CONNECTOR GUIDE FOR INVERTERS WITH A PLATING COMPONENT

Abstract

The invention relates to a clamping device for installation in an inverter comprising at least two power modules arranged on a cooling surface of the inverter. The clamping device comprises: a rigid body (50) having a substantially flat shape and having a first face (51) facing the cooling surface; at least two separate clamping elements (60) carried by the first face (51) of the body (50). Each clamping element (60) is intended to be associated with one of said power modules of the inverter and configured to exert a force substantially perpendicular to a general plane of extension of the body (50) when said clamping element (60) is compressed to clamp the associated power module against the cooling surface. The body (50) has first portions covering each clamping element (60). (For abbreviated form: Figure 2)

Description

Title of the invention: CONNECTOR GUIDE FOR INVERTER COMPRISING A PLATING ELEMENT

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrical inverter assemblies. It relates in particular to inverters adapted to control the operation of an electric traction machine of an electric or hybrid vehicle, for example a motor vehicle.

[0002] In the field of power electronics, an inverter is a voltage converter that generates alternating voltages and currents from an electrical energy source of a different voltage or frequency. In particular, an inverter can generate the alternating voltages suitable for the operation of a synchronous or asynchronous electric motor from a direct current voltage source, such as an electric battery.

[0003] A polyphase inverter, for example three-phase, allows a direct current voltage to be chopped into a balanced polyphase sinusoidal voltage (for example three-phase). To achieve this, the inverters include power modules with electronic switches, for example IGBTs (IGBT meaning Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor), whose opening and closing are appropriately controlled by one or more electronic boards (control board and power board or "driver board", possibly combined into a single board).

[0004] The electronic board(s), commonly called "PCB" (from the English "Printed Circuit Board"), are composed of printed circuits and electronic components. The inverter components, such as power modules and electronic boards, are generally placed in a protective housing also called a casing.

[0005] In certain applications, for example in inverters for electric or hybrid vehicles, the voltage can be relatively high, on the order of 200V to 800V. The heat generation by Joule effect can then become significant and risks damaging inverter components.

[0006] Heat is also generated by the electronic switches due to their high switching frequency. This heat may damage the electronic switches of the power modules, whose maximum permissible temperature is around 175°C for an IGBT and slightly higher for a SiC electronic switch.

[0007] To cool the power modules and / or dissipate the heat they generate, it is It is known to attach the power modules to the bottom of the inverter casing or cooling plate to ensure adequate heat transfer. This allows the heat generated by the power modules to be dissipated to the casing or cooling plate.

[0008] Document FR2995138 discloses a clamping element arranged for mounting in a power electronics block and for clamping a part against a surface. The clamping element comprises elastically deformable tabs extending along an elongated plate. The plate has fastening means at its longitudinal ends for attaching the clamping element to the housing.

[0009] However, the use of such a plating element is complex in the environment of an inverter for several reasons. First of all, due to the stacking of the different components that constitute the inverter, the integration of such a plating element, especially one of elongated shape, is complex.

[0010] Furthermore, the force exerted by the elastically deformable tabs is likely to induce buckling of the plate, particularly at its center between the fastening means. Therefore, the dimensions of the plate can hardly be reduced, at the risk of compromising the quality of the plating due to plate deformation.

[0011] Finally, this plating element is exclusively metallic and, due to its dimensions and its proximity to other components, entails a risk of short circuit.

[0012] The present invention thus aims to provide a device resolving all or part of the disadvantages mentioned above.

[0013] To this end, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a plating device intended to be installed in an inverter comprising at least two power modules arranged on a cooling surface of the inverter, the plating device comprising: • a rigid body having a substantially flat shape and comprising a first face intended to be turned towards the cooling surface, • at least two separate clamping elements carried by the first face of the body, each clamping element being intended to be associated with one of said at least two inverter power modules and configured to exert a force substantially perpendicular to a general plane of extension of the body when said clamping element is compressed in order to clamp the associated power module against the cooling surface,

[0014] the body comprising first portions covering each plating member.

[0015] Thanks to the plating elements according to the invention, the plating device improves the cooling of the power modules, while being compact and compatible with several inverter structures.

