Electric connection unit

Abstract

To provide an electrical connection unit capable of improving heat dissipation in an embodiment.SOLUTION: An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment includes a first circuit component, a second circuit component, and a heat dissipation part. The first circuit component includes a plurality of first electronic components and a first substrate on which the plurality of first electronic components are mounted. The second circuit structure includes a plurality of second electronic components and a second substrate on which the plurality of second electronic components are mounted. The heat dissipation part is provided so as to overlap at least a part of each of the first substrate and the second substrate, and is thermally connected to each of the first substrate and the second substrate. It is possible to switch between a first state in which the amount of heat generated in the first circuit component is higher than the amount of heat generated in the second circuit component and a second state in which the amount of heat generated in the second circuit component is higher than the amount of heat generated in the first circuit component.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electrical connection unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrical connection units comprising a plurality of electronic components are known. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-037492 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, electrical connection units are expected to have improved heat dissipation properties.

[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that allows for improved heat dissipation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The electrical connection unit of one embodiment includes a first circuit component, a second circuit component, and a heat dissipation unit. The first circuit component has a plurality of first electronic components and a first substrate on which the plurality of first electronic components are mounted. The second circuit component has a plurality of second electronic components and a second substrate on which the plurality of second electronic components are mounted. The heat dissipation unit is arranged to overlap at least a portion of each of the first substrate and the second substrate, and is thermally connected to each of the first substrate and the second substrate. The heat dissipation unit is switchable between a first state in which the amount of heat generated in the first circuit component is higher than the amount of heat generated in the second circuit component, and a second state different from the first state in which the amount of heat generated in the second circuit component is higher than the amount of heat generated in the first circuit component. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, an electrical connection unit capable of improving heat dissipation can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a main body of the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a subunit according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of a subunit according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the wiring board according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of the wiring board according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line F7-F7 in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the wiring board according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical connection unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 8 taken along line F11-F11. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be assigned the same reference numerals. Duplicate descriptions of those components may be omitted. Note that the specific configurations described below do not limit the applicable scope of the embodiments.

[0010] In this disclosure, terms are defined as follows: "Connection" is not limited to mechanical connection and may include electrical connection. In other words, "connection" is not limited to direct connection between two elements to be connected, but may include connection between two elements via another element interposed therebetween. "Containment" is not limited to containment of the entire component, but may include containment of only a portion of the component. "Facing" means that virtual projection images of two objects overlap when viewed from a specific direction. In other words, "facing" is not limited to two objects directly facing each other, but may include cases where two objects face each other with another component interposed between them. "Parallel," "orthogonal," or "same" may include cases where "substantially parallel," "substantially perpendicular," or "substantially the same," respectively.

[0011] In the present disclosure, the +X direction, the −X direction, the +Y direction, the −Y direction, the +Z direction, and the −Z direction are defined as follows: The +X direction is the direction from the first end 80e1 to the second end 80e2 of the metal plate 80 (described later) (see FIG. 9 ). The −X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the +X direction and the −X direction, they will simply be referred to as the “X direction.” The +Y direction and the −Y direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are perpendicular to) the X direction. The +Y direction is the direction from the third end 80e3 to the fourth end 80e4 of the metal plate 80 (described later) (see FIG. 9 ). The −Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the +Y direction and the −Y direction, they will simply be referred to as the “Y direction.” The +Z direction and the −Z direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are perpendicular to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the metal plate 80 (described later) toward the main body portion MU (see FIG. 1). The -Z direction is the direction opposite to the +Z direction. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the +Z direction and the -Z direction, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction." The Z direction is an example of the "first direction." The X direction is an example of the "second direction."

[0012] In the following, when there is no distinction between the X direction and the Y direction, they may be referred to as the "horizontal direction." In the following, the Z direction may be referred to as the "vertical direction." In addition, in the following, the +Z direction side may be referred to as "up" and the -Z direction side may be referred to as "down." However, these expressions are used for the convenience of explanation and do not limit the direction of gravity of the electrical connection unit 1 (the installation posture of the electrical connection unit 1).

[0013] <1. Configuration of Electrical Connection Unit 1> FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 according to an embodiment. 1 is an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), an HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The electrical connection unit 1 may also be referred to as an "electrical connection box" or a "junction box." However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device.

[0014] The electrical connection unit 1 includes, for example, a main body MU, a metal plate 80, an insulating sheet 91 (see FIG. 11), a plurality of heat transfer members 92, and an insulating cover 93.

[0015] <2. Main body MU> First, the main body MU will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view for explaining the main body MU. The main body MU shown in FIG. 2 is a part that performs the main function of the electrical connection unit 1 (for example, switching the electrical connection state or overcurrent protection). The main body MU is divided into, for example, multiple subunits SU. The main body MU is formed, for example, by connecting multiple subunits SU. In this embodiment, the main body MU has three subunits SU (first to third subunits SUX, SUY, SUZ). Each subunit SU may be referred to as a "circuit assembly."

[0016] The first subunit SUX has a first electrical function. The first subunit SUX includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10X and a first routing board 40X. The plurality of electronic components 10X are electrically connected to the first routing board 40X. The electronic components 10X are an example of a "first electronic component." The first subunit SUX is an example of a "first circuit component." The first routing board 40X is an example of a "first board."

[0017] The second subunit SUY has a second electrical function. The second function is different from the first function. The second subunit SUY includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10Y and a second wiring board 40Y. The plurality of electronic components 10Y are electrically connected to the second wiring board 40Y. The electronic components 10Y are an example of a "first electronic component." The second subunit SUY is an example of a "first circuit component." The second wiring board 40Y is an example of a "first board."

[0018] The third subunit SUZ has a third electrical function. The third function is different from the first and second functions. The third subunit SUZ includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10Z and a third routing board 40Z. The plurality of electronic components 10Z are electrically connected to the third routing board 40Z. The electronic components 10Z are an example of a "second electronic component." The third subunit SUZ is an example of a "second circuit component." The third routing board 40Z is an example of a "second board."

[0019] In this embodiment, the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged side by side in the X direction. For example, the first subunit SUX is arranged on the +X direction side of the second subunit SUY. The first subunit SUX and the second subunit SUY are electrically connected via a coupling bus bar 75 that extends between the first routing board 40X and the second routing board 40Y. On the other hand, the third subunit SUZ is arranged on the -X direction side of the second subunit SUY. The third subunit SUZ and the second subunit SUY are electrically connected via a coupling bus bar 75 that extends between the third routing board 40Z and the second routing board 40Y. The coupling bus bar 75 is arranged on the opposite side of the metal plate 80 from the multiple subunits SU.

