the conductive body (310) is formed in a cylindrical shape, the conductive outer circumference (320) may be defined as the side surface of the conductive body (310).

The heat generated when the conductive part (300) comes into contact with the movable contact (drawing symbol not given) can be dissipated through the conductive outer periphery (320). At this time, the heat generated in the conductive outer periphery (320) can be transferred to the temperature sensing member (520) through the communication opening (135) located adjacent to the conductive through hole (121).

As described above, the heat generated in the conductive part (300) can be transferred to the temperature sensing member (520) in the form of convection or radiation. Accordingly, although not shown, a shape may be formed on the conductive outer periphery (320) to maximize the convection effect. For example, a wave shape may be formed in a negative shape on the conductive outer periphery (320).

The current-carrying cavity (330) is a space formed inside the current-carrying body (310). A cable (not shown) connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown) is inserted into the current-carrying cavity (330). Accordingly, the external power source (not shown) and the load (not shown) can be electrically connected to the current-carrying body (310).

The current-carrying hollow (330) extends in the height direction of the current-carrying body (310), in the illustrated embodiment in the vertical direction. One side of the extension direction of the current-carrying hollow (330), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is open so that the cable (not illustrated) can be inserted. The other side of the extension direction of the current-carrying hollow (330), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is closed so that the insertion length of the cable (not illustrated) can be limited.

The current-carrying terminal (340) is electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown). The current-carrying terminal (340) is electrically connected to a coil (i.e., housed inside the frame (200)) to which no drawing symbol is assigned. Accordingly, the coil (not assigned in the drawing) forms a magnetic field by a control current applied from an external control unit (not shown), so that the fixed core (not assigned in the drawing) can be magnetized.

The current-carrying terminal (340) is coupled to the frame (200). The current-carrying terminal (340) is exposed to the outside of the frame (200). In the illustrated embodiment, the current-carrying terminal (340) is exposed on one side of the length direction of the frame (200), on the upper right side. Therefore, it will be understood that the current-carrying terminal (340) can also be described as a component of the frame (200).

The current-carrying terminal (340) is positioned adjacent to the terminal tail portion (533) of the temperature-sensing terminal (530). Therefore, the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature-sensing terminal (530) can be electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown) by a single connector, respectively.

A plurality of power terminals (340) may be provided. The plurality of power terminals (340) may be electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown) and a coil (not given a drawing symbol), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, two power terminals (340) are provided, including a first power terminal (340a) and a second power terminal (340b).

At this time, the first and second current-carrying terminals (340a, 340b) can be arranged facing each other with a pair of temperature-sensing terminals (530a, 530b) interposed therebetween.

The arc induction unit (400) induces an arc generated in the arc chamber (230) in a preset direction. The arc induction unit (400) is arranged to surround the arc chamber (230) and can form a magnetic field inside the arc chamber (230).

The arc induction unit (400) is accommodated in the housing space (140). The arc induction unit (400) is located between the housing body (110) and the arc chamber (230).

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the arc induction unit (400) includes an arc induction frame (410), a magnet member (420), and an arc induction space (430).

The arc induction frame (410) constitutes the body of the arc induction unit (400). The arc induction frame (410) is combined with a magnet member (420) and surrounds an arc induction space (430).

The arc induction frame (410) may be divided into a plurality of parts. One of the plurality of parts may be coupled to one side of the length direction of the magnet member (420), and the other of the plurality of parts may be coupled to the other side of the length direction of the magnet member (420). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc induction frame (410) is composed of a pair of parts, which are coupled to the left and right sides of the magnet member (420), respectively.

The magnet member (420) forms a magnetic field inside the arc chamber (230). The generated arc is a flow of electrons, and an electromagnetic force can be generated by the formed magnetic field. Accordingly, the generated arc can be guided in a preset direction.

The magnet member (420) is coupled with the arc induction frame (410). The magnet member (420) surrounds the arc induction space (430) and the arc chamber (230) accommodated therein together with the arc induction frame (410).

