temperature sensor

Abstract

The temperature sensor (1) of the present application is provided with: a temperature measuring portion (10) having a heat sensing body (21) and electric wires (25, 27) electrically connected to the heat sensing body (21), which undertakes temperature measurement of a measurement object (OM); a holding portion (40) composed of a single component, which holds the temperature measuring portion (10); and an elastic portion (CS) provided between the temperature measuring portion (10) and the holding portion (40), which applies an elastic force to the temperature measuring portion (10) toward the measurement object (OM). The electric wires (25, 27) of the temperature measuring portion (10) are drawn out from the holding portion (40) along a first direction in which the elastic force is applied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a temperature sensor capable of measuring the temperature of a measurement object that may be vibrating. Background Technology

[0002] Temperature sensors measure the temperature of a wide variety of objects. One example of such an object is a battery mounted in vehicles such as electric cars. Since the battery vibrates as the vehicle moves, measures are taken to counteract this vibration in temperature sensors that measure batteries. One such measure, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, involves using a compression coil spring, which acts as an elastic body, to hold the temperature sensor's temperature sensing element, including a thermistor. According to the temperature sensor in Patent Document 1, which uses a compression coil spring to elastically hold the temperature sensing element, even if vibration occurs within the battery, the temperature sensing element follows the displacement of the vibrating battery, maintaining contact between the temperature sensing element and the battery. Therefore, it is possible to accurately measure the temperature of an object that may vibrate.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-50882 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] To accurately measure the temperature of an object that may vibrate, it is preferable to apply a force in a direction different from the displacement direction of the temperature measuring unit. For example, if a force is applied in a direction orthogonal to the displacement direction, the temperature measuring unit may tilt relative to the object being measured.

[0008] In Patent Document 1, the terminals and wires connected to the thermistor of the temperature sensing unit in the temperature sensor are led out in an orthogonal direction relative to the displacement direction of the temperature sensing unit. Therefore, if a tensile force is applied to this wire, a force in a different direction than the displacement direction is applied to the temperature sensing unit. This causes the temperature sensing unit to tilt from the displacement direction, potentially making it impossible to obtain an ideal contact state between the temperature sensing unit and the object being measured. This is a major reason for the deterioration in the accuracy of temperature measurement of the object being measured.

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to suppress forces acting from directions different from the displacement direction in a temperature sensor in which the temperature measuring part is held displaceably by an elastomer, and to ensure the positional accuracy of the temperature measuring part.

[0010] Methods used to solve problems

[0011] The temperature sensor of the present invention comprises: a temperature measuring part having a heat-sensing element and a wire electrically connected to the heat-sensing element, for measuring the temperature of an object to be measured; a holding part consisting of a single component for holding the temperature measuring part; and an elastic part provided between the temperature measuring part and the holding part for applying an elastic force to the temperature measuring part toward the object to be measured.

[0012] In this invention, the wire of the temperature measuring part is led out from the holding part along the first direction in which the elastic force is applied.

[0013] The preferred embodiment of the present invention has a retaining portion that accommodates an elastic portion and has an opening in a second direction that intersects with a first direction in which the elastic force is applied.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the retaining part includes a locking body for locking the wire.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the holding part includes a guide part that guides the displacement of the temperature measuring part that is accompanied by vibration of the object being measured.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the elastic part is composed of a compression helical spring, and the wire is led out from the holding part through the central gap of the compression helical spring.

[0017] The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a temperature measuring unit comprising a protective tube that houses a heat-sensing element and has a heat-sensing surface that is rectangular in plan view and in contact with the object being measured.

[0018] In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protective tube is in the shape of a square tube.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the retaining part includes a fitting guarantee body that ensures the completion of fitting to the object being measured.

[0020] Invention Effects

[0021] According to the temperature sensor of the present invention, in a temperature sensor in which the temperature measuring part is displaceably held by an elastic body, the wire of the temperature measuring part is led out from the holding part along a first direction in which the elastic force is applied. Thus, by suppressing the force acting on the temperature measuring part from a direction different from the displacement direction, the accuracy of temperature measurement of the object being measured is ensured. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 The temperature sensor used in the embodiment is shown. Figure 1 (a) is the front view. Figure 1 (b) is a side view. Figure 1 (c) is the top view.

[0023] Figure 2 The temperature sensor used in the embodiment is shown. Figure 2 (a) is a partial 3D view shown from below. Figure 2 (b) is a three-dimensional view of the side section. Figure 2 (c) is a diagram comparing the shapes of the heat-sensitive surfaces.

[0024] Figure 3 The temperature sensor used in the embodiment is shown. Figure 3 (a) is a side sectional view. Figure 3 (b) is a partially enlarged sectional view.

[0025] Figure 4 The actions of the assembly guarantee body in the implementation method are indicated. STEP1 indicates that the assembly guarantee body is in a temporary locking position, and STEP2 indicates that the assembly guarantee body has moved to the formal locking position.

[0026] Figure 5 This diagram shows the sequence of manufacturing the temperature sensor in the embodiment. STEP1 shows the holding part before assembling the temperature measuring part and the compression coil spring. STEP2 shows the holding part after the compression coil spring is inserted into the receiving part of the holding part. STEP3 shows the holding part after the temperature measuring part is assembled into the holding part.

[0027] Figure 6 This diagram shows the order in which the temperature sensor of the embodiment is mounted on the mounting object.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a modified example of the assembly guarantee body. Detailed Implementation

[0029] As an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the temperature sensor 1 uses a battery mounted on an electric vehicle as the measurement object OM. Since the measurement object OM is mounted on the electric vehicle, it may vibrate during driving. In order to correspond to the vibration of the measurement object OM, the temperature sensor 1 uses a compression coil spring CS, which is an elastic body, to press the temperature measuring part 10 against the measurement object OM.

[0030] Furthermore, the temperature sensor 1 leads out the wire 27 of the temperature measuring unit 10 along the direction (first direction) from which the load is borne by the compression coil spring CS. Additionally, the temperature sensor 1 holds the temperature measuring unit 10 as a single component in the holding part 40, allowing it to displace along the first direction. This displacement follows the vibration of the object being measured, OM.

