Temperature sensor unit, and assembly of temperature sensors

Abstract

In the temperature sensor unit (2) of the present application, a sensor housing (20) extends in the Z-axis direction. A temperature sensor (10) is housed in the sensor housing (20). A holding member (30) holds the sensor housing (20). The sensor housing (20) has an outer surface including a first side surface and a second side surface. The first side surface is along the Z-axis direction. The second side surface is along the Z-axis direction and extends in the Y-axis direction intersecting the first side surface. In the holding member (30), a first portion is in contact with the first side surface. A second portion faces the second side surface. A third portion is configured so as to be in contact with a corner portion (3f) of the measurement target object (3). The holding member (30) is integrally configured so as to surround the sensor housing (20) in order from the second portion, the first portion, and the third portion as viewed in a first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a temperature sensor unit and an assembly of temperature sensors. Background Technology

[0002] A temperature sensor unit comprising a temperature sensor, a sensor housing, and a holding member is known (e.g., Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-90138). The temperature sensor is housed in the sensor housing. The holding member holds the sensor housing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The required shapes of the sensor housing and holding member vary depending on the shape of the object being measured. For example, the object being measured in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-90138 is cylindrical, and the shape of the holding member in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-90138 is suitable for cylindrical objects being measured. The holding member in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-90138 is difficult to use for plate-shaped objects being measured. The sensor housing and holding member are preferably structures that are easy to manufacture and allow for accurate positioning of the sensor housing. If the sensor housing is accurately positioned relative to the object being measured, temperature can be measured precisely.

[0004] One aspect of the present invention aims to provide a temperature sensor unit that has an easy-to-manufacture structure and is capable of accurately measuring the temperature of the object being measured. Another aspect of the present invention aims to provide a temperature sensor assembly that has an easy-to-manufacture structure and is capable of accurately measuring the temperature of the object being measured.

[0005] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0006] One approach provides a temperature sensor unit comprising a temperature sensor, a sensor housing, and a holding member. The sensor housing extends along a first direction. The temperature sensor is housed within the sensor housing. The holding member holds the sensor housing. The sensor housing has an outer surface including a first side and a second side. The first side extends along the first direction. The second side extends along the first direction and along a second direction intersecting the first side. The holding member includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion is in contact with the first side. The second portion faces the second side. The third portion is configured to contact a corner of an object being measured. The holding member is integrally configured to surround the sensor housing when viewed from the first direction, and is positioned in the order of the second portion, the first portion, and the third portion.

[0007] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor unit has a sensor housing with a first side and a second side. The first side extends along a first direction. The second side extends along the first direction and along a second direction intersecting the first side. In the retaining member, a first portion is in contact with the first side of the sensor housing, a second portion faces the second side of the sensor housing, and a third portion is in contact with a corner of the object being measured. The retaining member is integrally constructed to surround the sensor housing when viewed from the first direction, and is positioned in the order of the second portion, the first portion, and the third portion. In this case, the sensor housing and the retaining member are shaped for ease of manufacture, and the retaining member accurately positions the sensor housing relative to the object being measured. The sensor housing is fixed relative to the object being measured while in contact with it. Therefore, this temperature sensor unit has a simple structure for manufacture while accurately measuring temperature.

[0008] In one of these embodiments, the sensor housing may also have a third side located opposite the first side. The sensor housing may also be configured to contact the object being measured on the third side. In this case, the sensor housing is more reliably fixed relative to the object being measured.

[0009] In one of these methods, the sensor housing may also be located on an imaginary line orthogonal to the first direction and passing through the second and third portions. In this case, the sensor housing is more reliably fixed relative to the object being measured.

[0010] In one embodiment, the retaining member may also have a through hole in the first portion. The sensor housing may also include a protrusion projecting from the first side. The protrusion may also include a through portion extending through the through hole and a front end portion connected to the through portion. The front end portion may also have an opposing surface facing the first portion and clamping the first portion opposite to the first side. In this case, the retaining member provides more reliable positioning of the sensor housing.

[0011] In one of these arrangements, the first portion may also be in contact with the opposing surface and the first side surface. In this case, the sensor housing is positioned more reliably using a retaining member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also include a temperature-sensing element housed within the sensor housing. The temperature-sensing element may also include a portion that does not overlap with the through-hole when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the first side. In this case, it is less susceptible to heat conduction from the through-hole, allowing for more accurate temperature measurement using the sensitive element.

[0013] In one of these arrangements, the first and third portions of the retaining member can also be separated. In this case, the sensor housing is secured more reliably relative to the object being measured.

[0014] In one of these methods, when viewed from the first direction, the center of gravity of the temperature sensor can be closer to the third part in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions than the center of gravity of the holding member. In this case, the sensor housing is more reliably secured relative to the object being measured.

[0015] In one embodiment, the sensor housing may also have a fourth side located opposite the second side. The retaining member may also include a fourth portion opposite the second portion and facing the fourth side. The retaining member may also be arranged in the order of second portion, first portion, fourth portion, and third portion. In this case, the retaining member provides more reliable positioning of the sensor housing.

