Electrical connection unit

Abstract

One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that can improve ease of assembly. [Solution] An electrical connection unit of one embodiment comprises a plurality of first modules, each having an electronic component and a first rigid member on which the electronic component is mounted; a second rigid member on which the plurality of first modules are mounted; a routing member connected to the plurality of first modules; and a fastening member for fastening the electronic component and the routing member. The second rigid member extends in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction. The fastening member is detachable from the electronic component in a direction along a virtual plane formed by the first and second directions. The routing member is fixed to each electronic component by the fastening member. The second rigid member is located between the electronic component and the outer edge of the second rigid member in the direction of attachment and detachment of the fastening member to the electronic component, and has a movable region on which the fastening member can move. The second rigid member has a plurality of first modules mounted outside the movable region.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In an electrical connection unit, it is known that electronic components such as relays and resistors are mounted on the mounting surface of a housing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in order to cope with multi-variety and small-batch production, an electrical connection unit may use a forming bus bar. In this case, an improvement in assembly property such as connection between forming bus bars is expected.

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

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical connection unit in one embodiment comprises a plurality of first modules, each having an electronic component and a first rigid member on which the electronic component is mounted; a second rigid member on which the plurality of first modules are mounted; a routing member connected to the plurality of first modules; and a fastening member for fastening the electronic component and the routing member, wherein the second rigid member extends in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, the fastening member is detachably attached to the electronic component from a direction along a virtual plane formed by the first direction and the second direction, the routing member is fixed to each of the electronic components by the fastening member, the second rigid member is located between the electronic component and the outer edge of the second rigid member in the direction of attachment and detachment of the fastening member to the electronic component, and has a movable region on which the fastening member can move, and the plurality of first modules are mounted on the second rigid member at a position outside the movable region. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, the ease of assembly can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A perspective view showing an electrical connection unit of an embodiment. [Figure 2] A plan view showing the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. [Figure 3] A perspective view showing a relay module of an embodiment. [Figure 4] A perspective view showing a fuse module of an embodiment. [Figure 5] A perspective view showing the terminal module of the embodiment. [Figure 6] A plan view showing the positional relationship between the first module and the second module of the embodiment. [Figure 7] A perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing an electrical connection unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] A perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing an electrical connection unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 9]A perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing an electrical connection unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] A perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing an electrical connection unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] A perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing an electrical connection unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] A perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing an electrical connection unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] A perspective view showing the base plate of the first modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be denoted by the same reference numerals. Duplication of these components may be omitted. Note that the components 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 connected with another element in between, not just directly connected. “Accommodate” may include cases where only a part of a part is accommodated (with the remaining part protruding), not just the entire part. “Cover” may include cases where only a part of an object is covered, not just the entire object. “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 directly facing 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 one direction in the plane along the base plate 2, which will be described later. The +X direction is one of the X directions. The -X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, when the +X direction and -X direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "X direction". The Y direction is a direction that intersects (e.g., is orthogonal to) the X direction in the plane along the base plate 2, which will be described later. The +Y direction is one of the Y directions. The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when the +Y direction and -Y direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and -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 base plate 2, which will be described later, toward each of the first modules 3 and 3c, which will be described later (see Figure 1). The -Z direction is the opposite direction to the +Z direction. In the following, when the +Z and -Z directions are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction". The X direction is an example of the "first direction". The Y direction is an example of the "second direction". The Z 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> The electrical connection unit 1 is an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The electrical connection unit 1 is connected to a plurality of external devices existing outside. The electrical connection unit 1 mediates the connection between the plurality of external devices. For example, the external devices may include a battery pack, a load, a charger, etc. The battery pack is mounted on the vehicle. The load is a device including an inverter for driving a motor of the vehicle that is driven using the power charged in the battery pack. The charger is a device for supplying power for charging the battery pack. The electrical connection unit 1 may be referred to as, for example, an "electrical connection box" or a "junction box". However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the electrical connection unit 1 includes a base plate 2, a plurality of first modules 3, 3c, a plurality of terminal modules 4, a plurality of bus bars 5, and a fastening member 50. The base plate 2 is an example of a second rigid member. Each bus bar 5 is an example of a wiring member. Each terminal module 4 is an example of a second module. The electrical connection unit 1 may further include a cover 6 (FIG. 12) described later. In the electrical connection unit 1, the plurality of first modules 3, 3c, the plurality of terminal modules 4, and the plurality of bus bars 5 are covered by the base plate 2 from the -Z direction and covered by the cover 6 from the +Z direction. That is, in the electrical connection unit 1, the plurality of first modules 3, 3c, the plurality of terminal modules 4, and the plurality of bus bars 5 are housed in a housing having a combined structure of the cover 6 and the base plate 2. Note that FIG. 1 shows the electrical connection unit 1 with the cover 6 in a perspective view.

