Cable management and electrical connection units

Abstract

One embodiment provides a wiring material and an electrical connection unit that can improve thermal properties. [Solution] The cable routing material of one embodiment comprises a busbar and a heat storage member. The busbar has a first connecting portion connected to a first connection target, a second connecting portion connected to a second connection target, and an extended portion extending between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. The heat storage member is attached to the extended portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a wiring material and an electrical connection unit.

Background Art

[0002] An electrical connection unit having an electronic component and a bus bar electrically connected to the electronic component is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, an improvement in thermal characteristics is expected for the electrical connection unit.

[0005] One embodiment provides a wiring material and an electrical connection unit capable of improving thermal characteristics.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A wiring material according to one embodiment has a bus bar and a heat storage member. The bus bar has a first connection portion connected to a first connection target, a second connection portion connected to a second connection target, and an extension portion extending between the first connection portion and the second connection portion. The heat storage member is attached to the extension portion.

[0007] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment comprises a cable routing member and at least one of a first connection target and a second connection target. The cable routing member comprises a busbar and a heat storage member. The busbar has a first connection portion connected to the first connection target, a second connection portion connected to the second connection target, and an extension portion extending between the first and second connection portions. The heat storage member is attached to the extension portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one embodiment, it is possible to improve the thermal properties. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A perspective view showing the cable routing material of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] A perspective view showing the cable arrangement of a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] A perspective view showing the cable arrangement of a second modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] A perspective view showing the cable arrangement of a third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] A perspective view showing the cable arrangement of a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 8] A perspective view illustrating the heat storage member of the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be denoted by the same reference numerals. Duplication of these components may be omitted. The components described below do not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0011] In this disclosure, terms are defined as follows: “Connection” may include electrical connections, not just mechanical ones. That is, “Connection” may include cases where two elements to be connected are directly connected, not just cases where two elements to be connected are connected with another element in between. “Facing” means that the virtual projections of two objects overlap when viewed from a particular direction. That is, “Facing” may include cases where two objects face each other with another member present between them, not just cases where two objects face each other. “Parallel,” “orthogonal,” or “same” may include cases where they are “approximately parallel,” “approximately orthogonal,” or “approximately the same,” respectively.

[0012] In this disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows: The +X direction is, for example, the extension direction of at least a portion of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 60 described later (see Figure 2). The -X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, when the +X direction and the -X direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "X direction". The +Y direction and the -Y direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal to) the X direction. The +Y direction is, for example, the width direction of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 60 (see Figure 2). The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the extension portion 63 of the busbar 60 toward the heat storage member 70 described later (see Figure 2). The -Z direction is the opposite direction to the +Z direction. In the following, when the +Z and -Z directions are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction".

[0013] (First Embodiment) <1. Configuration of the electrical connection unit> FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the first embodiment. The electrical connection unit 1 is an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The electrical connection unit 1 may be referred to as, for example, an "electrical connection box" or a "junction box". However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device. The electrical connection unit 1 has, for example, a housing 5 and a main body portion MU.

[0014] The housing 5 is a member that forms the outer shell of the electrical connection unit 1. The housing 5 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulation properties. The housing 5 houses the main body portion MU. The housing 5 has, for example, an opening 5h that exposes the connection components 20 for external connection. Note that the housing 5 may be omitted.

[0015] The main body portion MU is a part that performs the main functions of the electrical connection unit 1 (for example, switching the electrical connection state or overcurrent protection). The main body portion MU may be referred to as a "circuit configuration body". The main body portion MU includes, for example, one or more electronic components 10, connection components 20, a base member 30, a plurality of fixing portions 40, and one or more wiring materials 50.

[0016] <2. Electronic Components>[[ID=十三]] First, the electronic component 10 will be described. The electronic component 10 is an electronic component mounted according to the functions required for the main body portion MU. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a connector, a fuse, a relay (for example, a mechanical relay or a semiconductor relay), a capacitor, a branching component, various sensors (for example, a current sensor or a voltage sensor), an electronic control unit, or an electronic component unit formed by unitizing two or more of these. However, the types of the electronic component 10 are not limited to the above examples. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a heat-generating component that generates heat when energized. The electronic component 10 has, for example, a case 11, a component main body portion 12, and a plurality of terminals 13.