[0031] Temperature sensor 1, by possessing the above-mentioned necessary conditions, can ensure the accuracy of temperature measurement of the object OM.

[0032] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1 The specific details of temperature sensor 1 will be explained.

[0033] Overall structure of temperature sensor 1: Figure 1 , Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2 [of (b)]

[0034] The temperature sensor 1 includes a temperature measuring unit 10 for measuring the temperature of the object OM, a compression coil spring CS (as an elastic part) for applying an elastic force to the temperature measuring unit 10 toward the object OM, a holding part 40 for holding the temperature measuring unit 10, and a mounting retainer 100. Hereinafter, its structure will be described in the order of the temperature measuring unit 10, the holding part 40, and the mounting retainer 100. For ease of explanation, the temperature sensor 1 will be described as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the height direction (H), width direction (W), and thickness direction (T) are defined. Furthermore, the height direction (H) corresponds to the first direction, and the thickness direction (T) or width direction (W) corresponds to the second direction. Additionally, the side of the protective tube 31 with the heat-sensing surface 31A is defined as the front (F), and the opposite side is defined as the rear (R); this definition is relative.

[0035] Temperature Measurement Section 10: Figure 3 ]

[0036] The temperature measuring unit 10 includes a sensor element 20, a metal protective tube 31 that houses the main part of the sensor element 20, and a filler 33 that fills the space between the sensor element 20 and the protective tube 31.

[0037] [Sensor Element 20:] Figure 3 [of (b)]

[0038] The sensor element 20 includes a heat sensor 21, a glass protective layer 23 covering the heat sensor 21, a pair of leads 25, 25 electrically connected to the heat sensor 21, and a pair of wires 27, 27 electrically connected to the leads 25, 25 respectively. Furthermore, the sensor element 20 includes a cover layer 29 covering the heat sensor 21 and the wires 27. The electrically connected leads 25, 25 and wires 27, 27 constitute the pair of wires of the present invention.

[0039] [Heat-sensor 21]

[0040] The heat-sensing element 21 is preferably a thermistor. A thermistor is a metal oxide that measures temperature by utilizing the characteristic that its resistance changes with temperature.

[0041] Thermistors are classified into NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistors and PTC (positive temperature coefficient) thermistors, but this invention can use either type of thermistor.

[0042] In the heat sensor 21, an oxide sintered body with manganese oxide (Mn3O4) as its basic composition can be used as the NTC thermistor. The heat sensor 21 uses MxMn, which has one or more M elements (Ni, Co, Fe, Cu, Al, and Cr) added to this basic structure. 3－x The oxide sintered body is composed of O4. Furthermore, one or more of V, B, Ba, Bi, Ca, La, Sb, Sr, Ti, and Zr may be added.

[0043] Furthermore, in the heat-sensing body 21, a sintered oxide body with a composite oxide having a typical perovskite structure, such as YCrO3, can be used as the PTC thermistor.

[0044] [Protective Layer 23]

[0045] Glass protective layer 23 Figure 3 As shown in (b), by sealing and maintaining the heat sensor 21 in an airtight state, chemical and physical changes of the heat sensor 21 based on environmental conditions are prevented, and the heat sensor 21 is mechanically protected. The glass protective layer 23 covers not only the entire heat sensor 21 but also the front (F) of the lead wire 25, encapsulating the lead wire 25. Furthermore, the provision of the protective layer 23 is arbitrary in this invention.

[0046] [Leader 25]

[0047] A pair of leads 25, 25 are electrically connected to the electrodes of the heat-sensing element 21 (not shown in the diagram).

[0048] Since lead 25 is encapsulated by protective layer 23, it is preferable to use Dumet wires, which have a coefficient of linear expansion close to that of glass. Furthermore, Dumet wires are conductors (core wires) made primarily of an alloy of iron and nickel, surrounded by copper. Because the conductor of lead 25 is exposed, it is susceptible to short circuits if moisture penetrates; therefore, it is encapsulated by cover layer 29.

[0049] like Figure 3As shown in (b), a pair of leads 25, 25 have a narrowly spaced first region 25A connected to the heat sensor 21 and a wider-spaced third region 25C connected to a pair of wires 27, 27. To match the spacing of the first region 25A and the third region 25C, the pair of leads 25, 25 have a second region 25B between the first region 25A and the third region 25C, with the spacing continuously increasing.

[0050] [Wire 27]

[0051] The conductor 27 has a core wire 27A made of a conductor and an insulating cover 27B covering the core wire 27A. The conductor 27 is electrically connected to the lead wire 25 at the core wire 27A by welding, brazing, conductive adhesive, or the like.

[0052] [Overlay 29]

[0053] Sensor element 20, such as Figure 3 As shown, a cover layer 29 is provided, which is made of an electrically insulating resin material, such as epoxy resin. The cover layer 29 functions as an electrical insulator for the protective layer 23, the lead wire 25, and the conductor 27. In addition, the cover layer 29 functions as a bonding layer responsible for bonding with the filler 33 described later. The cover layer 29 can be formed by impregnating the heat-sensitive element 21 (protective layer 23) side in a liquid resin material, such as epoxy resin.

[0054] The cover layer 29 covers the area of ​​the insulation cover 27B of the conductor 27 at a designated location from the front end of the protective layer 23 of the heat sensor 21. The electrical insulation between the leads 25 and between the core wires 27A of the conductor 27 is ensured by the resin material constituting the cover layer 29 sandwiched between the leads 25 and between the core wires 27A of the conductor 27.

[0055] [Protective tube 31]

[0056] Protective tube 31, etc. Figure 3 of (a), Figure 3 As shown in (b), the protective tube 31 is a metallic component that extends the sensor element 20 from its front end to cover the wire 27. Typically, aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper, or copper alloy are used. In addition to protecting the sensor element 20 housed inside from the surrounding gas environment, the protective tube 31 is also made of a metal material with excellent thermal conductivity to rapidly conduct the temperature of the gas environment into the interior.

