Temperature sensor assembly for being arranged on connection part of electric machine, connection part, electric machine and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a temperature sensor assembly for arrangement on a connection of an electric machine. The temperature sensor assembly comprises a temperature sensor and a shell. A housing of the temperature sensor assembly at least partially surrounds the temperature sensor. In addition, the shell comprises a first end face with a protrusion and a second end face opposite to the first end face. The protrusions can be elastically deformed. The projection and the second end face are configured to dispose the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion in a force-transmitting manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a temperature sensor assembly for use on a wiring terminal of an electric motor, a wiring terminal, an electric motor, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In an electric motor, high heat loss is generated in the stator windings due to the flow of current, and this heat loss needs to be dissipated. This can be achieved, for example, by using a coolant such as oil or water. These coolants are preferably applied selectively to the most intensely heated parts of the stator, such as the winding heads. For this purpose, the coolant distribution device can be adapted to the size of the winding heads and their position within the stator housing, for example, so that the coolant is distributed directly and largely uniformly to the winding heads.

[0003] Temperature sensors can be installed to monitor temperature development during use. These sensors can be placed directly on the windings or on other components of the motor, such as the wiring terminals, for temperature monitoring. For example, temperature sensors can be mounted on the wiring terminals using clamping screws. However, using clamping screws is cumbersome and can make replacement difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In this context, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved temperature sensor assembly.

[0005] The object of the present invention is achieved by a temperature sensor assembly, a wiring portion, a motor, and a vehicle, as described in the independent claims. Further aspects and modifications of the invention are described in the dependent claims, the following description, and the accompanying drawings.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, a temperature sensor assembly is provided. The temperature sensor assembly is for mounting on a wiring portion of a motor. The temperature sensor assembly includes a temperature sensor and a housing. The housing at least partially surrounds the temperature sensor. Furthermore, the housing includes a first end face with a protrusion and a second end face opposite the first end face. The protrusion is elastically deformable. The protrusion and the second end face are configured to forcefully mount the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion.

[0007] The housing of the temperature sensor assembly at least partially surrounds the temperature sensor, enabling the temperature sensor to be positioned by arranging the housing. Therefore, the temperature sensor assembly allows the temperature sensor to be positioned on the wiring portion via a second end face and a protrusion on the first end face. This simplifies the complex fastening process using a clamping disc. Through the interaction of the second end face and the protrusion, the temperature sensor assembly, and thus the temperature sensor, can be forcefully positioned on or connected to the wiring portion. In particular, additional fasteners for securing the temperature sensor can be eliminated. The temperature sensor assembly can be positioned on the wiring portion solely by means of the housing.

[0008] Furthermore, due to the elastic structure of the protrusion, the temperature sensor assembly can be conveniently arranged on the wiring portion. The protrusion can deform significantly initially during arrangement, thereby storing elastic energy within the protrusion or housing. This elastic energy can then be used to forcefully connect the housing to the wiring portion. The elastic energy stored in the housing due to the deformation of the protrusion allows the second end face to press against the wall of the wiring portion. The initially significant protrusion deformation can thus be partially recovered. For example, the stress on the protrusion can be reduced, thereby allowing the second end face to make force-transmitting contact with the wiring portion. This simplifies the arrangement of the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second end face and / or protrusion can be configured to forcefully arrange the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion along two spatial directions. Arranging it along two spatial directions improves the contact between the temperature sensor assembly and the wiring portion. This, for example, improves temperature transmission between the wiring portion and the temperature sensor assembly. Improved temperature transmission improves temperature determination using the temperature sensor.

[0010] In one embodiment, the housing may further include a recess. This recess may include elements for engaging with the shape of the mounting structure. This recess can improve contact between the temperature sensor assembly and the wiring portion. For example, the end faces of the housing and / or the temperature sensor can be pressed against the end faces of the wiring portion through the recess interacting with the mounting structure. This can improve temperature transfer.

[0011] In one embodiment, the housing can be integrally constructed. This simplifies the manufacturing of the temperature sensor assembly and / or reduces manufacturing costs.