[0017] Case 11 is an outer member that forms most of the outer shape of the electronic component 10. Case 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. Case 11 houses the component main body portion 12. Note that Case 11 and the component main body portion 12 may be integrally formed.

[0018] The component main body portion 12 is a part that performs the main function of the electronic component 10. For example, when the electronic component 10 is a relay, the component main body portion 12 includes a switching portion (for example, a contact portion) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, when the electronic component 10 is a fuse, the component main body portion 12 includes a fusing portion that is fused when an overcurrent flows. For example, when the electronic component 10 is a capacitor, the component main body portion 12 includes a portion that accumulates electric charge.

[0019] The terminal 13 is an electrical connection portion exposed outside the case 11. The terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component main body portion 12 inside the case 11. In the present embodiment, the electronic component 10 includes a terminal 13A and a terminal 13B as a plurality of terminals 13. One of the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B is a positive terminal. The other of the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B is a negative terminal. One of the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B is an example of the "first terminal". The other of the terminal 13A and the terminal 13B is an example of the "second terminal".

[0020] Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h into which a fastening member 41 (for example, a screw or a bolt) described later is inserted. The mounting hole 13h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 13h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the terminal 13 in the Z direction. Note that in the present disclosure, the "mounting hole" is not limited to a hole without a screw thread, and may be a hole having a screw thread with which the fastening member 41 engages. Also, in the present disclosure, the "mounting hole" is not limited to a through hole, and may be a bottomed hole. For example, the mounting hole 13h may have a screw thread or may be a bottomed hole.

[0021] <3. Connection Component> Next, the connecting component 20 will be described. The connecting component 20 is a component for electrically connecting multiple members. The connecting component 20 forms part of the electrical circuit in the electrical connection unit 1. The connecting component 20 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy). The connecting component 20 has a mounting hole 20h into which a fastening member 44, which will be described later, is inserted. The mounting hole 20h does not have screw threads, for example. The mounting hole 20h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the connecting component 20 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 20h may have screw threads into which the fastening member 44 engages, or it may be a bottomed hole.

[0022] In this embodiment, the connecting component 20 is positioned between the cable routing member 50 and the bus bar 9 for external connection, electrically connecting the cable routing member 50 and the bus bar 9. The bus bar 9 is a bus bar for electrically connecting the electrical connection unit 1 and external equipment. In this disclosure, "external equipment" refers to electrical equipment located outside the electrical connection unit 1. External equipment includes, but is not limited to, a battery unit mounted on a vehicle or an inverter for driving the vehicle's motor.

[0023] In this disclosure, "connecting component" is not limited to the examples above. A connecting component (e.g., connecting component 20) may be a member that is placed between the terminal 13 of another electronic component 10 and the cable 50, and electrically connects the other electronic component 10 and the cable 50. Alternatively, a connecting component (e.g., connecting component 20) may be a member that is placed between two cable 50s, and electrically connects the two cable 50s. Alternatively, a connecting component (e.g., connecting component 20) may be placed between a normal busbar in the electrical connection unit 1 (e.g., busbar 8 described later, see Figure 7) and the cable 50, and electrically connects the normal busbar and the cable 50.

[0024] <4. Base components> Next, the base member 30 will be described. The base member 30 is a support member that supports one or more of the electronic components 10, connecting components 20, and wiring members 50. The base member 30 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. In this embodiment, fastening members 41 and 44, which will be described later, are fixed to the base member 30.

[0025] <5. Fixed part> The fixing part 40 is a fixing part for fixing the cable material 50 to the object to be connected. The plurality of fixing parts 40 include, for example, a first fixing part 40A and a second fixing part 40B.

[0026] <5.1 1st fixed part> The first fixing part 40A is a fixing part that fixes the first connection part 61 of the cable member 50 (described later) to the first connection target. The first fixing part 40A includes, for example, a fastening member 41 (e.g., a bolt or screw), an engaging member 42 (e.g., a nut), and a washer 43.

[0027] The fastening member 41 is, for example, a bolt having a shaft portion 41a and a head portion 41b. The circumferential surface of the shaft portion 41a has screw threads. The shaft portion 41a is passed through a washer 43 and engages with an engaging member 42. The head portion 41b has a larger diameter than the shaft portion 41a. In this embodiment, the fastening member 41 is fixed to the base member 30 in a position where the shaft portion 41a protrudes from the base member 30 in the +Z direction. The fastening member 41 is an example of a "first fastening member". The first fixing portion 40A is not limited to the above example. The first fixing portion 40A can be any structure that fixes the first connection portion 61 of the cable material 50 to the first connection target, and is not limited to a specific structure.