[0057] The protective tube 31 is a cylindrical component having a heat-sensing surface 31A that is closed at one end and an open end 31B that is open at the other end. The heat-sensing surface 31A is formed in a rectangular shape. The heat-sensing surface 31A of the protective tube 31 is located at the front (F), and the open end 31B is located at the rear (R). The sensor element 20 is supported inside the protective tube via a filler 33.

[0058] The four sides of the protective tube 31 are guide surfaces 31C. These guide surfaces 31C slide along the guide portion 50 of the retaining portion 40, which will be described later. Each guide surface 31C is, for example, a flat surface.

[0059] [Fill 33:] Figure 3 ]

[0060] The filler 33 supports the sensor element 20 inside the protective tube 31 by filling the space between the sensor element 20 and the protective tube 31.

[0061] Like the cover layer 29, the filler 33 is made of an electrically insulating resin material, such as epoxy resin, and is bonded to the cover layer 29 of the sensor element 20 with a strong adhesive force, and is also bonded to the inner wall of the protective tube 31 with an adhesive force.

[0062] Both the filler 33 and the cover layer 29 use epoxy resin. In the filler 33, a material with higher thermal conductivity than the cover layer 29 is used, primarily to conduct heat towards the heat-sensitive element 21. In contrast, the cover layer 29 uses a material designed for thorough impregnation.

[0063] The sensor element 20 formed on the cover layer 29 is sealed into the protective tube 31 in the following order.

[0064] Inside the protective tube 31 with its opening end 31B facing upwards, a predetermined amount of liquid epoxy resin, which, after curing, forms the filler 33, is added. Inside the protective tube 31 after the epoxy resin has been added, a sensor element 20, to which a covering layer 29 is formed, is inserted from the opening end 31B. If the epoxy resin inside the protective tube 31 cures, a temperature measuring section 10 is obtained.

[0065] Compression coil spring CS: Figure 1 of (a), Figure 2 , Figure 3 ]

[0066] A compression coil spring CS constitutes an elastic part that applies an elastic force to the temperature measuring unit 10 and pushes it toward the object being measured OM. The compression coil spring CS is housed in the gap 61 formed in the retaining part 40 (described later). The compression coil spring CS is positioned such that its front (F) end in the height direction (H) is locked onto the rear (R) end of the protective tube 31 via a washer WS (described later), and the rear (R) end abuts against the front (F) side surface of the upper wall 69.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a compression coil spring CS is used in the elastomer, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Objects or materials capable of applying an elastic force toward the front (F) in the height direction (H), such as leaf springs or elastomeric resins, may also be used.

[0068] [Maintenance Section 40:] Figure 1 , Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2 [of (b)]

[0069] The retaining part 40 is integrally formed, for example, by injection molding of resin material. That is, the retaining part 40 is composed of a single component.

[0070] The retaining part 40 includes a guide part 50 for guiding the displacement of the protective tube 31 of the sensor element 20, a receiving part 60 for housing a compression coil spring CS that applies elastic force to the protective tube 31, a PA insertion passage 73 through which the mounting retainer 100 (described later) is inserted, a locking arm 80 for mounting the retaining part 40 to the mounting object 120, and a locking body 90 for locking the wires 27, 27 of the sensor element 20.

[0071] [Guidance Section 50:] Figure 1 , Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2 (b) Figure 3 ]

[0072] The guide section 50 includes a guide block 51 shaped like an inverted frustum in the height (H) direction, a guide passage 53 extending along the height (H) direction of the guide block 51, and four guide surfaces 55 formed by the inner wall surface of the guide block 51 and dividing the guide passage 53. The guide passage 53 is formed by a through hole that penetrates the guide block 51 in the height (H) direction, and has a cylindrical shape corresponding to the appearance of the protective tube 31, for example, formed by a cuboid-shaped space. Guide surfaces 55 are arranged around the guide passage 53. The guide surfaces 55 are composed of a first guide surface 55A, a second guide surface 55B, a third guide surface 55C, and a fourth guide surface 55D, with the first guide surface 55A and the third guide surface 55C facing each other, and the second guide surface 55B and the fourth guide surface 55D facing each other. Adjacent guide surfaces are orthogonal to each other. For example, the first guide surface 55A is orthogonal to the second guide surface 55B, and the third guide surface 55C is orthogonal to the fourth guide surface 55D. The guide surface 55 extends along the height direction (H). The guide passage 53 and the guide surface 55 are sized in the width direction (W) and thickness direction (T) to restrict the movement of the protective tube 31 in the width direction (W) and thickness direction (T) while allowing it to slide smoothly in the height direction (H).

[0073] [Containment Department 60:] Figure 1 of (a), Figure 2 of (a), Figure 2 (b) Figure 3 ]

[0074] The housing 60 is used to house and hold the compression coil spring CS, and is located adjacent to the guide block 51 at the rear (R).

[0075] The receiving section 60 is composed of a pair of first side walls 63, 63, a second side wall 65, a bottom wall 67, and an upper wall 69. A compression coil spring CS is received in the gap 61 formed inside these walls.

[0076] A pair of first sidewalls 63, 63 are spaced apart on both sides of the width direction (W) of the receiving part 60.

[0077] The receiving part 60 has an opening at one end in the thickness direction (T) to form an insertion port 62 for inserting a compression coil spring CS into the gap 61, and a second sidewall 65 is provided at the other end in the thickness direction (T).

[0078] A bottom wall 67, which also serves as part of a guide block 51, is provided in front of (F) the housing section 60 in the height direction (H), and an upper wall 69 is provided in the rear of (R) the housing section 60 in the other direction (H).

[0079] A pair of first sidewalls 63, 63 and second sidewalls 65 stand up from the bottom wall 67 toward the rear (R) in the height direction (H), and the rear (R) ends of the pair of first sidewalls 63, 63 and second sidewalls 65 are connected to the upper wall 69.