[0015] <2. Configuration of the Second Rigid Member> The base plate 2 will be described.

[0016] The base plate 2 is a holding member that integrally holds multiple first modules 3, 3c and multiple terminal modules 4. The base plate 2 has a plate shape that extends in a planar manner in the X and Y directions. The base plate 2 is a metal product formed of, for example, metal, and has thermal conductivity. The base plate 2 is a plate-shaped member that is aligned horizontally. The base plate 2 may be made of a metal such as copper or aluminum.

[0017] The base plate 2 has a first surface 2a and a second surface 2b as a pair of front and back surfaces. The first surface 2a is a horizontal plane facing the +Z direction. The second surface 2b is a horizontal plane facing the -Z direction. The first surface 2a and the second surface 2b may be, for example, smooth planes. The base plate 2 is capable of mounting multiple components.

[0018] <3. Configuration of Module 1> Multiple versions of the first module 3 and 3c will be described.

[0019] The multiple first modules 3, 3c are each divided into functional units, with each module performing one of the smallest units of circuit function in the electrical connection unit 1 (such as interruption, switching, resistance, charging, sensing, conversion, etc.). The multiple first modules 3, 3c are arranged along the first surface 2a of the base plate 2. Each first module 3, 3c is positioned on the base plate 2 with its bottom surface 3b facing the first surface 2a. Each first module 3, 3c is provided on the first surface 2a side of the base plate 2. Each first module 3, 3c may, for example, be placed on the first surface 2a.

[0020] Module 13 and Module 13c are distinguished as follows: Module 13 allows the busbar 5 to be fastened horizontally by fastening member 50 (details described later). Module 13c is a module that does not fall under Module 13. For example, Module 13c allows the busbar 5 to be fastened from the Z direction by second fastening member 50c (details described later). In other words, Module 13 and Module 13c have different structures for fastening the busbar 5.

[0021] Among the multiple first modules 3, 3c, each of some first modules 3, 3c may have a gap between it and other first modules 3, 3c adjacent in the X direction, for example. Among the multiple first modules 3, 3c, each of some first modules 3, 3c may have a gap between it and other first modules 3, 3c adjacent in the Y direction, for example.

[0022] Each first module 3, 3c comprises an electronic component 31 and a first rigid member 32. One electronic component 31 is mounted on each first rigid member 32. That is, each of the multiple electronic components 31 provided in the electrical connection unit 1 is individually mounted on the corresponding first rigid member 32. Each first module 3, 3c may, for example, comprise only one electronic component 31 and one first rigid member 32 corresponding to (this one electronic component 31) from among the multiple electronic components 31 and multiple first rigid members 32 included in the electrical connection unit 1.

[0023] Each electronic component 31 is an electronic component mounted in accordance with the function required of the electrical connection unit 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, each electronic component 31 may be fixed to the corresponding first rigid member 32 by fastening to the corresponding first rigid member 32, for example. The electronic components 31 include fuses, relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), resistors (e.g., pre-charge resistors), capacitors, various sensors (e.g., current sensors or voltage sensors), ferrite cores, etc. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, each electronic component 31 may have, for example, a pair of component terminals 39.

