Rotary connector device

Abstract

To reduce the peak temperature of a rotary connector device.SOLUTION: A rotary connector device 2 comprises a stator 10, a rotator 20, a stator-side connector 30, a rotator-side connector 40, at least two flat cables 50, and grease 70. The at least two flat cables 50 electrically connect the stator-side connector 30 to the rotator-side connector 40. The grease 70 is at least partially provided at least in one position among; a position between the at least two flat cables 50; a position between the stator 10 and at least one of the at least two flat cables 50; and a position between the rotator 20 and at least one of the at least two flat cables 50. The grease 70 has first heat conductivity. A cable electricity insulator has second heat conductivity. The first heat conductivity is higher than the second heat conductivity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology disclosed in this application relates to a rotary connector device. [Background technology]

[0002] International Publication WO2017 / 208544 describes a rotary connector device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. WO2017 / 208544 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Depending on the steering specifications, the rated current value flowing through the rotating connector device may be higher than normal. If the rated current value is high, the flat cable temperature may rise, and the rotating connector device may become partially or entirely hot.

[0005] An object of the technology disclosed in this application is to reduce the peak temperature of a rotary connector device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first feature, a rotary connector device includes a stator, a rotator, a stator-side connector, a rotator-side connector, at least two flat cables, and grease. The rotator is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the stator. The stator-side connector is provided on the stator. The rotator-side connector is provided on the rotator. The at least two flat cables electrically connect the stator-side connector and the rotator-side connector. The grease is at least partially provided at least one of between the at least two flat cables, between at least one of the at least two flat cables and the stator, and between at least one of the at least two flat cables and the rotator. At least one of the at least two flat cables includes a cable electrical insulator and a conductor electrically connecting the stator-side connector and the rotator-side connector and partially covered by the cable electrical insulator. The grease has a first thermal conductivity. The cable electrical insulator has a second thermal conductivity. The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity.

[0007] In the rotary connector device according to the first feature, since the first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily dispersed in the rotary connector device by the grease, and the temperature difference between each part can be reduced. Furthermore, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily transferred to the stator or rotator via the grease, and the heat dissipation of the rotary connector device is promoted. Therefore, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reduced.

[0008] According to a second feature, in the rotary connector device according to the first feature, the first thermal conductivity is 0.5 W / m·K or more.

[0009] In the rotary connector device according to the second feature, the first thermal conductivity is relatively high, at 0.5 W / m·K or more, so that the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0010] According to a third feature, in the rotary connector device according to the first feature, the first thermal conductivity is 1 W / m·K or more.

[0011] In the rotary connector device according to the third feature, the first thermal conductivity of the grease is relatively high, at 1 W / m·K or more, so that the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0012] According to a fourth feature, in the rotary connector device according to the first feature, the first thermal conductivity is 3 W / m·K or more.

[0013] In the rotary connector device according to the fourth aspect, the first thermal conductivity is equal to or greater than 3 W / m·K, so that the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0014] According to a fifth feature, in the rotary connector device according to the first feature, the first thermal conductivity is 5 W / m·K or more.

[0015] In the rotary connector device according to the fifth aspect, the first thermal conductivity is equal to or greater than 5 W / m·K, so that the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0016] According to a sixth feature, in the rotary connector device according to the first feature, the first thermal conductivity is 7 W / m·K or more.

[0017] In the rotary connector device according to the sixth aspect, the first thermal conductivity is 7 W / m·K or more, so that the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0018] According to a seventh feature, in the rotary connector device according to any one of the first to sixth features, the stator has a third thermal conductivity of 0.8 W / m·K or more.

[0019] In the rotary connector device according to the seventh feature, the third thermal conductivity of the stator is relatively high at 0.8 W / m K or more, so that the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily dispersed by the stator within the rotary connector device, thereby reducing the temperature difference between each part. Furthermore, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily released from the rotary connector device via the stator. Therefore, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0020] According to an eighth feature, in the rotary connector device according to any one of the first to sixth features, the rotator has a fourth thermal conductivity of 0.8 W / m·K or more.