[0012] In one embodiment, the end face of the temperature sensor may be flush with or extend beyond the rear side of the housing. This allows the temperature sensor to directly contact the wiring portion. Direct contact between the temperature sensor and the wiring portion improves the determination of the wiring portion's temperature using the temperature sensor.

[0013] In one embodiment, the housing may comprise, or be made of, plastic, epoxide, or metal. The housing material can be tailored to the application. For example, a conductive housing made of metal or an inexpensive housing made of epoxide can be used. The material parameters of the housing can be advantageously adjusted depending on the application of the temperature sensor assembly.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the invention, a wiring portion for arranging a temperature sensor assembly in an electric motor includes a recess. This recess is configured to receive the aforementioned temperature sensor assembly. The side surfaces of the recess are configured to establish a force-transmitting contact between the temperature sensor assembly and the wiring portion perpendicular to the surface of the wiring portion. For example, the temperature sensor assembly can be force-transmittingly connected to the wiring portion perpendicular to its end face. This end face particularly provides an increased contact area between the temperature sensor assembly and the wiring portion. This improves temperature transfer between the wiring portion and the temperature sensor assembly. Therefore, the side surfaces of the recess can generate a force that presses the end face of the temperature sensor assembly against the end face of the wiring portion.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the invention, the motor includes a wiring portion and a temperature sensor assembly as described above. The wiring portion includes a surface with a recess for arranging the temperature sensor assembly. The temperature sensor assembly is force-transmittingly connected to the wiring portion by means of a protrusion and a second end face. This provides a motor in which the temperature sensor can be arranged in a simplified manner.

[0016] In one embodiment, the end face of the temperature sensor can directly contact the wiring portion. This improves temperature transfer between the wiring portion and the temperature sensor.

[0017] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the vehicle includes an electric motor configured to drive the vehicle. The electric motor is an electric motor as described above and / or includes wiring portions and / or a temperature sensor assembly as described above. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein:

[0019] Figure 1a and Figure 1b An example of a temperature sensor assembly and wiring section is shown;

[0020] Figure 2a and Figure 2b The illustration shows a temperature sensor arrangement according to the prior art and an arrangement of a temperature sensor assembly according to the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 A detailed view of the temperature sensor assembly in Figure 2 is shown;

[0022] Figure 4a and Figure 4b The arrangement of the temperature sensor assembly at the wiring section is shown; and

[0023] Figure 5 An example of a motor according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1a and Figure 1b An example of a temperature sensor assembly 100 and a wiring section 150 is shown. Figure 1a An oblique top view of the temperature sensor assembly 100 is shown. The temperature sensor assembly 100 is used to arrange at the wiring section of the motor (see, for example...). Figure 1b The temperature sensor assembly 100 includes a temperature sensor (not shown) and a housing 110. The housing 110 of the temperature sensor assembly 100 at least partially surrounds the temperature sensor. Furthermore, the housing 110 includes a first end face with a protrusion 120 and a second end face 130 opposite to the first end face. The protrusion 120 is elastically deformable. The protrusion 120 and the second end face 130 are configured to forcefully arrange the temperature sensor assembly 100 on a wiring portion.

[0025] A wiring terminal can be a device or component used to connect windings in an electric motor (such as a transformer or electric motor) to each other and / or to a voltage source. For example, a wiring terminal can electrically connect multiple windings to each other and / or electrically connect at least one winding to a voltage source. The wiring terminal can, for example, use a star or delta connection to connect the windings.

[0026] Therefore, the wiring section can be a connection structure used to establish connections between windings and / or with a voltage source. For example, the wiring section can be a connection structure specifically configured for winding connections and / or control electrical connections in a motor.

[0027] Wiring sections can be, for example, coupling clips for securely establishing electrical connections, switchable wiring sections (for switching between different wiring types), junction boxes (for centralizing and / or supporting connections), and / or circuit boards.

