Bus bar holder and method for manufacturing bus bar holder

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a bus bar holder and a method for manufacturing a bus bar holder capable of improving assemblability with respect to a bus bar. A bus bar holder (1) is provided with: a base (10) provided with an insertion space (3) through which a bus bar (2) is inserted in the axial direction (X); and a cover (20) which is assembled to the base (10) along the axial direction (X) and covers the insertion space portion (3) from one end portion side in the stacking direction (Z), the base (10) is configured to include a groove portion (13) which supports the cover (20) so as to be slidable along the axial direction (X), the cover (20) has a locking portion (23) which is provided on at least two or more corner portions (20a), and the locking portion (23) is configured to lock the insertion space portion (3) in the insertion space portion (3). The locking member is locked to the peripheral edge of the groove (13) in the base (10) in the axial direction (X).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a busbar retainer and a method for manufacturing a busbar retainer. Background Technology

[0002] As a technology related to conventional busbar retainers, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a busbar retainer having: a base having an insertion space for inserting a busbar along an axial direction; and a cover covering the insertion space of the base from one end side of a stacking direction intersecting the axial direction.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-1851 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the busbar retainer described in the aforementioned Patent Document 1, there is room for further improvement, for example, in terms of improving the assemblability with respect to the busbar.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a busbar retainer and a method for manufacturing a busbar retainer that can improve the assemblability of the busbar.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the busbar retainer of the present invention comprises: a base having an insertion space for inserting a busbar along an axial direction; and a cover assembled to the base along the axial direction and covering the insertion space from one end of a stacking direction intersecting the axial direction, the base being configured to include a groove supporting the cover so as to be slidable along the axial direction, the cover having a locking portion provided at at least two or more corners of the cover and locking with the periphery of the groove in the base along the axial direction.

[0011] In addition, to achieve the above objectives, the method for manufacturing a busbar retainer according to the present invention includes: a first step of assembling a busbar into an insertion space along an axial direction and placing it into a base having the insertion space; a second step of assembling a cover covering the insertion space from one end side of a stacking direction intersecting the axial direction into the base by sliding it along the axial direction; and a third step of locking portions provided at at least two corners of the cover into the periphery of a groove in the base along the axial direction.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] In the busbar retainer and its manufacturing method of the present invention, the cover has a locking portion disposed at at least two corners of the cover and locking with the periphery of a groove in the base along the axial direction. According to this structure, the busbar retainer and its manufacturing method can, for example, assemble the cover onto the base by sliding the cover relative to the base along the axial direction to lock the locking portions disposed at at least two corners of the cover with the periphery of the groove. As a result, the busbar retainer and its manufacturing method improve assemblability with respect to the busbar. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is an exemplary perspective view of the busbar retainer of the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 This is an exemplary perspective view of the busbar retainer in the embodiment, from the perspective of... Figure 1 Images viewed from different angles.

[0017] Figure 4 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is an exemplary perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing a busbar retainer according to an embodiment, and is a diagram showing the first step.

[0019] Figure 6 This is an exemplary perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing a busbar retainer according to an embodiment, and is a diagram showing the second and third steps.

[0020] Figure 7 This is an exemplary flowchart of a method for manufacturing a busbar retainer according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the first modified example.

[0022] Figure 9 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the first variant.

[0023] Figure 10 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the second variation.

[0024] Figure 11This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the second variation.

[0025] Figure 12 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the third variation.

[0026] Figure 13 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the third variation.

[0027] Figure 14 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the fourth variation.

[0028] Figure 15 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the fourth variation.

[0029] Figure 16 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the fifth variation.

[0030] Figure 17 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the fifth variation.

[0031] Figure 18 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the sixth variation.

[0032] Figure 19 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the sixth variation.

[0033] Figure 20 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the seventh variation.

[0034] Figure 21 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the seventh variation.

[0035] Figure 22 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the seventh variation, from the perspective of... Figure 20 Images viewed from different angles.

[0036] Figure 23 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the eighth variation.

[0037] Figure 24 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the eighth variation.

[0038] Figure 25 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the ninth variation.

[0039] Figure 26 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer of the ninth variation.

[0040] Figure 27 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer of the ninth variation, from the perspective of... Figure 25 Images viewed from different angles. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments and modifications of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and modifications described below. Additionally, the constituent elements in the embodiments and modifications described below include elements that can be easily substituted by those skilled in the art, or elements that are substantially the same.

[0042] Furthermore, the same constituent elements are included in the embodiments and modifications disclosed below. Therefore, these same constituent elements will be given common reference numerals below, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. In addition, in this specification, ordinal numbers are used only to distinguish parts, components, locations, positions, directions, etc., and do not indicate order or priority.

