Connector for attaching a cable to a printed circuit

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector (1) for attaching a cable to a printed circuit (3), the connector (1) being configured to be attached to an edge (3A.1) of the printed circuit (3), the connector (1) comprising a first attachment portion (1A) for connecting the cable and a second attachment portion (1B) for attaching the connector (1), the second attachment portion (1B) comprising at least three legs (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b), the first and the second attachment portion (1A, 1B) of the connector (1) are connected by a longitudinal section (1C) extending perpendicularly to a plane of the printed circuit (3), the first attachment portion (1A) being located on the side of a rear face (3A.3) of the printed circuit (3) while the second attachment portion (1B) is located on the side of the front face (3A.2), and at least one of the three legs (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) passes through the printed circuit (3).

Description

Connector for attaching a cable to a printed circuit board. Technical field. [1] The present invention relates to a connector for attaching a cable to a printed circuit board. The invention also relates to the printed circuit board comprising at least said connector, and a three-phase motor comprising said printed circuit board. [2] The invention relates to the technical field of motor vehicles, and more particularly to three-phase motors of motor vehicles comprising at least one printed circuit board with connectors. State of the art. [3] Motor vehicles generally include an engine with a cooling system essential for regulating the engine's temperature. In a modern vehicle, such a cooling system typically includes at least one cooling circuit positioned in contact with the engine, through which coolant flows. As the coolant heats up, it lowers the engine temperature by means of heat exchange. When the coolant temperature reaches a threshold value, usually at least 90°C, a fan activates to reduce the coolant temperature below that value. [4] Thus, the fan is essential for the thermal regulation of the motor. This fan generally consists of a propeller driven by a three-phase motor, itself controlled by a printed circuit board. This printed circuit board includes electrical and / or electronic components that can trigger various functions within the motor. The three-phase motor and its printed circuit board are powered by one or more power cables. [5] The aforementioned cables are usually fixed and held in position on one edge of the printed circuit board by connectors. However, a significant voltage applied to one of these cables can cause it to be pulled out, thus disrupting the power supply to the three-phase motor. [6] This is why various connectors have been developed to improve cable retention on the printed circuit board. In particular, published patent document JP 2013-168312 A describes such a connector. This connector comprises three mounting tabs fixed to one side of the printed circuit board, and a mounting portion attached to said tabs. The mounting portion has a U-shaped cross-section suitable for receiving an electrical cable, said portion being positioned perpendicular to the plane of the printed circuit board. However, this connector is bulky and fragile, and provides an unreliable connection to the cable. [7] Another type of connector is described in the published patent document US 2016 / 0072200 A1. This connector is designed to be mounted on the edge of a printed circuit board (PCB) and includes a first portion for mounting on the PCB and a second portion for mounting on a cable. The cable is first inserted into a pre-drilled hole on the PCB edge, and then the connector is slid onto the PCB using the first portion for mounting, making contact with the cable so that the cable is bent parallel to the PCB plane. However, this connector is complex to manufacture, and the electrical connection to the cable can be faulty because the cable drilling to access the conductors may be improperly executed. [8] The invention aims to overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the aforementioned prior art. More specifically, the invention aims to reduce the space occupied by the connector on the printed circuit board. [9] The invention also makes it possible to improve the resistance to mechanical stress of the cable attached to the connector.

[0010] Another objective of the invention is to improve the electrical connection between the printed circuit board and the power cables. Presentation of the invention.

[0011] The solution proposed by the invention is a connector for attaching a cable to a printed circuit board, the connector being configured to be attached to an edge of the printed circuit board, said connector comprising: a first attachment portion configured to connect the cable to the printed circuit board, and a second attachment portion configured for attaching the connector to the printed circuit board, the second mounting portion comprising at least three lugs, the connector being fixed to a portion of the printed circuit board extending along a plane, the first and second mounting portions of the connector being connected by a longitudinal section extending perpendicularly to the plane of the printed circuit board when the connector is mounted on said circuit board, such that the first mounting portion is located on the side of a rear face of the printed circuit board while the second mounting portion is located on the side of the opposite face, referred to as the front face, of the printed circuit board, at least one of the three lugs being configured to pass through the printed circuit board so as to be able to be fixed by soldering.

[0012] The connector according to the invention allows a cable to be mounted on a printed circuit board. The connector's positioning, with one mounting portion facing one side of the printed circuit board and the other mounting portion positioned on the opposite side, reduces the space occupied by the connector. This, in turn, reduces the space required for the printed circuit board, thus saving space for the installation of the three-phase motor.