[0021] In the rotary connector device according to the eighth feature, the fourth thermal conductivity of the rotator is relatively high at 0.8 W / m K or more, so that the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily dispersed within the rotary connector device by the rotator, and the temperature difference between each part can be reduced. Furthermore, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily released from the rotary connector device via the rotator. Therefore, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0022] According to a ninth feature, in the rotary connector device according to any one of the first to sixth features, the at least two flat cables include a first flat cable and a second flat cable. The first flat cable includes a first electrical insulator and a first conductor electrically connecting the stator side connector and the rotator side connector and being partially disposed within the first electrical insulator. The second flat cable includes a second electrical insulator and a second conductor electrically connecting the stator side connector and the rotator side connector and being partially disposed within the second electrical insulator. The grease is at least partially provided between the first flat cable and the second flat cable.

[0023] In the rotating connector device according to the ninth feature, heat generated in the first flat cable is easily transferred to the second flat cable via the grease. Therefore, heat generated in the first flat cable is easily dispersed within the rotating connector device or easily released from the rotating connector device via the grease. By promoting the uniform distribution of heat or promoting heat dissipation, the peak temperature of the rotating connector device can be reduced.

[0024] According to a tenth feature, in the rotary connector device according to any one of the first to sixth features, at least one of the stator side connector and the rotator side connector includes an electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a connector body including an electrically insulating material and at least two bus bars partially covered by the connector body. The thermal conductivity of the connector body is 0.8 W / m·K or more.

[0025] In the rotating connector device according to the tenth feature, the thermal conductivity of the connector body is relatively high at 0.8 W / m K or more, so that heat generated in at least two flat cables is easily transferred to the electrical connector and released from the rotating connector device via the connector body, thereby reliably reducing the peak temperature of the rotating connector device.

[0026] According to an eleventh feature, in the rotary connector device according to any one of the first to sixth features, the stator and the rotator define a cable accommodating space. The at least two flat cables are at least partially disposed within the cable accommodating space.

[0027] In the rotary connector device according to the eleventh feature, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reduced while protecting the at least two flat cables with the stator and the rotator.

[0028] According to a twelfth feature, in the rotary connector device according to the eleventh feature, the stator includes an outer circumferential wall at least partially defining the cable accommodating space, and the grease is at least partially provided between at least one of the at least two flat cables and the outer circumferential wall.

[0029] In the rotary connector device according to the twelfth feature, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily transferred to the outer peripheral wall of the stator via the grease, and the temperature difference between each part can be reduced. Furthermore, when the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily transferred to the outer peripheral wall of the stator via the grease, the heat dissipation of the rotary connector device is promoted. Therefore, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced.

[0030] According to a thirteenth feature, in the rotary connector device according to the eleventh feature, the rotator includes an inner circumferential wall at least partially defining the cable accommodating space, and the grease is at least partially provided between the inner circumferential wall and the at least two flat cables.

[0031] In the rotary connector device according to the thirteenth feature, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily transferred to the inner peripheral wall of the rotator via the grease, and the temperature difference between each part can be reduced. Furthermore, when the heat generated in the at least two flat cables is easily transferred to the inner peripheral wall of the rotator via the grease, the heat dissipation of the rotary connector device is promoted. Therefore, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device can be reliably reduced. Effect of the Invention

[0032] The technology disclosed in this application can reduce the peak temperature of a rotary connector device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view of a rotary connector device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the flat cable and electrical connector of the rotary connector arrangement. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rotary connector device shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the flat cable shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a rotary connector device taken along line VV of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rotary connector device taken along line VI-VI in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0034] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate corresponding or identical components.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, the rotary connector device 2 is electrically connected to the first electronic control device 4 and the second electronic control device 6. The first electronic control device 4 is mounted on a vehicle body. The second electronic control device 6 is mounted on a steering wheel that is rotatable relative to the vehicle body. The second electronic control device 6 is electrically connected to the first electronic control device 4 via the rotary connector device 2. Electricity is supplied from the first electronic control device 4 to the second electronic control device 6 via the rotary connector device 2. Information is also transmitted between the first electronic control device 4 and the second electronic control device 6 via the rotary connector device 2. That is, a power supply line and a transmission path are provided between the first electronic control device 4 and the second electronic control device 6. The rotary connector device 2 is configured to maintain an electrical connection between the first electronic control device 4 and the second electronic control device 6 while allowing the steering wheel to rotate relative to the vehicle body.

