Electrical connection unit

Abstract

One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit capable of improving heat dissipation. [Solution] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment comprises a first electronic component, an insulating base member, a first busbar supported by the base member and electrically connected to the first electronic component, a metal plate facing the base member with a gap S1 between it and the base member, and a heat transfer member disposed between the first busbar and the metal plate. The base member has a first vent and a second vent. When the direction from the base member toward the metal plate is defined as the first direction, and the direction intersecting the first direction is defined as the second direction, the following relationship exists: The first vent penetrates the base member in the first direction, and the distance between it and the first electronic component is smaller than the distance between it and the end of the base member in the second direction. The second vent communicates with the first vent through a gap and is further away from the first electronic component than the first vent.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , , ,

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electrical connection unit.

Background Art

[0002] An electrical connection unit having a housing for accommodating electronic components and a bus bar attached to the housing in an upright posture is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] According to one embodiment, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit of an embodiment. [Figure 2] A perspective view illustrating the main body of the embodiment. [Figure 3] A perspective view illustrating a subunit of the embodiment. [Figure 4] A perspective view showing a partially disassembled subunit of the embodiment. [Figure 5] Perspective view I illustrating the electronic components and connecting components of the embodiment. [Figure 6] Perspective view II illustrating the electronic components and connecting components of the embodiment. [Figure 7] A perspective view showing the connecting components of the embodiment. [Figure 8] A perspective view showing a wiring substrate of an embodiment. [Figure 9] A perspective view showing a partially disassembled wiring substrate of the embodiment. [Figure 10] A plan view showing the wiring substrate of the embodiment. [Figure 11] A perspective view showing a partially disassembled connection unit of the embodiment. [Figure 12] A bottom view showing the wiring substrate of the embodiment. [Figure 13] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 10, along the line F13-F13. [Figure 14] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 10, along the line F14-F14. [Figure 15] A cross-sectional view illustrating the heat dissipation path related to the fixed part of the embodiment. [Figure 16] A plan view showing a modified example of the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] 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. “Accommodation” may include cases where only a part of a part is accommodated, not just cases where the rest of the part protrudes. “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.

[0010] In the present disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows. The +X direction is the direction from the first end portion 80e1 to the second end portion 80e2 of a metal plate 80 described later (see FIG. 11). The -X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, when the +X direction and the -X direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as the "X direction". The +Y direction and the -Y direction are directions that intersect (for example, are orthogonal) to the X direction. The +Y direction is the direction from the third end portion 80e3 to the fourth end portion 80e4 of the metal plate 80 described later (see FIG. 11). The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions that intersect (for example, are orthogonal) to the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the metal plate 80 described later toward the main body portion MU (see FIG. 1). The -Z direction is the direction opposite to the +Z direction. Hereinafter, when the +Z direction and the -Z direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as the "Z direction". The Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The X direction is an example of the "second direction". The Y direction is an example of the "third direction". Note that the "second direction" is not limited to the X direction, and may be the Y direction or another direction. The "third direction" is not limited to the Y direction, and is a direction that intersects the "first direction" and the "second direction".

[0011] Also, in the present disclosure, the direction from a base plate 41 described later toward the metal plate 80 is along the Z direction.

[0012] Hereinafter, when the X direction and the Y direction are not distinguished, they may be referred to as the "horizontal direction". Hereinafter, the Z direction may be referred to as the "vertical direction". Also hereinafter, the +Z direction side may be referred to as "up" and the -Z direction side may be referred to as "down". However, these expressions are for convenience of explanation and do not limit the gravitational direction (installation posture of the electrical connection unit 1) of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0013] (First Embodiment) <1. Configuration of 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.

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

[0015] <2. Main body portion> First, the main body portion MU will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view for explaining the main body portion MU. 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). In this embodiment, the main body portion MU is divided into a plurality of sub-units SU. The main body portion MU is formed by connecting a plurality of sub-units SU. In this embodiment, the main body portion MU has three sub-units SU (sub-units SUX, SUY, SUZ). Each sub-unit SU may be referred to as a "circuit component".

[0016] The sub-unit SUX has an electrical first function. The sub-unit SUX includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10X and a first wiring board 40X. The plurality of electronic components 10X are electrically connected to the first wiring board 40X.

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

[0018] Subunit SUZ has a third electrical function, which is distinct from the first and second functions. Subunit SUZ includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10Z and a third wiring board 40Z. The plurality of electronic components 10Z are electrically connected to the third wiring board 40Z.

[0019] In this embodiment, the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged side by side in the X direction. For example, subunit SUX is positioned on the +X side relative to subunit SUY. Subunits SUX and SUY are electrically connected via a plurality of connecting busbars 75 spanning the first wiring substrate 40X and the second wiring substrate 40Y. On the other hand, subunit SUZ is positioned on the -X side relative to subunit SUY. Subunits SUZ and SUY are electrically connected via a plurality of connecting busbars 75 (only one is shown in Figure 2) spanning the third wiring substrate 40Z and the second wiring substrate 40Y. The connecting busbars 75 are positioned on the opposite side of the metal plate 80 relative to the plurality of subunits SU.

[0020] In this embodiment, the three cable routing substrates 40X, 40Y, and 40Z included in the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are arranged on the same plane. In other words, the three cable routing substrates 40X, 40Y, and 40Z are positioned at the same height in the Z direction. As a result, the three cable routing substrates 40X, 40Y, and 40Z form one large cable routing substrate 40M.

[0021] In this embodiment, the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ have the same or similar basic structure as each other. For this reason, one subunit SU will be described in detail below as a representative example. Hereafter, when subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "subunit SU". Similarly, when electronic components 10X, 10Y, and 10Z are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "electronic component 10". Furthermore, when the first wiring substrate 40X, the second wiring substrate 40Y, and the third wiring substrate 40Z are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "wiring substrate 40". One subunit SU included in the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ is an example of a "first subunit". On the other hand, another subunit SU included in the three subunits SUX, SUY, and SUZ is an example of a "second subunit".

[0022] Furthermore, the main body MU does not necessarily have to be divided into multiple subunits SU, as in the example described above. That is, the main body MU may be formed from multiple electronic components 10 and one wiring substrate 40. Also, the two or more subunits SU are not limited to subunits SU having different functions, but may also be subunits SU having the same function.

[0023] <3. Subunit Configuration> Next, we will explain the configuration of the subunit SU. Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating subunit SU. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing subunit SU partially disassembled. Subunit SU includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10, a plurality of connecting components 20 for component connection, a plurality of connecting components 30 for external connection, and a wiring substrate 40. The connecting components 20 and 30 are members that form vertical electrical circuits. The connecting components 20 and 30 may also be referred to as "vertical wiring members".

[0024] <3.1 Electronic components and connectors for connecting components> First, we will describe the electronic component 10 and the connecting component 20 for connecting the component. Electronic component 10 is an electronic component mounted on the subunit SU according to the required functions. Electronic component 10 may be, for example, a connector, fuse, relay (e.g., mechanical relay or semiconductor relay), capacitor, branching component, various sensors (e.g., current sensor or voltage sensor), electronic control unit, or an electronic component unit that combines two or more of these. The type of electronic component 10 is not limited to the above examples. Electronic component 10 may be, for example, a heat-generating component that generates heat when energized. Below, a first type electronic component 10M and a second type electronic component 10N will be described as examples of electronic component 10.

[0025] The connecting component 20 is a component that electrically connects the electronic component 10 and the wiring substrate 40. The connecting component 20 forms part of the current-carrying circuit in the subunit SU. The connecting component 20 is made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy). The connecting component 20 may also be referred to as a "metal component". Below, a first type of connecting component 20M and a second type of connecting component 20N will be described as examples of the connecting component 20.

