Electrical connection box

Abstract

A first electric connection box includes: a box body; a holding body (50) provided inside the box body and holding an electric component; and a terminal seat (60) fitted to the holding body (50). The terminal seat (60) has a terminal support seat (61) fitted to the holding body (50) and a bus bar (62) supported to the terminal support seat (61). The bus bar (62) has a first connection surface (84) in a flat shape and a second connection surface (86) in a flat shape, the first electric wire (21) is electrically connected to the first connection surface (84), and a second electric wire (22) different from the first electric wire (21) is electrically connected to the second connection surface (86). When a direction perpendicular to the first connection surface (84) is set as a first direction (X11), the second connection surface (86) is perpendicular to a second direction (X12) intersecting the first direction (X11).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to electrical connection boxes. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, electrical wires are sometimes used to connect electrical equipment and electrical junction boxes located in separate places within vehicles such as automobiles. In such cases, it can be difficult to lay the wire when it is long. Therefore, sometimes the wire is assembled into the vehicle body in a manner that divides it into multiple segments along its length. In this case, the segmented wires are electrically connected to each other using terminal blocks that serve as relay terminals for connecting the wires to each other.

[0003] As described in Patent Document 1, the terminal block has a busbar and an insulating resin component on which the busbar is assembled, and the busbar is conductive. Electrically connected wires are electrically connected to each other via the busbar assembled to the terminal block on the vehicle body.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-10514 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, in recent years, many components have been installed in vehicles such as automobiles. Therefore, sometimes space cannot be guaranteed for terminal blocks within the vehicle. In such cases, the following considerations are made: integrating the terminal blocks with the electrical connection box, with the electrical connection box located near where the terminal blocks are to be separated. However, simply integrating the terminal blocks with the electrical connection box results in a larger electrical connection box.

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an electrical connection box that has a terminal block for electrically connecting wires to each other and can suppress the enlargement of the electrical connection box.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] The electrical connection box disclosed herein comprises: a housing; a retainer disposed inside the housing to retain electrical components; and a terminal block assembled to the retainer, the terminal block having a terminal support mounted to the retainer and a busbar supported on the terminal support, the busbar having a planar first connecting surface and a planar second connecting surface, a first wire electrically connected to the first connecting surface, and a second wire different from the first wire electrically connected to the second connecting surface, wherein when a direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface is defined as a first direction, the second connecting surface is perpendicular to a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] The electrical connection box according to this disclosure has a terminal block for electrically connecting wires to each other and can prevent enlargement. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with an electrical connection box according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the electrical connection box in one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a holder body assembled with a terminal block in one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block provided in the electrical connection box according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a top view of the terminal block included in an electrical connection box according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the terminal block included in an electrical connection box according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0020] (Description of embodiments of this disclosure)

[0021] First, embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0022] The electrical connection box disclosed herein,

[0023] (1) The device comprises: a housing; a retainer disposed inside the housing to retain electrical components; and a terminal block assembled to the retainer, the terminal block having a terminal support mounted to the retainer and a busbar supported to the terminal support, the busbar having a planar first connecting surface and a planar second connecting surface, a first wire electrically connected to the first connecting surface, and a second wire different from the first wire electrically connected to the second connecting surface, wherein when a direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface is defined as a first direction, the second connecting surface is perpendicular to a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0024] According to this structure, by electrically connecting a first wire to a first connecting surface and a second wire to a second connecting surface, the first and second wires can be electrically connected via a busbar. Furthermore, the second connecting surface is perpendicular to a second direction that intersects a first direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface. Therefore, compared to the case where the first and second connecting surfaces are located in the same plane, the busbar can be miniaturized in the direction parallel to the first connecting surface, i.e., perpendicular to the first direction. Additionally, compared to the case where the first and second connecting surfaces are parallel to each other and arranged in a non-overlapping manner when viewed from the first direction, the busbar can be miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction. Therefore, the installation area of ​​the busbar can be reduced when viewed from the first direction. As a result, the terminal block can be miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction, thus suppressing the enlargement of the electrical connection box including the terminal block. That is, the enlargement of the electrical connection box can be suppressed, and a terminal block for electrically connecting the first and second wires can be provided in the electrical connection box.

[0025] (2) Preferably, the second direction intersects the first direction perpendicularly.

[0026] According to this structure, the second connecting surface is arranged perpendicular to the first connecting surface. Therefore, when viewing the busbar from the first direction, the space occupied by the second connecting surface can be minimized. As a result, the busbar can be further miniaturized in the direction parallel to the first connecting surface, i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the first direction. Therefore, when viewed from the first direction, the installation area of ​​the busbar can be further reduced, so the terminal block can be further miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction. As a result, the enlargement of the electrical connection box including the terminal block can be further suppressed. That is, the enlargement of the electrical connection box can be further suppressed, and the terminal block for electrically connecting the first wire and the second wire can be provided in the electrical connection box.

[0027] (3) Preferably, the terminal block has a first bolt that passes through the first connecting surface.

[0028] According to this structure, the first wire can be easily electrically connected to the first connection surface by using a nut that engages with the first bolt.

[0029] (4) Preferably, the terminal block has a second bolt that penetrates the second connecting surface.

[0030] According to this structure, the second wire can be easily electrically connected to the second connection surface by using a nut that engages with the second bolt.