[0036] The rotary connector device 2 includes a stator 10 and a rotator 20. The rotator 20 is rotatable about a rotation axis A1 relative to the stator 10. The stator 10 is configured to be attached to a vehicle body. The rotator 20 is configured to be connected to a steering wheel.

[0037] The rotary connector device 2 includes a stator side connector 30 and a rotator side connector 40. The stator side connector 30 is provided on the stator 10. The rotator side connector 40 is provided on the rotator 20. The stator side connector 30 is configured so that a vehicle body side connector is removably attached thereto. The vehicle body side connector is electrically connected to the first electronic control device 4. The rotator side connector 40 is configured so that a steering side connector is removably attached thereto. The steering side connector is electrically connected to the second electronic control device 6.

[0038] At least one of the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40 includes an electrical connector.

[0039] The stator-side connector 30 includes a connector housing 31, an electrical connector 33, an electrical connector 34, and an electrical connector 35. The connector housing 31 is attached to the stator 10. The connector housing 31 includes a connector accommodating space 31S. The electrical connectors 33, 34, and 35 are provided in the connector accommodating space 31S.

[0040] The electrical connector 33 includes a connector body 33A and at least two bus bars 33B. The connector body 33A includes an electrically insulating material. The at least two bus bars 33B are partially covered by the connector body 33A. The at least two bus bars 33B are partially exposed from the connector body 33A. The bus bars 33B are electrically connectable to the first electronic control device 4. The bus bars 33B include a conductive material.

[0041] The electrical connector 34 includes a connector body 34A and at least two bus bars 34B. The connector body 34A includes an electrically insulating material. The at least two bus bars 34B are partially covered by the connector body 34A. The at least two bus bars 34B are partially exposed from the connector body 34A. The bus bars 34B are electrically connectable to the first electronic control device 4. The bus bars 34B include a conductive material.

[0042] The electrical connector 35 includes a connector body 35A and at least two bus bars 35B. The connector body 35A includes an electrically insulating material. The at least two bus bars 35B are partially covered by the connector body 35A. The at least two bus bars 35B are partially exposed from the connector body 35A. The bus bars 35B are electrically connectable to the first electronic control device 4. The bus bars 35B include a conductive material.

[0043] The rotator side connector 40 includes a first connector housing 41, a second connector housing 42, an electrical connector 43, an electrical connector 44, and an electrical connector 45. The first connector housing 41 and the second connector housing 42 are attached to the rotator 20. The first connector housing 41 includes a first connector accommodating space 41S. The second connector housing 42 includes a second connector accommodating space 42S. The electrical connectors 43 and 44 are provided in the first connector accommodating space 41S. The electrical connector 45 is provided in the second connector accommodating space 42S.

[0044] The electrical connector 43 includes a connector body 43A and at least two bus bars 43B. The connector body 43A includes an electrically insulating material. The at least two bus bars 43B are partially covered by the connector body 43A. The at least two bus bars 43B are partially exposed from the connector body 43A. The bus bars 43B are electrically connectable to the second electronic control device 6. The bus bars 43B include a conductive material.

[0045] The electrical connector 44 includes a connector body 44A and at least two bus bars 44B. The connector body 44A includes an electrically insulating material. The at least two bus bars 44B are partially covered by the connector body 44A. The at least two bus bars 44B are partially exposed from the connector body 44A. The bus bars 44B are electrically connectable to the second electronic control device 6. The bus bars 44B include a conductive material.

[0046] The electrical connector 45 includes a connector body 45A and at least two bus bars 45B. The connector body 45A includes an electrically insulating material. The at least two bus bars 45B are partially covered by the connector body 45A. The at least two bus bars 45B are partially exposed from the connector body 45A. The bus bars 45B are electrically connectable to the second electronic control device 6. The bus bars 45B include a conductive material.

[0047] 2, the rotary connector device 2 includes at least two flat cables 50. The at least two flat cables 50 electrically connect the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40. The at least two flat cables 50 include a first flat cable 51, a second flat cable 52, a third flat cable 53, and a dummy flat cable 54.