A plurality of magnet members (420) may be provided. The plurality of magnet members (420) may be spaced apart from each other and may be respectively coupled with the arc induction frame (410). In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet members (420) are provided in pairs and spaced apart in the front-back direction. The left and right portions of the pair of magnet members (420) are respectively coupled with the pair of portions of the arc induction frame (410).

The arc induction space (430) is a space that accommodates the arc chamber (230). The arc induction space (430) is defined by being surrounded by the arc induction frame (410) and the magnet member (420). A magnetic field formed by the magnet member (420) can be positioned in the arc induction space (430).

The arc induction space (430) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the arc chamber (230). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc induction space (430) is formed as a three-dimensional space having a length in the left-right direction longer than a width in the front-back direction and a height in the up-down direction.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 to 3, an electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a temperature sensing device (500).

The temperature sensing device (500) is configured to detect heat generated in the electronic contactor (10). The component that generates the most heat in the electronic contactor (10) is the conductive body (310) (i.e., the fixed contact), and the temperature sensing device (500) is positioned adjacent to the conductive body (310) and is configured to detect heat generated in the conductive body (310).

At this time, the temperature sensing device (500) is positioned adjacent to the current-conducting body (310), but is not placed in contact with the current-conducting body (310). Accordingly, heat generated in the current-conducting body (310) is not transferred to the temperature sensing device (500) in the form of conduction. Accordingly, damage to the temperature sensing device (500) due to heat can be prevented.

In addition, the performance degradation of the conductive body (310) due to contact with a different configuration can also be prevented. That is, since the temperature sensing device (500) is spaced apart from the conductive body (310), a configuration for contacting the temperature sensing device (500) with the conductive body (310), such as a screw member or adhesive, becomes unnecessary. As described above, the temperature sensing device (500) is coupled with the housing (100).

Accordingly, the temperature sensing device (500) can be easily placed and combined while maintaining the performance of the power supply unit (300).

In addition, the temperature sensing device (500) is accommodated inside the housing (100). Among the configurations of the temperature sensing device (500), only the terminal tail portion (533) that is electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown) is exposed to the outside of the housing (100). Therefore, damage to the temperature sensing device (500) due to the external environment can be prevented, and heat generated in the electrically conductive body (310) can be accurately detected.

The temperature sensing device (500) is positioned in the temperature sensing receiving portion (130). The temperature sensing device (500) can be coupled to the housing body (110) by a molding material formed by a phase change of the molding column (136).

The temperature sensing device (500) is positioned adjacent to the conductive member (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing device (500) is provided in a single unit and positioned adjacent to the second conductive member (300b) located on the right. Alternatively, as described above, the temperature sensing device (500) may be provided in multiple units and positioned adjacent to the first and second conductive members (300a, 300b), respectively.

In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15, the temperature sensing device (500) includes a support member (510), a temperature sensing member (520), and a temperature sensing terminal (530).

The support member (510) supports the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530). In addition, the support member (510) is a portion where the temperature sensing device (500) is fixedly connected to the housing (100). The support member (510) is accommodated in a support member accommodation space (133) provided in a temperature sensing accommodation portion (130) and supported by a support step portion (132). The support member (510) covers the molding space (134) from the lower side and can be accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133).

The support member (510) may have any shape capable of supporting the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530). In the illustrated embodiment, the support member (510) has a polygonal cross-section and is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the vertical direction. The shape of the support member (510) may be changed to correspond to the shape of the support step (132) or the support member receiving space (133).

As the support member (510) is provided, the temperature sensing member (520) having a small size can be accurately placed at a preset position in the molding space (134). That is, if only the temperature sensing member (520) is provided, it is difficult to accurately determine the position of the temperature sensing member (520) during the process of the molding material changing from a fluid phase to a solid phase.

Accordingly, the temperature sensing device (500) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a support member (510) that supports a temperature sensing member (520), so that the temperature sensing device (500) can be easily and accurately placed in the housing (100).

The support member (510) may be provided in any form capable of supporting the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530). In one embodiment, the support member (510) may be provided in the form of a PCB board. In the above embodiment, the support member (510) may support the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530) and electrically connect the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530).

In the illustrated embodiment, the support member (510) includes a support through-hole (511), a terminal through-hole (512), and a circuit pattern (513).

