Electrical connection unit

Abstract

One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that can achieve both heat dissipation and ease of mounting. [Solution] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment comprises a rigid member, a first electronic component, a first base member, a first busbar, a second electronic component, a second base member, and a second busbar. The rigid member includes a first region and a second region. The first electronic component faces the first region in a first direction. The first base member faces the first region in a first direction, includes a flat portion, and is insulating. The second electronic component faces the second region in a first direction and generates less heat than the first electronic component. The second base member faces the second region in a first direction, has a three-dimensional structure that is thicker than the first base member in a first direction, and is insulating.

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 electrical connection unit is expected to achieve both heat dissipation and mountability.

[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit capable of achieving both heat dissipation and mountability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment includes a rigid member, a first electronic component, a first base member, a first busbar, a second electronic component, a second base member, and a second busbar. The rigid member includes a first region and a second region. The first electronic component faces the first region in a first direction. The first base member faces the first region in a first direction, includes a flat portion, and is insulating. The first busbar is supported by the flat portion and electrically connected to the first electronic component. The second electronic component faces the second region in a first direction and generates less heat than the first electronic component. The second base member faces the second region in a first direction, has a three-dimensional structure that is thicker than the first base member in a first direction, and is insulating. The second busbar is supported by the second base member and electrically connected to the second electronic component. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, it is possible to achieve both heat dissipation and ease of mounting. [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 cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7, along the line F8-F8. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7, along the line F9-F9. [Figure 10]A plan view for explaining a first shape example of the bus bar according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] A plan view for explaining a second shape example of the bus bar according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] A perspective view showing another sub-unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] A front view showing an electronic component according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] A perspective view showing a base member according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] A plan view showing a sub-unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] A cross-sectional view taken along the line F16-F16 of the structure shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 17] A cross-sectional view taken along the line F17-F17 of the structure shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 18] A cross-sectional view taken along the line F18-F18 of the structure shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 19] A cross-sectional view showing a sub-unit of the first modification example according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] A cross-sectional view showing a sub-unit of the second modification example according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] A cross-sectional view showing a sub-unit of the third modification example according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] A cross-sectional view showing a sub-unit of the fourth modification example according to the embodiment. [ [Figure 23] A perspective view showing a connection structure between a plurality of sub-units according to the embodiment. [Figure 24] A cross-sectional view taken along the line F24-F24 of the structure shown in FIG. 15.

Mode 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 redundant descriptions of those components may be omitted. Note that the configurations described below do not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0010] In this disclosure, terms are defined as follows: “Connection” 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 entire part is accommodated (with another part of the part protruding). “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.

[0011] In this disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows: The +X direction is the direction from the first end 110e1 to the second end 110e2 of the metal plate 110, which will be described later (see Figure 2). The -X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, when the +X direction and the -X direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "X direction". The +Y direction and the -Y direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal to) the X direction. The +Y direction is the direction from the third end 110e3 to the fourth end 110e4 of the metal plate 110, which will be described later (see Figure 2). The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the metal plate 110 (described later) toward the main body MU (see Figure 2). The -Z direction is the opposite direction to the +Z direction. Hereafter, if the +Z direction and the -Z direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction". The Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The Y direction is an example of the "second direction". The X direction is an example of the "third direction".

[0012] In the following, the X and Y directions may be referred to as the "horizontal direction" if they are not distinguished. In the following, the Z direction may be referred to as the "vertical direction." Also, in the following, the +Z direction may be referred to as "up" and the -Z direction as "down." However, these expressions are for the sake of explanation and do not limit the direction of gravity of the electrical connection unit 1 (the installation orientation of the electrical connection unit 1).

[0013] (Embodiment) <1. Configuration of the 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 substrate 40S. The plurality of electronic components 10S are electrically connected to the wiring substrate 40S. The base plate 41S (described later) included in the subunit SUS is an example of a "first base member".

[0019] The subunit SUT has a second electrical function. This second function is, for example, a function 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. The base member 41T (described later) included in the subunit SUT is an example of a "second base member".

[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 10S and a connecting component 20. The electronic component 10S is, for example, an electronic component in which a plurality of terminals 13 are arranged in a row at one end of the electronic component 10S. The electronic component 10S 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 10S. 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 10S. The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate the first portions 21 of the two connecting components 20 connected to the electronic component 10S.

[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 10S. For example, if the electronic component 10S 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 10S 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 10S 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 10S 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 10S 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 10S has a screw groove.

[0032] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 14 is a part for fixing the electronic component 10S. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h into which a fastening member 116 (for example, a screw or bolt, see Figure 9) 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 10S and the wiring substrate 40S. The connecting component 20 forms part of the current-carrying circuit 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 10S 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 10S is smaller than the longitudinal length L11 of the electronic component 10S. The connecting component 20 has, for example, a first portion 21 and a second portion 22.

[0035] (Part 1) The first part 21 of the connecting component 20 is the part that connects to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S. The first part 21 is a plate-like or rectangular parallelepiped-shaped part that extends in the Z direction. The first part 21 extends in the Z direction along one end of the electronic component 10S (for example, the end in the Y direction). The first part 21 is an upright part 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 part 21 is adjacent to the electronic component 10S in the horizontal direction (for example, the Y direction). For example, the first part 21 is adjacent to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S in the horizontal direction (for example, the Y direction) and is connected to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10S 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 10S 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 10S.

[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 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 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 3). 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 10S (for example, at a distance in the Z direction). The connecting component 20 is positioned between the electronic component 10S 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 10S 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) bus bars 42, and multiple fastening members 43. In this embodiment, the base plate 41S and the multiple bus bars 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the cable routing substrate 40S is formed as a single piece by insert molding of the bus bars 42 with the base plate 41S after the fastening members 43 have been fixed to the bus bars 42. That is, the bus bars 42 are integrated with the base plate 41S without using fastening members such as screws or bolts. The cable routing substrate 40S may be formed by a different structure instead of insert molding. Modified examples in which the cable routing substrate 40S is formed by a different structure will be described 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 9).

[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 9). 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 8). 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 external shape that corresponds to the shape of the bus bar 42 it houses when viewed from the Z direction. A plurality of housing sections 55 may include, for example, four housing sections 55A, 55B, 55C, and 55D. Housing section 55A is provided in correspondence with bus bar 42A, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of bus bar 42A. Housing section 55B is provided in correspondence with bus bar 42B, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of bus bar 42B. Housing section 55C is provided in correspondence with bus bar 42C, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of bus bar 42C. Housing section 55D is provided in correspondence with bus bar 42D, which will be described later, and houses at least a portion of bus bar 42D.

[0047] (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 8). 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 8). Note that the frame portion 52 may be omitted.