[0048] The first flat cable 51 is configured to electrically connect the electrical connector 33 of the stator side connector 30 and the electrical connector 43 of the rotator side connector 40. The second flat cable 52 is configured to electrically connect the electrical connector 34 of the stator side connector 30 and the electrical connector 44 of the rotator side connector 40. The third flat cable 53 is configured to electrically connect the electrical connector 35 of the stator side connector 30 and the electrical connector 45 of the rotator side connector 40. The dummy flat cable 54 is configured not to be electrically connected to the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40.

[0049] The third flat cable 53 may be omitted from at least two of the flat cables 50. Similarly to the dummy flat cable 54, the third flat cable 53 may be configured as a dummy flat cable that is not electrically connected to the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40. In these modified examples, for example, the electrical connector 35 of the stator side connector 30 and the electrical connector 45 of the rotator side connector 40 are omitted from the rotary connector device 2.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 3, the stator 10 and the rotator 20 form a cable accommodating space 60. The cable accommodating space 60 is provided to surround the rotation axis A1. For example, the cable accommodating space 60 is annular and extends in a circumferential direction D5 with respect to the rotation axis A1. The stator 10 includes an outer peripheral wall 11 that at least partially forms the cable accommodating space 60. The rotator 20 includes an inner peripheral wall 21 that at least partially forms the cable accommodating space 60. The outer peripheral wall 11 extends in the circumferential direction D5. The inner peripheral wall 21 extends in the circumferential direction D5. The inner peripheral wall 21 is provided radially inside the outer peripheral wall 11. The cable accommodating space 60 is formed between the outer peripheral wall 11 and the inner peripheral wall 21.

[0051] At least two flat cables 50 are at least partially disposed within the cable accommodating space 60. Each of the first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, the third flat cable 53, and the dummy flat cable 54 is at least partially disposed within the cable accommodating space 60. At least two flat cables 50 are at least partially disposed between the outer circumferential wall 11 and the inner circumferential wall 21. Each of the first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, the third flat cable 53, and the dummy flat cable 54 is at least partially disposed between the outer circumferential wall 11 and the inner circumferential wall 21.

[0052] At least two flat cables 50 are wound around the rotation axis A1 in the cable accommodating space 60. The first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, the third flat cable 53, and the dummy flat cable 54 are wound around the rotation axis A1 in the cable accommodating space 60. The first flat cable 51 is wound at least partially along the outer circumferential wall 11. The first flat cable 51 is wound at least partially along the inner circumferential wall 21. The second flat cable 52 is wound at least partially along the outer circumferential wall 11. The second flat cable 52 is wound at least partially along the inner circumferential wall 21. The third flat cable 53 is wound at least partially along the outer circumferential wall 11. The third flat cable 53 is wound at least partially along the inner circumferential wall 21.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, at least one of the at least two flat cables 50 includes a cable electrical insulator and a conductor that electrically connects the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40 and is partially covered by the cable electrical insulator. Specifically, the first flat cable 51 includes a first electrical insulator 51A and a first electrical conductor 51B. The first electrical conductor 51B electrically connects the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40 and is partially disposed within the first electrical insulator 51A. The first electrical conductor 51B includes at least two first wires 51C. Each of the at least two first wires 51C electrically connects the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40 and is partially disposed within the first electrical insulator 51A. The first electrical insulator 51A at least partially covers the first electrical conductor 51B. The first electrical insulator 51A at least partially covers the at least two first wires 51C. The first electrical insulator 51A may also be referred to as cable electrical insulator 51 A. The first conductor 51B may also be referred to as conductor 51B.

[0054] At least two first wires 51C are arranged at intervals in the first arrangement direction D1. At least two first wires 51C include, for example, a metal material having electrical conductivity (for example, copper alloy and tough pitch copper). The first electrical insulator 51A includes, for example, a resin material having electrical insulation. One end of the first conductor 51B is configured to be connected to a bus bar 33B (see FIG. 2) of the electrical connector 33. The other end of the first conductor 51B is configured to be connected to a bus bar 43B (see FIG. 2) of the electrical connector 43.