[0026] <3.1.1 Type 1 Electronic Components> Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a first type electronic component 10M and a first type connecting component 20M. The first type electronic component 10M is an electronic component in which a plurality of terminals 13 are arranged in a row at one end of the electronic component 10M. The electronic component 10M has, for example, a case 11, a component body 12, a plurality of terminals 13, and a plurality of mounting parts 14.

[0027] (case) The case 11 is an outer casing that forms most of the external shape of the electronic component 10M. The case 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The case 11 houses the component body 12. The case 11 and the component body 12 may be formed as a single unit.

[0028] In this embodiment, the case 11 has insulating ribs 11a that protrude horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) and extend in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a are, for example, plate-shaped and aligned horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) and in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a extend, for example, along the entire length of the case 11 in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a are positioned between a plurality of terminals 13 (terminals 13A and 13B, described later). The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate terminals 13A and 13B. In this embodiment, a portion of the insulating ribs 11a is positioned between the first portions 21 (described later) of two connecting components 20M connected to the electronic component 10M. The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate between the first portions 21 of the two connecting components 20M connected to the electronic component 10M.

[0029] (Main part of the component) The main body of the component 12 is the part that performs the main function of the electronic component 10M. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a relay, the main body of the component 12 includes a switching part (e.g., a contact part) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a fuse, the main body of the component 12 includes a fuse that melts when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 10M is a capacitor, the main body of the component 12 includes a part that stores electric charge.

[0030] (Terminals) Terminal 13 is an electrical connection part exposed to the outside of case 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component body 12 inside case 11. In this embodiment, the electronic component 10M includes terminals 13A and terminal 13B as a plurality of terminals 13. One of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is the positive terminal. The other of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is the negative terminal. One of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is an example of a "first terminal". The other of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is an example of a "second terminal".

[0031] In this embodiment, terminals 13A and 13B are provided at one end of the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Terminals 13A and 13B are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h into which a fastening member 71 (e.g., a screw or bolt), described later, is attached. The mounting hole 13h opens in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). The inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10M has a screw groove.

[0032] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 14 is a part for fixing the electronic component 10M. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h into which a fastening member 112 (for example, a screw or bolt, see Figure 11) described later is attached. The mounting hole 14h opens in the Z direction. The mounting hole 14h is a through hole through which the fastening member 112 passes. The destination for fixing the mounting portion 14 will be described later.

[0033] <3.1.2 Type 1 Connectors> The first type of connecting component 20M is a component that electrically connects the first type of electronic component 10M to the routing board 40. In this embodiment, the connecting component 20M electrically connects the electronic component 10M to the busbar 42 (see Figure 8) included in the routing board 40. In this embodiment, the width L12 of the connecting component 20M in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X direction) of the electronic component 10M is smaller than the longitudinal width L11 of the electronic component 10M. The connecting component 20M has, for example, a first portion 21 and a second portion 22.

[0034] (Part 1) The first portion 21 of the connecting component 20M is the portion that connects to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. The first portion 21 is a plate-like or rectangular parallelepiped portion that extends in the Z direction. The first portion 21 extends in the Z direction along one end of the electronic component 10M (for example, the end in the X direction). The first portion 21 is an upright portion that stands upright in the Z direction relative to the routing substrate 40 (for example, relative to the bus bar 42 described later). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). For example, the first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M in the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction) and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M from the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction).

[0035] The first portion 21 of the connecting component 20M has a first mounting hole 21h through which a fastening member 71 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is passed. The first mounting hole 21h opens horizontally (e.g., in the X direction). The first portion 21 also has a recess 25 around the first mounting hole 21h. The recess 25 is a accommodating part that houses the head of the fastening member 71 inserted into the first mounting hole 21h. The first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M by the fastening member 71 passed through the first mounting hole 21h engaging with the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10M. Note that the first portion 21 does not necessarily have a recess 25.

[0036] (Second part) The second portion 22 of the connecting component 20M is the portion that connects to the bus bar 42 (see Figure 8). The second portion 22 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) from the -Z direction end of the first portion 21. The second portion 22 is a plate portion that runs horizontally. The second portion 22 is adjacent to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction and connects to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The second portion 22 of the connecting component 20M is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see Figure 8) that protrudes from the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connecting component 20M has a second mounting hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The second mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. The second portion 22 has the fastening member 43 passing through the second mounting hole 22h. Then, the second portion 22 is fixed to the busbar 42 by engaging the tip of the fastening member 43, which is passed through the second mounting hole 22h, with the engaging member 44 (for example, a nut, see Figure 3). In this embodiment, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 form an L-shaped single connecting component 20M.

[0037] <3.1.3 Second Type Electronic Components> Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a second type electronic component 10N and a second type connecting component 20N. The second type electronic component 10N is an electronic component in which two terminals 13 are arranged separately at both horizontal ends of the electronic component 10N. The electronic component 10N has, for example, a case 11, a component body 12, and multiple terminals 13. In the configuration of the electronic component 10N, components that have the same function as the electronic component 10M are denoted by the same reference numerals. In this case, the explanation of the electronic component 10N can be read by replacing "electronic component 10M" with "electronic component 10N" in the explanation of the electronic component 10M described above.

[0038] In the electronic component 10N, terminals 13A and 13B are arranged separately at both ends of the electronic component 10N in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h into which a fastening member 72 (e.g., a screw or bolt), described later, is attached. The mounting hole 13h opens in the Z direction. For example, the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10N is a through hole through which the fastening member 72 passes. One of terminals 13A and 13B is an example of a "first terminal". The other of terminals 13A and 13B is an example of a "second terminal".

[0039] <3.1.4 Type 2 Connectors> The second type of connecting component 20N is a component that electrically connects the second type of electronic component 10N to the routing substrate 40. In this embodiment, the connecting component 20N electrically connects the electronic component 10N to the busbar 42 (see Figure 8) included in the routing substrate 40. In this embodiment, the width L12 of the connecting component 20N in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X direction) of the electronic component 10N is smaller than the longitudinal width L11 of the electronic component 10N. The connecting component 20N has, for example, a first part 21, a second part 22, and a third part 23.

[0040] (Part 1) The first portion 21 of the connecting component 20N is the portion that connects to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N. The first portion 21 is a rectangular parallelepiped portion that extends in the Z direction. The first portion 21 is an upright portion that stands upright in the Z direction relative to the routing substrate 40 (for example, relative to the bus bar 42). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N in the Z direction and connects to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N from the Z direction. The first portion 21 of the connecting component 20N has a first mounting hole 21h into which a fastening member 72 engages. The first mounting hole 21h opens in the Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the first mounting hole 21h of the connecting component 20N has a screw groove. The first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N by the fastening member 72, which is passed through the mounting hole 13h of the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10N, engaging with the mounting hole 21h of the first portion 21.

[0041] (Second part) The second portion 22 of the connecting component 20N is the portion that connects to the bus bar 42 (see Figure 8). The second portion 22 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) from the -Z direction end of the first portion 21. The second portion 22 is a plate portion that runs horizontally. The second portion 22 is adjacent to the bus bar 42 in the Z direction and connects to the bus bar 42 from the Z direction. The second portion 22 of the connecting component 20N is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see Figure 8) that protrudes from the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the bus bar 42. In this embodiment, the second portion 22 of the connecting component 20N has a second mounting hole 22h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The second mounting hole 22h is open in the Z direction. The fastening member 43, described later, passes through the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22. Then, the second portion 22 is fixed to the busbar 42 by engaging the tip of the fastening member 43, which is passed through the second mounting hole 22h, with the engaging member 44 (for example, a nut, see Figure 3).