[0013] The three mounting tabs ensure the connector is balanced, especially before soldering. Given its position on the edge of the printed circuit board and its weight, the connector could easily tip over. The connector's balance therefore allows for efficient and easy soldering regardless of the method used, particularly if the printed circuit board needs to be moved before soldering, such as for placement in a furnace.

[0014] Passing one of the pins through the printed circuit board improves the balance of the connector and also allows this pin to be soldered, thus also improving the mechanical strength and electrical connection of the connector.

[0015] The welding methods that can be used are known to those skilled in the art, and may include, for example, brazing, such as reflow soldering, or wave soldering. Some of these methods may therefore require the use of a furnace.

[0016] Other advantageous features of the apparatus of the invention are listed below. Each of these features may be considered alone or in combination with the notable features defined above. Each of these features contributes, where applicable, to solving specific technical problems defined later in the description and in which the notable features defined above do not necessarily participate. The latter may, where applicable, be the subject of one or more divisional patent applications.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the three legs of the second fastening portion are arranged so as to form an angle of 90° between them.

[0018] The 90° arrangement of the pins improves the balance of the connector in the absence of soldering, thus facilitating both the mounting of the connector on the printed circuit board and the quality of the soldering.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the three tabs of the second mounting portion comprise two lateral tabs and one rear tab, the rear tab having a section parallel to the edge of the printed circuit board.

[0020] The side tabs primarily serve to improve the connector's resistance to mechanical stress, but also to improve its balance on the printed circuit board. The rear tab is designed to allow electrical conductivity between the cable and the printed circuit board.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second fastening portion comprises a retaining segment connected to the longitudinal section of the connector and from which the three legs extend.

[0022] The presence of a retaining segment on the second portion of the fixing allows the size of the connector to be reduced, thus promoting the correct positioning of the pins on the printed circuit board and its retention before soldering.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the retaining segment extends along a plane parallel to the plane of the printed circuit board.

[0024] Extending the retaining segment along a plane parallel to the printed circuit board plane reduces the space occupied by the connector on the said board. circuit. The small size of said segment also helps to limit the weight of the connector and to facilitate its retention on the printed circuit board.

[0025] Advantageously, at least one of the three welded legs is the rear leg.

[0026] Advantageously, at least the rear leg is configured to allow electrical connection to the printed circuit board.

[0027] The solder joint on the rear tab improves the electrical connection between the connector and the printed circuit board. This solder joint also enhances the connector's resistance to stress.

[0028] Advantageously, the legs extend perpendicularly to the plane of the printed circuit board.

[0029] The perpendicular positioning of the pins relative to the printed circuit board plane facilitates the assembly and soldering of the connector onto said circuit.

[0030] Advantageously, all the pins are configured to pass through the printed circuit board.

[0031] The through-hole design for all the pins improves the balance and stability of the connector on the printed circuit board before soldering. This through-hole design also facilitates soldering one or more pins to the circuit board.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rear leg further includes at least one support area intended to bear against the printed circuit board.

[0033] The support area(s) on the rear tab facilitate securing the connector to the printed circuit board before soldering, and subsequently simplify the soldering process by making it more reproducible and efficient. Preferably, two support areas are formed on the rear tab.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the longitudinal section of the connector further comprises at least one support area intended to bear against the printed circuit board.

[0035] The support area(s) of the longitudinal section also facilitate holding the connector on the printed circuit board before and during the soldering of said connector. Preferably, two bearing areas are formed on the rear tab.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the support area of ​​the rear leg or the longitudinal section consists of a protruding section of square or rectangular shape.

[0037] The shape of the protruding sections is easy to implement during connector manufacturing. These protruding sections also facilitate the soldering process, making it more repeatable and efficient. Furthermore, the presence of these protruding sections helps to limit the increase in the connector's weight.

[0038] Advantageously, all the legs are fixed by welding.

[0039] Adding welds to the side tabs improves the connector's resistance to mechanical stresses applied to the connector.

[0040] Advantageously, the longitudinal section has a length between 8mm and 14mm.

[0041] The length of the longitudinal section must be sufficient to support both mounting portions and ensure the connector is balanced. Furthermore, the connector must retain a degree of elasticity, which is important for its proper operation and to improve its resistance to stresses on the cable. The length of the longitudinal section also allows the connector to remain attached to the printed circuit board spontaneously without soldering.

