Temperature sensor unit, temperature sensor assembly, and temperature sensor assembly method

Abstract

A temperature sensor (10) is housed in a main body portion (21) of a temperature sensor unit (2) of the present application. A protruding portion (23) protrudes from the main body portion (21). A holding member (30) holds the sensor housing (20). The main body portion (21) has first and second side surfaces along a first direction. In the holding member (30), a first portion is in contact with the first side surface, and has a through-hole (a) through which the protruding portion (23) passes. The protruding portion (23) includes a through portion (23a) and a front end portion (23b). The through portion (23a) protrudes from the first side surface in a second direction and passes through the through-hole. The front end portion (23b) is connected to the through portion (23a) on the opposite side of the first side surface. The front end portion (23b) has an opposite surface (23e). The opposite surface (23e) faces the first portion, and is opposite the first side surface with the first portion interposed therebetween.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a temperature sensor unit, a temperature sensor assembly, and a method for assembling a temperature sensor. 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 sensor housing houses the temperature sensor. The holding member holds the sensor housing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To accurately detect the temperature of an object, it is desirable to precisely position the sensor housing relative to the object. In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-90138, a retaining member is used for positioning the sensor housing. However, the more complex the shape of the retaining member, the higher the manufacturing cost may be. This increases the number of parts, complicates installation, and further increases manufacturing costs.

[0004] One aspect of the present invention aims to provide a temperature sensor unit having a structure that accurately positions the sensor housing relative to the object being measured, while also facilitating installation and manufacturing. Another aspect of the present invention aims to provide a temperature sensor assembly having a structure that accurately positions the sensor housing relative to the object being measured, while also facilitating installation and manufacturing. Yet another aspect of the present invention aims to provide a method for assembling a temperature sensor that allows for easy and accurate positioning of the sensor housing relative to the object being measured.

[0005] One approach provides a temperature sensor unit comprising a temperature sensor, a sensor housing, and a retaining member. The sensor housing includes a main body portion and at least one protrusion. The main body portion extends along a first direction. The temperature sensor is housed in the main body portion. The protrusion protrudes from the main body portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The retaining member retains the sensor housing. The main body portion has a first side surface and a second side surface along the first direction. The retaining member includes a first portion. The first portion is in contact with the first side surface and has a through hole through which the protrusion passes. At least one protrusion includes a through portion and a front end portion. The through portion protrudes from the first side surface in the second direction and passes through the through hole. The front end portion is connected to the through portion on the opposite side of the first side surface. The front end portion has an opposing surface. The opposing surface faces the first portion and sandwiches the first portion opposite to the first side surface.

[0006] In one embodiment, in the temperature sensor unit, the first portion of the holding member has a through hole that connects to a first side of the main body and through which a protrusion of the sensor housing passes. The through portion of the protrusion protrudes from the first side in a second direction and passes through the through hole. The front end of the protrusion has an opposing surface that clamps the first portion and the first side. Therefore, the sensor housing is fixed to the holding member by means of the protrusion. Thus, the sensor housing is accurately positioned relative to the object being measured. Furthermore, this structure facilitates installation and manufacturing.

[0007] In one embodiment, the sensor housing may also include multiple protrusions. The first portion may also have multiple through holes through which the multiple protrusions pass. In this case, because the multiple protrusions pass through the multiple through holes, the sensor housing is more reliably secured to the retaining member.

[0008] In one of these arrangements, the maximum width of the protrusion in the first direction can also be greater than the maximum width in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions. In this case, rotation of the sensor housing relative to the retaining member can be suppressed.

[0009] In one of these arrangements, the second side may also be curved and configured to contact the object being measured, whose temperature is being determined by the temperature sensor. In this case, the contact area between the sensor housing and the object being measured can be ensured.

[0010] In one of these arrangements, the second side may also be configured to be in contact with the object being measured. The thermal conductivity of the material forming the second side may also be higher than that of the material forming the first side. In this case, heat from the object being measured is easily transferred from the second side, allowing for more accurate measurement of the object's temperature.

[0011] In one embodiment, the main body further has a third side surface. This third side surface may extend along a first direction and also along a second direction. The retaining member may further include a second portion facing the third side surface. In this case, the second portion of the retaining member engages with the third side surface, more stably holding the sensor housing within the retaining member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the main body may further include a fourth side opposite to the third side. The retaining member may further include a third portion facing the fourth side. In this case, the sensor housing is sandwiched between the second and third portions, thus holding the sensor housing more stably within the retaining member.

[0013] In one of these arrangements, the retaining member may also form an opening from which the third side protrudes when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the second portion. In this case, the position of the sensor housing can be confirmed through the opening, and the assembly accuracy of the sensor housing can be verified.

[0014] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also include a temperature-sensing element housed within the main body. 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.

[0015] Another approach provides a temperature sensor assembly comprising the temperature sensor unit and a measurement object whose temperature is measured by the temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor unit can be reliably positioned relative to the measurement object, and the temperature of the measurement object can be accurately measured.