[0016] In particular, the force exerted by a clamping element on an associated power module is absorbed by a first portion of the body, without being transmitted to at least one other clamping element. In other words, the force exerted by one clamping element does not affect at least one other clamping element, and vice versa. The forces exerted by the clamping elements on the modules are thus uniform and constant, and the cooling of each power module is reliably ensured.

[0017] Furthermore, it is easier to manufacture a plating element designed to be associated with a power module, rather than specifically manufacturing a plating element with a configuration specific to each inverter structure. Indeed, plating elements can be arranged differently on the body depending on the inverter structure, and in particular depending on the arrangement of the power modules. The invention may optionally include one or more of the following features, whether combined or not.

[0018] The body may also include second portions, adjacent to or superimposed on the first portions, in which openings are provided to guide control pins of the power module. In other words, each plate element is supported and held in position by a first portion of the body that is close to, but separate from, a second portion adapted to guide control pins. This notably reduces the risk of short circuits when the plate elements are made of metal.

[0019] By "control pin" or simply "pin", a male connector in the form of a rigid metallic strip adapted to be inserted into a corresponding female connector is meant.

[0020] Each plating member can be made, at least partially, of metal, and in that the body is made of plastic.

[0021] Each clamping element can be fixed to the body of the clamping device by snapping it into place.

[0022] Each plating member may include • a plate fixed to the inner surface of the body, and • an elastically deformable spring blade, the spring blade having a connecting edge attaching the spring blade to the plate and a free end edge which is distal to the connecting edge, the free end edge being intended to bear against at least one power module.

[0023] The spring blade can have an overall shape of an isosceles trapezoid, with the connecting edge forming the small base and the free end edge forming the large base of this trapezoid.

[0024] Each clamping member comprises a second spring blade, the free end edges of each of the blades being opposite each other and fitting essentially in the same plane. Preferably, the blades can extend over the entire width of the power module.

[0025] The plate of each plate can have stress concentration zones related to the deformation of the spring blade, these zones being located at the ends of the connecting edge of the spring blade, the plate being provided, at each stress concentration zone, with a local stiffening boss.

[0026] The body may include an intermediate portion which is positioned between said at least two plating members, said intermediate portion having a housing adapted to receive a temperature sensor.

[0027] The invention relates, according to a second aspect, to an inverter comprising • a cooling surface, • at least two power modules, each power module being placed on the cooling surface, and • a clamping device as described above, each of said at least two clamping members being compressed between the body and the associated power module and exerting a force clamping said power module against the cooling surface.

[0028] Each power module may include control pins. The inverter may also include an electronic board having female connectors to which the control pins of said at least two power modules are connected, at least one control pin of each of said at least two power modules passing through an opening in the plating device.

[0029] The inverter may include a thermally interposed conductive interface element between each power module and the cooling surface, the interface element being compressed between each power module and the cooling surface under the action of the plating member.

[0030] The interface element may have a thermal conductivity which is a function of the pressure applied to said interface element.

[0031] The force exerted by each clamping member on the associated power module can be between 5 daN and 100 daN, and preferably between 20 daN and 60 daN.

[0032] The present invention will be better understood upon reading the description of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the attached drawings.

[0033] Fig. 1 schematically and partially represents an inverter, according to the invention, in which a plating device, also according to the invention, is positioned.

[0034] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a plating device according to the invention, taken in isolation.

[0035] Fig. 3 is a view similar to that of Fig. 2, from a different angle of view.

[0036] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a plating member, taken in isolation, of the plating device of figures 2 and 3.

[0037] Fig. 5 is a side view of the plating member of Fig. 4.

[0038] Fig. 6 is a top view of the plating member of Figures 4 and 5, according to Yet another point of view.

[0039] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing an assembly of the plating device of Figures 2 and 3.

[0040] Fig. 8 shows, in a partial cross-sectional view, the plating member and the body of the plating device for assembly.

[0041] Fig. 9 shows, according to a partial cross-sectional view, the plating member and the body of the plating device assembled.

[0042] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a plating element, taken in isolation, according to a first embodiment.

[0043] [Fig.11] is a view similar to that of [Fig.10], according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0044] Fig. 12 is a view similar to that of Fig. 10, according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0045] Fig. 1 shows partially and schematically an inverter 1, which is for example adapted to control the operation of an electric traction machine of an electric or hybrid vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle.

