Insulation inspection device and method

Abstract

Provided are an insulation inspection device and method, which can accurately detect the insulation state of the coating of a wire in a short time before the wire is assembled into the armature core of a rotating electric machine, thereby reducing manufacturing costs. A power supply unit (5) includes a first terminal (51) and a second terminal (52). Before the wire is assembled into the armature core of the rotating electric machine, a support member (3) supports a plurality of wires (2) covered with the coating, and the support member is electrically connected to the first terminal (51). An area where the coating is stripped at the end (23) of a plurality of wires is mounted on a mounting base (4), and the mounting base (4) is electrically connected to the second terminal (52). When the power supply unit (5) applies a voltage to the first terminal (51) or the second terminal (52), a discharge detection unit (6) detects discharge occurring between the support member (3) and each wire (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an insulation inspection device and an insulation inspection method for inspecting the insulation state of a coating of a wire material included in a rotating electric machine. Background Art

[0002] There is known a rotating electric machine used in a motor generator mounted on an electric vehicle, for example. This type of rotating electric machine includes a stator coil having a segmented coil.

[0003] JP2013-102569A describes a method for manufacturing a rotating electric machine. In this manufacturing method, first, a plurality of U-shaped wires for forming a segmented coil are combined together into a ring shape and fixed using a temporary assembly fixture. Then, the plurality of wires fixed using the temporary assembly fixture are inserted into the slots of the stator core. Subsequently, the regions of the plurality of wires protruding from the slots of the stator core are twisted, and then the ends of the plurality of wires for the U phase, V phase, and W phase are joined together. In addition, the wires of each phase are joined together at the neutral point to form a Y-shaped connection, etc. Note that in JP2013-102569A, the temporary assembly fixture is referred to as an inner diameter fixing ring and a coil clamp.

[0004] The coil in the rotating electric machine includes a conductor whose surface is covered with a coating formed of an insulator such as enamel. Therefore, defects in the coating lead to insufficient insulation, which may cause a short circuit between phases, within a phase, or to the ground. Note that "between phases" refers to coils forming any two phases of the three phases. "Within a phase" refers to a coil forming one phase. "To the ground" refers to the coil and the stator core.

[0005] A manufacturing process of a rotating electric machine includes a step of inspecting the insulation state of a coating to prevent insufficient insulation of the coating. Note that JP2013-102569A does not describe insulation inspection for the coating.

[0006] Generally, the following methods (A), (B), and (C) are performed as insulation inspection of the coating.

[0007] (A) An insulation inspection method in which voltage is applied to a plurality of wires one by one before the wires are inserted into slots of a stator core.

[0008] (B) An insulation inspection method in which, after the wire is inserted into the slot of the stator core, an electrode is brought close to the wire.

[0009] (C) An insulation inspection method in which, after inserting wires into slots of a stator core, phase-to-phase voltage, intra-phase voltage, and voltage to ground are applied.

[0010] However, the insulation inspection based on the methods (A), (B) and (C) described above causes the following problems.

[0011] In the method (A), a plurality of wires are inspected one by one, and thus a long time is required to inspect the insulation conditions of all the wires to be assembled in the stator core.

[0012] Method (B) requires necessary adjustments to prevent the voltage applied to the wire from being discharged to the stator core. Therefore, a portion of the entire range of each wire whose insulation can be checked is reduced accordingly to the voltage applied to the wire.

[0013] Method (C) is limited to the case where the inspection areas where voltage is applied are adjacent to each other. Therefore, if there is a defect in a wire area where the wires are not adjacent to each other, foreign matter may enter the area and cause a short circuit. Summary of the invention

[0014] In view of the above circumstances, it is desirable to have an insulation inspection device and an insulation inspection method that can accurately inspect the insulation state of a wire coating before assembling the wire into an armature core of a rotating electric machine, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0015] A first aspect of the present invention provides an insulation inspection device for inspecting the insulation state of a coating of a wire included in a rotating electrical machine, the insulation inspection device comprising a power supply unit, a support member, a mounting base, and a discharge detection unit. The power supply unit comprises a first terminal and a second terminal. The support member supports a plurality of wires covered with a coating before the plurality of wires are assembled into the core of an armature in the rotating electrical machine, and the support member is electrically connected to the first terminal. An area where the coating is stripped from the ends of the plurality of wires is mounted on the mounting base, and the mounting base is electrically connected to the second terminal. When the power supply unit applies a voltage to the first terminal or the second terminal, the discharge detection unit detects the discharge occurring between the support member and each wire.