[0042] Advantageously, the rear and side legs have a length between 4mm and 6mm, the side legs have a width between 1mm and 2mm while the rear leg has a width between 5mm and 7mm.

[0043] The three pins should ideally be of similar length to allow the connector to stay in place on the printed circuit board and to ensure proper balance. Sufficient pin width improves the connector's strength and, in the case of the rear pin, provides adequate electrical contact with the printed circuit board.

[0044] Advantageously, the first portion of the fixing comprises: a flat lower wall extending perpendicularly from the longitudinal section, a side wall extending from the lower wall and forming a U-shaped flap such that the flap and the lower wall define a space configured to receive one end of the cable.

[0045] Forming the flap into a U-shaped portion results in a lighter connector with less material. This portion also increases the bond between the connector and the cable end, providing better cable retention on the printed circuit board and improved electrical connection. Advantageously, the flap stops at a distance from the top face of the flat bottom wall and at an edge, allowing it to retain some elasticity to facilitate crimping the cable into the portion. The U-shape of the flap also facilitates crimping. Crimping is the preferred method for attaching the cable to the connector because it is quick and easy to use, familiar to those skilled in the art, and easily reproducible. But other methods, known to those skilled in the art, can also be considered.

[0046] Advantageously, the U-shaped flap comprises two lateral branches connected by a transverse branch, the lateral branches extending transversely to the lower wall.

[0047] Transversely, we mean that the lateral branches are positioned perpendicular to the lower wall.

[0048] Advantageously, the connector is made of metal or a metal alloy.

[0049] Advantageously, the connector is made of copper or a copper alloy.

[0050] A connector made from metallic materials offers several advantages. First, it facilitates electrical conduction between the cable and the printed circuit board. Second, the use of certain metallic materials, such as copper, simplifies soldering the connector to the printed circuit board. A copper alloy is defined as an alloy containing a minimum of 5% copper by weight, and preferably a minimum of 50% copper by weight.

[0051] Advantageously, the second mounting portion is configured to attach to either side of the printed circuit board.

[0052] Soldering can therefore be performed on both sides of the circuit board. Alternatively, the printed circuit board can also be etched on both sides. The connector can then be placed on either side as needed.

[0053] The invention also relates to a printed circuit board, said circuit comprising a structure supporting one or more electrical / electronic components, said circuit being configured to be electrically connected to one or more cables via at least one connector, the connector being according to the invention.

[0054] The connector provides power to the printed circuit board and offers better resistance to mechanical stress compared to previous art connectors.

[0055] Advantageously, the edge of the printed circuit board has at least one notch or recess intended to allow passage of the longitudinal section of the connector.

[0056] The notch allows for proper positioning of the connector on the printed circuit board. It also helps to keep the connector in position, thanks in particular to the support areas on the longitudinal section, which are complementary to the edges of the notch.

[0057] Advantageously, the printed circuit board includes holes, each with a shape and dimensions adapted to each of the connector's pins, the dimensions of each pin being respectively adapted to the passage of the corresponding hole so that the pins are inserted into said hole.

[0058] The term "adapted" means that the holes have dimensions equal to or nearly equal to the corresponding pin, so that the pin is held spontaneously in the hole. Each hole allows for the reception of one of the pins of the corresponding connector, so that at least one of the tabs for electrical connection, or to allow better resistance to mechanical stress.

[0059] Advantageously, the printed circuit board includes a plurality of connectors, advantageously at least four connectors.

[0060] The various connectors allow for power supply via multiple cables, enabling control and / or power supply to the motor mounted on the printed circuit board. Advantageously, the connector sizes are adaptable to the cable sizes required for connection to the circuit board.

[0061] Preferably, the size of the cables depends on their function. Thus, at least two variants of the connectors according to the invention are described herein, capable of receiving two different cable sizes. The connectors receiving power cables can be larger than the connectors for cables transmitting signals.

[0062] The invention also relates to a three-phase motor comprising at least one printed circuit board, said printed circuit board being according to the invention.

[0063] Similarly, connectors of different sizes can be used in a large number of different motors and / or different printed circuit boards, depending on the requirements.

[0064] Advantageously, the electrical connection can be made using techniques known to those skilled in the art, such as crimping or welding. Brief description of the figures.