[0048] (fixed part) The fixing portion 53 is the part that is fixed to the metal plate 110 (see Figure 9). 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.

[0049] <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.

[0050] 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 extends horizontally in a plate-like shape 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".

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The connector 62 is located in the middle of the bus bar 42 or at the second end of the bus bar 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 bus bar 42 (for example, a bus bar 42 included in another subunit SU) or to an external bus bar 76 (see Figure 15).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The following describes some routing examples for the busbar 42. Note that multiple electronic components 10S include three electronic components 10A, 10B, and 10C. Multiple connecting components 20 include five connecting components 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and 20E.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] The busbar 42D has a connector 61, a connector 62, and an extension 63. The connector 61 is connected to terminal 13A of electronic component 10C via a connector 20E. 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 8). The busbar 42 includes an exposed portion 42u exposed in the gap S1 (see Figure 8). 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] <4.3.3 Fastening Members> Next, the fastening member 43 will be described. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 7 along the line F8-F8. 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".

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] (Heat transfer component) First, let's explain the heat transfer component 120. 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 (or the base member 41T described later). 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] <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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] <5. Examples of busbar shapes> Next, we will describe an example of the shape of busbar-42.

[0078] <5.1 Example of the first busbar shape> Figure 10 is a plan view illustrating a first example of the shape of the busbar 42. In this embodiment, the busbar 42A is an example of the "first busbar". The connection portion 61 of the busbar 42A is an example of the "first connection portion". 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 bending from the first straight portion 63a and extending in the X direction. The first straight portion 63a of the busbar 42A is an example of the "first extension portion". The connecting component 20A is an example of the "first connecting component".

[0079] 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).

[0080] 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.

[0081] The connecting portion 61 has an edge 61e1 extending in the Y direction and an edge 61e2 located on the opposite side of the edge 61e1 in the X direction and extending in the Y direction. Edge 61e1 is an example of a "first edge". Edge 61e2 is an example of a "second edge".

[0082] The extended portion 63 (for example, the first straight portion 63a) has an edge 63e1 extending in the Y direction and an edge 63e2 located on the opposite side of the edge 63e1 in the X direction and extending in the Y direction. Edge 63e1 is an example of a "third edge". Edge 63e2 is an example of a "fourth edge".

[0083] In this embodiment, the edge 61e1 of the connecting portion 61 and the edge 63e1 of the extending portion 63 are linearly continuous in the Y direction. On the other hand, there is a step 42st in the X direction between the edge 61e2 of the connecting portion 61 and the edge 63e2 of the extending portion 63.

[0084] In this embodiment, busbar 42B is an example of a "second busbar". The connection portion 61 of busbar 42B is an example of a "second connection portion". The extension portion 63 of busbar 42B includes a first straight portion 63a extending in the Y direction from the connection portion 61 of busbar 42B, and a second straight portion 63b bending from the first straight portion 63a and extending in the X direction. The first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63 of busbar 42B is an example of a "second extension portion". The connecting component 20B is an example of a "second connecting component".

[0085] 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).

[0086] As shown in Figure 10, 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.

[0087] In this embodiment, the width W11 in the X direction of the connection portion 61 of busbar 42A and the width W21 in the X direction of the connection portion 61 of busbar 42B are the same. On the other hand, the width W12 in the X direction of the extension portion 63 of busbar 42A is smaller than the width W22 in the X direction of the extension portion 63 of busbar 42B. Busbar 42B has, for example, greater heat dissipation or heat storage capacity compared to busbar 42A.

[0088] In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 120 has a size that extends across the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42A and the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42B. For example, when viewed from the Z direction, the heat transfer member 120 overlaps with the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42A and the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42B. The heat transfer member 120 thermally connects the bus bar 42A and the bus bar 42B. Therefore, if the temperature of the bus bar 42B becomes lower than the temperature of the bus bar 42A, some of the heat from the bus bar 42A is transferred to the bus bar 42B via the heat transfer member 120. With this configuration, the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved by equalizing the heat of the multiple bus bars 42.

[0089] <5.2 Second example of busbar shape> Figure 11 is a plan view illustrating a second example of the busbar 42. In this embodiment, electronic component 10A is an example of a "first electronic component". Electronic component 10B is an example of a "second electronic component". The connection portion 61 of the busbar 42B is an example of a "first connection portion". The connection portion 62 of the busbar 42B is an example of a "second connection portion". In this embodiment, the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42B has, for example, a first straight portion 63a, a second straight portion 63b, and a third straight portion 63c.

[0090] The first straight section 63a extends from the connection section 61 of the busbar 42B in a direction different from the direction of the shortest distance from the connection section 61 to the connection section 62. The first straight section 63a extends, for example, in the Y direction. The first straight section 63a is an example of a "first extension section".

[0091] The first straight section 63a includes a first end (first part) 63aa connected to the connecting section 61, and a second end (second part) 63ab located on the opposite side from the first end 63aa. For example, the first end 63aa is located on the -Y direction side with respect to the connecting section 62 in the extension direction (Y direction) of the first straight section 63a. On the other hand, the second end 63ab is located on the opposite side (+Y direction side) from the first end 63aa with respect to the connecting section 62 in the extension direction (Y direction) of the first straight section 63a.

[0092] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the first linear section 63a overlaps with the electronic component 10A in the Z direction. For example, the first linear section 63a extends across the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction, spanning both the -Y and +Y directions of region R.

[0093] The second linear section 63b extends from the second end 63ab of the first linear section 63a in a direction approaching the connection section 62. However, the second linear section 63b extends from the second end 63ab of the first linear section 63a in a direction different from the direction that leads to the connection section 62 of the busbar 42B by the shortest distance. The second linear section 63b bends from the first linear section 63a and extends in the X direction. The second linear section 63b is an example of a "second extension section". When viewed from the Z direction, the second linear section 63b does not overlap with any of the electronic components 10.

[0094] The third straight section 63c extends from the second straight section 63b toward the connection section 62 of the busbar 42B. The third straight section 63c extends, for example, in the Y direction. In other words, the third straight section 63c extends parallel to the first straight section 63a. The third straight section 63c is an example of a "third extension".

[0095] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 61, connecting portion 62, first straight portion 63a, second straight portion 63b, and third straight portion 63c of the busbar 42B are included in the horizontal plate portion 42p and are located on the same plane. The connecting portion 61, connecting portion 62, first straight portion 63a, second straight portion 63b, and third straight portion 63c of the busbar 42B are housed, for example, in the housing portion 55.