[0016] Thus, the insulation inspection device can collectively inspect a plurality of wires supported by the support member before the plurality of wires are mounted on the core of the armature of the rotating electrical machine. Therefore, the insulation inspection of the plurality of wires can be performed in a short time.

[0017] Furthermore, the insulation inspection device inspects the insulation of the wire before the wire is assembled into the armature core of the rotating electrical machine, and can prevent the voltage applied to the wire from being discharged to the core. Therefore, the voltage applied to the wire can be increased without considering the discharge to the core. Thus, the inspection range of the wire can be expanded.

[0018] Furthermore, the insulation inspection device inspects the insulation of the wires before they are assembled into the armature core of the rotating electrical machine, thereby making it possible to directly inspect the entire range of each wire including the area of ​​the wire inserted into the core in a subsequent step.

[0019] Furthermore, the insulation inspection device inspects the insulation condition of the wire before assembling the wire into the armature core of the rotating electrical machine, and therefore, in the case where it is determined that the insulation performance of the coating of any wire does not satisfy a predetermined standard, the wire alone can be discarded without discarding the core. Therefore, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0020] A second aspect of the present invention provides an insulation inspection method for inspecting the insulation state of a coating of a wire included in a rotating electric machine. The insulation inspection method includes: supporting a plurality of wires covered with a coating using a support member before being assembled into a core of an armature in the rotating electric machine, and mounting the coating-peeled regions of the ends of the plurality of wires on a mounting base; applying a voltage from a power supply unit to the plurality of wires via the support member or the mounting base, and detecting discharge occurring between the support member and each wire; and judging whether the coating of the wire is acceptable based on the discharge rate of the wire.

[0021] Thus, this aspect of the invention can provide the same functions and effects as the first aspect of the invention described above. Note that the discharge rate is a value calculated based on the voltage drop during discharge relative to the voltage applied by the power supply unit. Alternatively, the discharge rate is a value calculated based on the current value of the current flowing through the circuit during discharge.

[0022] Note that reference numerals in parentheses given to components and the like represent examples of corresponding relationships between the components and the like and specific components and the like in the embodiments described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] In the attached picture:

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a part of the insulation inspection device according to the first embodiment;

[0025] Figure 2 It is shown from Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the circuit structure of the insulation inspection device observed in the direction of arrow II;

[0026] Figure 3 It is shown from Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the circuit structure of the insulation inspection device observed in the direction of arrow III;

[0027] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of current when a part of a wire material has a defect;

[0028] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of current in a case where different portions of a wire material have defects;

[0029] Figure 6is a diagram showing how the insulation determination unit determines whether a wire material is acceptable;

[0030] Figure 7 is a flow chart showing a part of the manufacturing process of the stator of the rotating electrical machine;

[0031] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a circuit structure of an insulation inspection device according to a second embodiment;

[0032] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a circuit configuration of an insulation inspection device according to a third embodiment;

[0033] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram showing a circuit configuration of an insulation inspection device according to a fourth embodiment;

[0034] Fig.11 It is shown from Fig.10 Schematic diagram of the circuit structure of the insulation inspection device viewed in the direction of arrow XI. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in the embodiments described below, the same or equivalent components are given the same reference numerals, and description of the components is omitted.

[0036] First embodiment

[0037] The first embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the insulation inspection device 1 according to the present embodiment is a device for inspecting the insulation state of a coating applied to a segment coil included in a stator coil of a rotating electric machine (not shown). Note that the rotating electric machine is used in a motor generator mounted on an electric vehicle, for example.

[0038] Figures 1 to 3 1 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the insulation inspection device 1 and a portion of a plurality of wires 2 supported in the insulation inspection device 1. The plurality of wires 2 are substantially U-shaped to form a segmented coil, and each wire includes two straight portions 21 and a mountain-shaped connecting portion 22 connecting the two straight portions 21. However, Figures 1 to 3 Only one straight portion 21 and half of the connecting portion 22 in each substantially U-shaped wire 2 are shown. Each of the plurality of wires 2 is covered with a coating formed of an insulator such as enamel. At the end of the straight portion 21 of the wire 2 opposite to the connecting portion 22 (hereinafter referred to as "end 23 of the wire 2"), the coating is peeled off to expose the conductor.