[0028] Temperature sensors can be, for example, thermocouples, resistance temperature sensors, infrared temperature sensors, and / or temperature measuring instruments. Specifically, temperature sensor assembly 100 may include multiple temperature sensors, such as a thermocouple and a resistance temperature sensor. By using multiple temperature sensors, more comprehensive temperature monitoring and / or temperature control can be achieved.

[0029] The protrusion 120 may be an intentional irregularity on the first end face. For example, the protrusion 120 may be an outwardly flared portion, a protrusion (e.g., a flange), and / or an area of ​​the end face that has not been removed. The protrusion 120 may, for example, be a geometric feature of the housing 110 configured to elastically deform. The protrusion 120 may have any structure. For example, the protrusion 120 may be helically constructed like a spring. Alternatively, the protrusion 120 may be a projection, such as that shown in FIG. 1.

[0030] The protrusion 120 is configured to return to its original shape after the external force is removed when it deforms due to external force. If the protrusion 120 can deform elastically, this means that the protrusion 120 possesses a certain degree of elasticity, i.e., the ability to temporarily change its shape under the action of force and then return to its original shape after the load is removed. Specifically, the protrusion 120 can obey Hooke's Law during deformation. Plastic deformation of the protrusion 120 will not occur as long as the load on the protrusion 120 remains within a specific range that can be called the elastic range.

[0031] The elastic deformability of the protrusion 120 allows it to be used to apply a force parallel to the longitudinal direction of the temperature sensor assembly 100. For example, a force perpendicular to the first end face can be applied via the protrusion 120. This force (also called pressing force) can be used to press the second end face 130 against the wall of the wiring portion. Thus, the temperature sensor assembly 100 can be force-transmittingly arranged on the wiring portion parallel to the longitudinal axis of the temperature sensor assembly 100.

[0032] For example, to arrange the temperature sensor assembly 100, the protrusion 120 can be pressed against the wall of the wiring portion. Thus, the protrusion 120 can elastically deform. The temperature sensor assembly 100 can then be arranged in the recess of the wiring portion. The protrusion 120 can then return to its original position, thereby allowing the second end face 130 to press against the wall of the wiring portion. Therefore, the protrusion 120 can press against (e.g., the recess or protrusion of the wiring portion) the first wall, and the second end face 130 can then press against (e.g., the recess or second protrusion of the wiring portion) the second wall. The first wall of the recess can be opposite to the second wall of the recess. This allows the temperature sensor assembly 100 to be arranged on the wiring portion in a simplified manner. No additional fasteners are required. This results in time and / or cost savings in motor manufacturing.

[0033] Specifically, the temperature sensor assembly 100 can be arranged without additional fasteners via the protrusion 120 and the second end face 130. The temperature sensor assembly 100 can be arranged on the wiring portion solely by means of the housing 110. The arrangement of the housing 110 also allows the temperature sensor to be positioned on the wiring portion, thus eliminating the need for fasteners such as clamping screws.

[0034] The pressing force acts along at least one spatial direction, such as a spatial direction parallel to the longitudinal extension of the temperature sensor assembly 100. Optionally, the pressing force can also be applied in multiple spatial directions via the protrusion 120 and / or the second end face 130. For this purpose, in one embodiment, the second end face 130 and / or the protrusion 120 can be configured to forcefully arrange the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion along two spatial directions. For example, the second end face 130 can have a convex surface. The convex surface can generate a force perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the temperature sensor assembly 100 acting on the temperature sensor assembly 100. For example, the second end face 130 can be pressed against the end face of the wiring portion parallel to the wall portion by adapting to the wall portion of the wiring portion. Alternatively, the second end face 130 can have a wedge-shaped or uneven surface configured to apply pressing force perpendicular to the end face of the wiring portion. Optionally or alternatively, the protrusion can also have, for example, a convex or wedge-shaped surface.

