Electrical connection unit

Abstract

The electrical connection unit is an electrical connection unit adjacent to the cooling unit at least when mounted on a vehicle, including a first wiring structure, a first metal member, one or more electronic components, and a second metal member. The first wiring structure includes one or more wiring members and faces the cooling unit. The first metal member includes a first plate portion located on a side opposite the cooling unit with respect to at least a portion of the first wiring structure. The one or more electronic components are disposed between the first plate portion and the first wiring structure. The second metal member is disposed between the first plate portion and the first wiring structure and forms at least a portion of a heat transfer path that thermally connects the first plate portion to the cooling unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electrical connection unit. Background Technology

[0002] In the electrical connection unit, electronic components such as relays and resistors are mounted on the bottom wall of the housing.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2018-113184. Summary of the Invention

[0006] However, it is desirable to further improve the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit.

[0007] The embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that can improve heat dissipation.

[0008] The electrical connection unit according to an embodiment is an electrical connection unit adjacent to a cooling unit, at least when installed in a vehicle, and includes a first wiring structure, a first metal member, one or more electronic components, and a second metal member. The first wiring structure includes one or more wiring members and faces the cooling unit. The first metal member includes a first plate portion, at least a portion of which is located on the side opposite to the cooling unit relative to the first wiring structure. One or more electronic components are disposed between the first plate portion and the first wiring structure. The second metal member is disposed between the first plate portion and the first wiring structure and forms at least a portion of a heat transfer path that thermally connects the first plate portion to the cooling unit.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the electrical connection unit according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a partial exploded perspective view showing the electrical connection unit according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 This is another partial exploded perspective view showing the electrical connection unit according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a perspective view used to describe the electronic components and connecting parts according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a partially exploded perspective view showing the first structure according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a wiring board according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a plan view of the wiring board according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the structure intercepted by line F8-F8 in the diagram;

[0018] Figure 9 It is shown separately Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the electrical connection unit in the diagram.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a partially exploded perspective view showing the second structure according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view showing the first structure and metal component according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the electrical connection unit according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit according to the first modified example of the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit according to a second modification of the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions are indicated by the same reference numerals. Redundant descriptions of these components may be omitted. The components described below do not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0026] In this disclosure, the terms are defined as follows. The term "connection" is not limited to a mechanical connection and may include an electrical connection. That is, "connection" is not limited to the case where two elements that are the targets of the connection are directly connected, but may also include the case where two elements that are the targets of the connection are connected with other elements in between. The term "accommodate" is not limited to the case of accommodating the entire component, but may include the case of accommodating only a portion of the component (the state where the remaining part of the component protrudes). The terms "facing," "overlapping," or "adjacent" refer to the case where, when viewed from a particular direction, the virtual projected images of two target objects overlap each other. For example, the terms "facing" or "overlapping" are not limited to the case where two target objects directly face each other, but may include the case where two target objects face each other with another component or gap between them. The term "adjacent" is not limited to the case where two objects are directly adjacent to each other, but may include the case where two objects are adjacent to each other with an electrical or thermal functional component (e.g., an insulating sheet or a heat transfer sheet) between them. "Parallel," "orthogonal," or "identical" may respectively include "substantially parallel," "substantially orthogonal," or "substantially identical."

[0027] In this disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows. The +X direction is the direction from the first end 72e1 to the second end 72e2 of the metal cover 70 described later (see reference). Figure 1 The -X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the +X and -X directions, they will be simply referred to as the "X direction". The +Y and -Y directions are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal) the X direction. The +Y direction is the direction from the third end 72e3 to the fourth end 72e4 of the metal cover 70 described later (see reference). Figure 1 The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the +Y and -Y directions, they will be simply referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z and -Z directions are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal) the X and Y directions. The +Z direction is the direction from the wiring board 40S (described later) to the top wall 72 of the metal cover 70 (see reference). Figure 3 The -Z direction is the direction opposite to the +Z direction. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the +Z and -Z directions, it will be simply referred to as the "Z direction". The -Z direction is an example of a "first direction". The X direction is an example of a "second direction". The Y direction is an example of a "third direction". The "second direction" is not limited to the X direction and can be the Y direction or other directions. The "third direction" is not limited to the Y direction and is the direction that intersects with both the "first direction" and the "second direction".

[0028] Hereinafter, when the X-direction and the Y-direction are not distinguished from each other, the X-direction and the Y-direction may be referred to as the "horizontal direction". Hereinafter, the Z-direction may be referred to as the "vertical direction". Hereinafter, the +Z-direction side may be referred to as the "upper" side, and the -Z-direction side may be referred to as the "lower" side. However, these expressions are for convenience of description and do not limit the gravitational direction (mounting posture) of the electrical connection unit 100.

[0029] (First Embodiment)

[0030] <A1. Configuration of Electrical Connection Unit>

[0031] The electrical connection unit 100 is, for example, an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle such as an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), etc. The electrical connection unit 100 may be referred to as, for example, an "electrical junction box" or a "junction box". However, the electrical connection unit 100 is not limited to a box-shaped device.

[0032] The electrical connection unit 100 is at least when mounted on a vehicle (i.e., when mounted on the vehicle), arranged in a state adjacent to an external cooling unit CM (refer to Figure 9 ). The cooling unit CM is, for example, a water jacket provided in the battery module. The cooling unit CM receives heat from the electrical connection unit 100 via the cooling surface CS of the cooling unit CM (refer to Figure 9 ), and promotes the cooling of the electrical connection unit 100. The cooling unit CM is not limited to the above example, and may be a cooling unit provided specifically for the electrical connection unit 100 or the like.

[0033] Next, the configuration of the electrical connection unit 100 will be described.

[0034] As Figure 1-3 illustrated, the electrical connection unit 100 includes, for example, a first structure 1A, a second structure 1B, a plurality of connection busbars 47 (refer to Figure 2 ), a second auxiliary member 48 (refer to Figure 2 ), a metal cover 70, a plurality of insulating sheets 91 (refer to Figure 3 ), a plurality of heat transfer members 92 (refer to Figure 3 ), a plurality of metal blocks 110 (refer to Figure 3 ), and a plurality of heat transfer members 120 (refer to Figure 3 ). The electrical connection unit 100 may further include a cover that covers the second structure 1B from the +Z direction.

[0035] The first structure 1A is a unit that forms the first - stage part of the two - stage hierarchical structure of the electrical connection unit 100. The second structure 1B is a unit that forms the second - stage part of the two - stage hierarchical structure of the electrical connection unit 100. Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the electronic components 10S and the electronic components 10T, the electronic components are simply referred to as "electronic components 10".

[0036] <A1.1 Composition of the First Structure>

[0037] As Figure 3 shown, the first structure 1A includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10S, a plurality of connection components 20, and a wiring board 40S. The plurality of electronic components 10S are arranged on the +Z - direction side with respect to at least a part of the wiring board 40S. The electronic components 10S are electrically connected to the wiring board 40S via the connection components 20. The wiring board 40S faces the external cooling unit CM at least in the state of being mounted on the vehicle. The wiring board 40S is an example of the "first wiring structure".

[0038] The first structure 1A faces the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 described later from the -Z direction side. The first structure 1A faces the cooling surface CS of the cooling unit CM from the +Z direction side. In the present disclosure, the first side and the second side are defined as follows. When the -Z direction is the first direction, one side in the first direction (for example, the -Z direction side) is the first side, and the other side in the first direction (for example, the +Z direction side) is the second side.

[0039] <A1.2 Composition of the Second Structure>

[0040] As Figure 2 shown, the second structure 1B includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10T and a wiring structure 40T. The wiring structure 40T includes a cover member 41T and a plurality of bus bars 42. The plurality of electronic components 10T are arranged on the +Z - direction side with respect to at least a part of the cover member 41T. The electronic components 10T are electrically connected to the bus bars 42 of the wiring structure 40T. The wiring structure 40T is an example of the "second wiring structure".

[0041] The second structure 1B is provided on the side opposite to the first structure 1A and the cooling unit CM with respect to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 (refer to Figure 9 ). The second structure 1B faces the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 from the +Z direction side.

[0042] <A2. First Structure>

[0043] Next, refer to Figure 3 to describe the details of the first structure 1A.