[0039] The insulation inspection device 1 inspects a plurality of wires 2 that are formed into segment coils and temporarily assembled into a ring shape before the wires 2 are inserted into slots of a stator core as an armature (not shown) included in a rotating electric machine not shown. Specifically, the insulation inspection device 1 has a function of inspecting the insulation of the wires 2 and serves as a temporary assembling jig that temporarily assembles the plurality of wires 2 into a ring shape.

[0040] The insulation inspection device 1 includes a support member 3 , a mounting base 4 , a power supply unit 5 , a discharge detection unit 6 , a voltage detection unit 7 , and an insulation determination unit 8 .

[0041] The support member 3 is a member for supporting the plurality of wires 2 temporarily assembled into a ring shape. The support member 3 includes an intermediate clamp 31 and an upper clamp 32. The intermediate clamp 31 and the upper clamp 32 are formed of a conductor such as metal. Therefore, the support member 3 functions as an electrode.

[0042] The intermediate jig 31 is disposed between the straight portions 21 of the plurality of wires 2. The intermediate jig 31 supports the plurality of wires 2 in an aligned manner.

[0043] The upper jig 32 is disposed on the connection portion 22 side of each of the plurality of wires 2 and is in contact with the connection portion 22 .

[0044] The mounting base 4 is a member on which the ends 23 of the plurality of wires 2 are mounted. The mounting base 4 is in contact with the ends 23 of the plurality of wires 2. The mounting base 4 is formed of a conductor such as metal. Therefore, the mounting base 4 functions as an electrode.

[0045] In this way, the insulation inspection device 1 including the intermediate fixture 31 and the mounting base 4 can support the plurality of wires 2 temporarily assembled into a ring shape.

[0046] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the power supply unit 5 is a DC power supply. The power supply unit 5 includes a first terminal 51 and a second terminal 52. In this embodiment, the first terminal 51 is a positive electrode, and the second terminal 52 is a negative electrode.

[0047] The middle clamp 31 and the upper clamp 32 are electrically connected to the first terminal 51. On the other hand, the mounting base 4 is electrically connected to the second terminal 52. Therefore, the power supply unit 5 can apply a predetermined voltage to the plurality of wires 2 through the middle clamp 31 and the upper clamp 32.

[0048] The discharge detection unit 6 is arranged midway by connecting the second terminal 52 of the power supply unit 5 and the wire connecting the mounting base 4. The discharge detection unit 6 is configured to detect the discharge occurring between the support member 3 and each wire 2 when the power supply unit 5 applies a voltage. Specifically, the discharge detection unit 6 detects the voltage drop during the discharge. Alternatively, the discharge detection unit 6 detects the value of the current flowing through the circuit during the discharge.

[0049] The voltage detection unit 7 is connected in parallel to the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52. The voltage detection unit 7 is configured to detect a potential difference between the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52. Thus, the voltage detection unit 7 detects the output voltage from the power supply unit 5.

[0050] The detection value from the discharge detection unit 6 and the detection value from the voltage detection unit 7 are input to the insulation judgment unit 8. The discharge detection unit 6 compares the detection value from the discharge detection unit 6 with the detection value from the voltage detection unit 7 to calculate the discharge rate of each wire 2. Note that the discharge rate is a value calculated from the voltage drop during discharge relative to the voltage applied by the power supply unit 5. Alternatively, the discharge rate is a value calculated from the current value flowing through the circuit on which the discharge detection unit 6 is installed during discharge.

[0051] The insulation inspection device 1 configured as described above can detect the insulation state of the coating of the wires 2 by applying a voltage from the power supply unit 5 to the plurality of wires 2 via the support member 3 .

[0052] exist Figure 4 In FIG. 4 , the dotted line A indicates the path of the current flowing due to the short circuit between the defect 24 in the wire 24 and the intermediate clamp 31 in the case where any wire 2 in the area of ​​the wire 2 between the intermediate clamp 31 and the mounting base 4 has a defect 24. Note that Figure 4 The arrow α in denoted the range of creeping discharge along the coating of the wire 2 .