[0020] In this embodiment, the three wiring boards 40X, 40Y, and 40Z included in the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged on the same plane. In other words, the three wiring boards 40X, 40Y, and 40Z are arranged at the same height in the Z direction. The three wiring boards 40X, 40Y, and 40Z form one large wiring board 40M.

[0021] In this embodiment, the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ have the same or similar basic structures. Therefore, the following detailed description will focus on one subunit SU. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first subunit SUX, the second subunit SUY, and the third subunit SUZ, they will simply be referred to as "subunits SU." Furthermore, when there is no need to distinguish between the electronic component 10X, the electronic component 10Y, and the electronic component 10Z, they will simply be referred to as "electronic component 10." Furthermore, when there is no need to distinguish between the first routing board 40X, the second routing board 40Y, and the third routing board 40Z, they will simply be referred to as "routing board 40."

[0022] <3. Structure of the subunit SU> Next, the configuration of the subunit SU will be described. Fig. 3 is a perspective view for explaining the subunit SU, and Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a part of the subunit SU in an exploded state. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the subunit SU includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10, a plurality of connection components 20 for component connection, a plurality of connection components 30 for external connection, a wiring board 40, a plurality of fastening members 71, 72, 73, and a connection component 100 for unit connection (see Figure 2).

[0023] <3.1 Electronic component 10 and connecting component 20> First, the electronic component 10 and the connection component 20 will be described. The electronic component 10 is an electronic component that is mounted on the subunit SU according to the functions required of the subunit. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a connector, a fuse, a relay (e.g., a mechanical relay or a semiconductor relay), a capacitor, a branching component, various sensors (e.g., a current sensor or a voltage sensor), an electronic control unit, or an electronic component unit that combines two or more of these. Note that the type of electronic component 10 is not limited to the above examples. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a heat-generating component that generates heat when powered on.

[0024] The connection part 20 is a part that electrically connects the electronic component 10 and the wiring board 40. The connection part 20 forms part of the current path in the subunit SU. The connection part 20 is made of metal (e.g., copper or a copper alloy). The connection part 20 is provided standing upright on the +Z direction side from the wiring board 40. A first end (the end on the -Z direction side) of the connection part 20 is connected to the bus bar 42 by a fastening member 43 (e.g., a bolt). A second end (the end on the +Z direction side) of the connection part 20 is connected to the electronic component 10 by a fastening member 71 (e.g., a screw or a bolt).

[0025] <3.2 External connection parts 30> Next, the connecting part 30 for external connection will be described. The connection component 30 is a component that electrically connects the external connection bus bar 76 and the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the connection component 30 electrically connects the external connection bus bar 76 and the bus bar 42 included in the wiring board 40. The external connection bus bar 76 is electrically connected to an external device. In this disclosure, the term "external device" refers to an electrical device that exists outside the electrical connection unit 1. The external device is, for example, a battery unit mounted on a vehicle or an inverter for driving a motor of the vehicle. However, the external device is not limited to a battery unit or an inverter.

[0026] Like the connection component 20, the connection component 30 is made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy). As shown in FIG. 2, the connection component 30 is provided in an upright state on the +Z direction side at the outer periphery (X direction end) of the wiring board 40M. A first end (-Z direction end) of the connection component 30 is connected to the bus bar 42 by a fastening member 43 (for example, a bolt). A second end (+Z direction end) of the connection component 20 is connected to the external connection bus bar 76 by a fastening member 73 (for example, a screw or a bolt).

[0027] <3.3 Connection parts 100 for unit connection> Next, the connecting part 100 for connecting units will be described. The connection part 100 electrically connects adjacent subunits SU to each other. In this embodiment, the connection part 100 connects between the bus bar 42 included in one subunit SU (for example, the second subunit SUY) and the bus bar 42 included in the other subunit SU (for example, the third subunit SUZ) of the adjacent subunits SU.

[0028] <3.4 Wiring board 40> First, the wiring board 40 will be described. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the wiring board 40. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the wiring board 40 is a member that forms at least a portion of the electrical paths between multiple electronic components 10 and / or at least a portion of the electrical paths between the electronic components 10 and an external device. In this disclosure, the term "wiring board" refers to a board-type wiring structure. "Board-type" refers to a plate-like structure that is flat and extends along a single plane when viewed as a whole, regardless of its detailed shape. In this disclosure, "plate-like" does not necessarily refer to a completely flat structure, but may also refer to a structure that has fixing structures or ribs protruding in the Z direction. In this embodiment, the wiring board 40 is plate-like and extends along the X and Y directions.

[0029] The wiring board 40 includes, for example, a base plate 41, one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bars 42, and a plurality of fastening members 43. In this embodiment, the base plate 41 and the plurality of bus bars 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the wiring board 40 is formed as a single member by insert molding the bus bars 42 with the base plate 41 after the fastening members 43 are fixed to the bus bars 42. That is, the bus bars 42 are integrated with the base plate 41 without using fastening members such as screws or bolts. Note that the wiring board 40 may be formed by a different structure instead of insert molding. Of the bus bars 42, the bus bars 42 provided in the first subunit SUX and the second subunit SUY are an example of a "first bus bar." Of the bus bars 42, the bus bars 42 provided in the third subunit SUZ are an example of a "second bus bar."

[0030] 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of the wiring board 40. For ease of explanation, the base plate 41, the bus bar 42, and the fastening member 43 will be described below with reference to the partially exploded view of the wiring board 40.

[0031] (Base plate 41) As shown in FIG. 6 , the base plate 41 is a holding member that integrally holds a plurality of bus bars 42 that are arranged horizontally at intervals from one another. The base plate 41 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base plate 41 is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape with the X direction as the longitudinal direction and the Y direction as the lateral direction. The base plate 41 electrically insulates the plurality of bus bars 42 from one another. The base plate 41 has, for example, a flat portion 51 and a plurality of fixing portions 52.