[0046] For this purpose, the inverter 1 includes a power module 2 and an electronic board 3 configured to control the power module 2 appropriately. The power module 2 has control pins 21 which extend towards the electronic board 3 and engage in female connectors 31 of the electronic board 3 to make an electrical connection.

[0047] The inverter 1 includes a cooling surface 4 configured to dissipate the heat generated by components of the inverter 1 and in particular, in the illustrated example, of the power module 2.

[0048] In order to ensure good thermal conductivity and therefore efficient heat dissipation, the power module 2 is pressed or pressed against the cooling surface 4 by a pressing device 5 of the inverter 1. The pressing device 5 is configured to exert a force substantially perpendicular to the surface of the power module 2 in contact with the cooling surface 4.

[0049] The inverter 1 includes a housing 8 in which are housed the power module 2, the electronic board 3 and the plating device 5. For reasons of compactness of the inverter 1, the plating device 5 is arranged between the power module 2 and the electronic board 3.

[0050] Since the power module 2 and the cooling surface 4 may have surface irregularities on their contacting surfaces, for example, on the order of a maximum of 150 microns, a thermally conductive interface element 6 is provided and interposed between the power module 2 and the cooling surface 4. The interface element 6 thus ensures improved thermal conductivity, in particular by filling any potential gaps between the power module 2 and the cooling surface 4.

[0051] Thermal conductivity can be further improved by applying a predetermined compressive force to the interface element 6, which, in some cases, has intrinsic thermal conductivity properties that vary depending on the applied force. The interface element 6 is, for example, a thermal paste, also known as a "gap filler," for which a compressive force between 5 daN and 100 daN, preferably between 20 daN and 60 daN, improves the thermal conductivity properties of this thermal paste. The use of a thermal paste also ensures a homogeneous distribution of the interface element 6 between the power module 2 and the cooling surface 4, as it spreads under the force exerted by the clamping device 5. In other words, the force applied by the clamping device 5 to the power module 2 contributes to the expansion of the interface element 6.This effort also contributes to achieving a predetermined thickness, preferably as small as possible, so as to only fill the gaps between the power module 2 and the cooling surface 4 in order to ensure homogeneous heat transfer.

[0052] Figures 2 and 3 show in more detail the plating device 5 according to the invention.

[0053] The clamping device 5 is essentially formed by a substantially flat body 50 and clamping members 60 which are carried by a first face 51 of the body 50, intended to be turned towards the power module 2. Each clamping member 60 is configured to exert a force directed opposite to the body 50 when this clamping member 60 is compressed, so as to clamp a power module 2 against the cooling surface 4.

[0054] In the illustrated example, the clamping device 5 has an elongated, generally rectangular body 50 and three distinct clamping members 60, distributed along a longitudinal axis X of the body 50. In other words, each clamping member 60 is independent or distinct and the body 50 serves as a support to hold these clamping members 60 in position.

[0055] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], the body 50 comprises plating portions 53, each of which covers, at least partially, a plating member 60. The plating portions 53 are rigid and directly absorb the forces exerted by the members plating 60 on the associated power modules 2 and include, on a second face 52 opposite the first face 51, reinforcement means 54 which are here formed by ribs, for example in the shape of a cross.

[0056] The reinforcing means 54 ensure the rigidity of the body 50, particularly at the level of the plating portions 53, which makes it possible to limit or even avoid bending deformations of the body 50 under the influence of the force exerted by each plating member 60. The reinforcing means 54 thus contribute to the application and maintenance of an identical force on each power module 60. It should be noted that the body 50 also has on each of the faces 51 and 52 other, smaller reinforcing ribs, having for example a honeycomb shape.

[0057] The clamping elements 60 are here formed by spring blades, using the elastic properties of the material from which these blades are formed to exert a force. For reasons of resistance, particularly to heat and deformation, it is preferable that the clamping elements 60 be made of metal.

[0058] Since the plating elements 60, once the plating device 5 is assembled in the inverter 1, are located near the control pins 21, they are liable to come into contact with one of the pins 21, for example during an impact or due to vibrations, which is particularly common in the case of a vehicle inverter. Such contact is liable to generate a short circuit, which can be particularly damaging to the inverter 1.

[0059] To this end, the body 50 includes guide portions 55, each of which is provided with openings 22 adapted for the passage of the control pins 21. Each opening 22 is sized to allow the passage of a single control pin 21. The openings 22 are arranged on the body 50 so as to keep the control pins 21 away from the clamping elements 60. The openings 22 are also arranged on the body 50 so as to ensure precise positioning and orientation of the control pins 21 for their connection to the electronic board 3.

