Composite harness

Abstract

One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a composite wire harness capable of improving workability. A first wire harness (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first path restriction member (41) that is attached to the outer periphery of a first outer cover member (22) and restricts the path of the first outer cover member (22). The first path restriction member (41) has an insertion opening (42) that extends in the length direction of the first path restriction member (41) and over the entire length direction of the first path restriction member (41). Furthermore, a fixing member (13) fixes a second wire harness (12) to the first path restriction member (41).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a composite wire harness. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a composite wiring harness for vehicles. This composite wiring harness includes a first wiring harness formed by passing a first wire through a metal tube and a second wiring harness formed by passing a second wire through a corrugated tube made of synthetic resin. In the first wiring harness, the metal tube covers most of the length direction of the first wire, protecting the first wire from flying objects, water droplets, etc. In addition, the metal tube restricts the wiring path of the first wire. The second wiring harness is arranged side by side with the metal tube of the first wiring harness and is connected to the metal tube. Thus, the wiring path of the second wire of the second wiring harness is also restricted by the metal tube.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-197034 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the aforementioned wire harness, a metal tube used to restrict the path of the first wire is used to protect it. Here, to achieve weight reduction and miniaturization, the diameter of the metal tube is preferably as small as possible. However, if the diameter of the metal tube is reduced, it may be impossible for components such as connectors installed at the longitudinal end of the first wire to pass through the metal tube. Therefore, before installing components such as connectors at the longitudinal end of the first wire, it is necessary to pre-pass the first wire through the metal tube, which allows for improvement in the assembly workability of the composite wire harness.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a composite wire harness that can improve assembly workability.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] The composite wire harness disclosed herein comprises: a first wire harness having a first wire and a first outer casing covering the first wire; a second wire harness having a second wire and a second outer casing covering the second wire and arranged in alignment with the first outer casing; and a fixing member that fixes the first wire harness and the second wire harness to each other, the first wire harness having a path limiting member mounted on the periphery of the first outer casing and limiting the path of the first outer casing, the path limiting member having an insertion port extending along the length direction of the path limiting member and throughout the entire length direction of the path limiting member, and the fixing member fixing the second wire harness to the path limiting member.

[0011] The effects of the invention

[0012] According to this disclosure, a composite wire harness that can improve assembly workability can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a composite wire harness according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a top view of the composite wire harness of this embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The 3-3 line section view.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the first path-limiting component in this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the first path-limiting component in this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a top view of the composite wire harness in the modified example.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a top view of the composite wire harness in the modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0020] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

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

[0022] The composite wire harness disclosed herein is configured as follows:

[0023] [1] The composite wire harness includes: a first wire harness having a first wire and a first outer casing covering the first wire; a second wire harness having a second wire and a second outer casing covering the second wire and arranged in an arrangement with the first outer casing; and a fixing member that fixes the first wire harness and the second wire harness to each other, the first wire harness having a path limiting member mounted on the periphery of the first outer casing and limiting the path of the first outer casing, the path limiting member having an insertion port extending along the length direction of the path limiting member and throughout the entire length direction of the path limiting member, and the fixing member fixing the second wire harness to the path limiting member.

[0024] According to this structure, after termination processing such as installing the connector at the end along the length of the first wire, the path limiting component can be installed on the first outer component through the insertion port. Thus, since the path limiting component can be installed later, the assembly workability of the composite wire harness can be improved.

[0025] Furthermore, the second wiring harness is fixed to the path limiting member mounted on the first outer component by a fixing member. Thus, the path limiting member mounted on the first outer component can restrict the paths of both the first and second outer components arranged opposite each other.

[0026] [2] A plurality of path limiting components are installed on the first outer component along the length direction of the first outer component, and the plurality of path limiting components are separated in the length direction of the first outer component.

[0027] According to this structure, both the first and second outer components contain multiple restricted sections where the paths are restricted by path-limiting components, and other unrestricted sections. Therefore, within the unrestricted sections between the path-limiting components, paths that allow bending of the first and second outer components can be obtained, thereby increasing the flexibility of the composite wire harness layout. Furthermore, when transporting the composite wire harness, it is possible to fold it within the unrestricted sections between the path-limiting components. This folding of the composite wire harness within the unrestricted sections makes it more compact, thus improving the transport efficiency of the composite wire harness.

[0028] [3] The path limiting component has: a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being the ends of the path limiting component in the circumferential direction and forming the insertion port; and a protrusion that protrudes from the inner surface of at least one of the first end and the second end and contacts the outer surface of the first outer component.

[0029] According to this structure, the path limiting member has a protrusion that protrudes from the inner surface of at least one of the first end and the second end and contacts the outer surface of the first outer component. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the path limiting member from detaching from the first outer component through the insertion port. Thus, the path limiting member is temporarily fixed to the outer periphery of the first outer component by its own protrusion, thereby further improving the workability of installing a fixing component when the path limiting member is temporarily fixed to the first outer component. As a result, the assembly workability of the composite wire harness can be further improved.

[0030] [4] When the path limiting component is used as the first path limiting component, the second wire harness has a second path limiting component installed on the outer periphery of the second outer component and limiting the path of the second outer component. The second path limiting component has an insertion port extending along the length direction of the second path limiting component and throughout the entire length direction of the second path limiting component. The composite wire harness has a second fixing component. When the fixing component is used as the first fixing component, the second fixing component fixes the first outer component to the second path limiting component.