[0043] [Example]

[0044] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the busbar retainer 1 in the embodiment. Figure 1 The busbar holder 1 shown in this embodiment is assembled onto the busbar 2 used for power distribution of a battery in a vehicle such as an automobile (see reference). Figure 6 Here, the busbar holder 1 includes, for example, a first busbar holder 1A assembled in the busbar 2 for the first busbar 2A and a second busbar holder 1B assembled in the busbar 2 for the second busbar 2B. One of the first busbar 2A and the second busbar 2B is the busbar 2 on the positive electrode side and the other is the busbar 2 on the negative electrode side.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first busbar retainer 1A and the second busbar retainer 1B of the busbar retainer 1 are composed of identical components. That is, the specifications of the first busbar retainer 1A are the same as those of the second busbar retainer 1B. The busbar 2 is configured, for example, to include a straight portion extending along the axial direction X and an intersecting portion intersecting the straight portion, and is integrally formed in a crank shape. The busbar retainer 1 (the first busbar retainer 1A and the second busbar retainer 1B) is assembled, for example, to the straight portion of the busbar 2 and fixed to a fixed part of the vehicle to support the busbar 2. Thus, the busbar 2 can be fixed and supported along the wiring path.

[0046] Furthermore, in the following description, the first direction among the intersecting first, second, and third directions will be referred to as "axial direction X", the second direction as "width direction Y", and the third direction as "stack direction Z". Here, axial direction X, width direction Y, and stack direction Z are approximately orthogonal to each other. Axial direction X typically extends along the extension direction of the straight portion of busbar 2, the insertion direction of busbar 2 relative to busbar holder 1, the length direction (extension direction) of busbar holder 1, etc. Width direction Y typically extends along the width direction of busbar 2, the width direction of busbar holder 1, etc. Stack direction Z typically extends along the thickness direction of busbar 2, the height direction of busbar holder 1, the stacking direction of base 10 and cover 20 of busbar holder 1 (described later), etc. In addition, unless otherwise specified, all directions used in the following description are described as directions in the state where busbar holder 1 is assembled with busbar 2.

[0047] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of busbar retainer 1. Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view of busbar retainer 1, which is from the perspective of... Figure 1 Images viewed from different angles, Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of busbar retainer 1. (See attached image.) Figures 2-4 As shown, the busbar retainer 1 is configured, for example, to include a base 10 and a cover 20. That is, the first busbar retainer 1A and the second busbar retainer 1B described above are each configured to include a base 10 and a cover 20. In other words, the base 10 includes a first base assembled to the first busbar 2A and a second base assembled to the second busbar 2B, and the cover 20 includes a first cover assembled to the first base along the axial direction X and a second cover assembled to the second base along the axial direction X.

[0048] The base 10 has an insertion space 3 for the busbar 2 to be inserted along the axial direction X. The insertion space 3 extends through the base 10 along the axial direction X, and is open at one end in the stacking direction Z. The base 10 is configured, for example, to include a base side bottom wall 11, a pair of base side side walls 12, a groove 13, and a fixing part 14 (see reference). Figure 3 The base 10 is integrally formed, for example, from synthetic resin, including a base side wall 11, a pair of base side walls 12, and a fixing portion 14. The base side wall 11 and the pair of base side walls 12 are structures used to divide the insertion space 3 of the base 10. The insertion space 3 is a space for the busbar 2 to be inserted and for wiring. The base side wall 11 is formed into a flat plate that extends transversely along the axial direction X. The pair of base side walls 12 protrude from both ends of the base side wall 11 in the width direction Y toward one end in the stacking direction Z and extend along the axial direction X.

[0049] Additionally, a groove 13 extending along the axial direction X is provided on each of the pair of base sidewalls 12 (see reference). Figure 2 The groove 13 is a mounting groove that supports the cover 20 so that it can slide along the axial direction X. The groove 13 is recessed from the inner surface of a pair of base sidewalls 12 along the width direction Y toward the side that is separated from each other, and opens toward the side that is close to each other. In addition, the groove 13 is provided between one end and the other end of the pair of base sidewalls 12 in the axial direction X, and opens toward both sides in the axial direction X. In this embodiment, the groove 13 is provided in the pair of base sidewalls 12 at a position closer to the end in the stacking direction Z than the center of the stacking direction Z (the side opposite to the base side bottom wall 11), and the above-mentioned insertion space 3 is formed between the groove 13 and the base side bottom wall 11.

[0050] The cover 20 covers the insertion space 3 formed on the base 10 from one end in the Z-direction of the stacking direction. The cover 20 is configured, for example, to include a cover body 21, an arm 22, a locking portion 23, and a slit 24. The cover 20 is integrally formed, for example, from synthetic resin or the like. The cover body 21 is a structure used to divide the insertion space 3 together with the base 10. The cover body 21 is, for example, formed as a generally rectangular flat plate extending laterally along the axial direction X. That is, the cover body 21 has four corner portions 20a, two of which are provided at each of the two ends in the axial direction X.