[0060] The plating device 5 thus combines the plating and guiding functions, while maintaining the remote control pins of the plating elements 60. The assembly of the plating device 5 in the inverter is thus simplified.

[0061] Furthermore, the control pins 21 can be kept relatively close to the clamping elements 60, in order to limit their size, without coming into contact under the influence of vibrations or shock. To this end, each guide portion 55 is adjacent to a respective clamping portion 53 in order to limit the compactness of the clamping device 5. In the illustrated example, each guide portion 55 forms an extension of the associated clamping portion 53 in a transverse direction of the body 50. The guide portions 55 and the clamping portions 53 lie in the same plane, defining a general plane of extension of the body 50.

[0062] The plating portions 53 and the associated guiding portions 55, i.e. intended respectively to plate and guide the control pins 21 of the same power module 2, are spaced from each other, along the longitudinal axis X of the body 50, by intermediate portions 56. Each intermediate portion 56 here has an elongated shape along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the body 50.

[0063] The intermediate portions 56 each have a housing (not referenced) intended to receive a sensor, for example a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of one or more power modules 2. This allows the control of the inverter 1 to be adjusted and avoids damage to components of the inverter 1. Such a sensor must therefore be electrically connected to the electronic board 3. For this purpose, the housing is through-hole and allows passage, at least partially, through the thickness of the body 50 of such a sensor.

[0064] The body 50 includes means 7 for fixing the clamping device 5. These means 7 are arranged on the one hand at each corner of the body 50 and on the other hand at the longitudinal ends of each intermediate portion 56. The fixing means 7 at the longitudinal ends of the intermediate portions 56 contribute to reducing the bending moment at the center, along the longitudinal axis X, of the body 50 by taking up the forces around each clamping member 60, i.e. each clamping portion 53.

[0065] In the example shown, the plating portions 53 have an overall rectangular shape and the fastening means 7 are arranged at each corner of the plating portions 53. The forces of the plating members 60 are thus distributed uniformly between the fastening means 7.

[0066] The clamping device 5 is, for example, screwed to the housing 8 of the inverter 1. Indeed, screwing it in allows the vertical position of the clamping device 5 to be adjusted and the force exerted on the power modules 2 to be regulated. To increase the force exerted, it is sufficient to tighten the screw, i.e., to bring the clamping device 5 closer to the power modules 2. This has the effect of compressing each clamping element 60 between the body 50 and the associated power module 2. To decrease the force exerted, it is sufficient to loosen the screw to move the clamping device 5 away from the power modules 2. By loosening the screw, the clamping device 5 naturally moves away from the power modules 2, under the influence of the force exerted by the power elements 60 on the associated power modules 2.

[0067] The fastening means 7 are, for example, formed by tabs extending from the body 50 and having, at their distal end, an opening 71 adapted to receive a screw. In the illustrated example, the tabs are slightly raised relative to a general plane of extension of the body, in order to limit the space between the openings 71 and the fastening points of the inverter 1.

[0068] The body 50 is, for example, obtained by molding a plastic material. The use of a plastic material makes it possible to form the holes 22 for the passage of the control pins 21 directly in the body 50 due to the low electrical conductivity of this material.

[0069] The body 50 is advantageously formed in one piece. This allows for better resistance to stress and facilitates the manufacture of the body 50.

[0070] Figures 4 to 6 show, in isolation, a plating member 60 identical to those illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0071] The clamping member 60 comprises a plate 61 for fixing to the first face 51 of the body 50 and elastically deformable spring blades 62 projecting from the plate 61. Elastically deformable means an element that returns to an initial position in the absence of stress. The spring blades 62 are, for example, elastically deformable due to their tongue shape.

[0072] Each spring blade 62 has a connecting edge 63 attaching the spring blade 62 to the plate 61 and a free end edge 64 which is distal to the connecting edge 63.

[0073] The free end edges 64 of each spring blade 62 are intended to bear against a power module 2. The spring blades 62 extend from the plate 61 in a transverse direction to converge towards each other so that the free end edges 64 are opposite each other and lie in the same plane.

