Electrical connection unit

Abstract

One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that can improve durability. [Solution] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment includes a busbar 42 and a base member. The base member has a housing portion 55 in which at least a part of the busbar is housed and is insulating. The electrical connection unit is also provided with a holding structure. The holding structure includes at least one of a plurality of protrusions projecting from the inner surface of the housing portion toward the busbar and a plurality of protrusions 81 projecting from the surface of the busbar toward the inner surface of the housing portion, and holds the busbar relative to the housing portion with a gap between the inner surface of the housing portion and the busbar.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to 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, the durability of the electrical connection unit is expected to be improved.

[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit capable of improving durability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment has a bus bar and a base member. The base member has a housing portion in which at least a part of the bus bar is housed, and is insulating. The electrical connection unit is provided with a holding structure. The holding structure includes at least one of a plurality of protrusions protruding from the inner surface of the housing portion toward the bus bar and a plurality of protrusions protruding from the surface of the bus bar toward the inner surface of the housing portion. The holding structure holds the bus bar with respect to the housing portion with a gap between the inner surface of the housing portion and the bus bar.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to one embodiment, durability 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 one subunit of an embodiment. [Figure 4] A perspective view showing the electronic components and connecting components of the embodiment. [Figure 5] A perspective view illustrating the wiring substrate of the embodiment. [Figure 6] A perspective view showing a partially disassembled wiring substrate of the embodiment. [Figure 7] A plan view showing a subunit of the embodiment. [Figure 8] A plan view showing the wiring substrate of the embodiment. [Figure 9] A plan view showing the base plate of the embodiment. [Figure 10] A perspective view illustrating the holding structure of the embodiment. [Figure 11] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7, along the line F11-F11. [Figure 12] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7, along the line F12-F12. [Figure 13] A plan view showing a wiring substrate for a first modified embodiment. [Figure 14] A plan view showing a wiring substrate for a second modified embodiment. [Figure 15] A cross-sectional view showing a subunit of a third modified embodiment. [Figure 16] A cross-sectional view showing a subunit of a fourth modified embodiment. [Figure 17] A plan view showing a wiring substrate for a fifth modified embodiment. [Figure 18] A plan view showing a wiring substrate for a sixth modified example of the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

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

[0010] In the present disclosure, terms are defined as follows. "Connection" is not limited to mechanical connection and may include electrical connection. That is, "connection" is not limited to the case where two elements to be connected are directly connected, and may include the case where two elements to be connected are connected with another element intervening therebetween. "Accommodation" is not limited to the case where the whole part is accommodated, and may include the case where only a part of the part is accommodated (a state where another part of the part protrudes). "Face" means that the virtual projection images of two objects overlap when viewed from a specific direction. That is, "face" is not limited to the case where two objects face each other directly, and may include the case where two objects face each other with another member existing between the two objects. "Parallel", "orthogonal", or "the same" may include the cases of "substantially parallel", "substantially orthogonal", or "substantially the same", respectively.

[0011] 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 110e1 to the second end portion 110e2 of a metal plate 110 described later (see FIG. 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 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 110e3 to the fourth end portion 110e4 of the metal plate 110 described later (see FIG. 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 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 110 described later toward the main body portion MU (see FIG. 2). 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 Y direction may also correspond to another example of the "second 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).

[0013] (Embodiment) <1. Configuration of Electrical Connection Unit> Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 according to an embodiment. The electrical connection unit 1 is an in-vehicle device installed in vehicles such as EVs (Electric Vehicles), HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles), or PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles). The electrical connection unit 1 may also be referred to as an "electrical connection box" or "junction box." However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device.

[0014] The electrical connection unit 1 includes, for example, a housing 5, a main body MU, a metal plate 110, a plurality of heat transfer members 120 (see Figure 2), and a plurality of insulating covers 130 (see Figure 2).

[0015] <2. Enclosure> First, let's describe the housing 5. The housing 5 forms the outer casing of the electrical connection unit 1. The housing 5 includes, for example, a base 6 (first member) and a cover 7 (second member). The base 6 is a member that covers the main body MU and the metal plate 110 from below. The base 6 is, for example, a plate-like shape along the horizontal direction or a bowl-like shape with the +Z direction open. The base 6 is, for example, made of synthetic resin. The cover 7 is a member that covers the main body MU and the metal plate 110 from above. The base 6 is, for example, a bowl-like shape with the -Z direction open. The cover 7 is, for example, made of synthetic resin. In this embodiment, the base 6 and the cover 7 are combined to form a box-shaped housing 5. The shape of the housing 5 is not limited to the above example. For example, the metal plate 110, which will be described later, may function as part or all of the base 6. Also, the housing 5 may be omitted.

[0016] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes a first region (first space) R1 and a second region (second space) R2. The first region R1 is a region where heat dissipation is important. For example, an electronic component 10S that generates a large amount of heat is placed in the first region R1. On the other hand, the second region R2 is a region where ease of mounting is important. For example, an electronic component 10T that generates less heat than the electronic component 10S and / or requires a more complex mounting structure than the electronic component 10S is placed in the second region R2. However, these contents do not limit the contents of the electrical connection unit 1 of this disclosure. For example, the amount of heat generated by the electronic component 10T may be greater than the amount of heat generated by the electronic component 10S.

[0017] <3. Main body> Next, we will explain the main unit MU. Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the main body MU. The main body MU is the part of the electrical connection unit 1 that performs the main function (e.g., switching of electrical connection states or overcurrent protection). In this embodiment, the main body MU is divided into a plurality of subunits SU. The main body MU is formed, for example, by connecting a plurality of subunits SU. In this embodiment, the main body MU has two subunits SU (subunits SUS and SUT). Each subunit SU may be referred to as a "circuit configuration".

[0018] The subunit SUS has a primary electrical function. The subunit SUS includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10S and a wiring board 40S. The plurality of electronic components 10S are electrically connected to the wiring board 40S.

[0019] The subunit SUT has a second electrical function, which is different from the first function. The subunit SUT includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10T and a wiring structure 40T. The plurality of electronic components 10T are electrically connected to the wiring structure 40T.

[0020] In this embodiment, the subunit SUS is a subunit SU that prioritizes heat dissipation. The subunit SUS is positioned in the first region R1 of the electrical connection unit 1 described above. The subunit SUS faces the first region A1 of the metal plate 110, which will be described later, in the Z direction.

[0021] On the other hand, subunit SUT is a subunit SU that prioritizes ease of mounting. Subunit SUT is positioned, for example, on the +Y direction side with respect to subunit SUS. Subunit SUT is positioned in the second region R2 of the electrical connection unit 1 described above. Subunit SUT faces the second region A2 of the metal plate 110, which will be described later, in the Z direction. Hereafter, when electronic component 10S and electronic component 10T are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "electronic component 10".

