Terminal strip and connection unit

Abstract

To facilitate assembly of a terminal strip 30 while securing sealing performance between a bus bar 32 and a plastic part 40.SOLUTION: A terminal strip 30 includes a bus bar body 36, a bus bar 32 having a connection end 34 connected to the bus bar body, a plastic part 40 covering the bus bar body, an annular seal member 38 externally fitted to the connection end, and a retainer 50 externally fitted to the connection end movably in the axial direction of the connection end. The connection end portion protrudes from the resin portion, and the annular seal member is located between the resin portion and the retainer. The connection end portion has an end surface 34f that faces a side opposite to the plastic portion, and a screw hole 34h that opens to the end surface is formed in the connection end portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a terminal block and a connection unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a terminal block in which multiple annular internal airtight members are provided between the outer peripheral surface of the bus bar and the inner peripheral surface of the bus bar case. The internal airtight members are O-rings that are fitted into outer peripheral grooves formed in the bus bar and then inserted into the bus bar case. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-116102 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, a large force may be required when inserting a bus bar equipped with an O-ring into a bus bar case. It is desired to facilitate the assembly of the terminal block while ensuring a seal between the bus bar and the resin part.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to facilitate the assembly of a terminal block while ensuring sealing between the bus bar and the resin portion. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The terminal block of the present disclosure includes a bus bar body, a bus bar having a connection end connected to the bus bar body, a resin part covering the bus bar body, an annular sealing member fitted onto the connection end, and a retainer fitted onto the connection end so as to be movable in the axial direction of the connection end, wherein the connection end protrudes beyond the resin part, the annular sealing member is located between the resin part and the retainer, the connection end has an end face facing away from the resin part, and a screw hole opening into the end face is formed in the connection end.

[0007] Furthermore, the connection unit of the present disclosure is a connection unit between the terminal block and a mating terminal, wherein the mating terminal has a screw-fastening portion with a screw insertion hole formed therein, the screw-fastening portion being wider than the end face, and with the screw-fastening portion in contact with the end face, a screw passes through the screw insertion hole and threads into the screw hole, and the screw pushes the retainer toward the resin portion via the screw-fastening portion, so that the annular sealing member is compressed between the resin portion and the retainer and is pressed against the connection end portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to ensure sealing between the bus bar and the resin portion while facilitating the assembly of the terminal block. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a connection unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the connection unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the connection unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in the middle of fastening and connecting a mating terminal to a terminal block. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a terminal block according to a first modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a terminal block according to a first modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a terminal block according to a second modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a terminal block according to a second modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure] First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0011] The terminal block of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0012] (1) A terminal block comprising: a busbar body; a busbar having a connection end connected to the busbar body; a resin part covering the busbar body; an annular sealing member fitted onto the connection end; and a retainer fitted onto the connection end so as to be movable in the axial direction of the connection end, wherein the connection end protrudes beyond the resin part, the annular sealing member is positioned between the resin part and the retainer, the connection end has an end face facing away from the resin part, and a screw hole opening into the end face is formed in the connection end.

[0013] According to the present disclosure, since the annular seal member is positioned between the resin portion and the retainer, the process of inserting the bus bar with the annular seal member attached into the resin portion while compressing the annular seal member is eliminated. Furthermore, for example, by positioning a mating terminal facing the end face of the connection end and threading a screw into the screw hole, the mating terminal can be pressed against the end face. At this time, by using the fastening force of the screw to move the retainer toward the resin portion, the annular seal member can be compressed between the resin portion and the retainer around the outer periphery of the bus bar. The compressed annular seal member seals the space connected to the gap between the resin portion and the bus bar, thereby achieving sealing properties. In this way, the fastening force of the screw can be used to ensure sealing between the bus bar and the resin portion while facilitating assembly of the terminal block.

[0014] (2) A terminal block according to (1), wherein an annular recess facing the annular sealing member is formed in a portion of at least one of the resin portion and the retainer that faces the annular sealing member, and the annular recess is formed in a shape that compresses the annular sealing member accommodated in the annular recess between the resin portion and the retainer and presses it against the connection end portion.

[0015] In this case, when the annular seal member is pressed into the annular recess, the annular seal member is compressed between the resin portion and the retainer and is easily pressed against the connection end portion.

[0016] (3) In the terminal block of (2), the annular recess may be formed in a portion of the retainer that faces the annular seal member.

[0017] This makes it easy to simplify the shape of the resin part.

[0018] (4) In the terminal block of (2) or (3), the annular recess may be formed in a portion of the resin portion that faces the annular seal member.

[0019] Since the annular recess is formed in the resin portion, the annular recess in the retainer can be omitted or made smaller, which makes it easier to make the retainer smaller and the entire terminal block smaller.

[0020] (5) In the terminal block according to any one of (2) to (4), the annular recess may have a tapered circumferential surface that gradually widens toward the annular sealing member.

[0021] This makes it easier for the tapered peripheral surface to compress the annular seal member between the resin portion and the retainer and press it against the connection end portion.

