COMPONENT CONNECTION STRUCTURE AND CONNECTION COMPONENT

Abstract

A connecting component structure comprises: a busbar; a connecting target component; and a connecting component that joins the busbar and the connecting target component. The connecting component has a first end facing the busbar in a first direction. The first end has: a stop section that abuts the busbar; and a recess that extends away from the busbar in the first direction with respect to the stop section. The connecting component is attached to the busbar in a state where the recess is filled with a heat transfer element that has a higher thermal conductivity than the connecting component.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a component connection structure and a connection component. [State of the art]

[0002] An electrical connection unit with a housing that accommodates electronic components and a busbar that is vertically attached to the housing is known. [Documents relating to the state of the art][Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent document 1] Japanese unexamined patent application, first publication no. 2024-037492 [Description of the invention][Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0004] One goal of an electrical connection unit is to improve heat transfer properties between a connection component for attaching an electrical component to a busbar and the busbar itself.

[0005] One embodiment provides a component connection structure and a connection component that can improve heat transfer properties between the connection component and a busbar. [Means of solving the problem]

[0006] A component connection structure according to one embodiment comprises a busbar; a connection target component; and a connection component that connects the busbar and the connection target component. The connection component has a first end facing the busbar in a first direction. The first end has: a stop section that abuts the busbar; and a recess that extends away from the busbar in the first direction with respect to the stop section. The connection component is attached to the busbar in a state in which the recess is filled with a heat transfer element that has a higher thermal conductivity than the connection component.

[0007] The connecting component according to one embodiment has a first end that faces the busbar in a first direction, and the first end has a stop section that abuts the busbar and a recess that extends in a direction away from the busbar in the first direction with respect to the stop section. [Effects of the invention]

[0008] According to one embodiment, the heat transfer properties between the connecting component and the busbar can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings] [ Fig. 1] A cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit of one embodiment. [ Fig. 2] A perspective view to describe a main body of the embodiment. [ Fig. 3] A perspective view to describe a subunit of the embodiment. [ Fig. 4] A partially separated perspective view of the subunit of the embodiment. [ Fig. 5] A perspective view to describe an electronic component and a connecting component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 6] A perspective view to describe the electronic component and the connection component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 7] A perspective view showing the connecting component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 8] A perspective view showing a routing board of the embodiment. [ Fig. 9] A partially separated perspective view of the installation board of the embodiment. [ Fig. 10] A top view showing the installation board of the embodiment. [ Fig. 11] A partially separated perspective view of a connecting unit of the embodiment. [ Fig. 12] A view from below showing the installation board of the embodiment. [ Fig. 13] A cross-sectional view along line AA of the in Fig. 10 depicted structure. [ Fig. 14] A perspective view showing a three-dimensional routing structure of a busbar of the first embodiment. [ Fig. 15] A top view showing the three-dimensional routing structure of the busbar of the embodiment. [ Fig. 16] A cross-sectional view to describe a structure of the connecting component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 17] A perspective view to describe the connection component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 18] A perspective view to describe a first assembly in which a recess is provided in the connecting component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 19] A side view of the structure of the Fig. 18, viewed from a Y-direction. [ Fig. 20] A top view of the structure of the Fig. 18, viewed from a Z-direction. [ Fig. 21] A perspective view to describe a second structure in which a recess is provided in the connecting component of the embodiment. [ Fig. 22] A top view according to Fig. 20, which represents a first modification example of the deepening. [ Fig. 23] A top view according to Fig. 20, which represents a second modification example of the deepening. [Embodiments of the invention]

[0009] The following descriptions illustrate embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the following description, assemblies with the same or similar functions are named using the same reference numerals. Redundant descriptions of these assemblies may be omitted. Note that the assembly described below does not limit the scope of the embodiment.

[0010] In the present disclosure, the terms are defined as follows. The term "connection" is not limited to a mechanical connection and may also include an electrical connection. That is to say, the term "connection" is not limited to a case in which two elements that are connection targets are directly connected and may include a case in which two elements that are connection targets are connected by another, intervening element. The term "reception" is not limited to the case in which the entire component is received, but may also include the case in which only a part of the component is received (a state in which the remaining part of the component protrudes). The term "facing" indicates that the virtual projection images of two target objects overlap when viewed from a certain direction.This means that the term "facing" is not limited to the case where two target objects are directly facing each other, but can also include the case where two target objects are facing each other in a state in which another element is located between the two target objects. "Parallel," "orthogonal," or "equal" can each include "substantially parallel," "substantially orthogonal," or "substantially equal," respectively.

[0011] In the present disclosure, a +X direction, a -X direction, a +Y direction, a -Y direction, a +Z direction, and a -Z direction are defined as follows. The +X direction is a direction from a first end 80e1 to a second end 80e2 of a metal plate 80, which is described later (see Fig. 11) The -X direction is a direction opposite to the +X direction. When the +X and -X directions are not distinguished, the directions are referred to simply as the "X direction" in the following. The +Y direction and the -Y direction are directions that intersect the X direction (for example, orthogonal to it). The +Y direction is a direction from a third end 80e3 to a fourth end 80e4 of the metal plate 80, which is described later (see Fig. 11) The -Y direction is a direction opposite to the +Y direction. When the +Y and -Y directions are not distinguished, the directions are simply referred to as the "Y direction" in the following. The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions that intersect the X and Y directions (for example, are orthogonal to them). The +Z direction is a direction from the metal plate 80, which is described later, to a principal body MU (see Fig. 1) The -Z direction is the opposite of the +Z direction. When the +Z and -Z directions are not distinguished, the directions are simply referred to as the "Z direction" in the following. 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."

[0012] If the X and Y directions are not distinguished, the directions can be referred to as the "horizontal direction" in the following. The Z direction can be referred to as the "vertical direction" in the following. The side in the +Z direction can be referred to as "top" and the side in the -Z direction as "bottom". However, these terms are descriptive and do not define a gravity direction of an electrical connection unit 1 (an installation position of the electrical connection unit 1). (Design)<1. Structure of the electrical connection unit>

[0013] Fig. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view depicting an electrical connection unit 1 of an embodiment. The electrical connection unit 1 is, for example, an in-vehicle device attached to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The electrical connection unit 1 may be referred to, for example, as an "electrical junction box" or "junction box." However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device.

[0014] The electrical connection unit 1 contains, for example, a main body MU, a metal plate (a support element) 80, an insulating film 91 (see Fig. 11), a plurality of heat transfer elements 92 and an insulating cover 93. <2nd main body>

[0015] First, the main body MU is described.

[0016] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the main body MU. The main body MU is a section that performs a main function (for example, switching electrical connection states or overcurrent protection) of the electrical connection unit 1. In the present embodiment, the main body MU is divided into a plurality of subunits SU. The main body MU is formed by connecting a plurality of subunits SU. In the present embodiment, the main body MU contains three subunits SU (subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ). Each subunit SU can be referred to as a "circuit assembly body".

[0017] The subunit SUX has a primary electrical function. For example, the subunit SUX contains a plurality of electronic components 10X and a primary distribution board 40X. The majority of the electronic components 10X are electrically connected to the primary distribution board 40X.

[0018] The subunit SUY has a secondary electrical function. This secondary function differs from the primary function. For example, the subunit SUY contains a plurality of electronic components 10Y and a secondary circuit board 40Y. The majority of the electronic components 10Y are electrically connected to the secondary circuit board 40Y.

[0019] The subunit SUZ has a third electrical function. This third function is distinct from the first and second functions. For example, the subunit SUZ contains a plurality of electronic components 10Z and a third routing board 40Z. The majority of the electronic components 10Z are electrically connected to the third routing board 40Z.

[0020] In the present embodiment, the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged such that they lie in the X direction. For example, subunit SUX is arranged on the +X direction side with respect to subunit SUY. Subunit SUX and subunit SUY are electrically connected via a plurality of coupling busbars 75 extending between the first routing board 40X and the second routing board 40Y. Subunit SUZ, on the other hand, is arranged on the -X direction side with respect to subunit SUY. Subunit SUZ and subunit SUY are electrically connected via a plurality of coupling busbars 75 (in Fig. (2 is only one shown) connected, extending between the third routing board 40Z and the second routing board 40Y. The coupling busbar 75 is located on the side opposite the metal plate 80 with respect to the majority of the subunits SU.

[0021] In the present embodiment, the three routing boards 40X, 40Y, and 40Z, contained in the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ, are arranged in the same plane. In other words, the three routing boards 40X, 40Y, and 40Z are arranged at the same height in the Z-direction. Thus, the three routing boards 40X, 40Y, and 40Z form one large routing board 40M.

[0022] In the present embodiment, the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ have the same or a similar basic structure. Therefore, one subunit, SU, will be described in detail below as a representative example. If the subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "subunit SU." If the electronic components 10X, 10Y, and 10Z are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "electronic component 10." If the first routing board 40X, the second routing board 40Y, and the third routing board 40Z are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "routing board 40."

[0023] Note that the main body MU need not be subdivided into a plurality of subunits SU, as in the example described above. That is, the main body MU can be formed from a plurality of electronic components 10 and a distribution board 40. Furthermore, the two or more subunits SU are not limited to subunits SU with different functions, but can also be subunits SU with the same function. <3. Subunit Structure>

[0024] Next, the structure of the subunit SU will be described.

[0025] Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view to describe subunit SU. Fig. Figure 4 is a partially disassembled perspective view of subunit SU. Subunit SU contains, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10, a plurality of connection components 20 for connecting components, a plurality of connection components 30 for external connection, and a routing board 40. The connection components 20 and 30 are elements that form a power supply path in the vertical direction. The connection components 20 and 30 can be referred to as "vertical routing elements". <3.1 Electronic component and connection component for connecting components>

[0026] First, the electronic component 10 and the connection component 20 for connecting components are described.

[0027] Electronic component 10 is an electronic component attached according to a function required for subunit SU. Electronic component 10 could be, for example, a connector, a fuse, a relay (for example, a mechanical relay or a solid-state relay), a capacitor, a branching component, any of several different sensors (for example, a current sensor or a voltage sensor), an electronic control unit, or an electronic component assembly in which two or more of these components are combined. Note that the type of electronic component 10 is not limited to the above example. Electronic component 10 could, for example, be a heat-generating component that produces heat when energy is supplied.Below, an electronic component of the first kind 10M and an electronic component of the second kind 10N are described as examples of the electronic component 10.

[0028] The interconnect component 20 is a component that electrically connects the electronic component 10 to the routing board 40. The interconnect component 20 forms part of a power supply path in the subunit SU. The interconnect component 20 is made of a metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy). The interconnect component 20 can be referred to as a "metal component." A first-type interconnect component 20M and a second-type interconnect component 20N are described below as examples of the interconnect component 20. Similarly, a connecting component 30 or 100, which will be described later, can be referred to as a "metal component." <3.1.1 Electronic component of the first kind>

[0029] Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the electronic component of the first type 10M and the connection component of the first type 20M. The electronic component of the first type 10M is an electronic component in which a plurality of terminals 13 are arranged at one end of the electronic component 10M. The electronic component 10M includes, for example, a housing 11, a component body 12, a plurality of terminals 13, and a plurality of mounting sections 14. (Housing)

[0030] The housing 11 is an outer element that forms most of the outer shape of the electronic component 10M. The housing 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The housing 11 contains the component body 12. The housing 11 and the component body 12 can be formed from a single piece.