[0016] In one of the embodiments, the retaining member may further include a fifth portion. This fifth portion may also be configured to engage with a corner of the object being measured, which is different from the corner to which the third portion engages. Alternatively, the retaining member may be integrally configured to surround the sensor housing when viewed from a first direction, positioned in the order of the fifth portion, the second portion, the first portion, and the third portion. In this case, the sensor housing is positioned more reliably using the retaining member.

[0017] Another approach provides a temperature sensor assembly that may also include the temperature sensor unit and the object to be measured. In this case, the temperature sensor unit can be reliably positioned relative to the object to be measured, and the temperature of the object to be measured can be accurately measured.

[0018] The invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description given below and the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the invention.

[0019] The further scope of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only, and those skilled in the art will understand various variations and modifications within the claims of the invention based on this detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an assembly of a temperature sensor according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a side view showing the assembly of the temperature sensor.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the assembly of the temperature sensor.

[0023] Figure 4This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the assembly of the temperature sensor.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a top view of the temperature sensor and its housing.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a side view of the temperature sensor and its housing.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the position of the temperature sensor relative to the sensor housing.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor assembly representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the position of the temperature sensor relative to the sensor housing in a modified example of this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor assembly representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor assembly representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a side view of the temperature sensor assembly, which is a modified example of this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the description, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements or elements having the same function, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0033] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The structure of the temperature sensor assembly 1 in this embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, the temperature sensor assembly will be referred to simply as the assembly. Figures 1-4 This is a diagram showing an assembly 1 of a temperature sensor according to one embodiment. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis extend in mutually intersecting directions. In the example shown in this embodiment, the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction are mutually orthogonal.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, assembly 1 includes a temperature sensor unit 2 and a measurement object 3. For example, assembly 1 is configured such that the temperature sensor unit 2 and the measurement object 3 are connected together.

[0035] In the example shown in this embodiment, the object to be measured 3 is a rectangular cross-section. The rectangular cross-section includes shapes with chamfered corners and shapes with rounded corners. The object to be measured 3 includes a pair of main surfaces 3a and 3b and a pair of side surfaces 3c and 3d. The main surfaces 3a and 3b are located on opposite sides. The side surfaces 3c and 3d are located on opposite sides. The object to be measured 3 also includes corner portions 3e and 3f. Corner portion 3e connects the main surface 3b and the side surface 3d. Corner portion 3f connects the main surface 3b and the side surface 3c. The object to be measured 3 may also have shapes other than this. The object to be measured 3 may be, for example, a conductive component that functions as a component of another circuit (not shown).

[0036] Temperature sensor unit 2 is mounted on the object to be measured 3 to measure the temperature of the object to be measured 3. Temperature sensor unit 2 includes temperature sensor 10, sensor housing 20 housing temperature sensor 10, and holding member 30 holding sensor housing 20. Holding member 30 is equivalent to a positioning member, which positions sensor housing 20 relative to object to be measured 3.

[0037] Figures 5-7 This is a diagram illustrating a temperature sensor unit 2 according to one embodiment. Figures 5-7 In the example shown, the sensor housing 20 includes a main body 21 and a protrusion 23. The sensor housing 20 extends along the Z-axis. The temperature sensor 10 measures the temperature of the object 3. The temperature sensor 10 is housed within the main body 21 of the sensor housing 20. Figure 7 As shown, the temperature sensor 10 includes a detection unit 11, wires 12 and 13 connected to two electrodes (not shown) of the detection unit 11, and leads 14 and 15 electrically connected to the wires 12 and 13. The detection unit 11 is, for example, equivalent to a temperature-sensing element. The temperature-sensing element, for example, has the characteristic that its resistance decreases as the temperature increases. The detection unit 11 is housed inside the sensor housing 20. For example, the temperature-sensing element includes an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor.

[0038] The main body 21 of the sensor housing 20 is rectangular parallelepiped in shape. The rectangular parallelepiped shape includes a cuboid with chamfered corners and edges, and a cuboid with rounded corners and edges. The main body 21 extends along the Z-axis. The main body 21 is a bottomed cylindrical shape with a bottom 21a at one end along its long side and an opening 21b at the other end. With the temperature sensor 10 inserted through the opening 21b along the Z-axis, the main body 21 is filled with resin 25. The detection part 11 of the temperature sensor 10 is positioned near the bottom 21a of the main body 21 using the cured resin 25. Leads 14 and 15, electrically connected to the detection part 11, extend from the opening 21b to the outside of the main body 21. The sensor housing 20 is made of thermoplastic resins such as PP resin (polypropylene resin) and PPS resin (polyphenylene sulfide resin). The resin 25 is made of thermosetting resins such as epoxy resin.