[0074] The force exerted by each leaf spring 62 may include a component substantially perpendicular to the general plane of extension of the body 50, and also a lateral component that may cause the power module 2 to slide on the cooling surface 4. Since the free end edges 64 are opposite, the lateral components of the forces exerted by the leaf springs 62 cancel each other out. Thus, sliding of the power module 2 caused by the leaf springs 62 is prevented.

[0075] Preferably, each free end edge 64 extends transversely, that is, perpendicularly to a direction connecting the connecting edge 63 to the free end edge 64, over the entire width or length of the associated power module 2. As a result, the area of ​​application of the force on the power module 2 is as large as possible, and the risk of damage to the power module is limited. Indeed, by increasing the area of ​​application of the force on the power module 2, the pressure is reduced compared to an equivalent force applied to a smaller area.

[0076] As shown in [Fig. 5], each free end edge 64 forms an angle with the rest of the associated spring blade 62, so as to form a flat surface. This angle is such that the surface formed by the free end edge 64 is substantially parallel to the plane formed by the plate 61. This flat surface is substantially parallel with the surface of the power module in contact with the free end edge 64. The free end edges 64 are preferably chamfered or rounded in order to facilitate sliding on the power modules 2 and to prevent their degradation.

[0077] The spring blades 62 are formed by cutting and bending from the plate 61. The plate 61 is, for example, made of C67S spring steel. Preferably, the plate 61 and the spring blades 62 have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 1 mm, and more particularly 0.8 mm. The angle formed between each of the spring blades 62 and the plate 61 after bending can be adjusted according to the forces to be applied to the power modules 2.

[0078] When the spring blades 62 are deformed, by pressing the free end edge 64 on a power module 2, stress concentration zones appear at the connecting edge 63.

[0079] By observing the stresses in these areas according to different shapes of spring blades 62, the Applicant found that a spring blade 62 having an overall isosceles trapezoidal shape, with the connecting edge 63 forming the smaller base and the free end edge 64 forming the larger base, makes it possible to obtain relatively low stress concentrations compared to other shapes. In particular, the Applicant found that, compared to a rectangular blade, such a spring blade 62 makes it possible to reduce the stresses by approximately 70% and to distribute the force uniformly on the free end edge 64.

[0080] In other words, the connecting edge 63 is wider than the free end edge 64 and the spring blade 62 gradually widens from the connecting edge 63 towards the free end edge 64.

[0081] For example, the ratio between the width of the connecting edge 63 and the width of the free end edge 64 is between 0.5 and 0.9, preferably on the order of 0.8. More particularly, the connecting edge 63 has a width of 24 mm while the free end edge 64 has a width of 29 mm.

[0082] As shown in [Fig. 6], each spring blade 62 has lateral edges connecting the connecting edge 63 and the free end edge 64. Each lateral edge has a beveled portion and a straight portion. The beveled portion is on the side of the connecting edge 63 and the straight portion is on the side of the free end edge 64. The beveled portion allows for better distribution of forces along the end edge 64 of the spring blade 62. The straight portion prevents the formation of burrs during the bending of the spring blade 62 during its manufacturing process and prevents a protruding angle at the ends of the free end edge 64 of the spring blade 62.

[0083] The lateral edges are separated from the plate 61 by notches 72. The notches 72 result for example from cutting the spring blades 62 in the plate 61. Each notch 72 has for example an end, on the side of the connecting edge 63, which is straight or preferably rounded in order to reduce the concentration of stress at the level of this edge or the rounding of the notch 72.

[0084] The notches 72 together form an H-shaped opening whose ends of the vertical bars approach each other.

[0085] The plate 61 has, at each stress concentration zone, a boss 65 allowing the plate 61 to be locally stiffened. Each boss 65 is obtained for example by stamping and thus allows the intrinsic stiffness of the plate 61 to be locally increased.

[0086] In the illustrated example, the plate 61 has four bosses 65 distributed at each corner of the plate 61. In other words, the four corners of the plate 61 are provided with stamped portions that stiffen the stress concentration areas and prevent the plate 61 from deforming under the stress and deformation of the spring blades 62. The bosses 65 are preferably arranged at the locations where the stresses are greatest. Each boss 65 has an elongated shape in the longitudinal direction of the spring blades 62. The boss 65 is, for example, obtained by stamping.