[0016] Another method provides an assembly of a temperature sensor, comprising: inserting at least one protrusion into a sensor housing including a main body and at least one protrusion, and a retaining member including a first portion having a through hole and retaining the sensor housing; and forming the through portion and a front end by riveting. The main body extends along a first direction, has a first side surface and a second side surface along the first direction, and houses the temperature sensor. At least one protrusion protrudes from the main body. The riveting is a process performed on the front end of the at least one protrusion inserted into the through hole. The through portion passes through the first portion in the through hole. The front end is connected to the through portion and has a facing surface. The facing surface has a facing surface that faces the first portion and sandwiches the opposite side of the first portion to the first side surface.

[0017] In this other embodiment, the sensor housing is fixed to the retaining member using the front end. Therefore, the sensor housing is accurately positioned relative to the object being measured. Furthermore, this structure facilitates the installation of the sensor housing onto the object being measured.

[0018] The invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings given below, which are given for illustration only and 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 side view showing an assembly of a temperature sensor according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a 3D diagram representing a temperature sensor unit.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a 3D diagram representing a temperature sensor unit.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a top view of the temperature sensor and its housing.

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

[0025] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the position of the temperature sensor relative to the sensor housing.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a 3D view of the temperature sensor unit before riveting.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a 3D view showing the sensor housing and temperature sensor before riveting.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor unit before riveting in a modified example of this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor unit before riveting in a modified example of this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0032] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing a modified example of the sensor housing and retaining member of this embodiment.

[0034] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the position of the temperature sensor relative to the sensor housing in a modified example of this embodiment.

[0035] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor unit before riveting in a modified example of this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 18This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit representing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the temperature sensor unit before riveting in a modified example of this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0039] 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.

[0040] Reference Figures 1 to 8 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. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an assembly 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.

[0041] 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. Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a 3D view of temperature sensor unit 2.

[0042] In the example shown in this embodiment, the object to be measured 3 is cylindrical. The object to be measured 3 includes an outer peripheral surface 3a. The object to be measured 3 may also have a shape 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).

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, 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 detects heat transferred from the object to be measured 3. Temperature sensor unit 2 includes temperature sensor 10, sensor housing 20 for housing temperature sensor 10, and holding member 30 for holding sensor housing 20. Holding member 30 is equivalent to a positioning member for positioning sensor housing 20 relative to the object to be measured 3.

[0044] The sensor housing 20 includes a main body 21 and a protrusion 23. Figures 4-6 This diagram shows a temperature sensor and its housing. 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. The temperature sensor 10 detects heat transferred from the outside. Figure 6As 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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. Side surface 26b is configured to contact the object 3 being measured. For example, the Z-axis direction corresponds to a first direction, and the Y-axis direction corresponds to a second direction.

[0047] Sides 26a, 26c, and 26d are flat. Side 26b is curved. Viewed from the Z-axis, side 26b is curved into an arch shape. In other words, on side 26d, the curved surface is continuous along the Z-axis. Sides 26c and 26d are both rectangular when viewed from above. The sensor housing 20 also includes corner portions 26e and 26f. Corner portion 26e connects side 26a and side 26c. Corner portion 26f connects side 26a and side 26d. For example, side 26a corresponds to the first side, side 26b corresponds to the second side, side 26d corresponds to the third side, and side 26c corresponds to the fourth side.

[0048] 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 in the Y-axis direction. In other words, each protrusion 23 extends in a direction orthogonal to the side surface 26a.

[0049] 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, the through portion 23a is cylindrical. 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.

[0050] 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 and a third retaining part 34 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 and the third retaining part 34 engage 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.

[0051] The first retaining part 31 includes a first wall portion 31a and a second wall portion 31b. The first wall portion 31a faces the side 26a of the sensor housing 20. The first wall portion 31a is in contact with the side 26a of the sensor housing 20. The second wall portion 31b faces the side 26d. The first wall portion 31a and the second wall portion 31b are plate-shaped.

[0052] The first wall portion 31a is connected to the second wall portion 31b at one end and to the connecting portion 33 at the other end. A corner portion C1 is formed at the connection point of the first wall portion 31a and the second wall portion 31b, and the corner portion 26f of the sensor housing 20 is located at this corner portion 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.

[0053] 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 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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 opposite to 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 23e. 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.

[0056] The second wall portion 31b extends along the side surface 26d. 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 26d. The second wall portion 31b extends from the first wall portion 31a along the Y-axis direction. The second wall portion 31b is connected to the first wall portion 31a at one end and to the third retaining portion 34 at the other end.

[0057] The connecting portion 33 extends away from the first wall portion 31a, the second wall portion 31b, the third retaining portion 34, and the sensor housing 20 in both the Y-axis and X-axis directions. In the example shown in this embodiment, the connecting portion 33 is plate-shaped. The connecting portion 33 is separated from the second wall portion 31b and is opposite to it. The first wall portion 31a and the connecting portion 33 form a corner C3 at the portion where they connect to each other. In the Y-axis direction, the connecting portion 33 extends from the corner C3 away from the side surface 26a on the opposite side of the front end portion 23b. The connecting portion 33 is connected to the first wall portion 31a at one end and to the second retaining portion 32 at the other end. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, a cavity is formed by the connecting portion 33, the sensor housing 20, and the object to be measured 3.

