Electric connection unit

Abstract

To provide an electrical connection unit that can improve heat transfer performance.SOLUTION: An electrical connection unit according to an embodiment includes an electronic component, a heat dissipation member, a first conductive member, a second conductive member, a fastening member, and a heat transfer member. The heat dissipation member is spaced apart from the electronic component in a first direction. The first conductive member is electrically connected to the electronic component. The second conductive member has a connection part. The connection part is disposed between at least a part of the first conductive member and the heat dissipation member in the first direction. The fastening member includes a head part and a shaft part. The head part is disposed between the connection part and the heat dissipation member in the first direction. The shaft part passes through the connection part in the first direction and reaches the first conductive member. At least a part of the heat transfer member is disposed between the head part and the heat dissipation member in the first direction and is in contact with the head part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Electrical connection units are known that include a housing in which electronic components are housed, and in which bus bars and heat storage material are held. [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] However, the connections between bus bars and between heat storage members generate heat as resistance increases. It is desirable to install a heat transfer member at the connection. However, until now, bolts have been inserted into the housing. This resulted in a large difference in surface area between the bus bar and the bolt head, making it impossible to install a heat transfer member across the bolt and bus bar, resulting in insufficient heat transfer performance.

[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that can improve heat transfer performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the electrical connection unit includes an electronic component, a heat dissipation member, a first conductive member, a second conductive member, a fastening member, and a heat transfer member. The heat dissipation member is spaced apart from the electronic component in a first direction. The first conductive member is electrically connected to the electronic component. The second conductive member has a connection portion. The connection portion is disposed between at least a portion of the first conductive member and the heat dissipation member in the first direction. The fastening member has a head and a shaft portion. The head is disposed between the connection portion and the heat dissipation member in the first direction. The shaft portion penetrates the connection portion in the first direction and reaches the first conductive member. At least a portion of the heat transfer member is disposed between the head and the heat dissipation member in the first direction and is in contact with the head. The heat transfer member transfers heat from the head toward the heat dissipation member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, heat transfer can be improved. [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 illustrating an electronic component and a connecting component according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an electronic component and a connecting component according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the wiring board according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of the wiring board according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the wiring board according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical connection unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] 11 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 10 taken along line F13-F13. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a fastening member that fastens the connecting component and the bus bar according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 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 configurations described below do not limit the 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 (with the remaining portion of the component protruding). "Facing" means that virtual projections 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 "approximately parallel," "approximately perpendicular," or "approximately 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. 11). 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. 11). 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."

[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 the electrical connection unit> FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an electrical connection unit 1 according to an embodiment. The electrical connection unit 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," for example. 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> First, the main body MU will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the main body unit MU. The main body unit MU is a part that performs the main function of the electrical connection unit 1 (for example, switching the electrical connection state or overcurrent protection). In this embodiment, the main body unit MU is divided into multiple subunits SU. The main body unit MU is formed by connecting multiple subunits SU. In this embodiment, the main body unit MU has three subunits SU. Each subunit SU may be referred to as a "circuit assembly."

[0016] The three subunits SU each have a different electrical function. Each subunit includes a plurality of electronic components 10 and a wiring board 40. The plurality of electronic components 10 are electrically connected to the wiring board 40.

[0017] In this embodiment, the three subunits SU are arranged side by side in the X direction. For example, two subunits SU adjacent to each other in the X direction are electrically connected via a coupling bus bar 75. The coupling bus bar 75 is arranged on the opposite side of the plurality of subunits SU from the metal plate 80.

[0018] In this embodiment, the three wiring boards 40 are arranged on the same plane. In other words, the three wiring boards 40 are arranged at the same height in the Z direction. The three wiring boards 40 form one large wiring board 40M.

[0019] In this embodiment, the three subunits SU have the same or similar basic structures, and therefore, one subunit SU will be described in detail below as a representative.

[0020] Note that, instead of the above example, the main body MU does not have to be divided into multiple subunits SU. That is, the main body MU may be formed by multiple electronic components 10 and one wiring board 40. Furthermore, the two or more subunits SU are not limited to subunits SU having different functions, and may be subunits SU having the same function.

[0021] <3. Subunit structure> Next, the configuration of the subunit SU will be described. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the subunit SU. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the subunit SU partially exploded. 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 fastening member 43, and an engaging member 44. The connection components 20 and 30 are members that form a vertical current path. The connection components 20 and 30 may also be referred to as "vertical wiring members." The connection component 20 is an example of a "first conductive member."

[0022] <3.1 Electronic components and connecting parts> First, the electronic component 10 and the connecting component 20 for connecting the components will be described. The electronic component 10 is an electronic component that is installed in the subunit SU according to the functions required. 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 example. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a heat-generating component that generates heat when power is applied. Below, a first type electronic component 10M and a second type electronic component 10N will be described as examples of the electronic component 10.

[0023] The connection component 20 is a component that electrically connects the electronic component 10 and the wiring board 40. The connection component 20 forms part of the current path in the subunit SU. The connection component 20 is made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy). The connection component 20 may also be referred to as a "metal component." Below, a first type connection component 20M and a second type connection component 20N will be described as examples of the connection component 20.