[0039] The main body 21 of the sensor housing 20 has an outer surface. The outer surface of the main body 21 includes four side surfaces 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d connected to the bottom 21a. Side surfaces 26a and 26b are located opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. Side surfaces 26c and 26d are located opposite each other in the X-axis direction. Side surfaces 26a and 26b are arranged along the X-axis and Z-axis directions, respectively. Side surfaces 26a and 26b are orthogonal to the Y-axis direction. Side surfaces 26c and 26d intersect with side surfaces 26a and 26b. Side surfaces 26c and 26d are arranged along the Y-axis and Z-axis directions, respectively. Side surfaces 26c and 26d extend along the Y-axis direction. Side surfaces 26c and 26d are orthogonal to the X-axis direction. For example, the Z-axis direction corresponds to a first direction, and the Y-axis direction corresponds to a second direction.

[0040] Sides 26b, 26c, and 26d are flat. Sides 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d are all rectangular in shape when viewed from above. The sensor housing 20 also includes corner portions 26e and 26f. Corner portion 26e connects side portions 26a and 26c. Corner portion 26f connects side portions 26a and 26d. For example, side portion 26a corresponds to the first side, side portion 26b corresponds to the third side, side portion 26c corresponds to the second side, and side portion 26d corresponds to the fourth side.

[0041] In the example shown in this embodiment, the sensor housing 20 includes a plurality of protrusions 23. For example, the sensor housing 20 includes two protrusions 23. Each protrusion 23 is connected to a side surface 26a of the main body 21. Each protrusion 23 protrudes from the side surface 26a along the Y-axis direction. In other words, each protrusion 23 extends in a direction orthogonal to the side surface 26a.

[0042] Multiple protrusions 23 are arranged along the long side of the sensor housing 20. Each protrusion 23 includes a through portion 23a and a front portion 23b. In the example shown in this embodiment, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the through portion 23a is circular, and the front portion 23b is concentric with the through portion 23a. The through portion 23a is connected to the side surface 26a, extends from the side surface 26a, and passes through the retaining member 30. The front portion 23b is connected to the through portion 23a on the opposite side of the main body 21, forming the front end of the protrusion 23. The detection portion 11 includes a portion that does not overlap with the through portion 23a when viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0043] The retaining member 30 positions the sensor housing 20 relative to the object to be measured 3. The retaining member 30 is in the shape of a bent plate. The retaining member 30 is made of metal. The retaining member 30 holds the sensor housing 20 and the object to be measured 3 in contact. The retaining member 30 includes a first retaining part 31 that contacts the sensor housing 20, a second retaining part 32 that contacts the object to be measured 3, and a connecting part 33 that connects the first retaining part 31 and the second retaining part 32. The first retaining part 31 engages with the sensor housing 20, and the second retaining part 32 engages with the object to be measured 3. The metal used as the material for the retaining member 30 can be phosphor bronze for springs, or stainless steel for springs, etc.

[0044] The first retaining portion 31 includes a first wall portion 31a facing the side 26a of the sensor housing 20 and a second wall portion 31b facing the side 26c of the sensor housing 20. The first wall portion 31a and the second wall portion 31b are plate-shaped. The first wall portion 31a is connected to the second wall portion 31b at one end and to a connecting portion 33 at the other end. The first wall portion 31a and the second wall portion 31b form a corner C1 at their connection point, and the corner 26e of the sensor housing 20 is located at this corner C1. In the example shown in this embodiment, the first wall portion 31a corresponds to the first part, and the second wall portion 31b corresponds to the second part. In this specification, "facing" means facing each other without clamping other components shown in this specification. For example, "p facing q" means that "p" and "q" face each other without clamping other components shown in this specification. In this specification, "opposite" means facing each other regardless of whether other components are clamped.

[0045] The first wall portion 31a extends along the side surface 26a. The first wall portion 31a is arranged along both the X-axis and Z-axis directions. The first wall portion 31a is in contact with the side surface 26a. The first wall portion 31a and the second wall portion 31b extend in intersecting directions. For example, the first wall portion 31a and the second wall portion 31b are orthogonal. The first wall portion 31a has a through hole α. A through portion 23a passes through the through hole α. For example, the first wall portion 31a has two through holes α through which the through portions 23a of the two protrusions 23 pass respectively. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the through hole α is circular.

[0046] In a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the protrusion 23 protrudes, the minimum width of the front end portion 23b is greater than the minimum width of the through hole α. In the example shown in this embodiment, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the protrusion 23 protrudes, the minimum width of the front end portion 23b is greater than the maximum width of the through hole α. In the example shown in this embodiment, the minimum width of the front end portion 23b corresponds to the diameter D1 of the front end portion 23b, and the minimum and maximum widths of the through hole α correspond to the diameter D2 of the through hole α. In the X-axis and Z-axis directions, the diameter of the through portion 23a is smaller than the diameter D2 of the through hole α, and the diameter D1 of the front end portion 23b is larger than the diameter D2 of the through hole α.

[0047] The front end portion 23b has an opposing surface 23e. The opposing surface 23e faces the first wall portion 31a and sandwiches the first wall portion 31a against the side surface 26a. The sensor housing 20 is configured such that it is in contact with the object to be measured 3 at the opposing surface 26b. The first wall portion 31a is in contact with the side surface 26a and the opposing surface 23e. The first wall portion 31a is sandwiched between the side surface 26a and the opposing surface 23e. The opposing surface 23e is, for example, a plane.