[0051] Arms 22 are provided, for example, at the four corners 20a of the cover body 21, protruding from the cover body 21 in a cantilever spring shape. Each arm 22 is elastically deformable relative to the cover body 21 along the width direction Y. That is, one end of each arm 22 in the axial direction X is connected to the cover body 21, while the other end in the axial direction X is configured as a free end capable of elastically deforming along the width direction Y. In addition, in this embodiment, each arm 22 is inclined relative to the axial direction X. Specifically, when viewed from the stacking direction Z (refer to...), Figure 4 Each arm 22 is inclined approximately along the diagonal line connecting the two ends (four corners) of the axis direction X of the pair of grooves 13.

[0052] The locking portion 23 is a portion that engages with the periphery of the groove portion 13 in the base 10 along the axial direction X. In this embodiment, the locking portion 23 is provided at the end portion of each arm portion 22. The end portion of each arm portion 22 is the end portion on the side opposite to the cover body 21 in the axial direction X. The locking portion 23 protrudes from each arm portion 22 along the width direction Y. Specifically, a pair of locking portions 23 provided at one end side in the axial direction X and a pair of locking portions 23 provided at the other end side in the axial direction X protrude in a claw-like shape from each arm portion 22 along the width direction Y toward a mutually separated side.

[0053] The slit 24 is an opening that allows the arm 22 to elastically deform along the width direction Y. The slit 24 is provided, for example, at the four corners 20a of the cover body 21, extending along the axial direction X. Furthermore, each slit 24 is located closer to the center of the arm 22 in the width direction Y, penetrating the cover body 21 along the stacking direction Z. In this embodiment, an example is shown where the arm 22, the locking portion 23, and the slit 24 are provided at the four corners 20a of the cover 20, but this is not a limitation; any structure where the locking portion 23 is provided at at least two or more corners 20a is acceptable.

[0054] Fixing part 14 (see reference) Figure 3 This is the part for fixing the support rod on the vehicle side. The fixing part 14 is provided on the outer surface of the base side bottom wall 11 in the base 10 described above. The fixing part 14 is configured, for example, to include an insertion hole 14a for inserting the support rod along the width direction Y and a locking piece 14b for locking the support rod along the width direction Y. The insertion hole 14a is configured as a through hole that passes through the fixing part 14 along the width direction Y. In this embodiment, at one end side of the insertion hole 14a in the width direction Y ( Figure 3 The open end of the strut (on the lower side) is provided with a tapered surface to improve the insertability of the strut. The tapered surface is inclined in such a way that it faces one end side in the width direction Y and both sides in the stacking direction Z and the axial direction X.

[0055] The locking piece 14b is formed as a cantilever spring on the peripheral wall of the other end side (opposite to the base side bottom wall 11) in the stacking direction Z of the insertion hole 14a. Specifically, one end side of the locking piece 14b in the width direction Y ( Figure 3 The lower side) is connected to the peripheral wall of the fixing part 14, and on the other hand, the other end side in the width direction Y ( Figure 3 The upper side of the locking piece 14b is configured as a free end capable of elastic deformation along the stacking direction Z. Furthermore, a pair of slits 14c extending along the width direction Y are provided on both sides of the locking piece 14b in the axial direction X. The pair of slits 14c extend from a midpoint on one end side of the peripheral wall of the fixing part 14 in the width direction Y toward the other end side in the width direction Y, and open at the other end side in the width direction Y.

[0056] In this embodiment, relative to the insertion hole 14a of the fixing part 14 having the above-described structure, from one end side in the width direction Y ( Figure 3The top end of the support rod is inserted into the lower side of the support rod. The top end of the support rod is guided along the inclined surface of the protrusion provided on the inner surface of the locking piece 14b, thereby causing the free end of the other end of the locking piece 14b in the width direction Y to elastically deform along the stacking direction Z. Furthermore, as the top end of the support rod passes over the protrusion, the locking piece 14b returns to its free state, and the protrusion inserts into and engages with the opening provided at the top end of the support rod. In this state, the inner surface of the opening and the locking surface of the protrusion engage along the width direction Y, and the support rod is locked (fixed) relative to the fixing part 14.

[0057] Next, an example of a manufacturing method (assembly method) for a busbar retainer 1 having the above structure will be described. Figure 5 This is a perspective view illustrating the manufacturing method of the busbar retainer 1, and it shows the first step S1. Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating the manufacturing method of the busbar retainer 1, and a diagram showing the second step S2 and the third step S3. Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the manufacturing method of the busbar retainer 1.

