Electrical connection unit

Abstract

One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit that can improve thermal characteristics. [Solution] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment comprises a first cable guide, a first heat storage member, and a heat dissipation member. The first cable guide has a first mounting hole penetrating in a first direction and is fixed to a first connection target by a first fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole. The first heat storage member has a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole and is fastened together with the first cable guide by inserting the first fastening member into the second mounting hole. The heat dissipation member overlaps with the first connection target and the first heat storage member when viewed from a second direction intersecting the first direction. The first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the area between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member. The first heat storage member is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member in an area that is not adjacent to the first connection target when viewed from the second direction.

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 wiring material electrically connected to the electronic component is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

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

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment includes a first wiring material, a first heat storage member, and a heat dissipation member. The first wiring material has a first mounting hole penetrating in a first direction and is fixed to a first connection target by a first fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole. The first heat storage member has a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole and is clamped together with the first wiring material when the first fastening member is inserted into the second mounting hole. The heat dissipation member overlaps the first connection target and the first heat storage member when viewed from a second direction intersecting the first direction. And the first heat storage member extends toward the heat dissipation member. The first wiring material is arranged avoiding a region between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member. The first heat storage member is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member in a region excluding the first connection target when viewed from the second direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, it is possible to improve the thermal properties. [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 showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. [Figure 3] A perspective view showing a disassembled portion of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. [Figure 4] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 1, along the line F4-F4. [Figure 5] A cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit of a first modified embodiment. [Figure 6] A cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit of a second modified embodiment. [Figure 7] A cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit of a third modified embodiment. [Figure 8] A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of a fourth modified embodiment. [Figure 9] A perspective view showing a disassembled portion of the electrical connection unit of a fourth modified embodiment. [Figure 10] A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of a fifth modified embodiment. [Figure 11] A perspective view showing a disassembled portion of the electrical connection unit of a fifth modified embodiment. [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. 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 directly connected, not just cases where two elements to be connected are connected with another element in between. “Facing” or “overlapping” means that the virtual projections of two objects overlap when viewed from a particular direction. That is, “Facing” or “overlapping” may include cases where two objects face each other with another member or gap 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, for example, the direction from the electronic component 10 described later toward the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 (see Figure 1). 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 (for example, are orthogonal to) the X direction. The +Y direction is, for example, the direction from the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 described later toward the second terminal 13B (see Figure 3). 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 (for example, are orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the first wall 5a to the second wall 5b of the housing 5 (see Figure 1). 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 X direction is an example of the "first direction". The Z direction is an example of the "second direction". The Y direction is an example of the "third direction".

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

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

[0014] The housing 5 is a member that forms the outer shell of the electrical connection unit 1. The housing 5 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin and has insulation. The housing 5 houses the main body portion MU. The housing 5 includes a first wall portion 5a (first portion) that covers at least a part of the main body portion MU from the -Z direction side and a second wall portion 5b (second portion) that covers at least a part of the main body portion MU from the +Z direction side. Note that the housing 5 may be omitted.

[0015] Also, instead of the box-shaped housing 5, the electrical connection unit 1 may have an insulating base member 6 that includes the first wall portion 5a and is open on the +Z direction side. The first wall portion 5a of the base member 6 may be a wall portion along the horizontal direction or a structure in which a plurality of ribs standing vertically are combined. In the following description, "housing 5" may be read as "base member 6". Each of the housing 5 and the base member 6 is an example of a "support" that supports the electronic component 10 or the bus bar 30 described later.

[0016] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, at least a part of the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5 (or the base member 6) is formed by a metal plate 70. The metal plate 70 is made of, for example, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy, but is not limited thereto. The metal plate 70 is a plate portion that extends in the horizontal direction. The metal plate 70 is, for example, exposed outside the electrical connection unit 1. When viewed from the Z direction, the metal plate 70 overlaps a first connection target (for example, an electronic component 10) and a heat storage member 50, which will be described later. The metal plate 70 is an example of a "heat dissipation member". The metal plate 70 may be referred to as a "metal member" or a "rigid member". Note that the "heat dissipation member" referred to in the present disclosure is not limited to a metal member provided as a part of the housing 5 (or the base member 6). The "heat dissipation member" referred to in the present disclosure may be a metal member provided separately from the housing 5 (or the base member 6).