[0065] Other advantages and features of the invention will become clearer upon reading the description of a preferred embodiment which follows, with reference to the attached drawings, which are provided as illustrative and non-limiting examples and on which: Figure 1a is a perspective view of a connector according to a first embodiment of the invention, the connector being positioned as mounted on a printed circuit board. Figure 1b is a perspective view of the connector according to the first embodiment of the invention, the connector being reversed with respect to its mounting direction on the printed circuit board. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the connector according to the first embodiment of the invention, mounted on a printed circuit board. Figure 3a is a perspective view of a connector according to a second embodiment of the invention, the connector being positioned as mounted on a printed circuit board. Figure 3b is a perspective view of the connector according to the second embodiment of the invention, the connector being reversed with respect to its mounting direction on the printed circuit board. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the connector according to the second embodiment of the invention, mounted on a printed circuit board. Figure 5 is a view of the connectors according to the first and second variants of the invention, mounted on the printed circuit board and attached to the power cables. Figure 6 is another view of the connectors according to the first and second variant embodiments of the invention, attached to the power cables. Figure 7 shows the positioning of the solder paste on the printed circuit board, for each of the connectors according to the two variants of the invention. Description of the implementation methods.

[0066] As used here, and unless otherwise indicated, the use of ordinal adjectives "first," "second," etc., to describe an object simply indicates that different occurrences of similar objects are mentioned and does not imply that the objects thus described must be in any given sequence, whether in time, space, ranking, etc. "X and / or Y" means: X alone, Y alone, or X+Y. Generally speaking, it should be noted that in the various attached drawings, the objects are drawn arbitrarily to facilitate their interpretation.

[0067] In this application, the "x" axis designates the orientation of the connector on the printed circuit board along a horizontal axis, from the inside to the outside of the circuit. The "y" axis designates the orientation of the connector on the printed circuit board along a vertical axis, from the bottom to the top.

[0068] Figures 1a and 1b show two perspective views of a connector according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0069] A connector 1 according to the invention comprises a first fixing portion 1A for receiving one end of an electrical power cable (said cable being visible in Figures 5 and 6). This first portion 1A may comprise a flat lower wall 1A.1 extending in a direction parallel to the x-axis, this flat lower wall 1A.1 having a length preferably between 3 mm and 6 mm, and a width between 2 mm and 6 mm.

[0070] This first portion of the fixing 1 A may also include a side wall 1 A.2 extending from the flat lower wall 1 A.1, therefore along the direction of the y-axis. The side wall 1 A.2 extends into a U-shaped flap 1 A.2a, said flap 1 A.2a stopping at a distance from an upper face 1 A.1 a of the flat lower wall 1 A.1, and at the height of an edge 1 A.1 b of said wall 1 A.1. The assembly comprising the flap 1 A.2a and the side panel 1 A.2 defines a space E configured to receive the cable. Specifically, this space E has a width between 1 mm and 5 mm and a height between 4 mm and 8 mm. This space E can be more specifically adapted to the power cable that the first portion of the fastener 1 A is intended to receive.

[0071] More specifically, the U-shaped flap 1 A.2a comprises two lateral branches 1 A.2ai connected to each other by a transverse branch 1 A.2aii. The lateral branches 1 A.2ai extend transversely to the flat lower wall 1 A.1, i.e., the lateral branches 1 A.2ai extend perpendicularly to the lower wall 1 A.1, with a possible variation of plus or minus 5° due to manufacturing and assembly constraints.

[0072] Connector 1 further includes a second mounting portion 1B for mounting said connector 1 on a printed circuit board (said circuit board not being (visible in Figures 1a and 1b). More specifically, this second mounting portion 1B comprises at least three tabs 1B.1 for attaching connector 1 to the printed circuit board. The three tabs 1B.1 extend from a retaining segment 1B.2 which extends along the x-axis.

[0073] More specifically, the three pins 1 B.1 are advantageously positioned to form a 90° angle with each other, this angle potentially varying by plus or minus 5° depending on manufacturing and / or mounting constraints of connector 1 on the printed circuit board. The specific location of these pins 1 B.1 facilitates the correct positioning of connector 1 on the printed circuit board.

[0074] Preferably, the three tabs 1B.1 of the second mounting portion 1B include two lateral tabs 1B.1a extending on either side, and perpendicularly, to the retaining segment 1B.2, thus parallel to the y-axis. The lateral tabs 1B.1a have a curvature at their upper ends 1B.1ai of approximately 90°, plus or minus 5° depending on the manufacturing constraints of the connector 1 and its positioning. This curvature allows for the proper orientation of the lateral tabs 1B.1a to facilitate the anchoring of the connector 1 to the printed circuit board. Advantageously, the lateral tabs 1B.1a have a length between 4 mm and 6 mm, and a width between 1 mm and 2 mm. The lateral tabs 1B.1a are primarily intended to improve the balance of the connector 1 and enhance its resistance to mechanical stresses. The lateral tabs 1B.1 a may possibly be provided to make an electrical connection with the printed circuit board.