[0048] The second wall portion 31b extends along the side surface 26c. The second wall portion 31b is arranged along the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. The second wall portion 31b is connected to the side surface 26c. The second wall portion 31b extends from the first wall portion 31a along the Y-axis direction.

[0049] The connecting portion 33 is arranged along the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. In the example shown in this embodiment, the connecting portion 33 is plate-shaped. The connecting portion 33 extends from the first wall portion 31a along the Y-axis direction. The connecting portion 33 is separated from the second wall portion 31b and faces each other. The connecting portion 33 faces the object to be measured 3. For example, the connecting portion 33 faces the side 3d of the object to be measured 3 and is positioned along the side 3d. The first wall portion 31a and the connecting portion 33 form a corner C2 at the part where they are connected to each other, and this corner C2 is separated from the sensor housing 20. A cavity is formed by the first wall portion 31a, the connecting portion 33, the sensor housing 20, and the object to be measured 3.

[0050] The second holding portion 32 faces the object to be measured 3. The second holding portion 32 and the connecting portion 33 are connected to each other. The second holding portion 32 includes a third wall portion 32a and a fourth wall portion 32b. The third wall portion 32a and the fourth wall portion 32b are, for example, plate-shaped. The third wall portion 32a is connected to the connecting portion 33 at one end and to the fourth wall portion 32b at the other end. The third wall portion 32a is, for example, opposite to the first wall portion 31a in the Y-axis direction. For example, the object to be measured 3 and the sensor housing 20 are sandwiched between the first wall portion 31a and the third wall portion 32a. The third wall portion 32a is elastically in contact with the main surface 3b of the object to be measured 3. For example, the third wall portion 32a faces the main surface 3b of the object to be measured 3 and extends along the main surface 3b of the object to be measured 3. The third wall portion 32a is arranged along the XZ plane. The third wall portion 32a and the connecting portion 33 form a corner C3 at the part where they are connected to each other, and the corner 3e of the object to be measured 3 is located at this corner C3.

[0051] The third wall portion 32a includes a base portion 32d and a claw portion 32e. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the claw portion 32e is located at the center of the third wall portion 32a and is surrounded by the base portion 32d. The base portion 32d and the claw portion 32e are separated from each other. The claw portion 32e is elastically connected to the main surface 3b of the object being measured 3. The claw portion 32e forms a rectangular shape, for example, when viewed from above. The base portion 32d and the claw portion 32e are respectively connected to the connecting portion 33.

[0052] The fourth wall portion 32b extends in a direction intersecting the third wall portion 32a. The fourth wall portion 32b extends along the Y-axis. The fourth wall portion 32b is opposite to the connecting portion 33, for example, in the X-axis direction. For example, the fourth wall portion 32b faces the side surface 3c of the object being measured 3 and extends along the side surface 3c. The fourth wall portion 32b is arranged along the YZ plane. The fourth wall portion 32b is in contact with the object being measured 3. The fourth wall portion 32b is elastically in contact with the side surface 3c of the object being measured 3. The fourth wall portion 32b is connected to the connecting portion 33 at one end and forms the front end of the retaining member 30 at the other end. The front end of the fourth wall portion 32b is bent away from the sensor housing 20 in the X-axis direction. The fourth wall portion 32b and the third wall portion 32a form a corner C4 at the point where they connect, and the corner 3f of the object being measured 3 is located at this corner C4. The fourth wall portion 32b is configured to be in contact with both the side surface 3c and the corner 3f of the object being measured 3. The fourth wall portion 32b corresponds to the third part.

[0053] The retaining member 30 is integrally constructed to surround the sensor housing 20 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and is positioned in the order of second wall portion 31b, first wall portion 31a, connecting portion 33, third wall portion 32a, and fourth wall portion 32b. The second wall portion 31b, first wall portion 31a, connecting portion 33, third wall portion 32a, and fourth wall portion 32b are continuous in this order. The first wall portion 31a and the fourth wall portion 32b are separated. In the example shown in this embodiment, the retaining member 30 is formed in a ring shape, interrupted between the second wall portion 31b and the fourth wall portion 32b when viewed from the Z-axis direction. In the example shown in this embodiment, the sensor housing 20 is not located between the second wall portion 31b and the fourth wall portion 32b.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, viewed from the Z-axis direction, the center of gravity G1 of the temperature sensor 10 is closer to the fourth wall portion 32b in the X-axis direction than the center of gravity G2 of the object being measured 3. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the center of gravity G1 of the temperature sensor 10 is closer to the fourth wall portion 32b in the X-axis direction than the center of gravity G3 of the holding member 30. In the example shown in this embodiment, viewed from the Z-axis direction, the center of gravity G1 of the temperature sensor 10 coincides with the center of gravity of the sensor housing 20.