[0042] (3rd part) The third part 23 is an upright wall (side wall) that rises in the +Z direction from both horizontal ends of the second part 22. The third part 23 is a wall along the Z direction. The third part 23 is connected to the first part 21 and also to the second part 22. The third part 23 extends with an inclination such that it increases in the X direction as it moves in the -Z direction, for example. The third part 23 may be provided on the connecting component 20M described above. On the other hand, the connecting component 20N does not have to have the third part 23.

[0043] <3.2 Connection components for external connections> Next, we will describe the connection component 30 for external connection. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a connecting component 30 for external connection. The connecting component 30 is a component that electrically connects the external connection bus bar 76 and the wiring board 40. In this embodiment, the connecting component 30 electrically connects the external connection bus bar 76 and the bus bar 42 (see Figure 8) included in the wiring board 40. The external connection bus bar 76 is electrically connected to an external device. In this disclosure, "external device" refers to an electrical device located outside the electrical connection unit 1. The external device is, for example, a battery unit mounted on a vehicle or an inverter for driving the vehicle's motor, but is not limited to these examples. The connecting component 30 has, for example, a first part 31, a second part 32, and a third part 33.

[0044] (Part 1) The first part 31 is the part that connects to the external bus bar 76. The first part 31 is a rectangular parallelepiped extending in the Z direction. The first part 31 is an upright portion that stands upright in the Z direction relative to the routing base plate 40 (for example, relative to the bus bar 42). The first part 31 is adjacent to the external bus bar 76 in the Z direction and connects to the external bus bar 76 from the Z direction. The first part 31 has a first mounting hole 31h through which a fastening member 73 (for example, a screw or bolt) passes. The first mounting hole 31h opens in the Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the first mounting hole 31h has a screw groove. The first part 31 is physically and electrically connected to the external bus bar 76 by the fastening member 73 passing through the mounting hole 76h of the external bus bar 76 engaging with the mounting hole 31h of the first part 31.

[0045] (Second part) The second portion 32 is the portion that connects to the busbar 42 (see Figure 8). The second portion 32 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the X direction) from the -Z direction end of the first portion 31. The second portion 32 is a plate portion that runs horizontally. The second portion 32 is adjacent to the busbar 42 in the Z direction and connects to the busbar 42 from the Z direction. The second portion 32 is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see Figure 8) that protrudes from the busbar 42 in the +Z direction, and is physically and electrically connected to the busbar 42. In this embodiment, the second portion 32 has a second mounting hole 32h through which the fastening member 43 passes. The second mounting hole 32h is open in the Z direction. The fastening member 43, described later, passes through the second mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32. Then, the second portion 32 is fixed to the busbar 42 by engaging the tip of the fastening member 43, which is passed through the second mounting hole 32h, with the engaging member 44 (for example, a nut, see Figure 3).

[0046] (3rd part) The third part 33 is an upright wall (side wall) that rises in the +Z direction from both horizontal ends of the second part 32. The third part 33 is a wall that runs along the Z direction. The third part 33 is connected to the first part 31 and also to the second part 32. The third part 33 extends with an inclination such that it increases in the X direction (or Y direction) as it proceeds in the -Z direction, for example. Note that the connecting part 30 does not necessarily have to have the third part 33.

[0047] <3.3 Circuit board for cable routing> Next, the wiring substrate 40 will be described. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the wiring substrate 40. The wiring substrate 40 is a component that forms at least a portion of the electrical conduction paths between a plurality of electronic components 10, and / or at least a portion of the electrical conduction paths between the electronic components 10 and external equipment. In this disclosure, "wiring substrate" means a substrate-type wiring structure. "Substrate-type" means that, when viewed as a whole, regardless of the fine shape, it is in the shape of a plate along a single plane. In this disclosure, "plate-like," "sheet-like," or "plane" is not limited to cases where it is perfectly flat, but may include cases where there are fixing structures or ribs protruding in the Z direction, or where there are uneven shapes on the surface that follow the thickness of the busbars. In this embodiment, the wiring substrate 40 is in the shape of a plate along the X and Y directions.

[0048] The cable routing substrate 40 includes, for example, a base plate 41, one or more (e.g., multiple) busbars 42, and multiple fastening members 43. In this embodiment, the base plate 41 and the multiple busbars 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the cable routing substrate 40 is formed as a single piece by insert molding of the busbars 42 with the base plate 41 after the fastening members 43 have been fixed to the busbars 42. That is, the busbars 42 are integrated with the base plate 41 without using fastening members such as screws or bolts. The cable routing substrate 40 may be formed by a different structure instead of insert molding. Modified examples in which the cable routing substrate 40 is formed by a different structure will be described later.

[0049] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the cable routing board 40 in a partially disassembled state. For the sake of convenience, the base plate 41, bus bar 42, and fastening member 43 will be described below with reference to the partially disassembled drawing of the cable routing board 40.

[0050] (Base plate) The base plate 41 is a support member that supports a plurality of busbars 42 arranged horizontally with spacing between them. For example, in this disclosure, the base plate 41 holds the busbars 42 integrally by abutting a part of the flat portion 51 (a housing portion 55 described later) against the side surface of the busbars 42. The base plate 41 is made of synthetic resin, for example, and has insulating properties. The base plate 41 electrically insulates the plurality of busbars 42. The base plate 41 is an example of a "base member". The base plate 41 may also be called an "insulating substrate". The base plate 41 has, for example, a flat portion 51 and a plurality of fixing portions 52. The fixing portions 52 will be described later.

[0051] Furthermore, the base plate 41 has a first end 40e1, a second end 40e2, a third end 40e3, and a fourth end 40e4. The first end 40e1 and the second end 40e2 are a pair of longitudinal ends of the cable routing substrate 40, separated in the X direction. The third end 40e3 and the fourth end 40e4 are a pair of short-side ends of the cable routing substrate 40, separated in the Y direction.

[0052] The flat portion 51 is a plate-shaped part formed within the base plate 41. The flat portion 51 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. The flat portion 51 forms the main part of the base plate 41. The flat portion 51 forms the base (insulating base) of the base plate 41. In this embodiment, the flat portion 51 extends across the entire width of the base plate 41 in the X direction, except for the four corners of the base plate 41, and also extends across the entire width of the base plate 41 in the Y direction.

[0053] The planar portion 51 has a first surface 51a and a second surface 51b. The first surface 51a is a surface oriented in the +Z direction. The first surface 51a is a plane that aligns with the horizontal direction. The first surface 51a faces multiple electronic components 10 and also faces the insulating cover 93 (see Figure 1) of the electrical connection unit 1. The second surface 51b is located on the opposite side from the first surface 51a. The second surface 51b is a surface oriented in the -Z direction. The second surface 51b is a plane that aligns with the horizontal direction. The second surface 51b faces the metal plate 80 (see Figure 1). The thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the planar portion 51 is the Z direction.

[0054] The planar portion 51 has, for example, one or more (e.g., multiple) housing portions 55, each of which accommodates a busbar 42. The multiple housing portions 55 are formed apart from each other in the X or Y direction. Each housing portion 55 is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the planar portion 51 in the Z direction. Alternatively, the housing portion 55 may be a recess provided on the first surface 51a or the second surface 51b of the planar portion 51 and recessed in the Z direction. In this disclosure, "the housing portion penetrates the planar portion in the first direction (Z direction)" may also include cases where a portion of the total length of the housing portion 55 penetrates the planar portion 51 in the Z direction (for example, the remaining portion of the housing portion 55 may be a recess recessed in the Z direction, or it may be provided inside the base plate 41 and not exposed to the outside of the base plate 41). Similarly, in this disclosure, "the housing portion is recessed in the first direction (Z direction)" may also include cases where a portion of the total length of the housing portion 55 is recessed in the Z direction (for example, the remaining portion of the housing portion 55 may be a through hole penetrating the planar portion 51 in the Z direction, or it may be provided inside the base plate 41 and not exposed to the outside of the base plate 41).