[0031] (Details of the embodiments disclosed herein)

[0032] Specific examples of the electrical connection box of this disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to these examples, but is intended, through the claims, to include all modifications of the same meaning and scope as the claims.

[0033] The following describes one embodiment of the electrical connection box.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle 10 equipped with the electrical connection box 13 of this embodiment, viewed from above. Figure 1 The area below corresponds to the front of vehicle 10. Vehicle 10 is equipped with multiple electrical devices. Figure 1 The diagram only shows one of the multiple electrical devices 11 mounted on the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, electrical device 11 is, for example, a battery 12 capable of supplying a voltage of several hundred volts. Incidentally, the battery 12 is electrically connected to an electric motor used to power the drive wheels, which is the power source for the vehicle's movement. The battery 12 is located at the rear of the vehicle 10.

[0035] Vehicle 10 has a first electrical connection box 13 and a second electrical connection box 14. Furthermore, electrical connection boxes are sometimes also called junction boxes, fuse boxes, relay boxes, etc., but in this specification, these are collectively referred to as electrical connection boxes. The first electrical connection box 13 has a terminal block 60 that serves as a relay terminal for electrically connecting wires to each other. The second electrical connection box 14 does not have the same terminal block in this embodiment.

[0036] The first electrical connection box 13 and the second electrical connection box 14 are disposed in the vehicle 10 at a position forward of the battery 12. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection box 13 and the second electrical connection box 14 are disposed in the engine compartment 15 located at the front of the vehicle 10. The first electrical connection box 13 is disposed in the left portion of the engine compartment 15. The second electrical connection box 14 is disposed away from the first electrical connection box 13. In this embodiment, the second electrical connection box 14 is disposed in the engine compartment 15 at a position to the right of the first electrical connection box 13.

[0037] Battery 12 is electrically connected to second electrical connection box 14 via first wire 21, terminal block 60 of first electrical connection box 13, and second wire 22. That is, terminal block 60 electrically connects first wire 21 and second wire 22.

[0038] (Electrical Connection Box 13)

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, the first electrical connection box 13 includes a box body 40, a retainer 50 disposed inside the box body 40, and a terminal block 60 assembled on the retainer 50.

[0040] The housing 40 is rectangular in shape. The housing 40 is made of insulating synthetic resin material. The housing 40 has a disc-shaped shell 41 and a cover 42 that covers the opening of the shell 41. A retainer 50 is disposed in the storage space formed by the shell 41 and the cover 42.

[0041] The retainer 50 is made of an insulating synthetic resin material. The retainer 50 holds at least one electrical component 51. Examples of electrical components 51 include fuses, relays, etc. In this embodiment, the electrical component 51 includes a fusible wire.

[0042] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the retainer 50 has a mounting portion 52 for mounting the terminal block 60. The mounting portion 52 is integrally formed with the portion of the retainer 50 other than the mounting portion 52. Here, the direction in which the cover 42 is mounted to the housing 41 is defined as the mounting direction X1. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 52 is formed as a cylindrical shape extending in the mounting direction X1. The mounting portion 52 is formed as a square cylindrical shape when viewed from the mounting direction X1.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, the cover 42 has an opening 44 that exposes the mounting portion 52 to the outside of the housing 40. The opening 44 is located in the cover 42 at a portion that overlaps with the mounting portion 52 in the mounting direction X1. Additionally, the housing 40 has a wire outlet 45 near the opening 44. The wire outlet 45 connects the interior and exterior of the housing 40.

[0044] (Terminal socket 60)

[0045] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the terminal block 60 has a terminal support 61 mounted on the retainer 50 and a busbar 62 supported on the terminal support 61.

[0046] (Terminal support 61)

[0047] The terminal support 61 is made of an insulating synthetic resin material. The terminal support 61 has a plate-shaped support portion 71 and a mounting portion 72 extending from the outer periphery of the support portion 71. The support portion 71 and the mounting portion 72 are integrally formed. The terminal support 61 is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape with the support portion 71 as its base.

[0048] The support portion 71 has a square shape when viewed from the thickness direction, corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion 52. The support portion 71 has a planar support surface 73 on its surface. In this embodiment, the support surface 73 is a side surface of the support portion 71 in the thickness direction, which is a side surface that constitutes part of the outer surface of the terminal support base 61.

[0049] An insertion hole 74 is formed in the support portion 71. The insertion hole 74 penetrates the support portion 71 in the thickness direction. The insertion hole 74 forms a slit-like shape extending in a straight line when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73. In this embodiment, the insertion hole 74 extends parallel to one of the four sides 71a constituting the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 71 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73.

[0050] Additionally, the support portion 71 has an insertion recess 75. The insertion recess 75 is provided in the support portion 71 between the insertion hole 74 and the side surface 71a. The insertion recess 75 is recessed from the support surface 73 in the thickness direction of the support portion 71. The bottom surface of the insertion recess 75 is parallel to the support surface 73. An anti-dislodgement portion 75c is provided in the opening 75b of the insertion recess 75, which opens into the support surface 73, in a manner that reduces the size of the opening 75b. The anti-dislodgement portion 75c extends in an eave-like shape along a direction parallel to the support surface 73. Furthermore, the support portion 71 has an insertion port 75d, which is independent of the opening 75b of the insertion recess 75, allowing communication between the interior of the insertion recess 75 and the exterior of the terminal support 61. The insertion port 75d opens in the side surface 71a. Additionally, the insertion port 75d is connected to the opening 75b. The insertion port 75d opens in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the insertion hole 74 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73.