[0087] From this plate 61 extend, from opposite edges 61a, two wings 66 configured to fix the clamping member 60 on the body 50 of the clamping device 5. Each wing 66 comprises a vertical section 67, a bent section 68 attaching the vertical section 67 to the plate 61 and ramps 69 extending from the vertical section 67 opposite the bent section 68.

[0088] The vertical section 67 is, in the absence of stress, in an initial position in which the vertical section 67 is substantially perpendicular to the plate 61.

[0089] Each wing 66 has notches 70 delimited by a first edge 67a, namely a lower edge of the vertical section 67, the edges 68a of the angled section 68 and the edges 61a of the plate 61 from which the wings 66 extend. The notches 70 are located on either side of the angled sections 68, so that the cross-section of each angled section 68 is reduced compared to the cross-section of the plate 61 and the cross-section of the vertical section 67. The notches 70 thus facilitate the deformation of the angled section 68.

[0090] The ramps 69 are inclined relative to the vertical section 67, for example by about 45°, and are turned inwards, i.e. towards the plate 61. As can be seen in [Fig.6], the ramps 69 are for example arranged at each corner of the plating member 60.

[0091] Figures 7 to 9 schematically show an example of assembly of the plating device 5 in which the plating members 60 are assembled to 50-gauge body.

[0092] As shown in [Fig. 7], the plating members 60 are assembled to the body 50 along the same assembly direction, represented by vertical arrows. The assembly direction is, for example, substantially perpendicular to the general plane of the body 50. This facilitates assembly and allows the use of a single assembly device.

[0093] The clamping elements 60 are advantageously attached to the body 50 by snap-fitting. Such an assembly therefore does not require any additional components. Moreover, such an assembly only involves bringing the clamping elements 60 and the body 50 together in a predefined direction, which can easily be automated.

[0094] The body 50 has, on its first face 51, openings 57 configured to receive, at least partially, the wings 66 of the clamping elements 60. The openings 57 are through-holes, at least at their longitudinal ends. The forces exerted by the spring blades 62 are thus transmitted via the wings 66 to the body 50, which limits the deformation of the clamping element 60, particularly by buckling.

[0095] Once the wings 66 are received in the openings 57, the plate 61 is preferably in contact with the face 51 of the body 50, at the level of the plating portion 53. The forces transmitted to the plate 61 by the spring blades 62 are transmitted to the body 50, and the deformation of the plate 61 is thus limited.

[0096] With reference to figures 8 and 9, the body 50 is provided with a nose 58 projecting into each opening 57. This nose 58 has a slope 59a open on the first face 51 of the body 50 and forming an angle of approximately 45° with respect to this first face 51. A stop 59b, visible from the second face 52 of the body 50 through the opening 57, is connected to this slope 59a. The stop 59b forms, for example, an angle of approximately 45° with the slope 59a.

[0097] The snap-fit ​​assembly of the body 50 and a plating member 60 is described below with reference to Figures 8 and 9 showing respectively the body 50 and the plating member 60 during their assembly and after their snap-fit ​​assembly.

[0098] The free end of the wing 66 is opposite the corresponding opening 57 on the side of the first face 51 of the body 50, so that the ramp 69 is opposite the slope 59a of the nose 58.

[0099] The plating member 60 and the body 50 are then brought together along the assembly direction, illustrated by a vertical arrow on [Fig.8].

[0100] The vertical section 67 and the angled section 68 are configured so that during this approach movement, the slope 59a of the nose 58 encounters the ramp 69 and causes it to move the vertical section 67 away from its initial position by elastic deformation of the angled section 68, until the vertical section 67 has crossed the ramp 69, the angled section 68 then relaxing, bringing the vertical section 67 back to its initial position.

[0101] The clamping member 60 and the body 50 are then assembled. In the snap-fit ​​configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 9], the clamping member 60 is thus held at the level of its wings 66 along the assembly direction in the opposite direction to the arrow shown in [Fig. 8], i.e. upwards, since the lower edge 67a of the vertical section 67 bears against the stop 59b of the nose 58. The nose 58 thus prevents, via the stop 59b, the disassembly of the clamping member 60 by separation of the body 50 and the clamping member 60 along the assembly direction.