[0017] In the present embodiment, the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 are thermally connected by a heat transfer member 80, which will be described later.

[0018] The main body portion MU is a portion that performs the main functions of the electrical connection unit 1 (for example, switching the electrical connection state or overcurrent protection). The main body portion MU may be referred to as a "circuit configuration body". The main body portion MU includes, for example, one or more electronic components 10, a plurality of bus bars 30 (see FIG. 2), at least one heat storage member 50 (see FIG. 2), and an insulating portion 60 (see FIG. 2). In the present embodiment, the main body portion MU includes, for example, one heat storage member 50 (see FIG. 2).

[0019] <2. Electronic Components> First, let's describe the electronic component 10. The electronic component 10 is an electronic component mounted on the main unit MU according to the required functions. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a connector, fuse, relay (e.g., mechanical relay or semiconductor relay), capacitor, branching component, various sensors (e.g., current sensor or voltage sensor), electronic control unit, or an electronic component unit that combines two or more of these. However, the type of electronic component 10 is not limited to the above examples. The electronic component 10 is, for example, a heat-generating component that generates heat when energized.

[0020] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a disassembled part of the electrical connection unit 1. The electronic component 10 includes, for example, a case 11, a component body 12, a plurality of terminals 13, and a plurality of mounting parts 14 (only one is shown in Figure 3).

[0021] The case 11 is an outer casing that forms most of the external shape of the electronic component 10. The case 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The case 11 houses the component body 12. The case 11 and the component body 12 may be formed as a single unit.

[0022] In this embodiment, the case 11 has insulating ribs 11a that protrude horizontally (e.g., in the +X direction) and extend in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a are, for example, plate-shaped along the X and Z directions. 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 two heat storage members 50A and 50B, described later. The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate, for example, at least a portion of the two heat storage members 50A and 50B from each other.

[0023] The main body of the component 12 is the part that performs the main function of the electronic component 10. For example, if the electronic component 10 is a relay, the main body of the component 12 includes a switching part (e.g., a contact part) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 10 is a fuse, the main body of the component 12 includes a fuse that melts when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 10 is a capacitor, the main body of the component 12 includes a part that stores electric charge.

[0024] Terminal 13 is an electrical connection part exposed to the outside of the case 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component body 12 inside the case 11. In this embodiment, the electronic component 10 includes terminals 13A and terminal 13B as a plurality of terminals 13. One of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is the positive terminal. The other of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is the negative terminal. One of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is an example of a "first terminal". The other of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is an example of a "second terminal".

[0025] In this embodiment, terminals 13A and 13B are provided at one end of the electronic component 10 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Terminals 13A and 13B are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Each of terminals 13A and 13B faces the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0026] Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h into which a fastening member 41 (e.g., a screw or bolt), described later, is inserted. The mounting hole 13h opens horizontally (e.g., in the +X direction). The inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 has a screw groove. The mounting hole 13h is a bottomed hole provided in the electronic component 10. In this disclosure, the term "mounting hole" is not limited to a hole with a screw groove, but may also be a hole without a screw groove. Furthermore, in this disclosure, if the terminal 13 is plate-shaped, the "mounting hole" may be a through hole that penetrates the terminal 13 in the thickness direction of the terminal 13.

[0027] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 14 is a part for fixing the electronic component 10. The mounting portion 14 is superimposed in the Z direction on a fixing portion 5f (e.g., a boss, see Figure 2) provided on the first wall portion 5a or the second wall portion 5b of the housing 5. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h into which a fastening member 19 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is inserted. The mounting hole 14h is open in the Z direction. The mounting hole 14h is a through hole through which the fastening member 19 passes. The mounting portion 14 is fixed to the fixing portion 5f of the housing 5 by the fastening member 19. With this configuration, the electronic component 10 is fixed to the housing 5. Alternatively, the electronic component 10 may be fixed to the base member 6 described above.