[0022] Furthermore, the main body MU does not have to be divided into multiple subunits SU, as in the example described above. For example, multiple subunits SU may be formed as a single unit. For instance, the base plate 41S of the cable routing substrate 40S and the base member 41T of the cable routing structure 40T, respectively, may be formed as a single unit from one piece of material.

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

[0024] <4.1 Electronic Components> First, let's describe the electronic components 10. The electronic components 10 are electronic components that are mounted in each subunit SU according to the required functions. The electronic components 10 may be, for example, connectors, fuses, relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), capacitors, branching components, various sensors (e.g., current sensors or voltage sensors), electronic control units, or electronic component units that combine two or more of these. However, the types of electronic components 10 are not limited to the examples above. The electronic components 10 may be, for example, heat-generating components that generate heat when energized.

[0025] In this embodiment, the multiple electronic components 10 include electronic components 10S that generate a relatively large amount of heat when energized. The electronic components 10S are relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), pyrofuses, or current sensors (e.g., current sensors with shunt resistors). However, the type of electronic component 10S is not limited to the above examples.

[0026] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing an electronic component 10 and a connecting component 20. The electronic component 10 is, for example, an electronic component in which a plurality of terminals 13 are arranged in a row on one end of the electronic component 10. The electronic component 10 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 10. 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 Y direction) and extend in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a are, for example, plate-shaped and aligned horizontally (e.g., in the Y 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 20 connected to the electronic component 10. The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate the first portions 21 of the two connecting components 20 connected to the electronic component 10.

[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 10. For example, if the electronic component 10 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 10 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 10 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 the case 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component body 12 inside the case 11. In this embodiment, the electronic component 10 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 10 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Terminals 13A and 13B are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Each of terminals 13A and 13B faces 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 Y direction). The inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 has a screw groove.

[0032] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 14 is a part for fixing the electronic component 10. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h into which a fastening member 116 (for example, a screw or bolt, see Figure 12), which will be 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 116 passes. The destination for fixing the mounting portion 14 will be described later.

[0033] <4.2 Connecting Components> Next, the connecting component 20 will be described. The connecting component 20 is a component that electrically connects the electronic component 10 and the wiring substrate 40S. The connecting component 20 forms part of the current-carrying path in the subunit SUS. The connecting component 20 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy). The connecting component 20 may also be referred to as a "metal component".

[0034] In this embodiment, the connecting component 20 electrically connects the electronic component 10 to the busbar 42 (see Figure 3) included in the routing substrate 40S. In this embodiment, the length L12 of the connecting component 20 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y direction) of the electronic component 10 is smaller than the longitudinal length L11 of the electronic component 10. The connecting component 20 has, for example, a first portion 21 and a second portion 22.

[0035] (Part 1) The first portion 21 of the connecting component 20 is the portion that connects to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10. 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 10 (for example, the end in the Y direction). The first portion 21 is an upright portion that stands upright in the Z direction relative to the routing substrate 40S (for example, relative to the bus bar 42 described later). The first portion 21 is adjacent to the electronic component 10 in the horizontal direction (for example, the Y direction). For example, the first portion 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 in the horizontal direction (for example, the Y direction) and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 from the horizontal direction (for example, the Y direction).

[0036] The first portion 21 of the connecting part 20 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 Y direction). The first portion 21 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 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 10.

[0037] (Second part) The second portion 22 of the connecting component 20 is the portion that connects to the bus bar 42 (see Figure 3). The second portion 22 protrudes horizontally (e.g., in the Y 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 20 is attached from the Z direction to a fastening member 43 (e.g., a screw or bolt, see Figure 11) 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 20 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 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 11). In this embodiment, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 form an L-shaped single connecting component 20.

[0038] In this embodiment, the busbar 42 is positioned at a distance from the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 (for example, at a distance in the Z direction). The connecting component 20 is positioned between the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42. In this disclosure, "the connecting component is positioned between the electronic component and the busbar" is not limited to cases where a portion of the connecting component is located between the electronic component and the busbar when viewed from the X or Y direction. "The connecting component is positioned between the electronic component and the busbar" may also refer to cases where a portion of the connecting component is located between the electronic component and the busbar when viewed from a direction inclined with respect to the X or Y direction. The connecting component 20 electrically connects the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42.

[0039] <4.3 Circuit board for cable routing> Next, we will explain the wiring substrate 40S. Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating the cable routing substrate 40S. The cable routing substrate 40S is a member that forms at least a portion of the electrical conduction path between a plurality of electronic components 10 (e.g., a plurality of electronic components 10S), and / or at least a portion of the electrical conduction path between an electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) included in a subunit SUS and an electronic component 10 included in another subunit SU (e.g., subunit SUT). In this disclosure, "cable routing substrate" means a substrate-type cable routing 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 busbar. In this embodiment, the cable routing substrate 40S is in the shape of a plate along the X and Y directions.

[0040] The cable routing substrate 40S includes, for example, a base plate 41S, one or more (e.g., multiple) busbars 42, and multiple fastening members 43. In this embodiment, each busbar 42 is held to the base plate 41S by a holding structure 80 (see Figure 6) provided on the base plate 41S. For example, the cable routing substrate 40S is integrated with the base plate 41S by the fastening members 43 being fixed to the busbars 42, and then the busbars 42 being held by the holding structure 80. That is, the busbars 42 are integrated with the base plate 41S without using fastening members such as screws or bolts. The holding structure 80 will be described in detail later.

[0041] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a partially disassembled wiring substrate 40S. For convenience of explanation, the base plate 41S, bus bar 42, and fastening member 43 will be described below with reference to a partially disassembled drawing of the wiring substrate 40S.

[0042] <4.3.1 Base Plate> The base plate 41S is a support member that integrally supports a plurality of busbars 42 arranged horizontally with spacing between them. The base plate 41S is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base plate 41S electrically insulates the plurality of busbars 42. The base plate 41S is an example of a "base member". The base plate 41S may also be called an "insulating substrate". The base plate 41S has, for example, a flat portion 51, a frame portion 52, and a plurality of fixing portions 53 (see Figure 12).

[0043] (Plane part) The flat portion 51 is a plate-shaped part formed within the base plate 41S. The flat portion 51 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. The flat portion 51 forms the main part of the base plate 41S. The flat portion 51 forms the base (insulating base) of the base plate 41S. In this embodiment, the flat portion 51 extends across the entire width of the base plate 41S in the X direction and across the entire width of the base plate 41S in the Y direction, excluding the frame portion 52 of the base plate 41S.