[0058] First, in the first step S1 process, as Figure 5 , Figure 7 As shown, the busbar 2 is assembled onto the base 10 by inserting it through the insertion space 3 along the axial direction X. In this case, the busbar holder 1 is configured, for example, with the insertion spaces 3 of a pair of bases 10 opening towards opposite sides along the stacking direction Z, and the busbar 2 is inserted into each insertion space 3 along the stacking direction Z. That is, the first busbar holder 1A in the busbar holder 1 is configured with the insertion space 3 of the base 10 open towards one end side in the stacking direction Z, and the first busbar 2A in the busbar 2 is inserted into the insertion space 3 from one end side in the stacking direction Z. On the other hand, the second busbar holder 1B in the busbar holder 1 is configured with the insertion space 3 of the base 10 open towards the other end side in the stacking direction Z, and the second busbar 2B in the busbar 2 is inserted into the insertion space 3 from the other end side in the stacking direction Z.

[0059] In this embodiment, the busbar 2 is configured to include a conductive busbar body 2a and an insulating cover portion 2b that covers the busbar body 2a. The busbar retainer 1 is assembled to the insulating cover portion 2b of the busbar 2. The insulating cover portion 2b is provided, for example, throughout a substantially entire straight portion of the busbar 2 extending along the axial direction X. A pair of bases 10 of the busbar retainer 1 are assembled at predetermined positions on the insulating cover portion 2b.

[0060] Next, in the second step S2, as... Figure 6 , Figure 7As shown, the cover 20 is assembled by sliding relative to the base 10 along the axial direction X. In this case, the busbar retainer 1, for example, positions a pair of covers 20 in the busbar 2 at positions offset from a pair of bases 10 along the axial direction X (see reference). Figure 5 In this state, the pair of covers 20 are slidably inserted into the grooves 13 of the pair of bases 10 along the axial direction X. At this time, in this embodiment, the two arms 22 and the two locking parts 23 provided at one end side (base 10 side) of the four corners 20a of the cover 20 along the width direction Y are elastically deformed toward the side that is close to each other.

[0061] Next, in the third step S3, as... Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the locking portion 23 provided at the corner 20a of the cover 20 is locked to the periphery of the groove 13 in the base 10 along the axial direction X. In this case, the busbar holder 1 returns to a free state, for example, by having two arm portions 22 and two locking portions 23 provided at a pair of corner portions 20a located at one end side of the aforementioned axial direction X, passing over the groove 13, where the two locking portions 23 provided at the pair of corner portions 20a are locked to the periphery of the groove 13 at one end side of the axial direction X along the axial direction X.

[0062] On the other hand, the two arms 22 and the two locking parts 23 provided at a pair of corner portions 20a located on the opposite end side (opposite to the base 10) in the axial direction X of the four corner portions 20a of the cover 20 do not insert into the slot 13 during the sliding operation of the cover 20, and therefore move along the axial direction X while maintaining a free state. Furthermore, as the two arms 22 and the two locking parts 23 located on one end side in the axial direction X return to a free state, they lock along the axial direction X with the periphery of the slot 13 on the other end side in the axial direction X. Through these first steps S1 to third steps S3, the busbar holder 1 can be assembled to the busbar 2 to manufacture the busbar holder 1.

[0063] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when disassembling the busbar 2 relative to the busbar holder 1, the first busbar 2A and the second busbar 2B of the busbar 2 can be disassembled in opposite directions (the side furthest from each other) along the stacking direction Z. This prevents the first busbar 2A and the second busbar 2B from approaching each other by a certain distance, and allows for the disassembly of only one side of the busbar 2 from the first busbar 2A and the second busbar 2B first, thus providing the advantage of suppressing short circuits in the busbar 2. Additionally, in this embodiment, the busbar holder 1 is assembled to the insulating sheath 2b of the busbar 2, allowing for a more appropriate and safer assembly operation of the busbar holder 1 relative to the busbar 2.

[0064] As described above, in the busbar retainer 1 and its manufacturing method in this embodiment, the cover 20 has a locking portion 23, which is provided at at least two corner portions 20a and engages with the periphery of the groove portion 13 in the base 10 along the axial direction X. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1 and its manufacturing method can, for example, assemble the cover 20 to the base 10 by sliding the cover 20 relative to the base 10 along the axial direction X, thereby engaging the locking portions 23 provided at at least two corner portions 20a of the cover 20 with the periphery of the groove portion 13. As a result, the busbar retainer 1 and its manufacturing method can improve assemblability with respect to the busbar 2.

[0065] Furthermore, in the busbar retainer 1 of this embodiment, the cover 20 has a cover body 21 and an arm 22 that protrudes from the cover body 21 in a cantilever spring shape and is elastically deformable along the width direction Y. A locking portion 23 is provided at the end of the arm 22. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1 can, for example, improve the insertability of the locking portion 23 relative to the slot 13 by means of the arm 22, thereby further improving the assemblability of the cover 20 relative to the base 10.