[0055] Furthermore, the flat portion 51 has one or more (for example, multiple) openings 121. The openings 121 penetrate the base plate 41 in the first direction (Z direction). Opening 121A is an example of a first ventilation opening V1. Openings 121B, 121C, 121D, and 121E are examples of second ventilation openings V2. Other examples of the first ventilation opening V1 will be described later in the section on modifications. Note that the second ventilation opening V2 is not limited to openings 121, but may also be a notch provided on the periphery of the base plate 41. Other examples of the second ventilation opening V2 will be described later in the section on modifications.

[0056] The first vent V1 and the second vent V2 are in communication via a gap S1, which will be described later. In this case, the second vent V2 is further away from the electronic component 10 than the first vent V1. The opening 121 will be described in detail later. For example, in this embodiment, multiple second vents V2 (openings 121B, 121C, 121D, 121E) are in communication with one first vent V1 (opening 121A) via a gap S1.

[0057] Each housing section 55 has an external shape corresponding to the shape of the bus bar 42 it houses when viewed from the Z direction. In this embodiment, the planar section 51 includes, for example, five housing sections 55A, 55B, 55C, 55D, and 55E as a plurality of housing sections 55. Housing section 55A is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42A described later and houses the bus bar 42A. Housing section 55B is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42B described later and houses the bus bar 42B. Housing section 55C is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42C described later and houses the bus bar 42C. Housing section 55D is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42D described later and houses the bus bar 42D. Housing section 55E is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42E described later and houses the bus bar 42E.

[0058] (Bus bar) The busbar 42 is a routing member (electrical connection member) included in the routing substrate 40. The busbar 42 is, for example, a routing member for electrically connecting a plurality of electronic components 10. Alternatively, the busbar 42 may be a routing member for connecting the electronic components 10 to an external device. The busbar 42 is made of metal (for example, copper or a copper alloy) and is conductive. In this embodiment, the routing substrate 40 has a plurality of busbars 42, for example, five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E are arranged horizontally with space between them. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E include portions that are arranged on the same plane as each other. The five busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, and 42E are supported by a base plate 41.

[0059] At least a portion of each busbar 42 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. At least a portion of each busbar 42 is housed in the housing 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. That is, at least a portion of each busbar 42 extends along the first surface 51a of the planar portion 51. At least a portion of each busbar 42 extends horizontally within the housing 55. In this embodiment, each busbar 42 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally throughout its entire length. Each busbar 42 is housed in the housing 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 throughout its entire length. Hereinafter, the portion of each busbar 42 that is housed in the housing 55 and extends along the planar portion 51 may be referred to as the "plate portion 42p". The busbar 42 is a member that forms a horizontal electrical circuit. The busbar 42 may also be referred to as a "horizontal wiring member".

[0060] Figure 10 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40. Each busbar 42 has, for example, a first connecting portion 61, a second connecting portion 62, and an extended portion 63.

[0061] The first connection portion 61 is the part that contacts one connection component 20 (hereinafter referred to as "first connection component 20"). The first connection component 20 is a connection component that connects one electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as "first electronic component 10") to the bus bar 42. The first connection portion 61 is the part of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the first connection component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. The first connection portion 61 is adjacent to the first connection component 20 in the Z direction and is connected to the first connection component 20 from the Z direction.

[0062] The second connection portion 62 is the portion that contacts another connection component 20 (hereinafter referred to as "second connection component 20"). The second connection component 20 is a connection component that connects another electronic component 10 (hereinafter referred to as "second electronic component 10") included in the plurality of electronic components 10 to the bus bar 42. The second connection portion 62 is the portion of the bus bar 42 that overlaps with the second connection component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection component 20 in the Z direction and is connected to the second connection component 20 from the Z direction.

[0063] Note that the second connection portion 62 may be a portion that contacts another connection component 30 (hereinafter referred to as "second connection component 30") instead of the above example. The connection component 30 is a connection component for connecting an external device to the busbar 42. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is the portion of the busbar 42 that overlaps with the second connection component 30 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the second connection component 30 in the Z direction and is connected to the second connection component 30 from the Z direction.

[0064] The first connection part 61 and the second connection part 62 are examples of both the "first connection part" and the "second connection part".

[0065] Alternatively, the second connection portion 62 may be a portion that contacts a connecting busbar 75 for connecting to another subunit SU, instead of the connection parts 20 and 30. In this case, the second connection portion 62 is the portion of the busbar 42 that overlaps with the connecting busbar 75 when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection portion 62 is adjacent to the connecting busbar 75 in the Z direction and is connected to the connecting busbar 75 from the Z direction.

[0066] The extension portion 63 extends from the first connecting portion 61 in the X or Y direction. The extension portion 63 is provided between the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The extension portion 63 extends across the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The extension portion 63 connects the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62.

[0067] In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. In this embodiment, each busbar 42 is housed in the housing portion 55 over at least the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62 and extends along the planar portion 51. For example, the first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, and the extension portion 63 are housed in the housing portion 55 and extend along the planar portion 51.

[0068] In this embodiment, the extensions 63 of some busbars 42 are housed in the housing 55, so that they extend across both sides of region R, which overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. For example, the extensions 63 extend in a straight line along the X direction. The extensions 63 extend across the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, so that they extend across the +X and -X sides of region R. In other words, by being housed in the housing 55, the busbars 42 can be routed along a better path (for example, a shorter path) without being obstructed by the presence of the electronic component 10.

[0069] Furthermore, one or more busbars 42 may have an extension portion 64 in addition to the first connection portion 61, the second connection portion 62, and the extension portion 63. The extension portion 64 is a portion of the busbar 42 that is extended for the purpose of increasing the heat dissipation area and / or increasing the heat capacity for heat storage (heat absorption). The extension portion 64 is a portion that is not used for electrical connection. For example, the extension portion 64 is located on the opposite side of the extension portion 63 from the first connection portion 61 (or the second connection portion 62). The extension portion 64 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. The extension portion 64 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. The extension portion 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, and has the end 42e1 of the busbar 42 at a position that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0070] The following describes some routing examples for the busbar 42. Note that multiple electronic components 10 include three electronic components 10A, 10B, and 10C. Electronic components 10A and 10B are, for example, first-type electronic components 10M. Electronic component 10C is, for example, second-type electronic component 10N. Note that the types of electronic components 10 are not limited to the above examples. Also, multiple connecting components 20 include six connecting components 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, and 20F. Multiple connecting components 30 include two connecting components 30A and 30B. Multiple connecting busbars 75 include two connecting busbars 75A and 75B. Multiple external connection busbars 76 include two external connection busbars 76A and 76B.

[0071] (1st wiring example) First, an example of wiring for busbar 42A will be described. Busbar 42A has a first connection part 61, a second connection part 62, and an extension part 63. The first connection part 61 is located on the +X side relative to the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction. The first connection part 61 is electrically connected to terminal 13A of the electronic component 10A via a connection part 20A, which is the first connection part 20. The second connection part 62 is located on the -X side relative to the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction. The second connection part 62 is electrically connected to another subunit SU via a connecting busbar 75A.

