Power-Off Time Delay Relay circuit

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Power-Off Time Delay Relay
Power-Off Time Delay Relay

The two circuits demonstrate the process of opening a relay contact shortly after the ignition or light switch is turned off. The capacitor is charged, and the relay remains closed until the voltage at the diode anode reaches +12 volts.

The described circuits utilize a relay and a capacitor to control the timing of the relay operation following the deactivation of the ignition or light switch. When the switch is turned off, the capacitor begins to discharge through the relay coil, maintaining the relay in a closed position for a brief period. This delay allows for a controlled opening of the relay contacts, which can be advantageous in various automotive or lighting applications where a gradual disconnection is preferred to prevent electrical surges or abrupt changes in circuit conditions.

In the circuit configuration, a diode is placed in parallel with the relay coil to protect the circuit from back EMF generated when the relay is switched off. The anode of the diode connects to the positive voltage supply, while the cathode connects to the relay coil. The capacitor is charged to the supply voltage when the ignition or light switch is in the 'on' position. Once the switch is turned off, the capacitor begins to discharge through the relay coil, allowing the relay to remain activated until the capacitor voltage drops below the necessary threshold, which is indicated by the +12 volts at the diode anode.

The timing of the relay opening can be adjusted by changing the capacitance value or the resistance in the discharge path, allowing for flexible control based on specific application requirements. This design is particularly useful in automotive lighting systems where a delay in turning off the lights after the ignition is switched off can enhance safety and visibility.The two circuits illustrate opening a relay contact a short time after the ignition or ligh switch is turned off. The capacitor is charged and the relay is closed when the voltage at the diode anode rises to +12 volts..

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