[0024] <3.1.1 Type 1 Electronic Components> 5 is a perspective view showing a first type electronic component 10M and a first type connecting component 20M. The first type electronic component 10M is an electronic component having a plurality of terminals 13 arranged side by side at one end of the electronic component 10M. The electronic component 10M has, for example, a case 11, a component main body 12, a plurality of terminals 13, and a plurality of mounting portions 14.

[0025] (case) Case 11 is an outer shell member that forms most of the outer shape of electronic component 10M. Case 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. Case 11 houses component main body 12. Note that case 11 and component main body 12 may be formed integrally.

[0026] In this embodiment, the case 11 has an insulating rib 11a that protrudes in a horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction) and extends in the Z direction. The insulating rib 11a is, for example, plate-shaped and extends along the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction) and the Z direction. The insulating rib 11a extends, for example, over the entire length of the case 11 in the Z direction. The insulating rib 11a is disposed between a plurality of terminals 13 (terminals 13A and 13B described below). The insulating rib 11a electrically insulates the terminals 13A from the terminals 13B. In this embodiment, a portion of the insulating rib 11a is disposed between first portions 21 (described below) of two connection parts 20M connected to the electronic component 10M. The insulating rib 11a electrically insulates the first portions 21 of the two connection parts 20M connected to the electronic component 10M.

[0027] (Component body) The component body 12 is a part that performs the main function of the electronic component 10M. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a relay, the component body 12 includes a switching part (e.g., a contact part) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a fuse, the component body 12 includes a fusing part that melts when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a capacitor, the component body 12 includes a part that stores electric charge.

[0028] (Terminal) Terminal 13 is an electrical connection portion exposed to the outside of case 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to component main body 12 inside case 11. In this embodiment, electronic component 10M includes terminal 13A and terminal 13B as the multiple terminals 13. One of terminal 13A and terminal 13B is a positive terminal. The other of terminal 13A and terminal 13B is a negative terminal.

[0029] In this embodiment, terminals 13A and 13B are provided at one end of electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Terminals 13A and 13B are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h to which a fastening member 71 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) described later is attached. Mounting hole 13h opens in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). The inner circumferential surface of mounting hole 13h of electronic component 10M has a threaded groove.

[0030] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 14 is a portion for fixing the electronic component 10M. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h to which a fastening member 112 (e.g., a screw or a bolt, see FIG. 11 ), which will be described later, is attached. The mounting hole 14h is open in the Z direction. The mounting hole 14h is an insertion hole through which the fastening member 112 is passed. The mounting portion 14 is fixed directly to the metal plate 80 by the fastening member 112.

[0031] <3.1.2 Type 1 connection parts> The first-type connecting part 20M is a part that electrically connects the first-type electronic component 10M and the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the connecting part 20M electrically connects the electronic component 10M and a bus bar 42 (see FIG. 8) included in the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the width of the connecting part 20M in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X direction) of the electronic component 10M is smaller than the width of the electronic component 10M in the longitudinal direction. The connecting part 20M has, for example, a first portion 21 and a second portion 22.

[0032] (Part 1) The first portion 21 of the connecting part 20M is a portion that is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. The first portion 21 is a plate-like or rectangular parallelepiped portion that extends in the Z direction. The first portion 21 extends in the Z direction along one end (e.g., an end in the X direction) of the electronic component 10M. The first portion 21 is an upright portion that stands in the Z direction relative to the wiring board 40 (e.g., relative to a bus bar 42 described below). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). For example, the first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction) and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M from the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0033] The first portion 21 of the connecting part 20M has a first mounting hole 21h through which a fastening member 71 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) is passed. The first mounting hole 21h is open in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). The first portion 21 also has a recess 25 around the first mounting hole 21h. The recess 25 is a receiving portion that receives the head of the fastening member 71 inserted into the first mounting hole 21h. The fastening member 71 passed through the first mounting hole 21h engages with the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M, thereby physically and electrically connecting the first portion 21 to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. Note that the first portion 21 does not necessarily have to have the recess 25.

[0034] (Second part) The second portion 22 of the connection part 20M is a portion that is connected to the bus bar 42 (see FIG. 8). The second portion 22 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) from the end of the first portion 21 on the −Z direction side. The second portion 22 is a plate portion that extends horizontally. The second portion 22 is adjacent to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction and is connected to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The second portion 22 of the connection part 20M is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see FIG. 8) that protrudes from the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction, as described below, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connection part 20M has a second mounting hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 is passed. The second mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 is passed through the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22. Then, an engaging member 44 (e.g., a nut, see FIG. 3) described later engages with the tip of the fastening member 43 passed through the second mounting hole 22h, thereby fixing the second portion 22 to the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 form an L-shaped, single-piece connecting part 20M.

[0035] <3.1.3 Second type electronic components> FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a second-type electronic component 10N and a second-type connecting component 20N. The second-type electronic component 10N is an electronic component in which two terminals 13 are arranged separately at both horizontal ends of the electronic component 10N. The electronic component 10N includes, for example, a case 11, a component main body 12, and a plurality of terminals 13. Note that, among the components of the electronic component 10N, components having the same function as the electronic component 10M are denoted by the same reference numerals. In this case, in the description of the electronic component 10N, "electronic component 10M" can be read as "electronic component 10N" in the description of the electronic component 10M described above.