[0028] <5.2 Second fixed part> The second fixing portion 40B is a fixing portion that fixes the second connection portion 62 of the cable member 50 to the second connection target. The second fixing portion 40B includes, for example, a fastening member 44 (e.g., a bolt or screw), an engaging member 45 (e.g., a nut), and a washer 46.

[0029] The fastening member 44 is, for example, a bolt having a shaft portion 44a and a head portion 44b. The circumferential surface of the shaft portion 44a has screw threads. The shaft portion 44a is passed through a washer 46 and engages with an engaging member 45. The head portion 44b has a larger diameter than the shaft portion 44a. In this embodiment, the fastening member 44 is fixed to the base member 30 in a position where the shaft portion 44a protrudes from the base member 30 in the +Z direction. The fastening member 44 is an example of a "second fastening member". The second fixing portion 40B is not limited to the above example. The second fixing portion 40B can be any structure that fixes the second connection portion 62 of the cable material 50 to the second connection target, and is not limited to a specific structure.

[0030] <6. Routing material> Next, we will explain the cable routing member 50. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the wiring member 50. The wiring member 50 includes, for example, a bus bar 60 (a bus bar for conducting electricity), a heat storage member 70 (for example, a bus bar 70A for heat storage), and one or more (for example, multiple) fixing parts 80.

[0031] <6.1 Busbars for power supply> The busbar 60 is a wiring member that electrically connects multiple connection targets. The busbar 60 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy) and is conductive. The busbar 60 electrically connects a first connection target and a second connection target. For example, the busbar 60 electrically connects an electronic component 10 and a connecting component 20. The electronic component 10 is an example of a "first connection target". The connecting component 20 is an example of a "second connection target".

[0032] However, the first and second connection targets are not limited to the examples above. For example, the first connection target is any one of the following: an electronic component, a connecting component, another busbar in the electrical connection unit 1 (e.g., a normal busbar 8 or a busbar 60 included in another wiring material 50), or a busbar 9 for external connection. For example, the second connection target is any one of the following: an electronic component, a connecting component, another busbar in the electrical connection unit 1 (e.g., a normal busbar 8 or a busbar 60 included in another wiring material 50), or a busbar 9 for external connection. For example, busbar 60 may electrically connect electronic component 10 (first connection target) to another electronic component 10 (second connection target). Busbar 60 may electrically connect connecting component 20 (first connection target) to another connecting component 20 (second connection target).

[0033] In the following, as an example of a busbar 60, a busbar 60 that electrically connects an electronic component 10 (first connection target) and a connecting component 20 (second connection target) will be described. However, in the following description, the terms "electronic component 10" and "connecting component 20" may be appropriately replaced with other components based on the above-mentioned purpose.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2, the busbar 60 has, for example, a first connecting portion 61, a second connecting portion 62, and an extension portion 63.

[0035] (First connection section) The first connection portion 61 is the portion that connects to the first connection target (e.g., electronic component 10). The first connection portion 61 is located in the middle of the bus bar 60 or at the first end of the bus bar 60. When viewed from the Z direction, the first connection portion 61 is the portion that faces the first fixing portion 40A (e.g., the portion that faces the fastening member 41, the engaging member 42, or the washer 43). In this embodiment, the first connection portion 61 is defined as a rectangular region that circumscribes the first fixing portion 40A when viewed from the Z direction (see Figure 2).

[0036] The first connecting portion 61 has a mounting hole 61h into which the fastening member 41 is inserted. The mounting hole 61h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 61h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the first connecting portion 61 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 61h is an example of the "first mounting hole".

[0037] The mounting hole 61h of the first connecting portion 61 is aligned with the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 in the Z direction. A fastening member 41 is inserted along the Z direction into the mounting hole 61h of the first connecting portion 61 and the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. An engaging member 42 is engaged with the tip of the fastening member 41 that has passed through the mounting hole 61h of the first connecting portion 61 and the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. This configuration fixes the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the first connecting portion 61. Alternatively, either the mounting hole 61h of the first connecting portion 61 or the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 may have a screw thread for the fastening member 41 to engage. In this case, the engaging member 42 may be omitted.