[0066] Furthermore, in the busbar retainer 1 of this embodiment, the base 10 also has a fixing part 14 for fixing to the support rod on the vehicle side. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1 can, for example, fix the base 10 to the support rod (fixed object part) on the vehicle side by means of the fixing part 14, thereby making it easier to install the busbar retainer 1 on the vehicle.

[0067] [First Variation]

[0068] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1C of the first modified example. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1C. Figure 8 , Figure 9 The busbar retainer 1C shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1 of the above embodiment. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1C can achieve the same function and effect as the above embodiment based on the same structure.

[0069] However, in this variant example, as Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, the difference from the above embodiment is that two of the four corner portions 20a of the cover 20 are provided with arm portions 22 and locking portions 23. Specifically, in this modified example, for example, at one end side of the cover 20 in the width direction Y at both ends in the axial direction X ( Figure 8The two corner portions 20a on the upper side are provided with arm portions 22 and locking portions 23. Additionally, in this modified example, the other end of one of the pair of groove portions 13 in the width direction ( Figure 8 The end of the groove 13 (on the lower side, opposite to the locking part 23) in the axial direction X, that is, the front end of the cover 20 in the insertion direction relative to the base 10, is stopped by the stop part 13a (see reference). Figure 9 The stop part 13a can suppress the movement (overshoot, etc.) of the cover 20 relative to the base 10 along the axial direction X by abutting against the cover 20.

[0070] Furthermore, in this modified example, the cover 20 has a first inclined surface 25 that is inclined relative to the axial direction X. The first inclined surface 25 is disposed at the other end side of the cover 20 in the width direction Y at the other end in the axial direction X. Figure 8 , Figure 9 The corner 20a (lower side) is different from the corner 20a with the locking part 23 among the four corners 20a. It is the corner 20a on the rear end side of the cover 20 relative to the insertion direction of the base 10 in the axial direction X. In addition, in this modified example, the base 10 has a second inclined surface 15 that locks with the first inclined surface 25 along the axial direction X. The second inclined surface 15 is provided on the inner surface (bottom surface) of the groove 13 and extends along the first inclined surface 25.

[0071] As described above, in the busbar retainer 1C of this modified example, the cover 20 has a first inclined surface 25 provided at one of the four corners 20a that is different from the corner 20a where the locking part 23 is provided, and the base 10 has a second inclined surface 15 provided on the inner surface of the groove 13 and engaged with the first inclined surface 25 along the axial direction X. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1C, for example, by using the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 15, can reduce the number of arm parts 22 and locking parts 23, thereby further simplifying the shape of the cover 20, and thus reducing the time and cost required to manufacture the busbar retainer 1C. Furthermore, for example, by the contact between the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 15, it is possible to suppress the wobbling between the base 10 and the cover 20 along the axial direction X.

[0072] [Second variation]

[0073] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar cage 1D of the second modified example. Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1D. Figure 10 , Figure 11 The busbar retainer 1D shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1C of the first modified example described above. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1D can achieve the same function and effect as the first modified example based on the same structure.

[0074] However, in this variant example, as Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown, at the other end of the axial direction X of the cover 20 ( Figure 10 The other end of the width direction Y (left side) Figure 10 The corner 20a (on the lower side) of the cover 20 differs from the first modified example described above in that it is provided with a locking part 23. The locking part 23 is different from the locking part 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm 22, and protrudes in a claw shape from the cover body 21 along the width direction Y. The locking part 23 is the part that locks with the periphery of the groove 13 in the base 10. For example, the locking part 23 can suppress the movement (overshooting, etc.) of the cover 20 relative to the base 10 along the axial direction X by abutting against the periphery of the groove 13.

[0075] As described above, in the busbar retainer 1D of this modified example, the cover 20 is configured to include a locking portion 23 that is different from the locking portion 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm portion 22. According to this structure, the shape of the cover 20 of the busbar retainer 1D can be further simplified by means of the locking portion 23, thereby reducing the time and cost required to manufacture the busbar retainer 1D.

[0076] [Third variation]

[0077] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1E of the third modified example. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1E. Figure 12 , 13 The busbar retainer 1E shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1D of the second variation described above. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1E can achieve the same function and effect as the second variation described above based on the same structure.

[0078] However, in this variant example, as Figure 12 , Figure 13 As shown, the base 10 is provided with a cut-out portion 16 that accommodates the locking portion 23, which differs from the second modification described above. The cut-out portion 16 is, for example, provided at one of the two ends of the groove portion 13 in the axial direction X, corresponding to the locking portion 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm portion 22. The cut-out portion 16 is an opening portion that cuts off the end of the groove portion 13 along the width direction Y, penetrating the base sidewall 12 along the width direction Y. In this modification, the lateral width of the cut-out portion 16 along the axial direction X is formed to be approximately the same as the lateral width of the locking portion 23 along the axial direction X.

