Terminal block and laminated bus bar

Abstract

Provided is a terminal block which has excellent misalignment absorption performance and can be reduced in cost. A terminal block which is fixed to a device and which is provided with a laminated bus bar formed in a long shape and a block body fixed to the device in a state in which the laminated bus bar is held, the laminated bus bar including a plurality of laminated bus bars, the plurality of laminated bus bars being provided in a local lamination holding region at one location in the lengthwise direction of the laminated bus bar, the plurality of bus bars are held in a stacked state in a state of being incapable of relative movement, and the plurality of bus bars are stacked in a state of being capable of relative displacement in other separated regions in the lengthwise direction of the stacked bus bars.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a terminal block and a laminated busbar. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an inverter terminal block having an electrical conductor formed by connecting an inverter side connection terminal and a motor side connection terminal through a braided wire. Patent document 1 also discloses an inverter terminal block connecting an inverter side connection terminal and a motor side connection terminal through both ends of a bus bar. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2011 / 055806 Summary of the invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] However, the structure of connecting the inverter side connection terminal and the motor side connection terminal through the braided wire has the problem of high component cost. In addition, the structure of connecting the inverter side connection terminal and the motor side connection terminal through the two ends of a bus bar has the problem of difficulty in absorbing the misalignment relative to the connected components.

[0005] In view of this, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a terminal block and a laminated bus bar that have excellent misalignment absorption performance and can achieve low cost. Solutions for solving problems

[0006] The terminal seat disclosed in the present invention is a terminal seat fixed to a device, comprising: a stacked busbar formed into a long strip shape; and a seat body fixed to the device in a state of holding the stacked busbar, the stacked busbar comprising a plurality of stacked busbars, in a local stacking holding area at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced.

[0007] In addition, the stacked busbar disclosed in the present invention is a stacked busbar formed in a long strip shape, and comprises: a plurality of stacked busbars, in a local stacking holding area at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced. Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a terminal block and a laminated bus bar that are excellent in misalignment absorption performance and can achieve cost reduction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing a mechatronic unit according to the embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a terminal block. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view along line II II II. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Sectional view along line IV-IV. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of part A. Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view showing a terminal block according to a modified example. Figure 7 It is a cross-sectional view showing a terminal block according to another modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] [Description of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure] First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0011] The terminal block of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0012] (1) A terminal block fixed to a device, comprising: a stacked busbar formed into a long strip shape; and a block body fixed to the device in a state in which the stacked busbar is held, the stacked busbar comprising a plurality of stacked busbars, wherein in a local stacking holding area at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state in which they cannot move relative to each other, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are stacked in a state in which they can be relatively displaced.

[0013] According to the terminal seat, in a local stacking holding area in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, a plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, a plurality of busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced. Therefore, the stacked busbar can be easily bent in the stacking direction in other areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar. Therefore, compared with a busbar formed by a single metal plate, the dislocation absorption performance is excellent. In addition, since a plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other in a stacking holding area, a structure in which the stacked busbars are held in a stacked state at a lower cost can be achieved compared with a situation in which a plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other at multiple locations.

[0014] (2) According to the terminal block of (1), the stacking holding area may also be located in the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar. Accordingly, for the stacking holding area in the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the two ends of the stacked busbar can be easily displaced in the stacking direction. Therefore, when other connecting parts are connected to the two ends of the stacked busbar in the longitudinal direction, the positions of the two ends of the stacked busbar in the longitudinal direction can be easily adjusted.

[0015] (3) According to the terminal block of (1) or (2), the adjacent bus bars may be joined to each other in the stacking holding region so that the plurality of bus bars are held in a stacked state. This can improve the sealing performance between the plurality of bus bars.

[0016] (4) According to the terminal block of (3), the adjacent bus bars may be joined to each other by ultrasonic bonding, welding or brazing, thereby improving the sealing performance between the adjacent bus bars.

[0017] (5) According to the terminal block of (3), the adjacent bus bars may be bonded to each other by diffusion bonding, thereby improving the sealing performance between the adjacent bus bars.

[0018] (6) According to any one of (3) to (5), the terminal block may be configured such that at least a portion of the stacking holding area is located within the block body. In this case, the sealing performance between the stacking holding area in the stacking busbar and the block body can be improved. As a result, liquid is less likely to leak or penetrate along the stacking busbar.

[0019] (7) According to the terminal block of (6), a sealant may be interposed between the stacking holding region and the base body to fill the gap between the stacking holding region and the base body. In this case, the sealant can further improve the sealing performance between the stacking holding region and the base body.

[0020] (8) According to any one of (3) to (7), the terminal block may be provided with an annular seal that can be interposed between the seat body and the device. In this case, the annular seal can improve the sealing between the seat body and the device. By joining adjacent busbars to each other, the sealing between the plurality of busbars can be improved, thereby improving the sealing of the terminal block.

[0021] (9) According to the terminal block of (1) or (2), the block body may be in the stacking holding area, and the plurality of busbars may be held in a stacked state so as to be unable to move relative to each other. In this case, the operation of connecting the plurality of busbars to each other can be omitted, which is different from the manufacturing process of the block body, so that the terminal block can be easily manufactured.

[0022] (10) According to any one of the terminal blocks of (1) to (9), the stacked busbars may include a first connection end and a second connection end, the first connection end having a first screw insertion hole for the plurality of busbars to pass through, and the second connection end having a second screw insertion hole for the plurality of busbars to pass through. In this case, other connection parts can be easily fixed to the first connection end and the second connection end by screws.