[0072] The extension portion 63, when housed in the housing portion 55, extends across both sides of region R, passing through a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction. For example, the extension portion 63 extends in a straight line along the X direction. The extension portion 63 extends across the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction, spanning both the +X and -X sides of region R. The busbar 42A is an example of a "first busbar". The housing portion 55A that houses the busbar 42A is an example of a "first housing portion". The busbar 42A is, for example, a busbar included in the positive electrode line PL of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0073] (Second wiring example) Next, an example of wiring for busbar 42B will be described. Busbar 42B has a first connection part 61, a second connection part 62, an extension part 63, and an extension part 64. The first connection part 61 is electrically connected to terminal 13B of electronic component 10A via connection part 20B, which is a first connection part 20. The second connection part 62 is electrically connected to external connection busbar 76A via connection part 30A, which is a second connection part 30. The extension part 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction, and has the end 42e1 of busbar 42 at a position that overlaps with electronic component 10A. Note that busbar 42B may also have an extension part 63 that extends through a region R that overlaps with electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, and spans both sides of that region R, similar to busbar 42A. Busbar 42B is another example of the "first busbar". The housing section 55B that accommodates the busbar 42B is another example of the "first housing section". In another view, the busbar 42B is an example of the "second busbar". The housing section 55B is another example of the "second housing section". The busbar 42B is, for example, a busbar included in the positive electrode line PL of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0074] (3rd wiring example) Next, an example of a busbar 42C will be described. The busbar 42C has a first connection part 61, a second connection part 62, an extension part 63, and an extension part 64. The first connection part 61 is electrically connected to terminal 13B of electronic component 10B via a connection part 20C, which is a first connection part 20. The second connection part 62 is electrically connected to another subunit SU via a connecting busbar 75B. The extension part 64 extends to a region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10B when viewed from the Z direction, and has an end 42e1 of the busbar 42 at a position that overlaps with the electronic component 10B when viewed from the Z direction. The busbar 42C is another example of a "first busbar". The housing part 55C that houses the busbar 42C is another example of a "first housing part". The busbar 42C is, for example, a busbar included in the negative electrode line NL of the electrical connection unit 1. From another perspective, busbar 42C is an example of a "third busbar." Accommodation 55C is an example of a "third accommodation."

[0075] (4th wiring example) Next, an example of wiring for the busbar 42D will be described. The busbar 42D has a first connection portion 61, a second connection portion 62, and an extension portion 63. The first connection portion 61 is electrically connected to terminal 13A of electronic component 10B via a connection portion 20D, which is a first connection component 20. The second connection portion 62 is electrically connected to terminal 13B of electronic component 10C via a connection portion 20E, which is a second connection component 20. The busbar 42D is another example of a "first busbar". The housing portion 55D that houses the busbar 42D is another example of a "first housing portion". The busbar 42D is, for example, a busbar included in the negative electrode line NL of the electrical connection unit 1. In another view, the busbar 42D is another example of a "third busbar". The housing portion 55D is another example of a "third housing portion".

[0076] (5th wiring example) Next, an example of wiring for the busbar 42E will be described. The busbar 42E has a first connection part 61, a second connection part 62, and an extension part 63. The first connection part 61 is electrically connected to terminal 13A of the electronic component 10C via a connection part 20F, which is a first connection part 20. The second connection part 62 is electrically connected to the external connection busbar 76B via a connection part 30B, which is a second connection part 30. The busbar 42E is another example of a "first busbar". The housing part 55E that houses the busbar 42E is another example of a "first housing". The busbar 42E is, for example, a busbar included in the negative electrode line NL of the electrical connection unit 1. In another view, the busbar 42E is another example of a "third busbar". The housing part 55E is another example of a "third housing".

[0077] (Fastening member) Next, we will return to Figure 9 and explain the fastening member 43. The fastening member 43 is a component for fixing the bus bar 42 to the component to which the bus bar 42 is connected (connecting component 20, connecting component 30, or connecting bus bar 75). The fastening member 43 is, for example, a crimping bolt fixed to the bus bar 42. The fastening member 43 is an example of a "fastening part".

[0078] In this embodiment, each of the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62 of the bus bar 42 has a through hole 42h. The through hole 42h penetrates the bus bar 42 in the Z direction. The fastening member 43 is, for example, a bolt having a shaft portion 43a and a head portion 43b. The circumferential surface of the shaft portion 43a has screw grooves. The head portion 43b has a larger diameter than the shaft portion 43a. The fastening member 43 is crimped and fixed to the bus bar 42 with the shaft portion 43a passing through the through hole 42h of the bus bar 42, and the head portion 43b being crimped and fixed to the bus bar 42. With this fixing, the fastening member 43 is electrically and physically connected to the bus bar 42 with the shaft portion 43a protruding from the through hole 42h of the bus bar 42 in the +Z direction. Note that the fastening member 43 is not limited to crimping and may be fixed to the bus bar 42 by welding or other methods.

[0079] In this embodiment, the connecting component 20 is attached to the fastening member 43 from the Z direction, with the connecting component 20 already fixed to the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 71 or fastening member 72. For example, the connecting component 20 is inserted into the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22 of the fastening member 43 by inserting the shaft portion 43a of the fastening member 43. Then, the engaging member 44 (e.g., a nut) is engaged with the shaft portion 43a of the fastening member 43 that protrudes from the second mounting hole 22h of the second portion 22 of the connecting component 20. The engaging member 44 is attached to the shaft portion 43a, for example, along the Z direction. This engagement fixes the second portion 22 of the connecting component 20 to the fastening member 43.

[0080] <4. Metal plate, insulating sheet, heat transfer component, and insulating cover> Next, the metal plate 80, insulating sheet 91, heat transfer member 92, and insulating cover 93 will be described.

[0081] <4.1 Metal Plate> Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a partially disassembled electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 80 is a component that ensures the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1 and improves its heat dissipation. The metal plate 80 is made of metal (for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The metal plate 80 may also be referred to as a "rigid member".

[0082] The metal plate 80 is rectangular in shape when viewed from the Z direction, oriented along the X direction. The metal plate 80 has a first end 80e1, a second end 80e2, a third end 80e3, and a fourth end 80e4. The first end 80e1 and the second end 80e2 are a pair of longitudinal ends of the metal plate 80, separated in the X direction. The third end 80e3 and the fourth end 80e4 are a pair of transverse ends of the metal plate 80, separated in the Y direction. The metal plate 80 includes, for example, a flat portion 81, a plurality of fixing portions 82, and a plurality of fixing portions 83.

[0083] The flat portion 81 is a plate-shaped part within the metal plate 80. The flat portion 81 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. The flat portion 81 forms the main part of the metal plate 80. The flat portion 81 forms the base (metal base) of the metal plate 80. In this embodiment, the flat portion 81 is large enough to cover the three subunits SU from below. The flat portion 81 faces the wiring substrate 40 of the three subunits SU. In this embodiment, the metal plate 80 leaves a gap S1 (see Figure 13) between itself and the base plate 41 of each subunit SU (particularly the second surface 51b of the flat portion 51), and faces the base plate 41 of each subunit SU (particularly the second surface 51b of the flat portion 51).

[0084] The fixing portion 82 is a fixing portion for fixing the base plate 41 of each subunit SU to the metal plate 80. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 82 is provided at a position corresponding to the fixing portion 52 of the base plate 41 of each subunit SU. The fixing portion 82 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes in the +Z direction from the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80.

[0085] The fixing portion 83 is a fixing portion for directly fixing the electronic components 10 of each subunit SU to the metal plate 80 without going through the base plate 41. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 83 is provided at a position corresponding to the mounting portion 14 of the electronic components 10 of each subunit SU. The fixing portion 83 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes from the planar portion 81 in the +Z direction.

[0086] <4.2 Insulating Sheet> The insulating sheet 91 is an insulating member for electrically insulating the metal plate 80 from the busbars 42 of each subunit SU. The insulating sheet 91 is made of a synthetic resin such as polyester or polyimide and has insulating properties. When viewed from the Z direction, the insulating sheet 91 is rectangular. The insulating sheet 91 is a sheet that lies horizontally. The insulating sheet 91 is placed between the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 and the routing substrate 40 of each subunit SU. For example, the insulating sheet 91 is placed between the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80 and a plurality of heat transfer members 92.