[0075] The three tabs 1B.1 of the second mounting portion 1B further include a rear tab 1B.1b whose cross-section is perpendicular to the direction of the x-axis. The rear tab 1B.1b extends from a rear end 1B.2a of the retaining segment 1B.2, said tab 1B.1b thus being continuous with said segment 1B.2. The rear tab 1B.1b also has a curvature in an upper end 1B.1bi of approximately 90°, plus or minus 5° depending on the manufacturing constraints of the connector 1 and its positioning on the printed circuit board. Preferably, the rear tab 1B.1b performs the Electrical connection between the cable and the printed circuit board. The rear tab 1B.1b further includes at least one bearing area 1B.1bii which rests against the printed circuit board. This bearing area 1B.1bii is advantageously positioned on a protruding section 1B.1bii, preferably square or rectangular in shape. More preferably, the rear tab 1B.1b includes two bearing areas 1B.1bii. The presence of two bearing areas 1B.1bii on the rear tab 1B.1b improves the stability of the connector 1. The rear tab 1B.1b advantageously has a length between 4 mm and 6 mm and a width between 5 mm and 7 mm.

[0076] More specifically, the retaining segment 1B.2 of the second mounting portion 1B preferentially extends lengthwise parallel to the x-axis. Advantageously, the retaining segment 1B.2 is located at a distance from the printed circuit board of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. This relatively short distance reduces the overall size of the connector 1, and therefore the overall size of the printed circuit board.

[0077] Finally, the connector 1 according to the invention comprises a longitudinal section 1C connecting the first and second fastening portions (1A, 1B) of said connector 1. This section 1C extends along its length, that is, along the y-axis. Thus, the first and second fastening portions (1A, 1B) of the connector 1 extend along the x-axis and perpendicularly to the longitudinal section 1C. By "perpendicularly," it is understood that the longitudinal section 1C extends at an angle of 90° to the x-axis, with a variation of plus or minus 5° due to the inherent variations in the manufacturing and fastening of the connector 1. More specifically, the first fastening portion 1A extends from a first face 1C.1 of the longitudinal section 1C, and more specifically, that said portion 1A extends perpendicularly from said section 1C.The second fixing portion 1 B extends, on the other hand, from a second face 1 C.2 of the longitudinal section 1 C opposite to the first face 1 C.1 of said section 1 C. The retaining segment 1 B.2 therefore extends from the longitudinal section 1 C, and perpendicularly to it.

[0078] This section 1C further includes, at its upper end 1C.4, a protruding section 1C.3 of square or rectangular shape. At the level of this section 1C.3 is a support area 1C.3a which contacts the printed circuit board. Preferably, at least two support areas 1C.3a are found on the longitudinal section 1C. These support areas 1C.3a are intended to help retain the connector 1 on the printed circuit board. More preferably, the longitudinal section 1C of the connector 1 has a length between 8 mm and 14 mm. The longitudinal section 1C of the connector 1 further includes a curved lower end 1C.5, which is attached to the second mounting portion 1B of said connector 1.This curvature, of approximately 90°, with a possible variation of plus or minus 5° due to manufacturing and assembly hazards, allows the proper positioning of the second portion 1 B perpendicular to the longitudinal section 1 C, and facilitates the positioning of connector 1 on the printed circuit board.

[0079] Advantageously, to facilitate the electrical conductivity of connector 1, it is preferably made of metal or a metal alloy. More preferably, connector 1 is made of copper or a copper alloy. Copper alloy is defined as an alloy comprising a minimum percentage of copper of at least 5% by weight, and more preferably at least 50% by weight.

[0080] Figure 2 is a view of the connector from Figures 1a and 1b, mounted on a printed circuit board.

[0081] The printed circuit board 3 according to the invention generally consists of at least one structure 3A on which electrical and / or electronic components are mounted (said components not being visible in Figure 2). A connector 1 according to the invention serves to electrically connect the printed circuit board 3 to a cable (the cable not being visible in Figure 2). Thus, the printed circuit board 3 can be electrically connected to one or more cables, each cable being connected to said circuit 3 via a connector 1. Preferably, the printed circuit board 3 comprises a plurality of connectors 1, and particularly preferably, the printed circuit board 3 comprises four connectors 1.