[0053] In addition, Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , the dotted line B represents the path of the current flowing due to the short circuit between the defect 25 in the wire 2 and the upper clamp 32 in the case where any wire 2 has a defect 25 in the area of ​​the wire 2 located between the upper clamp 32 and the middle clamp 31. Note that Figure 5 The arrow β in denoted the range of creeping discharge along the coating of the wire 2 .

[0054] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, since the insulation inspection device 1 includes the middle clamp 31 and the upper clamp 32 as the support member 3, no matter which part of the wire 2 has a defect, the insulation inspection device 1 can cause discharge via the defect.

[0055] Figure 6 2 is a diagram showing whether the insulation state of the wire 2 is acceptable or not, which is performed by the insulation determination unit 8. In the diagram, the vertical axis represents the discharge rate, and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0056] The insulation judgment unit 8 applies voltage at the point of time t0, and judges that the wire material whose discharge rate is lower than the judgment threshold value Th at a predetermined time t1 after the start of the inspection is acceptable. On the other hand, the insulation judgment unit 8 judges that the wire material whose discharge rate is higher than the judgment threshold value Th at a predetermined time t1 after the start of the inspection is unacceptable.

[0057] Now, refer to Figure 7 The flowchart in describes a method for manufacturing a stator in a rotating electrical machine.

[0058] First, a plurality of wires 2 for forming a segment coil are formed in step 10. In this step, a plurality of wires 2 each including a conductor covered with a coating is cut into a predetermined length, the coating is peeled off at the top end of the wire, and the wire is bent roughly into a U shape.

[0059] Then, in step S20 , the plurality of wires 2 are temporarily assembled. In this step, the plurality of wires 2 are combined together in a ring shape and supported by the support member 3 , and the ends 23 of the plurality of wires 2 are mounted on the mounting base 4 .

[0060] Subsequently, in step S30, the power supply unit 5 applies a voltage to the plurality of wires 2 via the support member 3. Then, the discharge detection unit 6 detects discharge occurring between the support member 3 and each of the wires 2.

[0061] Then, in step S40, the insulation determination unit 8 calculates the discharge rate of the wire 2, and determines whether the coating of the wire 2 is acceptable based on the discharge rate. In the case where the insulation determination unit 8 determines that the wire 2 is unacceptable because the insulation state of the coating of the wire 2 does not meet the predetermined standard, the process proceeds to step S100. In step S100, the wire 2 is discarded.

[0062] On the other hand, in step S40, when the insulation determination unit 8 determines that the wire material 2 is acceptable because the insulation state of the coating of the wire material 2 satisfies the predetermined standard, the process proceeds to step S50.

[0063] In step S50 , a plurality of wires 2 are removed from the support member 3 and the mounting base 4 and inserted into the slots of the stator core.

[0064] Subsequently, in step S60, the regions of the wires 2 protruding from the slots of the stator core are twisted, and the ends 23 of the wires 2 for the U, V, and W phases are welded together. Furthermore, the neutral points and power lines of the phases are welded together.

[0065] Subsequently, in step S70, the interphase insulation, intra-phase insulation, and ground insulation of the coil ends of the segment coil are inspected, thereby completing the stator.

[0066] Note that steps S20 to S40 described above are steps corresponding to the insulation inspection method of the wire material 2 using the insulation inspection device 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0067] The insulation inspection device 1 and the insulation inspection method according to the first embodiment described above produce the following functions and effects.

[0068] (1) In the insulation inspection device 1 and the insulation inspection method according to the first embodiment, a plurality of wires 2 are temporarily assembled using the support member 3 and the mounting base 4, a voltage is applied to the plurality of wires 2 via the support member 3, and a discharge occurring between the support member 3 and each wire 2 is detected. Therefore, the plurality of wires 2 are collectively inspected, allowing the insulation inspection to be performed in a short time.

[0069] In addition, in the insulation inspection device 1 and the insulation inspection method, the insulation inspection is performed on the plurality of wires 2 that are temporarily assembled to prevent the voltage applied to the wires 2 from being discharged to the stator core. Therefore, the voltage applied to the wires 2 can be increased without considering the discharge to the stator core. Thus, the inspection range of the wires 2 can be extended.

