Terminal block, watertight terminal, and method of manufacturing watertight terminal

Abstract

To more reliably prevent peeling or displacement of a seal portion from a terminal.SOLUTION: A terminal block includes a terminal 40, a base body that holds a terminal, and a seal portion 58 interposed between the terminal and the base body. The terminal includes an embedded portion 46 located within the base body. The seal portion surrounds a middle portion of the embedded portion. The embedded portion includes a first protrusion 50a and a second protrusion 50b located on the outer sides of both ends of the seal portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a terminal block, a watertight terminal, and a method for manufacturing the watertight terminal. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a connector that includes a seal portion that bonds the conductor to the connector housing at a portion of the conductor that is embedded in the connector housing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-45510 [Patent Document 2] JP 2018-73500 A [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2017 / 154543 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In this regard, it is desirable to more reliably prevent the seal portion from peeling off or shifting from the terminal.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to more reliably prevent peeling or displacement of the seal portion from the terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The terminal block of the present disclosure comprises a terminal, a base body that holds the terminal, and a seal portion interposed between the terminal and the base body, wherein the terminal includes an embedded portion located within the base body, the seal portion surrounds an intermediate portion of the embedded portion, and the embedded portion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion located outside both ends of the seal portion.

[0007] In addition, the waterproof terminal of the present disclosure is a waterproof terminal comprising a terminal and a seal portion surrounding the middle portion of the terminal in the extension direction, the terminal including a first protrusion and a second protrusion located outside both ends of the seal portion.

[0008] In addition, the manufacturing method of the waterproof terminal disclosed herein includes preparing a terminal including a first protrusion and a second protrusion, setting the terminal in a mold, injecting a fluid sealant into the mold, and flowing the sealant around the middle part of the terminal in the extension direction between the first protrusion and the second protrusion to mold-form a seal portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, peeling or displacement of the seal portion from the terminal can be more reliably prevented. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an electromechanical integrated unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the waterproof terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front view showing the waterproof terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view showing the waterproof terminal. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a method for manufacturing a waterproof terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a terminal according to a modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view showing a terminal according to another modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front view showing a terminal according to yet another modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] [Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure] First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0012] The terminal block of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0013] (1) A terminal block comprising a terminal, a base body that holds the terminal, and a seal portion interposed between the terminal and the base body, wherein the terminal includes an embedded portion located within the base body, the seal portion surrounds an intermediate portion of the embedded portion, and the embedded portion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion located outside both ends of the seal portion.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, the first and second protrusions can more reliably prevent the seal from shifting from the terminal. Furthermore, by forming the first and second protrusions on the terminal, the recess formed to hold the seal can be eliminated or made shallower, thereby preventing a reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the terminal. This makes it possible to provide a terminal suitable for carrying large currents.

[0015] (2) In the terminal block of (1), the embedded portion may be plate-shaped, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion may protrude outward when viewed along the thickness direction of the embedded portion.

[0016] In this way, the first protrusion and the second protrusion that protrude outward when viewed along the thickness direction of the plate-like embedded portion can be easily formed by, for example, press working or the like.

[0017] (3) In the terminal block of (2), the first protrusion and the second protrusion are formed on both sides of the embedded portion, and grooves extending along the width direction of the embedded portion are formed on both sides of the embedded portion, and a circumferential groove that goes around the embedded portion is formed by the grooves on both sides of the embedded portion and the portions between the first protrusion and the second protrusion on both sides of the embedded portion, and the sealing portion may be located in the circumferential groove.

[0018] In this way, by forming the first protrusion and the second protrusion on both sides of the embedded portion and forming a groove on each side of the embedded portion, a circumferential groove can be formed that goes around the embedded portion. By arranging the seal portion in the circumferential groove, displacement of the seal portion can be suppressed.

[0019] (4) In any one of the terminal blocks (1) to (3), when the surface of the embedded portion between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is defined as an intermediate surface, and the surfaces of the embedded portion located on both sides of the intermediate surface, the first protrusion, and the second protrusion in the extension direction of the embedded portion are defined as a first outer surface and a second outer surface, the first outer surface and the second outer surface may be located on an extension of the intermediate surface.

[0020] In this case, since the first outer surface and the second outer surface are located on an extension of the intermediate surface, it is not necessary to recess the intermediate surface between the first protrusion and the second protrusion relative to both outer surfaces, which makes it easier to avoid a reduction in the cross-sectional area between the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

[0021] (5) In the terminal block according to any one of (1) to (4), at least one of the first protrusion and the second protrusion may have an outwardly facing flat surface.

[0022] In this case, by utilizing the outwardly facing flat surface, the seal portion between the first protrusion and the second protrusion can be made less likely to leak out to the outside.

[0023] (6) In the terminal block of any one of (1) to (5), an adhesive groove may be formed in a portion of the embedded portion that is surrounded by the sealing portion.

[0024] In this case, the sealing portion fits into the adhesive groove, thereby improving the adhesiveness of the sealing portion to the embedded portion.

[0025] (7) In the terminal block according to any one of (1) to (6), the sealing portion may include a thermoplastic polymer.