[0087] In this embodiment, the insulating sheet 91 is attached to the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80. The insulating sheet 91 has notches or openings to avoid the fixing portions 82 and 83 of the metal plate 80. Alternatively, the insulating sheet 91 may be provided between the wiring substrate 40 of each subunit SU and the plurality of heat transfer members 92. If the heat transfer members 92 have insulating properties and the necessary insulation is ensured by the heat transfer members 92, the insulating sheet 91 may be omitted.

[0088] <4.3 Heat Transfer Components> The heat transfer member 92 is a member for transferring heat generated by the electronic component 10 when energized, and / or heat generated by the busbar 42 itself (Joule heat) when energized, to the metal plate 80. The heat transfer member 92 is, for example, an elastic heat transfer sheet (for example, a thermally conductive silicone sheet). The heat transfer member 92 is formed of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than, for example, the base plate 41. However, the heat transfer member 92 is not limited to the above example, and may be a heat transfer member formed of a thermally conductive gel or other material.

[0089] In the above example, the heat transfer members 92 (first heat transfer member 92A, second heat transfer member 92B) may be positioned to overlap the first electronic component 10M (electronic component 10A, electronic component 10B). On the other hand, in this modified example, the heat transfer members 92 (first heat transfer member 92A, second heat transfer member 92B) may overlap the second electronic component 10N (electronic component 10C).

[0090] Figure 12 is a bottom view showing the wiring substrate 40. In this embodiment, a plurality of heat transfer members 92 are partially provided on the wiring substrate 40. The first heat transfer member 92A is an example of a heat transfer member 92. The second heat transfer member 92B is an example of a heat transfer member 92.

[0091] The first heat transfer member 92A is positioned so as to overlap with the electronic component 10 (for example, electronic component 10A or 10B) when viewed from the first direction (Z direction). More specifically, the first heat transfer member 92A is positioned so as to overlap with a part of the busbar 42 when viewed from the first direction. In this embodiment, the first heat transfer member 92A is positioned so as to overlap with the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0092] Here, the second heat transfer member 92B is positioned in a direction intersecting the first direction (Z direction) with respect to the first heat transfer member 92A. In this embodiment, the second heat transfer member 92B is positioned in the Y direction with respect to the first heat transfer member 92A. The second heat transfer member 92B is positioned so as to overlap with the electronic component 10 (for example, electronic components 10A, 10B, or 10C) when viewed from the first direction (Z direction). Furthermore, the second heat transfer member 92B is positioned so as to overlap with a part of the busbar 42 when viewed from the first direction. In this embodiment, the second heat transfer member 92B is positioned so as to overlap with the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0093] As shown in Figure 12, the heat transfer members 92 (first heat transfer member 92A, second heat transfer member 92B) are closer to the first vent V1 than to the second vent V2.

[0094] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line F13-F13 of the structure shown in Figure 10. The heat transfer member 92 is positioned between the busbar 42, which is supported by the base plate 41, and the metal plate 80. The heat transfer member 92 transfers heat from the electronic component 10 to the busbar 42, and / or heat generated by the busbar 42, from the busbar 42 to the metal plate 80.

[0095] As described above, in this embodiment, a portion of the heat transfer member 92 (first heat transfer member 92A, second heat transfer member 92B) is in contact with the bus bar 42 at a position that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. In this case, the heat transfer member 92 can easily transfer heat from the electronic component 10 to the bus bar 42, and from the bus bar 42 to the metal plate 80. In the example shown in Figure 13, the upper surface of the bus bar 42 is in contact with the electronic component 10, so the bus bar 42 is thermally connected to the electronic component 10. Note that the extension portion 63 or the extension portion 64 may be the part of the bus bar 42 that is thermally connected to the electronic component 10.

[0096] In this embodiment, a portion of the heat transfer member 92 (first heat transfer member 92A, second heat transfer member 92B) is in contact with the bus bar 42 at a position that overlaps with the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. In this case, the heat transfer member 92 makes it easier to transfer heat from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the connecting component 20, and from the connecting component 20 to the metal plate 80 via the bus bar 42.

[0097] In this embodiment, a portion of the heat transfer member 92 is positioned so as to overlap with the head 43b of the fastening member 43 when viewed from the Z direction, and is in contact with the head 43b of the fastening member 43. In this case, the heat transfer member 92 makes it easier to transfer heat from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 to the connecting component 20 from the fastening member 43 to the metal plate 80.

[0098] <4.4 Insulating Cover> Returning to Figure 1, the insulating cover 93 will be described. The insulating cover 93 is a component for preventing fingers from touching the current-carrying path of the main body MU. The insulating cover 93 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The insulating cover 93 is, for example, box-shaped with the -Z direction side open. The insulating cover 93 has a plurality of ventilation holes 93h. The insulating cover 93 is attached to the metal plate 80 along the Z direction. Note that the insulating cover 93 is not limited to a box-shaped component, but may also be a sheet-like component that covers the current-carrying path of the main body MU.

[0099] <5.Opening> The base plate 41 will be described in more detail. As shown in Figures 4, 10, and 12, the planar portion 51 of the base plate 41 has at least one or more openings 121. In the following description, typical openings 121 (for example, openings 121A, 121B, 121C, 121D, 121E) will be described in detail. The explanation will use subunit SUX as an example, but other subunits SUY and SUZ may have similar openings 121. In addition, depending on the modifications described later, the electrical connection unit 1 may have only one opening 121.

[0100] As described above, the opening 121 penetrates the base plate 41 in the first direction (Z direction). As described above, the base plate 41 has a first end 40e1, a second end 40e2, a third end 40e3, and a fourth end 40e4. The distance between the first vent V1 and the first electronic component is smaller than the distance between the opening V1 and the second end of the base plate 41. As shown in Figures 4, 10, and 12, in this disclosure, the distance between the opening 121A and the first electronic component is smaller than the distance between the opening 121A and the first end 40e1 (or the second end 40e2).

[0101] As described above, the second vent V2 is further away from the electronic component 10 than the first vent V1. As shown in Figures 4, 10 and 12, in this disclosure, the opening 121B is further away from the electronic component 10 (electronic component 10A) than the opening 121A. The opening 121C is further away from the electronic component 10 (electronic component 10B) than the opening 121A. The opening 121D is further away from the electronic component 10 (electronic component 10B) than the opening 121A. The opening 121E is further away from the electronic component 10 (electronic component 10A) than the opening 121A.

[0102] The opening 121A, which is the second ventilation opening V2, is located between electronic component 10A and electronic component 10B. In this configuration, electronic component 10B is aligned in the X direction with respect to electronic component 10A.

[0103] Here, we will describe the temperature distribution of the base plate 41 in the opening 121. When the electrical connection unit 1 is installed in the vehicle, each electronic component operates while the vehicle is running (while driving or charging, etc.). Due to the heat generated by each electronic component during operation, and the heat generated by the bus bar 42 that supplies power, the temperature of the electrical connection unit 1 gradually rises. At this time, the temperature of the warm air trapped between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80 in the gap S1 increases as you move from the outside of the base plate 41 towards the inside. Therefore, the temperature of the base plate 41 around the first vent V1 (opening 121A) located near the multiple electronic components 10 (electronic components 10A, 10B, 10C) is higher than the temperature of the base plate 41 around the second vent V2 (openings 121B, 121C, 121D, 121E).

[0104] Furthermore, Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line F13-F13 of the structure shown in Figure 10. In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 is positioned with a gap S1 between it and the base plate 41, and has a metal plate 80 facing the second surface 51b of the flat portion 51. A heat transfer member 92 is present between the bus bar 42 and the metal plate 80.

[0105] <6. Fixed structure> Next, we will explain the fixing structure of the subunit SU.

[0106] <6.1 Structure of the metal plate> Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 10 along the line F14-F14. The metal plate 80 has a fixing portion 82 and a fixing portion 83, as described above.