[0102] The notch 70 is, for example, configured to accommodate the nose 58 by allowing a small displacement, on the order of a few millimeters, of the clamping member 60 along the assembly direction. In particular, this is explained by the fact that the distance between the lower edge 67a of the vertical section 67 and the surface of the plate 61 facing the body 50 is greater than the distance between the stop 59b of the nose 58 and the surface of the inner face 51 of the body 50 on which the plate 61 bears.

[0103] This arrangement thus promotes sliding, or even friction, of the clamping elements 60 on the body 50 when forces in opposite directions are applied to each of these parts. Such an arrangement is therefore particularly effective, especially compared to other assemblies such as riveting or overmolding, which allow little or no movement between the assembled parts.

[0104] Fig. 10 illustrates a plating element according to a first variant embodiment, of the same type as that described with reference to Figures 4 to 6, but in which the plate and the spring blades differ from the latter.

[0105] To simplify the description, similar numerical references but with the number 100 added have been used for the description of this plating element.

[0106] This plating member 160 also includes a plate 161 and two spring blades 162 attached to the plate 161 by connecting edges 163.

[0107] The plate 161 is generally flat, and the spring blades 162 project from this plate 161. The plate 161 has a central portion 161b from which the spring blades 162 extend in opposite directions, so that the free end edges 164 of each spring blade 162 face in opposite directions. The spring blades 162 of this clamping member 160 are therefore reversed with respect to the spring blades of the clamping member illustrated in Figures 4 to 6.

[0108] Each spring blade 162 here has an overall rectangular shape. The lateral edges are straight and the connecting edge 163 has a width substantially equal to the width of the free end edge 164. The spring blades may, however, be similar to the spring blades of the plating member illustrated in Figures 4 to 6.

[0109] The plate 161 has an elongated shape. Fixing tabs 173 extend from the longitudinal ends of the plate 161, i.e. in the direction of extension of the spring blades 162. Alternatively, the plate may have wings similar to those of the clamping member described with reference to Figures 4 to 6.

[0110] Fig. 11 illustrates a plating element according to a second embodiment, of the same type as that described with reference to Figures 4 to 6, but in which the plate and the spring blades differ from the latter.

[0111] To simplify the description, similar numerical references but with the number 200 added have been used for the description of this plating element.

[0112] This clamping element 260 comprises a plate 261 and six spring blades 262 extending from opposite edges of the plate 261. In particular, three spring blades 262 extend from a first edge of the plate 261 and three spring blades 262 extend symmetrically from a second edge of the plate 261 opposite the first edge. In other words, the spring blades 262 extend symmetrically on either side of the plate 261. The spring blades 262 extend outwards from the plate 261.

[0113] The spring blades 262 are similar to the spring blades described with reference to [Fig.10],

[0114] The plate 261 is generally flat and has an elongated shape. The spring blades 262 extend perpendicularly to the direction of extension of the plate 261, that is to say perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the plate 261.

[0115] Fixing tabs 273 extend to the longitudinal ends of the plate 261. Alternatively, the plate may have wings similar to those of the plating member described with reference to Figures 4 to 6.

[0116] Fig. 12 illustrates a plating element according to a third embodiment, of the same type as that described with reference to Fig. 11, but in which the plate, the number and arrangement of the spring blades differ from the latter.

[0117] To simplify the description, similar numerical references but with the number 300 added have been used for the description of this plating element.

[0118] This plating member 360 comprises a plate 361 of generally square shape and four spring blades 362 which extend from each edge of the plate 361.

[0119] The spring blades 362 are similar to the spring blades described with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

[0120] The plate 361 has in its center a hole 374 allowing the attachment of the clamping member 360 to the body of the clamping device.

[0121] Variants not illustrated are described below.

[0122] The inverter may vary. Alternatively, the inverter may include one, two, or even more power modules depending on its use.

[0123] Alternatively, the inverter may be without a cooling plate. In this case, the cooling surface may, for example, consist of an internal wall of the housing.

[0124] The clamping device can also vary. In particular, the clamping elements can vary. Alternatively, the clamping device can comprise one, two, or more than three clamping elements.

[0125] Alternatively, the clamping elements may comprise a resilient plastic block and / or a helical spring.

[0126] Alternatively, the shape of the spring blades may vary. For example, the side edges may be curved, rather than straight.

[0127] Alternatively, the wings of the clamping elements may vary. The ramps may, for example, extend over the entire width of the vertical section.