[0032] The flat surface portion 51 is a plate-shaped portion of the base plate 41. The flat surface portion 51 forms the main portion of the base plate 41. The flat surface portion 51 extends in the horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the flat surface portion 51 extends across the entire width of the base plate 41 in the X direction and across the entire width of the base plate 41 in the Y direction, excluding the four corners of the base plate 41.

[0033] The flat portion 51 has a first surface 51a and a second surface 51b. The first surface 51a is a surface facing the +Z direction. The first surface 51a is a flat surface extending along the horizontal direction. The first surface 51a faces the multiple electronic components 10 and also faces the insulating cover 93 (see FIG. 1) of the electrical connection unit 1. The second surface 51b is located on the opposite side to the first surface 51a. The second surface 51b is a surface facing the -Z direction. The second surface 51b is a flat surface extending along the horizontal direction. The second surface 51b faces the metal plate 80 (see FIG. 1). The thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the flat portion 51 is the Z direction.

[0034] The flat portion 51 is formed with one or more (e.g., multiple) accommodating portions 55, each accommodating a bus bar 42, for example. The multiple accommodating portions 55 are formed spaced apart from one another in the X direction or the Y direction. Each accommodating portion 55 is, for example, a through-hole penetrating the flat portion 51 in the Z direction. That is, each accommodating portion 55 is open in the Z direction on both the first surface 51a and the second surface 51b. Note that instead of a through-hole, the accommodating portion 55 may be a recess provided on the first surface 51a or the second surface 51b of the flat portion 51 and recessed in the Z direction. Note that in the present disclosure, the phrase "the accommodating portion penetrates the flat portion in the first direction (Z direction)" may also include a case where only a portion of the entire length of the accommodating portion 55 penetrates the flat portion 51 in the Z direction (for example, the remaining portion of the accommodating portion 55 may be a recess recessed in the Z direction, or may be provided inside the base plate 41 and not exposed to the outside of the base plate 41). Similarly, in the present disclosure, "the storage section is recessed in the first direction (Z direction)" may also include a case where only a portion of the entire length of the storage section 55 is recessed in the Z direction (for example, the remaining portion of the storage section 55 may be a through-hole that penetrates the flat section 51 in the Z direction, or may be provided inside the base plate 41 and not exposed to the outside of the base plate 41). As shown in FIG. 2, of the storage sections 55, the storage sections 55 provided in the first subunit SUX and the second subunit SUY are an example of a "first storage section." Of the storage sections 55, the storage section 55 provided in the third subunit SUZ is an example of a "second storage section."

[0035] 6, when viewed from the Z direction, each accommodating portion 55 is formed to have an outer shape corresponding to the shape of the bus bar 42 to be accommodated. In the present embodiment, the planar portion 51 includes, as the plurality of accommodating portions 55, for example, five accommodating portions 55A, 55B, 55C, 55D, and 55E.

[0036] A through hole 51h is formed in the flat portion 51 at a position offset in the X direction or Y direction from the accommodation portion 55. As shown in FIG. 4 , the through hole 51h is formed at a position overlapping, for example, the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The mounting portion 14 is a portion for mounting the electronic component 10 to the metal plate 80. The mounting portion 14 protrudes in the X direction or Y direction from the end of the case of the electronic component 10 on the −Z direction side.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F7-F7 in FIG. 4 and 7, the fixing portion 52 is a portion used to fix the metal plate 80 to the base plate 41. The fixing portion 52 is provided at a corner of the base plate 41. The fixing portion 52 includes, for example, an upright plate portion 52a and a horizontal plate portion 52b.

[0038] The standing plate portion 52a stands upright in the +Z direction from an end of the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41. When viewed from the Z direction, the standing plate portion 52a is formed, for example, in an L shape. That is, the standing plate portion 52a extends in the Z direction with a portion of the horizontal direction open. The horizontal plate portion 52b extends horizontally from the end of the upright plate portion 52a on the +Z direction side. The horizontal plate portion 52b is a plate portion that extends horizontally. The horizontal plate portion 52b extends like an eave so as to cover the area surrounded by the upright plate portion 52a from the +Z direction side.

[0039] (Busbar 42) As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , busbars 42 are routing members (electrical connection members) included in routing board 40. Busbars 42 are, for example, routing members for electrically connecting multiple electronic components 10 together. Busbars 42 may also be routing members for connecting one electronic component 10 to an external device. Busbars 42 are made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy) and are electrically conductive. In this embodiment, routing board 40 has multiple busbars 42, for example, five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E are arranged horizontally at intervals from one another. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E are held by flat portion 51 of base plate 41.

[0040] At least a portion of each bus bar 42 is a plate-like shape extending in the horizontal direction. At least a portion of each bus bar 42 extends along the flat portion 51 while housed in the housing portion 55. At least a portion of each bus bar 42 extends along the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51. At least a portion of each bus bar 42 extends in the horizontal direction within the housing portion 55. In the present embodiment, each bus bar 42 is a plate-like shape extending in the horizontal direction over the entire bus bar 42. Each bus bar 42 extends along the flat portion 51 while housed in the housing portion 55 over the entire length of the bus bar 42. Hereinafter, the portion of each bus bar 42 housed in the housing portion 55 (the portion extending along the flat portion 51) may be referred to as the "plate portion 42p."

[0041] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the wiring board 40. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the plate portion 42p of each bus bar 42 has, for example, a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63.

[0042] The first connection portion 61 is a portion that contacts one of the multiple connection components 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "first connection component 20"). The first connection component 20 is a connection component that connects one of the multiple electronic components 10 (hereinafter referred to as the "first electronic component 10") to the bus bar 42. The first connection portion 61 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the first connection component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. The first connection portion 61 is adjacent to the first connection component 20 in the Z direction. The first connection portion 61 is connected to the first connection component 20 from the Z direction.

[0043] The second connection portion 62 is a portion that comes into contact with a connection portion 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "second connection portion 20") different from the first connection portion 20 among the multiple connection portions 20. The second connection portion 20 is a connection portion that connects an electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as the "second electronic component 10") different from the first electronic component 10 among the multiple electronic components 10 to the bus bar 42. The second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the second connection portion 20 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection portion 20 in the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is connected to the second connection portion 20 from the Z direction.

[0044] The second connection portion 62 may be a portion that comes into contact with the connection component 30. The connection component 30 is a connection component for connecting an external device and the bus bar 42. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the connection component 30 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the connection component 30 in the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is connected to the connection component 30 from the Z direction.

