protective device

Abstract

This protection device has: a first conductor (211) having at least one first end portion (211a); and a second conductor (312). The first end portion (211a) is of a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root toward the tip. At least a portion of the first end portion (211a) and the second conductor (312) are connected to a fusible conductor (13) having a lower melting temperature than each of the first conductor (211) and the second conductor (312).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to protective devices.

[0002] This invention claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-201237 filed in Japan on November 29, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Previously, there was a type of fuse element that heated up and melted when a current exceeding its rated current flowed through the current path, thus cutting off the current path. Protective devices incorporating fuse elements (fuse devices) are used in a wide range of fields, from household appliances to electric vehicles.

[0004] For example, lithium-ion batteries are used in a wide range of applications, from mobile devices to electric vehicles (EVs) and rechargeable batteries, and their capacities are constantly increasing. Along with this increase in capacity, voltages are becoming high-voltage specifications of hundreds of volts, and currents are being required to be high-current specifications of hundreds to thousands of amperes.

[0005] The following techniques exist as methods to create hot spots on foil-shaped fuse elements by using holes, thickness variations, cuts, etc., and to melt the fuse elements when an overcurrent occurs.

[0006] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a fuse in which the thickness of the cut-off portion of a conductive thin film pattern formed on an insulating substrate is set to be thinner than the thickness of the connecting portion connected in series to the cut-off portion.

[0007] For example, Patent Documents 2 and 3 disclose a fuse element in which a fusible portion is formed by forming holes in a plurality of elements arranged in parallel using punching. For example, Patent Documents 4 and 5 disclose a fuse in which a plurality of truncated narrow portions are arranged in parallel on a pattern of a conductive film formed on the surface of an insulating substrate, and the thickness of the truncated portion is thinner than the thickness of the connecting strip connected in series to the truncated portion.

[0008] Prior art literature Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6057413; Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 6199368; Patent document 3: Japanese Patent No. 5952751; Patent document 4: Japanese Patent No. 5116119; Patent document 5: Japanese Patent No. 4998890. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve For protection devices that handle high voltage / high current interruption, fuse elements are generally used, which are made by processing a portion of a low-cost, low-resistivity metal foil, such as copper foil, into a perforated metallic shape. The interruption performance of this fuse element is sufficient in the high current range, but in the relatively low current range (e.g., about 2 to 3 times the rated current), the interruption time is sometimes too long or it cannot interrupt the current at all.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a protection device capable of handling high voltage / high current cutoff and shortening overcurrent cutoff time.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention provides the following solution.

[0012] [Solution 1] A protective device comprising: a first conductor having at least one first end portion; and a second conductor, wherein the first end portion has a shape with a reduced cross-sectional area from the root to the end, and at least a portion thereof and the second conductor are connected to a fusible conductor having a melting temperature lower than that of each of the first conductor and the second conductor.

[0013] [Solution 2] The protective device described in Solution 1, wherein the aforementioned second conductor has at least one second end portion, the aforementioned second end portion having a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and at least a portion of the aforementioned first end portion and the aforementioned second end portion are connected to the aforementioned fusible conductor.

[0014] [Solution 3] The protective device described in Solution 2, wherein the aforementioned first end portion and the aforementioned second end portion are opposite to each other and are close to or in contact with each other.

[0015] [Solution 4] The protective device described in any one of Solutions 1 to 3, wherein each of the aforementioned first conductor and the aforementioned second conductor is a plate-shaped component made of metal.

[0016] [Solution 5] The protective device described in any one of Solutions 1 to 4, wherein each of the aforementioned first conductor and the aforementioned second conductor is composed of Ag or Cu or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component.

[0017] [Solution 6] The protective device described in any of Solutions 1 to 5, wherein the aforementioned fusible conductor is made of Sn or a metal with Sn as the main component.

[0018] [Solution 7] The protective device described in any of Solutions 1 to 5, wherein the aforementioned fusible conductor is a laminate comprising a high-melting-point metal layer and a low-melting-point metal layer.

[0019] [Solution 8] The protective device described in Solution 7, wherein the aforementioned high melting point metal layer is composed of Ag or Cu or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component, and the aforementioned low melting point metal layer is composed of Sn or a metal with Sn as the main component.

[0020] [Solution 9] The protective device described in Solution 2 or 3, wherein the first conductor has a plurality of the first end portions, the second conductor has a plurality of the second end portions, and the plurality of the first end portions and the plurality of the second end portions are connected to the fusible conductor in a state of being opposite to each other and close to or in contact with each other.

[0021] [Solution 10] The protection device described in Solution 2, 3 or 9, wherein a first terminal and a second terminal are further provided, a portion of the first conductor is electrically connected to the first terminal, and a portion of the second conductor is electrically connected to the second terminal.

[0022] [Solution 11] The protective device described in Solution 10, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion are connected to the first conductor and the second conductor connected to the fusible conductor to form a unit, and a plurality of the aforementioned units are electrically connected in series.

[0023] [Solution 12] The protective device described in Solution 10 or 11, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion are connected to the first conductor and the second conductor connected to the fusible conductor to form a unit, and a plurality of the aforementioned units are electrically connected in parallel.

[0024] [Solution 13] The protective device described in any one of Solutions 2, 3, 9 to 12 further comprises a housing, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion are connected to the first conductor and the second conductor connected to the fusible conductor to form a unit, the housing encloses a portion of the first terminal and the second terminal and one or more of the aforementioned unit, and at least a portion of the gap within the housing is filled with a filling material.

[0025] [Solution 14] The protective device described in Solution 13, wherein the aforementioned filling material includes an arc extinguishing agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber or silicone resin.

[0026] [Solution 15] The protective device described in any one of Solutions 2, 3, 9 to 12 further comprises a housing, wherein the aforementioned first end portion and the aforementioned second end portion are connected to the aforementioned fusible conductor to form a unit, each of the aforementioned first conductor and the aforementioned second conductor is a plate-shaped component made of metal, the aforementioned housing encloses a portion of the first terminal and the second terminal and one or more of the aforementioned units, and is close to or in contact with both sides of one or more of the aforementioned units.

[0027] [Solution 16] The protective device described in any one of Solutions 2, 3, 9 to 12 further comprises a housing and one or more insulating components. The first and second end portions are connected to the first and second conductors of the aforementioned fusible conductor to form a unit. Each of the first and second conductors is a plate-shaped component made of metal. One or more insulating components are close to or in contact with two sides of one or more of the aforementioned unit. The housing encloses a portion of the first and second terminals, one or more of the aforementioned unit, and one or more of the aforementioned insulating components. An internal pressure buffer space is formed between the housing and the aforementioned insulating components. A flow path is formed in the aforementioned insulating components and / or the housing. The flow path is used to allow the high-temperature gas generated between the internal pressure buffer space and the aforementioned unit when the aforementioned unit is cut off to escape.

[0028] [Solution 17] The protective device described in Solution 16, wherein the aforementioned insulating component is made of nylon resin or fluororesin.

[0029] [Solution 18] The protective device described in Solution 16 or 17, wherein a filling material is sealed in the aforementioned internal pressure buffer space.

[0030] [Solution 19] The protective device described in Solution 18, wherein the aforementioned filling material includes an arc extinguishing agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber or silicone resin.

[0031] [Solution 20] The protective device described in any of Solutions 13 to 19, wherein the aforementioned housing includes a plurality of retaining members and further includes an outer shell member that covers the outer side of the aforementioned housing and secures the plurality of the aforementioned retaining members.

[0032] The effects of the invention According to the present invention, a protection device capable of handling high voltage / high current cutoff and shortening overcurrent cutoff time can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the first embodiment, and it is a top view before being truncated.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the first embodiment, and it is a truncated top view.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the second embodiment, and it is a top view before being truncated.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the second embodiment, and it is a truncated top view.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the protective device of the third embodiment, and it is a top view before being truncated.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the protective device of the third embodiment, and it is a truncated top view.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the fourth embodiment, and it is a top view before being truncated.

[0040] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Sectional view of VIII-VIII.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the fifth embodiment, and it is a top view before being truncated.

[0042] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 XX cross-sectional view.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the protection device of the sixth embodiment, and it is a top view before being truncated.

[0044] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 XII-XII cross-sectional view.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the protective device of the seventh embodiment, and is a top view before being truncated.

[0046] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 XIV-XIV cross-sectional view.

[0047] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the protection device according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 16 XV-XV cross-sectional view.

[0048] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the protection device according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 15 XVI-XVI cross-sectional view.

[0049] Figure 17 This is a side view showing the protection device of the eighth embodiment. Figure 16 XVII view.