[0023] The laminated busbar of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0024] (11) A stacked busbar formed into a long strip shape, comprising: a plurality of stacked busbars, wherein in a local stacking holding area at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the plurality of busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced.

[0025] According to the stacked busbar, in a local area in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, a plurality of busbars are maintained in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other, and in other areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, a plurality of busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced. Therefore, the stacked busbar can be easily bent in the stacking direction in other areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar. Therefore, compared with a busbar formed by a single metal plate, the dislocation absorption performance is excellent. In addition, since a plurality of busbars are maintained in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other in a stacking holding area, a structure in which the stacked busbar is maintained in a stacked state at a lower cost can be achieved compared with a situation in which a plurality of busbars are maintained in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other at multiple locations.

[0026] (12) According to the stacked busbar of (11), the stacked holding area may also be located in the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar. In this case, the two ends of the stacked busbar can be easily displaced in the stacking direction relative to the stacked holding area in the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar. Therefore, when other connecting parts are connected to the two ends of the stacked busbar in the longitudinal direction, the positions of the two ends of the stacked busbar in the longitudinal direction can be easily adjusted.

[0027] (13) According to the stacked busbar of (11) or (12), adjacent busbars may be joined to each other in the stacking holding region so that the plurality of busbars are held in a stacked state. In this case, sealing performance between the plurality of busbars can be improved.

[0028] (14) According to the laminated busbar of (13), the adjacent busbars may be joined to each other by ultrasonic bonding, welding or brazing, thereby improving the sealing performance between the adjacent busbars.

[0029] (15) According to the laminated busbar of (13), the adjacent busbars may be bonded to each other by diffusion bonding, thereby improving the sealing performance between the adjacent busbars.

[0030] [Details of the embodiments of the present disclosure] Specific examples of the terminal block and the laminated busbar of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is shown by the claims, and is intended to include all changes within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims.

[0031] [Implementation Method 1] The terminal block and the laminated busbar involved in the implementation mode are described below. The terminal block is a component fixed to the device and used to electrically connect the device to other electrical devices. The laminated busbar is a component used for electrical connection and is a wiring component. In this implementation mode, the device is a rotating motor and the other electrical device is an example of an inverter for driving and controlling the rotating motor. The device and other electrical devices do not necessarily have to be rotating motors or inverters, but may also be other devices, such as batteries, DC-DC converters, junction boxes, etc.

[0032] <About the overall structure of the mechatronic unit with the terminal block incorporated> For ease of explanation, the overall structure of a mechatronic unit in which a terminal block including laminated bus bars is assembled will be described first. Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing the mechatronic unit 10 .

[0033] The mechatronic unit 10 includes a rotating electrical machine 20 and an inverter 12 .

[0034] The rotating electrical machine 20 is a rotating electrical machine including a case 22 , an armature 24 , and a field magnet 28 . Figure 1 The armature 24 is fixed as a stator in a cylindrical housing 22. The field magnet 28 is arranged in the armature 24 as a rotor. The field magnet 28 is rotated by the magnetic field generated by the armature 24, or the armature 24 generates an electromotive force by the rotation of the field magnet 28. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the rotating electric machine 20 is a rotating electric machine that can be used as a three-phase AC motor. The rotating electric machine can work not only as a motor, but also as a generator instead.

[0035] The armature 24 includes a stator core and a plurality of coil windings. The stator core includes a plurality of teeth, and the plurality of teeth are arranged around the rotating shaft. Each coil winding is wound on one or more teeth. At least a portion of the plurality of ends of the plurality of coil windings is led out from between the plurality of teeth to one axial end side of the armature.

[0036] The armature 24 has a coil connection end 26. The coil connection end 26 is, for example, a slender conductive plate-shaped portion. The coil connection end 26 is arranged on one end side of the armature 24 in the axial direction. A screw insertion hole 26h for screw fixing is formed on the coil connection end 26. The coil connection end 26 can be the end of the coil itself, or it can be a metal plate connected to the coil by welding or screw fixing. In the present embodiment, three coil connection ends 26 corresponding to the three phases are arranged on one end side of the armature 24 in a state of being spaced apart and arranged in parallel.

[0037] The inverter 12 is a device having an inverter circuit. It is assumed that the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electric machine 20. For example, the inverter 12 is integrated with the housing 22 of the rotating electric machine 20 by bolt fixing or the like.

[0038] The inverter 12 includes a bus bar 18 connected to the output end of the inverter circuit. The bus bar 18 is a long and narrow plate-shaped member formed of a metal plate such as copper or copper alloy. The bus bar 18 is formed with screw insertion holes 18h for screw fixing. In the present embodiment, three bus bars 18 corresponding to three phases extend from the inverter 12 to the rotating electric machine 20 in a state of being arranged in parallel with a gap.

[0039] The terminal block 30 is fixed to the housing 22 of the rotating electric machine 20, and is a component for connecting the rotating electric machine 20 and the inverter 12. The terminal block 30 includes a stacked busbar 40. One end of the stacked busbar 40 is a first connection end 42 that is connected to the end of the coil connection end 26 toward the inside of the housing 22. When the terminal block 30 is fixed to the housing 22, the first connection end 42 is arranged at a position that overlaps with the coil connection end 26. The other end of the stacked busbar 40 is a second connection end 44 that is supported at a position that can be connected to the end of the busbar 18 of the inverter 12 toward the outside of the housing 22. When the inverter 12 is integrated into the rotating electric machine 20, the second connection end 44 is arranged at a position that overlaps with the busbar 18. In the present embodiment, three stacked busbars 40 corresponding to the three phases are arranged in parallel with each other at intervals.