[0096] In this embodiment, the width W23 in the Y direction of the second linear portion 63b of the busbar 42B is greater than the width W22 in the X direction of the first linear portion 63a of the busbar 42B. The width W22 is, for example, the width in the X direction of the portion of the busbar 42B located in the region R that overlaps with the electronic component 10A when viewed from the Z direction. The width W22 is, for example, the minimum width in the X direction of the first linear portion 63a. The width W23 is, for example, the minimum width in the Y direction of the second linear portion 63b.

[0097] In this embodiment, at least a portion (e.g., all) of the first linear section 63a and at least a portion (e.g., all) of the second linear section 63b are housed in the housing section 55. Inside the housing section 55, the width W23 of the second linear section 63b in the Y direction is greater than the width W22 of the first linear section 63a in the X direction.

[0098] From another perspective, in this embodiment, the width W23 in the Y direction of the second straight section 63b of the busbar 42B is larger than the width W13 in the X direction of the connecting component 20B (see Figure 7).

[0099] <6. Configuration of the Subunit SUT> Next, we will explain the configuration of the subunit SUT. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a subunit SUT. The subunit SUT includes, for example, a plurality of electronic components 10, a wiring structure 40T, an auxiliary base member 101 (see Figure 16), and a metal part 90 (see Figure 14).

[0100] <6.1 Electronic Components> First, let's describe the electronic component 10. The multiple electronic component 10 includes multiple electronic component 10TA (only one is shown in Figure 12) and multiple electronic component 10TB (only one is shown in Figure 12). Note that the multiple electronic component 10 may have only one of either electronic component 10TA or electronic component 10TB.

[0101] Electronic component 10TA is an example of the electronic component 10T described above. Electronic component 10TA is an electronic component that generates less heat when energized compared to electronic component 10S. On the other hand, electronic component 10TB is another example of the electronic component 10T described above. Electronic component 10TB is an electronic component that is less mountable than electronic component 10S (for example, it requires a complex implementation structure). Electronic component 10TB has, for example, a terminal 13 that protrudes in the -Z direction toward the planar portion 111 of the metal plate 110 (see Figure 16). Electronic component 10TB generates less heat when energized compared to electronic component 10S.

[0102] In the following, when electronic component 10TA and electronic component 10TB are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "electronic component 10T". Electronic component 10T may be, for example, a connector, fuse, capacitor, branching component, various sensors (e.g., current sensor or voltage sensor), an electronic control unit, or an electronic component unit that combines two or more of these. However, the types of electronic component 10T are not limited to the examples above.

[0103] Figure 13 is a front view showing an electronic component 10TA. The electronic component 10TA is an electronic component in which, for example, a plurality of terminals 13 are arranged separately at both horizontal ends of the electronic component 10TA. In this embodiment, terminals 13A and 13B are arranged separately at both ends in the Y direction of the electronic component 10TA. Terminals 13A and 13B protrude horizontally (for example, in the +Y direction or -Y direction) from the center of the case 11 in the Z direction. Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h through which a fastening member 43 (for example, a screw or bolt) is passed. The mounting hole 13h opens in the Z direction.

[0104] <6.2 Cable Management Structure> Next, we will return to Figure 12 and describe the wiring structure 40T. The wiring structure 40T is a member that forms at least a portion of the current supply path between a plurality of electronic components 10 (e.g., a plurality of electronic components 10T), and / or at least a portion of the current supply path between an electronic component 10 (e.g., an electronic component 10T) included in a subunit SUT and an electronic component 10 included in another subunit SU (e.g., subunit SUS). The wiring structure 40T includes, for example, a base member 41T, one or more (e.g., a plurality) busbars 42, and a plurality of fastening members 43. Note that the fastening members 43 are the same as those described for the subunit SUS, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0105] <6.2.1 Base Components> Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the base member 41T. The base member 41T is a support member that integrally supports a plurality of busbars 42 arranged horizontally with spacing between them. The base member 41T is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base member 41T electrically insulates the plurality of busbars 42 from each other by, for example, ribs (not shown). The base member 41T may also be called an "insulating substrate". The base member 41T has a three-dimensional structure that is thicker in the Z direction compared to the base plate 41S included in the subunit SUS. The base member 41T has, for example, a support wall 81, a frame portion 85 (peripheral wall portion), and a fixing portion 87.

[0106] (Supporting wall) The support wall 81 is, for example, a plate-shaped wall portion that runs horizontally. Multiple bus bars 42 are placed on the support wall 81 and supported from below by the support wall 81 (see Figure 12). Note that the support wall 81 that supports the bus bars 42 is not limited to a wall portion that runs horizontally, but may also be a lattice-shaped wall portion formed by multiple ribs extending in the Z direction. In this embodiment, a fastening member 43 is attached to the support wall 81. The fastening member 43 protrudes from the support wall 81 in the +Z direction.

[0107] (A housing for electronic components) In this embodiment, the base member 41T has a housing portion 84A that opens on the +Z direction side. The housing portion 84A is, for example, a recess in the Z direction in which a part of the support wall 81 is recessed, or a through hole that penetrates the support wall 81 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the housing portion 84A has an outer shape that corresponds to the shape of the case 11 (i.e., the main body portion 12) of the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10T). At least a part of the electronic component 10 (e.g., at least a part of the main body portion 12) is housed in the housing portion 84A. At least a part of the electronic component 10 housed in the housing portion 84A is located on the -Z direction side relative to the support wall 81.

[0108] (A housing for the metal part) In this embodiment, the base member 41T has a housing portion 84B that opens on the +Z direction side. The housing portion 84B is, for example, a recess in which a part of the support wall 81 is recessed in the Z direction, or a through hole that penetrates the support wall 81 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the housing portion 84B has an outer shape corresponding to the shape of the metal portion 90, which will be described later. At least a part of the metal portion 90 is housed in the housing portion 84B. At least a part of the metal portion 90 housed in the housing portion 84B is located on the -Z direction side relative to the support wall 81.

[0109] (Frame) The frame portion 85 is provided at the peripheral end of the base member 41T. The frame portion 85 is a rib (peripheral wall portion) extending in the Z direction at the peripheral end of the base member 41T. The width (thickness) H21 of the frame portion 85 (peripheral wall portion) in the Z direction is, for example, more than half of the width (thickness) H22 of the electronic component 10 (for example, electronic component 10TA) in the Z direction (see Figure 16). Note that the frame portion 85 may be omitted.

[0110] (fixed part) The fixing portion 87 is the part that is fixed to the metal plate 110 (see Figure 16). The fixing portion 87 faces the fixing portion 112 of the metal plate 110 in the Z direction. The fixing portion 87 has a mounting hole 87h that penetrates the base member 41T in the Z direction. A fastening member 115 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is passed through the mounting hole 87h. When the fastening member 115 passed through the mounting hole 87h engages with the engagement hole 112h of the fixing portion 112 of the metal plate 110, the base member 41T is fixed to the metal plate 110.