[0031] According to this structure, the path of the second outer component can be restricted by the second path restricting component. Furthermore, since the second path restricting component and the first outer component are fixed to each other by the second fixing component, the path of the first outer component can also be restricted by the second path restricting component.

[0032] [5] It has an overlap portion in which at least a portion of the first path limiting member overlaps with the second path limiting member when viewed from the arrangement direction of the first outer component and the second outer component.

[0033] According to this structure, by setting the overlap between the first path limiting component and the second path limiting component in accordance with the level of path limitation required by the composite wire harness, more appropriate path limitation of the composite wire harness can be achieved.

[0034] [6] In the overlapping portion, when viewed from the arrangement direction, a portion of the length direction of the first path limiting member overlaps with a portion of the length direction of the second path limiting member.

[0035] According to this structure, the first path limiting component and the second path limiting component are staggered relative to each other in the length direction of the composite wire harness. However, when the composite wire harness is viewed as a whole, the ranges limited by the first path limiting component and the ranges limited by the second path limiting component are continuous rather than separate through the overlapping portion. Therefore, even if the length of the first path limiting component and the second path limiting component is constrained by the shape of the fixed object side, the paths of the first outer component and the second outer component can be limited over a large range continuously in the length direction of the composite wire harness.

[0036] Furthermore, the first path limiting component and the second path limiting component are staggered relative to each other in the length direction of the composite wire harness, and there is an overlap. As a result, no unrestricted area is generated between the restriction area of ​​the first path limiting component and the restriction area of ​​the second path limiting component, thus preventing the first and second outer components from accidentally bending between the restriction areas of the first and second path limiting components.

[0037] [7] The first fixing component fixes the second path limiting component to the first path limiting component at the overlapping portion.

[0038] According to this structure, the first path limiting component and the second path limiting component are fixed to each other at the overlapping part by the first fixing component, thus enabling more appropriate path limiting of the composite wire harness.

[0039] [8] When viewed from the arrangement direction of the first outer component and the second outer component, the entire length direction of the first path limiting component overlaps with the portion of the second outer component where the second path limiting component is not installed.

[0040] According to this structure, the section in the first outer component that cannot be restricted by the first path restriction component is restricted by the second path restriction component, and the first and second outer components can be bent in the unrestricted section between the restricted section of the first path restriction component and the restricted section of the second path restriction component. As a result, it can help improve the degree of freedom in the layout of the composite harness.

[0041] [Details of the embodiments disclosed herein]

[0042] Hereinafter, specific examples of the composite wire harness of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, for ease of explanation, a portion of the structure is sometimes shown exaggeratedly or simplified. In addition, the dimensional ratios of the parts may differ in each drawing. Furthermore, the term "orthogonal" in this specification includes not only strictly orthogonal cases, but also cases that are approximately orthogonal within the scope of the function and effect of this embodiment.

[0043] Furthermore, the term "cylindrical" as used in this specification includes not only shapes with a continuous circumferential wall, but also shapes formed by combining multiple components to form a cylindrical shape, and shapes such as a C-shape with a slit in a portion of the circumference. Additionally, the shape of "cylindrical" includes circles, ellipses, and polygons with sharp or rounded corners. Furthermore, the term "ring-shaped" as used in this specification sometimes refers to any structure forming a ring, a continuous shape without ends, and a typical ring shape with gaps, such as a C-shape. Additionally, the shape of "ring-shaped" includes circles, ellipses, and polygons with sharp or rounded corners, but is not limited to these.

[0044] (Overall structure of composite wire harness 10)

[0045] Figure 1 The composite wiring harness 10 shown connects devices installed in the vehicle V to each other, for example. The composite wiring harness 10 is configured in the vehicle V such that the middle portion of the composite wiring harness 10 in the longitudinal direction passes through the exterior of the vehicle V, such as under the floor.

[0046] The composite wire harness 10 includes a first wire harness 11 and a second wire harness 12 arranged mutually thereof. Additionally, the composite wire harness 10 includes... Figure 2 The fixing component 13 is shown. The fixing component 13 secures the first wire harness 11 and the second wire harness 12 to each other. Additionally, Figure 1 The illustration of the fixed component 13 is omitted.

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the first wiring harness 11 electrically connects a first device M1 and a second device M2 disposed in the vehicle V to each other. As an example of the first device M1 and the second device M2, the first device M1 is a high-voltage battery disposed at the rear of the vehicle V, and the second device M2 is an inverter disposed at the front of the vehicle V. The first device M1, as a high-voltage battery, is, for example, a battery capable of supplying voltages of 100 volts or higher. The second device M2, as an inverter, is connected to a motor (not shown) for driving the wheels, which serves as the power source for the vehicle's movement. The inverter generates alternating current from the direct current (DC) power of the high-voltage battery and supplies this AC power to the motor. The first wiring harness 11 is a high-voltage wiring harness capable of exchanging high voltage between the high-voltage battery and the inverter.

[0048] The second wiring harness 12 electrically connects the third device M3 and the fourth device M4, which are installed in the vehicle V, to each other. As an example of the third device M3 and the fourth device M4, the third device M3 is a low-voltage battery located at the rear of the vehicle V, and the fourth device M4 is a relay box located at the front of the vehicle V. The fourth device M4, as a relay box, distributes the voltage of the low-voltage battery to various devices installed in the vehicle V. The second wiring harness 12 is a low-voltage wiring harness that corresponds to the supply current of the low-voltage battery. Furthermore, the first wiring harness 11 and the second wiring harness 12 are respectively formed into a two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape depending on the wiring path.