[0055] Next, use Figure 8 and Figure 9 The structure of a modified example of the temperature sensor unit will be described. This modified example differs from the embodiment described above in the structure of the sensor housing. The following mainly describes the differences between the embodiment described above and this modified example. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor assembly of a modified embodiment of this invention. Figure 9 This is a top view of a temperature sensor unit in a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0056] The temperature sensor assembly 1A includes a temperature sensor unit 2A and a measurement object 3. The temperature sensor unit 2A includes a temperature sensor 10, a sensor housing 20A, and a holding member 30A.

[0057] In this modified example, the sensor housing 20A includes a protrusion 53. The sensor housing 20A differs from the sensor housing 20 only in that the protrusion 53 is different in its configuration from that of the protrusion 23. The protrusion 53 has the same shape as the protrusion 23. In the sensor housing 20A, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 53 is located at the center of the side surface 26a. The detection part 11 includes a portion that, viewed from the Y-axis direction, does not overlap with the through portion 23a of the sensor housing 20A. In the sensor housing 20A, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 53 does not overlap with the detection part 11.

[0058] The configuration of the retaining member 30A differs from that of the retaining member 30, except that the retaining member 30A has only one through hole α. In the temperature sensor unit 2A, the through portion 23a of a protrusion 53 extends through one through hole α.

[0059] Next, use Figure 10 This section describes the structure of another variation of the temperature sensor unit. This variation differs from the embodiment described above in the structure of the sensor housing. The following mainly explains the differences between the embodiment described above and this variation. Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor assembly of a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0060] The temperature sensor assembly 1B includes a temperature sensor unit 2B and a measurement object 3. The temperature sensor unit 2B includes a temperature sensor 10, a sensor housing 20B, and a holding member 30B.

[0061] In this variation, the sensor housing 20B includes a protrusion 63. The sensor housing 20B differs from the sensor housing 20 only in the protrusion 63. The protrusion 63 differs from the protrusion 23 only in its shape and arrangement. The protrusion 63 includes a front end portion 63b. In this variation, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the front end portion 63b is elliptical in shape. In the sensor housing 20B, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 63 is located at the center of the side surface 26a.

[0062] The retaining member 30B differs from the retaining member 30 only in the shape and arrangement of the through hole α. The retaining member 30B has only one through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the through hole α of the retaining member 30B is elliptical. In the temperature sensor unit 2B, a protrusion 63 extends through one through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the front end portion 63b and the through hole α have similar shapes. In a direction orthogonal to the direction of the protrusion 63, the minimum width of the front end portion 63b is greater than the minimum width of the through hole α.

[0063] Next, use Figure 11 and Figure 12 This section describes the structure of another variation of the temperature sensor unit. This variation differs from the embodiment described above in the structure of the retaining member. The following mainly explains the differences between the embodiment described above and this variation. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor assembly of a modified embodiment of this invention. Figure 12 This is a side view of a temperature sensor unit in a modified embodiment of this invention.

[0064] The temperature sensor assembly 1C includes a temperature sensor unit 2C and a measurement object 3. The temperature sensor unit 2C includes a temperature sensor 10, a sensor housing 20, and a holding member 30C.

[0065] In this modified example, the retaining member 30C defines the sensor housing 20 relative to the object to be measured 3. The retaining member 30C is in the shape of a bent plate. The retaining member 30C is made of metal. The retaining member 30C holds the object to be measured 3 in the state where the sensor housing 20 and the object to be measured are in contact. The retaining member 30C includes a first retaining part 71, a second retaining part 72, a connecting part 73, a connecting part 74, and a third retaining part 75. The first retaining part 71 is in contact with the sensor housing 20. The second retaining part 72 and the third retaining part 75 are in contact with the object to be measured 3. The connecting part 73 connects the first retaining part 71 and the second retaining part 72. The connecting part 74 connects the first retaining part 71 and the third retaining part 75. The first retaining part 71 engages with the sensor housing 20, and the second retaining part 72 and the third retaining part 75 engage with the object to be measured 3. The metal used as the material of the retaining member 30C can be phosphor bronze for springs, or stainless steel for springs, etc.

[0066] The first retaining portion 71 includes a first wall portion 71a, a second wall portion 71b, and a third wall portion 71c. The first wall portion 71a faces the side 26a of the sensor housing 20. The second wall portion 71b faces the side 26c of the sensor housing 20. The third wall portion 71c faces the side 26d of the sensor housing 20. The first wall portion 71a, the second wall portion 71b, and the third wall portion 71c are plate-shaped. The first wall portion 71a is connected to the second wall portion 71b at one end and to the third wall portion 71c at the other end.

[0067] The first wall portion 71a and the second wall portion 71b form a corner C11 at their connection point, and the corner portion 26e of the sensor housing 20 is located at this corner C11. The first wall portion 71a and the third wall portion 71c form a corner C12 at their connection point, and the corner portion 26f of the sensor housing 20 is located at this corner C12. In this modified example, the first wall portion 71a corresponds to the first part, the second wall portion 71b corresponds to the second part, and the third wall portion 71c corresponds to the fourth part.