[0036] In electronic component 10N, terminals 13A and 13B are arranged separately at both ends of electronic component 10N in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h to which a fastening member 72 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) is attached. Mounting hole 13h opens in the Z direction. For example, mounting hole 13h of electronic component 10N is an insertion hole through which fastening member 72 is passed.

[0037] <3.1.4 Second type of connecting parts> The second-type connecting part 20N is a part that electrically connects the second-type electronic component 10N to the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the connecting part 20N electrically connects the electronic component 10N to a bus bar 42 (see FIG. 8) included in the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the width of the connecting part 20N in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X direction) of the electronic component 10N is smaller than the width of the electronic component 10N in the longitudinal direction. The connecting part 20N has, for example, a first portion 21, a second portion 22, and a third portion 23.

[0038] (Part 1) The first portion 21 of the connection part 20N is a portion connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N. The first portion 21 is a rectangular parallelepiped portion extending in the Z direction. The first portion 21 is an upright portion that stands in the Z direction relative to the routing board 40 (e.g., relative to the bus bar 42). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N in the Z direction and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N from the Z direction. The first portion 21 of the connection part 20N has a first mounting hole 21h with which a fastening member 72 engages. The first mounting hole 21h opens in the Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the first mounting hole 21h of the connection part 20N has a thread groove. The first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N by engaging the fastening member 72 passed through the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N with the first mounting hole 21h of the first part 21.

[0039] (Second part) The second portion 22 of the connection part 20N is a portion that is connected to the bus bar 42 (see FIG. 8). The second portion 22 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) from the end of the first portion 21 on the −Z direction side. The second portion 22 is a plate portion that extends horizontally. The second portion 22 is adjacent to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction and is connected to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The second portion 22 of the connection part 20N is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see FIG. 8) that protrudes from the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connection part 20N has a second mounting hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 is passed. The second mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. The fastening member 43, which will be described later, is passed through the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22. Then, second portion 22 is fixed to bus bar 42 by engaging an engaging member 44 (for example, a nut, see FIG. 3) with the tip of fastening member 43 passed through second mounting hole 22h.

[0040] (3rd part) The third portion 23 is an upright wall (side wall) that stands in the +Z direction from both horizontal end portions of the second portion 22. The third portion 23 is a wall that extends along the Z direction. The third portion 23 is connected to the first portion 21 and also to the second portion 22. The third portion 23 extends at an incline that increases in the X direction as it progresses in the -Z direction, for example. The third portion 23 may be provided in the connection part 20M described above. On the other hand, the connection part 20N may not have the third portion 23.

[0041] <3.2 External connection parts> Next, the connecting part 30 for external connection will be described. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a connection part 30 for external connection. The connection part 30 is a part that electrically connects an external connection bus bar 76 and a wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the connection part 30 electrically connects the external connection bus bar 76 and a bus bar 42 (see FIG. 8) 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. Examples of external devices include, but are not limited to, a battery unit mounted on a vehicle or an inverter for driving a vehicle motor. The connection part 30 has, for example, a first portion 31, a second portion 32, and a third portion 33.

[0042] (Part 1) The first portion 31 is a portion connected to the external connection busbar 76. The first portion 31 is a rectangular parallelepiped portion extending in the Z direction. The first portion 31 is an upright portion that stands in the Z direction relative to the wiring board 40 (e.g., relative to the busbar 42). The first portion 31 is adjacent to the external connection busbar 76 in the Z direction and is connected to the external connection busbar 76 from the Z direction. The first portion 31 has a first mounting hole 31h through which a fastening member 73 (e.g., a screw or a bolt) is passed. The first mounting hole 31h opens in the Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the first mounting hole 31h has a thread groove. The first portion 31 is physically and electrically connected to the external connection busbar 76 by the fastening member 73 passed through the mounting hole 76h of the external connection busbar 76 engaging with the first mounting hole 31h of the first portion 31.

[0043] (Second part) The second portion 32 is a portion that is connected to the bus bar 42 (see FIG. 8). The second portion 32 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) from the end of the first portion 31 on the −Z direction side. The second portion 32 is a plate portion that extends horizontally. The second portion 32 is adjacent to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction and is connected to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The second portion 32 is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see FIG. 8) that protrudes from the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the second portion 32 has a second mounting hole 32h through which the fastening member 43 is passed. The second mounting hole 32h is open in the Z direction. The fastening member 43, which will be described later, is passed through the second mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32. Then, second portion 32 is fixed to bus bar 42 by engaging an engaging member 44 (for example, a nut, see FIG. 3) with the tip of fastening member 43 passed through second mounting hole 32h.

[0044] (3rd part) The third portion 33 is an upright wall (side wall) that stands in the +Z direction from both horizontal end portions of the second portion 32. The third portion 33 is a wall that extends along the Z direction. The third portion 33 is connected to the first portion 31 and also to the second portion 32. The third portion 33 extends at an incline so that, for example, it becomes larger in the X direction (or Y direction) as it progresses in the -Z direction. Note that the connection part 30 does not necessarily have the third portion 33.