[0040] Within the range of assembly tolerance, the coil connection terminal 26 may be misaligned with the specified position. In addition, due to thermal expansion and contraction, the coil connection terminal 26 may be misaligned with the specified position. Therefore, the coil connection terminal 26 and the first connection terminal 42 may be misaligned. The terminal block 30 can absorb the misalignment between the coil connection terminal 26 and the first connection terminal 42.

[0041] In particular, in order to increase the occupancy rate of the coil, a flat conductor is sometimes used as a coil winding. However, when the coil winding is a flat conductor, it is difficult to correct the position of the coil connection terminal 26 by deformation of the coil winding because the former is harder and less likely to deform than when a twisted wire is used as the coil winding. In this case, the present terminal block 30 helps to absorb the misalignment between the first connection terminal 42 and the coil connection terminal 26.

[0042] Furthermore, when the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electrical machine 20, within the range of assembly tolerance, it is conceivable that the end of the bus bar 18 and the second connection end 44 of the laminated bus bar 40 are misaligned. Furthermore, when the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electrical machine 20, it is conceivable that the end of the bus bar 18 and the second connection end 44 of the laminated bus bar 40 are misaligned due to thermal expansion and contraction.

[0043] The terminal block 30 can also play a role in absorbing the misalignment between the end of the bus bar 18 and the second connection end 44 of the laminated bus bar 40 .

[0044] <About terminal block> The terminal block 30 will be described in more detail. Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the terminal block 30 . Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view along line II II II. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Sectional view along line IV-IV. Figure 2 The state where the terminal block 30 is removed from the housing 22 is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The state where the terminal block 30 is fixed to the housing 22 is shown in FIG. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 This is an enlarged view of part A. Figures 2 to 5 In FIG. 2 , the housing 22 is partially shown.

[0045] The terminal block 30 includes a laminated bus bar 40 and a block body 50 .

[0046] The laminated bus bar 40 is a conductive member formed in a long strip shape. As described above, one end of the laminated bus bar 40 is the first connection end 42 , and the other end of the laminated bus bar 40 is the second connection end 44 .

[0047] The first connection end 42 is formed with a first screw insertion hole 42h. With the coil connection end 26 overlapping the first connection end 42, the screw S1 is inserted through the screw insertion holes 26h and 42h. Then, the screw S1 is screwed and fastened with the nut N1. In this way, the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26 are fixed in an electrically connected state by being sandwiched between the head of the screw S1 and the nut N1.

[0048] It is preferred that the diameter of the first screw insertion hole 42h is larger than the diameter of the screw shaft of the screw S1. In the direction of the overlapping surface along the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26, the diameter of the first screw insertion hole 42h can be set to be larger than the diameter of the screw shaft of the screw S1 within the tolerance range that can absorb the misalignment between the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26. The above-mentioned misalignment can also be absorbed by making the diameter of the screw insertion hole 26h larger than the diameter of the screw shaft of the screw S1. Therefore, the size of the first screw insertion hole 42h can be set in consideration of the size of the screw insertion hole 26h.

[0049] The second connection end 44 is formed with a second screw insertion hole 44h. In a state where the busbar 18 overlaps the second connection end 44, the screw S2 is inserted through the screw insertion holes 18h and 44h. Then, the screw S2 is screwed and tightened with the nut N2. In this way, the second connection end 44 and the busbar 18 are fixed in an electrically connected state by being sandwiched between the head of the screw S2 and the nut N2. It is preferred that the diameter of the second screw insertion hole 44h is larger than the diameter of the screw shaft of the screw S2. In the direction of the overlapping surface of the second connection end 44 and the busbar 18, the diameter of the second screw insertion hole 44h is set to be larger than the diameter of the screw shaft of the screw S2 within the tolerance range that can absorb the misalignment between the second connection end 44 and the busbar 18. The above-mentioned misalignment can also be absorbed by making the diameter of the screw insertion hole 18h larger than the diameter of the screw shaft of the screw S2. Therefore, the size of the second screw insertion hole 44h can be set in consideration of the size of the screw insertion hole 18h.

[0050] In this embodiment, the terminal block 30 includes three laminated bus bars 40. The terminal block 30 only needs to include at least one laminated bus bar.

[0051] The laminated busbar 40 includes a plurality of laminated busbars 48. The busbar 48 is a busbar thinner than the overall thickness of the laminated busbar 40. The busbar 48 is made of a metal plate such as copper, copper alloy, aluminum or aluminum alloy. The busbar 48 is formed in the shape of an elongated metal plate. In the present embodiment, the busbar 48 is formed in a rectangular shape that is long in one direction. It is also conceivable that the end of the busbar 48 is formed in a rounded shape.

[0052] Holes 48h for forming the screw insertion holes 42h and 44h are formed at both ends of the bus bar 48.

[0053] The plurality of bus bars 48 are formed in the same shape. The stacked bus bar 40 is formed by stacking the plurality of bus bars 48. In the stacked bus bar 40, the first screw insertion hole 42h or the second screw insertion hole 44h is formed by stacking the plurality of holes 48h.

[0054] As will be described later, when the stacked busbars 40 are deformed in the stacking direction, it is conceivable that the hole 48h will be misaligned between the stacked busbars 48. The diameter of the hole 48h is preferably larger than the diameter of the screw S1 or the screw S2, so that even if the hole 48h is misaligned, the screw S1 or S2 can be inserted into the screw insertion holes 42h and 44h.

[0055] The thickness of the laminated busbar 40, the thickness of the busbar 48, and the number of the busbars 48 are arbitrary. These thicknesses and numbers can be set in consideration of the allowable current value required for the laminated busbar 40, the ease of deformation, the workability, and the like.