[0050] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the protection device according to the ninth embodiment. Figure 19 XVIII-XVIII cross-sectional view.

[0051] Figure 19This is a diagram showing the protection device according to the ninth embodiment. Figure 18 XIX-XIX cross-sectional view.

[0052] Figure 20 This is a side view showing the protective device of the ninth embodiment. Figure 19 XX-direction view. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings used in the following description sometimes show enlarged portions of features for ease of understanding, and the dimensional ratios of the constituent elements may differ from the actual dimensions. The materials, dimensions, etc., illustrated in the following description are examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto; appropriate modifications can be made to achieve the effects of the present invention.

[0054] (First Embodiment) Reference Figures 1 to 2 The protective device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. This protective device, for example, constitutes part of a high-voltage, high-current (100 V / 100 A or more) electrical circuit using a lithium-ion secondary battery and / or part of a current circuit in a relatively small current range (e.g., about 2 to 3 times the rated current). The protective device is, for example, installed in an electric vehicle (EV).

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the protective device includes a first conductor 11 having at least one first end portion 11a and a second conductor 12 having at least one second end portion 12a. In the example shown, the protective device includes a first conductor 11 having only one first end portion 11a and a second conductor 12 having only one second end portion 12a, but is not limited thereto. For example, the protective device may also include a first conductor 11 having two or more first end portions 11a and a second conductor 12 having two or more second end portions 12a. For example, the configuration of the first end portions 11a and the second end portions 12a can be changed accordingly to the design specifications. In the example shown, an example of a unit 1 constituting the protective device is shown. Unit 1 is formed by a first conductor 11 and a second conductor 12 whose first end portions 11a and second end portions 12a are connected to a fusible conductor 13.

[0056] Each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root towards the end. At least a portion of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a is connected to a fusible conductor 13 with a melting temperature lower than that of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12. In the example shown in the figure, each end of the first end portion 11a and the end of the second end portion 12a is connected to the fusible conductor 13. The first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are opposite to each other. Each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is plate-shaped.

[0057] The first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 constitute the fuse element 10. In the example shown in the figure, an example of cutting off a portion of the fuse element 10 is illustrated. The protective device, as a mechanism for cutting off the current path, has the following overcurrent cutoff: when an overcurrent (a current exceeding the rated current) flows through the fuse element 10, the fuse element 10 is melted, thereby cutting off the current path.

[0058] The following explanations will sometimes use an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system (three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system) in each figure to illustrate the components.

[0059] The direction in which the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a face each other is called the front-back direction. In each figure, the front-back direction corresponds to the X-axis direction. The direction from the second end portion 12a toward the first end portion 11a (-X side) in the X-axis direction is called the front side, and the direction from the first end portion 11a toward the second end portion 12a (+X side) is called the rear side. Furthermore, the front-back direction is the direction in which the first terminal connected to the first conductor 11 is connected to the second terminal connected to the second conductor 12, and it is also the direction of current flow when using a protection device; therefore, it can also be referred to as the energizing direction.

[0060] The direction in which each surface of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 faces is called the up-down direction. The up-down direction is orthogonal to the front-back direction and corresponds to the Z-axis direction in the diagrams. The upper side of the up-down direction corresponds to the +Z side, and the lower side corresponds to the -Z side.

[0061] The direction orthogonal to the front-back and up-down directions is called the left-right direction. In various diagrams, the left-right direction corresponds to the Y-axis. The left side of the left-right direction corresponds to the -Y side, and the right side corresponds to the +Y side. Specifically, the -Y side is the left side when viewing the protective device from the rear (+X side), and the +Y side is the right side when viewing the protective device from the rear. Alternatively, the left-right direction can also be referred to as the width direction. In this case, for example, one side of the width direction corresponds to the -Y side, and the other side corresponds to the +Y side.

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, front side, rear side, upper side, lower side, left side, and right side are names used for the convenience of easily understanding the relative positional relationships of each component. The actual configuration relationship may also be a configuration relationship other than those indicated by these names.

[0063] The fuse element 10 has a first conductor 11, a fusible conductor 13, and a second conductor 12 connected in series along the direction of current flow (arrow direction in the figure). The fusible conductor 13 is made of a material with a lower melting temperature than each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12. In addition, the electrical resistivity of the fusible conductor 13 is higher than that of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12. When an overcurrent is interrupted, the fusible conductor 13 functions as the melting point of the fuse element 10.

[0064] In the example shown in the figure, the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are opposite to each other and close to each other. Alternatively, the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a may also be opposite to each other and in contact. For example, the manner in which the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are close to or in contact with each other can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0065] In this embodiment, each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is a plate-shaped component made of metal. Alternatively, each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 may be sheet-shaped or foil-shaped. In the example shown in the figure, each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 includes: a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) whose dimension in the left-right direction is shorter than its dimension in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction, and an end portion (first end portion 11a and second end portion 12a) that gradually tapers from the root portion toward the end.

[0066] In the example shown in the figure, each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a, when viewed from the top and bottom direction, has a shape in which the dimension decreases from the root to the end in the left and right directions, and the outer edges in the left and right directions are curved inward. In this embodiment, each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a has the same dimension (thickness) from the root to the end in the top and bottom directions, but the dimension decreases from the root to the end in the left and right directions, thus becoming a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end. Furthermore, the cross-sectional area is equivalent to the area when the end portion is cut off in a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the front-back direction (electrical direction).

[0067] In this embodiment, each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is made of Ag or Cu or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component. When using copper, it is preferable to perform rust-preventive treatment such as nickel plating, silver plating, or tin plating on the surface.

[0068] The first conductor 11, the fusible conductor 13, and the second conductor 12 are connected in series in this order to form the energizing path of the fuse element 10. The first end portion 11a of the first conductor 11 and the second end portion 12a of the second conductor 12 are connected to the fusible conductor 13 at opposite ends in the energizing direction of the fuse element 10 (in the example shown in the figure, this corresponds to a roughly front-to-back direction).

[0069] The fusible conductor 13 extends in a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction) such that the ends of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are connected to each other. In the example shown in the figure, the fusible conductor 13 has a shape that is longer in the front-back direction when viewed from the vertical direction (e.g., an elliptical or oblong shape). The fusible conductor 13 is disposed at the center of the fuse element 10 in the front-back direction. For example, flux may be applied to at least a portion of the surface of the fusible conductor 13.

[0070] In this embodiment, the fusible conductor 13 is made of Sn (tin) or a metal with Sn as its main component. As the metal used for the fusible conductor 13, a solder such as a Pb-free solder with Sn as its main component is preferably used. This is because, since Sn has a melting point of 217°C, compared to copper foil (melting point 1084°C), the solder with Sn as its main component has a low melting point, and the fusible conductor 13 is prone to melting during overcurrent interruption. For example, the first end portion 11a of the first conductor 11 and the second end portion 12a of the second conductor 12 are preferably joined by solder.

[0071] Next, an example of a method for manufacturing the fuse element 10 of this embodiment will be described.

[0072] First, a sheet metal (not shown) is cut out, having a larger overall size than the top view showing the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12. Furthermore, the thickness can be adjusted by striking the portion of the cut metal sheet corresponding to the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 using a hammer or similar tool.

[0073] Next, the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 are obtained by performing punching (stamping) and / or cutting on the blank metal sheet. Alternatively, the blank metal sheet can be positioned in an automatic positioning punching machine, and holes can be punched using a punching machine whose blade tip shape is based on the overall shape of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12.

[0074] Next, the first end portion 11a of the first conductor 11 and the second end portion 12a of the second conductor 12 are joined by solder. This allows the fuse element 10 of this embodiment to be manufactured.

[0075] The protective device of this embodiment described above includes: a first conductor 11 having at least one first end portion 11a; and a second conductor 12 having at least one second end portion 12a. Each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root towards the end. At least a portion of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a is connected to a fusible conductor 13 with a melting temperature lower than that of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12.

[0076] According to this configuration, each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a has a cross-sectional area that decreases from the root towards the end, thus concentrating the current at the ends of each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a during overcurrent interruption. Furthermore, at least a portion of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a is connected to a fusible conductor 13 with a melting temperature lower than that of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12, thus the melting temperature of the fusible portion is lower than the melting point of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12, and the fusible conductor 13 easily melts. Therefore, the combination of current concentration at the ends of each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a during overcurrent interruption and the melting of the fusible conductor 13 allows for interruption in a relatively small current range (e.g., about 2 to 3 times the rated current) and shortens the interruption time. Therefore, a protection device capable of handling high voltage / high current interruption and shortening the overcurrent interruption time can be provided.