[0044] <A2.1 Electronic Components 10S>

[0045] In this embodiment, the plurality of electronic components 10 of the first structure 1A includes electronic components 10S. For example, electronic component 10S is an electronic component that generates more heat when energized than electronic component 10T. Electronic component 10S is a relay (e.g., a mechanical relay or a semiconductor relay), a thermal fuse, etc. However, the type of electronic component 10S is not limited to the examples described above. The heat generated by electronic component 10S when energized may be less than the heat generated by electronic component 10T when energized. In this embodiment, one or more (e.g., a plurality of) electronic components 10S are disposed between the wiring board 40S and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. In this embodiment, electronic components 10A and 10B are provided as electronic components 10S. Electronic component 10A is an example of a "second electronic component". Electronic component 10B is an example of a "first electronic component".

[0046] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the electronic component 10S and the connecting member 20. The electronic component 10S is, for example, an electronic component in which multiple terminals 13 are arranged at one end of the electronic component 10S. The electronic component 10S includes, for example, a housing 11, a component body 12, multiple terminals 13, and multiple attachment parts 14.

[0047] (case)

[0048] The housing 11 is the outer component that forms most of the shape of the electronic component 10S. The housing 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The housing 11 houses the component body 12. The housing 11 and the component body 12 can be formed integrally.

[0049] (Main body of the component)

[0050] The component body 12 is the part that performs the main functions of the electronic component 10S. For example, if the electronic component 10S is a relay, the component body 12 includes a switch (e.g., a contact portion) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 10S is a fuse, the component body 12 includes a fuse portion that melts when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 10S is a capacitor, the component body 12 includes a portion that stores charge.

[0051] (terminal)

[0052] Terminal 13 is an electrical connection portion exposed to the outside of housing 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to component body 12 inside housing 11. In this embodiment, electronic component 10S includes terminals 13A and 13B as a plurality of terminals 13. One of terminals 13A and 13B is a positive terminal. The other of terminals 13A and 13B is a negative terminal.

[0053] In the electronic component 10S of the present embodiment, the terminals 13A and 13B are provided at one end in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction) of the electronic component 10S. The terminals 13A and 13B are arranged in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Each of the terminals 13A and 13B points in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Each terminal 13 has an attachment hole 13h to which a fastening member 96 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) described later is attached. The attachment hole 13h opens in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). A threaded groove is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the attachment hole 13h of the electronic component 10S.

[0054] (Attachment portion)

[0055] The attachment portion 14 is a portion for fixing the electronic component 10S. The attachment portion 14 has an attachment hole 14h to which a fastening member 95 (e.g., a screw or a bolt; and refer to Figure 11 ) is attached. The attachment hole 14h opens in the Z direction. The attachment hole 14h is an insertion hole through which the fastening member 95 passes. The attachment hole 14h faces the attachment hole 73h of the fixing portion 73 described later (refer to Figure 9 ).

[0056] <A2.2 Connection component>

[0057] Next, the connection component 20 will be described. The connection component 20 is a component that electrically connects the electronic component 10S to the bus bar 42 included in the wiring board 40S. The connection component 20 forms a part of the current path in the first structure IA. The connection component 20 in the present disclosure is a component that forms a current path in the vertical direction. The connection component 20 is made of metal (e.g., copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy). The connection component 20 may also be referred to as a "vertical wiring member". The connection component 20 includes, for example, a first portion 21 and a second portion 22. In the present embodiment, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 form an L-shaped connection component <00 >

[0058] (First portion)

[0059] The first portion 21 of the connection member 20 is the portion connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S. The first portion 21 is a plate-like or rectangular parallelepiped portion extending in the Z direction. The first portion 21 extends in the Z direction along one end portion of the electronic component 10S (for example, the end portion in the X direction). The first portion 21 is a standing portion that stands up in the Z direction with respect to the wiring board 40S (for example, with respect to the bus bar 42 described later). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the electronic component 10S in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). For example, the first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S from the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction).

[0060] The first portion 21 of the connection member 20 has an attachment hole 21h through which a fastening member 96 (for example, a screw or a bolt) passes. The attachment hole 21h opens in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). The fastening member 96 that has passed through the attachment hole 21h engages with the attachment hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S, and thus, the first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S.

[0061] (Second portion)

[0062] The second portion 22 of the connection member 20 is the portion connected to the bus bar 42 (see Figure 5 ). The second portion 22 extends in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) from the end portion on the -Z direction side of the first portion 21. The second portion 22 is a plate portion along the horizontal direction. The second portion 22 is adjacent to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction and is connected to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction (see Figure 5 ). The second portion 22 of the connection member 20 is attached to a fastening member 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt; and see Figure 5 ) that protrudes from the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction from the Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42.

[0063] In the present embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connection member 20 has an attachment hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The attachment hole 22h opens in the Z direction. In the second portion 22, the fastening member 43 passes through the attachment hole 22h. An engaging member 44 (for example, a nut, and see Figure 5 ) engages with the end of the fastening member 43 that has passed through the attachment hole 22h, so that the second portion 22 is fixed to the bus bar 42.

[0064] <A2.3 Wiring board of the first structure>

[0065] Next, the wiring board 40S of the first structure 1A will be described.

[0066] Figure 5 is a perspective view for describing the wiring board 40S. The wiring board 40S is a structure that forms a conduction path in the first structure 1A. For example, the wiring board 40S forms a conduction path to which the electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A are connected. In the present embodiment, the wiring board 40S is in a plate shape extending in the X direction and the Y direction.

[0067] In the present disclosure, a "wiring board" refers to a board-type wiring board. "Board-type" means a plate shape that extends along a plane when observed as a whole regardless of the fine shape. In the present disclosure, the terms "plate shape", "sheet shape", or "plane" are not limited to a completely flat case, and may include cases where there are fixed structures, ribs, etc. that partially protrude in the Z direction, cases where there are uneven shapes on the surface following the thickness of the bus bar, and the like.

[0068] The wiring board 40S includes one or more bus bars 42, at least facing the cooling unit CM in a state of being mounted on a vehicle. The bus bar 42 is an example of a "wiring member". The wiring board 40S includes, for example, a base member 41S, a plurality of bus bars 42, and a plurality of fastening members 43. In the present embodiment, the base member 41S and some of the bus bars 42 are integrated by insert molding. Note that the wiring board 40S can be formed by using another structure instead of insert molding. For example, the plurality of bus bars 42 can be simply placed on the upper surface of the base member 41S and supported from below by the base member 41S.

[0069] Figure 6 is a partial exploded perspective view of the wiring board 40S. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of description, the base member 41S, the bus bar 42, and the fastening member 43 will be described with reference to the partial exploded view of the wiring board 40S.

[0070] <A2.3.1 Base member>

[0071] The base member 41S is a support member that supports a plurality of electronic components 10S or / and a plurality of bus bars 42. The base member 41S in the present embodiment supports the bus bars 42 and indirectly supports a plurality of electronic components 10S via the connection member 20. The plurality of bus bars 42 are arranged at intervals in the horizontal direction. The base member 41S is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulation properties. The base member 41S electrically insulates between the plurality of bus bars 42. The base member 41S includes, for example, a flat surface portion 51, a wall portion 52, and a plurality of openings 53.

[0072] (Flat surface portion)

[0073] The flat surface portion 51 is a plate-shaped portion formed in the base member 41S. The flat surface portion 51 is plate-shaped and extends in the horizontal direction. The flat surface portion 51 forms the main part of the base member 41S. The flat surface portion 51 forms the base portion (insulating base portion) of the base member 41S. In this embodiment, except for the wall portion 52 of the base member 41S, the flat surface portion 51 extends along the entire width of the base member 41S in the X direction and along the entire width of the base member 41S in the Y direction.

[0074] The flat surface portion 51 has a first surface 51a and a second surface 51b. The first surface 51a is a surface facing the +Z direction. The first surface 51a is a flat surface along the horizontal direction. The first surface 51a faces the plurality of electronic components 10S from the -Z direction side and faces the metal cover 70 (see reference) from the -Z direction side. Figure 9 The second surface 51b is located on the side opposite to the first surface 51a. The second surface 51b is a surface facing the -Z direction. The second surface 51b is a flat surface along the horizontal direction. The second surface 51b faces the external cooling unit CM from the +Z direction side (refer to...). Figure 9 In this embodiment, the thickness T11 of the flat surface portion 51 in the Z direction is less than the thickness T1 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction (for example, the thickness of the horizontal plate portion 42p in the Z direction, described later) (see reference). Figure 8 The thickness T11 of the flat surface portion 51 in the Z direction can be equal to or greater than the thickness T1 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction.