[0079] As described above, in the busbar retainer 1E of this modified example, the base 10 is configured to include a cut-off portion 16, which is provided at both ends of the groove portion 13 in the axial direction X, corresponding to the locking portion 23, and the locking portion 23 is housed within the base 10. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1E can, for example, suppress wobbling between the base 10 and the cover 20 along the axial direction X and along the width direction Y by the contact between the locking portion 23 and the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16.

[0080] Furthermore, in this modified example, the cut-off portion 16 is provided at one of the two ends of the groove portion 13 in the axial direction X, corresponding to the locking portion 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm portion 22. However, this example is not limited to this one. For example, it may be provided at a position corresponding to the locking portion 23 provided at the end of the arm portion 22, and the locking portion 23 may be housed in the base 10.

[0081] [Fourth variation]

[0082] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1F of the fourth variation. Figure 15 This is a sectional view of the busbar retainer 1F. Figure 14 , Figure 15 The busbar retainer 1F shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1E of the third variation described above. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1F can achieve the same function and effect as the third variation described above based on the same structure.

[0083] However, in this variant example, as Figure 14 , Figure 15 As shown, the ribs 17 provided on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16 differ from the third modified example described above. For example, a pair of ribs 17 are provided at intervals along the lamination direction Z on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16. The pair of ribs 17 protrude from the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16 towards the side approaching each other along the lamination direction Z. Furthermore, the pair of ribs 17 are formed as hemispherical protrusions on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16. That is, each pair of ribs 17 has a hemispherical (arc-shaped) cross-sectional shape and extends along the axial direction X. The pair of ribs 17 abut against the locking portion 23 in an elastically deformed state, elastically supporting the locking portion 23.

[0084] As described above, in the busbar retainer 1F of this modified example, the base 10 has a rib 17 disposed on the inner surface of the cut-out portion 16, which elastically supports the locking portion 23. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1F can, for example, support the locking portion 23 within the cut-out portion 16 by means of the rib 17, thereby suppressing swaying between the base 10 and the cover 20 in the width direction Y, swaying in the axial direction X, etc.

[0085] [Fifth Variation]

[0086] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1G of the fifth variation. Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1G. Figure 16 , Figure 17 The busbar retainer 1G shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1 of the above embodiment. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1G can achieve the same function and effect as the above embodiment based on the same structure.

[0087] However, in this variant example, as Figure 16 , Figure 17 As shown, the difference from the above embodiment is that two of the four corner portions 20a of the cover 20 are provided with arm portions 22 and locking portions 23. Specifically, in this modified example, for example, at one end of the cover 20 in the axial direction X ( Figure 16 On the right side of the cover 20, at both ends of the width direction Y, there are arm portions 22 and locking portions 23. Additionally, in this modified example, at the other end of the cover 20 in the axial direction X ( Figure 16 The two corners 20a at both ends of the width direction Y of the left side are provided with a first inclined surface 25 that is inclined relative to the axial direction X.

[0088] The two corner portions 20a mentioned above are different from the corner portions 20a provided with the locking portion 23 among the four corner portions 20a. They are the rear end corner portions 20a on the insertion direction of the cover 20 relative to the base 10 in the axial direction X. Furthermore, in this modified example, the base 10 has a second inclined surface 15 that engages with the first inclined surface 25 along the axial direction X. The second inclined surface 15 is provided on the inner surface (bottom surface) of the groove portion 13 and extends along the first inclined surface 25. By abutting against each other, the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 15 can suppress movement (overshooting, etc.) of the cover 20 relative to the base 10 along the axial direction X.

[0089] As described above, in the busbar holder 1G of this modified example, for example, the number of arm portions 22 and locking portions 23 can be reduced by the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 15, thereby further simplifying the shape of the cover 20 and reducing the time and cost required to manufacture the busbar holder 1G. Furthermore, for example, the contact between the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 15 can suppress swaying between the base 10 and the cover 20 along the axial direction X.

[0090] [Sixth Variation]

[0091] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar cage 1H of the sixth modification. Figure 19This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1H. Figure 18 , Figure 19 The busbar retainer 1H shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1G of the fifth modification described above. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1H can achieve the same function and effect as the fifth modification described above based on the same structure.