[0026] If the seal contains a thermoplastic polymer, it is expected that the seal will adhere strongly to the terminal and the base body due to heat when the base body is molded, etc. In addition, the first protrusion and the second protrusion make it easy to keep the seal in place.

[0027] (8) In the terminal block according to any one of (1) to (7), the terminals may be made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0028] If the terminals are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, costs can be reduced.

[0029] (9) In a terminal block according to any one of (1) to (8), the surface of the first protrusion facing the second protrusion may be a first holding surface, the surface of the second protrusion facing the first protrusion may be a second holding surface, and at least one of the first holding surface and the second holding surface may extend along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the embedded portion.

[0030] In this case, the length of the first holding surface or the second holding surface can be shortened in the extending direction of the embedded portion, making it easier to make the terminal block smaller.

[0031] (10) In a terminal block according to any one of (1) to (8), the surface of the first protrusion facing the second protrusion is a first holding surface, the surface of the second protrusion facing the first protrusion is a second holding surface, and at least one of the first holding surface and the second holding surface may be inclined in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the embedded portion or may include a curved surface.

[0032] This allows the area of ​​the first holding surface or the second holding surface to be increased, and the adhesion area of ​​the seal portion to the first holding surface or the second holding surface to be increased, improving watertightness.

[0033] The waterproof terminal of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0034] (11) A waterproof terminal comprising a terminal and a seal portion surrounding a middle portion of the terminal in the extension direction, the terminal including a first protrusion and a second protrusion located outside both ends of the seal portion.

[0035] According to the present disclosure, the first and second protrusions can more reliably prevent the seal from shifting from the terminal. Furthermore, by forming the first and second protrusions on the terminal, the recess formed to hold the seal can be eliminated or made shallower, thereby preventing a reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the terminal. This makes it possible to provide a terminal suitable for carrying large currents.

[0036] The method for manufacturing the waterproof terminal of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0037] (12) A method for manufacturing a waterproof terminal, comprising: preparing a terminal including a first protrusion and a second protrusion; setting the terminal in a mold; injecting a fluid sealant into the mold; and flowing the sealant around the middle of the terminal in the extension direction between the first protrusion and the second protrusion to mold-form a seal portion.

[0038] In this case, the seal portion can be formed by injecting molten resin into the mold and allowing the molten resin to flow around the intermediate portion of the terminal in the extending direction between the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

[0039] (13) In the method for manufacturing a waterproof terminal of (12), an outward flat surface may be formed on at least one of the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and the terminal may be set in the mold so that the outward flat surface contacts the positioning surface of the mold.

[0040] In this case, the terminal is set in the mold so that the outward flat surface is in contact with the positioning surface of the mold, so that when the sealing material is injected into the mold, the sealing material is less likely to leak through the gap between the outward flat surface and the positioning surface.

[0041] [Details of the embodiments of the present disclosure] Specific examples of the terminal block, watertight terminal, and method of manufacturing the watertight terminal of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0042] [Embodiment] A terminal block, a watertight terminal, and a method for manufacturing a watertight terminal according to an embodiment will be described below. The terminal block is a component fixed to a device and electrically connects the device to other electrical devices. The terminal is a component for making an electrical connection and is a type of wiring component. In this embodiment, the terminal is a watertight terminal. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the device is a rotating electric machine and the other electrical device is an inverter that drives and controls the rotating electric machine. The device and the other electrical device do not necessarily have to be a rotating electric machine or an inverter, and may be other devices, such as a battery, a DC-DC converter, or a junction box.

[0043] <Overall configuration of the electromechanical integrated unit with built-in terminal block> An example of the overall configuration of an electromechanical integrated unit in which a terminal block including a watertight terminal is built will now be described. FIG.

[0044] The electromechanical integrated unit 10 includes a rotating electric machine 20 and an inverter 12 .

[0045] The rotating electric machine 20 is a rotating electric machine including a case 22, an armature 24, and a field 28. FIG. 1 shows an example in which the armature 24 is fixed as a stator inside the cylindrical case 22. The field 28 is disposed as a rotor inside the armature 24. The field 28 rotates due to a magnetic field generated by the armature 24, or the rotation of the field 28 causes the armature 24 to generate an electromotive force. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the rotating electric machine 20 is a rotating electric machine that can be used as a three-phase AC motor. The rotating electric machine may be capable of operating as a generator in addition to or instead of operating as a motor.

[0046] The armature 24 includes a stator core and a plurality of coil wires. The stator core includes a plurality of teeth that are arranged to surround the rotation axis. Each coil wire is wound around one or more teeth. At least some of the ends of the coil wires are drawn out from between the teeth to one axial end of the armature.

[0047] The armature 24 has coil connection ends 26. The coil connection ends 26 are, for example, elongated conductive plate-like portions. The coil connection ends 26 are arranged on one axial end side of the armature 24. Screw insertion holes 26h for screw fastening are formed in the coil connection ends 26. The coil connection ends 26 may be the ends of the coil wires themselves, or may be metal plates connected to the coil wires by welding, screw fastening, or the like. In this embodiment, three coil connection ends 26 corresponding to the three phases are arranged in parallel at intervals on one end side of the armature 24.