[0024] The first rigid member 32 is fixed to the base plate 2. The first rigid member 32 may be bonded to the base plate 2, for example. The first rigid member 32 may have, for example, a first bonding surface 32b. The first bonding surface 32b is a plane facing the -Z direction. The first bonding surface 32b corresponds to the bottom surface 3b of the first module 3, 3c. The first bonding surface 32b may be bonded to the first surface 2a, for example, by adhesive, thermocompression bonding, laser welding, etc., so that the first rigid member 32 is bonded to the base plate 2.

[0025] The first rigid member 32 comprises a pair of first flanges 33, a housing portion 34, and a plurality of first reinforcing ribs 37. The first rigid member 32 is an integrally molded product in which the pair of first flanges 33, the housing portion 34, and the plurality of first reinforcing ribs 37 are all integrated. The first rigid member 32 is a synthetic resin product formed from synthetic resin.

[0026] The housing section 34 comprises a peripheral wall 35 and a bottom 36. The peripheral wall 35 protrudes upright from the bottom 36 in the +Z direction. The peripheral wall 35 may have a plurality of notches 35n cut out in the -Z direction from the +Z side edge 35t in a portion of the periphery of the electronic component 31.

[0027] The housing section 34 has a housing space 34s that houses at least a portion of the electronic components 31. The housing space 34s is a space defined by the contour of the inner surface of the peripheral wall 35 and the surface of the bottom 36 facing the +Z direction. The housing space 34s may, for example, have a roughly rectangular parallelepiped contour.

[0028] The pair of first flanges 33 extend from the -Z direction end of the housing portion 34 to both ends in one horizontal direction. The -Z direction facing surface of the bottom 36 and the -Z direction facing surfaces of the pair of first flanges 33 may, for example, be flush with each other, thereby forming the first bonding surface 32b as a whole.

[0029] Multiple first reinforcing ribs 37 support the circumferential wall 35 from its outer circumference. Each first reinforcing rib 37 may be a triangular rib fitted into the corner (concave angle) between the circumferential wall 35 and each first flange 33.

[0030] The multiple first modules 3, 3c may include, for example, a relay module 3R. In this case, as shown in Figure 3, the relay module 3R includes a relay 31R as an electronic component 31.

[0031] In the relay module 3R, at least one of the multiple notches 35n in the peripheral wall 35 is cut out such that a pair of component terminals 39 are exposed from between the peripheral wall 35 toward the outside of the first rigid member 32. That is, in the relay module 3R, at least one of the multiple notches 35n in the peripheral wall 35 may be cut out such that a busbar 5 connected to the component terminals 39 can pass through the notch 35n between the inside and outside of the first rigid member 32.

[0032] In each relay module 3R, for example, a pair of component terminals 39 of the electronic component 31 may face outward from the electrical connection unit 1 via the cover 6. In each relay module 3R, for example, the electronic component 31 may be arranged such that one or both of the pair of component terminals 39 of the electronic component 31 face and are exposed to the inner surface of the cover 6 in the horizontal direction.

[0033] The multiple first modules 3, 3c may include, for example, a fuse module 3F. In this case, as shown in Figure 4, the fuse module 3F includes a fuse 31F as an electronic component 31.

[0034] In the fuse module 3F, at least one pair of notches 35n of the peripheral wall 35 is cut out so that a pair of component terminals 39 can protrude beyond the peripheral wall 35. The fuse module 3F may also include, for example, a pair of fixed terminals 38 that are fastened to the pair of component terminals 39. Each fixed terminal 38 is fastened to a corresponding component terminal 39.

[0035] <4. Configuration of Module 2> Multiple terminal modules 4 will be described below.

[0036] The multiple terminal modules 4 are divided into multiple units, each of which is responsible for one of the smallest units of connection terminal function in the electrical connection unit 1. The multiple terminal modules 4 may include, for example, a terminal module 4 for connection to external equipment. The terminal modules 4 are mounted on the base plate 2. As shown in Figure 5, each terminal module 4 includes a connection terminal 41 and a terminal block 42.