[0058] 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. The third wall portion 32a is, for example, in a curved plate shape. The third wall portion 32a is connected to the connecting portion 33 at one end, and forms the front end portion 32b of the holding member 30 at the other end. The third wall portion 32a and the connecting portion 33 form a corner portion C4 at the part where they are connected to each other. The third wall portion 32a includes the front end portion 32b. The front end portion 32b is curved away from the object to be measured 3 in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0059] The third wall portion 32a is, for example, opposite to the first wall portion 31a, the connecting portion 33, and the third holding portion 34 in the Y-axis direction. For example, the object to be measured 3 and the sensor housing 20 are sandwiched between the third wall portion 32a and the first wall portion 31a. The object to be measured 3 is sandwiched between the third wall portion 32a and the third holding portion 34. The third wall portion 32a is elastically in contact with the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3. For example, the third wall portion 32a faces the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3 and extends along the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3.

[0060] The third holding portion 34 faces the object to be measured 3. The third holding portion 34 and the first holding portion 31 are connected to each other. The third holding portion 34 includes a fourth wall portion 34a. The fourth wall portion 34a is, for example, plate-shaped. The fourth wall portion 34a extends away from the first wall portion 31a, the second wall portion 31b, and the sensor housing 20 in the Y-axis and X-axis directions. The fourth wall portion 34a is arranged along the Z-axis direction. The fourth wall portion 34a is separated from the first wall portion 31a. The fourth wall portion 34a and the second wall portion 31b form a corner C2 at the part where they are connected to each other. In the Y-axis direction, the fourth wall portion 34a extends from the corner C2 away from the side surface 26a on the opposite side surface 26a. The fourth wall portion 34a is elastically in contact with the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3. The fourth wall portion 34a is connected to the second wall portion 31b at one end and forms the front end portion 34d of the holding member 30 at the other end. The fourth wall portion 34a includes a front end portion 34d. The front end portion 34d is bent away from the measuring object 3 in both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0061] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in the example of this embodiment, the retaining member 30 has an opening β1 and an opening β2. Opening β1 is defined by a first wall portion 31a, a connecting portion 33, and a third wall portion 32a. Opening β2 is defined by the third wall portion 32a. Both openings β1 and β2 are rectangular. Openings β1 and β2 extend along the extending direction of the retaining member 30 in the XY plane. In openings β1 and β2, the width of the retaining member 30 in the extending direction in the XY plane is greater than its width in the Z-axis direction.

[0062] The opening β1 separates corners C3 and C4. The connecting portion 33 is divided in two by the opening β1. Viewed from the X-axis, the side 26c of the sensor housing 20 is exposed from the connecting portion 33 of the holding member 30 via the opening β1. In other words, viewed from the X-axis, the side 26c of the sensor housing 20 can be identified from the opening β1. Viewed from the Y-axis, the side 26b of the sensor housing 20 is exposed from the second wall portion 31b of the holding member 30 via the opening β2. In other words, viewed from the Y-axis, the side 26b of the sensor housing 20 can be identified from the opening β2.

[0063] 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 fourth wall portion 34a, second wall portion 31b, first wall portion 31a, connecting portion 33, and third wall portion 32a. The fourth wall portion 34a, second wall portion 31b, first wall portion 31a, connecting portion 33, and third wall portion 32a are continuous in this order. In the example shown in this embodiment, the retaining member 30 is formed in a ring shape, interrupted between the fourth wall portion 34a and the third wall portion 32a when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0064] Next, the assembly method of the temperature sensor will be described. The front end portion 23b of the protrusion 23 is formed by riveting. Figure 7 This is a 3D view of the temperature sensor unit before riveting. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the sensor housing and temperature sensor before riveting. Before riveting, the sensor housing 20 includes multiple protrusions 43. These protrusions 43 are arranged along the long side of the sensor housing 20. Each protrusion 43 is connected to a side surface 26a of the main body 21. Each protrusion 43 protrudes from the side surface 26a in the Y-axis direction. In other words, each protrusion 43 extends in a direction orthogonal to the side surface 26a. Each protrusion 43 is cylindrical. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, each protrusion 43 has the same shape as the through portion 23a of the protrusion 23. Each protrusion 43 is connected to the side surface 26a at one end and forms an end face 43a at the other end. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the end face 43a is circular.

[0065] During the riveting process, each protrusion 43 is inserted into the through hole α of the retaining member 30. Multiple protrusions 43 are inserted into their respective through holes α. Then, with each protrusion 43 inserted into the through hole α of the retaining member 30, the front end of the protrusion 43 is flattened by pressing the end face 43a, forming the front end portion 23b of the protrusion 23. For example, the protrusion 23 is pressed onto the retaining member 30 through the riveting process. In other words, by riveting the front end of the protrusion 43 inserted into the through hole α, a through portion 23a and a front end portion 23b having an opposing surface 23e are formed.