[0077] In this embodiment, the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are opposite to each other and are close to or in contact with each other.

[0078] Based on this configuration, compared to the case where the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are far apart, during overcurrent interruption, the current tends to concentrate at the ends of each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a, and the fusible conductor 13 tends to melt easily. Therefore, the overcurrent interruption time can be shortened more effectively.

[0079] In this embodiment, each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is a plate-shaped component made of metal.

[0080] Based on this configuration, by changing the plate thickness of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12, the cross-sectional area (degree of current concentration at each end) of each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a can be adjusted. Furthermore, each of the first end portion 11a of the first conductor 11 and the second end portion 12a of the second conductor 12 can be easily formed by blanking (stamping) and / or cutting.

[0081] In this embodiment, each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is composed of Ag or Cu or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component.

[0082] Based on this configuration, the resistivity of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is more easily reduced compared to the case where they are a stack containing a high-melting-point metal layer and a low-melting-point metal layer. Therefore, for each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12, which are composed of a single layer containing Ag or Cu, even if they have the same area and the same electrical resistance as a conductor composed of a stack containing a high-melting-point metal layer and a low-melting-point metal layer, the thickness can be reduced. If the thickness of each of the first conductor 11 and the second conductor 12 is thin, the amount of molten material that splashes out when the fuse element 10 melts is also reduced proportionally to the thickness, and the insulation resistance after breakage is increased.

[0083] In this embodiment, the fusible conductor 13 is made of Sn or a metal with Sn as the main component.

[0084] Based on this structure, Sn has a lower melting point compared to Cu, and therefore the fusible conductor 13 easily melts during overcurrent interruption. Thus, the overcurrent interruption time can be shortened more effectively.

[0085] For example, assuming that the cross-sectional area of ​​each of the first and second end portions is constant from the root to the end, and only a portion of each end is connected by a fusible conductor, the resistance value is likely to be high and the current flow is difficult. In contrast, in this embodiment, each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a has a shape where the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to the other by solder. Therefore, the overall resistance value of the fuse element 10 can be suppressed, while simultaneously allowing current to flow easily. Thus, the current concentration at the ends of each of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a during overcurrent cutoff, combined with the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor 13, allows for more effective cutoff of the fuse element 10 (melting of the fusible portion) (see reference). Figure 2 Therefore, it is possible to more effectively shorten the overcurrent cutoff time.

[0086] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, as explained below, modifications can be made to the configuration without departing from the spirit of this invention. Furthermore, in the illustrations of other embodiments or variations, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same constituent elements as in the embodiments described above. In the following description, the differences will be mainly explained.

[0087] (Second Implementation) Reference Figures 3 to 4The protective device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The protective device of the second embodiment is mainly different in shape from that of the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a described above in the first embodiment. In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, the same reference numerals and names are sometimes used for the same or substantially the same components as those in the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, each of the first conductor 211 and the second conductor 212 includes: a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) whose dimension in the left-right direction is shorter than its dimension in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction, and an end portion (first end portion 211a and second end portion 212a) that gradually tapers from the root portion toward the end. In the example shown in the figure, an example of one unit constituting a protective device is shown. The unit is formed by the first conductor 211 and the second conductor 212 connected to the fusible conductor 13 via the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a.

[0089] In the example shown in the figure, each of the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a, when viewed from the top and bottom, has a shape in which the dimension decreases from the root to the end in the left and right directions, and the outer edges in the left and right directions slope in a straight line towards the end. In the example shown in the figure, each of the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a, when viewed from the top and bottom, has a triangular shape that protrudes from the root to the end. In this embodiment, each of the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a has the same dimension (thickness) in the top and bottom directions from the root to the end, but the dimension decreases in the left and right directions from the root to the end, thus forming a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end.

[0090] In the protective device of this embodiment described above, the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a each have a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to the other by solder. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, when an overcurrent is cut off, the current concentration to the ends of the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 212a and the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor are combined, and the fuse element can be cut off more effectively (the fusible part is melted) (see reference). Figure 4 Therefore, it is possible to more effectively shorten the overcurrent cutoff time.

[0091] (Third Implementation) Reference Figures 5 to 6The protective device according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The protective device of the third embodiment is mainly characterized by the fact that the shapes of the first end portion 211a and the second end portion 312a are different from those of the first embodiment described above. In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals and names are used for the same or substantially the same components as those in the first and second embodiments, and the descriptions are omitted.

[0092] like Figure 5 As shown, the protective device includes: a first conductor 211 having at least one first end portion 211a; and a second conductor 312. The first end portion 211a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root towards the end. At least a portion of the first end portion 211a and the second conductor 312 are connected to a fusible conductor 13 (e.g., solder) with a melting temperature lower than that of each of the first conductor 211 and the second conductor 312. In the example shown in the figure, an example of one unit constituting the protective device is illustrated. The unit is formed by the first end portion 211a and the first conductor 211 and the second conductor 312, whose ends are connected to the fusible conductor 13.

[0093] like Figure 5 As shown, the first conductor 211 includes a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) whose dimension in the left-right direction is shorter than its dimension in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction, and an end portion (first end portion 211a) that gradually tapers from the root portion toward the end. The second conductor 312 is generally quadrilateral plate-shaped when viewed from the top-bottom direction, and its dimension in the left-right direction is shorter than its dimension in the front-back direction.

[0094] In the example shown in the figure, the first end portion 211a, when viewed from the top and bottom, has a shape in which the dimensions decrease from the root to the end in the left and right directions, and the outer edges in the left and right directions slope in a straight line towards the end. In the example shown in the figure, the first end portion 211a, when viewed from the top and bottom, has a triangular shape that protrudes from the root to the end. In this embodiment, the dimensions (thickness) of the first end portion 211a in the top and bottom directions are the same from the root to the end, but the dimensions in the left and right directions decrease from the root to the end, thus becoming a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end. The dimensions (thickness) of the second end portion 312a are the same in the top and bottom directions, and the dimensions in the left and right directions are the same in the front and back directions, and the cross-sectional area is constant in the front and back directions.

[0095] In the protective device of this embodiment described above, the first end portion 211a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and the end of the first end portion 211a and the end of the second conductor 312 are connected by solder. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Thus, the current concentration at the end of the first end portion 211a and the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor during overcurrent interruption are combined to more effectively interrupt the fuse element (to melt the fusible portion) (see reference). Figure 6 Therefore, it is possible to more effectively shorten the overcurrent cutoff time.

[0096] (Fourth implementation) Reference Figures 7 to 8 The protective device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The main difference between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment is the number of the first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a. Furthermore, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals and names are used for components that are the same or substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the descriptions are omitted.

[0097] Refer to together Figures 7 to 8 The first conductor 411 has a plurality of first end portions 11a. The second conductor 412 has a plurality of second end portions 12a. The plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a are connected to the fusible conductor in a state of mutual opposition and proximity or contact. In the example shown in the figure, an example of one unit constituting a protective device is shown. The unit is formed by the first conductor 411 and the second conductor 412 with the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a connected to the fusible conductor 13.

[0098] In the example shown in the figure, the first conductor 411 has five first end portions 11a, and the second conductor 412 has five second end portions 12a, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first conductor 411 may have four or fewer, or six or more, first end portions 11a, and the second conductor 412 may have four or fewer, or six or more, second end portions 12a. For example, the number of first end portions 11a and the number of second end portions 12a may be the same or different. For example, the configuration of the first end portions 11a and the second end portions 12a can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0099] In the example shown in the figure, each of the first conductor 411 and the second conductor 412 has: a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) that is longer in the left-right direction than in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction, and a plurality of end portions (a plurality of first end portions 11a and a plurality of second end portions 12a) that gradually taper from the root portion toward the end.

[0100] In the example shown in the figure, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a, when viewed from the vertical direction, has a shape in which the dimension decreases from the root to the end in the horizontal direction, and the outer edges in the horizontal direction are curved inward. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a has the same dimension (thickness) from the root to the end in the vertical direction, but the dimension decreases from the root to the end in the horizontal direction, thus forming a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end.

[0101] In the example shown in the figure, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a has the same shape when viewed from the top and bottom, and each of the plurality of second end portions 12a has the same shape when viewed from the top and bottom, but this is not a limitation. For example, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a may also have different shapes when viewed from the top and bottom, and each of the plurality of second end portions 12a may also have different shapes when viewed from the top and bottom. For example, the shapes of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0102] In the protection device of this embodiment described above, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to each other by solder. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, when an overcurrent is cut off, the current concentration to the ends of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a and the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor combine to more effectively cut off the fuse element (melt the fuse portion). Therefore, the overcurrent cut-off time can be shortened more effectively.