[0031] In the present embodiment, the housing 11 has an insulating rib 11a that projects horizontally (for example, in the X-direction) and extends in the Z-direction. The insulating rib 11a has, for example, a plate-like shape formed horizontally (for example, in the X-direction) and in the Z-direction. The insulating rib 11a extends, for example, over the entire length of the housing 11 in the Z-direction. The insulating rib 11a is arranged between the plurality of terminals 13 (a terminal 13A and a terminal 13B, which will be described later). The insulating rib 11a electrically isolates terminal 13A from terminal 13B. In the present embodiment, a portion of the insulating rib 11a is arranged between first sections 21 (which will be described later) of two connection components 20M that are connected to the electronic component 10M.The insulating rib 11a electrically isolates the first sections 21 of the two connecting components 20M connected to the electronic component 10M from each other. (Component body)

[0032] The component body 12 is a section that performs a main function of the electronic component 10M. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a relay, the component body 12 contains a switch (for example, a contact) that toggles between a conductive and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a fuse, the component body 12 contains a melting section that blows when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a capacitor, the component body 12 contains a section that stores electrical charge. (Connection)

[0033] Terminal 13 is an electrical connection section exposed to the outside of the housing 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component body 12 inside the housing 11. In the present embodiment, the electronic component 10M includes one terminal 13A and one terminal 13B as the plurality of terminals 13. One of the terminals 13A and 13B is a terminal on the positive electrode side. The other of the terminals 13A and 13B is a terminal on the negative electrode side.

[0034] In the present embodiment, terminal 13A and terminal 13B are provided at one end of the electronic component 10M in a horizontal direction (for example, in the X-direction). Terminal 13A and terminal 13B are arranged such that they lie in the horizontal direction (for example, in the Y-direction). Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h to which a fastening element 71 (for example, a screw or a bolt), which will be described later, is attached. The mounting hole 13h is open in the horizontal direction (for example, in the X-direction). An inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10M has a groove for the screw. (Fortification section)

[0035] The mounting section 14 is a section for fixing the electronic component 10M. The mounting section 14 has a mounting hole 14h to which a fastening element 112 (for example, a screw or a bolt; and see Fig. 11) is attached, which will be described later. The mounting hole 14h is open in the Z-direction. The mounting hole 14h is an insertion hole through which the fastening element 112 passes. A fixing target of the fastening section 14 will be described later. <3.1.2 First-type connection component>

[0036] The connecting component of the first type 20M is a component arranged between the electronic component of the first type 10M and the routing board 40. In the present embodiment, the connecting component 20M electrically connects the electronic component 10M to a busbar 42 (see Figure 1). Fig. 8), which is contained in the routing board 40. The connection component 20M, for example, contains a first section 21 that extends above the routing board 40, and a second section 22 that is arranged along the routing board 40. (First section)

[0037] The first section 21 of the connecting component 20M is a section connected to terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. The first section 21 is a plate-shaped or rectangular parallelepiped section extending in the Z-direction. The first section 21 extends in the Z-direction along one end (for example, an end in the X-direction) of the electronic component 10M. The first section 21 is a vertical section oriented in the Z-direction with respect to the routing board 40 (for example, with respect to a busbar 42, which will be described later). The first section 21 is horizontally adjacent (for example, in the X-direction) to the electronic component 10M.For example, the first section 21 borders the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M in a horizontal direction (for example, in the X direction) and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M from a horizontal direction (for example, in the X direction).

[0038] The first section 21 of the connecting component 20M has a mounting hole 21h (hereinafter referred to for simplicity as a second mounting hole) through which the fastening element 71 (for example, a screw or a bolt) passes. The second mounting hole 21h is open in the horizontal direction (for example, in the X direction). The first section 21 has a recess 25 around the second mounting hole 21h. The recess 25 is a receiving section that accommodates a head of the fastening element 71 that has been inserted into the second mounting hole 21h. The second mounting hole 21h faces the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M in the X direction.The fastening element 71, which passes through the second fastening hole 21h, is connected to the fastening hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M, so that the first section 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. The first section 21 need not have the recess 25.

[0039] Fig. Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a configuration that can be selected in the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 17 The connecting components 20, 30 and 100 are collectively designated by reference numeral 20A, and the first section, the first fixing hole, the second fixing hole, the second section and the third fixing hole of each connecting component are designated by reference numerals 21A, 21hA, 21hB, 22A and 22hA respectively. Fig. 17 merely represents a structure that the connecting components have in common.

[0040] The in Fig. The first section 21A shown in Figure 17 includes a first fastening section 21fA with the first fastening hole 21hA, through which a connection target component (the second type electronic component 10N, the busbars 75 and 76 and the like) can be fastened (fixed) from the Z direction using a fastening element F1 (fastening element 72 or the like) provided in the Z direction, and a second fastening section 21fB with a second fastening hole 21hB, through which another connection target component (first type electronic component 10M or the like) can be fastened (fixed) from the X direction using a fastening element F2 (fastening element 71 or the like) provided in the X direction.

[0041] The second section 22A contains a third fastening section 22fA with a third fastening hole 22hA, through which the second section 22A is fastened to the busbar 42 by means of a fastening element (e.g. fastening element 43) which is provided in the Z-direction (see Fig. 8) can be attached (fixed).

[0042] The first fastening section 21fA and the second fastening section 21fB within the first section 21A are arranged offset from each other in the Y-direction. An offset D1 in the Y-direction between the first fastening section 21fA and the second fastening section 21fB corresponds to a distance in the Y-direction between a center point A1 of the first fastening hole 21hA and a center point B1 of the second fastening hole 21hB. The offset D1 is preferably dimensioned such that the first fastening hole 21hA and the second fastening hole 21hB do not overlap each other in the Y-direction.

[0043] The second fastening section 21fB of the first section 21A and the third fastening section 22fA of the second section 22A are arranged offset from each other in the Y-direction. An offset D2 in the Y-direction between the second fastening section 21fB and the third fastening section 22fA corresponds to a distance in the Y-direction between a center point B1 of the second fastening hole 21hB and a center point C1 of the third fastening hole 22hA. The offset D2 is preferably dimensioned such that the second fastening hole 21hB and the third fastening hole 22hA do not overlap each other in the Y-direction.

[0044] The offsets D1 and D2 are of different magnitudes. Therefore, the first fastening section 21fA of the first section 21A and the third fastening section 22fA of the second section 22A are offset from each other in the Y-direction. The Y-direction offset between the first fastening section 21fA and the third fastening section 22fA corresponds to a Y-direction distance between the center point A1 of the first fastening hole 21hA and the center point C1 of the third fastening hole 22hA. (Second Section)

[0045] With further reference to Fig. 5 is the second section 22 of the connecting component 20M, a section that is connected to the busbar 42 (see Fig. 8) The second section 22 projects horizontally (for example, in the X-direction) from an end (base element end) on the -Z-direction side of the first section 21. The second section 22 is a plate section provided in a horizontal direction. The second section 22 borders (overlaps) the busbar 42 in the Z-direction and is connected to the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. A lower surface (a surface on the -Z-direction side, including the lower surface of the first section 21) 22s of the second section 22 faces an upper surface (a surface on the +Z-direction side) 42s of the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. The lower surface 22s of the connecting component 20M rests against the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42. In this state, the connecting component 20M is fixed to the busbar 42.The respective lower surfaces 22s, 32s and 102s of the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment can be collectively referred to as facing surfaces 22As, which are facing the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42 in the Z direction.

[0046] The second section 22 of the connecting component 20M is attached to the fastening element 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt; see Fig. 8) is attached, projecting from the busbar 42 in the +Z direction and out of the Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the second section 22 of the connecting component 20M has a third mounting hole 22h through which the fastening element 43 passes. The third mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. In the second section 22, the fastening element 43, which will be described later, passes through the third mounting hole 22h. A coupling element 44 (for example, a nut; see Fig. 3) is coupled to the tip of the fastening element 43, which passes through the third fastening hole 22h, thereby fixing the second section 22 to the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the first section 21 and the second section 22 form an L-shaped connecting component 20M. <3.1.3 Second type electronic component>

[0047] Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the second-order electronic component 10N and the second-order connection component 20N. The second-order electronic component 10N is an electronic component in which two terminals 13 are arranged separately at both ends in the horizontal direction of the electronic component 10N. The electronic component 10N includes, for example, a housing 11, a component body 12, and a plurality of terminals 13. Note that among the assemblies of the electronic component 10N, those assemblies that have similar functions to the electronic component 10M are named with the same reference numerals. In this case, in the description of the electronic component 10N, "electronic component 10M" can be replaced by "electronic component 10N" in the description of the electronic component 10M described above.

[0048] In electronic component 10N, terminals 13A and 13B are arranged separately at both ends in the horizontal direction (for example, in the X-direction) of electronic component 10N. Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h to which a fastening element 72 (for example, a screw or a bolt), which will be described later, is attached. The mounting hole 13h is open in the Z-direction. For example, the mounting hole 13h of each terminal 13 is an insertion hole through which the fastening element 72 passes. <3.1.4 Second type connection component>

[0049] The connecting component of the second type 20N is a component that electrically connects the electronic component of the second type 10N and the routing board 40. In the present embodiment, the connecting component 20N electrically connects the electronic component 10N to the busbar 42 (see Fig. 8), which is included in the routing board 40. The connection component 20N, for example, contains a first section 21, a second section 22, and a third section 23. (First section)

[0050] The first section 21 of the connecting component 20N is a section connected to terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N. The first section 21 is a rectangular parallelepiped section extending in the Z-direction. The first section 21 is a vertical section oriented in the Z-direction relative to the routing board 40 (for example, relative to the busbar 42). The first section 21 borders (overlaps) terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N in the Z-direction and is connected to terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N in the Z-direction. The first section 21 of the connecting component 20N has a first mounting hole 21h into which the fastening element 72 engages. The first mounting hole 21h is open in the Z-direction. An inner circumferential surface of the first mounting hole 21h of the connecting component 20N has a groove for the screw.In the present disclosure, the “mounting hole” can be a screw hole or an insertion hole without a groove for the screw. The first mounting hole 21h faces the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N in the Z-direction. The fastening element 72, which passes through the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N, is connected to the first mounting hole 21h of the first section 21, so that the first section 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N.

[0051] A configuration that can be selected in the connecting component 20N of the present embodiment is in Fig. 17 shown. (Second Section)

[0052] The second section 22 of the connecting component 20N is a section that is connected to the busbar 42 (see Fig. 8) The second section 22 projects horizontally (for example, in the X-direction) from an end (base element end) on the -Z-direction side of the first section 21. The second section 22 is a plate section provided in a horizontal direction. The second section 22 borders (overlaps) the busbar 42 in the Z-direction and is connected to the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. A lower surface (a surface on the -Z-direction side, including the lower surface of the first section 21) 22s of the second section 22 faces an upper surface (a surface on the +Z-direction side) 42s of the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. The lower surface 22s of the connecting component 20N rests against the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42. In this state, the connecting component 20N is fixed to the busbar 42.