The support through hole (511) is formed through the inside of the support member (510). A molding column (136) is connected through the support through hole (511). As described above, the position of the support member (510) can be maintained by the molding column (136).

The support through hole (511) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the molding column (136). In the illustrated embodiment, the support through hole (511) is formed as a space in the shape of a disc having a circular cross section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

The support through hole (511) can be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the molding column (136). In the illustrated embodiment, the support through hole (511) is positioned offset to the rear side of the support member (510).

A terminal through hole (512) is formed on the outside of the support through hole (511).

A terminal through hole (512) is formed through the inside of the support member (510). A support member joining part (534) of a temperature sensing terminal (530) is joined through the terminal through hole (512). The support member joining part (534) joined to the terminal through hole (512) can be fixed by a phase-changed molding column (136) or a separate molded material.

The terminal through hole (512) may have any shape to which the support member connecting portion (534) can be connected. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal through hole (512) is formed as a space in the shape of a disc having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

A plurality of terminal through-holes (512) may be provided. The plurality of terminal through-holes (512) may be respectively coupled with a plurality of support member connecting portions (534). In the illustrated embodiment, two pairs of terminal through-holes (512) are provided. One pair of terminal through-holes (512) is located on one side of the width direction of the support member (510), that is, on the front side in the illustrated embodiment, and the other pair of terminal through-holes (512) is located on the other side of the width direction, that is, on the rear side in the illustrated embodiment.

Each pair of terminal through-holes (512) are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the support member (510), and in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The number and arrangement of terminal through-holes (512) may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the support member connecting portions (534).

The circuit pattern (513) electrically connects the temperature sensing terminal (530) coupled to the terminal through hole (512) and the temperature sensing member (520). Information sensed by the temperature sensing member (520) can be transmitted to an external control unit (not shown) via the circuit pattern (513) and the temperature sensing terminal (530).

The circuit pattern (513) is formed on the surface of the support member (510). In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit pattern (513) is formed on a portion of the upper surface of the support member (510).

The circuit pattern (513) extends between the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530). In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit pattern (513) extends between a pair of terminal through-holes (512) located relatively to the left (i.e., through which the support member connecting portion (534) is passed) and the temperature sensing member (520) located to the left of the support member (510).

In one embodiment, the circuit pattern (513) may be formed to surround the pair of terminal through-holes (512) through which the support member connecting portion (534) passes. In either case, it is sufficient if the circuit pattern (513) can electrically connect the temperature sensing member (520) and the temperature sensing terminal (530).

The temperature sensing member (520) is configured to detect heat generated from the current-carrying body (310). Information about the heat or temperature detected by the temperature sensing member (520) can be transmitted to an external control unit (not shown) through the circuit pattern (513) and the temperature sensing terminal (530).

The temperature sensing member (520) is coupled to the support member (510). The temperature sensing member (520) is positioned on one side of the longitudinal direction of the support member (510), in the illustrated embodiment, to the left. It will be understood that the direction is toward the conductive body (310) or the communication opening (135).

The temperature sensing member (520) is electrically connected to the circuit pattern (513). The temperature sensing member (520) can be electrically connected to the temperature sensing terminal (530) through the circuit pattern (513). In addition, power required for the operation of the temperature sensing member (520) can be transmitted to the temperature sensing member (520) through the temperature sensing terminal (530) and the circuit pattern (513).

The temperature sensing member (520) may be provided in any form that can detect heat generated from the conductive body (310) by receiving it in the form of convection or radiation. In one embodiment, the temperature sensing member (520) may be provided as a thermistor, an infrared thermometer, or the like.

The temperature sensing terminal (530) electrically connects the temperature sensing member (520) and an external control unit (not shown). The temperature sensing terminal (530) can be electrically connected to the temperature sensing member (520) through the circuit pattern (513). In an embodiment in which the support member (510) is provided as a general plate rather than a PCB substrate, the temperature sensing terminal (530) can be electrically connected directly to the temperature sensing member (520).

The temperature sensing terminal (530) is coupled to the support member (510). The temperature sensing terminal (530) is coupled to the terminal through-hole (512) and is electrically connected to the circuit pattern (513).