[0044] The planar portion 51 has a first surface 51a and a second surface 51b (see Figure 11). 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 a plurality of electronic components 10 (for example, a plurality of electronic components 10S). 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 110 (see Figure 2). The thickness direction (plate thickness direction) of the planar portion 51 is the Z direction. In this embodiment, the thickness T11 of the planar portion 51 in the Z direction is smaller than the thickness T1 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction (for example, the thickness of the horizontal plate portion 42p described later in the Z direction) (see Figure 12). The thickness T11 of the flat portion 51 in the Z direction may be the same as the thickness T1 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction, or it may be greater than the thickness T1 of the busbar 42 in the Z direction.

[0045] 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 41S and not exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S). 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 41S and not exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S).

[0046] Each housing section 55 has an outer shape that corresponds to the shape of the bus bar 42 it houses when viewed from the Z direction. The housing section 55 has an inner surface 55s that faces the bus bar 42. The inner surface 55s extends in the Z direction across the first surface 51a and the second surface 51b of the planar section 51, connecting the first surface 51a and the second surface 51b of the planar section 51. When viewed from the Z direction, the inner surface 55s extends along the shape of the bus bar 42 so as to surround the bus bar 42.

[0047] The multiple housing sections 55 include, for example, four housing sections 55A, 55B, 55C, and 55D. Housing section 55A is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42A, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of the bus bar 42A. Housing section 55B is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42B, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of the bus bar 42B. Housing section 55C is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42C, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of the bus bar 42C. Housing section 55D is provided in correspondence with the bus bar 42D, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of the bus bar 42D.

[0048] (Frame) The frame portion 52 is provided at the peripheral end of the base plate 41S. The frame portion 52 is a reinforcing rib that protrudes vertically from the end of the flat portion 51 (see Figure 11). The width (thickness) H11 of the frame portion 52 in the Z direction is, for example, less than half of the width (thickness) H12 of the electronic component 10 in the Z direction (see Figure 11). Note that the frame portion 52 may be omitted.

[0049] (Fixed part) The fixing portion 53 is the part that is fixed to the metal plate 110 (see Figure 12). The fixing portion 53 has a mounting hole 53h that penetrates the base plate 41S in the Z direction. A fastening member 115 (for example, a screw or bolt), which will be described later, is passed through the mounting hole 53h.

[0050] <4.3.2 Busbar> The busbar 42 is a routing member (electrical connection member) included in the routing substrate 40S. The busbar 42 is, for example, a routing member for electrically connecting multiple electronic components (e.g., multiple electronic components 10S). Alternatively, the busbar 42 may be a routing member for electrically connecting an electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) to an electronic component 10 included in another subunit SU (e.g., subunit SUT). The busbar 42 is made of metal (e.g., copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy) and is conductive. In this embodiment, there are multiple busbars 42, for example, four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D. The four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are arranged horizontally with space between them. The four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D include portions that are arranged on the same plane. The four busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, and 42D are supported by the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S. In this disclosure, "the busbars are supported by the flat portion" is not limited to the case where the busbars 42 are housed in the housing portion 55, but may also include cases where the busbars 42 are attached to the first surface 51a or the second surface 51b of the flat portion 51.

[0051] 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. Hereinafter, the portion of each busbar 42 that is housed in the housing 55 and extends plate-shaped along the planar portion 51 may be referred to as the "horizontal plate portion 42p". The horizontal plate portion 42p is an example of a "plate portion". 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".

[0052] Figure 7 is a plan view showing the subunit SUS. Each busbar 42 has, for example, a connecting portion 61, a connecting portion 62, and an extension portion 63.

[0053] The connection portion 61 is located in the middle of the bus bar 42 or at the first end of the bus bar 42. The connection portion 61 is the portion that connects directly to the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) or via the connecting component 20. The connection portion 61 includes, for example, a portion that overlaps with the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. The connection portion 61 is adjacent to the connecting component 20 in the Z direction and connects to the connecting component 20 from the Z direction. Alternatively, the connection portion 61 may be adjacent to a terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 in the Z direction and connect directly to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 from the Z direction.

[0054] The connector 62 is located in the middle of the busbar 42 or at the second end of the busbar 42. The connector 62 is the portion that connects to another electronic component 10 directly or via another connector 20. Alternatively, the connector 62 may be connected to another busbar 42 (for example, a busbar 42 included in another subunit SU) or to an external busbar 76 (see Figure 2).

[0055] The extension portion 63 extends from the connecting portion 61 in the X or Y direction. 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.

[0056] In this embodiment, the horizontal plate portion 42p described above includes at least the entirety of the connecting portion 61 and a part of the extension portion 63. That is, at least the entirety of the connecting portion 61 and a part of the extension portion 63 are housed in the housing portion 55 and are located on the same plane.

[0057] 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 across the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction, so that they extend across the -Y and +Y 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.

[0058] Furthermore, one or more busbars 42 may have an extension 64 in addition to the connection portion 61, connection portion 62, and extension portion 63. The extension 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 64 is a portion that is not used for electrical connection. For example, the extension 64 is located on the opposite side of the extension portion 63 from the connection portion 61 (or connection portion 62). The extension 64 is plate-shaped and runs horizontally. The extension 64 is included in the horizontal plate portion 42p. The extension 64 is housed in the housing portion 55 and extends along the planar portion 51. The extension 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.

[0059] The following describes some routing examples for the busbar 42. Note that multiple electronic components 10S include, for example, two electronic components 10A and 10B. Multiple connecting components 20 include, for example, four connecting components 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D.

[0060] The busbar 42A has a connector 61, a connector 62, and an extension 63. The connector 61 is connected to terminal 13A of the electronic component 10A via a connector 20A. The connector 62 is located at the +Y direction end of subunit SUS and is connected to busbar 42 included in another subunit SU. The extension 63 is housed in a housing 55 and extends across both sides of region R, which overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction.

[0061] The busbar 42B has a connecting portion 61, a connecting portion 62, an extension portion 63, and an extension portion 64. The connecting portion 61 is connected to terminal 13B of the electronic component 10A via a connecting component 20B. The connecting portion 62 is connected to terminal 13A of the electronic component 10B via a connecting component 20C. The extension portion 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.

[0062] The busbar 42C has a connector 61, a second connector 62, and an extension 63. The connector 61 is connected to terminal 13B of electronic component 10B via a connector 20D. The connector 62 is located at the +Y direction end of subunit SUS and is connected to busbar 42 included in another subunit SU.