[0035] For example, a first pressing force can be applied parallel to the longitudinal direction of the temperature sensor assembly 100, and a second pressing force can be applied perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the temperature sensor assembly 100. The first pressing force can be used, in particular, to arrange the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion. The second pressing force can be used, in particular, to establish contact to transfer temperature between the temperature sensor assembly 100 and the wiring portion. Therefore, the second pressing force can particularly improve temperature transfer between the temperature sensor assembly 100 and the wiring portion. Thus, temperature determination by means of the temperature sensor can be improved by the second pressing force. The construction of the second end face 130 and / or the protrusion 120 is merely one feasible solution for applying the second pressing force.

[0036] For example, housing 110 may include another area for applying a second pressing force. Optionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, housing 110 may also include a recess. The recess may include elements for engaging with a form-fitting fixing structure, such as a fastener, screw, or rivet. The fastener may be arranged on the wiring portion and engaged in the recess. For example, the recess may include a protrusion, such as a groove or indentation. The fastener may, for example, engage in the groove and be secured to the wiring portion. Thus, housing 110 or temperature sensor assembly 100 can be pressed onto the wiring portion perpendicular to the end face of the wiring portion by means of the recess.

[0037] In one embodiment, the housing 110 can be integrally constructed. This simplifies the manufacturing of the temperature sensor assembly 100 and / or reduces manufacturing costs.

[0038] In one embodiment, the end face of the temperature sensor may be flush with or extend beyond the rear side of the housing 110. Therefore, the end face of the temperature sensor may not be covered by the housing. The end face of the temperature sensor may be arranged opposite to the end face of the wiring portion. This improves temperature transfer between the wiring portion and the temperature sensor. Specifically, the end face of the temperature sensor may be in direct contact with the end face of the wiring portion. For example, the end face of the temperature sensor may be pressed against the end face of the wiring portion by a second pressing force.

[0039] Alternatively, the temperature sensor can be completely enclosed by the housing 110. This improves the protection of the temperature sensor from external influences.

[0040] In one embodiment, the housing may include, or be made of, plastic, epoxide, and / or metal. The material of the housing can be tailored to the application. For example, the temperature sensor may be encapsulated in glass. In this case, the housing may be made of metal, such as aluminum or copper. This can improve temperature transfer between the wiring portion and the temperature sensor assembly 100. Optionally or alternatively, the housing 110 may be made of or comprise plastic. For example, the temperature sensor may be at least partially encapsulated by plastic injection molding. Optionally or alternatively, an epoxide may also be at least partially cast around the temperature sensor. The use of plastic and / or epoxide can reduce the manufacturing cost of the temperature sensor assembly 100.

[0041] By using form-fitting technology, the temperature sensor assembly 100, such as a temperature sensor encapsulated in plastic injection molding, can be planarly fixed to the component to be monitored, i.e., the wiring portion. The temperature sensor assembly 100 can be fixed and tolerance-compensated by an elastic element, or compensating element, i.e., the protrusion 120. In particular, the temperature sensor assembly 100 can be manufactured in a single process step. Additional parts, such as metal clamps and clamping discs, can be eliminated. The advantages are reduced component tolerance compensation, temperature sensor assembly 100 tolerance compensation, and / or repeatable disassembly, such as during replacement during maintenance.

[0042] Figure 1b A schematic diagram of the wiring portion 150 is shown. This wiring portion is shown in a top view. The wiring portion 150 can be used to arrange temperature sensor assemblies, such as in, for example... Figure 1aThe temperature sensor assembly is shown in FIG1. ​​The wiring portion 150 is for a motor and is used to arrange the temperature sensor assembly, and includes a recess 155. The recess 155 is configured to receive the temperature sensor assembly described with reference to FIG1. ​​The side surface 174 of the recess 155 is configured to establish a force-transmitting contact between the temperature sensor assembly and the wiring portion 150 perpendicular to the surface 178 of the wiring portion 150. For example, the temperature sensor assembly can be force-transmittingly connected to the wiring portion 150 perpendicular to the end face 178 of the wiring portion 150. The end face 178 particularly provides an increased contact surface between the temperature sensor assembly 100 and the wiring portion 150.