[0053] The second section 22 of the connecting component 20N is attached in the Z-direction to the fastening element 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt; see Fig. 8) is attached, projecting from the busbar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the second section 22 of the connecting component 20N has a third mounting hole 22h through which the fastening element 43 passes. The third mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. In the second section 22, the fastening element 43, which will be described later, passes through the third mounting hole 22h. The coupling element 44 (for example, a nut; see Fig. 3) is coupled to the tip of the fastening element 43, which passes through the third fastening hole 22h, thereby fixing the second section 22 to the busbar 42. (Third Section)

[0054] The third section 23 is a vertical wall (side wall) extending horizontally in the +Z direction from both ends of the second section 22. The third section 23 is a wall provided in the Z direction. The third section 23 is connected to the first section 21 and also to the second section 22. For example, the third section 23 extends diagonally, increasing in the X direction while running in the -Z direction. The third section 23 can be provided in the connection component 20M described above. The connection component 20N, however, does not need to include the third section 23. The third section 23 can be considered a heat transfer fin 24f. <3.2 Connection component for external connection>

[0055] Next, the connection component 30 for the external connection will be described.

[0056] Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the connection component 30 for the external connection. The connection component 30 is a component that electrically connects an external busbar 76 to the distribution board 40. In the present embodiment, the connection component 30 electrically connects the external busbar 76 to the busbar 42 contained in the distribution board 40 (see Figure 7). Fig. 8) The external connecting busbar 76 is electrically connected to an external device. In the present disclosure, the “external device” is an electrical device that exists outside of the electrical connecting unit 1. The external device is, for example, a battery attached to a vehicle or an inverter for driving a motor of the vehicle, but is not limited to these examples. The connecting component 30 includes, for example, a first section 31, a second section 32, and a third section 33. (First section)

[0057] The first section 31 is a section connected to the external connecting busbar 76. The first section 31 is a rectangular parallelepiped section extending in the Z-direction. The first section 31 is a section oriented in the Z-direction with respect to the routing board 40 (for example, with respect to the busbar 42). The first section 31 borders the external connecting busbar 76 in the Z-direction and is connected to the external connecting busbar 76 in the Z-direction. The first section 31 has a first fastening hole 31h through which a fastening element 73 (for example, a screw or a bolt) passes. The first fastening hole 31h is open in the Z-direction. An inner circumferential surface of the first fastening hole 31h has a groove for the screw. In the present disclosure, the "fastening hole" can be a screw hole or an insertion hole without a groove for the screw.The fastening element 73, which passes through the mounting hole 76h of the external connecting busbar 76, is coupled to the mounting hole 31h of the first section 31, so that the first section 31 is physically and electrically connected to the external connecting busbar 76.

[0058] A structure that can be selected in the connecting component 30 of the present embodiment is in Fig. 17 shown. (Second Section)

[0059] The second section 32 is a section that is connected to the busbar 42 (see Fig. 8) The second section 32 projects horizontally (for example, in the X-direction) from an end (base element end) on the -Z-direction side of the first section 31. The second section 32 is a plate section provided horizontally. The second section 32 borders (overlaps) the busbar 42 in the Z-direction and is connected to the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. A lower surface (a surface on the -Z-direction side, including a lower surface of the first section 31) 32s of the second section 32 faces the upper surface (the surface on the +Z-direction side) 42s of the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. The lower surface 32s of the connecting component 30 rests against the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42. In this state, the connecting component 30 is fixed to the busbar 42.

[0060] The second section 32 of the connecting component 30 is attached in the Z-direction to the fastening element 43 (for example, a screw or a bolt; see Fig. 8) is attached, projecting from the busbar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the second section 32 has a third mounting hole 32h through which the mounting element 43 passes. The third mounting hole 32h is open in the Z direction. In the second section 32, the mounting element 43, which will be described later, passes through the third mounting hole 32h. The coupling element 44 (for example, a nut; see Fig. 3) is coupled to the tip of the fastening element 43, which passes through the third fastening hole 32h, thereby fixing the second section 32 to the busbar 42. (Third Section)

[0061] The third section 33 is a standing wall (side wall) extending horizontally in the +Z direction from both ends of the second section 32. The third section 33 is a wall provided in the Z direction. The third section 33 is connected to the first section 31 and also to the second section 32. For example, the third section 33 extends diagonally to increase in the X direction (or Y direction) while running parallel in the -Z direction. The connecting component 30 does not need to include the third section 33. <3.3 Installation board>

[0062] Next, the routing board 40 will be described.

[0063] Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view depicting the routing board 40. The routing board 40 is a component that forms at least part of a power supply path between the plurality of electronic components 10 and / or at least part of a power supply path between the electronic component 10 and an external device. In the present disclosure, the “routing board” denotes a board-like routing structure. The term “board-like” denotes a plate-like shape along a plane when viewed as a whole, irrespective of any fine detail.In the present disclosure, the term "plate-shaped," "sheet-shaped," or "flat" shape is not limited to the case where it is completely flat and may include a case in which a fixing structure, a rib, or the like, projecting in the Z-direction, is partially present, a case in which a non-uniform shape, following the thickness of the busbar, is present on the surface, and the like. In the present embodiment, the routing board 40 has a plate-shaped form in the X and Y directions.

[0064] The distribution board 40 includes, for example, a base plate 41, one or more (for example, a plurality of) busbars 42, and a plurality of fastening elements 43. In the present embodiment, the base plate 41 and the plurality of busbars 42 are integrated by insert forming. For example, the distribution board 40 is formed as a single element by insert forming the busbar 42 with the base plate 41 after the fastening element 43 has been fixed to the busbar 42. That is, the busbar 42 is integrated with the base plate 41 without the use of a fastening element such as a screw or bolt. Note that the distribution board 40 can also be formed by a different structure instead of insert forming.For example, an opening (corresponding to a receiving section 55 described later) can be formed in the routing plate 40, which is formed separately from the busbar 42, in which the busbar 42 can be fixed by fitting or similar means, and the busbar 42 can be fixed at the opening to form a busbar insert plate.

[0065] Fig. Figure 9 is a partially separated perspective view of the routing board 40. For the sake of simplicity, the base plate 41, the busbar 42 and the fastening element 43 are described below with reference to the drawings in which the routing board 40 is partially separated. (Base plate)

[0066] The base plate 41 is a retaining element that holds the majority of the busbars 42, arranged horizontally at intervals, in one piece. The base plate 41 is made, for example, of synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base plate 41 electrically insulates the majority of the busbars 42 from each other. The base plate 41 is an example of a "base element." The base plate 41 can also be referred to as an "insulating substrate." The base plate 41 contains, for example, a flat surface section 51 and a plurality of fixing sections 52.

[0067] The flat surface section 51 is a section formed in the base plate 41 in a plate-like shape. The flat surface section 51 has the form of a plate that is formed in the horizontal direction. The flat surface section 51 forms a main section of the base plate 41. The flat surface section 51 forms an (insulating) base section of the base plate 41. In the present embodiment, the flat surface section 51 extends over the entire width in the X direction of the base plate 41 and over the entire width in the Y direction of the base plate 41, with the exception of four corner sections of the base plate 41.

[0068] The flat surface section 51 has a first surface 51a and a second surface 51b. The first surface 51a is a surface oriented in the +Z direction. The first surface 51a is a flat surface provided in the horizontal direction. The first surface 51a faces the majority of electronic components 10 and is adjacent to the insulating cover 93 (see Fig. 1) facing the electrical connection unit 1. The second surface 51b is located on the side opposite the first surface 51a. The second surface 51b is a surface oriented in the -Z direction. The second surface 51b is a flat surface provided in the horizontal direction. The second surface 51b faces the metal plate 80 (see Fig. 1) The thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the flat surface section 51 is the Z-direction.

[0069] The flat surface section 51 has, for example, one or more (for example, a plurality of) receiving sections 55 in which the busbars 42 are each received. The plurality of receiving sections 55 are spaced apart from one another in the X or Y direction. Each of the receiving sections 55 is, for example, a through-hole that penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z direction. Note that the receiving section 55 can be a recess provided on the first surface 51a or the second surface 51b of the flat surface section 51 and is recessed in the Z direction, instead of a through-hole.In the present disclosure, the wording “the receiving section penetrates the flat surface section in the first direction (Z-direction)” may include a case in which part of the total length of the receiving section 55 penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction (for example, the remaining part of the receiving section 55 may be a recess in the Z-direction or be provided within the base plate 41 and not be exposed to the outside of the base plate 41).Similarly, in the present disclosure, the phrase “the receiving section is recessed in the first direction (Z direction)” may include a case in which part of the total length of the receiving section 55 is recessed in the Z direction (for example, a remaining part of the receiving section 55 may be a through hole penetrating the flat surface section 51 in the Z direction, or be provided within the base plate 41 and not be exposed to the outside of the base plate 41).

[0070] Each receiving section 55 has an outer shape that, viewed from the Z-direction, corresponds to the shape of the busbar 42 to be received. In the present embodiment, the flat surface section 51, for example, includes five receiving sections 55A, 55B, 55C, 55D, and 55E as the plurality of receiving sections 55. Receiving section 55A is provided to correspond to a busbar 42A, which will be described later, and receives the busbar 42A. Receiving section 55B is provided to correspond to a busbar 42B, which will be described later, and receives the busbar 42B. Receiving section 55C is provided to correspond to a busbar 42C, which will be described later, and receives the busbar 42C. Receiving section 55D is provided to correspond to a busbar 42D, which will be described later, and receives the busbar 42D.The receiving section 55E is provided in such a way that it corresponds to a busbar 42E, which will be described later, and accommodates the busbar 42E. (Busbar)

[0071] The busbar 42 is a routing element (electrical connection element) contained in the routing board 40. The busbar 42 is, for example, a routing element for electrically connecting a plurality of electronic components 10. Alternatively, the busbar 42 can also be a routing element for connecting the electronic component 10 to an external device. The busbar 42 is made of a metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy) and is conductive. In the present embodiment, the routing board 40 contains, for example, five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E as a plurality of busbars 42. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E are arranged such that they are positioned at intervals in the horizontal direction. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D and 42E contain sections that are arranged in the same plane.The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D and 42E are held by the flat surface section 51 of the base plate 41.

[0072] At least a portion of each busbar 42 has a plate-like shape extending horizontally. At least a portion of each busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51. That is, at least a portion of each busbar 42 extends along the first surface 51a of the flat surface section 51. At least a portion of each busbar 42 extends horizontally within the receiving section 55. In the present embodiment, each busbar 42 has a plate-like shape extending horizontally over its entire length. Each busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 over its entire length and extends along the flat surface section 51.A section of each busbar 42 that is received into the receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51 may be referred to below as the "plate section 42p". The busbar 42 is an element that forms a horizontal power supply path. The busbar 42 may also be referred to as the "horizontal routing element".

[0073] Fig. Figure 10 is a top view showing the routing board 40. The board section 42p of each busbar 42 has, for example, a first connecting section 61, a second connecting section 62 and an extending section 63.