[0051] The mounting portion 72 is formed in the shape of a square tube. The mounting portion 72 has a notch 76 that communicates between the interior and exterior of the mounting portion 72. The notch 76 is provided in the mounting portion 72 at a position aligned with the insertion port 75d along a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73. Furthermore, viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73, the insertion hole 74 and the notch 76 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the insertion hole 74. Viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73, the notch 76 penetrates the mounting portion 72 in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the insertion hole 74 and opens in a direction opposite to that of the support portion 71.

[0052] The mounting portion 72 has a first locking portion 77 and a second locking portion 78 for fixing the terminal support 61 to the mounting portion 52. Viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73, the first locking portions 77 are respectively provided at both ends of the mounting portion 72 in the extending direction of the insertion hole 74. Each first locking portion 77 is formed in a stepped shape protruding towards the outer periphery of the mounting portion 72. Each first locking portion 77 has a first locking surface 77a that faces the support surface 73 in the same direction and is parallel to the support surface 73.

[0053] Viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73, the second locking portions 78 are respectively provided at both ends of the mounting portions 72 in the extending direction of the insertion hole 74. At each end of the mounting portions 72 in the extending direction of the insertion hole 74, the second locking portion 78 is provided at a position farther from the support surface 73 than the first locking surface 77a in a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73. Each of the second locking portions 78 has a second locking surface (not shown) facing the side opposite to the support surface 73.

[0054] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the terminal support 61 is assembled to the assembly portion 52 by insertion into it. The terminal support 61 is inserted into the inner side of the assembly portion 52 such that the support portion 71 is the cover 42 side and the mounting portion 72 is the housing 41 side. Furthermore, a first locking portion (not shown) is provided in the assembly portion 52, and a first locked portion 77 locks against the first locking portion in the insertion direction of the mounting portion 72 into the assembly portion 52. Further, a second locking portion (not shown) is provided in the assembly portion 52, and a second locked portion 78 locks against the second locking portion in the direction opposite to the insertion direction of the mounting portion 72 into the assembly portion 52. By having the first locked surface 77a of the first locked portion 77 abut against the first locking portion, the terminal support 61 can be prevented from detaching from the assembly portion 52 in the insertion direction of the terminal support 61 into the assembly portion 52. Furthermore, by having the second locking surface of the second locking portion 78 abut against the second locking portion, the terminal support 61 can be prevented from falling off the assembly portion 52 in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the terminal support 61 into the assembly portion 52.

[0055] (Busline 62)

[0056] like Figures 4-6 As shown, the busbar 62 has a first connection portion 81 electrically connected to the first wire 21 and a second connection portion 82 electrically connected to the second wire 22. Furthermore, in Figure 5 In the diagram, the terminal support 61 is shown only with its outline depicted using double-dotted lines. Additionally, Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Sectional view 6-6. Busbar 62 is made of metallic material. Examples of materials for busbar 62 with excellent electrical conductivity include copper, copper alloys, aluminum, and aluminum alloys, but it is not limited to these; any metallic material is acceptable.

[0057] In this embodiment, the busbar 62 is formed in a strip shape. A first connecting portion 81 is provided at one end of the busbar 62 along its long side, and a second connecting portion 82 is provided at the other end of the busbar 62 along its long side. The busbar 62 has a bend 83 between the first connecting portion 81 and the second connecting portion 82. The bend 83 is formed by bending the metal sheet constituting the busbar 62. In this embodiment, the portion of the busbar 62 from the bend 83 to one end along its long side is the first connecting portion 81, and the portion from the bend 83 to the other end along its long side is the second connecting portion 82. Therefore, the busbar 62 of this embodiment forms an L-shape when viewed from a direction parallel to both the first connecting portion 81 and the second connecting portion 82.

[0058] The first connecting portion 81 is formed into a square flat plate shape. One side of the first connecting portion 81 in the thickness direction is the first connecting surface 84 for electrical connection of the first wire 21. Figure 4 and Figure 6 In this context, the upper side of the two sides of the first connecting portion 81 in the thickness direction corresponds to the first connecting surface 84. Here, the direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84 is defined as the first direction X11.

[0059] A first through hole 85 is provided in the first connecting portion 81, extending through the first connecting portion 81 in the thickness direction. The first through hole 85 extends through the first connecting portion 81 along the first direction X11. One end of the first through hole 85 in the through direction opens into the first connecting surface 84.

[0060] The second connecting portion 82 is formed into a square flat plate shape. One side of the second connecting portion 82 in the thickness direction is a second connecting surface 86 that is electrically connected to the second wire 22, which is different from the first wire 21. Figure 4 In the middle, the right-facing side of the two sides of the second connecting portion 82 in the thickness direction corresponds to the second connecting surface 86. Additionally, in Figure 6 In this embodiment, the left side of the two sides of the second connecting portion 82 in the thickness direction corresponds to the second connecting surface 86. The second connecting surface 86 is formed as a plane perpendicular to the second direction X12, which intersects the first direction X11. In this embodiment, the second direction X12 is a direction that intersects the first direction X11 perpendicularly. Therefore, the second connecting surface 86 is provided in a manner perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84.