[0049] (Structure of the first wire harness 11)

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, the first wiring harness 11 includes first wires 21 and a first outer casing 22. Multiple first wires 21 are provided, for example. The first outer casing 22 is, for example, cylindrical. The first outer casing 22 surrounds, for example, multiple first wires 21. Furthermore, one end of the first wire 21 is connected to the first device M1, and the other end of the first wire 21 is connected to the second device M2. The first wire 21 is a high-voltage wire capable of handling high voltage and high current.

[0051] The first wire 21 has a first core wire 23 and a first insulating covering 24 that encloses the outer periphery of the first core wire 23. The first core wire 23 is, for example, made of a flexible conductor that can be easily bent. Another example of such a flexible conductor is a stranded wire formed by twisting together multiple metal wires. The material of the first core wire 23 can be, for example, copper-based or aluminum-based metals. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the first core wire 23 obtained by cutting it with a plane orthogonal to the length direction can be any shape. The cross-sectional shape of the first core wire 23 can be, for example, circular, semi-circular, polygonal, square, or flat.

[0052] The first insulating cover 24, for example, covers the entire outer periphery of the first core wire 23. The first insulating cover 24 is made of an insulating material such as synthetic resin. The first insulating cover 24 can be formed, for example, by extruding the first core wire 23.

[0053] The first outer casing 22 is generally in the shape of a long cylindrical tube. A first wire 21 is inserted into the internal space of the first outer casing 22. The first outer casing 22 protects, for example, the first wire 21 from flying objects and water droplets.

[0054] The first outer component 22 is, for example, made of a corrugated tube of synthetic resin. The first outer component 22, being a corrugated tube, has a corrugated shape with a diameter that repeats in size along its length. Therefore, the first outer component 22 is flexible and can be easily bent. Furthermore, synthetic resins such as polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, and ABS resin can be used as the constituent material of the first outer component 22.

[0055] (Structure of the second wire harness 12)

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, the second wiring harness 12 includes second wires 31 and a second outer casing 32. Multiple second wires 31 are provided, for example. The second outer casing 32 is, for example, cylindrical. The second outer casing 32, for example, surrounds multiple second wires 31 together. Furthermore, one end of the second wire 31 is connected to the third device M3, and the other end of the second wire 31 is connected to the fourth device M4. The second wire 31 is a low-voltage wire.

[0057] The second wire 31 has a second core wire 33 and a second insulating covering portion 34 that encloses the outer periphery of the second core wire 33. The second core wire 33 is, for example, made of a flexible conductor that can be easily bent. Another example of such a flexible conductor is a stranded wire formed by twisting together multiple metal wires. The material of the second core wire 33 can be, for example, copper-based or aluminum-based metals. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the second core wire 33 obtained by cutting it with a plane orthogonal to the length direction can be any shape. The cross-sectional shape of the second core wire 33 can be, for example, circular, semi-circular, polygonal, square, or flat.

[0058] The second insulating cover 34, for example, covers the entire outer periphery of the second core wire 33. The second insulating cover 34 is made of an insulating material such as synthetic resin. The second insulating cover 34 can be formed, for example, by extrusion molding of the second core wire 33.

[0059] The second outer casing 32 is generally in the shape of a long cylindrical tube. A second wire 31 is inserted into the internal space of the second outer casing 32. The second outer casing 32 protects the second wire 31 from flying objects and water droplets, for example.

[0060] The second outer component 32 is, for example, made of a corrugated tube of synthetic resin. The second outer component 32, as a corrugated tube, has a corrugated shape with a diameter that repeats in size along its length. Therefore, the second outer component 32 is flexible and can be easily bent. Furthermore, synthetic resins such as polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, and ABS resin can be used as the constituent material of the second outer component 32.

[0061] (Structure of the first path limiting component 41)

[0062] like Figure 2 As shown, the first wiring harness 11 includes a first path limiting member 41 that restricts the path of the first outer component 22. The first path limiting member 41 is mounted on the outer periphery of the first outer component 22. The first path limiting member 41 covers a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first outer component 22 in the circumferential direction. For example, the first path limiting member 41 covers an area greater than 180° on the outer periphery of the first outer component 22. In addition, the first path limiting member 41 extends along the length direction of the first outer component 22.

[0063] The first path limiting member 41 assists the first outer component 22 so that the first outer component 22 does not detach from the predetermined path due to its own weight or other deflections. The first path limiting member 41 is partially disposed in the longitudinal direction of the first outer component 22. For example, the first path limiting member 41 is installed on the outer periphery of the portion of the first outer component 22 that extends linearly in the path of the first outer component 22. In addition, for example, multiple first path limiting members 41 are provided in the longitudinal direction of the first outer component 22. The multiple first path limiting members 41 are, for example, separated in the longitudinal direction of the first outer component 22. In addition, the dimensions of each first path limiting member 41 are different from each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0064] Furthermore, the material used for the first path limiting component 41 can be, for example, synthetic resins such as polypropylene, polyamide, and polyacetal. The first path limiting component 41 can be formed by known methods such as extrusion molding and injection molding.

