Electric compressor

Abstract

Provided is an electric compressor in which equalization of adjacent casing structures and assembly can be easily performed. The electric compressor includes a compression unit, an electric motor, an inverter, a casing having a plurality of metal casing structures, a first sealing member provided between first and second casing structures and having insulating properties, and a metal equalization member that equalizes the first and second casing structures. First and second insertion holes are formed in a portion of the first casing structure where the first sealing member is not present. The equalization member has an insertion portion that is inserted into the first and second insertion holes, and a contact portion that contacts both of the opposing surfaces of the first and second casing structures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to electric compressors. Background Technology

[0002] An electric compressor comprises a compressor section, an electric motor, an inverter, a housing, and sealing members. The compressor section compresses fluid. The electric motor drives the compressor section. The inverter drives the electric motor. The housing houses the compressor section, the electric motor, and the inverter. The housing has multiple metal housing structures. Sealing members are disposed between adjacent housing structures. The sealing members are insulating. Adjacent housing structures have mating surfaces that clamp the sealing members.

[0003] Adjacent housing structures are insulated by a sealing member. Therefore, for example, the electric compressor described in Patent Document 1 employs a metal equipotentialization member that equipotentializes adjacent housing structures by contacting them with the adjacent housing structures insulated by the sealing member. In the electric compressor described in Patent Document 1, opposing insertion holes are formed at the locations where the sealing member is absent on the opposing mating surfaces of the adjacent housing structures. The equipotentialization member is inserted into the opposing insertion hole. The equipotentialization member contacts the inner circumferential surface of the insertion hole.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-70741 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] When assembling adjacent shell structures, for example, consider inserting one end of an equipotential bonding member into the insertion hole of one side, and then inserting the other end of an equipotential bonding member into the insertion hole of the other side. Alternatively, when assembling adjacent shell structures, consider simultaneously inserting equipotential bonding members into opposing insertion holes.

[0009] Furthermore, the assembly of adjacent shell structures requires verification that the equipotential bonding components are inserted into the insertion holes. Therefore, it is possible to expend considerable time equipotentializing and assembling adjacent shell structures.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] An electric compressor for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: a compression section that compresses a fluid; an electric motor that drives the compression section; an inverter that drives the electric motor; a housing that houses the compression section, the electric motor, and the inverter, and has a plurality of metal housing structures; a sealing member disposed between adjacent housing structures and having insulation; and a metal equipotentialization member that equipotentializes adjacent housing structures by contacting both sides of the adjacent housing structures, wherein the adjacent housing structures have mating surfaces that sandwich the sealing member, wherein an insertion hole is formed in the portion of the mating surface of any of the adjacent housing structures where the sealing member is not present, and the equipotentialization member has: an insertion portion that inserts into the insertion hole; and a contact portion that is a plate-shaped portion extending between the opposing mating surfaces and contacting both sides of the opposing mating surfaces.

[0012] According to the above structure, when assembling adjacent shell structures, the insertion portion of the equipotentialization member is inserted into the insertion hole formed in one of the shell structures. In this way, the contact portion naturally clamps into the mating surfaces that are opposite each other when the adjacent shell structures are assembled, thereby contacting the two mating surfaces. That is, even without checking the position of the equipotentialization member while assembling the adjacent shell structures, it is possible to equipotentialize and assemble the adjacent shell structures. Therefore, equipotentialization and assembly of adjacent shell structures can be easily performed.

[0013] In the electric compressor described above, it is preferable that the contact portion has a spring structure that generates an elastic force in the direction that separates the opposing mating surfaces from each other.

[0014] In the electric compressor described above, it is preferable that the contact portion has: a first plate portion which is continuously disposed with the insertion portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is not formed; and a second plate portion which is bent relative to the first plate portion to form the spring structure together with the first plate portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is formed.

[0015] In the electric compressor described above, it is preferable that the contact portion has: a first plate portion which is continuously disposed with the insertion portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is formed; and a second plate portion which is bent relative to the first plate portion to form the spring structure together with the first plate portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is not formed.

[0016] According to the above structure, the contact portion has a spring configuration. Therefore, even without managing the thickness of the contact portion to ensure the interference fit of the sealing member, there is room to flatten the contact portion using the opposing mating surfaces in adjacent housing structures until the interference fit of the sealing member is ensured. Thus, ensuring the interference fit of the sealing member becomes easy when assembling adjacent housing structures.

[0017] Furthermore, under the elastic force of the flattened contact portion, the contact portion is pressed against the opposing mating surfaces in the adjacent housing structure. Therefore, when assembling adjacent housing structures, even without precisely managing the contact state of the contact portion relative to the mating surfaces, the elastic force of the contact portion ensures that the opposing mating surfaces in the adjacent housing structures are in contact with the contact portion. Consequently, it is easy to maintain the equipotential state of the adjacent housing structures. Therefore, it is easy to ensure the interference fit of the sealing member when assembling adjacent housing structures, and it is easy to maintain the equipotential state of the adjacent housing structures.

[0018] In the aforementioned electric compressor, preferably, the insertion part is formed by bending a thin plate into a cylindrical shape, and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion part contacts and is pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole under the action of elastic force.

[0019] According to the above structure, the outer peripheral surface of the insertion part is in surface contact with the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole. Therefore, it is easy to ensure the contact area between adjacent housing structures and the equipotentialization member. Thus, equipotentialization of adjacent housing structures can be implemented more reliably.

[0020] Furthermore, under the elastic force of the insertion part, the outer peripheral surface of the insertion part is pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole. Therefore, when assembling adjacent shell structures, it is possible to prevent the equipotential bonding member from detaching from one of the shell structures.

[0021] In the electric compressor described above, it is preferable that the insertion portion has: a first cylindrical portion having the outer peripheral surface; and a second cylindrical portion integrally formed with the first cylindrical portion, wherein the outer diameter of the insertion portion gradually decreases as it moves further away from the contact portion in the axial direction.

[0022] According to the above structure, when the insertion portion of the equipotential bonding member is inserted into the insertion hole, the second cylindrical portion is guided along the inner circumferential surface of the insertion hole. Therefore, the insertion portion of the equipotential bonding member can be smoothly inserted relative to the insertion hole. Thus, the assembly of the equipotential bonding member relative to one of the housing structures can be easily performed.

[0023] In the aforementioned electric compressor, it is preferable that the contact portion contacts both the opposing mating surfaces.

[0024] According to the above structure, the contact portion makes contact with the two mating surfaces, thereby easily ensuring the contact area between adjacent shell structures and the equipotentialization member. Therefore, equipotentialization of adjacent shell structures can be implemented more reliably.