[0061] A second through hole 87 is provided in the second connecting portion 82, extending through the second connecting portion 82 in the thickness direction. The second through hole 87 extends through the second connecting portion 82 along the second direction X12. One end of the second through hole 87 in the through direction opens at the second connecting surface 86.

[0062] The busbar 62 is supported on the terminal support 61 with the second connecting portion 82 inserted through the insertion hole 74 from the support surface 73 side. With the busbar 62 supported on the terminal support 61, the second connecting portion 82 protrudes from the insertion hole 74 toward the inside of the mounting portion 72, and the second through hole 87 is located inside the mounting portion 72. Furthermore, the second through hole 87 overlaps with the notch 76 in the second direction X12. In this state, the first connecting portion 81 is disposed on the support surface 73 with the first connecting surface 84 facing the side opposite to the support surface 73. The first connecting surface 84 is parallel to the support surface 73, that is, perpendicular to the support surface 73 in the first direction X11. Additionally, the first through hole 85 overlaps with the opening 75b of the insertion recess 75 in the first direction X11.

[0063] (Wire 1, 21)

[0064] The first wire 21 is, for example, a covered wire having a core wire made of a conductor and an insulating covering portion that encloses the outer periphery of the core wire. One end of the first wire 21 is connected to... Figure 1 The battery 12 shown is electrically connected. A first terminal 91 for electrically connecting the first wire 21 to the busbar 62 is connected to the other end of the first wire 21. For example, at the other end of the first wire 21, a core wire (not shown) of the first wire 21 is electrically connected to one end of the first terminal 91 by welding, crimping, etc., thereby electrically connecting the first wire 21 and the first terminal 91. The electrical connection portion between the core wire of the first wire 21 and the first terminal 91 is covered by an insulating member 92. For example, heat shrink tubing can be used as the insulating member 92.

[0065] The first terminal 91 has a flat first wire-side connection portion 93 on the side opposite to the end to which the first wire 21 is connected. A first connection hole 94 is provided in the first wire-side connection portion 93, extending through the first wire-side connection portion 93 in the thickness direction.

[0066] The terminal block 60 has a first bolt 101 for electrically connecting the first wire 21 to the busbar 62. The first bolt 101 has a head 101a and a shaft 101b protruding from the head 101a. A threaded groove is formed in a spiral shape on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 101b. The first bolt 101 is assembled to the terminal support 61 before the busbar 62 is assembled to the terminal support 61. Specifically, the first bolt 101 is assembled to the support 71 by inserting the head 101a from the insertion port 75d into the insertion recess 75 with the tip of the shaft 101b facing the side opposite to the mounting portion 72. The shaft 101b protrudes from the opening 75b of the insertion recess 75 to the outside of the terminal support 61. Furthermore, the head 101a is prevented from falling out of the insertion recess 75 from the opening 75b by the anti-detachment portion 75c. With the first bolt 101 assembled on the terminal support 61, the central axis of the shaft 101b is perpendicular to the support surface 73.

[0067] The first connecting portion 81 of the busbar 62 inserts the shaft 101b of the first bolt 101 into the first through hole 85 and is disposed on the support surface 73. Therefore, the shaft 101b is positioned to pass through the first connecting surface 84. The central axis of the shaft 101b is perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84, i.e., parallel to the first direction X11. Furthermore, the first wire-side connecting portion 93 of the first terminal 91 inserts the shaft 101b into the first connecting hole 94 and overlaps with the first connecting portion 81. The first wire-side connecting portion 93 abuts against the first connecting surface 84. Further, by fastening the first nut 102 to the shaft 101b from its top end, the first connecting portion 81 and the first wire-side connecting portion 93 are clamped between the first nut 102 and the support portion 71. That is, the first wire-side connecting portion 93 is electrically connected to the first connecting portion 81. In this way, the first wire 21 is electrically connected to the bus 62 via the first terminal 91.

[0068] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first wire 21 is connected to the busbar 62 of the terminal block 60, which is disposed inside the housing 40 and assembled in the retainer 50. With the terminal block 60 disposed inside the housing 40, the first connecting surface 84 and the shaft 101b of the first bolt 101 protrude from the opening 44 to the outside of the housing 40. The first connecting surface 84 is electrically connected to the first terminal 91 in this state. Therefore, the first wire 21 and the first terminal 91 are disposed entirely outside the housing 40.

[0069] (Second wire 22)

[0070] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the second wire 22 is, for example, a covered wire having a core wire made of a conductor and an insulating covering portion that encloses the outer periphery of the core wire. One end of the second wire 22 is connected to... Figure 1The second electrical connection box 14 shown is electrically connected. A second terminal 111 is connected to the other end of the second wire 22, which is used to electrically connect the second wire 22 to the bus 62. For example, at the other end of the second wire 22, the core wire (not shown) of the second wire 22 is electrically connected to one end of the second terminal 111 by welding, crimping, etc., thereby electrically connecting the second wire 22 and the second terminal 111. The electrical connection portion between the core wire of the second wire 22 and the second terminal 111 is covered by an insulating member 112. As the insulating member 112, heat shrink tubing can be used, for example.

[0071] The second terminal 111 has a flat second wire side connection portion 113 on the side opposite to the end to which the second wire 22 is connected. A second connection hole 114 is provided in the second wire side connection portion 113, which extends through the second wire side connection portion 113 in the thickness direction.