[0022] (6) In the terminal block of (5), in a cross section along the central axis of the annular recess, the inscribed circle of the boundary that defines the internal space of the annular recess may be smaller than the cross-sectional portion of the annular sealing member.

[0023] In this way, if the annular recess has a tapered peripheral surface and the inscribed circle of the boundary that defines the internal space of the annular recess is smaller than the cross-sectional portion of the annular sealing member, it is easier to compress the annular sealing member between the resin part and the retainer and press it against the connection end.

[0024] (7) In the terminal block according to any one of (1) to (6), the resin portion may be molded using the bus bar as an insert component.

[0025] This makes it easy to maintain a constant positional relationship between the resin portion and the bus bar, and the retainer can be moved by the force applied when fastening to the bus bar, making it easy to compress the annular seal member between the retainer and the resin portion.

[0026] (8) In the terminal block of any one of (1) to (7), the retainer may have an insertion hole into which the connection end is inserted, and a partial protrusion may be formed on the inner surface of the insertion hole to be pressed against the outer surface of the connection end.

[0027] As a result, the partial protrusion is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the connection end, so that the connection end is press-fitted into the insertion hole, making it easy to temporarily hold the retainer in the connection end. Also, because the partial protrusion deforms, the connection end can be press-fitted into the insertion hole even if manufacturing errors occur in the retainer.

[0028] (9) In a terminal block according to any one of (1) to (8), the retainer has a retainer end face facing away from the resin portion, and when the annular sealing member is in an uncompressed state, the retainer end face is positioned farther from the resin portion than the end face, and when the retainer end face and the end face are positioned on the same plane, the annular sealing member may be compressed between the resin portion and the retainer.

[0029] With this, by pressing the mating terminal against the end surface, the mating terminal presses the retainer, and the annular seal member is compressed between the resin portion and the retainer.

[0030] The connection unit of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0031] (10) A connection unit between the terminal block described in any one of (1) to (9) and a mating terminal, wherein the mating terminal has a screw fastening portion with a screw insertion hole formed therein, the screw fastening portion is wider than the end face, and when the screw fastening portion is in contact with the end face, a screw passes through the screw insertion hole and threads into the screw hole, and the screw pushes the retainer toward the resin part via the screw fastening portion, so that the annular sealing member is compressed between the resin part and the retainer and is pressed against the connection end part.

[0032] According to this connection unit, the terminal block is used, and the fastening force of the screws is utilized to ensure sealing between the bus bar and the resin portion, thereby facilitating assembly of the terminal block.

[0033] [Details of the embodiments of the present disclosure] Specific examples of the terminal block and connection unit of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0034] [Embodiment] The terminal block and the connection unit according to the embodiment will be described below.

[0035] <Connection unit> The connection unit will now be described. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a connection unit 20 in which a terminal block 30 and a mating terminal 18 are connected. Figs. 2 and 3 are exploded perspective views of the connection unit 20. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Fig. 1. In Fig. 4, the attachment object 10 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in the middle of fastening and connecting the mating terminal 18 to the terminal block 30.

[0036] The connection unit 20 is a unit in which a terminal block 30 and a mating terminal 18 are connected.

[0037] The terminal block 30 is fixed to an attachment target 10 having a through hole 10h (see FIG. 4). The attachment target 10 is, for example, the case of a device such as a motor or inverter mounted on a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle. The case may be made of a conductive material, for example, metal, or may be made of an insulating material such as resin. In FIG. 4 and other figures, a portion of the case is shown as the attachment target 10.

[0038] The attachment target 10 has a through hole 10h formed therethrough in its thickness direction. The through hole 10h may have a shape in which the same diameter is continuous in the through direction, or may have a shape in which the diameter changes in a tapered or stepped manner. In this embodiment, the through hole 10h is a circular hole. The through hole 10h may also have another shape, for example, an elliptical shape.

[0039] The terminal block 30 is held through the through-hole 10h and exposed to the spaces on both sides partitioned by the attachment target 10. This allows electrical connection of a plurality of mating terminals located on both sides of the attachment target 10.

[0040] It is not essential that the terminal block 30 is held through the through-hole 10h. For example, the terminal block may be a component supported by a plate member, or may be a part formed integrally with the case.

[0041] The terminal block 30 is attached to the attachment target 10 while supporting a bus bar 32 as a terminal. The bus bar 32 has a first connection end 34 as a connection end. The first connection end 34 has an end face 34f. A screw hole 34h is formed in the first connection end 34. The screw hole 34h is a hole with a threaded groove, and in this embodiment, is a bottomed hole. The screw hole 34h opens at the end face 34f and extends along the axial direction of the first connection end 34. The end face 34f is perpendicular to the central axis X of the screw hole 34h.

[0042] The mating terminal 18 has a screw fastening portion 19 that is fastened to the first connection end portion 34 by screwing. The screw fastening portion 19 is wider than the end face 34f. For example, the mating terminal 18 includes an elongated plate-like portion. A disk-shaped screw fastening portion 19 is formed at the end of the elongated plate-like portion. In this embodiment, the end face 34f is circular, and the screw fastening portion 19 is a plate-like portion having a diameter larger than that of the end face 34f. A screw insertion hole 19h is formed in the screw fastening portion 19, through which a screw S can be inserted.