[0063] (Exposed structure on the upper side of each busbar) In this embodiment, at least a portion of the busbar 42 is exposed on the upper side of the base plate 41S. For example, the connecting portion 61, connecting portion 62, and extension portion 63 of the busbar 42 are exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S on the upper side of the base plate 41S (the side of the first surface 51a of the flat portion 51). For example, the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S on the upper side of the base plate 41S over its entire length, at least between the connecting portion 61 and the connecting portion 62.

[0064] (Exposed structure on the underside of each busbar) In this embodiment, at least a portion of the busbar 42 is exposed on the lower side of the base plate 41S. For example, the entirety of the connecting portion 61 and at least a portion of the extension portion 63 are exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S on the lower side of the base plate 41S (the second surface 51b side of the flat portion 51). In this embodiment, a gap S1 is formed between the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S and the metal plate 110 (see Figure 11). The busbar 42 includes an exposed portion 42u exposed in the gap S1 (see Figure 11). The exposed portion 42u includes, for example, the entirety of the connecting portion 61 and at least a portion of the extension portion 63.

[0065] (Surface shape of each busbar) Figure 8 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40S. Each busbar 42 (for example, the horizontal plate portion 42p of each busbar 42) has a first main surface 42s1, a second main surface 42s2 (see Figure 11), and a side surface 42s3.

[0066] The first main surface 42s1 is the surface of the busbar 42 oriented in the +Z direction. The first main surface 42s1 is, for example, a plane aligned horizontally. The area of ​​the first main surface 42s1 is larger than that of the side surface 42s3. The first main surface 42s1 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S, for example, on the upper side of the base plate 41S (the side of the first surface 51a of the planar portion 51) (see Figure 11). The first main surface 42s1 faces the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) and the connecting component 20. In this embodiment, the first main surface 42s1 is in contact with the second portion 22 of the connecting component 20.

[0067] The second main surface 42s2 (see Figure 11) is the surface of the busbar 42 facing the -Z direction. The second main surface 42s2 is, for example, a plane that aligns with the horizontal direction. The second main surface 42s2 has a larger area than the side surface 42s3. The second main surface 42s2 is exposed to the outside of the base plate 41S, for example, on the lower side of the base plate 41S (the second surface 51b side of the flat portion 51) (see Figure 11). The second main surface 42s2 faces the heat transfer member 120, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the second main surface 42s2 is in contact with the heat transfer member 120.

[0068] Side surface 42s3 is the surface of the busbar 42 oriented in the X or Y direction. Side surface 42s3 is, for example, a plane along the Z direction. Side surface 42s3 connects the periphery of the first main surface 42s1 and the periphery of the second main surface 42s2. The boundary between side surface 42s3 and the first main surface 42s1 may be rounded or sloped. Similarly, the boundary between side surface 42s3 and the second main surface 42s2 may be rounded or sloped. Side surface 42s3 faces the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 in the X or Y direction. Side surface 42s3 extends parallel to the inner surface 55s of the housing 55.

[0069] Side 42s3 has, for example, a first side 45a, a second side 45b, a third side 45c, and a fourth side 45d. The first side 45a is located at the -X end of the busbar 42 (for example, the -X end of the horizontal plate portion 42p). The first side 45a is a plane along the Y and Z directions. The second side 45b is located at the +X end of the busbar 42 (for example, the +X end of the horizontal plate portion 42p). The second side 45b is a plane along the Y and Z directions. The third side 45c is located at the -Y end of the busbar 42 (for example, the -Y end of the horizontal plate portion 42p). The third side 45c is a plane along the X and Z directions. The fourth side 45d is located at the +Y end of the busbar 42 (for example, the +Y end of the horizontal plate portion 42p). The fourth side surface 45d is a plane that aligns with the X and Z directions.

[0070] <4.3.3 Busbar Retaining Structure> Next, we will describe the retaining structure 80 that holds the bus bar 42. Figure 9 is a plan view showing the base plate 41S. In this embodiment, the retaining structure 80 is provided as part of the base plate 41S. The retaining structure 80 has a plurality of protrusions 81 for holding the bus bar 42. The plurality of protrusions 81 project from the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 toward the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 (see Figure 8). The plurality of protrusions 81 are in contact with the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42. The plurality of protrusions 81 hold the bus bar 42 relative to the housing portion 55 with a gap g between the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 and the bus bar 42.

[0071] The width W31 of the gap g between the inner surface 55s of the housing section 55 and the bus bar 42 in the direction adjacent to each other is, for example, smaller than the thickness T1 of the bus bar 42 (see Figure 11). The above width W31 is, for example, smaller than the thickness T11 of the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S (see Figure 11).

[0072] In this embodiment, the multiple protrusions 81 are arranged at intervals along the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 so as to surround the bus bar 42. The multiple protrusions 81 include, for example, two or more protrusions 81 that are spaced apart in the extending direction of the bus bar 42. The multiple protrusions 81 are arranged at intervals in, for example, the X direction or the Y direction. The multiple protrusions 81 project from the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 in the X direction or the Y direction. The bus bar 42 is held by the multiple protrusions 81, for example, by press-fitting it between the multiple protrusions 81.

[0073] In this embodiment, the multiple protrusions 81 provided corresponding to one busbar 42 include, for example, one or more first protrusions 81A, one or more second protrusions 81B, one or more third protrusions 81C, and one or more fourth protrusions 81D.

[0074] The first projection 81A is provided on the -X side relative to the bus bar 42. The first projection 81A protrudes in the +X direction from the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and contacts the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42. For example, one or more of the first projections 81A contact the first side surface 45a of the bus bar 42.

[0075] The second projection 81B is provided on the +X side relative to the bus bar 42. The second projection 81B protrudes in the -X direction from the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and contacts the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42. For example, one or more second projections 81B contact the second side surface 45b of the bus bar 42. The bus bar 42 is held between the first projection 81A and the second projection 81B from both sides in the X direction.

[0076] The third projection 81C is provided on the -Y direction side of the bus bar 42. The third projection 81C protrudes in the +Y direction from the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and contacts the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42. For example, one or more third projections 81C contact the third side surface 45c of the bus bar 42.

[0077] The fourth projection 81D is provided on the +Y direction side of the bus bar 42. The fourth projection 81D protrudes in the -Y direction from the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and contacts the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42. For example, one or more of the fourth projections 81D contact the fourth side surface 45d of the bus bar 42. The bus bar 42 is held in place from both sides in the Y direction by the third projection 81C and the fourth projection 81D.