[0065] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first path limiting member 41 has an insertion port 42 extending along the length direction of the first path limiting member 41, a first end portion 43 and a second end portion 44 forming the insertion port 42, and an intermediate portion 45 serving as a portion connecting the first end portion 43 and the second end portion 44. In other words, the first path limiting member 41 has an intermediate portion 45 formed to cover a circumferential portion of the first outer component 22, a first end portion 43 and a second end portion 44 disposed at both ends of the intermediate portion 45, and an insertion port 42 formed by the first end portion 43 and the second end portion 44.

[0066] The first end 43 and the second end 44 are circumferential ends of the first path limiting member 41. The first end 43 and the second end 44 are opposed to each other in a separated state in the circumferential direction of the first path limiting member 41. Moreover, the gap between the first end 43 and the second end 44 is configured as an insertion port 42.

[0067] The insertion port 42 extends along the entire length of the first path limiting member 41. The opening width of the insertion port 42, i.e., the shortest distance between the first end 43 and the second end 44, is smaller than the outer diameter of the first outer member 22. The first outer member 22 is inserted into the insertion port 42 in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the first path limiting member 41.

[0068] like Figure 5As shown, the intermediate portion 45 constitutes the main part of the first path limiting member 41. The cross-sectional shape of the intermediate portion 45 is, for example, arc-shaped. Furthermore, the radial thickness of the intermediate portion 45 is, for example, the same in the circumferential direction. Additionally, the cross-sectional shape of the first path limiting member 41 is, for example, the same throughout its entire length. Furthermore, the central axis C in the cross-section of the intermediate portion 45 is, for example, a straight line. That is, the first path limiting member 41 is formed to extend linearly in one direction.

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, in the cross-section of the first path limiting member 41, the tangent line passing through the first end 43 of the central axis C of the intermediate portion 45 is designated as tangent line T1, and the tangent line passing through the second end 44 of the central axis C is designated as tangent line T2. In the state where the first path limiting member 41 is not installed on the first external component 22, the opening angle θ of the circumferential insertion port 42 of the first path limiting member 41 is, for example, in the range of 60° to 120°. In addition, the opening angle θ of the insertion port 42 is the angle centered on the central axis C of the intermediate portion 45, that is, the angle formed by tangent line T1 and tangent line T2.

[0070] The first path limiting member 41 has protrusions 46 extending from the inner surfaces of the first end 43 and the second end 44, respectively. The cross-sectional shape of each protrusion 46 is, for example, semi-circular. Each protrusion 46 extends, for example, along the length direction of the first path limiting member 41. Furthermore, each protrusion 46 extends, for example, throughout the entire length direction of the first path limiting member 41.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, each protrusion 46 protrudes toward the first outer component 22. Each protrusion 46 contacts the outer surface of the first outer component 22. Moreover, each protrusion 46 presses against the first outer component 22, for example. The first outer component 22 is elastically held by each protrusion 46 and the intermediate portion 45. As a result, the connection between the first path limiting member 41 and the first outer component 22 becomes secure. Therefore, the possibility of the first path limiting member 41, which is mounted on the outer periphery of the first outer component 22, moving in the longitudinal direction of the first outer component 22 is suppressed.

[0072] Furthermore, when the first outer component 22 is inserted into the first path limiting component 41, the opening width of the insertion port 42 does not necessarily return to its original width, i.e., the width when the first path limiting component 41 is not inserted. Specifically, due to the elastic deformation of the first outer component 22 that prevents the first path limiting component 41 from returning to its original shape, the opening width of the insertion port 42 may sometimes be slightly larger than its original width. Additionally, when the first outer component 22 is inserted into the first path limiting component 41, the first outer component 22 may become flexed due to the pressure of the first path limiting component 41, thus the opening width of the insertion port 42 may sometimes return to its original width. In other words, the opening width when the first outer component 22 is inserted into the first path limiting component 41 is based on the rigidity, flexibility, etc., of the first outer component 22 and the first path limiting component 41.

[0073] In the first path limiting member 41, when viewed from the length direction of the first path limiting member 41, the circumferential front end 43a of the first end 43 and the circumferential front end 44a of the second end 44 are respectively curved. In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the front end 43a of the first end 43 and the front end 44a of the second end 44 is curved. In addition, the insertion port 42 is formed by the front end 43a of the first end 43 and the front end 44a of the second end 44.

[0074] (Structure of fixed component 13)

[0075] The fixing component 13 secures the second wire harness 12 to the first path limiting component 41. In this embodiment, the fixing component 13 is fixed to the first path limiting component 41 and the second outer component 32, for example. Multiple fixing components 13 are provided, for example, corresponding to multiple first path limiting components 41. That is, multiple first path limiting components 41 are respectively fixed to the second outer component 32 by multiple fixing components 13.

[0076] The fixing component 13 is, for example, a strip-shaped component such as a synthetic resin or metal strap or adhesive tape. The fixing component 13 is wound together with the first path limiting component 41 and the second outer component 32 arranged in relation to each other. The first path limiting component 41 and the second outer component 32 are fixed by the fixing component 13, for example, in a manner in which they are not separated from each other.

[0077] The function of this embodiment will be explained.