[0045] The second connection portion 62 may be a portion that contacts the coupling bus bar 75 for connecting to another subunit SU, instead of the connection parts 20, 30. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the coupling bus bar 75 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the coupling bus bar 75 in the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is connected to the coupling bus bar 75 from the Z direction.

[0046] The extending portion 63 extends in the X direction or the Y direction from the first connecting portion 61. The extending portion 63 is provided between the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The extending portion 63 extends across the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The extending portion 63 connects the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are plate-shaped and extend horizontally. In this embodiment, each busbar 42 extends along the flat portion 51 while being housed in the housing portion 55, spanning at least the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62. For example, the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63 extend along the flat portion 51 while being housed in the housing portion 55. The portion of each busbar 42 housed in the housing portion 55 is exposed on the first surface 51a and the second surface 51b of the flat portion 51. That is, the surface of each busbar 42 facing the Z direction is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41 (e.g., in the +Z direction and the −Z direction) through the opening of the housing portion 55. However, a portion of the busbar 42 may be buried in the base plate 41.

[0048] In this embodiment, the extension portions 63 of some bus bars 42 are accommodated in the accommodation portion 55, and extend through the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, so as to span both sides of the region R. For example, the extension portions 63 extend linearly in the X direction. The extension portions 63 extend through the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, so as to span both the +X direction side and the −X direction side of the region R.

[0049] Furthermore, one or more bus bars 42 may have an extension portion 64 in addition to the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63. The extension portion 64 is a portion of the bus bar 42 extended for the purpose of increasing the heat dissipation area and / or the heat capacity for heat storage (heat absorption). The extension portion 64 is a portion not used for electrical connection. For example, the extension portion 64 is located on the opposite side of the extension portion 63 from the first connection portion 61 (or the second connection portion 62). The extension portion 64 has a plate shape extending horizontally. The extension portion 64 extends along the flat portion 51 when housed in the housing portion 55. When housed in the housing portion 55, the extension portion 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The extension portion 64 has an end 42e1 of the bus bar 42 at a position that overlaps with the region R when viewed from the Z direction.

[0050] The following describes several examples of wiring the bus bars 42. The plurality of electronic components 10 includes three electronic components 10A, 10B, and 10C. The plurality of connection components 20 includes six connection components 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, and 20F. The plurality of connection components 30 includes two connection components 30A and 30B.

[0051] (1st wiring example) First, an example of wiring of the bus bar 42A will be described. The bus bar 42A has a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63. When viewed from the Z direction, the first connection portion 61 is located on the +X direction side of the electronic component 10A. The first connection portion 61 is electrically connected to, for example, a positive electrode terminal of the electronic component 10A via a connection part 20A. The second connection portion 62 is located on the −X direction side of the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is electrically connected to another subunit SU via a coupling bus bar 75.

[0052] By being accommodated in accommodation portion 55, extension portion 63 passes through region R that overlaps with electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction, and extends to both sides of region R. For example, extension portion 63 extends linearly in the X direction. Extension portion 63 extends through region R that overlaps with electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction, so as to span both the +X direction side and the −X direction side of region R. Bus bar 42A is, for example, a bus bar included in positive electrode line PL of electrical connection unit 1.

[0053] (Second wiring example) Next, an example of wiring of the bus bar 42B will be described. The busbar 42B has a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, an extension portion 63, and an extension portion 64. The first connection portion 61 is electrically connected to, for example, the negative terminal of the electronic component 10A via a connection part 20B that is different from the first connection part 20. The second connection portion 62 is electrically connected to an external connection busbar 76 via a connection part 30A. The extension portion 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction. The extension portion 64 has an end 42e1 of the busbar 42 at a position that overlaps with the region R when viewed from the Z direction. Note that, like the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42A, the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42B may extend through the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction, extending to both sides of the region R. The busbar 42B is, for example, a busbar included in a positive line PL of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0054] (3rd wiring example) Next, an example of wiring of the bus bar 42C will be described. The busbar 42C has a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, an extension portion 63, and an extension portion 64. The first connection portion 61 is electrically connected to, for example, the negative electrode terminal of the electronic component 10B via the connection part 20C. The second connection portion 62 is electrically connected to another subunit SU via a coupling busbar 75. The extension portion 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10B when viewed from the Z direction. The extension portion 64 has an end 42e1 of the busbar 42 at a position that overlaps with the region R when viewed from the Z direction. The busbar 42C is, for example, a busbar included in the negative electrode line NL of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0055] (4th wiring example) Next, an example of wiring of the bus bar 42D will be described. The bus bar 42D has a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63. The first connection portion 61 is electrically connected to, for example, a positive terminal of the electronic component 10B via a connection part 20D. The second connection portion 62 is electrically connected to, for example, a negative terminal of the electronic component 10C via a connection part 20E. The bus bar 42D is, for example, a bus bar included in the negative line NL of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0056] (5th wiring example) Next, an example of wiring of the bus bar 42E will be described. The bus bar 42E has a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63. The first connection portion 61 is electrically connected to, for example, the negative electrode terminal of the electronic component 10C via a connection part 20F. The second connection portion 62 is electrically connected to an external connection bus bar 76 via a connection part 30B. The bus bar 42E is, for example, a bus bar included in the negative electrode line NL of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0057] (Fastening member 43) Next, returning to FIG. 6, the fastening member 43 will be described. The fastening member 43 is a component for fastening the bus bar 42 to a component to which the bus bar 42 is connected (connection component 20, connection component 30, or coupling bus bar 75). The fastening member 43 is, for example, a crimp bolt fixed to the bus bar 42. The fastening member 43 penetrates the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 is electrically and physically connected to the bus bar 42 while protruding in the +Z direction relative to the bus bar 42. Note that the fastening member 43 is not limited to being fixed by crimping, and may be fixed to the bus bar 42 by welding or other methods.

[0058] The connection component 20 is first fixed to the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 71 or the fastening member 72, and then fixed to the fastening member 43. For example, the fastening member 43 penetrates a first end of the connection component 20. As shown in FIG. 3 , an engaging member 44 (e.g., a nut) is attached to a portion of the fastening member 43 that protrudes in the +Z direction relative to the connection component 20. This attachment mounts the connection component 20 to the wiring board 40. Note that in this disclosure, "an electronic component is mounted on a board" is not limited to a case where the electronic component is directly connected to the board, but also includes a case where the electronic component is connected to the board via another component (e.g., the connection component 20). Also, in this disclosure, "an electronic component is mounted on a board" means that at least the electronic component is electrically connected to the board, and also includes a case where the electronic component is fixed to a member (e.g., a metal plate 80) different from the board instead of or in addition to the board.