[0082] A connector 1 according to the invention is specifically designed to be mounted on an edge 3A.1 of the structure 3A of the printed circuit board 3, hence the importance of the balance of the connector 1, so that it does not tip over before being soldered onto said circuit 3. More particularly, the edge 3A.1 of the printed circuit board 3 corresponds to an outer portion of the printed circuit board 3 less than 5 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm. The edge 3A.1 of the structure 3A forms a portion of the printed circuit board 3 that extends along a plane passing through the x-axis. This plane is therefore perpendicular to the longitudinal section 1C of the connector 1, when said connector 1 is mounted on the printed circuit board 3.

[0083] Furthermore, the edge 3A.1 of the printed circuit board 3 has one or more notches 3A.1a, or recesses. In the remainder of the description of Figure 2, only the term "notch" will be used for the sake of simplicity, and may refer interchangeably to a notch or a recess. Each notch 3A.1a can receive one of the connectors 1 according to the invention via its longitudinal section 1C. In particular, in the case of a connector 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention, the notch 3A.1a has a width of between 2 mm and 6 mm. This notch 3A.1a should advantageously be large enough to accommodate the longitudinal section 1C of the connector 1, without allowing the connector 1 to tilt before soldering. The width of notch 3A.1 a should therefore preferably be slightly greater than that of the longitudinal section 1 C of connector 1. Advantageously, the depth of notch 3A.1 a must be sufficient to receive the thickness of the longitudinal section 1 C, in order to guarantee a maximum reduction in bulk.

[0084] The edge 3A.1 of the printed circuit board 3 further includes holes 3A.1b which have shapes and / or dimensions adapted to each pin (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) of the connector 1, each pin (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) being inserted into one of the corresponding holes 3A.1b. By "holes 3A.1b of adapted shapes and / or dimensions," we mean holes 3A.1b which have dimensions equal to or nearly equal to the dimensions and / or shapes of the corresponding pin (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b), so that said pin (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) is retained in said hole 3A.1b. Thus, due to the Due to the size difference between the side pins 1B.1a and the rear pin 1B.1b, the hole 3A.1b of the rear pin 1B.1b will be substantially wider than a hole 3A.1b of one of the side pins 1B.1a. Preferably, the rear pin 1B.1b and the corresponding hole 3A.1b have a cross-section parallel to the edge 3A.1 of the printed circuit board 3. By "parallel cross-section," it is understood that the direction of the cross-section of the rear pin 1B.1b and the hole 3A.1b is positioned parallel to the edge 3A.1 of the printed circuit board 3.

[0085] The structure 3A of the printed circuit board 3 also includes a front face 3A.2 and a rear face 3A.3. The first mounting portion 1A of the connector 1 extends from the side of the rear face 3A.3, and the second mounting portion 1B of the connector 1 is fixed to the front face 3A.2, or the face opposite the rear face 3A.3 of said circuit 3. By "rear face" 3A.3 is meant the face of the printed circuit board 3 positioned on the cable side, and by "front face" 3A.2 is meant the face opposite the rear face 3A.3, and on which the second mounting portion 1B of the connector 1 is fixed.

[0086] More specifically, the retaining segment 1 B.2 of the second fixing portion 1 B follows a plane parallel to the plane of the printed circuit board 3. By "parallel plane", we mean a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the printed circuit board 3, therefore oriented along the x-axis.

[0087] Thus, the pins (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) of connector 1, which are oriented at 90° with respect to the retaining segment 1B.2, extend perpendicularly to the plane of the printed circuit board 3. Advantageously, at least one of the pins (1B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b) passes through the printed circuit board 3 via one of the holes 3A.1 b, so that it can be fixed by soldering. More preferably, all the pins 1 B.1 pass through the printed circuit board 3, which facilitates soldering and improves the stability of the connector 1 mounted on said circuit 3 before soldering.

[0088] Alternatively, the second mounting portion 1 B can be mounted on the rear side 3A.3 of the printed circuit board 3. In this case, the first mounting portion 1 A will be positioned on the front side 3A.2.

[0089] Figures 3a, 3b and 4 show views of a connector according to a second embodiment of the invention, mounted or not on the printed circuit board.