[0103] (Fifth Embodiment) Reference Figures 9 to 10 The protective device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The protective device of the fifth embodiment is mainly different from that of the fusible conductor 513 described above in the fourth embodiment. In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals and names are used for the same or substantially the same components as those in the first to fourth embodiments, and the description is omitted.

[0104] Refer to together Figures 9 to 10The first conductor 411 has a plurality of first end portions 11a. The second conductor 412 has a plurality of second end portions 12a. The plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a are connected to the fusible conductor 513 in a state of mutual opposition and proximity or contact. In the example shown in the figure, an example of one unit constituting a protective device is shown. The unit is formed by the first conductor 411 and the second conductor 412 whose first end portions 11a and second end portions 12a are connected to the fusible conductor 513.

[0105] In this embodiment, the fusible conductor 513 is a laminate comprising a high-melting-point metal layer and a low-melting-point metal layer. Hereinafter, the fusible conductor 513 will also be referred to as "laminate 513". When viewed from the top-bottom direction, the laminate 513 has a shape that extends in the left-right direction by spanning each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a.

[0106] In the example shown, the laminate 513 is a square or plate-shaped laminate, with a first low-melting-point metal layer 513b as the inner layer and a high-melting-point metal layer 513a as the outer layer. The upper surface of the outer layer is connected to a plurality of first end portions 11a and a plurality of second end portions 12a via a second low-melting-point metal layer 513c (e.g., solder), but is not limited thereto. For example, the laminate 513 may also be configured to have one or more low-melting-point metal layers and two or more high-melting-point metal layers, with the low-melting-point metal layers disposed between the high-melting-point metal layers. This laminate 513 may also be formed, for example, by coating the area around the low-melting-point metal layers with high-melting-point metal layers.

[0107] For example, the high-melting-point metal layer of the aforementioned laminate 513 is composed of Ag (silver) or Cu (copper), or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component. The high-melting-point metal layer of the aforementioned laminate 513 only needs to contain Ag or Cu; it can be Ag monomer, Cu monomer, Ag alloy, or Cu alloy. Ag alloy is the alloy in which Ag has the highest content of metals, and Cu alloy is the alloy in which Cu has the highest content of metals.

[0108] For example, the low-melting-point metal layer of the aforementioned laminate 513 is composed of Sn or a metal with Sn as its main component. The low-melting-point metal layer of the aforementioned laminate 513 only needs to contain Sn; it can be Sn monomer or Sn alloy. Sn alloy is an alloy with Sn as its main component. Sn alloy is the alloy in which Sn has the highest content among the metals contained in the alloy. Examples of Sn alloys include Sn-Bi alloy, In-Sn alloy, and Sn-Ag-Cu alloy.

[0109] Furthermore, the aforementioned laminate 513 can also be a two-layer structure consisting of a low-melting-point metal layer and a high-melting-point metal layer. Alternatively, the aforementioned laminate 513 can also be a multilayer structure with three or more layers: having two or more high-melting-point metal layers and one or more low-melting-point metal layers, with the low-melting-point metal layers disposed between the high-melting-point metal layers. Additionally, the fusible conductor 513 can also be composed of a single layer containing a low-melting-point metal layer of Sn.

[0110] In the example shown in the figure, a laminate 513 is connected to the lower surface of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a, but this is not a limitation. For example, the laminate 513 may also be connected to the upper surface of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a. For example, the manner in which each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a is connected to the laminate 513 can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0111] In the protective device of this embodiment described above, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to the laminate 513. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, when an overcurrent is cut off, the current concentration to the ends of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a and the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor 513 combine to more effectively cut off the fuse element (melt the fuse portion). Therefore, the overcurrent cut-off time can be shortened more effectively.

[0112] (Sixth Embodiment) Reference Figures 11 to 12 The protection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The protection device of the sixth embodiment is mainly different from that of the fifth embodiment in terms of the electrical connection method of the fuse element. In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals and names are used for the same or substantially the same components as those in the first to fifth embodiments, and the description is omitted.

[0113] Refer to together Figures 11 to 12 The first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a are connected to the first conductor 411 and the second conductor 412, which are connected to the fusible conductor 513, to form a unit (each of the multiple units 605A and 605B). The multiple units 605A and 605B are electrically connected in series.

[0114] In the example shown in the figure, the fuse element has two units 605A and 605B, which are electrically connected in series, but this is not a limitation. For example, the fuse element may also have three or more units 605A, 605B, ..., which are electrically connected in series. For example, the number of units 605A and 605B can be changed accordingly to meet the design specifications.

[0115] In the example shown in the figure, each of the plurality of units 605A and 605B includes: a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) that is longer in the left-right direction than in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction; a plurality of end portions (a plurality of first end portions 11a and a plurality of second end portions 12a) that gradually taper from the root portion toward the end portions; and a laminate 513 connected to the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a.

[0116] In the example shown in the figure, each of the multiple units 605A and 605B has the same shape when viewed from the top and bottom, but this is not the only possibility. For example, each of the multiple units 605A and 605B may also have different shapes when viewed from the top and bottom. For example, the shape of each of the multiple units 605A and 605B can be changed accordingly to meet the design specifications.

[0117] In the protection device of this embodiment described above, in each of the plurality of units 605A and 605B, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to the laminate 513. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, when overcurrent is cut off, the current concentration to the ends of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a and the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor 513 are combined, and the fuse element can be cut off more effectively (the fusible part melts). Therefore, the overcurrent cutoff time can be shortened more effectively.

[0118] (Seventh Embodiment) Reference Figures 13 to 14 The protective device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. The protective device of the seventh embodiment is mainly different in shape from that of the aforementioned sixth embodiment in that the laminate 713 (fusible conductor). In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals, the same names, etc., are used for the same or substantially the same components as those in the first to sixth embodiments, and the description is omitted.

[0119] Refer to together Figures 13 to 14Each of the multiple units 705A and 705B includes: a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) that is longer in the left-right direction than in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction; multiple end portions (multiple first end portions 11a and multiple second end portions 12a) that gradually taper from the root portion toward the end portions; and a laminate 713 connected to the multiple first end portions 11a and multiple second end portions 12a.

[0120] In the example shown in the figure, the laminate 713, viewed from the top-bottom direction, has a shape that extends horizontally across each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a. In the example shown in the figure, the laminate 713, viewed from the top-bottom direction, has a shape that extends horizontally from the root of the plurality of first end portions 11a to the root of the plurality of second end portions 12a, but is not limited to this. For example, the laminate 713 could also, viewed from the top-bottom direction, have a shape that extends horizontally from the middle of the plurality of first end portions 11a (between the end and the root) to the middle of the plurality of second end portions 12a (between the end and the root). In the example shown in the figure, the laminate 713, viewed from the top-bottom direction, has a shape where the horizontal dimension is longer than the root portion, but is not limited to this. For example, the laminate 713 could also have the root portion and the horizontal dimension being the same, or the horizontal dimension being shorter than the root portion, when viewed from the top-bottom direction. For example, the shape of the laminate 713 can be changed accordingly to design specifications.

[0121] In the example shown, the laminate 713 is a square or plate-shaped laminate, with a first low-melting-point metal layer 713b as the inner layer and a high-melting-point metal layer 713a as the outer layer. The upper surface of the outer layer is connected to a plurality of first end portions 11a and a plurality of second end portions 12a via a second low-melting-point metal layer 713c (e.g., solder), but is not limited thereto. For example, the laminate 713 may also be configured to have one or more low-melting-point metal layers and two or more high-melting-point metal layers, with the low-melting-point metal layers disposed between the high-melting-point metal layers. The laminate 713 may also be formed by coating the area around the low-melting-point metal layers with high-melting-point metal layers, for example. For example, the configuration of the laminate 713 can be changed accordingly to design specifications.

[0122] In the protection device of this embodiment described above, in each of the plurality of units 705A and 705B, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to the laminate 713. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, the current concentration to the ends of each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a during overcurrent interruption, combined with the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor 713, can more effectively interrupt the fuse element (melt the fuse portion). Therefore, the overcurrent interruption time can be shortened more effectively.

[0123] (Eighth Embodiment) Reference Figures 15 to 17 The protection device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The protection device of the eighth embodiment is different from that of the sixth embodiment described above in terms of its configuration. In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals and names are used for the same or substantially the same components as those in the first to seventh embodiments, and the description is omitted.

[0124] Refer to together Figures 15 to 17 The protection device also includes a first terminal 30 and a second terminal 40. A portion of the first conductor 411 is electrically connected to the first terminal 30. A portion of the second conductor 412 is electrically connected to the second terminal 40.