[0059] <4. Connection structure> Next, the connection structure of the subunits SU will be described. 2, the first subunit SUX, the second subunit SUY, and the third subunit SUZ are arranged in order from the +X direction side to the -X direction side. The first subunit SUX and the second subunit SUY are electrically connected via a connecting bus bar 75A. The second subunit SUY and the third subunit SUZ are electrically and physically connected via a connecting bus bar 75B.

[0060] Adjacent subunits SU are arranged with their ends facing each other in the X direction overlapping in the Z direction. Specifically, the fixed portion 52 (horizontal plate portion 52b) located on the -X direction side of the first subunit SUX is overlapped from the +Z direction by the fixed portion 52 (horizontal plate portion 52b) located on the +X direction side of the second subunit SUY. The fixed portion 52 (horizontal plate portion 52b) located on the +X direction side of the third subunit SUX is overlapped from the +Z direction by the fixed portion 52 (horizontal plate portion 52b) located on the -X direction side of the second subunit SUY.

[0061] <5. Metal Plate 80, Insulating Sheet 91, Heat Transfer Member 92, and Insulating Cover 93> Next, the metal plate 80, the insulating sheet 91, the heat transfer member 92, and the insulating cover 93 will be described.

[0062] <5.1 Metal Plate> 9 is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is a member that ensures the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1 and enhances the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is made of metal (for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The metal plate 80 is an example of a "heat dissipation portion." The heat dissipation portion is not limited to metal, and various materials can be used as long as they have superior thermal conductivity compared to, for example, the base plate 41.

[0063] When viewed from the Z direction, the metal plate 80 has a rectangular shape extending along the X direction. The metal plate 80 has a first end 80e1, a second end 80e2, a third end 80e3, and a fourth end 80e4. The first end 80e1 and the second end 80e2 are a pair of longitudinal ends of the metal plate 80 and are spaced apart in the X direction. The third end 80e3 and the fourth end 80e4 are a pair of lateral ends of the metal plate 80 and are spaced apart in the Y direction. In this embodiment, the metal plate 80 is large enough to cover the entire three subunits SU (main body portions MU) from below. Specifically, the length of the metal plate 80 in the X direction is greater than the length of the main body portion MU in the X direction. The length of the metal plate 80 in the Y direction is greater than the length of the main body portion MU in the Y direction. Therefore, when viewed from the Z direction, the area of ​​the metal plate 80 is greater than the area of ​​the main body portion MU.

[0064] The metal plate 80 includes, for example, a flat portion 81, a plurality of fixing portions 82, a plurality of fixing portions 83, and a peripheral wall portion 84.

[0065] The flat surface portion 81 is a plate-shaped portion of the metal plate 80. The flat surface portion 81 is a plate-shaped portion that extends horizontally. The flat surface portion 81 forms the main portion of the metal plate 80. The flat surface portion 81 forms the base (metal base) of the metal plate 80. In this embodiment, the flat surface portion 81 is large enough to cover the entire three subunits SU (main body portions MU) from below. The flat surface portion 81 faces the wiring board 40 for the three subunits SU. In this embodiment, the metal plate 80 faces the second surface 51b of each subunit SU with a gap S1 (see FIG. 7) between the metal plate 80 and the flat surface portion 51 (second surface 51b) of each subunit SU.

[0066] 7 and 9, the fixing portion 82 is a portion for fixing the base plate 41 of each subunit SU to the metal plate 80. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 82 is provided at a position corresponding to the fixing portion 52 of each subunit SU. The fixing portion 82 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes from the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 in the +Z direction.

[0067] The fixing portion 83 is a portion for fixing the electronic component 10 of each subunit SU directly to the metal plate 80 without using the base plate 41. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 83 is provided at a position corresponding to the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 of each subunit SU. The fixing portion 83 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes in the +Z direction from the flat portion 81. The amount of protrusion of the fixing portion 83 in the Z direction is smaller than the amount of protrusion of the fixing portion 82 in the Z direction.

[0068] 2, the peripheral wall portion 84 extends in the +Z direction from the outer peripheral edge of the flat portion 81. The peripheral wall portion 84 extends around the entire periphery of the flat portion 81. The length of the peripheral wall portion 84 in the Z direction is shorter than the length of the fixing portions 82, 83 in the Z direction.

[0069] <5.2 Insulation sheet 91> The insulating sheet 91 is an insulating member for electrically insulating the metal plate 80 from the bus bars 42 of each subunit SU. The insulating sheet 91 is made of a synthetic resin such as polyester or polyimide, and has insulating properties. The insulating sheet 91 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z direction. The insulating sheet 91 is provided so as to cover the entire flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 from the +Z direction side. Therefore, the main body portion MU faces the metal plate 80 with the insulating sheet 91 sandwiched therebetween. The insulating sheet 91 is an example of an "insulating member."

[0070] The insulating sheet 91 is attached to the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80. The insulating sheet 91 has cutouts or openings formed therein to avoid the fixing portions 82 and 83 of the metal plate 80. In this embodiment, the thickness of the insulating sheet 91 in the Z direction is thinner than the thickness of the peripheral wall portion 84 in the Z direction. Therefore, the insulating sheet 91 is positioned horizontally relative to the metal plate 80 by being surrounded by the peripheral wall portion 84.

[0071] <5.3 Heat Transfer Material 92> 9, the heat transfer member 92 is a member for transferring heat generated by the electronic component 10 when current is applied and / or heat generated by the bus bar 42 itself when current is applied to the metal plate 80. The heat transfer member 92 is, for example, an elastic heat transfer sheet (for example, a thermally conductive silicone sheet). However, the heat transfer member 92 is not limited to the above example, and may be a heat transfer member formed of a thermally conductive gel or other materials.