[0078] According to the composite wiring harness 10 of this embodiment, in the portion where the first path limiting member 41 is installed, the rigidity of the first path limiting member 41 suppresses the deflection of the first outer component 22 due to its own weight. Furthermore, the second outer component 32 is fixed to the first path limiting member 41 by the fixing member 13. Therefore, the first path limiting member 41 also suppresses the deflection of the second outer component 32 due to its own weight. In this way, the paths of both the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32 can be limited by the first path limiting member 41.

[0079] Furthermore, in existing structures, the first outer component 22 is a rigid tubular component such as a metal tube, which is used to protect the first wire 21 and restrict its path. In such a structure, the tubular component is long, and the bending points in the path of the first wire 21 require bending processing using a bending machine or the like. This bending processing is a tedious operation. However, in the composite wire harness 10 of this embodiment, since the first path restricting component 41 is installed corresponding to the straight portion in the path of the first outer component 22, the bending processing using a bending machine or the like is not required.

[0080] The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0081] (1) The first path limiting member 41 has an insertion port 42 extending along the length direction of the first path limiting member 41 and throughout its entire length. Thus, the first outer component 22 can be inserted into the interior of the first path limiting member 41 through the insertion port 42. Therefore, after termination processing such as installing the connector at the end along the length direction of the first wire 21, the first path limiting member 41 can be installed onto the first outer component 22 through the insertion port 42. This allows for the subsequent installation of the first path limiting member 41, improving the assembly workability of the composite wire harness 10. Furthermore, since subsequent installation can be appropriately performed in the areas of the composite wire harness 10 where restriction is required, unnecessary path restriction that occurs when using the long tubular component can be suppressed.

[0082] Furthermore, the second wiring harness 12 is fixed to the first path limiting member 41 mounted on the first outer component 22 by the fixing member 13. Thus, the paths of both the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32, which are arranged in a mutually perpendicular manner, can be limited by the first path limiting member 41. Therefore, it helps to suppress the increase in the number of components in the composite wiring harness 10.

[0083] (2) A plurality of first path limiting components 41 are mounted on the first outer component 22 along the length direction of the first outer component 22. Furthermore, the plurality of first path limiting components 41 are separated along the length direction of the first outer component 22. According to this structure, there are multiple restricted intervals in the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32 where the paths are restricted by each of the first path limiting components 41, and other unrestricted intervals. Therefore, in the unrestricted intervals between the first path limiting components 41, for example, paths that allow bending of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32 can be obtained, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in the layout of the composite wire harness 10.

[0084] Furthermore, when conveying the composite wire harness 10, the composite wire harness 10 can be folded within the unrestricted area between the first path restricting members 41. This folding of the composite wire harness 10 within the unrestricted area makes it more compact, thereby improving the conveying efficiency of the composite wire harness 10.

[0085] (3) The first path limiting member 41 has a first end 43 and a second end 44 that form the insertion port 42 as circumferential ends of the first path limiting member 41. Furthermore, the first path limiting member 41 has protrusions 46 that protrude from the inner surfaces of the first end 43 and the second end 44 respectively and contact the outer surface of the first outer component 22. According to this structure, it is possible to prevent the first path limiting member 41 from detaching from the first outer component 22 through the insertion port 42. Therefore, the first path limiting member 41 is temporarily fixed to the outer periphery of the first outer component 22 by its own protrusions 46, thereby further improving the workability of installing the fixing member 13 when the first path limiting member 41 is temporarily fixed to the first outer component 22. As a result, the assembly workability of the composite wire harness 10 can be further improved.

[0086] (4) When viewed from the length direction of the first path limiting member 41, the front end 43a of the first end 43 and the front end 44a of the second end 44 are bent. Therefore, the first outer component 22 can be smoothly inserted into the interior of the first path limiting member 41 through the insertion port 42 formed by the front ends 43a and 44a. In addition, the first outer component 22 is less likely to be damaged when it is inserted into the interior of the first path limiting member 41 through the insertion port 42.

[0087] (5) The cross-sectional shape of the first path limiting member 41 is the same throughout the entire length direction of the first path limiting member 41. With this structure, the first path limiting member 41 can be easily manufactured by using an extrusion molding machine that extrudes the raw material of the first path limiting member 41 along the length direction. In addition, a variety of first path limiting members 41 with different dimensions in the length direction can be manufactured using a single extrusion molding machine.

[0088] (6) The protrusion 46 extends along the entire length of the first path limiting member 41. This structure improves the bending rigidity of the first path limiting member 41. Furthermore, the protrusion 46 contacts the outer surface of the first outer member 22 along the entire length of the first path limiting member 41. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first path limiting member 41 from passing through the insertion port 42 and disengaging from the first outer member 22 throughout the entire length of the first path limiting member 41.

[0089] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to implement them without creating technical inconsistencies.

[0090] • In the above embodiment, a path limiting component that restricts the path of the second external component 32 may also be provided in the second wiring harness 12. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Examples of mounting the second path limiting component 51 to the second outer component 32 of the second wiring harness 12 are shown respectively.

[0091] The second path limiting component 51 is, for example, formed with the same structure as the first path limiting component 41. The same reference numerals are used to denote the identical structures in the second path limiting component 51 as in the first path limiting component 41, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0092] like Figure 6 As shown, the second wiring harness 12 includes a second path limiting member 51 that restricts the path of the second outer component 32. The second path limiting member 51 is mounted on the outer periphery of the second outer component 32. The second path limiting member 51 covers a portion of the circumferential surface of the outer periphery of the second outer component 32. For example, the second path limiting member 51 covers an area greater than 180° on the outer periphery of the second outer component 32. Furthermore, the second path limiting member 51 extends along the length direction of the second outer component 32.