[0111] <6.2.2 Busbar> Next, we will describe the bus bar 42 included in the cable routing structure 40T. Figure 15 is a plan view showing the subunit SUT. The busbar 42 is a wiring member (electrical connection member) included in the wiring structure 40T. The busbar 42 is, for example, a wiring member for electrically connecting multiple electronic components 10 (e.g., multiple electronic components 10T). Alternatively, the busbar 42 may be a wiring member for connecting an electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10T) to an electronic component 10 included in another subunit SU (e.g., subunit SUS). In this embodiment, the multiple busbars 42 are supported from below by the base member 41T and are positioned away from the metal plate 110. The busbars 42 are positioned, for example, directly below the terminals 13 of the electronic component 10. When viewed from the X or Y direction, the busbars 42 overlap with the component body 12 of the electronic component 10 (see Figure 17).

[0112] The multiple busbars 42 include, for example, four busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, and 42I. The four busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, and 42I are arranged horizontally with space between them. The four busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, and 42I include portions that are arranged on the same plane as each other. At least a portion of each busbar 42 is a horizontal plate portion 42p. In this embodiment, each busbar 42 is plate-shaped along its entire length in the horizontal direction. The horizontal plate portion 42p of each busbar 42 includes a connecting portion 61, a connecting portion 62, and an extension portion 63. In this embodiment, the subunit SUT has an electronic component 10D as one of the electronic components 10TA.

[0113] The connector 61 of busbar 42E is connected to busbar 42 included in subunit SUS. Similarly, the connector 61 of busbar 42F is connected to busbar 42 included in subunit SUS. The connector 62 of busbar 42F is physically and electrically connected to terminal 13A of electronic component 10D. For example, terminal 13A of electronic component 10D is connected to the connector 62 of busbar 42F by being placed on the horizontal plate portion 42p of busbar 42F.

[0114] The connector 61 of the busbar 42G is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13B of the electronic component 10D. For example, the terminal 13B of the electronic component 10D is connected to the connector 61 of the busbar 42G by being placed on the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42G. The connector 61 of the busbar 42G is an example of a "first connector". The connector 62 of the busbar 42G is physically and electrically connected to an external busbar 76. The connector 62 of the busbar 42G is connected to an external device via the busbar 76. The connector 62 of the busbar 42G is an example of a "second connector". The busbar 76 is an example of an "external connection component". Note that the connector 62 of the busbar 42G may be physically and electrically connected to the terminal 13 of another electronic component 10 instead of the busbar 76.

[0115] The connector 61 of busbar 42I is connected to busbar 42 included in subunit SUS. The connector 62 of busbar 42I is physically and electrically connected to terminal 13A of electronic component 10T (not shown).

[0116] <6.3 Auxiliary base member> Next, the auxiliary base member 101 will be described. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view along the line F16-F16 of the structure shown in Figure 15. The auxiliary base member 101 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and is insulating. Multiple wirings 102 are provided on the surface of the auxiliary base member 101. The wirings 102 are, for example, conductive layers (metal layers) provided on the surface of the auxiliary base member 101. The auxiliary base member 101 is positioned in the Z direction between the base member 41T and the planar portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The auxiliary base member 101 faces the electronic component 10TB from the -Z direction side. The terminals 13 of the electronic component 10TB are electrically connected to the wirings 102 provided on the auxiliary base member 101 at a position between the base member 41T and the planar portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The auxiliary base member 101 is an example of a "third base member".

[0117] <6.4 Metal parts> <6.4.1 Structure of the metal parts> Next, with reference to Figure 14, the metal part 90 will be described. The metal part 90 is, for example, a structure that reduces thermal interference from external equipment to the electronic components 10 included in the subunit SUT.

[0118] The metal part 90 is a heat transfer part that, for example, transmits a portion of the heat directed from an external device to the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10T) via the busbar 76 to the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110, which will be described later. Alternatively, the metal part 90 may be a heat transfer part that transmits at least a portion of the heat emitted by the electronic component 10 and at least a portion of the heat emitted by the busbar 42 itself to the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 is positioned away from the busbar 42 in the Z direction. The flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 faces the busbar 42 in the Z direction. The flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 is an example of an "opposing portion".

[0119] The metal part 90 is, for example, a heat storage member (heat absorption member) that increases the heat capacity of the electrical circuit included in the subunit SUT. The metal part 90 stores (absorbs) some of the heat that is directed from external equipment to the electronic component 10 (e.g., electronic component 10T) via the bus bar 76. Alternatively, the metal part 90 may store (absorb) at least some of the heat emitted by the electronic component 10 and at least some of the heat emitted by the bus bar 42 itself. When the metal part 90 is used as a heat storage member, the metal part 90 does not need to be thermally connected to the metal plate 110.

[0120] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view along the line F17-F17 of the structure shown in Figure 15. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view along the line F18-F18 of the structure shown in Figure 15. In this embodiment, the metal part 90 is provided separately from the metal plate 110. The metal part 90 is, for example, a solid metal block. The shape of the metal part 90 is not limited to the above example. The metal part 90 may be a member having an I-shaped, L-shaped, or C-shaped cross-sectional shape. The metal part 90 may be integrally formed with the base member 41T by insert molding.

[0121] The thickness H31 of the metal part 90 in the Z direction is greater than the thickness T1 of the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42 in the Z direction. For example, the thickness H31 of the metal part 90 in the Z direction is more than twice the thickness T1 of the horizontal plate portion 42p of the busbar 42 in the Z direction.

[0122] In this embodiment, the width W31 of the metal part 90 in the X direction is greater than the width W32 of the electronic component 10 in the X direction (see Figure 15). From another perspective, the width W31 of the metal part 90 in the X direction (see Figure 15) is greater than the thickness H31 of the metal part 90 in the Z direction (see Figure 18) as described above.

[0123] In this embodiment, the base member 41T is positioned between the busbar 42 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The base member 41T has a housing portion 84B that opens in the Z direction. At least a portion of the metal portion 90 is housed in the housing portion 84B.

[0124] The metal part 90 is positioned between the bus bar 42 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 in the Z direction. The metal part 90 faces the bus bar 42 from the Z direction and is thermally connected to the bus bar 42.

[0125] In this embodiment, the metal part 90 is positioned, for example, between the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The metal part 90 faces the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42 from the Z direction and is thermally connected to the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42.

[0126] In this embodiment, the metal part 90 has an engagement hole 90h that opens in the +Z direction. The inner circumferential surface of the engagement hole 90h has a screw groove. The extension portion 63 of the busbar 42 has a through hole 42h that faces the engagement hole 90h. A fastening member 117 (for example, a screw or bolt) is passed through the through hole 42h of the busbar 42 from the +Z direction side. When the fastening member 117 passed through the through hole 42h of the busbar 42 engages with the engagement hole 90h of the metal part 90, the extension portion 63 of the busbar 42 is fixed to the metal part 90.