[0090] Connector 1, in this variant, has the same general characteristics as connector 1 of the first variant described in Figures 1a, 1b, and 2. Indeed, the shape of this connector 1 is essentially the same. For the sake of simplicity, only the differences with connector 1 of the first embodiment of the invention will be described.

[0091] Thus, the space E of the first fixing portion 1 A, configured to accommodate the power cable, has a width preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm, and a height preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm. The length of the lower wall 1 A.1 of said first portion 1A is preferably between 4 mm and 8 mm. Furthermore, the length of the tabs 1B.1 of the second mounting portion 1B is advantageously between 2 mm and 6 mm, so as to stabilize the connector 1 on the printed circuit board 3. More specifically, the width of the lateral tabs 1B.1a is between 1 mm and 2 mm, and the width of the rear tab 1B.1b is between 4 mm and 8 mm. Preferably, the longitudinal section 1C of the connector 1 has, in this variant, a length between 8 mm and 14 mm. Advantageously, the retaining segment 1 B.2 of the second portion 1 B is located at a distance from the front face 3A.2 of the printed circuit board 3 of between 0.5mm and 5mm.

[0092] Finally, these figures show that, in the case of a connector 1 according to the second variant of the invention, the notch 3A.1 located in the structure 3A of the printed circuit 3 has a width between 3mm and 8mm, so as to accommodate the longitudinal section 1 C of the connector 1, while limiting any risk of tilting said connector 1.

[0093] This connector 1 is stronger and can accommodate larger sized cables.

[0094] Figures 5 and 6 show two views of the connectors according to the first and second embodiments of the invention, mounted on the printed circuit board (figure 5 only) and connected to the cables (figures 5 and 6).

[0095] In these figures, the first mounting portion 1A of both connector variants 1 surrounds a stripped end 5A of a cable 5, thus connecting said cable 5 to the printed circuit board 3. Specifically, this end 5A is inserted into the space E of the first mounting portion 1A of the connector 1. This first portion 1A is thus preferentially crimped around the stripped end 5A; that is, it is clamped onto said end 5A using pliers. This technique is widely known and used by those skilled in the art.

[0096] Furthermore, the two variants of connector 1 do not necessarily accept the same size cable 5. Thus, either variant can be used as required.

[0097] Figure 7 shows the positioning of the solder paste on the printed circuit board, for the two connector variants according to the invention.

[0098] Within the framework of the invention, at least one of the three legs (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1B.1b) of connector 1 is soldered to the printed circuit board 3. The rear tab 1B.1b is particularly preferred for soldering. Advantageously, the side tabs 1B.1a can also be soldered. Thus, all tabs 1B.1 can be soldered to the printed circuit board 3. This figure shows an example of solder paste placement when all tabs (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) of connector 1 are to be soldered. Soldering the three mounting tabs (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) improves the stress resistance of connector 1.

[0099] Various methods can be used to fix the connectors 1 onto the printed circuit board 3. The particularly preferred method is brazing, especially reflow soldering.

[0100] Thus, at least two portions of solder paste 7 are positioned on the front face 3A.2 of the printed circuit board 3 and around each of the side pins 1B.1a and rear pins 1B.1b. Preferably, the two portions 7 are positioned each side of one of the legs (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b). The solder joint, made with two portions of solder paste 7 per leg (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b), is particularly suitable for a connector 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention. Preferably, the desired volume of solder paste 7 is between 2.5 mm 3 and 3.5mm 3 for each side leg 1 B.1 a. More preferably, the desired volume of solder paste 7 is approximately 3mm 3 In the case of the rear leg 1 B. b, the desired volume of solder paste 7 is between 4mm 3 and 6mm 3 , more preferably of about 5mm 3 .

[0101] Preferably, for connector 1 according to the second embodiment of the invention, the desired volume of solder paste 7 is between 4mm 3 and 6mm 3 , for each lateral leg 1 B.1 a. More preferably, the desired volume is approximately 5mm 3 In the case of the rear leg 1 B.1 b, the desired volume of solder paste 7 is between 9mm 3 and 12mm 3 , more preferentially around 11 mm 3 In the case of the second embodiment of connector 1, the number of solder paste portions 7 will also be increased, since the volume of paste 7 is greater. Thus, three sections 7 per side pin 1B.1a and for the rear pin 1B.1b is desirable.

[0102] In the case of the two connector variants 1, this volume can also change depending on the shape and / or size chosen for each of the pins (1 B.1 , 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b). A person skilled in the art will be able to measure the preferable quantity according to these characteristics.