[0125] Terminal 30 and terminal 40 are connected to the two ends of fuse elements 810 and 820 in the energizing direction. In the example shown in the figure, each of terminal 30 and terminal 40 is plate-shaped, extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction). Each of terminal 30 and terminal 40 is approximately quadrilateral plate-shaped. Terminal 30 and terminal 40 are arranged separately from each other in the front-back direction.

[0126] The first terminal 30 is connected to the front end of the fuse elements 810 and 820. The front portion of the first terminal 30 protrudes from the housing 50 to the front and is exposed outside the housing 50.

[0127] The second terminal 40 is connected to the rear end of the fuse element. The rear portion of the second terminal 40 protrudes rearward from the housing 50 and is exposed outside the housing 50.

[0128] An external terminal hole 31 is formed in the first terminal 30. The external terminal hole 31 is a circular hole that extends through the first terminal 30 in the vertical direction. The portion of the first terminal 30 that is located further rearward than the external terminal hole 31 is disposed between the terminal mounting surface 51 and the terminal pressing surface 52 at the front of the housing 50, and is sandwiched between the terminal mounting surface 51 and the terminal pressing surface 52.

[0129] An external terminal hole 41 is formed on the second terminal 40. The external terminal hole 41 is a circular hole that extends through the second terminal 40 in the vertical direction. The portion of the second terminal 40 that is forward of the external terminal hole 41 is disposed at the rear of the housing 50 between the terminal mounting surface 51 and the terminal pressing surface 52, and is sandwiched between the terminal mounting surface 51 and the terminal pressing surface 52.

[0130] For example, one of the pair of external terminal holes 31 and 41 is connected to the power supply side, and the other is connected to the load side. Furthermore, not limited to the above, the external terminal holes 31 and 41 can also be connected to the internal power path of the load. For example, the connection method of the external terminal holes 31 and 41 can be changed accordingly to meet design specifications.

[0131] For example, each of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 is made of a metal such as copper, brass, or nickel. From the viewpoint of enhancing rigidity, brass is preferred for the materials of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, while copper is preferred from the viewpoint of reducing electrical resistance. When using copper, it is preferable to perform rust-preventive treatments such as nickel plating, silver plating, or tin plating on the surface. The first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 may also be made of the same material or different materials. For example, the materials of each of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0132] The first end portion 11a and the second end portion 12a, connected to the fusible conductor 513, form a unit (each of the multiple units 805A, 805B, and 805C). The multiple units 805A, 805B, and 805C are electrically connected in parallel.

[0133] Additionally, multiple units 805A, 805B, and 805C are electrically connected in series. In the example shown in the figure, fuse elements 810 and 820 have three units 805A, 805B, and 805C, which are electrically connected in series, but this is not a limitation. For example, fuse elements 810 and 820 may also have two or more units 805A, 805B, 805C, ..., which are electrically connected in series. For example, the number of units 805A, 805B, and 805C can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0134] In the example shown in the figure, each of the multiple units 805A, 805B, and 805C includes: a generally quadrilateral plate-shaped portion (root portion) that is longer in the left-right direction than in the front-back direction when viewed from the top-bottom direction; multiple end portions (multiple first end portions 11a and multiple second end portions 12b) that gradually taper from the root portion toward the ends; and a laminate 513 connected to the multiple first end portions and the multiple second end portions.

[0135] In the example shown in the figure, the various units 805A, 805B, and 805C appear to have the same shape when viewed from the top and bottom, but this is not a limitation. For example, the various units 805A, 805B, and 805C may also appear to have different shapes when viewed from the top and bottom. For example, the shape of the various units 805A, 805B, and 805C can be changed accordingly to meet the design specifications.

[0136] In the example shown, multiple units 805A, 805B, and 805C (hereinafter also referred to as "assemblies 806A and 806B") that are connected in series are connected in parallel. Assemblies 806A and 806B constitute fuse elements 810 and 820. Fuses 810 and 820 are made of metal plate-shaped parts, sheet-shaped parts, or metal foil, etc. In the example shown, there are two fuse elements 810 and 820. The two fuse elements 810 and 820 are arranged in parallel. The two fuse elements 810 and 820 are arranged separately from each other in the vertical direction.

[0137] The fuse element located below the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 is referred to as "first fuse element 810", and the fuse element located above the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 is referred to as "second fuse element 820". The first fuse element 810 is located on the lower surface of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, positioned between them. The second fuse element 820 is located on the upper surface of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, positioned between them.

[0138] In the example shown in the figure, only one of each of the first fuse element 810 and the second fuse element 820 is provided, but this is not a limitation. For example, two of each fuse element 810 and 820 may be provided side by side in the vertical direction, or more than three may be provided side by side. For example, the arrangement of each fuse element 810 and 820 can be changed accordingly to meet the design specifications.

[0139] In the example shown in the figure, a portion of the first fuse element 810 protruding forward from the housing 50 is connected to the lower surface of the first terminal 30 by means of stamping or the like. A portion of the second fuse element 820 protruding forward from the housing 50 is connected to the upper surface of the first terminal 30 by means of stamping or the like. A portion of the first fuse element 810 protruding rearward from the housing 50 is connected to the lower surface of the second terminal 40 by means of stamping or the like. A portion of the second fuse element 820 protruding rearward from the housing 50 is connected to the upper surface of the second terminal 40 by means of stamping or the like.

[0140] Furthermore, the connection methods of each terminal 30, 40 and each fuse element 810, 820 are not limited to those described above. For example, the front part of the first fuse element 810 may be connected to the lower surface of the first terminal 30 by brazing or the like. For example, the front part of the second fuse element 820 may be connected to the upper surface of the first terminal 30 by brazing or the like. For example, the rear part of the first fuse element 810 may be connected to the lower surface of the second terminal 40 by brazing or the like. For example, the rear part of the second fuse element 820 may be connected to the upper surface of the second terminal 40 by brazing or the like. For example, the connection methods of each terminal 30, 40 and each fuse element 810, 820 can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0141] The protective device also includes a housing 50. The housing 50 encloses a portion of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, as well as two fuse elements 810 and 820 (one or more units, as an example). The housing 50 is generally cylindrical, extending in the front-rear direction. At least a portion of the gaps within the housing 50 is filled with a filler material 70.

[0142] The filler material 70, for example, functions to filter and simultaneously cool the metallic gas generated by arc discharge in the section of a circuit carrying excessive current that is to be cut off, thereby rapidly and safely extinguishing the arc discharge. The filler material 70 comprises an arc-quenching agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber materials, ceramic fibers, or silicone resin. For example, the filler material 70 may also comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of an arc-quenching agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber materials, ceramic fibers, or silicone resin and / or mixtures thereof, preferably silica sand or inorganic fiber materials.

[0143] Silica sand is granular SiO2 (quartz glass). It is sand primarily composed of quartz grains. Specifically, silica sand is a white, coarse-grained sand, a sedimentary or weathering product mainly composed of silicates, particularly containing a large amount of quartz grains.

[0144] For example, inorganic fiber materials include insulating fibers and other fiber materials. Other examples of fiber materials include ceramic materials such as SiO2 or MgO, Al2O3, and ZrO2, or plastic materials such as nylon or PMMA. Furthermore, the form of fiber materials is not limited to the above and can be changed accordingly to design specifications.

[0145] For example, ceramic fiber paper can be used as a ceramic fiber. Although not shown, multiple ceramic fiber papers can be stacked and arranged in the gaps within the housing 50.

[0146] Silicone resin, also known as silicone resin, generally refers to polymers with organic substituents that are produced by hydrolyzing silane compounds and increasing their molecular weight through siloxane bonds. It is also called a hybrid polymer that combines inorganic and organic elements.

[0147] Furthermore, the filler material 70 is not limited to the above and can be made of various materials. For example, the filler material 70 can also be a spherical component (e.g., ceramic beads or ceramic balls) formed from quartz glass or ceramic materials such as alumina or zirconium oxide. For example, the filler material 70 can also be a porous component (e.g., porous ceramic) formed from quartz glass or ceramic materials such as alumina or zirconium oxide. For example, the filler material 70 can also be a spherical component (e.g., plastic beads or plastic balls) formed from plastic materials such as nylon or PMMA (acrylic resin). For example, the filler material 70 can also be a porous component (e.g., porous plastic) formed from plastic materials such as nylon or PMMA. For example, the filler material 70 can also be formed from a sheet-like component, or it can be in the shape of wool, a plate, or a block. For example, the filler material 70 can also be a plate-like component (e.g., plate ceramic) formed from ceramic materials such as quartz glass or alumina or zirconium oxide. For example, the filler material 70 can also be silicone. Silicone is an inorganic polymer with siloxane bonds of silicon (Si) and oxygen (O) arranged in repeated parallel rows as the main chain. For example, the shape of the filler material 70 can be changed accordingly to meet the design specifications.