[0068] The first wall portion 71a extends along the side surface 26a. The first wall portion 71a is arranged along both the X-axis and Z-axis directions. The first wall portion 71a is in contact with the side surface 26a. The first wall portion 71a and the second wall portion 71b extend in intersecting directions. For example, the first wall portion 71a and the second wall portion 71b are orthogonal. The first wall portion 71a has a through hole α. A through portion 23a passes through the through hole α. For example, the first wall portion 71a has two through holes α through which the through portions 23a of the two protrusions 23 respectively pass. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the through hole α is circular.

[0069] The second wall portion 71b extends along the side surface 26c. The second wall portion 71b is arranged along the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. The second wall portion 71b may also be connected to the side surface 26c. The second wall portion 71b extends from the first wall portion 71a along the Y-axis direction.

[0070] The third wall portion 71c extends along the side surface 26d. The third wall portion 71c is arranged along the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. The third wall portion 71c may also be connected to the side surface 26d. The third wall portion 71c extends from the first wall portion 71a along the Y-axis direction. The third wall portion 71c is separated from the second wall portion 71b and is opposite to each other in the X-axis direction.

[0071] The connecting portion 73 is arranged along the X-axis and Z-axis directions. In this modified example, the connecting portion 73 is plate-shaped. The connecting portion 73 extends from the third wall portion 71c along the X-axis direction. The connecting portion 73 faces the object to be measured 3. For example, the connecting portion 73 faces the main surface 3a of the object to be measured 3 and is positioned along the main surface 3a. The third wall portion 71c and the connecting portion 73 form a corner C13 at the part where they are connected to each other, and this corner C13 is separated from the sensor housing 20.

[0072] The connecting portion 74 is arranged along the X-axis and Z-axis directions. In this modified example, the connecting portion 74 is plate-shaped. The connecting portion 74 extends from the second wall portion 71b along the X-axis direction. The connecting portion 74 faces the object to be measured 3. For example, the connecting portion 74 faces the main surface 3a of the object to be measured 3 and is positioned along the main surface 3a. The second wall portion 71b and the connecting portion 74 form a corner portion C14 at the portion where they connect to each other, and this corner portion C14 is separated from the sensor housing 20.

[0073] The second holding portion 72 faces the object to be measured 3. The second holding portion 72 is, for example, plate-shaped. The second holding portion 72 and the connecting portion 73 are connected to each other. The second holding portion 72 includes a fourth wall portion 72a. The fourth wall portion 72a is connected to the connecting portion 73 at one end and forms the front end of the holding member 30C at the other end. The fourth wall portion 72a and the connecting portion 73 form a corner C15 at the part where they are connected to each other. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the fourth wall portion 72a extends toward the sensor housing 20 in the X-axis direction and extends away from the sensor housing 20 in the Y-axis direction. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the fourth wall portion 72a is arranged along the side 3d of the object to be measured 3 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth wall portion 72a is configured to connect with the corner 3e of the object to be measured 3. The fourth wall portion 72a corresponds to the third part. The front end of the fourth wall portion 72a is bent away from the sensor housing 20 in the X-axis direction.

[0074] The third holding portion 75 faces the object to be measured 3. The third holding portion 75 is, for example, plate-shaped. The third holding portion 75 and the connecting portion 74 are connected to each other. The third holding portion 75 includes a fifth wall portion 75a. The fifth wall portion 75a is connected to the connecting portion 74 at one end and forms the front end of the holding member 30C at the other end. The fifth wall portion 75a and the connecting portion 74 form a corner C14 at the part where they are connected to each other. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the fifth wall portion 75a extends toward the sensor housing 20 in the X-axis direction and extends away from the sensor housing 20 in the Y-axis direction. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the fifth wall portion 75a is arranged along the side 3c of the object to be measured 3 in the Y-axis direction. The fifth wall portion 75a is configured to connect with the corner 3f of the object to be measured 3. The fifth wall portion 75a corresponds to the fifth part. The front end of the fifth wall portion 75a is bent away from the sensor housing 20 in the X-axis direction.

[0075] The retaining member 30C is integrally constructed to surround the sensor housing 20 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and is positioned in the order of fifth wall portion 75a, connecting portion 74, second wall portion 71b, first wall portion 71a, third wall portion 71c, connecting portion 73, and fourth wall portion 72a. The fifth wall portion 75a, connecting portion 74, second wall portion 71b, first wall portion 71a, third wall portion 71c, connecting portion 73, and fourth wall portion 72a are continuous in this order. The first wall portion 71a and the fourth wall portion 72a are separated. The first wall portion 71a and the fifth wall portion 75a are also separated. In this modified example, the retaining member 30 is formed in a ring shape, interrupted between the fifth wall portion 75a and the fourth wall portion 72a when viewed from the Z-axis direction. In this modified example, the sensor housing 20 is located between the second wall portion 71b and the fourth wall portion 72a. In other words, viewed from the Z-axis direction, the sensor housing 20 is located on an imaginary straight line passing through the second wall 71b and the fourth wall 72a.