[0055] The first flat cable 51 has flexibility and a flat shape extending in the first arrangement direction D1. Therefore, the first flat cable 51 may also be referred to as a first flexible flat cable 51. In this embodiment, the total number of the at least two first wires 51C is six or more. The total number of the at least two first wires 51C is eight. However, the total number of the at least two first wires 51C is not limited to the above range and number.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the second flat cable 52 includes a second electrical insulator 52A and a second conductor 52B. The second conductor 52B electrically connects the rotator side connector 40 and the rotator side connector 40, and is partially disposed within the second electrical insulator 52A. The second conductor 52B includes at least two second wires 52C. Each of the at least two second wires 52C electrically connects the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40, and is partially disposed within the second electrical insulator 52A. The second electrical insulator 52A at least partially covers the second conductor 52B. The second electrical insulator 52A at least partially covers the at least two second wires 52C. The second electrical insulator 52A may also be referred to as a cable electrical insulator 52A. The second conductor 52B may also be referred to as a conductor 52B.

[0057] The at least two second wires 52C are arranged at intervals in the second arrangement direction D2. The at least two second wires 52C include, for example, a metal material having electrical conductivity (for example, copper alloy and tough pitch copper). The second electrical insulator 52A includes, for example, a resin material having electrical insulation. One end of the second electrical conductor 52B is configured to be connected to the bus bar 34B (see FIG. 2) of the electrical connector 34. The other end of the second electrical conductor 52B is configured to be connected to the bus bar 44B (see FIG. 2) of the electrical connector 44.

[0058] The second flat cable 52 has flexibility and a flat shape extending in the second arrangement direction D2. Therefore, the second flat cable 52 may also be referred to as a second flexible flat cable 52. In this embodiment, the total number of the at least two second wires 52C is six or more. The total number of the at least two second wires 52C is eight. However, the total number of the at least two second wires 52C is not limited to the above range and number.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, the third flat cable 53 includes a third electrical insulator 53A and a third conductor 53B. The third conductor 53B electrically connects the rotator side connector 40 and the rotator side connector 40, and is partially disposed within the third electrical insulator 53A. The third conductor 53B includes at least two third wires 53C. Each of the at least two third wires 53C electrically connects the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40, and is partially disposed within the third electrical insulator 53A. The third electrical insulator 53A at least partially covers the third conductor 53B. The third electrical insulator 53A at least partially covers the at least two third wires 53C. The third electrical insulator 53A may also be referred to as a cable electrical insulator 53A. The third conductor 53B may also be referred to as a conductor 53B.

[0060] At least two third wires 53C are arranged at intervals in the third arrangement direction D3. At least two third wires 53C include, for example, a metal material having electrical conductivity (for example, copper alloy and tough pitch copper). The third electrical insulator 53A includes, for example, a resin material having electrical insulation. One end of the third conductor 53B is configured to be connected to a bus bar 35B (see FIG. 2) of the electrical connector 35. The other end of the third conductor 53B is configured to be connected to a bus bar 45B (see FIG. 2) of the electrical connector 45.

[0061] The third flat cable 53 has flexibility and a flat shape extending in the third arrangement direction D3. Therefore, the third flat cable 53 may also be called a third flexible flat cable. In this embodiment, the total number of the at least two third conductors 53B is eight. However, the total number of the at least two third conductors 53B is not limited to eight.

[0062] The dummy flat cable 54 includes an electrical insulator 54A. However, the dummy flat cable 54 does not include a conductor that electrically connects the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40. The dummy flat cable 54 is flexible. The dummy flat cable 54 includes a resin material. For example, the dummy flat cable 54 includes a resin material that has electrical insulation properties. However, the material of the dummy flat cable 54 is not limited to a resin material.

[0063] 5 and 6, the rotary connector device 2 includes grease 70. The grease 70 is at least partially provided in at least one of between the at least two flat cables 50, between at least one of the at least two flat cables 50 and the stator 10, and between at least one of the at least two flat cables 50 and the rotator 20.

[0064] In this embodiment, the grease 70 is at least partially provided between the first flat cable 51 and the second flat cable 52. The grease 70 is at least partially provided between the first flat cable 51 and the dummy flat cable 54. The grease 70 is at least partially provided between the third flat cable 53 and the dummy flat cable 54. The grease 70 is at least partially provided between the second flat cable 52 and the third flat cable 53.