[0028] As described above, the electronic component 10 overlaps with the metal plate 70 when viewed from the Z direction. A heat transfer member 80 (heat transfer member 80B) is placed in the region g2 between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80 (heat transfer member 80B) transfers the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when power is applied from the electronic component 10 to the metal plate 70.

[0029] <3. Busbar> Next, returning to Figure 1, we will describe the busbar 30. The busbar 30 is a wiring material that electrically connects multiple connection targets. The busbar 30 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy) and is conductive. The busbar 30 electrically connects a first connection target (first component) and a second connection target (second component). For example, the busbar 30 electrically connects an electronic component 10 to another busbar 9 in the electrical connection unit 1. The electronic component 10 is an example of a "first connection target" or "first component". The busbar 9 is an example of a "second connection target" or "second component". The busbar 30 is an example of a "wiring material". In this disclosure, "wiring material" is not limited to the busbar 30.

[0030] Furthermore, the first and second connection targets are not limited to the examples above. The first connection target is any one of the following, for example, an electronic component, a connecting component, another busbar in the electrical connection unit 1, or a busbar for external connection. The second connection target is any one of the following, for example, an electronic component, a connecting component, another busbar in the electrical connection unit 1, or a busbar for external connection. For example, busbar 30 may electrically connect electronic component 10 (first connection target) to another electronic component 10 (second connection target). Busbar 30 may electrically connect connecting component (first connection target) to another connecting component (second connection target). In this disclosure, "connecting component" means a component that is placed between the busbar and the connection target (e.g., an electronic component or another busbar) and connects the busbar and the connection target.

[0031] In the following, as an example of a busbar 30, we will describe a busbar 30 that electrically connects an electronic component 10 (first connection target) to another busbar 9 (second connection target) within the electrical connection unit 1. However, in the following description, the terms "electronic component 10" and "busbar 9" may be appropriately replaced with other components based on the above-mentioned purpose.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the busbar 30 has, for example, a first connecting portion 31, a second connecting portion 32, and an extension portion 33. In this embodiment, the entire busbar 30, including the first connecting portion 31, the second connecting portion 32, and the extension portion 33, is formed from a single sheet of material (for example, formed by bending a single sheet of material).

[0033] (First connection section) The first connection portion 31 is the portion that connects to the first object to be connected (e.g., the electronic component 10). The first connection portion 31 is located in the middle of the bus bar 30 or at the first end of the bus bar 30. In this embodiment, the first connection portion 31 is positioned upright in the Z direction. The first connection portion 31 is a plate portion that runs along the Y and Z directions. The first connection portion 31 is adjacent to the electronic component 10 in the X direction. When viewed from the X direction, the first connection portion 31 includes a portion that overlaps with the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10. In another view, when viewed from the X direction, the first connection portion 31 includes a portion that overlaps with the fastening member 41 inserted into the terminal 13 or the washer 42 through which the fastening member 41 passes.

[0034] The first connecting portion 31 has a mounting hole 31h into which a fastening member 41 is inserted. The mounting hole 31h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 31h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the first connecting portion 31 in the X direction. The mounting hole 31h of the first connecting portion 31 faces the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The fastening member 41 is inserted into the mounting hole 31h of the first connecting portion 31 along the X direction. The fastening member 41 passed through the mounting hole 31h of the first connecting portion 31 engages with the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. With this configuration, the first connecting portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 are physically and electrically connected.

[0035] (Second connection point) The second connecting portion 32 is the portion that connects to a second connection target (for example, another busbar 9). The second connecting portion 32 is located in the middle of the busbar 30 or at the second end of the busbar 30. In this embodiment, the second connecting portion 32 is parallel to the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5. The second connecting portion 32 is a plate portion that runs along the X and Y directions. The second connecting portion 32 overlaps with the end of the busbar 9 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the second connecting portion 32 includes a portion that overlaps with the fastening member 45 or the washer 46 through which the fastening member 45 passes, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the busbar 9 has a mounting hole 9h through which the fastening member 45 is inserted, penetrating the busbar 9 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 9h does not have, for example, a screw thread.