[0074] The first connection section 61 is a section connected to a connection component 20 (hereinafter referred to as "first connection component 20"). The first connection component 20 is a connection component that connects an electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as "first electronic component 10") to the busbar 42. The first connection section 61 is a section of the busbar 42 that overlaps the first connection component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction. The first connection section 61 is adjacent to the first connection component 20 in the Z-direction and is connected to the first connection component 20 in the Z-direction.

[0075] The second connection section 62 is a section that is connected to another connection component 20 (hereinafter referred to as "second connection component 20"). The second connection component 20 is a connection component that connects another electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as "second electronic component 10"), which is contained within the plurality of electronic components 10, to the busbar 42. The second connection section 62 is a section of the busbar 42 that overlaps the second connection component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction. The second connection section 62 is adjacent to the second connection component 20 in the Z-direction and is connected to the second connection component 20 in the Z-direction.

[0076] Note that the second connection section 62, instead of the example above, can also be a section connected to another connection component 30 (hereinafter referred to as "second connection component 30"). The connection component 30 is a connection component for connecting an external device to the busbar 42. In this case, the second connection section 62 is a section of the busbar 42 that overlaps the second connection component 30 as viewed from the Z-direction. The second connection section 62 is adjacent to the second connection component 30 in the Z-direction and is connected to the second connection component 30 in the Z-direction.

[0077] The second connection section 62 can be a section that is in contact with the coupling busbar 75 in order to be connected to a different subunit SU instead of the connection components 20 and 30. In this case, the second connection section 62 is a section of the busbar 42 that overlaps the coupling busbar 75 when viewed from the Z-direction. The second connection section 62 is adjacent to the coupling busbar 75 in the Z-direction and is connected to the coupling busbar 75 from the Z-direction.

[0078] The extending section 63 extends from the first connecting section 61 in the X-direction or in the Y-direction. The extending section 63 is provided between the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62. The extending section 63 extends over the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62. The extending section 63 connects the first connecting section 61 with the second connecting section 62.

[0079] In the present embodiment, the first connecting section 61, the second connecting section 62, and the extending section 63 have a plate-like shape formed in the horizontal direction. In the present embodiment, each busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 at least above the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62 and extends along the flat surface section 51. For example, the first connecting section 61, the second connecting section 62, and the extending section 63 are received in the receiving section 55 and extend along the flat surface section 51.

[0080] In the present embodiment, the extending sections 63 of some busbars 42 are received in the receiving section 55 such that they extend over both sides of a region R, specifically through the region R that overlaps the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. For example, the extending section 63 has a section that extends linearly in the X direction. This section extends over the region R that overlaps the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, over both the +X-direction and -X-direction sides of region R. That is, the busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 in such a way that it can easily be routed along a better path (for example, a path with a shorter distance) without being obstructed by the presence of the electronic component 10.

[0081] The one or more busbars 42 may, in addition to the first connecting section 61, the second connecting section 62, and the extending section 63, have an extension 64. The extension 64 is a section in which the busbar 42 extends or branches to increase a heat dissipation area and / or to increase heat storage capacity (heat absorption). The extension 64 is a section that is not used for electrical connection. For example, the extension 64 is located on the side opposite the extending section 63 with respect to the first connecting section 61 (or the second connecting section 62). The extension 64 has a plate-like shape formed in the horizontal direction. The extension 64 is received in the receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51.The extension 64 extends to the region R, which overlaps the electronic component 10 as seen from the Z direction, and has an end 42e1 of the busbar 42 at a position which overlaps the electronic component 10 as seen from the Z direction. (fastening element)

[0082] Next, the fastening element 43 will be described with further reference to Fig. 9 described. The fastening element 43 is a component for fixing the busbar 42 and a connection target component (the connection component 20, the connection component 30 or the coupling busbar 75) of the busbar 42. The fastening element 43 is, for example, a crimping bolt fixed to the busbar 42. The fastening element 43 is, for example, a “fastening section”.

[0083] In the present embodiment, the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62 of the busbar 42 each have a through-hole 42h. The through-hole 42h penetrates the busbar 42 in the Z-direction. The fastening element 43 is, for example, a bolt with a shank 43a and a head 43b. A circumferential surface of the shank 43a has a groove for the screw. The head 43b has a diameter larger than that of the shank 43a. The head 43b of the fastening element 43 is riveted and fixed to the busbar 42 in such a way that the shank 43a passes through the through-hole 42h of the busbar 42. With this fixing, the fastening element 43 is electrically and physically connected to the busbar 42, in a state in which the shaft 43a of the fastening element 43 protrudes from the through hole 42h of the busbar 42 in the +Z direction.The fastening element 43 is not limited to fixing by riveting, but can also be fixed to the busbar 42 by welding or other methods.

[0084] In the present embodiment, the connecting component 20, having previously been fixed to the electronic component 10 via the fastening element 72 or the fastening element 71, is attached to the fastening element 43 in the Z-direction. For example, in the connecting component 20, the shaft 43a of the fastening element 43 is inserted into the third fastening hole 22h of the second section 22. The coupling element 44 (for example, a nut) is connected to the shaft 43a of the fastening element 43, which protrudes from the third fastening hole 22h of the second section 22 of the connecting component 20. The coupling element 44 is, for example, attached to the shaft 43a in the Z-direction. This coupling secures the second section 22 of the connecting component 20 to the fastening element 43. <4. Metal plate, insulating film, heat transfer element and insulating cover>

[0085] Next, the metal plate 80, the insulating film 91, the heat transfer element 92 and the insulating cover 93 are described. <4.1 Metal plate>

[0086] Fig. Figure 11 is a partially unfolded perspective view of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is an element for ensuring the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1 and for improving its heat dissipation properties. The metal plate 80 is made of a metal (for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The metal plate 80 can also be referred to as a "rigid element". The metal plate 80 is a single metal plate.

[0087] The metal plate 80 is rectangular in the X-direction when viewed from the Z-direction. The metal plate 80 has a first end 80e1, a second end 80e2, a third end 80e3, and a fourth end 80e4. The first end 80e1 and the second end 80e2 are a pair of ends of the metal plate 80 in the longitudinal direction, separated from each other in the X-direction. The third end 80e3 and the fourth end 80e4 are a pair of ends of the metal plate 80 in the lateral direction, separated from each other in the Y-direction. The metal plate 80 includes, for example, a flat surface section 81, a plurality of fixing sections 82, and a plurality of fixing sections 83.

[0088] The flat surface section 81 is a section formed in the metal plate 80 in a plate-like shape. The flat surface section 81 has a plate-like shape formed in the horizontal direction. The flat surface section 81 forms a main section of the metal plate 80. The flat surface section 81 forms a base section (metal base section) of the metal plate 80. In the present embodiment, the flat surface section 81 has a size that covers the three subunits SU from below. The flat surface section 81 faces the laying plates 40 of the three subunits SU. In the present embodiment, the metal plate 80 forms a gap S1 (see Fig. 13) with the second surface 51b of the flat surface section 51 of each subunit SU and is facing the second surface 51b of the flat surface section 51 of each subunit SU.

[0089] The fixing section 82 is a section for fixing the base plate 41 of each subunit SU to the metal plate 80. The fixing section 82 is provided in a position that, viewed from the Z-direction, corresponds to the fixing section 52 of the base plate 41 of each subunit SU. The fixing section 82 is a cylindrical or prismatic projection that extends in the +Z direction from the flat surface section 81 of the metal plate 80.

[0090] The fixing section 83 is a fixing section for directly fixing the electronic component 10 of each subunit SU to the metal plate 80 without the intermediate base plate 41. The fixing section 83 is provided in a position corresponding to the mounting section 14 of the electronic component 10 of each subunit SU when viewed from the Z-direction. The fixing section 83 is a cylindrical or prismatic projection that extends from the flat surface section 81 in the +Z direction. <4.2 Insulating film>

[0091] The insulating foil 91 is an insulating element for the electrical insulation of the metal plate 80 and the busbars 42 of each subunit SU. The insulating foil 91 consists, for example, of a synthetic resin such as polyester or polyimide and has insulating properties. Viewed from the Z-direction, the insulating foil 91 has a rectangular shape. The insulating foil 91 has a sheet-like shape formed in the horizontal direction. The insulating foil 91 is arranged between the flat surface section 81 of the metal plate 80 and the busbar 40 of each subunit SU. For example, the insulating foil 91 is arranged between the flat surface section 81 of the metal plate 80 and the majority of the heat transfer elements 92.

[0092] In the present embodiment, the insulating film 91 is attached to the flat surface section 81 of the metal plate 80. The insulating film 91 has a notch or opening to bypass the fixing section 82 and the fixing section 83 of the metal plate 80. Note that instead of the above example, the insulating film 91 can also be provided between the routing board 40 of each subunit SU and the plurality of heat transfer elements 92. Note that if the heat transfer element 92 has an insulating property and the necessary insulating property is ensured by the heat transfer element 92, the insulating film 91 can be omitted. <4.3 Heat transfer element>

[0093] The heat transfer element 92 is an element for transferring the heat generated by the electronic component 10 at the time of energy supply and / or the heat generated by the busbar 42 itself at the time of energy supply (Joule heat) to the metal plate 80. The heat transfer element 92 is, for example, a heat transfer film (for example, a thermally conductive silicone film) that is elastic. However, the heat transfer element 92 is not limited to the above example, but can also be a heat transfer element made of a thermally conductive gel or another material.

[0094] Fig. Figure 12 is a bottom view showing the routing board 40. In the present embodiment, the majority of the heat transfer elements 92 are partially provided in the routing board 40. For example, the majority of the heat transfer elements 92 are arranged in positions that overlap a portion of the busbar 42 when viewed from the Z-direction. More precisely, the majority of the heat transfer elements 92 are arranged in positions that overlap a portion of the busbar 42 near the electronic component 10 (for example, electronic components 10A and 10B) when viewed from the Z-direction. In the present embodiment, the majority of the heat transfer elements 92 are arranged in positions that overlap the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction.

[0095] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view along line AA of the in Fig. The structure shown in Figure 10 is described. In the present embodiment, the heat transfer element 92 is arranged between the metal plate 80 and the busbar 42. The heat transfer element 92 transfers the heat transferred from the electronic component 10 to the busbar 42 and / or the heat generated by the busbar 42 from the busbar 42 to the metal plate 80.

[0096] In the present embodiment, part of the heat transfer element 92 is in contact with the busbar 42 at a position that overlaps the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction. In this case, the heat transfer element 92 easily transfers the heat transferred from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the connecting component 20 from the connecting component 20 via the busbar 42 to the metal plate 80.

[0097] In the present embodiment, part of the heat transfer element 92 is arranged in a position that overlaps the head 43b of the fastening element 43 when viewed from the Z-direction and is in contact with the head 43b of the fastening element 43. In this case, the heat transfer element 92 easily transfers the heat transferred from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the connecting component 20 from the fastening element 43 to the metal plate 80.