[0107] The fixing portion 82 is a boss that protrudes in the +Z direction from the flat portion 81 of the metal plate 80. The fixing portion 82 protrudes, for example, beyond the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41 in the +Z direction. In this embodiment, the fixing portion 82 protrudes more significantly in the +Z direction than the fixing portion 83 which will be described later. The fixing portion 82 faces the fixing portion 52 of the base plate 41 in the Z direction. The fixing portion 82 has an engagement hole 82h that opens in the +Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the engagement hole 82h has a screw groove. The fixing portion 82 is an example of the "first fixing portion". The engagement hole 82h is an example of the "first engagement hole".

[0108] The fixing portion 83 is a boss that protrudes from the flat portion 81 in the +Z direction. The fixing portion 83 is inserted into the through hole 51h (described later) of the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41. The fixing portion 83 protrudes, for example, through the through hole 51h of the flat portion 51 to the same position as the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51, or to a position beyond the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51 (a position on the +Z side of the first surface 51a). In the Z direction, the fixing portion 83 faces the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10. The fixing portion 83 has an engagement hole 83h that opens in the +Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the engagement hole 83h has a screw groove. The fixing portion 83 is an example of the "second fixing portion". The engagement hole 83h is an example of the "second engagement hole".

[0109] A fastening member 112 (for example, a screw or bolt) is passed through the mounting hole 14h of the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 from the +Z direction side. When the fastening member 112 passed through the mounting hole 14h of the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 engages with the engagement hole 83h of the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80, the electronic component 10 is fixed to the metal plate 80 without the base plate 41. The fastening member 112 is an example of a "second fastening member".

[0110] <6.2 Structure of the wiring substrate> The base plate 41 has a fixing portion 52 which is fixed to the fixing portion 82 of the metal plate 80. The fixing portion 52 has, for example, an upright plate portion 52a and a horizontal plate portion 52b.

[0111] The upright plate portion 52a stands upright from the edge of the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41 in the +Z direction. The upright plate portion 52a is a plate portion that is aligned along the Y and Z directions. The thickness direction of the upright plate portion 52a is the X direction.

[0112] The horizontal plate portion 52b extends horizontally from the +Z end of the upright plate portion 52a. The horizontal plate portion 52b is a plate portion that lies along the horizontal direction. The horizontal plate portion 52b faces the fixing portion 82 of the metal plate 80 in the Z direction. The horizontal plate portion 52b has an insertion hole 52h that faces the engagement hole 82h of the fixing portion 82 of the metal plate 80. A fastening member 111 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is passed through the insertion hole 52h. When the fastening member 111 passed through the insertion hole 52h of the fixing portion 52 of the base plate 41 engages with the engagement hole 82h of the fixing portion 82 of the metal plate 80, the base plate 41 is fixed to the metal plate 80. The fastening member 111 is an example of a "first fastening member".

[0113] Furthermore, the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41 has the through hole 51h described above. The through hole 51h penetrates the base plate 41 in the first direction (Z direction). When viewed from the Z direction, the through hole 51h is located at a position corresponding to the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80. The fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80 protrudes through the through hole 51h of the base plate 41 to the same position as the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51, or to the +Z direction side of the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51. The mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 is fixed to the fixing portion 83 at the same position as the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51, or to the +Z direction side of the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51.

[0114] <8. Advantages> As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit in which a heat transfer element, designed to efficiently transfer heat to the metal plate, is positioned between the busbar and the metal plate. In this comparative example configuration, heat may accumulate in the gap between the base plate and the metal plate.

[0115] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises a first electronic component (electronic component 10), an insulating base member (base plate 41), a first busbar (busbar-42) supported by the base member (base plate 41) and electrically connected to the first electronic component (electronic component 10), a metal plate 80 facing the base member (base plate 41) with a gap S1 between it and the base member (base plate 41), and a heat transfer member 92 disposed between the first busbar (busbar-42) and the metal plate 80. The base member has a first vent V1 and a second vent V2. If the direction from the base member (base plate 41) toward the metal plate 80 is defined as the first direction (Z direction), and the direction intersecting the first direction is defined as the second direction, then the following relationship exists. The first vent V1 penetrates the base member in the first direction, and the distance between it and the first electronic component is smaller than the distance between it and the end of the base member in the second direction. The second vent V2 communicates with the first vent through a gap and is located further away from the first electronic component than the first vent.

[0116] With this configuration, the air in the gap S1 between the flat portion 51 and the metal plate 80 moves upward through the first vent V1 in response to being heated, for example. As the air moves, air outside the connection unit is supplied to the gap S1 through the second vent V2. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80. When heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1, the heat dissipation performance of the busbar 42 is improved. When the heat dissipation performance of the busbar 42 is improved, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0117] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second vent V2 in the electrical connection unit 1 is an opening (openings 121B, 121C, 121D, 121E) that penetrates the base member (base plate 41) in the first direction (Z direction). With this configuration, the air in the gap S1 between the flat portion 51 and the metal plate 80 moves upward through the first vent V1 as it is heated, for example. As the air moves, air outside the connection unit is supplied to the gap S1 through the second vent V2. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heat transfer member 92 is closer to the first vent V1 than to the second vent V2. With this configuration, the heat transfer member 92 is positioned closer to the first vent V1, where a temperature rise is expected. The air surrounding the heat transfer member 92 in the gap S1 becomes more easily heated and moves more easily upward through the first vent V1 to the flat portion 51. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80.

[0119] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heat transfer member 92 includes a first heat transfer member 92A and a second heat transfer member 92B. In addition, when viewed from the first direction (Z direction), the first heat transfer member 92A and the second heat transfer member 92B overlap the first electronic component (electronic component 10). With this configuration, the first heat transfer member 92A and the second heat transfer member 92B form part of the air flow path. As described above, by positioning the heat transfer member 92 close to the first vent V1 where a temperature rise is expected, the air around the heat transfer member 92 in the gap S1 is warmed more easily. The air passing through the formed flow path is warmed by the heat transfer member 92 which has received heat emitted from the electronic component 10. The warmed fluid is expelled by the first vent located near the flow path. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80.

[0120] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed from the first direction, the first heat transfer member 92A or the second heat transfer member 92B is positioned to overlap with a part of the first busbar. With this configuration, the first heat transfer member 92A and the second heat transfer member 92B form part of the air flow path. As described above, by positioning the heat transfer member 92 close to the first vent V1 where a temperature rise is expected, the air surrounding the heat transfer member 92 in the gap S1 is warmed more easily. The air passing through the formed flow path is warmed by the heat transfer member 92, which receives heat emitted from the electronic component 10 and / or the busbar 42. The warmed fluid is then expelled by the first vent located near the flow path. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80.

[0121] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 further comprises a second busbar (e.g., busbar-42D) positioned at a distance from the first busbar (e.g., busbar-42C). In addition, when viewed from the first direction, the first heat transfer member 92A is positioned to overlap with a portion of the first busbar (e.g., busbar-42C), and the second heat transfer member 92B is positioned to overlap with a portion of the second busbar (e.g., busbar-42D). With this configuration, the first heat transfer member 92A and the second heat transfer member 92B form part of the air flow path. As described above, by positioning the heat transfer members 92 close to the first vent V1 where a temperature rise is expected, the air around the heat transfer members 92 in the gap S1 is warmed more easily. The air passing through the formed flow path is warmed by the heat transfer members 92, which receive heat from the electronic components 10 and the busbar 42. The heated fluid is facilitated to be discharged through the first vent located near the flow path. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80.