[0066] Next, use Figures 9-11 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 temperature sensor unit. The following mainly explains the differences between the embodiment described above and this modified example. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit in a modified embodiment of this invention. Figure 9 This refers to temperature sensor unit 2A before riveting. Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the sensor housing and temperature sensor of a modified embodiment of this invention. Figure 10 and Figure 11 This indicates the sensor housing 20A before riveting.

[0067] Temperature sensor unit 2A includes a sensor housing 20A, a holding member 30A, and a temperature sensor 10. Temperature sensor unit 2A differs from temperature sensor unit 2 only in the structure of the sensor housing 20A and the holding member 30A. Sensor housing 20A includes a main body 50 and a protrusion 53. Figures 9-11In the diagram, protrusion 53 represents the state before riveting. Similar to temperature sensor unit 2, protrusion 53 is formed into a front end and a through portion through riveting. During riveting, the end face 53a of protrusion 53 is pressed.

[0068] The retaining member 30A includes a first retaining portion 51, a second retaining portion 32, a third retaining portion 34, and a connecting portion 33. The first retaining portion 51 includes a first wall portion 52 and a second wall portion 31b. The first wall portion 52 has a through hole α. The through hole α is formed around the protrusion 53 on the XZ plane. The retaining member 30A differs from the retaining member 30 only in the shape of the through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the end face 53a and the through hole α have similar shapes. The outer surface of the main body portion 21 includes four side faces 56a, 56c, 56d, and 57b that connect to the bottom 50a.

[0069] Side surfaces 56a and 57b are located opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. Side surfaces 56c and 56d are located opposite each other in the X-axis direction. Side surfaces 56a and 57b are arranged along the X-axis and Z-axis directions, respectively. Side surfaces 56a and 57b are orthogonal to the Y-axis direction. Side surfaces 56c and 56d intersect with side surfaces 56a and 57b. Side surface 57b is configured to be in contact with the object being measured 3. Side surfaces 56c and 56d are arranged along the Y-axis and Z-axis directions, respectively. Side surfaces 56c and 56d extend along the Y-axis direction. Side surfaces 56c and 56d are orthogonal in the X-axis direction. For example, the Z-axis direction corresponds to the first direction, and the Y-axis direction corresponds to the second direction.

[0070] Sides 56a, 56c, 56d, and 57b are flat. Sides 56c and 56d are rectangular when viewed from above. The sensor housing 20A also includes corner portions 26e and 26f. Corner portion 26e connects side portions 56a and 56c. Corner portion 26f connects side portions 56a and 56d. For example, side portion 56a corresponds to the first side, side portion 57b corresponds to the second side, side portion 56c corresponds to the third side, and side portion 56d corresponds to the fourth side.

[0071] The main body 50 includes a cover 56 and a substrate 57. The substrate 57 is in the shape of a rectangular flat plate. The cover 56 covers the substrate 57. The main body 50 has a space formed by the cover 56 and the substrate 57, in which the detection part 11 of the temperature sensor 10 is disposed. For example, the detection part 11 is disposed in contact with the substrate 57. The thermal conductivity of the material forming the substrate 57 is higher than that of the material forming the cover 56.

[0072] The outer surface of the cover 56 includes four sides 56a, 56c, and 56d connected to the bottom 50a. The substrate 57 includes a side 57b. The side 57b is configured to be in contact with the object being measured 3. The thermal conductivity of the material forming the side 57b is higher than that of the material forming the side 56a.

[0073] The cover 56 has a plurality of openings 58 exposing the substrate 57. Each opening 58 extends from the side 57a along the Y-axis direction. The plurality of openings 58 are respectively formed on the side 56a, side 56c, and side 56d. The opening 58 is located at the center of the side 56a in the X-axis direction. The opening 58 is located at the center of the side 56c in the Z-axis direction. The opening 58 is located at the center of the side 56d in the Z-axis direction.

[0074] Next, use Figure 12 and Figure 13 The structure of a modified example of the temperature sensor unit is described below. This modified example 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 modified example. Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor unit in a modified embodiment of this invention. Figure 12 and Figure 13 This indicates the temperature sensor unit before riveting. Similar to temperature sensor unit 2, the protrusion 43 has a front end and a through portion formed by riveting. During riveting, the end face of the protrusion 43 is pressed.

[0075] The temperature sensor unit 2B includes a temperature sensor 10, a sensor housing 20B, and a holding member 30B. The sensor housing 20B differs from the sensor housing 20 in that it has a side surface 26g instead of a side surface 26b. The side surface 26g is flat. The side surface 26g is configured to contact the object being measured 3. The holding member 30B includes a first holding portion 61 that contacts the sensor housing 20B, and a second holding portion 62 and a third holding portion 64 that contact the object being measured 3. The first holding portion 61 engages with the sensor housing 20B, and the second and third holding portions 62 and 64 engage with the object being measured 3. The metal used as the material for the holding member 30B can be phosphor bronze for springs, or stainless steel for springs, etc.

[0076] The first retaining portion 61 includes a first wall portion 61a, a second wall portion 61b, and a third wall portion 61c. The first wall portion 61a faces the side 26a of the sensor housing 20B. The second wall portion 61b faces the side 26d. The third wall portion 61c faces the side 26c. The first wall portion 61a, the second wall portion 61b, and the third wall portion 61c are plate-shaped.