[0098] In the present embodiment, part of the heat transfer element 92 is in contact with the busbar 42 at a position that overlaps the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z-direction. In this case, the heat transfer element 92 readily transfers the heat transferred from the electronic component 10 to the busbar 42 from the busbar 42 to the metal plate 80. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 13, the upper surface of the busbar 42 is in contact with the electronic component 10, and thus the busbar 42 is thermally connected to the electronic component 10. Note that the busbar 42 can be thermally connected to the electronic component 10 at the extending section 63 or at the extension 64. <4.4 Insulating cover>

[0099] With further reference to Fig. Section 1 describes the insulating cover 93. The insulating cover 93 prevents the main body MU from coming into contact with the energy supply path. The insulating cover 93 is made, for example, of a synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The insulating cover 93 has, for example, a box-shaped form that is open on the -Z side. The insulating cover 93 has a plurality of vent holes 93h. The insulating cover 93 is attached to the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. Note that the insulating cover 93 is not limited to a box-shaped form, but can also be a sheet-like element that covers the energy supply path of the main body MU. <5. Busbar exposure structure>

[0100] Next, an exposure structure of busbar 42 is described. <5.1 Exposure structure on the upper surface side of the busbar>

[0101] First, an exposure structure is created on the upper surface side of the busbar 42 with reference to Fig. 8 described. In the present embodiment, at least a part of the extending section 63 of the busbar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 31 on the upper surface side (the side of the first surface 51a of the flat surface section 51). For example, the extending section 63 of the busbar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the upper surface side at least in a part of the area R (see Fig. 10) exposed, overlapping the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0102] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 at least over its entire length between the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62 and extends along the first surface 51a of the flat surface section 51. The busbar 42 is exposed to the outside on the upper surface side of the base plate 41 at least over its entire length between the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 over its entire length and extends along the first surface 51a of the flat surface section 51. The busbar 42 is exposed on its upper surface side over its entire length towards the outside of the base plate 41.

[0104] As in Fig. Figure 13 shows that at least part of the extending section 63 of the busbar 42 is exposed not only on the upper surface side but also on the lower surface side (side of the second surface 51b) towards the outside of the base plate 41. For example, the busbar 42 is exposed along its entire length on the lower surface side towards the outside of the base plate 41. <5.2 Exposure structure on the lower surface side of the busbar>

[0105] Next, an exposure structure will be created on the lower surface side of busbar 42 with reference to Fig. 13 described. In the present embodiment, the plate section 42p of the busbar 42 includes an exposed section 42u, which is exposed towards the outside of the base plate 41 on the lower surface side (the second surface side 51b of the flat surface section 51). In the present embodiment, the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 extends over the entire length of the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the heat transfer element 92 is arranged between the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 and the metal plate 80. For example, the heat transfer element 92 is in contact with the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42.

[0106] In the present embodiment, at least a portion of the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 is provided in an area that overlaps the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction. At least a portion of the heat transfer element 92 overlaps the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 in an area that overlaps the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction. For example, at least a portion of the heat transfer element 92 is in contact with the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 in an area that overlaps the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z-direction.

[0107] In the present embodiment, the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 includes a first section 42ua, which is arranged in a region that overlaps the connecting component 20 as seen from the Z direction, and a second section 42ub, which is arranged in a region that overlaps the electronic component 10 as seen from the Z direction.

[0108] The heat transfer element 92 comprises a first heat transfer section 92a and a second heat transfer section 92b. The first heat transfer section 92a overlaps the first section 42ua of the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 in a region that overlaps the connecting component 20 as viewed from the Z direction. For example, the first heat transfer section 92a is in contact with the first section 42ua of the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42. On the other hand, the second heat transfer section 92b overlaps the second section 42ub of the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 in a region that overlaps the electronic component 10 as viewed from the Z direction. For example, the second heat transfer section 92b is in contact with the second section 42ub of the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42.

[0109] As described above, at least part of the extending section 63 of the busbar 42 is exposed not only on the lower surface but also on the upper surface (side of the first surface 51a) of the base plate 41. For example, the busbar 42 is exposed along its entire length on the upper surface towards the outside of the base plate 41. For example, the second section 42ub of the exposed section 42u of the busbar 42 is exposed not only on the lower surface but also on the upper surface towards the outside of the base plate 41 and faces the electronic component 10. <6. Three-dimensional busbar routing structure>

[0110] Next, a three-dimensional routing structure CS of busbar 42 is described.

[0111] Fig. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the three-dimensional installation structure CS of busbar 42. Fig. Figure 15 is a top view illustrating the three-dimensional routing structure CS of the busbar 42. The three-dimensional routing structure CS contains a busbar 42F, a busbar 42G, a busbar 42H, and a busbar 42I, as a plurality of busbars 42. Furthermore, the three-dimensional routing structure CS contains a plurality of connecting components 100. The three-dimensional routing structure CS contains a coupling busbar 75C and a coupling busbar 75D, as a plurality of coupling busbars 75.

[0112] Busbar 42F and busbar 42G are examples of busbars 42 contained in subunit SUY. The flat surface section 51 of the base plate 41 of subunit SUY contains a receiving section 55F and a receiving section 55G, as the plurality of receiving sections 55. Busbar 42F is received in receiving section 55F and extends along flat surface section 51. Busbar 42G is received in receiving section 55G and extends along flat surface section 51. Busbar 42F is an example of a "first busbar." The receiving section 55F, which receives busbar 42F, is an example of a "first receiving section." Busbar 42G is an example of a "fourth busbar." The receiving section 55G, which receives busbar 42G, is an example of a "fourth receiving section."Busbar 42F and busbar 42G are the busbars 42 located in the first layer (lower layer) of the three-dimensional installation structure CS.

[0113] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42F comprises a first section 42Fa extending in the X direction and a second section 42Fb, which is bent from the first section 42Fa and extends in the Y direction. The second section 42Fb extends along a boundary B between subunit SUY and subunit SUZ.

[0114] On the other hand, busbar 42H and busbar 42I, for example, are the busbars 42 contained in subunit SUZ. The flat surface section 51 of the base plate 41 of subunit SUZ contains a receiving section 55H and a receiving section 55I as a plurality of receiving sections 55. Busbar 42H is received in receiving section 55H and extends along the flat surface section 51. Busbar 42I is received in receiving section 55I and extends along the flat surface section 51. Busbar 42H and busbar 42I are the busbars 42 located in the first layer (bottom layer) of the three-dimensional installation structure CS.

[0115] The connecting component 100 has the same structure as the connecting component 30 described above for the external connection. For example, the connecting component 100 has a first section 101, a second section 102, and a third section 103. For details of the connecting component 100, in the above description of connecting component 30, "connecting component 30" can be replaced by "connecting component 100", "first section 31" can be replaced by "first section 101", "first mounting hole 31h" can be replaced by "first mounting hole 101h", "second section 32" can be replaced by "second section 102", "third mounting hole 32h" can be replaced by "third mounting hole 102h", and "third section 33" can be replaced by "third section 103". The connecting component 100 is an element that forms an energy supply path in a vertical direction.The connecting component 100 can be described as a "vertical installation element". Reference numeral 102s in . Fig. 14 designates a lower surface (including a lower surface of the first section 101) of the second section 102 of the connecting component 100. The lower surface 102s faces the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42 in the Z-direction.

[0116] The majority of connection components 100 contain one connection component 100A and one connection component 100B. Connection component 100A overlaps the second connection section 62 of busbar 42G in subunit SUY, viewed from the Z-direction. Connection component 100A borders the second connection section 62 of busbar 42G in the Z-direction and is connected to it from the Z-direction. Connection component 100A projects from busbar 42G in the +Z-direction.

[0117] The connecting component 100B overlaps the second connecting section 62 of the busbar 42I in the subunit SUZ, viewed from the Z-direction. The connecting component 100B is adjacent to the second connecting section 62 of the busbar 42I in the Z-direction and is connected to it from the Z-direction. The connecting component 100B projects from the busbar 42I in the +Z-direction.

[0118] One end of the coupling busbar 75C is adjacent to the second connection section 62 of busbar 42F in the Z-direction and is connected to the second connection section 62 of busbar 42F from the Z-direction in subunit SUY. The other end of the coupling busbar 75C lies next to the second connection section 62 of busbar 42H in the Z-direction and is connected to the second connection section 62 of busbar 42H from the Z-direction in subunit SUZ. In this configuration, busbar 42F of subunit SUY and busbar 42H of subunit SUZ are electrically connected via the coupling busbar 75C. The coupling busbar 75C is busbar 75, which is located in the first layer (lower layer) of the three-dimensional installation structure CS.

[0119] On the other hand, the coupling busbar 75D in subunit SUY is adjacent to the first section 101 of the connection component 100A in the Z direction and is connected to the first section 101 of the connection component 100A from the Z direction. The other end of the coupling busbar 75D is adjacent to the first section 101 of the connection component 100B in the Z direction in subunit SUZ and is connected to the first section 101 of the connection component 100B from the Z direction.

[0120] The coupling busbar 75D is supported at a position remote from busbar 42F in the Z-direction by the first section 101 of connection component 100A and the first section 101 of connection component 100B. The coupling busbar 75D is supported by the first section 101 of connection component 100A and the first section 101 of connection component 100B and extends horizontally (for example, in the X-direction). The coupling busbar 75D is electrically connected to the first section 101 of connection component 100A and the first section 101 of connection component 100B. In this configuration, busbar 42F of subunit SUY and busbar 42I of subunit SUZ are electrically connected via the two connection components 100 and the coupling busbar 75D.

[0121] In the present embodiment, the coupling busbar 75D extends such that it spans the second section 42Fb of the busbar 42F at a position remote from the busbar 42F in the +Z direction. This creates a three-dimensional, intersecting structure formed by the coupling busbar 75D and the busbar 42F. In the present embodiment, the coupling busbar 75D extends such that it spans the boundary B of the majority of the subunits SU.

[0122] In the present embodiment, the three-dimensional routing structure CS of the busbar 42 is provided at a position spanning the boundary B of the plurality of subunits SU. According to this arrangement, the coupling structure between the plurality of subunits SU is reinforced by the three-dimensional routing structure CS. Note that the three-dimensional routing structure CS of the busbar 42 can be provided inside one or more subunits SU instead of being provided at the boundary B of the plurality of subunits SU. <12. Structure in relation to the connection component>

[0123] Next, a structure related to the connection component 20 will be described.

[0124] Fig. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure associated with the connection component 20. In the present embodiment, the connection components 20 (for example, connection component 20M and connection component 20N) are heat storage elements (heat-absorbing elements) that increase the heat capacity of the energy supply path of the electrical connection unit 1. The connection component 20 stores (absorbs) at least some of the heat generated, for example, by the electronic component 10. Alternatively / additionally, the connection component 20 can store (absorb) at least some of the heat generated by the busbar 42 itself due to the energy supply. The connection component 20 can be referred to as a "heat-storing component" or a "heat-absorbing component".

[0125] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42 is arranged at a position remote from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 (for example, at a position remote in the Z direction). The connecting component 20 is arranged between the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42. In the present disclosure, the phrase "the connecting component is arranged between the electronic component and the busbar" is not limited to the case where part of the connecting component is arranged between the electronic component and the busbar when viewed from the X or Y direction.The phrase "the connecting component is arranged between the electronic component and the busbar" can correspond to a case in which part of the connecting component is located between the electronic component and the busbar when viewed from a direction inclined with respect to the X-direction or the Y-direction. The connecting component 20 electrically connects the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the busbar 42.