[0078] (Arrangement of protrusions on the corners of the busbar) In this embodiment, the multiple protrusions 81 are arranged corresponding to the corners of the ends of the busbar 42. The busbar 42 has a first end 46 and a second end 47 as the ends in the direction of extension of the busbar 42.

[0079] The first end portion 46 is formed, for example, by a first connector portion 61. The first end portion 46 has two angles, 46c1 and 46c2, which are located at the end of the busbar 42B. Angle 46c1 is on the -X side and the -Y side. Angle 46c2 is on the +X side and the -Y side.

[0080] In this embodiment, one first projection 81A, one second projection 81B, and one third projection 81C are provided corresponding to the first end 46 of the busbar 42, and each is in contact with the first end 46. Corner 46c1 is located between the first projection 81A and the third projection 81C in a direction along the side surface 42s3 of the busbar 42. Similarly, corner 46c2 is located between the second projection 81B and the third projection 81C in a direction along the side surface 42s3 of the busbar 42. With this configuration, the first end 46 is firmly supported by the three projections 81.

[0081] On the other hand, the second end 47 is the end opposite to the first end 46. The second end 47 is formed, for example, by an extension 64. However, the second end 47 may also be formed by a second connector 62. The second end 47 has an angle 47c1 and an angle 47c2 as corners located at the end of the busbar 42. Angle 47c1 is on the -X direction side and the -Y direction side. Angle 47c2 is on the +X direction side and the -Y direction side.

[0082] In this embodiment, one first projection 81A, one second projection 81B, and one third projection 81C are provided corresponding to the second end 47 of the busbar 42, and each is in contact with the second end 47. Corner 47c1 is located between the first projection 81A and the third projection 81C in a direction along the side surface 42s3 of the busbar 42. Similarly, corner 47c2 is located between the second projection 81B and the third projection 81C in a direction along the side surface 42s3 of the busbar 42. With this configuration, the second end 47 is firmly supported by the three projections 81.

[0083] Furthermore, if the second end 47 is the end on the +Y direction side, then corner 47c1 is a corner on both the -X and +Y directions. Corner 47c2 is a corner on both the +X and +Y directions. In this case, one first projection 81A, one second projection 81B, and one fourth projection 81D are provided corresponding to the second end 47 of the busbar 42, and each is in contact with the second end 47. Corner 47c1 is located between the first projection 81A and the fourth projection 81D in a direction along the side surface 42s3 of the busbar 42. Similarly, corner 47c2 is located between the second projection 81B and the fourth projection 81D in a direction along the side surface 42s3 of the busbar 42. With this configuration, the second end 47 is firmly supported by the three projections 81.

[0084] (Shape of the protrusion) Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating the retaining structure 80. In this embodiment, the projection 81 has a shape in which the width in the horizontal direction intersecting the projection direction decreases (taperses) as it moves in the direction of protrusion from the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55.

[0085] <4.3.4 Fastening Members> Next, the fastening member 43 will be described. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7 along the line F11-F11. The fastening member 43 is a component for fixing the bus bar 42 to the connecting component 20 corresponding to the bus bar 42. 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".

[0086] In this embodiment, at least one of the connecting portion 61 and 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.

[0087] 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. 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 along the Z direction. This engagement fixes the second portion 22 of the connecting component 20 to the fastening member 43.

[0088] (Heat transfer component) Next, the heat transfer member 120 will be described. The heat transfer member 120 is a member for transferring heat generated by the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) when energized, and / or heat generated by the busbar 42 itself (Joule heat) when energized, to the metal plate 110. The heat transfer member 120 is, for example, an elastic heat transfer sheet (e.g., a thermally conductive silicone sheet). The heat transfer member 120 is formed of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than, for example, the base plate 41S. However, the heat transfer member 120 is not limited to the above example, and may be a heat transfer member formed of a thermally conductive gel or other material. In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 is insulating.

[0089] In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 is partially provided on the wiring substrate 40S (see Figure 2). For example, the heat transfer member 120 is positioned so as to overlap with a part of the bus bar 42 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat transfer member 120 is positioned between the bus bar 42 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110, which will be described later. For example, the heat transfer member 120 is positioned between the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110, and is in contact with the exposed portion 42u of the bus bar 42 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110, respectively. The heat transfer member 120 transfers heat from the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) to the bus bar 42, and / or heat generated by the bus bar 42, from the bus bar 42 to the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110.

[0090] In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 is positioned near the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10S) and overlaps with a portion of the bus bar 42 when viewed from the Z direction. In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 is positioned overlapping with the connecting component 20 when viewed from the Z direction. In other words, the heat transfer member 120 is positioned overlapping with the connecting portion 61 or 62 of the bus bar 42 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat transfer member 120 transfers the heat that moves from the electronic component 10S to the bus bar 42 via the connecting component 20, and then transfers it from the bus bar 42 to the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110.

[0091] <4.4 Fixing Structure for Cable Management Boards and Electronic Components> Next, the fixing structure of the wiring substrate 40S and the electronic components 10 will be described. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7 along the line F9-F9. The metal plate 110 has, for example, a flat portion 111 (described later), as well as a fixing portion 112 and a fixing portion 113.

[0092] The fixing portion 112 is a fixing portion for fixing the base plate 41S to the metal plate 110. When viewed from the Z direction, the fixing portion 112 is provided at a position corresponding to the fixing portion 53 of the base plate 41S. The fixing portion 112 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes in the +Z direction from the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The fixing portion 112 has an engagement hole 112h that opens in the +Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the engagement hole 112h has a screw groove.

[0093] As described above, the fixing portion 53 of the base plate 41S has a mounting hole 53h. A fastening member 115 (for example, a screw or bolt) is passed through the mounting hole 53h. When the fastening member 115 passed through the mounting hole 53h of the fixing portion 53 of the base plate 41S engages with the engagement hole 112h of the fixing portion 112 of the metal plate 110, the base plate 41S is fixed to the metal plate 110.

[0094] The fixing portion 113 is a fixing portion for directly fixing the electronic component 10 (for example, electronic component 10S) to the metal plate 110 without using the base plate 41S. The fixing portion 113 is provided at a position corresponding to the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The fixing portion 113 is a cylindrical or prismatic boss that protrudes from the flat portion 111 in the +Z direction. The fixing portion 113 has an engagement hole 113h that opens in the +Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the engagement hole 113h has a screw groove.

[0095] In this embodiment, the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S has a through hole 51h. The through hole 51h penetrates the flat portion 51 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the through hole 51h is located at a position corresponding to the fixing portion 113 of the metal plate 110. The fixing portion 113 of the metal plate 110 protrudes through the through hole 51h of the base plate 41S 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 in contact with the fixing portion 113 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.