[0056] For example, the busbar 40 may be a laminated busbar 40 formed by laminating 3 to 6 busbars 48 having a thickness of 0.3 mm to 1 mm. The busbar 40 may be a laminated busbar 40 formed by laminating 4 to 5 busbars 48 having a thickness of 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm. In this embodiment, an example in which four busbars 48 of the same shape are laminated is described.

[0057] The plurality of busbars 48 do not necessarily have to be formed in the same shape. For example, a plurality of busbars having different thicknesses may be stacked to form a stacked busbar. Holes of different shapes may also be formed on the plurality of busbars, and the first screw insertion hole 42h or the second screw insertion hole 44h may be formed through the common opening of the plurality of holes.

[0058] In a local stacking holding area E1 at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbars 40, the multiple busbars 48 are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other. The so-called multiple busbars 48 are held in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other, which means that the relative displacement of the multiple busbars 48 is suppressed regardless of whether the multiple busbars 48 are joined to each other. In the stacking holding area E1, it is preferred that the adjacent busbars 48 are in direct contact, but this is not essential.

[0059] In addition, in other separation regions E2 in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbars 40, a plurality of busbars 48 are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced. The so-called stacking of a plurality of busbars 48 in a state where they can be relatively displaced means that adjacent busbars 48 are not joined to each other, so that adjacent busbars 48 can slide relative to each other, so that each busbar 48 is in a state where it can be bent in the thickness direction (the stacking direction of the stacked busbars 40).

[0060] In this embodiment, the stacking holding region E1 is located in the middle of the stacking busbar 40 in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the separation region E2 is located at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the stacking busbar 40. That is, the first connection end 42 and the second connection end 44 are formed in the separation region E2.

[0061] The stacking holding region E1 is preferably formed in a region including the center of the stacking busbar 40 in the longitudinal direction. The stacking holding region E1 may be formed in a region offset to either end of the stacking busbar 40.

[0062] The longer the stacking holding region E1 is, the easier it is for the multiple busbars 48 to be reliably held in a stacked state and difficult to separate. The longer the separation region E2 is, the easier it is for the stacked busbars 40 to bend in the stacking direction in the separation region E2. The lengths of the stacking holding region E1 and the separation region E2 can be set based on the integrated holding performance of the stacked busbars 40 and the easy deformability required for the separation region E2.

[0063] In the stacking holding area E1, the structure in which the plurality of busbars 48 are held in a stacked state in a state in which they cannot move relative to each other is arbitrary. In the present embodiment, in the stacking holding area E1, the adjacent busbars 48 are joined to each other, and the plurality of busbars 48 are held in a stacked state. That is, in the stacking holding area E1, the plurality of busbars 48 are integrated to minimize the gap between the adjacent busbars 48.

[0064] The adjacent busbars 48 may be joined by ultrasonic joining, by fusion welding such as resistance welding or laser welding, or by welding such as brazing. In these cases, the plurality of busbars 48 are electrically connected in the stacking holding area E1. The adjacent busbars 48 may also be joined by an adhesive.

[0065] The structure for maintaining the plurality of busbars 48 in a stacked state is not limited to the above example. The plurality of busbars 48 may be maintained in a stacked state by curing the periphery of the plurality of busbars 48 with resin or by bundling the plurality of busbars 48 together with a bundling member such as a binding band. In the present embodiment, it may also be considered that the seat body 50 maintains the plurality of busbars 48 in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other. In this case, the portion of the plurality of busbars 48 inside the seat body 50 is a stacking holding area, and the portion extending from the seat body 50 to the outside is a separation area.

[0066] Since the separation area E2 is adjacent to the stacking holding area E1, the plurality of busbars 48 are also kept in a stacked state in the separation area E2. However, in the separation area E2, the plurality of busbars 48 are not joined to each other, but can slide and misalign with each other. Therefore, in the separation area E2, the plurality of busbars 48 slide and misalign with each other, so that the stacked busbars 40 can be easily bent in the stacking direction.

[0067] The seat body 50 is a portion fixed to the rotating electric machine 20 as an example of equipment while holding the laminated busbar 40. Here, a mounting hole 22h1 is formed in the housing 22 of the rotating electric machine 20. The mounting hole 22h1 is a hole that penetrates the inside and outside of the housing 22. In the present embodiment, the mounting hole 22h1 is an elongated through hole. A flat portion is formed in the housing 22, and the mounting hole 22h1 is formed in the flat portion. Screw holes 22h2 are formed on the outer periphery of the mounting hole 22h1 of the flat portion. In the present embodiment, screw holes 22h2 are formed on both outer sides of the mounting hole 22h1 in the housing 22 in the longitudinal direction. In a state where a part of the seat body 50 is inserted into the above-mentioned mounting hole 22h1, the seat body 50 is fixed to the housing 22 by screws using the screw holes 22h2.

[0068] It is conceivable that the seat body 50 is an insulator such as resin. The resin forming the seat body 50 is preferably polyamide 6T (PA6T), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and more preferably PA6T. When the rotary electric machine 20 is oil-cooled, the resin forming the seat body 50 is preferably PA6T or PPS. When the rotary electric machine 20 is water-cooled, the resin forming the seat body 50 may also be preferably PBT. The plurality of laminated busbars 40 are supported at a fixed position on the rotary electric machine 20 by the seat body 50.

[0069] The seat body 50 includes an insertion portion 52 , a base portion 53 , a screw fixing portion 54 , extended holding portions 56 and 57 , and a spacer portion 58 .