[0080] On the upper wall 69, a wire insertion passage 68 is provided for leading the wire 27 of the sensor element 20 rearward (R). The wire insertion passage 68 is formed as a through hole that passes through the back side of the upper wall 69 in the height direction (H). The wire insertion passage 68 is formed to be approximately circular in plan view, for example, and its diameter is set to be at least larger than the diameter of the wire 27 inserted in the wire insertion passage 68. The wire 27, which is led out of the wire insertion passage 68 rearward (R), is folded back midway and locked onto the locking body 90 described later. Thus, the protective tube 31 connected to the wire 27 is disposed in the guide passage 53 of the guide section 50.

[0081] The bottom wall 67 is continuously formed with the guide portion 50 in the height direction (H) and rear (R) direction. That is, the bottom wall 67 has an opening at the rear (R) end of the guide passage 53 through which the protective tube 31 is inserted. As described above, since the guide passage 53 is formed as a cuboid space, the opening is formed to be similar in shape to the cross-sectional shape of the protective tube 31.

[0082] The compression coil spring CS and the washer WS are housed in the gap 61 of the housing 60.

[0083] A washer WS is mounted on the bottom wall 67. The washer WS is, for example, a metal component formed in the shape of a flat ring. The surface WS1 of the washer WS supports the front (F) end of the compression coil spring CS, and the rear (R) end of the protective tube 31 abuts against its back surface WS2. Therefore, the elastic force of the compression coil spring CS is applied to the protective tube 31 via the washer WS. This elastic force is applied from the position of the washer WS toward the front (F).

[0084] The elastic force is applied to the protective tube 31 via the washer WS. For example, even if a load is applied to the protective tube 31 in the rearward (R) direction and the protective tube 31 is to be displaced in the rearward (R) direction, the elastic force of the compression coil spring CS also limits the displacement in the rearward (R) direction by the elastic force.

[0085] [PA insertion path 73]

[0086] The retaining portion 40 is provided with a PA insertion passage 73 through which the mounting guarantee body 100 is inserted. The PA insertion passage 73 is used to mount the mounting guarantee body 100 (described later) onto the retaining portion 40, and the combination of the PA insertion passage 73 and the mounting guarantee body 100 constitutes an example of the mounting guarantee function of the present invention. In this embodiment, as a preferred configuration, a pair of PA insertion passages 73, 73 are provided on both outer sides of the width direction (W) of a pair of first side walls 63, 63 of the receiving portion 60. That is, the PA insertion passages 73, 73 are formed between the first side wall 63 of the receiving portion 60 and the locking arm 80 (described later). Each PA insertion passage 73, 73 passes through the surface of the upper wall 69 in the height direction (H) and extends forward (F).

[0087] Facing the PA insertion passages 73, 73, PA guide portions 75, 75 are provided on both sides in the thickness direction (T) to guide the insertion of the mounting retainer 100. The PA guide portions 75, 75 protrude from the first side wall 63 toward the outside in the thickness direction (T).

[0088] [Locking arm 80:] Figure 1 of (a), Figure 1 (b) Figure 2 ]

[0089] A pair of locking arms 80, 80 are used to fix the temperature sensor 1 to the object being measured, OM. For example, they are formed by protruding forward (F) from both ends of the upper wall 69 in the width direction (W). These locking arms 80, 80 are spaced apart from a pair of first sidewalls 63, 63 in the width direction (W). Each locking arm 80 has a predetermined dimension in the thickness direction (T), and has a cantilever beam-shaped arm 81 with a fixed end connected to the upper wall 69 at the rear (R) end in the height direction (H) and a free end at the front (F) end. On this arm 81, a first locking claw 83 is located at the front (F) and a second locking claw 85 is located at the rear (R). The first locking claw 83 and the second locking claw 85 protrude outward in the width direction (W) with reference to the receiving portion 60. If a load is applied to the first locking pawl 83 or the second locking pawl 85 toward the inward side, i.e. the receiving part 60, the arm 81 will flex in that direction.

[0090] In this embodiment, a pair of locking arms 80, 80 are described as an example of a mechanism for attaching the retaining part 40 to the mounting object 120, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The shape and number of the retaining part 40 can be arbitrarily set as long as it can be attached and fixed to the mounting object 120. For example, it is also possible to attach the retaining part 40 to the mounting object 120 using only a single locking arm 80.

[0091] Alternatively, by providing a structure equivalent to the locking arm 80 on the mounting object 120 side, the locking arm 80 can be omitted from the retaining part 40.

[0092] [Isolation Body 90:] Figure 1 (b) Figure 1 (c) Figure 2 [of (b)]

[0093] The locking body 90 is used to change the extension direction of the wires 27, 27, and has a locking handle 91, a folding piece 93, and a locking groove 95.

[0094] The locking handle 91 extends from the upper wall 69 toward the side opposite in thickness direction (T) to the side where the insertion port 62 is located. The locking handle 91 is L-shaped when viewed from above. The fold-back tab 93 bends from the front end of the locking handle 91 toward the receiving portion 60. The locking groove 95 is a slot formed between the locking handle 91 and the fold-back tab 93. A pair of wires 27, 27 are locked onto the locking body 90 by being inserted into the locking groove 95.

[0095] If a pair of wires 27, 27 are locked onto the locking body 90, then even if an application is made to the pair of wires 27, 27 in the orientation of the thickness direction (T), Figure 1The tensile force X shown in (b) can also be absorbed by the locking body 90. Therefore, the locking body 90 will not apply an excessive tensile force X to the pair of wires 27, 27, but even if it is applied, it can be suppressed to a very small extent. In addition, since the protective tube 31 is held in the guide passage 53 by locking the pair of wires 27, 27 to the locking body 90, it is possible to prevent the protective tube 31 from being pulled out of the guide passage 53 forward (F).

[0096] [Assembly guarantee body 100:] Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 ]

[0097] The mounting guarantee body 100 ensures that the temperature sensor 1 is relative to the mounting object 120. Figure 6 The component is mounted in the correct position (Position Assurance: PA). This mounting assurance body 100 is manufactured separately from the holding part 40 and can be easily attached and detached from the holding part 40. The temperature sensor 1 includes the mounting assurance body 100 in addition to the holding part 40, but the mounting assurance body 100 does not correspond to a structure that holds the temperature sensing part 10 in a reciprocating manner. That is, even with the mounting assurance body 100, the effect of holding the temperature sensing part 10 with a single component in a reciprocating manner in this embodiment is not compromised.