[0048] The inverter 12 is a device having an inverter circuit. It is assumed that the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electric machine 20. For example, the inverter 12 is integrated with a case 22 of the rotating electric machine 20 by bolting or the like.

[0049] The inverter 12 includes bus bars 18 connected to the output terminals of the inverter circuit. The bus bars 18 are elongated plate-like members formed of a metal plate material such as copper or a copper alloy. Screw insertion holes 18h for fastening screws are formed in the bus bars 18. In this embodiment, three bus bars 18 corresponding to the three phases extend from the inverter 12 toward the rotating electric machine 20 in a parallel state with a gap therebetween.

[0050] The terminal block 30 is a component that is fixed to the case 22 of the rotating electrical machine 20 and connects the rotating electrical machine 20 and the inverter 12. The terminal block 30 includes a terminal 40, a block body 32, and a seal portion 58.

[0051] The base body 32 is fixed to the case 22 by screws or the like, with the opening 22h formed in the case 22 closed. Preferably, an annular sealing member 33 such as a rubber packing is interposed between the base body 32 and the case 22. The annular sealing member 33 seals the gap between the case 22 and the base body 32.

[0052] The base body 32 is made of a resin, such as a material containing at least one of polyester resin and polyamide resin. Polyester resin and polyamide resin have high mechanical strength and heat resistance, making them suitable materials for the base body 32. The polymer material constituting the base body 32 preferably comprises at least 50% by mass, even at least 90% by mass, and most preferably the entire polymer material. Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is a suitable polyester resin. Examples of polyamide resins that can be used include nylon 6T (PA6T), nylon 9T (PA9T), nylon 66 (PA66), nylon 610 (PA610), and nylon 612 (PA612). In addition to polymer materials such as polyester resin and polyamide resin, the base body 32 may also contain additives such as antioxidants.

[0053] The terminal 40 penetrates the base body 32 and is held in a fixed position and orientation relative to the base body 32 .

[0054] When the terminal 40 is fixed to the case 22, one end of the terminal 40 faces inside the case 22 and forms a first connection end 42 that is connected to an end of the coil connection end 26. When the terminal block 30 is fixed to the case 22, the first connection end 42 is positioned so as to overlap the coil connection end 26.

[0055] A first screw insertion hole 42h is formed in the first connection end 42. With the coil connection end 26 overlapping the first connection end 42, the first connection end 42 and the coil connection end 26 are fixed together with screws, thereby electrically connecting the coil connection end 26 and the terminal 40.

[0056] When the terminal 40 is fixed to the case 22, the other end of the terminal 40 faces outward from the case 22 and is supported at a position connectable to an end of the bus bar 18 of the inverter 12 as a second connection end 44. When the inverter 12 is integrated with the rotating electric machine 20, the second connection end 44 is arranged at a position overlapping the bus bar 18. In this embodiment, three terminals 40 corresponding to the three phases are arranged in parallel with a gap between them.

[0057] A second screw insertion hole 44h is formed in the second connection end 44. With the bus bar 18 overlapped on the second connection end 44, the second connection end 44 and the bus bar 18 are fixed together with screws, thereby electrically connecting the second connection end 44 and the bus bar 18.

[0058] The armature 24 in the rotating electric machine 20 is electrically connected to a circuit in the inverter 12 via a terminal 40 .

[0059] In this embodiment, the terminal block 30 includes three terminals 40. The terminal block 30 may include at least one terminal 40.

[0060] The connection between the terminal 40 and the coil connection end 26 or the bus bar 18 does not have to be made by screw fastening. For example, the terminal 40 and the coil connection end 26 or the bus bar 18 may be electrically connected by a fitting structure, a spring-biased structure, or the like.

[0061] There are cases where waterproofing is required inside and outside the case 22. For example, waterproofing is required for the rotating electric machine 20 so that oil inside the case 22 does not leak to the outside. In this case, the annular seal member 33 is interposed between the base body 32 and the case 22, thereby waterproofing the space between the case 22 and the base body 32.

[0062] Furthermore, the terminals 40 penetrate the base body 32. Therefore, it is required to further improve the waterproofing property at the boundary between the base body 32 and the terminals 40. The sealing portion 58 is interposed between the base body 32 and the terminals 40, and is a portion that waterproofs the gap between the base body 32 and the terminals 40.

[0063] In order to interpose the seal portion 58 between the base body 32 and the terminal 40, it is conceivable to attach the seal portion 58 to the terminal 40 and then mold the base body 32 using the terminal 40 and the seal portion 58 as an insert portion. In this case, the flow of resin used to mold the base body 32 may cause the seal portion 58 to peel off or become misaligned with respect to the terminal 40.

[0064] The present disclosure relates to a technique for more reliably preventing peeling or displacement of the seal portion 58 from the terminal 40.

[0065] <About watertight terminals> Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the waterproof terminal 40B, Fig. 3 is a front view showing the waterproof terminal 40B, and Fig. 4 is a side view showing the waterproof terminal 40B.