[0070] The insertion portion 52 is formed into a shape that can be inserted into the mounting hole 22h1. Here, the insertion portion 52 has an outer peripheral shape that is the same as the inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole 22h1 or smaller than the mounting hole 22h1. The length of the insertion portion 52 is set to be the same as the length of the mounting hole 22h1 in the through direction.

[0071] An annular seal 60 is installed on the outer periphery of the insertion portion 52. For example, an annular groove is formed on the outer periphery of the insertion portion 52, and the annular seal 60 is installed in the annular groove. The annular seal 60 is, for example, an annular member formed of an elastic member such as rubber. When the insertion portion 52 is inserted into the mounting hole 22h1, the annular seal 60 is interposed in a compressed state between the insertion portion 52 of the seat body 50 and the inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole 22h1 of the housing 22. Thus, leakage or infiltration of liquid flowing between the mounting hole 22h1 and the insertion portion 52 is suppressed.

[0072] The base 53 is a portion connected to the base end side which is one end side of the insertion portion 52. The base 53 is formed in a shape that is larger than the insertion portion 52. Here, the base 53 is formed in a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape that is larger than the mounting hole 22h1.

[0073] The screw fixing portion 54 is a portion protruding from the outer periphery of the base portion 53. In the present embodiment, the seat body 50 includes two screw fixing portions 54. The two screw fixing portions 54 protrude outward from both ends in the longitudinal direction of the base portion 53. The screw fixing portions 54 are formed with screw insertion holes 54h.

[0074] When the insertion portion 52 is inserted into the mounting hole 22h1, the base portion 53 can contact the outer surface of the housing 22 around the housing 22. In this state, the pair of screw fixing portions 54 are arranged on the pair of screw holes 22h2. The screws S3 are inserted into the screw insertion holes 54h and screwed into the screw holes 22h2 of the housing 22, thereby fixing the seat body 50 to the housing 22.

[0075] The laminated busbar 40 is held by the insertion portion 52 and the base portion 53 so as to penetrate inside and outside the housing 22. In the present embodiment, a plurality of (three) laminated busbars 40 are held by the insertion portion 52 and the base portion 53 in a state of being arranged in parallel with a gap. The plurality of (three) laminated busbars 40 are held by the insertion portion 52 and the base portion 53 in a state of being insulated from each other.

[0076] The longitudinal middle portion of the laminated busbar 40 is embedded in the insertion portion 52 and the base portion 53. The portion of the laminated busbar 40 on the first connection end 42 side protrudes from the front end side of the insertion portion 52. The portion of the laminated busbar 40 on the second connection end 44 side protrudes from the side of the base portion 53 opposite to the insertion portion 52.

[0077] As described above, when the seat body 50 is fixed to the housing 22, the first connection end 42 of the laminated busbar 40 is arranged to overlap the coil connection end 26. In addition, the second connection end 44 of the laminated busbar 40 is arranged to overlap the busbar 18.

[0078] The extension holding portion 56 protrudes from the front end of the insertion portion 52 while partially covering each laminated bus bar 40 . Therefore, the portion of the laminated bus bar 40 protruding from the front end of the extension holding portion 56 is exposed from the seat body 50 .

[0079] The extended holding portion 57 protrudes from the base portion 53 while partially covering each laminated bus bar 40 . Therefore, a portion of the laminated bus bar 40 near the second connection end 44 is exposed from the portion of the seat body 50 protruding from the front end side of the extended holding portion 57 .

[0080] The partition 58 is a plate-shaped portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of laminated bus bars 40 at the front end side of the insertion portion 52 and between the laminated bus bars 40. The partition 58 can partition portions of the laminated bus bars 40 close to the first connection end 42.

[0081] The extension holding portions 56 and 57 may be omitted. The partition plate portion 58 may also be omitted.

[0082] It is preferable that at least a part of the stack holding region E1 is disposed in the seat body 50. In the present embodiment, the stack holding region E1 is entirely located in the insertion portion 52 and the base portion 53.

[0083] Preferably, a sealant 70 is interposed between the stacking holding area E1 and the seat body 50 in the stacking busbar 40 to fill the gap between the stacking holding area E1 and the seat body 50. The sealant 70 does not need to be present in the entire stacking holding area E1, but only needs to be interposed between at least a portion of the stacking holding area E1 and the seat body 50.

[0084] The sealant 70 is interposed between the stack holding area E1 and the seat body 50 to block the path of liquid intrusion between the stack holding area E1 and the seat body 50. As the sealant 70, an elastic adhesive, for example, an epoxy chloropropylene rubber adhesive can be used.

[0085] The terminal block 30 can be manufactured, for example, by the following method: Specifically, a plurality of bus bars 48 are partially joined in the longitudinal direction to manufacture the laminated bus bar 40. The sealant 70 is attached to the portion of the laminated bus bar 40 that is embedded in the block body 50.

[0086] The laminated busbar 40 is set in a mold for molding the seat body 50. The molten resin for forming the seat body 50 is injected into the mold, and the laminated busbar 40 is molded as an insert. In this way, the terminal seat 30 can be manufactured in which the middle portion of the laminated busbar 40 in the longitudinal direction is embedded in the seat body 50 as an insert. A metal bushing can also be embedded in the screw insertion hole 54h.

[0087] Different from the above manufacturing method, the terminal block 30 may be manufactured by first molding the seat body 50 having a through hole into which the laminated bus bar 40 can be inserted, and then passing the laminated bus bar 40 through the through hole.

[0088] An operation example of connecting the rotating electrical machine 20 and the inverter 12 via the terminal block 30 will be described.