[0043] With the screw fastening portion 19 facing the end face 34f, the screw S can be threaded into the screw hole 34h through the screw insertion hole 19h. When the screw S is tightened, the screw head SH presses the screw fastening portion 19 toward the end face 34f. The screw fastening portion 19 is sandwiched between the end face 34f and the screw head SH, so that the screw fastening portion 19 is kept in contact with the end face 34f. This keeps the bus bar 32 and the mating terminal 18 connected.

[0044] <Overall configuration of terminal block> The terminal block 30 will now be described. The terminal block 30 includes a bus bar 32, a resin portion 40, an annular seal member 38, and a retainer 50.

[0045] The bus bar 32 includes the first connection end 34, the second connection end 35, and a bus bar main body 36. The bus bar main body 36 is located between the first connection end 34 and the second connection end 35.

[0046] The first connecting end 34 is the portion to which the mating terminal 18 is connected, as described above.

[0047] The second connecting end 35 is a portion to which another mating terminal is connected. In this embodiment, the second connecting end 35 is formed in a plate shape, more specifically, a rectangular plate shape. A screw insertion hole 35h is formed in the second connecting end 35. A nut 35N is fixed to one main surface of the second connecting end 35. With another mating terminal placed on the second connecting end 35, a screw is threaded into the nut 35N, thereby screwing the other mating terminal to the second connecting end.

[0048] The busbar body 36 is continuous with the first connection end 34. The first connection end 34 and the second connection end 35 are connected via the busbar body 36. In this embodiment, the busbar body 36 is formed in a rod shape that extends straight. In this embodiment, the busbar 32 as a whole is formed in a shape that extends linearly. The busbar body may be curved.

[0049] The first connection end 34 is formed in a round bar shape. The busbar body 36 is also formed in a round bar shape that is continuous with the first connection end 34. The round bar shape refers to an elongated shape with a circular cross section. The cross section is a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0050] The bus bar 32 may be formed by cutting, machining, or pressing a round metal base material, for example, made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum.

[0051] The first connecting end 34 and the busbar main body 36 may be rod-shaped with an elliptical cross section. The first connecting end 34 and the busbar main body 36 may be formed in the shape of an elongated plate or a rectangular bar. In this case, it is preferable that the corners are rounded so that the annular seal member 38 can be tightly fitted to the entire circumferential surface of the first connecting end 34.

[0052] The resin portion 40 is an insulating resin portion that covers the busbar body 36. The resin portion 40 may be a portion that is molded using the busbar 32 as an insert part. The resin portion 40 may also be a resin part that is molded separately from the busbar 32. In this case, it is preferable that the busbar body 36 is restricted so as not to move axially relative to the resin portion 40 when the busbar body 36 is inserted into the resin portion 40. For example, the resin portion 40 and the busbar body 36 may be fixed together with an adhesive. Furthermore, for example, a convex portion formed on one of the resin portion 40 and the busbar body 36 may fit into a concave portion formed on the other of the resin portion 40 and the busbar body 36, thereby positioning the two.

[0053] A waterproof adhesive may be interposed between the busbar body 36 and the resin portion 40. Because the annular sealing member 38 prevents water from passing between the busbar body 36 and the resin portion 40, the waterproof adhesive between the busbar body 36 and the resin portion 40 may be omitted.

[0054] More specifically, the resin part 40 includes a body part 42 and a fixing piece 45 .

[0055] The trunk portion 42 is a tubular, here cylindrical, portion that covers the busbar main body 36. One end of the trunk portion 42 is open. The first connecting end 34 passes through the opening and protrudes outward beyond the resin portion 40. An end face 34f of the first connecting end 34 faces the opposite side of the resin portion 40. The other end of the trunk portion 42 is closed by the bottom portion 43. The end of the busbar main body 36 on the second connecting end 35 side faces the inner surface of the bottom portion 43. The second connecting end 35 penetrates the bottom portion 43 and protrudes outward. A recess 42g for lightening may be formed in the trunk portion 42.

[0056] The portion of the body 42 on the first connection end 34 side may be formed as a large-diameter portion 42a. The large-diameter portion 42a is a portion formed with an outer diameter larger than that of the portion of the body 42 on the second connection end 35 side. The large-diameter portion 42a can widen the end face of the body 42 on the first connection end 34 side. Furthermore, with the body 42 inserted into the through hole 10h, the large-diameter portion 42a can be brought into contact with the outer periphery of the opening of the through hole 10h in the attachment target 10, thereby allowing the terminal block 30 to be placed on the attachment target 10 in a stable position and posture.

[0057] An end face 42f of the trunk portion 42 on the first connection end 34 side is an end face of the large diameter portion 42a. The end face 42f is perpendicular to the axial direction of the busbar main body 36. The end face 42f faces the end face 34f and is parallel to the end face 34f.

[0058] The fixing piece 45 is a portion that protrudes outward from the body portion 42 and is fixed to the attachment object 10 by screw fastening or the like. In this embodiment, the fixing piece 45 is a portion that protrudes further outward from a part of the circumferential direction of the large diameter portion 42a. The fixing piece 45 is formed in a plate shape that extends along the attachment surface of the attachment object 10. A fixing hole 45h is formed in the fixing piece 45.