[0066] The waterproof terminal 40B includes the terminal 40 and a seal portion 58.

[0067] The terminal 40 is made of a metal material. The metal material may be, for example, copper, a copper alloy, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, or an iron alloy. From the viewpoint of cost reduction, the terminal 40 may be made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. A metal plating layer may be formed on the surface of the terminal 40. The plating layer may be, for example, a tin or tin alloy layer.

[0068] The terminal 40 is formed in an elongated shape. In this embodiment, the terminal 40 is formed in an elongated plate shape. The thickness, width, and length of the terminal 40 are arbitrary. For example, the thickness and width of the terminal 40 are set in consideration of the design allowable current value, etc. The length of the terminal 40 is set in accordance with the distance between two parts to be connected, etc.

[0069] The terminal 40 may extend straight or may be bent along the way. In this embodiment, the terminal 40 extends straight. If the terminal 40 is bent, it may be bent inside the base body 32 or outside the base body 32. Furthermore, the terminal 40 may be bent in the thickness direction or in the width direction. For example, the terminal 40 may be bent in an L-shape or a Z-shape as a whole.

[0070] It is not essential that the terminals be formed in a long plate shape, and for example, the terminals may be formed in a round bar shape or a square bar shape.

[0071] The terminal 40 includes an embedded portion 46 located within the base body 32. For example, the portion of the terminal 40 that is embedded in the base body 32 is the embedded portion 46. Alternatively, the portion of the terminal 40 that protrudes from the base body 32 and faces the inside of the case 22 may be understood as the first connecting end 42. Alternatively, the portion of the terminal 40 that protrudes from the base body 32 and faces the outside of the case 22 may be understood as the second connecting end 44.

[0072] The sealing portion 58 surrounds the middle portion of the embedded portion 46. The middle portion of the embedded portion 46 is the middle portion in the extension direction of the embedded portion 46. Both ends of the embedded portion 46 are the points where the terminals 40 protrude from the base body 32. Therefore, the sealing portion 58 located in the middle portion in the extension direction of the embedded portion 46 is not exposed from the base body 32 but is covered by the base body 32.

[0073] The sealing portion 58 may have any shape as long as it surrounds a partial intermediate portion in the extension direction of the embedded portion 46. In this embodiment, the sealing portion 58 has a flattened annular rectangular shape that surrounds the intermediate portion of the plate-shaped embedded portion 46.

[0074] The embedded portion 46 includes a first protrusion 50a and a second protrusion 50b located on opposite outer sides of the seal portion 58. The first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b are located apart in the extension direction of the embedded portion 46. The seal portion 58 is located between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b.

[0075] More specifically, a first protrusion 50a and a second protrusion 50b are formed on one side of the embedded portion 46. As in this embodiment, the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b may also be formed on the other side of the embedded portion 46.

[0076] When viewed along the thickness direction of the plate-shaped embedded portion 46, the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b protrude outward in the width direction of the embedded portion 46. A shape that protrudes outward in the thickness direction of the terminal 40 is preferable because it can be easily processed when the terminal 40 is punched out.

[0077] The surface of the embedded portion 46 between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b is defined as an intermediate surface 52M. The surfaces of the embedded portion 46 located on both sides of the intermediate surface 52M, the first protrusion 50a, and the second protrusion 50b in the extending direction of the embedded portion 46 are defined as a first outer side surface 52Fa and a second outer side surface 52Fb. In this case, it is preferable that the first outer side surface 52Fa and the second outer side surface 52Fb are located on an extension of the intermediate surface 52M. This configuration makes it easy to align the widths of the portions of the embedded portion 46 where the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b are not formed.

[0078] In this embodiment, the intermediate surface 52M is a partial side surface of the embedded portion 46 between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b. The first outer surface 52Fa is a partial side surface of the embedded portion 46 on the opposite side of the intermediate surface 52M from the first protrusion 50a. The second outer surface 52Fb is a partial side surface of the embedded portion 46 on the opposite side of the intermediate surface 52M from the second protrusion 50b.

[0079] By configuring the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b to protrude, the intermediate surface 52M does not need to be recessed relative to the first outer surface 52Fa and the second outer surface 52Fb. For example, a configuration that prevents misalignment of the seal portion in the middle of a long embedded portion can be considered by forming a partial recess in the embedded portion and placing the seal portion in the recess. In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the terminal is reduced by the amount of the recess, which may affect the allowable current value. Therefore, by forming the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b, the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b hold the seal portion 58 without making the portion between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b excessively narrow. This makes it possible to prevent peeling and misalignment of the seal portion 58 while maintaining a high allowable current value.

[0080] At least one of the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b may have an outward flat surface 50a1, 50b1. The outward flat surface 50a1, 50b1 is a surface that faces outward in the protrusion direction of the first protrusion 50a or the second protrusion 50b, and in this embodiment, is a surface that faces outward in the width direction of the embedded portion 46. In this embodiment, the outward flat surface 50a1, 50b1 is a surface that is parallel to the intermediate surface 52M, the first outer side surface 52Fa, and the second outer side surface 52Fb.