[0092] However, in this variant example, as Figure 18 , Figure 19 As shown, at the other end of the axial direction X of the cover 20 ( Figure 18 Unlike the fifth modified example described above, the two corner portions 20a at both ends of the cover body 21 in the width direction Y are provided with locking portions 23. These locking portions 23 are different from the locking portions 23 (locking arms) provided at the ends of the arm portions 22, and protrude in a claw-like shape from the cover body 21 along the width direction Y. These locking portions 23 are portions that lock with the periphery of the groove portion 13 in the base 10. For example, the locking portions 23 can suppress movement (overshooting, etc.) of the cover 20 relative to the base 10 along the axial direction X by abutting against the periphery of the groove portion 13.

[0093] As described above, in the busbar holder 1H of this modified example, the cover 20 is structured to include a pair of locking portions 23 that are different from the locking portions 23 (locking arms) provided at the end of the arm portion 22. According to this structure, the busbar holder 1H can, for example, simplify the shape of the cover 20 by means of the pair of locking portions 23, thereby reducing the time and cost required for manufacturing the busbar holder 1H. Furthermore, the pair of locking portions 23 can also function as gripping portions when the cover 20 is removed from the base 10 along the axial direction X.

[0094] [Seventh Variation]

[0095] Figure 20 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1I of the seventh modification. Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1I. Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1I, from the perspective of... Figure 20 Images viewed from different angles. Figures 20-22 The busbar retainer 1I shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1H of the sixth modification described above. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1I can achieve the same function and effect as the sixth modification described above based on the same structure.

[0096] However, in this variant example, as Figures 20-22As shown, the cut-off portion 16 that accommodates the locking portion 23 is provided in the base 10, which differs from the sixth modification described above. The cut-off portion 16 is, for example, provided at one of the two ends of the groove 13 in the axial direction X, corresponding to the locking portion 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm 22. The cut-off portion 16 is an opening portion that cuts off the end of the groove 13 along the width direction Y, penetrating the sidewall 12 of the base along the width direction Y. In this modification, at the other end of the cover 20 in the axial direction X ( Figure 20 The other end of the width direction Y (left side) Figure 20 A locking portion 23 is provided at the corner 20a (lower side) and on the other hand, at one end side in the width direction Y ( Figure 20 The corner 20a of the upper side is provided with a first inclined surface 25.

[0097] Furthermore, in this modified example, a rib 17 is provided on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16 (see reference). Figure 22 For example, a pair of ribs 17 are provided at intervals along the stacking direction Z on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16. The pair of ribs 17 protrude from the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16 towards the side approaching each other along the stacking direction Z. Furthermore, the pair of ribs 17 are formed as hemispherical protrusions on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16. That is, each pair of ribs 17 has a hemispherical (arc-shaped) cross-sectional shape and extends along the axial direction X. The pair of ribs 17 abut against the locking portion 23 in an elastically deformable state, elastically supporting the locking portion 23.

[0098] As described above, in the busbar holder 1I of this modified example, for example, the shape of the cover 20 can be further simplified by using a locking portion 23 that is different from the locking portion 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm portion 22, and the time and cost required to manufacture the busbar holder 1I can be reduced. In addition, for example, the locking portion 23 can be supported in the cut-out portion 16 by using the rib 17, thereby suppressing the swaying between the base 10 and the cover 20 along the width direction Y, the swaying along the axial direction X, etc.

[0099] [Eighth Variation]

[0100] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1J of the eighth modification, and Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1J. Figure 23 and Figure 24 The busbar retainer 1J shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1H of the sixth modification. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1J can achieve the same function and effect as the sixth modification based on the same structure.

[0101] However, in this variant example, as Figure 23 , Figure 24As shown, the arm 22 protrudes linearly from the cover body 21 along the axial direction X, which differs from the sixth variation described above. The arm 22 is located at one end of the cover 20 along the axial direction X. Figure 23 The two corner portions 20a at both ends of the right side of the groove 13 in the width direction Y. Furthermore, in this modified example, the locking portion 23 provided at the end of the arm portion 22 is formed as a recess along the width direction Y. This locking portion 23 (recess) is passed over the protrusion (see reference) provided at one end of the groove portion 13 in the axial direction X by the pair of arms 22 elastically deforming along the width direction Y toward the side that is approaching each other. Figure 24 This allows it to engage with the protrusion.

[0102] As described above, in the busbar retainer 1J of this modified example, the cover 20 has an arm 22 that protrudes from the cover body 21 in the shape of a cantilever spring and is elastically deformable along the width direction Y, and a locking portion 23 is provided at the end of the arm 22. According to this structure, the busbar retainer 1J can, for example, improve the insertability of the locking portion 23 relative to the slot 13 by means of the arm 22, thereby further improving the assemblability of the cover 20 relative to the base 10.

[0103] [Ninth Variation]

[0104] Figure 25 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1K of the ninth modification. Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view of the busbar retainer 1K. Figure 27 This is an exploded perspective view of the busbar retainer 1K, from the perspective of... Figure 25 Images viewed from different angles. Figures 25-27 The busbar retainer 1K shown has the same structure as the busbar retainer 1J of the eighth modification described above. Therefore, the busbar retainer 1K can achieve the same function and effect as the eighth modification described above based on the same structure.