[0038] (Second connection point) The second connecting portion 62 is the portion that connects to the second connection target (for example, the connecting component 20). The second connecting portion 62 is located in the middle of the busbar 60 or at the second end of the busbar 60. When viewed from the Z direction, the second connecting portion 62 is the portion that faces the second fixing portion 40B (for example, the portion that faces the fastening member 44, the engaging member 45, or the washer 46). In this embodiment, the second connecting portion 62 is defined as a rectangular region that circumscribes the second fixing portion 40B when viewed from the Z direction (see Figure 2).

[0039] The second connecting portion 62 has a mounting hole 62h into which the fastening member 44 is inserted. The mounting hole 62h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 62h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the second connecting portion 62 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 62h is an example of a "second mounting hole".

[0040] The mounting hole 62h of the second connecting portion 62 is aligned with the mounting hole 20h of the connecting component 20 in the Z direction. A fastening member 44 is inserted along the Z direction through the mounting hole 62h of the second connecting portion 62 and the mounting hole 20h of the connecting component 20. An engaging member 45 is engaged with the tip of the fastening member 44 that has passed through the mounting hole 62h of the second connecting portion 62 and the mounting hole 20h of the connecting component 20. This configuration fixes the connecting component 20 and the second connecting portion 62. Alternatively, either the mounting hole 62h of the second connecting portion 62 or the mounting hole 20h of the connecting component 20 may have a screw thread for the fastening member 44 to engage. In this case, the engaging member 45 may be omitted.

[0041] (extension part) The extension portion 63 is provided between the connecting portion 61 and the connecting portion 62. The extension portion 63 extends across the connecting portion 61 and the connecting portion 62. The extension portion 63 connects the connecting portion 61 and the connecting portion 62. In the example shown in Figure 2, the extension portion 63 extends linearly in the X direction. However, the extension portion 63 may include a portion that bends and extends in the Y direction or the Z direction. In this case, the "extension direction of the extension portion" is the direction along the extension portion 63 while bending. The extension portion 63 is formed, for example, in the shape of a plate. The Z direction is the thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the extension portion 63. In this embodiment, the entire busbar 60, including the first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, and the extension portion 63, is formed in the shape of a plate.

[0042] <6.2 Heat Storage Components (Busbars for Heat Storage)> Next, the heat storage member 70 will be described. The heat storage member 70 is a metal member attached to the busbar 60. The heat storage member 70 is a member that stores (absorbs) at least a portion of the heat emitted by the first connection target or the second connection target, and at least a portion of the heat emitted by the busbar 60 itself. In addition to the above example, the heat storage member 70 may also be a member that reduces thermal interference from external equipment (external connection busbar 9) to the electronic component 10. The heat storage member 70 is made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, but is not limited to these examples.

[0043] In this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 is attached to the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60. For example, the heat storage member 70 is provided detached from the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the busbar 60. That is, when viewed from the Z direction, the heat storage member 70 is provided in a region that does not overlap with the first fixing portion 40A and the second fixing portion 40B.

[0044] In this embodiment, a heat storage bus bar 70A is provided as an example of a heat storage member 70. The heat storage bus bar 70A is a metal plate member arranged along the energizing bus bar 60. The heat storage bus bar 70A is arranged overlapping the energizing bus bar 60 from the Z direction.

[0045] In this embodiment, a heat storage member 70 that satisfies the following conditions is defined as a heat storage bus bar 70A. That is, the heat storage member 70 has a thickness T70 as the thickness in the direction (Z direction) in which it overlaps with the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60. The heat storage member 70 has a length L70 as the length in the extension direction of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60 (for example, the X direction, hereinafter simply referred to as the "extension direction"). The heat storage member 70 also has a width W70 as the width in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction (for example, the Y direction, hereinafter simply referred to as the "width direction"). In this embodiment, a heat storage member 70 in which the length L70 and width W70 are greater than the thickness T70, and the length L70 is greater than the width W70, is defined as a heat storage bus bar 70A.

[0046] For example, the heat storage member 70 (heat storage bus bar 70A) is formed in a plate-like (flat) shape along the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60. For example, the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is smaller than the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction. In this embodiment, the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is smaller than half the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction. Also, the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction is smaller than the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction. In this embodiment, the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction is smaller than half the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction.