[0037] Each terminal module 4 may, for example, comprise only one connection terminal 41 and one terminal block 42 corresponding to this one connection terminal 41, out of the multiple connection terminals 41 and multiple terminal blocks 42 included in the electrical connection unit 1.

[0038] The connection terminal 41 extends from the end face 42a on the +Z side of the terminal block 42, protruding in the +Z direction. The connection terminal 41 is electrically connected to at least one of the multiple first modules 3, 3c via a bus bar 5, other terminal modules 4, etc.

[0039] The terminal block 42 comprises a main body 43, a pair of second flanges 44, and a plurality of second reinforcing ribs 45. The terminal block 42 is a single-piece molded product in which the main body 43, the pair of second flanges 44, and the plurality of second reinforcing ribs 45 are integrated. The terminal block 42 is a synthetic resin product formed from synthetic resin.

[0040] The terminal block 42 is fixed to the base plate 2. The terminal block 42 may be bonded to the base plate 2, for example. The terminal block 42 may have, for example, a second bonding surface 42b. The second bonding surface 42b is a plane facing the -Z direction. The second bonding surface 42b corresponds to the flush bottom surface of the terminal block 42 extending from the main body 43 to the pair of second flanges 44. The second bonding surface 42b may be bonded to the first surface 2a, for example, by adhesive, thermocompression, laser welding, etc., so that the connection terminals 41 are bonded to the base plate 2.

[0041] The main body portion 43 occupies most of the terminal block 42. The end face of the main body portion 43 on the +Z direction side may correspond to, for example, the end face 42a. The main body portion 43 supports the connection terminal 41.

[0042] The pair of second flanges 44 extend from the -Z-direction end of the main body 43 to both ends in one horizontal direction. The surface of the main body 43 facing the -Z direction and the surface of the pair of second flanges 44 facing the -Z direction may, for example, be a flush and continuous plane, thereby forming a second bonding surface 42b as a whole.

[0043] Multiple second reinforcing ribs 45 support the main body 43 from its outer circumference. Each second reinforcing rib 45 may be a triangular rib that fits into the corner (concave angle) between the outer circumference 43a and each second flange 44 of the main body 43.

[0044] <5. Configuration of cable routing members> This section describes multiple busbars 5.

[0045] Each busbar 5 is a wiring member (electrical connection member) for electrically connecting the first modules 3, 3c to each other, to each other, or to each other. Each busbar 5 extends between the first modules 3, 3c to each other, to each other, or to each other. Each busbar 5 is a metal product formed of metal and is conductive. Each busbar 5 may be made of a metal such as copper or aluminum.

[0046] At least a portion of each busbar 5 is plate-shaped. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, some of the busbars 5 may be, for example, curved plates throughout.

[0047] Some of the busbars 5 may be forming busbars, for example, that are curved in a horizontal plane and whose orientation changes continuously from vertical to horizontal (or from horizontal to vertical). In this case, the forming busbars 5 may be pre-formed into the shape to be routed before being combined with the first module 3, 3c or terminal module 4.

[0048] Some of the multiple busbars 5 may branch off into multiple paths, for example, towards different routes along the way. Some of the multiple busbars 5 may be assemblies in which multiple forming busbars are connected in such a way that they branch off into multiple paths. In this case, the multiple forming busbars to be combined may be connected in advance before being combined with the first module 3, 3c or terminal module 4.

[0049] Some of the busbars 5 may be flat plates with a rectangular surface oriented vertically. Some of the busbars 5 may be flat plates with an L-shaped surface oriented vertically.

[0050] Of the ends of each busbar 5, the end connected to the first module 3 may be fastened to, for example, a component terminal 39. Of the ends of each busbar 5, the end connected to the terminal module 4 may be fastened to, for example, a connection terminal 41.

[0051] <6. Configuration of fastening members> The fastening member 50 will now be described.

[0052] The fastening member 50 is a member for fastening the first module 3 (electronic component 31) and the bus bar 5. The fastening member 50 is, for example, a screw, but its shape is not limited. For example, the fastening member 50 can fix the bus bar 5 by sandwiching it between the first module 3 (electronic component 31). The fastening member 50 is also detachable from the first module 3 (electronic component 31). A pair of fastening members 50 are arranged, both facing the same direction. Alternatively, a pair of fastening members 50 may be arranged, each facing a different direction.