[0081] If at least one of the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b has the outward flat surface 50a1, 50b1, the fluid for the seal portion 58 is less likely to leak when the fluid is filled into the space surrounded by the intermediate surface 52M and the first and second protrusions 50a, 50b. This point will be described in further detail in the description of the manufacturing method of the waterproof terminal 40B.

[0082] Furthermore, the surface of the first protrusion 50a facing the second protrusion 50b is referred to as a first holding surface 50a2, and the surface of the second protrusion 50b facing the first protrusion 50a is referred to as a second holding surface 50b2.

[0083] In this case, at least one of the first holding surface 50a2 and the second holding surface 50b2 may be inclined at an acute angle θ with respect to a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the embedded portion 46. In the present embodiment, the first holding surface 50a2 and the second holding surface 50b2 are inclined at an obtuse angle with respect to the intermediate plane 52M.

[0084] If the first holding surface 50a2 and the second holding surface 50b2 are inclined relative to the extension direction of the embedded portion 46 in this manner, it is possible to increase the contact area between the seal portion 58 and the first holding surface 50a2 and the second holding surface 50b2. If the contact area between the seal portion 58 and the terminal 40 is increased, leakage of fluid that has passed between the seal portion 58 and the terminal 40 is further suppressed.

[0085] The first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b may have any shape as long as they protrude when viewed in the thickness direction of the embedded portion 46. For example, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may have a triangular, square, rectangular, or semicircular shape when viewed in the thickness direction of the embedded portion 46.

[0086] Grooves 54 extending along the width direction of the embedded portion 46 may be formed on each of the surfaces of the embedded portion 46 located on both sides in the thickness direction. The grooves 54 are located between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b in the extension direction of the embedded portion 46. Therefore, each of the grooves 54 formed on both surfaces of the embedded portion 46 reaches, on one side of the embedded portion 46, between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b on that side. Each of the grooves 54 formed on both surfaces of the embedded portion 46 reaches, on the other side of the embedded portion 46, between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b on that side.

[0087] Grooves 54 may be formed by partially cutting or pressing both surfaces of terminal 40. Portions of each surface of terminal 40 other than grooves 54 may be formed in a flat shape without any recesses.

[0088] The grooves 54 on both sides of the embedded portion 46 and the portions between the first protrusions 50a and the second protrusions 50b on both sides of the embedded portion 46 form a circumferential groove 56 that goes around the embedded portion 46 once.

[0089] The bottom surface of the circumferential groove 56 is formed by a rectangular ring-shaped connection between the bottom surface 54a of one groove 54, the intermediate surface 52M of one side of the embedded portion 46, and the bottom surface 54a of the other groove 54 and the intermediate surface 52M of the other side of the embedded portion 46. Each of the pair of side surfaces of the circumferential groove 56 is formed by a rectangular ring-shaped connection between the side surface 54b of one groove 54, the first retaining surface 50a2 or the second retaining surface 50b2 of one side of the embedded portion 46, and the side surface 54b of the other groove 54, and the first retaining surface 50a2 or the second retaining surface 50b2 of the other side of the embedded portion 46.

[0090] The seal portion 58 may be formed in a shape that fills the circumferential groove 56. For example, the shape of the inner circumferential surface of the seal portion 58 may be determined by the outer circumferential shape of the middle portion of the embedded portion 46 to which the seal portion 58 is attached. The shapes of both ends of the seal portion 58 may be determined by the first retaining surface 50a2, the second retaining surface 50b2, and the side surfaces of the groove 54 of the embedded portion 46. The shape of the outer circumferential surface of the seal portion 58 may be a shape that extends from both outer portions of the circumferential groove 56 of the terminal 40. When the seal portion 58 is molded, the shape of the outer circumferential surface of the seal portion 58 may be determined by the mold surface when the seal portion 58 is molded.

[0091] The shape of the seal portion 58 is not limited to the above example, and may be any shape.

[0092] <Material Examples> The material of the sealing portion 58 is not limited as long as it is interposed between the terminal 40 and the base body 32 and can improve the sealing properties of the boundary between the terminal 40 and the base body 32.

[0093] The sealing portion 58 may include a thermoplastic polymer for the following reasons.

[0094] That is, assuming that the terminal block 30 is used in a vehicle, the thermal conditions for the seal portion 58 are becoming more severe as the current increases and the components become smaller. Also, from the viewpoint of cost reduction, it is considered that the material for the terminal 40 is aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the watertightness between the seal portion and the aluminum or aluminum alloy.

[0095] By including a thermoplastic polymer in the seal portion 58, it is expected that high adhesive strength can be obtained between the seal portion 58 and the terminal 40 and the base body 32. In other words, if the seal portion 58 includes a thermoplastic polymer, fusion occurs between the seal portion 58 and the terminal 40 and the base body 32, promoting close contact through microscopic interactions and improving adhesion. This makes it easier to ensure watertightness even under the above-mentioned harsh thermal conditions, and also improves adhesion between the seal portion and aluminum or aluminum alloy, making it easier to further improve watertightness.