[0070] Furthermore, in the insulation inspection device 1 and the insulation inspection method, insulation inspection is performed on a plurality of temporarily assembled wires 2, allowing the entire range of each wire 2 including the area of ​​the wire 2 inserted into the slot of the stator core to be directly inspected in a subsequent step.

[0071] In addition, in the insulation inspection device 1 and the insulation inspection method, the insulation inspection is performed on the plurality of wires 2 that are temporarily assembled, so that when it is determined that the insulation performance of the coating of any wire 2 does not meet the predetermined standard, the wire 2 can be discarded alone without discarding the stator core. Therefore, the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0072] (2) In the insulation inspection device 1 and the insulation inspection method according to the first embodiment, the voltage detection unit 7 detects the potential difference between the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52, and the insulation judgment unit 8 judges whether the insulation state of each wire 2 is acceptable based on the detection value from the discharge detection unit 6 and the detection value from the voltage detection unit 7. Thus, it is possible to accurately judge whether the insulation state of the wire 2 is acceptable.

[0073] (3) The support member 3 included in the insulation inspection device 1 according to the first embodiment has the intermediate clamp 31 arranged between the plurality of wires 2 and the upper clamp 32 arranged on the connection portion 22 side of each wire 2. This makes it possible to inspect the entire wire 2 even when the wire 2 is long.

[0074] Second embodiment

[0075] The second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that the structure of the insulation inspection device 1 is partially changed, and the rest of the structure of the first and second embodiments is the same. Therefore, only the parts different from the corresponding parts of the first embodiment will be described.

[0076] like Figure 8 As shown, the insulation inspection device 1 according to the second embodiment includes an upper clamp switch 91 disposed in the middle of the wire connecting the first terminal 51 of the power supply unit 5 and the upper clamp 32. The upper clamp switch 91 is a switch that can electrically connect or disconnect the first terminal 51 and the upper clamp 32.

[0077] The insulation inspection device 1 also includes an intermediate clamp switch 92 disposed midway in the wire connecting the first terminal 51 of the power supply unit 5 and the intermediate clamp 31. The intermediate clamp switch 92 is a switch that can electrically connect or disconnect the first terminal 51 and the intermediate clamp 31.

[0078] In the insulation inspection for the wire 2, when the upper clamp switch 91 is turned on and the middle clamp switch 92 is turned off, a voltage is applied to the plurality of wires 2 through the upper clamp 32. Then, the discharge state of the area of ​​each wire 2 located between the upper clamp 32 and the middle clamp 31 can be detected. On the other hand, in the insulation inspection for the wire 2, when the upper clamp switch 91 is turned off and the middle clamp switch 92 is turned on, a voltage is applied to the plurality of wires 2 through the middle clamp 31. Then, the discharge state of the area of ​​each wire 2 between the middle clamp 31 and the mounting base 4 can be detected. Thus, in the second embodiment, in the insulation inspection of the wire 2, the voltage can be applied to any area of ​​the wire 2. Therefore, in the second embodiment, in the insulation inspection of the wire 2, when a defect is detected in the coating of any wire 2, it can be easily identified whether the position of the defect is between the middle clamp 31 and the mounting base 4 or between the middle clamp 31 and the upper clamp 32.

[0079] In addition, the mounting base 4 of the insulation inspection device 1 according to the second embodiment includes a plurality of split mounting bases 41. The plurality of split mounting bases 41 are respectively arranged corresponding to the respective wires 2. In the second embodiment, the end 23 of one wire 2 contacts one split mounting base 41. The plurality of split mounting bases 41 are electrically separated from each other.

[0080] In addition, in the second embodiment, a plurality of mounting base switches 93 are provided in the middle of the wire connecting the plurality of split mounting bases 41 and the discharge detection unit 6. The plurality of mounting base switches 93 are provided corresponding to each split mounting base 41. In the second embodiment, one split mounting base 41 is provided with one mounting base switch 93. Thus, the plurality of mounting base switches 93 can respectively switch the electrical connection between a corresponding one of each split mounting base 41 and the second terminal 52.