[0075] In this embodiment, the flat surface portion 51 has a plurality of receiving portions 55. The plurality of receiving portions 55 are formed separately from each other in the X or Y direction. Each receiving portion 55 is, for example, a through hole penetrating the flat surface portion 51 in the Z direction. Note that the receiving portion 55 may be a recess provided on the first surface 51a or the second surface 51b of the flat surface portion 51 and recessed in the Z direction, rather than a through hole. In this disclosure, the phrase "receiving portion penetrating the flat surface portion in the first direction (Z direction)" may include the case where a portion of the entire length of the receiving portion 55 penetrates the flat surface portion 51 in the Z direction (e.g., the remaining portion of the receiving portion 55 may be a recessed portion in the Z direction, or may be provided inside the base member 41S and not exposed to the outside of the base member 41S). Similarly, in this disclosure, the phrase “receiving portion recessed in the first direction (Z direction)” can include a portion of the entire length of the receiving portion 55 that is recessed in the Z direction (e.g., the remainder of the receiving portion 55 may be a through hole penetrating the flat surface portion 51 in the Z direction, or may be disposed inside the base member 41S and not exposed to the outside of the base member 41S).

[0076] Each receiving portion 55, when viewed from the Z direction, has a shape corresponding to the shape of the busbar 42 to be received. The plurality of receiving portions 55 includes, for example, four receiving portions 55A, 55B, 55C, and 55D. Receiving portion 55A is provided corresponding to busbar 42A (described later) and receives at least a portion of busbar 42A. Receiving portion 55B is provided corresponding to busbar 42B (described later) and receives at least a portion of busbar 42B. Receiving portion 55C is provided corresponding to busbar 42C (described later) and receives at least a portion of busbar 42C. Receiving portion 55D is provided corresponding to busbar 42D (described later) and receives at least a portion of busbar 42D.

[0077] The flat surface portion 51 has one or more locking portions 56. The locking portions 56 are used to lock the metal cover 70 to the first structure 1A. One example of the locking portion 56 is an engaging claw (also referred to as a "lock-fit"). The engaging claw includes an arm 56AR extending from the flat surface portion 51 in the +Z direction and a protrusion 56PR protruding as part of the arm 56AR. The protrusion 56PR protrudes from the arm 56AR in a direction intersecting the extending direction (+Z direction) of the arm 56AR. In this embodiment, the protrusion 56PR protrudes toward the metal cover 70 and locks into the retaining portion 71h described later (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0078] (Wall section)

[0079] A wall portion 52 is provided at the periphery of the base member 41S. The wall portion 52 is a reinforcing rib that protrudes in the +Z direction from the end of the flat surface portion 51. The wall portion 52 can be used to position the first structure 1A and the metal cover 70 during assembly. Note that the wall portion 52 can be omitted.

[0080] (Opening)

[0081] Opening 53 is the opening of the attachment hole 73h of the fixing part 73 facing the metal cover 70 and the attachment hole 14h of the attachment part 14 of the electronic component 10S described later (see reference). Figure 5 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 (etc.). The opening 53 extends through the base member 41S in the Z direction. The fastening member 95 (e.g., a screw or bolt), described later, passes through the opening 53. This will be described later. The opening 53 may be an opening formed in the shape of a notch through which the fastening member 95 can be inserted.

[0082] The base member 41S may also have ribs 51L protruding from the flat surface portion 51 in the +Z direction around the opening 53. The ribs 51L may be able to support the attachment portion 14 of the electronic component 10S in the -Z direction.

[0083] (First auxiliary component)

[0084] The wiring board 40S may also include one or more first auxiliary members 46 as needed. As Figure 5 shown, the first auxiliary member 46 is a support member that assists in the three-dimensional wiring of some bus bars 42 (for example, the bus bars 42 corresponding to the "three-dimensional wiring member" described later). The first auxiliary member 46 supports the bus bar 42 from the -Z direction side. The first auxiliary member 46 supports the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42 to a position away from the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 (for example, a position away in the Z direction). The first auxiliary member 46 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties.

[0085] <A2.3.2 Bus Bar>

[0086] Next, the bus bar 42 included in the wiring board 40S will be described. The bus bar 42 is a wiring member (electrical connection member) of the electrical connection unit 100. The bus bar 42 included in the wiring board 40S is electrically connected to, for example, at least one of the plurality of electronic components 10S included in the plurality of electronic components 10S. For example, each of some of the bus bars 42 electrically connects two of the plurality of electronic components 10 (for example, the plurality of electronic components 10S) included in the plurality of electronic components 10. The bus bar 42 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy) and has conductivity. The bus bar 42 is an example of a "wiring member".

[0087] In the present embodiment, the plurality of bus bars 42 included in the first structure 1A include, for example, 11 bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 42E, 42F, 42G, 42H, 42I, 42V, 42W (see Figure 5 , Figure 6 ).

[0088] As Figure 6 shown, four bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are arranged at intervals in the horizontal direction. The four bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D include portions disposed on the same plane. The four bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D are supported by the flat surface portion 51 of the base member 41S. In the present disclosure, the phrase "the bus bar is supported by the flat surface portion" is not limited to the case where the bus bar 42 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 55, and may include the case where the bus bar 42 is attached to the first surface 51a or the second surface 51b of the flat surface portion 51. The four bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D are integrated with the base member 41S by insert molding.

[0089] At least a portion of each busbar 42 is plate-shaped and extends horizontally. For example, at least a portion of each of the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D is accommodated in the receiving portion 55 and extends along the flat surface portion 51. That is, at least a portion of each of the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D extends along the first surface 51a of the flat surface portion 51. At least a portion of each of the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D extends horizontally within the receiving portion 55. Hereinafter, the plate-shaped portion extending horizontally of each of the four busbars 42 can be referred to as "horizontal plate portion 42p". The horizontal plate portion 42p is an example of a "plate portion". The four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are components that form a power path in the horizontal direction. The four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D can be referred to as "horizontal wiring components". At least a portion of the busbar 42 corresponding to the "horizontal wiring member" extends in the horizontal direction within the receiving portion 55. As a result, a power path in the horizontal direction is formed in the wiring board 40S. For example, each of busbars 42A and 42B is electrically connected to the terminal 13 of electronic component 10A via the connecting member 20. Each of busbars 42C and 42D is electrically connected to the terminal 13 of electronic component 10B via the connecting member 20.

[0090] In this embodiment, the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are located on the -Z direction side relative to the electronic components 10 (e.g., electronic components 10S) of the first structure 1A. That is, the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are located on the side opposite to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 relative to the electronic components 10 (e.g., electronic components 10S) of the first structure 1A.

[0091] In this embodiment, four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are housed in the receiving portion 55 of the base member 41S and exposed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the base member 41S. Specifically, the +Z direction surfaces of the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are exposed on the upper surface of the base member 41S, facing the metal cover 70. Conversely, the -Z direction surfaces of the four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are exposed outside the electrical connection unit 100, facing the cooling unit CM.

[0092] like Figure 5As shown, seven busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, 42H, 42I, 42V, and 42W are arranged in a three-dimensional cabling configuration. The seven busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, 42H, 42I, 42V, and 42W are supported by a first auxiliary member 46. The first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of each of the seven busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, 42H, 42I, 42V, and 42W extend horizontally on the first auxiliary member 46. The seven busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, 42H, 42I, 42V, and 42W are busbars 42 forming power-carrying paths in the vertical direction. The seven busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, 42H, 42I, 42V, and 42W can be referred to as "three-dimensional cabling components". In the busbar 42 corresponding to the "three-dimensional wiring component", the second connection portion 62 of the busbar 42 is located away from the first connection portion 61 (for example, away in the Z direction). As a result, a power path in the vertical direction is formed in the wiring board 40S.

[0093] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, each busbar 42 includes, for example, a first connecting portion 61, a second connecting portion 62, and an extension portion 63.