[0045] <3.3 Wiring board> Next, the wiring board 40 will be described. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a wiring board 40. The wiring board 40 is a component 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 when viewed overall, regardless of its detailed shape. In this disclosure, "plate-like," "sheet-like," or "flat" does not necessarily mean a completely flat structure, but may also include a surface that partially contains a fixing structure or rib that protrudes in the Z direction, or a surface that has an uneven shape that conforms to the thickness of the bus bar. In this embodiment, the wiring board 40 is a plate-like structure that is flat in the X and Y directions.

[0046] The wiring board 40 includes, for example, a base plate 41 and one or more (e.g., a plurality of) bus bars 42. 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 fastening members 43 are fixed to the bus bars 42. In other words, the bus bars 42 are integrated with the base plate 41 without using fastening members such as screws or bolts.

[0047] 9 is a perspective view showing a partly exploded wiring board 40. For convenience of explanation, the base plate 41 and the bus bar 42 will be described below with reference to the drawing showing a partly exploded wiring board 40.

[0048] (base plate) The base plate 41 is a holding member that integrally holds together a plurality of bus bars 42 that are arranged horizontally at intervals from one another. The base plate 41 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base plate 41 electrically insulates the plurality of bus bars 42 from one another. The base plate 41 may also be referred to as an "insulating substrate." The base plate 41 is fixed to the metal plate 80 by fastening members such as bolts and screws. The base plate 41 has, for example, a flat portion 51.

[0049] The flat portion 51 is a plate-shaped portion of the base plate 41. The flat portion 51 is a plate-shaped portion extending in the horizontal direction. The flat portion 51 forms the main portion of the base plate 41. The flat portion 51 is the base (insulating base) of the base plate 41. In this embodiment, the flat 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. The thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the flat portion 51 is the Z direction.

[0050] The flat portion 51 has a plurality of through holes 51h into which fixing portions 83 (described later) of the metal plate 80 are inserted. The flat portion 51 also has one or more (e.g., a plurality) accommodating portions 55, each accommodating a bus bar 42, for example. The accommodating portions 55 are formed spaced apart from one another in the X direction or the Y direction. For example, five accommodating portions 55 are provided. Each accommodating portion 55 is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the flat portion 51 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, each accommodating portion 55 has an outer shape that corresponds to the shape of the bus bar 42 that it accommodates. Note that in the present disclosure, the phrase "an 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).

[0051] (busbar) The busbar 42 is a routing member (electrical connection member) included in the routing board 40. The busbar 42 is, for example, a routing member for electrically connecting a plurality of electronic components 10. The busbar 42 is an example of a "second conductive member." Alternatively, the busbar 42 may be a routing member for connecting the electronic components 10 to an external device. The busbar 42 is made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy) and is conductive. In this embodiment, the routing board 40 has one busbar 42 in each of the accommodation sections 55. That is, in the illustrated example, the routing board 40 has, for example, a total of five busbars 42. The five busbars 42 are arranged horizontally at intervals from each other. The five busbars 42 include portions that are arranged on the same plane. The five busbars 42 are held by the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41.

[0052] At least a portion of each bus bar 42 is a plate-like member extending in the horizontal direction. At least a portion of each bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51. At least a portion of each bus bar 42 extends horizontally within the housing portion 55. In this embodiment, each bus bar 42 is a plate-like member extending in the horizontal direction over the entire bus bar 42. Each bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 over the entire length of the bus bar 42 and extends along the flat portion 51. The upper surface of each bus bar 42 is exposed upward, and the lower surface of each bus bar 42 is exposed downward. The bus bar 42 is a member that forms a horizontal current path. The bus bar 42 may also be referred to as a "horizontal routing member."

[0053] 10 is a plan view showing the wiring board 40. Each bus bar 42 has, for example, a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63.

[0054] The first connection portion 61 is a portion that comes into contact with one connection component 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "first connection component 20"). The first connection component 20 is a connection component that connects one electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as the "first electronic component 10") and 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 disposed between the second portion 22 of the first connection component 20 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The first connection portion 61 is an example of a "connection portion." The first connection portion 61 is adjacent to the first connection component 20 in the Z direction and is connected to the first connection component 20 from the Z direction.

[0055] The second connection portion 62 is a portion that comes into contact with another connection component 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "second connection component 20"). The second connection component 20 is a connection component that connects another electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as the "second electronic component 10") included in the plurality of 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 component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection component 20 in the Z direction and is connected to the second connection component 20 from the Z direction.

[0056] Alternatively, the second connection portion 62 may be a portion that comes into contact with another connection component 30 (hereinafter referred to as the "second connection component 30") instead of the above example. The connection component 30 is a connection component for connecting an external device to the bus bar 42. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is a portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the second connection component 30 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection component 30 in the Z direction and is connected to the second connection component 30 from the Z direction.

[0057] Furthermore, the second connection portion 62 may be a portion that comes into contact with the coupling bus bar 75 for connecting to another subunit SU, instead of the connection parts 20 and 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, and is connected to the coupling bus bar 75 from the Z direction.

[0058] 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.

[0059] In this embodiment, the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are plate-shaped and extend in the horizontal direction. In this embodiment, each bus bar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 across at least the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62, and extends along the flat portion 51. For example, the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are housed in the housing portion 55 and extend along the flat portion 51.