[0053] The fastening members 50 can fasten the first module 3 and the busbar 5 from the horizontal direction. That is, a pair of fastening members 50 are arranged facing either the X direction or the Y direction. Alternatively, a pair of fastening members 50 may be arranged facing along a virtual plane formed by the X direction and the Y direction.

[0054] As a specific example, the fastening member 50 is a screw that is fixed to the component terminal 39 in the relay module 3R as shown in Figure 3.

[0055] In the following, the direction in which the fastening member 50 moves when fastening or unfastening to the first module 3 (electronic component 31) is defined as the attachment / detachment direction of the fastening member 50 to the electronic component 31. That is, the fastening member 50 is movable relative to the electronic component 31 in the attachment / detachment direction. Furthermore, the fastening member 50 can be attached to and detached from the first module 3 (electronic component 31) by moving in the attachment / detachment direction. In addition, the busbar 5 can be fastened to the first module 3 (electronic component 31) by the fastening member 50 from the attachment / detachment direction. In this embodiment, the attachment / detachment direction includes the X direction and the Y direction, and is the direction along the virtual plane formed by the X direction and the Y direction.

[0056] The second fastening member 50c is a member for fastening the first module 3 (electronic component 31) and the bus bar 5. The second fastening member 50c is a fastening member that does not fall under the category of fastening member 50. The second fastening member 50c is, for example, a nut, but its shape is not limited. For example, the second fastening member 50c can fix the bus bar 5 by sandwiching it between the first module 3 (electronic component 31). The second fastening member 50c is also detachable from the first module 3 (electronic component 31). A pair of second fastening members 50c are arranged, both facing the Z direction. In other words, the second fastening member 50c can fasten the first module 3c and the bus bar 5 from the Z direction. A specific example of the second fastening member 50c is a nut fixed to the fixing terminal 38 in the fuse module 3F, as shown in Figure 4.

[0057] <7. Positional relationship between the first and second modules> The positional relationship between the first module 3 and the terminal module 4 will be explained.

[0058] Figure 6 shows the positional relationship between the multiple first modules 3 and the terminal module 4. The base plate 2 has a movable region Pv, ​​which is a region that the fastening member 50 can move to in order to fasten or release it from the first module 3 when viewed from the +Z direction. In this embodiment, the movable region Pv is the region in which the fastening member 50 and the tool (e.g., a screwdriver) for fastening the fastening member 50 move when the fastening member 50 is fastened or released from the first module 3. That is, the movable region Pv is at least wider than the width of the fastening member 50 when viewed from the +Z direction. In addition, in this embodiment, the movable region Pv is the region between the fastening member 50 fixed to the electronic component 31 and the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction. In the Z direction, the movable region Pv is a three-dimensional region (space) from the base plate 2 to the area where the fastening member 50 is located.

[0059] Furthermore, the movable region Pv is not limited to the area adjacent to the outer edge of the base plate 2. The movable region Pv may be formed at a location away from the outer edge of the base plate 2, as long as a range is secured that allows the fastening member 50 to be moved in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0060] No objects are placed in the movable region Pv. In other words, the base plate 2 has the first module 3 mounted in a position outside the movable region Pv. Also, the base plate 2 has components including the first module 3 mounted in a position outside the movable region Pv. Specifically, the first module 3, 3c and terminal module 4 are not placed in the movable region Pv. In other words, the first module 3, 3c and terminal module 4 are placed in a position outside the movable region Pv. That is, the first module 3 and terminal module 4 are positioned on the base plate 2 to avoid the movable region Pv so that the fastening member 50 and the device for fastening the fastening member 50 can move freely.