[0036] The second connecting portion 32 has a mounting hole 32h into which a fastening member 45 is inserted. The mounting hole 32h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 32h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the second connecting portion 32 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 faces the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9 in the Z direction. The fastening member 45 is inserted along the Z direction into the mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 and the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9. An engaging member 47 (for example, a nut) is engaged with the tip of the fastening member 45 that has passed through the mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 and the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9. This configuration physically and electrically connects the second connecting portion 32 of the busbar 30 to another busbar 9.

[0037] Alternatively, instead of the above example, either the mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 or the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9 may have a screw groove so that the fastening member 45 can engage with it. In this case, the engaging member 47 may be omitted.

[0038] (extension part) The extension portion 33 is provided between the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. The extension portion 33 extends from the first connecting portion 31 toward the second connecting portion 32. The extension portion 33 extends across the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. The extension portion 33 connects the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32.

[0039] The extension portion 33 of the busbar 30 shown in Figure 1 includes a first extension portion 33a and a second extension portion 33b. The extension portion 33 in this embodiment further includes a third extension portion 33c and a fourth extension portion 33d.

[0040] The first extension portion 33a extends from the first connection portion 31 along a plane intersecting in the Z direction. The second extension portion 33b extends continuously from the first extension portion 33a and extends in a direction away from the heat dissipation member 70 in the X direction or in the Y direction.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first extension portion 33a extends, for example, from the first connecting portion 31 in the +Z direction. The second extension portion 33b extends, for example, from the first extension portion 33a along the horizontal direction in the -X direction. The third extension portion 33c extends, for example, from the second extension portion 33b in the -Z direction. The fourth extension portion 33d extends, for example, from the third extension portion 33c along the horizontal direction in the -X direction. Note that the shape of the extension portion 33 is not limited to the above example. For example, the extension portion 33 may have only the first extension portion 33a and extend in a straight line, or it may be bent in a more complex manner.

[0042] From another perspective, in this embodiment, the extension portion 33 extends from the first connection portion 31 in the +Z direction by the first extension portion 33a, and then extends through the space between the electronic component 10 and the second wall portion 5b of the housing 5 by the second extension portion 33b. In this case, insulation between the busbar 30 and the metal plate 70 is ensured.

[0043] Next, we will describe the arrangement of the multiple busbars 30. As shown in Figure 3, the electrical connection unit 1 has multiple busbars 30, including a first busbar 30A and a second busbar 30B. In the following, when the first busbar 30A and the second busbar 30B are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "busbar 30".

[0044] The first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A is adjacent to the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A is fixed to the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 by a fastening member 41 (fastening member 41A) inserted into the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A. The first busbar 30A is an example of the "first cable routing member". The mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A is an example of the "first mounting hole provided in the first connection portion of the first cable routing member". The extension portion 33 of the first busbar 30A is an example of the "first extension portion of the first cable routing member". The fastening member 41A is an example of the "first fastening member".

[0045] The second busbar 30B is adjacent to the first busbar 30A in the Y direction. The first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B is adjacent to the second terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B is fixed to the second terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 by a fastening member 41 (fastening member 41B) inserted into the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B. The second busbar 30B is an example of the "second cable routing member". The mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B is an example of the "third mounting hole provided in the second connection portion of the second cable routing member". The extension portion 33 of the second busbar 30B is an example of the "third extension portion of the second cable routing member". The fastening member 41B is an example of the "second fastening member".

[0046] <4. Heat Storage Materials> Next, the heat storage member 50 will be described. The heat storage member 50 is a metal member attached to the wiring material (e.g., bus bar 30). The heat storage member 50 is a member that stores (absorbs) heat, for example, at least a portion of the heat emitted by the first connection target or the second connection target, and / or at least a portion of the heat emitted by the wiring material itself. In addition to the above example, the heat storage member 50 may also be a member that reduces thermal interference to the electronic component 10 from external equipment (external connection bus bar). The heat storage member 50 is made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, for example, but is not limited to these examples.