[0077] The first wall portion 61a is connected to the second wall portion 61b at one end and to the third wall portion 61c at the other end. The first wall portion 61a and the second wall portion 61b form a corner C1 at their connection point, and the corner portion 26f of the sensor housing 20 is located at this corner C1. The first wall portion 61a and the third wall portion 61c form a corner C3 at their connection point, and the corner portion 26e of the sensor housing 20B is located at this corner C3. In this modified example, the first wall portion 61a corresponds to the first part, the second wall portion 61b corresponds to the second part, and the third wall portion 61c corresponds to the third part.

[0078] A first wall portion 61a extends along the side surface 26a. The first wall portion 61a is arranged along both the X-axis and Z-axis directions. The first wall portion 61a is in contact with the side surface 26a. The first wall portion 61a and the second wall portion 61b extend in intersecting directions. For example, the first wall portion 61a and the second wall portion 61b are orthogonal. The first wall portion 61a and the third wall portion 61c extend in intersecting directions. For example, the first wall portion 61a and the third wall portion 61c are orthogonal. The first wall portion 61a has a through hole α.

[0079] The second wall portion 61b extends along the side surface 26d. The second wall portion 61b is arranged along both the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. The second wall portion 61b is in contact with the side surface 26d. The second wall portion 61b extends from the first wall portion 61a along the Y-axis direction. The second wall portion 61b is connected to the first wall portion 61a at one end and to the third retaining portion 64 at the other end. The second wall portion 61b and the third retaining portion 64 form a corner C2 at their connection point.

[0080] The third wall portion 61c extends along the side surface 26c. The third wall portion 61c is arranged along both the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. The third wall portion 61c is connected to the side surface 26c. The third wall portion 61c extends from the first wall portion 61a along the Y-axis direction. The second wall portion 61b is connected to the first wall portion 61a at one end and to the third retaining portion 64 at the other end. The second wall portion 61b and the third retaining portion 64 form a corner C2 at their connection point.

[0081] The second retaining portion 62 faces the object to be measured 3. The second retaining portion 62 and the third wall portion 61c are connected to each other. The second retaining portion 62 includes a fourth wall portion 62a. The fourth wall portion 62a is, for example, in a curved plate shape. The fourth wall portion 62a is connected to the third wall portion 61c at one end, and forms the front end portion 62b of the retaining member 30B at the other end. The fourth wall portion 62a and the third wall portion 61c form a corner portion C5 at the part where they are connected to each other. The fourth wall portion 62a includes the front end portion 62b. The front end portion 62b is curved away from the object to be measured 3 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0082] The third retaining portion 64 faces the object to be measured 3. The third retaining portion 64 and the second wall portion 61b are connected to each other. The third retaining portion 64 includes a fifth wall portion 64a. The fifth wall portion 64a is, for example, in a curved plate shape. The fifth wall portion 64a is connected to the second wall portion 61b at one end, and forms the front end portion 64d of the retaining member 30B at the other end. The fifth wall portion 64a and the second wall portion 61b form a corner portion C2 at the part where they are connected to each other. The fifth wall portion 64a includes the front end portion 64d. The front end portion 64d is curved away from the object to be measured 3 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0083] The fourth wall portion 62a and the fifth wall portion 64a are opposite to each other in the X-axis direction. The object to be measured 3 is sandwiched between the fourth wall portion 62a and the fifth wall portion 64a. The fourth wall portion 62a is elastically in contact with the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3. For example, the fourth wall portion 62a faces the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3 and extends along the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3. The fifth wall portion 64a is elastically in contact with the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3. For example, the fifth wall portion 64a faces the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3 and extends along the outer peripheral surface 3a of the object to be measured 3.

[0084] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in this modified example, the retaining member 30B has an opening γ1 and an opening γ2. Opening γ1 is defined by a third wall portion 61c and a fourth wall portion 62a. Opening γ2 is defined by a second wall portion 61b and a fifth wall portion 64a. Both openings γ1 and γ2 are rectangular. Openings γ1 and γ2 extend along the extending direction of the retaining member 30B in the XY plane. In openings γ1 and γ2, the width of the retaining member 30B in the extending direction in the XY plane is greater than its width in the Z-axis direction.

[0085] Opening γ1 interrupts corner C5. Viewed from the X-axis, the side 26c of sensor housing 20B is exposed from the third wall 61c of retaining member 30B via opening γ1. In other words, the side 26c of sensor housing 20B can be identified from opening γ1 when viewed from the X-axis. Opening γ2 interrupts corner C2. Viewed from the X-axis, the side 26d of sensor housing 20B is exposed from the second wall 61b of retaining member 30B via opening γ2. In other words, the side 26d of sensor housing 20B can be identified from opening γ2 when viewed from the X-axis.

[0086] The retaining member 30B is integrally constructed to surround the sensor housing 20B when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and is positioned in the order of fourth wall portion 62a, third wall portion 61c, first wall portion 61a, second wall portion 61b, and fifth wall portion 64a. The fourth wall portion 62a, third wall portion 61c, first wall portion 61a, second wall portion 61b, and fifth wall portion 64a are continuous in this order. In this modified example, the retaining member 30B is formed in a ring shape, interrupted between the fourth wall portion 62a and the fifth wall portion 64a when viewed from the Z-axis direction. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the retaining member 30B is linearly symmetrical.