[0072] The multiple heat transfer members 92 include, for example, one or more (e.g., multiple) heat transfer members 92 corresponding to the first subunit SUX, one or more (e.g., multiple) heat transfer members 92 corresponding to the second subunit SUY, and one or more (e.g., multiple) heat transfer members 92 corresponding to the third subunit SUZ. The heat transfer member 92 corresponding to the first subunit SUX is arranged at a position overlapping the first subunit SUX when viewed from the Z direction, and transfers heat generated by the first subunit SUX to the metal plate 80. The heat transfer member 92 corresponding to the second subunit SUY is arranged at a position overlapping the second subunit SUY when viewed from the Z direction, and transfers heat generated by the second subunit SUX to the metal plate 80. The heat transfer member 92 corresponding to the third subunit SUZ is arranged at a position overlapping the third subunit SUZ when viewed from the Z direction, and transfers heat generated by the third subunit SUZ to the metal plate 80.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a bottom view showing the wiring board 40. As shown in FIG. 10 , the heat transfer members 92 transfer heat transferred from the electronic component 10 to the bus bar 42 and / or heat generated in the bus bar 42 from the bus bar 42 to the metal plate 80. The heat transfer members 92 are provided partially on the wiring board 40 in the horizontal direction. For example, the heat transfer members 92 are arranged in positions on the wiring board 40 that overlap with portions of the bus bar 42 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat transfer members 92 are arranged in positions that overlap with portions of the bus bar 42 near the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic components 10A and 10B) when viewed from the Z direction. In this embodiment, the heat transfer members 92 are arranged in positions that overlap with the connecting part 20 (the connection portion between the bus bar 42 and the electronic component 10) when viewed from the Z direction.

[0074] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 8 taken along line F11-F11. 11 , the heat transfer member 92 is disposed in a crushed state between the main body MU and the insulating sheet 91 in the Z direction. A portion of the heat transfer member 92 located on the −Z direction side is in contact with the metal plate 80 via the insulating sheet 91. The heat transfer member 92 may be disposed between the insulating sheet 91 and the metal plate 80.

[0075] A portion of the heat transfer member 92 located on the +Z direction side is in contact with the bus bar 42. In the present embodiment, the heat transfer member 92 is in contact with the bus bar 42 at a position overlapping with the connection part 20 when viewed from the Z direction. In this case, the heat transfer member 92 facilitates the transfer of heat from the electronic component 10 to the connection part 20 from the connection part 20 to the metal plate 80 via the bus bar 42. A portion of the heat transfer member 92 is disposed in a position overlapping with the fastening member 43 when viewed from the Z direction, and is in contact with the fastening member 43. In this case, the heat transfer member 92 facilitates the transfer of heat from the electronic component 10 to the connection part 20 from the fastening member 43 to the metal plate 80.

[0076] In this embodiment, a portion of the heat transfer member 92 contacts the bus bar 42 at a position that overlaps the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. In this case, the heat transfer member 92 makes it easier to transfer heat transferred from the electronic component 10 to the bus bar 42, from the bus bar 42 to the metal plate 80. In the example shown in FIG. 11 , the upper surface of the bus bar 42 contacts the electronic component 10, so that the bus bar 42 is thermally connected to the electronic component 10. Note that the portion of the bus bar 42 that is thermally connected to the electronic component 10 may be the extension portion 63 or the extension portion 64.

[0077] <5.4 Insulation Cover 93> Returning to FIG. 1, the insulating cover 93 will be described. The insulating cover 93 is a member for ensuring the safety of the electrical paths of the main body unit MU. The insulating cover 93 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The insulating cover 93 is, for example, box-shaped with an open -Z side. The insulating cover 93 is attached to the metal plate 80 so as to cover the main body unit MU from the +Z side. In this embodiment, a plurality of ventilation holes 93h are formed in the top wall of the insulating cover 93. Note that the insulating cover 93 is not limited to a box-shaped member, and may be a sheet-shaped member that covers the electrical paths of the main body unit MU.

[0078] <6. Fixed structure> Next, the anchoring structure of the subunit SU will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the main body MU is stacked in the Z direction on the metal plate 80 with the fixing portions 52 of adjacent subunits SU overlapping with the fixing portions 82 of the metal plate 80. The fixing portions 52, 82 overlapping in the Z direction are fixed to each other by fastening members 111 (e.g., screws or bolts). The fastening members 111 pass through the fixing portions 52 of the subunits SU and are then fastened to the fixing portions 82 of the metal plate 80. Of the multiple fixing portions 82, the fixing portions 82 fixed to the subunits SUX, SUY are an example of a "first support portion." Of the multiple fixing portions 82, the fixing portion 82 fixed to the subunit SUZ is an example of a "second support portion."

[0079] With the main body portion MU and the metal plate 80 stacked together, the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80 passes through the through hole 51h of the subunit SU. The mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 is overlapped in the Z direction on the fixing portion 83. The mounting portion 14 and the fixing portion 83 that overlap in the Z direction are fixed to each other by a fastening member 112 (e.g., a screw or a bolt). The fastening member 112 passes through the mounting portion 14 and is then fastened to the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80. A gap is provided between the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 51h and the fixing portion 83 to allow air to pass through.

[0080] 2, the main body MU is configured such that, among the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ, the third subunit SUZ generates heat at a different timing than the remaining subunits SUX and SUY. In this embodiment, the different heat generation timings do not necessarily mean that the third subunit SUZ or any of the remaining subunits SUX and SUY generates heat when the other subunits SU generate heat when the amount of heat generated by the third subunit SUZ or any of the remaining subunits SUX and SUY is zero. For example, this includes a case where, when all subunits SU generate heat, the amount of heat generated by the third subunit SUZ is different from the amount of heat generated by the remaining subunits SUX and SUY during the same time period. That is, the electrical connection unit 1 is switchable between a first state in which the amount of heat generated by the remaining subunits SUX and SUY is higher than that of the third subunit SUZ, and a second state in which the amount of heat generated by the third subunit SUZ is lower than that of the remaining subunits SUX and SUY (or the amount of heat generated by at least one of the subunits SUX and SUY). In this case, even when all the subunits SU generate heat to a certain extent, the electrical connection unit 1 may switch between a relatively high temperature subunit SU and a relatively low temperature subunit SU.