[0096] To improve adhesiveness, it is preferable that 50% by mass or more, further 90% by mass or more, and most preferably the entire amount of the polymer material constituting the seal portion 58 is made of thermoplastic polymer.

[0097] The thermoplastic polymer constituting the seal portion 58 may be at least one of polyurethane-based resin, polyester-based resin, and polyamide-based resin. These resins tend to exhibit high adhesiveness to metal terminals 40 and terminals 40 containing polyester-based resin or polyamide-based resin, and also have high oil resistance. Here, the thermoplastic polymer may be an elastomer. For example, the thermoplastic polymer may contain at least one of polyurethane-based elastomer, polyester-based elastomer, and polyamide-based elastomer.

[0098] Furthermore, it is preferable that the seal portion 58 be soluble or swellable in both hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) and m-cresol. In this case, the seal portion 58 exhibits high adhesiveness to the base body 32, which is also made of a material that is soluble or swellable in these solvents. The base body 32 can be made of a polyamide resin such as PA6T or PA9T, which is soluble in both HFIP and m-cresol.

[0099] Furthermore, it is preferable that the mass change rate of the seal portion 58 is less than 20% when immersed in lubricating oil at 100°C for 8 hours. If the mass change rate is less than 20%, even when the seal portion 58 comes into contact with high-temperature lubricating oil, changes such as a mass loss due to dissolution or a mass increase due to swelling are unlikely to occur, and the seal portion 58 exhibits high oil resistance. This makes it easy to maintain a state exhibiting high sealing performance even in an environment where it comes into contact with high-temperature lubricating oil.

[0100] Furthermore, it is preferable that sealing portion 58 has a melting point of 150° C. or higher. In this case, sealing portion 58 has high heat resistance, and is less likely to lose its adhesiveness due to elution or denaturation even when placed in a high-temperature environment.

[0101] The sealing portion 58 may contain various additives in addition to a polymer material such as a thermoplastic polymer.

[0102] <Manufacturing method> An example of a manufacturing method for the waterproof terminal 40B will be described.

[0103] First, as shown in Fig. 5, the terminal 40 is set in a mold 60. The mold 60 has a first setting portion 62 and a second setting portion 63 into which the portions of the terminal 40 on one end side and the other end side of the circumferential groove 56 can be set. A mold surface 61 that surrounds the circumferential groove 56 from the outside is formed between the first setting portion 62 and the second setting portion 63. With the terminal 40 set in the first setting portion 62 and the second setting portion 63, the mold surface 61 faces the bottom surface of the circumferential groove 56 with a gap between them. The mold 60 has a divided structure so that the terminal 40 and the seal portion 58 can be released from the mold.

[0104] Positioning surfaces 62a, 63a are formed on portions of the first setting portion 62 and the second setting portion 63 that are adjacent to the mold surface 61 and face the outward flat surfaces 50a1, 50b1. When the terminal 40 is set in the first setting portion 62 and the second setting portion 63, the outward flat surfaces 50a1, 50b1 are brought into contact, preferably face-to-face contact, with the positioning surfaces 62a, 63a.

[0105] An injection port 60h is formed in the mold 60. The injection port 60h reaches the mold surface 61. A fluid sealant 67 for forming the seal portion 58 is poured between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b around the intermediate portion of the terminal 40 in the extension direction, thereby molding the seal portion 58. More specifically, the sealant 67 is supplied from a supply source 66 through the injection port 60h into the circumferential groove 56 between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b. The fluid sealant 67 may be a resin softened or melted by heat. The sealant 67 fills the circumferential groove 56 and fills the space surrounded by the bottom and both side surfaces of the circumferential groove 56 and the mold surface 61, and is molded into a shape defined by the bottom and both side surfaces of the circumferential groove 56 and the mold surface 61. In other words, the seal portion 58 is molded using the terminal 40 as an insert.

[0106] When the sealant 67 is injected into the circumferential groove 56, depending on the injection conditions, the sealant 67 may leak from the circumferential groove 56. To prevent leakage of the sealant 67, the mold 60 may be pressed firmly against the outer portion of the terminal 40 outside the circumferential groove 56. Because the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b have outwardly facing flat surfaces 50a1 and 50b1, the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b are unlikely to be damaged even if the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b are pressed firmly against the outwardly facing flat surfaces 50a1 and 50b1. Therefore, the mold 60 can be pressed firmly against the outwardly facing flat surfaces 50a1 and 50b1 to prevent leakage of the sealant 67 while injecting the sealant 67. This makes it easy to fit the sealant 67 that forms the seal portion 58 into the circumferential groove 56 and mold the seal portion 58 to a desired shape.

[0107] It is not essential that the seal portion 58 be molded using the terminal 40 as an insert portion. The seal portion 58 may be molded separately from the terminal 40 and fitted onto the terminal 40. Alternatively, the seal portion 58 may be formed on the terminal 40 by dripping or applying a fluid sealant onto the terminal.