[0025] Invention Effects

[0026] According to the present invention, equipotentialization and assembly of adjacent shell structures can be easily implemented. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an electric compressor.

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram when viewed through arrow A.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the equipotential bonding member according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the first equipotential bonding member.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the second equipotential bonding member.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the equipotential bonding member according to the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the first equipotentialization member in the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the second equipotentialization member according to the second embodiment.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0036] 10: Electric compressor, 11: Housing, 30: Compression section, 40: Electric motor, 50: Inverter, 61: First sealing member as a sealing member, 70: Equipotential member, 71: Insertion section, 71a: First cylindrical section, 71b: Second cylindrical section, 72: Contact section, 81: First housing structure, 81g: Open end face as mating surface, 81n: Shaft end face as mating surface, 81p: First insertion hole as insertion hole, 81q: Second insertion hole as insertion hole, 81r: Inner peripheral surface of the first insertion hole, 81t: Inner peripheral surface of the second insertion hole, 82: Second housing structure, 82f: First surface as mating surface, 83: Third housing structure, 84: Fourth housing structure, 85: Fifth housing structure, 711a: Outer peripheral surface of the insertion section, 721: First plate section, 722: Second plate section. Detailed Implementation

[0037] [First Implementation Method]

[0038] The following is in accordance with Figures 1-5 This paper describes a first embodiment that specifically implements an electric compressor as a scroll-type electric compressor. It should be noted that the electric compressor of this embodiment is mounted in a vehicle and used in a vehicle air conditioning system.

[0039] <Electric compressor>

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the electric compressor 10 includes a cylindrical housing 11, a rotating shaft 20, a compression unit 30, an electric motor 40, an inverter 50, a first sealing member 61, and a second sealing member 62. The rotating shaft 20, the compression unit 30, the electric motor 40, and the inverter 50 are housed in the housing 11.

[0041] The housing 11 has a first housing structure 81, a second housing structure 82, a third housing structure 83, a fourth housing structure 84, and a fifth housing structure 85. The first housing structure 81, second housing structure 82, third housing structure 83, fourth housing structure 84, and fifth housing structure 85 are, for example, made of aluminum. The first housing structure 81, second housing structure 82, third housing structure 83, fourth housing structure 84, and fifth housing structure 85 are housing structural members constituting the housing 11. Therefore, the housing 11 has multiple metal housing structures. The first housing structure 81, second housing structure 82, and third housing structure 83 form a motor housing chamber S1 and a compression chamber S2. An electric motor 40 is housed in the motor housing chamber S1. A compression chamber 30 is housed in the compression chamber S2. A suction passage 90 for drawing refrigerant, which is a fluid, into the compression chamber 30 is formed in the first housing structure 81, second housing structure 82, and third housing structure 83. The fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85 form the inverter housing chamber S3. The inverter 50 is housed in the inverter housing chamber S3.

[0042] The compression section 30 compresses the refrigerant. The compression section 30 is, for example, a scroll type consisting of a fixed scroll (not shown) and a movable scroll. A first end 21 of the rotating shaft 20 is connected to the compression section 30. An electric motor 40 rotates the rotating shaft 20. As the rotating shaft 20 rotates, the refrigerant is compressed by the compression section 30. The electric motor 40 drives the compression section 30. An inverter 50 drives the electric motor 40.

[0043] <Each shell structure, first sealing component, second sealing component>

[0044] The first housing structure 81 has a plate-shaped end wall 81a, a cylindrical peripheral wall 81b, and a plurality of mounting feet 81c. The peripheral wall 81b extends from the outer periphery of the end wall 81a. The axial direction of the peripheral wall 81b is aligned with the axial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The mounting feet 81c are locations for bolt insertion when the electric compressor 10 is mounted to the vehicle body.

[0045] The first housing structure 81 has an intake port 81d. The intake port 81d draws in refrigerant. The intake port 81d is formed in the portion of the peripheral wall 81b located on the side of the end wall 81a. The intake port 81d connects the inside and outside of the first housing structure 81.

[0046] The first housing structure 81 has a cylindrical boss 81e. The boss 81e protrudes from the center of the inner surface of the end wall 81a. The second end 22 of the rotating shaft 20 is inserted into the boss 81e. The electric compressor 10 includes a bearing 81f. The bearing 81f is, for example, a rolling bearing. The bearing 81f is disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the boss 81e and the outer circumferential surface of the second end 22 of the rotating shaft 20. Furthermore, the second end 22 of the rotating shaft 20 is rotatably supported on the first housing structure 81 via the bearing 81f.

[0047] The first housing structure 81 has an open end face 81g. The open end face 81g is an end face of the peripheral wall 81b located on the side opposite to the end wall 81a. The open end face 81g extends in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the peripheral wall 81b in the first housing structure 81.

[0048] The first housing structure 81 has multiple internal threaded grooves 81h. Each internal threaded groove 81h is formed on the open end face 81g. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one internal thread groove 81h is shown in the figure.

[0049] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the first housing structure 81 has a groove 81j. The groove 81j forms part of the suction passage 90. The groove 81j is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 81b in the first housing structure 81. The groove 81j opens at the opening end face 81g. The groove 81j has an arcuate surface 81m. The arcuate surface 81m is the surface furthest from the rotation axis 20 among the surfaces dividing the groove 81j. It should be noted that multiple grooves 81j are provided in the first housing structure 81, which are not shown in the figure. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 For ease of explanation, only one slot 81h is shown in the diagram.

[0050] like Figure 2As shown, the groove 81j is an arc shape extending circumferentially along the peripheral wall 81b in the first housing structure 81. The first housing structure 81 has an extending wall portion 81k. The extending wall portion 81k extends from the arc surface 81m of the groove 81j toward the inner side of the peripheral wall 81b. The extending wall portion 81k is provided on a portion of the arc surface 81m.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the extended wall portion 81k has a shaft end face 81n. The shaft end face 81n is the end face of the extended wall portion 81k located on the side opposite to the end wall 81a. The shaft end face 81n is coplanar with the opening end face 81g.

[0052] The first housing structure 81 has a first insertion hole 81p and a second insertion hole 81q. Both the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q are circular holes. The first insertion hole 81p is formed on the axial end face 81n of the extended wall portion 81k. The first insertion hole 81p does not penetrate the extended wall portion 81k along its thickness direction. The second insertion hole 81q is formed on the open end face 81g. The second insertion hole 81q and... Figure 1 The internal thread groove 81h shown is adjacent to the rotating shaft 20 in the radial direction. The second insertion hole 81q is provided at a position greater than... Figure 1 The internal thread groove 81h shown is located near the rotating shaft 20. The first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q are arranged symmetrically in the radial direction of the rotating shaft 20.