[0093] The second path limiting member 51 assists the second outer component 32 so that the second outer component 32 does not detach from the predetermined path due to its own weight or other deflections. The second path limiting member 51 is partially disposed in the longitudinal direction of the second outer component 32. For example, the second path limiting member 51 is installed on the outer periphery of the portion of the second outer component 32 that extends linearly in the path of the second outer component 32. Alternatively, multiple second path limiting members 51 may be provided in the longitudinal direction of the second outer component 32.

[0094] The composite wire harness 10 has an overlap portion A where the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 overlap when viewed from the arrangement direction D of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32. In the overlap portion A, when viewed from the arrangement direction D, a portion of the length direction of the first path limiting member 41 overlaps with a portion of the length direction of the second path limiting member 51.

[0095] The composite wire harness 10 has fixing members 13, 52, and 53 that fix the first wire harness 11 and the second wire harness 12 to each other. Similar to the embodiment described above, fixing member 13 fixes the first path limiting member 41 and the second outer component 32 to each other. Fixing member 52 fixes the second path limiting member 51 and the first outer component 22 to each other. Furthermore, fixing member 53 fixes the second path limiting member 51 and the first path limiting member 41 to each other at the overlap A. Fixing members 13 and 53 are sometimes referred to as the first fixing member. Fixing member 52 is sometimes referred to as the second fixing member.

[0096] In addition, the fixing parts 52 and 53 are, for example, straps or adhesive tapes made of synthetic resin or metal.

[0097] The fixing member 52 is wound together with the second path limiting member 51 and the first outer member 22, which are arranged in a mutually arranged manner. The second path limiting member 51 and the first outer member 22 are fixed by the fixing member 52, for example, in a manner in which they are not separated from each other.

[0098] The fixing member 53 is wound together with the second path limiting member 51 and the first outer component 22, which are arranged in a mutually arranged manner. The second path limiting member 51 and the first outer component 22 are fixed by the fixing member 53, for example, in a manner in which they are not separated from each other.

[0099] Next, for Figure 6 The effects of the structure shown will be explained.

[0100] The second path limiting member 51 has an insertion port 42 extending along and throughout the entire length of the second path limiting member 51. Furthermore, the composite wire harness 10 includes a fixing member 52 for fixing the first outer component 22 to the second path limiting member 51. According to this structure, the path of the second outer component 32 can be limited by the second path limiting member 51. Moreover, since the second path limiting member 51 and the first outer component 22 are fixed to each other by the fixing member 52, the path of the first outer component 22 can also be limited by the second path limiting member 51.

[0101] Furthermore, the composite wire harness 10 has an overlap portion A where the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 overlap when viewed from the arrangement direction D of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32. According to this structure, by setting the overlap portion A of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 in accordance with the level of path limitation required by the composite wire harness 10, more appropriate path limitation of the composite wire harness 10 can be achieved.

[0102] Furthermore, in the overlapping portion A, when viewed from the arrangement direction D, a portion of the length direction of the first path limiting member 41 overlaps with a portion of the length direction of the second path limiting member 51. According to this structure, the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 are staggered relative to each other in the length direction of the composite wiring harness 10, but when the composite wiring harness 10 is viewed as a whole, the ranges limited by the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 are continuous rather than separate through the overlapping portion A. Therefore, even when the length of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 is constrained by the shape of the vehicle body side, the paths of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32 can be continuously limited over a large range in the length direction of the composite wiring harness 10.

[0103] Furthermore, the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 are staggered relative to each other in the length direction of the composite wire harness 10, and there is an overlap portion A. As a result, no unrestricted area is generated between the restriction area of ​​the first path limiting member 41 and the restriction area of ​​the second path limiting member 51, thus preventing the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32 from accidentally bending between the restriction areas of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51.

[0104] Furthermore, the fixing member 53 fixes the second path limiting member 51 to the first path limiting member 41 at the overlap A. According to this structure, the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 are fixed to each other at the overlap A by the first fixing member, thus enabling more appropriate path restriction of the composite wire harness 10.

[0105] Next, for Figure 7 The structure shown will be explained.

[0106] exist Figure 7In the structure shown, when viewed from the arrangement direction D of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32, the entire length of the first path limiting component 41 overlaps with the portion E2 of the second outer component 32 where the second path limiting component 51 is not installed. Furthermore, when viewed from the arrangement direction D, the entire length of the second path limiting component 51 overlaps with the portion E1 of the first outer component 22 where the first path limiting component 41 is not installed.

[0107] According to this structure, the section in the first outer component 22 that cannot be restricted by the first path restriction component 41 is restricted by the second path restriction component 51, and the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32 can be bent in the unrestricted section between the restricted section of the first path restriction component 41 and the restricted section of the second path restriction component 51. As a result, it can help improve the degree of freedom in the layout of the composite wire harness 10.

[0108] • When viewed from the arrangement direction D of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32, the entire length of the first path limiting component 41 can also be configured to overlap with the second path limiting component 51. Furthermore, when viewed from the arrangement direction D of the first outer component 22 and the second outer component 32, the entire length of the second path limiting component 51 can also be configured to overlap with the first path limiting component 41.