[0047] The shape of the heat storage member 70 is not limited to the above example. For example, the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction may be greater than the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction. For example, the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction may be greater than at least one of the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction and the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction.

[0048] In this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 is provided over more than half the length of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the extending direction. For example, the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extending direction is greater than half the length L63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the extending direction.

[0049] In this embodiment, the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction is greater than half the width W63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Y direction. In this embodiment, the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction is the same as the width W63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Y direction. Note that the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction may be greater than the same as the width W63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Y direction.

[0050] In this embodiment, the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is greater than the thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Z direction. With this configuration, it is easier to increase the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70 compared to the case where the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is smaller than the thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Z direction.

[0051] The thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction may be the same as or smaller than the thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Z direction. If the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is smaller than the thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Z direction, it is easier to miniaturize (reduce the height of) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0052] <6.3 Fixed part> Next, the fixing portion 80 will be described. The fixing portion 80 is a fixing portion that fixes the heat storage member 70 to the bus bar 60. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 80 is located in a region that overlaps with the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 60. That is, when viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 80 is located in a region that is outside the first fixing portion 40A and the second fixing portion 40B. The fixing portion 80 has, for example, a fastening member 81 (for example, a bolt or screw).

[0053] In this embodiment, the extension portion 63 of the busbar 60 has a mounting hole 63h (see Figure 1). The mounting hole 63h penetrates the extension portion 63 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 63h has, for example, a screw thread. On the other hand, the heat storage member 70 has a mounting hole 70h at a position corresponding to the mounting hole 63h of the busbar 60 (see Figure 1). The mounting hole 70h penetrates the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 70h does not have, for example, a screw thread. In this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 and the extension portion 63 of the busbar 60 are fixed together by fastening member 81 inserted into the mounting hole 70h of the heat storage member 70 engaging with the mounting hole 63h of the busbar 60.

[0054] The structure of the fixing part 80 is not limited to the above example. For example, the mounting hole 63h of the busbar 60 may not have a screw thread, while the mounting hole 70h of the heat storage member 70 may have a screw thread. Also, instead of a configuration having a fastening member 81, the fixing part 80 may utilize adhesive (for example, a thermally conductive adhesive), welding, or a fit.

[0055] <6. Examples> Next, an example relating to the material combination of the busbar 60 and the heat storage member 70 will be described.

[0056] <6.1 First Example> In the first embodiment, the busbar 60 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The heat storage member 70 is made of copper or a copper alloy. Here, the specific heat of copper is lower than that of aluminum. With the above configuration, since the material of the busbar 60 is aluminum or an aluminum alloy, while the material of the heat storage member 70 is copper or a copper alloy, it is possible to reduce the volume of the cable 50 and make it smaller (e.g., lower profile) while ensuring the heat storage capacity of the cable 50. With this configuration, it is possible to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1 while making the electrical connection unit 1 smaller (e.g., lower profile).

[0057] <6.2 Second Example> In the second embodiment, the busbar 60 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The heat storage member 70 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Here, the specific gravity of aluminum is lower than that of copper. With this configuration, since the material of the busbar 60 is aluminum or an aluminum alloy, while the material of the heat storage member 70 is aluminum or an aluminum alloy, it is possible to reduce the weight of the cable material 50 while ensuring the heat storage capacity of the cable material 50. With this configuration, it is possible to improve the thermal properties of the electrical connection unit 1 while reducing the weight of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0058] <7. Advantages> As a first comparative example, consider a structure in which the heat storage member 70 does not exist. In such a structure, if sufficient heat capacity is not secured within the electrical connection unit, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit, and / or thermal interference with the first or second connection target may increase. For example, when a transient large current flows, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit, and / or thermal interference with the first or second connection target may increase. As a result, it may become difficult to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0059] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the cable routing member 50 includes a bus bar 60 and a heat storage member 70. The bus bar 60 has a first connecting portion 61 connected to a first connection target, a second connecting portion 62 connected to a second connection target, and an extension portion 63 extending between the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The heat storage member 70 is attached to the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 60.