[0053] like Figure 4 As shown, the first insertion hole 81p has an inner peripheral surface 81r and a tapered surface 81s. The inner peripheral surface 81r is a cylindrical surface. The tapered surface 81s is a chamfered portion formed when the first insertion hole 81p is formed. The tapered surface 81s is located at the entrance of the first insertion hole 81p.

[0054] like Figure 5 As shown, the second insertion hole 81q has an inner circumferential surface 81t and a tapered surface 81u. The inner circumferential surface 81t is a cylindrical surface. The tapered surface 81u is the chamfered portion formed when the second insertion hole 81q is formed. The tapered surface 81u is located at the entrance of the second insertion hole 81q.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the second housing structure 82 has a plate-shaped end wall 82a, a cylindrical peripheral wall 82b, and an annular flange wall 82c. The peripheral wall 82b extends from the outer periphery of the end wall 82a. The axial direction of the peripheral wall 82b is aligned with the axial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The flange wall 82c extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the end of the peripheral wall 82b opposite to the end wall 82a towards the rotation shaft 20.

[0056] The second housing structure 82 has a circular through hole 82d. The through hole 82d is formed in the center of the end wall 82a. The through hole 82d penetrates the end wall 82a along its thickness direction. The rotating shaft 20 passes through the through hole 82d. The first end 21 of the rotating shaft 20 is located inside the peripheral wall 82b. The electric compressor 10 includes a bearing 82e. The bearing 82e is, for example, a rolling bearing. The bearing 82e is disposed between the inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall 82b and the outer peripheral surface of the first end 21 of the rotating shaft 20. Furthermore, the first end 21 of the rotating shaft 20 is rotatably supported on the second housing structure 82 via the bearing 82e. The rotating shaft 20 is rotatably supported on the housing 11.

[0057] The flange wall 82c has a first surface 82f and a second surface 82g. The first surface 82f and the second surface 82g are planes arranged along the thickness direction of the flange wall 82c. The first surface 82f is the surface on the side of the end wall 82a in the flange wall 82c. The second surface 82g is the surface in the flange wall 82c located on the side opposite to the end wall 82a.

[0058] The second shell structure 82 has multiple bolt through holes 82h. Each bolt through hole 82h is formed in the flange wall 82c. Each bolt through hole 82h penetrates the flange wall 82c along its thickness direction. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one bolt through hole 82h is shown in the figure.

[0059] The second housing structure 82 has multiple connecting holes 82j. Each connecting hole 82j forms part of the suction passage 90. Each connecting hole 82j penetrates the flange wall 82c along its thickness direction. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one connecting hole 82j is shown in the figure. Figure 1 The connecting hole 82j shown is... Figure 1 The bolt through holes 82h shown are positioned symmetrically in the radial direction of the rotating shaft 20. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the connecting hole 82j is an arc shape extending circumferentially along the flange wall 82c in the second housing structure 82.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the peripheral wall 81b and the extended wall portion 81k of the first housing structure 81 are connected to the flange wall 82c of the second housing structure 82 via the first sealing member 61. The first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are adjacent housing structures. Each internal threaded groove 81h in the first housing structure 81 is opposite to each bolt through hole 82h in the second housing structure 82. Each groove 81j in the first housing structure 81 is opposite to each connecting hole 82j in the second housing structure 82.

[0061] like Figure 2As shown, with the slot 81j facing the connecting hole 82j, a portion of the extended wall portion 81k is configured to face a portion of the connecting hole 82j. The extended wall portion 81k is configured to at least communicate with the connecting hole 82j and the slot 81j facing the connecting hole 82j.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, the first sealing member 61 is a gasket. The first sealing member 61 is an insulating sealing member. The first sealing member 61 is disposed between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. The first sealing member 61 is disposed axially along the rotation shaft 20 between the open end face 81g and the shaft end face 81n in the first housing structure 81 and the first surface 82f in the second housing structure 82. The open end face 81g, the shaft end face 81n, and the first surface 82f are mating surfaces that sandwich the first sealing member 61. The first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 have mating surfaces that sandwich the first sealing member 61.

[0063] The first sealing member 61 is disposed around the entire circumference of the outermost portion of the opening end face 81g of the first housing structure 81 in the radial direction of the rotating shaft 20. The first sealing member 61 is positioned radially outer of the rotating shaft 20 than each groove 81j of the first housing structure 81. The first sealing member 61 does not cover each groove 81j. The first sealing member 61 does not cover the shaft end face 81n. The shaft end face 81n is the portion of the mating surface of the first housing structure 81 where the first sealing member 61 is not present. The first sealing member 61 does not cover the first insertion hole 81p. The first sealing member 61 does not cover the second insertion hole 81q. The first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q are insertion holes formed in the portion of the mating surface of the first housing structure 81 where the first sealing member 61 is not present. The first sealing member 61 has a plurality of bolt through holes 61a. Each bolt through hole 61a communicates with each internal thread groove 81h. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one bolt through hole 61a is shown in the figure.

[0064] The first sealing member 61 is disposed around the entire circumference of the outermost portion of the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82 in the radial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The first sealing member 61 is positioned radially outer of the rotation shaft 20 than each of the connecting holes 82j of the second housing structure 82. The first sealing member 61 does not cover each of the connecting holes 82j. Each bolt through hole 61a of the first sealing member 61 communicates with each bolt through hole 82h. The first sealing member 61 does not cover each of the bolt through holes 82h.

[0065] A motor housing S1 is formed by connecting the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 via the first sealing member 61. The motor housing S1 is divided by the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. The motor housing S1 is in communication with the intake port 81d. Refrigerant from the intake port 81d is drawn into the motor housing S1.

[0066] The third housing structure 83 has a plate-shaped end wall 83a, a cylindrical peripheral wall 83b, and a plurality of mounting feet 83c. The peripheral wall 83b extends from the outer periphery of the end wall 83a. The axial direction of the peripheral wall 83b is aligned with the axial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The peripheral wall 83b surrounds the compression section 30. The mounting feet 83c are locations for bolt insertion when the electric compressor 10 is mounted to the vehicle body.