[0076] As explained above, in the temperature sensor unit 2, the sensor housing 20 includes a side surface 26a and a side surface 26c. Side surface 26a extends along the Z-axis. Side surface 26c extends in a direction intersecting side surface 26a. In the retaining member 30, a first wall portion 31a is in contact with the side surface 26a of the sensor housing 20, and a second wall portion 31b faces the side surface 26c of the sensor housing 20. A fourth wall portion 32b is in contact with the corner portion 3f of the object to be measured 3. The retaining member 30 is integrally constructed to surround the sensor housing 20 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and is positioned in the order of the second wall portion 31b, the first wall portion 31a, and the fourth wall portion 32b. In this case, the sensor housing 20 and the retaining member 30 are shaped for ease of manufacture, and the retaining member 30 accurately positions the sensor housing 20 relative to the object to be measured 3. The sensor housing 20 is fixed relative to the object to be measured 3 in a state of contact with the object to be measured. Therefore, this temperature sensor unit 2 has a simple structure for manufacture while accurately measuring temperature. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, and 2C also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0077] The sensor housing 20 can also be configured to be connected to the object being measured 3 on its side 26d. In this case, the sensor housing 20 is fixed more reliably relative to the object being measured 3. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, and 2C also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0078] The sensor housing 20C can also be located on an imaginary line that is orthogonal to the Z-axis and passes through the second wall 71b and the third wall 71c. In this case, the sensor housing 20C is fixed more reliably relative to the object being measured 3.

[0079] The retaining member 30 may also have a through hole α in the first wall portion 31a. The sensor housing 20 may also include a protrusion 23 projecting from the side 26a. The protrusion 23 may also include a through portion 23a that passes through the through hole α and a front end portion 23b connected to the through portion 23a. The front end portion 23b may also have an opposing surface 23e facing the first wall portion 31a and sandwiching the first wall portion 31a opposite to the side 26a. In this case, the retaining member 30 can more reliably position the sensor housing 20. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, and 2C also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0080] The first wall portion 31a can also be connected to the opposing surface 23e and the side surface 26a. In this case, the sensor housing 20 is positioned more reliably using the retaining member 30. The temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, and 2C also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0081] The temperature sensor 10 may also include a detection section 11 housed inside the sensor housing 20. The detection section 11 may also include a portion that does not overlap with the through-hole 23a when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the side 26a. In this case, it is less susceptible to heat conduction from the through-hole 23a, and the detection section 11 can be used to measure a more accurate temperature. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, and 2C also have the same structure and achieve the same functional effect.

[0082] In the retaining member 30, the first wall portion 31a and the fourth wall portion 32b can also be separated. In this case, the sensor housing 20 is fixed more reliably relative to the object being measured 3. The temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, and 2C also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0083] Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the center of gravity G1 of the temperature sensor 10 can also be closer to the fourth wall 32b in the X-axis direction than the center of gravity G2 of the holding member 30. In this case, the sensor housing 20 is more reliably fixed relative to the object being measured 3. Temperature sensor units 2A and 2B also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0084] The sensor housing 20C may also have a side 26d located opposite to side 26c. The retaining member 30C may also include a third wall 71c opposite to the second wall 71b and facing side 26d. The retaining member 30C may also be integrally formed to surround the sensor housing 20C when viewed from the Z-axis direction, positioned in the order of second wall 71b, first wall 71a, third wall 71c, and fourth wall 72a. In this case, the retaining member 30C provides more reliable positioning of the sensor housing 20C.

[0085] In the retaining member 30C, the fifth wall portion 75a can also be configured to connect with the corner portion 3f of the object to be measured 3, which is different from the corner portion 3e that the fourth wall portion 72a connects to. The retaining member 30C can also be positioned in the order of the fifth wall portion 75a, the second wall portion 71b, the first wall portion 71a, the third wall portion 71c, and the fourth wall portion 72a. In this case, the sensor housing 20C is positioned more reliably using the retaining member 30C.

[0086] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit. For example, at least two structures of assemblies 1, 1A, 1B, and 1C can be combined. For example, the retaining member 30C of assembly 1C can also be a structure with only one through hole α, like the retaining member 30A of assembly 1A. For example, the retaining member 30C of assembly 1C of the present invention can also be configured such that, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the center of gravity G1 of the temperature sensor 10 is closer to the fourth wall portion 72a or the fifth wall portion 75a in the X-axis direction than the center of gravity G2 of the retaining member 30.

[0087] As can be understood from the above description of the embodiments and variations, this specification includes disclosures in the manner shown below.

[0088] (Note 1)

[0089] A temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0090] have:

[0091] Temperature sensor;

[0092] A sensor housing extending along a first direction and housing the temperature sensor; and

[0093] A retaining member that holds the sensor housing.

[0094] The sensor housing has an outer surface, which includes a first side surface along the first direction and a second side surface extending along the first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first side surface.

[0095] The retaining member includes a first portion that contacts the first side, a second portion that faces the second side, and a third portion that is configured to contact the corner of the object being measured. The retaining member is integrally configured to surround the sensor housing when viewed from the first direction, and is positioned in the order of the second portion, the first portion, and the third portion.