[0060] In this embodiment, the extension portions 63 of some of the bus bars 42 are accommodated in the accommodation portion 55, and thereby pass through the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, and extend to both sides of the region R. For example, the extension portions 63 extend linearly along 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, and extend to both the +X direction side and the −X direction side of the region R. In other words, by accommodating the bus bars 42 in the accommodation portion 55, they can be more easily routed along a better route (for example, a route with a shorter distance) without being obstructed by the presence of the electronic component 10.

[0061] 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 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the flat portion 51. The extension portion 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, and has an end 42e1 of the bus bar 42 at a position that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0062] <3.4 Fastening members and engaging members> Next, fastening member 43 and engaging member 44 (see FIG. 3) will be described. Fastening member 43 is a component for fastening bus bar 42 to a component to which bus bar 42 is to be connected (connection component 20, connection component 30, or coupling bus bar 75). The structures of fastening member 43 and engaging member 44 will be described in detail later.

[0063] <4. Metal plates, insulating sheets, heat transfer members, and insulating covers> Next, the metal plate 80, the insulating sheet 91, the heat transfer member 92, and the insulating cover 93 will be described.

[0064] <4.1 Metal Plate> FIG. 11 is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 ensures the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is an example of a "heat dissipation member" and improves the heat dissipation properties 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 may also be referred to as a "rigid member."

[0065] When viewed from the Z direction, the metal plate 80 has a rectangular shape aligned with 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 ends in the longitudinal direction 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 ends in the lateral direction of the metal plate 80 and are spaced apart in the Y direction. The metal plate 80 is spaced apart from the electronic component 10 in the Z direction. The metal plate 80 includes, for example, a flat portion 81 and a plurality of fixing portions 83.

[0066] 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 is the base (metal base) of the metal plate 80. In this embodiment, the flat surface portion 81 is large enough to cover the three subunits SU from below. The flat surface portion 81 faces the wiring board 40 of the three subunits SU. In this embodiment, the metal plate 80 is arranged with a gap S1 (see FIG. 13) between it and the flat surface portion 51 of each subunit SU.

[0067] The fixing portions 83 are used to fix the electronic components 10 of each subunit SU directly to the metal plate 80 without using the base plate 41. The fixing portions 83 are inserted into the through holes 51h in the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portions 83 are provided at positions corresponding to the mounting portions 14 of the electronic components 10 of each subunit SU. The fixing portions 83 are cylindrical or prismatic bosses that protrude from the flat portion 81 in the +Z direction. The mounting portions 14 of the electronic components 10 are fixed to the fixing portions 83 with fastening members 112.

[0068] <4.2 Insulation sheet> 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 has a sheet shape that extends horizontally. The insulating sheet 91 is disposed between the flat surface 81 of the metal plate 80 and the wiring board 40 of each subunit SU. For example, the insulating sheet 91 is disposed between the flat surface 81 of the metal plate 80 and a plurality of heat transfer members 92.

[0069] In this embodiment, the insulating sheet 91 is attached to the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80. The insulating sheet 91 has cutouts or openings to avoid portions that protrude in the +Z direction, such as the fixing portions 83 of the metal plate 80. Note that, instead of the above example, the insulating sheet 91 may be provided between the wiring board 40 of each subunit SU and the plurality of heat transfer members 92. Note that if the heat transfer members 92 have insulating properties and the necessary insulation is ensured by the heat transfer members 92, the insulating sheet 91 may be omitted.

[0070] 4.3 Heat transfer materials The heat transfer member 92 is a member for transferring heat generated by the electronic component 10 when current is applied and / or heat (Joule 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). The heat transfer member 92 is formed of, for example, a material with higher thermal conductivity than the base plate 41. 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 material.

[0071] 12 is a bottom view showing the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, a plurality of heat transfer members 92 are partially provided on the wiring board 40. The heat transfer members 92 are attached to the underside of each bus bar 42. The width of the heat transfer members 92 (e.g., width in the Y direction) is designed to be slightly smaller than the width of the corresponding bus bar 42 (e.g., width in the Y direction). The arrangement of the heat transfer members 92 will be described in detail later.

[0072] <4.4 Insulation cover> Returning to FIG. 1, the insulating cover 93 will be described. The insulating cover 93 is a member for preventing fingers from touching 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 side in the -Z direction. The insulating cover 93 has multiple air vents 93h. The insulating cover 93 is attached to the metal plate 80 along the Z direction. 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.

[0073] <5. Structure of connecting parts> Returning to FIG. 3, the structure of the connecting part 20 will be described. In this embodiment, the connection parts 20 (e.g., connection parts 20M and 20N) are heat storage (heat absorption) members that increase the heat capacity of the current paths of the electrical connection unit 1. The connection parts 20 store (absorb) at least a portion of the heat generated by the electronic components 10, for example. Alternatively / in addition to this, the connection parts 20 may store (absorb) at least a portion of the heat generated by the bus bars 42 themselves when current is applied. The connection parts 20 may also be referred to as "heat storage parts" or "heat absorption parts."

[0074] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 10 taken along line F13-F13. In this embodiment, the bus bar 42 is disposed at a position away from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 (for example, at a position away in the Z direction). The connection component 20 is disposed between the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 42. In the present disclosure, "the connection component is disposed between the electronic component and the bus bar" is not limited to the case where a part of the connection component is located between the electronic component and the bus bar when viewed from the X direction or the Y direction. "The connection component is disposed between the electronic component and the bus bar" may also apply to the case where a part of the connection component is located between the electronic component and the bus bar when viewed from a direction oblique to the X direction or the Y direction. The connection component 20 electrically connects the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 42.