[0067] The third housing structure 83 has a discharge chamber forming recess 83d. The discharge chamber forming recess 83d is formed by recessing a portion of the end wall 83a away from the compression portion 30 in the axial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The discharge chamber S4 is formed by the discharge chamber forming recess 83d and the compression portion 30. The discharge chamber S4 is divided by the discharge chamber forming recess 83d and a fixed volute (not shown).

[0068] The third housing structure 83 has an open end face 83e. The open end face 83e is an end face of the peripheral wall 83b located on the side opposite to the end wall 83a. The open end face 83e extends in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the peripheral wall 83b in the third housing structure 83.

[0069] The third housing structure 83 has multiple bolt through holes 83f. Each bolt through hole 83f is formed on the open end face 83e. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one bolt through hole 83f is shown in the figure.

[0070] The third housing structure 83 has a plurality of slots 83g. Each slot 83g forms part of the suction passage 90. Each slot 83g is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 83b in the third housing structure 83. Each slot 83g opens at an opening end face 83e. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one 83g slot is shown in the diagram.

[0071] The flange wall 82c of the second housing structure 82 and the peripheral wall 83b of the third housing structure 83 are connected via the second sealing member 62. The bolt through holes 82h in the second housing structure 82 are opposite to the bolt through holes 83f in the third housing structure 83. The connecting holes 82j in the second housing structure 82 are opposite to the grooves 83g in the third housing structure 83.

[0072] The second sealing member 62 is a gasket. The second sealing member 62 is insulating. The second sealing member 62 is disposed between the second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83. The second sealing member 62 is disposed between the second surface 82g of the second housing structure 82 and the open end face 83e of the third housing structure 83.

[0073] The second sealing member 62 is disposed around the entire circumference of the outermost portion of the second surface 82g of the second housing structure 82 in the radial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The second sealing member 62 is positioned radially outer of the rotation shaft 20 than each of the connecting holes 82j of the second housing structure 82. The second sealing member 62 does not cover each connecting hole 82j. The second sealing member 62 has a plurality of bolt through holes 62a. Each bolt through hole 62a communicates with each bolt through hole 82h. Figure 1 For ease of explanation, only one bolt through hole 62a is shown in the figure.

[0074] The second sealing member 62 is disposed around the entire circumference of the outermost portion of the opening end face 83e of the third housing structure 83 in the radial direction of the rotation shaft 20. The second sealing member 62 is positioned radially outer of the rotation shaft 20 than each groove 83g of the third housing structure 83. The second sealing member 62 does not cover each groove 83g. Each bolt through hole 62a of the second sealing member 62 communicates with each bolt through hole 83f. The second sealing member 62 does not cover each bolt through hole 83f.

[0075] By connecting the second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83 via the second sealing member 62, a compression chamber S2 is formed. The compression chamber S2 is divided by the second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83. By connecting the first housing structure 81, the second housing structure 82, and the third housing structure 83 axially along the rotation shaft 20, a suction passage 90 is formed by each groove 81j, each connecting hole 82j, and each groove 83g.

[0076] With the first housing structure 81, the second housing structure 82, and the third housing structure 83 axially aligned along the rotation shaft 20, bolt B1 passes through bolt through holes 83f, 62a, 82h, and 61a. The inner diameter of each bolt through hole 83f, 62a, 82h, and 61a is larger than the diameter of bolt B1. The front end of bolt B1 is screwed into the internal thread grooves 81h of the first housing structure 81. Bolt B1 contacts the first housing structure 81 and the third housing structure 83, but not the second housing structure 82. Under the tightening force of bolt B1, the first sealing member 61 and the second sealing member 62 are compressed. The first sealing member 61 seals the space between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. The second sealing member 62 seals the space between the second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83. Refrigerant, which is drawn into the motor housing chamber S1, is introduced into the compression chamber S2 via the suction passage 90. At this time, under the action of the first sealing member 61 and the second sealing member 62, the refrigerant passing through the suction passage 90 does not leak to the outside of the housing 11. After the refrigerant introduced into the compression chamber S2 is compressed by the compression section 30, the compression section 30 discharges the compressed refrigerant toward the discharge chamber S4.

[0077] The fourth housing structure 84 has a plate-shaped end wall 84a, a cylindrical peripheral wall 84b, and an open end face 84c. The peripheral wall 84b extends from the outer periphery of the end wall 84a. The open end face 84c is the end face of the peripheral wall 84b located on the side opposite to the end wall 84a. The open end face 84c extends in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the peripheral wall 84b in the fourth housing structure 84. The end wall 84a of the fourth housing structure 84 is axially aligned with the end wall 81a of the first housing structure 81. An insulating gasket (not shown) is provided between the first housing structure 81 and the fourth housing structure 84.

[0078] The fifth housing structure 85 is mated to the opening end face 84c of the peripheral wall 84b in the fourth housing structure 84. In this embodiment, the housing 11 is formed by aligning all housing structures axially along the rotation axis 20. The inverter housing S3 is formed by mating the fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85. The inverter housing S3 is defined by the fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85. An insulating gasket (not shown) is provided between the fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85. The fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85 are fixed together by bolts (not shown). It should be noted that the fifth housing structure 85 is fixed to the first housing structure 81 by bolts (not shown). These bolts are arranged in a manner that they do not contact the fourth housing structure 84.

[0079] <Equipotentialization components>

[0080] The electric compressor 10 includes two equipotential bonding members 70. Each equipotential bonding member 70 is a metal component that equipotentially bonds the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 by contacting both of them. The equipotential bonding member 70 is, for example, made of brass. The equipotential bonding member 70 may also be made of copper.

[0081] like Figure 3 As shown, each equipotential member 70 is formed from a thin plate. Each equipotential member 70 has a cylindrical insertion portion 71 and a circular plate-shaped contact portion 72. The insertion portion 71 is formed by bending the thin plate into a cylindrical shape. The contact portion 72 extends from a first axial end in the insertion portion 71 toward the radially outer side of the insertion portion 71. A gap G is formed in each equipotential member 70. The gap G extends from a second axial end in the insertion portion 71 to the outer edge of the contact portion 72. In the insertion portion 71, the smaller the interval of the gap G in the circumferential direction of the insertion portion 71, the smaller the outer diameter of the insertion portion 71 in the radial direction. The insertion portion 71 is a spring structure capable of elastically deforming in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71.