[0059] With the body 42 inserted into the through hole 10h, the fixing piece 45 comes into contact with the surface of the attachment target 10 around the opening of the through hole 10h. In this state, a screw is threadedly fastened through the fixing hole 45h into a screw hole formed in the attachment target 10. As a result, the terminal block 30 is fixed to the attachment target 10 with the screw.

[0060] The body portion 42 may have a circumferential groove 44g. An outer annular seal member 49 is fitted onto the circumferential groove 44g. The outer annular seal member 49 is, for example, an O-ring made of rubber or the like. When the body portion 42 is inserted into the through hole 10h, the outer annular seal member 49 is interposed in a compressed state between the bottom of the circumferential groove 44g and the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 10h. This prevents fluid from passing between the resin portion 40 and the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 10h.

[0061] The first connecting end 34 protrudes with the busbar main body 36 positioned within the trunk portion 42. The end surface 42f of the resin portion 40 is located around the outer periphery of the boundary between the first connecting end 34 and the busbar main body 36, and faces the first connecting end 34 side.

[0062] It is not essential that the resin portion 40 has the above-described shape. For example, if the bus bar is curved, the resin portion may be formed into a shape that curves in accordance with the curved shape of the bus bar.

[0063] The annular seal member 38 is an annular elastic member that is fitted onto the outside of the first connection end portion 34. The annular seal member 38 is, for example, an O-ring. The annular seal member 38 is made of, for example, fluororubber, acrylic rubber, or silicone rubber.

[0064] The inner diameter of the annular seal member 38 is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of the first connecting end 34, as long as the annular seal member 38 can be fitted onto the first connecting end 34. This makes it difficult for the annular seal member 38 fitted onto the first connecting end 34 to fall off from the first connecting end 34.

[0065] The outer diameter of the annular seal member 38 is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of the end face 42f. The annular seal member 38 is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of the portion of the retainer 50 that faces the resin portion 40. This makes it less likely that the annular seal member 38 will be exposed to the outside from between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50.

[0066] The retainer 50 is a part that is fitted onto the first connecting end portion 34 so as to be movable in the axial direction of the first connecting end portion 34 .

[0067] In this embodiment, the retainer 50 is formed into an annular member. The retainer 50 is, for example, a molded part made of resin. The retainer 50 may also be made of metal.

[0068] The retainer 50 has an insertion hole 50h into which the first connecting end 34 is inserted. In this embodiment, one axially facing portion of the inner periphery of the retainer 50 is formed as the insertion hole 50h with a series of equal-diameter portions. The inner diameter of the insertion hole 50h is set to be the same as or larger than the outer diameter of the first connecting end 34.

[0069] Partial protrusions 50p are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 50h and are pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34. It is preferable that the multiple partial protrusions 50p are formed at intervals in the circumferential direction of the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 50h. It is preferable that the multiple partial protrusions 50p are evenly spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 50h.

[0070] The inner diameter of an imaginary circle passing through the tip ends of the multiple partial protrusions 50p is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of the first connecting end 34. The partial protrusions 50p preferably have a thickness that allows them to deform by plastic deformation or elastic deformation when pressed strongly against the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting end 34. The partial protrusions 50p preferably have an elongated convex shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the first connecting end 34.

[0071] In this embodiment, four partial protrusions 50p are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 50h. The first connecting end 34 is press-fitted into the insertion hole 50h while deforming the partial protrusions 50p. Because the first connecting end 34 is press-fitted into the insertion hole 50h, the retainer 50 is less likely to fall off the first connecting end 34 when the retainer 50 is fitted over the first connecting end 34.

[0072] The annular seal member 38 is positioned between the resin part 40 and the retainer 50. The annular seal member 38, which is fitted onto the first connecting end part 34, is compressed between the resin part 40 and the retainer 50. The compressed annular seal member 38 can seal the first connecting end part 34 side so that the gap between the resin part 40 and the retainer 50 is not exposed to the external space. The configuration for this sealing by the annular seal member 38 will be described in more detail.

[0073] <Sealing structure using annular seal members> An annular recess 52 facing the annular sealing member 38 is formed in a portion of at least one of the resin part 40 and the retainer 50 that faces the annular sealing member 38. The annular recess 52 is an annular recess that is recessed both when viewed from the end face of the resin part 40 or the retainer 50 and when viewed from the inner circumferential side.

[0074] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the annular recess 52 is formed in a portion of the retainer 50 that faces the annular seal member 38.

[0075] The annular recess 52 is formed in a shape that compresses the annular seal member 38 housed in the annular recess 52 between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50 and presses the annular seal member 38 against the first connection end portion 34 .

[0076] More specifically, the annular recess 52 has a tapered circumferential surface 52d that gradually widens toward the annular sealing member 38. In this embodiment, the entire surface of the retainer 50 that forms the annular recess 52 is the tapered circumferential surface 52d. In other words, the tapered circumferential surface 52d gradually widens from the periphery of the insertion hole 50h on the resin portion 40 side toward the resin portion 40. The annular end surface 50f of the retainer 50 that faces the resin portion 40 widens outward from the outer periphery of the tapered circumferential surface 52d. It is also possible that the annular end surface 50f does not widen in a planar manner but simply describes an annular line.