[0108] The waterproof terminal 40B is set in a mold for molding the base body 32. Then, molten or softened resin for molding the base body 32 is injected into the mold, with the embedded portion 46 and sealing portion 58 of the waterproof terminal 40B as insert portions, and the base body 32 is molded. During this process, the sealing portion 58 softens or partially melts, adhering closely to the terminal 40 and base body 32. This effectively prevents fluid from entering through the boundary between the terminal 40 and base body 32, improving waterproofing.

[0109] Even if the seal portion 58 softens or partially melts, the seal portion 58 is positioned between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b, and is therefore unlikely to peel off or become displaced from the terminal 40. Therefore, the seal portion 58 can seal the gap between the terminal 40 and the base body 32 at a predetermined position within the base body 32.

[0110] <Effects, etc.> According to the terminal block 30, watertight terminal 40B, and manufacturing method of the watertight terminal 40B configured as described above, the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b can more reliably prevent the seal portion 58 from shifting from the terminal 40. Furthermore, because the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b are formed on the terminal 40, the recess for holding the seal portion can be eliminated or made shallower, preventing a reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the terminal 40. This makes it easier to provide a terminal 40 suitable for passing large currents.

[0111] Furthermore, the embedded portion 46 is plate-shaped, and the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b protrude outward when viewed along the thickness direction of the embedded portion 46. Such first protrusion 50a and second protrusion 50b can be easily formed, for example, by press processing when punching and pressing the terminal 40. Therefore, a configuration for positioning the seal portion 58 can be easily provided.

[0112] Additionally, a first protrusion 50a and a second protrusion 50b are formed on each side of the embedded portion 46. Because it may be difficult to form protrusions on both sides of the embedded portion 46 by press working to position the seal portion 58, a groove 54 extending along the width direction of the embedded portion 46 is formed on each side of the embedded portion 46. A circumferential groove 56 that goes around the embedded portion 46 is formed by each groove 54 on both sides of the embedded portion 46 and the portions between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b on both sides of the embedded portion 46. The seal portion 58 is located in this circumferential groove 56. This makes it easy to form the circumferential groove 56 that goes around the embedded portion 46. By arranging the seal portion 58 in the circumferential groove 56, misalignment of the seal portion 58 is suppressed throughout the entire circumferential direction.

[0113] Furthermore, the first outer side surface 52Fa and the second outer side surface 52Fb of the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b are located on the extension of the intermediate surface 52M of the embedded portion 46, and the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b protrude from the intermediate surface 52M, the first outer side surface 52Fa, and the second outer side surface 52Fb. Therefore, it is not necessary to recess the intermediate surface 52M between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b. This makes it easy to avoid a reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the terminal 40 between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b.

[0114] Additionally, at least one of the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b has an outward-facing flat surface 50a1, 50b1. By utilizing these outward-facing flat surfaces 50a1, 50b1, the seal portion 58 between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b is less likely to leak outward. For example, when molding the seal portion 58 of the waterproof terminal 40B, the terminal 40 can be set in the mold 60 so that the outward-facing flat surfaces 50a1, 50b1 contact the mold positioning surfaces 62a, 63a. At this time, the outward-facing flat surfaces 50a1, 50b1 can be firmly pressed into contact with the mold positioning surfaces 62a, 63a. This prevents leakage of the seal portion 58.

[0115] Furthermore, if the seal portion 58 contains a thermoplastic polymer, it is expected that the seal portion 58 will soften or partially melt due to heat when the base body 32 is molded, etc., and will adhere strongly to the terminal 40 and the base body 32. At this time, the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b will easily keep the seal portion 58 in place.

[0116] Furthermore, if the terminals 40 are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, costs can be reduced compared to when the terminals are made of copper or the like.

[0117] Furthermore, because the first holding surface 50a2 and the second holding surface 50b2 are inclined relative to a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the embedded portion 46, it is possible to increase the contact area between the holding surfaces 50a2, 50b2 and the seal portion 58. Increasing the contact area between the holding surfaces 50a2, 50b2 and the seal portion 58 suppresses the intrusion of water that runs between the holding surfaces 50a2, 50b2 and the seal portion 58.

[0118] [Variations] As in the terminal 140 shown in FIG. 6, an adhesive groove 156g may be formed in a portion of the terminal 140 located on the inner circumferential side of the seal portion 58. In FIG. 6, an adhesive groove 156g extending along the width direction of the embedded portion 46 is formed on the bottom surface 54a of groove 54 of the circumferential groove 56. The adhesive groove 156g is narrower than groove 54. The number of adhesive grooves 156g is not particularly limited, but in the example shown in FIG. 6, two adhesive grooves 156g are formed parallel to each other with a gap between them. The cross-sectional shape of the adhesive groove 156g may be semicircular, V-shaped, or rectangular. An adhesive groove may be formed on the side surface of the embedded portion 46 between the first protrusion 50a and the second protrusion 50b.

[0119] By fitting the seal portion 58 into the adhesive groove 156g, the adhesiveness of the seal portion 58 to the embedded portion 46 can be improved, and the watertightness between the seal portion 58 and the terminal 40 can be further improved.