[0065] However, the grease 70 may be omitted from between the first flat cable 51 and the second flat cable 52. The grease 70 may be omitted from between the first flat cable 51 and the dummy flat cable 54. The grease 70 may be omitted from between the third flat cable 53 and the dummy flat cable 54. The grease 70 may be omitted from between the second flat cable 52 and the third flat cable 53.

[0066] 5, the grease 70 is at least partially provided between at least one of the at least two flat cables 50 and the outer circumferential wall 11. In this embodiment, the grease 70 is at least partially provided between the outer circumferential wall 11 and the third flat cable 53. However, depending on the arrangement of the first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, the third flat cable 53, and the dummy flat cable 54, the grease 70 may be at least partially provided between the outer circumferential wall 11 and one of the first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, and the dummy flat cable 54. The grease 70 may be omitted from between the outer circumferential wall 11 and the at least two flat cables 50.

[0067] 6 , the grease 70 is at least partially provided between the inner circumferential wall 21 and the at least two flat cables 50. In this embodiment, the grease 70 is at least partially provided between the inner circumferential wall 21 and the third flat cable 53. Depending on the arrangement of the first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, the third flat cable 53, and the dummy flat cable 54, the grease 70 may be at least partially provided between the inner circumferential wall 21 and one of the first flat cable 51, the second flat cable 52, and the dummy flat cable 54. The grease 70 may be omitted from between the inner circumferential wall 21 and the at least two flat cables 50.

[0068] Grease 70 has a first thermal conductivity. Cable electrical insulation 51A has a second thermal conductivity. Cable electrical insulation 52A has a second thermal conductivity. Cable electrical insulation 53A has a second thermal conductivity. Electrical insulation 54A has a second thermal conductivity. The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity of cable electrical insulation 51A. The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity of cable electrical insulation 52A. The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity of cable electrical insulation 53A. The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity of electrical insulation 54A.

[0069] The first thermal conductivity is 0.5 W / m·K or more. The first thermal conductivity is 1 W / m·K or more. The first thermal conductivity is 3 W / m·K or more. The first thermal conductivity is 5 W / m·K or more. The first thermal conductivity is 7 W / m·K or more. The first thermal conductivity is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The first thermal conductivity is 20 W / m·K or less. However, the first thermal conductivity is not limited to the above ranges.

[0070] In this embodiment, the grease 70 is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive. However, the grease 70 may contain a material that is conductive.

[0071] The stator 10 has a third thermal conductivity. The third thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The third thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The third thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The third thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0072] The third thermal conductivity is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The third thermal conductivity is 1 W / m·K or more. The third thermal conductivity is 3 W / m·K or more. The third thermal conductivity is 5 W / m·K or more. The third thermal conductivity is 7 W / m·K or more. The third thermal conductivity is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The third thermal conductivity is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the third thermal conductivity is not limited to the above ranges. If the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by grease 70, the third thermal conductivity may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0073] In this embodiment, the stator 10 is made of an electrically insulating material that is not electrically conductive. However, the stator 10 may also include a material that is electrically conductive.

[0074] The rotator 20 has a fourth thermal conductivity. The fourth thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The fourth thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The fourth thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The fourth thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0075] The fourth thermal conductivity is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The fourth thermal conductivity is 1 W / m·K or more. The fourth thermal conductivity is 3 W / m·K or more. The fourth thermal conductivity is 5 W / m·K or more. The fourth thermal conductivity is 7 W / m·K or more. The fourth thermal conductivity is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The fourth thermal conductivity is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the fourth thermal conductivity is not limited to the above ranges. If the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by grease 70, the fourth thermal conductivity may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0076] In this embodiment, the rotator 20 is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive. However, the rotator 20 may also include a material that is conductive.

[0077] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0078] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 1 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 3 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 7 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A is not limited to the above range. When the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by the grease 70, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 33A may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0079] In this embodiment, the connector body 33A is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive, but the connector body 33A may also contain a material that is conductive.

[0080] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0081] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 1 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 3 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 7 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A is not limited to the above range. If the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by the grease 70, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 34A may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0082] In this embodiment, the connector body 34A is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive, but the connector body 34A may also include a material that is conductive.