[0094] The first connection portion 61 is located in the middle of the busbar 42 or at the first end of the busbar 42. The first connection portion 61 is the portion that connects directly or via the connecting member 20 to the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S). Instead of the above example, the first connection portion 61 can be connected to another busbar 42 (e.g., a different busbar 42 from the one connected to the electronic component 10). Instead of the above example, the first connection portion 61 (e.g., the first connection portion 61 of busbar 42W) can be connected to an external connection busbar 99 (see reference 1). Figures 1 to 3 External connection busbar 99 is an example of a "wiring component".

[0095] The second connection portion 62 is located in the middle of the busbar 42 or at the second end of the busbar 42. The second connection portion 62 is the part that connects directly or via other connecting parts 20 to the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S). Instead of the above example, the second connection portion 62 can be connected to another busbar 42 (e.g., a different busbar 42 from the one connected to the electronic component 10). Alternatively, instead of the above example, the second connection portion 62 can be connected to a connecting busbar 47 or an external connecting busbar 99 (see reference 1). Figure 1 and Figure 2 For example, the second connection 62 is connected to an external device via an external connection busbar 99. The external connection busbar 99 is an example of an "external connection component". Each of the connection busbar 47 and the external connection busbar 99 is an example of a "wiring component".

[0096] The extension portion 63 extends over the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. The extension portion 63 is provided between the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. The extension portion 63 connects the first connection portion 61 to the second connection portion 62.

[0097] In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned horizontal plate portion 42p includes at least the entire first connection portion 61 and a part of the extension portion 63. For example, the horizontal plate portion 42p includes the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63. In the present embodiment, among the four bus bars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are accommodated in the accommodation portion 55 and are located on the same plane.

[0098] <A2.3.3 Fastening member>

[0099] Next, the fastening member 43 will be described.

[0100] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the structure taken along the Figure 7 line F8-F8 in. The fastening member 43 is a member for fixing the bus bar 42 to the connection member 20 corresponding to the bus bar 42. Additionally, instead of the above example, the fastening member 43 can be a member for fixing and connecting the bus bar 47 or the external connection bus bar 99, as well as the bus bar 42. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a riveting bolt fixed to the bus bar 42. The fastening member 43 is an example of a "fastening portion".

[0101] In several of the bus bars 42 of the present embodiment, at least one of the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42 has a through hole 43h (refer to Figure 6 ). The through hole 43h penetrates the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a bolt having a shaft portion 43a and a head portion 43b. The circumferential surface of the shaft portion 43a has a thread groove. The diameter of the head portion 43b is larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 43a. The head portion 43b of the fastening member 43 is stuffed and fixed to the bus bar 42 in a state where the shaft portion 43a passes through the through hole 43h of the bus bar 42. Through this fixing, the fastening member 43 is electrically and physically connected to the bus bar 42 in a state where the shaft portion 43a protrudes from the through hole 43h of the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction. The fastening member 43 is not limited to riveting fixation and can be fixed to the bus bar 42 by welding or other methods.

[0102] <A3. Second structure>

[0103] Next, the details of the second structure 1B will be described. The second structure 1B includes, for example, a wiring structure 40T and one or more (for example, multiple) electronic components 10T.

[0104] The wiring structure 40T is a structure that forms a conduction path in the second structure 1B. For example, the wiring structure 40T forms a conduction path to which the electronic component 10T is connected. The wiring structure 40T faces the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 from a side opposite to the wiring board 40S of the first structure 1A. The wiring structure 40T is an example of a "second wiring structure". The wiring structure 40T includes one or more cover members 41T and one or more bus bars 42. In the present embodiment, the wiring structure 40T includes a plurality of cover members 41T and a plurality of bus bars 42.

[0105] <A3.1 Electronic component 10T>

[0106] In the present embodiment, the plurality of electronic components 10 in the second structure 1B include the electronic component 10T. The electronic component 10T is an electronic component with a smaller heat generation amount when powered on than the electronic component 10S. The electronic component 10T is, for example, any one of a connector, a fuse, a capacitor, a branch component, various sensors (such as a current sensor or a voltage sensor), an electronic control unit, or an electronic component unit formed by unitizing two or more of them. However, the type of the electronic component 10T is not limited to the above examples. The heat generation amount of the electronic component 10T when powered on can be greater than the heat generation amount of the electronic component 10S when powered on. The electronic component 10T faces the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 from a side opposite to the wiring board 40S of the first structure 1A. The electronic component 10T is an example of a "third electronic component".

[0107] As Figure 10 shown, the electronic component 10T in the present embodiment is, for example, a current sensor (for example, a current sensor including a shunt resistor). The electronic component 10T includes an output port 16 that protrudes in the +Z direction. When an external device (for example, a control board or a measuring instrument) is electrically connected to the output port 16, the current value of the current flowing through the electrical connection unit 100 (for example, the current flowing through the first structure 1A) is monitored. For example, the electronic component 10T is an electronic component in which two terminals 13 are provided separately at two end portions in the horizontal direction of the electronic component 10T. The electronic component 10T includes, for example, a housing 11, a component main body 12, a plurality of terminals 13 (terminals 13A and 13B), and an output port 16. Note that in the configuration of the electronic component 10T, the configurations having functions similar to those of the electronic component 10S are denoted by the same reference numerals. In this case, in the description of the electronic component 10T, "electronic component 10S" can be replaced with "electronic component 10T" in the description of the above electronic component 10S.

[0108] In the electronic component 10T, the terminals 13A and 13B are separately provided from each other in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Each terminal 13 has an attachment hole 13h, through which a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) passes. The attachment hole 13h opens in the Z direction.

[0109] <A3.2 cover member>

[0110] Next, the cover member 41T of the second structure 1B will be described.

[0111] The cover member 41T covers a part of the bus bar 42 included in the second structure 1B. The cover member 41T is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulation properties. The cover member 41T includes, for example, a wall portion 81 and one or more locking portions 83.

[0112] The wall portion 81 is, for example, a plate-like wall extending in the horizontal direction. The wall portion 81 covers the lower surface of the extension portion 63 (described later) of the connection bus bar 47 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). The wall portion 81 is not limited to the wall portion extending in the horizontal direction and may be a lattice-like wall portion formed by a plurality of ribs extending in the Z direction. In the present embodiment, the fastening member 43 fixed to the bus bar 42 is provided on the wall portion 81. In addition, the wall portion 81 may partially have a step. For example, in the present embodiment, two connection bus bars 47 are attached to the bus bar 42 of the second structure 1B. The two connection bus bars 47 are three-dimensionally crossed with each other due to the step of the wall portion 81.

[0113] For example, the cover member 41T may include a receiving portion 82 that opens toward the +Z direction side. The receiving portion 82 is a through hole that penetrates the wall portion 81 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the receiving portion 82 has an outer shape corresponding to the shape of a heat transfer member 92 (e.g., the heat transfer member 92B) described later. The receiving portion 82 surrounds and houses the heat transfer member 92B attached to the top wall portion 72 (see Figure 2 、 10 ). Note that the heat transfer member 92B indicated by the imaginary line in Figure 10 can be housed in the receiving portion 82.

[0114] (Locking portion)

[0115] The locking portion 83 is used to lock the metal cover 70 to the second structure 1B. Examples of the locking portion 83 include fitting claws. The fitting claws include an arm portion 83AR extending from the wall portion 81 in the -Z direction and a protruding portion 83PR protruding as a part of the arm portion 83AR (see Figure 2 ). The protruding portion 83PR protrudes from the arm portion 83AR in a direction intersecting the extension direction (-Z direction) of the arm portion 83AR. In the present embodiment, the protruding portion 83PR protrudes toward the metal cover 70 and is locked to a holding portion 74 (see Figure 1).

[0116] <A3.3 Bus bar>

[0117] Next, the bus bar 42 included in the second structure 1B will be described. The plurality of bus bars 42 in the second structure 1B include, for example, four bus bars 42J, 42K, 42L, 42M (refer to Figure 10 ). The four bus bars 42J, 42K, 42L, 42M are arranged separately from each other in the horizontal direction. The four bus bars 42J, 42K, 42L, 42M are supported by the wall portion 81 of the cover member 41T.