[0120] 7, at least one of the first holding surface 250a2 corresponding to the first holding surface 50a2 and the second holding surface 250b2 corresponding to the second holding surface 50b2 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the embedded portion 46. In this case, the length of the first holding surface 250a2 or the second holding surface 250b2 can be shortened in the extension direction of the embedded portion 46, thereby shortening the terminal 240. This makes it easier to miniaturize a terminal block incorporating the terminal 240. The side surfaces of the groove 54 may also extend in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the embedded portion 46.

[0121] 8, at least one of first holding surface 350a2 corresponding to first holding surface 50a2 and second holding surface 350b2 corresponding to second holding surface 50b2 may include a curved surface 350c. Curved surface 350c may be a concave or convex curved surface.

[0122] If at least one of the first holding surface 350a2 and the second holding surface 350b2 includes the curved surface 350c, the area of ​​the first holding surface 350a2 or the second holding surface 350b2 can be increased, and the adhesive area of ​​the seal portion 58 to the first holding surface 350a2 or the second holding surface 350b2 can be increased, thereby improving water blocking properties. The side surfaces of the groove 54 may also be configured to have curved surfaces.

[0123] The above-described structure for positioning the seal portion 58 can be applied to any shape of terminal, where the seal portion is embedded in the base body.

[0124] The configurations described in the above embodiment and modifications can be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10. Electromechanical integrated unit 12 inverters 18 Bus Bar 18h screw insertion hole 20 Rotating Electric Machine 22 cases 22h opening 24 Armature 26 Coil connection end 26h screw insertion hole 28 Field 30 Terminal block 32 units 33 Annular seal member 40, 140, 240, 340 terminals 40B Water stop terminal 42 First connection end 42h First screw insertion hole 44 Second connection end 44h Second screw insertion hole 46 Buried section 50a First protrusion 50a1, 50b1 Outward facing plane 50a2, 250a2, 350a2 1st holding surface 50b 2nd protrusion 50b2, 250b2, 350b2 2nd holding surface 52Fa 1st outer surface 52Fb 2nd outer surface 52M intermediate surface 54 Groove 54a bottom 54b Side 56 Circumferential groove 58 Seal part 60 molds 60h inlet 61 Mold surface 62 First Set 62a Locating surface 63 Second Set 63a Locating surface 66 Source 67 Sealant 156g adhesive groove 350c curved surface

Claims

1. The terminal and a base body for holding the terminal; a seal portion interposed between the terminal and the base body; Equipped with The terminal includes a buried portion located within the base body; The sealing portion surrounds a middle portion of the embedded portion, The embedded portion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion located on opposite outer sides of the seal portion.

2. 2. The terminal block according to claim 1, The embedded portion is plate-shaped, The first protrusion and the second protrusion protrude outward when viewed along the thickness direction of the embedded portion.

3. 3. The terminal block according to claim 2, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are formed on both sides of the embedded portion, A groove extending along the width direction of the embedded portion is formed on each of both surfaces of the embedded portion, a circumferential groove that goes around the embedded portion is formed by the grooves on both sides of the embedded portion and the portions between the first protrusion and the second protrusion on both sides of the embedded portion, The terminal block has the seal portion located in the circumferential groove.

4. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a surface of the embedded portion between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is defined as an intermediate surface; When the surfaces of the embedded portion located on both outer sides of the intermediate surface, the first protrusion, and the second protrusion in the extending direction of the embedded portion are defined as a first outer surface and a second outer surface, The terminal block has the first outer surface and the second outer surface located on an extension of the intermediate surface.

5. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, At least one of the first protrusion and the second protrusion has an outwardly facing flat surface.

6. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The terminal block has an adhesive groove formed in a portion of the embedded portion that is surrounded by the sealing portion.

7. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The terminal block, wherein the sealing portion comprises a thermoplastic polymer.

8. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The terminal block, wherein the terminals are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

9. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a surface of the first protrusion facing the second protrusion serving as a first holding surface, and a surface of the second protrusion facing the first protrusion serving as a second holding surface; At least one of the first holding surface and the second holding surface extends along a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the embedded portion.

10. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a surface of the first protrusion facing the second protrusion serving as a first holding surface, and a surface of the second protrusion facing the first protrusion serving as a second holding surface; At least one of the first holding surface and the second holding surface is inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the embedded portion or includes a curved surface.

11. The terminal and a seal portion surrounding a middle portion of the terminal in an extension direction; Equipped with The terminal includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion located on the outer sides of both ends of the sealing portion.

12. A terminal including a first protrusion and a second protrusion is prepared; The terminal is set in a mold, A method for manufacturing a waterproof terminal, comprising: injecting a fluid sealant into the mold; and flowing the sealant around the middle portion of the terminal in the extension direction between the first protrusion and the second protrusion to mold the seal portion.

13. A method for manufacturing a waterproof terminal according to claim 12, an outwardly facing flat surface is formed on at least one of the first protrusion and the second protrusion; A method for manufacturing a waterproof terminal, comprising: setting the terminal in the mold so that the outward flat surface is in contact with a positioning surface of the mold.

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