[0089] First, regarding the rotating electric machine 20, it is assumed that the armature 24 and the like have been assembled in the housing 22, and the coil connection terminal 26 has been arranged at a predetermined position in the housing 22. In this state, the insertion portion 52 of the seat body 50 is inserted into the mounting hole 22h1 of the housing 22. At this time, the first connection terminal 42 is arranged at a position that overlaps with the coil connection terminal 26. However, the position of at least one of the first connection terminal 42 and the coil connection terminal 26 may deviate from the designed predetermined position in the stacking direction of the stacked busbar 40 (refer to Figure 3In this case, the portion of the laminated busbar 40 near the first connection end 42 can be easily bent in the lamination direction according to the position of the coil connection end 26 through the expanded separation area E2 (refer to Figure 3 Therefore, the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26 can be screwed together in a state where they are in surface contact and overlapped.

[0090] Furthermore, the position of at least one of the first connection terminal 42 and the coil connection terminal 26 may deviate from the designed predetermined position in the direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the stacked busbar 40 (see Figure 3 In order to deal with this situation, for example, the diameter of at least one of the screw insertion hole 42h and the screw insertion hole 26h can be set larger than the diameter of the screw S1. In this case, the screw S1 can be inserted into the screw insertion hole 42h or the screw insertion hole 26h at a position deviated according to the offset, and the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26 can be fixed by the screw.

[0091] The second connection end 44 of the laminated busbar 40 protrudes outside the terminal block 30 fixed to the housing 22. The inverter 12 is arranged on the rotating electrical machine 20, and the end of the busbar 18 is arranged at a position that overlaps with the second connection end 44. However, the position of at least one of the second connection end 44 and the end of the busbar 18 may deviate from the designed predetermined position in the lamination direction of the laminated busbar 40 (refer to Figure 3 In this case, the expanded separation area E2 in the portion near the second connection end 44 in the stacked busbar 40 can be easily bent in the stacking direction according to the position of the end of the busbar 18 (refer to Figure 3 Therefore, the second connection end 44 and the end of the busbar 18 can be screwed together in a state where they are in surface contact and overlapped.

[0092] In this case, at least one of the positions of the second connection end 44 and the end of the busbar 18 may deviate from the designed predetermined position in the direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the stacked busbars 40 (see Figure 3 As in the above case, for example, the diameter of at least one of the screw insertion hole 44h and the screw insertion hole 18h may be set larger than the diameter of the screw S2.

[0093] The order of screwing by the screws S1, S2, and S3 is arbitrary.

[0094] Even after the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electrical machine 20, due to thermal expansion and contraction, a misalignment occurs between the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26, or a misalignment occurs or increases between the second connection end 44 and the end of the bus bar 18. Even in this case, since the separation area E2 of the laminated bus bar 40 can be easily deformed, the misalignment can be dealt with.

[0095] When the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electric machine 20, it may be desirable to prevent liquid from passing between the inside and outside of the rotating electric machine 20. For example, when the rotating electric machine 20 is oil-cooled, oil exists in the housing 22. In the terminal block 30, it is also necessary to prevent oil from leaking to the outside of the rotating electric machine 20.

[0096] Regarding the present terminal base 30, a gap may be generated between the mounting hole 22h1 of the housing 22 and the terminal base 30. However, between the mounting hole 22h1 of the housing 22 and the terminal base 30, the annular seal 60 is used to suppress liquid leakage (refer to Figure 3 Arrow symbol F1).

[0097] In addition, a small gap may be generated between the laminated busbar 40 and the seat body 50. However, the sealant 70 is used to prevent liquid leakage between the laminated holding area E1 of the laminated busbar 40 and the seat body 50 (see Figure 3 arrow symbol F2).

[0098] A gap may also be generated between the stacking busbars 48 and the seat body 50. However, regarding the stacking holding area E1, since the adjacent stacking busbars 48 are joined to each other, leakage of the liquid that has passed between the stacking busbars 48 is also suppressed (see Figure 3 In particular, as long as the stacking holding area E1 and the sealant 70 at least partially overlap in the longitudinal direction of the stacking busbar 40, the path of water flowing along the stacking busbar 40 is blocked by the stacking holding area E1 and the sealant 70.

[0099] Therefore, in the terminal base 30 , oil leakage from the housing 22 is suppressed.

[0100] <Effects, etc.> According to the terminal block 30 and the stacked busbar 40 of the above-mentioned structure, in a local stacking holding area E1 at one point in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar 40, the multiple busbars 48 are maintained in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relatively, and in other separation areas E2 in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar 40, the multiple busbars 48 are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced.

[0101] Therefore, the laminated busbar can be easily bent in the lamination direction in other regions in the longitudinal direction of the laminated busbar. Therefore, compared with a busbar formed of a single metal plate, the misalignment absorption performance is excellent. Thus, the operation of connecting the inverter 12 to the rotating electric machine 20 becomes easy.

[0102] In addition, the plurality of busbars 48 can be collectively processed as a wiring component. For example, the ends of the plurality of busbars 48 can be kept in an overlapping state and used as the first connection end 42 and the second connection end 44 for connecting to the busbar 18 or the coil connection end 26. In this case, since the plurality of busbars 48 are kept in a stacked state in a local area in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar 40 so as not to be able to move relative to each other, it is possible to realize a structure in which the stacked busbars are kept in a stacked state at a lower cost than in a case where the plurality of busbars are kept in a stacked state in a state not to be able to move relative to each other at multiple locations.

[0103] In addition, since the stacking holding area E1 is located in the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar 40, the two ends of the stacked busbar 40 can be easily displaced in the stacking direction as the separation area E2. Therefore, when the first connection end 42 and the second connection end 44 at the two ends of the stacked busbar 40 in the longitudinal direction are connected to the coil connection end 26 or the end of the busbar 18 as other connection parts, the positions of the first connection end 42 and the second connection end 44 can be easily adjusted.