[0118] When viewed from the Z direction, a part of the bus bar 42 overlaps with the heat transfer member 92B. The heat transfer member 92B is made of, for example, a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the cover member 41T. The heat transfer member 92B has, for example, insulation properties. In the present embodiment, the heat transfer member 92B is provided between the bus bar 42 and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 and is in contact with the bus bar 42 and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70, respectively. The heat transfer member 92B thermally connects the bus bar 42 and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. That is, a heat transfer path from the bus bar 42 to the metal cover 70 is formed via the heat transfer member 92B. The heat transfer member 92B is an example of the "second heat transfer member".

[0119] In the present embodiment, the part of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the heat transfer member 92B is located directly below the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10. In other words, the heat transfer member 92B is provided between the electronic component 10T and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. For example, the heat transfer member 92B is provided between the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10T and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. The heat transfer member 92B transfers at least a part of the heat transferred from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10T to the bus bar 42 from the bus bar 42 to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70.

[0120] Instead of the above example, the heat transfer member 92B is provided at a position deviated from the lower side of the bus bar 42 between the electronic component 10T and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. For example, the heat transfer member 92B may be in direct contact with the electronic component 10T. In another example, the heat transfer member 92B may be provided at a position deviated from the lower side of the electronic component 10T between the bus bar 42 and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70.

[0121] <A4. Connecting bus bar>

[0122] Next, the connecting bus bar 47 will be described.

[0123] As Figure 10As shown, the connecting bus bar 47 is a wiring member that links the first structure 1A to the second structure 1B and electrically connects the first structure 1A to the second structure 1B. At least one electronic component 10S included in the plurality of electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A and at least one electronic component 10T included in the plurality of electronic components 10T included in the second structure 1B are electrically connected via the connecting bus bar 47. In the present embodiment, the plurality of connecting bus bars 47 includes two connecting bus bars 47A and 47B.

[0124] <A5. Second auxiliary member>

[0125] As Figure 10 shown, when the two connecting bus bars 47 are attached to the bus bars 42 (e.g., bus bars 42K and 42M) of the second structure 1B, the two connecting bus bars 47 can be adjacent to each other in the Z direction. In this case, the second auxiliary member 48 is provided between the two adjacent connecting bus bars 47. The second auxiliary member 48 electrically insulates between the two connecting bus bars 47 adjacent to each other in the Z direction. The second auxiliary member 例如由合成树脂制成,具有绝缘性。

[0126] <A6. Structure of the metal cover>

[0127] Next, the structure of the metal cover 70 will be described.

[0128] The metal cover 70 is a member for ensuring the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 100 and improving the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 100. The metal cover 70 is made of metal (e.g., aluminum or aluminum alloy). The metal cover 70 is an example of a "first metal member". The metal cover 70 can be referred to as a "rigid member" or a "heat dissipation member".

[0129] As Figure 3 and Figure 11 shown, the metal cover 70 covers the first structure 1A from the +Z direction. On the other hand, the lower surface (e.g., the second surface 51b of the flat surface portion 51) of the base member 41S of the first structure 1A is not covered by the metal cover 70 and is exposed to the outside of the electrical connection unit 100. The metal cover 70 only needs to cover most of the main part (described later) of the first structure 1A, and a part of the first structure 1A may also be exposed through the insertion portion 75.

[0130] The metal cover 70 includes a peripheral wall 71, a top wall portion 72, a plurality of fixing portions 73, one or more holding portions 74, and an insertion portion 75.

[0131] (Peripheral wall)

[0132] It should be noted that there is an incomplete sentence in the translation of item . Please check and provide the complete content for a more accurate translation.The peripheral wall 71 is a plate extending in the -Z direction from the peripheral end of the top wall 72 in the horizontal direction. When viewed from the X or Y direction, the peripheral wall 71 faces at least one of the multiple electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A. For example, the peripheral wall 71 is formed in a frame shape along the peripheral end of the top wall 72 in the horizontal direction, surrounding the multiple electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A from its four sides in the horizontal direction. The peripheral wall 71 is an example of a "second plate".

[0133] The peripheral wall 71 includes one or more retaining portions 71h. The retaining portions 71h engage with the locking portions 56 in the first structure 1A, thereby maintaining the metal cover 70 in a locked state with the first structure 1A. The retaining portion 71h is, for example, an opening provided in the peripheral wall 71. The retaining portion 71h can also be a recess provided in the peripheral wall 71. The first structure 1A is maintained in an attached state to the metal cover 70 by the retaining portions 71h of the metal cover 70 and the locking portions 56 of the first structure 1A.

[0134] (top wall part)

[0135] The top wall portion 72 is a plate-shaped portion formed within the metal cover 70. The top wall portion 72 is a plate portion extending in the horizontal direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the top wall portion 72 has a generally rectangular shape extending in the X direction. The top wall portion 72 forms the main part of the metal cover 70. In this embodiment, the top wall portion 72 has dimensions covering the entire first structure 1A from the +Z direction. As a result, the plurality of electronic components 10S and the plurality of busbars 42 included in the first structure 1A are covered from above by the top wall portion 72. The top wall portion 72 faces the upper surface of the base member 41S (the first surface 51a of the flat surface portion 51). At least when the electrical connection unit 100 is mounted on a vehicle, the top wall portion 72 is located on the side opposite to the cooling unit CM in the Z direction relative to at least a portion of the wiring board 40S (e.g., at least a portion of each of the plurality of electronic components 10S and the plurality of busbars 42). The top wall portion 72 is an example of a "first plate portion".

[0136] The insertion portion 75 is a notch or opening in the metal cover 70. When viewed from the Z direction, the insertion portion 75 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the first auxiliary member 46 supporting the busbar 42 and / or connecting the busbar 47. In this embodiment, some busbars 42 are connected to an external connecting busbar 99 (see reference 75) via the insertion portion 75. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connecting busbar 47 performs wiring between the first structure 1A and the second structure 1B via the insertion part 75 (see reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the metal cover 70 includes a plurality of insertion portions 75.

[0137] The top wall portion 72 has a first surface 72a and a second surface 72b. The first surface 72a is a surface facing the +Z direction. The first surface 72a is a flat surface along the horizontal direction. The first surface 72a faces the plurality of electronic components 10T included in the second structure 1B (see reference). Figure 9 The second surface 72b is located on the side opposite to the first surface 72a. The second surface 72b is a surface facing the -Z direction. The second surface 72b is a flat surface along the horizontal direction. The second surface 72b faces the plurality of electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0138] The top wall portion 72 has a first end portion 72e1, a second end portion 72e2, a third end portion 72e3, and a fourth end portion 72e4 (see reference). Figure 3 The first end 72e1 and the second end 72e2 are a pair of ends of the metal cover 70 in the longitudinal direction, separated from each other in the X direction. The third end 72e3 and the fourth end 72e4 are a pair of ends of the metal cover 70 in the transverse direction, separated from each other in the Y direction.

[0139] (Fixed part)

[0140] The fixing part 73 is used to directly fix the electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A to the metal cover 70 without inserting the base member 41S between them. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing part 73 is provided at a position corresponding to the attachment part 14 of each of the plurality of electronic components 10S. For example, in this embodiment, when viewed from the Z direction, the attachment part 14 of the electronic component 10S, the fixing part 73 of the metal cover 70, and the opening 53 of the wiring board 40S overlap (see reference). Figure 5 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 (etc.). The fixing portion 73 of the metal cover 70 is, for example, a columnar or prismatic boss protruding in the -Z direction from the top wall portion 72 toward a plurality of electronic components 10S of the first structure 1A. The fixing portion 73 of the metal cover 70 has an attachment hole 73h, a fastening member 95 (e.g., a screw or bolt; and refer to...) Figure 10 Insert into attachment hole 73h. Attachment hole 73h is open in the Z direction. Attachment hole 73h is an insertion hole through which fastening member 95 passes.

[0141] (Maintenance Department)

[0142] like Figure 2As shown, the holding portion 74 holds the locking state between the metal cover 70 and the second structure 1B by engaging with the locking portion 83 of the second structure 1B. The holding portion 74 includes a protruding portion 74PR. The protruding portion 74PR protrudes from the end of the holding portion 74 in a direction intersecting the extending direction (-Z direction) of the arm portion 83AR. In the present embodiment, the protruding portion 74PR protrudes toward the second structure 1B. When the locking portion 83 approaches the holding portion 74, the protruding portion 74PR presses the protruding portion 83PR, causing the arm portion 83AR to elastically deform in a predetermined direction. Then, once the protruding portion 83PR reaches the holding portion 74, the arm portion 83AR returns from the deformed state, and thus the protruding portion 83PR and the protruding portion 74PR are locked. As a result, the cover member 41T of the second structure 1B maintains the state of being attached to the metal cover 70 (see Figure 1 ).