[0105] However, in this variant example, as Figures 25-27 As shown, the cut-off portion 16 that accommodates the locking portion 23 is provided in the base 10, which differs from the eighth modified example described above. The cut-off portion 16 is, for example, provided at one of the two ends of the groove 13 in the axial direction X, corresponding to the locking portion 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm 22. The cut-off portion 16 is an opening portion that cuts off the end of the groove 13 along the width direction Y, penetrating the sidewall 12 of the base along the width direction Y. In this modified example, at the other end of the cover 20 in the axial direction X ( Figure 25 The other end of the width direction Y (left side) Figure 25 A locking part 23 is provided at the corner 20a on the lower side.

[0106] Furthermore, in this modified example, a rib 17 is provided on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16 (see reference). Figure 27 For example, a pair of ribs 17 are provided at intervals along the stacking direction Z on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16. The pair of ribs 17 protrude from the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16 towards the side approaching each other along the stacking direction Z. Furthermore, the pair of ribs 17 are formed as hemispherical protrusions on the inner surface of the cut-off portion 16. That is, each pair of ribs 17 has a hemispherical (arc-shaped) cross-sectional shape and extends along the axial direction X. The pair of ribs 17 abut against the locking portion 23 in an elastically deformable state, elastically supporting the locking portion 23.

[0107] As described above, in the busbar holder 1K of this modified example, for example, the shape of the cover 20 can be further simplified by using a locking part 23 that is different from the locking part 23 (locking arm) provided at the end of the arm 22, thereby reducing the time and cost required to manufacture the busbar holder 1K. In addition, for example, the locking part 23 can be supported in the cut-out portion 16 by using the rib 17, thereby suppressing the wobbling between the base 10 and the cover 20 along the width direction Y and along the axial direction X.

[0108] The above examples illustrate embodiments and modifications of the present invention. However, these embodiments and modifications are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the specifications of various structures, shapes, etc. (structure, type, direction, form, size, length, width, thickness, height, quantity, configuration, position, material, etc.) can be appropriately modified for implementation.

[0109] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0110] 1. Busbar retainer (1C-1K)

[0111] 2. Busbar

[0112] 3. Insert through the space section

[0113] 10 bases

[0114] 13. Groove

[0115] 14 Fixing part

[0116] 15 Second Inclined Surface

[0117] 16. Resection section

[0118] 17 ribs

[0119] 20 masks

[0120] 20a Corner

[0121] 21. Main body of the cover

[0122] 22 Arms

[0123] 23. Locking part

[0124] 24 Slits

[0125] 25 First inclined surface

[0126] S1 First Step

[0127] S2 Second Step

[0128] S3 Third Step

[0129] X-axis direction

[0130] Y-width direction

[0131] Z-stack direction

Claims

1. A busbar retainer, characterized in that, have: A base, the base being provided with an insertion space for the busbar to be inserted along its axial direction; and A cover, which is assembled to the base along the axial direction, and covers the insertion space from one end side of the stacking direction intersecting the axial direction. The base is configured to include a groove that supports the cover so that it can slide along the axial direction. The cover has a locking portion disposed at at least two or more corners of the cover and locking with the periphery of the groove in the base along the axial direction.

2. The busbar retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover has: a cover body; and an arm that protrudes from the cover body in a cantilever spring shape and is elastically deformable along a width direction intersecting the axial direction and the stacking direction. The locking part is located at the end of the arm.

3. The busbar retainer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cover is configured to include: four corner portions, with two corner portions respectively disposed at each end of the four corner portions in the axial direction; and a first inclined surface, which is disposed at one of the four corner portions that is different from the corner portion with the locking portion, and is inclined relative to the axial direction. The base has a second inclined surface, which is disposed on the inner surface of the groove and engages with the first inclined surface along the axial direction.

4. The busbar retainer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The base is configured to include a cut-off portion, which is disposed at one of the two ends of the groove in the axial direction corresponding to the locking portion, and the locking portion is received within the base.

5. The busbar retainer according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base has ribs disposed on the inner surface of the cut-off portion and elastically supports the locking portion.

6. The busbar retainer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The base also has a fixing part for the struts fixed to the side of the vehicle.

7. A method for manufacturing a busbar retainer, characterized in that, have: The first step is to insert the busbar along the axial direction into the insertion space and assemble it onto the base where the insertion space is provided; The second step involves sliding the cover covering the insertion space from one end of the stacking direction intersecting the axial direction to assemble it onto the base; as well as The third step is to engage the locking portions provided at at least two corners of the cover with the periphery of the groove in the base along the axial direction.

Images