[0060] With this configuration, the heat storage member 70 increases the heat capacity of the busbar 60. By increasing the heat capacity of the busbar 60 in this way, a portion of the heat transmitted through the busbar 60 can be stored (absorbed) by the heat storage member 70, at least temporarily. This structure makes it possible to suppress a large temperature rise in a part of the electrical connection unit 1 and / or large thermal interference with the first or second connection target. This structure makes it possible to improve the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat dissipation or heat storage) of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0061] Here, as a second comparative example, we consider a structure in which the heat storage member 70 is fastened together with the busbar 60 by fixing parts 40 (for example, a first fixing part 40A and a second fixing part 40B) that fix the busbar 60 and the object to be connected. That is, in the configuration of the second comparative example, the mounting hole 70h of the heat storage member 70 is provided at positions corresponding to the mounting holes 61h and 62h of the busbar 60, and the fastening members 41 and 44 are inserted into the mounting holes 61h and 62h of the busbar 60 and the mounting hole 70h of the heat storage member 70. In this structure of the second comparative example, since the busbar 60 and the heat storage member 70 are fixed by the fastening members 41 and 44 in an overlapping state, axial force loss is likely to occur in the fixing part 40. For this reason, a large fixing part 40 is required, assuming that axial force loss will occur. If such a large fixing part 40 is required, it becomes difficult to miniaturize (for example, reduce the height of) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0062] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 is provided detached from the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the busbar 60. In this configuration, the heat storage member 70 does not affect the axial force of the fixing portion 40 that fixes the busbar 60 to the object to be connected. As a result, the heat storage member 70 can be provided without the risk of axial force loss in the fixing portion 40 caused by the heat storage member 70. With this configuration, it is possible to provide the heat storage member 70 while suppressing an increase in the size of the fixing portion 40. As a result, it is possible to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1 while miniaturizing (for example, reducing the height) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0063] In this embodiment, the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 is formed in a plate shape. The heat storage member 70 is a plate member that runs along the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60. With this configuration, it becomes easier to further miniaturize (for example, reduce the height of) the electrical connection unit 1 while ensuring the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70.

[0064] In this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 is provided over more than half the length in the extension direction of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 60. With this configuration, it is easier to further increase the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70 while miniaturizing (for example, reducing the height of) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0065] In this embodiment, the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is greater than the thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Z direction. With this configuration, the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70 can be further increased. With this configuration, it becomes easier to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0066] In this embodiment, the thickness T70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Z direction is the same as or smaller than the thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Z direction. With this configuration, it becomes easier to further miniaturize (for example, reduce the height of) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0067] In this embodiment, the width W70 of the heat storage member 70 in the Y direction is greater than half the width W63 of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Y direction. With this configuration, the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70 can be further increased. With this configuration, it becomes easier to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0068] <8. Variation> The following describes some modifications of the first embodiment. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations of each modification are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0069] <8.1 First Variation> Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the wiring member 50 of the first modified example. In the first modified example, the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction is less than half the length L63 of the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction. The heat storage member 70 is provided corresponding only to a part of the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 60. Even with this configuration, the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0070] <8.2 Second Variation> Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the cable guide 50 of the second modified example. In the second modified example, the extension portion 63 of the bus bar 60 includes a first extension portion 63a (first part) and a second extension portion 63b (second part).

[0071] The first extension portion 63a is adjacent to the first connecting portion 61 and extends from the first connecting portion 61. The first extension portion 63a extends, for example, in the +X direction from the first connecting portion 61. The first extension portion 63a is, for example, a plate portion along the X and Y directions.

[0072] The second extension 63b is located on the opposite side of the first connection 61 from the first extension 63a. The second extension 63b is located between the first extension 63a and the second connection 62. The second extension 63b bends and extends from the first connection 61. The second extension 63b extends in the +Y direction from, for example, the +X direction end of the first extension 63a. The second extension 63b is, for example, a plate portion along the X and Y directions.

[0073] In this modified example, the heat storage member 70 (heat storage bus bar 70A) extends across the first extension portion 63a and the second extension portion 63b of the bus bar 60. The heat storage member 70 includes, for example, a first portion 71 and a second portion 72.

[0074] The first portion 71 is a plate portion that runs along the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60. The first portion 71 is positioned overlapping the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60 from the Z direction. The first portion 71 extends in the X direction along the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60. For example, the first portion 71 is provided over more than half the length of the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction. That is, the length L71 of the first portion 71 in the extension direction (X direction) is greater than half the length L63a of the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction (X direction).