[0143] <A7. Metal Block and Heat Transfer Member>

[0144] Next, refer to Figure 3 to describe the metal block 110 and the heat transfer member 120.

[0145] The metal block 110 is a portion formed to improve heat dissipation. The metal block 110 is provided between the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 and the wiring board 40S. The metal block 110 forms at least a part of the heat transfer path HP that thermally connects the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 and the cooling unit CM. The metal block 110 has a columnar shape (e.g., cylindrical or prismatic shape) along the Z direction, for example. In the present disclosure, the "metal block" is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped member and may include a member having a protruding portion to which the following fastening member 131 is attached, a hole portion for accommodating a part of the fastening member 131, and the likeThe metal block (110) is an example of a "second metal member".

[0146] In the present embodiment, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 is provided at a position overlapping the bus bar 42B of the wiring board 40S. In the present embodiment, the metal block 110 is fixed to the bus bar 42B of the wiring board 40S and is thermally connected to the bus bar 42B. For example, the metal block 110 is fixed to the horizontal plate portion 42p of the bus bar 42B. For example, the metal block 110 is fixed to the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 42B. The metal block 110 protrudes from the bus bar 42B of the wiring board 40S toward the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. The bus bar 42B is an example of a "first wiring member".

[0147] In the present embodiment, the metal block 110 has an attachment hole 110h facing the bus bar 42B (see Figure 6 ). The attachment hole 110h opens at the end portion 110e1 on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 and extends in the Z direction inside the metal block 110. The inner periphery of the attachment hole 110h has a thread groove, for example.

[0148] The busbar 42B has an attachment hole 132 facing the attachment hole 110h. A fastening member 131 (e.g., a bolt or screw) passes through the attachment hole 132 from the -Z direction side. When the fastening member 131 passing through the attachment hole 132 engages with the attachment hole 110h of the metal block 110, the metal block 110 is secured to the busbar 42B. However, the fixation of the metal block 110 to the busbar 42B is not limited to the example described above. For example, the attachment hole 110h may be a through hole provided in the protrusion of the metal block 110. In this case, the metal block 110 can be secured to the busbar 42B by the fastening member 131 that has already passed through the attachment hole 110h and the engagement member (e.g., a nut) that engages with the end of the fastening member 131.

[0149] The metal block 110 is formed in a position where it is surrounded from the outside by the peripheral wall 71 in the horizontal direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 is set at a position different from the peripheral end of the top wall portion 72 (for example, a position closer to the center than the peripheral end of the top wall portion 72), and is set separately from the peripheral wall 71.

[0150] In this embodiment, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 is positioned to overlap with the second structure 1B. For example, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 overlaps with the cover member 41T. For example, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 overlaps with the electronic components 10T, busbar 42, or busbar 47 included in the second structure 1B.

[0151] In this embodiment, the plurality of metal blocks 110 includes metal block 110A and metal block 110B. For example, when viewed from the Z direction, metal block 110A is disposed between electronic component 10A and electronic component 10B (see reference). Figure 7 On the other hand, for example, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110B is disposed between the electronic component 10B and a busbar 42 (e.g., busbar 42G) included in the first structure 1A (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0152] In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 is disposed between the end portion 110e2 of the metal block 110 on the +Z direction side and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 (see reference). Figure 9 The heat transfer member 120 is, for example, a resilient heat transfer sheet (e.g., a thermally conductive silicon wafer). The heat transfer member 120 is made of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than the base member 41S or the cover member 41T. However, the heat transfer member 120 is not limited to the above examples and may be a heat transfer member formed of thermally conductive gel or another material. The heat transfer member 120 is, for example, insulating. The heat transfer member 120 is an example of a "first heat transfer member".

[0153] In the present embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 contacts each of the end portion 110e2 on the +Z direction side of the metal block 110 and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. The heat transfer member 120 transfers at least a part of the heat transferred from the second structure 1B to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 from the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 to the metal block 110.

[0154] <A8. Fastening structure between the first structure and the metal cover>

[0155] As Figure 11 shown, the metal cover 70 is disposed at a position covering the first structure 1A from the +Z direction. Thereafter, the first structure 1A is locked to the metal cover 70 by the locking portion 56 of the flat surface portion 51 of the base member 41S and the holding portion 71h of the peripheral wall 71 of the metal cover 70 (see Figure 2 ). In a state where the metal cover 70 is locked to the first structure 1A, the first structure 1A is supported by the metal cover 70 via the holding portion 71h. In Figure 11 , the insulating sheet 91A (described later) and the heat transfer member 92A (described later) in Figure 3 are omitted.

[0156] After locking, the fixing portion 73 of the metal cover 70 is located between the attachment portion 14 of each of the plurality of electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. The plurality of electronic components 10S included in the first structure 1A are directly fixed to the metal cover 70 by the fastening member 95 passing through the opening portion 53 of the base member 41S (see Figure 2 and Figure 11 ). In the present embodiment, the plurality of electronic components 10 (electronic components 10S) included in the first structure 1A are fixed to the metal cover 70 in such a manner that the base member 41S is not sandwiched therebetween (that is, the base member 41S is not inserted therebetween). In the first structure 1A, the electronic components 10S are electrically connected to the bus bar 42 via the connection member 20. The plurality of electronic components 10S are directly fixed to the metal cover 70, whereby the connection member 20 and the bus bar 42 connected to the electronic components 10S (including the bus bar 42 indirectly fixed to the electronic components 10S via other connection members 20) are suspended on the metal cover 70.

[0157] <A9. Connection between the first structure and the second structure>

[0158] As Figure 10 shown, the plurality of bus bars 42 included in the second structure 1B are provided on the wall portion 81 of the cover member 41T. The plurality of electronic components 10T are attached to an arbitrary bus bar 42 from the +Z direction side. As Figure 2As shown, one end of the connection bus bar 47 (connection bus bars 47A and 47B) is connected to any one of the plurality of bus bars 42 of the second structure 1B. With such a configuration, the connection bus bar 47 is attached to the second structure 1B.

[0159] The second structure 1B including the connection bus bar 47 is locked to the metal cover 70 by the locking portion 83 of the cover member 41T and the holding portion 74 of the metal cover 70. In a state where the metal cover 70 is locked to the second structure 1B, the second structure 1B is supported by the metal cover 70. The other end of the connection bus bar 47 is connected to the bus bar 42 of the first structure 1A or the external connection bus bar 99. In the second structure 1B, the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 42 are not fixed to the cover member 41T. With such a configuration, the connection bus bar 47 connected to the bus bar 42 of the second structure 1B can move in the horizontal direction. Since the connection bus bar 47 can move in the horizontal direction, the assembly tolerances generated during the assembly of the first structure 1A, the second structure 1B, and the metal cover 70 are absorbed. The first structure 1A and the second structure 1B are electrically connected in a state where the assembly tolerances are absorbed by the connection bus bar 47.

[0160] <A10. Insulating Sheet and Heat Transfer Member>

[0161] Next, the insulating sheet 91 and the heat transfer member 92 will be described.

[0162] <A10.1 Insulating Sheet>

[0163] As Figure 3 shown, the insulating sheet 91 is an insulating member for insulating the bus bar 42. The insulating sheet 91 is in the form of a sheet along the horizontal direction. The insulating sheet 91 is made of a synthetic resin such as polyester or polyimide and has insulating properties.

[0164] The insulating sheet 91 includes a first insulating sheet 91A and a second insulating sheet 91B. As Figure 9 illustrated, the first insulating sheet 91A has an outer shape corresponding to the lower surface of the base member 41S (the second surface 51b of the flat surface portion 51) in the Z direction. The first insulating sheet 91A is provided between the external cooling unit CM and the wiring board 40S. In the present embodiment, the first insulating sheet 91A is attached to the lower surface of the wiring board 40S. The heat transfer member 92A is provided directly below the first insulating sheet 91A. Instead of the above example, the first insulating sheet 91A can be provided between the external cooling unit CM and the heat transfer member 92 (such as the heat transfer member 92A). [[ID=​​​​

[0166] <A10.2 Heat transfer member>

[0167] As Figure 3 shown, the heat transfer member 92 is a member for transferring heat generated by the electronic component 10 when powered on and / or heat (Joule heat) generated by the bus bar 42 itself when powered on to the external cooling unit CM and / or the metal cover 70. The heat transfer member 92 is, for example, a heat transfer sheet with elasticity (e.g., a thermally conductive silicone sheet). The heat transfer member 92 is made of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than the base member 41S or the cover member 41T. However, the heat transfer member 92 is not limited to the above example and can be a heat transfer member made of a thermally conductive gel or another material. The heat transfer member 92 includes a heat transfer member 92A and a heat transfer member 92B.