[0148] In the example shown, filler material 70 fills the gap within housing 50. A portion of filler material 70 is in contact with portions of the first fuse element 810 and the second fuse element 820. For example, firstly, portions of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, as well as portions of the first fuse element 810 and the second fuse element 820, are clamped into housing 50 by housing 50. Subsequently, filler material 70 is inserted into housing 50 through a through-hole (not shown) formed in housing 50, thereby filling the gap within housing 50 with filler material 70.

[0149] Furthermore, the filler material 70 is not limited to filling the housing 50 completely without gaps; it can also be filled into a portion of the housing 50 with gaps between it. For example, the filler material 70 may only be used to seal at least a portion of the gaps within the housing 50.

[0150] The housing 50 approaches or contacts two sides of the two fuse elements 810, 820 (an example of one or more units). In the example shown in the figure, the housing 50 contacts the lower surface of the first fuse element 810 and the upper surface of the second fuse element 820 at the terminal mounting surface 51 and the terminal pressing surface 52 formed at its front and rear ends.

[0151] The housing 50 includes a plurality of retaining members 50A and 50B. In the example shown in the figure, there are two retaining members 50A and 50B. The two retaining members 50A and 50B are arranged adjacent to each other in the vertical direction. The retaining member arranged on the lower side of the two retaining members 50A and 50B is also referred to as "first retaining member 50A", and the retaining member arranged on the upper side is referred to as "second retaining member 50B".

[0152] The first retaining member 50A is disposed on the underside of the first terminal 30, the second terminal 40, and the first fuse element 810. The first retaining member 50A has a terminal mounting surface 51. The terminal mounting surface 51 is concave from the upper surface of the first retaining member 50A downward. The bottom surface of the terminal mounting surface 51 is planar facing upward and extends along a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction). A pair of terminal mounting surfaces 51 are provided on the first retaining member 50A. The pair of terminal mounting surfaces 51 are disposed at both ends of the first retaining member 50A in the front-rear direction.

[0153] The second retaining member 50B is disposed on the upper side of the first terminal 30, the second terminal 40, and the second fuse element 820. The second retaining member 50B has a terminal pressing surface 52. The terminal pressing surface 52 is concave from the lower surface of the second retaining member 50B upward. The bottom surface of the terminal pressing surface 52 is a planar surface facing downward and extends along a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction). A pair of terminal pressing surfaces 52 are provided on the second retaining member 50B. The pair of terminal pressing surfaces 52 are disposed at both ends of the second retaining member 50B in the front-rear direction.

[0154] In addition, the terminal pressing surface 52 may also be formed on the side of the first retaining member 50A facing the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40.

[0155] With the first retaining member 50A and the second retaining member 50B combined, a receiving space 55 is formed between the first retaining member 50A and the second retaining member 50B. A portion of the first fuse element 810 and the second fuse element 820 are received in the receiving space 55. A filler material 70 is inserted into the gaps in the receiving space 55, excluding the portions where the first fuse element 810 and the second fuse element 820 are received.

[0156] The protective device also includes a housing component 60, which covers the outer side of the housing 50 and secures multiple retaining components. The housing component 60 is a cylindrical shape extending in the front-to-back direction. In the example shown, the housing component 60 is a cylindrical shape with an opening in the front-to-back direction. Two retaining components 50A and 50B are housed within the housing component 60 in a side-by-side arrangement in the vertical direction. The housing component 60 holds the two retaining components 50A and 50B in a fixed state, such as by adhesive bonding.

[0157] For example, the housing component 60 and each retaining component 50A, 50B are preferably made of a material with a tracking resistance index (CTI) of 500 V or higher. The tracking resistance index (CTI) can be determined by testing based on IEC 60112.

[0158] Resin materials can be used as the materials for the outer casing 60 and the retaining components 50A and 50B. Compared with ceramic materials, resin materials have a lower heat capacity and a lower melting point. Therefore, if resin materials are used as the materials for the retaining components 50A and 50B, they have the following characteristics that are preferred: they reduce the arc discharge caused by vaporization cooling (ablation), and they have the following characteristics: when molten metal particles adhere to the retaining components 50A and 50B, the surfaces of the retaining components 50A and 50B deform or the deposits agglomerate, thereby making the metal particles sparse and difficult to form conductive paths.

[0159] As the resin material, polyamide resins or fluorinated resins can be used, for example. In this embodiment, the housing 50 is made of a polyamide resin or a fluorinated resin. The polyamide resin can be an aliphatic polyamide or a semi-aromatic polyamide. Examples of aliphatic polyamides include nylon 4, nylon 6, nylon 46, and nylon 66. Examples of semi-aromatic polyamides include nylon 6T, nylon 9T, and polyphthalamide (PPA) resin. Examples of fluorinated resins include polytetrafluoroethylene. In addition, polyamide resins and fluorinated resins have high heat resistance and are difficult to burn. In particular, even if aliphatic polyamides burn, they are difficult to generate graphite. Therefore, by using aliphatic polyamides to form the housing component 60 and each retaining component 50A, 50B, it is possible to more reliably prevent the formation of new current paths by graphite generated by arc discharge when each fuse element melts.

[0160] In the protection device of this embodiment described above, in each of the plurality of units 805A, 805B, and 805C, each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end, and each end is connected to the laminate 513. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse elements 810 and 820 as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, the current concentration at the ends of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a during overcurrent cutoff, combined with the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor 513, can more effectively cut off the fuse elements 810 and 820 (melt the fusible portion). Therefore, the overcurrent cutoff time can be shortened more effectively.

[0161] In this embodiment, the protective device further includes a housing 50. The housing 50 encloses a portion of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, as well as two fuse elements 810 and 820. At least a portion of the gaps within the housing 50 is filled with a filler material 70.

[0162] According to this configuration, each fuse element 810, 820 is surrounded by the filling material 70, thereby effectively eliminating gas, which is one of the sources of arc discharge generated during overcurrent interruption, around each fuse element 810, 820. This suppresses plasma generated by the ionization of gas, which is one of the sources of arc discharge, and thus suppresses arc discharge.

[0163] In this embodiment, the housing 50 includes a plurality of retaining members 50A and 50B. The protective device also includes a housing member 60, which covers the outside of the housing 50 and secures the plurality of retaining members 50A and 50B.

[0164] Based on this configuration, the outer casing component 60 can be used to suppress the pressure (external force) acting on the casing 50 when the overcurrent is cut off.

[0165] (9th embodiment) Reference Figures 18 to 20 The protective device according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The main difference between the protective device of the ninth embodiment and the one described in the eighth embodiment is that the configuration of the protective device is different. In addition, in the figures of this embodiment, sometimes the same reference numerals and names are used for components that are the same or substantially the same as those in the first to eighth embodiments, and the descriptions are omitted.

[0166] Refer to together Figures 18 to 20The protective device also includes a housing 950 and two insulating components 90A and 90B (one or more insulating components in one example). A first conductor 411 and a second conductor 412 connected to a fusible conductor 513 form a unit (each of multiple units 805A, 805B, 805C). The two insulating components 90A and 90B are close to or in contact with two sides of a fuse element 820 (one or more units in one example). The housing 950 encloses a portion of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, a fuse element 820, and the two insulating components 90A and 90B. An internal pressure buffer space 95 is formed between the housing 950 and the insulating components 90A and 90B. In the insulating components 90A, 90B (an example of an insulating component and / or housing), a flow path 97 is formed for escaping the high-temperature gas generated between the internal pressure buffer space 95 and the fuse element 820 when the fuse element 820 is cut off.

[0167] The housing 950 is close to or in contact with the fuse element 820. In the example shown in the figure, a portion of the terminal holding surfaces 951, 952 (including the terminal mounting surface and the terminal pressing surface) formed at its front and rear ends are in contact with the upper surface of the fuse element 820.

[0168] The housing 950 includes a plurality of retaining members 950A and 950B. In the example shown in the figure, there are two retaining members 950A and 950B. The two retaining members 950A and 950B are arranged adjacent to each other in the left-right direction. The retaining member arranged on the left side of the two retaining members 950A and 950B is also referred to as "first retaining member 950A", and the retaining member arranged on the right side is referred to as "second retaining member 950B".