[0081] In the case of inspecting the insulation of the wire 2, when a predetermined mounting base switch 93 among the plurality of mounting base switches 93 is turned on and the other mounting base switches 93 are turned off, a voltage is applied from the support member 3 to the predetermined wire 2. Then, the discharge state of the predetermined wire 2 can be detected. Thus, in the second embodiment, in the insulation inspection of the wire 2, a voltage can be applied individually to a predetermined wire 2 among the plurality of wires 2. Therefore, in the second embodiment, in the insulation inspection of the wire 2, in the case where a defect is detected in the coating of any wire 2, a defective wire 2 can be easily detected among the plurality of wires 2.

[0082] Third embodiment

[0083] The third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is the same as the second embodiment except that the structure of the insulation inspection device 1 is partially changed, and the rest of the structure of the second and third embodiments is the same. Therefore, only the parts different from the corresponding parts of the second embodiment will be described.

[0084] like Fig. 9 As shown, the mounting base 4 included in the insulation inspection device 1 according to the third embodiment also has a plurality of divided mounting bases 41. Fig. 9 As shown by the arrow M in , each of the plurality of split mounting bases 41 is configured to be movable to a state where the split mounting base 41 contacts the end 23 of the corresponding wire 2, and a state where the split mounting base 41 is away from the end 23 of the corresponding wire 2.

[0085] In the case of inspecting the insulation of the wire rod, a predetermined divided mounting base 41 among the plurality of divided mounting bases 41 is in contact with the end 23 of the predetermined wire rod 2, and the other divided mounting bases 41 are away from the end 23 of the other wire rods 2. In this state, by applying a voltage to the predetermined wire rod 2 through the support member 3, the discharge state of the predetermined wire rod 2 of the plurality of wire rods 2 can be detected. Therefore, as in the case of the second embodiment, in the insulation inspection of the wire rod 2, in the case where a defect is detected in the coating of any wire rod 2, the insulation inspection device 1 according to the third embodiment can easily identify the wire rod 2 having the defect from the plurality of wire rods 2.

[0086] Fourth embodiment

[0087] The fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that the structure of the insulation inspection device 1 is partially changed, and the rest of the structure of the first and fourth embodiments is the same. Therefore, only the parts different from the corresponding parts of the first embodiment will be described.

[0088] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the upper clamp 32 included in the insulation inspection device 1 according to the fourth embodiment has: an upper clamp body 36; and a plurality of upper electrode portions 37 protruding from the upper clamp body 36 toward the wire 2. The plurality of upper electrode portions 37 are formed in a needle shape. In addition, the plurality of upper electrode portions 37 are arranged away from the plurality of wires 2. Note that the plurality of upper electrode portions 37 are electrically connected to the first terminal 51 of the power supply unit 5.

[0089] In addition, the intermediate jig 31 included in the insulation inspection device 1 according to the fourth embodiment has a plurality of resin members 38 and a plurality of middle electrode parts 39. The resin members 38 are arranged between and in contact with the straight portions 21 of the plurality of wires 2. The resin members 38 support the plurality of wires 2.

[0090] The plurality of middle electrode portions 39 are fixed to the resin member 38 and arranged away from the plurality of wires 2. Note that the plurality of middle electrode portions 39 are each formed in a needle shape. In addition, the plurality of middle electrode portions 39 are electrically connected to the first terminal 51 of the power supply unit 5.

[0091] In the fourth embodiment described above, the upper electrode portion 37 of the upper jig 32 is arranged away from the wire 2 so that the coating of the wire 2 does not have defects. In addition, the region of the intermediate jig 31 in contact with the wire 2 includes the resin member 38 so that the coating of the wire 2 does not have defects.

[0092] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the plurality of middle electrode portions 39 of the intermediate fixture 31 are all formed into a needle shape, which is conducive to the concentration of the electric field. This allows the inspection range to be limited so as to facilitate the determination of the inspection range. In addition, the plurality of upper electrode portions 37 of the upper fixture 32 are all formed into a needle shape, which is conducive to the concentration of the electric field. This allows the inspection range to be limited so as to facilitate the determination of the inspection range.