[0072] The terminal block 60 has a second bolt 121 for electrically connecting the second wire 22 to the busbar 62. The second bolt 121 has a head 121a and a shaft 121b protruding from the head 121a. A threaded groove is formed in a spiral shape on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 121b. Additionally, the terminal block 60 has a second nut 122 for electrically connecting the second wire 22 to the busbar 62. The second nut 122 is disposed between the second connecting portion 82 and the mounting portion 72 arranged in the second direction X12. Furthermore, the second wire-side connecting portion 113 overlaps with the second connecting surface 86 in such a way that the second connecting hole 114 and the second through hole 87 overlap. Moreover, the second wire-side connecting portion 113 abuts against the second connecting surface 86. The shaft 121b of the second bolt 121 passes through the second connecting hole 114 and the second through hole 87 and engages with the second nut 122. Furthermore, a tool (not shown) for screwing the second bolt 121 and the second nut 122 can be inserted into the inside of the mounting portion 72 through the notch 76, so that the second bolt 121 and the second nut 122 can be easily screwed together. The second bolt 121 passes through the second through hole 87 through the shaft 121b, thereby passing through the second connecting surface 86.

[0073] With the second nut 122 tightened onto the second bolt 121, the central axis of the shaft 121b is perpendicular to the second connecting surface 86, i.e., parallel to the second direction X12. Furthermore, in this state, the second connecting portion 82 and the second wire-side connecting portion 113 are clamped between the head 121a of the second bolt 121 and the second nut 122 in a mutually abutting state. That is, the second wire-side connecting portion 113 is electrically connected to the second connecting portion 82. Thus, the second wire 22 is electrically connected to the busbar 62 via the second terminal 111. And the second wire 22 extends from the end of the mounting portion 72 opposite to the support portion 71 to the outside of the terminal support 61.

[0074] In addition, such as Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the second wire 22 is electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86 before the retainer 50 is housed in the housing 40. Furthermore, the second wire 22, which is electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86, extends from the wire outlet 45 to the outside of the housing 40.

[0075] The function of this embodiment will be explained.

[0076] The terminal block 60 is mounted to the mounting part 52 via the terminal support 61 provided on the terminal block 60, thereby being mounted to the retainer 50. A busbar 62 supported on the terminal support 61 electrically connects a first terminal 91, which is connected to one end of the first wire 21, and a second terminal 111, which is connected to one end of the second wire 22. Therefore, the first wire 21 and the second wire 22 can be electrically connected via the busbar 62. Thus, power from the battery 12 can be supplied to the second electrical connection box 14 via the busbar 62.

[0077] like Figure 5 As shown, in busbar 62, the second connecting surface 86 is perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84. Therefore, compared to the case where the second direction X12 is parallel to the first direction X11 and the first connecting surface 84 and the second connecting surface 86 do not overlap when viewed from the first direction X11, the shape of busbar 62 as seen from the first direction X11 is minimized. Therefore, the terminal block 60 having this busbar 62 can be miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction X11.

[0078] The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0079] (1) The first electrical connection box 13 includes: a box body 40; a retainer 50 disposed inside the box body 40 and retaining an electrical component 51; and a terminal block 60 assembled to the retainer 50. The terminal block 60 has a terminal support 61 assembled to the retainer 50 and a busbar 62 supported to the terminal support 61. The busbar 62 has a planar first connecting surface 84 and a planar second connecting surface 86, wherein a first wire 21 is electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84, and a second wire 22 different from the first wire 21 is electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86. When the direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84 is defined as the first direction X11, the second connecting surface 86 is perpendicular to the second direction X12 intersecting the first direction X11.

[0080] According to this structure, by electrically connecting the first wire 21 to the first connecting surface 84 and the second wire 22 to the second connecting surface 86, the first wire 21 and the second wire 22 can be electrically connected by means of the busbar 62. Furthermore, the second connecting surface 86 is perpendicular to a second direction X12 that intersects a first direction X11 perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84. Therefore, compared to the case where the first connecting surface 84 and the second connecting surface 86 are provided in the same plane, the busbar 62 can be miniaturized in the direction parallel to the first connecting surface 84, that is, in the direction perpendicular to the first direction X11. Additionally, compared to the case where the first connecting surface 84 and the second connecting surface 86 are parallel to each other and arranged in a non-overlapping manner when viewed from the first direction X11, the busbar 62 can be miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction X11. Therefore, the installation area of ​​the busbar 62 can be reduced when viewed from the first direction X11. As a result, the terminal block 60 can be miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction X11, thus suppressing the enlargement of the first electrical connection box 13 including the terminal block 60. That is, the enlargement of the first electrical connection box 13 can be suppressed, and the terminal block 60 for electrically connecting the first wire 21 and the second wire 22 can be provided in the first electrical connection box 13.

[0081] Furthermore, since the enlargement of the first electrical connection box 13, including the terminal block 60, can be suppressed, it is not difficult to ensure space for the first electrical connection box 13 in the vehicle 10. That is, even if the first electrical connection box 13 is provided instead of an electrical connection box without the terminal block 60, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of situations where it is difficult to ensure space for the first electrical connection box 13.

[0082] Furthermore, when the first electrical connection box 13 is mounted on the vehicle 10, it is not necessary to provide a separate terminal block near the first electrical connection box 13. Therefore, by omitting the terminal block provided separately near the first electrical connection box 13, space can be provided in the vehicle 10 for the installation of other components.