[0168] The heat transfer member 92A is disposed between the external cooling unit CM and the first insulating sheet 91A in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, at least a part of the heat transfer member 92A overlaps with the electronic component 10S, the connecting component 20, or the bus bar 42. The heat transfer member 92A is disposed between the electronic component 10S, the connecting component 20, or the bus bar 42 and the cooling unit CM. With such a configuration, the electronic component 10S included in the first structure 1A is thermally connected to the cooling unit CM via the bus bar 42 and the heat transfer member 92A. With such a configuration, heat dissipation of the electronic component 10S and the bus bar 42 included in the first structure 1A is promoted.

[0169] When viewed from the Z direction, at least a part of the heat transfer member 92A overlaps with the bus bar 42B to which the metal block 110 is fixed. The heat transfer member 92A is disposed between the bus bar 42 to which the metal block 110 is fixed and the cooling unit CM. With such a configuration, the electronic component 10T and the bus bar 42 included in the second structure 1B are thermally connected to the cooling unit CM via the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70, the heat transfer member 120, the metal block 110, the bus bar 42B of the first structure 1A, and the heat transfer member 92A. With such a configuration, heat dissipation of the electronic component 10T and the bus bar 42 included in the second structure 1B is promoted.

[0170] One or more of the electronic component 10S, the connecting component 20, and the bus bar 42 included in the first structure 1A can be thermally connected to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 via a heat transfer member (not shown). In this case, at least a part of the heat transferred from the electronic component 10S, the connecting component 20, or the bus bar 42 included in the first structure 1A to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 moves to the cooling unit CM via the heat transfer member 120 and the metal block 110.

[0171] On the other hand, the heat transfer member 92B is provided directly below the bus bars 42 (bus bars 42K, 42M) exposed in the -Z direction from the accommodating portion 82 of the cover member 41T. The heat transfer member 92B thermally connects the bus bar 42 of the second structure 1B and the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70.

[0172] <A11. Advantages>

[0173] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit (e.g., the electrical connection unit 100) is adjacent to the cooling unit (e.g., the cooling unit CM) at least when installed on the vehicle. The electrical connection unit includes a first wiring structure (e.g., the wiring board 40S), a first metal member (e.g., the metal cover 70), one or more electronic components (e.g., the electronic component 10S), and a second metal member (e.g., the metal block 110). The first wiring structure includes one or more wiring members (e.g., the bus bars 42). The first wiring structure faces the cooling unit. The first metal member includes a first plate portion (e.g., the top wall portion 72) located on the side opposite to the cooling unit with respect to at least a part of the first wiring structure. One or more electronic components are provided between the first wiring structure and the first plate portion. The second metal member is provided between the first plate portion and the first wiring structure, forming at least a part of a heat transfer path (e.g., the heat transfer path HP) that thermally connects the first plate portion and the first wiring structure.

[0174] According to such a configuration, at least a part of the heat generated by the electronic component or the first wiring structure is transferred from the first wiring structure to the cooling unit. Through such an operation, the heat dissipation of the electronic component or the first wiring structure can be promoted. At least a part of the heat transferred from the electronic component, the first wiring structure, or another electronic component to the first plate portion of the first metal member is transferred to the cooling unit via the second metal member. Through such an operation, the heat dissipation of the electronic component, the first wiring structure, or another electronic component can be promoted. Through such an operation, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit can be improved.

[0175] In the present embodiment, the first metal member includes a second plate portion extending in the first direction from the peripheral end of the first plate portion. When viewed from the first direction, the second metal member is provided at a position different from the peripheral end of the first plate portion and is provided away from the second plate portion. According to such a configuration, the heat transfer path formed by the second metal member is provided at a position different from the second plate portion. According to this configuration, heat can easily be transferred from the first plate portion to the cooling unit. Through such an operation, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit can be further improved.

[0176] In this embodiment, when viewed from a first direction, the second metal member is disposed between the first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10B) and one of the one or more wiring components (e.g., busbar 42G). With this configuration, high-density installation of the electrical connection unit can be achieved, and a heat transfer path formed by the second metal member can be provided inside the electrical connection unit. This configuration allows for miniaturization of the electrical connection unit and improved heat dissipation.

[0177] In this embodiment, when viewed from a first direction, the second metal member is disposed between the first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10B) and the second electronic component (electronic component 10A). With this configuration, high-density installation of the electrical connection unit can be achieved, and a heat transfer path formed by the second metal member can be provided inside the electrical connection unit. This configuration allows for miniaturization of the electrical connection unit and improved heat dissipation.

[0178] In this embodiment, the second metal member is fixed to the first wiring member (e.g., busbar 42B) and protrudes from the first wiring member toward the first plate portion. With this configuration, the second metal member can transfer heat to the cooling unit by utilizing the wide surface (large heat transfer area) of the first wiring member. This operation further improves the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit.

[0179] In this embodiment, the first wiring component (e.g., busbar 42B) includes a first connecting portion (e.g., first connecting portion 61), a second connecting portion (e.g., second connecting portion 62), and an extension portion (e.g., extension portion 63). The first connecting portion is connected to a first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10A). The second connecting portion is connected to a second electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10B) or other wiring components (e.g., other busbars 42, busbar 47, or external connection busbar 99). The extension portion extends between the first and second connecting portions. A second metal component is fixed to the extension portion. With this configuration, the size of the heat dissipation structure can be easily reduced compared to fixing the second metal component to the first or second connecting portion. Through this operation, the electrical connection unit can be miniaturized.

[0180] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit includes a second wiring structure (e.g., wiring structure 40T), a third electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10T), and a second heat transfer member (e.g., heat transfer member 92B). The second wiring structure faces the first plate portion from a side opposite to the first wiring structure. The second heat transfer member is provided between the first plate portion and the second wiring structure or between the first plate portion and the third electronic component. With such a configuration, at least a part of the heat generated by the second wiring structure or the third electronic component disposed on the opposite side of the first plate portion with respect to the first wiring structure can be transferred to the cooling unit via the second metal member. By such an operation, the heat dissipation of the second wiring structure or the third electronic component can be promoted, and the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit can be further improved.

[0181] (Second Embodiment)

[0182] Next, the second embodiment will be described. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that a metal block 110 is fixed to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 instead of the bus bar 42B. The configuration other than the one described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0183] <B1. Configuration>

[0184] Figure 12 FIG. is a partially exploded perspective view of an electrical connection unit 100 according to the second embodiment. In the present embodiment, the metal block 110 is fixed to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 and is thermally connected to the top wall portion 72. The metal block 110 projects from the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 toward the wiring board 40S. The top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 may have a recess 72s for accommodating the head 131a of a fastening member 131 such as a bolt or a screw. The recess 72s is recessed in the -Z direction compared to other portions of the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70.

[0185] Figure 13 FIG. is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connection unit 100 according to the second embodiment. In the present embodiment, the metal block 110 has an attachment hole 110h facing the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. The attachment hole 110h opens at an end portion 110e2 on the +Z direction side of the metal block 110 and extends in the Z direction inside the metal block 110. The inner periphery of the attachment hole 110h has, for example, a threaded groove.

[0186] The top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 has an attachment hole 132 facing the attachment hole 110h. A fastening member 131 (e.g., a bolt or screw) passes through the attachment hole 132. When the fastening member 131 passing through the attachment hole 132 engages with the attachment hole 110h of the metal block 110, the metal block 110 is fixed to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70. The fixing of the metal block 110 to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 is not limited to the example described above. For example, the attachment hole 110h may also be a through hole provided in the protrusion of the metal block 110. In this case, the metal block 110 can be fixed to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 by the fastening member 131 that has passed through the attachment hole 110h and the engaging member (e.g., a nut) that engages with the end of the fastening member 131.