[0043] The recess 155 may be formed by a first protrusion 160 and a second protrusion 170. One side 174 of the second protrusion 170 is configured to press the temperature sensor assembly against the end face 178 of the wiring portion 150. The second protrusion 170 may, for example, be partially wedge-shaped. Alternatively, the side 174 may also have a partially concave surface. The recess 155 may be formed by a recess within the wiring portion 150. Alternatively, the recess 155 may be formed by a protruding structure, such as protrusions 160 and 170. Optionally, the first protrusion 160 may include a recess for receiving a protrusion of the housing of the temperature sensor assembly. This simplifies the arrangement of the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion 150.

[0044] Figure 2a and Figure 2b The arrangement of a temperature sensor 202 according to the prior art and the arrangement of a temperature sensor assembly according to the present invention are shown. Figure 2a In this configuration, the temperature sensor 202 is secured to the wiring terminal via a metal crimping part 204. This metal crimping part 204 is secured by a clamping disc 206. This type of securing of the temperature sensor is cumbersome during assembly and / or may present problems during maintenance or replacement.

[0045] exist Figure 2b A temperature sensor assembly 200 according to the present invention is shown. The temperature sensor assembly 200 includes two protrusions 220 on a first end face of a housing 210 of the temperature sensor assembly 200. The housing 210 can be formed by injection molding the temperature sensor. In particular, the housing 210 can be made of plastic. The two protrusions 220 keep the temperature sensor assembly 200 permanently stressed at the wiring portion 250. This prevents the temperature sensor assembly 200 from detaching from the wiring portion 250.

[0046] also, Figure 2b An optional mortise-and-tenon lock is disclosed. This optional mortise-and-tenon lock is in... Figure 3 This is shown in detail in the text.

[0047] Figure 3A detailed view of the temperature sensor assembly in Figure 2 is shown. The temperature sensor assembly 300 is arranged on the wiring portion 350. Two protrusions 320 are formed on the first end face 324. These protrusions 320 press against the first side face 364 of the wiring portion 350. A second end face 330 is formed opposite to the first end face 324. The second end face 330 presses against the second side face 374 of the wiring portion. The temperature sensor assembly 300 can be arranged on the wiring portion 350 by the pressure of the protrusions 320 on the first side face 364 and the pressure of the second end face 330 on the second side face 374.

[0048] An optional recess 380 is surrounded by a housing 320. This optional recess 380 may include a groove 384. The groove 384 may be an element for form-fitting connection with a mounting structure 390. The mounting structure 390 may be a pin or a screw. Specifically, the mounting structure 390 may include a region for receiving the groove 384. Thus, the temperature sensor assembly 300 can be pressed against the end face of the wiring portion 350 through the interaction between the recess 380 and the mounting structure 390.

[0049] Figure 4a and Figure 4b The arrangement of the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring section is shown. (As in...) Figure 4a As can be seen, the temperature sensor assembly can be inserted into the recess of the wiring terminal from above. During this process, the protrusion of the temperature sensor assembly presses against the side of the recess of the wiring terminal. This causes the protrusion of the temperature sensor assembly to elastically deform. Therefore, the temperature sensor assembly can be inserted into the wiring terminal, specifically at an angle from above. This is... Figure 4b It is schematically shown by arrow 410.

[0050] This insertion of the temperature sensor assembly may cause the protrusions to elastically deform, for example, by being pressed closer together. The elastic deformation of the protrusions is schematically represented by arrow 420. The elastic deformation of the protrusions can press the temperature sensor assembly downwards. Furthermore, a locking mechanism can be achieved, schematically represented by arrow 440.

[0051] After the temperature sensor assembly is placed in the recess of the wiring portion, for example, after pressing down, a certain stress can be maintained. In particular, the counter-pressure schematically indicated by arrow 430 can secure the temperature sensor assembly to the wiring portion.

[0052] Figure 5 An example of a motor 502 according to the present invention is shown. This motor may, for example, be part of a vehicle 500.