[0169] The first retaining member 950A is disposed on the left side of the first terminal 30, the second terminal 40, and the fuse element 820. The first retaining member 950A has a terminal clamping surface 951. The terminal clamping surface 951 is concave from the right side of the first retaining member 950A to the left side. The upper and lower surfaces of the terminal clamping surface 951 are each planar and extend along a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction). A pair of terminal clamping surfaces 951 are provided on the first retaining member 950A. The pair of terminal clamping surfaces 951 are disposed at both ends of the first retaining member 950A in the front-rear direction.

[0170] The second retaining member 950B is disposed on the right side of the first terminal 30, the second terminal 40, and the fuse element 820. The second retaining member 950B includes a terminal clamping surface 952. The terminal clamping surface 952 is concave from the left side of the second retaining member 950B to the right side. The upper and lower surfaces of the terminal clamping surface 952 are each planar and extend along a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction). A pair of terminal clamping surfaces 952 are provided on the second retaining member 950B. The pair of terminal clamping surfaces 952 are disposed at both ends of the second retaining member 950B in the front-rear direction.

[0171] The protective device also includes a housing component 60, which covers the outer side of the housing 950 and secures a plurality of retaining components 950A and 950B. The housing component 60 is a cylindrical shape extending in the front-rear direction. In the example shown, the housing component 60 is a cylindrical shape with an opening in the front-rear direction. The two retaining components 950A and 950B are housed within the housing component 60 in a side-by-side arrangement in the left-right direction. The housing component 60 holds the two retaining components 950A and 950B in a fixed state, such as by adhesive bonding.

[0172] For example, the housing component 60 and each retaining component 950A, 950B are preferably made of a material with a tracking resistance index (CTI) of 500 V or higher. The tracking resistance index (CTI) can be determined by testing based on IEC 60112.

[0173] Resin materials can be used as the materials for the outer casing 60 and the retaining components 950A and 950B. Compared with ceramic materials, resin materials have a lower heat capacity and a lower melting point. Therefore, if resin materials are used as the materials for the retaining components 950A and 950B, they are preferred for the following characteristics: reduced arc discharge caused by vaporization cooling (ablation), and the following characteristics: when molten metal particles adhere to the retaining components 950A and 950B, the surface of the retaining components 950A and 950B deforms or the deposits agglomerate, thereby making the metal particles sparse and difficult to form conductive paths.

[0174] For example, insulating components 90A and 90B are made of nylon-based resins or fluoropolymer resins. Preferably, insulating components 90A and 90B are made of resins with a tracking resistance index (CTI) of 500 V or higher. The resin material constituting insulating components 90A and 90B can also be the same as that used in the aforementioned housing 950 (outer shell component 60 and each retaining component 950A, 950B).

[0175] Each of the two insulating components 90A and 90B is plate-shaped, with the two plate surfaces facing vertically. Each of the two insulating components 90A and 90B is a quadrilateral plate-shaped structure, with its lateral dimension smaller than its front-back dimension when viewed from vertically. The insulating component 90A and 90B located on the lower side is referred to as "first insulating component 90A", and the insulating component located on the upper side is referred to as "second insulating component 90B".

[0176] The first insulating component 90A is disposed on the underside of the first terminal 30, the second terminal 40, and the fuse element 820. The upper surface of the first insulating component 90A is close to or in contact with the lower surface of the fuse element 820.

[0177] The first insulating member 90A includes a terminal support surface 91. The terminal support surface 91 is recessed downward from the upper surface of the first insulating member 90A. The bottom surface of the terminal support surface 91 is a planar surface facing upward and extends along a plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (XY plane direction). A pair of terminal support surfaces 91 are provided on the first insulating member 90A. The pair of terminal support surfaces 91 are disposed at both ends of the first insulating member 90A in the front-rear direction.

[0178] In the first insulating member 90A, a flow path 97 (e.g., a leakage hole and / or gap) is formed on the outer side in the front-rear direction, which is further back than the fusible conductor 513. The flow path 97 extends in a direction orthogonal to the direction of current flow through the fuse element 820 (generally the front-rear direction). If the flow path 97 is formed in the first insulating member 90A, the molten debris adhering to the upper surface of the first insulating member 90A after the fuse element 820 is cut off becomes discontinuous in the flow path 97, which can appropriately increase the insulation resistance between the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 after the cut-off.

[0179] The second insulating component 90B is disposed on the upper side of the first terminal 30, the second terminal 40, and the fuse element 820. The lower surface of the second insulating component 90B is close to or in contact with the upper surface of the fuse element 820.

[0180] In the second insulating member 90B, a flow path 97 (e.g., a leakage hole and / or gap) is formed on the outer side in the front-rear direction, which is further back than the fusible conductor 513. The flow path 97 extends in a direction orthogonal to the direction of current flow through the fuse element 820 (approximately the front-rear direction). If the flow path 97 is formed in the second insulating member 90B, the molten debris adhering to the lower surface of the second insulating member 90B after the fuse element 820 is cut off becomes discontinuous in the flow path 97, which can appropriately increase the insulation resistance between the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40 after the cut-off.

[0181] In the example shown, two leakage holes, serving as flow path 97, are spaced apart along the front-to-back direction. The leakage holes extend in a straight line along the vertical direction. For example, the opening area of ​​the leakage hole (the cross-sectional area when the leakage hole is cut off by a plane orthogonal to the vertical direction) is less than 20% of the length of the energized direction of the area where the insulating components 90A and 90B are close to or in contact with the fuse element 820, and is not limited outside this area. Furthermore, the form of the leakage holes (number, placement, shape, opening area, etc.) is not limited to the above and can be changed accordingly to design specifications.

[0182] In the configuration of the aforementioned components 90A, 90B, 950A, and 950B, a component receiving space 96 is formed between the first insulating component 90A and the second insulating component 90B. A fuse element 820 is received in the component receiving space 96.

[0183] A portion of the upper surface of the first insulating member 90A (a portion of the surface facing the element receiving space 96) is configured to approach or contact the lower surface of the fuse element 820. A portion of the lower surface of the second insulating member 90B (a portion of the surface facing the element receiving space 96) is configured to approach or contact the upper surface of the fuse element 820.

[0184] With the first retaining member 950A and the second retaining member 950B combined, an internal pressure buffer space 95 is formed between the first retaining member 950A and the second retaining member 950B. The internal pressure buffer space 95 communicates with the element receiving space 96 via a flow path 97. The internal pressure buffer space 95 has the function of suppressing the rapid rise in internal pressure of the protective device caused by the gas generated by the arc discharge when the fuse element 820 melts.

[0185] The internal pressure buffer space 95 is sealed with a filler material 70. The filler material 70 comprises an arc extinguishing agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber, or silicone resin. For example, the filler material 70 may also comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of an arc extinguishing agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber, or silicone resin and / or mixtures thereof, preferably silica sand or inorganic fiber material.

[0186] In the example shown in the figure, the filler material 70 fills the internal pressure buffer space 95 inside the protective device. A portion of the filler material 70 is in contact with the lower surface of the first insulating member 90A located below the fuse element 820. A portion of the filler material 70 is in contact with the upper surface of the second insulating member 90B located above the fuse element 820.

[0187] For example, firstly, a portion of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, as well as a portion of the fuse element 820, are clamped into the housing 950. Subsequently, filler material 70 is placed into the housing 950 (internal pressure buffer space 95) through a through hole (not shown) formed in the housing 950, thereby filling the internal pressure buffer space 95 with filler material 70.

[0188] Furthermore, the filling material 70 is not limited to filling the internal pressure buffer space 95 completely without gaps, but can also be filled into a portion of the internal pressure buffer space 95 with gaps between it. For example, the filling material 70 can also be disposed in at least a portion of the internal pressure buffer space 95.

[0189] Furthermore, the orientation of the protective device is not limited to being arranged vertically along the direction of gravity; it can also be arranged perpendicularly to the direction of gravity. For example, when the filling material 70 is filled seamlessly into the internal pressure buffer space 95, the protective device can be arranged at an angle relative to the direction of gravity. For example, the arrangement of the protective device can be changed accordingly to the design specifications.

[0190] In the protection device of this embodiment described above, each of the plurality of units 805A, 805B, and 805C has a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root to the end in each of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a, and each end is connected to the laminate 513. Therefore, the resistance value of the fuse element 820 as a whole can be suppressed, while current can flow easily. Therefore, the current concentration at the ends of the plurality of first end portions 11a and the plurality of second end portions 12a during overcurrent cutoff, combined with the melting phenomenon of the fusible conductor 513, can more effectively cut off the fuse element 820 (melt the fusible portion). Therefore, the overcurrent cutoff time can be shortened more effectively.