[0093] Other Implementations

[0094] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments as described above, and it can be appropriately changed within the scope described in the claims. The embodiments as described above are not unrelated to each other, and can be appropriately combined together unless it is obviously impossible to combine. In the embodiments as described above, for example, unless an element is specified as necessary, and unless an element is considered to be necessary in principle, the elements forming the embodiments are certainly not necessarily necessary. In the embodiments as described above, in the case of referring to numbers, numerical values, amounts, ranges, etc. for any component of the embodiments, for example, unless the number is specified as a necessary number, and unless the component is obviously limited to a specific number in principle, it is not intended to be limited to a specific number. In the embodiments as described above, in the case of referring to shapes, positional relationships, etc. for any components, for example, unless a specific shape, positional relationship, or the like is specified, and unless a component is limited to a specific shape, positional relationship, etc. in principle, it is not intended to limit shapes, positional relationships, etc.

[0095] (1) In the above-described embodiment, the insulation inspection device 1 is described as inspecting the insulation state of the coating of the wire 2 assembled into the stator core included in the rotating electrical machine and used as an armature. However, it is not limited thereto. The insulation inspection device 1 may be configured to inspect the insulation state of the coating of the wire 2 assembled into the rotor core included in the rotating electrical machine and used as an armature.

[0096] (2) In the above-described embodiment, the wire material 2 to be inspected by the insulation inspection device 1 is described as being substantially U-shaped. However, this is not limiting. The shape of the wire material 2 to be inspected by the insulation inspection device 1 may be optionally changed.

[0097] (3) In the above-described embodiment, the support member 3 included in the insulation inspection device 1 has the middle clamp 31 and the upper clamp 32. However, this is not limiting. The upper clamp 32 may be omitted from the support member 3, so that only the middle clamp 31 is included. Alternatively, the middle clamp 31 may be omitted from the support member 3, so that only the upper clamp 32 is included.

[0098] (4) In the above-described embodiment, the power supply unit 5 included in the insulation inspection device 1 has the first terminal 51 as a positive pole and the second terminal 52 as a negative pole. However, this is not limiting. The power supply unit 5 may include the first terminal 51 as a negative pole and the second terminal 52 as a positive pole.

[0099] (5) In the above-described embodiment, the power supply unit 5 included in the insulation inspection device 1 is an AC power supply. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The power supply unit 5 included in the insulation inspection device 1 may be an AC power supply.

[0100] (6) In the second and third embodiments described above, the end 23 of one wire 2 is in contact with one split mounting base 41 . However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The end 23 of a plurality of wires 2 may be in contact with one split mounting base 41 .

Claims

1. An insulation inspection device for inspecting the insulation state of a coating of a wire included in a rotating electrical machine, characterized in that: The insulation inspection device comprises: a power supply unit, the power supply unit comprising a first terminal and a second terminal; a support member that supports a plurality of wires covered with a coating before the plurality of wires are assembled into a core of an armature in a rotating electrical machine, and that is electrically connected to the first terminal; A mounting base, on which regions of ends of a plurality of wires from which the coating is peeled off are mounted, the mounting base being electrically connected to the second terminal; a discharge detection unit configured to detect discharge occurring between the support member and each of the wires when the power supply unit applies a voltage to the first terminal or the second terminal; a voltage detection unit configured to detect a potential difference between the first terminal and the second terminal; and An insulation determination unit determines whether the insulation state of each of the wires is acceptable based on the detection value from the discharge detection unit and the detection value from the voltage detection unit.

2. The insulation inspection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The support member can support the plurality of wire materials temporarily assembled into a ring shape before the plurality of wire materials are assembled into a core portion of the armature of the rotating electrical machine.

3. The insulation inspection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The supporting member comprises: an intermediate jig disposed between the plurality of wires and used to support the plurality of wires temporarily assembled before the plurality of wires are assembled into the armature of the rotating electrical machine, the intermediate jig being capable of applying a voltage to the plurality of wires; and An upper clamp is arranged on a side of the plurality of wires opposite to the mounting base and is capable of applying a voltage to the plurality of wires.

4. The insulation inspection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The intermediate fixture comprises: a resin member configured to be in contact with the plurality of wires; and A plurality of middle electrode parts are fixed to the resin member and arranged away from the plurality of wires.

5. The insulation inspection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The upper fixture includes a plurality of upper electrode portions disposed away from the plurality of wires.