[0127] In this embodiment, a heat transfer member 120 is placed between the metal part 90 and the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110. Alternatively, in addition to the above example, a heat transfer member 120 may be placed between the metal part 90 and the busbar 42.

[0128] As shown in Figure 15, when viewed from the Z direction, the metal part 90 is positioned between the terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 and the bus bar 76 for external connection. Therefore, heat directed from the bus bar 76 to the electronic component 10 through the bus bar 42 is more likely to transfer to the metal part 90 before reaching the electronic component 10.

[0129] The metal part 90 includes, for example, a first part 91 and a second part 92. The first part 91 is located on the +Y side with respect to the terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The second part 92 is located on the -X side or the +X side with respect to the terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The first part 91 and the second part 92 are formed integrally. With this configuration, it is easier to secure a larger volume for the metal part 90 compared to a rectangular parallelepiped metal part 90.

[0130] <6.4.2 Modifications of Metal Parts> Next, a modified example of the metal part 90 will be described. Note that, apart from the configuration described below, the configuration of each modified example is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0131] (First variation) Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the subunit SUT of the first modified example. In the embodiment described above, the metal part 90 is thermally connected to the metal plate 110 and functions as a heat transfer part. On the other hand, in this modified example, the metal part 90 is not thermally connected to the metal plate 110. The metal part 90 functions as a heat storage member (heat absorption member). For example, a part of the base member 41T is provided between the metal part 90 and the metal plate 110.

[0132] (Second variation) Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a subunit SUT of a second modified example. In the embodiment described above, the metal part 90 and the metal plate 110 are formed as separate parts. On the other hand, in this modified example, the metal part 90 and the metal plate 110 are formed as a single piece. The metal part 90 is provided as part of the metal plate 110 and is formed integrally with the flat part 111. The metal part 90 is a projection that protrudes from the flat part 111 toward the bus bar 42. In the example shown in Figure 20, the heat transfer member 120 is arranged between the metal part 90 and the bus bar 42.

[0133] (Third variation) Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a subunit SUT of a third modified example. In this modified example, the metal part 90 is provided by deforming a part of the planar portion 111 of the metal plate 110 toward the +Z direction by press working or the like. In this modified example as well, the metal part 90 is provided as part of the metal plate 110 and is formed integrally with the planar portion 111. The metal part 90 is a projection that protrudes from the planar portion 111 toward the busbar 42. In the example shown in Figure 21, the heat transfer member 120 is positioned between the metal part 90 and the busbar 42.

[0134] (Fourth variation) Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a subunit SUT of the fourth modified example. In the embodiment described above, the metal part 90 is fixed to the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42. Alternatively, the metal part 90 may be fixed to at least one of the connection portion 61 and the connection portion 62 of the busbar 42. For example, the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the connection portion 61 of the busbar 42 may be fastened together by the fastening member 117 that fixes the busbar 42 and the metal part 90, or the busbar 76 for external connection and the connection portion 62 of the busbar 42 may be fastened together. Furthermore, the metal part 90 provided corresponding to the connection portion 61 or connection portion 62 of the busbar 42 may have any of the first to third modified examples described above.

[0135] <7. Subunit connection structure> Next, we will describe the connecting structure between multiple subunits SU. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing the connection structure between subunit SUS and subunit SUT. In this embodiment, a step ST is formed between subunit SUS and subunit SUT based on the difference in height in the Z direction between the base plate 41S of subunit SUS and the base member 41T of subunit SUT. Using this step ST, a cross structure is realized in which the busbar 42 included in subunit SUS and the busbar 42 included in subunit SUT intersect in three dimensions.

[0136] For example, the busbars 42E, 42F, and 42I included in the subunit SUT maintain their height in the Z direction supported by the base member 41T and extend in the -Y direction to a position where they overlap with the base plate 41S of the subunit SUS in the Z direction. Each connection portion 61 of the busbars 42E, 42F, and 42I moves away from the base plate 41S of the subunit SUS in the Z direction, while facing the base plate 41S of the subunit SUS in the Z direction.

[0137] On the other hand, the connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42A included in the subunit SUS is raised in the +Z direction relative to the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 42A and is in contact with the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42E from the -Z direction side. The connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42A and the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42E are fixed together by a fastening member 43 and an engaging member 44.

[0138] Similarly, the connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42C included in the subunit SUS is raised in the +Z direction relative to the extended portion 63 of the bus bar 42C and is in contact with the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42I from the -Z direction side. The connection portion 62 of the bus bar 42C and the connection portion 61 of the bus bar 42I are fixed together by a fastening member 43 and an engaging member 44.

[0139] The extended portion 63 of the busbar 42D included in the subunit SUS extends in the X direction through the space between the flat portion 111 of the metal plate 110 and the busbar 42I. For example, the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42D extends across the +X and -X directions of the busbar 42I, passing through a region that overlaps with the busbar 42I when viewed from the Z direction. The connecting portion 62 of the busbar 42D is raised in the +Z direction relative to the extended portion 63 of the busbar 42D and is in contact with the connecting portion 61 of the busbar 42F from the -Z direction. The connecting portion 62 of the busbar 42D and the connecting portion 61 of the busbar 42F are fixed together by a fastening member 43 and an engaging member 44.

[0140] <8. Busbar extension structure> Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view along the line F24-F24 of the structure shown in Figure 15. In this embodiment, one busbar 42 (busbar 42K) is positioned between the base member 41T and the planar portion 111 of the metal plate 110, and extends in the Y direction through the gap S2 between the base member 41T and the planar portion 111 of the metal plate 110. The busbar 42K extends, for example, across the -Y direction side and the +Y direction side of the base member 41T. The connector 61 of the busbar 42K is physically and electrically connected to the busbar 42 included in the subunit SUS. The connector 62 of the busbar 42K is physically and electrically connected to the external busbar 76. The busbar 42K is an example of a "third busbar".

[0141] <9. Metal plate and insulating cover> Next, we will return to Figure 2 and describe the metal plate 110 and the insulating cover 130.

[0142] <9.1 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".

[0143] 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 9), and the aforementioned plurality of fixing portions 113 (see Figure 9).

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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 multiple electronic components 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.

[0146] 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 multiple electronic components 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.

[0147] <9.2 Insulating Cover> The insulating cover 130 is a member for preventing a finger from touching the current-carrying path of the sub-unit SU. The insulating cover 130 is made of, for example, a 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 sub-unit SU. Note that the insulating cover 130 is not limited to a box-shaped member and may be a sheet-shaped member that covers the current-carrying path of the main body unit MU. Also, the insulating cover 130 may be omitted.