[0096] (Note 2) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 1, wherein,

[0097] The sensor housing also has a third side located opposite the first side, and is configured to be in contact with the object being measured on the third side.

[0098] (Note 3) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 1 or Note 2, wherein,

[0099] The sensor housing is located on an imaginary line that is orthogonal to the first direction and passes through the second and third portions.

[0100] (Note 4) According to any one of Notes 1 to 3, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0101] The retaining member has a through hole in the first portion.

[0102] The sensor housing includes a protrusion extending from the first side.

[0103] The protrusion includes a through portion that passes through the through hole and a front end portion connected to the through portion.

[0104] The front end has an opposing surface that faces the first portion and sandwiches the first portion opposite to the first side surface.

[0105] (Note 5) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 4, wherein,

[0106] The first part is in contact with the opposite surface and the first side surface.

[0107] (Note 6) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 4 or Note 5, wherein,

[0108] The temperature sensor includes a temperature-sensing element housed inside the sensor housing.

[0109] The temperature sensing element includes a portion that does not overlap with the through portion when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the first side surface.

[0110] (Note 7) According to any one of Notes 1 to 6, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0111] In the retaining member, the first portion is separated from the third portion.

[0112] (Note 8) According to any one of Notes 1 to 7, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0113] Viewed from the first direction, the center of gravity of the temperature sensor is located in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and is closer to the third part than the center of gravity of the holding member.

[0114] (Note 9) According to any one of Notes 1 to 8, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0115] The sensor housing has a fourth side located opposite the second side.

[0116] The retaining member further includes a fourth portion opposite to the second portion and facing the fourth side, and is integrally formed in such a way that it surrounds the sensor housing when viewed from the first direction, and is positioned in the order of the second portion, the first portion, the fourth portion, and the third portion.

[0117] (Note 10) According to any one of Notes 1 to 9, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0118] The retaining member further includes a fifth part configured to connect with the corner of the object being measured, positioned in the order of the fifth part, the second part, the first part, and the third part, wherein the corner of the object being measured is different from the corner to which the third part connects.

[0119] (Note 11) An assembly of a temperature sensor, wherein,

[0120] have:

[0121] The temperature sensor unit described in any of Notes 1 to 10; and

[0122] The object being measured.

[0123] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0124] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C...Assembly; 2, 2A, 2B, 2C...Temperature sensor unit; 3...Object to be measured; 3e, 3f...Corner; 10...Temperature sensor; 11...Detector; 20, 20A, 20B, 20C...Sensor housing; 23, 53, 63...Protrusion; 23a...Through part; 23b, 63b...Front end; 30, 30A, 30B, 30C...Holding member; 31, 71...First holding part; 31a, 71a...First wall part; 31b, 71b...Second wall part; 32, 72...Second holding part; 32b, 72a...Fourth wall part; 71c...Third wall part; 75a...Fifth wall part; G1, G2...Center of gravity position; α...Through hole.

Claims

1. A temperature sensor unit, wherein, have: Temperature sensor; A sensor housing extending along a first direction and housing the temperature sensor; and A retaining member that holds the sensor housing. The sensor housing has an outer surface, which includes a first side surface along the first direction and a second side surface extending along the first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first side surface. The retaining member includes a first portion that contacts the first side, a second portion that faces the second side, and a third portion that is configured to contact the corner of the object being measured. The retaining member is integrally configured to surround the sensor housing when viewed from the first direction, and is positioned in the order of the second portion, the first portion, and the third portion.

2. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor housing also has a third side located opposite the first side, and is configured to be in contact with the object being measured on the third side.

3. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor housing is located on an imaginary line that is orthogonal to the first direction and passes through the second and third portions.

4. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining member has a through hole in the first portion. The sensor housing includes a protrusion extending from the first side. The protrusion includes a through portion that passes through the through hole and a front end portion connected to the through portion. The front end has an opposing surface that faces the first portion and sandwiches the first portion opposite to the first side surface.

5. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 4, wherein, The first part is in contact with the opposite surface and the first side surface.

6. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 4, wherein, The temperature sensor includes a temperature-sensing element housed inside the sensor housing. The temperature sensing element includes a portion that does not overlap with the through portion when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the first side surface.

7. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, In the retaining member, the first portion is separated from the third portion.

8. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, Viewed from the first direction, the center of gravity of the temperature sensor is located in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and is closer to the third part than the center of gravity of the holding member.

9. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor housing has a fourth side located opposite the second side. The retaining member further includes a fourth portion opposite to the second portion and facing the fourth side, and is integrally formed in such a way that it surrounds the sensor housing when viewed from the first direction, and is positioned in the order of the second portion, the first portion, the fourth portion, and the third portion.

10. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining member further includes a fifth part configured to connect with the corner of the object being measured, positioned in the order of the fifth part, the second part, the first part, and the third part, wherein the corner of the object being measured is different from the corner to which the third part connects.

11. An assembly of a temperature sensor, wherein, have: The temperature sensor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10; and The object being measured.

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