[0109] In the first path limiting member 41, the protrusion 46 may also be partially provided in the length direction of the first path limiting member 41. In the second path limiting member 51, the protrusion 46 may also be partially provided in the length direction of the second path limiting member 51.

[0110] • In at least one of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51, the protrusion 46 of the first end 43 and the protrusion 46 of the second end 44 may also be omitted.

[0111] • In the first path limiting member 41, a second protrusion may also be provided, protruding from the inner surface of the intermediate portion 45 and contacting the outer surface of the first outer component 22. Similarly, in the second path limiting member 51, a second protrusion may also be provided, protruding from the inner surface of the intermediate portion 45 and contacting the outer surface of the second outer component 32. With this structure, both the protrusion 46 and the second protrusion can contact the outer surface of either the first outer component 22 or the second outer component 32, thereby suppressing the wobbling of either the first path limiting member 41 or the second path limiting member 51.

[0112] • In at least one of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51, a groove extending along the length direction may also be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate portion 45. According to this structure, the intermediate portion 45 can easily deform outwards from the groove, thereby easily enlarging the insertion opening 42. As a result, it can contribute to improving the assemblability of the first path limiting member 41 or the second path limiting member 51.

[0113] • In at least one of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51, the radial thickness of the intermediate portion 45 may vary in the circumferential direction.

[0114] • The shape of the middle portion 45 of at least one of the first path limiting member 41 and the second path limiting member 51 is not limited to an arc shape, for example, it can be changed to an elliptical arc shape.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the two ends of the first path limiting member 41 can also be fixed to the second wire harness 12 by the fixing member 13.

[0116] • The fixing components 13, 52, and 53 are not limited to strip-shaped components, and their structure can be appropriately modified.

[0117] In the above implementation methods and Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the modified example shown, unless otherwise specified, the first path limiting member 41 or the second path limiting member 51 can also be fixed to the vehicle body via a fixing member or the like.

[0118] In the above implementation methods and Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the illustrated variation, the first outer component 22 may also be configured such that a slit extending along the length direction is provided, and the first path limiting component 41 can be fixed to the slit. Furthermore, in Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the modified example shown, the second outer component 32 may also be configured such that a slit extending along the length direction is provided, and the second path limiting component 51 can be fixed to the slit.

[0119] The number of first path limiting components 41 installed on the first outer casing 22 can also be one. Additionally, the number of second path limiting components 51 installed on the second outer casing 32 can also be one.

[0120] In the above embodiment, the first wire 21 is set as a high-voltage wire and the second wire 31 is set as a low-voltage wire, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first wire 21 and the second wire 31 can be set as high-voltage wires or low-voltage wires respectively.

[0121] like Figure 2, Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, when the first path limiting member 41 is installed on the first outer component 22, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first outer component 22 protrudes from the insertion port 42 of the first path limiting member 41. This exposed portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first outer component 22 is sometimes referred to as the first exposed portion. At least a portion of the first exposed portion of the first outer component 22 can be covered by the fixing members 13 and 53. At least a portion of the first exposed portion of the first outer component 22 can also contact the fixing members 13 and 53. Similar to the first outer component 22, the second outer component 32 can have a second exposed portion protruding from the insertion port 42 of the second path limiting member 51. At least a portion of the second exposed portion of the second outer component 32 can be covered by the fixing members 52 and 53. At least a portion of the second exposed portion of the second outer component 32 can also contact the fixing members 52 and 53.

[0122] [Note 1] In several embodiments of this disclosure, the first external component (22) can be inserted into the insertion port (42).

[0123] A portion of the circumferential direction of the outer surface of the first outer component (22) may be covered by the first path limiting component (41).

[0124] [Appendix 2] As Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the composite wire harness (10) can possess:

[0125] First length position;

[0126] The second length position is different from the first length position;

[0127] Multiple wire harnesses, the multiple wire harnesses including a first wire harness (11) and a second wire harness (12);

[0128] Multiple fixing components (13; 52, 53) for parallel fixing of the first wire harness (11) and the second wire harness (12); and

[0129] The path limiting component (41) has a defined length profile that can serve as a straight line profile and a defined cross-sectional profile that can serve as a C-shaped cross-sectional profile, and is configured to be mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the first wire harness (11) at the first length position, for example by a snap-fit ​​engagement, thereby limiting the length shape of the first wire harness (11) at the first length position.

[0130] One of the plurality of fixing components (13; 52, 53) may be configured to contact and bind a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first wire bundle (11) at the first length position, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the second wire bundle (12) at the first length position, and a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the path limiting component (41) at the first length position, for example, with a strap or tape.

[0131] [Appendix 3] As Figure 2 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the composite wire harness (10) can have another path limiting component (41).

[0132] The other path limiting component (41) has a defined length profile that can serve as a straight line profile and a defined cross-sectional profile that can serve as a C-shaped cross-sectional profile, and is configured to be mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the first wire harness (11) at the second length position, for example by a snap-fit ​​engagement, thereby limiting the length shape of the first wire harness (11) at the second length position.

[0133] Another of the plurality of fixing components (13; 52, 53) may be configured to contact and bind a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first wire harness (11) at the second length position, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the second wire harness (12) at the second length position, and a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the other path limiting component (41) at the second length position, for example, with a strap or tape.