[0098] The mounting guarantee body 100 is in a state before the temperature sensor 1 is mounted onto the mounting object 120. Figure 4 The temporary locking position shown in STEP1 is moved after the temperature sensor 1 is attached to the mounting object 120. Figure 4 The final locking position is shown in STEP 2. Assume that the body α that manufactures the temperature sensor 1 and the body β that mounts the temperature sensor 1 onto the mounting object 120 are different. For body β, the mounting guarantee body 100 is in a temporary locking position before the temperature sensor 1 is mounted onto the mounting object 120, and is moved to the final locking position after the temperature sensor 1 is mounted onto the mounting object 120. However, if the mounting of the temperature sensor 1 onto the mounting object 120 is not completed, the mounting guarantee body 100 cannot move to the final locking position and remains intermediate between the temporary and final locking positions. If the mounting of the temperature sensor 1 onto the mounting object 120 is completed, the mounting guarantee body 100 can move to the final locking position. This is the function of the mounting guarantee body 100.

[0099] The mounting retainer 100 includes a support plate 101 and a pair of mounting retaining arms 105, 105 protruding forward (F) from both ends of the support plate 101 in the width direction (W). Resin is used as an example of the material used to form the mounting retainer 100. However, the mounting retainer 100 is not limited to using a resin material, as long as it is made of a material with elasticity that resists external forces. Other materials used in the mounting retainer 100 may include metal. When using resin, it can be integrally formed by injection molding; when using metal, it can be integrally formed by punching or bending sheet metal.

[0100] like Figure 1 As shown in (c), the support plate 101 is a flat plate component with a U-shaped form when viewed from above. As described later, the support plate 101 is positioned at a predetermined interval from the upper wall 69 of the retaining part 40 when the mounting retainer 100 is in the temporary locking position. Furthermore, when the mounting retainer 100 is in the fully locked position, the support plate 101 abuts against the upper wall 69, restricting further movement.

[0101] The mounting guarantee arm 105 includes a pair of mounting guarantee locking arms 106A and 106B and a guide arm 108. The mounting guarantee locking arms 106A and 106B are located at both ends in the thickness direction (T) of the support plate 101, and the guide arm 108 is located between them.

[0102] The mounting retaining body locking arms 106A and 106B are formed as cantilever beams, with one side connected to the support plate 101 serving as the fixed end, protruding forward (F) respectively. A guide arm 108 is formed at a predetermined interval between the mounting retaining body locking arms 106A and 106B in the thickness direction (T) and between each of the mounting retaining body locking arms 106A and 106B and the guide arm 108. Thus, by setting a predetermined interval between each of the mounting retaining body locking arms 106A and 106B and the guide arm 108, the mounting retaining body locking arms 106A and 106B can flex towards the guide arm 108.

[0103] like Figure 4 As shown, locking protrusions 107A and 107B are provided at the front (F) end of the cantilever beam that is where the locking arms 106A and 106B of the retaining body are mounted. The locking protrusions 107A and 107B are formed to protrude outward in the direction away from the guide arm 108, that is, in the thickness direction (T).

[0104] The guide arm 108, used to limit the amount of movement of the mounting retaining arm 105 towards the holding portion 40, is formed approximately at the center between the mounting retaining locking arms 106A and 106B in the thickness direction (T). The guide arm 108 is, for example, a rectangular component, protruding in the same direction as the mounting retaining locking arms 106A and 106B. The dimension of the guide arm 108 in the protruding direction is set to be the same as that of the mounting retaining locking arms 106A and 106B, and the dimension in the thickness direction (T) is set to an arbitrary dimension. However, the spacing between the mounting retaining locking arms 106A and 106B is set to a distance sufficient to prevent interference when the mounting retaining locking arms 106A and 106B flex.

[0105] <Action of assembling and securing body 100:> Figure 4 >

[0106] When the assembly guarantee body 100 is in the temporary locking position, such as Figure 4 As shown in STEP 1, locking protrusions 107A and 107B are embedded in the temporary locking groove 77 of the retaining part 40. If the support plate 101 is pushed down forward (F), the locking protrusions 107A and 107B are pulled out of the temporary locking groove 77, and the mounting retainer 100 moves toward the final locking position. If the support plate 101 is pushed down further, as shown in STEP 2, the mounting retainer 100 reaches the final locking position, and the locking protrusions 107A and 107B are embedded in the final locking groove 79. At this time, the support plate 101 abuts against the upper wall 69, restricting the movement of the mounting retainer 100 beyond the final locking position.

[0107] Furthermore, a rearward (R) gap exists between the outer wall of the receiving portion 60 and the locking arm 80. When the mounting retainer 100 moves from the temporary locking position to the permanent locking position, the guide arm 108 is inserted into the gap between the retaining portion 40 and the locking arm 80. As a result, the movement of the mounting retainer 100 in the width direction (W) is restricted.

[0108] As described above, the assembly ensures that body 100 can be moved from the temporary locking position ( Figure 4 STEP1) Move to the final stop position ( Figure 4 STEP 2) means that the assembly of temperature sensor 1 to the mounting object 120 is mechanically or visually confirmed. Furthermore, if the assembly guarantee body 100 fails to reach the final locking position and stops midway, even though the intention is to move the assembly guarantee body 100 from the temporary locking position, it means that the assembly of temperature sensor 1 to the mounting object 120 is not complete.

[0109] [The manufacturing sequence of temperature sensor 1:] Figure 5 ]

[0110] Reference Figure 5 The manufacturing sequence of temperature sensor 1 is explained. This manufacturing sequence is carried out in the order of STEP1 to STEP4.

[0111] STEP 1: Preparation of section 40

[0112] The retaining part 40 is prepared as a single unit. The compression coil spring CS, washer WS, and temperature measuring part 10 have not yet been assembled on the retaining part 40, and the gap 61 of the receiving part 60 is empty.