[0148] <10. Advantages> <A. Advantages regarding multiple area divisions in the electrical connection unit> As a comparative example, consider a configuration in which an electronic component for which heat dissipation should be prioritized and an electronic component for which mounting performance should be prioritized are attached to one base member. In such a configuration, when a thin base member is adopted, it becomes difficult to improve the mounting performance, and when a relatively thick base member is adopted, it may become difficult to improve the heat dissipation.

[0149] On the other hand, the electrical connection unit of this embodiment (for example, electrical connection unit 1) includes a rigid member (for example, a metal plate 110), a first electronic component (for example, an electronic component 10S), a first base member (for example, a base plate 41S), first busbars (for example, busbars 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D), a second electronic component (for example, an electronic component 10T), a second base member (for example, a base member 41T), and second busbars (for example, busbars 42E, 42F, 42G, 42I). The rigid member includes a first region (for example, a first region A1) and a second region (for example, a second region A2). The first electronic component faces the first region in a first direction. The first base member faces the first region in a first direction, has a flat portion (for example, a flat portion 51), and is insulating. The first busbars are supported by the flat portion and are electrically connected to the first electronic component. The second electronic component faces the second region in the first direction and generates less heat than the first electronic component. The second base member faces the second region in the first direction, has a three-dimensional structure that is thicker in the first direction compared to the first base member, and is insulating. The second busbar is supported by the second base member and electrically connected to the second electronic component.

[0150] With this configuration, by utilizing a first base member having a flat surface, the first electronic component, where heat dissipation is important, can be placed near the rigid member, and the rigid member can be used as a heat dissipation member to promote heat release. On the other hand, by utilizing a second base member having a thick three-dimensional structure in the first direction, the second electronic component, where mountability is important, can be appropriately mounted. By using these areas appropriately, it is possible to provide an electrical connection unit that achieves both heat dissipation and mountability.

[0151] In this embodiment, the first electronic component faces the flat surface. The second base member has a housing portion (e.g., housing portion 84A) that is recessed in the first direction or penetrates the second base member in the first direction. At least a portion of the second electronic component is housed in the housing portion. With this configuration, the first electronic component, for which heat dissipation is important, can be exposed to the outside of the first base member to enhance heat dissipation, while the second electronic component can be placed in the housing portion of the second base member. With this configuration, even when using a relatively thick second base member, the overall height of the electrical connection unit can be reduced.

[0152] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further comprises a heat transfer member (e.g., heat transfer member 120). The first busbar includes an exposed portion (e.g., exposed portion 42u) exposed in the gap between the flat portion and the rigid member. The heat transfer member is positioned between the exposed portion of the first busbar and the rigid member. With this configuration, the first electronic component, for which heat dissipation is important, and the rigid member can be more firmly thermally connected. Such a thermal connection can further improve heat dissipation.

[0153] In this embodiment, the first electronic component has a terminal (e.g., terminal 13) facing a second direction different from the first direction. The second electronic component has a terminal (e.g., terminal 13) protruding in the first direction toward the rigid member. Here, the second electronic component having a terminal protruding in the first direction toward the rigid member is an electronic component whose mounting structure tends to be complex. However, by using a second base member that is thick in the first direction, even a second electronic component whose mounting structure tends to be complex can be easily mounted appropriately. This mounting structure can improve mountability.

[0154] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a third base member (for example, the auxiliary base member 101). The third base member is disposed between the second base member and the rigid member in the first direction, and a wiring (for example, the wiring 102) to which the terminals of the second electronic component are electrically connected is provided. According to such a configuration, by disposing the third base member between the second base member and the rigid member, even for a second electronic component whose mounting structure tends to be complicated, it becomes easier to appropriately mount the second electronic component. With this mounting structure, the mounting property can be improved.

[0155] In this embodiment, the second bus bar protrudes from the second base member to a position overlapping the first base member in the first direction. The first bus bar extends through between the rigid member and the second bus bar. According to such a configuration, it is possible to realize an intersection structure in which the first bus bar and the second bus bar intersect three-dimensionally by utilizing the difference in thickness between the first base member and the second base member. With this intersection structure, the degree of freedom in wiring and / or the degree of freedom in component arrangement within the electrical connection unit can be increased.

[0156] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a third bus bar (for example, the bus bar 42K). The third bus bar is disposed between the second base member and the rigid member in the first direction and is electrically connected to the first bus bar. According to such a configuration, the third bus bar can be disposed by utilizing the gap between the second base member and the rigid member. With this arrangement of the bus bar, the degree of freedom in wiring and / or the degree of freedom in component arrangement within the electrical connection unit can be increased.

[0157] <B. Advantages Regarding the Metal Part> As a comparative example, consider a configuration in which the metal part 90 is not provided. In such a configuration, for example, when the bus bar 42 does not have a sufficiently large heat capacity, if heat is transferred from the bus bar 76 to the bus bar 42, the thermal interference with the electronic component 10 may increase. Therefore, it may be difficult to improve the thermal characteristics.

[0158] On the other hand, the electrical connection unit of this embodiment (for example, electrical connection unit 1) has a first electronic component (for example, electronic component 10), a busbar (for example, busbar 42), and a metal part (for example, metal part 90). The busbar includes a plate portion (for example, a horizontal plate portion 42p) and is electrically connected to the first electronic component. The metal part faces the busbar in a first direction which is the thickness direction of the plate portion and is thermally connected to the busbar. The thickness of the metal part in the first direction (for example, thickness H31) is at least twice the thickness of the plate portion (for example, thickness T1). With this configuration, at least a portion of the heat transmitted to the busbar is stored (absorbed) by the metal part. This heat storage effect can improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0159] In this embodiment, the busbar includes a first connection portion (e.g., connection portion 61), a second connection portion (e.g., connection portion 62), and an extension portion (e.g., extension portion 63). The first connection portion is electrically connected to the first electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10). The second connection portion is electrically connected to the second electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10) or an external connection component (e.g., busbar 76). The extension portion extends between the first connection portion and the second connection portion. At least a portion of the metal part faces the extension portion of the busbar. With this configuration, the metal part can be provided without interfering with the fastening structure provided on the first connection portion or the second connection portion. This structure increases the degree of freedom in the shape or size of the metal part, and further improves the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0160] In this embodiment, when the extension direction of the busbar is defined as the second direction, and the direction intersecting the first and second directions is defined as the third direction, the width of the metal part in the third direction is greater than the width of the first electronic component in the third direction. With this configuration, the metal part, which is larger than the width of the busbar, is arranged, and the heat capacity can be greatly increased by the metal part. This increase in heat capacity can further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0161] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a rigid member (e.g., a metal plate 110) in addition to the first electronic component, the busbar, and the metal part. The rigid member includes an opposing portion (e.g., a flat portion 111) that faces the busbar in a first direction. The metal part is provided as part of or separately from the metal member. The metal part is positioned between the busbar and the opposing portion in the first direction. With this configuration, the metal part can transfer at least a portion of the heat from the busbar to the rigid member, and the rigid member can be used as a heat dissipation member to release the heat. This heat dissipation action can further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0162] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a heat transfer member. The heat transfer member is positioned between the busbar and the metal part, or between the metal part and the opposing part. This configuration allows for a stronger thermal connection between the busbar and the rigid member. This thermal connection further improves the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0163] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a base member (for example, base member 41T). The base member is disposed between the bus bar and the opposing portion in the first direction. The base member supports the bus bar and is insulating. The base member has a housing portion (for example, housing portion 84B) that opens in the first direction. At least a part of the metal portion is disposed in the housing portion. According to such a configuration, even if the metal portion is provided, it is possible to avoid an increase in the size of the electrical connection unit. This structure makes it easier to reduce the size of the electrical connection unit (for example, make it lower profile).