[0087] Next, use Figure 14 and Figure 15 The structure of a modified example of the temperature sensor unit 2C will be described. This modified example differs from the embodiment described above in the structure of the retaining member and the sensor housing. Hereinafter, the differences between the embodiment described above and this modified example will be mainly explained. Figure 14 This refers to the sensor housing and retaining components before riveting. Figure 15 This diagram shows the position of the temperature sensor relative to the sensor housing before riveting. Similar to temperature sensor unit 2, the protrusion 43 of temperature sensor unit 2C is formed into a front end and a through portion through riveting. During riveting, the end face 73a of the protrusion 73 is pressed.

[0088] In this modified example, the sensor housing 20C includes a protrusion 73. The sensor housing 20C differs from the sensor housing 20 only in the protrusion 73. The protrusion 73 differs from the protrusion 43 only in its configuration.

[0089] The protrusion 73 has the same shape as the protrusion 43. In the sensor housing 20C, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 73 is located at the center of the side surface 76a. The detection part 11 includes a portion that, viewed from the Y-axis direction, does not overlap with the protrusion 73 of the sensor housing 20C. In the riveted sensor housing 20C, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the front end of the protrusion does not overlap with the detection part 11.

[0090] The retaining member 30C differs from the retaining member 30 only in the configuration of the through hole α. The retaining member 30C includes a first wall portion 61g instead of the first wall portion 31a. The first wall portion 61g of the retaining member 30C differs from the first wall portion 31a in that it has only one through hole α. A protrusion 73 extends through the through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the end face 73a and the through hole α have similar shapes.

[0091] Next, use Figure 16 and Figure 17The structure of a modified example of the temperature sensor unit 2D is described below. This modified example differs from the embodiment described above in the structure of the retaining member and the sensor housing. The following mainly explains the differences between the embodiment described above and this modified example. Figure 16 This refers to the sensor housing and retaining components before riveting. Figure 17 This diagram shows the sensor housing before riveting. Similar to temperature sensor unit 2, the protrusion 83 of temperature sensor unit 2D is formed into a front end and a through portion through riveting. During riveting, the end face 83a of the protrusion 83 is pressed.

[0092] In this variation, the sensor housing 20D includes a protrusion 83. The sensor housing 20D differs from the sensor housing 20 only in the protrusion 83. The protrusion 83 differs from the protrusion 43 only in its shape and arrangement. The protrusion 83 includes an end face 83a. In this variation, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 83 is elliptical in shape. In the sensor housing 20D, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 83 is located at the center of the side surface 86a. In the protrusion 83, the maximum width in the Z-axis direction is greater than the maximum width in the X-axis direction.

[0093] The retaining member 30D differs from the retaining member 30 only in the shape and arrangement of the through hole α. The retaining member 30D includes a first wall portion 61h instead of the first wall portion 31a. The first wall portion 61h of the retaining member 30D differs from the first wall portion 31a in that it has only one through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the through hole α of the retaining member 30D is elliptical in shape. A protrusion 83 extends through the through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the end face 83a and the through hole α have similar shapes.

[0094] Next, use Figure 18 and Figure 19 The structure of a modified example of the temperature sensor unit 2E will be described. This modified example differs from the embodiment described above in the structure of the retaining member and the sensor housing. Hereinafter, the above-described... Figure 16 and Figure 17 The differences between the variant shown and this variant are as follows. Figure 18 This refers to the sensor housing and retaining components before riveting. Figure 19 This diagram shows the sensor housing before riveting. Similar to temperature sensor unit 2, the protrusion 93 of temperature sensor unit 2E is formed into a front end and a through portion through riveting. During riveting, the end face 93a of the protrusion 93 is pressed.

[0095] In this modified example, the sensor housing 20E includes a protrusion 93. The sensor housing 20E differs from the sensor housing 20D only in that the protrusion 93 is different in shape from the protrusion 83. The protrusion 93 includes an end face 93a. In the protrusion 93, the maximum width in the Z-axis direction is greater than the maximum width in the X-axis direction.

[0096] In this modified example, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the end face 93a is shaped like an ellipse with a pair of protrusions 93b. The pair of protrusions 93b are arranged opposite each other in the X-axis direction. The pair of protrusions 93b are respectively arranged at the center of the protrusion 93 in the Z-axis direction. The pair of protrusions 93b protrude from the protrusion 93 in the X-axis direction. In the sensor housing 20E, viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protrusion 93 is located at the center of the side face 96a.

[0097] The retaining member 30E differs from the retaining member 30D only in the shape and arrangement of the through hole α. The retaining member 30E includes a first wall portion 61k instead of a first wall portion 31h. The first wall portion 61k of the retaining member 30E has only one through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the through hole α of the retaining member 30E is elliptical in shape. A protrusion 93 extends through the through hole α. Viewed from the Y-axis direction, the end face 93a and the through hole α have similar shapes.