[0083] Furthermore, the terminal block 60 has a terminal support 61 that is mounted on the retainer 50. Therefore, the portion directly supporting the busbar 62 is separate from the retainer 50. Thus, even if, for example, the busbar 62 has a complex shape, the retainer 50 can be prevented from becoming a complex shape. Additionally, because the terminal support 61 supports the busbar 62, undesirable deformation such as bending of the busbar 62 can be prevented when the first wire 21 is electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84. In this embodiment, when the first nut 102 is tightened to the first bolt 101 to electrically connect the first wire 21 to the first connecting surface 84, the terminal support 61 becomes a base supporting the first bolt 101 and the busbar 62. Therefore, by using the terminal support 61 for support, the first nut 102 can be tightened to the first bolt 101 in a stable position for the busbar 62. Furthermore, when the first nut 102 is tightened to the first bolt 101, undesirable deformation of the busbar 62 can be prevented.

[0084] Furthermore, because the terminal support 61 supporting the busbar 62 is separately provided from the retainer 50 and housing 40 holding the electrical components 51, the manufacturing of the wiring harness including the first wire 21, the second wire 22, and the first electrical connection box 13 becomes easier. For example, when the electrical components 51 are assembled on the retainer 50 after the terminal support 60 is assembled there, the handling of the second wire 22 is troublesome, and the assembly of the electrical components 51 to the retainer 50 may become complicated. In this embodiment, since the second wire 22 is electrically connected to the battery 12 that can supply a voltage of several hundred volts, a large-diameter wire is generally used. Therefore, the handling of the second wire 22 may become more complicated. However, in this embodiment, because the terminal support 61 and the retainer 50 are separate, during the manufacturing process of the first electrical connection box 13, the terminal support 60 from which the second wire 22 is led can be inserted into the retainer 50 after the assembly of the electrical components 51 to the retainer 50 is completed. That is, the terminal block 60 can be assembled onto the retainer 50 before the retainer 50 is housed in the housing 40. Therefore, the manufacture of the first electrical connection box 13, and consequently the wire harness including the first electrical connection box 13 and the second wire 22, becomes easier.

[0085] Furthermore, for example, when the retainer 50 and the terminal support 61 are integrally formed, the shape of the retainer 50 including the terminal support 61 becomes more complex compared to the retainer 50 of this embodiment where the terminal support 61 is formed separately. Therefore, when manufacturing the retainer 50 including the terminal support 61 using a molding die, from the viewpoint of the molding die structure, it is possible to restrict the position of the terminal support 61 within the retainer 50. In this embodiment, because the retainer 50 and the terminal support 61 are formed separately, the retainer 50 and the terminal support 61 are formed using different molding dies. Therefore, compared to the case where the retainer 50 and the terminal support 61 are integrally formed, the degree of freedom in assembling the terminal support 61 within the retainer 50 is increased.

[0086] (2) The second direction X12 intersects the first direction X11 perpendicularly. Therefore, the second connecting surface 86 is arranged perpendicular to the first connecting surface 84. Therefore, when viewing the busbar 62 from the first direction X11, the space occupied by the second connecting surface 86 can be minimized. As a result, the busbar 62 can be further miniaturized in the direction parallel to the first connecting surface 84, that is, in the direction perpendicular to the first direction X11. Therefore, when viewed from the first direction X11, the installation area of ​​the busbar 62 can be further reduced, so the terminal block 60 can be further miniaturized in the direction perpendicular to the first direction X11. As a result, the enlargement of the first electrical connection box 13 including the terminal block 60 can be further suppressed. That is, the enlargement of the first electrical connection box 13 can be further suppressed, and the terminal block 60 for electrically connecting the first wire 21 and the second wire 22 can be provided in the first electrical connection box 13.

[0087] (3) The terminal block 60 has a first bolt 101 that passes through the first connecting surface 84. Therefore, by using a first nut 102 that engages with the first bolt 101, the first wire 21 can be easily electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84. That is, by fastening the first nut 102 to the first bolt 101, the first terminal 91 connected to one end of the first wire 21 can be easily electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84 without welding or the like.

[0088] (4) The terminal block 60 has a second bolt 121 that passes through the second connecting surface 86. Therefore, by using a second nut 122 that engages with the second bolt 121, the second wire 22 can be easily electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86. That is, by fastening the second nut 122 to the second bolt 121, the second terminal 111 connected to one end of the second wire 22 can be easily electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86 without welding or the like.

[0089] (5) The first connecting surface 84 protrudes from the exposed opening 44 to the outside of the housing 40. Therefore, even after the retainer 50 equipped with the terminal block 60 is disposed inside the housing 40, the first wire 21 can be electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84. Therefore, the degree of freedom when electrically connecting the first wire 21 to the first connecting surface 84 is increased. In addition, even if the cover 42 is removed from the housing 41, the first wire 21 can still be electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84.

[0090] (Other implementation methods)

[0091] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following variations can be combined with each other within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the terminal block 60 has a second bolt 121. However, the terminal block 60 may not necessarily have a second bolt 121. In this case, the second terminal 111 is not electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86 by fastening the second bolt 121 and the second nut 122, but is electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86 by, for example, welding or crimping. Furthermore, in this case, the core wire of the second wire 22 may also be directly electrically connected to the second connecting surface 86 by welding or crimping.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the terminal block 60 has a first bolt 101. However, the terminal block 60 may not necessarily have a first bolt 101. In this case, the first terminal 91 may also be electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84 by fastening the first bolt 101 and the first nut 102, for example, by welding, crimping, or the like. Alternatively, in this case, the first wire 21 may also have its core wire directly electrically connected to the first connecting surface 84 by welding, crimping, or the like.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the second direction X12 is perpendicular to the first direction X11. However, the second direction X12 is not limited to a direction perpendicular to the first direction X11, but can be any direction that intersects the first direction X11.