The temperature sensing terminal (530) is coupled with the housing (100). The temperature sensing terminal (530) is received in a terminal receiving groove (139) formed in the housing (100) and supported by a terminal support member (138).

The temperature sensing terminal (530) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing (100). Among the parts of the temperature sensing terminal (530), the part exposed to the outside of the housing (100) is coupled to an external connector and is electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown).

At this time, the temperature sensing terminal (530) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (100) at the same location as the current-carrying terminal (340). In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing terminal (530) is exposed to the outside through the right side of the housing (100). Therefore, as described above, the current-carrying terminal (340) and the temperature sensing terminal (530) may be simultaneously electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown) with only a single connector.

A plurality of temperature sensing terminals (530) may be provided. The plurality of temperature sensing terminals (530) may be respectively coupled to the housing (100) and the support member (510). In the illustrated embodiment, two temperature sensing terminals (530) are provided, including a first temperature sensing terminal (530a) and a second temperature sensing terminal (530b). The first and second temperature sensing terminals (530a, 530b) are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the support member (510), i.e., in the front-back direction in the illustrated embodiment.

In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing terminal (530) includes a terminal body (531), a terminal head portion (532), a terminal tail portion (533), and a support member coupling portion (534).

The terminal body (531) constitutes the body of the temperature sensing terminal (530). The terminal body (531) is a portion where the temperature sensing terminal (530) is coupled to the housing (100). Specifically, the terminal body (531) is received in the terminal receiving groove (139) and supported by the terminal support member (138).

The terminal body (531) may have any shape that can extend between the support member (510) accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133) and the exterior of the housing (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal body (531) is provided in a plate shape having a length in the vertical direction and a thickness in the front-back direction.

The terminal body (531) is continuous with the terminal head portion (532). In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the terminal body (531) in the extension direction, i.e., the upper end, is continuous with the terminal head portion (532). At this time, the terminal body (531) may be continuous with the terminal head portion (532) at a predetermined angle. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle.

The terminal body (531) is continuous with the terminal tail portion (533). In the illustrated embodiment, the other end of the terminal body (531) in the extension direction, i.e., the lower end, is continuous with the terminal tail portion (533). At this time, the terminal body (531) may be continuous with the terminal tail portion (533) at a predetermined angle. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle.

The terminal head portion (532) connects the terminal body (531) and the support member joining portion (534). The terminal head portion (532) is continuous with the terminal body (531) and the support member joining portion (534), respectively. The terminal head portion (532) supports the support member (510) from the lower side.

The terminal head portion (532) is continuous with the terminal body (531) and the support member joining portion (534), respectively, and may have any shape capable of supporting the support member (510). In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal head portion (532) is provided in a plate shape having a length in the left-right direction and a thickness in the front-back direction.

The terminal head portion (532) is continuous with the terminal body (531). In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the terminal head portion (532) in the extension direction, i.e., the right end, is continuous with the terminal body (531).

The terminal head portion (532) is continuous with the support member connecting portion (534). In the illustrated embodiment, one side in the height direction of the terminal head portion (532), i.e., the upper side, is continuous with the support member connecting portion (534).

The terminal tail portion (533) is a portion where the temperature sensing terminal (530) is electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown). The terminal tail portion (533) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing (100).

The terminal tail portion (533) may extend in the same direction as the terminal head portion (532). In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal tail portion (533) is provided in the form of a rod extending in the left-right direction.

The terminal tail portion (533) is continuous with the terminal body (531). In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the terminal tail portion (533) in the extension direction, i.e., the left end, is continuous with the other end of the terminal body (531) in the extension direction, i.e., the lower end.

At this time, the terminal tail parts (533) of the first and second temperature sensing terminals (530a, 530b) can be placed facing each other with a pair of current-carrying terminals (340) interposed therebetween.

The support member joint (534) is a portion where the temperature sensing terminal (530) is connected to the support member (510) and is electrically connected to the temperature sensing member (520). The support member joint (534) is connected through the terminal through-hole (512) and electrically connected to the circuit pattern (513).