[0082] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the insertion portion 71 of one equipotential member 70 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p, and the insertion portion 71 of the other equipotential member 70 is inserted into the second insertion hole 81q. The insertion portion 71 has a first cylindrical portion 71a and a second cylindrical portion 71b. The contact portion 72 is continuous with the first cylindrical portion 71a. The first cylindrical portion 71a has an outer peripheral surface 711a. The insertion portion 71 has an outer peripheral surface 711a. The outer peripheral surface 711a of the insertion portion 71 is a cylindrical surface with a constant outer diameter in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 711a of the insertion portion 71 is larger than the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q before the insertion portion 71 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p or the second insertion hole 81q. When the insertion portion 71 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p or the second insertion hole 81q, Figure 3 The gap G of the equipotential member 70 described herein decreases in the circumferential direction of the insertion portion 71. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface 711a of the insertion portion 71 contacts the inner peripheral surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner peripheral surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q under the action of the elastic force of the insertion portion 71 and is pressed against the inner peripheral surface 81t.

[0083] The second cylindrical portion 71b is adjacent to the first cylindrical portion 71a and is disposed on the side of the first cylindrical portion 71a opposite to the contact portion 72. The second cylindrical portion 71b is integrally formed with the first cylindrical portion 71a. The second cylindrical portion 71b has a conical surface 711b. The conical surface 711b is the outer surface of the second cylindrical portion 71b. The conical surface 711b is continuous with the outer peripheral surface 711a of the first cylindrical portion 71a. The conical surface 711b is an inclined surface whose outer diameter gradually decreases as it moves away from the contact portion 72 in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 71b gradually decreases as it moves away from the contact portion 72 in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71.

[0084] An equipotential member 70 having an insertion portion 71 that inserts into a first insertion hole 81p is designated as a first equipotential member 701. An equipotential member 70 having an insertion portion 71 that inserts into a second insertion hole 81q is designated as a second equipotential member 702.

[0085] like Figure 4 As shown, a portion of the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701 is opposite to the connecting hole 82j of the second housing structure 82. The portion of the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701 that is not opposite to the connecting hole 82j of the second housing structure 82 extends between the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82 and the axial end face 81n of the first housing structure 81. The portion of the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701 that is not opposite to the connecting hole 82j of the second housing structure 82 contacts both the first surface 82f and the axial end face 81n.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, the contact portion 72 of the second equipotential member 702 extends between the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82 and the opening end face 81g of the first housing structure 81. The contact portion 72 of the second equipotential member 702 contacts both the first surface 82f and the opening end face 81g.

[0087] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the contact portion 72 of the equipotential member 70 is a portion that extends between opposing mating surfaces in adjacent housing structures and contacts both opposing mating surfaces.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, the contact portion 72 of the equipotential bonding member 70 has a first plate portion 721 and a second plate portion 722. The first plate portion 721 is continuously disposed with the insertion portion 71. The first plate portion 721 is circular. The first plate portion 721 is flat. The first plate portion 721 extends radially outward from a first axial end in the insertion portion 71. The second plate portion 722 is continuous with the outer edge of the first plate portion 721.

[0089] The second plate portion 722 has a conical plate portion 722a and a circular plate portion 722b. The conical plate portion 722a is continuous with the first plate portion 721. The conical plate portion 722a extends radially outward from the outer edge of the first plate portion 721 towards the second axial end in the insertion portion 71. The conical plate portion 722a is inclined relative to the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The conical plate portion 722a is bent relative to the first plate portion 721. The conical plate portion 722a and the first plate portion 721 together form a spring structure capable of elastic deformation in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The second plate portion 722 forms a spring structure together with the first plate portion 721 by bending relative to the first plate portion 721.

[0090] The circular plate portion 722b is continuous with the conical plate portion 722a. The circular plate portion 722b is flat. The circular plate portion 722b extends radially outward from the outer edge of the conical plate portion 722a toward the insertion portion 71. The circular plate portion 722b extends in the same direction as the first plate portion 721. The circular plate portion 722b is bent relative to the conical plate portion 722a. The circular plate portion 722b and the conical plate portion 722a together form a spring structure capable of elastic deformation in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The second plate portion 722 has its own spring structure capable of elastic deformation in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, in the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701, a portion of the first plate portion 721 contacts the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82. In the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701, the circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the shaft end face 81n of the first housing structure 81. The circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the shaft end face 81n at a position in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71, separated from the tapered surface 81s of the first insertion hole 81p.

[0092] like Figure 5 As shown, in the contact portion 72 of the second equipotential member 702, the first plate portion 721 contacts the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82. In the contact portion 72 of the second equipotential member 702, the circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the opening end face 81g of the first housing structure 81. The circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the opening end face 81g at a position in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71 where it separates from the tapered surface 81u of the second insertion hole 81q.

[0093] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the spring structure formed by the first plate portion 721 and the second plate portion 722, and the spring structure of the second plate portion 722, are in Figure 1Under the tightening force of the bolt B1 shown, it is compressed axially in the insertion portion 71. Therefore, the first plate portion 721 is pressed against the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82 under the elastic force of the contact portion 72. The first plate portion 721 contacts the mating surface of the adjacent housing structure where no insertion hole is formed.

[0094] The second plate portion 722 is pressed against the opening end face 81g and the shaft end face 81n of the first housing structure 81 by the elastic force of the contact portion 72. The second plate portion 722 contacts the mating surface of the adjacent housing structure where the insertion hole is formed.

[0095] The contact portion 72 of the equipotentialization member 70 has a spring structure that generates an elastic force in the direction that separates the opposing mating surfaces in adjacent housing structures from each other. In this embodiment, the contact portion 72 contacts both the opposing mating surfaces in adjacent housing structures. It should be noted that in the equipotentialization member 70, the contact area relative to the first housing structure 81 and the contact area relative to the second housing structure 82 are set to reliably implement the equipotentialization of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0096] [The function of this implementation method]

[0097] Explain the function of this implementation method.

[0098] When the electric compressor 10 is mounted in a vehicle, it is mounted on the vehicle body by bolts to the mounting feet 81c of the first housing structure 81 and the mounting feet 83c of the third housing structure 83. The first housing structure 81 and the third housing structure 83 are electrically connected to the vehicle body. That is, the first housing structure 81 and the third housing structure 83 are grounded via the vehicle body. In addition, the first housing structure 81, the fourth housing structure 84, and the fifth housing structure 85 are electrically connected by a plurality of bolts (not shown) as described above. Therefore, the fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85 are also grounded.