[0077] The entire surface formed by the annular recess 52 does not have to be a tapered peripheral surface, and a stepped portion may exist on the inner peripheral edge side, the outer peripheral edge side, or between them.

[0078] The outer diameter of the outer peripheral edge of the tapered circumferential surface 52d is larger than the maximum diameter of the annular seal member 38. Therefore, when viewed along the axial direction of the first connecting end portion 34, the entire annular seal member 38 is contained within the tapered circumferential surface 52d.

[0079] The inner peripheral edge of the tapered peripheral surface 52d is located farther from the resin part 40. The farther the inner peripheral edge of the tapered peripheral surface 52d is positioned from the annular end face 50f, the smaller the inclination angle of the tapered peripheral surface 52d with respect to the axis of the first connecting end 34. The inclination angle of the tapered peripheral surface 52d with respect to the axis of the first connecting end 34 is arbitrary and may be set to, for example, 45 degrees.

[0080] The central axis X of the annular recess 52 coincides with the central axis X of the first connecting end 34. In a cross section taken along the central axis X, an inscribed circle C (see FIG. 5) of the boundary that defines the internal space of the annular recess 52 is preferably smaller than the cross-sectional portion of the annular sealing member 38 (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 4). In this case, the annular sealing member 38 that has entered the annular recess 52 is not completely contained within the annular recess 52 and is likely to be pressed against the end face 42f of the resin part 40 and the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34.

[0081] In order to compress the annular seal member 38 by fastening the screw S into the screw hole 34h, the following configuration may be employed.

[0082] That is, the surface of the retainer 50 facing away from the resin portion 40 is referred to as the retainer end face 50fr. The retainer end face 50fr is an annular end face that extends outward from the opening of the insertion hole 50h on the opposite side from the tapered circumferential surface 52d. The retainer end face 50fr is perpendicular to the central axis X of the insertion hole 50h.

[0083] Before the screws S are fastened to the screw holes 34h, i.e., before the mating terminals 18 are connected to the busbars 32, the retainer end faces 50fr are positioned farther from the resin portion 40 than the end faces 34f of the busbars 32. In other words, the retainer 50 protrudes beyond the end faces 34f. Conversely, the end faces 34f are recessed into the insertion holes 50h of the retainer 50.

[0084] In this state, the annular sealing member 38 is in an uncompressed state. More specifically, a larger gap is formed between the end face 42f of the resin part 40 and the annular end face 50f of the retainer 50 than in the fastened state, and a gap large enough to accommodate the annular sealing member 38 in an uncompressed state is formed between the tapered circumferential surface 52d and the end face 42f.

[0085] When the screw S is threadedly fastened into the screw hole 34h with the mating terminal 18 facing the end face 34f of the bus bar 32, the mating terminal 18 is pressed against the end face 34f. Then, the outer periphery of the end face 34f of the mating terminal 18 comes into contact with the retainer end face 50fr of the retainer 50, and presses the retainer 50 toward the resin part 40 (see arrow F1 in FIG. 4).

[0086] With the mating terminal 18 in surface contact with the end face 34f of the busbar 32, the retainer end face 50fr is positioned flush with the end face 34f. In this state, the retainer 50 approaches the resin portion 40, and the space between the tapered circumferential surface 52d and the end face 42f becomes smaller than before fastening. As a result, the annular seal member 38 is compressed between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50.

[0087] The tapered circumferential surface 52d gradually widens toward the resin portion 40. Therefore, when the tapered circumferential surface 52d comes into contact with the annular sealing member 38, the tapered circumferential surface 52d presses the annular sealing member 38 toward both the end face 42f of the resin portion 40 and the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting end portion 34. The compressed annular sealing member 38 deforms to fit the shape of the space surrounded by the tapered circumferential surface 52d, the end face 42f, and the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting end portion 34. The compressed annular sealing member 38 is pressed against the tapered circumferential surface 52d, the end face 42f, and the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting end portion 34 by its elastic restoring force (see arrows F2, F3, and F4 in FIG. 4).

[0088] It is assumed that the minute gap between the resin part 40 and the busbar main body 36 is connected to the external space via a path that runs along the end face 42f and a path that runs along the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34. However, because the annular sealing member 38 is pressed against the end face 42f as indicated by arrow F3, the path that runs along the end face 42f is sealed. Furthermore, because the annular sealing member 38 is also pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34 as indicated by arrow F4, the path that runs along the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34 is also sealed. Therefore, the minute gap between the resin part 40 and the busbar main body 36 is sealed on the first connecting end 34 side, and the movement of fluid between the resin part 40 and the busbar main body 36 is suppressed.

[0089] <Example of fastening work> An example of the operation of fastening the mating terminals 18 to the terminal block 30 will be described. The operation of fastening the mating terminals 18 to the terminal block 30 may be considered as the manufacturing of the connection unit 20.