[0083] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0084] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 1 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 3 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 7 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A is not limited to the above range. If the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by the grease 70, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 35A may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0085] In this embodiment, the connector body 35A is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive, but the connector body 35A may also contain a material that is conductive.

[0086] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is higher than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0087] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 1 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 3 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 7 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A is not limited to the above range. When the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by the grease 70, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 43A may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0088] In this embodiment, the connector body 43A is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive, but the connector body 43A may also contain a material that is conductive.

[0089] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0090] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 1 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 3 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 7 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A is not limited to the above range. If the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by the grease 70, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 44A may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0091] In this embodiment, the connector body 44A is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive, but the connector body 44A may also include a material that is conductive.

[0092] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 51A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 52A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the cable electrical insulation 53A. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is greater than the second thermal conductivity of the electrical insulation 54A.

[0093] The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 0.8 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 1 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 3 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 7 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 8.5 W / m·K or more. The thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is 10 W / m·K or less. However, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A is not limited to the above range. If the peak temperature can be sufficiently reduced by the grease 70, the thermal conductivity of the connector body 45A may be less than 1 W / m·K.

[0094] In this embodiment, the connector body 45A is made of an electrically insulating material that is not conductive, but the connector body 45A may also contain a material that is conductive.

[0095] As described above, the rotary connector device 2 includes the stator 10, the rotator 20, the stator side connector 30, the rotator side connector 40, at least two flat cables 50, and the grease 70. The rotator 20 is rotatable around the rotation axis A1 relative to the stator 10. The stator side connector 30 is provided on the stator 10. The rotator side connector 40 is provided on the rotator 20. The at least two flat cables 50 electrically connect the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40. The grease 70 is at least partially provided in at least one of between the at least two flat cables 50, between at least one of the at least two flat cables 50 and the stator 10, and between at least one of the at least two flat cables 50 and the rotator 20. At least one of the at least two flat cables 50 includes a cable electrical insulation and an electrical conductor electrically connecting the stator side connector 30 and the rotator side connector 40 and partially covered by the cable electrical insulation. The grease 70 has a first thermal conductivity. The cable electrical insulation has a second thermal conductivity. The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity.

[0096] In the rotary connector device 2, since the first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables 50 is easily dispersed within the rotary connector device 2 by the grease 70, and the temperature difference between each part can be reduced. Furthermore, the heat generated in the at least two flat cables 50 is easily transferred to the stator 10 or the rotator 20 via the grease 70, and the heat dissipation of the rotary connector device 2 is promoted. Therefore, the peak temperature of the rotary connector device 2 can be reduced.

[0097] The configuration of the flat cables 50 of the rotary connector device 2 is not limited to the above-described embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the rotary connector device 2 includes four flat cables 50, but the total number of flat cables 50 is not limited to four. The rotary connector device 2 may include at least two flat cables 50. Furthermore, at least one flat cable 50 including a conductor may be sufficient, and the other flat cables 50 may be dummy flat cables not including a conductor. The arrangement of the flat cables 50 is not limited to the arrangement shown in Figures 4 to 6. The at least two flat cables 50 may be arranged in any order.

[0098] The multiple numerical ranges for the first thermal conductivity of grease 70, the multiple numerical ranges for the third thermal conductivity of stator 10, the multiple numerical ranges for the fourth thermal conductivity of rotator 20, the multiple numerical ranges for the thermal conductivity of connector body 33A, the multiple numerical ranges for the thermal conductivity of connector body 34A, the multiple numerical ranges for the thermal conductivity of connector body 35A, the multiple numerical ranges for the thermal conductivity of connector body 43A, the multiple numerical ranges for the thermal conductivity of connector body 44A, and the multiple numerical ranges for the thermal conductivity of connector body 45A can be combined in any manner.

[0099] In this application, the word "comprise" and its derivatives are open-ended terms that describe the presence of elements and do not exclude the presence of other elements not listed. This also applies to the words "have" and "include" and their derivatives.

[0100] In this application, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are merely terms for identifying components and do not have any other meaning (e.g., a particular order, etc.). For example, the presence of a "first element" does not imply the presence of a "second element," and the presence of a "second element" does not imply the presence of a "first element."