[0075] 5 and 6 , in this embodiment, the thickness of at least a portion of the connection part 20 is greater than the thickness (thickness in the Z direction) T3 of the bus bar 42. For example, the thickness T1 of at least a portion of the connection part 20 in the X direction is greater than the thickness T3 of the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the thickness T1 of the first portion 21 of the connection part 20 in the X direction is greater than the thickness T3 of the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the first portion 21 has a thickness T1 in the X direction that is greater than the thickness T3 of the bus bar 42 over the entire length of the first portion 21 in the Z direction. The thickness T1 of the first portion 21 of the connection part 20 in the X direction is, for example, at least twice the thickness T3 of the bus bar 42. From another perspective, the thickness T2 of the second portion 22 of the connection part 20 in the Z direction may be greater than the thickness T3 of the bus bar 42.

[0076] In this embodiment, the thickness T1 in the X direction of the first portion 21 of the connecting part 20 is greater than the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 22 of the connecting part 20. In this embodiment, the first portion 21 has a thickness T1 in the X direction that is greater than the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 22 over the entire length of the first portion 21 in the Z direction.

[0077] The above-described dimensional relationships also apply to the connection part 30 to which the external connection bus bar 76 is connected. For example, in the description of the connection part 30, in the description of the connection part 20 described above, "connection part 20" can be read as "connection part 30," "first part 21" as "first part 31," and "second part 22" as "second part 32."

[0078] <6. Busbar Structure> 13 , the structure of the busbar 42 will be described. The busbar 42 is formed to be slightly thicker than the base plate 41. That is, the thickness T3 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction is greater than the thickness T4 of the base plate 41 in the Z direction. The upper surface of the busbar 42 is located slightly above the upper surface of the base plate 41, and the lower surface of the busbar 42 is located slightly below the lower surface of the base plate 41. In the illustrated example, the connection parts 20 and 30 and the electronic component 10 are placed on the busbar 42 and arranged with a slight gap between them and the base plate 41. The thickness T3 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction is equal to the thickness T4 of the base plate 41 in the Z direction, and the upper surface of the busbar 42 may be located flush with the upper surface of the base plate 41, or the lower surface of the busbar 42 may be located flush with the lower surface of the base plate.

[0079] <7. Fastening members and structures around the fastening members> Next, a description will be given of fastening member 43 and the structure around fastening member 43. Hereinafter, fastening member 43 that fastens first-type connection part 20M and bus bar 42 will be used as an example to describe fastening member 43 and the structure around fastening member 43.

[0080] Fastening member 43 is a component for fastening bus bar 42 to a component to be connected to bus bar 42 (connection component 20, connection component 30, or coupling bus bar 75). Fastening member 43 is, for example, a crimp bolt fixed to bus bar 42.

[0081] In this embodiment, each of the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42 has a through hole 42h. The through hole 42h penetrates the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a bolt having a shaft portion 43a and a head portion 43b.

[0082] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a fastening member 43 that fastens the connecting part 20 and the bus bar 42 according to the embodiment. The shaft portion 43a penetrates the first connection portion 61 in the Z direction and reaches the second portion 22 of the connection part 20. The circumferential surface of the shaft portion 43a has a thread groove. The head portion 43b is disposed between the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The head portion 43b of the fastening member 43 is crimped and fixed to the bus bar 42 with the shaft portion 43a passing through the through hole 42h of the bus bar 42. With this fixation, the fastening member 43 is electrically and physically connected to the bus bar 42 with the shaft portion 43a protruding from the through hole 42h of the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction.

[0083] The head 43b is formed in a disk shape with a central axis extending in the Z direction and extending in the X and Y directions. The diameter of the head 43b is larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 43a. The shape of the head 43b can be changed as appropriate. The head 43b may be formed in, for example, a polygonal plate shape. However, the head 43b is preferably disk-shaped. The diameter (horizontal dimension) of the head 43b can be changed as appropriate. The diameter of the head 43b can be smaller, equal to, or larger than the diameter of the engaging member 44. The shaft portion 43a extends in the +Z direction from the upper surface of the head 43b along the central axis of the head 43b. The head 43b abuts against the first connecting portion 61 of the busbar 42 from the -Z direction. The thickness T5 of the head 43b in the Z direction is smaller than the plate thickness T3 of the first connecting portion 61. Furthermore, the thickness T5 of the head 43b in the Z direction is smaller than the thickness T4 of the base plate 41. Furthermore, the thickness T5 of the head 43b in the Z direction is smaller than the thickness T6 of the heat transfer member 92. It is preferable that the head 43b be designed to be as thin as possible in the Z direction.

[0084] In this embodiment, the connection component 20 is first fixed to the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 71 or the fastening member 72, and then attached to the fastening member 43 from the Z direction. For example, the shaft 43a of the fastening member 43 is inserted into the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22 of the connection component 20. Then, an engaging member 44 (e.g., a nut) is engaged with the shaft 43a of the fastening member 43 protruding from the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22 of the connection component 20. The engaging member 44 is attached to the upper end of the shaft 43a, for example, along the Z direction. The head 43b of the fastening member 43 and the engaging member 44 press the connection component 20 and the bus bar 42 from both sides in the Z direction. This engagement fixes the connection component 20 to the fastening member 43.