[0096] A fastening member 116 (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 116 passed through the mounting hole 14h of the mounting portion 14 of the electronic component 10 engages with the engagement hole 113h of the fixing portion 113 of the metal plate 110, the electronic component 10 is fixed to the metal plate 110 without going through the base plate 41S. Alternatively, the electronic component 10 may be fixed to a fixing portion provided on the base plate 41S.

[0097] <5. Examples of busbar shapes> Next, we will describe an example of the shape of busbar-42. Returning to Figure 8, an example of the shape of the busbar 42 will be described. The extension portion 63 of the busbar 42A includes a first straight portion 63a extending in the Y direction from the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42A, and a second straight portion 63b that bends from the first straight portion 63a and extends in the X direction.

[0098] The width W11 in the X direction of the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42A is greater than the width W12 in the X direction of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42A (for example, the width W12 in the X direction of the first straight portion 63a). In this embodiment, the connection portion 61 and the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 are housed in the housing portion 55. Inside the housing portion 55, the width W11 in the X direction of the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42A is greater than the width W12 in the X direction of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42A. Width W11 is, for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the connection portion 61. Width W12 is, for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the extension portion 63 (for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the first straight portion 63a).

[0099] In this embodiment, the width W12 in the X direction of the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42A (for example, the width W12 in the X direction of the first straight portion 63a) is the same as or smaller than the width W13 in the X direction of the connecting component 20A (see Figure 7). On the other hand, the width W11 in the X direction of the connecting portion 61 is larger than the width W13 in the X direction of the connecting component 20A. The width W13 is, for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the connecting component 20A.

[0100] In this embodiment, the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42B includes a first straight portion 63a extending in the Y direction from the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42B, and a second straight portion 63b bending from the first straight portion 63a and extending in the X direction.

[0101] In this embodiment, the width W21 in the X direction of the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42B is greater than the width W22 in the X direction of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42B (for example, the width W22 in the X direction of the first straight portion 63a). In this embodiment, the connection portion 61 and the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 are housed in the housing portion 55. Inside the housing portion 55, the width W21 in the X direction of the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42B is greater than the width W22 in the X direction of the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42B. The width W21 is, for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the connection portion 61. The width W22 is, for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the extension portion 63 (for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the first straight portion 63a).

[0102] In this embodiment, the connection portion 61 of bus bar 42A and the connection portion 61 of bus bar 42A are adjacent in the X direction. The first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 of bus bar 42A and the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 of bus bar 42B are adjacent in the X direction. In this embodiment, the connection portion 61 of bus bar 42A protrudes from the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 of bus bar 42A on the opposite side (-X direction side) from bus bar 42B. On the other hand, the connection portion 61 of bus bar 42B protrudes from the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 of bus bar 42B on the opposite side (+X direction side) from bus bar 42A.

[0103] <6. Metal plate and insulating cover> Next, we will return to Figure 2 and describe the metal plate 110 and the insulating cover 130.

[0104] <6.1 Metal Plate> The metal plate 110 is a component that ensures the rigidity of the electrical connection unit 1 and enhances the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal plate 110 is made of metal (for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The metal plate 110 is an example of a "rigid component". The metal plate 110 may also be referred to as a "metal component" or a "heat dissipation component".

[0105] The metal plate 110 is rectangular in shape along the X and Y directions. The metal plate 110 has a first end 110e1, a second end 110e2, a third end 110e3, and a fourth end 110e4. The first end 110e1 and the second end 110e2 are a pair of longitudinal ends of the metal plate 110, separated in the X direction. The third end 110e3 and the fourth end 110e4 are a pair of transverse ends of the metal plate 110, separated in the Y direction. The metal plate 110 includes, for example, a flat portion 111, the aforementioned plurality of fixing portions 112 (see Figure 12), and the aforementioned plurality of fixing portions 113 (see Figure 12).

[0106] The flat portion 111 is a plate-shaped part within the metal plate 110. The flat portion 111 is plate-shaped and oriented horizontally. The flat portion 111 forms the main part of the metal plate 110. The flat portion 111 forms the base (metal base) of the metal plate 110. The flat portion 111 is large enough to cover the two subunits SU from below.

[0107] In this embodiment, the planar portion 111 has a first region A1 and a second region A2. The first region A1 is, for example, the region on the -Y direction side of the planar portion 111. The subunit SUS described above faces the first region A1 of the planar portion 111 when viewed from the Z direction. That is, the electronic component 10S and the base plate 41S included in the subunit SUS face the first region A1 of the planar portion 111 in the Z direction.

[0108] The second region A2 is, for example, the region on the +Y direction side of the planar portion 111. The subunit SUT described above faces the second region A2 of the planar portion 111 when viewed from the Z direction. That is, the electronic component 10T and the base member 41T included in the subunit SUT face the second region A2 of the planar portion 111 in the Z direction.

[0109] <6.2 Insulating Cover> The insulating cover 130 is a component for preventing fingers from touching the energized circuit of the subunit SU. The insulating cover 130 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The insulating cover 130 is, for example, box-shaped with the -Z direction side open. The insulating cover 130 has a plurality of ventilation holes 130h. The insulating cover 130 covers part or all of the corresponding subunit SU. Note that the insulating cover 130 is not limited to a box-shaped component, but may be a sheet-like component that covers the energized circuit of the main body MU. Also, the insulating cover 130 may be omitted.

[0110] <7. Advantages> As a comparative example, consider a configuration in which there is no gap between the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and the busbar 42, and the base plate 41S and the busbar 42 are in close contact. Here, the coefficient of linear expansion of the synthetic resin base plate 41S is larger than that of the metal busbar 42. Therefore, when the electrical connection unit 1 becomes hot, the base plate 41S tends to expand more than the busbar 42. Also, when the electrical connection unit 1 becomes cold, the base plate 41S tends to contract more than the busbar 42. For this reason, it may be difficult to improve durability against thermal shock in the configuration of the above comparative example.

[0111] On the other hand, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment comprises a bus bar 42 and an insulating base plate 41S. The base plate 41S has a housing portion 55 in which at least a part of the bus bar 42 is housed. The electrical connection unit 1 is provided with a holding structure 80. The holding structure 80 has a plurality of protrusions 81 projecting from the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 toward the bus bar 42. The holding structure 80 holds the bus bar 42 relative to the housing portion 55 with a gap g between the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 and the bus bar 42.