[0113] STEP 2: Configuration of washer WS and compression coil spring CS towards the receiving part 60

[0114] Place the washer WS onto the bottom wall 67 facing the receiving portion 60, and then push the compression coil spring CS into the insertion port 62 toward the gap 61. The washer WS and the compression coil spring CS are configured such that a portion of the cover layer 29 and the wires 27, 27 can pass through the guide passage 53 of the bottom wall 67 and the wire insertion passage 68 of the upper wall 69.

[0115] STEP 3: Assembly of temperature measuring unit 10

[0116] The temperature measuring unit 10 is assembled into the holding part 40, in which the washer WS and the compression coil spring CS are installed in the receiving part 60. During this assembly, the wires 27, 27 are inserted into the guide passage 53 from the front (F), and while introducing the wires 27, 27 towards the rear (R), the protective tube 31 is pushed into the guide passage 53 until the open end 31B of the protective tube 31 abuts against the washer WS. Since the washer WS is pushed against the bottom wall 67 by the compression coil spring CS, if the open end 31B abuts against the washer WS, resistance is encountered through the protective tube 31, thus preventing the protective tube 31 from being pushed in. Then, the wires 27, 27, which are to be led out of the upper wall 69, are bent along the way and locked onto the locking body 90. The wires 27, 27 are led out from the holding part 40 through the center gap of the compression coil spring CS. That is, around conductors 27, 27, there is a coiled wire that constitutes the compression helical spring CS.

[0117] STEP 4: Install the 100-type assembly guarantee.

[0118] A mounting retainer 100 is installed in the holding part 40, in which the washer WS, the compression coil spring CS, and the temperature measuring part 10 are assembled. In this installation, the mounting retainer arm 105 of the mounting retainer 100 is inserted from the rear (R) side of the holding part 40. Specifically, the mounting retainer arm 105 of the mounting retainer 100 is inserted into each of the PA insertion passages 73, 73 formed on the upper wall 69 of the holding part 40 of the sensor 1. Then, if the support plate 101 of the mounting retainer 100 is pushed down from the rear (R) side to the front (F) side, the mounting retainer locking arms 106A, 106B of the mounting retainer arms 105 ... Then, if the support plate 101 of the mounting retainer 100 is pushed further forward (F), the locking protrusions 107A and 107B formed on the front end sides of the mounting retainer locking arms 106A and 106B reach the position of the temporary locking groove 77. The locking protrusions 107A and 107B then insert into the temporary locking groove 77, the flexed mounting retainer locking arms 106A and 106B return to their original state, and the mounting retainer 100 is fixed to the retaining part 40 in a temporary fixed position.

[0119] [The assembly sequence of temperature sensor 1 to the mounting object 120:] Figure 6 ]

[0120] Reference Figure 6 This describes the assembly sequence of temperature sensor 1 to the mounting object 120. This assembly sequence is performed in the order of STEP1, STEP2, STEP3, and STEP4.

[0121] STEP 1: Positioning of temperature sensor 1 relative to the mounting object 120

[0122] The retaining part 40, which is assembled with the temperature measuring unit 10 and the mounting retainer 100, is positioned relative to the retaining hole 121 of the mounting object 120. This positioning is performed so that the locking arm 80 of the retaining part 40 can engage with the retaining edge 123 surrounding the retaining hole 121 after STEP2.

[0123] STEP 2: Assembly of retaining part 40 to the assembly object 120 (incomplete)

[0124] If the positioned retaining part 40 approaches the retaining hole 121, the first locking claws 83, 83 of the locking arm 80 abut against the retaining edge 123. If the retaining part 40 is pushed in relative to the object 120, the retaining part 40 is inserted into the retaining hole 121 while the first locking claws 83, 83 slide on the retaining edge 123. STEP2 indicates that the first locking claws 83, 83 are in a partially inserted state, with their positions halfway along the retaining edge 123.

[0125] This semi-insertion state corresponds to the incomplete assembly of the retaining part 40 to the assembly object 120, preventing the assembly guarantee body 100, which is in a temporary locking position, from moving towards the final locking position. This is because, due to the inward bending of the arms 81, 81 of the locking arms 80 in the width direction (W), the PA insertion passages 73, 73 become narrower, and the assembly guarantee body locking arms 106A, 106B are not received by the PA insertion passages 73, 73. This is the function of the assembly guarantee body 100: if the assembly of the retaining part 40 is completed, the PA insertion passages 73, 73 become an receiving state in which the assembly guarantee body locking arms 106A, 106B can enter; if the assembly of the retaining part 40 is incomplete, the PA insertion passages 73, 73 become an unreceiving state in which the assembly guarantee body locking arms 106A, 106B cannot enter.

[0126] STEP 3: Connecting the retaining part 40 to the mounting object 120 (completed)

[0127] If the retaining part 40 is pushed in from the state where the assembly is incomplete (the retaining part 40 is partially inserted into the assembly object 120), the first locking claws 83, 83 cross the retaining edge 123. Then, the arms 81, 81 of the flexed locking arms 80 return to their original state, and the retaining edge 123 is clamped by the first locking claws 83, 83 and the second locking claws 85, 85, completing the assembly of the temperature sensor 1 into the assembly object 120. In the retaining part 40 in the completed assembly state, the PA insertion passages 73, 73 are able to receive the assembly retainer locking arms 106A, 106B. However, at this point, the assembly retainer 100 is in a temporary locked position.

[0128] STEP 4: Install the retaining body 100 and move it to the final locking position.

[0129] During the stage where the retaining part 40 is fully assembled and the PA insertion passages 73 and 73 are in the receiving state, the locking arms 106A and 106B of the assembly retainer are pushed into the PA insertion passages 73 and 73. If the retaining part 40 can be pushed in until the support plate 101 of the assembly retainer 100 abuts against the upper wall 69, it can be confirmed that the temperature sensor 1 is fully engaged.

[0130] [The effect of temperature sensor 1]

[0131] The following explains the effect of temperature sensor 1.