[0085] In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 92 includes a first portion 92a and a second portion 92b. The first portion 92a is disposed between the head portion 62b and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the head portion 62b. The second portion 92b is disposed between the first connection portion 61 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the first connection portion 61. The heat transfer member 92 transfers heat from the head portion 62b to the metal plate.

[0086] The heat transfer member 92 is an elastic sheet having elasticity. Therefore, the head 43b of the fastening member 43 is pressed against the heat transfer member 92 and thereby embedded in the heat transfer member 92. In other words, the head 43b enters a recess 92c that is formed when the head 43b is pressed against the heat transfer member 92.

[0087] <8. Advantages> In the electrical connection unit 1 as described above, heat is generated as the resistance increases at the connection portions between conductive members such as the connection parts 20 (heat storage members) and the bus bars 42. For this reason, it is necessary to dissipate the heat generated at the connection portions between these conductive members to the outside.

[0088] As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit in which the bolts fastening the connecting component (heat storage member) and the bus bar are inserted from the outside of the metal plate. In this comparative example, for example, it is not possible to place a heat transfer member between the bus bar and the metal plate at the bolt attachment position. As a result, heat generated at the connection between the connecting component and the bus bar may not be able to be effectively dissipated to the metal plate.

[0089] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes an electronic component 10, a metal plate 80, a connection component 20, a bus bar 42, a fastening member 43, and a heat transfer member 92. The metal plate 80 is spaced from the electronic component 10 in the Z direction. The connection component 20 is electrically connected to the electronic component 10. The bus bar 42 has a first connection portion 61. The first connection portion 61 is disposed between at least a portion of the connection component 20 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 has a head portion 43b and a shaft portion 43a. The head portion 43b is disposed between the first connection portion 61 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The shaft portion 43a penetrates the first connection portion 61 in the Z direction and reaches the connection component 20. At least a portion of the heat transfer member 92 is disposed between the head portion 43b and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the head portion 43b. The heat transfer member 92 transfers heat from the head 43 b toward the metal plate 80 .

[0090] This configuration allows the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 and the head portion 43b of the fastening member 43 to come into contact with each other. This mounting position of the head portion 43b reduces the surface difference (difference in height in the Z direction) between the first connection portion 61 and the head portion 43b. This makes it possible to arrange the heat transfer member 92 between the head portion 43b and the metal plate 80. This arrangement of the heat transfer member 92 facilitates heat transfer from the electronic component 10 and the like to the metal plate 80. This improves the heat transfer performance of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0091] In the present embodiment, the heat transfer member 92 includes a first portion 92a and a second portion 92b. The first portion is disposed between the head portion 43b and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the head portion 43b. The second portion 92b is disposed between the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the first connection portion 61. With this configuration, the heat transfer member 92 can be provided over both the bus bar 42 and the fastening member 43. By disposing the heat transfer member 92 in this manner, heat from the bus bar 42 is more easily transferred to the metal plate 80 via the heat transfer member 92, improving heat transfer performance.

[0092] In this embodiment, the thickness T5 of the head 43b in the Z direction is smaller than the plate thickness T3 of the first connection portion 61. With this configuration, the surface difference between the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 and the head 43b of the fastening member 43 is further reduced, making it easier for heat to be transferred to the metal plate 80. In addition, it is easier to install the heat transfer member 92 over both the bus bar 42 and the fastening member 43.

[0093] In this embodiment, the thickness T5 of the head 43b in the Z direction is smaller than the thickness T6 of the heat transfer member 92 in the Z direction. With this configuration, the surface difference between the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 and the head 43b of the fastening member 43 is further reduced, making it easier for heat to be transferred to the metal plate 80. In addition, since the heat transfer member 92 is thicker than the head 43b of the fastening member 43, it is easier to install the heat transfer member 92 over both the bus bar 42 and the fastening member 43.

[0094] In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 92 is an elastic heat transfer sheet. With this configuration, the heat transfer member 92 can be installed so that the heads 43b of the fastening members 43 are embedded in the heat transfer member 92. This brings the heat transfer member 92 and the fastening members 43 into close contact, improving heat transfer performance. Furthermore, this prevents the electrical connection unit 1 from becoming larger in the Z direction. Furthermore, because the heads 43b of the fastening members 43 fit into the recesses 92c of the heat transfer member 92, the contact points between the heads 43b and the heat transfer member 92 do not become unstable.

[0095] In this embodiment, a metal plate 80 is used as an example of the heat dissipation member. The metal plate 80 includes a plate-shaped flat portion 81 (base) that extends in a direction intersecting the Z direction. The heat transfer member 92 is disposed between the head 43b and the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. With this configuration, the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1 is ensured, and heat within the electrical connection unit 1 is efficiently dissipated to the outside.

[0096] <9. Variations> Next, several modified examples will be described. Note that the configuration of each modified example is the same as that of the embodiment except for the configuration described below.