[0112] With this configuration, the contact area between the base plate 41S and the bus bar 42 is limited compared to the configuration of the comparative example above, so large stresses are less likely to occur between the base plate 41S and the bus bar 42 when the electrical connection unit 1 undergoes thermal expansion / contraction. In addition, since there is a gap g between the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and the bus bar 42, some of the shape changes that occur in the base plate 41S or the bus bar 42 when the electrical connection unit 1 undergoes thermal expansion / contraction are absorbed by the gap g. From this viewpoint as well, large stresses are less likely to occur between the base plate 41S and the bus bar 42. For these reasons, the above configuration can improve durability against thermal shock.

[0113] In this embodiment, the plurality of protrusions 81 include two or more protrusions 81 arranged side by side at intervals along the extension direction of the bus bar 42. With this configuration, multiple points along the extension direction of the bus bar 42 are held by the protrusions 81. With this configuration, the base plate 41S or the bus bar 42 becomes more susceptible to shape changes in the extension direction of the bus bar 42. When the base plate 41S or the bus bar 42 becomes more susceptible to shape changes in the extension direction of the bus bar 42, it is possible to further suppress the generation of large stresses between the base plate 41S and the bus bar 42 during thermal expansion / contraction of the electrical connection unit 1. This action makes it possible to further improve durability against thermal shock.

[0114] In this embodiment, the base plate 41S has a plate-shaped flat portion 51. When the thickness direction of the flat portion 51 is considered the first direction, the housing portion 55 is formed by the flat portion 51 being recessed in the first direction or by the flat portion 51 penetrating in the first direction. With this configuration, in a configuration in which the housing portion 55 is provided on the plate-shaped flat portion 51, it is possible to suppress the generation of large stresses between the base plate 41S and the bus bar 42.

[0115] In this embodiment, when the second direction is defined as a direction intersecting the first direction, the configuration includes a plurality of protrusions 81 and a protrusion 81 projecting in the second direction. With this configuration, the bus bar 42 is held by the protrusions 81 projecting in a direction intersecting the thickness direction of the flat portion 51. This configuration makes it easier to hold the bus bar 42 in the housing portion 55 with a gap g between the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 and the bus bar 42, in a configuration in which a housing portion 55 is provided in the plate-shaped flat portion 51.

[0116] In this embodiment, the multiple protrusions 81 include a first protrusion 81A provided on the -X direction side of the bus bar 42, a second protrusion 81B provided on the +X direction side, a third protrusion 81C provided on the -Y direction side, and a fourth protrusion 81D provided on the +Y direction side. With this configuration, the bus bar 42 can be held from four directions by the first to fourth protrusions 81A, 81B, 81C, and 81D. This configuration allows the bus bar 42 to be firmly held by the multiple protrusions 81.

[0117] <8. Variation> Next, some modifications of the above-described embodiment will be explained. Note that in each modification, the configuration is the same as that of the above-described embodiment, except for the configurations described below.

[0118] (First variation) Figure 13 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40S of the first modified example. In this modified example, the width W31 of the gap g is relatively wide. For example, the width W31 of the gap g is greater than the thickness T11 (see Figure 11) of the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S.

[0119] Here, when the electronic component 10 generates heat, heat may accumulate in the gap S1 (see Figure 11) between the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110. In this modified example, the gap g has a relatively large width W31 and therefore easily functions as a ventilation opening for heat dissipation. That is, the air heated in the gap S1 between the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 easily moves as an upward flow through the gap g to the upper surface of the base plate 41S.

[0120] With this configuration, in addition to the effects of the above embodiment, it is possible to further improve the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0121] (Second variation) Figure 14 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40S of the second modified example. As described above, the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42 is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 via the connection component 20. For this reason, the connection portion 61 tends to become hotter than the extension portion 63.

[0122] In this modified example, the gap g includes gap g1 and gap g2. Gap g1 is formed between the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 and the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 42. On the other hand, gap g2 is formed between the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 and the connecting portion 61 of the bus bar 42.

[0123] In this modified example, the width W32 of gap g2 is greater than the width W31 of gap g1. The width W31 of gap g1 is the width of gap g1 in the direction in which the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and the bus bar 42 are adjacent. The width W32 of gap g2 is the width of gap g2 in the direction in which the inner surface 55s of the housing 55 and the bus bar 42 are adjacent. In this modified example, gap g2 is provided near the connection portion 61, which is prone to becoming hot, and is designed to function as a ventilation opening for heat dissipation. That is, near the connection portion 61, air heated in the gap S1 between the flat portion 51 of the base plate 41S and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 is likely to move as an upward flow through gap g2 to the upper surface of the base plate 41S.

[0124] With this configuration, in addition to the effects of the above embodiment, it is easier to improve the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 1, similar to the first modified example. Also, in this embodiment, the width W31 of the gap g1 is smaller than the width W32 of the gap g2. In other words, the projection 81 that supports the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42 is smaller and less prone to bending than the projection 81 that supports the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42. That is, in this modified example, the busbar 42 is supported by a relatively small projection 81 (a projection 81 that is less prone to bending) corresponding to the extended portion 63, and is less likely to come off the holding structure 80. Due to this effect, the electrical connection unit 1 of this modified example can be made even more durable.

[0125] (Third variation) Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the subunit SUS of the third modified example. In this modified example, the base plate 41S has a support portion 56. The support portion 56 supports the horizontal plate portion 42p of the bus bar 42 housed in the housing portion 55 from below (the -Z direction side). The support portion 56 is provided so as to avoid the area that overlaps with the heat transfer member 120 when viewed, for example, from the Z direction.

[0126] In this case, if the electrical connection unit 1 becomes excessively hot or excessively cold, the base plate 41S or busbar 42 may deform excessively, and the busbar 42 may be in danger of falling off the retaining structure 80. However, in this modified example, since the busbar 42 is supported from below by the support part 56, the busbar 42 is more reliably prevented from falling off the retaining structure 80. This action allows for further improvement in the durability of the electrical connection unit 1 in this modified example.

[0127] (Fourth variation) Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the subunit SUS of the fourth modified example. In this modified example, the base plate 41S has a support portion 57. The support portion 57 supports the horizontal plate portion 42p of the bus bar 42 housed in the housing portion 55 from above (+Z direction side). That is, the support portion 57 supports the bus bar 42 from the side opposite to the elastic heat transfer member 120. The support portion 57 is provided so as to avoid overlapping areas with the electronic component 10 when viewed, for example, from the Z direction.