[0061] Due to this positional relationship, the fastening member 50 fixed to the electronic component 31 is positioned so that it is visible from the outside of the base plate 2 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. In other words, when the electronic component 31 is viewed straight from the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction, the fastening member 50 is positioned so that there is no obstructing member between the fastening member 50 and the outer edge of the base plate 2. Furthermore, the fastening member 50 is positioned so that its entirety is visible from the outside of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0062] <8. Manufacturing method of electrical connection unit> A method for manufacturing the electrical connection unit 1 will be described.

[0063] The manufacturer manufactures the electrical connection unit 1 by carrying out the following steps 1 through 6.

[0064] (1st step) As shown in Figure 7, in the first step, the manufacturer prepares the base plate 2.

[0065] (2nd process) As shown in Figure 8, in the second step, the manufacturer attaches the multiple first rigid members 32 and the multiple terminal modules 4 to the base plate 2. The manufacturer may also bond the multiple first rigid members 32 and the multiple terminal modules 4 to the base plate 2. Furthermore, the terminal modules 4 are attached in such a way that they are not positioned in the area where the fastening member 50 moves when the fastening member 50 is fastened.

[0066] (3rd step) As shown in Figure 8, in the third step, the manufacturer mounts some of the electronic components 31 to be mounted on the first rigid member 32 onto the corresponding first rigid member 32. The manufacturer may fasten and fix the electronic components 31 to each first rigid member 32. In addition, the electronic components 31 are mounted so that they are not located in the area where the fastening member 50 moves when the fastening member 50 is fastened. As shown in Figure 9, in the third step, the manufacturer may mount, for example, a relay module 3R from the multiple electronic components 31 onto the corresponding first rigid member 32.

[0067] (4th step) As shown in Figure 9, in the fourth step, the manufacturer places multiple busbars 5 on multiple first modules 3, 3c and multiple terminal modules 4. For example, in the fourth step, the manufacturer may mount some of the remaining electronic components 31 to be mounted on the corresponding first rigid member 32. For example, as shown in Figure 10, in the fourth step, the manufacturer may mount the fuse module 3F to the corresponding first rigid member 32 among the multiple electronic components 31. Furthermore, in the fourth step, the manufacturer may mount a portion 31T of the remaining electronic components 31 to be mounted on the corresponding first rigid member 32.

[0068] (5th step) In the fifth step, the manufacturer fastens multiple busbars 5 to multiple first modules 3, 3c and multiple terminal modules 4 using fastening members 50 and second fastening members 50c, etc. For example, as shown in Figure 11, in the fifth step, the manufacturer may mount the remaining parts of the electronic components 31 to be mounted onto the corresponding first rigid member 32.

[0069] (6th step) As shown in Figure 12, in the sixth step, the manufacturer attaches a cover 6 to the assembly on which multiple first modules 3, 3c, multiple terminal modules 4, and multiple busbars 5 are attached to the base plate 2.

[0070] <9. Advantages> In the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the fastening member 50 is detachable from the electronic component 31 from a direction along a virtual plane formed by the X direction (first direction) and the Y direction (second direction). The bus bar 5 is fixed to the electronic component 31 by the fastening member 50. The base plate 2 is located between the electronic component 31 and the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the direction of attachment and detachment of the fastening member 50, and has a movable region Pv from which the fastening member 50 can move. The base plate 2 has the first modules 3 and 3c mounted outside the movable region Pv. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the fastening member 50 can be attached to and detached from the electronic component 31 from the horizontal direction. Therefore, it is possible to configure it without using individually customized first modules 3. That is, it is possible to improve the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 while using the highly versatile first module 3.

[0071] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the fastening member 50 fixed to the electronic component 31 is positioned so that it is visible from the outside of the base plate 2 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the fastening member 50 can be attached to and detached from the electronic component 31 smoothly without coming into contact with other parts. Therefore, the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved.

[0072] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the terminal module 4 is positioned outside the area located between the fastening member 50 and the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction. With such an electrical connection unit 1, it is possible to improve the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 while still providing terminals for external connections.