[0047] As shown in Figure 3, the heat storage member 50 is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the electronic component 10 and the heat dissipation member 70. The heat storage member 50 is thermally connected to the metal plate 70 in the region away from the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage member 50 extends toward the heat dissipation member 70. The heat storage member 50 is, for example, plate-shaped along the Y and Z directions. Therefore, the heat storage member 50 is positioned upright in the Z direction (i.e., facing the first mounting hole). The length L50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction and the width W50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Y direction are each greater than the thickness T50 of the heat storage member 50 in the X direction. Also, the length L50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction is greater than the width W50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Y direction.

[0048] The heat storage member 50 is positioned parallel to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30. The heat storage member 50 is adjacent to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 in the X direction. In this embodiment, the heat storage member 50 is located on the opposite side of the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 from the electronic component 10. The heat storage member 50 is attached to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30.

[0049] The heat storage member 50 has a mounting hole 50h into which the fastening member 41 is inserted. The mounting hole 50h is a through hole that penetrates the heat storage member 50 in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 50h of the heat storage member 50 faces the mounting hole 31h of the first connection part 31 in the X direction. The fastening member 41 described above is inserted into the mounting hole 50h of the heat storage member 50 along the X direction. In this embodiment, the fastening member 41 passes through the mounting hole 50h of the heat storage member 50 and the mounting hole 31h of the first connection part 31 and engages with the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. The heat storage member 50 is fastened together with the first connection part 31 of the busbar 30 by inserting the fastening member 41 into the mounting hole 50h. In other words, the heat storage member 50 and the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 are fastened together to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41.

[0050] In this embodiment, the heat storage member 50 is arranged along the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30. The thickness T50 of the heat storage member 50 in the X direction is equal to or smaller than the thickness T31 of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 in the X direction (see Figure 1).

[0051] The longitudinal direction of the heat storage member 50 is the Z direction. For example, the length L50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction is more than half of the thickness T10 of the electronic component 10 in the Z direction.

[0052] Next, the arrangement of the multiple heat storage members 50 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the electrical connection unit 1 has multiple heat storage members 50, including a first heat storage member 50A and a second heat storage member 50B. In the following, when the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "heat storage member 50".

[0053] The first heat storage member 50A is adjacent to the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h of the first heat storage member 50A faces the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A in the X direction. The first heat storage member 50A is fastened together with the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A by inserting the fastening member 41A into the mounting hole 50h of the first heat storage member 50A. In other words, the first heat storage member 50A and the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A are fastened together with the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41A. The mounting hole 50h of the first heat storage member 50A is an example of a "second mounting hole".

[0054] The second heat storage member 50B is adjacent to the first heat storage member 50A in the Y direction. The second heat storage member 50B is adjacent to the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h of the second heat storage member 50B faces the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B in the X direction. The second heat storage member 50B is fastened together with the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B by inserting the fastening member 41B into the mounting hole 50h of the second heat storage member 50B. In other words, the second heat storage member 50B and the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B are fastened together with the second terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41B. The mounting hole 50h of the second heat storage member 50B is an example of a "fourth mounting hole".

[0055] <5. Insulation> Next, the insulating part 60 will be described. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the line F4-F4 of the structure shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the insulating portion 60 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The insulating portion 60 extends in the Z direction (see Figure 3). The insulating portion 60 is connected to the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 and is positioned between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B.

[0056] In this embodiment, a portion of the heat storage member 50 is located on the +X side of the end face 11as of the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 on the +X side. The insulating portion 60 is connected to the insulating rib 11a and is a member that extends the insulating rib 11a in the +X direction. The insulating portion 60 protrudes on the +X side of the end face 50s of the heat storage member 50 on the +X side.