[0132] [First effect: The effect caused by the orientation of wires 27 and 27]

[0133] Temperature sensor 1's sensor element 20 is subjected to an elastic force from the compression coil spring CS toward the front (F) via a protective tube 31. Therefore, even if the object being measured, which is in contact with the heat-sensing surface 31A of the protective tube 31, vibrates, the protective tube 31 of the sensor element 20 continues to be in contact with the object being measured, following the vibration, thus easily ensuring positional accuracy relative to the object being measured, OM.

[0134] Furthermore, temperature sensor 1 is secured to locking body 90 via wires 27, 27, which extend in the thickness direction (T). Therefore, even if a tensile force acts on wires 27, 27 in this direction, locking body 90 will absorb the force, preventing it from exceeding the locking body 90 and acting on protective tube 31, or at least suppressing it significantly. This easily ensures the positional accuracy of protective tube 31 relative to the object being measured, OM.

[0135] If the locking body 90 is not present, and the wires 27, 27 are led out along the direction in which the protective tube 31 is displaced by vibration, even if a tensile force is applied to the wires 27, 27, for example in the direction in which they are led out, the protective tube 31 can be prevented from tilting relative to the object being measured, since the displacement of the protective tube 31 by the tensile force is in the same direction as the displacement of the protective tube 31 by vibration.

[0136] [Second effect: The effect of retaining part 40 being composed of only one component]

[0137] The temperature sensor 1 has a single component, which houses and holds the temperature measuring part 10, the compression coil spring CS, and the washer WS in a holding part 40. If the component corresponding to the holding part 40 is composed of multiple components, such as two components, each component has dimensional tolerances. If these two dimensional tolerances are added together, the positional accuracy of the temperature measuring part deteriorates. In contrast, when the holding part 40 is composed of only one component, the dimensional tolerances can be minimized compared to when it is composed of multiple components, thus making it easier to ensure the positional accuracy of the temperature measuring part 10.

[0138] Furthermore, the holding part 40, which consists of only one component, can reduce manufacturing costs compared to a holding part consisting of multiple components.

[0139] [Third effect: Lateral insertion of the compressed coil spring CS]

[0140] The temperature sensor 1 allows the compression spring CS to be inserted into the receiving portion 60 through the insertion port 62, which opens in the thickness direction (T), i.e., the lateral direction (second direction). Therefore, the holding portion 40 can be constructed using only one component. For example, in the case where the compression spring CS is inserted into the receiving portion 60 along the height direction (H), at least two components are required: a component for the receiving portion 60 and a cap-like component that abuts one end of the compression spring CS if the insertion port of the compression spring CS is closed.

[0141] The effect of making the retaining part 40 a single component has been explained as the second effect, but in terms of its relationship with the compression coil spring CS, it is as follows.

[0142] If the housing is composed of multiple parts, the strength of the boundary portions of the parts will decrease. However, if the retaining part 40 is composed of a single part, the decrease in strength of the boundary portions can be avoided. As a result, the mechanical strength around the housing 60, especially in the height direction (H), can be increased.

[0143] Furthermore, when a cover component is included, it takes time to install the cover component, and if the cover component is not properly installed, the cover may fall off. If the cover falls off, the compression coil spring CS can no longer be held in place and may be pulled out of the receiving part 60. If the compression coil spring CS is pulled out of the receiving part 60, it will no longer function as the body of the temperature sensor 1 under vibration.

[0144] In contrast to the above, in the case of the retaining part 40 consisting of only one component, the original cover will not fall off. Furthermore, in the temperature sensor 1, the compression coil spring CS may also be pulled out from the insertion port 62, but the compression coil spring CS surrounds the wires 27, 27. Therefore, even if the compression coil spring CS is subjected to significant vibration or the like and tries to be pulled out from the receiving gap 61 through the insertion port 62, the compression coil spring CS will remain inside the gap 61 because it interferes with the wires 27, 27.

[0145] [Fourth effect: The heating surface 31A has a rectangular shape]

[0146] In temperature sensor 1, the flat, closed heat-sensing surface 31A of the protective tube 31 is preferably rectangular. This rectangular heat-sensing surface 31A can suppress variations in the contact area with the cylindrical object being measured, OM. That is, Figure 2(c) represents a circular heating surface 31D and a rectangular heating surface 31A, and represents the area of ​​the object OM in contact with the heating surface 31D and heating surface 31A as a line segment. If the heating surface 31D is circular, the lengths L1 and L2 of the line segment differ depending on the relative position of the object OM (line segment) with respect to the heating surface 31D. In contrast, if the heating surface 31A is rectangular, the length L3 of the line segment in contact with the heating surface 31A is equal regardless of its relative position. If the lengths in contact with the heating surface 31D differ, as with L1 and L2, the heat received by the heating surface 31D will also differ, making it easy for deviations to occur in the measured temperature. Conversely, if the length A of the line segment in contact with the heating surface 31A is equal, the heat received by the heating surface 31A will also be equal, making it less likely for deviations to occur in the measured temperature. Therefore, according to this embodiment, even if the protective tube 31 deviates in the width direction (W), the deviation of the measured temperature can be suppressed.

[0147] Furthermore, the contact area between the heat-sensing surface 31A and the object being measured OM is not limited to a flat rectangular surface. For example, other shapes such as a heat-sensing surface composed of a circular arc can also be used. Moreover, if the material constituting the heat-sensing surface 31A is flexible, the contact area can remain equal even if the object being measured OM experiences a positional deviation. Examples of such materials include elastomeric resins.

[0148] Corresponding to the rectangular heat-sensing surface 31A, the protective tube 31 has a cylindrical shape and is guided by a cylindrical guiding passage 53. Therefore, the protective tube 31 is restricted from displacement around its axis, so the wires 27, 27 connected to the protective tube 31 will not twist. Furthermore, this effect can also be achieved in other tubes such as triangular tubes, pentagonal tubes, and semi-cylindrical tubes, which have at least one plane in the guiding surface 31C.