The support member joint (534) is continuous with the terminal head portion (532). In the illustrated embodiment, the support member joint (534) is continuous with the upper end of the terminal head portion (532).

The support member connecting portion (534) may have any shape that can penetrate the terminal through hole (512) and be electrically connected to the circuit pattern (513). In the illustrated embodiment, the support member connecting portion (534) is provided in a plate shape having a length and thickness in the same direction as the terminal body (531), that is, extending in the up-down direction and having a thickness in the front-back direction, but is formed such that its cross-sectional area decreases in the direction toward the support member (510).

Therefore, the support member joint (534) can easily penetrate the terminal through hole (512).

A plurality of support member coupling parts (534) may be provided. The plurality of support member coupling parts (534) may be spaced apart from each other and may be respectively coupled to the plurality of terminal through holes (512). In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of support member coupling parts (534) are provided for each of the first and second temperature sensing terminals (530a, 530b) and spaced apart in the left-right direction.

The number and arrangement of the support member joints (534) may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the terminal through holes (512).

Referring to FIGS. 15 to 19, the coupling relationship of a housing (100), a current-carrying part (300), and a temperature sensing device (500) provided in an electronic contactor (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

As described above, the terminal tail portion (533) is exposed to the outside through the right side of the housing (100). It will be understood that the direction is the same as the direction in which the current-carrying terminal (340) is exposed to the outside of the housing (100).

First, the temperature sensing device (500) is arranged so that the molding column (136) penetrates the support through hole (511), the support member (510) is seated on the support step (132) and the support protrusion (137) and is accommodated in the support member accommodation space (133). Accordingly, the support member (510) can be arranged in the housing (100) while covering the molding space (134).

At the same time, the temperature sensing device (500) is positioned so that the temperature sensing terminal (530) is received in the terminal receiving groove (139). Accordingly, the temperature sensing terminal (530) can be supported by the terminal support member (138).

The above process can be performed in a state where the housing (100) is flipped upside down, that is, the housing space (140) is positioned so that it is exposed through the upper side.

Next, as an external tip is inserted into the molding cavity (136a) and heat or pressure is applied, the molding column (136) changes into a fluid phase and flows into the molding space (134). After a predetermined period of time, the molding material in the fluid phase changes into a solid phase again and the support member (510) and the upper inner surface of the housing body (110) can be combined.

At this time, the temperature sensing member (520) is located on one side, in the illustrated embodiment, on the left side, but spaced apart from the conductive body (310) and adjacent to the communication opening (135). The heat generated in the conductive body (310) provided in the second conductive member (300b) is dissipated through the conductive outer periphery (320) and transferred to the temperature sensing member (520) through the communication opening (135).

The temperature sensing element (520) can detect information about the transmitted heat and transmit it to an external control unit (not shown) through a circuit pattern (513) and a temperature sensing terminal (530).

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily suggest other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components within the scope of the same spirit, but this will also be considered to fall within the spirit of the present invention.

10: Electronic contactor 100: Housing

110: Housing body 120: Current receiving part

120a: 1st power receiving section 120b: 2nd power receiving section

121: Current-carrying through hole 121a: First current-carrying through hole

121b: Second current-carrying through hole 122: Insulating bulkhead

130: Temperature sensing receiver 131: Temperature sensing boss

132: Support step 133: Support member accommodation space

134: Molding space 135: Flue opening

136: Molding column 136a: Molding hollow

137: Support protrusion 138: Terminal support

139: Terminal receiving groove 140: Housing space

150: Terminal cover 200: Frame

210: Frame body 220: Terminal protection member

230: Arc chamber 300: Electrical section

300a: 1st power supply unit 300b: 2nd power supply unit

310: Current body 320: Current outer circumference

330: Current-carrying hollow 340: Current-carrying terminal

340a: First current-carrying terminal 340b: Second current-carrying terminal

400: Arc induction part 410: Arc induction frame

420: Magnet Absence 430: Arc Induction Space

500: Temperature sensing device 510: Support member

511: Support through hole 512: Terminal through hole

513: Circuit pattern 520: Absence of temperature sensing

530: Temperature sensing terminal 530a: First temperature sensing terminal

530b: Second temperature sensing terminal 531: Terminal body

532: Terminal head 533: Terminal tail

534: Support Absence Joint

Claims (15)