[0191] In this embodiment, the protective device further includes a housing 950 and two insulating components 90A and 90B. The two insulating components 90A and 90B are close to or in contact with two sides of a fuse element 820. The housing 950 encloses a portion of the first terminal 30 and the second terminal 40, the fuse element 820, and the two insulating components 90A and 90B. An internal pressure buffer space 95 is formed between the housing 950 and the insulating components 90A and 90B. A flow path 97 is formed in the insulating components 90A and 90B, which allows the high-temperature gas generated between the internal pressure buffer space 95 and the fuse element 820 when the fuse element 820 is cut off to escape.

[0192] Based on this configuration, the space formed between the fuse element 820 and the insulating components 90A and 90B is narrowed, thus effectively eliminating gas, which is one of the sources of arc discharge generated during overcurrent interruption, around the fuse element 820. This suppresses plasma generated by the ionization of gas, one of the sources of arc discharge, and inhibits arc discharge. Furthermore, to suppress arc discharge, it is not necessary to fill the area around the fuse element 820 with silica sand, known as an arc-quenching agent. Therefore, problems arising from the continuous adhesion of molten debris to the surface of the arc-quenching agent (such as reduced cut-off characteristics or decreased insulation resistance after cut-off) are avoided. Therefore, arc discharge during cut-off can be suppressed, and the decrease in insulation resistance after cut-off can be suppressed when dealing with high voltage / high current interruption. Furthermore, the gas vaporized (metallic gas) from the fuse element 820 can escape through the flow path 97 formed in the insulating components 90A and 90B.

[0193] In this embodiment, insulating components 90A and 90B are made of nylon-based resin or fluoropolymer resin.

[0194] Based on this composition, nylon-based resins and fluoropolymers exhibit high heat resistance and are difficult to burn. In particular, aliphatic polyamides in nylon-based resins are unlikely to generate graphite even when burned. Therefore, by forming insulating components 90A and 90B from aliphatic polyamides, graphite formation caused by arc discharge when the fuse element 820 melts can be suppressed, more reliably preventing the formation of new current paths.

[0195] In addition, carbon black used for coloring also leads to graphite formation, so materials that do not contain carbon black (e.g., natural-colored resin materials) are preferred.

[0196] In this embodiment, the internal pressure buffer space 95 is filled with filling material 70.

[0197] Based on this configuration, arc discharge can be suppressed by insulating components 90A and 90B, and at the same time, the filling material 70 can effectively suppress the sharp rise in internal pressure of the protective device caused by molten debris entering the internal pressure buffer space 95. Therefore, large-scale arc discharge can be suppressed when the fuse element 820 melts.

[0198] In this embodiment, the filler material 70 includes an arc quenching agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber, or silicone resin.

[0199] When the filler material 70 contains at least silica sand, the surface area for each silica sand particle can be ensured, making it easier to increase the overall surface area of ​​the filler material 70 compared to a plate-like structure. Therefore, it is easier to suppress a sharp rise in the internal pressure of the protective device caused by molten debris entering the internal pressure buffer space 95.

[0200] When the filler material 70 contains at least inorganic fiber material, the surface area of ​​the filler material 70 can be increased more easily as a whole compared to the plate-shaped case. Furthermore, when the filler material 70 contains at least inorganic fiber material, there are more elements for capturing molten debris compared to the plate-shaped case. Therefore, it is easier to suppress a sharp rise in the internal pressure of the protective device caused by molten debris entering the internal pressure buffer space 95.

[0201] In this embodiment, the housing 950 includes a plurality of retaining members 950A and 950B. The protective device also includes a housing member 60, which covers the outside of the housing 950 and secures the plurality of retaining members 950A and 950B.

[0202] Based on this configuration, the outer casing component 60 can be used to suppress the pressure (external force) acting on the casing 950 when the overcurrent is cut off.

[0203] The present invention can also combine the various components described in the foregoing embodiments and modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications to the components are possible. Moreover, the present invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments, but only to the claims.

[0204] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures Unit 1 11 First conductor 11a First end portion 12 Second conductor 12a Second terminal part 13 Fusible conductors 30 Terminal 1 40 Terminal 2 50 Housing 50A First retaining component (retaining component) 50B Second retaining component (retaining component) 60 Housing components 70 Filler material 90A First Insulation Component (Insulation Component) 90B Second Insulation Component (Insulation Component) 95 Internal pressure buffer space 97 flow path 211 First conductor 212 Second conductor 211a First end portion 212a Second end portion 312 Second conductor 312a Second end portion 411 First Conductor 412 Second conductor 513 Fusible conductor (laminated) 513a High Melting Point Metal Layer 513b First low-melting-point metal layer (low-melting-point metal layer) 513c Second low-melting-point metal layer (low-melting-point metal layer) Units 605A and 605B Units 705A and 705B 713 Fusible conductor (laminated) Units 805A, 805B, and 805C 950 housing 950A First Holding Component (Holding Component) 950B Second retaining component (retaining component).

Claims

1. A protective device comprising: A first conductor having at least one first end portion; and The second conductor, The first terminal portion is a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root towards the end. At least a portion of the first end portion and the second conductor are connected to a fusible conductor with a melting temperature lower than that of each of the first and second conductors.

2. The protection device according to claim 1, wherein, The second conductor has at least one second end portion. The second terminal portion is a shape in which the cross-sectional area decreases from the root towards the end. At least a portion of the first end portion and the second end portion are connected to the fusible conductor.

3. The protection device according to claim 2, wherein, The first end portion and the second end portion are opposite to each other and are close to or in contact with each other.

4. The protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Each of the first conductor and the second conductor is a plate-shaped component made of metal.

5. The protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Each of the first conductor and the second conductor is composed of Ag or Cu or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component.

6. The protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The fusible conductor is composed of Sn or a metal with Sn as its main component.

7. The protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The fusible conductor is a laminate comprising a high-melting-point metal layer and a low-melting-point metal layer.

8. The protection device according to claim 7, wherein, The high-melting-point metal layer is composed of Ag or Cu, or a metal with Ag or Cu as the main component. The low-melting-point metal layer is composed of Sn or a metal with Sn as its main component.

9. The protection device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The first conductor has a plurality of the first terminal portions. The second conductor has a plurality of the second terminal portions. The plurality of first end portions and the plurality of second end portions are connected to the fusible conductor in a state of being opposite each other and close to or in contact with each other.

10. The protection device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, It also has a first terminal and a second terminal. A portion of the first conductor is electrically connected to the first terminal. A portion of the second conductor is electrically connected to the second terminal.

11. The protection device according to claim 10, wherein, The first and second end portions, connected to the fusible conductor, form a unit. Multiple units are connected in series to ground.

12. The protection device according to claim 10, wherein, The first and second end portions, connected to the fusible conductor, form a unit. Multiple units are electrically connected in parallel.

13. The protection device according to claim 2, wherein, It also has a shell. The first and second end portions, connected to the fusible conductor, form a unit. The housing encloses a portion of the first terminal and the second terminal, as well as one or more of the aforementioned units. At least a portion of the gaps within the housing is filled with a filling material.

14. The protection device according to claim 13, wherein, The filler material includes arc quenching agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber or silicone resin.

15. The protection device according to claim 2, wherein, It also has a shell. The first and second end portions, connected to the fusible conductor, form a unit. Both the first conductor and the second conductor are plate-shaped components made of metal. The housing encloses a portion of the first terminal and the second terminal, as well as one or more of the said units, and is close to or in contact with two sides of one or more of the said units.

16. The protection device according to claim 2, wherein, It also has a housing and one or more insulating components. The first and second end portions, connected to the fusible conductor, form a unit. Both the first conductor and the second conductor are plate-shaped components made of metal. One or more of the insulating components are close to or in contact with two sides of one or more of the units. The housing encloses a portion of the first and second terminals, one or more of the aforementioned units, and one or more of the aforementioned insulating components. An internal pressure buffer space is formed between the housing and the insulating component. A flow path is formed in the insulating component and / or the housing for escaping the high-temperature gas generated between the internal pressure buffer space and the unit when the unit is cut off.

17. The protection device according to claim 16, wherein, The insulating components are made of nylon-based resins or fluoropolymer resins.

18. The protection device according to claim 16, wherein, The internal pressure buffer space is filled with a filling material.

19. The protection device according to claim 18, wherein, The filler material includes arc quenching agent, silica sand, inorganic fiber material, ceramic fiber or silicone resin.

20. The protective device according to any one of claims 13, 15, and 16, wherein, The housing includes multiple retaining components. It also includes a housing component that covers the outside of the housing and secures the plurality of retaining components.

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