[0149] [Fifth effect: Effect brought about by the assembly guarantee body 100]

[0150] In a preferred embodiment of the temperature sensor 1, a mounting guarantee body 100 is provided on the holding portion 40. If the mounting guarantee body 100 can be moved from the temporary locking position to the final locking position, it ensures that the holding portion 40 of the temperature sensor 1 is fully mounted onto the mounting object 120. If the mounting guarantee body 100 cannot be moved from the temporary locking position to the final locking position, it can be identified that the mounting of the holding portion 40 of the temperature sensor 1 onto the mounting object 120 is incomplete. In this way, by providing the mounting guarantee body 100, the temperature sensor 1 can easily distinguish whether the mounting onto the mounting object 120 is complete or incomplete.

[0151] When measuring the temperature of an object OM by contacting it, if the temperature sensor 1 is not reliably mounted to the mounting object 120, the contact with the object OM may be unreliable. Therefore, with the temperature sensor 1 equipped with the mounting retainer 100, even if vibration or other forces act on the object OM, the temperature sensor 1 will not detach from the mounting object 120, maintaining contact with it. This ensures stable temperature measurement of the object OM.

[0152] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, as long as the spirit of the present invention is not departed from, the structures described in the above embodiments can be selected or replaced with other structures.

[0153] For example, the assembly guarantee body 100 can be omitted, or it can be replaced with the assembly guarantee body 110 of the relevant modified example. See reference. Figure 7 Instructions for assembly and connection of the 110-body assembly.

[0154] The difference between the modified assembly retainer 110 and the assembly retainer 100 is that the width direction (W) dimensions WA and WB of the pair of arms 81A and 81B of the locking arm 80 are different. As an example, Figure 7 As shown in (a), arm 81B is larger in size than arm 81A. Furthermore, the dimensions of the pair of arms 81, 81 of the mounting retainer 100 are equal. By differentiating the width direction (W) of arms 81A and 81B, it is possible to prevent the mounting retainer 110 from being assembled onto the retaining part 40 in an incorrect orientation. This function of preventing incorrect assembly is achieved by making the dimensions of the PA insertion passages 73A, 73B into which arms 81A and 81B are inserted correspond to the dimensions of arms 81A and 81B, thereby increasing the size of PA insertion passage 73B compared to PA insertion passage 73A.

[0155] As described above, set the dimensions of arms 81A and 81B and the dimensions of PA insertion channels 73A and 73B. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown in (b), the mounting retainer 110 is mounted onto the retaining part 40 with arm 81A corresponding to PA insertion passage 73B and arm 81B corresponding to PA insertion passage 73A, in the opposite orientation to the normal orientation. However, since arm 81B cannot be inserted into PA insertion passage 73A, misassembly of the mounting retainer 110 is prevented.

[0156] Label Explanation

[0157] 1. Temperature sensor

[0158] 10 Temperature Measurement Department

[0159] 20 Sensor Components

[0160] 21. Heat-sensitive body

[0161] 23 Protective Layer

[0162] 25 Lead wire

[0163] 27. Conductor

[0164] 27A core wire

[0165] 27B Insulation Coverage

[0166] 29 Covering layer

[0167] 31 Protective tube

[0168] 31A heat-sensing surface

[0169] 31B Open end

[0170] 31C Guide Surface

[0171] 31D heat-sensitive surface

[0172] 33 Filler

[0173] 40. Holding section

[0174] 50 Guiding Section

[0175] 51 Guide Block

[0176] 53 Guiding Pathway

[0177] 55 Guide Surface

[0178] Containment Department 60

[0179] 61 Containment Gaps

[0180] 62 Insertion port

[0181] 63 First lateral wall

[0182] 65 Second lateral wall

[0183] 67 bottom wall

[0184] 68. Wire insertion path

[0185] 69 upper wall

[0186] 73, 73A, 73B PA insertion path

[0187] 75 PA Guiding Section

[0188] 77 Temporary card stop groove

[0189] 79 Formal Card Stop Slot

[0190] 80 Locking Arm

[0191] Arms 81, 81A, and 81B

[0192] 83 First locking pawl

[0193] 85 Second locking claw

[0194] 90 locking body

[0195] 91 Locking handle

[0196] 93 Folded-back pieces

[0197] 95 Locking Groove

[0198] 100 Assembly Guarantee Body

[0199] 101 Support Plate

[0200] 105 Assembly and support arm

[0201] 106A and 106B are equipped with a locking arm to ensure the safety of the body.

[0202] 107A, 107B locking protrusions

[0203] 108 guide arm

[0204] 110 Assembly Guarantee Body

[0205] 120 Assembly Object

[0206] 121 Retaining Hole

[0207] 123 Keep the edges

[0208] OM Measurement Object

[0209] WS gaskets

Claims

1. A temperature sensor, characterized in that, have: The temperature measuring unit has a heat sensor and a pair of wires electrically connected to the heat sensor, and is responsible for measuring the temperature of the object being measured. The holding part, consisting of a single component, holds the aforementioned temperature measuring part; and The elastic part, composed of a compression coil spring, applies an elastic force to the temperature measuring part toward the object being measured. The aforementioned retaining part includes a receiving part for accommodating and retaining the aforementioned compression coil spring and a locking body for locking the aforementioned wire. The wire of the temperature measuring unit is led out of the housing through the through hole formed in the upper wall of the housing along the first direction in which the elastic force is applied, through the central gap of the compression helical spring, and is folded back and locked in the locking body along the way.

2. The temperature sensor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned receiving portion of the aforementioned retaining part opens in a second direction that intersects with the aforementioned first direction in which the aforementioned elastic force is applied.

3. The temperature sensor as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned holding part includes a guide part that guides the displacement of the temperature measuring part that accompanies the vibration of the object being measured.

4. The temperature sensor as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The temperature measuring unit is equipped with a protective tube that houses the heat sensor and has a heat-sensing surface that contacts the object being measured.

5. The temperature sensor as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The aforementioned protective tube is in the shape of a square tube.

6. The temperature sensor as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned retaining part is equipped with a mounting guarantee body that ensures the successful assembly of the aforementioned measuring object.

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