[0053] The motor 502 includes a wiring portion 550 (e.g., the wiring portion described in conjunction with FIG. 2) and a temperature sensor assembly 510, such as that described in conjunction with FIG. 1. The wiring portion 550 includes a surface having a recess for arranging the temperature sensor assembly 510. The temperature sensor assembly 510 is force-transmittedly connected to the wiring portion 550 by means of a protrusion and a second end face. This provides a motor in which the temperature sensor can be arranged in a simplified manner.

[0054] In one embodiment, the end face of the temperature sensor can directly contact the wiring portion 550. This can improve temperature transfer between the wiring portion and the temperature sensor.

[0055] Vehicle 500 may include motor 502. The motor 502 may be configured to drive the vehicle.

[0056] Especially in the field of vehicle applications, the temperature sensor assembly 510 according to the present invention has an additional advantage: in the vehicle's surrounding environment, the motor 502 has high power, making it particularly important to accurately determine the temperature of the wiring section 550. List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 100 Temperature Sensor Assembly 110 Casing 120 protrusion 130 Second end face 150 Wiring Section 155 recess 160 First protrusion 170 Second protrusion 174 Side View 178 End face of the wiring section 200 Temperature Sensor Assembly 202 Temperature Sensor 204 Stainless Steel Press-fit Part 206 Clamping disc 210 Housing 220 protrusion 250 Wiring Section 300 Temperature Sensor Assembly 320 protrusion 324 First end face 330 Second end face 350 Wiring Section 364 First side view 374 Second side view 380 recess 384 Groove 390 Fixed Structure 410 Temperature sensor assembly pressed down 420 convex elastic deformation 430 Back pressure for arranging temperature sensor assemblies 440 Temperature sensor assembly locking 500 vehicles 502 motor 510 Temperature Sensor Assembly 550 Wiring section.

Claims

1. A temperature sensor assembly (100) for use on a wiring portion (150) of a motor (502), comprising: Temperature sensor; as well as The temperature sensor housing (110), wherein the housing (110) at least partially surrounds the temperature sensor, and wherein, The housing (110) includes: A first end face with a protrusion (120), wherein the protrusion (120) is elastically deformable; The second end face (130) opposite to the first end face, wherein, The protrusion (120) and the second end face (130) of the temperature sensor assembly (100) are configured to forcefully arrange the temperature sensor assembly on the wiring portion.

2. The temperature sensor assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the second end face or the protrusion (120) is configured to forcefully arrange the temperature sensor assembly (100) on the wiring portion in two spatial directions.

3. The temperature sensor assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (110) further comprises: A recess, wherein the recess includes elements for connecting to a fixed structural shape.

4. The temperature sensor assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The shell (110) is a single piece.

5. The temperature sensor assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The end face of the temperature sensor is flush with or extends beyond the rear side of the housing (110).

6. The temperature sensor assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The housing (110) may be made of plastic, epoxide or metal, or may be made of plastic, epoxide or metal.

7. A wiring portion (150) for use in a motor for arranging a temperature sensor assembly (100), the wiring portion comprising: A recess (155), wherein the recess (155) is configured to receive a temperature sensor assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, and wherein, The side (174) of the recess (155) is configured to establish a force-transmitting contact between the temperature sensor assembly (100) and the wiring portion (150) perpendicular to the surface of the wiring portion (150).

8. Motor (502), comprising: Wiring portion (550), the wiring portion including a surface having a recess for arranging a temperature sensor assembly (510) according to any one of claims 1-6; and The temperature sensor assembly (510) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The temperature sensor assembly (510) is connected to the wiring portion (550) in a force-transmitting manner via the protrusion and the second end face.

9. The motor (502) according to claim 8, wherein, The end face of the temperature sensor is in direct contact with the wiring portion.

10. Vehicles (500), including: An electric motor (502) configured to drive the vehicle (500), wherein the electric motor (502) is an electric motor (502) according to any one of claims 8-9, or includes a wiring portion (150) according to claim 7, or includes a temperature sensor assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1-6.

Images