[0057] In this embodiment, the insulating portion 60 has a groove 60g into which the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 is inserted from the X direction. The groove 60g extends in the Z direction. The insulating portion 60 is attached to the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 by inserting the insulating rib 11a into the groove 60g. For example, the insulating rib 11a fits into the groove 60g.

[0058] The insulating portion 60 may be formed separately from the housing 5 (or base member 6), or it may be formed integrally with the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5 (or base member 6). For example, the insulating portion 60 may be a rib that rises in the Z direction from the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5 (or base member 6).

[0059] In this embodiment, the width W50 of the first heat storage member 50A in the Y direction is smaller than the width W31 of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A in the Y direction. The width W50 of the second heat storage member 50B in the Y direction is smaller than the width W31 of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B in the Y direction. In this embodiment, the distance L2 in the Y direction between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B is larger than the distance L1 in the Y direction between the first busbar 30A and the second busbar 30B. With this configuration, it is easier to place the insulating portion 60 in the gap g1 between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B. Note that the distance L2 in the Y direction between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B may be the same as or smaller than the distance L1 in the Y direction between the first busbar 30A and the second busbar 30B.

[0060] <6. Heat transfer components> Next, the heat transfer member 80 will be described. The heat transfer member 80 thermally connects the metal plate 70 and the object (heat storage member 50, and / or electronic component 10). The heat transfer member 80 includes a heat transfer member 80A and a heat transfer member 80B.

[0061] In this embodiment, a heat transfer member 80A is positioned between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80A is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the electronic component 10 and the heat dissipation member 70. The heat transfer member 80A is a member for transferring the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when energized, and / or the heat (Joule heat) generated by the busbar 30 itself when energized, from the heat storage member 50 to the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80 is, for example, an elastic heat transfer sheet (for example, a thermally conductive silicone sheet). The heat transfer member 80 is formed of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than, for example, the case 11 of the electronic component 10 or the second wall portion 5a of the housing 5. However, the heat transfer member 80 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 80 is insulating. The heat transfer member 80 is provided in a position that overlaps with the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction.

[0062] As described above, in this embodiment, a heat transfer member 80B is placed between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80B is placed away from the heat transfer member 80A. The heat transfer member 80B transfers the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when power is applied from the electronic component 10 to the metal plate 70.

[0063] In this embodiment, the electronic component 10 and the busbar 30 overlap with the metal plate 70 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage member 50 also overlaps with the metal plate 70 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage member 50 extends closer to the metal plate 70 than, for example, the busbar 30. That is, the distance L4 (e.g., minimum distance) in the Z direction between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 is equal to or smaller than the distance L3 (e.g., minimum distance) in the Z direction between the busbar 30 and the metal plate 70 (see Figure 1). In this embodiment, distance L4 is smaller than distance L3.

[0064] <7. Advantages> As a comparative example, consider a structure in which the heat storage member 50 does not exist. In such a structure, if sufficient heat capacity is not secured within the electrical connection unit, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit, and / or thermal interference with the first or second connection target may increase. For example, when a transient large current flows, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit, and / or thermal interference with the first or second connection target may increase. As a result, it may become difficult to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0065] On the other hand, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment comprises a first cable guide (e.g., a first busbar 30A), a first heat storage member (e.g., a first heat storage member 50A), and a heat dissipation member 70. The first cable guide has a first mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 31h) that penetrates in a first direction (e.g., the X direction), and is fixed to a first connection target (e.g., an electronic component 10) by a first fastening member (e.g., a fastening member 41A) inserted into the first mounting hole. The first heat storage member has a second mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 50h) facing the first mounting hole, and is fastened together with the first cable guide by inserting the first fastening member into the second mounting hole. The heat dissipation member 70 overlaps with the first connection target and the first heat storage member when viewed from a second direction (e.g., the Z direction) that intersects the first direction. Furthermore, the first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. When viewed from the second direction, the first heat storage member is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member 70 in a region that is outside the first connection target.