[0098] As explained above, in temperature sensor unit 2, the first wall portion 31a of the holding member 30 has a through hole α that connects to the side surface 26a of the main body portion 21 and through which the protrusion 23 of the sensor housing 20 passes. The through portion 23a of the protrusion 23 protrudes from the side surface 26a along the Y-axis direction and passes through the through hole α. The front end portion 23b of the protrusion 23 has a facing surface 23e that clamps the first wall portion 31a and the side surface 26a. Therefore, the sensor housing 20 is fixed to the holding member 30 by means of the protrusion 23. Thus, the sensor housing 20 is accurately positioned relative to the object being measured 3. In addition, according to this structure, installation and manufacturing are easy. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E also have the same structure and achieve the same functional effect.

[0099] The sensor housing 20 may also include multiple protrusions 23. The first wall portion 31a may also have multiple through holes α through which the multiple protrusions 23 pass. In this case, because the multiple protrusions 23 pass through the multiple through holes α, the sensor housing 20 is more reliably fixed to the holding member 30. The temperature sensor unit 2B also has the same structure and achieves the same effect.

[0100] The maximum width of the protrusion 83 in the Z-axis direction can also be greater than the maximum width in the X-axis direction. In this case, rotation of the sensor housing 20D relative to the holding member 30D can be suppressed. The sensor housing 20E also has the same structure and achieves the same effect.

[0101] In the sensor housing 20, the side surface 26b can also be bent and configured to contact the object being measured. In this case, the contact area between the sensor housing and the object being measured can be ensured.

[0102] The sensor housing 20 can also be configured to be connected to the object to be measured 3 on its side 26b. In this case, the sensor housing 20 is fixed more reliably relative to the object to be measured 3.

[0103] In the sensor housing 20A, the side surface 57b can also be configured to be in contact with the object being measured 3. The thermal conductivity of the material forming the side surface 57b can also be higher than that of the material forming the side surface 56a. In this case, heat from the object being measured 3 can be easily transferred from the side surface 57b, resulting in more accurate measurement of the temperature of the object being measured 3.

[0104] In the sensor housing 20, the side surface 26d may also extend along the Z-axis and the Y-axis. The retaining member 30 may also include a second wall portion 31b facing the side surface 26d. In this case, the second wall portion 31b of the retaining member 30 engages with the side surface 26d, more stably holding the sensor housing 20 in the retaining member 30. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0105] In the sensor housing 20B, the retaining member 30B may further include a third wall portion 61c facing the side 26c. In this case, the sensor housing 20B is sandwiched between the second wall portion 61b and the third wall portion 61c, which more stably holds the sensor housing 20B to the retaining member 30B. Temperature sensor units 2C, 2D, and 2E also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0106] In the sensor housing 20B, the retaining member 30B can also form an opening γ2, which, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the side 26d, exposes the side 26d from the second wall portion 61b. In this case, the position of the sensor housing 20B can be confirmed through the opening γ2, thus confirming the assembly accuracy of the sensor housing 20B. Temperature sensor units 2C, 2D, and 2E also have the same structure and achieve the same functional effect.

[0107] In the sensor housing 20, the temperature sensor 10 may also include a detection unit 11 housed inside the main body 21. The detection unit 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 the influence of heat conduction from the through-hole 23a, and the detection unit 11 can be used to measure a more accurate temperature. Temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E also have the same structure and achieve the same effect.

[0108] 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 of the structures of temperature sensor units 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E can be combined. For example, the holding member 30 of temperature sensor unit 2 can also be combined with the sensor housings 20D and 20E of temperature sensor units 2D and 2E. In this case, the shape of the through hole α is formed according to the sensor housings 20D and 20E.

[0109] For example, the sensor housing 20A of temperature sensor unit 2A can also be combined with the holding members 30B, 30C, 30D, and 30E of temperature sensor units 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E. In this case, the shape of the through hole α is formed according to the sensor housings 20D and 20E.

[0110] For example, the side of the sensor housing 20, 20B, 20C, 20D of the temperature sensor units 2, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E that is in contact with the object being measured 3 can also have a higher thermal conductivity than the material forming the side 56a, just like the sensor housing 20A.

[0111] For example, the side of the sensor housing 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D of the temperature sensor units 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E that is in contact with the object being measured 3 can also be bent as in the sensor housing 20.

[0112] As can be understood from the above description of the embodiments and variations, this specification includes disclosures in the manner shown below.

[0113] (Note 1) A temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0114] have:

[0115] Temperature sensor;

[0116] A sensor housing comprising a main body extending along a first direction and housing the temperature sensor, and at least one protrusion projecting from the main body in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and

[0117] A retaining member that holds the sensor housing.

[0118] The main body has a first side and a second side along the first direction.

[0119] The retaining member includes a first portion that contacts the first side surface and has a through hole through which the protrusion passes.

[0120] The at least one protrusion includes a through portion that protrudes from the first side in the second direction and passes through the through hole, and a front end portion that connects to the through portion on the opposite side of the first side.

[0121] The front end has a facing surface that faces the first portion and sandwiches the first portion and the first side surface.