[0090] That is, as shown in FIG. 5 , the terminal block 30 is prepared in which the retainer 50 is separated significantly from the resin portion 40 and the annular seal member 38 is uncompressed between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50. In this state, the retainer end face 50fr is positioned farther from the resin portion 40 than the end face 34f of the busbar 32. The partial protrusion 50p is deformed, and the first connection end 34 is press-fit into the insertion hole 50h of the retainer 50. This press-fitting keeps the retainer 50 fitted onto the first connection end 34. In this state, the terminal block 30 may be fixed to the attachment object 10.

[0091] The mating terminal 18 is moved to a position facing the end face 34f of the bus bar 32, and the screw S is passed through the screw insertion hole 19h of the mating terminal 18 and screwed into the screw hole 34h of the bus bar 32. Then, the screw head SH of the screw S comes into contact with the screw fastening portion 19 and pushes the screw fastening portion 19 toward the end face 34f. The screw fastening portion 19 comes into contact with the retainer end face 50fr on the outer circumferential side of the end face 34f. As a result, the screw fastening portion 19 also pushes the retainer 50 toward the resin portion 40.

[0092] When the screw S is deeply fastened into the bus bar 32, the screw fastening portion 19 comes into contact with the end face 34f. At the same time, the screw S presses the retainer 50 toward the resin portion 40 until the retainer end face 50fr and the end face 34f are arranged on the same plane.

[0093] As a result, the annular seal member 38 is compressed between the end surface 42f of the resin part 40, the tapered circumferential surface 52d of the retainer 50, and the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting end part 34, thereby sealing the gap between the bus bar 32 and the resin part 40. In other words, the fastening force of the screw S compresses the annular seal member 38, allowing the annular seal member 38 to exhibit its sealing ability.

[0094] <Effects, etc.> In the terminal block 30 and connection unit 20 configured as described above, the annular seal member 38 is positioned between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50, eliminating the need to compress the annular seal member while inserting the bus bar with the annular seal member into the resin portion. Furthermore, for example, by positioning the mating terminal 18 facing the end face 34f of the first connection end 34 and threading the screw S into the screw hole 34h, the mating terminal 18 can be pressed against the end face 34f. At this time, the fastening force of the screw S can be used to move the retainer 50 toward the resin portion 40, thereby compressing the annular seal member 38 between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50 around the outer periphery of the bus bar 32. The compressed annular seal member 38 can seal the space adjacent to the gap between the resin portion 40 and the bus bar 32. In this way, the fastening force of the screw S can be used to ensure sealing between the bus bar 32 and the resin portion 40, facilitating assembly of the terminal block 30.

[0095] For example, according to the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, an O-ring is fitted into an outer circumferential groove formed in the bus bar and then inserted into the bus bar case. In order for the O-ring to perform its sealing function between the bus bar case and the bus bar, the O-ring must be significantly compressed. Significant compression of the O-ring increases the insertion force. To reduce the insertion force, it is conceivable to apply grease or the like to the O-ring to reduce friction. This requires the application of a fluid. In this embodiment, the annular seal member 38 is compressed using the fastening force of the screw S, eliminating the need for the application of grease or the like.

[0096] Furthermore, when molding a resin part using a bus bar as an insert part, it is necessary to seal the minute gap between the bus bar and the resin part within the resin part. In this case, in order to ensure sealing, there may be restrictions on the compatibility of the resin and the sealing part, as well as restrictions on the melting point so that the resin will melt into the resin part during molding.

[0097] Furthermore, if the bus bar and the resin portion are sealed with an adhesive, it may be difficult to ensure heat resistance.

[0098] According to this embodiment, material restrictions on the annular seal member 38 and the resin portion 40 from the viewpoint of sealing performance can be reduced. Therefore, for example, in order to improve heat resistance, the annular seal member 38 can be formed from a material with excellent heat resistance, such as fluororubber, acrylic rubber, or silicone rubber. The resin portion 40 can also be formed from a material suited to the mounting position, mounting environment, etc., such as PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), PA6T (polyamide 6T), or PBT (polybutylene terephthalate).

[0099] Furthermore, in order to seal within the resin portion, it is necessary to consider surface treatment of the bus bar to prevent the seal from shifting from the bus bar. However, in this embodiment, such surface treatment to prevent the seal from shifting is not necessary.

[0100] Furthermore, by forming the first connecting end 34 in a round bar shape, it is easy to use a general-purpose O-ring as the annular sealing member 38.

[0101] Furthermore, by forming the bus bar 32 in a round bar shape, the cross-sectional area can be increased, making it easier to handle a large current.

[0102] Furthermore, the bus bar 32 can be easily formed by tapping a round bar-shaped member. If the majority of the bus bar 32 is round bar-shaped, the bus bar 32 can be made thinner and smaller than a plate-shaped bus bar, and the terminal block 30 can be made smaller.

[0103] In addition, an annular recess 52 is formed in the retainer 50, and the annular recess 52 is shaped to compress the annular sealing member 38 between the resin part 40 and the retainer 50, and to press the annular sealing member 38 against the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting end 34. Therefore, when the annular sealing member 38 is pressed into the annular recess 52, the annular sealing member 38 is more likely to exhibit sealing properties.