[0104] In addition, it is difficult to leave processing marks of the stacking holding area E1 at both ends of the stacked busbar 40. For example, in the stacking holding area E1, if multiple busbars 48 are ultrasonically joined, it can be considered that pressurization marks used for ultrasonic joining will be left. In addition, in the stacking holding area E1, if multiple busbars 48 are welded by a melting method, it can be considered that welding marks will be left. If the first connection end 42 or the second connection end 44 leaves processing marks, the surface smoothness may be lost and it may not be possible to make surface contact with the coil connection end 26 or the busbar 18. By setting the stacking holding area E1 in the middle part of the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar 40, the surfaces of the first connection end 42 and the second connection end 44 become smooth, and connection is achieved in a state of surface contact with the coil connection end 26 or the busbar 18, thereby achieving good electrical connection.

[0105] In addition, since adjacent busbars 48 are bonded to each other and the plurality of busbars 48 are held in a stacked state in the stacking holding region E1, gaps are less likely to be formed between adjacent busbars 48. This improves the sealing between the plurality of busbars and suppresses the passage of liquid between the busbars 48.

[0106] In particular, if adjacent busbars 48 are joined by ultrasonic bonding, welding or brazing, or by diffusion bonding, the sealing performance can be improved between adjacent busbars 48. In addition, the busbars 48 can be held in a stacked state with a compact structure without adding a structure for stacking.

[0107] In addition, when at least a portion of the stacking holding area E1 where the adjacent busbars 48 are joined to each other is located within the seat body 50, the passage of water that has passed between the busbars 48 and the passage of water that has passed between the stacking holding area E1 in the stacked busbar 40 and the seat body 50 can be suppressed within the seat body 50. As a result, it is difficult for liquid to leak or penetrate through the stacked busbar 40.

[0108] Furthermore, when the sealant 70 is interposed between the stack holding region E1 and the seat body 50 to fill the gap between the stack holding region E1 and the seat body 50 , the sealant 70 can further improve the sealing performance between the stack holding region E1 and the seat body 50 .

[0109] Furthermore, when an annular seal 60 that can be interposed between the seat body 50 and the inner circumference of the mounting hole 22h1 is installed on the seat body 50, the sealing performance between the seat body 50 and the housing 22 can be improved by the annular seal 60. By joining adjacent busbars 48 to each other, as the sealing performance between the plurality of busbars 48 is improved, the sealing performance of the terminal seat 30 can be improved.

[0110] Since the stacked busbar 40 includes a first connection end 42 and a second connection end 44 , the first connection end 42 is formed with a first screw insertion hole 42h , and the second connection end 44 is formed with a second screw insertion hole 44h , other connection parts can be easily fixed to the first connection end 42 and the second connection end 44 by screws.

[0111] [Modifications] In the above embodiment, an example in which the laminated bus bar 40 is held by the seat body 50 has been described. The laminated bus bar 40 may be used as a wiring material for connecting electrical components together without being accompanied by the seat body 50.

[0112] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is described in which the stacking holding area E1 is located in the middle part of the longitudinal direction of the stacking busbar 40. The stacking holding area E1 may also be located at one end or the other end of the stacking busbar 40. That is, the above-mentioned first connection end 42 may also be the stacking holding area E1. In this case, the area from the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacking busbar 40 to the second connection end 44 is the separation area E2. The above-mentioned second connection end 44 may also be the stacking holding area E1. In this case, the area from the middle of the longitudinal direction of the stacking busbar 40 to the first connection end 42 is the separation area E2. Since one end of the stacking busbar can be used as a reference and the other end can be easily deformed, the misalignment absorption performance is excellent.

[0113] like Figure 6 As in the terminal block 30B according to the modified example shown, adjacent bus bars 48 can be bonded to each other by diffusion bonding in the stacking holding region E1. The portion where adjacent bus bars 48 are diffusion bonded to each other is referred to as a diffusion bonded portion 48B.

[0114] Diffusion bonding is a method of bonding the adjacent busbars 48 in close contact, as specified in JIS Z 3001-2, and applying pressure to a degree that minimizes plastic deformation under temperature conditions below the melting point of the base material of the busbars 48, so as to achieve metal bonding between the bonding surfaces. Diffusion bonding is preferably performed in a vacuum state or an inert gas environment that can suppress surface oxidation. Between the diffusion-bonded busbars 48, the gap disappears, and the stacked busbars 48 are in an integrated state. Boundary marks may be left in the diffusion-bonded portion 48E. Boundary marks can be observed, for example, as small gaps left between the busbars 48, or as steps or grooves left on the sides of the diffusion-bonded portion 48E. Whether or not to leave boundary marks, and to what extent, depends on various conditions such as temperature, environment, and pressurization conditions.

[0115] Also, if Figure 6 In the example shown, the stacking holding region E1 is shorter than the stacking holding region E1 in the embodiment, but the length is not particularly limited.

[0116] In this modification, a groove 48V is formed on the outer surface of the bus bar 48 located on the outermost side in the stacking direction along a direction intersecting (here, perpendicular to) the extending direction of the bus bar 48. Figure 5 ) is interposed between the seat body 50B corresponding to the seat body 50 and the stacking holding area E1, the groove 48V can play a role in retaining the sealant 70 in the stacking holding area E1.