A housing having a housing space formed inside; A conductive member that is electrically connected to an external power source or load and is joined to the housing so as to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing; and A temperature sensing device coupled to the housing so as to be at least partially exposed to the exterior of the housing, positioned adjacent to but spaced from the conductive portion, and configured to detect heat generated in the conductive portion; The above temperature sensing device, A support member coupled to the housing and accommodated in the housing space; a temperature sensing member coupled to the support member and configured to sense the heat; and A temperature sensing terminal coupled to the support member, electrically connected to the temperature sensing member, and at least partially exposed to the exterior of the housing, Electronic contactor. In the first paragraph, The above housing, A support step portion supporting the above-mentioned support member on one side in the height direction; A molding space surrounded by the above support step and in which the temperature sensing member is positioned; and A part of the support step is sunken and formed, and includes a communicating opening extending between the molding space and the conductive part to form a passage through which the heat is transferred. Electronic contactor. In the second paragraph, The above-mentioned flue opening is formed so that its cross-sectional area decreases in the direction from the above-mentioned conductive member toward the above-mentioned temperature sensing member. Electronic contactor. In the second paragraph, The above housing, A support member receiving space that is formed sunken into the inner surface of the housing and is located on one side of the height direction of the support step portion and includes a support member receiving space for receiving the support member. Electronic contactor. In paragraph 4, The above support step is, Extending to surround the support member receiving space from the outer side in the horizontal direction and configured to support a portion adjacent to the outer periphery of the support member, Electronic contactor. In paragraph 4, The above housing, A support projection formed protruding from the inner surface of the housing surrounding the support member receiving space and supporting the support member from the outer side in the horizontal direction, Electronic contactor. In Article 6, The above support protrusions are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple support protrusions are spaced apart from each other in one direction and another direction orthogonal to the one direction, so as to support the support member at multiple locations. Electronic contactor. In paragraph 4, The above housing, A molding column is positioned in the support member receiving space, extends in a direction opposite to the inner surface of the housing, and is formed to be phase-changed by heat or pressure. The above support member is, A molding column having a support through-hole formed therein through which the molding column penetrates, Electronic contactor. In Article 8, Inside the molding column, a molding cavity is formed sunken into which a tip for applying the heat or pressure is inserted. Electronic contactor. In the first paragraph, The above temperature sensing device is positioned so as to be offset to one side of the longitudinal direction of the housing, The above housing, A terminal receiving groove formed in the inner surface of the above one side and receiving the temperature sensing terminal; and A pair of terminal support portions are configured to support the temperature sensing terminal by protruding from the inner surface of the one side, extending in the height direction of the housing, and facing each other with the terminal receiving groove interposed along the width direction of the housing. Electronic contactor. In the first paragraph, The above support member is, a terminal through hole formed penetrating therein; and comprising a circuit pattern extending between the temperature sensing member and the terminal through-hole; The above temperature sensing terminal is inserted into the terminal through hole and is electrically connected to the circuit pattern. Electronic contactor. In Article 11, The above temperature sensing terminal, A terminal body coupled to the housing and extending in the height direction of the housing; A terminal head portion that is continuous with one end of the terminal body in the height direction and extends in the length direction of the housing and supports the support member; and Including a support member connecting portion that is continuous with the terminal head portion and extends in the height direction of the housing and is inserted into the terminal through hole. Electronic contactor. In Article 12, The above temperature sensing terminal, A terminal tail portion including a terminal body end portion that is continuous with the other end portion in the height direction of the terminal body, extends in the length direction of the housing, and is at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing. Electronic contactor. In the first paragraph, The above communication part is, Including a current-carrying terminal at least partially exposed on one side of the exterior of the housing and electrically connected to the exterior, Electronic contactor. In Article 14, The above temperature sensing terminal, A terminal tail portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing and at least partially exposed to one side of the exterior of the housing, Electronic contactor.

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