[0164] In this embodiment, the metal portion is a metal block provided separately from the rigid member. According to such a configuration, it is easier to increase the heat capacity more by the metal portion. With this increase in heat capacity, further improvement in the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit can be achieved.

[0165] In this embodiment, the metal portion is provided as a part of the rigid member and is a protruding portion that protrudes in the first direction from the opposing portion. According to such a configuration, the metal portion can be provided by using a part of the rigid member. With this structure, cost reduction of the electrical connection unit can be achieved.

[0166] <Advantages Regarding the First Shape Example of the Bus Bar> As a comparative example, consider a bus bar in which the width of the connection portion 61 and the width of the extension portion 63 are the same. In such a configuration, compared with the extension portion 63, the temperature locally rises at the connection portion connected to the electronic component 10, and it may be difficult to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0167] On the other hand, the busbar of this embodiment (for example, busbar 42) has a first connecting portion (for example, connecting portion 61) and a first extension portion (for example, the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63). The first connecting portion is connected directly to a first terminal (for example, terminal 13A) of an electronic component (for example, electronic component 10) or via a first connecting component (for example, connecting component 20A). The first extension portion extends from the first connecting portion. When the thickness direction of the first extension portion is defined as the first direction, the extension direction of the first extension portion as the second direction, and the direction intersecting the first and second directions as the third direction, the width of the first connecting portion in the third direction (for example, width W11) is greater than the width of the first extension portion in the third direction (for example, W12).

[0168] With this configuration, the width of the first connection portion connected to the electronic component is increased, and the thermal properties of the first connection portion (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) are improved. This structure makes it possible to suppress a localized temperature rise at the first connection portion compared to the first extension portion, thereby improving the thermal properties of the electrical connection unit.

[0169] In this embodiment, the first connection portion has a first edge (e.g., edge 61e1) extending in the second direction and a second edge (e.g., edge 61e2) located on the opposite side of the first edge in the third direction and extending in the second direction. The first extension portion has a third edge (e.g., edge 63e1) extending in the second direction and a fourth edge (e.g., edge 61e2) located on the opposite side of the third edge in the third direction and extending in the second direction. The first edge and the third edge are linearly continuous in the first direction. A step exists between the second edge and the fourth edge in the third direction. With this configuration, the width of the first connection portion can be increased compared to the first extension portion, and it becomes easier to arrange other components (e.g., electronic components 10 or busbars 42) along the linearly continuous first and third edges. This structure makes it possible to miniaturize the electrical connection unit.

[0170] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a base member (e.g., a base plate 41S) in addition to the busbar. The base member includes a flat portion (e.g., a flat portion 51) and is insulating. The base member has a housing portion (e.g., a housing portion 55) that is recessed in the first direction or penetrates the base member in the first direction. At least a portion of the first connection portion and at least a portion of the first extension portion are housed in the housing portion. Inside the housing portion, the width of the first connection portion in the third direction is greater than the width of the first extension portion in the third direction. With this configuration, since at least a portion of the first connection portion and at least a portion of the first extension portion are housed in the housing portion of the base member, even if the width of the first connection portion is increased compared to the first extension portion, dead space is less likely to be created within the electrical connection unit. This structure makes it possible to provide an electrical connection unit that is even more advantageous for miniaturization.

[0171] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further includes a first connecting component (e.g., connecting component 20A). The width of the first extension in the third direction is the same as or smaller than the width of the first connecting component in the third direction (e.g., width W13). On the other hand, the width of the first connecting component in the third direction is larger than the width of the first connecting component in the third direction. With this configuration, the first connecting component is expanded beyond the width originally required. This structure makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0172] The electrical connection unit further includes a second bus bar (e.g., bus bar 42B). The second bus bar includes a second connection part (e.g., connection part 61) and a second extension part (e.g., the first straight part 63a of extension part 63). The second connection part is adjacent to the first connection part in the third direction and is connected to the second terminal (e.g., terminal 13B) of the electronic component directly or via a second connection component (e.g., connection component 20B). The second extension part is adjacent to the first extension part in the third direction and extends from the second connection part in the second direction. The first connection part protrudes to the side opposite to the second bus bar with respect to the first extension part. The second connection part protrudes to the side opposite to the first bus bar with respect to the second extension part. According to such a configuration, even when each of the first connection part of the first bus bar and the second connection part of the second bus bar is enlarged in the third direction, the first bus bar and the second bus bar can be arranged close to each other. With this structure, further miniaturization of the electrical connection unit can be achieved.

[0173] <Advantages Regarding the Second Shape Example of the Bus Bar> As a comparative example, consider a bus bar in which the extension part 63 extends from the connection part 61 to the connection part 62 in the shortest distance. In such a configuration, heat is likely to be transmitted from the connection part 61 to the connection part 62, and it may be difficult to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0174] On the other hand, the busbar of this embodiment (for example, busbar 42) has a first connection portion (for example, connection portion 61), a second connection portion (for example, connection portion 62), a first extension portion (for example, the first straight portion 63a of the extension portion 63), and a second extension portion (for example, the second straight portion 63b of the extension portion 63). The first connection portion is connected to a first electronic component (for example, electronic component 10A) directly or via a connecting component (for example, connecting component 20B). The second connection portion is connected to a second electronic component (for example, electronic component 10B) directly or via a connecting component (for example, connecting component 20C). The first extension portion extends from the first connection portion in a direction different from the direction from the first connection portion to the second connection portion. The first extension portion includes a first part and a second part. The first part is connected to the first extension portion. The second portion is located on the opposite side of the first portion from the second connecting portion in the extension direction of the first extension portion. The second extension portion extends from the second portion of the first extension portion toward the second connecting portion.