[0081] For example, when the electrical connection unit 1 is mounted on a vehicle, if the remaining subunits SUX and SUY are used when the vehicle is running and the third subunit SUZ is used when the vehicle is charging, the third subunit SUZ and the remaining subunits SUX and SUY will generate heat at different times. That is, when the vehicle is running, this is an example of a "first state." When the vehicle is running, for example, the amount of current supplied to the remaining subunits SUX and SUY will be greater than the amount of current supplied to the third subunit SUZ, and the amount of heat generated by the remaining subunits SUX and SUY will be greater than the amount of heat generated by the third subunit SUZ. On the other hand, when the vehicle is charging, this is an example of a "second state." When the vehicle is charging, for example, the amount of current supplied to the third subunit SUZ will be greater than the amount of current supplied to the remaining subunits SUX and SUY, and the amount of heat generated by the third subunit SUZ will be greater than the amount of heat generated by the remaining subunits SUX and SUY. These heat generation timings can be switched, for example, by a command from a control device mounted on the vehicle. For example, the heat generation timing is switched by switching the state of the relays included in the plurality of electronic components 10 of the electrical connection unit 1 in response to the command.

[0082] 7. Heat Transfer 11 , the subunit SU generates heat, for example, when current is applied to the electronic component 10 or the bus bar 42. Of the heat generated in the subunit SU, part of the heat from the base plate 41 is transferred to the metal plate 80 (flat portion 81) via the heat transfer member 92 and the insulating sheet 91. Part of the heat from the base plate 41 is transferred to the fixing portion 82 of the metal plate 80 via the fixing portion 52. Part of the heat from the electronic component 10 is transferred to the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80 via the mounting portion 14. In this way, the heat generated in the subunit SU is transferred to the metal plate 80 and then released from the metal plate 80 to the outside.

[0083] The electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment includes subunits SUX and SUY having a plurality of electronic components 10X and 10Y and routing boards 40X and 40Y on which the plurality of electronic components 10X and 10Y are mounted, a subunit SUZ having a plurality of electronic components 10Z and a routing board 40Z on which the plurality of electronic components 10Z are mounted, and a metal plate 80 arranged to overlap at least a portion of the routing boards 40X and 40Y and the routing board 40Z and thermally connected to the routing boards 40X and 40Y and the routing board 40Z. The electrical connection unit 1 is switchable between a first state in which the amount of heat generated in the subunits SUX and SUY is higher than the amount of heat generated in the subunits SUZ, and a second state different from the first state in which the amount of heat generated in the subunits SUZ is higher than the amount of heat generated in the subunits SUX and SUY. According to this configuration, the metal plate 80 is provided so as to span multiple subunits SU. The subunits SU thermally connected to the metal plate 80 are switched between a first state and a second state, which have different relative heat generation amounts. Therefore, in the first state, the portions of the metal plate 80 overlapping the subunits SUX and SUY, as well as the portions of the metal plate 80 overlapping the subunit SUZ, can be used to release heat generated by the subunits SUX and SUY. Meanwhile, in the second state, the portions of the metal plate 80 overlapping the subunit SUZ, as well as the portions of the metal plate 80 overlapping the subunits SUX and SUY, can be used to release heat generated by the subunit SUZ. This configuration makes it easier to ensure a large volume for the metal plate 80 thermally connected to the subunits SU that generate heat, while keeping the dimensions of the metal plate 80 in the Z direction small compared to, for example, providing a metal plate 80 independently for each subunit SU. That is, since the heat capacity of the metal plate 80 can be easily ensured while keeping the dimensions of the metal plate 80 in the Z direction small, an electrical connection unit 1 with excellent heat dissipation properties can be provided.

[0084] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged side by side in the X direction. This configuration allows the electrical connection unit 1 to be made thinner in the Z direction.

[0085] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the area of ​​the metal plate 80 as viewed from the Z direction is larger than the total area of ​​the subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ as viewed from the Z direction, and the metal plate 80 overlaps the entire subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ as viewed from the Z direction. This configuration ensures that the heat capacity of the metal plate 80 is ensured, and also facilitates uniform heat transfer from each of the subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ. This transfer can further improve heat dissipation.

[0086] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, an insulating sheet 91 is provided between the metal plate 80 and the subunit SU. According to this configuration, the insulating sheet 91 is provided between the metal plate 80 and the subunit SU, thereby ensuring insulation between the heat dissipation section and the subunit SU. This insulation allows for greater freedom in selecting materials to be used as the heat dissipation section.

[0087] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, each subunit SU includes a bus bar 42 that connects multiple electronic components 10 together, and an elastic heat transfer member 92 is provided between the metal plate 80 and each subunit SU. The heat transfer member 92 is positioned so as to overlap the connection portion between the bus bar 42 and the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. According to this configuration, the connection portion of the subunit SU between the bus bar 42, which is one of the heat-generating portions, and the electronic component 10 is thermally connected to the metal plate 80 via the heat transfer member 92. This connection can further improve heat dissipation.

[0088] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the wiring board 40 is formed with a receiving portion 55 that is recessed in the Z direction or opens in the Z direction and receives the bus bar 42. According to this configuration, the busbars 42 are exposed to the outside of the wiring board 40, so that heat generated in the busbars 42 can be quickly released, and heat accumulation in the wiring board 40 can be suppressed.

[0089] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the metal plate 80 includes a flat portion 81 and a fixing portion 82 that protrudes from the flat portion 81 in the Z direction and supports the wiring board 40. According to this configuration, heat from the wiring board 40 is easily transferred to the metal plate 80 via the fixing portion 82. This transfer can further improve heat dissipation.

[0090] In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the subunits SU are electrically connected. According to this configuration, by connecting the subunits SU together in a pre-assembled state for each subunit SU, it is possible to improve assembly ease and manufacturing efficiency. Moreover, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the metal plate 80 is provided so as to straddle the subunits SU, making it easy to ensure rigidity at the connection portions between the subunits SU.

[0091] <8. Variations> Next, several modified examples will be described. Note that the configuration of each modified example is the same as that of the above embodiment except for the configuration described below.

[0092] (First Modification) The wiring board 40 is not limited to a structure in which the base plate 41 and the bus bar 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the base plate 41 may be molded with a housing portion 55 for housing the bus bar 42, and then the bus bar 42 may be placed in the housing portion 55. In this case, the bus bar 42 may be fixed to the housing portion 55 by fitting, or may be fixed to the housing portion 55 by adhesive or other fixing means. In these cases, potting may be applied to fill the gap between the bus bar 42 and the housing portion 55.