[0075] The second portion 72 extends from the first portion 71 by bending. The second portion 72 is a plate portion that runs along the second extension portion 63b of the bus bar 60. The second portion 72 is positioned overlapping the second extension portion 63b of the bus bar 60 from the Z direction. The second portion 72 extends in the Y direction along the second extension portion 63b of the bus bar 60. For example, the second portion 72 is provided over more than half the length of the second extension portion 63b of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction. That is, the length L72 of the second portion 72 in the extension direction (Y direction) is greater than half the length L63b of the second extension portion 63b of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction (Y direction).

[0076] This configuration makes it easier to further increase the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70 while simultaneously miniaturizing (for example, reducing the height of) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0077] <8.3 Third Variation> Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the wiring member 50 of the third modified example. In the third modified example, a plurality of heat storage members 70 (bus bars 70A for heat storage) are provided, including a first heat storage member 70 (first bus bar 70A1 for heat storage) and a second heat storage member 70 (second bus bar 70A2 for heat storage).

[0078] More specifically, the extension 63 of the busbar 60 has a first surface 63s1 and a second surface 63s2. The first surface 63s1 is the surface facing the +Z direction. The second surface 63s2 is located on the opposite side from the first surface 63s1. The second surface 63s2 is the surface facing the -Z direction.

[0079] The first heat storage member 70 (first bus bar 70A1 for heat storage) is positioned overlapping the first surface 63s1 of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60 from the +Z direction side. The first heat storage member 70 (first bus bar 70A1 for heat storage) extends along the first surface 63s1 of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60.

[0080] The second heat storage member 70 (second bus bar 70A2 for heat storage) is positioned overlapping the second surface 63s2 of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60 from the -Z direction side. The second heat storage member 70 (second bus bar 70A2 for heat storage) extends along the second surface 63s2 of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60. In other words, in this modified example, the bus bar 60 is sandwiched from both sides in the Z direction by the two heat storage members 70 (two bus bars 70A1, 70A2).

[0081] In this modified example, the Z-direction thickness T70 of each of the first heat storage member 70 (first bus bar 70A1 for heat storage) and the second heat storage member 70 (second bus bar 70A2 for heat storage) is the same as or smaller than the Z-direction thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60, for example. However, the Z-direction thickness T70 of each of the first heat storage member 70 (first bus bar 70A1 for heat storage) and the second heat storage member 70 (second bus bar 70A2 for heat storage) may be greater than the Z-direction thickness T63 of the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60.

[0082] According to the third modified configuration, the two heat storage members 70 (two heat storage busbars 70A1 and 70A2) can be arranged separately on both sides of the busbar 60 in the Z direction, making it easier to secure a large contact area between the two heat storage members 70 and the busbar 60. This structure makes it easier to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1. Also, according to the second modified configuration, the two heat storage members 70 can be arranged separately on both sides of the busbar 60 in the Z direction. With this configuration, the amount of protrusion from the surface of the busbar 60 is smaller compared to the case where a thick heat storage member 70 is arranged on one side of the busbar 60 in the Z direction. With this configuration, it is easier to further miniaturize (for example, reduce the height) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0083] <8.4 Fourth Variation> Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the wiring member 50 of the fourth modified example. In the fourth modified example, the heat storage member 70 is formed, for example, in an inverted U shape. The heat storage member 70 (heat storage bus bar 70A) has, for example, a first portion 75, a second portion 76, and a third portion 77. The first portion 75 is a plate portion along the X and Y directions. The first portion 75 faces the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60 from the +Z direction side. The second portion 76 protrudes in the -Z direction from the -Y direction end of the first portion 75. The second portion 76 faces the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60 from the -Y direction side. The second portion 76 extends in the X direction. On the other hand, the third portion 77 protrudes in the -Z direction from the +Y direction end of the first portion 75. The third portion 77 faces the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 60 from the +Y direction side. The third portion 77 extends in the X direction. That is, the extension 63 of the busbar 60 is covered from three directions by the first portion 75, the second portion 76, and the third portion 77.

[0084] In the configuration of the fourth modified example, the heat storage member 70 has a second portion 76 and a third portion 77, thereby increasing the heat capacity of the heat storage member 70. This structure makes it easier to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1. Also, in the configuration of the fourth modified example, the second portion 76 and the third portion 77 face the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 in the Y direction. Therefore, even with the structure provided with the second portion 76 and the third portion 77, it becomes easier to further miniaturize (for example, reduce the height of) the electrical connection unit 1.