[0073] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the fastening member 50 is a screw that can be attached to and detached from the electronic component 31. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved without requiring any special ingenuity in the shape of the busbar 5. In other words, a highly versatile busbar 5 can be used.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, each electronic component 31 is mounted on the base plate 2 via the first rigid member 32. With this configuration, the arrangement of multiple electronic components 31 on the base plate 2 can be freely set. With such an electrical connection unit 1, each first module 3, 3c, which is an element module at the electronic component level, can be arranged on the base plate 2 in a free layout according to the functions required of the product. In addition, with such an electrical connection unit 1, the electronic components 31 can be flexibly arranged on the base plate 2 in response to changes, modifications, etc. in the layout. Therefore, the development period can be shortened.

[0075] As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit in which a resin component holds multiple electronic components together. In such a comparative example, the designer needs to design the arrangement of the multiple electronic components on the resin component. When such a design is required, the arrangement of the multiple electronic components on the resin component must be designed for each electrical connection unit with different specifications. Therefore, in such a comparative example, the design of the electrical connection unit is time-consuming.

[0076] In contrast to such comparative examples, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment allows each of the first modules 3 and 3c to be freely arranged according to the functions required for the product. Therefore, as described above, the development period can be shortened.

[0077] Furthermore, in the comparative examples described above, the electrical connection unit may have a unique design for the product to which it is applied. Therefore, the comparative examples have low versatility to other products and are difficult to adapt.

[0078] In contrast to such comparative examples, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment allows each of the first modules 3 and 3c to be composed of standard parts. Therefore, it has high versatility for use in other products and is easy to adapt to other products.

[0079] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, one of the electronic components used is mounted on one first rigid member 32. This configuration allows the first modules 3, 3c to be reused among multiple electrical connection units 1 with different arrangements of the first modules 3, 3c, or within an electrical connection unit 1. Therefore, the quality and reliability of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0080] Furthermore, with the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to use standard unit modules as multiple first modules 3, 3c. Therefore, lead time and cost can be reduced.

[0081] Furthermore, with the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, existing modules can be utilized as the first modules 3 and 3c. Therefore, the time and cost required for design and manufacturing can be reduced.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, if improvements are needed in specific first modules 3, 3c among the multiple first modules 3, 3c, efficient modifications can be made focusing on those specific first modules 3, 3c. Therefore, this can contribute to improving the efficiency of maintenance work.

[0083] Furthermore, with the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to create a layout in which, for example, multiple first modules 3, 3c are arranged on a base plate 2 of a specified size. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be configured freely, flexibly, and quickly.

[0084] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the first rigid member 32 is a synthetic resin product formed from synthetic resin, which allows for weight reduction of the electrical connection unit 1. On the other hand, since the base plate 2 is a metal part, deformation of the base plate 2 caused by the weight of the multiple first modules 3, 3c is suppressed.

[0085] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the first rigid member 32 is equipped with a housing portion 34, thereby protecting the electronic component 31. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be made more robust.

[0086] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the terminal module 4 is equipped with connection terminals 41, which allows for flexible adaptation to the connection specifications of the electrical connection unit 1. For example, if the connection terminals 41 for connecting to external devices are modularized as individual terminals, such as in the terminal module 4, then flexible adaptation to the specifications of external devices becomes possible.

[0087] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the first rigid member 32 is bonded to the base plate 2. This configuration allows for the free arrangement of each first rigid member 32 relative to the base plate 2. Therefore, the manufacturer can freely set the arrangement layout of multiple first modules 3, 3c.

[0088] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, multiple first modules 3, 3c can be arranged on one side of the base plate 2. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be made lower in profile.

[0089] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the busbar 5 is fastened to the component terminal 39. This configuration reduces the number of wiring members that electrically connect the multiple first modules 3, 3c.

[0090] (Various variations) Next, we will describe some variations. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations in each variation are the same as those of the embodiments described above.