[0104] Furthermore, because the annular recess 52 is formed in the retainer 50, it is easy to simplify the shape of the resin part 40. Here, the resin part 40 is easily made into a complex shape because it is formed with a shape for fixing to the attachment object 10, etc. Therefore, by forming the annular recess 52 in the retainer 50, it is possible to make each of the retainer 50 and the resin part 40 into a shape that is easy to mold using a mold.

[0105] Furthermore, since the annular recess 52 has a tapered peripheral surface 52d, the tapered peripheral surface 52d makes it easy to press the annular seal member 38 against the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34 while compressing it between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50.

[0106] Furthermore, in a cross section taken along the central axis X of the annular recess 52, the inscribed circle C of the boundary that defines the internal space of the annular recess 52 is smaller than the cross-sectional portion of the annular sealing member 38. This makes it easier to press the annular sealing member 38 against the first connecting end 34 while compressing it between the resin part 40 and the retainer 50.

[0107] Furthermore, if the resin portion 40 is molded using the bus bar 32 as an insert component, it is easy to maintain a constant positional relationship between the bus bar 32 and the resin portion 40. This makes it easy to move the retainer 50 by the force applied when fastening the bus bar 32, thereby compressing the annular seal member 38 between the retainer 50 and the resin portion 40.

[0108] Furthermore, a partial protrusion 50p is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 50h, and the partial protrusion 50p is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end 34. This causes the first connecting end 34 to be press-fitted into the insertion hole 50h, making it easy to temporarily hold the retainer 50 to the first connecting end 34. In this state, the annular sealing member 38 can be held between the resin part 40 and the retainer 50. Furthermore, even if a manufacturing error occurs in the retainer 50 or the like, the partial protrusion 50p deforms in accordance with the manufacturing error, allowing the first connecting end 34 to be press-fitted into the insertion hole 50h.

[0109] The retainer 50 has a retainer end face 50fr, and when the annular sealing member 38 is in an uncompressed state, the retainer end face 50fr is located farther from the resin portion 40 than the end face 34f of the bus bar 32. When the retainer end face 50fr and the end face 34f are located on the same plane, the annular sealing member 38 is compressed between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50. Therefore, by pressing the mating terminal 18 against the end face 34f, the mating terminal 18 can press the retainer 50, causing the annular sealing member 38 to be compressed between the resin portion 40 and the retainer 50.

[0110] [Variations] In each of the above embodiments, the annular recess 52 has the tapered circumferential surface 52d.

[0111] The annular recess may have any shape as long as it can compress the annular seal member between the resin portion and the retainer and press it against the first connection end portion.

[0112] 6 and 7, an annular recess 152 may be formed in a retainer 150 corresponding to the retainer 50, and the annular recess 152 may be a recess defined by an inner circumferential surface 152a centered on the central axis of the retainer 150 and a bottom surface 152b facing the resin portion 40. The inner circumferential surface 152a has a shape in which a portion of the same diameter continues along the central axis X. The bottom surface 152b is continuous with the inner circumferential surface 152a on the side opposite the resin portion 40 and is an annular surface perpendicular to the central axis X.

[0113] The depth F of the annular recess 152 along the central axis X and the width W along the radial direction are smaller than the diameter of the annular seal member 38 in cross section.

[0114] In this case, before the screw S is tightened, the annular sealing member 38 is positioned around the first connecting end 34, between the resin part 40 and the retainer 150. The annular sealing member 38 may be partially recessed within the annular recess 152.

[0115] Then, as in the above embodiment, when the retainer 150 moves toward the resin part 40 by tightening the screw S, the annular sealing member 38 comes into contact with the end face 42f of the resin part 40, and the annular sealing member 38 is pushed into the annular recess 152 by the reaction force.

[0116] If the depth F of the annular recess 152 along the central axis X is smaller than the diameter of the cross section of the annular seal member 38, the annular seal member 38 is compressed between the retainer 150 and the resin part 40. If the width W of the annular recess 152 along the radial direction is smaller than the diameter of the cross section of the annular seal member 38, the annular seal member 38 is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the first connecting end portion 34.

[0117] Therefore, similarly to the embodiment, the annular seal member 38 is pressed against the end face 42f of the resin part 40 and the outer circumferential surface of the first connection end part 34, and the gap between the resin part 40 and the bus bar 32 can be sealed similarly to the above.

[0118] In the above embodiment and modified examples, the annular recesses 52, 152 are formed in the retainers 50, 150. As shown in the following second modified example, the annular recess 242 may be formed in the resin portion 240.

[0119] 8 and 9, the retainer 250 corresponding to the retainer 50 does not have an annular recess 52. Therefore, the portion of the retainer 250 facing the annular seal member 38 is formed on an annular end surface 250f that is perpendicular to the central axis of the retainer 250.

[0120] An annular recess 242 is formed in a portion of the resin portion 240 corresponding to the resin portion 40 that faces the annular sealing member 38. The annular recess 242 may have a tapered circumferential surface 242d that gradually widens toward the annular sealing member 38, similar to the tapered circumferential surface 52d of the annular recess 52.