[0103] During soldering, the solder paste 7 will be drawn by capillary action into the orifice (not visible in this figure) to solder the pin (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b) corresponding to the printed circuit board 3. The two sections of solder paste 7 allow the solder to completely surround the pin (1B.1, 1B.1a, 1B.1b). This type of soldering provides greater reliability and repeatability of the procedure. The soldering is more efficient, more durable, and easier to control. Preferably, the material chosen for soldering is copper.

[0104] Alternatively, soldering can be performed on the back side (not visible in this figure) of the printed circuit board 3. This soldering can notably be performed at the wave, or by other methods known to those skilled in the art. In this case, the protrusion of one of the legs (1 B.1 , 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b) is important to hold connector 1 before and / or during soldering.

[0105] Alternatively, if the positioning of connector(s) 1 is reversed, the soldering can also be reversed.

[0106] The invention also relates to a three-phase motor comprising at least one printed circuit board and at least one of the connectors according to one of the embodiments of the invention. The motor is not shown in these figures. While the connectors according to the invention are particularly suitable for use in a three-phase motor driving a fan, it is conceivable that the connectors could be used for other purposes, such as mounting cables on any type of printed circuit board, without necessarily being limited to motor vehicles and / or three-phase motors.

[0107] The arrangement of the various elements and / or means and / or steps of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to these elements and / or means and / or steps without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0108] Furthermore, one or more features described only in one embodiment can be combined with one or more other features described only in another embodiment. Similarly, one or more features described only in one embodiment can be generalized to other embodiments, even if that feature or those features are described only in combination with other features.

[0109] The use of the verb "comporter", "comprendre" or "include" and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those stated in a claim.

Claims

Demands! Claim 1. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) to a printed circuit (3), the connector (1) being configured to be fixed to an edge (3A.1) of the printed circuit (3), said connector (1) comprising: - a first fixing portion (1 A) configured to connect the cable (5) to the printed circuit (3), and - a second fixing portion (1 B) configured for fixing the connector (1) to the printed circuit (3), the second fixing portion (1 B) comprising at least three tabs (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b), the connector (1) being fixed to a part of the printed circuit (3) which extends along a plane, characterized in that the first and second fixing portions (1 A, 1 B) of the connector (1) are connected by a longitudinal section (1 C) extending perpendicular to the plane of the printed circuit (3) when the connector (1) is mounted on said circuit (3), so that the first fixing portion (1 A) is located on the side of a rear face (3A.3) of the printed circuit (3) while the second fixing portion (1 B) is located on the side of the opposite face, called the front face (3A.2), of the printed circuit (3), and in that at least one of the three tabs (1 B.1 , 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b) is configured to pass through the printed circuit (3) so that it can be fixed by soldering. Claim 2. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to claim 1, in which the three legs (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b) of the second fixing portion (1 B) are arranged so as to form an angle of 90° between them. Claim 3. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the three tabs (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b) of the second fixing portion (1 B) comprise two lateral tabs (1 B.1 a) and a rear tab (1 B.1 b), the rear tab (1 B.1 b) having a section parallel to the edge (3A.1) of the printed circuit (3). Claim 4. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second fixing portion (1 B) comprises a holding segment (1 B.2) connected to the longitudinal section (1 C) of the connector (1) and from which the three legs (1 B.1, 1 B.1 a, 1 B.1 b) extend. Claim 5. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to claim 4, in which the holding segment (1 B.2) extends along a plane parallel to the plane of the printed circuit (3). Claim 6. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to claim 3, in which the rear tab (1 B.1 b) further comprises at least one support zone (1 B.1 bii) intended to come into contact with the printed circuit (3). Claim 7. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the longitudinal section (1 C) of the connector (1) further comprises at least one support zone (1 C.3a) intended to come into contact with the printed circuit (3). Claim 8. Connector (1) for fixing a cable (5) according to claims 6 and 7, characterized in that the support zone (1 B.1 bii, 1 C.3a) of the rear leg (1 B.1 b) or of the longitudinal section (1 C) consists of a protruding section (1 B.1 biii, 1 C.3) of square or rectangular shape. Claim 9. Printed circuit (3), said circuit (3) comprising a structure (3A) supporting one or more electrical / electronic components, said circuit (3) being configured to be electrically connected to one or more cables (5) via at least one connector (1), characterized in that the connector (1) is according to one of claims 1 to 8. Claim 10. Three-phase motor comprising at least one printed circuit (3), characterized in that said printed circuit (3) is according to claim 9.

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