[0175] In this configuration, the first extension does not extend from the first connection to the second connection in the shortest distance, but rather deliberately takes a detour. When a busbar has an extension that takes a detour, the thermal properties (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the portion of the busbar that takes a detour can be improved. This structure makes it possible to improve the thermal properties of the electrical connection unit.

[0176] In this embodiment, the busbar further has a third extension (for example, a third straight section 63c). The second extension extends in a direction approaching the second connection from the second portion of the first extension, and in a direction different from the direction going from the second portion of the first extension to the second connection via the shortest distance. With this configuration, the second extension does not extend from the first extension towards the second connection via the shortest distance, but rather extends by deliberately taking a detour. This structure makes it possible to further enhance the thermal properties of the busbar (for example, heat storage and / or heat dissipation), and to further improve the thermal properties of the electrical connection unit.

[0177] In this embodiment, the first extended portion and the second extended portion are located on the same plane. When the thickness direction of the first extended portion and the second extended portion is defined as the first direction, the extension direction of the first extended portion as the second direction, and the extension direction of the second extended portion as the third direction, the width of the second extended portion in the direction intersecting the first and third directions (e.g., width W23) is greater than the width of the first extended portion in the direction intersecting the first and second directions (e.g., width W22). With this configuration, the width of the second extended portion is increased, and the thermal properties of the second extended portion (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) are improved. This structure makes it possible to suppress localized temperature increases at the first or second connection portion, thereby improving the thermal properties of the electrical connection unit.

[0178] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further comprises an insulating base member (e.g., base plate 41S) including a flat portion (e.g., flat portion 51). The base member has a housing portion (e.g., housing portion 55) that is recessed in a first direction, which is the thickness direction of the plate portion, or penetrates the base member in the first direction. At least a portion of the first extension portion and at least a portion of the second extension portion are housed in the housing portion. Inside the housing portion, the width of the second extension portion is greater than the width of the first extension portion. With this configuration, since at least a portion of the first extension portion and at least a portion of the second extension portion are housed in the housing portion of the base member, even if the width of the second extension portion is increased compared to the first extension portion, dead space is less likely to be created within the electrical connection unit. This structure makes it possible to provide an electrical connection unit that is even more advantageous for miniaturization.

[0179] In this embodiment, when the thickness direction of the plate portion is considered the first direction, at least a portion of the first extended portion overlaps with the first electronic component in the first direction, while the second extended portion does not overlap with the first electronic component or the second electronic component in the first direction. With this configuration, the width of the second extended portion is increased in the region that does not overlap with the electronic components (the region in which the electronic components do not easily obstruct heat dissipation). This structure allows heat to be dissipated effectively from the widened second extended portion, further improving the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0180] <11. Variant> Next, we will describe some variations. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations in each variation are the same as those in the embodiments described above.

[0181] (First variation) The routing substrate 40S is not limited to a structure in which the base plate 41S and the bus bar 42 are integrated by insert molding. For example, the base plate 41S, which is provided with a housing portion 55 for housing the bus bar 42, may be molded, and then the bus bar 42 may be placed in the housing portion 55. In this case, the bus bar 42 may be fixed to the housing portion 55 by fitting, or by adhesive or other fixing means. In these cases, potting may be applied to fill the gap between the bus bar 42 and the housing portion 55.

[0182] (Second variation) The base member of the cable routing substrate 40S is not limited to a base plate 41S having a plate-shaped flat portion 51. The cable routing substrate 40S 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).

[0183] (Third variation) The base plate 41S of the cable routing substrate 40S may include a plurality of members (plate members or sheet members). The plurality of members are provided so as to sandwich a plurality of bus bars 42 arranged in the horizontal direction. For example, the plurality of members may be integrated by sandwiching a plurality of bus bars 42, for example, by lamination molding. The plurality of members form a planar portion 51. In this case, the housing portion 55 may be formed hollow inside the base plate 41S (between the plurality of members). The plurality of members may be a plurality of plate members, a plurality of sheet members, or a combination of plate members and sheet members. The sheet members may be, for example, flexible sheet members. The planar portion 51 formed by the plurality of members has openings that expose at least the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 of the bus bars 42.

[0184] (Fourth 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.

[0185] Several embodiments and modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, the modifications described above may be implemented in combination with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 1…Electrical connection unit SU, SUS, SUT… Subunit 10, 10S, 10T, 10TA, 10TB… Electronic components 13, 13A, 13B… terminals 20…Connecting parts 40S… Circuit board for cable routing 40T... Cable routing structure 41S…Base plate 41T...Base component 42... Bus bar 51...Plane part 52...frame section 55...Detention Unit 61...Connection part 62...Connection part 63…Extension part 63a...first straight section 63aa...first end (first part) 63ab…Second end (second part) 63b…Second straight section 63c...Third straight section 84A, 84B… Storage section 85...frame section 90…Metal parts 101... Auxiliary base member 102...Wiring 110…Metal plate (rigid member, metal member, heat dissipation member) 111...Plane part (opposing part) 120… Heat transfer components

Claims

1. A rigid member including a first region and a second region, A first electronic component facing the first region in the first direction, An insulating first base member facing the first region in the first direction and including a flat portion, A first busbar is supported on the flat surface and electrically connected to the first electronic component, A second electronic component that faces the second region in the first direction and generates less heat than the first electronic component, An insulating second base member facing the second region in the first direction and having a three-dimensional structure that is thicker in the first direction compared to the first base member, A second busbar supported by the second base member and electrically connected to the second electronic component, An electrical connection unit equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The first electronic component faces the planar portion in the first direction, The second base member has a housing portion that is recessed in the first direction or penetrates the second base member in the first direction. At least a portion of the second electronic component is housed in the housing. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

3. Further equipped with heat transfer components, The first busbar includes an exposed portion that is exposed in the gap between the flat portion and the rigid member, The heat transfer member is positioned between the exposed portion of the first busbar and the rigid member. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The first electronic component has terminals facing a second direction different from the first direction, The second electronic component has a terminal that protrudes in the first direction toward the rigid member, The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. The present invention further comprises a third base member positioned between the second base member and the rigid member in the first direction, and provided with wiring to which the terminals of the second electronic component are electrically connected. The electrical connection unit according to claim 4.

6. The second busbar protrudes from the second base member to a position where it overlaps with the first base member in the first direction. The first busbar extends through the space between the rigid member and the second busbar. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. The system further comprises a third busbar positioned between the second base member and the rigid member in the first direction and electrically connected to the first busbar, The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

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