[0121] In this modification, the portion of the bus bar 32 located inside the annular recess 242 is also part of the first connection end portion .

[0122] According to this modification, before the screw S is tightened, the annular sealing member 38 is positioned around the first connecting end 34, between the resin part 240 and the retainer 250. The annular sealing member 38 may be partially recessed within the annular recess 242.

[0123] As in the above embodiment, when the retainer 250 moves toward the resin part 240 by tightening the screw S, the annular end face 250f of the retainer 250 pushes the annular seal member 38 into the annular recess 242 of the resin part 240.

[0124] The annular seal member 38 is received by the tapered circumferential surface 242d, compressed between the annular end surface 250f of the retainer 250 and the resin part 240, and pressed against the outer circumferential surface of the first connection end part 34. Therefore, similar to the embodiment, the gap between the resin part 240 and the bus bar 32 can be sealed.

[0125] If the annular recess 242 is formed in the resin portion 240, the retainer 250 can be easily made smaller, and the terminal block can also be made smaller.

[0126] The annular recesses may be formed in both the retainer and the resin portion. In this case, the size of the space of each annular recess may be set so that the annular seal members disposed in both annular recesses are compressed between the retainer and the resin portion and pressed against the connection end portion.

[0127] The terminal block may be used not only for motors or inverters but also for other electrical components, such as a junction box in which relays or fuses inserted in an electrical circuit are collectively incorporated, or a terminal block for supporting terminals in the case of a device for distributing electrical circuits.

[0128] In the above-described embodiment and modified examples, a plurality of the terminal blocks may be connected in series. For example, the plurality of terminal blocks may be connected in series on the side of the large-diameter portion 42a of the resin portion 40. Furthermore, for example, the plurality of terminal blocks may be configured as a three-pole or six-pole terminal block.

[0129] The configurations described in the above embodiment and modifications can be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 10 Installation target 10h through hole 18 Mating terminal 19 Screw fastening part 19h Screw insertion hole 20 Connection Unit 30 Terminal block 32 Bus Bar 34 First connection end 34f end face 34h screw hole 35 Second connection end 35N nut 35h screw insertion hole 36 Busbar body 38 Annular seal member 40, 240 Resin part 42 Torso 42a Large diameter part 42f end face 42g recess 43 Bottom 44g circumferential groove 45 Fixed piece 45h fixed hole 49 Outer annular seal member 50, 150, 250 retainer 50f, 250f Annular end face 50fr retainer end face 50h Insertion hole 50p partial protrusion 52, 152, 242 Annular recess 52d, 242d tapered surface 152a Inner surface 152b bottom C inscribed circle S screw SH screw head X center axis

Claims

1. a bus bar having a bus bar body and a connection end portion connected to the bus bar body; a resin portion covering the busbar body; an annular seal member fitted onto the connecting end; a retainer fitted onto the connection end portion so as to be movable in an axial direction of the connection end portion; Equipped with the connection end portion protrudes beyond the resin portion, the annular seal member is positioned between the resin portion and the retainer, the connection end portion has an end surface facing away from the resin portion, The terminal block has a screw hole formed in the connection end portion, the screw hole opening onto the end surface.

2. 2. The terminal block according to claim 1, an annular recess facing the annular seal member is formed in a portion of at least one of the resin portion and the retainer that faces the annular seal member; The annular recess is formed in a shape that compresses the annular sealing member housed in the annular recess between the resin portion and the retainer and presses the annular sealing member against the connection end portion.

3. 3. The terminal block according to claim 2, The annular recess is formed in a portion of the retainer facing the annular seal member.

4. 3. The terminal block according to claim 2, The terminal block, wherein the annular recess is formed in a portion of the resin portion facing the annular sealing member.

5. The terminal block according to any one of claims 2 to 4, The annular recess has a tapered peripheral surface that gradually widens toward the annular sealing member.

6. 6. The terminal block according to claim 5, In a cross section taken along the central axis of the annular recess, the inscribed circle of the boundary defining the internal space of the annular recess is smaller than the cross-sectional portion of the annular sealing member.

7. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The resin portion is molded using the bus bar as an insert component.

8. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the retainer has an insertion hole into which the connection end is inserted, a terminal block, wherein a partial protrusion is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole to be pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the connection end portion.

9. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the retainer has a retainer end surface facing away from the resin portion, When the annular seal member is in an uncompressed state, the retainer end surface is disposed at a position farther from the resin portion than the annular seal member is disposed at the end surface; The terminal block, wherein the annular seal member is compressed between the resin portion and the retainer with the retainer end face and the end face being arranged on the same plane.

10. A connection unit for connecting the terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 4 to a mating terminal, the mating terminal has a screw fastening portion having a screw insertion hole formed therein, The screw fastening portion is wider than the end surface, With the screw fastening portion in contact with the end surface, the screw passes through the screw insertion hole and is threaded into the screw hole, A connection unit in which the screw pushes the retainer toward the resin part via the screw-fastening part, so that the annular seal member is compressed between the resin part and the retainer and is pressed against the connection end part.

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