[0097] Fig. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a modified example. Fig. 15 corresponds to the cross-sectional view of Fig. 14. As shown in Fig. 16, head 43b of fastening member 43 may be crimped to bus bar 42, so that it is partially or entirely embedded in first connection portion 61 of bus bar 42. That is, head 43b may be partially or entirely disposed within recess 45 in the lower surface of bus bar 42. In this case, the surface difference (difference in height in the Z direction) between head 43b and bus bar 42 is further reduced.

[0098] In the above-described embodiment, the metal plate 80 is given as an example of the heat dissipation member, but this is not limiting. The heat dissipation member may be, for example, a resin plate. Furthermore, the first type connection component 20M is given as an example of the first conductive member, and the bus bar 42 is given as an example of the second conductive member, but this is not limiting. The first conductive member may be a conductive member (e.g., a second type connection component 20N, a connection component 30, a bus bar 42, a connecting bus bar 75, etc.) other than the first type connection component 20M mounted on the heat dissipation member (in this embodiment, the metal plate 80). The second conductive member may be a conductive member (e.g., a connection component 20, a connection component 30, a connecting bus bar 75, etc.) other than the bus bar 42 mounted on the heat dissipation member (in this embodiment, the metal plate 80). Furthermore, the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42 is given as an example of the connection portion of the second conductive member, but this is not limiting. The connection portion of the second conductive member may be a portion other than the first connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42, such as the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42, for example.

[0099] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing another modified example. As shown in FIG. 16, the configuration of the fastening member 43 and the heat transfer member 92 described above may be used, for example, in the connection portion between the connecting bus bar 75 and the bus bar 42. As described above, the connecting bus bar 75 is a component that connects two adjacent subunits SU. The connecting bus bar 75 is electrically connected to the electronic component 10 via the bus bar 42, for example. In this case, the connecting bus bar 75 serves as the first conductive member, and the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42 serves as the connection portion of the second conductive member. The head 43b of the fastening member 43 is disposed between the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The shaft portion 43a of the fastening member 43 penetrates the second connection portion 62 and reaches the connecting bus bar 75. The heat transfer member 92 has a first portion 92a and a second portion 92b, similar to when it is installed at the connection portion between the connection part 20 and the bus bar 42. The first portion 92a is disposed between the head 43b and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the head 43b. The second portion 92b is in contact with the second connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The dimensional relationship of the head 43b is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0100] FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing another modified example. As shown in FIG. 17, the configuration of the fastening member 43 and the heat transfer member 92 described above may be used, for example, in a connection between a connecting part 30 for external connection and a bus bar 42. In this case, the connecting part 30 serves as the first conductive member, and the second connecting part 62 of the bus bar 42 serves as the connecting part of the second conductive member. The head 43b of the fastening member 43 is disposed between the second connecting part 62 of the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The shank 43a of the fastening member 43 penetrates the second connecting part 62 and reaches the connecting part 30. The heat transfer member 92 has a first portion 92a and a second portion 92b, similar to when the heat transfer member 92 is disposed at the connection portion between the connecting part 30 and the bus bar 42. The first portion 92a is disposed between the head 43b and the metal plate 80 in the Z direction and is in contact with the head 43b. The second portion 92b is in contact with the second connecting part 62 of the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. In this case, the dimensional relationship of the head portion 43b is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

[0101] Furthermore, the configurations of the fastening member 43 and the heat transfer member 92 described above may be used in the connection portions between the connection parts 20, for example, in addition to the several embodiments and modifications described above.

[0102] Furthermore, 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 having the sheet-film-shaped flat portion 51 (for example, an insulating sheet or insulating film). In this case, the accommodating 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 (a so-called film).

[0103] 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. For example, in this case, the accommodating portion 55 formed between the multiple members corresponds to an example of an "accommodating portion recessed in the first direction (Z direction)."

[0104] 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1...Electrical connection unit 10...Electronic components 20...Connection part (first conductive member) 42... Bus bar (second conductive member) 43...Fastening member 43a...Shaft part 43b…Head 61...First connection part (connection part) 80...Metal plate (heat dissipation member) 81…Plane part (base) 92...Heat transfer member 92a…Part 1 92b…Second part

Claims

1. Electronic components and a heat dissipation member spaced apart from the electronic component in a first direction; a first conductive member electrically connected to the electronic component; a second conductive member having a connection portion disposed between at least a portion of the first conductive member and the heat dissipation member in the first direction; a fastening member having a head portion disposed between the connection portion and the heat dissipation member in the first direction and a shaft portion that passes through the connection portion in the first direction and reaches the first conductive member; a heat transfer member, at least a portion of which is disposed between the head and the heat dissipation member in the first direction and which is in contact with the head to transfer heat from the head to the heat dissipation member; An electrical connection unit comprising:

2. the heat transfer member includes a first portion disposed between the head portion and the heat dissipation member in the first direction and in contact with the head portion, and a second portion disposed between the connection portion and the heat dissipation member in the first direction and in contact with the connection portion, The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 .

3. a thickness of the head portion in the first direction being smaller than a thickness of the connection portion in the first direction; 3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The thickness of the head in the first direction is smaller than the thickness of the heat transfer member in the first direction.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The heat transfer member is an elastic heat transfer sheet.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2.

6. the heat dissipation member is a metal plate including a plate-shaped base portion extending in a direction intersecting the first direction, the heat transfer member is disposed between the head and the base of the metal plate in the first direction.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2.

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