[0122] (Note 2) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 1, wherein,

[0123] The sensor housing includes a plurality of the aforementioned protrusions.

[0124] The first portion has a plurality of through holes through which the plurality of protruding portions pass.

[0125] (Note 3) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 1 or Note 2, wherein,

[0126] In the protrusion, the maximum width in the first direction is greater than the maximum width in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction.

[0127] (Note 4) According to any one of Notes 1 to 3, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0128] The second side is curved and configured to be in contact with the object whose temperature is measured by the temperature sensor.

[0129] (Note 5) According to any one of Notes 1 to 4, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0130] The second side is configured to be in contact with the object being measured.

[0131] The thermal conductivity of the material forming the second side is higher than that of the material forming the first side.

[0132] (Note 6) According to any one of Notes 1 to 5, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0133] The main body also has a third side extending along the first direction and along the second direction.

[0134] The retaining member also includes a second portion facing the third side.

[0135] (Note 7) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 6, wherein,

[0136] The main body also includes a fourth side opposite to the third side.

[0137] The retaining member also includes a third portion facing the fourth side.

[0138] (Note 8) According to the temperature sensor unit described in Note 6 or Note 7, wherein,

[0139] The retaining member forms an opening that is exposed from the second portion when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the third side.

[0140] (Note 9) According to any one of Notes 1 to 8, the temperature sensor unit, wherein,

[0141] The temperature sensor includes a temperature-sensing element housed inside the main body.

[0142] 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.

[0143] (Note 10) An assembly of a temperature sensor, wherein,

[0144] have:

[0145] The temperature sensor unit described in any of Notes 1 to 9; and

[0146] The object being measured has its temperature determined by the temperature sensor.

[0147] (Note 11) A method for assembling a temperature sensor, wherein,

[0148] have:

[0149] In the sensor housing and the retaining member, at least one protrusion is inserted into the through hole. The sensor housing includes a main body extending along a first direction, having a first side and a second side along the first direction, and housing a temperature sensor, and the at least one protrusion protruding from the main body. The retaining member includes a first portion having the through hole and retains the sensor housing.

[0150] A through portion and a front end portion are formed by riveting the front end of at least one protrusion inserted into the through hole. The through portion passes through the first portion in the through hole. The front end portion is connected to the through portion and has an opposing surface facing the first portion and sandwiching the opposite side of the first portion to the first side.

[0151] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0152] 1……Assembly, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E……Temperature sensor unit, 3……Object to be measured, 10……Temperature sensor, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E……Sensor housing, 21, 50……Main body, β1, β2, γ1, γ2……Opening, 23, 43, 53, 73, 83, 93……Protrusion, 23a……Through part, 23b……Front end, 23e……Opposite surface, 30, 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E……Holding member, 31a, 52, 61a, 61g, 61h, 61k……First wall, 31b, 61b……Second wall, 61c……Third wall, α……Through hole.

Claims

1. A temperature sensor unit, wherein, have: Temperature sensor; A sensor housing includes a main body extending along a first direction and housing the temperature sensor, and at least one protrusion protruding from the main body in a second direction intersecting the first direction; as well as A retaining member that holds the sensor housing. The main body has a first side and a second side along the first direction. The retaining member includes a first portion that contacts the first side surface and has a through hole through which the protrusion passes. The at least one protrusion includes a through portion that protrudes from the first side in the second direction and passes through the through hole, and a front end portion that connects to the through portion on the opposite side of the first side. The front end has a facing surface that faces the first portion and sandwiches the first portion and the first side surface.

2. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor housing includes a plurality of the aforementioned protrusions. The first portion has a plurality of through holes through which the plurality of protruding portions pass.

3. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, In the protrusion, the maximum width in the first direction is greater than the maximum width in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction.

4. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The second side is curved and configured to be in contact with the object whose temperature is measured by the temperature sensor.

5. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The second side is configured to be in contact with the object being measured. The thermal conductivity of the material forming the second side is higher than that of the material forming the first side.

6. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The main body also has a third side extending along the first direction and along the second direction. The retaining member also includes a second portion facing the third side.

7. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 6, wherein, The main body also includes a fourth side opposite to the third side. The retaining member also includes a third portion facing the fourth side.

8. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The retaining member forms an opening that is exposed from the second portion when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the third side.

9. The temperature sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The temperature sensor includes a temperature-sensing element housed inside the main body. 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.

10. An assembly of a temperature sensor, wherein, have: The temperature sensor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and The object being measured has its temperature determined by the temperature sensor.

11. A method for assembling a temperature sensor, wherein, have: In the sensor housing and the retaining member, at least one protrusion is inserted into the through hole. The sensor housing includes a main body extending along a first direction, having a first side and a second side along the first direction, and housing a temperature sensor, and the at least one protrusion protruding from the main body. The retaining member includes a first portion having the through hole and retains the sensor housing. A through portion and a front end portion are formed by riveting the front end of at least one protrusion inserted into the through hole. The through portion passes through the first portion in the through hole. The front end portion is connected to the through portion and has an opposing surface facing the first portion and sandwiching the opposite side of the first portion to the first side.

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