[0101] In addition, the terms "parallel," "vertical," and "coincidence" in the present disclosure should not be interpreted strictly, but rather include the meanings of "substantially parallel," "substantially vertical," and "substantially coincidence," respectively. In addition, other terms relating to arrangement should not be interpreted strictly.

[0102] In addition, the expression "at least one of A and B" in this disclosure includes, for example, any of (1) A only, (2) B only, and (3) both A and B. The expression "at least one of A, B, and C" includes, for example, any of (1) A only, (2) B only, (3) C only, (4) A and B, (5) B and C, (6) A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In this disclosure, the expression "at least one of A and B" is not to be interpreted as "at least one of A and at least one of B."

[0103] It is apparent that various changes and modifications of the present invention are possible in light of the above disclosure, and therefore, the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 2: Rotating connector device 10: Stator 11:Outer wall 20: Rotator 21: Inner wall 30: Stator side connector 31: Connector housing 33: Electrical connector 33A: Connector body 33B: Busbar 40: Rotator side connector 50: Flat cable 51: First flat cable 51A: First electrical insulator 51B: First conductor 51C: First wire 52: Second flat cable 52A: Second electrical insulator 52B: Second conductor 52C: Second Wire 53: 3rd flat cable 53A: Third electrical insulator 53B: Third conductor 53C: 3rd wire 54: Dummy flat cable 54A: Third conductor 60: Cable storage space 70: Grease A1: Rotation axis

Claims

1. A stator; a rotator rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the stator; a stator-side connector provided on the stator; a rotator-side connector provided on the rotator; At least two flat cables electrically connecting the stator side connector and the rotator side connector; a grease at least partially provided at least one of between the at least two flat cables, between at least one of the at least two flat cables and the stator, and between at least one of the at least two flat cables and the rotator; At least one of the at least two flat cables includes a cable electrical insulator and a conductor that electrically connects the stator side connector and the rotator side connector and is partially covered by the cable electrical insulator, the grease has a first thermal conductivity; the cable electrical insulation having a second thermal conductivity; The first thermal conductivity is higher than the second thermal conductivity. Rotating connector device.

2. The first thermal conductivity is 0.5 W / m·K or more.

2. The rotary connector assembly of claim 1.

3. The first thermal conductivity is 1 W / m·K or more.

2. The rotary connector assembly of claim 1.

4. The first thermal conductivity is 3 W / m·K or more.

2. The rotary connector assembly of claim 1.

5. The first thermal conductivity is 5 W / m·K or more.

2. The rotary connector assembly of claim 1.

6. The first thermal conductivity is 7 W / m·K or more.

2. The rotary connector assembly of claim 1.

7. the stator has a third thermal conductivity; The third thermal conductivity is 0.8 W / m·K or more. A rotary connector arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the rotator has a fourth thermal conductivity; The fourth thermal conductivity is 0.8 W / m·K or more. A rotary connector arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. The at least two flat cables include a first flat cable and a second flat cable, the first flat cable includes a first electrical insulator and a first conductor electrically connecting the stator side connector and the rotator side connector and being partially disposed within the first electrical insulator; the second flat cable includes a second electrical insulator and a second conductor electrically connecting the stator side connector and the rotator side connector and partially disposed within the second electrical insulator, The grease is at least partially provided between the first flat cable and the second flat cable. A rotary connector arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. At least one of the stator side connector and the rotator side connector includes an electrical connector; The electrical connector includes a connector body including an electrically insulating material and at least two bus bars partially covered by the connector body; The thermal conductivity of the connector body is 0.8 W / m·K or more. A rotary connector arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

11. The stator and the rotator form a cable accommodating space, The at least two flat cables are at least partially disposed within the cable receiving space. A rotary connector arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

12. The stator includes an outer peripheral wall that at least partially defines the cable receiving space, The grease is at least partially provided between at least one of the at least two flat cables and the outer circumferential wall.

12. The rotary connector arrangement of claim 11.

13. the rotator includes an inner circumferential wall at least partially defining the cable accommodating space; The grease is at least partially provided between the inner circumferential wall and the at least two flat cables.

12. The rotary connector arrangement of claim 11.

Images