[0099] Furthermore, when assuming an electric compressor 10 without the equipotentialization member 70, the second housing structure 82 becomes insulated from the first housing structure 81 and the third housing structure 83 under the action of the first sealing member 61 and the second sealing member 62. Moreover, the first housing structure 81 and the third housing structure 83 are electrically connected by bolt B1, while the second housing structure 82 is not in contact with bolt B1. As a result, among the first housing structure 81, the second housing structure 82, the third housing structure 83, the fourth housing structure 84, and the fifth housing structure 85, only the second housing structure 82 is ungrounded. Therefore, the potential of the second housing structure 82 may be higher than the potentials of the first housing structure 81, the third housing structure 83, the fourth housing structure 84, and the fifth housing structure 85. Regarding this point, in this embodiment, the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are electrically connected by the equipotentialization member 70. Therefore, the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are equipotentialized.

[0100] In the electric compressor 10 of this embodiment, it is envisioned that the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are assembled. In this case, the insertion portion 71 of the first equipotential member 701 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p, and the insertion portion 71 of the second equipotential member 702 is inserted into the second insertion hole 81q. In this way, the contact portion 72 naturally clamps into the mating surfaces that are opposite each other when the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are assembled, thereby contacting the two mating surfaces. That is, even without checking the position of the equipotential member 70 while assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, it is possible to equipotentially assemble the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0101] [Effects of this implementation method]

[0102] Explain the effects of this implementation method.

[0103] (1-1) When assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, the insertion portion 71 of the first equipotentialization member 701 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p, and the insertion portion 71 of the second equipotentialization member 702 is inserted into the second insertion hole 81q. In this way, the contact portion 72 naturally clamps into the mating surfaces that are opposite each other when the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are assembled, thereby contacting the two mating surfaces. That is, even without checking the position of the equipotentialization member 70 while assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 can be equipotentialized and assembled. Therefore, the equipotentialization and assembly of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 can be easily performed.

[0104] (1-2) Imagine that the contact portion 72 of the equipotential member 70 is flat. In this case, it is necessary to manage the thickness of the contact portion 72 to ensure the interference fit of the first sealing member 61. Therefore, when assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, effort is spent on ensuring the interference fit of the first sealing member 61.

[0105] In this embodiment, the contact portion 72 has a spring structure. Therefore, even without controlling the thickness of the contact portion 72, there is room to flatten the contact portion 72 using the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 until the interference fit of the first sealing member 61 is ensured. Consequently, ensuring the interference fit of the first sealing member 61 becomes easy when assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0106] Furthermore, under the elastic force of the flattened contact portion 72, the contact portion 72 is pressed against the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. Therefore, when assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, even without precisely managing the contact state of the contact portion 72 relative to the mating surfaces, the elastic force of the contact portion 72 ensures that the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 are in contact with the contact portion 72. Thus, it is easy to maintain the equipotential state of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. Therefore, it is easy to ensure the interference fit of the first sealing member 61 when assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, and it is easy to maintain the equipotential state of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0107] (1-3) The outer peripheral surface 711a of the insertion part 71 contacts the inner peripheral surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner peripheral surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q. Therefore, it is easy to ensure the contact area between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 and the equipotentialization member 70. Therefore, equipotentialization of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 can be implemented more reliably.

[0108] Furthermore, under the elastic force of the insertion part 71, the outer peripheral surface 711a of the insertion part 71 is pressed against the inner peripheral surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner peripheral surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q. Therefore, when assembling the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, it is possible to prevent the equipotential bonding member 70 from falling off the first housing structure 81.

[0109] (1-4) When the insertion portion 71 of the equipotential bonding member 70 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q, the second cylindrical portion 71b is guided along the inner peripheral surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner peripheral surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q. Therefore, the insertion portion 71 of the equipotential bonding member 70 can be smoothly inserted relative to the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q. Thus, the assembly of the equipotential bonding member 70 relative to the first housing structure 81 can be easily performed.

[0110] (1-5) By having the contact portion 72 make contact with the two opposing mating surfaces of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, the contact area between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 and the equipotentialization member 70 can be easily ensured. Therefore, equipotentialization of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 can be implemented more reliably.

[0111] (1-6) Imagine a scenario where the opening end face 81g is expanded and the first equipotential member 701 is disposed on the opening end face 81g. In this case, due to the expansion of the opening end face 81g, the peripheral wall 81b of the first housing structure 81 becomes thicker. Thus, it is possible to increase the size of the electric compressor 10 due to the increase in the size of the first housing structure 81.

[0112] Regarding this point, the extended wall portion 81k is provided in a manner that extends from the arcuate surface 81m of the groove 81j toward the inner side of the peripheral wall 81b, and does not obstruct the flow of refrigerant from the groove 81j toward the connecting hole 82j. Furthermore, a first equipotential member 701 is provided in the extended wall portion 81k. Therefore, the first equipotential member 701 can be configured without changing the thickness of the peripheral wall 81b of the first housing structure 81, and without hindering the intake of refrigerant by the compression unit 30. Thus, the first equipotential member 701 can be appropriately configured without increasing the size of the electric compressor 10 and without hindering the compression of the refrigerant by the electric compressor 10.

[0113] (1-7) The first equipotential member 701 and the second equipotential member 702 are symmetrically positioned radially along the rotation axis 20. Therefore, the elastic force of the contact portions 72 of each of the first equipotential member 701 and the second equipotential member 702 acts symmetrically between the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. Consequently, there are no areas where the interference fit of the first sealing member 61 is locally reduced. Therefore, the sealing between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 can be appropriately maintained.

[0114] (1-8) For example, consider a scenario where a third insertion hole is formed on the flange wall 82c of the second housing structure 82, opposite to the first insertion hole 81p, and a cylindrical equipotential member is inserted into both the first and third insertion holes. In this case, the positions of the first and third insertion holes may sometimes be offset due to manufacturing errors. Thus, when the equipotential member is inserted into the first and third insertion holes and the first and second housing structures 81 and 82 are assembled, the axis of the first housing structure 81 and the axis of the second housing structure 82 may not be aligned. That is, centering of the housing 11 cannot be achieved.

[0115] Regarding this point, in this embodiment, the contact portion 72 extends between the opposing mating surfaces of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. Therefore, the centering of the housing 11 can be achieved without hindering the equipotentiality of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 brought about by the equipotentialization member 70. Since the equipotentialization member 70 does not affect the centering of the housing 11, the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 can be equipotentialized, and the centering of the housing 11 can also be achieved.

[0116] (1-9) In the first equipotential member 701, the circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the shaft end face 81n at a position where it separates from the tapered surface 81s of the first insertion hole 81p in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71. Furthermore, in the second equipotential member 702, the circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the opening end face 81g at a position where it separates from the tapered surface 81u of the second insertion hole 81q in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71. That is, the contact portion 72 contacts the mating surface of the first housing structure 81 in a manner that does not overlap the tapered surfaces 81s and 81u. Therefore, the reduction of the contact area of ​​the contact portion 72 relative to the first housing structure 81 is avoided.