[0066] With this configuration, the heat storage capacity near the first connection portion is enhanced by the first heat storage member. Compared to the configuration of the comparative example above, it is possible to suppress a large temperature rise in a part of the electrical connection unit and / or to suppress increased thermal interference with the first or second connection target. For example, with this configuration, when a transient large current flows, it is possible to suppress a large temperature rise in a part of the electrical connection unit and / or to suppress increased thermal interference with the first or second connection target. This configuration makes it possible to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. This makes it less likely for the heat released from the first connection target via the first heat storage member to accumulate in region g2.

[0068] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 further includes a first heat transfer member (heat transfer member 80A) positioned between the first heat storage member and the heat dissipation member 70 in the second direction. The first heat transfer member is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. With this configuration, a portion of the heat transferred from the first connection target or busbar 30 to the first heat storage member can be released from the first heat storage member to the heat dissipation member 70. This improves the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first heat storage member is in contact with the first heat transfer member in a region that is outside the first connection target when viewed from the second direction. With this configuration, the heat released from the first connection target via the first heat storage member is less likely to accumulate in region g2.

[0070] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 further includes a second heat transfer member (heat transfer member 80B) positioned between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. The first heat transfer member is positioned away from the second heat transfer member. With this configuration, a portion of the heat transferred from the first connection target to the first heat storage member can be released from the second heat transfer member to the heat dissipation member 70. This improves the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first heat storage member is located on the opposite side of the first connection portion from the first connection target. With this configuration, for example, the length of the second extension portion 33b, which is routed horizontally in the extension portion 33, can be shortened. Since the routing path in the extension portion 33 is less likely to become enlarged, the bus bar 30 is less likely to become enlarged.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first cable member includes a second extension (e.g., second extension 33b) that extends continuously from the first extension. The second extension extends in a direction away from the heat dissipation member 70 in the first direction or in a third direction (e.g., the Y direction). The third direction intersects the first and second directions. With this configuration, it is difficult to place the busbar 30 between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70. Therefore, the distance between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70 can be reduced, as can the distance between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70. Reducing the distance between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 makes it easier for heat to transfer from the heat storage member 50 to the metal plate 70. This action can further improve the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first connection target is an electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10) including a first terminal (e.g., terminal 13A) and a second terminal (e.g., terminal 13B). The first wiring material and the first heat storage member are fastened together to the first terminal. With this configuration, a portion of the heat generated from the electronic component can be effectively transferred to the first heat storage member through the first terminal. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0074] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further comprises a second cable guide (e.g., a second busbar 30B), a second heat storage member (e.g., a second heat storage member 50B), and an insulating part (e.g., an insulating part 60). The second cable guide has a second mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 31h) and is fixed to a second terminal (e.g., a terminal 13B) by a second fastening member (e.g., a fastening member 41B) inserted into the second mounting hole. The second heat storage member has a fourth mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 50h) facing the third mounting hole, and is fastened together with the second cable guide by inserting the second fastening member into the fourth mounting hole. The insulating part is connected to an insulating rib (e.g., an insulating rib 11a) of the electronic component and is positioned between the first heat storage member and the second heat storage member. With this configuration, the insulating properties between the two heat storage members 50 can be more reliably ensured by the insulating part. In other words, by providing the above-mentioned insulating section, it is possible to increase the size of the two heat storage members 50 while ensuring insulation between them.

[0075] <8. Variation> Next, some modifications of the first embodiment will be described. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, each modification is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0076] <8.1 First Variation> Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the first modified example. In this modified example, the first cable member may further have an extension 34. The extension 34 abuts the heat transfer member 80A in an area away from the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. In this modified example, the extension 34 extends from the first connection part 31 toward the heat dissipation member 70 in the -Z direction. With this configuration, a portion of the heat transmitted from the first connection target or the busbar 30 can be released from the first heat storage member and the busbar 30 to the heat dissipation member 70. This further improves the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0077] <8.2 Second Variation> Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the second modified example. In this modified example, multiple sets of heat storage members 50 are arranged. Because the heat storage members 50 in this disclosure are plate-shaped, it is easy to arrange multiple sets of them. With this configuration, by arranging multiple sets of heat storage members 50, it is easy to obtain the desired heat storage capacity near the first connection portion (for example, the first connection portion 31).