[0128] With this configuration, since the busbar 42 is supported from above by the support portion 57, it is easier to press the busbar 42 toward the elastic heat transfer member 120 with a strong force compared to the case where the busbar 42 is supported only by the multiple protrusions 81. Being able to press the busbar 42 toward the heat transfer member 120 with a strong force makes it easier to elastically deform the heat transfer member 120 more appropriately and bring the heat transfer member 120 into close contact with the busbar 42 or the metal plate 110. Being able to bring the heat transfer member 120 into close contact with the busbar 42 or the metal plate 110 further improves the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0129] (Fifth variation) Figure 17 is a plan view showing the wiring substrate 40S of the fifth modified example. In this modified example, the support portion 56 (or support portion 57) described in the third modified example (or the support portion 57 described in the fourth modified example) is provided at multiple locations separated from each other in the extending direction of the bus bar 42. Between the multiple support portions 56, the bus bar 42 is exposed below the base plate 41S. Similarly, between the multiple support portions 57, the bus bar 42 is exposed above the base plate 41S. With this configuration, even when the support portions 56 (or support portions 57) are provided, the exposed area of ​​the bus bar 42 can be increased. By increasing the exposed area of ​​the bus bar 42, the heat dissipation of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved.

[0130] (Sixth variation) Figure 18 is a plan view showing the routing substrate 40S of the sixth modified example. In this modified example, the retaining structure 80 has multiple protrusions 81 that protrude from the surface (e.g., side surface 42s3) of the busbar 42 toward the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55, instead of multiple protrusions 81 that protrude from the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 toward the busbar 42.

[0131] In this modified example, the retaining structure 80 is provided on the bus bar 42. For example, the retaining structure 80 is formed integrally with the bus bar 42 as a single piece by press working or the like. The retaining structure 80 has a plurality of protrusions 81 that hold the bus bar 42 against the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55. The plurality of protrusions 81 project from the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 toward the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55. The plurality of protrusions 81 are in contact with the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55. The plurality of protrusions 81 hold the bus bar 42 against the housing portion 55 with a gap g between the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 and the bus bar 42.

[0132] In this embodiment, the multiple protrusions 81 are arranged at intervals along the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55. The multiple protrusions 81 include, for example, two or more protrusions 81 arranged at intervals in the extending direction of the bus bar 42. The multiple protrusions 81 are arranged at intervals in the X direction or the Y direction. The multiple protrusions 81 project from the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 in the X direction or the Y direction.

[0133] In this embodiment, the multiple protrusions 81 provided on a single busbar 42 include, for example, one or more first protrusions 81A, one or more second protrusions 81B, one or more third protrusions 81C, and one or more fourth protrusions 81D.

[0134] The first projection 81A is provided on the -X side of the bus bar 42. The first projection 81A protrudes in the -X direction from the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 and contacts the inner surface 55s of the housing 55. For example, one or more first projections 81A protrude from the first side surface 45a of the bus bar 42.

[0135] The second projection 81B is provided on the +X side of the bus bar 42. The second projection 81B protrudes in the +X direction from the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 and contacts the inner surface 55s of the housing 55. For example, one or more second projections 81B protrude from the second side surface 45b of the bus bar 42. The bus bar 42 is held between the first projection 81A and the second projection 81B from both sides in the X direction.

[0136] The third projection 81C is provided on the -Y direction side of the bus bar 42. The third projection 81C protrudes in the -Y direction from the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 and contacts the inner surface 55s of the housing 55. For example, one or more third projections 81C protrude from the third side surface 45c of the bus bar 42.

[0137] The fourth projection 81D is provided on the +Y side of the bus bar 42. The fourth projection 81D protrudes in the +Y direction from the side surface 42s3 of the bus bar 42 and contacts the inner surface 55s of the housing 55. For example, one or more fourth projections 81D protrude from the fourth side surface 45d of the bus bar 42. The bus bar 42 is held in place from both sides in the Y direction by the third projection 81C and the fourth projection 81D.

[0138] (Shape of the protrusion) In this modified example, the projection 81 has a shape in which its width in the horizontal direction intersecting the projection direction decreases (taperses) as it extends in the direction of protrusion from the surface of the bus bar 42.

[0139] This configuration can also provide the same effects as the first embodiment. The holding structure 80 may have both a plurality of protrusions 81 projecting from the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55 toward the bus bar 42 and a plurality of protrusions 81 projecting from the surface of the bus bar 42 toward the inner surface 55s of the housing portion 55.

[0140] Several embodiments and modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, some of the modifications described above may be implemented in combination with each other. For example, the connection between the electronic component 10 and the busbar 42 is not limited to the 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. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 1…Electrical connection unit SU, SUS, SUT… Subunits 10, 10S, 10T… Electronic components Terminals 13, 13A, 13B… 20…Connecting parts 40S… Circuit board for cable routing 40T... Cable routing structure 41S…Base plate 42... Bus bar 51...Plane part 52...frame section 55...Detention Unit 55s...Inside of the containment compartment 61...Connection part 62...Connection part 63…Extension part 63a...first straight section 63b…Second straight section 80…Retaining structure 81…Protrusion 81A…1st protrusion 81B…Second protrusion 81C…3rd protrusion 81D…4th protrusion 110…Metal plate (rigid member, metal member, heat dissipation member) 111…Plane part 120… Heat transfer components

Claims

1. Bus bar and, An insulating base member having a housing portion in which at least a portion of the busbar is housed, Equipped with, A holding structure is provided which holds the busbar in the housing while leaving a gap between the inner surface of the housing and the busbar, including at least one of a plurality of protrusions projecting from the inner surface of the housing toward the busbar and a plurality of protrusions projecting from the surface of the busbar toward the inner surface of the housing. Electrical connection unit.

2. At least one of the plurality of protrusions protruding from the inner surface of the housing portion and the plurality of protrusions protruding from the surface of the busbar includes two or more protrusions arranged side by side at intervals in the extending direction of the busbar. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

3. The base member has a plate-shaped flat portion, When the thickness direction of the planar portion is defined as the first direction, The housing portion is formed by the flat portion being recessed in the first direction or by the flat portion penetrating in the first direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. When the second direction is defined as the direction intersecting the first direction, At least one of the plurality of protrusions protruding from the inner surface of the housing portion and the plurality of protrusions protruding from the surface of the busbar includes a protrusion protruding in the second direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 3.

5. The bus bar includes a plate portion that is housed in the housing portion, When the thickness direction of the plate portion is defined as the first direction, the direction intersecting the first direction as the second direction, and the direction intersecting both the first and second directions as the third direction, At least one of the plurality of protrusions protruding from the inner surface of the housing portion and the plurality of protrusions protruding from the surface of the busbar includes a first protrusion provided on one side in the second direction with respect to the busbar, a second protrusion provided on the other side in the second direction, a third protrusion provided on one side in the third direction, and a fourth protrusion provided on the other side in the third direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

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