[0126] In the present embodiment, the thickness of at least a portion of the connecting component 20 is greater than the plate thickness (a thickness in the Z-direction) T3 of the busbar 42. For example, the thickness T1 of at least a portion of the connecting component 20 in the X-direction is greater than the plate thickness T3 of the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first section 21 of the connecting component 20 in the X-direction is greater than the plate thickness T3 of the busbar 42. In the present embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first section 21 in the X-direction is greater than the plate thickness T3 of the busbar 42 over the entire length of the first section 21 in the Z-direction. For example, the thickness T1 of the first section 21 of the connecting component 20 in the X-direction is twice or more than the plate thickness T3 of the busbar 42.From another perspective, the thickness T2 of the second section 22 of the connecting component 20 in the Z-direction can be greater than the plate thickness T3 of the busbar 42.

[0127] In the present embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first section 21 of the connecting component 20 in the X-direction is greater than the thickness T2 of the second section 22 of the connecting component 20 in the Z-direction. In the present embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first section 21 in the X-direction is greater than the thickness T2 of the second section 22 in the Z-direction over the entire length of the first section 21 in the Z-direction. This results, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the first fixing hole 21hA is simply formed within the thickness T1 of the first section 21, and the heat storage capacity of the first section 21 and the connecting component 20 is increased.

[0128] The size ratio described above also applies to connection component 30, to which the external connecting busbar 76 is connected, and / or connection component 100, to which the coupling busbar 75 is coupled. For example, in the description of connection component 30, "connection component 20" can be replaced by "connection component 30", "first section 21" can be replaced by "first section 31", and in the description of connection component 20, "second section 22" can be replaced by "second section 32". Similarly, in the description of connection component 100, "connection component 20" can be replaced by "connection component 100", "first section 21" can be replaced by "first section 101", and in the description of connection component 20, "second section 22" can be replaced by "second section 102". <14. Advantages of the present embodiment><A. Vorteile der Verlegungsplatine>

[0129] As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit where a busbar is arranged in a vertical position relative to the lower wall of an enclosure. With this configuration, the width of the vertical busbar can make it difficult to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit.

[0130] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises the first electronic component 10 and the routing board 40. The routing board 40 comprises the base plate 41 and the first busbar 42. The base plate 41 has a plate-shaped, flat surface section 51 with a first surface 51a facing the first electronic component 10. The flat surface section 51 has the first receiving section 55, which is recessed in the Z-direction or penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction. At least a portion of the first busbar 42 is received in the first receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51.According to such a design, compared to a structure of the comparison example in which at least part of the routing path is formed on a plane, the busbar is less susceptible to being affected in the vertical direction, and the height of the electrical connection unit 1 can be easily reduced.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has a first connection component 20. The first connection component 20 has a section oriented with respect to the first busbar 42 and electrically connects the first electronic component 10 to the first busbar 42. The first busbar 42 has a first connection section 61, which is connected to the first connection component 20. The first connection section 61 is received in the first receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51. According to this design, it is also easy to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1, since more sections of the routing path are formed in one plane.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has a second connection component 20. The second connection component 20 has a section oriented with respect to the first busbar 42 and electrically connects the second electronic component or an external device to the first busbar 42. The first busbar 42 has a second connection section 62, which is connected to the second connection component 20. The first busbar 42 is received in the first receiving section 55 at least above the first connection section 61 and the second connection section 62 and extends along the flat surface section 51. According to such a design, it is also easy to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1, since more sections of the routing path are formed in one plane.

[0133] In the present embodiment, the first busbar 42 has the extending section 63 between the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62. The extending section 63 is accommodated in the first receiving section 55, passes through the region R that overlaps the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z-direction, and extends across both sides of region R. According to this design, since the extending section 63 is accommodated in the first receiving section 55, it is difficult to be restricted in the routing layout due to the presence of the electronic component 10. For example, it is possible to achieve a routing layout that improves the electrical properties, such as facilitating a linear extension of the extending section 63.Furthermore, it is possible to avoid routing the busbar around the electronic component 10. This makes it possible to improve the electrical properties of the electrical connection unit 1 and / or to reduce the size of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0134] In the present embodiment, the first busbar 42 extends to region R, which overlaps the first electronic component 10 as viewed from the Z-direction, and has extension 64, the end of which 42e1 is located in a position that overlaps the first electronic component 10. Extension 64 is received in the first receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51. According to this design, since extension 64 is received in the first receiving section 55, the height of the electrical connection unit 1 can be reduced, and a metallic heat dissipation section (extension 64) for promoting heat dissipation and / or heat storage of the first electronic component 10 can be arranged below the first electronic component 10. This makes it possible to improve the heat dissipation and / or heat storage properties of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0135] In the present embodiment, the first busbar 42 is received in the first receiving section 55 over its entire length and extends along the flat surface section 51. According to such a design, it is also easy to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1, since more sections of the routing path are formed in one plane.

[0136] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes the second busbar 42, which is electrically connected to the second terminal 13B of the first electronic component 10. The flat surface section 51 has the second receiving section 55, which is recessed in the Z-direction or penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction at a position remote from the first receiving section 55. At least a portion of the second busbar 42 is received in the second receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51. According to this design, it is easier to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1, since several sections of the routing path, containing the majority of busbars 42, are held in one plane by a base plate 41.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes the third busbar 42. The first busbar 42 is a busbar contained in the positive electrode line PL. The third busbar 42 is a busbar contained in the negative electrode line NL. The flat surface section 51 has the third receiving section 55, which is recessed in the Z-direction or penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction at a position remote from the first receiving section 55. At least a portion of the third busbar 42 is received in the third receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51.According to such a design, it becomes easier to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1, since several sections of the routing path forming the positive electrode line PL and the negative electrode line NL are held in one plane by a base plate 41.

[0138] In the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises the fourth busbar 42, the fifth busbar 42, and the third connection component 100, which electrically connects the fourth busbar 42 to the fifth busbar 42. The flat surface section 51 has the fourth receiving section 55, which is recessed in the Z-direction or penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction at a position remote from the first receiving section 55. At least a portion of the fourth busbar 42 is received in the fourth receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51. The third connection component 100 includes a section that is oriented relative to the fourth busbar 42.The fifth busbar 42 is supported by the third connecting component 100 at a position remote from the first busbar 42 in the Z-direction and extends parallel to the first surface 51a. According to this configuration, a three-dimensional routing path can be easily formed by the fourth busbar 42, the third connecting component 100, and the fifth busbar 42. This allows for the provision of an electrical connection unit 1 that is easy to assemble. Since the fourth busbar 42 is located in the receiving section 55 of the base plate 41, part of the three-dimensional routing path is also accommodated within the thickness of the base plate 41. This makes it easier to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0139] In the present embodiment, the fifth busbar 42 extends such that it spans the first busbar 42 at a position remote from the first busbar 42 in the Z-direction. According to this configuration, it is easy to create a routing path using the third connecting component 100 and the fifth busbar 42, which intersects the first busbar 42 three-dimensionally. In this way, an electrical connection unit 1 can be provided that is easy to install. <B. Vorteile von flachen Sammelschienen>

[0140] As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit where a busbar is arranged in a vertical position relative to the lower wall of an enclosure. With this configuration, it is necessary to fix the busbar vertically to the enclosure, and improving the busbar's mounting capabilities is difficult. In this case, improving the mounting capabilities of the electrical connection unit 1 can also be challenging.

[0141] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises the base plate 41 and the busbar 42. The base plate 41 includes the flat surface section 51, which has a plate-like shape. The flat surface section 51 has the first receiving section 55, which is recessed in the Z-direction or penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction. At least a portion of the busbar 42 is received in the first receiving section 55 and extends along the first flat surface section 51. According to such a design, the base plate 41 and the busbar 42 can be easily handled as an integral unit, and the ease of assembly with regard to fastening the busbar can be improved compared to the design of the comparative example. Thus, the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0142] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 over its entire length and extends along the flat surface section 51. According to such a design, it is easy to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1 while simultaneously improving the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0143] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42 is integrated with the base plate 41 by means of an insert molding. According to this design, it is possible to eliminate or reduce the work involved in manually attaching the busbar 42 to the housing. This further improves the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0144] In the present embodiment, the fastening element 43, which projects from the busbar 42 in the Z-direction, and the connecting components 20 and 30, which are attached to the fastening element 43 in the Z-direction, are provided. The connecting components 20 and 30 electrically connect the electronic component 10 or an external device to the busbar 42. According to this design, the working direction for connecting a target connection component to the busbar 42 can be easily aligned with the Z-direction. In cases where the working direction can be aligned, the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved.

[0145] In the present embodiment, the connecting component 20 is connected to the electronic component 10 from the X-direction (or the Y-direction). According to this configuration, the connection direction of the electronic component 10 with respect to the busbar 42 can be changed to the Z-direction by using the connecting component 20 for the electronic component 10 that needs to be connected from the X-direction. This further improves the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1. <C. Vorteile der Freilegungsstruktur auf der oberen Oberflächenseite der Sammelschiene>

[0146] As a comparative example, an electrical connection unit is considered in which the upper surface of the busbar 42 is coated with a synthetic resin. With such a design of the comparative example, it is difficult to improve the heat dissipation properties of the busbar 42.

[0147] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises the first electronic component 10 and the routing board 40. The routing board 40 comprises a base plate 41 and a busbar 42. The base plate 41 has the plate-shaped, flat surface section 51, the first surface 51a of which faces the first electronic component 10 and the second surface 51b of which is located on the side opposite the first surface 51a. The flat surface section 51 has the receiving section 55, which is recessed in the Z-direction or penetrates the flat surface section 51 in the Z-direction. At least a portion of the busbar 42 has a plate section 42p, which is received in the receiving section 55 and extends along the flat surface section 51.Plate section 42p contains the first connecting section 61, which overlaps the first connecting component 20 in the Z-direction, and section 63 extending from the first connecting section 61 in a direction intersecting the Z-direction. At least a portion of the extending section 63 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the side of the first surface 51a. According to this configuration, at least a portion of a section of the busbar 42 other than the connecting sections 61 and 62, which are connected to other components, is exposed to the outside and acts as a heat dissipation area. In this case, the heat dissipation properties of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0148] In the present embodiment, the extending section 63 faces the outside of the base plate 41 on the side of the first surface 51a at least in a portion of the area R that overlaps the connection component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. According to such a design, it is easy for a portion of the extending section 63 to function as a heat dissipation section, transferring heat from the first connection component 20. In this case, the heat dissipation properties of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0149] In the present embodiment, the first busbar 42 overlaps the second connection components 20 and 30 in the Z-direction with the second connection section 62. The first busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 at least over its entire length between the first connection section 61 and the second connection section 62, extends along the flat surface section 51, and is exposed on the side of the first surface 51a facing the outside of the base plate 41. According to this design, the heat dissipation properties of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved, since the wider section acts as a heat dissipation area.

[0150] In the present embodiment, the busbar 42 is received in the receiving section 55 over its entire length, extends along the flat surface section 51, and is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 on the side of the first surface 51a. According to this design, the heat dissipation properties of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved, since the wider section acts as a heat dissipation area.

[0151] At least part of the extending section 63 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 not only on the side of the first surface 51a, but also on the side of the second surface 51b. According to such a design, the heat dissipation properties of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved, since the wider section acts as a heat dissipation area.