[0078] Furthermore, as disclosed above, when the thickness T50 of the heat storage member 50 in the X direction is smaller than the thickness T31 of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 in the X direction, a decrease in the axial force of the fastening member 41 is more easily avoided. Therefore, it is easier to arrange multiple sets of heat storage members 50.

[0079] <8.3 Third Variation> Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the third modified example. In this modified example, the heat storage member 50 is positioned in the X direction between the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30. This configuration also enhances the heat storage capacity of the electrical connection unit and improves its thermal characteristics.

[0080] In this modified example, the first cable member may further include the extension portion 34 described in the first modified example.

[0081] <8.4 Fourth Variation> Figures 8 and 9 show a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the fourth modified example. In this modified example, the first cable member (e.g., bus bar 30) may have a through portion 35. The through portion 35 is an opening or notch provided in the first cable member. In this modified example, the through portion 35 penetrates the first cable member in the X direction, for example, from the first extension portion to the first connection portion. An engaging portion 55 is inserted into and engages with the through portion 35.

[0082] In this modified example, the heat storage member 50 may have an engaging portion 55. The engaging portion 55 is a protruding portion formed by partially bending the end of the heat storage member 50 to protrude in the -X direction. The engaging portion 55 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the bus bar 30 from the X direction (for example, from the +X direction side). When the engaging portion 55 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the bus bar 30, the rotation of the heat storage member 50 relative to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 is restricted. With this configuration, the rotation of the heat storage member 50 is suppressed when the fastening member 41 is fastened, and the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 is improved.

[0083] <8.5 Fifth Variation> Figures 10 and 11 show another example of the fourth modified example described above. In this disclosure, the first extension portion (e.g., the first extension portion 33a) extends from the first connection portion (e.g., the first connection portion 31) along a plane intersecting the first direction. At this time, the second extension portion 33b, which extends continuously from the first extension portion 33a, extends in a direction away from the heat dissipation member 70 in the first direction or in the third direction (e.g., the Y direction). Therefore, the first extension portion (e.g., the first extension portion 33a) and the second extension portion 33b can be routed in a state where they intersect with respect to the horizontal plane. That is, the first routing member (e.g., the busbar 30) may be routed, for example, along the side circumferential surface of the case 11. With such a configuration, it is easy to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0084] 1…Electrical connection unit 10…Electronic components (first connection target) 13… Terminals 13A…1st terminal 13B…Second terminal 13h... Mounting holes 30... Bus bar (rope material) 30A...First busbar (first cable member) 30B...Second busbar (second cable member) 31...First connection section 31h…Mounting holes 33...Extension part 33a...first extension part 33b…Second extension part 33c...Third extension section 33d…4th extension part 34...Extension part 35... Penetration 41… Fastening member 41A…Fastening member (first fastening member) 41B…Fastening member (second fastening member) 50…Heat storage component 50h…Mounting holes 55...Engaging part 70… Metal plate 80… Heat transfer components

Claims

1. A first cable member having a first mounting hole penetrating in a first direction, and fixed to a first connection target by a first fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole, A first heat storage member having a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole, the first fastening member being inserted into the second mounting hole and fastened together with the first cable member, When viewed from a second direction intersecting the first direction, the heat dissipation member overlaps with the first connection target and the first heat storage member, Equipped with, The first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the region between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member, and is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member in a region that is outside the first connection target when viewed from the second direction. Electrical connection unit.

2. The system further comprises a first heat transfer member disposed between the first heat storage member and the heat dissipation member, The first heat transfer member is positioned so as to avoid the area between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

3. The first heat storage member is in contact with the first heat transfer member in a region that is outside the first connection target when viewed from the second direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2.

4. The system further comprises a second heat transfer member disposed between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member, The first heat transfer member is positioned away from the second heat transfer member. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2 or claim 3.

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