[0095] The busbar 62 is not limited to the shape described in the above embodiment, as long as it has the shape of the first connecting surface 84 and the second connecting surface 86. The second connecting surface 86 is arranged perpendicular to the second direction X12, which intersects the first direction X11. For example, the busbar 62 may also have a shape with a stepped portion between the second connecting portion 82 and the bend portion 83. Furthermore, the busbar 62 may also have a connecting surface that is electrically connected to a wire different from the first wire 21 and the second wire.

[0096] • The shape of the terminal support 61 is not limited to the shape described in the above embodiment. The terminal support 61 can be any shape that can support the busbar 62 and can be assembled into the retainer 50. For example, the support portion 71 may be formed into a circular plate shape and the mounting portion 72 may be formed into a cylindrical shape.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the terminal support 61 is engaged with the first locking portion mounted on the mounting portion 52 by the first locking portion 77, and the second locking portion 78 is engaged with the second locking portion provided on the mounting portion 52, thereby being mounted on the mounting portion 52. However, the method of mounting the terminal support 61 to the retainer 50 is not limited to this. For example, the terminal support 61 may also be a structure disposed on the retainer 50 and prevented from falling off the retainer 50 by the housing 40.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the assembly part 52 is cylindrical. However, the assembly part 52 is not limited to the shape of the above embodiment as long as it is shaped to accommodate the terminal support 61. For example, the assembly part 52 may also be a flat plate with claws or other parts that can fix the terminal support 61.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the first electrical connection box 13 has only one terminal block 60. However, the first electrical connection box 13 may also have multiple terminal blocks 60.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the terminal block 60 electrically connects the first wire 21 and the second wire 22, which are used to connect the battery 12 and the second electrical connection box 14. However, the electrical equipment and electrical connection boxes connected by the terminal block 60 are not limited to this; any electrical equipment and electrical connection box mounted on the vehicle 10 is acceptable. Furthermore, the terminal block 60 can also electrically connect wires that connect electronic devices to each other, or wires that connect electrical connection boxes to each other.

[0101] ·like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the first bolt 101 may also have a head 101a, a protrusion protruding from the head 101a, and a shaft 101b protruding from the protrusion. The outer diameter of the protrusion may also be larger than the inner diameter of the first through hole 85 in the first connecting portion 81 of the busbar 62, and may not protrude from the head 101a. When the first bolt 101 is assembled to the terminal support 61, the top surface of the protrusion may also slightly protrude from the support surface 73. Figure 6As shown, with the first nut 102 fastened to the first bolt 101, the first connecting portion 81 abuts against the protrusion. This allows both the first connecting portion 81 and the first wire-side connecting portion 93 to be sandwiched between the metal first nut 102 and the protrusion, securely connecting the first wire-side connecting portion 93 to the first connecting portion 81. Alternatively, a gap can be formed between the first connecting portion 81 and the support surface 73.

[0102] ·like Figure 5 As shown, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface 73, the first connecting portion 81 may also be in a shape that does not extend from the support portion 71. Therefore, the first connecting portion 81 can easily abut against the support portion 71, thus suppressing excessive deformation of the first connecting portion 81.

[0103] ·like Figure 4 As shown, the head 101a of the first bolt 101 can also be formed into a quadrangular prism shape. The insertion recess 75 can also have a quadrangular prism-shaped fitting space for the head 101a to fit into. Figure 6 As shown, the anti-detachment part 75c can also abut against the top surface of the head 101a. Sometimes the insertion recess 75 is referred to simply as a recess.

[0104] ·like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the first connecting portion 81 can also be arranged orthogonally to the second connecting portion 82. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the first through hole 85 can also be a perfect circle, and the second through hole 87 can also be an elongated circle in the first direction X1.

[0105] This disclosure includes the following installation examples. Reference numerals are shown in the accompanying drawings as illustrative examples of several constituent elements of the implementation, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Some of the items described in the following installation examples may be omitted, or several items described in the installation examples may be selected or combined.

[0106] [Note 1] In several embodiments of this disclosure, the housing (40) may also have: a shell (41) having an opening; and a cover (42) covering the opening.

[0107] The retainer (50) has a mounting portion (52) on which the terminal block (60) is mounted.

[0108] The cover (42) has an opening (44) that exposes the assembly part (52) to the outside of the housing (40).

[0109] [Note 2] In several embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal support (61) may also have: a plate-shaped support portion (71) having a support surface (73); and a cylindrical portion extending from the outer periphery of the support portion (71).

[0110] The terminal block (60) has a first bolt (101) assembled to the support portion (71).

[0111] The first bolt (101) has: a head (101a) inserted into the recess (75); a protrusion protruding from the head (101a); and a shaft (101b) protruding from the protrusion.

[0112] The protrusion protrudes from the support surface (73).

[0113] The busbar (62) has a plate-shaped first connecting portion (81), and the first connecting portion (81) has the first connecting surface (84).