[0093] (Second Modification) The base member of the wiring board 40 is not limited to the base plate 41 having the plate-shaped flat portion 51. The wiring board 40 may be a base member (for example, an insulating sheet) having a sheet-shaped flat portion 51. In this case, the accommodation portion 55 may be formed by a portion of the flat portion 51 conforming to the outer shape of the bus bar 42. In this disclosure, the term "sheet-shaped" or "sheet" is not limited to a member having a thickness of 1 mm or more, and may also refer to a member having a thickness of less than 1 mm (so-called film).

[0094] (Third Modification) The base plate 41 of the wiring board 40 may include multiple members (plate members or sheet members). The multiple members are arranged to sandwich the multiple bus bars 42 arranged horizontally, for example, from both sides in the Z direction. For example, the multiple members are integrated by sandwiching the multiple bus bars 42, for example, by lamination molding. The multiple members form a planar portion 51. In this case, the accommodating portion 55 may be formed hollow inside the base plate 41 (between the multiple members). The multiple members may be multiple plate members, multiple sheet members, or a combination of plate members and sheet members. The sheet member may be, for example, a flexible sheet member. The planar portion 51 formed by the multiple members has openings that expose at least the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the bus bars 42. In this case, for example, the accommodating portion 55 formed between the multiple members corresponds to an example of an "accommodating portion recessed in the first direction (Z direction)."

[0095] (Fourth Modification) The connection between the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 42 is not limited to the connection via the connection component 20. The electronic component 10 may be directly connected to the bus bar 42 using a fastening member (for example, a bolt or a screw), welding, or the like.

[0096] Several embodiments and modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the above examples. For example, multiple embodiments may be realized in combination with each other. The present invention is not limited by the above description, but is limited only by the scope of the accompanying claims. In the above embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 for a vehicle has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In the above-described embodiment, the two subunits SUX and SUY are the first circuit components and the one subunit SUZ is the second circuit component, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. There may be a plurality of second circuit components, or the number of first circuit components and second circuit components may be the same. In the above-described embodiment, the subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged in a row in the X direction, but the configuration is not limited to this. The subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ may be arranged in the X direction, the Y direction, or the Z direction.

[0097] In the above-described embodiment, the metal plate 80 is configured to overlap the entire subunit SU, but the configuration is not limited to this. The metal plate 80 only needs to overlap at least a portion of each subunit SU. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which the subunits SU are electrically connected to each other has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. The subunits SU only need to be thermally connected to each other via the metal plate 80, and the subunits SU do not need to be directly connected to each other.

[0098] In the above-described embodiment, the wiring board 40 and the busbars 42 are integrally formed, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The busbars 42 may be formed separately from the wiring board 40. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the heat dissipation section is connected to the subunit SU via the heat transfer member 92 or the insulating sheet 91, but the configuration is not limited to this. The heat dissipation section may also be directly connected to the subunit SU. In the above-described embodiment, the metal plate 80 serving as the heat dissipation portion is formed in a plate shape and disposed on one side of the subunit SU in the Z direction, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The heat dissipation portion may be provided so as to surround the periphery of the subunit SU.

[0099] In addition, the components in the above-described embodiments can be replaced with well-known components as appropriate, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1: Electrical connection unit 10, 10X: Electronic components (first electronic component) 10, 10Y: Electronic components (first electronic component) 10, 10Z: Electronic components (secondary electronic components) 40, 40X: First wiring board (first board) 40, 40Y: Second wiring board (first board) 40, 40Z: Third wiring board (second board) 42: Busbar (1st busbar, 2nd busbar) 55: Storage section (first storage section, second storage section) 80: Metal plate (heat dissipation part) 81: Flat part 82: Fixed part (first support part, second support part) 91: Insulating sheet (insulating material) 92: Heat transfer material SU, SUX: First subunit (first circuit component) SU, SUY: Second subunit (first circuit component) SU, SUZ: Third subunit (second circuit component)

Claims

1. a first circuit structure having a plurality of first electronic components and a first substrate on which the plurality of first electronic components are mounted; a second circuit structure having a plurality of second electronic components and a second substrate on which the plurality of second electronic components are mounted; a heat dissipation unit provided so as to overlap at least a portion of each of the first substrate and the second substrate and thermally connected to each of the first substrate and the second substrate, An electrical connection unit that can be switched between a first state in which the amount of heat generated in the first circuit component is higher than the amount of heat generated in the second circuit component, and a second state that is different from the first state and in which the amount of heat generated in the second circuit component is higher than the amount of heat generated in the first circuit component.

2. When the thickness direction of the first substrate is defined as a first direction and a direction intersecting the first direction is defined as a second direction, The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 , wherein the first circuit component and the second circuit component are arranged side by side in the second direction.

3. an area of ​​the heat dissipation portion as viewed from the first direction is larger than a total area of ​​the first circuit component and the second circuit component as viewed from the first direction; 3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2, wherein the heat dissipation portion overlaps the entire first circuit component and the entire second circuit component when viewed from the first direction.

4. an insulating member is provided between the heat dissipation portion and the first circuit component and between the heat dissipation portion and the second circuit component; 3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, wherein the heat dissipation portion includes a metal plate arranged to overlap at least a portion of each of the first substrate and the second substrate and thermally connected to each of the first substrate and the second substrate.

5. the first circuit structure includes a first bus bar that electrically connects the plurality of first electronic components to each other, the second circuit structure includes a second bus bar that electrically connects the plurality of second electronic components to each other, an elastic heat transfer member is provided between the heat dissipation unit and the first circuit component or between the heat dissipation unit and the second circuit component; When the thickness direction of the first substrate is defined as a first direction, 3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, wherein the heat transfer member is arranged in a position that overlaps the connection portion between the first bus bar and the first electronic component or the connection portion between the second bus bar and the second electronic component when viewed from the first direction.

6. a first accommodating portion that is recessed in the first direction or that opens in the first direction and that accommodates the first bus bar is formed in the first substrate; The electrical connection unit according to claim 5 , wherein the second substrate is formed with a second accommodating portion that is recessed in the first direction or that opens in the first direction and that accommodates the second bus bar.

7. The heat dissipation unit is a planar portion overlapping the first substrate and the second substrate when viewed from the first direction; a first support portion that protrudes from the planar portion in the first direction and supports the first substrate; 4. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2, further comprising: a second support portion that protrudes from the flat portion in the first direction and supports the second board.

8. 3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, wherein the first circuit component and the second circuit component are electrically connected to each other.

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