[0091] (First variation) In each of the embodiments described above, the first surface 2a and the second surface 2b of the base plate 2 are smooth planes relative to each other. However, the first surface of the base plate 2 may be configured in any way as long as each first module 3 can be placed on it. As a modification, the electrical connection unit 1 may include a base plate 102 instead of the base plate 2. In the base plate 102, for example, as shown in Figure 13, the surface roughness of the first surface 102a is rougher than that of the second surface 102b by applying a surface treatment that creates minute bumps and irregularities to the first surface 102a. The second surface 102b is a smooth plane similar to the second surface 2b of the base plate 2. Due to the large surface roughness of the first surface 102a, the base plate 102 can exert a fixing anchor effect on the first module 3 and terminal module 4 on which it is placed. In this case, each first module 3 may be bonded to the first surface 102a of the base plate 102, for example, as in each of the embodiments described above. As a result of this effect, the first module 3 and the terminal module 4 are less likely to detach from the base plate 102. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be made more robust. As another modification, a minute uneven surface treatment may be applied only to the area of ​​the first surface 102a of the base plate 102 on which the first module 3 and the terminal module 4 are placed.

[0092] (Second variation) In the above-described embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes a base plate 2 as a second rigid member. However, the second rigid member may be configured in any way as long as multiple first modules 3 can be mounted on it. As a modification, the second rigid member may be a block, a box, or the like instead of the base plate 2.

[0093] (Third variation) In the above-described embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes a busbar 5 as a wiring member. However, the electrical connection unit 1 may include any wiring member as long as it can be wired to multiple first modules 3. As a modification, the electrical connection unit 1 may include wiring as a wiring member instead of the busbar 5.

[0094] (Fourth variation) In the above-described embodiment, the multiple first rigid members 32 are bonded to the base plate 2. However, the first rigid members 32 may be fixed in any way as long as the electronic components 31 can be arranged on the base plate 2 in a free layout. As a modified example, the multiple first rigid members 32 may be fastened to the base plate 2.

[0095] (Fifth variation) In the embodiment described above, the multiple terminal modules 4 are bonded to the base plate 2. However, the multiple terminal modules 4 may be fixed in any way as long as they can be arranged on the base plate 2 in a free layout. As a modified example, the multiple terminal modules 4 may be fastened to the base plate 2.

[0096] Embodiments and several modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, embodiments and modifications may be implemented in combination with each other. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 1. Electrical connection unit 2. Base plate (second rigid member) 2a 1st page 2b 2nd side 3, 3c Module 1 3b Bottom 3F Fuse Module 3R Relay Module 4-terminal module (second module) 5. Busbar (Riding Member) 6 Covers 31 Electronic Components 31F Fuse 31R Relay 31T part 32 First rigid member 32b 1st adhesive surface 33. First Flange 34 Storage Unit 34s Containment space 35 Peripheral wall 35n notch 35t edge 36 bottom 37. First reinforcing rib 38 Fixed terminal 39 Component terminals 41 Connection terminals 42 Terminal block 42a End face 42b 2nd adhesive surface 43 Main body 43a Outer perimeter 44. Second flange 45. Second reinforcing rib 50 Fastening members 50c Second fastening member 102 Base plate (second rigid member) 102a 1st page 102b 2nd side Pv moving area

Claims

1. A plurality of first modules each comprising an electronic component and a first rigid member on which the electronic component is mounted, The second rigid member on which the plurality of first modules are mounted, The wiring members connected to the plurality of first modules, A fastening member for fastening the electronic component and the wiring member, Equipped with, The second rigid member extends in a first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The fastening member is detachably attached to the electronic component from a direction along the virtual plane formed by the first direction and the second direction. The routing member is fixed to each of the electronic components by the fastening member. The second rigid member is located between the electronic component and the outer edge of the second rigid member in the direction of attaching and detaching the fastening member to the electronic component, and has a movable region in which the fastening member can move. The second rigid member has the plurality of first modules mounted at a position outside the movement region. Electrical connection unit.

2. When viewed from the aforementioned attachment / detachment direction, the fastening member fixed to the electronic component is positioned in a location visible from the outside of the second rigid member. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

3. The second rigid member further comprises an external connection terminal module mounted on it, The terminal module is positioned outside the region located between the fastening member and the outer edge of the second rigid member in the attachment / detachment direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The fastening member is a screw that can be attached to and detached from the electronic component. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2.

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