[0114] The first connecting part (81) has a first through hole (85), which has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the shaft (101b) and smaller than the inner diameter of the protrusion, and is inserted into the shaft (101b).

[0115] The first connecting portion (81) abuts against the protrusion.

[0116] [Note 3] In one embodiment of this disclosure, it may also be:

[0117] Viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support surface (73), the first connecting portion (81) is not protruding from the support portion (71).

[0118] [Note 4] In one aspect of this disclosure, the second connecting portion (82) may have an elongated second through hole (87) that is elongated in the first direction (X11).

[0119] [Note 5] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the busbar (62) may also be an L-shaped plate bent substantially perpendicularly to the first connecting surface (84) and the second connecting surface (86).

[0120] The heads (101a, 121a) of the first bolt (101) and the second bolt (121) are both located on the inner side of the L-shape of the busbar (62), and the shafts (101b, 121b) of the first bolt (101) and the second bolt (121) are both located on the outer side of the L-shape of the busbar (62).

[0121] [Note 6] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the terminal block (60) may also be configured as follows:

[0122] The first connecting surface (84) of the busbar (62) is disposed on the outside of the housing (40) and / or the retainer (50) in the first direction (X11), and

[0123] The second connecting surface (86) of the busbar (62) is arranged in the first direction (X11) on the inside of the housing (40) and / or the retainer (50).

[0124] Inserted, for example, linearly into the mounting portion (52) of the retainer (50) from the inside of the retainer (50) along the first direction (X11).

[0125] [Note 7] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the busbar (62) may also be configured as follows:

[0126] Before the terminal block (60) is inserted into the mounting portion (52) of the retainer (50), the second wire (22) contacts the second connecting surface (86) from the outside of the terminal block (60) in the second direction (X12), and is tightened by the second bolt (121) from the outside of the terminal block (60) along the second direction (X12).

[0127] After the terminal block (60) is inserted into the assembly part (52) of the retainer (50), the first wire (21) contacts the first connecting surface (84) from the outside of the terminal block (60) in the first direction (X11) and is tightened by the first bolt (101) from the outside of the terminal block (60) along the first direction (X11).

[0128] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0129] 10 vehicles

[0130] 11 Electrical equipment

[0131] 12 batteries

[0132] 13. Electrical Connection Box No. 1 (Electrical Connection Box)

[0133] 14. Electrical Connection Box No. 2

[0134] 15 Engine compartment

[0135] 21 First Electric Wire

[0136] 22. The second wire

[0137] 40 enclosure

[0138] 41. Shell

[0139] 42 lids

[0140] 44 Exposed opening

[0141] 45. Wire outlet

[0142] 50. Maintain body

[0143] 51 Electrical components

[0144] 52 Assembly Department

[0145] 60 terminal block

[0146] 61 Terminal support

[0147] 62 busbars

[0148] 71 Support section

[0149] 71a Side view

[0150] 72 Installation Department

[0151] 73 Support Surface

[0152] 74 Through Holes

[0153] 75 Insert into the recess

[0154] 75b Opening

[0155] 75c Anti-hair loss section

[0156] 75d insertion port

[0157] 76. Notch

[0158] 77 First stuck part

[0159] 77a First stuck surface

[0160] 78 The second stuck part

[0161] 81 First connecting part

[0162] 82 Second connecting part

[0163] 83. Bend

[0164] 84 First connecting surface

[0165] 85 First through hole

[0166] 86 Second connecting surface

[0167] 87 Second through hole

[0168] 91 Terminal 1

[0169] 92 Insulating components

[0170] 93 First wire side connection part

[0171] 94 First connecting hole

[0172] 101 Bolt No. 1

[0173] 101a Head

[0174] 101b axis

[0175] 102 Nut 1

[0176] 111 Terminal 2

[0177] 112 Insulating components

[0178] 113 Second wire side connection part

[0179] 114 Second connecting hole

[0180] 121 Bolt 2

[0181] 121a Head

[0182] 121b axis

[0183] 122 Nut 2

[0184] X1 Installation Direction

[0185] X11 Direction 1

[0186] X12, Second Direction

Claims

1. An electrical connection box, comprising: Box; A retainer, disposed inside the housing, holds electrical components; and Terminal block, assembled into the retainer. The terminal block has a terminal support mounted on the retainer and a busbar supported on the terminal support. The terminal support has a support portion and a mounting portion extending from the outer periphery of the support portion, the support portion having a support surface. The busbar has a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion has a planar first connecting surface, and the second connecting portion has a planar second connecting surface. A first wire is electrically connected to the first connecting surface, and a second wire, different from the first wire, is electrically connected to the second connecting surface. The busbar is supported on the terminal support with the second connecting portion inserted through the insertion hole formed in the supporting portion from the support surface side. When the direction perpendicular to the first connecting surface is defined as the first direction, the second connecting surface is perpendicular to the second direction, which intersects the first direction. The terminal block includes: a first bolt passing through the first connecting surface; a second nut disposed between the second connecting portion and the mounting portion arranged in the second direction; and a second bolt passing through the second connecting surface and engaging with the second nut. The heads of the first bolt and the second bolt are both located on the inner side of the busbar, and the shafts of the first bolt and the second bolt are both located on the outer side of the busbar.

2. The electrical connection box according to claim 1, wherein, The second direction intersects the first direction perpendicularly.

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