[0117] In this modified example, the insertion portion 52 in the above embodiment is omitted. An annular seal 60B corresponding to the annular seal 60 is arranged in an annular groove 50Bg formed in a portion of the seat body 50B that faces the surface of the housing 22. The annular seal 60B is interposed between the seat body 50B and the surface of the housing 22 in a compressed state to seal between the seat body 50B and the housing 22. The structural example of the annular seal is not limited to this example, and may be the same as in the above embodiment, that is, the annular seal is externally embedded and formed integrally in the insertion portion of the seat body.

[0118] In this modification, the seat body 50B is formed with a positioning pin 50Bp, and the positioning pin 50Bp is inserted into a positioning hole formed in the housing 22. The positioning pin 50Bp may be omitted.

[0119] In the above-described embodiment and modification, the case where the adjacent bus bars 48 are joined to each other in the stacking holding region E1 is described. However, it is not essential that the adjacent bus bars 48 are joined to each other in the stacking holding region E1.

[0120] like Figure 7 As in the terminal block 130 according to the illustrated modification, the block body 50 is molded using a stacked bus bar 140 in which a plurality of bus bars 48 are stacked without being joined to each other as an insert portion.

[0121] At this time, the seat body 50 holds a portion (here, the middle portion) of the plurality of busbars 48 in the longitudinal direction in a stacked state as a body that cannot move relatively. That is, the portion within the seat body 50 of the stacked busbars 140 is the stacking holding area E1, and the portion extending from the seat body 50 to the outside is the separation area E2. In this modified example, the annular seal 60 may be omitted, and the sealant 70 may also be omitted.

[0122] In this modification, the portion of the laminated busbar 140 extending from the terminal block 130 can be easily deformed in the lamination direction. Therefore, except for the point related to the sealing performance, the same effects as those of the above-mentioned embodiment can be achieved.

[0123] For example, in a water-cooled rotating electrical machine 20, water circulates in a cooling water passage of the housing 22. Therefore, sealing is not required between the space in the housing 22 that accommodates the armature 24 and the external space. In this case, the present terminal block 130 is also applicable.

[0124] According to this variation, since the seat body 50 holds the plurality of bus bars 48 in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relative to each other in the stacking holding area E1, the process of connecting the plurality of bus bars 48 to each other, which is different from the manufacturing process of the seat body 50, can be omitted, thereby making it easy to manufacture the terminal seat 130.

[0125] In addition, the respective configurations described in the above-mentioned embodiment and the respective modifications may be appropriately combined unless they are contradictory to each other. Description of Reference Numerals

[0126] 10 Mechatronics Unit 12 Inverter 18 Busbar 18h Screw through hole 20 Rotating motor (equipment) 22 Shell 22h1 mounting holes 22h2 screw hole 24 Armature 26 Coil connection terminal 26h Screw through hole 28 Excitation 30, 30B, 130 terminal block 40, 140 laminated busbar 421st connection terminal 42h 1st screw insertion hole 44 2nd connection terminal 44h 2nd screw insertion hole 48 Busbar 48B Diffusion Bonding 48h hole 48V slot 50, 50B main body 50Bg ring groove 50Bp positioning pin 52 Insertion 53 base 54 Screw fixing part 54h Screw insertion hole 56, 57 Extended holding part 58 partition 60, 60B annular seal 70 Sealant E1 Cascade holding area E2 separation area N1, N2 nuts S1, S2, S3 screws

Claims

1. A terminal block is a terminal block fixed to a device, having: The busbars are stacked to form a long strip; and The seat body is fixed to the device in a state of holding the laminated busbar, The stacked busbar includes a plurality of stacked busbars. In a local stacking holding area at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the multiple busbars are maintained in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relatively, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the multiple busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced.

2. The terminal block according to claim 1, wherein: The stacking holding area is located in the middle of the stacking busbar in the longitudinal direction.

3. The terminal block according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: In the stacking holding region, the adjacent bus bars are joined to each other, and the plurality of bus bars are held in a stacked state.

4. The terminal block according to claim 3, wherein: The adjacent busbars are joined to each other by ultrasonic bonding, welding or brazing.

5. The terminal block according to claim 3, wherein: The adjacent bus bars are bonded to each other by diffusion bonding.

6. The terminal block according to claim 3, wherein: At least a portion of the stack retention area is located within the seat body.

7. The terminal block according to claim 6, wherein: A sealant is interposed between the stack holding region and the seat body to fill a gap between the stack holding region and the seat body.

8. The terminal block according to claim 3, wherein: An annular sealing member which can be interposed between the seat body and the device is installed on the seat body.

9. The terminal block according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The seat body holds the plurality of bus bars in a stacked state in the stack holding region so that they cannot move relatively.

10. The terminal block according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The laminated busbar includes a first connection end and a second connection end. The first connection end is formed with a first screw insertion hole for the plurality of busbars to pass through, and the second connection end is formed with a second screw insertion hole for the plurality of busbars to pass through.

11. A laminated busbar, which is a laminated busbar formed into a long strip shape, comprising: Multiple busbars are stacked. In a local stacking holding area at one place in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the multiple busbars are maintained in a stacked state in a state where they cannot move relatively, and in other separation areas in the longitudinal direction of the stacked busbar, the multiple busbars are stacked in a state where they can be relatively displaced.

12. The laminated busbar according to claim 11, wherein: The stacking holding area is located in the middle of the stacking busbar in the longitudinal direction.

13. The laminated busbar according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein: In the stacking holding region, the adjacent bus bars are joined to each other, and the plurality of bus bars are held in a stacked state.

14. The laminated busbar according to claim 13, wherein: The adjacent busbars are joined to each other by ultrasonic bonding, welding or brazing.

15. The laminated busbar according to claim 13, wherein: The adjacent bus bars are bonded to each other by diffusion bonding.

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