[0122] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 further comprises a second electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10A) aligned in the second direction (X direction) with respect to the first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10B). In addition, the second vent V2 is located between the first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10B) and the second electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10A). With this configuration, the first vent V1 is located between the first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10B) and the second electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10A). The air surrounding the heat transfer member 92 in the gap S1 is more easily warmed at the first vent V1 and is more easily moved upward through the first vent V1 to the flat portion 51. Therefore, heat is less likely to accumulate in the gap S1 between the base plate 41 and the metal plate 80.

[0123] <Variation> Next, we will describe some variations. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations in each variation are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0124] (Variation 1) In contrast to the above example, in this modified example, the through-hole 51h may be an example of the first ventilation opening V1. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat dissipation path related to the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80. In this embodiment, the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80 is not in contact with the high-temperature part (e.g., terminal 13) of the electronic component 10. In this embodiment, a gap S2 through which air can pass is provided between the inner circumferential surface 51ha of the through hole 51h of the base plate 41 and the fixing portion 83. The through hole 51h may be made large, for example, so that when viewed from the Z direction, a part of the through hole 51h does not overlap with the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 (so that when viewed from the Z direction, a part of the through hole 51h is located on the outer circumference side of the mounting portion 14). The fixing portion 83 is an example of a "protruding portion".

[0125] In this modified example, the temperature of the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80 tends to be lower than the temperature of the busbar 42. In this case, convection occurs due to the temperature difference between the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80 (low temperature) and the busbar 42 (high temperature).

[0126] Specifically, as an upward flow of warm air (see arrow A1) is generated around the busbar 42, a downward flow (see arrow A2) is generated around the fixing portion 83 of the metal plate 80, passing through the through hole 51h of the base plate 41 and moving downward toward the base plate 41. When this downward flow is generated, an upward flow (see arrow A3) is generated as it is pushed out by the air moving in the downward flow. This upward flow is generated near the inner circumferential surface 51ha of the through hole 51h, causing the warm air in the gap S1 between the metal plate 80 and the base plate 41 to move upward (outside the gap S1). As a result, heat accumulation in the gap S1 between the metal plate 80 and the base plate 41 is suppressed, and heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 1 is promoted.

[0127] (Second variation) In contrast to the above example, in this modified example, the electrical connection unit 1 may have a gap as an example of the second ventilation opening V2. In this modified example, the gap is provided in the assembly portion between the base member (base plate 41) and the metal plate 80.

[0128] (Third variation) In this modified example, the metal plate 80 may have an opening as an example of the second vent V2. The opening in this modified example penetrates the metal plate 80 in any direction. For example, the opening in this modified example may be an opening provided on the side surface of the metal plate 80. For example, the opening in this modified example may be an opening that opens in the first direction (Z direction). When the opening in this modified example penetrates the flat portion 81 in the first direction, the airflow is less likely to be obstructed by the heat transfer member.

[0129] (Fourth variation) The purpose of the cable routing substrate 40 of this disclosure is to improve heat dissipation by improving the flow of warm air accumulated in the gap S1. Therefore, in this modified example, a plurality of busbars 42 may be placed on the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41.

[0130] (Fifth variation) In the wiring substrate 40 of this disclosure, the objective is to improve heat dissipation by improving the flow of warm air accumulated in the gap S1. Therefore, in this modified example, the base plate 41 in the electrical connection unit 1 having the gap S1 may be different from a plate or sheet.

[0131] (Sixth variation) In the above example, multiple second vents V2 communicate with one first vent V1 via a gap S1. In this modified example, one second vent V2 may communicate with one first vent V1 via a gap S1. For example, as shown in Figure 16, the planar portion 51 has one or more (e.g., multiple) openings 121. The openings 121 penetrate the base plate 41 in the first direction (Z direction). Openings 121A1, 121A2, and 121A3 are examples of first vents V1. Openings 121B, 121C, 121D, and 121E are examples of second vents V2. For example, in this modified example, opening 121D communicates with opening 121A1 via a gap S1. Openings 121B and 121C communicate with opening 121A2 via a gap S1. Opening 121E is in communication with opening 121A3 via gap S1.

[0132] (Seventh variation) The routing substrate 40 is not limited to a structure in which the base plate 41 and the busbar 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the base plate 41, which is provided with a housing portion 55 for housing the busbar 42, may be molded, and then the busbar 42 may be placed in the housing portion 55. In this case, the busbar 42 may be fixed to the housing portion 55 by fitting, or by adhesive or other fastening means. In these cases, potting may be applied to fill the gap between the busbar 42 and the housing portion 55.

[0133] (Variation 8) The base member of the routing substrate 40 is not limited to a base plate 41 having a plate-shaped flat portion 51. The routing substrate 40 may also be a base member having a sheet-shaped flat portion 51 (for example, an insulating sheet). In this case, a portion of the flat portion 51 may conform to the outer shape of the bus bar 42 to form the housing portion 55. In this disclosure, "sheet-shaped" or "sheet" is not limited to a member with a thickness of 1 mm or more, and may also include a member with a thickness of less than 1 mm (so-called film).

[0134] (9th variation) The connection between the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42 is not limited to a connection via the connecting component 20. The electronic component 10 may be directly connected to the busbar 42 using fastening members (e.g., bolts or screws) or welding. For example, it is conceivable that the terminals 13 of the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42 may come into direct contact through welding or the like.

[0135] Several embodiments and modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, multiple embodiments may be implemented in combination with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 1…Electrical connection unit SU... Subunit 10…Electronic components Terminals 13, 13A, 13B… 20…Connecting parts 21…Part 1 21h...First mounting hole 22…Second part 22h...Second mounting hole 30…Connecting parts 31…Part 1 32…Second part 40… Circuit board for cable routing 41…Base plate 42... Bus bar 42e1…end of busbar 42p…board part 43…Fastening member (fastening part) 51…Flat surface (insulating base) 51a…First page 51b…Second side 52…Fixed part 52a...first part 52b…Second part 55...Detention Unit 61...First connection section 62...Second connection section 63…Extension part 64...Extension part 71… Fastening member 72… Fastening member 73… Fastening member 80… Metal plate 81…Plane part (metal base) 82…Fixed part 83…Fixed part 92… Heat transfer components 111… Fastening member 112… Fastening member 121...Aperture V1...First vent V2...Second vent

Claims

1. First electronic component and, An insulating base member, A first busbar is supported by the base member and electrically connected to the first electronic component, A metal plate facing the base member with a gap between it and the base member, A heat transfer member is disposed between the first busbar and the metal plate, Equipped with, When the direction from the base member toward the metal plate is defined as the first direction, and the direction intersecting the first direction is defined as the second direction, The base member is A first vent that penetrates the base member in the first direction and whose distance from the first electronic component is smaller than the distance from the base member to the end in the second direction, A second vent is connected to the first vent through the gap and is located further away from the first electronic component than the first vent, It had, Electrical connection unit.

2. The second ventilation opening is an opening that penetrates the base member in the first direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

3. The second ventilation opening is the gap between the base member and the metal plate. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

4. The second vent is an opening that penetrates the metal plate in the first direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

5. The heat transfer member is closer to the first vent than to the second vent. An electrical connection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The heat transfer member includes a first heat transfer member and a second heat transfer member. When viewed from the first direction, the first heat transfer member and the second heat transfer member overlap the first electronic component. The electrical connection unit according to claim 5.

7. When viewed from the first direction, the first heat transfer member or the second heat transfer member is positioned to overlap with a part of the first busbar. The electrical connection unit according to claim 6.

8. The system further comprises a second busbar positioned at an interval from the first busbar, When viewed from the first direction, The first heat transfer member is positioned so as to overlap with a portion of the first busbar. The second heat transfer member is positioned so as to overlap with a portion of the second busbar. The electrical connection unit according to claim 7.

9. The first electronic component is further provided with a second electronic component arranged in the second direction, The first vent is located between the first electronic component and the second electronic component. An electrical connection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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