6. The insulation inspection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The upper fixture includes a plurality of upper electrode portions disposed away from the plurality of wires.

7. The insulation inspection device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that: Also includes: an upper fixture switch, the upper fixture switch being capable of electrically connecting or disconnecting the first terminal from the upper fixture; as well as An intermediate clamp switch is configured to electrically connect or disconnect the first terminal from the intermediate clamp.

8. The insulation inspection device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of split mounting bases electrically separated from each other, wherein The insulation inspection device further includes a plurality of mounting base switches, each of which switches an electrical connection between a corresponding one of the plurality of divided mounting bases and the second terminal.

9. The insulation inspection device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of divided mounting bases electrically separated from each other, and Each of the plurality of divided mounting bases is movable to a state where the divided mounting base is in contact with an end portion of a corresponding one of the wires and a state where the divided mounting base is away from the end portion of the wire.

10. The insulation inspection device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of split mounting bases electrically separated from each other, wherein The insulation inspection device further includes a plurality of mounting base switches, each of which switches an electrical connection between a corresponding one of the plurality of divided mounting bases and the second terminal.

11. The insulation inspection device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of divided mounting bases electrically separated from each other, and Each of the plurality of divided mounting bases is movable to a state where the divided mounting base is in contact with an end portion of a corresponding one of the wires and a state where the divided mounting base is away from the end portion of the wire.

12. The insulation inspection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supporting member comprises: an intermediate jig disposed between the plurality of wires and used to support the plurality of wires temporarily assembled before the plurality of wires are assembled into the armature of the rotating electrical machine, the intermediate jig being capable of applying a voltage to the plurality of wires; and An upper clamp is arranged on a side of the plurality of wires opposite to the mounting base and is capable of applying a voltage to the plurality of wires.

13. The insulation inspection device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The intermediate fixture comprises: a resin member configured to be in contact with the plurality of wires; and A plurality of middle electrode parts are fixed to the resin member and arranged away from the plurality of wires.

14. The insulation inspection device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The upper fixture includes a plurality of upper electrode portions disposed away from the plurality of wires.

15. The insulation inspection device according to claim 13, characterized in that: The upper fixture includes a plurality of upper electrode portions disposed away from the plurality of wires.

16. The insulation inspection device according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that: Also includes: an upper fixture switch, the upper fixture switch being capable of electrically connecting or disconnecting the first terminal from the upper fixture; as well as An intermediate clamp switch is configured to electrically connect or disconnect the first terminal from the intermediate clamp.

17. The insulation inspection device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of split mounting bases electrically separated from each other, wherein The insulation inspection device further includes a plurality of mounting base switches, each of which switches an electrical connection between a corresponding one of the plurality of divided mounting bases and the second terminal.

18. The insulation inspection device according to claim 17, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of divided mounting bases electrically separated from each other, and Each of the plurality of divided mounting bases is movable to a state where the divided mounting base is in contact with an end portion of a corresponding one of the wires and a state where the divided mounting base is away from the end portion of the wire.

19. The insulation inspection device according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of split mounting bases electrically separated from each other, wherein The insulation inspection device further includes a plurality of mounting base switches, each of which switches an electrical connection between a corresponding one of the plurality of divided mounting bases and the second terminal.

20. The insulation inspection device according to claim 19, characterized in that: The mounting base includes a plurality of divided mounting bases electrically separated from each other, and Each of the plurality of divided mounting bases is movable to a state where the divided mounting base is in contact with an end portion of a corresponding one of the wires and a state where the divided mounting base is away from the end portion of the wire.

21. An insulation inspection method for inspecting the insulation state of a coating of a wire included in a rotating electrical machine, the insulation inspection method comprising: Before being assembled into a core of an armature in the rotating electrical machine, the plurality of wires covered with the coating are supported by a supporting member, and regions of the ends of the plurality of wires from which the coating has been peeled off are mounted on a mounting base; a step of applying a voltage from a power supply unit to the plurality of wires via the support member and the mounting base, and detecting discharge occurring between the support member and each of the wires; as well as A step of determining whether the coating of the wire material is acceptable based on a discharge rate of the wire material, the discharge rate being a value calculated from a voltage drop during discharge relative to a voltage applied by the power supply unit.

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