[0187] When viewed from the Z-direction, the metal block 110 is positioned to overlap with the wiring board 40S. In this embodiment, when viewed from the Z-direction, the metal block 110 is positioned to overlap with the busbar 42B. For example, when viewed from the Z-direction, the metal block 110 overlaps with the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42. For example, when viewed from the Z-direction, the metal block 110A overlaps with the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42B. For example, when viewed from the Z-direction, the metal block 110 overlaps with the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42B. The busbar 42B is an example of a "first wiring member".

[0188] In this embodiment, a heat transfer member 120 is provided between the end 110e1 on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 and the external cooling unit CM. The heat transfer member 120 is disposed between the end 110e1 on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 and the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42. That is, when viewed from the Z direction, the heat transfer member 120 overlaps with the metal block 110 from the side opposite to the top wall portion 72. The heat transfer member 120 contacts each of the end 110e1 on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 and the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42. At least a portion of the heat transferred from the second structure 1B to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 and from the top wall portion 72 to the metal block 110 is transferred from the metal block 110 toward the external cooling unit CM. For example, the heat transfer member 120 causes at least a portion of the heat transferred from the top wall portion 72 to the metal block 110 to move toward the busbar 42 (e.g., busbar 42B) of the wiring board 40S. In this embodiment, the busbar 42 (e.g., busbar 42B) in contact with the heat transfer member 120 forms part of the heat transfer path HP that thermally connects the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 to the cooling unit CM.

[0189] In the present embodiment, when viewed from the Z direction, at least a part of the heat transfer member 92A overlaps with the bus bar 42 (e.g., bus bar 42B) in contact with the heat transfer member 120. The heat transfer member 92A is disposed between the cooling unit CM and the bus bar 42 (e.g., bus bar 42B) in contact with the heat transfer member 120. With such a configuration, the electronic component 10T and the bus bar 42 included in the second structure 1B are thermally connected to the cooling unit CM via the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70, the metal block 110, the heat transfer member 120, the bus bar 42 of the first structure 1A, and the heat transfer member 92A. With such a configuration, the heat dissipation of the electronic component 10T and the bus bar 42 included in the second structure 1B is promoted.

[0190] One or more of the electronic component 10S, the connection member 20, and the bus bar 42 included in the first structure 1A may be thermally connected to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 via a heat transfer member (not shown). In this case, at least a part of the heat transferred from the electronic component 10S, the connection member 20, or the bus bar 42 included in the first structure 1A to the top wall portion 72 of the metal cover 70 moves to the cooling unit CM via the metal block 110 and the heat transfer member 120.

[0191] <B2. Advantage>

[0192] In the present embodiment, the second metal member is fixed to the first plate portion and protrudes from the first plate portion toward the first wiring structure. With such a configuration, compared with the case where the second metal member is fixed to the first wiring structure, it is easy to simplify the structure of the first wiring structure and to make the first wiring structure thinner. With such a configuration, a reduction in the height of the electrical connection unit can be achieved.

[0193] In the present embodiment, when viewed from the first direction from the first plate portion toward the cooling unit, the second metal member overlaps with the first wiring member. The first wiring member forms a part of the heat transfer path. With such a configuration, the second metal member easily transfers heat to the cooling unit by using the wide surface (large heat transfer area) of the first wiring member. By such an operation, the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit can be further improved.

[0194] <B3. Modified Example>

[0195] Next, several modified examples of the second embodiment will be described below. Note that the configurations other than those described below in each modified example are the same as those of the above-described second embodiment.

[0196] <B3.1 First Modified Example>

[0197] Figure 14It is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 100 according to the first modification example. In the first modification example, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 is disposed at a position deviated from the bus bar 42 included in the wiring board 40S. The flat surface portion 51 of the base member 41S of the wiring board 40S has an opening 41h at a position corresponding to the metal block 110 in the Z direction. The opening 41h penetrates the base member 41S in the Z direction.

[0198] In this modification example, the heat transfer member 120 is disposed within the opening 41h of the base member 41S and is exposed to the outside of the base member 41S (for example, the lower side of the base member 41S). The heat transfer member 120 can be integrated with the base member 41S by insert molding, or can be formed separately and then attached to the base member 41S. The heat transfer member 120 is located between the end 76e on the -Z direction side of the protruding portion 76 of the metal cover 70 and the external cooling unit CM.

[0199] According to such a configuration, heat can be transferred to the cooling unit CM through the metal block 110 and the heat transfer member 120. Therefore, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit can be further improved.

[0200] <B3.II Second Modification Example>

[0201] Figure 15 It is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 100 according to the second modification example. In the second modification example, similar to the first modification example, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal block 110 of the metal cover 70 is disposed at a position deviated from the bus bar 42 included in the wiring board 40S. The flat surface portion 51 of the base member 41S of the wiring board 40S has an opening 41h at a position corresponding to the protruding portion 76 in the Z direction. The opening 41h penetrates the base member 41S in the Z direction.

[0202] In this modification example, the end portion on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 is disposed within the opening 41h of the base member 41S and is exposed to the outside of the base member 41S. The end 76e on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 contacts the heat transfer member 92A. The heat transfer member 92A is located between the end portion 110e1 on the -Z direction side of the metal block 110 and the external cooling unit CM. In this modification example, the heat transfer member 92A is an example of the "first heat transfer member".

[0203] According to such a configuration, heat can be transferred closer to the cooling unit CM through the metal block 110. Therefore, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit can be further improved. ]>

[0204] As described above, embodiments and modifications have been presented. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, multiple modifications can be combined with each other to implement the invention. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0205] List of reference numerals

[0206] 100 Electrical connection units

[0207] 10, 10S, 10T electronic components

[0208] 40S Wiring Board (First Wiring Structure)

[0209] 41S base components

[0210] 41h Opening

[0211] 40T cabling structure (second cabling structure)

[0212] 41T cover components

[0213] 42. Busbar

[0214] 70 Metal Cover (First Metal Component)

[0215] 71. Zhou Bi (Second Plate Section)

[0216] 72 Top wall section (first plate section)

[0217] 92 Heat transfer components

[0218] 92A Heat Transfer Component (First Heat Transfer Component)

[0219] 92B Heat Transfer Component (Second Heat Transfer Component)

[0220] 110 Metal Block (Second Metal Component)

[0221] 120 Heat transfer component (first heat transfer component).

Claims

1. An electrical connection unit, which, when installed on a vehicle, is adjacent to a cooling unit, said electrical connection unit comprising: A first wiring structure includes one or more wiring components and faces the cooling unit; A first metal component, comprising at least a portion of a first plate located on the side opposite to the cooling unit relative to the first wiring structure; One or more electronic components are disposed between the first board portion and the first wiring structure; as well as A second metal component is disposed between the first plate portion and the first wiring configuration, forming at least a portion of a heat transfer path that thermally connects the first plate portion to the cooling unit.

2. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, wherein, When the direction from the first plate towards the cooling unit is the first direction... The first metal member includes a second plate portion that extends from the peripheral end of the first plate portion in the first direction, and When viewed from the first direction, the second metal member is positioned at a different location from the periphery of the first plate and is located away from the second plate.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The one or more wiring components include a first wiring component, and The second metal member is fixed to the first wiring member and protrudes from the first wiring member toward the first plate portion.

4. The electrical connection unit according to claim 3, wherein, The one or more electronic components include a first electronic component and a second electronic component. The first wiring component includes a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and an extension portion. The first connecting portion is connected to the first electronic component, the second connecting portion is connected to the second electronic component or another wiring component, and the extension portion extends between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. The second metal component is fixed to the extension.

5. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second metal component is fixed to the first plate and protrudes from the first plate toward the first wiring structure.

6. The electrical connection unit according to claim 5, wherein, The one or more wiring components include a first wiring component. When viewed from the first plate portion toward the cooling unit in a first direction, the second metal member overlaps with the first wiring member, and The first wiring component forms part of the heat transfer path.

7. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: The second wiring structure faces the first board portion from the side opposite to the first wiring structure; A third electronic component faces the first board portion from the side opposite to the first wiring structure; as well as A heat transfer component is disposed between the first plate portion and the second wiring structure or between the first plate portion and the third electronic component.

Images