[0117] [Second Implementation]

[0118] The following is in accordance with Figures 6-8 The second embodiment, which embodies the electric compressor, will now be described. It should be noted that the main difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment is the change in the structure of the contact portion 72. This point will be described in detail; for structures identical to those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals will be used, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0119] <Contact portion of equipotential bonding component>

[0120] like Figure 6As shown, in the contact portion 72 of the equipotential member 70, the conical plate portion 722a of the second plate portion 722 extends radially outward from the outer edge of the first plate portion 721, further away from the first end in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The conical plate portion 722a is inclined relative to the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The conical plate portion 722a is bent relative to the first plate portion 721. The conical plate portion 722a and the first plate portion 721 together form a spring structure capable of elastic deformation in the axial direction of the insertion portion 71. The second plate portion 722a forms a spring structure together with the first plate portion 721 by bending relative to the first plate portion 721.

[0121] like Figure 7 As shown, in the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701, the first plate portion 721 contacts the axial end face 81n of the first housing structure 81. In the contact portion 72 of the first equipotential member 701, a portion of the circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82.

[0122] like Figure 8 As shown, in the contact portion 72 of the second equipotential member 702, the first plate portion 721 contacts the opening end face 81g of the first housing structure 81. In the contact portion 72 of the second equipotential member 702, the circular plate portion 722b of the second plate portion 722 contacts the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82.

[0123] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the spring structure formed by the first plate portion 721 and the second plate portion 722, and the spring structure of the second plate portion 722, are in Figure 1 Under the tightening force of the bolt B1 shown, it is compressed in the axial direction of the insertion part 71. As a result, the first plate part 721 is pressed against the axial end face 81n and the opening end face 81g of the first housing structure 81 under the elastic force of the contact part 72.

[0124] The first plate portion 721 contacts the mating surface of the adjacent shell structure where an insertion hole is formed. The second plate portion 722 is pressed against the first surface 82f of the second shell structure 82 under the elastic force of the contact portion 72. The second plate portion 722 contacts the mating surface of the adjacent shell structure where no insertion hole is formed.

[0125] The contact portion 72 of the equipotential member 70 has a spring structure that generates an elastic force in the direction that separates the opposing mating surfaces in adjacent housing structures. In this embodiment, the contact portion 72 contacts both the opposing mating surfaces in adjacent housing structures.

[0126] [The function and effects of this implementation method]

[0127] This embodiment can perform the same function as the first embodiment and achieve the same effect as (1-1) to (1-8) described above.

[0128] [Example of Change]

[0129] It should be noted that the above embodiments can be modified as follows. The above embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0130] The contact portion 72 of the equipotentialization member 70 may also be a structure that periodically repeats a wave shape in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71. Even with this modification, the contact portion 72 is flattened under the tightening force of the bolt B1 between the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. At this time, the width of each wave in the contact portion 72 expands radially along the insertion portion 71. The contact portion 72 may also be a spring structure capable of elastic deformation in the radial direction of the insertion portion 71. The contact portion 72 of the equipotentialization member 70 may also not be in contact with the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. In this modified example, the contact area of ​​the contact portion 72 relative to the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 is such that it can equipotentially ...

[0131] The second plate portion 722 may not have a separate spring structure. The second plate portion 722 of the contact portion 72 may also omit the circular plate portion 722b and be formed by the conical plate portion 722a.

[0132] The contact portion 72 may also be flat. Alternatively, the two sides of the contact portion 72 in the thickness direction may be in contact with the opposing mating surfaces of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0133] The contact portion 72 may not be a circular plate. The contact portion 72 can be a plate extending between the opposing mating surfaces of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82. It should be noted that the shape of the contact portion 72 can be appropriately modified so that the contact area of ​​the contact portion 72 relative to the opposing mating surfaces of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 is such that it can achieve a degree of equipotentiality between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0134] The insertion portion 71 of the equipotential member 70 may omit the second cylindrical portion 71b and be formed only by the first cylindrical portion 71a.

[0135] The outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 711a of the insertion portion 71 can also be less than the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner peripheral surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q, before the insertion portion 71 is inserted into the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q. With this modification, the shape of the contact portion 72 can be appropriately modified so that the contact area of ​​the contact portion 72 relative to the opposing mating surfaces in the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 is such that it can achieve a degree of equipotentiality between the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82.

[0136] In the equipotential bonding member 70, the gap G can also be omitted.

[0137] The equipotential bonding member 70 may not be formed from a single sheet of paper. For example, the equipotential bonding member 70 may be formed from a solid cylindrical insertion portion 71 and a contact portion 72. In this case, only the contact portion 72 needs to be formed from a sheet of paper. It should be noted that the gap G formed in the contact portion 72 may also be omitted. In addition, the insertion portion 71 may be pressed into the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q, or it may have a clearance fit with the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q.

[0138] The inner circumferential surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner circumferential surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q may not be cylindrical surfaces. For example, they may be quadrangular cylindrical surfaces. The inner circumferential surface 81r of the first insertion hole 81p and the inner circumferential surface 81t of the second insertion hole 81q may also be modified to a suitable shape. In the case of such modification, if it is desired to increase the contact area between the insertion part 71 and the inner circumferential surfaces 81r and 81t, it is preferable to match the shape of the insertion part 71 with the shape of the inner circumferential surfaces 81r and 81t.

[0139] Alternatively, the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q can be omitted from the mating surface of the first housing structure 81 and formed on the mating surface of the second housing structure 82. In this case, the first surface 82f of the second housing structure 82 is the mating surface with the insertion holes, and the open end face 81g and the shaft end face 81n of the first housing structure 81 are the mating surfaces without the insertion holes.

[0140] The first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q may not be positioned symmetrically in the radial direction of the rotation axis 20. That is, the first equipotential member 701 and the second equipotential member 702 may not be positioned symmetrically in the radial direction of the rotation axis 20.

[0141] Alternatively, either the first insertion hole 81p or the second insertion hole 81q can be omitted. That is, either the first equipotential member 701 or the second equipotential member 702 can also be omitted. If the first insertion hole 81p is omitted, it is preferable to also omit the extended wall portion 81k. However, if either the first equipotential member 701 or the second equipotential member 702 is omitted, the contact area between the remaining equipotential member 70 and the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82 should be ensured by using the remaining equipotential member 70 to equipotentially ...