[0152] In the modified example of the present embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises the metal plate 80, which faces the flat surface section 51, with the gap S1 between the metal plate 80 and the flat surface section 51, and the heat transfer element 92, which is arranged between the busbar 42 and the metal plate 80. The base plate 41 has a cover section 51v that covers at least part of the extending section 63 on the side of the second surface 51b. According to such a design, even in a case where heat is likely to be trapped in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80, it is possible to prevent the heat from being easily trapped in the gap S1 by providing the cover section 51v. <D. Vorteile der Freilegungsstruktur auf der unteren Oberflächenseite der Sammelschiene>

[0153] To improve the holding properties of the busbar 42, a structure can be chosen in which a section other than the connection surface of the busbar 42 with the electronic component 10 and the like is covered with a resin. However, in the structure in which a section other than the connection surface of the busbar 42 is covered, the heat dissipation properties of the busbar 42 are impaired. In the present embodiment, the lower surface (a surface opposite the component mounting surface) of the busbar 42 is exposed, and the heat transfer film is placed on this exposed surface. The heat transfer film is connected to the metal plate 80 (a rigid element or heat dissipation element) which is arranged below the mounting plate 40.This allows the heat to be advantageously transferred from the busbar 42 to the metal plate 80 (on the side opposite the component mounting surface) via the heat transfer film. <E. Vorteile des Aufbaus der Verbindungskomponente>

[0154] The connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment are connecting components that connect the first busbar 42 with connecting target components (the electronic component 10 and the second busbars 75 and 76) and include the first sections 21, 31 and 101 extending in a first direction (Z direction) and the second sections 22, 32 and 102 extending in a second direction (X direction) which intersects the first direction from one end of the first sections 21, 31 and 101, being oriented towards the first busbar 42 in the first direction and fixed to the first busbar 42.

[0155] The first sections 21, 31, and 101 may contain a first fastening section 21fA to which the fasteners 72 and 73 can be attached in the first direction when the first connection target components 10N, 75, and 76 are used as connection target components. The first sections 21, 31, and 101 may contain a second fastening section 21fB to which the fastener 71 can be attached in the second direction when the second connection target component 10M is used as the connection target component.

[0156] According to this configuration, the connecting component arranged between the first busbar 42 and the connecting target components 10, 75, and 76 has an L-shape with sections extending in the first and second directions, which intersect each other. The first sections 21, 31, and 101, which extend in the first direction, which is one of the directions facing the first busbar 42, can include a first fastening section 21fA, to which the first target component can be attached in the first direction using the fastening elements 72 and 73, and a second fastening section 21fB, to which the second target component can be attached in the second direction using the fastening element 71.This allows the first target component, which must be attached from the direction facing the first busbar 42, and the second target component, which must be attached from the direction along the first busbar 42, to be attached to the first busbar 42 using a single type of connecting component. This allows the assembly components of the electrical connection unit 1 to be standardized.

[0157] In the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment, the first fastening section 21fA has a first fastening hole 21hA that penetrates the first section in the first direction, and the second fastening section 21fB has a second fastening hole 21hB that penetrates the first section in the second direction.

[0158] According to this design, the fastening sections 21fA and 21fB can be easily shaped, since the fastening holes 21hA and 21hB are through holes, which reduces the weight of a connecting component.

[0159] In the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first sections 21, 31 and 101 in the second direction is greater than the thickness T2 of the second sections 22, 32 and 102 in the first direction.

[0160] By making the first sections 21, 31 and 101 thicker than the second sections 22, 32 and 102, even when the fastening sections 21fA and 21fB are formed in two mutually orthogonal directions in the first sections 21, 31 and 101, it is possible with this design to easily form the fastening sections, increase the heat storage capacity of the first sections 21, 31 and 101 and of the entire connection component, and improve the thermal properties of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0161] In the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment, if a direction intersecting the first and the second direction is a third direction (Y-direction), the first fastening section 21fA and the second fastening section 21fB are arranged at different positions in the third direction.

[0162] Even if the fastening sections 21fA and 21fB are formed in two directions, in this configuration the first fastening section 21fA and the second fastening section 21fB are offset from each other in the first sections 21, 31, and 101 in the third direction, which intersects the first and second directions, so that the distance between the fastening sections 21fA and 21fB can be easily increased in two mutually orthogonal directions in the first section. Therefore, the fastening sections 21fA and 21fB can be easily formed, and the fastening elements used for the fastening sections 21fA and 21fB can be separated from each other to facilitate fastening.

[0163] Furthermore, in the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment, the second sections 22, 32 and 102 have the third fastening section 22fA fixed to the first busbar 42 when the fastening element 43 is attached to it in the first direction.

[0164] According to this design, since the second sections 22, 32 and 102 have the third fastening section 22fA fixed to the first busbar 42, the second sections 22, 32 and 102, which are separated from the first sections 21, 31 and 101 by the majority of fastening sections, can be fixed to the first busbar 42.

[0165] In the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment, if a direction intersecting the first and the second direction is a third direction (Y-direction), the first fastening section 21fA, the second fastening section 21fB and the third fastening section 22fA are arranged at different positions in the third direction.

[0166] According to this design, since the three fastening sections are arranged offset from each other, the fastening elements used for the fastening sections can be separated from each other to facilitate fastening.

[0167] In the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment, the connecting target component is the electronic component 10 or the second busbars 75 and 76.

[0168] According to this design, a plurality of connection target component types can be attached to the first busbar 42 using a connection component type, so that assembly components of the electrical connection unit 1 can be standardized.

[0169] Since the electrical connection unit 1 of the present embodiment includes the first busbar 42 and the connection components 20, 30 and 100, the first target component, which must be attached from the direction facing the first busbar 42, and the second target component, which must be attached from the direction along the first busbar 42, can be attached to the first busbar 42 using one type of connection component, thereby enabling the unification of assembly components. <Fixierende Struktur der Verbindungskomponente >

[0170] Fig. 18 to 20 represent a structure for fixing the connecting components 20, 30 and 100 of the present embodiment to the busbar 42. Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the connecting component 20A, Fig. Figure 19 is a side view of the connection component 20A, viewed from the Y direction, and Fig. Figure 20 is a top view of the connecting component 20A, viewed from the Z direction.

[0171] As in Fig. Figures 18 to 20 show that, viewed in the Y-direction (third direction), a rectangular plane (hereinafter referred to as the front surface 21b) on the side in the +X direction of the first section 21A and a rectangular plane (hereinafter referred to as the top surface 22b) on the side in the +Z direction of the second section 22A form an included angle θ1 of 90 degrees between the first section 21A and the second section 22A. The reference symbol R3 in the drawing denotes a concave area arranged between the front surface 21b and the top surface 22b of the connecting component 20A to form the included angle θ1. In the drawing, reference numeral 21d denotes a rectangular plane (back surface) on the -X direction side of the first section 21A and reference numeral 22d denotes a rectangular plane (bottom surface) on the -Z direction side of the second section 22A.

[0172] Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 represents a structure in which a pair of wall-shaped third sections 23 and 33 are provided at both ends in the Y-direction of region R3, forming the enclosed angle θ1 in the connecting components 20 and 30. The third sections 23 and 33 also function as the heat dissipation fins 24f in the connecting components 20 and 30. Although not shown in detail, the connecting component 100 in Fig. 14 also has the same structure as connection components 20 and 30. For the structure of connection component 100, the description of connection component 30 can be replaced as described in paragraph 0107.

[0173] The second sections 22 and 32 of the connecting components 20 and 30 have third mounting holes 22h and 32h that penetrate into the second sections 22 and 32 in the Z-direction (first direction). Each of the third mounting holes 22h and 32h has a circular shape in a top view from the Z-direction, and the centers of the third mounting holes 22h and 32h are located at the midpoint in the width direction (center in the Y-direction) of the second sections 22 and 32. The third mounting holes 22h and 32h allow fasteners such as bolts to be inserted so that the connecting components 20 and 30 can be attached (fixed) to the busbar 42.

[0174] Fig. Figures 18 to 20 represent an example of a structure in which a connection target component (for example, the electronic component 10) 10D is fixed to the second mounting hole 21hB, which penetrates the first section 21A in the X direction.

[0175] The first section 21A, which is in Fig. As shown in Figures 18 to 20, a second mounting hole 21hB is provided, which penetrates the first section 21A in the X-direction (second direction) and through which the connection target component 10D is fastened. The second mounting hole 21hB has a circular shape in a front view from the X-direction. The center of the second mounting hole 21hB is located at the center in the lateral direction (center in the Y-direction) of the first section 21A, but may be positioned to be offset from the center in the lateral direction.

[0176] The second section 22A has a third mounting hole 22hA that penetrates the second section 22A in the Z-direction (first direction) and can be attached to the busbar 42. The third mounting hole 22hA has a circular shape when viewed from the Z-direction in a top view. The center of the third mounting hole 22hA is located at the center in the width direction (center in the Y-direction) of the second section 22A, but can be positioned offset from the center in the width direction.

[0177] The connecting component 20A has a first end 34 facing the busbar in the Z-direction and a second end 35 facing the connecting target component 10D in the X-direction. The first end 34 is a section of the second section 22A facing the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42 (a section on the side of the lower surface 22d). The second end 35 is a section (a section on the side of the rear surface 21d) of the first section 21A facing the front surface (surface on the +X-direction side) 10f of the connecting target component 10D.

[0178] The first end 34 has a stop section (a section forming the lower surface 22d) 34a which abuts the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42, and a recess 34b which is recessed in a direction (upwards) away from the busbar 42 in the Z-direction with respect to the stop section 34a.

[0179] The recess 34b extends in the Y-direction with a constant cross-section and is open to both side surfaces of the connecting component 20A in the Y-direction. The recess 34b is located at an intersection 36 between the first section 21A and the second section 22A. The recess 34b is formed at a corner section 37 where the first end 34 and the second end 35 of the connecting component 20A are coupled. The recess 34b is formed to expose the corner section 37 when viewed from the Y-direction. The reference symbol L1 in the drawing denotes a virtual edge line formed where the rear surface 21d and the bottom surface 22d of the connecting component 20A intersect. The recess 34b and the edge line L1 extend parallel to the Y-direction.

[0180] The recess 34b has a rectangular cross-section and extends in the Y direction. The recess 34b has a lower recess surface 34b1, which is offset towards the +Z direction with respect to the lower surface 22d, and a rear recess surface 34b2, which is offset towards the +X direction with respect to the rear surface 21d. The recess 34b is open towards the connection target component 10D at the second end 35. The recess 34b is recessed in a direction (forward) away from the connection target component 10D in the X direction with respect to the rear surface 21d, which abuts or approaches the front surface 10f of the connection target component 10D at the second end 35. The side of the rear surface 21d of the recess 34b may be closed by the connection target component 10D.