[0134] [Appendix 4] such as Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the composite wire harness (10) can have another path limiting component (51).

[0135] The other path limiting component (51) has a defined length profile that can be a straight line profile and a defined cross-sectional profile that can be a C-shaped cross-sectional profile, and is configured to, for example, be installed on the outer peripheral surface of the second wire harness (12) at the second length position by a snap-fit ​​engagement, limiting the length shape of the second wire harness (12) at the second length position.

[0136] Another (52) of the plurality of fixing components (13; 52, 53) may be configured to contact and bind a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first wire bundle (11) at the second length position, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the second wire bundle (12) at the second length position, and a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the other path limiting component (51) at the second length position, for example, with a strap or tape.

[0137] [Appendix 5] As Figure 2, Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the path limiting component (41) may be installed only at the first length position of the first wire harness (11) among the plurality of wire harnesses, and the path limiting component (41) may not be installed at the first length position of the second wire harness (12) among the plurality of wire harnesses.

[0138] [Appendix 6] such as Figure 2 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the other path limiting component (41) may be installed only at the second length position of the first wire harness (11) among the plurality of wire harnesses, and the other path limiting component (41) may not be installed at the second length position of the second wire harness (12) among the plurality of wire harnesses.

[0139] [Appendix 7] as Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the other path limiting component (51) may be installed only at the second length position of the second wire harness (12) among the plurality of wire harnesses, or the other path limiting component (51) may not be installed at the second length position of the first wire harness (11) among the plurality of wire harnesses.

[0140] [Appendix 8] such as Figure 2 , Figure 7 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, another path limiting component (41; 51) installed at the second length position may partially overlap with the path limiting component (41) installed at the first length position in the length direction.

[0141] [Appendix 9] as Figure 6 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, another path limiting component (51) installed at the second length position may not overlap with the path limiting component (41) installed at the first length position in the length direction.

[0142] [Appendix 10] As Figure 3 As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, the radially inward surface of the path limiting member 41 may have a non-protruding surface, which may be a concave surface extending between the two protrusions 46.

[0143] [Appendix 11] As Figure 3As shown, in several embodiments of this disclosure, when the path limiting member (41) is mounted on the first wire harness (11), the path limiting member (41) may contact the radially outward surface of the first wire harness (11) in two protrusions (46) of the path limiting member (41) and a portion of the non-protruding surface of the path limiting member (41), and a gap may be formed between the other portion of the non-protruding surface of the path limiting member (41) and the radially outward surface of the first wire harness (11), the gap being able to extend along the entire length of the path limiting member (41).

[0144] The embodiments and modifications disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than limiting in all respects. The scope of the invention is not as defined above, but as set forth in the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0145] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0146] 10 Composite wire harness

[0147] 11 First harness

[0148] 12 Second harness

[0149] 13. Fixing component (first fixing component)

[0150] 21 First Electric Wire

[0151] 22 First external component

[0152] 23 First core wire

[0153] 24 First Insulation Covering Section

[0154] 31 Second wire

[0155] 32 Second external component

[0156] 33 Second core wire

[0157] 34 Second Insulation Covering

[0158] 41 First path limiting component (path limiting component)

[0159] 42 Insertion port

[0160] 43 First end

[0161] 43a Frontend

[0162] 44 Second end

[0163] 44a Frontend

[0164] 45 Middle section

[0165] 46. ​​Protrusion

[0166] 51 Second path limiting component

[0167] 52. Fixing component (second fixing component)

[0168] 53. Fixing component (first fixing component)

[0169] θ opening angle

[0170] A. Overlapping part

[0171] C. Central axis

[0172] D. Arrangement direction

[0173] E1 area

[0174] E2 area

[0175] M1 First Equipment

[0176] M2 Second Equipment

[0177] M3 Third Equipment

[0178] M4 Fourth Equipment

[0179] V vehicle

Claims

1. A composite wire harness comprising: a first wire harness having a first electric wire and a first outer member covering the first electric wire; a second wire harness having a second electric wire and a second outer member covering the second electric wire and arranged in parallel with the first outer member; and a fixing member fixing the first wire harness and the second wire harness to each other, the first wire harness having a path restricting member installed to an outer periphery of the first outer member and restricting a path of the first outer member, the path restricting member having an insertion opening extending in a length direction of the path restricting member and throughout the entire length direction of the path restricting member, the fixing member fixing the second wire harness to the path restricting member, when the path restricting member is a first path restricting member, the second wire harness having a second path restricting member installed to an outer periphery of the second outer member and restricting a path of the second outer member, the second path restricting member having an insertion opening extending in a length direction of the second path restricting member and throughout the entire length direction of the second path restricting member, the composite wire harness comprising a second fixing member fixing the first outer member to the second path restricting member when the fixing member is a first fixing member, the first path restricting member overlapping with a portion of the second outer member on which the second path restricting member is not installed throughout the entire length direction when viewed from a direction in which the first outer member and the second outer member are arranged.

2. The composite wire harness according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the first path restricting members are installed to the first outer member in the length direction of the first outer member, and the plurality of the first path restricting members are separated in the length direction of the first outer member.

3. The composite wire harness according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first path restricting member has: a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion and the second end portion being end portions of the first path restricting member in a circumferential direction and forming the insertion opening; and a protruding portion protruding from an inner surface of at least one of the first end portion and the second end portion and contacting an outer surface of the first outer member. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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