[0142] The number of equipotential bonding members 70 can also be three or more. In this case, in addition to the first insertion hole 81p and the second insertion hole 81q, a new insertion hole is added for the insertion part 71 of the equipotential bonding member 70 to be inserted.

[0143] An equipotential bonding member 70 is disposed between opposing mating surfaces of the first housing structure 81 and the second housing structure 82, but is not limited thereto. For example, the equipotential bonding member 70 may also be disposed between opposing mating surfaces of the second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83. The second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83 are adjacent housing structures. The open end face 83e of the third housing structure 83 is the mating surface of the third housing structure 83. The second surface 82g of the second housing structure 82 is the mating surface of the second housing structure 82. The second sealing member 62 is an insulating sealing member disposed between the second housing structure 82 and the third housing structure 83. Furthermore, an insertion hole is formed in the mating surface of either the second housing structure 82 or the third housing structure 83 where the second sealing member 62 is not present, and the insertion portion 71 of the equipotential bonding member 70 is inserted into this insertion hole. The contact portion 72 of the equipotential bonding member 70 extends between the opening end face 83e and the second face 82g, and contacts both the opening end face 83e and the second face 82g. It should be noted that, similar to this modified example, the equipotential bonding member 70 can also be disposed between the first housing structure 81 and the fourth housing structure 84. Alternatively, the equipotential bonding member 70 can also be disposed between the fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85.

[0144] The housing 11 of this embodiment is formed by aligning all housing structures in the axial direction of the rotation axis 20, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be an electric compressor 10 in which the fourth housing structure 84 and the fifth housing structure 85 are arranged adjacent to the first housing structure 81 in the radial direction of the rotation axis 20.

[0145] The compression section 30 is not limited to a scroll type; for example, it can also be a piston type, a blade type, etc.

[0146] The electric compressor 10 is used in vehicle air conditioning systems, but is not limited to this. The electric compressor 10 can compress refrigerant, and its application can be appropriately changed.

[0147] The electric compressor 10 can also be installed in a fuel cell vehicle and use the compressor unit 30 to compress air as a fluid supplied to the fuel cell.

[0148] [Postscript]

[0149] The technical ideas that can be grasped from the implementation methods and variations are recorded.

[0150] [1] An electric compressor comprising: a compression section for compressing a fluid; an electric motor for driving the compression section; an inverter for driving the electric motor; a housing for housing the compression section, the electric motor, and the inverter, and having a plurality of metal housing structures; a sealing member disposed between adjacent housing structures and having insulation; and a metal equipotentialization member for equipotentializing adjacent housing structures by contacting both sides of the adjacent housing structures, the adjacent housing structures having mating surfaces that sandwich the sealing member, the electric compressor being characterized in that an insertion hole is formed in a portion of the mating surface of any of the adjacent housing structures where the sealing member is not present, the equipotentialization member having: an insertion portion for inserting into the insertion hole; and a contact portion, which is a plate-shaped portion extending between the opposing mating surfaces and contacting both sides of the opposing mating surfaces.

[0151] [2] According to the electric compressor of [1], the contact portion has a spring structure that generates an elastic force in the direction that separates the opposing mating surfaces from each other.

[0152] [3] According to the electric compressor of [2], the contact portion has: a first plate portion which is continuously disposed with the insertion portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is not formed; and a second plate portion which is bent relative to the first plate portion to form the spring structure together with the first plate portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is formed.

[0153] [4] According to the electric compressor of [2], the contact portion has: a first plate portion which is continuously disposed with the insertion portion and contacts the mating surface having the insertion hole; and a second plate portion which is bent relative to the first plate portion to form the spring structure together with the first plate portion and contacts the mating surface not having the insertion hole.

[0154] [5] The electric compressor according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the insertion part is formed by bending a thin plate into a cylindrical shape, and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion part is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole under the action of elastic force and is pressed against the inner peripheral surface.

[0155] [6] According to the electric compressor of [5], the insertion portion has: a first cylindrical portion having the outer peripheral surface; and a second cylindrical portion integrally formed with the first cylindrical portion, and the outer diameter of the insertion portion gradually decreases as it moves further away from the contact portion in the axial direction.

[0156] [7] An electric compressor according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the contact portion contacts both the opposing mating surfaces.

Claims

1. An electric compressor, comprising: The compression section, which compresses the fluid; An electric motor drives the compression unit; Inverter, which drives the electric motor; A housing that houses the compression unit, the electric motor, and the inverter, and has multiple metal housing structures; A sealing member, disposed between adjacent housing structures, and having insulating properties; as well as A metallic equipotentializing component, which equipotentializes adjacent shell structures by contacting both sides of the shell structure. The adjacent shell structures have mating surfaces that clamp the sealing member. The electric compressor is characterized in that... An insertion hole is formed in the mating surface of any of the adjacent housing structures at a location where the sealing member is absent, on the inner circumferential side of the mating surface. The equipotentialization component has: An insertion part is inserted into the insertion hole; as well as The contact portion is a plate-shaped portion extending between the opposing mating surfaces in the area where the sealing member is not present, and contacts both of the opposing mating surfaces.

2. The electric compressor according to claim 1, wherein, The contact portion has a spring structure that generates an elastic force in the direction that separates the opposing mating surfaces from each other.

3. The electric compressor according to claim 2, wherein, The contact portion has: A first plate portion, which is continuously disposed with the insertion portion and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is not formed; and The second plate portion, which is bent relative to the first plate portion to form the spring structure together with the first plate portion, and contacts the mating surface on which the insertion hole is formed.

4. The electric compressor according to claim 2, wherein, The contact portion has: A first plate portion, which is continuously disposed with the insertion portion and contacts the mating surface on which the insertion hole is formed; and The second plate portion, which is bent relative to the first plate portion to form the spring structure together with the first plate portion, and contacts the mating surface where the insertion hole is not formed.

5. The electric compressor according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The insertion portion is formed by bending the thin plate into a cylindrical shape. The outer peripheral surface of the insertion part comes into contact with the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole under the action of elastic force and is pressed against the inner peripheral surface.

6. The electric compressor according to claim 5, wherein, The insertion portion has: A first cylindrical portion having the aforementioned outer peripheral surface; and The second cylindrical portion is integrally formed with the first cylindrical portion, and its outer diameter gradually decreases as it moves further away from the contact portion in the axial direction of the insertion portion.

7. The electric compressor according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The contact portion contacts both the opposing mating surfaces.

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