[0181] The recess 34b has a width 34tx in the X-direction, which is smaller than the thickness (plate thickness T1) of the first section 21A in the X-direction. This means that the recess 34b is formed within the width of the first section 21A in the X-direction. The recess 34b is formed by utilizing the thickness of the first section 21A, which has the heat storage capacity. The recess 34b has a width 34tz in the Z-direction, which is smaller than the thickness (plate thickness T2) of the second section 22A in the Z-direction. This means that the recess 34b is formed within the width of the second section 22A in the Z-direction. The width of the recess 34b in the Z-direction is reduced so that the second end 35 is designed to easily absorb heat from the connection target component 10D.

[0182] The recess 34b is filled with a heat transfer element 38, which has a higher thermal conductivity than the connecting component. Similar to the heat transfer element 92, for example, the heat transfer element 38 is made of a thermally conductive silicone film or the like and is a shaped, elastic article cut into a predetermined form. The heat transfer element 38 is inserted (filled) into the recess 34b in a compressed state.That is, in a state in which the connecting component is attached to the busbar 42 and the connecting target component 10D and the cross-sectional shape of the recess 34b is closed, the heat transfer element 38 is compressed in the Z direction between the lower recess surface 34b1 and the upper surface 42s of the busbar 42 and is compressed in the X direction between the rear recess surface 34b2 and the front surface 10f of the connecting target component 10D.

[0183] With this configuration, the heat transfer element 38 is in close contact with the connection target component 10D and the busbar 42, while also being in close contact with the recess, so that the heat stored in the connection component can be easily transferred to the busbar 42 and heat can be transferred directly from the connection target component 10D to the busbar 42. The heat transfer element 38 is not limited to a molded article and can be made of a thermally conductive gel or another material.

[0184] Fig. Figure 21 represents an example of a structure in which a connection target component (the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the second busbars 75 and 76) 10E is attached to a first mounting hole 21hA that penetrates the first section 21A in the Z direction.

[0185] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, when a connecting component is attached to the busbar 42 and the connecting target component 10E, one side of the rear surface 21d of the cross-sectional shape of the recess 34b may be open. In this case, the heat transfer element 38 received in the recess 34b is preferably a shaped article.

[0186] As described above, the component connection structure of the embodiment comprises the busbar 42, the connection target components 10D and 10E, and the connection component 20A, which connects the busbar 42 to the connection target components 10D and 10E. The connection component 20A has a first end surface 34 facing the busbar 42 in the first direction (Z-direction). The first end surface 34 has a stop section 34a that abuts the busbar 42 and a recess 34b that extends away from the busbar 42 in the first direction with respect to the stop section 34a. The connection component 20A is attached to the busbar 42 in a state in which the recess 34b is filled with the heat transfer element 38, which has a higher thermal conductivity than the connection component 20A.

[0187] According to this setup, the recess 34b is provided in the first end face 34, which is attached to the busbar 42 in the connecting component 20A. The connecting component 20A is attached to the busbar 42 in such a way that the recess 34b is filled with the heat transfer element 38. This allows the heat stored in the connecting component 20A to be easily transferred to the busbar 42 via the heat transfer element 38, while the connecting component 20A acts as a heat storage element, absorbing heat from the connecting target components 10D and 10E. This setup improves the heat transfer properties between the connecting component 20A and the busbar 42, as well as the heat dissipation properties of the connecting target components 10D and 10E.

[0188] In the component connection structure of the embodiment, the connection component 20A has a first section 21A extending in the first direction (Z direction), and a second section 22A extending from the first section 21A in the second direction (X direction) intersecting the first direction, and having the first end 34, and the recess 34b is provided at an intersection 36 between the first section 21A and the second section 22A.

[0189] According to this configuration, the first section 21A, extending in the first direction, is a section that extends along the connection target component 10D, and the intersection 36 between the first section 21A and the second section 22A, which extends along the busbar 42, is filled with the heat transfer element 38, which has a higher thermal conductivity. Therefore, the heat from the connection target component 10D can be easily transferred to the first section 21A, and the heat can be easily transferred from the second section 22A to the busbar 42.

[0190] In the component connection structure of the embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first section 21A in the second direction (X-direction) of the connection component 20A is greater than the thickness T3 of the busbar in the first direction (Z-direction), and the width 34tx of the recess 34b in the second direction is smaller than the thickness T1 of the first section 21A in the second direction. According to this design, it is possible to increase the thickness of the first section 21A in contact with the connection target component 10D to increase the heat storage capacity and to provide the heat transfer element 38 by utilizing the thickness of the first section 21A.

[0191] In the component connection structure of the embodiment, the connection target component 10D and the connection component 20A are adjacent to each other in the second direction (X-direction) which intersects the first direction (Z-direction), and the connection component 20A has a second end 35 which faces the connection target component 10D in the second direction, the recess 34b is provided at a corner section 37 where the first end 34 and the second end 35 are connected, and the heat transfer element 38 is in contact with the connection target component 10D in a state in which the recess 34b is filled with the heat transfer element 38.

[0192] Since the heat transfer element 38 is in contact with the connection target component 10D according to this setup, some of the heat from the connection target component 10D can be preferentially transferred to the connection component 20A and the busbar 42.

[0193] The connecting component 20A of the embodiment connects the busbar 42 to the connecting target component 10D and has a first end 34 that faces the busbar 42 in the first direction. The first end 34 has a stop section 34a that abuts the busbar 42 and a recess 34b that extends away from the busbar 42 in the first direction with respect to the stop section 34b.

[0194] According to this setup, while the connecting component acts as a heat storage element that absorbs the heat of the connecting target component 10D, the recess 34b of the first end 34, which faces the busbar 42, is filled with the heat transfer element 38, which has a high thermal conductivity, thereby improving the heat dissipation property of the connecting target component 10D.

[0195] Fig. 22 and Fig. Figure 23 shows top views of the connecting component 20A when viewed from the Z direction and represent modification examples of recess 34b.

[0196] A depression 34b', which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the recess 34b' is not open to both surfaces of the connecting component 20A in the Y-direction, nor is it open to the rear surface 21d of the connecting component 20A. Since the recess 34b' is closed in each of the X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction when the connecting component 20A is attached to the busbar 42, work can be easily performed even in a case where the recess 34b' is filled with the gel-like heat transfer element 38.

[0197] A depression 34b'', which is in Fig.Figure 23 shows one aspect of being divided into multiple parts in the Y-direction. The depression 34b'', which is formed within the width in the Y-direction of the first section 21A, is open to the rear surface 21d, but is not open to both side surfaces in the Y-direction. For example, the depression 34b'' could be formed on the lower surface of the second section 22A. <modifikationsbeispiele>

[0198] The following are some modification examples. Note that a different setup than the one described below in each modification example corresponds to the setup of the embodiment described above. (First modification example)

[0199] The routing board 40 is not limited to a structure in which the base plate 41 and the busbar 42 are integrated by insert forming. For example, the busbar 42 can be positioned in the receiving section 55 after the base plate 41, which provides the receiving section 55 for receiving the busbar 42, has been formed. In this case, the busbar 42 can be fitted to the receiving section 55 or fixed to the receiving section 55 by an adhesive or other fastener. In these cases, potting can be performed to fill any gap between the busbar 42 and the receiving section 55. (Second modification example)

[0200] A basic element of the busbar 40 is not limited to the base plate 41 with the plate-shaped, flat surface section 51. The busbar 40 can be a basic element (for example, an insulating foil) with a sheet-shaped, flat surface section 51. In this case, the receiving section 55 can be formed by a portion of the flat surface section 51 that follows the outer shape of the busbar 42. In the present disclosure, the term "sheet-shaped" or "sheet" is not limited to an element with a thickness of 1 mm or more, and an element (a so-called foil) with a thickness of less than 1 mm can also be used. (Third modification example)

[0201] The base plate 41 of the routing board 40 can contain a plurality of elements (plate elements or sheet metal elements). These elements are provided to accommodate the plurality of busbars 42, which are arranged, for example, horizontally, from both sides in the Z-direction. For example, the plurality of elements are integrated by joining the plurality of busbars 42 together, for example, by laminate forming. The plurality of elements forms the flat surface section 51. In this case, the receiving section 55 can be formed in a hollow shape within the base plate 41 (between the plurality of elements). The plurality of elements can be a plurality of plate elements, a plurality of sheet metal elements, or a combination of a plate element and a sheet metal element. The plate element can, for example, be a flexible plate element.The flat surface section 51 formed by the majority of elements has an opening through which at least the first connecting section 61 and the second connecting section 62 of the busbar 42 are exposed. For example, in this case, the receiving section 55 formed between the majority of elements corresponds to an example of a "recessed receiving section in the first direction (Z-direction)." (Fourth modification example)

[0202] The connection between the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42 is not limited to the connection via the connecting component 20. The electronic component 10 can be connected directly to the busbar 42 by means of a fastening element (for example, a bolt or a screw), by welding, or similar means.

[0203] Several embodiments and modification examples have been described above. However, the embodiment and modification examples are not limited to those described above. For example, multiple embodiments can be implemented in combination. [List of reference symbols] 1 electrical connection unit 10D, 10E Connection target component 20A connection component 21A first section 22A second section 34 first end 34a Stop section 34b In-depth study 34tx width in the second direction 35 second end 36 Intersection 37 Corner section 38 Heat transfer element 42 busbar T1 thickness in the second direction T3 thickness in the first direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2024-037492

[0003] < / modifikationsbeispiele>

Claims

[1] Component connection structure comprising: a busbar (42); a connection target component (10D, 10E); and a connection component (20A) connecting the busbar (42) and the connection target component (10D, 10E). wherein the connecting component (20A) has a first end (34) which is directed towards the busbar (42) in a first direction, wherein the first end (34) has: a stop section (34a) that abuts the busbar (42); and a recess (34b) that is recessed in a direction away from the busbar (34a) in the first direction with respect to the stop section (34a), and wherein the connecting component (20A) is attached to the busbar (42) in a state in which the recess (34b) is filled with a heat transfer element (38) which has a higher thermal conductivity than the connecting component (20A). [2] Component connection structure according to claim 1, wherein the connection component (20A) comprises: a first section (21A) extending in the first direction, and a second section (22A) extending from the first section (21A) in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and having the first end (34), and the depression (34b) is provided at an intersection (36) between the first section (21A) and the second section (22A). [3] Component connection structure according to claim 2, where in the connection component (20A) a thickness (T1) of the first section (21A) in the second direction is greater than a thickness (T3) of the busbar (42) in the first direction, and a width (34tx) of the depression (34b) in the second direction is smaller than the thickness (T1) of the first section (21A) in the second direction. [4] Component connection structure according to claim 1, wherein the connection target component (10D, 10E) and the connection component (20A) are adjacent to each other in a second direction that intersects the first direction, wherein the connecting component (20A) has a second end (35) which is directed towards the connecting target component (10D, 10E) in the second direction, wherein the recess (34b) is provided at a corner section (37) where the first end (34) and the second end (35) are joined, and wherein the heat transfer element (38) is in contact with the connection target component (10D, 10E) in a state in which the recess (344b) is filled with the heat transfer element (38). [5] Connection component (20A) for connecting a busbar (42) and a connection target component (10D, 10E), wherein the connection component (20A) comprises: a first end (34) which is facing the busbar (42) in a first direction, wherein the first end (34) has: a stop section (34a) that abuts the busbar (42); and a recess (34b) that is recessed in a direction away from the busbar (42) in the first direction with respect to the stop section (34a).

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