[0085] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the extended portion 63 of the busbar 60 is bent in the thickness direction of the extended portion 63. Other than what is described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0086] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the busbar 60 electrically connects the electronic component 10 to another busbar 8 included in the electrical connection unit 1. The electronic component 10 is an example of the "first connection target". The busbar 8 is an example of the "second connection target".

[0087] In this embodiment, the extended portion 63 includes a first extended portion 63a (first part) and a second extended portion 63b (second part).

[0088] The first extension portion 63a is adjacent to the first connecting portion 61 and extends from the first connecting portion 61. In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 61 is a plate portion that is aligned in the Z and Y directions. The first extension portion 63a extends, for example, in the -Z direction from the first connecting portion 61. The first extension portion 63a is, for example, a plate portion that is aligned in the Z and Y directions.

[0089] The second extension 63b is located on the opposite side of the first connection 61 from the first extension 63a. The second extension 63b is located between the first extension 63a and the second connection 62. The second extension 63b extends bent from the first connection 61. The second extension 63b extends in the +X direction from, for example, the -Z direction end of the first extension 63a. The second extension 63b is, for example, a plate portion along the X and Y directions.

[0090] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating the heat storage member 70 of the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 (heat storage bus bar 70A) is attached to the first extension portion 63a. The heat storage member 70 (heat storage bus bar 70A) is formed in a plate-like (flat) shape along the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60. The heat storage member 70 is provided over more than half the length of the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction. That is, the length L70 of the heat storage member 70 in the extension direction is greater than half the length L63a of the first extension portion 63a of the bus bar 60 in the extension direction.

[0091] In this embodiment, the heat storage member 70 is not attached to the second extension portion 63b. In other words, the heat storage member 70 is positioned closer to the electronic component 10 (e.g., the heat-generating object) than the boundary between the first extension portion 63a and the second extension portion 63b.

[0092] With the configuration of the second embodiment described above, the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved, similar to the first embodiment.

[0093] Several embodiments and modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, the modifications described above may be implemented in combination with each other. For example, the heat storage member 70 may be attached to at least one of the first connection part 61 and the second connection part 62 in addition to the extension part 63 of the busbar 60. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 1…Electrical connection unit 10…Electronic components 20…Connecting parts 40…Fixed part 40A…1st fixed part 40B…Second fixed part 41…Fastening member (first fastening member) 44…Fastening member (second fastening member) 50...Routing material 60... Busbar (busbar for power supply) 61...First connection section 61h... Mounting hole (first mounting hole) 62...Second connection section 62h... Mounting hole (second mounting hole) 63…Extension part 63a...First extension part (first part) 63b...Second extension part (second part) 70…Heat storage components 70A... Busbar for heat storage

Claims

1. A busbar having a first connecting portion connected to a first connection target, a second connecting portion connected to a second connection target, and an extension portion extending between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, A heat storage member attached to the extended portion, A cable routing material equipped with the following features.

2. The first connecting portion has a first mounting hole into which the first fastening member is inserted. The second connecting portion has a second mounting hole into which the second fastening member is inserted. The heat storage member is provided detached from the first and second connection portions. The cable routing material according to claim 1.

3. The extended portion is formed in a plate shape, The heat storage member is a plate member along the extended portion. The cable routing material according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The heat storage member is provided over more than half of the length of the extended portion in the extending direction. The cable routing material according to claim 3.

5. When the thickness direction of the extended portion is the first direction, The thickness of the heat storage member in the first direction is greater than the thickness of the extended portion in the first direction. The cable routing material according to claim 3.

6. When the thickness direction of the stretched portion is the first direction, The thickness of the heat storage member in the first direction is the same as or smaller than the thickness of the extended portion in the first direction. The cable routing material according to claim 3.

7. When the thickness direction of the stretched portion is defined as the first direction, the stretching direction of the stretched portion as the second direction, and the direction intersecting the first and second directions as the third direction, The width of the heat storage member in the third direction is greater than half the width of the extended portion in the third direction. The cable routing material according to claim 3.

8. The busbar is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The heat storage member is made of copper or a copper alloy. The cable routing material according to claim 1 or claim 2.

9. The busbar is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The heat storage member is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The cable routing material according to claim 1 or claim 2.

10. A cable routing material according to claim 1 or claim 2, At least one of the first connection target and the second connection target, An electrical connection unit equipped with [a specific feature].

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