[0128] The clamping elements can be attached to the body in different ways. Alternatively, the clamping elements can be plastically overmolded with the body, for example at their flanges. In this case, the attachment is achieved by the plastic overmolding.

[0129] Alternatively, the clamping elements can be screwed, glued, or riveted to the body. If the clamping element comprises a resilient plastic block, the body and the clamping element can be formed as a single unit, for example, by two-component injection molding. The shape of the body can vary and may, in particular, not be elongated. The body may, for example, be square, circular, triangular, or any other similar shape.

[0130] Alternatively, the body may be devoid of housings in its intermediate portions.

[0131] Alternatively, the body can be made of another material, for example metal. In this case, the body may have electrically insulating rings in the openings allowing the passage of the control pins of the power modules.

[0132] The invention thus developed makes it possible to jointly attach a power module against a cooling surface of an inverter, and to guarantee the maintenance in position and orientation of the control pins of the power modules.

[0133] Combining these functions within a single device simplifies inverter assembly and reduces its size. It also simplifies management, particularly in terms of referencing, since only one part number is required, instead of two or more in prior art solutions.

Claims

Demands

1. A clamping device for installation in an inverter (1) comprising at least two power modules (2) arranged on a cooling surface (4) of the inverter (1), the clamping device comprising: • a rigid body (50) having a substantially flat shape and comprising a first face (51) intended to be oriented towards the cooling surface (4), • at least two separate clamping members (60) carried by the first face (51) of the body (50), each clamping member (60) being intended to be associated with one of said at least two power modules (2) of the inverter (1) and configured to exert a force substantially perpendicular to a general plane of extension of the body (50) when said clamping member (60) is compressed to clamp the associated power module (2) against the cooling surface (4), the body (50) comprising first portions (53) covering each clamping member (60),the body (50) further comprising a second portion (55), adjacent to or superimposed on the first portion (53), in which are provided openings (22) forming guides for control pins (21) of the power module (2).

2. A plating device according to claim 1, characterized in that each plating member (60) is made, at least partially, of metal, and in that the body (50) is made of plastic.

3. A tackling device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that each tackling member (60) is fixed to the body (50) of the tackling device (5) by snap-fitting.

4. A clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that each clamping member (60) comprises: • a plate (61) fixed to the inner face of the body (50), and • an elastically deformable spring blade (62), the spring blade (62) having a connecting edge (63) attaching the spring blade (62) to the plate (61) and a free end edge (64) which is distal to the connecting edge (63), the free end edge (64) being intended to bear against the minus one power module (2).

5. Plating device according to claim 4, characterized in that the spring blade (62) has an overall isosceles trapezoidal shape, with the connecting edge (63) forming the small base and the free end edge (64) forming the large base of this trapezoid.

6. A clamping device according to any one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that each clamping member (60) comprises a second spring blade, the free end edges of each of the blades being opposite each other and falling substantially in the same plane.

7. A clamping device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the plate (61) of each clamping member (60) has stress concentration zones related to the deformation of the spring blade (62), these zones being located at the ends of the connecting edge (63) of the spring blade (62), the plate (61) being provided, at each stress concentration zone, with a local stiffening boss (65).

8. A plating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the body (50) comprises an intermediate portion (56) which is positioned between said at least two plating members (60), said intermediate portion (56) comprising a housing adapted to receive a temperature sensor.

9. An inverter (1) comprising: • a cooling surface (4), • at least two power modules (2), each power module (2) being disposed on the cooling surface (4), and a clamping device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, each of said at least two clamping elements (60) being compressed between the body (50) and the associated power module (2) and exerting a force clamping said power module (2) against the cooling surface (4), each power module having control pins (21), and the inverter (1) further comprising an electronic board (3) having female connectors (31) to which the control pins (21) of said at least two power modules (2), at least one control pin (21) of each of said at least two power modules (2) passing through an orifice (22) of the plating device (5).

10. Inverter according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises a thermally conductive interface element (6) interposed between each power module (2) and the cooling surface (4), the interface element (6) being compressed between each power module (2) and the cooling surface (4) under the action of the plating member (5).

11. Inverter according to claim 10, characterized in that the interface element (6) has a thermal conductivity which is a function of the pressure applied to said interface element (6).

12. Inverter according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the force exerted by each plate-off member (60) on the associated power module (2) is between 5 daN and 100 daN, and preferably between 20 daN and 60 daN.

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